Published December 23, 2024 © MIT

Build Your Own Cat-Themed Hacking Console (with DevKitty!)

Learn to audit wireless networks, attack vulnerable computers, and hack with a DIY cat-shaped companion. Introducing CutieCat!

IntermediateProtip1 hour3,714

Build Your Own Cat-Themed Hacking Console (with DevKitty!)

Things used in this project

Hardware components

DevKitty CutieCat v1

Story

Thisarticleis a work in progress for DevKitty's virtual workshop with Hackster.

CutieCat is a cat-themed prototyping & hacking console. You can get one at shop.devkitty.io!

This tool lets you explore the wireless landscape around you and learn how to audit computers with the help of our free content & educational firmware. Powered by an ESP32, CutieCat is equipped for wireless hacking, USB attacks, and many other exploits at an affordable price.

Goodies & components in the V1 CutieCat Kit

Assembly Guide

1. Solder the Microcontroller

Start by melting a small “tack” of solder to one of the CutieCat microcontroller pads. This will help us place the ESP32 before committing.
Center the ESP32 on the microcontroller footprint.
Reheat the tack of solder until it melts, while pressing down the ESP32. Don’t worry about how the first joint looks!
Let the solder cool! If you need to readjust the microcontroller, simply reheat the joint.
Solder the remaining pads!

2. Solder the Expansion Header

a. Insert the 6-Pin Header on the Side
b. Lay the board & header flush on a flat surface
c. Solder the joints!

3. Solder the Screen

Remove double-sided foam tape backing
Center & press the screen in place around the edges (don't press on the glass)
Solder the screen joints on the back.

4. Assemble the Case

Insert the D-Pad into the Top Enclosure
Place the CutieCat in face-down
Snap-on the Back Enclosure!

Flashing Guide

Your CutieCat comes pre-flashed with QA Testing firmware to ensure everything works! You'll see a short animation followed by a QR Code leading you to the latest firmware.

At this point, you can flash one of our pre-compiled tools - or program your own tools in Arduino or CircuitPython! (we'll try that in an upcoming advanced guide)

1. Head over to update.devkitty.io to access the firmware flasher.

2. Download the binary you want to flash!