The Maker Group enjoyed a fantastic meeting this afternoon at our Victoria Point clubhouse, where Mark VK4XYZ gave an engaging introduction to getting started with KiCad PCB design.
Mark walked us through the logical, hierarchical multi-sheet design approach and demonstrated how it can be mirrored in KiCad. Beginning with a simple “black box” concept, he showed how complex projects can be thoughtfully broken down into individual modules across multiple sheets — a structured and highly professional way to bring ideas to life.
Developing the skills to design custom PCBs is an incredibly valuable hobby pursuit. With the cost of producing a modest-sized, double-sided PCB now so affordable, it is often more practical — and certainly more polished — than traditional breadboarding with hand wiring and pre-tracked patch boards. The ability to move from concept to a professionally manufactured board opens up exciting possibilities for experimentation and innovation.
We’re all looking forward to more demonstrations and hands-on learning sessions as Mark advances the BDARS Maker Group’s DiSEqC rotator controller project.
A special mention goes to John VK4JBE, who is collaborating on the software development alongside Paul VK4PLY and Bob VK4YA. Together they are crafting a MicroPython solution for the ESP32-S3 core CPU module. Meanwhile, our mechanical team — Graham VK4GRE and Glenn VK4PK — are hard at work refining the mechanical design and enclosure arrangements to ensure a robust and practical finished product.
As always, the Victoria Point clubhouse provided a welcoming venue, and the meeting was well attended by members. Unfortunately, our regular members Henry — whose inspiration sparked the rotator project, and leader David VK4ZF were unable to join us due to other commitments.
We warmly welcome all members to attend the next meeting. Be sure to check the BDARS calendar on this website for upcoming dates — we’d love to see you there!
The clubhouse is at 314 Colburn Ave, Victoria Point QLD 4165, (next to Meals-on-Wheels). Parking is outside the building or in the Park’s car park just prior to our turning.
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