u/arjantjuhhhhhh

Hey r/cyberdeck 👋

Another update on my off-grid hardcase cyberdeck build. Since the last post a lot has changed, both in hardware and software.

**Hardware changes since last update:**

• Swapped the audio module for a 2.8" TFT audio board with dual stereo speaker panels

• Replaced the GPS module with a VK-172 USB GPS stick — simpler and more reliable

• Added RTL-SDR V4 to the stack

• Upgraded the LilyGO T-Deck antenna for better Meshtastic range

• Swapped the S200 powerbank for a Baseus GP12, better fit for the case layout

• Added a mouse trackpad to the input setup

**Software changes:**

• Gemma2 9B running locally via Ollama ✅

• Vesper, a custom AI assistant built on top of Ollama with two profiles (full and guest) and a dedicated SHTF emergency mode. Completely offline, no cloud, no internet required ✅

• SDR++ configured and pulling live signals ✅

• Marble installed for offline maps with NL coverage ✅

• Kiwix for offline Wikipedia and reference library ✅

• Jellyfin for local media playback ✅

• Meshtastic for off-grid mesh communication ✅

• RetroPie on SD card for when things get boring ✅

• Custom launcher in development — cyan HUD-style UI designed for fullscreen use on the 10.1" touchscreen

**What the bench looks like right now:**

Last photo shows everything live — SDR++ on FM, GPS locked, Meshtastic up, Ollama running, switchable USB hub toggling ports individually.

The whole stack is designed to be offline-first. No internet required for any of it, maps, AI, media, radio, mesh comms, reference library. It all runs on the Pi 5 16GB from a Baseus powerbank via a UPS HAT.

**What's next:**

Waiting on the hardcase. Once it arrives: ABS interior, final layout, permanent wiring.

Happy to answer questions — especially around the offline-first software stack or the Vesper AI setup.