Get Your Desk Buddy Running

From unboxing to sending your first MQTT command — here's everything you need.

// what you need

What's Required

Desk Buddy is an open-source robot arm that you assemble yourself. Here's what it takes to get one built and running.

3D Printed Parts

Print the structural parts from our STL files. Any FDM printer works — we recommend PETG or PLA+. Download files from the STL page or order pre-printed parts from the shop.

Electronics Kit

An ESP32, servo motors, and assorted hardware. Grab a parts kit from the shop or source everything yourself using the Bill of Materials.

Basic Tools

A soldering iron, M3 screws, and a screwdriver. No CNC or laser cutter needed — everything is designed around standard hobbyist tools.

WiFi Network

The ESP32 connects to your local WiFi to reach the MQTT broker. Standard 2.4GHz networks work fine.

// setup steps

How to Get Started

Follow these five steps and you'll be controlling your arm from the web app in no time.

1
Print or order your parts

Download the STL files from the docs and print them, or order pre-printed parts directly from the shop.

2
Gather your electronics

Use the Bill of Materials to source components, or grab a complete parts kit from the shop.

3
Assemble the arm

Follow the Assembly Guide step by step — it covers wiring, servo mounting, and putting the structure together.

4
Flash the firmware

Open the project in Arduino IDE, enter your WiFi and MQTT credentials, and flash to the ESP32. Full instructions on the Firmware page.

5
Connect and control

Sign in to your Desk Buddy account, open the Web App, and start sending commands. Build workflows, trigger object detection, or send raw MQTT from your own scripts.

// resources

Helpful Links

Documentation

Community & Source