Open-Source Custom RC Controller
Designed and open-sourced a custom RC transmitter — custom PCB, STM32 firmware, and ergonomic 3D-printed housing.
Background
Off-the-shelf RC controllers are either too expensive, too limited, or both. I wanted a transmitter I could fully customize — hardware, firmware, and form factor — and share with others.
What I Did
Designed the PCB in KiCad around an STM32F103C8T6 with hall-effect gimbals, custom switch layout, and a 2.4G RF module. Board size 10×15cm, free to order at JLCPCB. Charging module supports 18W fast charge. Firmware and hardware open-sourced on GitHub (442827947/diy_rc). Hardware reference: oshwhub.com/bgbdm/yao-kong-qi.
Challenges
RF noise from the STM32 clock harmonics required careful PCB layout and shielding around the RF module. Getting the gimbal feel right took several iterations of spring tension and mechanical travel adjustment.
Takeaways
Open-sourced the full design. A good exercise in making something polished enough that others can actually use it.