Hackxpansion documentation

This is the main docs page of Hackxpansion, where you can learn about the event, hardware and firmware. If you have any more questions ask in the #hackxpansion slack channel.

How does this work?

Design 4 expansion cards; get funding to build them; write an app that use these card; get a custom handheld console to use them in/on.

Each card can be in one of three tiers; for each tier of card, you get a different amount of currency.

Tiers:

  • Basic: Only a few buttons, or a joystick, or smth from a guide; this is to get you into PCB design and writing code 'and stuff. Max funding of ≈ $35. Worth 1 currency

  • Advanced: Has at least one IC, or it has a relatively complex CAD design. Something like a simple audio card or an LED matrix. Max funding of ≈ $50. Worth 2 currency

  • PRO: Something relatively advanced, like another MCU(ch32), or some sort of RF. Max funding of ≈ $75(If you need more DM @koeg on slack). Worth 3 currency

You also get 1-3 currency per app that you make; the payout is based on complexity, just like with the modules.

To get a console, you have to have at least 8 currency and 4 modules' designs accepted.

The most polished/cool modules get added to the shop, will be "mass" produced, and can be bought with currency.

Tracking work

You have to track your work, here are the 3 options you have:

  • Journal your work on the platform, read this guide on journaling
  • Using Lapse to create a timelapse of your work
  • Using Hackatime to track your coding in your editors

You must only track a unit of work with one of these, so if you used lapse to record yourself coding, you must not also use hackatime. There is one exception here, you can write journals of work tracked with lapse or hackatime, but you must not report time for them in the journal entry.

Gallery

images

FAQ

What do I get in the console package

You get the

  • Hackxpansion console
  • a two and four button module kit with PCBs and parts
  • as many right angle 2x7 headers as you need for your modules

When do I get the funding for my modules

After your all your module designs get approved and you order the console, you will get an email/DM on slack with an invite to a HCB grant card. This way you can order call your modules at once, and save on shipping

I don't have a 3D printer, how do I print out the shell of my modules

No problem! Just join #printing-legion on slack and you can get your models printed by a network of printers all around the world.

The price of printing legion is 50$/Kg, you won't have to this out of pocket, instead you will have to use your HCB grant card. If other services are cheaper, maybe like JLC3DP, you are welcome to use those.

What is this all about?

Hackxpansion is an event run by Hack Club, a global community of high school hackers. Make four expansion cards, write drivers for them, get funding, and earn a custom console to use them in.

Where do I get started?

Join the Hack Club Slack and visit the #hackxpansion channel. The community can help while you work through the getting-started guides.

You will need to track your time with journals, time lapses, or streams. This evidence is required for the console reward and helps document your work.

What if I am new to hardware?

The guides and resources are designed to help you make your first module or even your first PCB.

How powerful will the console be?

The console uses an RP2354B MCU as its main processor, from the next generation of the chip used in Sprig. It is capable enough for many projects, and you can add a coprocessor when you need more power.