# Mini Raspberry Pi Handheld Notebook

## Overview

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9uJA_YbKfn8

![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/025/785/medium800/hacks_hero-astro-1.jpg?1433439101)

This is a Raspberry Pi notebook. Our 3D Printed enclosure turns the Pi and a 3.5” PiTFT into&nbsp;a sweet retro mini laptop.&nbsp;The mini chiclet keyboard is both adorable and wireless. It features a trackpad, but you can also use the Touch screen on the PiTFT.

Rechargable through the PowerBoost 1000C, the 2000mAh battery fits between the screen and the Raspberry Pi.&nbsp;3D Printed&nbsp;hinges&nbsp;attach to the enclosure, making this a tiny portable computer!

Warning: 

## Usage

The best use case for this project is for monitoring and controling prints, checking up on webcams or even streaming music. You can even play text adventures games like Zork!

![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/025/759/medium800/hacks_circuit-parts-sm.jpg?1433426174)

## Prerequisite&nbsp;Guides

Check out the following guides below to get a better understanding of the pin outs for the PiTFT and Powerboost 1000C.

- [PiTFT 3.5"](../../../adafruit-pitft-3-dot-5-touch-screen-for-raspberry-pi)
- [PowerBoost 1000C](../../../adafruit-powerboost-1000c-load-share-usb-charge-boost)

Danger: 

## Parts, Tool & Supplies

If you don't have access to a 3D printer, you can send the files to a service or check with your local hackerspace/library.

- [Powerboost 1000C](https://www.adafruit.com/product/2465)
- [Mini Metal Speaker](https://www.adafruit.com/products/1890)
- [Raspberry&nbsp;Pi 2](https://www.adafruit.com/product/2358)or [Raspberry Pi 3](https://www.adafruit.com/product/3055)
- [3.5" PiTFT](http://www.adafruit.com/product/2441)
- [Miniature Keyboard](https://www.adafruit.com/product/922)
- [3D Printer](https://www.adafruit.com/category/128)
- [Filament](https://www.adafruit.com/products/2080)
- [#2-56 machine screws and nuts](https://amzn.to/3ayyJTO)
- [#4-40 machine screws and nuts](https://amzn.to/3uDBqua)

### Adafruit Mono 2.5W Class D Audio Amplifier - PAM8302

[Adafruit Mono 2.5W Class D Audio Amplifier - PAM8302](https://www.adafruit.com/product/2130)
This super small mono amplifier is surprisingly powerful - able to deliver up to 2.5 Watts into 4-8 ohm impedance speakers. Inside the miniature chip is a class D controller, able to run from 2.0V-5.5VDC. Since the amp is a class D, its very efficient (over 90% efficient when driving an...

In Stock
[Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/2130)
[Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/2130/guides)
![Angled shot of an Adafruit Mono 2.5W Class D Audio Amplifier assembled to a speaker and white breadboard. ](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/640x480/2130-00.jpg)

### Breadboard-friendly SPDT Slide Switch

[Breadboard-friendly SPDT Slide Switch](https://www.adafruit.com/product/805)
These nice switches are perfect for use with breadboard and perfboard projects. They have 0.1" spacing and snap in nicely into a solderless breadboard. They're easy to switch no matter what size fingers you have, but not so easy that they'll get flipped by accident. Work great as...

In Stock
[Buy Now](https://www.adafruit.com/product/805)
[Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/805/guides)
![Small, black, SPDT slide switch.](https://cdn-shop.adafruit.com/640x480/805-03.jpg)

# Mini Raspberry Pi Handheld Notebook

## Software

The PiTFT requires kernel support and a couple other things to make it a nice stand-alone display. We have a detailed step-by-step setup for hackers who want to tweak, customize or understand the PiTFT setup. If you just want to get going, check out the following for easy-install instructions!

# Ready to go image

If you want to start with a fresh image, we have one for Raspbian - click here to download it and install into a new SD card.&nbsp;[Unzip and follow the classic SD card burning tutorials](http://elinux.org/RPi_Easy_SD_Card_Setup)

[Visit PiTFT 3.5" guide ](https://learn.adafruit.com/adafruit-pitft-3-dot-5-touch-screen-for-raspberry-pi/easy-install-2#unsupported-full-images-2038259)
Danger: 

# Mini Raspberry Pi Handheld Notebook

## 3D Printing

[Download STLs](http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:864547)
## 3D Printed Parts

All you need are these seven parts to get started:

- Case
- 4&nbsp;hinges
- Keyboard case
- Back cover

![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/025/760/medium800/hacks_3d-parts-sm.jpg?1433434540)

## Slicer Settings

You can use the settings below&nbsp;as a reference. The parts are&nbsp;oriented in the center of the bed and ready to print "as is". They do not require any support material.

