What is DUELink?
In short, DUELink is Everything!
Every Host: Arduino, RPI, FEZ, PC, Phone…
What do you mean by any host?
You can continue to use your favorite board and then “link” it to one, or a hundred, DUELink modules. We have covered many supported hardware but you can even go beyond.
Every Interface: USB, SPI, I2C, and UART…
Does it really work with any interface?
Yes…almost! Every single DUELink module support multiple interfaces, including USB, Serial UART and I2C. That is how these modules connect to your favorite hardware. But then, each module has a Downlink connection allowing you to Daisylink hundreds of modules .
Every Software: Python, C#, JavaScript…
You couldn't really support every software! Could you?
We support the top languages including Python and JavaScript allowing control over a PC/ a phone or Raspberry Pi / Arduino. However we go beyond that and let you run modules standalone in many ways, including Arduino, MicroBlocks, and the internal Scripting Language.
If Excel can control a sensor, then anything can!
Every Level: Commercial quality and maker friendly, that works for educators.
Every Setup: Standalone, a link master, or slave to a host.
How can it run standalone or run with my favorite board/setup?
Each module has a mini computer allowing it to run standalone using its Scripting Engine. This engine can also be commanded using your favorite hardware, such as Raspberry Pi or Micro:bit or even control the modules from a PC.
Still not satisfied? Load the module with MicroBlocks and use an easy block coding interface, or use Arduino and take advantage of massive community resources.
Every Option: Hundreds of module-options for every need.
Where do you get “hundreds of options”?
We are just getting started and there is a catalog with a 100+ modules. We dream of a day where there is a DUELink module for every single technology and need. We are not doing it alone! Third-party modules are encouraged. We have open Specifications to help you make your own.
If you do not want to deal with tiny chip soldering, we have a very tiny module for you, called Stick. Another one is Stamp, which is the size of… you guessed it… a stamp!
Every Budget: Designed with low-cost as a requirement.
Any budget? I am not seeing a $1 module!
Yes, modules that are designed, manufactured, and supported in Michigan, USA are not at “Alibaba-level” pricing. The good news is that the modules are priced right if you factor in the time needed to get the job done effectively. But hold on, you can also have a hybrid option where basic needs can be met by the “$1 button” but then utilize DUELink's advanced modules for other tasks. Of course, we would love it if you can support us with all your needs as this will help in covering the research and development of future modules that you might really need one day.
Every Ecosystem: Adafruit STEMMA, SparkFun Qwiic…
How does DUELink work with any Ecosystem?
If you are using an ecosystem that uses a JST connector, like Adafruit STEMMA QT or Sparkfun Qwiic, than you are half way there! These ecosystems use I2C bus to connect to their modules. Since one of the supported interfaces is I2C, DUELink and these ecosystems can play together nicely as explained on the I2C page. Similarly, systems like Seeed Studio Grove will work but you will need an adaptor cable due to the different connector size.
If you are using something very different from JST/I2C connections then that works separately and you only need a standard Connector to start wiring modules. We even have a Breakout for easier wiring. You have the option to use one of the Interfaces, including USB, I2C and Serial UART
Everywhere Mounting: 5mm-pitch holes (like Gadgeteer did).
Can modules be mounted?
A universal rule is the specification of 5mm-pitched-holes. This allows for universal mounting, like with the available Holey boards.
We even give you some mounting hardware options! This rule helps when designing 3D packages or when building laser-cut enclosures.
Everywhere Engine: World's tiniest engine that includes scripting, graphics, file system and much more.
How can a simple engine go everywhere?
The DUELink engine is very powerful for its size! It lives on every single module and includes a Scripting Language with an extensive Standard Library and support for Graphics, File System and far beyond!