System Integration¶
For my final project, I integrated all the hardware and software components into a functional standalone guitar tuner. This involved programming the microcontroller to run autonomously, providing independent power, and designing a protective case to mount the device on the guitar.
1. Programming the Microcontroller¶
Unlike some IDEs like Arduino IDE, Thonny IDE does not automatically save programs to the Raspberry Pi Pico board. To make the tuner run without being connected to a PC, I saved my program directly onto the Pico by using the “Save As” option and naming the main program main.py.
2. Power Supply Integration¶
To make the device portable, I powered it using a 9V battery connected to a 5V linear voltage regulator, which provides a stable power supply for the microcontroller.
I also added a switch to conveniently turn the tuner on and off.
3. Mechanical Integration: Case Design and Fabrication¶
To securely attach the device to my guitar and protect the electronics, I designed a case consisting of four parts: a PCB case with its cover and an OLED display case with its cover.
The PCB case and covers were produced using 3D printing.
The OLED display cover was laser-cut from acrylic for a professional finish.
Final Device Views¶
Back view of the assembled tuner on the guitar:
Front view showing the OLED display with tuning information:
Conclusion¶
This integration ensured that the guitar tuner is fully autonomous, user-friendly, and ready for real-world testing.