Show HN: I made my own TRMNL e-ink device
a year ago
- #TRMNL
- #DIY
- #e-ink
- Author pre-ordered TRMNL, a battery-powered e-ink display, but found the purchasing process confusing due to unclear product descriptions and licensing tiers.
- Impatient, the author decided to build their own version using a Waveshare e-ink display and ESP32 driver board for under $80, avoiding the long wait for TRMNL.
- The author has prior experience with e-ink projects like Timeframe and Weatherframe, understanding the trade-offs between ESP32 and Raspberry Pi solutions.
- TRMNL's open-source firmware was adapted to work with the Waveshare driver, requiring minimal changes like pin number adjustments and hardware compatibility fixes.
- The author successfully integrated TRMNL's service with their DIY display by purchasing a BYOD license, enabling server communication and image updates.
- A 3D-printed holder was created for the display, with plans to switch to a wooden base inspired by another project for a better aesthetic.
- The author shared their modified firmware on GitHub, hoping to help others with similar e-ink projects and promote TRMNL's service.