In this guide to building a 5″ Freestyle FPV drone, you’ll embark on an exciting journey from selecting the right components to soaring through the skies. No matter your experience level, this tutorial walks you through every step, ensuring you understand what makes each part essential and how to seamlessly bring them together for your perfect aerial companion. With tips on the best soldering techniques and balancing technical configurations, you’re assured a smooth assembly process. Thanks to sponsors like SpeedyBee, T-Motor, and FlyFish-RC, you’ll have access to top-notch materials and expertise.
Your adventure doesn’t end with building; programming your drone with BetaFlight and ensuring optimal performance through PID tuning and pre-flight checks is a thrilling part of your journey. You’ll learn how to configure your flight controller, set up video systems, and personalize your quad’s features. Plus, there’s the thrill of seeing your hard work take flight during the test demonstration. For continued support and learning, you can even join ‘The Hangar’ community, where fellow enthusiasts share insights on flying, troubleshooting, and getting the most from your FPV experience.
🙋🏼♂ Have Questions, Need Help Fixing, Troubleshooting, or Learning More about FPV?
Join ‘The Hangar’ 🛩 your exclusive member community – you get:
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Tutorial on the complete process of building a 5″ Freestyle FPV Drone from choosing your parts, constructing your drone, programming BetaFlight, Tuning, and then Flying!
This video is Sponsored by SpeedyBee, T-Motor, and FlyFish-RC.
Parts List (* denotes sponsored item)
Frame: FlyFish-RC Volador DC5*
Motors: T-Motor Velox v2 2207 1750kv*
Flight Controller & ESC: SpeedyBee F405 V3 BLS 50A 30×30 FC&ESC Stack*
VTX: SpeedyBee TX800*
Camera: Runcam Phoenix 2 (Micro)*
Antenna: Rush Cherry Straight MMCX RHCP
Receiver: Radiomaster RP1 ExpressLRS
Propellers: Ethix P3.5 Radberry
Batteries: Tattu R-Line 6S 1050mah
TimeStamps!
• Volador Frame Build Tutorial I Volado…
https://github.com/betaflight/betafli…
🏠 Frames:
FlyFishRC Volador VX5 – http://bit.ly/3ZeTlnF
FlyFishRC Volador VD5 – http://bit.ly/41f00zY
🛞 Motors – 5″ Freestyle (4S 2550kv & 6S 1750kv)
Budget: T Motor Velox V2 – https://bit.ly/3xLLHFJ | https://amzn.to/3IQwHwr
Premium: T Motor F60 Pro IV – https://bit.ly/3ExU0Zv | https://amzn.to/3EyJTUe
🤖 Electronics
Budget Stack: SpeedyBee F405 – https://amzn.to/3IkVaII
Mid-Tier Stack: SpeedyBee F7 – https://amzn.to/3IQDS84
Premium Stack: T Motor F7 https://amzn.to/3IPVCA9
🎮 Radio Controllers
Gamepad Style: Radiomaster Zorro ELRS – https://bit.ly/3KAp66G | https://amzn.to/3Y32jDj
Mid-Size: Radiomaster Boxer – https://bit.ly/3Zh1Tuh | https://amzn.to/3m4Lyu9
Full Size: Radiomaster TX16S Mk 2 – https://bit.ly/3knCb8u | https://amzn.to/3Sq71Kg
📡 ExpressLRS Radio Transmitters
Nano (for Gamepad Radio’s): https://bit.ly/3INSBAA
Micro (for Mid & Fullsize Radios): https://bit.ly/3xPggdr
Radiomaster Ranger: https://bit.ly/3lYXcH8
📡 Radio Receivers
ExpressLRS Ceramic Antenna: https://bit.ly/3lTkmyu | https://amzn.to/3m6JJNG
ExpressLRS Mini T Antenna: https://bit.ly/3lTkmyu | https://amzn.to/3KzZpTF
DISCLAIMERS:
This video and description contain affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I will receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. This helps support my channel and allows me to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support!
Understanding the Basics of FPV Freestyle Drones
What is an FPV Freestyle Drone?
An FPV (First Person View) Freestyle Drone is a type of drone specifically designed for aerial acrobatics and creative flying experiences. Unlike their racing counterparts, freestyle drones prioritize maneuverability and smooth flying over speed. Equipped with FPV technology, these drones allow you to see the world from their perspective through FPV goggles, providing an immersive flying experience that feels like you’re aboard the drone itself. Whether performing flips, rolls, or creative dives, FPV freestyle drones are ideal for pilots looking to express their flying skills and creativity in the sky.
Key Components of a Drone
When building an FPV freestyle drone, understanding the key components is essential. At the core, you’ll find the frame, which acts as the foundation that holds everything together. Motors and propellers provide the propulsion necessary for flight, while a flight controller acts as the drone’s brain, enabling you to maneuver it with precision. The Electronic Speed Controller (ESC) regulates the power to the motors. In addition to these elements, an FPV camera and video transmitter (VTX) broadcast live footage to your FPV goggles, enhancing your flying experience.
