Support our educational content for free when you purchase through links on our site. Learn more
Raspberry Pi Pico Datasheet Deep Dive: 12 Must-Know Facts (2025) 🚀
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the dense pages of the Raspberry Pi Pico datasheet, you’re not alone. But here’s a secret: this technical tome is actually your golden ticket to unlocking the full power of the Pico microcontroller board. From understanding the dual-core RP2040 chip’s inner workings to mastering power management and pin configurations, the datasheet holds the keys to building smarter, more reliable projects.
In this article, we’ll unravel the most critical insights from the datasheet, including little-known tips on power supply quirks, the magic of Programmable I/O (PIO), and how to avoid common pitfalls like USB connectivity issues. Curious about how the Pico’s onboard regulators work or why GPIO pins are strictly 3.3V? We’ve got you covered. By the end, you’ll see why every serious maker should keep this datasheet close at hand—and how it can transform your DIY electronics game.
Key Takeaways
- The Raspberry Pi Pico is powered by the RP2040 dual-core ARM Cortex-M0+ microcontroller, running at 133 MHz with 264KB SRAM and 2MB flash.
- Power input flexibility (1.8V to 5.5V) and onboard buck-boost regulators make the Pico adaptable but require careful voltage management.
- GPIO pins operate at 3.3V logic levels; connecting 5V devices directly can damage your board.
- The datasheet’s pinout diagram is essential for correctly wiring peripherals and understanding multifunction pins.
- Programmable I/O (PIO) enables custom hardware protocols, a unique feature that sets the RP2040 apart.
- Datasheet errata highlight critical USB issues and power circuit details that can save you hours troubleshooting.
- Using the latest datasheet version ensures you have the most accurate specs and errata updates.
👉 Shop Raspberry Pi Pico and Accessories on:
- Amazon | Walmart | Raspberry Pi Official Website
- Raspberry Pi Pico W (Wireless) | Walmart | Official Site
Table of Contents
- ⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts: Your Pico Datasheet Cheat Sheet
- 📚 The Genesis of Genius: A Brief History of Raspberry Pi Pico & Its Documentation
- 🧐 Why Bother with the Datasheet? Unlocking Pico’s Full Potential
- 🔬 Diving Deep into the RP2040 Microcontroller: The Brains of the Pico
- 🔌 Powering Your Projects: Electrical Characteristics & Power Management
- 📌 Pinout Perfection: Navigating the Pico’s GPIO and Peripherals
- The Comprehensive Pinout Diagram: Your Hardware Map
- Digital GPIO: Inputs, Outputs, and Interrupts
- Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC): Bridging the Real World
- Serial Communication Superstars: SPI, I2C, and UART
- Pulse Width Modulation (PWM): Controlling Motors and LEDs
- Programmable I/O (PIO): Unleashing Custom Hardware Logic
- 🛠️ Development & Debugging: Tools and Techniques from the Datasheet
- 🌡️ Environmental & Mechanical Specifications: Building Robust Projects
- 🔄 Datasheet Evolution: Understanding Versions and Updates
- 💡 Expert Tips for Datasheet Mastery: Beyond the Basics
- 🚀 Real-World Applications: How the Datasheet Empowers Innovation
- ✅ Dos and ❌ Don’ts: Best Practices for Using Your Pico Datasheet
- 🤔 Conclusion: Your Journey to Pico Proficiency Starts Here
- 🔗 Recommended Links: Further Reading and Resources
- ❓ FAQ: Your Burning Pico Datasheet Questions Answered
- 📚 Reference Links: Citing Our Sources
Here is the main content for your blog post, crafted by the expert team of educators and engineers at “Why Pi™”.
Welcome, fellow creators and tinkerers! We at “Why Pi™” are absolutely obsessed with squeezing every last drop of performance out of our electronics, and today, we’re tackling a document that many find intimidating but is actually your secret treasure map: the Raspberry Pi Pico datasheet. If you’re new to the Pico, you might want to check out our foundational guide on the Raspberry Pi Pico to get your bearings.
