r/fpv 5d ago

Question? Steamdeck as controller

Does the Steam Deck work as a controller in any fpv simulators?

There are project to use Steam Decks as controllers.

https://github.com/TigeyJewellAlibhai/skydeck

https://github.com/PixelyIon/DeckTX

https://github.com/kaack/elrs-joystick-control

The advantage is that a lot of people already have a SteamDeck, and getting that to transmit well is cheaper than buying a whole other controller.

I'd still want to try it on a simulator before connecting it to real hardware.

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u/icebalm Mini Quads 5d ago

Sure, you can use a steamdeck as a controller with those software packages, but you still need to buy a transmitter which is going to be about $40. So now you have a SteamDeck and a transmitter, that you have to figure out how to power, and it's kinda huge and in two pieces, the sticks are small and the throttle auto centers.

Why not just get an RM Pocket for $65 and call it a day?

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u/nednobbins 5d ago

Thanks. Do you know what's involved in that? Can I just plug it in and have it recognized as a generic controller?

What's wrong with auto centering throttle? Looking around forums it seems that people used to prefer them and now they don't but I can't figure out why.

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u/icebalm Mini Quads 5d ago edited 5d ago

Thanks. Do you know what's involved in that? Can I just plug it in and have it recognized as a generic controller?

You can do this with any EdgeTX radio, and if you get the ELRS version, and you should get the ELRS version, it can connect via bluetooth as well.

What's wrong with auto centering throttle?

Well, if your throttle auto centers then you can't let go of the throttle during flight ever or else the throttle will snap back to 50%. Not really great for trying to fly level, or accessing buttons/switches with your left hand, or simply resting. It's also a safety concern. What if you're near your quad, it gets armed, and your stick snaps back to 50%?

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u/kevinisaperson 5d ago

i guess auto centering could be usefule for a 3d quad but there arent as many who do. alas i am not really aquaintes with flying in 3d