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Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallThe Micro Journal Rev.2.ReVamp is a foldable, DIY writing computer built around a Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W, a 48-key mini keyboard and a wide 7.84-inch display. Its clamshell enclosure is designed to protect the keyboard and screen when closed; building one requires custom parts, basic soldering and access to 3D printing.
What the Micro Journal Rev.2.ReVamp is
Un Kyu Lee describes the Micro Journal as “a modern take on the classic typewriter.” It is an open DIY project in Lee’s broader Micro Journal series, not a conventional mass-market word processor. The Rev.2.ReVamp returns to the project’s Raspberry Pi-based Rev.2 architecture in a redesigned foldable enclosure.
In the closed position, the clamshell covers the keyboard and display. When open, the device pairs a wide LCD with a compact mechanical keyboard. Two rotary knobs on the sides can be rolled or clicked for scrolling and input.
Lee says the foldable design grew from a request by a mother of twins who wanted better protection around curious children. He also describes the mechanism as more complex than other versions because it has moving parts, with durability and mechanical simplicity as design goals. That is the creator’s account of the design motivation, not the result of independent durability testing.
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- Basic Kit: The TRASKIT Kit takes the hassle out of preparation, letting you focus on creation and bring your ideas to life quickly.Package Includes: 1x Pi 5 2GB，1x Pi 5 Case，1x Active Cooler,1x 27W USB-C PD Power Adapter,1xScrewdrive,1x Warranty Card,1x Installation Card.
- Meet the all-new Pi 5 — your all-in-one computing solution. Powered by a 64-bit quad-core Arm Cortex-A76 processor clocked at 2.4GHz, this model boosts CPU performance by 2–3× compared to the Pi 4. It also packs an 800MHz VideoCore VII GPU (for a major graphics upgrade) and a redesigned Image Signal Processor (enabling cutting-edge camera compatibility). Whether you’re a consumer after a seamless desktop experience, or an industrial user exploring new application possibilities, the Pi 5 has you covered.
- TRASKIT PD Power Adapter Designed for Raspberry Pi 5 :Engineered with deep optimization for the Pi 5’s load characteristics, this power delivery unit ensures stable voltage output even under full CPU load, eliminating restarts or throttling. Blending minimalist aesthetics with functional excellence, it delivers both reliability and style.
- High-Efficiency Active Cooling System: The active cooler anodized aluminum in tandem with a PWM-controlled fan, paired with a specially designed ventilated case. This combination rapidly reduces chip temperatures, ensuring the Pi 5 consistently operates at peak performance. Even during high-load scenarios like 4K video decoding and programming development, the system maintains continuous stability without throttling.
- Classic Black ABS Case: The black Case switch features a transparent, integrated design for easy monitoring of indicator light status. Stylish appearance, robust and durable construction, removable top cover, and precision port openings for effortless access to all connections.
How the computer, keyboard and controls work
The build uses two Raspberry Pi boards for different jobs. The Pi Zero 2 W runs the Linux environment, accepts the USB keyboard input and connects to the display. A separate Raspberry Pi Pico, based on the RP2040, handles keyboard input and the side encoders. The Pico is the keyboard controller, not the main computer.
The documented screen is a 7.84-inch LCD with a 1280×400 resolution and mini-HDMI connection. Its unusually wide format sits beside the keyboard in the Rev.2 layout. The keyboard is a custom 48-key PCB designed for hot-swappable Cherry MX-style switches, with diodes. The two side controls use EC11 rotary encoders.
Rank #2
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What parts and tools the build requires
This is a parts-dependent project rather than a matter of buying a Pi and installing software. Lee’s project README links to design resources, software and setup materials; the Rev.2 build guide lists the hardware and construction details.
- Main computer: Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W.
- Keyboard controller: Raspberry Pi Pico (RP2040).
- Display: 7.84-inch, 1280×400 LCD with mini-HDMI connection, plus the specified HDMI/FFC connectors and cables.
- Keyboard: custom 48-key PCB, hot-swappable sockets, Cherry MX-style switches and diodes.
- Controls: two EC11 rotary encoders with 15 mm half handles.
- Other build items: microSD card, power cabling, fasteners and heat-set inserts.
