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Valve Inkterface: Steam Machine e-ink display open-sourced for $90 DIY build

Simon Ellis 2 min read

Valve open- sources the Steam Machine Inkterface e- ink display design, allowing owners to build a custom real- time performance monitor for around $90 in parts.

Valve Steam Machine
PC HARDWARE

has released the open-source design files for the Machine's e-ink faceplate, known as the Inkterface. This move allows owners to build their own real-time performance displays instead of waiting for a proprietary accessory. The release matters because it gives builders immediate control over how their hardware monitors system stats like FPS and temperatures. You can construct this custom screen for approximately $90 in parts using the provided blueprints.

Owners assemble custom performance monitor using off-the-shelf Adafruit parts

The Inkterface project focuses on displaying live hardware data on a monochrome e-ink panel. Valve designed the interface to provide users with immediate visibility into their Steam Machine's operational status. The company has decided not to manufacture or sell these displays commercially. This strategy turns the faceplate into a community-driven DIY project rather than a standard retail product.

Specifications

  • Microcontroller: Adafruit ESP32 Feather with 2MB PSRAM
  • Display Interface: Adafruit eInk Breakout Friend
  • Display Panel: Adafruit 5.83" Monochrome eInk Panel
  • Fasteners: 13 x M2.5 x 5mm Pan Head Machine Screws
  • Magnets: 4 x 1/4" x 1/4" x 3/16" Stepped Magnet SB443-OUT

Building the Inkterface requires specific off-the-shelf components and 3D printed structural parts. The core electronics include an Adafruit ESP32 Feather microcontroller paired with 2MB of PSRAM. A 5.83-inch monochrome e-ink panel connects via an Adafruit eInk Breakout Friend. The assembly also needs four stepped magnets and thirteen M2.5 machine screws to secure the unit.

The estimated cost for these electronic components sits around $90 USD. This figure does not include the expense of 3D printing the required chassis parts. The total build price could exceed $100 once you account for filament and printer time. Valve has hosted the complete hardware specifications and code on a public GitLab repository for easy access.

We have been tracking Steam Machine closely — see our earlier coverage on Valve Steam Machine. The open-source release resolves the issue of missing factory accessories by providing all necessary technical details. Owners can now assemble a functional performance monitor using common hobbyist parts. The project remains a purely voluntary DIY effort with no official retail support.

Source: SteamDeckHQ

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