Watch the quick start video
Follow our quick start video for the Vilros GPIO Cable Adapter:
The video demonstrates clear step-by-step instructions for connecting your GPIO devices to the Wave case.
Adapter overview
The Vilros GPIO Cable Adapter for Wave Case provides convenient external access to your Raspberry Pi's GPIO pins when the Pi is installed in a Wave case. The Wave case's sleek aluminum design can make direct GPIO access challenging - this adapter solves that problem with a ribbon cable extension.
Compatible with: Vilros Wave Case for Raspberry Pi 4 or Pi 5
Includes: GPIO ribbon cable adapter, mounting hardware (depending on variant)
Connection steps
- Power off: Shut down and disconnect power from your Raspberry Pi before installing the adapter.
- Open the Wave case: If your Pi is already in the case, remove the top cover to access the GPIO header.
- Connect the ribbon cable: Align the GPIO ribbon cable connector with the Raspberry Pi's 40-pin GPIO header. Press down firmly and evenly until fully seated. Ensure proper orientation (pin 1 alignment).
- Route the cable: Route the ribbon cable through the Wave case opening (typically at the GPIO end). Some Wave case variants have a dedicated cable slot.
- Close the case: Replace the Wave case top cover, ensuring the ribbon cable is not pinched.
- Connect devices: The ribbon cable terminates in a GPIO breakout or extension connector outside the case. Connect your HATs, breakout boards, or jumper wires to this external connector.
Using the GPIO adapter
GPIO access: With the adapter installed, you can connect GPIO devices without opening the Wave case. This is ideal for:
- Breadboard prototyping
- HAT accessories (displays, sensors, motor controllers)
- Learning GPIO programming without repeatedly disassembling the case
- Permanent GPIO-based projects in the Wave case
Pin numbering: GPIO pin numbering remains the same. The adapter is a simple extension - pin 1 on the adapter corresponds to pin 1 on the Pi, etc.
Electrical considerations: Ribbon cables can introduce signal integrity issues at high frequencies. For most GPIO applications (sensors, LEDs, motors), this is not a concern. For high-speed protocols (fast SPI, I2S audio), test thoroughly or use shorter cables.