Building My First FPV Drone: A Journey with DJI Technology

In the exciting venture of building your very first FPV drone, you embark on a journey that blends technology and creativity, all while harnessing the power of DJI innovations. Inspired by newfound freedom after a thrilling flight with a friend’s DJI drone, you immerse yourself in an extensive research phase, guiding you to the creation of a digital FPV setup. Along this path, you’ll discover the intricacies and challenges of assembling high-performance components like the Axis Flying Manta 5-inch frame and DJI O3 Air Unit, ensuring the build delivers the exhilarating experience you’re craving.

Every step in constructing this drone reflects your dedication, from the meticulous soldering of electronic components to the careful installation of parts like the Gemfan Sbang 4934 props and the Aikon AK32PIN V2 ESC. With an array of supportive connections, including shoutouts to friends who provided assistance during your build, this drone project embodies both a technical challenge and a testament to your passion. As you tighten the last screw and finalize your masterpiece, the anticipation of that first breathtaking take-off fills you with excitement for not just the flight ahead but also the future endeavors your newfound hobby promises to deliver.

You decided to document your experience building and flying your very first FPV quad.

▷ Parts List:

Frame | Axis Flying Manta 5 inch True X FPV Freestyle

Motors | Axis Flying AE227 2207 1960KV

Flight Controller | Diatone Mamba MK4 F405 Mini

ESC | Aikon AK32PIN V2 4 in 1 35A

Props | Gemfan Sbang 4934

VTX | DJI O3 Air Unit

Receiver | Happymodel ExpressLRS Nano 2.4GHz EP1 RX

Battery | Dogcom 120C 6S 1380mAh 22.2V LiPo

Goggles | DJI Goggles 2

Radio Controller | Jumper T Lite V2 ELRS 2.4G

Where you got all the parts from: https://www.mantisfpv.com.au/

(thanks a lot to Felix for helping you out multiple times)

You plan on building another one in the future, but in the meantime, you’re fine with this beast of a drone.

Also, check out Jesse’s Video where you fly on the sim for the first time:

• FPV Beginner Tries FLIPS On First FLI…

Thank you ‪@JayJankulovski for letting you use his beautiful Sony and all his other awesome camera gear! You both went halves in this quad as you both wanted one and realized it’ll be cheaper to go digital and use his DJI Goggles 2.

songs used:

Close 2 U – ArkZen

Hold Me – ArkZen

Exits – Felix Johansson Carne

jives – Verisimilitude

Inspiration and Beginning the Journey

The Initial Spark: Flying a DJI Drone with a Friend

Your journey into the world of FPV drones began with an unexpected but exhilarating experience. It all started when your friend, Jesse, invited you to try flying his DJI drone. Until that moment, you had known about FPV drones only in passing but hadn’t considered flying one yourself. The thrill of manually controlling the drone and the sheer sense of freedom it provided was unlike anything you had ever experienced before. That first flight ignited a spark within you, piquing your curiosity and desire to explore this thrilling hobby further.

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Research and Learning: Exploring the World of FPV

Motivated by the adrenaline rush from your first flight, you embarked on a quest for knowledge. You dove headfirst into extensive research, spending countless hours watching instructional videos and reading articles on FPV drones. You absorbed information from every possible source, including Barbell videos and Oscar Liang’s website, immersing yourself in the technical aspects and nuances of FPV technology. As you accumulated knowledge, you realized that you didn’t just want to fly FPV drones; you wanted to build one yourself. This led you to purchase your first radio controller, marking the beginning of your DIY drone-building journey.

Choosing the Right Technology

Analog vs. Digital: The Decision-Making Process

Your initial plan was to construct a cost-effective analog FPV drone. However, you soon discovered that building a digital setup could offer significant advantages in terms of video quality and reception. The decision-making process involved weighing the cost-efficiency of an analog build against the performance benefits of digital technology. A conversation with your friend Jesse was pivotal in this regard. He suggested considering a digital build for your first project, emphasizing the enhanced flight experience it could provide.

