# QT Py CH32V203 eInk / ePaper Daily Calendar and Clock
## Overview
Love daily calendars but cringe at the 365 pages of paper waste? This project lets you have a smol electronic version. You'll use a CH32V203 QT Py with an EYESPI BFF to display the date and time on an eInk display. The time is kept with a DS3231 STEMMA real-time clock breakout. Even though the CH32V203 QT Py is for more advanced users, it still plays well with the BFF breakout buddies.
The 3D printed stand has a little hook that lets you sandwich the QT Py and the BFF so that they are secured behind the display.
## About the CH32V203 QT Py
The CH32V203 QT Py features the powerful CH32V203 low-cost processor that's all the trend: based on RISC-V and cheaper than an 8-bit core! However, it is best used by folks comfortable with having to use Makefiles, clone git repositories, edit configuration files, etc., re. not great for beginners. If none of this scares you though, check out the Learn Guide before heading into this project to get a little more familiar with the ins and outs of this tiny but mighty board.
### Adafruit QT Py CH32V203 - Overview
[Adafruit QT Py CH32V203](https://learn.adafruit.com/adafruit-qt-py-ch32v203)
[Overview](https://learn.adafruit.com/adafruit-qt-py-ch32v203/overview)
## Parts
### Adafruit QT Py CH32V203 Dev Board with STEMMA QT
[Adafruit QT Py CH32V203 Dev Board with STEMMA QT](https://www.adafruit.com/product/5996)
What a cutie pie! Or is it... a QT Py? This diminutive dev board features the powerful CH32V203 low-cost processor that's all the trend: based on RISC-V and cheaper than an 8-bit core! This little one is a great way to get started in the CH32x processor family, with everything you...
In Stock
[Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/5996)
[Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/5996/guides)
### Adafruit EYESPI BFF for QT Py or Xiao - 18 Pin FPC Connector
[Adafruit EYESPI BFF for QT Py or Xiao - 18 Pin FPC Connector](https://www.adafruit.com/product/5772)
Our QT Py boards are a great way to make very small microcontroller projects that pack a ton of power - and now we have a way for you to add a small, colorful, and bright display to any project.
Our most recent [display...](https://www.adafruit.com/?q=eyespi&sort=BestMatch)
In Stock
[Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/5772)
[Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/5772/guides)
### Adafruit 1.54" Monochrome eInk / ePaper Display with SRAM
[Adafruit 1.54" Monochrome eInk / ePaper Display with SRAM](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4196)
Easy e-paper finally comes to microcontrollers, with this breakout that's designed to make it a breeze to add an eInk display. Chances are you've seen one of those new-fangled 'e-readers' like the Kindle or Nook. They have gigantic electronic paper 'static' displays -...
Out of Stock
[Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4196)
[Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/4196/guides)
### Adafruit DS3231 Precision RTC - STEMMA QT
[Adafruit DS3231 Precision RTC - STEMMA QT](https://www.adafruit.com/product/5188)
The datasheet for the **DS3231** explains that this part is an "Extremely Accurate I²C-Integrated RTC/TCXO/Crystal". And, hey, it does exactly what it says on the tin! This **Real Time Clock (RTC)** is the most precise you can get in a...
In Stock
[Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/5188)
[Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/5188/guides)
### EYESPI Cable - 18 Pin 100mm long Flex PCB (FPC) A-B type
[EYESPI Cable - 18 Pin 100mm long Flex PCB (FPC) A-B type](https://www.adafruit.com/product/5239)
Connect this to that when a 18-pin FPC connector is needed. This 25 cm long cable is made of a flexible PCB. It's A-B style which means that pin one on one side will match with pin one on the other side. How handy!
In Stock
[Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/5239)
[Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/5239/guides)
### STEMMA QT / Qwiic JST SH 4-Pin Cable - 50mm Long
[STEMMA QT / Qwiic JST SH 4-Pin Cable - 50mm Long](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4399)
This 4-wire cable is 50mm / 1.9" long and fitted with JST SH female 4-pin connectors on both ends. Compared with the chunkier JST PH these are 1mm pitch instead of 2mm, but still have a nice latching feel, while being easy to insert and remove.
