Join in on the excitement of piecing together your own flying machine with PeterLTechGuy as your guide. You’ll watch a full timelapse of the building process for a hexacopter using DJI’s F550 kit. This thrilling project takes you through each step, revealing all the necessary parts and tools required to bring your drone to life. Before you know it, you’ll be seeing the detailed setup unfold before your eyes.
You’ll follow along the essentials for crafting this drone, from the XT60 connectors and battery adapters to the camera gimbals and custom landing gear. Peter’s video effortlessly guides you through assembling the flight controller, motors, and everything in between. With tools like soldering irons and hex screwdrivers in hand, your own creation will be ready to take flight. Get ready to build and immerse yourself in this fascinating hands-on adventure!
Experience a complete timelapse recording of how you built your hexacopter drone using DJI’s F550 Kit, including a detailed list of the parts and tools you utilized for this build.
PARTS LINKS:
DJI F550 Kit w/ Naza-M Lite & GPS
Custom Landing Gear:
RadioLink AT9 9-Channel Transmitter & Receiver
Battery (3S 30C 4000mAh)
XT60 Connectors
Battery Adapter
Battery Charger
Power Supply (to power the battery charger)
Camera Gimbal (Cheap)
Better Camera Gimbal (DJI Zenmuse H4-3D)
MUSIC CREDITS:
Music by Ninety9Lives
Ryzu, Kozoro, Unison & Evence – Ascend
Video Link: http://99l.tv/Ascend
Channel: http://99l.tv/Subscribe
Album Download Link: http://99l.tv/PressStart
Kubbi – Pathfinder
Kubbi – Compass
(from the ‘Ember’ Album)
/ kubbikthxbai
Music licensed under Creative Commons CC BY-SA 3.0
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/b…
Music by Kevin MacLeod
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PeterLTechGuy
© 2016
Overview of the DJI F550 Hexacopter Kit
Description of the DJI F550 Hexacopter Kit
The DJI F550 Hexacopter Kit is a popular choice among drone enthusiasts and hobbyists looking to build a robust and versatile flying machine. As the name suggests, it features a hexacopter design, which means it has six arms, each equipped with a motor and propeller. This configuration provides a greater balance, stability, and lifting power compared to quadcopters, making it ideal for carrying additional equipment such as cameras or gimbals. The kit includes essential components needed to assemble the drone, providing users with a comprehensive solution to create their own custom flying device.
Key Features and Specifications
The DJI F550 Hexacopter boasts a range of impressive features and specifications. It is constructed with a strong but lightweight frame, allowing for both durability and efficient flight. This hexacopter can support a range of payloads thanks to its six powerful motors, increasing its versatility. The kit also includes high-quality propellers, ESCs (Electronic Speed Controllers), and a Naza-M Lite flight controller with GPS, which together ensure precise and stable flight performance. Another notable aspect of this kit is its compatibility with a variety of add-ons, such as camera gimbals for aerial photography and video.
Applications and Uses of the DJI F550
The DJI F550 Hexacopter is perfect for various applications beyond just recreational flying. Due to its payload capacity and reliable flight control system, it’s suited for aerial photography, videography, and surveying tasks. Whether you are an enthusiast capturing stunning landscapes or a professional conducting site surveys, this hexacopter can serve your needs. Additionally, it provides a fantastic platform for experimental flights and educational purposes, allowing learners to understand drone mechanics and electronics better.
Essential Parts and Components
Hexacopter Frame and Components
At the heart of the DJI F550 Hexacopter Kit is a durable frame made from high-quality materials to ensure both strength and lightweight performance. The frame includes six arms that securely house motors and provide the necessary torque for stable flight. This modular design allows for straightforward assembly and potential upgrades.
Motors and Propellers
The kit comes with six efficient motors, which offer optimal thrust and controllability. Coupled with well-engineered propellers, these motors deliver smooth and reliable performance. By distributing weight and thrust evenly across its six propellers, it enhances flight stability and provides the power needed to lift additional components such as cameras or sensors.
ESCs (Electronic Speed Controllers)
Integral to the drone’s performance are the ESCs, which manage the speed of the motors. The DJI F550 Hexacopter Kit includes six ESCs, with each motor being independently controlled to ensure precise adjustments in speed and acceleration. This feature aids in maintaining stability and agile maneuverability during flight.
Naza-M Lite Flight Controller and GPS
The Naza-M Lite flight controller is an integral component that oversees flight operations, ensuring your drone maintains balance and follows control inputs accurately. Paired with the GPS module, it facilitates navigational accuracy, providing features such as return to home and GPS hold, further enhancing the ease of use and reliability of the hexacopter.
Additional Parts Required for Building
Battery Specifications and Types
To power your hexacopter, you’ll need a suitable lithium polymer (LiPo) battery. A common choice for this type of drone is a 3S 30C 4000mAh battery, which offers adequate capacity and discharge rates to keep your drone airborne for an extended period.
XT60 Connectors and Adapters
XT60 connectors are standard in FPV drones for reliable connections. You’ll need these connectors and appropriate adapters to securely connect your battery to the drone’s power system. They ensure efficient power transfer while minimizing resistance and heat generation.
