Flipper Zero is a small piece of hardware in a toy-like body that hacks digital systems, including access control systems, RFID, radio protocols, and debug hardware.
Instead of using several hardware tools for system development and exploration, you can combine all of those tools’ superpowers with Flipper Zero.
The pwnagotchi project inspired Flipper’s creation, but unlike most DIY boards, Flipper is convenient enough for day-to-day use. For instance, it has handy buttons, a strong casing, and a unique shape to avert scratchy pins or dirty Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs).
This multi-tool is customizable and open-source, meaning you can extend it however you want. With Flipper Zero, your development projects should be fun.
This guide will discuss essential DIY modification ideas for your Flipper Zero.
Take a look.
Why Explore DIY Ideas for Customizing and Expanding Flipper Zero’s Functionalities?
Being an open-source device, you can customize Flipper Zero to your liking. Here are some reasons to customize and expand Flipper Zero’s functionalities:
Personalized User Experience
Do-it-yourself customization lets you tailor Flipper Zero to your needs and preferences, resulting in a personalized user experience you would probably not find in a standard Flipper Zero.
For example, a Reddit user mentioned exploring ideas for making a homemade Flipper Zero version because of accessibility issues in their area.
Such suggestions indicate how expanding Flipper Zero’s open-source designs can help conquer local limitations and design a bespoke device.
Also Read:Flipper Zero vs Flipper One
Enhanced Capabilities
Exploring DIY ideas can help you make implementations that will expand the things Flipper Zero can do.
Flipper Zero’s open-source nature means you can introduce various modules through the General Purpose Input/Output (GPIO) header, making the device more useful.
Specifically, modifying Flipper Zero can help you access a broad array of control systems, protocols, and other hardware, turning the tiny device into a ‘Swiss army knife’ of hacking and security tools.
Opportunity for Learning and Innovation
Exploring DIY customization provides endless possibilities to improve and extend Flipper Zero’s functionalities.
Playing around with this tool lets you try new approaches, think creatively, and implement leading-edge modifications.
Besides, DIY projects are a learning opportunity, letting you know more about electronics, hardware, and programming. These skills will help with your current project and be more useful in future endeavors.
Also Read: Is Flipper Zero Legal?
Features and Capabilities
Flipper Zero has hardware and software features with insane capabilities, from reading, writing, emulating, and storing cards to capturing and transmitting wireless codes. Let’s dive into what they are and what they do.
Sub-GHz Wireless Antenna
Flipper has a built-in 433MHz antenna, making it a robust transceiver within a 50-meter range.
The wireless antenna can detect, capture, and transmit signals to operate various wireless devices and access control systems, including boom barriers, IoT sensors and doorbells, garage door remotes, smart bulbs and sockets, and remote keyless systems.
Additionally, the antenna can communicate with other Flippers.
Check Out:Pwnagotchi vs Flipper Zero
CC101 Chip
The CC1101 is Flipper’s universal transceiver meant for low-power wireless systems. Plus, it supports different modulations, like 2-FSK, 4-FSK, MSK, and GFSK. It also supports OOK and ASK shaping.
The chip lets you perform digital communication with wireless applications. For example, you can access control systems and connect to IoT devices.
A 125 kHz Antenna
The antenna is situated on Flipper’s bottom section. It reads, emulates, and clones low-frequency proximity cards like HID Prox and EM-4100 cards. These cards are common in old access systems globally.
The cards are dumb, lack an authentication mechanism, and can only store an N-byte ID. These features make it easy for Flipper to read, clone, and emulate the cards and save them to the device’s memory for later emulation.
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iButton Support
Flipper has an integrated 1-Wire connector that reads iButton (Dallas key or touch memory) contact keys.
This old technology uses the 1-Wire technology without authentication. Flipper Zero can read the keys, write IDs to any blank keys, and store them in memory. It can even emulate the key.
NFC Module
Flipper Zero’s integrated NFC (Near-Field Communication) module of 13.56 MHz turns it into a powerful radio frequency identification (RFID) device that operates at high and low-frequency ranges.
The NFC module works like the 125 kHz module, letting you interact with an NFC-enabled gadget by reading, writing, and emulating high-frequency tags. The only difference is that the devices must be within close range.
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Infrared Transmitter
This feature transmits signals to let you control electronics like air conditioners, stereo systems, TVs, and more.
Flipper includes an integrated library of command sequences for popular TV vendors, allowing you to control volume and power.
Infrared Receiver
Flipper’s infrared receiver receives and saves signals to the library.
As a result, you can store the existing remotes to perform command transmission later before uploading them to the public infrared remote database for access by other Flipper Zero users.