Suggestions and Guidance from Friends

You were fortunate to have supportive friends who offered valuable advice and assistance. Jesse’s input and the availability of his DJI goggles tipped the scales towards a digital setup. This not only meant you could create a state-of-the-art drone but also aligned with your goal of achieving superior video quality. Additionally, your discussions with Felix, another knowledgeable friend, helped refine your plans and provided practical insights that guided you through the initial phase of your project.

Components and Parts Selection

Selecting the Frame: Axis Flying Manta

Choosing the right frame was a crucial step in your build process. You decided on the Axis Flying Manta, a 5-inch True X FPV freestyle frame. Its sturdy construction and design made it an ideal choice for your first build. The aesthetics were also appealing, with the frame featuring cooler designs and colors that added a touch of flair to your project. Assembling the frame was one of the first tasks you tackled, gradually bringing the skeletal structure of your drone to life.

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Opting for the Right Motors: Axis Flying AE227

Selecting the right motors was another critical decision. You opted for the Axis Flying AE227 2207 motors with a 1960KV rating, specifically designed for a 6S battery setup. These high-performance motors offered the thrust and efficiency needed to optimize the drone’s agility and speed. Their integration into the frame required precision, as ensuring stability during flight was paramount.

The Heart of the Drone: Diatone Mamba Flight Controller

At the core of your drone’s functionality lies the Diatone Mamba MK4 F405 Mini flight controller. This component became the brain of your drone, managing inputs and stabilizing flight patterns. Selecting a reliable flight controller was essential for a seamless flying experience. The compact design of the Mamba MK4 also complemented the streamlined build of your drone, making it an indispensable part of your construction.

Power Delivery: Aikon ESC and Dogcom Battery

Ensuring efficient power delivery to the motors and flight controller was vital. You chose the Aikon AK32PIN V2 4 in 1 35A ESC to manage the power distribution effectively. Coupled with a Dogcom 120C 6S 1380mAh 22.2V LiPo battery, this setup promised to deliver the necessary energy for sustained high-performance flights. Understanding the power demands of your drone and selecting the right combination of ESC and battery were critical steps in ensuring its optimal function and longevity.

Building My First FPV Drone: A Journey with DJI Technology

Digital Integration with DJI

Utilizing DJI O3 Air Unit for Enhanced Video

To truly elevate your drone’s capabilities, integrating the DJI O3 Air Unit was a game-changer. This component allowed for high-quality video transmission, enabling you to capture stunning visuals in 4K at 120 frames per second. The choice to go digital with DJI technology was driven by your desire for an immersive flight experience, minimizing the need for additional video equipment and enhancing the clarity of your FPV footage.

Choosing DJI Goggles for Immersive Experiences

A significant part of the FPV experience is how you perceive the world through the drone’s ‘eyes.’ You were privileged to use the DJI Goggles 2, which provided an unmatched, immersive experience. These goggles allowed you to delve into a new perspective, offering a seamless and engaging flight visualization. The clarity and responsiveness of the DJI Goggles enriched your flying sessions, making them a worthwhile investment in your FPV journey.

The Assembly Process

Installing Motors and Ensuring Stability

The process of building your drone truly came alive with the installation of the motors. Taking great care to secure them with precision, each motor was mounted using screws that ensured stability during flight. This meticulous step was necessary to prevent vibrations and maintain balance, factors crucial in achieving smooth and controlled aerial maneuvers.

The Crucial Step of Soldering

Soldering proved to be one of the more daunting tasks in your project. The importance of creating secure, conductive joints between components was not lost on you. With each joint being integral to the drone’s performance, you approached the task with caution and precision. Despite initial nervousness, you mastered the technique, giving you the confidence needed to solder the remaining connections successfully.

