RP2040-TestPatternGenerator

This is a simple test pattern generator that runs on the RP2040 microcontroller. It uses the PicoVGA cmake library for outputting a 15kHz 240p RGBS signal via a VGA connector. This tool is aimed to be used for rudimentary tests for checking basic CRT TV functionality, not for accurate calibration.

Its main features are:

• Cheap: Approximately <$15 USD in parts, less if you already have some components or if you want to make a few.
• Accessible: Open source. Soldering is easy enough even for a first timer.
• Small: Roughly 2x2"/50x50mm in size.
• Fast: Boots and changes patterns instantly.
• Portable: Very low power draw, works with a powerbank.

Limitations

This program can only output colours in the RGB332 space, so each of the three colour channels (Red, Green, and Blue) are represented by 3, 3, and 2 bits, respectively. More information can be found here.

Getting Started

1. Obtain all the components and assemble the device.
2. Download the latest firmware.
3. Hold the BOOT button on the RP2040 device and connect it to your PC. A file browser window for the device should appear.
4. Drag and drop the RP2040-TestPatternGenerator.uf2 file onto the device. It should automatically close when completed.

How to Use

• Connect the device to your TV, and connect a USB-C cable for power.
• Press the connected button to cycle through patterns.
• To flash a newer firmware, follow the same firmware installation steps from the Getting Started section. Once the device is installed in an enclosure and the BOOT button is inaccessable, connect the device to your computer, hold the same button for 3 seconds and release. The device will reboot into flash mode.

Building

1. Generate the make files by running CMake:

cmake .

2. Build the project:

make

Acknowledgements

• Miroslav Nemecek (Panda38@seznam.cz) for their PicoVGA library
• Wayne Venables (codaris) for their PicoVGA fork
• Turi Scandurra (TuriSc) for their RP2040-Button library