Bluetooth
Did you know you can connect Flipper with your phone? It’s possible with the integrated Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) module.
The BLE module lets Flipper serve as a peripheral device that you can connect with your phone and other third-party devices like media players, doorbells, etc.
Also Read: Types of Hacking – Guide To Cybersecurity
MicroSD Card
Flipper stores heavy data, including remote codes, image assets, signal databases, logs, dictionaries, etc. Both the SD card and user plugins can store the data externally.
Hardware Connectors
Flipper Zero connects to other hardware tools via GPIO, after which you can control the connected tool with buttons, run a code, or print debug a message to the display interface.
Connecting another tool can help you perform firmware flashing, fuzzing, and debugging.
Hardware connectors include built-in power pins, a USB 2.0 port (type C), a fuzzing tool, a flushing tool, and more.
Understanding Flipper Zero’s Programming and Customization Possibilities
Flipper Zero’s versatility allows you to program and customize it for different purposes. From the above features, we can see it supports several wireless protocols, such as radio frequency identification (RFID), Near-Field Communication (NFC), Sub-1 GHz radio, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), and infrared.
You can use these capabilities to make custom applications like writing, reading, and verifying RFID tags. You can also make Flipper Zero act as a U2F (Universal 2nd Factor) authenticator or a universal remote for TVs, stereo systems, and other devices.
Flipper’s ability to connect with other wireless devices or applications means you can create custom add-ons and applications and add them to Flipper. A case in point is Mikhail’s GUI editor, which simplifies creating UI elements and layouts for Flipper Zero.
Also Read: Best Flipper Zero Alternatives
DIY Ideas for Flipper Zero
Here are practical ways to personalize Flipper and unleash its superpowers to your advantage.
Idea 1: Customize Flipper Zero’s Casing or Enclosure
Exploring Various Designs and Materials for a Unique Appearance
Enclosing Flipper Zero in a strong case is highly recommended to help absorb impact during falls. Here are some materials to build the case with:
Polylactic Acid (PLA)
The above image shows a Flipper Zero casing designed from Polylactic Acid (PLA) by a Reddit user who said it grips the device tight with no movements and is scratch-resistant.
So, if you want to create a Flipper case, using Polylactic Acid material is a proven idea. You can implement the same or make more improvements (more on this later).
Here are notable PLA properties that make it a good material for the Flipper casing.
- PLA is stable under low temperatures, so it can keep your device safe even in winter.
- It’s also oil-and grease-resistant, so you don’t have to worry about using Flipper Zero in an industrial setting surrounded by oil or grease.
- It has modest water and oxygen permeability and has a low melting point.
- Most importantly, PLA is an eco-friendly plastic with low smoke generation during burning and high resistance to ultraviolet radiation. So, by using PLA on Flipper’s casing, you’ll also be caring for the environment.
- It’s inexpensive, thanks to its low production cost.
While PLA is relatively strong with a 50 MPa in tensile strength, it’s considered brittle, which means it can break under high impact or stress, damaging your Flipper Zero.
So, are there stronger materials than PLA? Absolutely! I will highlight them next.
Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS)
ABS is popular for its high-impact resistance, overall strength, and durability. These properties give it an edge over PLA.
It also has better chemical and heat resistance, making it ideal when using Flipper Zero in harsh environments.
Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol (PETG)
PETG combines the qualities of ABS and PLA, making it the right fit for your Flipper Zero enclosure. PETG is basically PET’s glycol-modified version. PET is usually used to make food packaging and plastic bottles.
Thus, the glycol modification in PETG makes it have better heat resistance, shock resistance, and flexibility than the standard PET.
Silicone
Silicone is by far the best Flipper casing material. Here’s why:
- It’s waterproof to prevent short-circuiting when the device is in a high-humidity environment.
- It’s an electrical insulator that protects your device from chemical substances.
- It absorbs shock better than most materials, eliminating your worries when the case falls or vibrates during commuting.
Adding Personal Touches and Customizations to the Casing
Once you have selected the ideal material for your casing, here’s how you can personalize it further:
- Make the Flipper case water-resistant by adding a cover or seal over the LCD screen and buttons. You won’t have to worry the next time you visit the waterpark or when it rains.
- Use transparent material to cover the screen so you can see it.
- Add removable plastic dents near the ports so you can access and use the ports without removing the Flipper from the case, such as when traveling.
Here’s an example of such a case from the Flipper One website.
- Add foam material between the Flipper Zero device and the case to absorb the impact should the case fall.
- Engrave your logo, name, or personal design onto the case.