Radio Transmitter and Receiver Configuration
You’ll also require a radio transmitter and receiver to control your hexacopter. The RadioLink AT9 is a popular choice, offering nine channels for comprehensive control. You’ll set up and configure this system to suit your needs, facilitating communication between your controller and the drone.
Camera Gimbal Options
For those interested in aerial photography or videography, integrating a camera gimbal can significantly improve the quality of your footage. Options range from basic gimbals to more advanced models like the DJI Zenmuse H4-3D. Gimbals stabilize the camera in flight, ensuring smooth video capture and minimizing vibrations.
Tools Required for Construction
Essential Tools for Assembly
Building your DJI F550 Hexacopter will require a set of essential tools for assembly. At a minimum, you’ll need a hex 2 screwdriver, pliers, and wrenches to secure components and fix tiny screws in place.
Soldering Equipment and Safety Tips
Soldering is a pivotal task during assembly, especially when connecting electronic components, wires, and connectors. You’ll need a soldering iron, soldering wire, and flux. Always take safety precautions when soldering by working in a well-ventilated area and wearing protective gear such as safety glasses.
Recommended Auxiliary Tools
Additional tools can make your build process easier. A multimeter can help ensure your circuits are complete and functioning correctly. Heat shrink tubing and electrical tape can also provide insulation and secure wiring connections, minimizing the risk of short circuits.
Step-by-Step Assembly Process
Assembling the Hexacopter Frame
Begin by assembling the hexacopter frame, ensuring all components fit snugly. Attach the arms to the central body and verify alignment to maintain structural integrity.
Attaching Motors and Propellers
Next, mount the motors on each arm, securing them firmly. Afterward, attach the propellers, ensuring they are balanced and installed in the correct direction to prevent instability during flight.
Installing the ESCs and Wiring Setup
Install an ESC for each motor, strategically placing them for optimal space usage and heat dissipation. Connect each ESC to its corresponding motor and proceed with wiring the power distribution board to ensure proper electricity flow throughout the drone.
Mounting the Flight Controller and GPS
Finally, secure the Naza-M Lite flight controller close to the center of the drone for precise control and attach the GPS module to a location with minimal interference, allowing it to maintain a strong signal.
Battery and Power Setup
Connecting the Battery Using XT60 Connectors
Utilize the XT60 connectors to establish a secure connection between the battery and the drone’s power system. Ensure all connections are tight to promote efficient power delivery.
Battery Charging and Maintenance Tips
Maintain your battery’s health by charging it according to manufacturer specifications and storing it properly when not in use. Monitor temperature and voltage levels to prolong battery life and avert potential hazards.
Power Supply Considerations
A reliable power supply is crucial for charging your drone batteries and maintaining consistent power levels. Investing in a quality charger and power supply unit is essential for safe and efficient drone operation.
Radio Control System Setup
Configuring the RadioLink AT9 Transmitter
Configure your RadioLink AT9 transmitter by setting up channels according to your desired controls. Tailor settings to your preferences, enabling you to efficiently manage throttle, yaw, pitch, and roll movements.
Binding the Transmitter with the Receiver
Bind the transmitter with your receiver to establish communication. Follow instructions specific to your equipment model, ensuring both devices are properly synchronized and ready for flight.
Calibrating Controls for Flight
Calibrate your controls within the flight control software to ensure responsive and stable flight dynamics. Conduct test flights in a safe, open area to fine-tune the controls to your liking.
Installing and Tuning the Camera Gimbal
Cheap vs. Advanced Camera Gimbal Options
Choose between budget-friendly gimbal options and advanced models like the DJI Zenmuse H4-3D, depending on your needs and budget. Advanced models offer superior stability but may require additional setup.
Installation of Gimbal on the Frame
Securely attach the gimbal to the hexacopter frame, ensuring it is well-balanced and free from obstructions that might interfere with its range of motion.
Fine-tuning for Optimal Video Stability
Calibrate the gimbal for optimal performance, adjusting settings to stabilize the camera during movement. Fine-tuning may involve adjusting motor pitch and responsiveness to achieve smooth, steady video footage.
Pre-Flight Checklist and Testing
Conducting System Checks and Balance Tests
Perform a comprehensive system check before your inaugural flight. Inspect all components for secure connections and ensure the drone is balanced to facilitate optimal flight performance.
Testing the Flight Controls
Thoroughly test the flight controls, including throttle, yaw, pitch, and roll. Each control should respond accurately to transmitter inputs, allowing you to adjust flight dynamics as required.
Ensuring the GPS and Navigation Systems are Functional
Confirm the GPS and navigation systems are operating correctly. Ensure they can establish a strong satellite connection, providing accurate geographic positioning and navigational capabilities.
Conclusion
Summary of the Assembly Experience
Assembling the DJI F550 Hexacopter Kit offers an educational and gratifying experience for enthusiasts and professionals alike. Each step provides an opportunity to learn about drone mechanics and electronics.
Determining the Success of the Build
Success in your build is determined not just by assembling a functional hexacopter but also by achieving reliable flight performance and meeting your original design goals, such as carrying a specified payload.
Future Enhancements and Potential Upgrades
Consider potential enhancements and upgrades, such as advanced gimbals, improved batteries, or additional sensors. These can enhance your hexacopter’s performance and extend its versatility for various applications.