RCX-S3: Advanced Control for RC Scale models

The RCX-S3 is a custom-designed PCB developed for the X470: 3D-printed RC excavator. Designed around the ESP32-S3-MINI MCU, this board provides a robust and versatile control system for managing various functions of the excavator.

Key Features:

• Operating Voltage: 7-14V.
• Power Management:
  • 6V buck convertor
  • 5V LDO for LEDs
  • 3.3V LDO regulator for ESP32-S3
• Servo Outputs (S1 to S4): Hydraulic valve servos - Boom, Arm, Bucket, Claw control
• ESC PWM Outputs (E1 to E4): for BLDC Motor ESC - 2 track motors, 1 swing motor, 1 pump motor
• Analog Inputs (A1 to A4): Versatile input options for analog sensors - initially planned to sense angle using hall sensors in arm joints.
• Motor and LED Drivers:
  • 1 DC Motor Driver (Toshiba TB67H451FNG): High efficiency H bridge
  • LED Outputs (ULN2003):
    • L1 to L5 - 5V
    • L6 and L7 - 6V
    • These outputs can also solenoids, or small DC motors.
• USB-C port: The board includes a USB-C port for easy programming directly from the Arduino IDE.
• Additional GPIO Port: for I2C and other customizations.
• Receiver Input: Works with PPM and Serial based receivers

Optimized for JLCPCB:

• 2 - layer board, costs less than $20/board
• Economic Assembly compatible
• Works out of the box, no additional components required

The ordering process is explained in this VIDEO

X470 excavator: