This repository contains the open source firmware for 80s Engineering's On-Board Computer (OBC) v2.0, which is a modern take on the original on-board computer found in premium BMWs of the late 80s.
It replicates most of the original functions and adds performance-oriented features, while maintaining its retro aesthetics.
The firmware is written in MicroPython and runs on a Raspberry Pi Pico W.
This project is also a great base for custom applications, as the device offers multiple accessible Input/Output Digital/Analog pins for sensors, switches, or other hardware extensions.
It's mainly for this matter that this firmware is open-sourced.
Below is a list and description of accessible pins on the top of the OBC v2.0
| Pin | Label | Function / Description | Pinout |
|---|---|---|---|
| P1 | GND | Ground | GND |
| P2 | IO | Custom digital 3.3V input/output | Connected to GPIO 26 |
| P3 | SDA | I2C data line | Connected to GPIO 2 |
| P4 | SCL | I2C clock line | Connected to GPIO 3 |
| P5 | AIN1 | 0-5V Analog input | Connected to ADC's channel 5 |
| P6 | AIN2 | 0-12V Analog input | Connected to ADC's channel 6 |
| P7 | AIN3 | 0-5V Analog input. Pulled up to 5V with 4.7kOhm | Connected to ADC's channel 7 |
| P8 | 12V | Permanent 12V | 12V |
| P9 | 5V | Commuted 5V | 5V |
| P10 | 3.3V | Commuted 3.3V | RPi's 3.3VOUT |
| File | Description |
|---|---|
main.py |
Main program. Core logic of the OBC. Handles system's functions (menu navigation, on/off...), application functions (hour, laptimer, oil pressure...), and setting functions. |
FOTA directory |
Backend of the Firmware-Over-The-Air (wireless update) system |
buttons.py |
Handles press/long-press button detection, and debouncing |
dictionnary.py |
Stores all the displayed words and translations |
fota-master.py |
Wireless update handler |
GPS_parser.py |
Parses GPS data |
hardware_tester.py |
Used to test components after board assembly |
ht16k33_driver.py |
Display driver |
imu.py |
Accelerometer driver |
injector_pulse_analyzer.py |
Wild shit to analyze frequency and width of injector pulses |
logging.py |
Used to log events for debug purposes |
mcp3208.py |
Analog-to-digital converter driver |
memory.py |
Used to get and set data in the non-volatile memory of the RPi |
temperatuy.py |
Driver for oil/out/water/exhaust temperature sensors |
timer.py |
Timer and laptimer handler |
unit.py |
Handles the mess of imperial units |
vector3d.py |
Dependency for the imu driver. Probably useless |
Some files contains derivatives of libraries found online.
If you'd like to customize the OBC with new features, integrations, or improvements:
- feel free to reach me out at 📧 [email protected].
- you can reprogram the OBC's board using Thonny IDE and a microUSB connected to the Raspberry Pi Pico W.
- I can release your changes so that you can wirelessly update them on your unit.
I'd be happy to review your changes and merge improvements into the official release.
Do not hesitate to follow me on Instagram for more:
@80s.engineering
Thank you for your interest in the OBC project!