Desk Buddy Build Guide — Prototype Edition v0.1

Build your own desk robot for under $100 in reference parts*. A small stationary buddy with a screen face and a head that turns and tilts, made with cardboard and a few electronic parts.

You are buying digital instructions only. No robot, hardware, tools, pre-flashed firmware, or finished application is included. Nothing physical is shipped.

WHAT YOU GET

• A 20-page illustrated PDF build guide with an exact shopping list, supplier links, assembly, wiring, calibration, and troubleshooting.

• Four printable cardboard template sheets. Print at 100%; print sheet 2 twice.

• Programming instructions and copyable Codex prompts for creating and testing firmware and a local Windows controller.

WHAT YOU NEED

The listed electronics, reused cardboard and craft supplies, basic tools, and your own compatible Windows computer. A ready-to-use conversation app is not included; talking through your computer needs separate software and integration.

PROTOTYPE EDITION

v0.1 is a source-checked prototype guide. Physical build validation is pending. The product image is concept art, not a photo of a tested build.

*The reference parts basket was US$89.53 on October 8, 2026, using reused cardboard, tape/glue, and ballast. Costs vary with location, suppliers, shipping, taxes, and parts already owned. The subtotal excludes shipping, taxes, tariffs, tools, computer, optional extension leads, software/service fees, and this $5 guide. It is not a guaranteed total project price.