Sixteen Universal Analog/Digital Inputs HAT for all Raspberry Pi versions from Zero to 5

Sequent Microsystems has launched a crowdfunding campaign for a Hardware Attached on Top (HAT) accessory designed for the Raspberry Pi 5 and earlier models. This HAT provides 16 "universal inputs" that support both analog and digital signals. It can be stacked up to eight boards tall, allowing for a total of 128 inputs. The goal is to bridge the gap between the high computing power of the Raspberry Pi 5 and its limitations in processing analog and digital signals. The inputs can be configured for various devices, including thermistors, dry-contact inputs, counters, and 0-10V analog signals, with a sampling rate of 500Hz.

Sequent Microsystems' Mihai Beffa explains that while the Raspberry Pi 5 is significantly faster in computing, it can still handle analog and digital signals effectively. The SixteenUniversal Inputs HAT addresses this by connecting the Raspberry Pi to the "Real World," offering up to 128 analog or digital inputs.

Sixteen Universal Analog/Digital Inputs HAT Features:-

Sixteen Universal Inputs, 8-Layer Stackable HAT for Raspberry Pi
Each input can be configured to process either analog or digital signals:

1K thermistors
10K thermistors
0-10V analog inputs, 500Hz sample rate
Dry contact inputs
Counter inputs

Eight Level Stackable
Pluggable Connectors 26-16 AWG wires
Eight software-programmable bi-color LEDs
RS485 in and out ports
5VDC Power Supply powers also the Raspberry Pi
Real-Time Clock with Battery Backup
Onboard hardware watchdog
Resettable fuse
TVS protection on all inputs
32-bit Processor running at 64MHz
Uses only I2C port (address 0x48 to 0x4f), leaves all GPIO pins available
No jumpers: input mode selection from DIP switches
Command line
Python Library
Node-Red nodes
All mounting hardware included: stand-offs, screws and nuts
Open-source hardware and software

The HAT can be used with any Raspberry Pi or as a stand-alone device connected through MODBUS to a standard Programmable Logic Controller (PLC). Sequent Microsystems offers nine other HATs with the same form factor that can be stacked along with the Sixteen Inputs.

The general-purpose input/output (GPIO) pins of the HAT remain open for other purposes, as it connects to the Raspberry Pi over the I2C bus. A 32-bit CPU operating at 64MHz, a resettable fuse, RS485 input and output ports, and a real-time clock with battery backup are all included on each board. The Sixteen Inputs HAT is currently running a Kickstarter campaign. Physical prizes are planned to ship in February and are priced at $59.