pic0rick replaces FPGA-based un0rick boards with an RP2040/RP2350, delivering 60 Msps 10-bit ultrasound acquisition via PIO state machines.
Key Takeaways
RP2040 PIO handles deterministic sub-microsecond pulse-echo timing previously requiring Lattice iCE40 FPGA and Verilog toolchains.
Signal chain: RP2040 PIO triggers pulser board at +-25V, echo returns through AD8331 TGC (7.5-55.5 dB), 60 Msps ADC, USB to host.
Modular three-board design (main, pulser PMOD, HV board); USB bus powered; KiCad files and firmware fully open source (OSHWA FR000023).
PMOD double connector supports VGA real-time output, MUX board for array/synthetic aperture imaging, PSRAM, or custom extensions.
Tradeoff vs legacy boards: 48 dB TGC max vs 92 dB on lit3-32; gain that range only if weak-signal detection is critical.
Hacker News Comment Review
One commenter flags a Georgia Tech battery-free ultrasound chip project as a potential complement, suggesting a path to a fully self-contained open hardware ultrasound system.
