In this article, you’ll embark on an exciting journey to build your very own $120 FPV drone alongside Joshua Birdwell. This beginner’s guide provides all the steps and background information you need, offering a step-by-step walkthrough from downloading essential software to configuring the quad using iNav. This tutorial is part of a larger series, and although it’s labeled as “Part 1” for iNav, the complete build is detailed earlier in the playlist. Your adventure includes guidance on installing drivers and flashing the iNav firmware, transforming your drone from a basic setup to potentially an autonomous marvel.
Joshua Birdwell shares not only the practical aspects of assembling your FPV drone but also explores fascinating options like autonomous flight capabilities with iNav, distinguishing it from BetaFlight. While iNav broadens your horizons with possibilities for multirotors, fixed-wing aircraft, and more, the Eachine Tyro119/129 drone models and supportive gadgets will kickstart your venture. Alongside this, you’ll understand the intricacies of flight controllers and their limitations due to the compact microprocessors they house. So, grab your tools and prepare to soar with your custom FPV drone experience!
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I’ll guide you through every crucial step to build this $120 FPV Drone. This is a total beginner guide, with all steps and background info you need. Don’t see this as just a how-to guide. I aim for it to be a comprehensive introductory course to teach you everything you need to build FPV drones.
Watch the full playlist at: • Beginner Guide $120 FPV Drone How To …
This video is marked as “part 1” because it’s the first iNav video in the playlist, though the full build and setup are earlier.
Download iNav Configurator at:
https://github.com/iNavFlight/inav-co…
If you need the driver for your FC connection:
• How to install or download Betaflight…
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The Tyro129 is identical but uses 7″ props. If cruising is your focus, rather than freestyling or racing, consider the 129.
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Buy the BN-880 GPS module with compass at:
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Understanding the Basics
Introduction to FPV Drones
Welcome to the exciting world of FPV (First-Person View) drones! If you’ve ever marveled at those stunning aerial shots and wondered how they’re captured, you’re in the right place. An FPV drone provides a unique perspective by allowing you to see what your drone sees in real-time, right through your goggles, just like a pilot. Think of it as a thrilling blend of video gaming and flying. FPV drones are versatile — they can be used for racing, freestyle acrobatics, and even leisurely scenic flights. The charm of this hobby lies in the blend of building, flying, and constantly learning.
Key Components of a Drone
Understanding the basics of your drone’s anatomy is crucial before you start building or flying one. The key components include:
- Frame: The skeleton of your drone, which holds everything together. It’s vital to choose the right one for your needs.
- Motors and Propellers: These work together to provide lift and maneuverability.
- Flight Controller: The brain of the drone, managing inputs, and maintaining stability.
- Radio Transmitter and Receiver: The communication link between you and your drone.
- Battery: Provides the power necessary to keep everything running, typically a LiPo (Lithium Polymer) battery.
- ESC (Electronic Speed Controller): Controls the power sent to each motor, enabling you to adjust speed and direction.
- Camera and VTX (Video Transmitter): Allows you to see from your drone’s perspective.
Each part plays a critical role in the performance and capabilities of your drone.
Why Build Your Own Drone?
Building your own drone may seem daunting, but it’s incredibly rewarding. Here’s why you should consider it:
- Customization: Design your drone to fit your specific needs, whether it’s for racing, acrobatics, or leisurely flights.
- Learning Experience: You’ll gain a deeper understanding of how drones work, enhancing your piloting skills.
- Cost Efficiency: Building a drone can be more affordable than buying a ready-to-fly model, especially if you’re willing to source parts with great value for money.
- Flexibility in Repairs: Knowing how your drone is built makes repairs more manageable and less costly.
Once you delve into building drones, you’ll find it a fascinating and innovative hobby that constantly challenges you to learn and grow.
Gathering Your Components
Overview of Necessary Parts
Before you dive into assembly, it’s crucial to gather all the necessary components. You’ll need the foundational parts — frame, flight controller, motors, propellers, ESCs, battery, radio transmitter, and receiver. Each component has different specifications, so ensure compatibility across the board.
