The Inkplate 4 TEMPERA is an integrated e-paper device with a 3.8-inch display and a resolution of 600×600 pixels. While it offers portability in a compact form, it also features a range of useful functions, including front lighting, multiple sensors, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, a built-in battery, and power-efficient operating modes.
Leveraging e-paper technology, the device delivers excellent contrast, readability in daylight, and exceptional energy efficiency. Additionally, the Inkplate 4 TEMPERA uses an ED038TH2 E Ink display sourced from the second-hand market, helping to extend the life of older devices, aligning with the sustainability goals championed by the design team.
Limited Availability
Due to the discontinuation of the batch of e-paper displays used in Inkplate 4 TEMPERA and their limited stock, production will be limited to just 370 units with glass panels and 300 units without. There are currently no plans to restart production once this batch sells out.
Inkplate 4 TEMPERA is available in two models: one with a glass panel and one with a plastic cover.
Versatility
The Inkplate 4 TEMPERA is powered by the ESP32 microcontroller and includes a full range of peripherals designed by the team. Inside the enclosure, a 1200mAh battery and efficient power management circuitry ensure the device can be charged and the remaining battery life monitored accurately. The integrated real-time clock (RTC) provides precise timekeeping, and the microSD card slot allows for image storage and other applications. The device also includes a variety of sensors such as a gyroscope, accelerometer, temperature, humidity, air quality, and gesture sensors. Additionally, it comes with a built-in, frequency-adjustable buzzer and a set of GPIO pins, enabling further peripheral connections via GPIO extenders or the easyC ecosystem.
Ease of Use
Getting started with Inkplate 4 TEMPERA is simple—just connect it to your computer using the provided USB cable. On the software side, it supports both Arduino and MicroPython out of the box, with community support for ESPHome. The Arduino library includes numerous examples and project ideas, making it easy to update the screen content with just a few lines of code. Additionally, the Peripheral Mode enables screen content modifications via UART commands. All Inkplate devices will come pre-loaded with Peripheral Mode firmware before shipment.
Features & Specifications
Screen
- 3-bit grayscale display: showing black, white, and six shades of gray (1-bit black-and-white mode also available)
- Resolution: 600 x 600 pixels
- Partial-refresh time: 0.18 seconds in 1-bit mode, so you don’t need to reset the entire screen to update content
- Full-refresh time: 0.86 seconds in both 1-bit and 3-bit modes, including screen cleanup, making it one of the fastest e-paper displays in this size
- Multi-touch touchscreen: supports interactive use
- Programmable LED front lighting: adjust brightness for optimal viewing in low-light environments
- Eco-friendly design: e-paper screens are sourced from recycled materials
Other Key Electronic Components
- ESP32 microcontroller with 8MB flash and 4MB RAM
- USB-UART CH340 converter
- PCAL6416 GPIO expander
Connectivity
- Integrated Wi-Fi and Bluetooth LE connectivity
- Convenient USB Type-C port for both programming and powering the device
- Onboard microSD card slot for additional storage
- Peripheral connections via easyC (Qwiic / STEMMA QT) connectors
Sensors
- BME688 sensor for comprehensive environmental monitoring, including temperature, humidity, pressure, and air quality
- Side-mounted APDS-9960 gesture sensor for interactive controls
- Built-in LSM6DS3 gyroscope and accelerometer for motion detection
- PCF85063A RTC (Real-Time Clock) for accurate timekeeping, backed up by an auxiliary battery
- “Wake Up” button for user interaction
- Adjustable-frequency buzzer for audio alerts
Power
- Ultra-low power consumption of just 18 µA in low-power mode
- Special e-paper power supply based on TPS65186
- Onboard MCP73831 battery charger
- Onboard BQ27441DRZR fuel gauge for tracking battery status, SoC, and more
- Pre-installed 1200mAh Li-ion battery housed within the device enclosure
Physical
- Compact dimensions: 3.54 x 3.27 x 0.94 inches (90 x 83 x 24 mm)
- Available in two versions: with or without a glass panel
This project is currently crowdfunding on CrowdSupply. For more information, visit the Inkplate 4 TEMPERA page, and consider supporting it if you’re interested.
If you have any needs, you can contact me.
info@wellcircuits.com