- Use dyes, paints, or finishes to add unique patterns or colors to the casing.
- Build LED lights into your casing for added visual effects
- Apply decals, stickers, or vinyl graphics, showcasing your preferred artwork, themes, or symbols.
Idea 2: Develop or Modify Flipper Zero’s Existing Modules
Identifying Areas of Improvement or Additional Functionalities
Flipper Zero has many built-in features, but there’s always room for expansion. For instance, you can create modules for increased battery life, extended range, or compatibility with extra protocols initially not included in Flipper Zero.
Such protocols include LoRaWAN, suitable for long-range connection; Sigfox for low-power networks; NB-IoT for narrowband IoT communication; Z-Wave for home security and automation, etc.
Tailoring custom modules to meet hobbyist interests or professional needs is also possible. Other possible improvements include improving Flipper Zero’s user interface or switching between functionalities and modules.
Exploring Hardware and Programming Modifications for New Modules
Integrating third-party modules or devices is easy due to Flipper’s GPIO (General Purpose Input/Output) header.
The GPIO has integrated 3.3V and 5V power pins, making it possible to power any connected modules directly.
You can communicate with external hardware devices using different protocols like UART (Universal Asynchronous Receiver-Transmitter), I2C (Inter-Integrated Circuit), and SPI (Serial Peripheral Interface).
To modify or develop Flipper Zero’s existing modules, you must consider the software and hardware aspects. For example, you could create physical components, such as casings or PCBs, and write or modify the device’s software or firmware.
Idea 3: Integrate Flipper Zero with Other Systems or Devices
Flipper Zero connects with different devices, resulting in versatile interaction as follows:
Smartphone Connectivity
The Flipper Zero mobile app for iOS and Android lets you remotely update and control your Flipper Zero, edit and manage data, share saved keys, play sound on the Flipper Zero, and more.
Check out this tutorial on connecting the Flipper Zero mobile app to your Flipper Zero device and using it.
After pairing your phone and Flipper Zero, you can create some interesting projects, such as:
- Remote control emulation: Program Flipper Zero to emulate the remote controls of various devices, such as smart TVs, media players, or air conditioners. Now, use the Flipper mobile application to control these devices.
- Wireless data transfer: Create projects involving wireless data transfer. Use the mobile app as your communication interface to receive and send data to or from Flipper Zero, allowing data exchange between the two devices.
- File management: Create projects that use the mobile app to manage your files on Flipper Zero. Use the app to create features like backups, remote file uploads, or transfers between your phone and Flipper Zero.
USB Connectivity
Using its USB 2.0 (type C) port, you can connect Flipper to other devices. The connection enhances power supply and data transfer using Flipper as the USB to I2C/SPI/UART converter.
Leverage Flipper Zero’s USB connectivity to explore various projects, including:
- USB sniffer and analyzer: The project involves creating a tool that analyzes USB communication between Flipper Zero and other devices. The tool captures and analyzes USB traffic, monitors data exchanges, and identifies issues like data corruption, communication errors, and device compatibility issues.
- USB security auditing: You can use Flipper Zero to audit USB devices’ security. Specifically, you can create projects for analyzing and assessing USB devices’ security vulnerabilities, like reverse-engineering USB protocols or scanning firmware.
- USB pen-testing: You can design a project that identifies and exploits USB security weaknesses, executes a forensic analysis on USB storage devices, and checks for USB-based attacks.
Bluetooth Connectivity
Flipper connects with other Bluetooth-enabled devices, facilitating functionalities like data exchange, remote control, and wireless communication.
You can leverage this connectivity to create projects involving wireless interaction with other systems or devices.
For instance, you can design applications on your Flipper Zero to interact with IoT devices, smartphones, stereo systems, and more.
Hardware Interaction
As aforementioned, Flipper Zero connects various hardware devices via its General Purpose Input/Output pins.
This connection allows the integration of external sensors, actuators, and communication modules, expanding Flipper Zero’s functionalities to suit particular project requirements.
Software Development Kits (SDKs)
Flipper features SDKs used by developers to make custom modules and applications. These SDKs provide programming resources and interfaces that allow seamless connectivity and compatibility with various devices.
You can leverage the SDK to design projects that align with Flipper’s capabilities. For example, you can create apps for Radio Frequency Identity (RFID) tag writing and reading, Universal 2nd Factor (U2F) authentication, or remote control emulation.
Idea 4: Enhancing Flipper Zero’s Security or Privacy Features
Flipper Zero isn’t 100% secure, hence the need to bolster its security. Consider the following enhancements to improve Flipper Zero’s safety and privacy.
