Debug (SWD)

BOOTSEL_BUTTON

RP2040

Infineon CYW43439

Wireless/Bluetooth Antenna

 can be used in both Device and Host mode. The Raspberry Pi Pico W exposes it as a USB Micro B port that can be used both to access the USB bootloader (BOOTSEL mode) stored in the 

USB Micro B

The board has a builtin LED that is connected to the 

 module. The LED is accessible via SDK and MicroPython.

General Purpose I/O

Here is the an example code showing how to turn it on or off in MicroPython:

In order to program the Raspberry Pi Pico W (i.e., copy your code to its Flash memory), you should hold down the BOOTSEL button when the board is being restarted.

To do this, unplug the power from the board, then hold the BOOTSEL button down and then connect the USB. The Pico will then appear as a USB Mass Storage Device to your computer. By dragging a special '.uf2' file onto the disk, you can write file to the Flash and restart the Raspberry Pi Pico W.

BOOTSEL Button

The main processor of the Raspberry Pi Pico W board is the RP2040 microcontroller made by Raspberry Pi company. It's a 32-bit processor in QFN56 package. The RP2040 features Dual Cortex M0+ processor cores, up to 133MHz, 264kB of embedded SRAM and 30 GPIO.

RP2040 Microcontroller

Connected to the ground (close coupled ground for differential USB signals).

Connected to the WL_GPIO1/SMPS PS pin (do not use)

Connected to the WL_GPIO0/LED (not recommended to be used)

 provides the 2.4GHz wireless and Bluetooth capabilities to the Raspberry Pi Pico W. It features includes:

Support for Bluetooth LE Central and Peripheral roles

The antenna is an onboard antenna licensed from ABRACON. 

The wireless interface is connected via SPI to the 

 monitor, so only when there isn’t an SPI transaction in progress can 

 DIN/DOUT and IRQ all share one pin on the 

Power

. Based on Raspberry Pi Pico W documentation, for best wireless performance, the antenna should be in free space. For instance, putting metal under or close by the antenna can reduce its performance both in terms of gain and bandwidth. Adding grounded metal to the sides of the antenna can improve the antenna’s bandwidth.

 supports the SWD debugging interface and these pins expose that interface so that it could be connected to the debug probe (a separate piece of hardware that can be purchased from Raspberry Pi). It's also possible to use another Raspberry Pi Pico W as a debugger.

The Raspberry Pi Pico W is a variation of the Raspberry Pi Pico board, adding Wi-Fi connectivity to the platform. It retains the same core features and form factor as the original Pico, including the 

 processors, and 26 GPIO pins. The primary difference is the on-board 2.4GHz 802.11n wireless interface using an 

Arm Cortex-M0+

It features flexible I/O options and support for multiple programming languages like C, C++, and MicroPython. Some of its major features include:

264 KB of SRAM and 2 MB of onboard flash memory

26 multi-function GPIO pins including 3 ADC

On-board single-band 2.4GHz wireless interfaces (802.11n, Bluetooth 5.2)

Support for Bluetooth LE Central and Peripheral roles and Bluetooth Classic

Provides 2 PIO (Programmable I/O) for custom peripheral interfacing

Support most of the well-known protocol like I2C, SPI, UART and PWM

The Raspberry Pi Pico W is a compact microcontroller board with integrated Wi-Fi and an easy-to-navigate layout, offering a range of pin headers and components to support wireless-enabled projects. Here’s a breakdown of the physical elements of the Pico W:

Raspberry Pi Pico W Dimensions

The Pico W has 40 pins arranged in two rows of 20 pins each, with a total of 26 multi-function GPIO (General Purpose Input/Output) pins.

Raspberry Pi Pico W Pin Headers

The micro-USB port located on the edge of the board is used to connect the Raspberry Pi Pico W to a computer for power and data transfer. Through this port, you can program the board and supply it with 5V.

Raspberry Pi Pico W Micro-USB Port

 chip for Wi-Fi connectivity, adding wireless communication capabilities that are missing in the standard Raspberry Pi Pico. This module sits near the edge of the board and enables Wi-Fi functionality for IoT and remote projects.

Raspberry Pi Pico W Wi-Fi Module

This small button enables USB mass storage mode. By holding it down while connecting the Pico W to a power source, the board enters firmware loading mode, allowing for quick uploading of new code or software.