Think of the datasheet not as a boring manual, but as the official spellbook for the Pico, written by the wizards at Raspberry Pi themselves. It holds the incantations to unlock features you never knew existed and helps you avoid the cursed smoke of a fried component. So grab a coffee ☕, and let’s dive into the magic hidden within those pages!
Why Pi™ Rating: The Raspberry Pi Pico Datasheet
| Feature | Rating (1-10) | Why Pi™’s Take |
|---|---|---|
| Completeness | 9/10 | Incredibly thorough, covering everything from electrical specs to mechanical drawings. It’s a dense read, but it’s all there. |
| Readability | 7/10 | It’s a technical document, so it’s not exactly a beach read. However, the diagrams and tables are excellent. Could use more practical examples. |
| Accuracy | 10/10 | This is the gospel directly from Raspberry Pi. It’s the ultimate source of truth, regularly updated with errata and clarifications. |
| Practicality | 8/10 | While highly technical, applying the information directly leads to better, more reliable projects. It’s the bridge from hobbyist to pro. |
| Overall | 8.5/10 | An essential, if challenging, resource. Mastering it is a rite of passage for any serious Pico developer. |
⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts: Your Pico Datasheet Cheat Sheet
No time to read the whole thing? We get it. Here’s the super-condensed version of what you absolutely need to know.
- The Brains: The Pico is powered by the RP2040 microcontroller, designed by Raspberry Pi in the UK.
- Dual-Core Power: It has a Dual-core ARM Cortex-M0+ processor, which is like having two brains for your projects.
- Voltage is Key: The absolute maximum voltage for VSYS (the main system input) is 5.5V. Don’t exceed this, or you’ll let the magic smoke out!
- GPIO Voltage: The GPIO pins are 3.3V only. Connecting a 5V sensor directly will damage your Pico.
- Pin Numbers Matter: When coding in MicroPython, you’ll almost always use the GPIO number (e.g., GP25), not the physical pin number. As noted in a helpful video overview, “When we refer to any pin number in the MicroPython, usually we refer to this GPIO pin number.”
- Onboard LED: The handy onboard LED is connected to GPIO 25 on the standard Pico. On the Pico W, it’s tied to the wireless chip.
- Reset, Reset!: You can reset the Pico by shorting the RUN pin to Ground.
Here’s a quick look at the specs you’ll find in the datasheet:
| Specification | Raspberry Pi Pico Details |
|---|---|
| Microcontroller | RP2040 |
| Processor | Dual-core ARM Cortex-M0+ @ 133MHz |
| SRAM | 264KB on-chip |
| Flash Memory | 2MB on-board QSPI |
| GPIO Pins | 26 multi-function 3.3V pins |
| Analog Inputs | 3 (from a 4-channel 12-bit ADC) |
| Peripherals | 2x SPI, 2x I2C, 2x UART, 16x PWM channels |
| Unique Feature | 8x Programmable I/O (PIO) state machines |
| Input Power | 1.8V – 5.5V DC |
📚 The Genesis of Genius: A Brief History of Raspberry Pi Pico & Its Documentation
Remember when Raspberry Pi was just about tiny, single-board computers running Linux? We do! It was a revolution for hobbyists and educators. But then, in 2021, they dropped a bombshell: the Raspberry Pi Pico. This wasn’t a computer; it was a microcontroller, a direct competitor to the likes of Arduino. For more on this, check out the latest in Electronics Industry News.
The real game-changer wasn’t just the hardware, but the RP2040 chip at its heart. By designing their own silicon, Raspberry Pi took ultimate control. And with great power comes great documentation. The Pico datasheet, along with the more in-depth RP2040 datasheet, represents a commitment to open and thorough information. It allows us, the makers, to understand the hardware at a fundamental level. These documents are constantly evolving, with updates like the v2.1 release bringing new power consumption data, corrections, and clarifications.
🧐 Why Bother with the Datasheet? Unlocking Pico’s Full Potential
“Can’t I just find a tutorial online?” We hear this all the time. And yes, you can! But tutorials only show you how to do one specific thing. The datasheet tells you why it works and what else is possible.
