DIY Radio Controller Using Esp8266 and Blynk

A multichannel radio controller and receiver with just a esp8266 and blynk iot platform.

Step 1: About the Project

Recently I made a RC jet boat and I want to make it as cheaper possible. But the rc receiver was very expensive. That's why I make this 4ch rc radio control system with esp8266 (nodemcu) which cost only 3$. I use blynk iot platform to control the nodemcu by my phone. I use servo library to control the ESCs and servos. The project is very simple but works like a charm 😉

Ohh man this thing is IOT based (unlimited Range😋)

Step 2: How I Make This

From the blynk app it send analog value to the esp8266 and BLYNK_WRITE() function reads the value and the servo library use the value to control the ESCs and servos.

Step 3: Code

Step 4: Blynk App Configuration

In the blynk app I use Joystick widget to send the analog value to the esp8266. Here I use four virtual pin to send the 4 parameter (throttle, yaw, rudder elevator) value. See the included picture for the app configuration.

Step 5: OUTPUT of the Project

I compare the pwm signal from my diy receiver and a commercial one by a oscilloscope. It seems they are identical and from that I can say this a success.

Step 6: Video of My Boat With Diy Iot Receiver

Step 7: Disadvantage of This Setup

The biggest drawback of this kind of project is latency. As it is a iot based system it have to pass many stage via internet and for this kind of rc project latency is a big problem otherwise it does its job very well.