Cyberdeck Project - CourtneyR.dev's 2nd Brain

# Cyberdeck Project ## Project intent Build a modular, two-part cyberdeck platform: 1. A pocket-sized **Scout** built around the piBrick Pocket-CM5. 2. A rugged **Base** clamshell built around a Raspberry Pi 5. 3. A detachable **Flipper Zero** as the first external tool. 4. Standardized expansion bays, power, data and software for later mission equipment. The system should support field computing, offline reference material, electronics work, environmental observation, photography, receive-only radio work and off-grid communication. However, the current priority is completing the cyberdeck computers themselves. Specialized gear waits until the core units work reliably. > [!decision] Current build rule > Buy the computer and its infrastructure now. Reserve interfaces and replaceable panels for future payloads. Do not buy speculative radios, sensors, cameras or laboratory instruments yet. ## Current architecture ### Scout handheld - [piBrick Pocket-CM5](https://github.com/amarullz/piBrick/blob/main/Pocket-CM5/README.md) open-source handheld platform. - [piBrick Pocket-CM5 kit](https://www.tindie.com/products/amarullz/pibrick-pocketcm5-kit-for-raspberry-pi-cm5/). - [Raspberry Pi Compute Module 5](https://www.raspberrypi.com/products/compute-module-5/): target wireless, 16GB RAM and 64GB eMMC. - [3.92-inch 1080×1240 AMOLED](https://dxq-lcd.com/products/1080x1240-3-92-inch-amoled-display), if not included with the kit. - [Solder Party BBQ20 keyboard](https://www.solder.party/docs/bbq20kbd/), if not included. - [piBrick keyboard firmware](https://github.com/amarullz/pibrick_pocketcm5_keyboard). - CM5 heatsink selected for the kit’s enclosure clearance. - 5000mAh protected LiPo battery with the exact connector and dimensions required by the kit. - 1TB M.2 2230 NVMe SSD; the [Raspberry Pi SSD](https://www.raspberrypi.com/products/ssd/) is the current reference choice. - [Flipper Zero](https://flipper.net/products/flipper-zero/) in a detachable USB-connected cradle. - [Flipper documentation](https://docs.flipper.net/zero) and [qFlipper](https://flipper.net/downloads). - Recovery microSD card and short, high-quality USB cables. Keep the operating system on eMMC and project data on NVMe. Do not permanently enclose the Flipper Zero. ### Base clamshell - [Raspberry Pi 5, 16GB](https://www.raspberrypi.com/products/raspberry-pi-5/). - [Raspberry Pi Active Cooler](https://www.raspberrypi.com/products/active-cooler/). - [Raspberry Pi 27W USB-C power supply](https://www.raspberrypi.com/products/27w-power-supply/) for development and load testing. - [10-inch Raspberry Pi Touch Display 2](https://www.raspberrypi.com/products/touch-display-2/), rotated to landscape. - [Raspberry Pi M.2 HAT+](https://www.raspberrypi.com/products/m2-hat-plus/). - [Raspberry Pi 1TB SSD](https://www.raspberrypi.com/products/ssd/). - [Raspberry Pi Pico 2](https://www.raspberrypi.com/products/raspberry-pi-pico-2/) for physical controls, fan control, battery display, status lights and watchdog functions. - [Pelican 1450](https://www.pelican.com/us/en/product/cases/1450) rugged case after the benchtop prototype succeeds. - [Pelican 1450 TrekPak kit](https://www.pelican.com/us/en/product/accessories/1450tpkit) for early, non-destructive layout work. - Removable aluminum or composite display and keyboard panels with threaded inserts. - Replaceable plates for power, data, ventilation and future expansion. - A low-profile 50% [QMK](https://qmk.fm/) and [Vial](https://get.vial.today/) keyboard. - [Ploopy Nano](https://ploopy.co/nano-trackball/) embedded in the panel; reconsider the larger [Ploopy Thumb Trackball](https://ploopy.co/thumb-trackball/) only after measuring the case. Build and test the Base on a desk before cutting or drilling the Pelican case. ### Scout–Base relationship The Scout and Base