Building your own FPV drone from scratch might seem daunting, but Joshua Bardwell is here to help you take on the challenge with confidence. In his video, “Beginner Guide $120 FPV Drone How To Build – Part 1 – Assembly,” he walks you through creating a $120 drone from a simple kit. Aimed at complete beginners, this guide generously covers all the necessary assembly steps, offering key background information to ensure you know exactly what you’re doing every step of the way.
Joshua introduces you to the Eachine Tyro 119 model—lauded for its affordability and solid performance. He shares insightful tips, such as the importance of proper soldering techniques and details the installation of various components like motors, ESC, and a GPS module. With his approachable style and comprehensive guidance, you’ll be well-equipped to turn a box of parts into a fully functional quadcopter, opening the door to an exciting world of drone building and flying.
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I’m going to guide you through every step of building this $120 FPV Drone. This is my comprehensive beginner guide with all the steps and background info you need. Don’t see it as just a how-to guide. I want it to serve as an introductory course teaching you what you need to know to build FPV drones.
Watch the full playlist at: • Beginner Guide $120 FPV Drone How To …
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The Tyro129 is the exact same quad but with 7″ props. If you’re interested more in cruising and less in freestyle or racing, the 129 may be a better choice.
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Why Build a $120 FPV Drone
Understanding the appeal of FPV drones
First Person View (FPV) drones have captured the imagination of tech enthusiasts, hobbyists, and even professional filmmakers worldwide. There is something uniquely exhilarating about seeing the world from a bird’s-eye view, zipping through the skies at high speeds with a live video feed. Unlike traditional drones, FPV drones provide an immersive experience, making you feel like you are inside the aircraft, navigating through landscapes as if you were a bird. This makes FPV flying not just a hobby but an adventure that stirs the soul and challenges your piloting skills in new dimensions.
Benefits of building your own drone
Building your own FPV drone amplifies the thrill and adds a layer of personal satisfaction. Not only do you tailor the drone to your own specifications, but it also deepens your understanding of how these amazing machines work. You gain valuable skills like soldering and understand how each component interacts with others. This hands-on experience means you can troubleshoot more effectively, add custom features, or upgrade parts as the need arises. Plus, it’s incredibly rewarding to see something you built take to the skies under your control.
Why the $120 price point is ideal for beginners
Embarking on your FPV journey doesn’t need to break the bank. The $120 price point strikes a perfect balance, offering an accessible entry into the world of FPV flying. At this price, you can purchase decent-quality components that provide a satisfactory flying experience without sacrificing too much on performance. It allows beginners to learn and make mistakes without the fear of damaging a highly expensive piece of equipment. The affordability means you can focus on learning without financial stress, and you’ll still have room in your budget to invest in other essentials down the line.
Introduction to the Tyro 119 Quadcopter
Overview of the Tyro 119
The Tyro 119 Quadcopter is a popular choice among beginners for FPV drone builds. It’s a full kit including all necessary parts to assemble a fully functional quadcopter. Designed for both racing and casual flying, it strikes a good balance between performance and price. Despite being budget-friendly, the Tyro 119 does not compromise on essential features. It’s equipped with a powerful set of motors, an efficient frame design, and a GPS module that can support features like return-to-home, which adds an extra layer of safety for new pilots.
Reasons for choosing Tyro 119 for this build
Choosing the Tyro 119 for your build offers several distinct advantages. It comes from a reputable series known for reliability and ease of assembly, which is ideal for first-timers. The comprehensive kit ensures compatibility among components, which simplifies the building process and reduces the likelihood of technical issues. Further, its design is straightforward, minimizing the complexities you might encounter with more sophisticated models. Not only does it cover the essential features required for a pleasant flying experience, but it also provides a solid platform to learn and build upon.
Affordability and stock availability
The Tyro 119 is well-regarded for its affordability. While some other drones in the market can cost significantly more, the Tyro 119 offers excellent value without sacrificing quality. Additionally, availability across numerous retail platforms ensures you can easily purchase what you need without delays. This is crucial, especially for new builders, as waiting for out-of-stock components can dampen enthusiasm. Therefore, the Tyro 119 is an ideal choice—budget-friendly, reliable, and easily accessible.
