In a remarkable display of ingenuity, YouTuber Vimpo has pushed the boundaries of minimalist computing by successfully running a custom Minecraft server on an unexpected piece of hardware: a smart lightbulb. This innovative project showcases the potential of low-powered devices, transforming a simple household item into a platform for gaming.
Transforming a Lightbulb into a Gaming Server
The journey began with a standard Wi-Fi lightbulb purchased from Aliexpress. Vimpo meticulously modified the bulb by sawing off its glass exterior to reveal the tiny BL602 RISC-V chip nestled within. This chip was then connected to a surrogate microcontroller equipped with a USB port and additional wiring, effectively breathing new life into the bulb.
Vimpo’s custom Minecraft server implementation, aptly named Ucraft, is a testament to efficiency. The server binary is remarkably compact, measuring just 46 KB without the authentication library and 90 KB with it. Even in a ‘worst-case scenario’ with ten players, the memory usage peaks at a mere 70 KB. Such specifications are indeed impressive for a device originally designed to illuminate spaces rather than host virtual worlds.
While the server may not support an infinite landscape, it does allow for basic minigames like TNT run, albeit with a limited selection of blocks and map sizes. The fact that this functionality is achieved on a lightbulb adds a layer of charm to the project, highlighting the playful intersection of technology and creativity.
As Vimpo demonstrates the server in action, the bulb occasionally flickers, almost as if it is expressing its surprise at being utilized for such advanced tasks. One might imagine the bulb exclaiming, “Help! This world was not meant for me!” Yet, this whimsical scenario underscores the clever repurposing of a common device into something truly extraordinary.
This endeavor not only showcases the capabilities of minimalist hardware but also invites a broader conversation about the potential of everyday objects in the realm of technology. As the lines between gaming and practical applications continue to blur, Vimpo’s project serves as a delightful reminder of the innovative spirit that drives the tech community.
