RoboHub · Build spec sheet
A cost-optimized version of the shallow-water ROV, reducing the budget by over 5
robohub.app/build/saved/97363930-e6a4-45b7-a3b8-d4bc41456770
9/14/2026
9/14/2026
A cost-optimized version of the shallow-water ROV, reducing the budget by over 50% by switching to a PVC-based hull and a Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W while maintaining core functionality.
Live total
$363 USD
Parts
12
Effort
â
Architecture
The ROV transitions from an expensive acrylic/aluminum flange system to a standard 110mm PVC pipe hull with permanent rear caps and a removable acrylic front viewport. The compute is downgraded to a Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W, which still handles video streaming and PWM control via the PCA9685. The thruster count remains at three for full maneuverability, but uses budget-tier ESCs and a smaller battery to meet the cost target.
Bill of Materials (12)
actuation
| Part | Purpose | Qty | Unit | Line |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Budget Underwater Thruster (CW/CCW) | Propulsion and depth control | 3 | $25 | $75 |
| 20A Mini BLHeli ESC | Brushless motor speed control | 3 | $8 | $24 |
chassis
| Part | Purpose | Qty | Unit | Line |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 110mm PVC Pressure Pipe (300mm) | Main waterproof hull body | 1 | $12 | $12 |
| 110mm PVC End Cap & Acrylic Disc | Waterproof sealing and viewport | 1 | $25 | $25 |
compute
| Part | Purpose | Qty | Unit | Line |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W | Main controller and video server | 1 | $15 | $15 |
| PCA9685 16-Channel PWM Driver | Precise PWM signal generation | 1 | $5 | $5 |
connectivity
| Part | Purpose | Qty | Unit | Line |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20m Cat5e Ethernet Cable | Communication tether | 1 | $15 | $15 |
misc
| Part | Purpose | Qty | Unit | Line |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12V LED Strip (Waterproof) | Basic underwater lighting | 1 | $5 | $5 |
power
| Part | Purpose | Qty | Unit | Line |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3S 2200mAh 25C LiPo Battery | Internal power source | 1 | $20 | $20 |
| 3A Mini BEC / Voltage Regulator | Power RPi from 3S battery | 1 | $5 | $5 |
sensing
| Part | Purpose | Qty | Unit | Line |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Raspberry Pi Camera Module v2 | Live FPV video feed | 1 | $12 | $12 |
| Water Leak Sensor Probe | Safety: Detect hull breaches | 2 | $8 | $16 |
Safety review
consumer prototype
â Human use locked until certified review
Required controls
- Physical E-stop on surface power
- Internal leak detection alarm
- Fused battery connection
- Pressure test without electronics first
Red lines
- Do not operate near swimmers
- Do not exceed 10m depth without aluminum end caps
- Never charge LiPo inside the sealed tube