Prepare your GlowGrid
Install the matching MicroPython firmware and GlowGrid OS on a Pico W or Pico 2 W, then connect it to your local Wi-Fi.
Start here
Set up once.
Create often.
01New board? Prepare it once for wireless uploads.
02Already running GlowGrid OS? Open a program and choose Wireless LAN or Direct USB when you send it to your board.
Open, create, and send
Choose a program below. When your creation is ready, Prepare Board opens Configuration so you can select Wireless LAN or Direct USB before sending.
Program library
What will your grid become?
Start with a visual canvas. More focused tools and playful experiments will join the library over time.
Board Designer
Design icons, symbols, and widgets on a true-to-scale LED matrix, transform the design into MicroPython, and send it to your board.
From setup to new ideas
How does it work?
Prepare your GlowGrid once, then explore and deploy programs as often as you like.
Give the board its foundation
Install the custom Pimoroni Firmware. Then install GlowGrid OS and connect the board to your local Wi-Fi network. Once the board is connected to your network, it can be reached at the IP address reserved by your DHCP server.
Create what the board will do
Open an app from the Program Library. Board Designer lets you draw on the LED grid, customize the result, and generate a complete MicroPython program using AI. We are looking forward to growing this ecosystem with many more programs.
Send it where your board lives
Enter the board's LAN address to send the program over Wi-Fi. GlowGrid restarts into the new app while keeping wireless uploads ready for your next idea. Uploading from a laptop using a USB cable remains available when you prefer it.
Quick answers
Built to grow with your board.
What is a GlowGrid?
GlowGrid is a tiny, colorful window into your digital world. Built with a Raspberry Pi Pico 2 W and Pimoroni Pico Unicorn Pack, it runs interchangeable apps with convenient Wi-Fi deployments, encouraging creativity and experimentation through a growing collection of fun and useful programs.
Is this free?
Kind of… GlowGrid is free to use. You can always support the development of new programs and features with a donation or a pull request.
What MicroPython firmware do I need?
GlowGrid bundles the matching custom MicroPython UF2 from Pimoroni for Pico W and Pico 2 W. Select your board in the installer and copy its firmware to the mounted Pico drive.
The software
GlowGrid uses three layers: Pimoroni's custom MicroPython firmware provides support for the LED board; GlowGrid OS enables wireless program uploads from the same local network; and the programs themselves add different features and functionality to your GlowGrid devic.
The hardware
GlowGrid runs on a Raspberry Pi Pico W or Raspberry Pi Pico 2 W, paired with the Pico Unicorn Pack by Pimoroni.
How do I power the board?
The board can be powered from any suitable 5V DC source, including a computer's USB port, a USB power bank, or a wall outlet with a USB power adapter.