The field of radio control has benefited much from the onward march of technology. Where a basic 2-channel setup would once have cost hundreds of dollars, it’s now possible to get a high-end 2.4GHz 9-channel rig for well under $100, shipped to your door. However, the vast majority of these systems are closed-source and built for purpose. Sometimes, there are benefits to doing things your own way, and that’s precisely what this project does.
At its heart, it’s a simple combination. An Arduino Pro Mini talks to a NRF24L01 which handles the wireless communication. At that point, it’s up to you – throw in as few or as many controls as you like. For this build, [HowToMechatronics] has gone with a twin-stick setup, with a pair of potentiometers and twin toggle switches to round out the options.
The build comes in handy, as it’s possible to program in whatever features you may need for a given project. [HowToMechatronics] has used it to control a hexapod robot, among other projects. It’s a build that shows that with cheap and readily available parts, it’s possible to whip up a custom solution to suit your needs.
If this topic interests you.it’s worth saying that even those closed source radio control products can sometimes be hacked.
[Thanks to Baldpower for the tip!]
Perfect timing.. I just pulled out my NRF modules to start programming something for my DIY mountain board. Stripping this down will be simpler. Thanks.
Just to throw in here; there are quite a few hobby RC transmitters (For example, the turnigy 9xr and FrSky Taranis) that run open-source firmwares out-of-the-box. I believe openTX supports scripting, too, although I haven’t made use of that. Also, a lot of the major RF protocols used in hobby-grade RC have been reverse engineered, too.
Cool project, though; looks a tidy setup, and it all depends what you’re aim is, and what you’re using it for as to what’s the best option.
Gah, NRF are $1 each in 10 pack, might be time to make the addressable LED ceiling fan blades I’ve been putting off.