In the open-source robotics landscape, Bitcraze stands out as one of the most complete and flexible platforms for research, prototyping, and education. Its modular Crazyflie system allows users to explore the world of drones, from initial flights to advanced autonomous control.
What is Bitcraze?
Bitcraze: an open-source ecosystem for autonomous flight and microdrone experimentation
Founded in Sweden, Bitcraze AB specializes in developing open-source drones and research tools for robotics, automation, and control. The philosophy is simple yet powerful: make drone technology accessible, customizable, and modular for everyone—from makers and university students to professional researchers.
The Heart of the System: Crazyflie
Crazyflie 2.1 and 2.1 Brushless
The Crazyflie 2.1 is an extremely lightweight microdrone (only 27 g) yet surprisingly powerful. It is designed to provide stability, precision, and development freedom through a combination of sensors, open-source electronics, and compatibility with dozens of expansion modules.
The Crazyflie 2.1 Brushless adds brushless motors for higher efficiency and power. Both versions are fully programmable and modular, ideal for research and education.
Expansions and Modules: A System That Grows With You
Bitcraze offers a series of “Decks”, modules that attach directly to the Crazyflie to add new functionalities:
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Flow Deck v2 → stabilization using optical sensors and barometer
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Multi-Ranger Deck → distance measurement and obstacle detection
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AI Deck → dedicated processor for computer vision and machine learning
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Lighthouse Positioning Deck → 3D position tracking with millimeter precision
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Z-Ranger and Loco Positioning Deck → altitude control and indoor localization
These modules transform the microdrone into a complete aerial research platform.
Getting Started With Bitcraze and Crazyflie
The official website provides comprehensive documentation for every step:
Assembly and First Flight
Tutorials guide you through drone setup, connecting via Crazyradio 2.0, and safe takeoff.
Adding Decks
Each expansion comes with dedicated installation and calibration instructions.
Custom Development
Once familiar, you can write custom code, create new flight behaviors, and integrate external sensors. All software is open-source and available on GitHub.
The Bitcraze Ecosystem
Bitcraze’s value extends beyond hardware. It’s a collaborative ecosystem with tools, libraries, and an active community:
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Crazyradio PA / Crazyradio 2.0 → wireless communication transmitters
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Bitcraze Client → graphical control software
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Crazyflie Python API → automate flights via scripts
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Crazyswarm & ROS Integration → coordinate drone fleets
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Video gallery and academic projects → real-world examples from universities and research labs
Practical Applications
Bitcraze products are used in:
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University research and autonomous robotics
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Development of control algorithms and computer vision
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STEM education and technical training
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Art projects and interactive installations
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Swarm robotics and multi-robot coordination
Universities such as ETH Zurich, MIT, and TU Delft use Crazyflie for collaborative flight and indoor positioning experiments.
Open Source and Community Contribution
Bitcraze encourages collaboration and invites everyone to contribute:
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Report bugs
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Develop new features
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Create tutorials
All contributions are managed transparently via GitHub, discussion forums, and open development meetings.
“Open source is about sharing, creating something awesome together and contributing to the greater good.” — Bitcraze Team
Why Choose Bitcraze
✅ Fully open-source – hardware and software documented and modifiable
✅ Active community and constant support
✅ Extreme modularity – every part can be replaced or upgraded
✅ Perfect for research, education, and advanced development
Conclusion
With Bitcraze and Crazyflie, you can progress from simple manual flight to full autonomy in a secure, open-source, and highly educational environment. Whether you are a teacher, researcher, or robotics enthusiast, this ecosystem is a powerful tool to experiment, learn, and innovate.
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