## Materials

These parts have been&nbsp;printed in PLA but should print without any problems in ABS or other materials like bamboo and metal filaments.

![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/025/783/medium800/hacks_hinge-build.jpg?1433438966)

## Hinge Assembly

The hinges print with no support material and are held together with a machine screw, nut and friction.&nbsp;You can adjust the tolerance by fastening the machine screw.&nbsp;

![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/025/784/medium800/hacks_hinge-attach.jpg?1433439042)

## Hinge Connections

The hinges connect like legos. Snap fit each to the screen and keyboard case.&nbsp;The hinge is modular, so you can use these&nbsp;on other projects.

# Mini Raspberry Pi Handheld Notebook

## Circuit Diagram

![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/141/283/medium800/3d_printing_circuit-diagram.jpg?1764086473 )

Take a moment to review the components in the circuit diagram. This illustration is meant for&nbsp;referencing wired connections - The length of wire,&nbsp;position and size of components are not exact.&nbsp;

The PAM8302 amplifier&nbsp;connects to the&nbsp; **+** and **-** sides of the mini speaker. Route power by connecting **VIN** to **5V** on the&nbsp;PowerBoost 1000C and then **Gnd** to **G**.

PowerBoost 1000C hooks up to pins **&nbsp;#2** (5V)&nbsp;and **#6** (ground)&nbsp;on the Pi.

The slide switch will need to connect to **Ground** and&nbsp; **Enable**.

Battery connects to the JST port next to the USB port on the Powerboost 1000C.

# Mini Raspberry Pi Handheld Notebook

## Assembly

![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/025/762/medium800/hacks_bend-gpio-pins.jpg?1433436192)

## Making the battery fit

To fit the&nbsp;battey in between the screen and the Pi 2, we'll need to make room by bending the header pins on the PiTFT display.&nbsp;

![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/025/763/medium800/hacks_bent-gpio-pins.jpg?1433436221)

Use a pair of flat pliers to carefully bend each header pin down, so they're parted like in the photo.

![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/025/764/medium800/hacks_battery-prep.jpg?1433436268)

## Prepare battery

Wrap&nbsp;a layer of gaffers tape around the battery to proect it. This will also give it a nice cushion agaisnt any of the pins.

![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/025/765/medium800/hacks_battery-sandwich.jpg?1433436359)

## Battery Sandwich

Carefully mount the PiTFT on top of the Pi. Make sure to positon the battery wire&nbsp;on the opposite side of the USB ports.

![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/025/766/medium800/hacks_pitft-battery-pins.jpg?1433436453)

## Wire Power

Use&nbsp;two short jumper cables to easily conncet power and ground to the Pi.&nbsp;Power is **GPIO2**. Ground&nbsp;is **GPIO6.**

![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/025/767/medium800/hacks_battery-sandwich-wires.jpg?1433436549)

## Route wires

Neatly nest each wire for the speaker, amp and PowerBoost&nbsp;between the screen and Pi.

![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/025/775/medium800/hacks_pi-wires-insert.jpg?1433438498)

## Insert Pi and&nbsp;PiTFT

Place the Pi 2 and 3.5" PiTFT into the enclosure. The ports should line up with the cut outs on the enclosure. The mounting tabs on the display should&nbsp;line up with the standoffs in&nbsp;the enclosure.

## Add Speaker

Insert the mini metal speaker into the enclosure. The speaker fits into the area with sound cutouts and a circular cavity. The speaker will have tight fit, so just press it down to snap it into place.

## Measure each wire

With each wire nested, measure how long you'll need for all of the componets. Make sure to leave&nbsp;a&nbsp;little bit of slack, this will make it easy to open.

![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/025/768/medium800/hacks_amp-solder.jpg?1433436626)

## Mount Powerboost 1000C

Secure the Powerboost 1000c to the back cover with two #4-40 3/8 flat phillips machine screws.

