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“WatchX” can mean three different devices: the original Arduino-compatible wearable development board, FASTSHIFT’s WatchX-II smartwatch, or DSTIKE’s Deauther Watch X wireless-testing device. They use different processors, firmware and programming paths, so the right tools depend on which one you have. If you mean the original watchX, start with a USB connection and the Arduino IDE; if you mean the DSTIKE device, treat it as an ESP8266-based tool for authorized 2.4 GHz testing.
Which WatchX do you have?
Check the project name, board markings and hardware before downloading firmware or buying a programmer. The original watchX and FASTSHIFT WatchX-II are wearable development projects; DSTIKE Deauther Watch X is a separate ESP8266 wireless-testing device. Their shared name does not make their parts, firmware or interfaces interchangeable.
| Device | Purpose and platform | Display and input | Features and tools | Availability and documentation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Original watchX | Wearable development board with ATmega328P; project documents Arduino, Scratch and Atmel Studio compatibility. | 1.3-inch 128×64 SSD1306 OLED, three tactile switches and two green LEDs, according to the project page. | Arduino IDE upload over USB is the beginner path; ISP programming is also described. Listed examples include alarms, flashlight, stopwatch, games, settings and a user-code app. | Project page describes the hardware and downloadable case designs. It says no housing is included by default. Original watchX project page |
| FASTSHIFT WatchX-II | Second-generation open-source smartwatch using an AT32F403ACGU7 controller. The README lists 240 MHz, 224 KB RAM and 1 MB ROM. | 1.54-inch 240×240 ST7789 IPS display, FT6336U capacitive touch and one button; LIS2DS12 accelerometer and MAX30102 heart-rate sensor are listed. | Repository lists LVGL 7.7.1, a watch face, calculator, stopwatch, step counting, games and settings. Sleep, heart-rate, music and sports screens are explicitly marked “UI only.” | Repository includes hardware design files and a GPL-3.0 license; current build services, kits and component stock are not established. FASTSHIFT WatchX-II repository |
| DSTIKE Deauther Watch X | Wireless-testing device based on ESP-07/ESP8266 with 4 MB flash. Its radio capability is 2.4 GHz; ESP8266 does not support 5 GHz. | 1.3-inch SH1106 OLED, buttons, buzzer, 8-pin expansion header and external FPC antenna connector, as reported in 2024. | Runs open-source Deauther firmware. Use only on networks you own or have explicit permission to test. | CNX Software reported the product on June 3, 2024. Current stock and pricing are unverified. CNX Software’s June 3, 2024 report |
Tools for programming the original watchX
The original project describes a wearable development board built around an ATmega328P, not a generic consumer smartwatch intended to unlock with a phone app. Its documented path is familiar to Arduino users.
- Connect the board to a computer over USB.
- Open the Arduino IDE and select the Arduino Uno board setting, as the project page instructs.
- Upload a sketch. The project lists sample functions including alarms, a flashlight, stopwatch, games, settings and a user-code app.
- For lower-level programming, use ISP programming with an ISP programmer or another Arduino acting as the programmer.
- For Scratch, install or use the project’s communication firmware; the page says Scratch use requires it.
The project also lists Atmel Studio compatibility. Its display uses a flat-flex connector and is described as removable; the board can be used without the display in other applications. The project says it does not include a housing by default and describes downloadable designs for 3D-printed cases. Those are project-page descriptions, not independent durability or compatibility tests. See the original watchX project page.
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What to know about WatchX-II before choosing tools
WatchX-II has a different controller and component set from the ATmega328P-based original. FASTSHIFT’s repository README identifies an AT32F403ACGU7 controller, 4-Gbit SD NAND, a built-in RTC and power-management components LP5907-3.3, LP5907-1.8 and TP5100, alongside the display and sensors listed above. It describes a 3D-printed resin case and LVGL 7.7.1.
Do not assume that the original watchX’s Arduino Uno selection, programmer or firmware applies to WatchX-II. Start with the repository’s hardware and software documentation, and confirm its requirements for the specific board revision before connecting a programmer or ordering parts. Although the README lists heart-rate and sleep-related screen names, it marks sleep monitoring, heart-rate monitoring, music and sports as “UI only”; a screen in the interface is not evidence that the function is implemented.
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What the DSTIKE Deauther Watch X can—and cannot—do
The Deauther Watch X is the name to look for if you mean the ESP8266 wireless-testing device. CNX Software’s June 3, 2024 report describes an ESP-07/ESP8266 module, 4 MB flash, an OLED, expansion header, buzzer and antenna connector, running open-source Deauther firmware. Because the ESP8266 is limited to 2.4 GHz, this is not a 5 GHz testing device.
Deauthentication functionality can interrupt wireless connections. Restrict any testing to equipment and networks you own or are expressly authorized to assess; do not use it to disrupt someone else’s network. The 2024 report gave a 500 mAh battery, an estimated 5–6 hours of runtime, dimensions of 60×50×25 mm, weight of 62 g and a $39 price at Tindie and DSTIKE at that time. These are dated reported figures, not current availability or independently verified measurements.
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How to choose compatible parts and tools
For the original watchX, an Arduino-compatible development-board search is a reasonable starting point because the project explicitly documents Arduino compatibility. That does not establish that arbitrary boards, shields or accessories fit its PCB or enclosure. For all three devices, identify the exact model and board revision before purchasing or connecting anything.
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- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
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- Processor and firmware: Match the MCU and the firmware ecosystem; the original ATmega328P, WatchX-II AT32F403ACGU7 and DSTIKE ESP8266 are distinct platforms.
- Voltage and power: Verify supply and logic-voltage requirements for the particular board and accessory instead of assuming they match.
- Interface and pinout: Confirm USB, ISP, expansion-header or other programming connections against the correct board documentation.
- Connectors and physical fit: Check display connector, antenna connector, pin spacing and case dimensions. Similar watch names do not establish compatible parts.
- Listing identity: Check that a product listing names the intended project and hardware revision. A current price or stock status cannot be inferred from older reporting.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
