Beginner Guide to Building a $120 FPV Drone with Joshua Bardwell

You’re about to embark on an exciting journey with Joshua Bardwell’s series designed to guide you through building a $120 FPV drone from scratch. This video series serves as a complete introductory course, offering detailed steps and insightful background information on FPV drone building. You’ll delve into essential topics like setting up Betaflight Rates, with expert insights from professionals like JB and Vanover to help you optimize your drone’s performance. The guide also provides crucial instructions on setting up RSSI for different receivers, ensuring your build operates seamlessly.

Your adventure doesn’t stop there; you’ll also explore product recommendations and learn to configure various features of your racing drone freestyle quadcopter. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of technical elements like arming angles, RSSI settings, and gyro update frequencies. The series places a strong emphasis on safety precautions and offers advice on configuring an on-screen display (OSD), GPS functionalities, and telemetry. Whether you’re a newbie or looking to refine your skills, this guide aims to consolidate scattered information into a masterclass experience, ensuring your quadcopter is ready for its first flight.

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I’m going to guide you through every single step of how to build this $120 FPV Drone. This is my complete beginner guide, with all the steps, and all the background info you’re going to need. Don’t see this as just a how-to guide. I want it to be a full introductory course to teach you the things you need to know to construct FPV drones.

Watch the full playlist at: • Beginner Guide $120 FPV Drone How To …

— Content about Rates —

How Betaflight Rates function:

• Betaflight Rates … S.Rate, RC Rate,…

Discussion on how to find your best rates with JB and Vanover:

• Setting Rates! with Alex Vanover and …

— How to get RSSI Working —

If you have a FrSky RXSR or R9 receiver using SmartPort telemetry:

• How to put RSSI into OSD (UPDATED FOR…

If you have a FrSky XM+ receiver:

• RSSI With FrSky XM \u0026 XM Plus

If you have TBS Crossfire:

• Betaflight 4.1 Crossfire RSSI \u0026 LQ in…

(Note you need to update Crossfire module to firmware 2.94 or newer)

— PRODUCT LINKS —

I earn a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you buy something after clicking one of the affiliate links below.

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The Tyro129 is the exact same quad but with 7″ props. If cruising is more your thing than freestyle or racing, the 129 might be better.

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Buy the Jumper T16 MultiProtocol Radio Transmitter at:

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Most or all links above are affiliate links, and I will earn compensation if you use them.

Overview of the FPV Drone Building Series

Introduction to Joshua Bardwell’s Guide

Welcome to an exciting journey into the world of FPV (First Person View) drones with none other than Joshua Bardwell as your guide. If you’re new to FPV or just looking to hone your skills, Bardwell’s comprehensive series on building a $120 FPV drone is a treasure trove of information. This series is meticulously crafted to provide you with step-by-step instructions and essential background knowledge to build your own FPV drone from scratch. Think of it as an immersive introduction to the basics of drone building, running the gamut from selecting components to taking your maiden flight.

Series Goals and Target Audience

The primary goal of this series is to transform you from a drone novice to a competent pilot and builder, equipping you with the skills needed to craft your own racing or freestyle quadcopter. While it caters specifically to beginners, the content is rich enough to offer valuable insights to those with some experience looking to refine their understanding. The comprehensive nature of the guide ensures that you are supported at every step, making it an ideal resource for anyone passionate about drones and eager to learn.

Essential Equipment and Tools

List of Required Components

Embarking on your drone-building adventure necessitates the acquisition of specific components that constitute your FPV drone. Key components include a flight controller, electronic speed controllers (ESCs), motors, a frame, a camera, a video transmitter, propellers, batteries, and a receiver. Each part plays a crucial role in the functionality and performance of your drone, and understanding their function is essential.

Tools Needed for Assembly

To assemble your FPV drone, you will need a set of tools. This includes a soldering iron, solder, wire cutters, screwdrivers, heat shrink, and a multimeter for testing connections. These tools are fundamental for putting together your components and ensuring each part is securely and properly connected. Proper tools will make the assembly process smoother and more enjoyable.

Links to Recommended Products

Selecting the right products can be daunting, but Bardwell’s guide offers recommendations for tried and tested components. While exact links are not provided here, during the series, guidance is offered on where to purchase reliable products, ensuring you have quality components that fit within your budget. This curated list helps streamline your buying process and ensures compatibility across components.

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Understanding FPV Drone Basics

Fundamentals of FPV Drones

FPV drones can be exhilarating and challenging, offering a unique perspective by transmitting live video from the drone to the pilot. This real-time video feed gives you the sensation of piloting from within the drone itself. Understanding how these drones operate involves knowing how the transmitter and receiver work together to control the drone in flight, as well as how various components like the flight controller process these inputs.

Key Terminologies Explained

To navigate the world of FPV drones, familiarity with certain terminologies is vital. Terms like “gyroscope,” “ESC,” “propeller pitch,” and “bandwidth” are frequently used, and grasping these concepts is crucial. The gyroscope helps in maintaining stability, ESCs control motor speeds, and understanding propeller pitch can affect the drone’s speed and agility. Mastery of these terms will enhance your building and flying experience.

Beginner Guide to Building a $120 FPV Drone with Joshua Bardwell

Setting Up Betaflight

Installing and Configuring Betaflight

Betaflight is a powerful configuration tool for your FPV drone, enabling you to adjust settings for optimal performance. Installing Betaflight on your computer and linking it to your drone is the first step in setting up your system. Once connected, you can tinker with various settings to match your flying style and environment.