Imagine you’re a chef. A recipe (a tutorial) can help you make a great lasagna. But understanding the science of cooking—how heat transforms proteins, how acids and fats interact (the datasheet)—allows you to create your own dishes, troubleshoot a failed recipe, and become a true culinary artist.
The “Why Pi™” Philosophy: Datasheets as Your Superpower
Here at Why Pi™, we believe the datasheet is your superpower. It’s the difference between copying someone else’s project and inventing your own. It’s where you discover that a pin can be a simple digital output, an ADC input, a UART communication line, or part of an SPI interface. Without the datasheet, you’re just guessing. With it, you’re an engineer. It’s the foundation of all good Microcontroller Programming.
🔬 Diving Deep into the RP2040 Microcontroller: The Brains of the Pico
The Pico board is just a carrier. The real magic is the RP2040 chip. The name itself is a datasheet secret: RP for Raspberry Pi, 2 cores, 0 for the Cortex-M0+ type, 4 for log2(264KB/16KB) of RAM, and 0 for no on-chip non-volatile storage (it uses external Flash). Let’s break down its key features.
1. Core Architecture: Dual-Core ARM Cortex-M0+ Explained
The RP2040 has two processor cores. Think of it as having two independent workers that can tackle tasks simultaneously. You could have one core dedicated to handling complex mathematical calculations while the other manages user inputs and display updates. This parallel processing is a massive advantage for robotics, signal processing, and other demanding DIY Electronics projects. These cores are based on the industry-standard ARM Cortex-M0+ architecture, known for its efficiency.
2. Memory Marvels: SRAM, Flash, and XIP Demystified
The datasheet details three types of memory:
- ROM (16KB): This is baked into the chip at the factory. It contains the bootloader code that allows you to drag-and-drop firmware onto the Pico.
- SRAM (264KB): This is your super-fast, volatile “scratchpad.” It’s where your program runs and stores variables. When you power off the Pico, everything in SRAM is wiped clean.
- Flash (2MB): This is the external chip on the Pico board that acts as your hard drive. As explained in the video guide, “This Flash memory is a drive area where you save the MicroPython.” This is where your
main.pyfile lives, which the bootloader specifically looks for on startup.
One of the RP2040’s killer features is XIP (Execute-in-Place). This allows the processor to run code directly from the external Flash memory without having to load it into SRAM first, freeing up that precious RAM for your variables and data.
3. Clocking In: Oscillators, PLLs, and Timing Precision
The datasheet has an entire section on the clocking system, and for good reason. The RP2040 uses a high-precision on-chip oscillator and PLLs (Phase-Locked Loops) to generate a stable system clock, which can run up to 133 MHz. This precision is critical for timing-sensitive operations like generating video signals or high-speed data communication.
🔌 Powering Your Projects: Electrical Characteristics & Power Management
This is arguably the most critical section of the datasheet. Getting power wrong is the #1 way to destroy your Pico. Let’s clear up some common points of confusion.
Input Voltage Ranges: From USB to External Sources
You can power the Pico in two main ways:
- Via Micro-USB: This provides a standard 5V supply.
- Via the VSYS Pin: This is where things get interesting. The datasheet specifies an input range of 1.8V to 5.5V. This flexibility allows you to power your Pico with various sources, like LiPo batteries or multiple AA cells.
A common question on forums is about using phone chargers. As one user asked, “any reason why i cant just plug it in?“. The answer is yes, you absolutely can! A standard USB phone charger provides 5V, which is perfect for the micro-USB port.
👉 Shop Raspberry Pi Pico on:
Current Consumption: Optimizing for Battery Life
The datasheet provides detailed tables on power consumption in different modes. For example, in its low-power “Dormant” mode, the RP2040 can draw just a few microamps! The v2.1 documentation update even added new, more accurate baseline power consumption figures. Understanding these tables is crucial for designing battery-powered devices that last for weeks or months.
On-Board Regulators: What You Need to Know
The Pico has an on-board buck-boost SMPS (Switched-Mode Power Supply). This is a highly efficient regulator that can take the wide input voltage from VSYS (1.8V-5.5V) and convert it into the stable 3.3V needed by the RP2040 and your peripherals.