remain independent computers. - Wi-Fi and [Syncthing](https://syncthing.net/) for file synchronization. - [WireGuard](https://www.wireguard.com/) for secure networking. - SSH for remote administration. - [Ansible](https://docs.ansible.com/) for shared configuration. - USB-C for charging and service access. - Later: a printed Scout cradle with charging, USB data, mechanical retention and one-handed removal. Use USB-C for the first dock. Defer pogo pins until the physical design and wear requirements are proven. ## Interfaces to install now ### External Base ports - Two USB 3 Type-A ports. - Two USB-C data ports. - One separately labeled USB-C charging port. - One full-size HDMI output. - One Gigabit Ethernet port. - One 3.5mm audio output. - One protected service-access panel. - One external DC input. - One physical master-power switch. ### Internal expansion - Two spare USB connections. - One I²C/Qwiic connection. - One UART connection. - Several Pico-controlled GPIO lines. - One fused 12V accessory circuit. - One fused 5V accessory circuit. - Cable channels between compartments. - Grounding points for future shielded modules. Do not install SMA antenna connectors before selecting actual radio hardware. Add them later through replaceable plates. ## Portable power plan Add portable power only after measuring the complete Base under load. - [SmallRig VB99 Pro 98.9Wh battery kit](https://www.smallrig.com/VB99-Pro-Mini-V-Mount-Battery-Kit-5046.html). - Removable V-mount plate with ventilation and tool-free battery access. - [Anderson Powerpole PP15–45](https://www.andersonpower.com/product-series/pp-15-45/) connectors for modular DC wiring. - [Adafruit INA260](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4226) for voltage, current and power monitoring through the Pico. - Fused power distribution. - A final DC conversion path selected after USB-PD testing. > [!warning] USB-C power constraint > A battery advertised as 100W may reach that output only at higher voltages while limiting 5V to 3A. Confirm the available USB-PD profiles and load-test the Pi, display, SSD and ports. The Pi 5 prefers a 5V/5A supply for full peripheral power. ## Software foundation ### Core system - [Raspberry Pi OS](https://www.raspberrypi.com/software/) or [Debian](https://www.debian.org/). - [Git](https://git-scm.com/). - [Ansible](https://docs.ansible.com/). - [Podman](https://podman.io/). - [Syncthing](https://syncthing.net/). - [WireGuard](https://www.wireguard.com/). - [qFlipper](https://flipper.net/downloads). ### Cyberdeck services - [Textual](https://textual.textualize.io/) for a keyboard-first terminal interface. - [FastAPI](https://fastapi.tiangolo.com/) for internal device APIs. - [Eclipse Mosquitto MQTT](https://mosquitto.org/) for device messaging. - [Node-RED](https://nodered.org/) for visual workflows. - [Grafana](https://grafana.com/oss/grafana/) for system, battery and later sensor dashboards. - [InfluxDB OSS](https://www.influxdata.com/products/influxdb-overview/) for time-series data. - Simulated MQTT devices during development so hardware can replace them later without redesigning the application. ### Offline field library and records - [Kiwix](https://www.kiwix.org/) for offline reference collections. - [OpenStreetMap](https://www.openstreetmap.org/) data. - [PMTiles](https://docs.protomaps.com/pmtiles/) for portable map archives. - [MapLibre GL JS](https://maplibre.org/maplibre-gl-js/docs/) for map rendering. - [TileServer GL](https://github.com/maptiler/tileserver-gl) for local map serving. - [Quarto](https://quarto.org/) for reproducible notes and field reports. - [Minisign](https://jedisct1.github.io/minisign/) and [signed Git commits](https://git-scm.com/book/en/v2/Git-Tools-Signing-Your-Work) for append-only, verifiable activity logs. ### Planned operating profiles - Observe. - Off-grid