After returning to free flight aeromodelling after nearly 20 years, I was disappointed to see that one of the most rewarding aspects of the hobby, building your own models and equipment, was gradually disappearing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I decided to support those who still enjoy designing and building their own models in any way I can. As a result, I developed an electronic timer based on the Heltec Mesh Node T096. The system incorporates what I consider the two most important features for modern free flight flying: RDT (Radio Dethermalizer) and GPS tracking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
One of the project’s main goals is accessibility. Anyone can build the timer themselves at the cost of the hardware alone, without the need to purchase expensive proprietary equipment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The timer is based on the Heltec Mesh Node T096<\/a> platform, while the handheld unit uses the Seeed SenseCAP Card Tracker T1000-E<\/a>. Firmware for both the airborne timer and the handheld unit is available, together with an Android application for tracking and locating models.<\/p>\n\n\n\n To accommodate different classes and launch systems, I have developed three firmware versions:<\/p>\n\n\n\n F1A\/F1H with servo release hook<\/p>\n\n\n\n F1A\/F1H with mechanical release hook<\/p>\n\n\n\n F1B\/F1C\/F1Q, activated by releasing a single button<\/p>\n\n\n\n The firmware files,and Android application are available through the links below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n