Raspberry Pi Pico W Bootsel Button

The Pico W features a built-in LED that is connected to the WL_GPIO0 pin of the 

 module. This LED provides visual feedback for programming and debugging purposes, such as indicating the board’s status in certain applications.

Raspberry Pi Pico W LED Indicator

chip, designed by Raspberry Pi, serves as the primary processor. It’s a dual-core 

 processor that powers the board’s operations, including handling GPIO inputs and controlling peripherals.

Raspberry Pi Pico W RP2040 Microcontroller

A set of pads located on the board provides access to Serial Wire Debug (SWD) functionality. This header is commonly used by advanced users for in-depth debugging and development at the chip level.

Raspberry Pi Pico W Debug Header (SWD)

. Based on Raspberry Pi Pico W documentation, for best wireless performance, the antenna should be in free space.

Raspberry Pi Pico W Wireless/Bluetooth Antenna

The Raspberry Pi Pico W offers multiple options for powering the board, making it adaptable for a wide range of applications. Below are the main methods for providing power:

The easiest way to power the Raspberry Pi Pico W is through its micro-USB port. When connected to a computer or USB power adapter, this port supplies a stable 5V input to the board.

In addition to powering the board, the micro-USB port enables data transfer and programming, making it a convenient choice for both development and operation.

 pin in Raspberry Pi Pico Pinout serves as the main power input pin. It can accept a wide voltage range from 1.8V to 5.5V, allowing flexibility in power sources, such as batteries.

This pin is useful for mobile or battery-operated projects, with a common choice being a 3.7V LiPo battery connected directly to the 

Raspberry Pi Pico W VSYS Pin

 pin outputs a regulated 3.3V from the onboard regulator. It provides stable power to low-voltage components and external sensors, making it especially valuable in projects with multiple connected components.

This pin is powered through the micro-USB or 

 input, and it serves as a regulated source for other devices connected to the Pico W.

Raspberry Pi Pico W 3V3 (Out) Pin

 pin in the Raspberry Pi Pico W pinout outputs 5V when the Raspberry Pi Pico W is powered via the USB connection. This pin allows access to the USB’s 5V supply, which can be used to power external components.

 is active only when the micro-USB is connected and providing power, so it’s best suited for USB-powered projects.

Raspberry Pi Pico W VBUS Pin

Ground (GND) pins are located at multiple points across the Pico W’s pin headers. They provide a common return path for power and should be used to connect the ground of any external circuits or components to complete the power circuit.

Raspberry Pi Pico W GND Pins

For advanced applications, the Pico W can be powered directly via an external 3.3V input, bypassing the onboard voltage regulator. This can be done by supplying a 3.3V input to the 

 pin, although caution is advised as the board’s components depend on this regulated voltage.

This option is typically used only when integrating the Raspberry Pi Pico W into a larger 3.3V-regulated system, as over-voltage could damage the board.

 microcontroller and includes a range of peripherals, expanding the board’s capabilities for various input/output and communication tasks. The addition of Wi-Fi connectivity further extends its usefulness for IoT and networked applications. Here’s a rundown of the key peripherals available on the Pico W as also shown on the Raspberry Pi Pico W pinout diagram.

The Pico W has 26 General Purpose Input/Output (GPIO) pins that can be used for digital input or output operations. These pins can be programmed for a variety of tasks, from controlling LEDs to reading inputs from buttons.

The Pico W includes 3 ADC channels, allowing it to read analog signals from components like potentiometers, temperature sensors, and other analog devices. Each ADC channel has a 12-bit resolution, providing precise analog readings.

With 16 PWM channels available, the Pico W can generate variable-width pulses for applications that require adjustable output levels, such as dimming LEDs or controlling the speed of DC motors.

The board features two I2C controllers, allowing it to communicate with I2C-compatible devices like displays, sensors, and EEPROM modules. Each I2C controller supports multiple devices on the same bus.

The Pico W has two SPI controllers, ideal for high-speed data communication with devices like SD cards, displays, or certain types of sensors.

UART (Universal Asynchronous Receiver/Transmitter)

Two UART controllers provide serial communication, enabling the Pico W to interface with GPS modules, Bluetooth modules, or other serial devices.

 microcontroller includes two PIO (Programmable I/O) blocks, each with four state machines. These blocks allow users to create custom protocols and signals that the standard GPIO cannot handle directly.

 provide precise control over time-sensitive events, such as scheduling tasks, generating delays, or managing time-based outputs.

