build_tutorial.md

Building a NetLog MK1

To build a NetLog MK1, you need the following tools and parts:

Tools
Soldering iron
Flushcutters
3D printer
Wire strippers
2.5mm hex screwdriver

Parts
LOLIN S3 Pro dev board
4x M3 threaded inserts
4x 10mm M3 hex socket cap screws
GY-NEO6MV2 GPS module
28 x 28 x ~9mm uFL GPS antenna
JST SH 4-pin connector
4x JST SH cables

Step 1: Building the case

Print case.stl with PLA or PET(G). Next, insert four M3 threaded inserts into the screw holes.

When you're done, the case should look something like this:

Step 2: Preparing the GPS module

Next, we'll connect a JST SH (1.0mm) 4-pin cable to the GPS module.

I recommend getting a set that has pre-crimped cables, as manually crimping these connectors can be difficult.

Insert the cables into the connector and cut the ends so they are about 5cm long. Strip the ends of the cables, then solder them to the GPS module with the pinout shown in the image below:

This is what the result should look like:

For the GPS module to fit in the case, you will need to trim the solder blobs on the bottom of the GPS module:

Step 3: Printing the cover

Print lid_text.stl or lid_logo.stl with clear PLA or PET(G). This is so that the LEDs can shine through the cover. Those weird towers on the cover hold the components in place.

lid_text.stl reads NetLog MK1 on the bottom of the cover, whereas lid_logo.stl has the the NetLog MK1 logo (found in logo.svg) in the bottom right corner. The difference is purely cosmetic and has no effect on functionality. I'll use lid_text.stl for the tutorial.

Step 4: Assembling the device

Now we have the case, cover, and components ready for assembly.

Put the components in the case like this:

Note: Due to tight tolerances, getting the components in their slots may take some force.

Next, connect the JST cable of the GPS module into the S3 Pro's I2C port, and the GPS antenna's uFL connector to the GPS module.

While the 4-pin JST connector on the S3 Pro is intended for I2C, the versatility of the ESP32's GPIO pins allows us to use it for UART as well.

Before attaching the cover, it may be a good idea to flash the firmware.

Now, we can screw the cover onto the case:

With this, your NetLog MK1 is finished! In case you haven't already, you now just have to flash the firmware.