Skip to content

Build Your PiTrac

Welcome to PiTrac! This guide will walk you through the complete process of building your own DIY golf launch monitor.

Build Process

Building a PiTrac system involves three main phases:

  1. Hardware Assembly -- Gather parts, assemble PCB, 3D print enclosure
  2. Raspberry Pi Setup -- Install and configure Raspberry Pi OS
  3. Software Installation -- Install PiTrac software and calibrate cameras

Each phase builds on the previous one, so follow them in order for the best experience.

Supporting Tutorial Videos

We're developing companion videos to the written documentation to better visually show how to build your PiTrac. Here's what we have so far (no link means the video is still in the works):

Part Topic Link
1 Introduction to PiTrac Coming soon
2A 3D Printing the PiTrac Tower Coming soon
2B 3D Printing the BaseBox Watch
3B Tower Build Watch
4A Component Installation Watch
4B PiTrac Software Setup Watch
4C Optional Software Watch
4D Final Assembly Watch
5A De-Distortion Configuration Coming soon
5B Calibration Coming soon
- Full V3 Enclosure Build Watch

Written docs are authoritative

The written documentation is meant to be the most up-to-date and accurate information on building PiTrac systems. If there is a discrepancy between the documentation and the videos, rely on the documents. Or, ask a question on the Discord server.

Phase 1: Hardware Assembly

Before you can run PiTrac, you'll need to build the physical hardware.

Step 1: Gather Parts

Review the complete parts list and order all required components.

Parts List

You'll need:

  • Raspberry Pi 5 (8GB recommended)
  • Two Pi cameras (Global Shutter or IMX296)
  • PCB components and enclosure materials
  • Power supplies and cables

Step 2: PCB Assembly

Order and assemble the custom PCB that controls the IR strobes and camera triggers.

PCB Assembly Guide

Learn where to get the PCB files, how to order from manufacturers, and assembly instructions.

Step 3: 3D Print Enclosure

Print the enclosure and mounting hardware for your PiTrac.

3D Printing Guide

Download the STL files and get recommendations for print settings.

Step 4: Final Assembly

Put all the pieces together to complete your PiTrac hardware.

Assembly Guide

Follow step-by-step instructions to assemble cameras, PCB, enclosure, and wiring.

Phase 2: Raspberry Pi Setup

With hardware complete, prepare your Raspberry Pi.

Install Raspberry Pi OS

Install the operating system and configure basic settings like SSH, WiFi, and user accounts.

Pi Setup Guide

This guide covers:

  • Using Raspberry Pi Imager
  • Choosing between Desktop and Lite versions (64-bit only)
  • Configuring SSH and network access
  • Initial system updates

Time Required: 30--45 minutes (including OS imaging)

Phase 3: Software Installation

Install the PiTrac software on your configured Raspberry Pi.

Install PiTrac

Choose your installation method and get PiTrac running.

Installation Guide

Options:

  • Build from Source -- Clone the repository and compile (recommended for now)
  • APT Package -- Simple package installation (coming soon)

This includes:

  • Installing all dependencies
  • Building the launch monitor binary
  • Setting up the web dashboard
  • Configuring services

Time Required: 5--10 minutes (build from source)

Correct Lens Distortion

One-time-per-lens step. Print a ChArUco board from the web UI, mount it on a rigid flat backing, and let PiTrac measure your lens distortion so every downstream measurement stays accurate.

Distortion Correction

Key requirements:

  • Print the calibration pattern at 100% scale (not "Fit to Page")
  • Mount the print on a stiff, perfectly flat backing -- no flex, no curl
  • Work through the 3x3 coverage grid in the web UI until capture completes

Calibrate Cameras

Fine-tune your camera setup for accurate shot tracking.

Camera Calibration

Use the built-in 4-step wizard to:

  • Verify camera detection
  • Determine focal length per camera
  • Determine camera angles
  • Test shot tracking

Quick Reference

Once you're up and running, these guides will help you use and maintain PiTrac:

Need Help?

Ready to start? Head to the Parts List to begin your build!