BugBoard – Robot Controller for Mini Robots

The BugBoard is a compact robot controller designed for small, battery-powered robots. With support for 4 DC motors, 4 servos, an on-board 9-axis IMU, camera and microphone connectivity via the Seeed Studio XIAO ESP32-S3 module, and an additional expansion header, it’s a practical control board for mini rovers, walkers, experimental AI and computer-vision robots built around the XIAO ESP32-S3.

Key features

ESP32-based control (via XIAO)

Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are available through the Seeed Studio XIAO ESP32-S3 for wireless control, telemetry and streaming. When used with the XIAO ESP32-S3 Sense or compatible add-on boards, the BugBoard also provides camera and microphone connectivity, making it suitable for AI and computer-vision projects. The XIAO header brings out the module’s I/O, allowing you to integrate imaging, audio, and additional peripherals neatly.

4 DC motor channels

2 × TB6612FNG dual H-bridge drivers.
Suitable for four small DC motors (e.g. 2- or 4-wheel drive platforms).

4 servo channels

Driven by a PCA9685 12-bit PWM controller over I²C.
Stable servo control for steering, joints, pan/tilt mechanisms or small manipulators.

Integrated 9-axis IMU

Bosch BNO055 absolute orientation sensor.
Provides direct orientation output (Euler angles or quaternions), ideal for balancing, attitude estimation and motion logging.

Connector-friendly layout

Dedicated connectors for 4 DC motors and 4 servos.
Additional header for I²C modules and expansion boards (e.g. extra sensors or custom add-ons).

Compact form factor

Board size: 50 × 50 mm.
Easy to mount on small chassis or inside tight enclosures.

What’s included

BugBoard main board

1 × BugBoard PCB, assembled with all SMD components and XIAO ESP32-S3
 XIAO ESP32-S3 camera header board with camera

Important notes

A battery is not included and should be purchased separately.
Baord compatible with a LiOP 1S battery (choost the correct battery for your current draw)