Build an inexpensive handheld Arduino color console

If you love classic games like Tetris and Breakout you can now build a portable Arduino console and play anywhere you are.

Required components

Arduino Pro Mini 3.3V 8 MHz

At only 8MHz the Arduino Pro Mini 3.3v is slow by today’s standards but fast enough for most classic games.

Other Arduinos or compatibles can be used in its place. If an 5v Arduino like the Uno is used you must use a Level shifter from 5v to 3.3v or you’ll risk frying the TFT.

2.2″ TFT 240×320 SPI

This high quality 2.2″ TFT screen has an integrated ILI9341 controller and we will be connecting to it using Hardware SPI.

While the screen is sold as an 240×320 pixels TFT, we’re going to use it at 320×240 pixels, rotated using a simple hardware configuration switch, making it more suitable for video games.

The size is perfect for a small handheld videogame and fast enough for most classic video game titles.

The TFT screen features an SDCART reader but for now we’ll not be using it.

3-axis joystick

A joystick with 3 axis is used to control de videogame, horizontal and vertical plus fire.

The first two controls connect to the Arduino using 2 ADC pins and the fire button a regular digital pin.

Build an inexpensive handheld Arduino color console

Buzzer

Sound FX is an important component of Videogames. A small buzzer is present to provide sound feedback to the player. It can be used to play music and sound effects.

Other components

  • Power switch
  • 4 AA Battery holder
  • 4x LR6/AA (rechargeable) battery
  • Female and Male headers
  • Perforated board/breadboard/PCB
  • Wire
  • 0.1µF capacitor

For More Details: Build an inexpensive handheld Arduino color console


About The Author

Ibrar Ayyub

I am an experienced technical writer with a Master's degree in computer science from BZU Multan University. I have written for various industries, mainly home automation and engineering. My writing style is clear and simple, and I am skilled in using infographics and diagrams. I am a great researcher and am able to present information in a well-organized and logical manner.

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