Whether it’s computer resource utilization, stock prices, social media updates, or the current weather, there is an endless stream of information demanding our attention. Some of this data doesn’t rise to a level of importance that warrants taking up real estate on our PC monitors. However, that doesn’t mean we aren’t interested in glancing at it every so often.
For use cases like these, a maker going by the handle lachimalaif has a great solution. It is called ESP32 DataDisplay, and it is a tiny multifunctional desktop terminal. To build it, you will only need a single electronic component — a “cheap yellow display,” specifically the esp32-2432s028. This board comes equipped with an ESP32-WROVER-32 microcontroller and a 2.8-inch 240×320 touchscreen display.
The hardware (📷: lachimalaif)
To make the display into a terminal, lachimalaif designed a 3D-printed case. The design files for this case are freely available to anyone who wants to build their own ESP32 DataDisplay. The firmware can be flashed directly from a web browser — Chrome or Edge — eliminating the need for complex toolchains or specialized programming utilities. After that first installation, the device becomes entirely self-sufficient. Every setting, from connectivity to visual preferences, is handled through an intuitive touchscreen interface on the unit itself.
Once connected to Wi-Fi using a built-in network scanner, the terminal begins pulling useful information automatically. A weather module can determine location through IP detection or manual entry and presents current conditions, forecasts, and sunrise and sunset times. The display can switch between analog and digital clocks, supports 12- or 24-hour formats, and also shows the calendar date, week number, and regional name days. For a more ambient feel, vector graphics illustrate the current phase of the moon.
Some of the available applications (📷: lachimalaif)
Four visual color schemes, adjustable brightness, and automatic dimming allow the device to blend into a workspace or bedroom without becoming distracting. Users can also toggle temperature units and receive firmware improvements through over-the-air updates via a built-in firmware menu.
The newest revision refines the hardware as well, adding reset and boot buttons integrated into the case, a stylus holder, and improved openings for the USB-C cable and front lid frame. Aside from the display module, builders only need a handful of M3 screws and a 3D printer to assemble a fully standalone desktop information center.