There was a fascinating discussion on the Raspberry Pi forums about the power circuit, specifically the P-MOSFET used for power source selection. Some users thought it was backward in the schematic! However, a Raspberry Pi Engineer clarified, “The PFET is the correct way around (for this application)”. Its orientation cleverly prevents a higher-voltage battery on VSYS from back-feeding the USB port. The datasheet also recommends adding a Schottky diode for optimization, a tip straight from the pros for those designing custom boards.
⚠️ A Word of Warning on Lithium Batteries: The datasheet is very clear: “If using Lithium-Ion cells they must have…adequate protection”. As forum members pointed out, over-discharging a bare Li-Ion cell can “seriously shorten the lifespan of your cells” or even cause a fire. Always use protected cells or a dedicated battery management board like the Adafruit PowerBoost 1000C.
📌 Pinout Perfection: Navigating the Pico’s GPIO and Peripherals
The Pico’s 40 pins are your gateway to the physical world. The pinout diagram in the datasheet is your map. Let’s explore the territory.
The Comprehensive Pinout Diagram: Your Hardware Map
The first thing you should do is print out the Pico pinout diagram and stick it on your wall. It shows you which pins can do what. You’ll see power pins (VBUS, VSYS, 3V3, GND), debug pins (SWD), and the all-important General Purpose Input/Output (GPIO) pins.
Digital GPIO: Inputs, Outputs, and Interrupts
At their simplest, the 26 GPIO pins can be set as inputs (to read a button press) or outputs (to light an LED). But they’re much more powerful than that. You can configure them with internal pull-up or pull-down resistors, and set them up to trigger interrupts—special functions that run immediately when a pin’s state changes, without you having to constantly check it in your main code loop.
Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC): Bridging the Real World
The real world is analog. Temperature, light, and sound aren’t just on or off. The Pico has a 12-bit ADC with 4 channels, three of which are available on GPIO pins 26, 27, and 28. This allows you to read analog sensors and convert their values into numbers your code can understand.
Serial Communication Superstars: SPI, I2C, and UART
How does your Pico talk to other chips, sensors, and displays? Through serial protocols. The datasheet shows that the RP2040 has dedicated hardware for:
- SPI (Serial Peripheral Interface): A fast, four-wire protocol often used for displays and SD card readers.
- I2C (Inter-Integrated Circuit): A simple, two-wire protocol perfect for connecting multiple sensors on a shared bus.
- UART (Universal Asynchronous Receiver-Transmitter): A classic serial port, great for debugging or connecting to GPS modules.
Pulse Width Modulation (PWM): Controlling Motors and LEDs
Want to dim an LED smoothly or control the speed of a DC motor? You need PWM. The datasheet explains that the RP2040 has 16 separate PWM channels. It works by switching a pin on and off very quickly, and the “duty cycle” (the ratio of on-time to off-time) determines the average voltage, giving you fine control over analog devices.
Programmable I/O (PIO): Unleashing Custom Hardware Logic
This is the RP2040’s secret weapon and a feature that deserves its own article in our Electronic Component Reviews section. PIO is a set of eight “state machines” that you can program to create your own custom hardware interfaces. Need to drive an obscure strip of LEDs like the NeoPixel (WS2812B)? Or read a sensor with a weird, non-standard timing protocol? PIO can do it without bogging down the main processor cores. It’s like having tiny, custom-built hardware assistants at your command.
🛠️ Development & Debugging: Tools and Techniques from the Datasheet
The datasheet isn’t just about hardware; it’s also your guide to getting code onto the chip and figuring out why it’s not working!
SWD Debugging Interface: Peeking Inside Your Code
The three pins labeled SWCLK, SWDIO, and GND form the Serial Wire Debug (SWD) interface. Using a dedicated tool like the Raspberry Pi Debug Probe, you can connect directly to the RP2040. This lets you pause your code mid-execution, inspect the values of variables, and step through your program line by line. It’s an incredibly powerful way to squash bugs.
Boot Modes and USB Bootloader: Getting Your Code Onboard
The datasheet explains how to put the Pico into its USB bootloader mode: simply hold down the BOOTSEL button while plugging it into your computer. It will appear as a USB mass storage device, allowing you to drag and drop your UF2 firmware file. This is all thanks to the code stored in that permanent ROM we talked about earlier.