- Enclosure: 3D-printed parts; Lee says PLA was used for the prints.
- Tool: TORX T10H driver for the specified screws.
The keyboard PCB is custom, so you will need to fabricate it from the project’s design files or use a kit route if one is available. Lee’s guide mentions PCB fabrication services and the creator’s DIY kit as options, and says printed parts can be obtained through a 3D-printing service. Check the current bill of materials and linked files before ordering: parts, suppliers and links can change.
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Rank #3
- Package Include: 1x Pi 5 2GB, 1x Pi 5 Case, 1x Active Cooler.
- Lightweight texture: Compared to metal case,ABS case have a softer texture and feel, and the rounded design prevents damage to motherboard components. Meanwhile, the red and white color scheme of the ABS case is visually simple, clean and comfortable.
- Specialized case design: This case is specially designed for Raspberry Pi5, perfectly fits the motherboard and can be fixed with 4 screws, which can effectively protect the Pi 5 motherboard from damage and external interference. The case is partially hollowed out to ensure heat dissipation. Equipped with transparent power button, you can easily observe the status of Pi5 power indicator.
- iRasptek PWM Active Cooler: Features intelligent speed control that dynamically responds to system demand. Under Pi OS, the fan remains off at low temperatures (≤50°C) for ultimate silence; ramps up linearly at medium temperatures (50-65°C) for efficient, low-noise cooling; and operates at full speed at high temperatures (≥65°C) to aggressively dissipate heat and prevent thermal throttling. Embedded within the system’s core drivers, it continuously safeguards your board, ensuring stable, sustained, and high-performance operation.
- Welcome to the latest generation of Pi5: the everything computer. Featuring a 64-bit quad-core Arm Cortex-A76 processor running at 2.4GHz, Pi 5 delivers a 2–3× increase in CPU performance relative to Pi 4. Alongside a substantial uplift in graphics performance from an 800MHz VideoCore VII GPU; dual 4Kp60 display output ; and state-of-the-art camera support from a rearchitected Image Signal Processor, it provides a smooth desktop experience for consumers, and opens the door to new applications for industrial customers.
How difficult it is to assemble
Lee estimates a build time of 4–6 hours and says basic soldering skills are necessary; advanced skills are not required. Treat the time as the creator’s estimate, not a measured result for every builder. Access to 3D-printed enclosure parts is also required.
The Pi Zero 2 W runs the Linux environment and connects to the wide display, while the Pico manages the keyboard and encoders. The guide also notes a power constraint: with the documented power supply and battery capacity, the display must be run at reduced brightness. That limitation applies to the configuration described in the guide, not necessarily to every possible power setup.
Rank #4
- Compatibility --- The DeskPi Lite Pi5 Case is designed for Raspberry Pi 5.
- Expandability --- The DeskPi Lite Pi5 Case supports PCIex1 expansion, enabling the connection of M.2 NVMe SSDs in various sizes (2230, 2242, 2260, 2280). It is also compatible with the Hailo-8L module from the official Pi AI kit, though not as a full HAT.
- Advanced Cooling System --- Equipped with an Armor Lite V5 Active Cooler, the case provides efficient cooling to maintain optimal performance and extend the life of your Pi board.
- Convenient Connectivity --- The case includes a PCB daughter board that offers a MicroHDMI to standard HDMI adapter, allowing for easy connection to displays. It also reroutes the USB-C port to the back for better cable management.
- GPIO Access --- The case features a GPIO expansion board and a GPIO dust cover, making it easy to access and protect the GPIO pins.
Where to find the design and setup resources
The official project README links to the design story, quick-start and build guides, Linux image, SD-card setup instructions, design files, keyboard PCB and QMK-Vial source code. It also links to introductory and build videos, as well as a shop page. A linked shop page by itself does not establish that the device or a kit is currently in stock or available to order.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What launch-era coverage does—and does not—confirm
Hackster’s coverage of the Rev.2.ReVamp described the design as approaching launch and highlighted a revised, more stable hinge system and the Pi Zero 2 W. That is publication-time context, not confirmation of present stock, pricing or order availability. The creator’s repository timeline lists Rev.2.ReVamp on 2024-09-17; the project is one version in an ongoing series, not necessarily its current or only revision.
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