Exploring Encryption or Secure Communication Protocols for Flipper Zero
End-to-End Encryption
End-to-end encryption ensures that only the intended receiver views and decrypts the message. This not only verifies the sender’s and receiver’s identities but also keeps the message content confidential.
Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) or Transport Layer Security (TLS) Protocols
SSL and TLS help in Flipper Zero’s encryption by offering a secure communication channel between Flipper and any server it connects to.
The protocols ensure that only encrypted data is transmitted between the two entities, making it difficult for someone to intercept or access the information.
TLS and SSL combine asymmetric and symmetric encryption algorithms to attain such a security level.
Integrating Additional Security Layers or Privacy-Focused Functionalities
Consider developing an intrusion detection system or firewall to notify or block unauthorized parties from connecting with the device.
Using a VPN to obscure data communication makes it difficult to trace, adding an extra layer of privacy.
Kill switch: Designing a kill switch or automatic logout will help turn the device off after a duration of inactivity or after detecting a potential threat can make it more secure.
Flipper Zero’s open-source attribute means you can modify it for different purposes. That said, you can create an application to interface with Flipper Zero to authenticate devices, manage permissions, and provide a security overview.
Implementation Considerations
Safety Precautions and Guidelines for DIY Modifications
As powerful as Flipper Zero is, it’s crucial to consider safety precautions before modifying it.
Understand the Device It’s Connected To
Flipper Zero can interact with devices like NFC bank cards, cat microchips, and garage door openers. Ensure that none of these devices operate in a manner that could harm Flipper Zero if disrupted by mistake.
Handle Its Hardware Carefully
Flipper Zero has a USB 2.0 port, 18 general-purpose input/output connectors, and an SD card. Be careful when implementing any modifications involving these parts, as lack of attention can cause regrettable damage, not to mention data loss.
Furthermore, always ensure the device is disconnected from a power source when modifying the hardware.
The Right Knowledge and Tools
Flipper Zero uses the FreeRTOS operating system. If your modifications touch on the device’s software, be knowledgeable about working with the operating system and programming.
Before you start modifications, you may want to go through Flipper Zero’s documentation to understand how different parts function.
Additionally, use the right tools to perform modifications and consult relevant DIY communities and tutorials when in doubt. And don’t forget to check out Flipper Zero’s warranty, too.
Flipper Zero Communities and Resources
Communities and Forums
- Flipper Zero Official Forum – The forum on Flipper Zero’s website has categories like firmware update, Sub-GHz, NTC, etc. Members ask questions on DIY modification and more. It’s active.
- Flipper One Discord Server – The official Flipper Zero Discord community with over 87k members discussing everything about the device.
- r/flipperzero – A highly active Reddit community where people share ideas and ask questions related to Flipper Zero – how it works, suggestions for DIY customizations, helpful insights, and more.
Open-Source Projects and Resources for Flipper Zero Customization
- Awesome Flipperzero – A library of fantastic resources for Flipper Zero
- Unleashed Firmware – A project dedicated to Flipper’s firmware
- Flipperzero Firmware – Here it is if you’re looking for Flipper Zero’s firmware source code.
- Xtreme Firmware – The project maximizes the firmware capacity of the device, making it super robust.
- Flipper Zero BadUSB – A plug-and-play repository for Flipper Zero badUSB downloads.
- Flipper_Zero-BadUsb – Over seventy advanced Flipper’s BadUSB scripts
- ESP32Marauder – A Bluetooth and Wi-Fi defensive/offensive tools suite modified for your Flipper.
- Flipper-Android-App – The Android mobile application controls all of Flipper’s family devices.
- Fap-list – A library of Flipper Zero apps with .fap files
- flipperzero-gate-bruteforce – Launch Gate Remote Brute Force with Flipper Zero
- Hackaday – A blog/resource with well-researched, in-depth content on Flipper Zero’s functionalities.
Conclusion
DIY ideas for your Flipper Zero include customizing the case, modifying or developing existing modules, creating projects that leverage the device’s integration with other devices or systems, and improving the device’s security and privacy.
These are just some of the DIY ideas. Feel free to explore your ideas and customizations while using Flipper Zero.
Remember to exercise safe and responsible DIY practices when making modifications.
Tom Clayton
Tom loves to write on technology, e-commerce & internet marketing. I started my first e-commerce company in college, designing and selling t-shirts for my campus bar crawl using print-on-demand. Having successfully established multiple 6 & 7-figure e-commerce businesses (in women’s fashion and hiking gear), I think I can share a tip or 2 to help you succeed.