The Pico W includes a USB 1.1 controller, which allows it to communicate with a computer when connected via USB. This controller can be used in USB Device Mode, letting the board emulate USB devices such as HID keyboards, serial interfaces, and more.

 module provides 802.11n Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing the board to connect to wireless networks. This feature opens up a range of possibilities for IoT applications, such as sending sensor data to the cloud or controlling the board remotely over a network.

The Raspberry Pi Pico W offers multiple programming options, making it suitable for users of different experience levels and project types. Below are the primary options for programming the Pico W:

MicroPython is a compact, efficient version of Python optimized for microcontrollers, making it a beginner-friendly choice for Raspberry Pi Pico W users.

The C/C++ Software Development Kit (SDK) for the RP2040 microcontroller offers low-level access to the board’s hardware, providing full control over performance and power management.

Official support for the Raspberry Pi Pico W is available in the Arduino IDE, allowing users to write and upload Arduino code to the board.

CircuitPython is an easy-to-learn Python environment developed by Adafruit, with strong compatibility for Adafruit hardware components. It’s very similar to MicroPython but has a few differences, including simplified support for some Adafruit hardware.

PlatformIO is a professional-grade development platform supporting many microcontrollers, including the 

, and offers integration with Visual Studio Code.

How to Use ThingSpeak With the Raspberry Pi Pico W

Pi Pico W with the Arduino IDE | Using WiFi

WiFi Garage Door Controller | Raspberry Pi Pico W Project

How to Control DC Motors with L298N and Raspberry Pi Pico W in MicroPython

Connecting to the Internet with Raspberry Pi Pico W

Get comprehensive details on the Raspberry Pi Pico W development board: Pinout, Powering options, Peripherals & Programming.

You can press the BOOTSEL button while reconnecting it to USB power or reset it through software.

Yes. It has 2 MB of onboard flash memory but no storage expansion slots.

The RP2040 can run at a maximum clock speed of 133 MHz.

Yes, it supports USB 1.1 Device Mode, allowing it to emulate devices like a USB keyboard or serial port.

Yes, TensorFlow Lite for Microcontrollers is compatible with the RP2040 for lightweight ML models.

Each GPIO pin can handle up to 12 mA, with a maximum of 50 mA across all pins.

Yes, the Raspberry Pi Pico W uses the Infineon CYW43439 module to provide Bluetooth 5.2.

To update, hold down BOOTSEL while connecting to the USB and drag and drop the firmware file to the drive that appears.

 pins in the board can be used for PWM. The 

 has 8 independent PWM generators called slices, which each have two channels making it 16 PWM channels. The PWM frequency can be clocked from 8Hz to 62.5Mhz.

To generate a PWM signal in Arduino IDE on one of the PWM capable pins, you can use the 

The duty cycle of the PWM signal can be adjusted using the second parameter. By default the PWM uses the 8-bit resolution which means you can specify a value between 0 to 255 for the duty cycle.

In order to do any customization on the PWM signal, like changing the frequency or duty cycle, you can utilize functions like:

The Raspberry Pi Pico W has 26 multi-function GPIO pins, which can be used for digital input or output and configured for different communication protocols. They are named in the back of the board as 

All GPIOs support digital input and output, but 

 can also be used as inputs to the chip’s Analogue to Digital Converter (ADC).

 has also the following four GPIO pins that are used for the internal functions of the board:

 OP Controls the on-board SMPS Power Save pin

A GPIO pin can be used either as input or output pin. In the Arduino IDE, his should be specified first using the 

, the given pin will be internally connected to the 3.3V so that if the given pin is floated (i.e. you don't connect it to to either of 3.3V or GND) it will be read as 

The Raspberry Pi Pico W has the ability to set the current a pin can supply. The available current limits are 2mA, 4mA, 8mA and 12mA. By default, on a reset, the setting is 4mA (same as `pinMode(x, 

)`). You can also use the following values instead:

When the pin mode is set, you can read the value of an input pin like this:

Also to write a digital value to a pin, you can call the 

 function passing one of the constant values 

 along with the pin number to write it to:

GPIO

GP0,GP1,GP2,GP3,GP4,GP5,GP6,GP7,GP8,GP9,GP10,GP11,GP12,GP13,GP14,GP15,GP16,GP17,GP18,GP19,GP20,GP21,GP22,GP26,GP27,GP28

 pin, remember to connect at least one of the 

 pin of the board to your power supply ground. There are seven 

 pins in the Raspberry Pi Pico W, plus one exposed in the debug pins.

