Raspberry Pi RP2350 Now Powers the XRP!

2025-03-14 | By Travis Foss

Have you been holding off on ordering an XRP Kit? Well now is the time because SparkFun has just released an updated version. While there are several new enhancements, the biggest has to be the redesign of the central control board. The control board is now centered around the RP2350 chip from Raspberry Pi. Along with the update to the RP2350, SparkFun has also added the Raspberry Pi Radio Module (RM2) to the XRP as well. This radio module adds WiFi 4 and Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity and supports both basic (1 Mbps) and enhanced (2 or 3 Mbps) data rates for both standard Bluetooth and BLE (Low Energy). SparkFun has introduced a highly requested feature: breakout headers. This allows users to access each of the GPIO pins on the RP2350 as well as the radio module. Additionally, users can monitor activity on eight unused pins, which they can utilize to add their own HATs for enhanced functionality. SparkFun has also added two additional servo ports for a total of four.

Raspberry Pi RP2350 Now Powers the XRP!

On the new control board, SparkFun has also changed the labeling from an extra port to a second Qwiic port for quick and easy plug-and-play prototyping or expansion. One thing that is worth noting is that the IMU is also on Qwiic port 1, so there could potentially be issues with devices used on this port. Make sure to reference the SparkFun documentation before attempting to use Qwiic devices with this port. Another highly requested change was to move the on/off switch and buttons. SparkFun has now moved the on/off switch along with the user, boot, and reset buttons to the back right of the board making them easier to access and find. With all these new features, the new XRP control board opens new possibilities for additional sensors, cameras, or even controlling other types of robots.

Raspberry Pi RP2350 Now Powers the XRP!

The 3D printed parts included with the kit have also been updated. The frame received several new enhancements including revised clips for the control board which make it easier to install. The battery compartment now has a more durable battery retaining strap. The motor mounts have also been refined to be more durable and easier to use. Along the bottom of the frame, there have been notches added to hold the sensors more securely in place, further eliminating their ability to slide side to side. Along with the frame enhancements, the servo and sensor mounts have also been redesigned to make them more durable.

Raspberry Pi RP2350 Now Powers the XRP!

Existing users of the XRP robotics platform will have the ability to upgrade to the new control board as it should be a drop-in replacement. The new version of XRP is available as both a kit and a DIY kit.

Raspberry Pi RP2350 Now Powers the XRP!

As with the original Beta version of the XRP, online programming is available at XRPcode.wpi.edu and tutorials are available on the Experiential Robotics page. Be sure to keep an eye on Maker.io for new XRP content that will be coming soon.

Raspberry Pi RP2350 Now Powers the XRP!