ESP-Drone: Building an ESP32-Based Quadcopter For Not Much Cash

Building a quadcopter on a budget is entirely feasible, as demonstrated by Circuit Digest through their adaptation of the ESP-Drone project by Espressif. With just a handful of components – an ESP32 MCU, an IMU like the MPU6050, and four MOSFETs for motor control – and a PCB serving as both the frame and landing gear, you can assemble a functional quadcopter without the need for a 3D printer. The total bill of materials for this project amounts to approximately 1,000 Indian Rupees, equivalent to around $12 USD.

While the basic build provides essential IMU functionality, the original Espressif project offers expansion options through additional hardware modules. Depending on the chosen mainboard model, enhancements like position-hold, pressure, and compass modules can be incorporated, along with custom expansion boards. Despite opting for the ESPlane-V2-S2 version without expansion boards, the potential for customization remains vast.

In addition to its affordability, the ESP-Drone firmware supports the cfclient software, enabling remote monitoring, logging, and control. While Circuit Digest does not explicitly mention this feature in their firmware, it is available in the original project. Users can control the quadcopter using a standard game controller or the Espressif mobile app, albeit within the limitations of the local WiFi network range. Despite lacking a camera feed for navigation, the project serves as a cost-effective and enjoyable DIY quadcopter endeavor, ideal for indoor use as a recreational toy.

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