Gathering Necessary Components and Tools
List of required components for the build
To begin building your Tyro 119 quadcopter, you’ll need the complete Tyro 119 kit, which includes the frame, motors, electronic speed controllers (ESCs), flight controller, GPS module, video transmitter, camera, and receiver. Each component plays a critical role, and having them in a single kit reduces compatibility issues. Additionally, you’ll need an extra set of nylon nuts and screws for mounting the motors and frame.
Tools you will need for assembly
Assembling your drone requires some specific tools beyond the components found in the kit. You’ll need a set of hex drivers (commonly 1.5mm, 2mm, and 2.5mm sizes) for the screws and nuts, a soldering iron for making electrical connections, and a steady hand for precise work. A pair of wire cutters and pliers will also be handy for trimming wires and securing components. Don’t forget to include heat shrink tubing and a heat gun to insulate and protect your soldered joints.
Where to purchase these components
Drone components and tools are available at many online platforms, specializing in RC and FPV hobby supplies. Retailers such as hobby stores, Amazon, or niche FPV and drone-specific stores offer competitive prices. Checking multiple platforms can help you find the best deals and availability for your required components.
Assembly of the Drone Frame
Unboxing and inventory of parts
When you unbox your Tyro 119 kit, you’ll find several bags containing various components. Carefully lay out all the parts and use the manual to check that everything is included. This typically consists of frame pieces such as bottom and top plates, side camera plates, and the arms, press nuts, standoffs, and screws of varying sizes. Confirming inventory before starting the assembly will ensure you have everything needed, preventing potential interruptions.
Step-by-step frame assembly
Start with the bottom plate and insert the press nuts into the larger holes found on the plate. Ensure they are flush, as they’ll anchor the arms securely. Next, attach each arm with the longest screws, making sure they’re oriented correctly. Secure the arms to the bottom plate, placing the press nuts on the top. Add the standoffs, which will hold up the top plate. Follow the manual carefully to avoid mistakes in alignment or attachment.
Choosing the correct screws to avoid motor damage
Selecting the right screws for your build is essential to avoid damaging your motors. The kit includes varying lengths of screws, but the longest screws should be reserved for securing arms via the press nuts. For the motors, ensure you’re using the screws that don’t extend too far into the motor casing, which could cause internal damage. If in doubt, compare screw lengths before installation.
Installing and Soldering Drone Components
Soldering basics and resources for beginners
Soldering is a critical skill for assembling your FPV drone, ensuring strong and reliable electrical connections. Beginners should start with an introduction to soldering, perhaps through online tutorials focused on technique and safety. Practice on scrap material before working on your drone to gain confidence.
Connecting motors and ESC
Solder the motor wires to the electronic speed controllers (ESCs), observing the proper wire order to ensure motors spin in the correct direction. The ESCs are then soldered to the power distribution board, which distributes battery power to all components. Secure any loose wires with heat shrink tubing and a heat gun, protecting connections against damage and short circuits.
Attaching the flight controller and GPS module
Once the ESCs and motors are in place, mount the flight controller onto the frame, ideally using vibration dampeners if available. Solder the power and signal wires from the ESCs to the controller. Attach the GPS module, adhering to any orientation guidelines, and solder its connections to the flight controller. These steps are vital, as accurate data transmission between components affects flight performance and navigational features like GPS return-to-home.
Configuring Motor Directions and Smart Audio
Importance of correct motor direction
Ensuring the correct rotation of your drone’s motors is crucial for stable flight. Motors spinning in the wrong direction can lead to erratic maneuvers or failure to lift off. This setup involves checking the motor spin direction and re-soldering the motor wires to reverse rotation if necessary.
Step-by-step guide to setting up motor rotation
After installing the motors, power the drone without propellers and observe their spin direction. If any motor spins incorrectly, swap any two of the three wires connected to the ESC. Alternatively, some flight controllers and ESCs allow you to reverse rotation via software settings accessible in configuration tools such as Beta Flight.
