Raspberry Pi 400 powers post-apocalyptic ‘Fallout’ home automation terminal
If you’ve ever played Fallout, you’re familiar with the iconic terminals scattered throughout the game world. Maker and developer Rick has brilliantly recreated a real working terminal replica using a Raspberry Pi, capturing a slice of the Fallout universe just as the Fallout TV series has been released. This project is a faithful homage to the game’s aesthetics, featuring a replica that mimics the original terminal’s rusty paint job and rounded edges.
Rick’s replica doesn’t just look the part; it also functions similarly to the game’s command-line interface (CLI). The terminal includes an LCD screen for video output, housed behind a Fresnel lens to achieve the authentic rounded screen effect. This setup ensures that the terminal looks as though it has been lifted directly from the Fallout series.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Rick’s terminal is a functional component of his smart home system. It serves as an interactive, text-based assistant capable of processing commands for smart home operations such as controlling lights and playing music. This functionality is powered by OpenAI, adding a layer of modern convenience to the retro-inspired device.
To maintain the authentic Fallout terminal experience, Rick chose the Raspberry Pi 400, which integrates a keyboard into the device—similar to the terminals in the game. The Pi 400 connects to a 7-inch Waveshare touchscreen via HDMI, and the screen’s retro appearance is enhanced by the curved Fresnel lens. This project showcases not only technical ingenuity but also a deep appreciation for the Fallout series, blending nostalgia with modern smart home technology.
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