communications. - Electronics bench. - Environmental science. - Photography. - Network diagnostics. - Offline library. - Emergency low-power mode. Sensitive network or transmitting functions require an explicit authorized scope. Receive-only and observational features remain the default. ## Mesh decision The Flipper Zero cannot join a Meshtastic network by itself. Its CC1101 sub-GHz radio does not provide the LoRa modulation and Meshtastic protocol support supplied by radios such as the SX1262. - The Flipper can perform authorized [Sub-GHz experiments](https://docs.flipper.net/zero/sub-ghz) and point-to-point CLI chat. - Point-to-point Flipper chat is not a routed mesh. - The future Flipper One currently lists Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, not LoRa; see its [documentation](https://docs.flipper.net/one) and [technical specifications](https://docs.flipper.net/one/general/tech-specs). - [meshtastic-flipper](https://github.com/nickk02/meshtastic-flipper) still needs external SX1262 hardware and is an experimental later project. - When mesh becomes a priority, start with one [RAK WisBlock Meshtastic Starter Kit](https://store.rakwireless.com/products/wisblock-meshtastic-starter-kit) using US915 hardware. - A second [RAK4631](https://docs.rakwireless.com/product-categories/wisblock/rak4631/datasheet/) node enables independent range and routing tests. - References: [Meshtastic WisBlock documentation](https://meshtastic.org/docs/hardware/devices/rak-wireless/wisblock/) and [Meshtastic getting started](https://meshtastic.org/docs/getting-started/). Shared frequency does not imply compatibility. Frequency, modulation and protocol are separate layers. ## Deferred equipment reference All items in this section wait until the Scout and Base are complete, tested and documented. ### Radio and satellite - [Airspy Ranger](https://airspy.com/airspy-ranger/) wideband receive-only SDR. - [Airspy YouLoop](https://airspy.com/youloop/) HF antenna. - [Diamond D130J](https://www.diamondantenna.net/d130j.html) VHF/UHF discone. - [Nooelec SAWbird+ NOAA](https://www.nooelec.com/store/sdr/sdr-addons/sawbird/sawbird-plus-noaa-308.html). - [Nooelec SAWbird+ GOES](https://www.nooelec.com/store/sawbird-plus-goes-302.html). - [GOES bundle guidance](https://support.nooelec.com/hc/en-us/articles/360058812593-Nooelec-GOES-Weather-Satellite-RTL-SDR-Bundle). - [FlightAware ADS-B receiver guidance](https://blog.flightaware.com/optimizing-your-ads-b-receiver). - [Intona USB 3.0 SuperSpeed Isolator](https://intona.eu/en/products/7055-c). - [SDR++](https://github.com/AlexandreRouma/SDRPlusPlus), [SpyServer](https://airspy.com/download/) and [SatDump](https://github.com/SatDump/SatDump). ### Precision navigation and mesh - [SparkFun ZED-F9P RTK breakout](https://www.sparkfun.com/sparkfun-gps-rtk-sma-breakout-zed-f9p-qwiic.html). - Two RAK4631-based Meshtastic nodes. - Optional third low-power or solar node. - [RAK WisMesh Pocket](https://meshtastic.org/docs/hardware/devices/rak-wireless/wismesh/pocket/) as a ready-made backup option. - [Meshtastic Python CLI](https://meshtastic.org/docs/software/python/cli/). ### Communications - [Sixfab 5G Modem Kit for Raspberry Pi 5](https://sixfab.com/product/sixfab-5g-modem-kit-for-raspberry-pi-5/). - [Digirig Mobile](https://digirig.net/product/digirig-mobile/). - Optional licensed radio: [Icom IC-705](https://www.icomamerica.com/lineup/products/IC-705/) and [AH-705 tuner](https://www.icomamerica.com/lineup/options/AH-705/). Permanently integrated RF systems should remain receive-only. Attach transmitting equipment only when licensed and authorized. ### Electronics laboratory - [Saleae Logic Pro 16](https://www.saleae.com/products/logic-pro-16) and [Logic 2](https://www.saleae.com/downloads); validate sustained ARM64 Raspberry Pi stability before permanent mounting. - [Bus Pirate 