In Stock
[Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4399)
[Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/4399/guides)
### Part: USB C Cable
quantity: 1
USB A to USB C Cable - 1 meter long
[USB C Cable](https://www.adafruit.com/product/5153)
### Part: M2.5 Screws
quantity: 1
Screw and Stand-off Set – M2.5 Thread
[M2.5 Screws](https://www.adafruit.com/product/3299)
### Part: Socket Headers
quantity: 1
20-pin 0.1" - Rainbow Color Mix - 5 pack
[Socket Headers](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4160)
### Part: Plug Headers
quantity: 1
Break-away 0.1" 36-pin - Rainbow Combo 10 Pack
[Plug Headers](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4154)
# QT Py CH32V203 eInk / ePaper Daily Calendar and Clock
## Circuit Diagram
You'll plug a CH32V203 QT Py into an EYESPI BFF breakout board.
The eInk display plugs into the EYESPI BFF with an EYESPI cable.
The DS3231 RTC breakout connects to the QT Py with a STEMMA QT cable.
# QT Py CH32V203 eInk / ePaper Daily Calendar and Clock
## 3D Printing
You can 3D print a stand for this project. The stand has mounting holes for the parts and lets the display sit at a jaunty angle.
The STL file can be downloaded directly here or from Printables.
[CH32V203 eInk Calendar Stand STL](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/133/137/original/ch32_eink_stand_v0.stl?1729007062)
[Printables Download](https://www.printables.com/model/1040680-qt-py-ch32v203-eink-epaper-daily-calendar-stand)
The stand has a hook that lets you sandwich the QT Py and the BFF for mounting. You should print the model with some supports for the display cutout.
# QT Py CH32V203 eInk / ePaper Daily Calendar and Clock
## Arduino IDE Setup
You've seen the warnings that you definitely can't use this QT Py with CircuitPython or MicroPython. What you _can_ do though is use the [arduino\_core\_ch32 board support package](https://github.com/openwch/arduino_core_ch32) to write code in the Arduino IDE.
Support for the CH32V203 in the Arduino IDE is very new and Adafruit has contributed some changes to make interfacing with the QT Py easier. As a result, the steps on this page are more involved than what you may be used to when setting up the Arduino IDE for a new development board.
## Install Arduino IDE
The first thing you will need to do is to download the latest release of the Arduino IDE. You will need to be using **version 1.8** or higher for this guide.
[Arduino IDE Download](http://www.arduino.cc/en/Main/Software)
## Install the arduino\_core\_ch32 Board Support Package
After you have downloaded and installed **the latest version of Arduino IDE** , you will need to start the IDE and navigate to the **Preferences** menu. You can access it from the **File** menu in _Windows_ or _Linux_, or the **Arduino** menu on _OS X_.
A dialog will pop up just like the one shown below.
We will be adding a URL to the new **Additional Boards Manager URLs** option. The list of URLs is comma separated, and _you will only have to add each URL once._ New Adafruit boards and updates to existing boards will automatically be picked up by the Board Manager each time it is opened. The URLs point to index files that the Board Manager uses to build the list of available & installed boards.
To find the most up to date list of URLs you can add, you can visit the list of [third party board URLs on the Arduino IDE wiki](https://github.com/arduino/Arduino/wiki/Unofficial-list-of-3rd-party-boards-support-urls#list-of-3rd-party-boards-support-urls). We will only need to add one URL to the IDE in this example, but _ **you can add multiple URLS by separating them with commas** _. Copy and paste the link below into the **Additional Boards Manager URLs** option in the Arduino IDE preferences.
```html
https://github.com/openwch/board_manager_files/raw/main/package_ch32v_index.json
```
If you have multiple boards you want to support, say ESP8266 and Adafruit, have both URLs in the text box separated by a comma (,)
Once done click **OK** to save the new preference settings.
