pinsto

Pinsto is a term used in speculative and educational contexts to describe a proposed open hardware prototyping framework built around standardized pin connectors and plug-in modules. It is not an officially recognized standard, and no governing body currently maintains it.

The core idea of pinsto is to define a common pin interface that carries power, ground, and one or more communication lines between a base board and modular extension boards, called pinstos. Modules attach via a uniform pin grid with keyed connectors to prevent misalignment. A reference pinout and mechanical footprint seek to ensure cross-vendor compatibility. A software layer provides device discovery, pin mapping, and safety checks, allowing firmware to interact with attached modules without bespoke wiring.

The concept has appeared primarily in maker culture, classroom materials, and speculative design discussions. It has not achieved formal adoption, and real-world devices marketed under the label are uncommon. When discussed, pinsto is framed as a thought experiment to illustrate modular hardware design, interoperability, and rapid prototyping, often in contrast with established ecosystems such as Arduino or Raspberry Pi, with noted benefits and trade-offs regarding flexibility, complexity, and cost.

See also Arduino, Raspberry Pi, breadboard, modular hardware, open hardware.