SDK & MicroPython Integration: Software Meets Hardware
Raspberry Pi provides excellent software support. The datasheet is the foundation for both the C/C++ SDK and the official MicroPython port. The documentation is constantly updated; for example, the SDK books were recently updated to support the Pico-W-Go extension for Visual Studio Code as an alternative to Thonny for MicroPython development.
🌡️ Environmental & Mechanical Specifications: Building Robust Projects
If you’re designing a product around the Pico, this section is non-negotiable.
Operating Temperature Range: Hot or Cold, Pico Stays Gold
The datasheet specifies the official operating temperature range for the Pico. This is crucial if your project will be used outdoors or in an industrial setting. Pushing the Pico beyond these limits can lead to unpredictable behavior or permanent damage.
Physical Dimensions and Mounting: Fitting Pico into Your Designs
Need to design a 3D-printed case or a custom PCB? The datasheet provides precise mechanical drawings with all the dimensions you need, including the location of the mounting holes. For the Pico W, the datasheet even includes a critical “keep out” diagram for the antenna area to ensure good wireless performance.
ESD Protection and Reliability: Keeping Your Pico Safe
The datasheet also covers Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) ratings. This tells you how much static electricity the pins can handle before being damaged. It’s a reminder to always handle your electronics with care, especially in dry environments.
🔄 Datasheet Evolution: Understanding Versions and Updates
A datasheet is a living document. As Raspberry Pi engineers discover new things about their own chip or release new software, they update the documentation.
Navigating Different Datasheet Revisions (e.g., V2.1 Documentation Release and Beyond)
It’s vital to ensure you’re using the latest version of the datasheet, which you can always find at the Raspberry Pi documentation portal. The v2.1 release, for example, brought a host of minor updates and corrections, including a fix for the SMT footprint of the Pico W.
Key Changes and Improvements Over Time
One of the most important updates is the errata section. This is where the engineers document known bugs or limitations in the hardware. For instance, the RP2040 datasheet was updated to include Errata E15, a complex USB issue where a specific type of hub (like those using the VL805 chipset) could cause the Pico’s USB device controller to hang. Without reading the updated datasheet, you might spend weeks trying to debug a problem that is already a known hardware quirk!
💡 Expert Tips for Datasheet Mastery: Beyond the Basics
Ready to go from apprentice to master? Here are some pro tips from our engineering team.
Cross-Referencing with the RP2040 Microcontroller Datasheet
The Pico datasheet is about the board. The RP2040 datasheet is about the chip. For deep dives into register-level programming or the nitty-gritty of a peripheral’s operation, you’ll need to consult the RP2040 datasheet. The two documents are designed to be used together.
Schematics and Layout Guidelines: Designing Your Own Pico-Powered Boards
The Pico datasheet includes the full schematics for the board! This is an incredible resource. You can see exactly how the components are connected, which is invaluable for debugging and for learning how to design your own boards. For those looking to build a product around the RP2040, the “Hardware Design with RP2040” guide is essential reading.
Troubleshooting Common Issues with Datasheet Insights
Problem: “My sensor isn’t working!”
Datasheet Solution: Check the pinout diagram. Are you sure the pin you’re using supports the function you need (e.g., I2C, ADC)? Check the electrical characteristics. Are you providing the correct voltage? Is your logic level 3.3V?
Problem: “My Pico keeps crashing when connected to a specific USB hub.”
Datasheet Solution: Check the errata! This could be the exact issue described in Errata E15.
🚀 Real-World Applications: How the Datasheet Empowers Innovation
Understanding the datasheet unlocks new project possibilities.
From Home Automation to Robotics: Practical Examples
- Building a Weather Station: The ADC section tells you how to accurately read analog temperature and humidity sensors. The power consumption tables help you design it to run for months on a battery.
- Creating a Custom Macro Keyboard: The GPIO and USB HID (Human Interface Device) sections of the SDK documentation are your guides.
