Forget sticky notes and printed signs—your office door deserves smarter tech. Curious Scientist's latest project blends ESP32 microcontrollers with a 2.9" e‑ink display to create a sleek, wireless, and energy‑efficient nameplate that doubles as a status indicator. This isn't just a vanity build—it’s a practical solution that lasts a whole workweek on a single battery.
But before diving into how it works, let’s explore the fascinating history of e‑ink technology, and why it’s perfect for this kind of low‑power, always-on display.
The Story of E‑Ink: From Lab to Kindle to DIY Projects
The concept of electronic paper dates back to the 1970s, when researchers began experimenting with electrophoretic displays—tiny charged particles suspended in liquid that could be moved by electric fields. But it wasn’t until the 1990s that real progress was made.
In 1997, a team at MIT, led by Joseph Jacobson, founded E Ink Corporation, which revolutionized display technology with microcapsule electrophoretic displays. These are the very same displays that power Amazon Kindles, digital shelf labels, and now—you guessed it—custom DIY office signage.
How E‑Ink Displays Work (And Why They’re Awesome for This Build)
E‑ink technology uses millions of tiny capsules containing black and white charged particles in a clear fluid. Depending on the electric field applied, the desired particles move to the top (visible) or bottom (hidden), forming crisp, high-contrast images that are readable even in sunlight.
What makes e‑ink ideal for this kind of application:
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Power only when updating: E‑ink is bi-stable, so once your status is set, it stays on the screen without any power consumption.
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Eye-friendly: No flickering or backlight—it’s just like reading printed paper.
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Reliable and lightweight: Perfect for wireless, always-visible signage.
The Build: ESP32 E‑Ink Office Nameplate from CuriousScientist.tech
Curious Scientist's guide walks you through building a battery-powered, Bluetooth-controlled nameplate using an ESP32 and a 2.9" Waveshare e‑ink display.
Here’s the full tutorial:
Key Features:
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ESP32 Lite microcontroller: Onboard USB charging, Wi-Fi/Bluetooth, compact form factor.
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RGB status LED: Lights up green/red/yellow based on your availability.
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Bluetooth interface: Wirelessly update your name and status from your device.
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18650 lithium cell: Runs for a full workweek with smart power optimizations.
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Battery voltage monitoring: Display a battery icon using a calibrated voltage divider.
OBS: Curious Scientist even underclocks the ESP32 and disables Wi-Fi to save power—smart!
Why You Should Build This
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It’s useful: Whether you’re in a shared office, lab, or home workspace, others will know your availability at a glance.
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It’s beautiful: The e‑ink screen looks professional and elegant.
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It’s energy-efficient: You charge once per week—no wires, no mess.
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It’s hackable: You can personalize the design, add calendar syncing, or build a whole network of smart nameplates.
Wrap-Up: Classic Tech, Modern Application
This project is more than just a clever use of parts—it’s a case study in how yesterday’s revolutionary ideas (like e‑ink) can power tomorrow’s innovations. Curious Scientist has made it approachable and well-documented, so anyone with basic electronics knowledge can build one.
Whether you're deep into IoT or just looking for your next desk upgrade, this build is a perfect blend of elegance, efficiency, and open-source spirit.
Ready to Make One?
Head over to CuriousScientist.tech to follow the full guide and bring your office status into the 21st century.
Want help sourcing parts, modifying the code, or adding your own twist? I’m happy to help.