Ground

As it's connected to the USB ground wire, when the board is powered via USB, the 

 pins are already grounded to USB ground.

This is the main input voltage to the board in case it's not going to be powered by USB. It can vary in the range of 1.8V to 5.5V, and is used by the on-board SMPS to generate the 3.3V for the 

VSYS

This is connected to the micro-USB port input voltage. It is nominally 5V and when the USB is not connected or not powered, it will be in 0V level.

 (which is not exposed in the board) is set up via a voltage divider to monitor the existence of 

VBUS

This pin connects to the on-board SMPS enable pin, and is pulled high (to the 

) via a 100kΩ resistor. When you connect this pin to 

, it disables the 3.3V (which also de-powers the 

). So, you can use this pin to implement the power button for your board.

3V3_EN

The pin connects to the main 3.3V supply to the 

 and its I/O and is generated by the on-board SMPS. It can provide power to an external circuit. Th maximum output current depends on the 

 voltage. It is recommended to keep the load on this pin less than 300mA.

3V3 (OUT)

 and has an internal (on-chip) pull-up resistor to 3.3V of about ~50kΩ.

This pin is the ADC power supply and reference voltage. It is generated on Raspberry Pi Pico W by filtering the 3.3V supply. 

The board has a 12 bit ADC which means any analog input voltage will be converted to a number between 0 to 4095. By default the board considers the 3.3V as a reference and consider a signal on that level as 4095 and any signal with a value less than 3.3V will be converted to a number between 0 to 4094 accordingly. When the 

 is provided with another voltage level, that voltage will be considered as max (4095) and all the voltage levels below that will be mapped accordingly.

 can be powered at a nominal voltage between 1.8V and 3.3V, but the performance of the ADC will be compromised at voltages below 2.97V.

ADC_VREF

. In the Raspberry Pi Pico W, there is a separate analog ground plane running under these signals and terminating at this pin. If the ADC is not used or ADC performance is not critical, this pin can be connected to digital ground.

AGND

 processor of the Raspberry Pi Pico Whas a 4 channel 12-bit ADC at 500ksps, where three of them are exposed in the board as 

. The 12-bit ADC provides the resolution of 4096 value which means any analog input signal between 0V to 3.3V applied to these pins gets mapped proportionately to a value between 0 to 4095.

There is also another ADC channel that is dedicated to the internal temperature sensor in the 

. You can read the value in Arduino IDE by calling the 

. If you're supplying an external power to 

, then you have to specify that as a parameter to this method. Otherwise it assumes the 3.3V is used and the result will not be correct. This reading is not exceedingly accurate and of relatively low resolution.

ADC0,ADC1,ADC2

 is the Serial Clock pin used as clock signal between two chips communicating via the two-wire serial interface (TWI) also known as I2C.

I2C1 SCL

I2C0 SCL

I2C0 SDA

I2C1 SDA

 (Serial Clock) is a clock signal used to synchronize the processor and peripherals. The line is used as a shared line for all connected peripherals to a SPI bus.

SPI0 SCK

SPI1 SCK

 (Chip Select) is connected to each peripheral device and controller can enable or disable specific device using that. When controller set this pin for a specific device to low, it means that devices can communicate with the controller. When it's high, it means the device is disabled should ignore any data coming from the processor (i.e., 

). This enables the controller to connect to multiple SPI enabled peripherals and sharing the same 

SPI0 CSn

SPI1 CSn

 is for receiving data from the peripheral (e.g. a SPI LCD module) via SPI channel.

SPI0 RX

SPI1 RX

 is for sending data to the peripherals (e.g. a SPI LCD module) via SPI.

SPI0 TX

SPI1 TX

 is for sending data in a serial communication via UART channel.

USART

UART0 TX

UART

 is for receiving data in a serial communication via UART channel.

UART0 RX

UART1 RX

UART1 TX

The Raspberry Pi Pico W supports the SWD debugging protocol to debug the code running on he 

 pin is used for debug data I/O during the debugging process and it should be connected to the debugging probe. 

Serial Wire Debug

SWDIO

 pin is the clock used during the debugging process via SWD protocol and should be connected to the debugging probe. 

Raspberry Pi Pico W Pinout

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