Instructions | Blinkencard - Pocket Altair 8800

1

Install the IceStorm toolchain including nextpnr
2

Go to the Github link in the sidebar and download the 'blinkencard' project
3

Order PCBs, stencil, and components from the BOM from the 'kicad' directory
4

Solder it all

You may need to run a small knife inside the LED cutouts if there's any rough edges left from drilling. Reflow soldering is best as the LEDs will self-center.
5

3D print the case from the 'case' directory (optional)

Necessary if you use a battery.
6

Install a battery (optional)

Make sure the polarity of the connector on the battery matches the jack on the Blinkencard. Carefully (at your own peril) depin the connector and swap wires if not. Use VHB tape to mount the battery to the back of the case, making sure the wire has enough slack to reach the connector when assembled.
7

Install Micropython with esptool and the ESP-01 programmer

Follow the directions from Micropython: https://docs.micropython.org/en/latest/esp32/tutorial/intro.html
8

Connect to the ESP32's AP and upload the Python files

Use Thonny or the Micropython web client to upload the blinkencard/micropython directory contents into the root of the ESP32.
9
Clone the 's100fpga' project from the sidebar and build with the IceStorm toolchain
```
make altair
```
10

Copy the resulting altair.bin file to the ESP32 and reboot

The lights should blinken!

Blinkencard - Pocket Altair 8800