TamaFi: Reviving the Classic Virtual Pet with a Tech Twist

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🌟 About TamaFi

TamaFi is a modern twist on the nostalgic virtual pets of the '90s, blending retro vibes with cutting-edge technology. Powered by an ESP32 microcontroller, TamaFi features a vibrant TFT LCD, interactive animations, and a unique WiFi-based feeding system. It’s an open-source project designed for makers and enthusiasts to build, customize, and expand.

If you've ever wanted a Tamagotchi with advanced features and modern aesthetics, TamaFi is your chance to bring your vision to life.

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🎯 Features

Hardware:

• ESP32-U4: A powerful microcontroller at the heart of the project.
• TFT LCD (ST7789): Crisp visuals for animations and interactions.
• WS2812 RGB LED: Adds a touch of colorful personality.
• Buzzer: Provides sound effects for actions and alerts.
• TP4056 Module: USB-C charging for convenience.
• Micro Switches: Simple, tactile controls for user inputs.

Software:

• WiFi-Based Feeding: Feed your pet by scanning for nearby networks.
• Custom Animations: Egg hatching, pet actions, and even pet-death sequences.
• Interactive Stats: Monitor hunger, happiness, and health in real-time.
• Expandable Codebase: Designed to support additional features like RGB LED patterns and sounds.
• Open Source: The code and PCB files are available on GitHub for tinkering and customization.

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👀 Use Cases

• 1. Learning Tool: Nothing teaches you electronics better than a hungry virtual pet giving you a side-eye.
• 2. Unique Gift: Impress your friends with a high-tech pet that doesn't poop on the carpet.
• 3. Showcase: Be the star of your local maker fair—finally, a crowd-pleaser that doesn't involve free snacks.
• 4. Experimentation: Add ridiculous features like IoT-enabled belly rubs or voice-activated meows.

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👀 Code & PCB

Code

The entire source code for TamaFi is open-source and available on GitHub. It includes:

• Animation logic for the pet and stats.
• WiFi scanning and feeding functionality.
• Button-controlled actions and effects.

PCB Design

The PCB was designed using Altium Designer and features:

• Compact layout for the ESP32 and supporting components.
• Integration of the TFT LCD, WS2812 LED, and buttons.
• USB-C for modern connectivity and easy charging.

Check out the detailed schematics and Gerber files on the GitHub repository!

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🎨 Customization

TamaFi is more than a finished product; it’s a platform for creativity. Here are some ideas for extending the project:

• Add sound effects and background music.
• Program RGB LED effects for pet moods.
• Design unique 3D-printed enclosures for the device.
• Implement additional pet animations or new stats like energy and hygiene.

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📷 Special Thanks to Our Sponsor: JLCPCB

No project is complete without the right tools and materials. That’s where our sponsor, JLCPCB, stepped in to provide essential support for this project. JLCPCB Is a leading provider of high-quality printed circuit boards (PCBs) and PCB assembly services.

Simply head over to jlcpcb.com, upload your PCB design files, select your preferences, and Your custom PCBs are on their way to you in no time.

Get JLCPCB 6-layer PCBs for just $5! Register to get $80 Coupons. Check out the JLCPCB website.

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🌟 Conclusion

TamaFi bridges nostalgia and innovation, offering a fun and interactive project for makers, coders, and artists. Whether you’re building it as a creative exercise or enhancing it with your unique ideas, TamaFi encourages exploration and collaboration.

Let’s make TamaFi even better together! Fork the code, suggest changes, or share your version. The journey doesn’t end here—it’s just the beginning.