Getting the cape ready

'''Note: these information are based on a pre-release version of the cape. The content of the kit that gets shipped might be different.'''

If you bought a kit, it also includes the OpenROV Cape.

If you instead are building your own ROV, the cape will be soon available in our webstore: http://openrov.com/page/openrov-kits, or if you have access to PCB manufacturer, and want to build your own, the schematics and files are on Github: https://github.com/OpenROV/openrov-electronics.

Parts
In the cape box you'll find the OpenROV cape itself and a set of 90° headers.

Based on how you want to setup and wire-up the cape, you might need to buy 2 pairs of JST 2 poles connectors male/female.

Pull the Jumper
That jumper powers the 5vdc pins off the board if only servos and no ESCs are plugged in, but since the ESCs provide their own 5v power to the bus, that jumper should be removed when you're using ESCs.



Solder the servo headers
As first step you need to solder the 4 triples of angular headers. It's not a very difficult procedure: just put the pins, turn the cape while holding the headers in place, and apply a bit of solder to one pin per triple, so just to keep it in place.

Then check to see if the pins are well aligned and straight, and then solder the other 2 pins. If they are not straight, just hold the pins with pliers, apply a bit of heat to the pin already soldered, and straighten it up. Be careful when applying heat as you don't want to melt the pins' casing.



Soldering power supply
This is out of date

Soldering LED
This is out of date