Adafruit Rotary Trinkey - USB NeoPixel Rotary Encoder

First, install the Adafruit SAMD Boards package via the Arduino Board Manager. Connect the Rotary Trinkey via USB, select 'Adafruit Trinket M0' as the target board, and choose the correct COM port. You can then upload sketches that utilize the rotary encoder inputs, NeoPixel library for LED control, and the HID or MIDIUSB libraries to create custom USB devices. Ensure your code handles the encoder pins and the capacitive touch input according to the published pinout diagram.

The board has a standard 5-pin through-hole footprint labeled for a PEC11-style encoder. The pins correspond to Ground, Switch (the push-button), 'A' phase, 'B' phase, and a common VCC (3.3V). You must solder your encoder directly to these pads. Consult the Adafruit learning guide for a detailed wiring diagram and example code to read the encoder's rotation and button press, which typically involves using a library like Encoder or reading the GPIO states directly with interrupts.

Yes, it can function as a USB MIDI device. In Arduino, you would use the MIDIUSB library. Your sketch must include the necessary headers, initialize the library, and then send MIDI messages (like Control Change or Note On/Off) based on encoder rotation or button presses. The board will enumerate as a standard MIDI device on your computer, compatible with most Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) without requiring additional drivers, thanks to its native USB support.

The board is powered entirely via its USB connection, requiring a standard 5V supply. The logic runs at 3.3V. The maximum operating current is specified at 2.1A, which is a worst-case scenario primarily when driving the NeoPixel LED at full brightness white. For typical use with an encoder and moderate LED usage, current draw will be far lower. Ensure your USB port can supply adequate power if you plan to drive the NeoPixel intensely.