The builder wasn’t content to use the usual RC control joystick for his RC flying. He decided to reinvent the controller using a couple of old PC joysticks, an Arduino and the Tx PCB kit.

He chose the Arduino NANO for its small size and I/O requirements. It interfaces with the joystick potentiometers (0-5vdc), switches and Serial LCD. A serial data stream (PPM) is then output and interfaced to an off-the-shelf 430Mhz transmitter module/pcb. There are 4 off pushbuttons for rates and trim adjustment, the 8×2 LCD and the TI pot and switch.

Flying with the joystick is so much easier for us RC newbies; just try it in the dark at night with some high power LEDs fitted.