## Installation Prerequisites
Before you install the board support package via the Arduino IDE, make sure to check the [toolchain prerequisites for your operating system](https://github.com/openwch/arduino_core_ch32?tab=readme-ov-file#os-support) in the board support package repository. It's very important that you follow the steps listed in the README before installing the board support package in the Arduino IDE.
Warning: Follow the steps listed in the GitHub README for your operating system before installing the board support package in the Arduino IDE.
## Install with the Board Manager
The next step is to actually install the Board Support Package (BSP). Go to the **Tools → Board → Boards Manager** submenu. A dialog should come up with various BSPs. Search for **ch32**.
Click the **Install** button and wait for it to finish. Once it is finished, you can close the dialog. This takes care of installing all of the backend dependencies and toolchain for the WCH chips.
## Install the Adafruit TinyUSB Arduino Library
A lot of effort and time has been put into updating the TinyUSB Arduino library to support the CH32V203 QT Py. These updates allow you to upload code easily to the QT Py over USB. You'll need to [install version 3.3.3](https://github.com/adafruit/Adafruit_TinyUSB_Arduino/releases/tag/3.3.3) or newer to use these changes.
Warning: Version 3.3.3 or newer of the Arduino TinyUSB Library is required to properly interface with the QT Py
Click the **Manage Libraries ...** menu item, search for **Adafruit TinyUSB** , and select the **Adafruit TinyUSB** library:
If asked about dependencies, click "Install all".
If the "Dependencies" window does not come up, then you already have the dependencies installed.
## Manually Install the arduino\_core\_ch32 Board Support Package
A pull request was recently merged to the CH32 board support package to add a board definition for the QT Py CH32V203. Until a new release is made, you'll want to manually install the board support package to get these newest features. To do this, you'll need to **git clone** the repository into the **hardware** folder inside of your **Arduino** folder in your filesystem.
You can do this using the GitHub Desktop app or by using `git` in the terminal:
```terminal
cd /path/to/Arduino/hardware
git clone https://github.com/openwch/arduino_core_ch32.git
```
There is one final step to have the manual installation of the board support package appear in the Arduino IDE. Navigate to the **arduino\_core\_ch32** folder inside of the **hardware** folder. You'll need to **create a new folder called WCH**. **Move the contents of the arduino\_core\_ch32** folder that you just cloned into that **WCH folder**.
Your new folder hierarchy should be **Arduino/hardware/arduino\_core\_ch32/WCH**
You may need to update the Adafruit TinyUSB submodule that came with the git clone by doing this:
```terminal
cd /path/to/Arduino/hardware/arduino_core_ch23/WCH
git submodule update --init
```
Restart the Arduino IDE to be sure that it grabs the forked board support package in the hardware folder.
## Code Upload Options
In the **Tools → Board** submenu you should see **CH32V EVT Boards Support** **(in sketchbook)**. This is the manual installation that you just cloned into your **hardware** folder.
Under **Board** , select **CH32V20x**.
Under **Board Select** , select **Adafruit QTPy CH32V203G6**. Under **USB Support** , select **Adafruit TinyUSB with USBD**. These settings will work with the CH32V203 QT Py.
Danger: If you're not able to upload to the board, you may need to 'manually' put it into bootloader mode and use the WCHISP tool. Check this page https://learn.adafruit.com/adafruit-qt-py-ch32v203/bootloader-mode
# QT Py CH32V203 eInk / ePaper Daily Calendar and Clock
## Code the Calendar
The CH32V203 QT Py has Arduino support, which means that you can use the Arduino libraries that you know and love for your projects. You can either compile the code with the Arduino IDE after installing the necessary libraries or upload the precompiled .BIN file with the WCHISP tool.
## Arduino IDE - Install the Libraries
You can install the libraries for this project using the Library Manager in the Arduino IDE.
Click the **Manage Libraries...** menu item, search for **Adafruit EPD** , and select the **Adafruit EPD** library:
If asked about dependencies, click "Install all".
