Headplay "Sly-Versity" receiver upgrade by earlynerd

Last crawled date: 3 years ago

This is a clean way to add an integrated diversity receiver to your headplay HD! It uses the Realacc rx5808 pro module with OLED, which is fully enclosed and protected with a smoked acrylic display window. It also uses pushbuttons to replace the stock navigation switch, a built in USB serial converter with externally accessible micro USB port for easily updating the module firmware,and two conveniently located forward facing SMA or RP-SMA connectors (your choice). Assembling this unit will require a fair bit of modding to the module, and unfortunately I didn't take many pictures of that process. I'm building another unit for a friend, so I'll document the build better at that point.
You'll need:
M2 heat set threaded inserts, 4.8mm length
This USB to serial adapter this is optional if you don't need easy firmware update, and I can upload a version without the USB hole.
A pair of SMA or RP-SMA extensions with bulkhead nuts, I used these SMA ones
5x m2 screws, 10mm I believe. You can also order them longer and cut to length as necessary
3x 6x6x6mm tactile switch. I got mine from this set
Some smoked acrylic or not smoked if tht's your style. 12x12 is way too much and 1/8'' is thicker than I'd like but I made it work.
An RX5808 Pro diversity module you dont need the cover obviously, and it doesnt matter if you get the SMA or RP-SMA version if one's out of stock since those will be getting removed anyway.
And, finally, a set of the above printed parts, basic hand tools, some random small gauge wire, the receiver cable interconnect from your headplay or a JST SH 6 pin cable, and some soldering finesse.
The basic process is to unscrew the two boards from each other, desolder the built in SMA connectors from the rx5808 pro module, install the acrylic window in the housing, wire the FTDI to the RX5808, replace the threaded module board spacers with the above clearance spacers, and screw the module to the inside of the housing using the m2 inserts. The buttons press in snugly from the back, but will require a bit of a hack to wire up. I will update with details, but it involves scraping off some solder mask and tapping into three traces plus ground. Finally, bolt in the SMA extension bulkheads and solder to the pads on the rear of the module board. then, add the power/audio/video headplay cable, bolt on the cover, plug into the headplay motherboard, and apply the module to the top of the headplay with some strong transfer tape.
I know thats a lot of steps and no pictures, I will update with a more detailed build guide and can answer any questions via messages in the meantime!