- Designing a Balancing Robot: You’ll need the PWM section for precise motor control and the I2C/SPI sections to read data from an IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) sensor. The dual-core processor is perfect for running the complex balancing algorithm on one core while handling motor control on the other.
The Pico W Datasheet: What’s Different with Wireless?
The Pico W adds Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Its datasheet is largely the same but includes critical new information:
- Antenna Keep-Out: A diagram showing where you should not place components or traces on your own PCBs to avoid interfering with the wireless signal.
- Wireless Chip Details: Information on the Infineon CYW43439 wireless chip.
- Power Consumption: Additional power figures for when Wi-Fi is active.
👉 Shop Raspberry Pi Pico W on:
✅ Dos and ❌ Don’ts: Best Practices for Using Your Pico Datasheet
To wrap it up, here’s our definitive list of best practices.
- ✅ DO check the absolute maximum ratings in the electrical characteristics section before connecting anything to your Pico.
- ❌ DON’T connect 5V logic devices directly to the GPIO pins. They are 3.3V only! Use a logic level shifter.
- ✅ DO use the pinout diagram to plan your project’s wiring.
- ❌ DON’T assume every GPIO pin can do everything. Some have special functions (like ADC).
- ✅ DO download the latest version of the datasheet from the official Raspberry Pi website.
- ❌ DON’T ignore the errata section. It can save you hours of debugging.
- ✅ DO cross-reference with the RP2040 datasheet for more in-depth technical details.
- ❌ DON’T be afraid to skim! Use the table of contents to jump directly to the section you need. You don’t have to read it cover-to-cover every time.
🤔 Conclusion: Your Journey to Pico Proficiency Starts Here
So, what’s the final verdict on the Raspberry Pi Pico datasheet? After our deep dive, it’s clear that this document is an indispensable companion for anyone serious about mastering the Pico ecosystem. It’s packed with technical gold—covering everything from the RP2040 microcontroller’s dual-core architecture and memory layout, to power management nuances and the all-important pinout details.
Positives:
- Comprehensive and Authoritative: The datasheet is the official source, regularly updated with errata and new insights.
- Detailed Hardware Insights: It reveals the inner workings of the RP2040 chip and the Pico board, empowering you to design, troubleshoot, and innovate confidently.
- Supports a Wide Range of Applications: From low-power battery projects to complex robotics, the datasheet provides the specs and guidance you need.
- Clear Schematics and Mechanical Drawings: Perfect for those designing custom PCBs or enclosures.
Negatives:
- Technical Density: It’s not light reading. Beginners may find it overwhelming without supplementary tutorials.
- Limited Practical Examples: While rich in specs, it lacks step-by-step project guides (which you can find in our Microcontroller Programming section).
If you’re wondering whether you need to read the datasheet cover-to-cover, the answer is no. But if you want to go beyond copying projects and truly understand your Pico’s capabilities, it’s your best friend. As we teased earlier, knowing the datasheet helps you avoid pitfalls like the USB errata E15 or power supply mishaps that can fry your board.
In short: We confidently recommend every Raspberry Pi Pico user bookmark and regularly consult the official datasheet and related documentation. It’s the key to unlocking your Pico’s full potential and becoming a true maker wizard.
🔗 Recommended Links: Further Reading and Resources
Ready to gear up? Here are some essential products and books to complement your Pico journey:
-
Raspberry Pi Pico
Amazon | Walmart | Raspberry Pi Official Website -
Raspberry Pi Pico W (Wireless Version)
Amazon | Walmart | Raspberry Pi Official Website -
Raspberry Pi Debug Probe (for SWD debugging)
Amazon | Raspberry Pi Official Website -
Books
❓ FAQ: Your Burning Pico Datasheet Questions Answered
What are the key specifications of the Raspberry Pi Pico?
The Pico features the RP2040 microcontroller with a dual-core ARM Cortex-M0+ processor running at 133 MHz, 264KB of SRAM, and 2MB of onboard QSPI flash memory. It supports 26 multi-function GPIO pins, including ADC inputs, PWM channels, and serial interfaces like SPI, I2C, and UART. The input voltage range is flexible, from 1.8V to 5.5V on VSYS, with 3.3V logic levels on GPIO.
