First, I’ve been focusing on building some new models—though I probably don’t need any more! I’ll share a few designs soon for what I call entry-level R/O models.
Second, I’ve been working on the nRF24 RF module, both in terms of hardware and software. It’s up and running, though still a work in progress. Some of you at Ponte may have seen it. This module is based on Mike’s work and now includes a variety of options. My goal is a full R/C setup with several features, just because—why not?
The PCB has arrived from JLCPCB, so for now, here’s the rendering.
- ...size 22 x 28 mm
The module can be controlled via serial commands. The pipe generator algorithm includes a hash value option, enabling different settings by switching the hash. This creates a unique link between the Rx and the module, based on the model ID in the encoder, giving you true model matching.
Additional functions include setting failsafe and low power for range checks. The Rx is one of my standard receivers, as most functions are in the Tx module, making it fully compatible with my older system so no necessary hardware changes for the RX and Encoders just the add one of the RF module like any commercial one. The RF module also works with just the PPM input and no serial connection to the encoder, using just the two buttons on the board or an extension of them to control Bind-Fail-Safe and Range-Check .
Other features that are included are now a sounder, a low-voltage alarm and "ppm-handling", which add smart functions especially when paired with older encoders like Control Revers, Expo and dual rate.
To all this there are a few new Encoders but all based on Mike's work so not anything really mine, here is my version of the....(my size is 22 x 35 mm
so slightly larger than Mike's in square mm.
Almost forgot...on my test-board there is RX with a sounder and a voltage divider, the RX can read its own voltage and send it back to the transmitter...unfortunate the RSI-Relative Strength Index in the nRF24 is extremely primitive so there is not really a possibility to send back the signal strength!