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- Aug 12, 2024
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SERVO BUDDY [BETA]
LAUNCH ANNOUNCEMENT
We're thrilled to introduce an exciting new tool for servo and ESC testing, born from a collaboration between Flite Test and HackMakeMod.
What is Servo Buddy?
Servo Buddy is an exceptionally user-friendly device crafted to streamline the testing and centering of servos and the testing of ESCs. Whether you're fine-tuning RC planes, cars, boats, or robots, Servo Buddy ensures precision in your servo’s center and endpoint settings and verifies that your motors are spinning in the correct direction.Key Benefits:
- Plug-and-Play Simplicity: Connect your servo or ESC and press a button… that's all! No additional equipment required.
- Polarity Detection: Servo Buddy automatically detects and adjusts to the device's polarity, ensuring flawless functionality regardless of how you plug it in.
- Efficient Design: Powered by 3 x AAA batteries, Servo Buddy also features an auto power-off function to extend battery life.
Limited Edition Launch:
We are excited to release the Servo Buddy [BETA] in a special limited edition. Only 50 uniquely numbered units will be available, split into two batches. Each is meticulously assembled in the HackMakeMod workshop and includes a distinctive, handmade acid-etched metal insert denoting its unique number.Pricing and Availability:
Each limited edition unit is priced at $25. The first batch will be available exclusively at the Flite Test store starting January 10, 2025. The second batch will follow on January 17, 2025, through the HackMakeMod Store. This phased release allows us to provide a special opportunity for our dedicated communities.Why a Limited Run?
Our goal is to put this innovative tool into the hands of genuine hobbyists before finalizing its design. Producing these limited edition units allows us to gather your invaluable feedback, facilitating improvements without the delays of large-scale manufacturing.[David Windestal and Josh Bixler discuss essential Servo Buddy features.]
Servo Buddy Tech Specs:
- Microcontroller: Raspberry Pi Pico – RP2040 32-bit ARM Cortex-M0+ processor.
- Power Source: 3 x AAA batteries (not included).
- Display: 128x64 OLED for real-time feedback.
- Button Functions: Toggle between -45°, 0°, +45° positions, activate motor test, and shut down after 3 seconds of pressing.
- Connectivity: Foolproof servo and ESC connections with slot-aligned pins.
- Detection System: Automatic device type and polarity recognition.
- Testing Features: Quick 0.5-second motor spin at low throttle.
- Auto Power-Off: Shuts down after 60 seconds of inactivity.
- Enclosure: Compact and durable, featuring a numbered acid-etched metal insert.
- Dimensions: 86mm x 42mm x 22mm.
- Weight: 77g (with batteries).
[Chad holding the 3D printed case to be used for the ServoBuddy Beta]
FAQ: Servo Buddy [BETA] Program
- How many units are available? 50 units have been produced for the beta program.
- Where can I purchase Servo Buddy [BETA]? 25 units in the Flite Test store from January 10, 2025 Purchase here, and 25 in the HackMakeMod store from January 17, 2025 Purchase here.
- What does purchasing a unit entail? You'll join a community of early adopters, use Servo Buddy in your projects, and provide feedback here.
- What feedback is needed? We welcome any insights on Servo Buddy’s features, hardware, software, and design.
- Benefits of participating? Directly influence Servo Buddy's development, enjoy affordable pricing, and help lay the groundwork for future tools.
- What happens with feedback? It will be used to finalize Servo Buddy's features and design.
- When will the final version be released? Based on the feedback, we'll determine the release date to ensure the highest quality.
We aim to build Servo Buddy with you, for you. Your contributions are crucial in making Servo Buddy the best it can be.
Thank you for joining us on this exciting journey!
Kind regards,
Chad, David, and Josh
Servo Buddy is an open-source project
This means that its design, software, and hardware specifications are publicly accessible. We encourage community collaboration and value your contributions to the ongoing development and improvement of Servo Buddy.
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