## PAM8302 amp

Mount the PAM8302 amp to the side of the&nbsp;enclosure using #4-40 screws. You can solder wires to each pin using a tweezer or solder before mounting. &nbsp;

![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/025/769/medium800/hacks_powerboost-solder.jpg?1433436706)

## PowerBoost 1000C

Solder the PAM8302 amp pins&nbsp;to the PowerBoost 1000C according to&nbsp;the circuit diagram. Positive to **5V** , negative to **ground**.

![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/025/770/medium800/hacks_speaker-wire-tin.jpg?1433436797)

## Pi Power

If the jumper&nbsp;cables are not long enough, use silicon wires to extend them&nbsp;to the Pi. Leave a bit of slack like before.&nbsp;

![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/025/771/medium800/hacks_powerboost-solder-pi.jpg?1433436827)

Solder the&nbsp;jumper cables to the ground and postive pins on PowerBoost 1000C like&nbsp;shown in the circuit diagram.

![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/025/825/medium800/hacks_slide-switch-build1.jpg?1433615242)

## Slide Switch

Mount the slide switch and then take measurements for the length of wires we'll need.

![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/025/826/medium800/hacks_slide-switch-build.jpg?1433615311)

Solder wires to the slide switch and use heat shrink tubing to insulate the connections.

![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/025/824/medium800/hacks_slide-switch-pull-through.jpg?1433615182)

Danger: 

![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/025/772/medium800/hacks_powerboost-solder-slide-switch.jpg?1433436886)

Solder these wires to the **enable** and **ground** &nbsp;pins on the Powerboost 1000C.

![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/025/776/medium800/hacks_powerboost-soldered.jpg?1433438640)

Almost there! Now we'll just need to route audio to the speaker.

![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/025/777/medium800/hacks_audio-pin-tin.jpg?1433438665)

## Pi Audio Input

We can route audio from the headphone jack by directly soldering to the pins on the bottom of the Pi 2. Use a small amont of solder to tin each pin.

![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/025/778/medium800/hacks_audio-soldered.jpg?1433438687)

## Audio wires

Nest the wiring along the side of the case to avoid covering up the USB ports.

![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/025/780/medium800/hacks_powerboost-jst-battery.jpg?1433438783)

## Battery JST

Connect the 2000mAh lipo battery to the JST port on the PowerBoost 1000C.&nbsp;Turn on the slide switch to check power.&nbsp;

![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/025/779/medium800/hacks_pi-mount.jpg?1433438713)

## Mount PiTFT

Use four #4-40 screws to mount the Pi and PiTFT to the case. You may need to bend the side of the case (with the port openings) to allow the Pi to fit into the case.

![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/025/781/medium800/hacks_cover-screw.jpg?1433438899)

## Back Cover

Lay the back cover over the enclosure and fasten&nbsp;four #2-56 screws to mount the back cover to the enclousre.

![](https://cdn-learn.adafruit.com/assets/assets/000/025/782/medium800/hacks_hero-pitop-sm.jpg?1433438929)

The USB ports are tucked inside the enclosure, so your USB dongles are nicely hidden and out of the away.

The mini chiclet keyboard is both adorable and wireless. It features a trackpad, but you can also use the Touch screen on the PiTFT.

So now you can monitor your printers and remotely kick off a printer or check up on your baby and make sure they’re OK.

You can even jam out for your favorite steam on soundcloud.

**And if you’re looking to play some games, you can easily turn this into a Z Machine and play your favorite retro text adventure games!**


## Featured Products

### PiTFT Plus 480x320 3.5" TFT+Touchscreen for Raspberry Pi

[PiTFT Plus 480x320 3.5" TFT+Touchscreen for Raspberry Pi](https://www.adafruit.com/product/2441)
Is this not the cutest, little display for the Raspberry Pi? It features a **3.5" display with 480x320** 16-bit color pixels and a resistive touch overlay [just like our popular original](https://www.adafruit.com/products/2097), but this one is engineered...

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[Raspberry Pi 2 - Model B v1.2 - ARM Cortex-A53 with 1G RAM](https://www.adafruit.com/product/2358)
Didn't think the Raspberry Pi could get any better? You're in for a big surprise! The Raspberry Pi 2 Model B is out and it's amazing! With an upgraded ARM Cortex-A53&nbsp;quad-core processor, Dual Core VideoCore IV Multimedia coprocessor, and a full Gigabyte of RAM, this...