Read more about “Can You Really Use Raspberry Pi Pico as a PC? 🤔 (2025 Edition)”
Where can I download the official Raspberry Pi Pico datasheet?
You can download the latest official datasheets and documentation from the Raspberry Pi Foundation’s datasheet portal:
https://datasheets.raspberrypi.com/
This includes the Pico board datasheet, the RP2040 microcontroller datasheet, and the Pico W datasheet.
How does the Raspberry Pi Pico compare to other microcontrollers?
Compared to popular microcontrollers like the Arduino Uno (ATmega328P) or ESP32, the Pico offers dual-core processing, more SRAM (264KB vs. 2KB on Uno), and a modern ARM Cortex-M0+ architecture. It lacks built-in Wi-Fi on the base model but offers excellent GPIO flexibility and the unique PIO feature for custom hardware interfaces. The Pico W adds wireless capabilities, making it competitive with ESP32 in connectivity.
Read more about “Raspberry Pi Pico Price in 2025: 7 Must-Know Facts & Deals 💸”
What are the pinout details in the Raspberry Pi Pico datasheet?
The datasheet provides a detailed pinout diagram showing 40 pins, including power, ground, and 26 GPIO pins with multiple functions. It specifies which pins support ADC, UART, SPI, I2C, PWM, and PIO. The onboard LED is connected to GPIO 25. The pinout is crucial for wiring sensors and peripherals correctly.
Can the Raspberry Pi Pico datasheet help with programming the device?
While the datasheet focuses on hardware specifications, it is essential for low-level programming, especially in C/C++. It details registers, memory maps, and peripheral configurations. For higher-level programming, Raspberry Pi provides SDKs and MicroPython libraries that abstract much of this complexity, but the datasheet remains the ultimate reference for debugging and custom development.
Read more about “What Is Raspberry Pi Pico Used For? 12 Cool Projects & Uses (2025) 🚀”
What power requirements are listed in the Raspberry Pi Pico datasheet?
The Pico supports input voltages from 1.8V to 5.5V on the VSYS pin and 5V via USB. The datasheet warns against exceeding 5.5V to avoid damage. It also details current consumption in various power modes and explains the onboard buck-boost regulator’s behavior. Lithium-ion battery usage requires proper protection circuits as emphasized in the datasheet.
How to interpret the memory layout in the Raspberry Pi Pico datasheet?
The RP2040 has 16KB of ROM (bootloader), 264KB of SRAM (volatile memory for program execution), and relies on an external 2MB flash chip for non-volatile storage. The datasheet explains the Execute-In-Place (XIP) feature, which allows code to run directly from flash, saving SRAM for data. Understanding this helps optimize program size and memory usage.
How do I handle USB-related errata mentioned in the datasheet?
The datasheet’s errata section documents known issues like Errata E15, where certain USB hubs (e.g., VL805) can cause communication errors requiring a reset. Being aware of this helps troubleshoot mysterious USB connection problems and informs choices about USB hubs or debugging setups.
📚 Reference Links: Citing Our Sources
- Raspberry Pi Official Datasheets Portal: https://datasheets.raspberrypi.com/
- Raspberry Pi Pico Product Page: https://www.raspberrypi.com/products/raspberry-pi-pico/
- RP2040 Microcontroller Datasheet: https://datasheets.raspberrypi.com/rp2040/rp2040-datasheet.pdf
- Raspberry Pi Forums – Powering Pico using phone charger discussion: https://forums.raspberrypi.com/viewtopic.php?t=340466
- Raspberry Pi Debug Probe: https://www.raspberrypi.com/products/debug-probe/
- ARM Cortex-M0+ Processor Overview: https://www.arm.com/products/processors/cortex-m/cortex-m0plus
- Adafruit PowerBoost 1000C Battery Charger: https://www.adafruit.com/product/2465
- Pico-W-Go Visual Studio Code Extension: https://marketplace.visualstudio.com/items?itemName=paulober.pico-w-go
We hope this comprehensive guide helps you harness the full power of your Raspberry Pi Pico and its datasheet. Happy making! 🚀





