I was truly impressed by George Hilliard’s business card, which managed to fit an entire Linux system onto a tiny PCB. That inspired me to create my own version - but with a musical twist. Since I develop electronic musical instruments, I wanted my card to be more than just a computer. It had to be a playable instrument.
A drum kit seemed like the perfect choice. Unlike other instruments, you don’t need to know musical notes to start playing - just tap the sensors, and you’re making music.
Technically, the drum kit is one of the hardest instruments to master. But don’t worry - my business card doesn’t pretend to make you a pro drummer… just yet! 😆
How It Works
The card runs Linux on F1C100s SoC and features touch-sensitive pads based on the TTP229 sensor. It uses a USB Type-C connection for power and a standard headphone jack for sound output. After booting up (which takes some time), you can tap the sensors, and the drum sounds play in real time. This is a short demo:
Design and Manufacturing
I used JLCPCB’s new colorful silkscreen technology, which prints multi-color UV-cured ink directly onto the PCB. This means the artwork and the circuit board are made in a single process, giving the card a polished, professional look.
Each card costs a bit more than George’s design due to the color printing, but this could be made cheaper by using a sticker instead of colorful silkscreen print process. However, like George, my goal isn’t just to hand out a business card - it’s to surprise you and make a lasting impression.
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It makes me smile, when I see it.