Projects   /   Development Boards & Kits

Rev 4.2.2 schematic and PCB

A long while back I posted a version of the schematic for the electronics for my project to build a GPS-steered parachute for rocket recovery.

Circuit diagram
Tags: #pcb#rev#schematic
Ibrar Ayyub By Ibrar Ayyub
Published
Updated

At a glance

CategoryDevelopment Boards & Kits
IncludesCircuit diagram
Reading time~3 min

Summary of Rev 4.2.2 schematic and PCB

This article shares the finalized schematic and PCB layout for a GPS-steered parachute system designed for rocket recovery. The author highlights improvements over previous versions, including a more efficient DC-DC step-down converter and a reed-switch power management system. The design is based on the PIC32 microcontroller and is released under an open license allowing free modification and use, provided the original site is credited as a courtesy.

Parts used in the GPS-steered Parachute Project:

  • PIC32 microcontroller
  • GPS module
  • DC-DC step-down converter
  • Battery (2 cells in series)
  • Reed-switch driven power on/off system
  • Pressure sensor
  • ADC (Analog-to-Digital Converter)
  • Eagle PCB files

Since then I’ve tweaked the board a bit, to the point where the hardware design is clean and bug-free (as far as I know).

So here is the current version of the board schematic and layout, including the original Eagle PCB files as well as a PDF version of the schematic. It runs nice and stably, and could be the basis for a lot of other PIC32-based projects.Rev 4.2.2 schematic and PCB

Click here to download it (zip file).

Compared to earlier versions, this one uses a DC-DC step-down for much more efficient use of the battery, and includes the reed-switch driven power on/off system I described earlier.

You are welcome to do with this as you like (modify, republish, whatever).  To make it official:

Hardware rights: I hereby grant everyone and everything in the universe permission to use and modify this hardware design for any purpose whatsoever. In exchange, you agree not to sue me about it. I make no promises. By using the design you agree that if you’re unhappy the most I owe you is what you paid me (zip, zero, nothing, nada). That seems fair.

I do ask that you credit this site (http://nerdfever.com) and post as the source, just as a courtesy; but you don’t have to.Rev 4.2.2 schematic and PCB schematic

Eventually (maybe this winter), I hope to do a new spin that will run off a single LiIon cell (instead of 2 in series, as now), and that will provide a cleaner power supply to the pressure sensor and ADC; noise on the power supply is the main source of noise in the pressure sensor readings (as far as I can tell so far).  But this version works quite well as it is.

 

For more detail: Rev 4.2.2 schematic and PCB

  • What hardware improvements were made in this version?
    The board now uses a DC-DC step-down for better battery efficiency and includes a reed-switch driven power on/off system.
  • Can I modify or republish the hardware design?
    Yes, the author grants permission to use and modify the design for any purpose without suing them.
  • Does the project require specific credit when used?
    Credit is requested as a courtesy by posting the source at nerdfever.com, but it is not mandatory.
  • What is the main source of noise in the pressure sensor readings?
    Noise on the power supply is identified as the main source of noise affecting the pressure sensor readings.
  • How many battery cells does the current version use?
    The current version runs off 2 battery cells connected in series.
  • What future changes are planned for the power supply?
    A future spin may run off a single LiIon cell to provide a cleaner power supply to the pressure sensor and ADC.
  • Is the hardware design considered bug-free?
    The author states the hardware design is clean and bug-free as far as they know.
  • What file formats are available for download?
    Original Eagle PCB files and a PDF version of the schematic are available in a zip file.
Development Boards & Kits · PIC18F4520

Voltage Measurement with A PIC Microcontroller

Voltage Measurement with PIC Microcontroller articulates a methodical framework for facilitating analog voltage measurement using the PIC18F4520, an advanced member of Microchip’s...

 Development Boards & Kits

Ultra-Low Power: Microcontroller Standby Current to 130uA with OPEnS Power Control Board

At the OPEnS Lab, a key focus for our projects is achieving exceptionally long battery life. This was particularly true for the...

 Development Boards & Kits

An Integrated Approach to Developing Applications with Microchip PIC Microcontrollers

1. Introduction In our daily lives, a variety of devices such as telephones, household appliances, and cars incorporate "smart" electronics, typically manifested...

 Development Boards & Kits

Microcontroller-Driven AC Voltage Control with Soft Start Feature

1. INTRODUCTION PWM-based AC voltage controllers find extensive application in uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) and high-power flexible AC transmission systems. This variable...

 Development Boards & Kits

PIC Microcontroller-Based IC Tester for Efficient Integrated Circuit Verification

1. INTRODUCTION Within the electronics industry[1], as circuit complexity undergoes a drastic increase and the demand for higher reliability rises, a significant...

 Development Boards & Kits · PIC16F887

Hands-On Microcontroller Projects: BK300 Development Board Featuring PIC16F887 Chip Lab

1. INTRODUCTION The study of microcontroller systems is experiencing a global surge across various fields within science, engineering, and technology departments of...
Ibrar Ayyub

Ibrar Ayyub

I am an experienced technical writer holding a Master's degree in computer science from BZU Multan, Pakistan University. With a background spanning various industries, particularly in home automation and engineering, I have honed my skills in crafting clear and concise content. Proficient in leveraging infographics and diagrams, I strive to simplify complex concepts for readers. My strength lies in thorough...