Choosing the Right Frame: Eachine Tyro119/129
The frame is the heart of your drone. It’s where all other components are mounted and how the stresses of flight are managed. The Eachine Tyro series, including Tyro119 and Tyro129, is a fantastic starting point for beginners. The primary difference between the two is the propeller size, with the Tyro129 supporting larger, 7″ props, which are better for smooth cruising flights. This frame is known for its durability and ease of assembly, making it perfect for newcomers.
Selecting GPS Modules: BN-880 GPS
If you’re interested in introducing GPS functionality, which can enable features like ‘return to home’ and positional hold, then a GPS module is essential. The BN-880 GPS comes highly recommended due to its excellent balance of price and performance. It includes a built-in compass and is compatible with flight controllers designed to support GPS features.
Selecting Radio Equipment: Jumper T16 and Jumper R1
Your radio system is, arguably, the lifeline to your quadcopter. The Jumper T16 is an excellent transmitter choice, known for its multifunctional capability and ease of use. Pair it with the Jumper R1 receiver for a reliable connection that offers range and responsiveness. Together, they form a solid and versatile communication setup.
Affordability and Quality: Affiliate Links and Recommendations
Shopping for drone components can sometimes feel overwhelming due to the variety of brands and models. One strategy is to rely on affiliate links and recommendations from experienced builders, like Joshua Bardwell, who handpicks these components. Using such links helps ensure you receive high-quality parts while possibly supporting the creator through affiliate commissions.
Introduction to iNav
Difference between iNav and BetaFlight
Both iNav and BetaFlight are popular open-source flight control software, but they cater to different pilot needs. BetaFlight is predominantly focused on drones that are used in racing and acrobatics, offering refined controls and performance tuning. Meanwhile, iNav shines in its support for autonomous flight features. If you aim to set your quad to cruise on its own or follow a specific path, iNav is designed with those in mind, making extensive use of GPS data and other sensors to provide functionalities like waypoint navigation and automatic return-to-home.
Extended Capabilities of iNav
iNav extends beyond basic quadcopter use. It can accommodate various vehicle types, including fixed-wing aircraft, ground vehicles, and boats. This flexibility means you can have a cohesive setup across different models, enhancing your flying experience. iNav also integrates advanced features like altitude hold and position hold, broadening your flight possibilities beyond manual control.
Understanding Autonomous Flight
Autonomous flight is the future of drone piloting, and iNav is at the forefront of this. This capability allows your drone to execute complex maneuvers without constant manual input. By utilizing GPS modules like the BN-880, along with onboard sensors, iNav manages to maintain stability, altitude, and navigation, making it possible for you to program and perform automated tasks, ideal for tasks like surveying and mapping.
Downloading the Required Software
Accessing iNav Configurator
To configure your drone with iNav, you’ll need to download the iNav Configurator, a software tool that communicates with your flight controller. This tool is essential for setting up your drone, enabling and adjusting various flight-specific features. It is available for download from various trusted sources; typically, it’s best to download it directly from the official iNav website to ensure you have the latest version.
Installing the iNav Configurator
Once downloaded, installing the iNav Configurator is straightforward. Depending on your operating system, you may download a zip file or executable. On Windows, for example, you’ll often encounter a zip, which you need to extract to a convenient location on your hard drive. Remember, this Configurator doesn’t typically come with an installer, so you’re directly placing the application files where you prefer to run them.
Installing Necessary Drivers for Connection
Connecting your flight controller to your computer may require additional drivers, especially if you’re running Windows. These are often the STM32 Virtual COM port drivers. By connecting your controller via USB, you should see a new COM port on your device manager if drivers are correctly installed. If it doesn’t appear, look up the installation process for your specific system. This step is crucial for establishing communication between your computer and the flight controller.
Configuring Your Drone with iNav
Setting Up Your Flight Controller
The first configuration step is setting up your flight controller. This involves ensuring your controller is correctly wired to all components and securely mounted on the frame. Once this physical setup is in place, you’ll connect your flight controller to the iNav Configurator via USB.
