Youngstown RC Updates

The Ground Station Is Coming… Slowly

Written by Mr. Devyn | Apr 11, 2025 12:14:27 PM

Mr. Devyn here, still tinkering like it’s my therapy (because it is).

I’ve been working on a custom FPV Ground Station for our planes, and let me tell you — this one’s been fighting me the whole way. The vision is a Pelican-style case with dual screens, live telemetry, and a mini-map overlay. I want it to feel like a NASA launch every time we take off.

What’s Working:

  • The 10" screens are mounted in the lid.

  • The 5" HDMI touchscreen is reserved for the GPS mini-map.

  • We’ve got addressable LEDs rigged to flash based on signal strength and pilot status.

What’s Not:

  • The Pi that’s supposed to run the visuals keeps overheating.

  • Power regulation is sketchy. I had to Frankenstein three buck converters to get something semi-stable.

  • I still haven’t figured out how to make it modular for multiple aircraft.

But I’m not quitting. If anything, the problems make the win that much sweeter.

Next Steps

  • Optimize the wiring to avoid heat issues.

  • Program the LED logic for “Who’s flying who?”

  • Create a universal interface for any plane in the club’s fleet.

Got any ideas for Ground Station features? Drop 'em on our socials! I’ll take all the help I can get — and credit where it’s due.
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