Core64 Firmware Development with PlatformIO
I have migrated the firmware development for Core64 out of the Arduino IDE into VSCode with the PlatformIO extension. Despite a small learning curve, this was the right move for this project.
Why?
Automated management of MCU selection, libraries, and frameworks.
Unified development for Teensy 3.2, LC, 4.1, and RP2040 variations of Core64 and Core64c.
Support for file and directory organization of the project files.
Superior code editor!
If you’d like a great action-oriented overview of why PlatformIO is awesome check out this #GaryExplains video.
If you are still a little intimidated by VSCode + PlatformIO, I still encourage you to try a simple blink project to be come familiar. However, you will still be able to upload the latest pre-compiled firmware to your Core64 without using PlatformIO - so you don’t have to commit to PlatformIO to enjoy the latest firmware updates. If you’d like to modify the firmware, it will require climbing the PlatformIO learning curve. But it’s totally worth it for all of your embedded projects!