Configuring smart audio for VTX channel changes
Smart audio enables you to change video transmitter (VTX) settings like channel and transmission power directly from your radio controller. Configure smart audio within your drone’s on-screen display by interfacing with the VTX settings. Follow the VTX and flight controller manual instructions for establishing these connections and configurations, as it can greatly enhance your FPV experience by allowing easy adjustments during flight.
Cable Management for Your Drone
Tips for effective cable management
Good cable management ensures that wires do not interfere with moving parts or create aerodynamic drag. Keep cables tidy by bundling them with zip ties, ensuring they are neatly routed along the frame. Effective management also assists in troubleshooting and reduces stress on connections, prolonging their lifespan.
Ensuring safety and performance with proper cabling
Proper cable routing is important for the overall safety and performance of your drone. Avoid running cables over sharp edges or movable components, and ensure they’re securely fastened to avoid getting caught during flights. Ensure power cables are away from delicate signal wires, preventing potential interference or short circuits.
Common mistakes to avoid in cable routing
Avoid unnecessary cable crossings over key areas such as the flight controller, which may introduce mechanical and signal interference. Ensure no wires are left loose, which might lead to damage or disconnection mid-flight. Double-check all cable routing before flights to avoid issues during actual flying scenarios.
Pre-Flight Checks and Beta Flight Configuration
Conducting smoke and function checks
Before your maiden flight, conduct thorough smoke and function checks. Power up your assembled drone without propellers and look for any smoke or unusual behavior, which might indicate improper soldering or short circuits. Ensure that all components function, particularly the motors, ESCs, and the flight controller.
Configuring your drone in Beta Flight
Beta Flight is an essential tool for configuring your drone’s behavior. Connect your quadcopter to Beta Flight, where you can calibrate the accelerometer, set the motor direction, and configure flight modes. It’s crucial to carefully follow the software’s setup guides, ensuring each parameter is correctly entered to optimize flight performance.
Verifying component integrity before flight
Review your drone carefully, checking for loose screws, unattached cables, or unsecured components. Verify the tightness of props and their correct direction. Component integrity checks are vital to prevent in-flight failures and ensure a successful and safe flight experience.
Further Resources and Support
Where to find additional learning resources
There is a wealth of online resources available to aspiring FPV drone builders. Look for updated video tutorials that provide visual aids to assemble and configure your drone inspired by Joshua Bardwell’s comprehensive playlists. Books and websites specializing in electronics and RC models can further enhance your understanding.
Online tutorials and forums for drone builders
Online communities and forums are invaluable for drone builders, providing peer support, advice, and sharing experiences. Platforms dedicated to FPV enthusiasts frequently have threads filled with tips, common pitfalls, and detailed assembly guides. Joining such communities on places like Facebook or Reddit allows for real-time support from experienced builders.
Getting support from the community and experts
Engage with the FPV drone building community and leverage expert advice from seasoned hobbyists. Many experts offer advice in comment sections of blogs or videos. Connecting with expert builders at local hobby stores or online provides an avenue for robust learning and troubleshooting.
Conclusion
Summarizing the build process and key learnings
Building a $120 FPV drone like the Tyro 119 not only introduces you to the world of FPV flying but also equips you with essential skills and knowledge. From understanding the components to meticulous assembly and configuration, this process is both educational and satisfying. You gain a hands-on grasp of technological intricacies that define DIY drone projects.
Encouragement for new builders to pursue their FPV journey
Venturing into FPV drone building at this price level is a gateway to a rewarding hobby that challenges your skills and expands your understanding. Don’t be intimidated by the steep learning curve; persistence leads to mastery. The excitement of piloting a creation built with your own hands is incomparable.
Invitation to engage with the community for continuous learning
Your journey into FPV doesn’t end with the first flight; it’s only the beginning. Engage actively with the community, participate in forums, and attend meet-ups. Continuous learning and sharing with fellow enthusiasts will enrich your FPV experience and propel you towards more advanced builds and exhilarating flights.