Navigating the iNav User Interface
The iNav Configurator interface might seem intimidating initially, but it’s designed to streamline your configuration process. Familiarize yourself with its sections, including the Setup tab for sensor calibration and the Ports tab where you specify how each peripheral communicates with your flight controller. Explore the various tabs hands-on to better understand what each does.
Configuring Sensors and GPS
Proper sensor configuration is key for reliable flight performance. In iNav, you’ll calibrate the accelerometer and compass to align with your drone’s orientation. GPS settings are vital for autonomous flight features; ensure your GPS module has a clear ‘view’ of the sky for quick satellite acquisition, and verify connectivity in the software.
Flashing iNav Firmware
Entering Bootloader Mode
Flashing new firmware requires entering your flight controller into bootloader mode. This mode allows the controller to accept new firmware uploads. Typically, this involves pressing a small button on the controller when connecting it to your USB.
Flashing Process Step-by-Step
Once in bootloader mode, you can proceed with flashing iNav firmware. Go to the firmware flasher page in iNav Configurator, select the appropriate firmware target for your controller, and begin the flash. Follow on-screen prompts, ensuring you don’t disconnect power during the process.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Flashing issues can arise, such as connection errors or incorrect target selections. It’s crucial to double-check physical connections, verify that the correct firmware is being used, and ensure all necessary drivers are installed correctly. Trying another USB port or cable can sometimes resolve communication problems.
Testing and Validation
Initial Setup Checks
Before testing flight capabilities, perform thorough setup checks. Verify that all motors spin in the correct direction, ensure that the radio controls map correctly to flight control actions, and confirm the GPS is locking onto satellites.
Conducting a Pre-Flight Test
Pre-flight tests should be done in a controlled environment. Arm your drone and lightly test throttle and basic maneuvers to ensure all controls respond as expected. Look for irregularities in response or unexpected behavior, and address these before a full test flight.
Ensuring Stability and Safety
Stability and safety are your main concerns. Double-check all bolts and connections, and ensure that the battery is securely mounted. When conducting the first outdoor flight, select a wide-open space to minimize risks if control issues arise.
Using iNav for Fixed-Wing Aircrafts
Differences in Configuration
Configuring iNav for fixed-wing aircraft varies from multicopters due to their distinct flight mechanics. You’ll need to adapt control surfaces and consider different stabilization methods specific to fixed-wing models.
Benefits of iNav for Fixed-Wings
iNav offers several benefits for fixed-wing users, such as auto-leveling modes, and the ability to use your aircraft for missions that require precise point-to-point navigation. These features take advantage of GPS and other sensors to enhance flight efficiency and effectiveness.
Steps to Adapt the Setup
To adopt iNav for fixed-wing setups, focus on the suitable firmware and configurations that align with the specific behaviors of fixed-wing flight, including adjusting servos for control surfaces instead of only motors for lift and direction.
Exploring Advanced Features
Utilizing Additional Sensors
Adding sensors like barometers or sonar can significantly extend your drone’s capabilities by improving altitude control and collision avoidance. Configuring these within iNav allows you more control and versatility during flights.
Autonomous Flight Path Planning
One of iNav’s advanced features is the capability to plan and execute autonomous flight paths. Using the mission planner, you can set waypoints and tasks for your drone to follow, ideal for tasks like aerial surveys.
Integrating with FPV Equipment
Integrating FPV equipment with iNav gives you the benefit of real-time visual feedback with autonomy. When synced effectively, it enhances your situational awareness and ability to make on-the-fly adjustments during missions.
Conclusion
Key Takeaways from the Build
Building and configuring your FPV drone with iNav enhances your understanding of both the technical and flight aspects of drones. You gain hands-on experience in selecting and assembling components and configuring sophisticated software like iNav that provides autonomous capabilities.
Emphasizing the Learning Curve
Embrace the learning curve—it’s part of the fun! From selecting components to troubleshooting setup issues, each step is a chance to expand your knowledge and skills in this innovative field.
Encouragement to Innovate and Experiment
You’re now equipped with the foundation of drone building. Continue to innovate and experiment. Challenge yourself with new configurations, try different flight modes, and venture into using iNav’s extensive features. The world of FPV drones offers endless opportunities for creativity and advancement. Enjoy the journey and fly safe!