ANAVI Handle lets you easily connect a Wii Nunchuk-compatible controller to any USB-equipped computer. It features Seeed Studio’s XIAO RP2040 module, which offers a USB Type-C connector along with a Raspberry Pi RP2040 microcontroller.

The open-source firmware written in CircuitPython offers customization options to easily convert the Wii Nunchuk-compatible controller into a Human Interface Device (HID) such as a joystick, mouse, or keyboard. With ANAVI Handle, gaming enthusiasts can elevate their retro gaming setup to new heights, combining classic game controllers with the freedom of open-source hardware.

The Wii Nunchuk, originally designed as an accessory for a gaming console, has found new life as a versatile input device beyond its intended purpose. By connecting the Nunchuk to a computer with an ANAVI Handle and an appropriate USB cable, enthusiasts can unlock a world of possibilities for retro gaming, experiencing classic and modern titles with the charm of an old-school controller.

Additionally, the Nunchuk’s ergonomic design and intuitive button layout make it an ideal choice for DIY projects, ranging from home automation to controlling motors, robots, or drones. ANAVI Handle bridges nostalgic gaming experiences and innovative DIY endeavors, offering endless opportunities for creativity and exploration in the realm of technology and gaming.

Features & Specifications

ANAVI Handle boasts a compact design with a black, gold-plated printed circuit board with the cutting-edge Seeed Studio XIAO RP2040 module. Here are the technical specifications:

• MCU: Raspberry Pi RP2040
• Connectivity: USB-C
• Firmware: open-source based on CircuitPython
• Compatibility: Windows, macOS, and Linux support
• Dimensions: 35.0 mm x 33.3 mm (1.38 x 1.31 inches)

Support & Documentation

ANAVI Handle is an entirely open source project that harmonizes open-source hardware with free and open-source software. The printed circuit board and its acrylic enclosure were designed in KiCad, an open-source software suite for electronic design automation (EDA) that runs on Windows, MacOS, and GNU Linux distributions.

Our open-source firmware includes functionality to ascertain the status of controller attachment to ANAVI Handle. Through the RGB LED, users receive clear visual cues representing three distinct states:

• A green light indicates a properly connected Nunchuk controller.
• A blue light signifies disconnection of the Nunchuk controller from ANAVI Handle.
• A red light alerts users to the absence or improper connection of the Nunchuk controller.

CircuitPython Support

The firmware is written in CircuitPython and relies on the popular open-source libraries adafruit_bus_device, adafruit_hid, adafruit_nunchuk, adafruit_seesaw, and neopixel. CircuitPython is a programming language based on Python, specifically designed for use with microcontrollers like Raspberry Pi RP2040 in ANAVI Handle, making it easy to program and interact with hardware components.

Source code for the hardware and firmware are available on GitHub.

All ANAVI Handle units will come pre-installed with CircuitPython and our open source firmware available at GPLv3 license. If you need to pre-install or update dependencies, ensure you have circup installed in your Python environment. Install it with the following command if necessary:

pip3 install circup

With circup installed and your CircuitPython device connected, use the following command to install:

circup install adafruit_bus_device adafruit_hid adafruit_nunchuk adafruit_seesaw neopixel

Or the following command to update an existing version:

circup update

Currently, the open-source firmware enables the use of the Nunchuck in three modes: joystick, mouse, or keyboard (D-pad, A and B keys). Future updates may include support for additional devices like the Classic Controller. To modify the functionality of the Nunchuck, simply edit the JSON settings file, config.json, for example:

Joystick

{
    "type": "joystick"
}

The joystick mode of ANAVI Handle enables seamless enjoyment of modern and classic game titles using the Nunchuk on any USB-equipped computer. This configuration ensures that your Nunchuk controller is readily detected, even by web browsers. To experience this functionality firsthand, you can effortlessly test it using the open-source HTML5 Gamepad Test.

Furthermore, you can delve into a plethora of fantastic games, such as the open-source Tiny Crate game developed with the open-source game engine Godot, directly within your web browser!

Mouse

{
    "type": "mouse"
}

This feature within the ANAVI Handle open-source firmware enables the utilization of the Nunchuk as a computer mouse. Navigate the cursor using the Nunchuk joystick, while the two buttons are left and right mouse buttons. While not inherently designed for everyday functionality, this mode offers a unique and enjoyable experience suitable for specific use cases.

Keyboard

{
    "type": "keyboard"
}

The keyboard mode of ANAVI Handle includes a D-pad (directional pad), along with A and B keys. This configuration proves ideal for retro gaming, especially when paired with RetroPie, a renowned Linux distribution featuring EmulationStation, RetroArch, and various other open-source software projects. With this setup, you can effortlessly enjoy a wide array of arcade, home console, and classic PC games on platforms such as Raspberry Pi, single-board computers, or even a PC.

Comparisons

Manufacturing Process

Demonstrating our commitment to local manufacturing, all units are prepared and packaged in Plovdiv, Bulgaria. To ensure consistently high quality, the printed circuit boards (PCBs) of ANAVI Handle have a black solder mask and a gold surface finish. The key component is Seeed Studio XIAO RP2040, a module with a compact design and powerful Raspberry Pi RP2040 microcontroller and rich peripherals. All units are carefully flashed and tested with CircuitPython and the open-source firmware.

We’re committed to sustainability so all units are packaged inside eco-friendly, recyclable cardboard boxes.