The Raspberry Pi Pico W is a powerful microcontroller development board based on the RP2040 chip, enhanced with built-in wireless connectivity. It adds 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi support to the standard Pico platform, making it ideal for IoT, wireless automation, remote sensing, and connected embedded systems. With dual-core processing, low power consumption, and excellent software support, the Pico W is well suited for both learning and production-grade projects.
Core Board Specifications
• Microcontroller: RP2040
• CPU Architecture: Dual-core ARM Cortex-M0+
• Clock Speed: Up to 133 MHz
• Wireless Connectivity: 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi (802.11 b/g/n)
Electrical & Interface
• Operating Voltage: 1.8 V – 5.5 V (via VSYS)
• Logic Level: 3.3 V
• GPIO Pins: 26 multifunction GPIOs
• Analog Inputs: 3 × 12-bit ADC channels
• Communication Interfaces: UART, I²C, SPI, PWM, USB 1.1
• Wireless Chip: Infineon CYW43439
• Programming Interface: USB (drag-and-drop, MicroPython, C/C++)
Performance Characteristics
• Dual-core processing for multitasking
• Reliable Wi-Fi connectivity for IoT applications
• Deterministic real-time performance
• Low power modes suitable for battery operation
Physical Characteristics
• Board Type: Microcontroller development board
• Form Factor: Pico standard layout with castellated edges
• USB Connector: Micro-USB
• Compact and lightweight design
Compatibility
• MicroPython
• C/C++ Pico SDK
• Arduino IDE (with core support)
• IoT platforms and cloud services
• Sensors, relays, displays, and motor drivers
Key Advantages
• Built-in Wi-Fi without external modules
• Powerful dual-core MCU at low cost
• Excellent documentation and community support
• Ideal for connected embedded systems
Technical Insights
• Wi-Fi uses SPI interface internally
• No Bluetooth support on Pico W
• External antenna trace onboard
• Requires proper power supply for stable Wi-Fi operation
Applications
• IoT and smart home devices
• Wireless data logging
• Remote monitoring systems
• Automation and control
• Educational and DIY electronics projects
Pro Tip
• Use MicroPython for rapid IoT development
• Enable sleep modes to save power
• Keep Wi-Fi firmware updated
• Power via VSYS for battery-based designs
Package Includes
• 1 × Raspberry Pi Pico W Board