Then install the RTC library. Click the **Manage Libraries...** menu item again, search for **RTClib** , and select the **RTClib** library fork by Adafruit:
## Code
https://github.com/adafruit/Adafruit_Learning_System_Guides/blob/main/CH32V203_eInk_Calendar_Clock/CH32V203_eInk_Calendar_Clock.ino
Upload the sketch to your board. The QT Py will initialize the RTC and eInk display. In the loop, the RTC will be read and the eInk display will be updated when the time has changed.
If you need to set the time on your RTC breakout, [check out the DS3231 Learn Guide](https://learn.adafruit.com/adafruit-ds3231-precision-rtc-breakout/arduino-usage).
### Adafruit DS3231 Precision RTC Breakout - Arduino Usage
[Adafruit DS3231 Precision RTC Breakout](https://learn.adafruit.com/adafruit-ds3231-precision-rtc-breakout)
[Arduino Usage](https://learn.adafruit.com/adafruit-ds3231-precision-rtc-breakout/arduino-usage)
## BIN File
If you prefer to skip the Arduino IDE, you can upload the precompiled .BIN file to your board with the WCHISP command line tool. The .BIN file is available for download below. If you aren't familiar with the WCHISP tool, there is [a page available](https://learn.adafruit.com/adafruit-qt-py-ch32v203/using-wchisp-tool) in the CH32V203 Learn Guide.
[CH32V203-eInk-Calendar-Clock.bin](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/133/116/original/CH32V203-eInk-Calendar-Clock.bin?1728935294)
### Adafruit QT Py CH32V203 - Using WCHISP Tool
[Adafruit QT Py CH32V203](https://learn.adafruit.com/adafruit-qt-py-ch32v203)
[Using WCHISP Tool](https://learn.adafruit.com/adafruit-qt-py-ch32v203/using-wchisp-tool)
# QT Py CH32V203 eInk / ePaper Daily Calendar and Clock
## Assembly
Solder socket headers to the EYESPI BFF. Solder plug headers to the QT Py.
Plug in the RTC breakout to the QT Py using a STEMMA QT cable.
Insert an EYESPI cable into the eInk display.
Attach the eInk display to the mounting holes on the 3D printed stand using M2.5 stand-offs and screws. Make sure to run the EYESPI cable through the display cutout.
Plug the EYESPI cable into the EYESPI BFF.
Plug the QT Py into the EYESPI BFF so that the 3D printed hook is sandwiched between them. Make sure that the QT Py USB port is above the BFF EYESPI connector.
Use an M2.5 screw and stand-off to attach the RTC breakout to the top right eInk display stand-off.
That completes the assembly! Power up the QT Py with a USB cable and never be wrong about the date or day of the week again.
## Featured Products
### Adafruit QT Py CH32V203 Dev Board with STEMMA QT
[Adafruit QT Py CH32V203 Dev Board with STEMMA QT](https://www.adafruit.com/product/5996)
What a cutie pie! Or is it... a QT Py? This diminutive dev board features the powerful CH32V203 low-cost processor that's all the trend: based on RISC-V and cheaper than an 8-bit core! This little one is a great way to get started in the CH32x processor family, with everything you...
In Stock
[Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/5996)
[Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/5996/guides)
### Adafruit EYESPI BFF for QT Py or Xiao - 18 Pin FPC Connector
[Adafruit EYESPI BFF for QT Py or Xiao - 18 Pin FPC Connector](https://www.adafruit.com/product/5772)
Our QT Py boards are a great way to make very small microcontroller projects that pack a ton of power - and now we have a way for you to add a small, colorful, and bright display to any project.
Our most recent [display...](https://www.adafruit.com/?q=eyespi&sort=BestMatch)
In Stock
[Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/5772)
[Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/5772/guides)
### Adafruit 1.54" Monochrome eInk / ePaper Display with SRAM
[Adafruit 1.54" Monochrome eInk / ePaper Display with SRAM](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4196)
Easy e-paper finally comes to microcontrollers, with this breakout that's designed to make it a breeze to add an eInk display. Chances are you've seen one of those new-fangled 'e-readers' like the Kindle or Nook. They have gigantic electronic paper 'static' displays -...
