diegobaca
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About diegobaca
- Birthday 08/12/1982
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Interface C Updates: Firmware 1.0.2 and Utility 1.0.1 I’ve released Interface C Firmware 1.0.2 along with Interface C Utility 1.0.1. To update your device, I recommend downloading (links for PC and Mac at the bottom of the page) the latest Interface C Utility and using the Update button. You can also flash your Interface C to version 1.0.2 if you prefer. Either approach works. What’s new in Firmware 1.0.2 This release includes performance improvements, bug fixes, and two small new features: A) Motor Status Broadcast One request I received was the ability for Interface C to broadcast when the motor state changes. When Motor Status is enabled in the Utility, Interface C will now broadcast messages like: M1 set to n Where n represents the motor speed and direction (for example, +6 or -3). B) Serial Motor Control Command I’ve added a new serial command that allows direct control of motor speed and direction: Set M1 n Where n can be any value from -6 to +6. New LEGO-Compatible Dial I’ve also added a new dial design for Interface C. A few people asked for a version that supports LEGO studs, so this new dial accepts a Round 4×4 Plate with Hole, allowing you to build directly on top of the dial. The dial can be 3D printed and is available on MakerWorld. What I’m Working on Next Interface C Mini Many of you asked for a simpler and more affordable version of Interface C. I’ve been working on Interface C mini, which includes all the core functionality of the original device but in a much smaller form factor. My goal is to keep the total cost of parts (including the microcontroller) around $20, significantly lowering the barrier to entry. More details soon. Firmware 1.0.3 I’m also actively working on the next major firmware update. Firmware 1.0.3 will introduce several new features, including support for custom loops that Interface C can execute on its own. I’ll share more details in the coming months. Thank You Thank you to everyone who has supported the project and to everyone who has purchased an Interface C. I’m excited to keep improving the device and making it more affordable and accessible over time. I especially want to thank Brian from @BatteryPoweredBricks for the amazing YouTube videos you created about Interface C. They have been incredibly helpful in showing what the device can do and how people can use it with their builds. -
Yes! You just need to submit the request on Tindie — I think I just saw yours come through. I’ve been adding more locations, so you should be all set. Thank you! 🙏🏼
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I don’t think it’s better or worse—just different. It simply gives you the option to use the extension cord or not, since it supports both. Mine also works with any standard 9V power supply—it doesn’t require anything proprietary. Regarding stock, I live in the U.S., and there are only about 30 available right now. Half of those are priced above $50, so the “build your own kit” option ends up being comparable in cost. I’m not claiming my version is cheap or suggesting everyone should buy one—I’m just sharing a project I made and putting it out there for the community. There are also some other advantages: it has a screen that displays the speed value, it’s customizable, you can design and print your own case in any color, and it’s easy to modify or hack if you like to tinker.
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I will have to look into something like that :) Nice - did not know about the built in interpreter 👀 There probably aren’t any major advantages, but here are a few things it does differently: It doesn’t need an extension adapter — you can plug a Power Functions motor directly into the device. Wi-Fi / remote control capabilities. It serves as an alternative to the old 9V controller, which is becoming harder to find these days. I’m planning to add some basic programmability — for example, the ability to run simple loops.
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I’m using an Arduino Nano ESP32. You don’t have to pay me — you can simply visit my website and download the Interface C Utility (for Windows or Mac) to flash the Arduino with the software. That way, you can still build it if you have the parts on a breadboard or an equivalent setup. I also sell a PCB kit on Tindie if you just need some of the basic parts, including the PCB. Thank you! I’ve just updated my Tindie store to include shipping to Canada.
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Thank you! I have a few plans in mind that I’m currently working on: Interface C Lite – I’m exploring ways to reduce cost and simplify features. Some of the things I’m considering include: a) using a more affordable microcontroller (some are only $2–3 compared to the $20+ one I’m using now), b) removing Wi-Fi and web-interface control, and c) dropping the OLED screen. Interface C Pro – I’m going all out with this one! I want it to control up to eight motors independently and possibly include programmable functions. I’m still in the research phase for this version as well. As for color options — I’ve uploaded the 3D models to MakerWorld, so people can print their own cases in any color they like. Depending on interest, I also plan to offer different color options for sale later on. Yeah, it might be a bit much — but I wanted to add an OLED display to show information, and also allow the controller to be remotely operated through a web interface. So using a microcontroller for this version made sense to me. I’m planning a simpler version that will be more affordable. I’m also researching how to support the new PowerUp system, but that might come later. I really like your idea of adding studs or axle/pin holes on the dial! I’ll look into that. Thank you for the feedback! You’re correct about the reduced outputs and inputs on this version. I’m planning another one that will support eight outputs and add programmability. Since this was my first time creating any kind of hardware or electronics, I wanted to start small — but I hope to keep evolving and adding more functionality to make it even more worthy of the Interface name. I love all your ideas for expanding the controller — lots to think about! Thank you for the feedback and kind words.
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I’m excited to share that Interface C is now available. It’s a modern take on the classic LEGO® 9V Train Controller (4548), designed to give builders precise speed control and versatility — perfect for powering Technic creations, Great Ball Contraptions, and custom motorized builds. Interface C with Dark Bluish Gray, Light Bluish Gray, and Orange - LEGO® Power Functions colorway. 🔧 What It Does Provides six-speed precision control — forward or reverse — with a smooth rotary dial. Connects directly to LEGO® Power Functions motors, letting you breathe new life into old builds. Remote control via web interface, allowing you to manage motors wirelessly over Wi-Fi. Fully compatible with Windows and Mac through the Interface C Utility for firmware updates and configuration. USB-C port for firmware flashing and diagnostics. 🛠️ How to Get It Interface C is available in multiple options depending on how hands-on you want to get: Full Kit A — includes the microcontroller. Full Kit B — without microcontroller, for those who already own an Arduino Nano ESP32. Fully Assembled Unit — ready to use out of the box. Each kit includes high-quality parts, assembly instructions, and access to digital resources — even STL files to 3D print your own housing. Learn more and get your kit at 👉 https://interface-c.com LEGO® 9V Train Controller (4548) compared to the Interface C with Light Bluish Gray, Black, and Yellow colorway.
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I am a graphic designer so I do that sort of thing for a living. They still took quite a bit of time to get just right. Thank you for the praise!
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Control Lab IO
diegobaca replied to diegobaca's topic in LEGO Technic, Mindstorms, Model Team and Scale Modeling
Thanks I removed the tracking from original post. Did not know Facebook added that to links - I just copy pasted from my post I shared on FB. ❤️ -
Hi LEGO Community! Do you own an old Control Lab Interface B and wish you could easily use it to control multiple motors!? I present, Control Lab IO an application for Windows, macOS and Raspberry PIs. It allows you to use up to 4 Control Lab bricks to control 32 LEGO motors independently (direction + speed). Download it here: https//controllab.io Let me know what you think!
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Folks on this thread might be interested in this software I recently made: https://www.controllab.io
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Thank you @leafan! I do own all the Pirate sets from the late 80s and 90s also, might need to do a Pirate website next . Yes I did I photographed them using a light box using a black backdrop. I recreated them as close as I could using photoshop. I also recreated the Logos since I could not find high-res versions online.
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Thanks for the feedback! I do not have any space sets after 1999, but if there is enough interest I plan to expand :). Haha! Love the compliment :) Thank you!
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Thank you for the praise and suggestion, I will consider that for future updates! Thanks!
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Hi Eurobricks! I want to share a site I have been working on for the past couple years: www.1980somethingspace.com The site focuses on LEGO Space sets from 1978-1999, check it out!