GDx is a dual-MCU robotics platform designed for localized surveillance and remote exploration. It features a high-bandwidth MJPEG video stream using the OV3660 sensor and a custom 2-DOF Pan-Tilt camera system.
The drone utilizes a 4WD aluminum chassis designed for versatile power delivery. The "Brain" consists of an Arduino Uno for locomotion and an ESP32-CAM for high-level networking and vision.
The GDx is operated via a custom mobile-responsive web application. The interface provides real-time movement controls, granular camera gimbal adjustment, and a dedicated toggle for the onboard flash LED.
| Normal View | Flash Active |
|---|---|
 |
 |
| Standard MJPEG stream in low-light. | Integrated LED Flash enabled for high-visibility. |
- Camera Module: OmniVision OV3660 (3MP).
- Firmware is specifically optimized for OV3660 registers to ensure stable MJPEG streaming.
- Microcontrollers:
- ESP32-CAM: Handles the WebSocket server, MJPEG streaming, and WiFi AP logic.
- Arduino Uno: Manages the L298N motor driver and SG90 servo PWM signals.
- Power Delivery: 7.4V Battery.
- Supported Chemistries: The system is compatible with both Li-Ion and LiPo power sources.
- A stable 7.4V nominal output is required to ensure motor torque and MCU logic stability.
To access the GDx dashboard, you must manually connect to the drone's localized network. For security and to reduce spectral noise, the Access Point (AP) is hidden.
- Search for Hidden Network: Open your device's WiFi settings and select "Add Network" or "Other".
- Input SSID: Manually type the SSID defined in the
ESP32-CAM_Control.inocode. - Input Password: Enter the WPA2 passphrase.
- Set Hidden Status: You must toggle the "Hidden Network" option to Yes in your device settings to successfully authenticate.
- Access URL: Once connected, navigate to the ESP32-CAM's gateway IP (default
192.168.4.1) in your browser.
- Programming Protocol: When uploading code to the Arduino, disconnect the ESP32-CAM to avoid Serial bus conflicts. If the connection is permanent, hold the Reset button on the ESP32-CAM during the Arduino upload to put it in a cutoff state.
- RF Environment: Outdoor operation is recommended to maximize range. Nearby 2.4GHz devices can cause interference that degrades the MJPEG video feed.
- Range Extension: The ESP32-CAM range can be extended by attaching an external antenna. This requires moving the 0-ohm resistor on the board to the external antenna pads.
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Cannot connect to AP | Ensure you have enabled "Connect to hidden network" and press the Reset button on the ESP32-CAM. |
| No SSID visible | This is intended as the network is hidden. Manually add the credentials. If it still fails, check the battery voltage. |
| Video feed lost | Refresh the web page. If the issue persists, reset the ESP32-CAM. Ensure no physical obstructions are blocking the link. |
| Continuous Spinning | If the drone spins after an ESP32-CAM reset, press the Arduino Reset button to clear the motor buffer. |
This project is released under the MIT License.