FRReceiverSim

OpenSkySim

A wireless rc simulator controller

Description

This open project aims to develop a small USB dongle that lets you use your FrSky transmitter as an RC simulator controller wirelessly. You only need to bind your transmitter to the dongle and start playing!
This dongle supports both standard HID compatible simulators, AND PhoenixRC!
The hardware is bases on STM32F103 microcontroller and TI CC2500 transceiver. The firmware is based on OpenSky FrSky-compatible receiver: https://github.com/fishpepper/OpenSky

Assembling instructions

• Order the PCB by sending the gerber files to a manufacturer of your choice. I recommend JLCPCB.
• Order all parts as listed in the BOM file. You will need a 0603 kit of resistors and capacitors, and for all other parts you will find a link in the BOM.
• Solder all parts. You can use the Interactive BOM to assist you.
• For the transmitter module, I used one without built in antenna, So if you are using the same module, you will need to add an antenna by soldering a 0.5mm transformer wire to the antenna pin, then trim the wire to a length of 31.5mm. (I tried one module with on board antenna but the reception was bad, If you find one that works, please let me know). Plese note: there are parts on both side of the PC

Top Side (click to enlarge):

• If you have an access to a 3D printer you can print a plastic enclosure. Download and print the 2 stl files in the folder. Use different color for the first 3 layers to get a nice text effect.

Programming the firmware

• You will need an ST-Link V2 compatible programmer and programming cable (links in the BOM)

• From the JST cable and Dupont connector kit prepare the programming cable as shown in the image (Note the colors!):

  

• Connect the cable between the programmer and dongle:
  

• Connect the Stlink programmer to the PC. (no need to connect the dongle, it is powered from the programmer)

• Download the OpenSkySim firmware, and use a programming software such as the and programm the dongle.

Usage

This dongle works with FR-Sky telemetry compatible transmitters. (SW 1 and 2 off on DJT modules)
You first need to bind the dongle with the transmitter (this is a one-time operation, repeat only if you change transmitter):

• Press and hold the bind button and insert the dongle to the PC. Wait for the green light to turn on.

  

• Start binding procedure in your transmitter. If you are using an external module such as the DJT, Press and hold the module bind button and turn on the transmitter.

• Wait for the red led on the dongle to start blinking. When it does, binding is complete! Turn off the transmitter and pull the dongle out from the PC.

From now on all you need to do to use the simulator is just by using the slide switch, select the operation mode: either 'Std' for standard HID compatible simulator or 'Pnx' for PhoenixRC, then insert the dongle to the PC and start Simm-ing!

Remark: When using the dongle in 'Std' mode, the PC will recognize it as "OpenSky wireless sim dongle" HID game controller.