Hardware availability

[ThomasAkam]

Currently both OEPS and Labmaker have no stock of pyControl breakout boards, due to the pyboard v1.1 microcontroller being out of stock at Micropython. The underlying issue is a shortage of the STM32F405RGT6 chip that is used on the pyboard, due to the post covid supply chain disruptions. There is now some stock of this chip at Farnell so I am hoping the pyboard will be back in stock soon. I have posted a question on the micropython discussion board asking if they know when they will have stock and will post any futher information here.

[ThomasAkam]

I recieved some information from Micropython about pyboard availibility: Although the STM32F405 microcontroller used in the pyboard v1.1 is now available, its price has increased substantially and it is uneconomical for them to continue manufacturing the pyboard v1.1. However they are currently working on a drop-in replacement board based on the newer STMH5 microcontroller, which they expect to have ready later this year, which will enable us to restart production of pyControl and pyPhotometry systems.

OEPS did manage to source a small batch of pyboards recently which will let them fulful their outstanding orders, but was not enough to make additional boards for new orders.

[ThomasAkam]

OEPS have been able to source annother batch of pyboard v1.1 so should have stock of pyControl breakout and pyPhotometry boards in the next few weeks.