RetroConsoleBridge Duo - Dual-UART Wi-Fi Console Bridge and Modem for Retro Computers
Yoshitaka Kuwata
Hello,
I would like to introduce RetroConsoleBridge Duo, an open-source project based on the Raspberry Pi Pico W.
Most Wi-Fi modem projects provide a Hayes-style modem interface through a single serial port. RetroConsoleBridge Duo is different because it provides two independent UART interfaces at the same time:
- UART0 Console Bridge — connects the retro computer’s console port to USB-CDC or to a remote Wi-Fi console.
- UART1 Wi-Fi Modem — provides a Hayes-style modem interface for connecting communication software to TCP-based BBS systems and other servers.
This allows a retro computer to keep its normal console connection while also using a separate Wi-Fi modem port. Both functions can operate simultaneously while sharing the same Pico W Wi-Fi connection.
The hardware is intentionally simple. A prototype can be built on a breadboard using little more than a Raspberry Pi Pico W and a few resistors for level conversion, depending on the serial interface of the target computer. No dedicated Wi-Fi modem module is required.
The console side supports USB and Wi-Fi access, RAW and TELNET modes, configurable baud rates, and compatibility pacing for older systems and XMODEM transfers. The modem side supports commands such as ATD, ATDT, ATH, ATO, and the +++ escape sequence.
The project is still under active development and is currently available as a pre-release, rather than a stable release. The repository includes the source code, wiring information, AT command documentation, and a ready-to-use Pico W UF2 development build.
The project has been developed with assistance from ChatGPT, including help with firmware design, debugging, documentation, and testing ideas.
I would greatly appreciate feedback from anyone able to test it with different retro computers, serial interfaces, terminal programs, BBS systems, or file-transfer software. Bug reports, compatibility results, and suggestions for improvement are all very welcome.
Project page:
https://github.com/kuwatay/RetroConsoleBridge-Duo
Best regards,
Yoshitaka Kuwata