PIDFLIGHT LAP
Build your own
PIDflight Lap VTx lap timing device is suitable for individual pilot use or in a multi-pilot configuration.
If you can build a multirotor — you can build a lap timer! and for less than USD $20 for parts you could be timing your laps with that fast racer you just built!
What you need:
- PIDflight Lap app
- D.I.Y PIDflight Lap timing device
Let’s get started!
BUILD YOUR OWN
Parts
- 1x Arduino Nano
- 1x RX5808 module with SPI mod
- 1x HC-06 Bluetooth module (optional)
- 1x DT-06 Serial WiFi module (optional)
- 1x 5v active buzzer (optional)
- 4x 1K resistors
The HC-06 Bluetooth or DT-06 WiFi modules are supported by the Android app. You only need to purchase either one.
It is recommended to place a 1K resistor between the Arduino TX and HC-06/DT-06 RX connection.
Ethernet connectivity using the ENC28J60 Ethernet Shield Network Module is only supported by the GUI app.
Schematic
FIRMWARE
Please use this firmware if you are using the original PIDflight PCB or have built your own using the published PIDflight schematic.
Please note the Bluetooth TX/RX must be disconnected from the Arduino Nano to flash the firmware successfully.
| Firmware | Version | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Firmware 2.2.0 | 2.2.0 | Stable Recommended | Multi-pilot support for dedicated lap timers. |
| Firmware 2.5.0 | 2.5.0 | Experimental | Multi-pilot support for dedicated and virtual lap timers. |
| Firmware 2.6.0 | 2.6.0 | Experimental | Multi-pilot support with signal strength peak detection. View README for further instructions. |
| Firmware 2.7.0 (4VT) Firmware 2.7.0 (2VT) | 2.7.0 | Experimental | Multi-pilot support for dedicated and virtual lap timers with signal strength peak detection. View README for further instructions. * 4VT: Four virtual timers available * 2VT: Two virtual timers available |
APP
The PIDflight Lap companion app for the PIDflight VTx Lap Timing device and compatible hardware.
- Premium edition is a yearly subscription of US$3.99 and includes all updates and multiple pilot support.
- Free edition is limited to display and announce the first three (3) laps for a single (1) lap timing device.
NOTE: You can manage your yearly subscription via Google Play’s Subscription Center, please click here for more information if you wish to cancel or pause an active subscription.
GUI
The PIDflight Lap cross-platform Chrome, Windows, Linux and macOS application is provided free of charge.
PCB
PIDflight Lap PCBs are a perfect D.I.Y board for a clean assembled VTx lap timing device.
REV01
The REV01 is the first and original PCB design published July 2017.
- Download: PCB Revision 01 Gerber Files
- Download: PCB Revision 01 Assembly Guide
- Order: SeeedStudio
REV02
The REV02 is the most recent PCB designed with easy connectivity for multipilot in mind, published March 2018.
- Download: PCB Revision 02 Gerber Files
- Order: SeeedStudio
Check out the dedicated REV02 page for everything you need to know about this PCB.
Specifications
- Copper layers: 2
- Thickness: 1.6 mm
- Minimum trace/spacing: 6/6 mil
- Minimum hole size: 0.3 mm
- Impedance control: No
- Soldermask colour: Green
- Silkscreen colour: White
- Surface finish: HASL (with lead)
- Copper weight: 1 oz
POWER OPTIONS
The VTx lap timing device operates on 5v and can be directly powered by the Arduino Nano USB port, or 5v directly supplied to the individual components (i.e. Arduino Nano, RX5808 and HC-06).
Power consumption is ~250-300mA.
5v Regulated PDB
XT60 to USB
USB Power Bank
CONNECTIVITY OPTIONS
USB
USB connection on PC or using an USB OTG cable on capable Android devices.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth Classic and Low Energy (LE) 4.0, such as the HC-06 and HM-10 modules.
Refer to Bluetooth configuration to learn more.
WiFi
WiFi using DT-06 or ESP-01 serial adapter modules.
Refer to WiFi configuration to learn more.
Telemetry
3DR 433/915Mhz Telemetry modules.
Refer to Telemetry configuration to learn more.
Ethernet
Ethernet ENC28J60 modules. This option is only available for the GUI app.
Refer to Ethernet configuration to learn more.