Out of Stock
[Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4196)
[Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/4196/guides)
### Adafruit DS3231 Precision RTC - STEMMA QT
[Adafruit DS3231 Precision RTC - STEMMA QT](https://www.adafruit.com/product/5188)
The datasheet for the **DS3231** explains that this part is an "Extremely Accurate I²C-Integrated RTC/TCXO/Crystal". And, hey, it does exactly what it says on the tin! This **Real Time Clock (RTC)** is the most precise you can get in a...
In Stock
[Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/5188)
[Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/5188/guides)
### EYESPI Cable - 18 Pin 100mm long Flex PCB (FPC) A-B type
[EYESPI Cable - 18 Pin 100mm long Flex PCB (FPC) A-B type](https://www.adafruit.com/product/5239)
Connect this to that when a 18-pin FPC connector is needed. This 25 cm long cable is made of a flexible PCB. It's A-B style which means that pin one on one side will match with pin one on the other side. How handy!
In Stock
[Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/5239)
[Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/5239/guides)
### STEMMA QT / Qwiic JST SH 4-Pin Cable - 50mm Long
[STEMMA QT / Qwiic JST SH 4-Pin Cable - 50mm Long](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4399)
This 4-wire cable is 50mm / 1.9" long and fitted with JST SH female 4-pin connectors on both ends. Compared with the chunkier JST PH these are 1mm pitch instead of 2mm, but still have a nice latching feel, while being easy to insert and remove.
In Stock
[Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4399)
[Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/4399/guides)
### Pink and Purple Woven USB A to USB C Cable - 1 meter long
[Pink and Purple Woven USB A to USB C Cable - 1 meter long](https://www.adafruit.com/product/5153)
This cable is not only super-fashionable, with a woven pink and purple Blinka-like pattern, it's also made for USB C for our modernized breakout boards, Feathers, and more. [If you want something just like it but for Micro B, we...](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4111)
Out of Stock
[Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/5153)
[Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/5153/guides)
### Black Nylon Machine Screw and Stand-off Set – M2.5 Thread
[Black Nylon Machine Screw and Stand-off Set – M2.5 Thread](https://www.adafruit.com/product/3299)
Totaling 380 pieces, this **M2.5 Screw Set** is a must-have for your workstation. You'll have enough screws, nuts, and hex standoffs to fuel your maker tendencies for days on end! M2.5 size screws fit almost all of the Adafruit breakout/dev board mounting holes...
In Stock
[Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/3299)
[Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/3299/guides)
## Related Guides
- [Adafruit 1.54" eInk Display Breakouts](https://learn.adafruit.com/adafruit-1-54-eink-display-breakouts.md)
- [Adafruit EYESPI BFF](https://learn.adafruit.com/adafruit-eyespi-bff.md)
- [Adafruit QT Py CH32V203](https://learn.adafruit.com/adafruit-qt-py-ch32v203.md)
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- [CircuitPython MIDI to CV Skull](https://learn.adafruit.com/circuitpython-midi-to-cv-skull.md)
- [Mini Pinball Table with Gemma M0](https://learn.adafruit.com/mini-pinball-table-with-gemma-m0.md)
- [ItsyBitsy ESP32 wFL case](https://learn.adafruit.com/itsybitsy-esp32-wfl-case.md)
- [CircuitPython Powered Sip & Puff with ST LPS33HW Pressure Sensor](https://learn.adafruit.com/st-lps33-and-circuitpython-sip-and-puff.md)
- [World Clock](https://learn.adafruit.com/world-clock.md)
- [Computer Space Mini Arcade](https://learn.adafruit.com/computer-space-mini-arcade.md)
- [PyPortal Guitar Tuner](https://learn.adafruit.com/pyportal-guitar-tuner.md)
- [RP2040 RunCPM Emulator with USB Keyboard & HDMI screen](https://learn.adafruit.com/rp2040-runcpm-emulator-with-usb-keyboard-hdmi-screen.md)
- [PyPortal Titano Weather Station](https://learn.adafruit.com/pyportal-titano-weather-station.md)