Upgrade your Steam Machine with an E-Ink display: The Inkterface project brings a new look.
The open-source Inkterface project allows Steam Machine users to equip their own front-facing E-Ink display to monitor system parameters. A commercial version is also coming soon.
The Steam Machine is preparing for a significant front-facing design change thanks to a new E-Ink display project. Developed by Kyle Wright, a close collaborator with Valve, the project, dubbed "Inkterface," offers a low-power, always-on secondary display solution for showing system information and customizing the interface.
The operating principles and advantages of E-Ink technology on Inkterface
The reason the Inkterface project uses E-Ink technology instead of LCD or OLED lies in its "always-on" characteristic, which consumes virtually no energy. This screen only uses power when updating new data, allowing users to monitor important Steam Machine parameters such as temperature, CPU load status, or custom notifications without increasing the overall temperature of the device.
The chosen screen measures 5.83 inches, displays monochrome, and does not support color. This creates a minimalist, professional look that is particularly well-suited to the industrial design style of mini gaming consoles.
Detailed component information and technical requirements for the DIY version.
The project has now been posted in detail on GitLab, including a list of components and source code. To build this monitor yourself, users need to prepare hardware components from Adafruit – a well-known electronics manufacturer. Specifically:
- ESP32 control panel.
- The "Ink Breakout Friend" add-on board.
- 5.83-inch E-Ink display.
- Batteries and other small components.
- The protective casing is 3D printed using a design already available in the archive.
In terms of software, Wright provides source code based on the Qt Creator project, allowing those with programming expertise to deeply customize the display interface to their personal preferences.
Challenges during the assembly process
Although the accompanying instructions and videos are very detailed, the Inkterface assembly process requires a certain level of hardware experience. Most notably, the component soldering process demands meticulous attention to detail to ensure stable connections within the tight space of the front panel.
| Ingredient | Technical details |
|---|---|
| Microcontrollers | ESP32 Development Board |
| Display technology | E-Ink (Monochrome) |
| Display size | 5.83 inches |
| Software platform | Qt Creator Project |
Alternative: Commercial version from Jsaux
For gamers who don't want to delve too deeply into hardware or lack soldering skills, a commercial solution is emerging. Jsaux, a well-known brand of gaming accessories, is expected to launch a complete E-Ink display version for the Steam Machine before the end of the year. This promises to be a quick installation solution, upgrading the aesthetics and functionality of the device without requiring extensive technical knowledge.
