My Leonardo clone bit the dirt today, with its USB port disattached from the PCB, taking USB traces and pads with it. I ordered a new one and now I am thinking about giving this old dead Leonardo some redemption after desoldering the ATmega32U4 chip.
I have some possible ideas that can choose from, all rooting from my need:
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Implement the full STK500v2 protocol on this 32u4 chip, together with HVPP and HVSP modes of operation. The 12V is derived from 5V rail using a boost DC-DC converter so no external power source is required. This will essentially turn this busted Leonardo chip into a homemade AVR Dragon equivalent. (Salvaged parts: processor, LEDs and maybe the polyfuse and other USB parts other than the busted jack. And this may be Kickstarter-worthy.)
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Get an Arduino Micro clone board and assemble it myself, salvaging and reusing as much parts from the busted Leonardo as possible.
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Couple this Leonardo with my Raspberry Pi to make my long-wanted home made IPMI for my server. (Processor and USB stuff salvaged again.)
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Figure out a way to turn this into an coprocessor shield (essentially stack an Leonardo onto another Arduino) if you are tight on ports.
What is your suggestion?