Retro Style Penkesu Laptop (DIY)

The Penkesu is the perfect DIY computer for anyone who wants a retro-style laptop with all the power of a mighty Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W. The compact physical dimensions and ortholinear keyboard make it perfect for taking on the go, and the Waveshare 7.9-inch capacitive touchscreen display provides a clear and vibrant picture in most conditions. The case of Penkesu Computer is designed around the display and keyboard to achieve a relatively compact physical dimension. The display is a Waveshare 7.9-inch capacitive touchscreen, 400 x 1280 resolution, connected via a ribbon cable adapter to the Zero 2 W’s mini HDMI output. The rest of the parts are bespoke 3D printed or off-the-shelf products, to better accommodate the 48-key low profile keyboard that connects via an Arduino Pro Micro that feeds its signals to the Pi’s second micro-USB port. The switches are Kailh Low Profile Choc V1 models, with Choc low-profile keycaps on top. As is common with 48-key keyboards, there are additional modifier keys that allow a large number of functions to be performed. Inside, you’ll find a 3.7V Li-Po battery pack hooked up to an Adafruit Powerboost 1000C to act as a load-sharing charge controller and to feed power to the Pi, keyboard, and screen. The Penkesu is also open-source, so you can customize it to your own needs.