Moved a Resistor + Debug Mode!!!

Hardware

I moved a resistor so that it would be between PROG and GND.

Software

I implemented a shell-like interface for debug mode, so that’s out of the way.

In case you aren’t familiar with how hardware is configured, it’s through compile-time flags and code, so when the configuration changes, it needs to be reprogrammed in order to update.

Conclusion

Well, here we are! 3 weeks into this project, I’ve finalized the hardware, and the software will be done as well.

The way I see it, finishing touches are arguably the most important part of a project. I can whip up a prototype design in about 2 hours, but it most definitely wouldn’t work. When the updates get boring, that’s how you know you’re almost done.

The hardware has gone through multiple layers of verification, and I am happy to say that it’s ready to ship.

I’m so ready to get this project done, and I’ve learned a lot through it. Thank you for all the support!

PS:
That Trello board gets smaller with every log! Check it out!

Chill fixes + ETD Initialization

Hardware

Today, I reoriented some components, smoothed out some traces, and moved some text around.

Software

I implemented the ETD initialization function, and the code is pretty nice and unbloated. It’s coming along well!

Recap + What’s the plan?

Honestly, big changes are no longer going on, but making these trace-level changes and perfecting the design of this board is what makes this closer to being consumer-grade, much less even defense-grade. I might go through some more routing/design checks, maybe ask for a second opinion, etc. Then I’ll implement the software, which should take about 3-5 days. I’m going on a trip next week, so the timeline looks like:

This week:

• Full board finalization (I’ll go maybe one more big round)
• Cram in as much coding as I can (I might have like 2 more days within the week for this)

Next week:

• Finish up software
• Write a paper???? (Might be ball knowledge)
• Submit the project

Final Thoughts

I feel like I’ve reached the point where I start looking ahead, and I think I can fit in 2 more projects in this program. Thank you everyone for supporting me!!!

Trello board: https://trello.com/invite/b/6a67d2a116633f723e29757a/ATTI45aaea3b451149421603f40ca402ff3c79AEE3B5/vanguard-project-task-tracker

Rounded Corners, I2C, and more!

Hardware

Today, I exposed I2C for expansion modules. Currently, I only plan to support GPS, Cryptographic Acceleration, and AQ Sensing, but you’re welcome to implement your own. I still have to verify the hardware to make sure it’s the best it can be, and then I’ll move on to the CAD for the case. Honestly, I’m really excited to start using FEA and other stuff for the design.

For

Software

I never really thought about how tight of a fit 3kb of RAM and 32kb of flash is until I tried compiling my program with all the libraries. I’m not gonna lie, I used AI to optimize. Anyways, I got the RAM and flash usage pretty low, so writing the rest is gonna be a breeze.

So far I’ve implemented the:

• Config structure
• GPS initialization
• Cryptographic acceleration initialization

To be implemented (in this order)

• AQ sensor initialization
• Debug mode
• The main loop (a big one)
• Flood relay functionality
• Any optimizations necessary

Honestly, this project’s flexibility enables tons of possibilities, and I want to make the best firmware that I can.

Architecture

Basically, this thing is a mini relay/GPS tracker/Commlink. With the hardware, there are tons of possibilities. For one, you could flood relay communications, or even attach an external module to send text messages! This module can truly be anything.

A basic architecture diagram is attached in this post.

Conclusion

This is coming along pretty well, and I hope I can finish this up by the start of August. Thanks you for all your support!

PS: I made a Trello board to track my progress, don’t mess with anything please: https://trello.com/invite/b/6a67d2a116633f723e29757a/ATTI45aaea3b451149421603f40ca402ff3c79AEE3B5/vanguard-project-task-tracker.

First look at Vanguard:

• Attiny3227
• WIO SX1262 LORA module
• 1x UART
• IR Strobe
• User button
• Basic charging circuit for 3.7V LiPos
• 1x beautiful logo

Time

I actually did around 6 hours (flow state really captures you), but I didn’t know about hackatime and all that jazz.

About the board

Honestly, most of the board is power supply stuff. I’m just so happy that everything was relatively smooth. Signal integrity wasn’t hard to maintain either, and everything is nice and clean according to the DRC.

The Plan

I still have to spend time working on this circuit, as I probably did something stupid. Then I have to write the firmware, and then CAD a rugged case. Everything should come out at around $50 plus shipping and production fees.

Conclusion

Honestly, I see this project going places. It’s definitely not defense-grade, but I guess it’s more of a proof of concept - compact LoRa buddy that is adaptable, debuggable, and extremely capable. Whether it’s your backpack, a helmet, or even on a robot, this thing is gonna be built to last. Thank you for all your support!