Wear This RISC V, RPN Calculator Watch For Maximum Nerd Cred - Hackaday

Abstract

A new wearable project featuring an RPN calculator watch utilizes the open-source RISC-V architecture, specifically targeting technical enthusiasts. This device blends classic Reverse Polish Notation calculation methods with a modern, customized hardware platform. The project serves as a clear demonstration of RISC-V's flexibility and viability in niche, custom wearable applications.

Report

Key Highlights

• Novel Device Type: A custom-built calculator watch, positioned as a highly technical or niche wearable.
• Core Architecture: The device is powered by the open-source RISC-V instruction set architecture (ISA).
• Calculation Method: It implements Reverse Polish Notation (RPN), a stack-based method popular among engineers and traditional calculator enthusiasts.
• Target Audience: The project is explicitly aimed at achieving “Maximum Nerd Cred,” appealing directly to the hobbyist and open-source hardware community.

Technical Details

• Processor: The core uses a RISC-V processor, likely a small, low-power microcontroller (MCU) suitable for wearable devices.
• Functionality: Dedicated RPN calculator implementation, requiring custom firmware development on the chosen RISC-V platform.
• Form Factor: Watch/wearable design, which emphasizes the need for high energy efficiency and a compact physical footprint.

Implications

• RISC-V Diversification: This project showcases the expansion of RISC-V adoption outside of traditional computing into highly specialized consumer electronics and wearables (IoT).
• Open Source Tooling Validation: The success of such a custom device validates the maturity and accessibility of the RISC-V ecosystem, including compilers and development tools, for small-scale, niche projects.
• Community Engagement: By featuring on platforms like Hackaday, the project encourages further experimentation and hardware hacking within the RISC-V community, driving innovation at the grassroots level.