I’m a computer science student at Xavier University in Cincinnati, Ohio, graduating in 2027. With a passion for embedded systems and a love for running, cycling, swimming, and endurance sport in general. I’ve been designing my own GPS watch system as both a personal challenge and the foundation of my capstone project.

Currently, work is being done on the first iteration of hardware to begin firmware testing. Hardware version 1, designed in KiCad, leverages an stm32l476 for low power high performance computation, buttons and an encoder for navigation, a Quectel l96 for GPS capability, BMA 423 for Pedometer function, MCP 73871 for power management, a 0.96" I2C OLED for display, SD for storage, LiPo battery for power, and a USB type B port for charging and programming.

In the future, I plan to add Bluetooth support for uploading runs to Strava and similar platforms, integrating live weather data, and enabling compatibility with Bluetooth accessories like external heart rate monitors. I’d also like to incorporate a wrist-based heart rate sensor for daily activity tracking. One of the biggest design challenges is keeping the board size under 42x42mm to ensure it remains comfortable and wearable on the wrist.

My GPS Watch Project would greatly benefit from the support of PCBWay. As a student building a fitness wearable from scratch, I face challenges sourcing and manufacturing custom circuit boards within the limits of my budget and timeline. Quick turn prototyping would let me iterate more effectively, helping me improve both the hardware and my own skills in embedded systems and electronics design. This project is more than just a one off it’s a personal effort to create a fully functional, open-source fitness tracker, with future plans to explore advanced features like Bluetooth, wrist heart rate monitoring, improved user interface design, and even water-proofing.

PCBWay’s support would enable me to develop a more efficient and polished GPS watch and push the boundaries of what a student-led hardware project can accomplish. I’m excited about the opportunity to collaborate with PCBWay and bring this project to life with their help.

• Wearable
• Fitness
• Watch
• GPS