114: A Better Pi Zero W (IMHO)

114: A Better Pi Zero W (IMHO)

So far I've purchased 3 Pi Zero Ws and will doubtless buy more. But this doesn't mean that I like everything about their physical layout. Here's a picture contrasting the Zero with a Particle Photon (which is very similar to an Arduino Nano or Micro).

Photon on left, Zero on right

Obviously, the Zero has to be bigger. I accept that (sort of). But I prefer the Arduino/Photon layout for 2 main reasons:

a. The GPIO pins straddle the breadboard halves. Very handy. No stiff ribbon cable required.

b. Instead of the side mount, the micro USB points out the end so a compact enclosure (e.g., hand-held) setup is possible. As is, the minimum inside width of a Pi Zero case is 2.5".

Here's my layout plan:

Note that I've left off the 2nd USB and HDMI plugs. They could be added via a daughter board connected through the above "accessories" slot. For the daughter board I'd provide a full-sized HDMI and 2 USBs.

Comments?

Re: living with current reality— Anyone know of a compact/right angle micro USB plug?