Introduction to Betaflight Rates

Betaflight Rates are settings within the software that influence how responsive your drone is to control inputs. Adjusting these rates will affect the drone’s agility and stability, crucial for tailoring your quadcopter to your skill level and the type of flights you plan on undertaking. Lower rates generally provide smoother, more controlled flight, ideal for beginners.

Resource Links for Further Learning

While this guide provides a comprehensive introduction to Betaflight, there exists a plethora of resources available online for those interested in delving deeper. These include community forums, tutorials, and videos by experts, including Joshua Bardwell himself, providing advanced insights into optimizing Betaflight settings for maximum performance.

Optimizing Flight Performance

Tips from Experts like JB and Vanover

Expert advice can dramatically elevate your drone-building experience. Tips from professionals like Joshua Bardwell (JB) and Alex Vanover can provide insights into fine-tuning your drone. From managing throttle responses to understanding PID tuning, their guidance can help you get the most out of your FPV drone.

Adjusting Rates and Flight Settings

Flight settings, notably the rates, can be adjusted to suit various flying styles—whether you’re racing through gates or performing freestyle maneuvers. Understanding how to adjust these settings to match your preferences and flying environment plays a critical role in achieving desired flight characteristics. Different rates can balance between snappy maneuvers and smooth, flowing actions in the air.

Configuring RSSI and Receivers

RSSI Setup for FrSky RXSR, R9, XM+, and TBS Crossfire

RSSI (Received Signal Strength Indicator) is essential for gauging the connection strength between your drone and the controller. Setting up RSSI correctly for different receivers, like FrSky RXSR, R9, XM+, and TBS Crossfire, ensures you get real-time feedback about your connection. Proper setup can prevent loss of control during flights, safeguarding your drone from unexpected failures.

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Recommended Receiver Configurations

The choice of receiver can greatly influence your flying experience. Recommended configurations for various receivers are provided in the guide, enabling you to choose the best setup for your specific needs. The correct configuration ensures a stable and responsive connection, which is vital for an immersive and safe FPV flying experience.

Building the Frame and Components

Assembling the Racing Drone Frame

The frame is the backbone of your drone, providing structure and determining both its durability and aerodynamics. Assembling the frame requires careful attention to detail, ensuring all components fit tightly and securely. The process can be similar to building a model kit but with additional consideration for electrical connections and component allocations.

Integrating Components Safely

Safety is paramount when integrating components into your drone. Ensuring that wires are properly insulated, connections are secure, and components are correctly mounted helps prevent electrical failures and ensures the longevity of your drone. Bardwell’s guide emphasizes these safety practices to protect both your investment and your flying experience.

Final Setup and First Flight Preparation

Configuring GPS and Telemetry

Incorporating GPS and telemetry into your setup adds layers of functionality and safety to your drone. GPS enables features like return-to-home, while telemetry provides real-time data on your drone’s status. Configuring these systems enhances situational awareness during flights, providing you with crucial information at a glance.

Flight Settings for the First Takeoff

Taking your drone on its maiden flight is an exhilarating moment. Proper flight settings are crucial for ensuring that first takeoff goes smoothly. Adjusting settings like GPS lock, arming angles, and fail-safe options will help mitigate risks and ensure a successful first flight. Bardwell’s series provides guidance on these initial settings for a safe and controlled takeoff.

Testing and Safety Checks

Before lifting off, conducting thorough testing and safety checks is essential. Verifying that every part functions as it should and that safety modes are correctly configured minimizes the risk of mishaps. It’s also crucial to ensure that battery levels are optimal and that propellers are securely attached.

Understanding and Customizing the OSD

Personalizing On-Screen Display Elements

An On-Screen Display (OSD) provides real-time data to your FPV goggles or screen, including battery voltage, RSSI, and more. Customizing these elements allows you to prioritize the information most relevant to your flying style and mission objectives. Personalizing your OSD ensures you have the data you need when you need it.

OSD Setup for Different Flying Styles

Different flying styles demand different OSD setups. A racer might focus on speed and lap times, while a freestyle pilot might prioritize altitude and voltage levels. Understanding how to tailor your OSD to your style ensures that your in-flight view is as supportive and informative as possible.

Post-Flight Statistics and Warnings

After landing, reviewing post-flight statistics and heeding any warnings is a valuable process. These statistics offer insights into performance and highlight areas that may require adjustment or improvement. Post-flight analysis can inform future flights and aid in ongoing optimization of both your drone and your piloting skills.

Conclusion

Recap of the Building Process

Building your own FPV drone is a rewarding endeavor, and this guide aims to make the process as seamless and comprehensive as possible. From selecting components and assembling the frame to configuring software and personalizing settings, each step is meticulously detailed to ensure that you finish with a functional and enjoyable machine.

Next Steps for FPV Drone Enthusiasts

Once you’ve built your drone, the sky quite literally becomes the limit. As an FPV drone enthusiast, continually enhancing your skills and knowledge will open new possibilities. Experiment with different settings, try new maneuvers, and engage with the FPV community to expand your horizons.

Invitation to Explore Further Improvements with INAV

For those eager to push their capabilities further, exploring systems like INAV can introduce additional functionalities to your drone, such as GPS waypoint navigation and enhanced flight modes. This journey is just beginning, and countless improvements and innovations await your exploration.

With Joshua Bardwell’s guidance, you’re now equipped to venture into the dynamic world of FPV drones—and the potential for what you can achieve is immense. Get ready to take off into an exciting new hobby filled with creativity, challenge, and exhilarating flight.