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[Raspberry Pi 3 - Model B - ARMv8 with 1G RAM](https://www.adafruit.com/product/3055)
Did you really think the Raspberry Pi would stop getting better? At this point, we sound like a broken record, extolling on the new Pi’s myriad improvements like we’re surprised that the folks at the Raspberry Pi Foundation are continuously making their flagship board better.&nbsp;...

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[Miniature Wireless USB Keyboard with Touchpad](https://www.adafruit.com/product/922)
Add a miniature wireless controller to your computer project with this combination keyboard and touchpad. We found the smallest wireless USB keyboard available, a mere 6" x 2.4" x 0.5" (152mm x 59mm x 12.5mm)! It's small but usable to make a great accompaniment to a computer...

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### PowerBoost 1000 Charger - Rechargeable 5V Lipo USB Boost @ 1A

[PowerBoost 1000 Charger - Rechargeable 5V Lipo USB Boost @ 1A](https://www.adafruit.com/product/2465)
PowerBoost 1000C is the perfect power supply for your portable project!&nbsp; **With a built-in load-sharing battery charger circuit, you'll be able to keep your power-hungry project running even while recharging the battery!** &nbsp;This little DC/DC boost converter module can...

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### Mini Metal Speaker w/ Wires - 8 ohm 0.5W

[Mini Metal Speaker w/ Wires - 8 ohm 0.5W](https://www.adafruit.com/product/1890)
Listen up! This tiny 1" diameter speaker cone is the perfect addition to any small audio project where you need an 8 Ω impedance and will be using 0.5W or less of power. We particularly like this cone as it's very simple and its metal body is extremely lightweight. <a...></a...>

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### Breadboard-friendly SPDT Slide Switch

[Breadboard-friendly SPDT Slide Switch](https://www.adafruit.com/product/805)
These nice switches are perfect for use with breadboard and perfboard projects. They have 0.1" spacing and snap in nicely into a solderless breadboard. They're easy to switch no matter what size fingers you have, but not so easy that they'll get flipped by accident. Work great as...

In Stock
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[Related Guides to the Product](https://learn.adafruit.com/products/805/guides)
### Lithium Ion Battery - 3.7V 2000mAh

[Lithium Ion Battery - 3.7V 2000mAh](https://www.adafruit.com/product/2011)
Lithium-ion polymer (also known as 'lipo' or 'lipoly') batteries are thin, light, and powerful. The output ranges from 4.2V when completely charged to 3.7V. This battery has a capacity of 2000mAh. If you need a larger (or smaller!) battery,&nbsp;<a...></a...>

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## Related Guides

- [Adafruit Powerboost 1000C](https://learn.adafruit.com/adafruit-powerboost-1000c-load-share-usb-charge-boost.md)
- [Adafruit PAM8302 - Mono 2.5W Class D Audio Amplifier](https://learn.adafruit.com/adafruit-pam8302-mono-2-5w-class-d-audio-amplifier.md)
- [Sparkle Motion Dance Shoes](https://learn.adafruit.com/sparkle-motion-dance-shoes.md)
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- [Overwatch Prop Gun: Lucio's Blaster Pt. 1](https://learn.adafruit.com/overwatch-lucio-gun-pt1.md)
- [5" Display Kippah Portable Raspberry Pi](https://learn.adafruit.com/portable-kippah-pi.md)
- [PiGlass](https://learn.adafruit.com/piglass-wearable-raspberry-pi-computer.md)
- [Energy Budgets](https://learn.adafruit.com/energy-budgets.md)
- [Raspberry Pi Pipboy 3000](https://learn.adafruit.com/raspberry-pi-pipboy-3000.md)
- [CRICKIT Snake Bot](https://learn.adafruit.com/crickit-snake-bot.md)
- [PyPortal Case](https://learn.adafruit.com/pyportal-case.md)
- [RGB Matrix Slot Machine](https://learn.adafruit.com/rgb-matrix-slot-machine.md)
- [CRICKIT Flippy Robot](https://learn.adafruit.com/crickit-flippy-robot.md)
- [PiGRRL Zero](https://learn.adafruit.com/pigrrl-zero.md)
- [Lucio Blaster 2020 - CircuitPython for Advanced Prop Making](https://learn.adafruit.com/lucio-blaster-2020-circuitpython-advanced-prop-making.md)
- [Printy Boost: Reimagining a Classic Adafruit Kit](https://learn.adafruit.com/printy-boost-reimagining-a-classic-adafruit-kit.md)
- [CRICKIT WobblyBot](https://learn.adafruit.com/crickit-wobblybot.md)