Setting Up the Frame and Components

Completing the assembly required a concerted effort to integrate all components into the frame. Positioning the flight controller, receiver, and ESC within the restricted confines necessitated careful planning. Securing the frame involved attaching the final screws, organizing cables efficiently, and ensuring everything was snugly fitted. Each step brought you closer to realizing the full potential of your custom-made FPV drone.

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Challenges and Solutions

Overcoming Initial Expenses: Goggles and More

Unexpected costs can often arise with DIY projects, and your FPV drone was no exception. Initially considering a more budget-friendly analog build, the discovery of needing additional components, like the DJI goggles, presented a financial challenge. However, viewing this as an investment in a superior flying experience alleviated concerns. Sharing goggles with friends further mitigated expenses, allowing you to allocate resources more effectively.

Learning Through Trial and Error in Assembly

Building your first drone was a hands-on learning experience filled with trial and error. Each mistake taught you valuable lessons, refining your skills and understanding of drone assembly. From the mechanical intricacies of part fitting to the electronic challenges of soldering, every hurdle you encountered enhanced your problem-solving abilities and deepened your appreciation for the complexities of drone construction.

Testing and Tweaks

Ensuring Functionality and Testing Continuity

Testing the functionality and electrical continuity of your drone was an essential step before the first flight. You utilized a multimeter to check for shorts and ensure proper connections, a precautionary measure that prevented potential damage. This methodical approach to testing was critical, as it provided assurance that each component was correctly integrated and would function as intended.

Adjustments Required: Motor Directions and More

As with any complex assembly, initial tests highlighted the need for tweaks and adjustments. One area that required attention was motor direction. Ensuring each motor spun in the correct direction was crucial for flight stability. These fine-tuning processes, while sometimes tedious, were vital in optimizing performance and ensuring your drone flew smoothly and efficiently.

Successful Launch and First Flight

The Thrill of the Maiden Flight

The moment of your drone’s maiden flight was a culmination of all your hard work and preparation. Witnessing it take to the skies was exhilarating, reaffirming your decision to embark on this journey. The thrill of controlling your creation as it performed agile maneuvers and soared through the air was an incomparable experience, delivering a sense of achievement and satisfaction.

Performance Evaluation and First Impressions

Post-flight evaluations were as important as the flight itself. Observing the drone’s performance allowed you to assess its strengths and identify areas for improvement. Your initial impressions were overwhelmingly positive, noting the drone’s speed and agility. This feedback was invaluable for guiding future enhancements and modifications, ensuring continuous performance improvements.

Post-Build Modifications

Adding 3D Printed Parts for Enhanced Performance

Post-build modifications offered opportunities to fine-tune and enhance your drone’s capabilities further. Incorporating 3D-printed parts proved to be a strategic decision, adding functionality and protection to critical areas. These custom components not only improved performance but also provided a personal touch to your drone, acknowledging the boundless possibilities of future enhancements.

Ongoing Improvements and Future Enhancements

The completion of your first build marked the beginning of a continuous journey of innovation and improvement. Each flight provided insights into potential enhancements, from software tweaks to hardware upgrades. Your commitment to ongoing learning and exploration in the world of FPV drones underscored your passion for the hobby, as you envisioned future projects and the endless possibilities they held.

Conclusion and Future Endeavors

Reflecting on the Journey of Building the FPV Drone

Reflecting on your journey, each step in building your FPV drone was satisfying and educational. What began as an introduction to FPV technology grew into a full-fledged passion, driven by the excitement of creation and the allure of flight. The challenges you overcame enriched your experience, providing a deep appreciation for the intricacies involved in drone construction.

Plans for Continued Exploration and Learning in FPV

Looking forward, your enthusiasm for FPV drones shows no signs of abating. Plans for building more drones, experimenting with different designs, and mastering advanced flying techniques are on the horizon. As you continue to explore this captivating hobby, the knowledge and skills you’ve acquired will serve as a foundation for your future successes. Embrace this ongoing journey of discovery and enjoy the freedom and creativity it offers in the world of FPV flight.