5](https://buspirate.com/) and [documentation](https://docs.buspirate.com/). - [SEGGER J-Link PLUS Compact](https://www.segger.com/products/debug-probes/j-link/models/j-link-plus/). - [Digilent Analog Discovery 3](https://digilent.com/shop/analog-discovery-3/), [WaveForms](https://digilent.com/shop/waveforms/) and [Raspberry Pi guide](https://digilent.com/reference/test-and-measurement/guides/getting-started-with-raspberry-pi). - [Fluke 289](https://www.fluke.com/en-us/product/electrical-testing/digital-multimeters/fluke-289) or [289/ir3000 FC kit](https://www.fluke.com/en-us/product/electrical-testing/digital-multimeters/fluke-289-ir3000-fc-kit). - [Miniware MDP-P906](https://www.miniware.com.cn/product/mdp-p906-mini-digital-power-supply/). - [Dino-Lite AM7915MZTL](https://www.dinolite.us/products/usb-microscopes/am7915mztl/). - [Intona USB-C Isolator](https://intona.eu/en/products/7052). - [PicoScope](https://www.picotech.com/products/oscilloscope) remains a separate bench alternative pending model-specific ARM64 checks. ### Environmental science and imaging - [BME688](https://www.adafruit.com/product/5046): temperature, humidity, pressure and gas trends. - [SCD-41](https://www.adafruit.com/product/5190): carbon dioxide. - [Sensirion SPS30](https://sensirion.com/products/catalog/SPS30) and [SEK-SPS30](https://sensirion.com/products/catalog/SEK-SPS30): particulate matter. - [LTR390](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4831): UVA/UVB. - [AS7341](https://www.adafruit.com/product/4698): visible spectrum and color. - [METER TEROS 12](https://metergroup.com/products/teros-12/): soil moisture, temperature and EC. - [Atlas Scientific EZO EC kit](https://atlas-scientific.com/kits/ezo-complete-ec-kit/): water conductivity. - [miniDSP UMIK-2](https://www.minidsp.com/products/acoustic-measurement/umik-2): calibrated acoustic measurement. - [GQ GMC-600 Pro](https://gqelectronicsllc.com/comersus/store/comersus_viewItem.asp?idProduct=5889): radiation measurement. - [SparkFun Weather Meter Kit](https://www.sparkfun.com/weather-meter-kit.html): wind and rainfall. - [AudioMoth](https://www.openacousticdevices.info/audiomoth): wildlife audio. - [FLIR Lepton Linux integration](https://oem.flir.com/developer/lepton-family/lepton-integration-with-linux/) and [PureThermal Mini USB](https://oem.flir.com/products/purethermal-mini-usb/): thermal imaging. - [Raspberry Pi Camera Module 3](https://www.raspberrypi.com/products/camera-module-3/); validate GNSS-band interference and placement during RF testing. - [gPhoto2](https://www.gphoto.org/) and its [supported-camera list](https://www.gphoto.org/proj/libgphoto2/support.php). Every environmental sensor needs calibration metadata. Precision-looking readings without calibration can be misleading. ### Edge AI and networking - [Raspberry Pi AI HAT+](https://www.raspberrypi.com/products/ai-hat/) after defining an actual local-inference workload. It competes with NVMe for the Pi 5’s exposed PCIe connection unless the design adds switching hardware. - [Raspberry Pi USB 3 Hub](https://www.raspberrypi.com/products/usb-3-hub/) after USB-device requirements are known. - [TP-Link TL-SG105E](https://www.tp-link.com/us/business-networking/easy-smart-switch/tl-sg105e/) only if the Base later needs an internal managed Ethernet switch. ### Flipper One provision Flipper One remains under development; its dimensions and specifications may change. Do not cut its shape into the case. - [Flipper One documentation](https://docs.flipper.net/one). - [Technical specifications](https://docs.flipper.net/one/general/tech-specs). - [Development announcement](https://blog.flipper.net/flipper-one-we-need-your-help/). Reserve an adjustable bay, replaceable mounting plate, USB-C power/data, Ethernet, ventilation, antenna clearance and approximately 25–30% dimensional margin. ## Purchasing sequence ### Order 1 — Working Scout - [ ] Confirm the current piBrick kit revision and included parts. - [ ] piBrick Pocket-CM5 kit. - [ ] Wireless CM5, 16GB RAM and 64GB eMMC. - [ ] Required cooler and any kit parts not included. - [ ] 1TB NVMe SSD. - [ ] Flipper Zero. - [ ] Recovery microSD and short USB cables. ### Order 2 — Working Base on a desk - [ ] Raspberry Pi 5, 16GB. - [ ] Active Cooler. - [ ] Official 27W supply. - [ ] 10-inch Touch Display 2. - [ ] M.2 HAT+ and 1TB NVMe. - [ ] Pico 2. - [ ] Reuse an existing keyboard and mouse. ### Order 3 — Physical Base cyberdeck - [ ] Make a full-size cardboard mock-up. - [ ] Confirm keyboard, pointing device, cable bend radius and ventilation layout. - [ ] Pelican 1450 and optional TrekPak. - [ ] Removable internal panels. - [ ] Panel-mount data connectors. - [ ] Low-profile keyboard and Ploopy Nano. - [ ] Fans, filters, switches and wiring. - [ ] Replaceable blank expansion plates. ### Order 4 — Portable operation - [ ] Measure Base power consumption under real load. - [ ] Verify battery USB-PD profiles. - [ ] SmallRig VB99 Pro and V-mount plate. - [ ] Fused power distribution. - [ ] Anderson Powerpole connectors. - [ ] INA260 monitoring. - [ ] Final conversion hardware based on test results. ### Later phases - [ ] Data platform and cyberdeck interface. - [ ] Mesh and GNSS. - [ ] Receive-only RF and satellite pod. - [ ] Electronics laboratory pod. - [ ] Environmental and imaging pod. - [ ] Final enclosure refinements after field testing. - [ ] Flipper One dock after production hardware exists. ## Planning budget These are broad planning allowances, not purchase quotes. | System | Expected allowance | |---|---:| | Scout handheld and CM5 | $700–$1,200 | | Flipper Zero and accessories | $250–$400 | | Base computer, display and case | $1,200–$2,000 | | Power system and distribution | $500–$1,000 | | RF system, filters and antennas | $1,000–$2,000 | | Precision GNSS | $400–$800 | | Electronics laboratory | $2,000–$3,500 | | Thermal and science instruments | $1,000–$2,500 | | Mesh and communications | $300–$1,000 | | Fabrication, cabling and spares | $750–$1,500 | | Future Flipper One | Unknown | Long-range total for the complete no-compromises platform: **approximately $8,000–$15,000**, spread across several useful phases. The immediate Scout and Base build is intentionally narrower. ## Risks and questions to validate - Kit revision, included components and CM5 compatibility before ordering. - Exact battery dimensions and connector polarity for the Scout. - Scout thermal performance with 16GB CM5 and NVMe under sustained load. - Base screen orientation, cable routing and hinge protection. - Keyboard and trackball fit before case purchase or machining. - Pi 5 sustained power draw and USB-PD negotiation. - RF noise from switching converters, USB 3, display cables and camera hardware. - Antenna separation and grounding after actual radios are selected. - Raspberry Pi ARM64 support for each future instrument. - Whether local workloads justify an AI accelerator. ## Decision log - **2026-09-04:** Chose a two-part Scout and Base architecture. - **2026-09-04:** Kept Flipper Zero detachable rather than integrating it permanently. - **2026-09-04:** Confirmed that Flippers alone cannot participate in Meshtastic; LoRa hardware waits. - **2026-09-04:** Deferred mission gear and prioritized the complete computing units, power, storage, interfaces and shared software. - **2026-09-04:** Selected replaceable expansion plates instead of cutting permanent ports for unchosen hardware. - **2026-09-04:** Set Order 1 as completing the Scout before purchasing Base or mission equipment. ## Next action Confirm the exact contents and revision of the current piBrick Pocket-CM5 kit. Then produce a duplicate-safe Order 1 shopping list with exact quantities, current prices and shipping sources.