Differences between Freestyle and Racing Drones
Freestyle and racing drones, while similar in some respects, have distinct differences. Racing drones are built for speed and agility, often featuring lightweight frames and high-speed motors to navigate complex race tracks quickly. In contrast, freestyle drones focus on creativity and expression in flight, with an emphasis on sturdy construction and superior control to perform aerial tricks. Freestyle drones have a slightly heavier build to handle the stresses of acrobatics and offer a more stable flight experience over raw speed.
Selecting the Right Frame
Importance of the Frame
In any FPV drone build, the frame is a critical component, serving as the foundation upon which all other parts are mounted. It needs to be both durable and lightweight to withstand crashes while not burdening the drone’s flight capabilities. The frame’s design and material also influence the drone’s aerodynamics and performance, making it crucial to select the right frame to meet your freestyle flying needs.
Choosing FlyFish-RC Volador DC5 Frame
In this build, the FlyFish-RC Volador DC5 frame is a popular choice due to its robust construction and versatility. Designed specifically for freestyle, this frame offers ample room for components and features mounting options that cater to various stack sizes (like 20x20mm or 30x30mm configurations). The Volador DC5’s design supports both stability and flexibility, making it suitable for beginners and seasoned pilots alike.
Compatibility Considerations for Frame Selection
When selecting a frame, consider compatibility with other components—such as the size and type of motor, battery, and flight controller you plan to use. Ensure the frame can accommodate your chosen ESC stack and VTX, and verify that there’s sufficient space for any additional peripherals you might later incorporate. Checking these compatibility points early helps avoid issues during assembly and ensures smooth integration of all components.
Choosing Motors and Propellers
Recommended Motor Specifications
Choosing the right motors is vital for achieving desired flight performance. For a 5-inch freestyle build, motors with a size of 2207 or 2306 are recommended, offering the right balance of power and efficiency. These motors provide adequate thrust for performing various freestyle maneuvers while maintaining control and stability.
Understanding Motor KV Ratings
Motor KV ratings indicate the speed (RPM) at which a motor spins per volt applied. A higher KV rating means the motor spins faster, which can be advantageous for agility and speed but might reduce control during fine maneuvers. For a 5-inch freestyle build, motors within the 1700 to 2700 KV range are suitable, balancing speed and torque for acrobatic flying.
Pairing Motors with the Right Props
The choice of propellers plays a significant role in optimizing a drone’s flight characteristics. For the recommended motors, propellers with a diameter of 5 inches are standard, providing balanced lift and grip. Selecting propellers tailored to your motor’s power output ensures efficient propulsion and control, enabling smoother and more predictable flights.
Selecting the Flight Controller and ESC Stack
Importance of Flight Controller and ESC
The flight controller (FC) and Electronic Speed Controller (ESC) stack form the brain and nervous system of your drone, managing motor responses and flight stability. The FC processes pilot commands and sensor data to maintain steady flight, while the ESC regulates the electrical power delivered to motors based on the flight controller’s inputs. A well-matched FC/ESC stack is crucial for smooth operation and responsive performance.
SpeedyBee Flight Controller Highlights
For this build, the SpeedyBee Flight Controller and ESC stack is an excellent choice, offering reliable performance, and ease of use. Known for its user-friendly interface and compatibility with Betaflight, SpeedyBee simplifies setup and configuration. Its compact design is ideal for builds where space is a premium, and its robust processing power ensures seamless control and responsiveness.
Considering Stack Mounting and Amp Ratings
When selecting a flight controller and ESC stack, ensure compatibility with your frame’s mounting options—typically 20x20mm or 30x30mm. Additionally, verify that the ESC’s amp rating aligns with your motor requirements to avoid electrical overload. Matching these specifications ensures a reliable and efficient power distribution system, minimizing the risk of component failure during flight.
Video System Setup
FPV Goggles Compatibility
The video system is integral to the FPV experience, so choosing components compatible with your FPV goggles is paramount. Whether you own digital or analog goggles, ensure your video transmitter (VTX) and camera are supported. This compatibility influences the quality and reception of live video feeds, impacting your ability to pilot the drone effectively.
Choosing between Digital and Analog Systems
Deciding between a digital or analog system depends on several factors, including budget and performance preferences. Digital systems, though more expensive, offer superior image quality and minimal signal interference. However, analog systems, being more affordable, are popular among beginners and provide sufficient performance for most FPV activities.
Setting Up VTX and Antenna Options
When setting up your VTX, consider output power—higher power increases range but requires more energy. For a 5-inch build, a minimum of 800 mW is recommended. Coupling your VTX with a reliable antenna enhances signal clarity and range, supporting stable video feed crucial for precise maneuvering.
Soldering and Assembly Tips
Essential Tools for Soldering
Proper soldering is essential for secure connections and function. Equip yourself with a quality soldering iron, solder wire, flux, and other basic electronics tools. Precision tweezers and a multimeter are also helpful for testing connections and ensuring accurate assembly.
Best Practices for Clean Connections
Maintain clean soldering connections by working efficiently and using the right amount of solder. Avoid cold joints by ensuring surfaces are prepped and heated adequately. Use flux to facilitate better bonding, and double-check connections for security and neatness, reducing the risk of shorts and connection issues.
Safety Measures During Assembly
Ensure a safe assembly process by disconnecting power sources and using a smoke stopper to test for shorts upon initial power-up. Wear protective eyewear, be mindful of excess heat, and maintain an organized workspace. These precautions minimize hazards and protect both you and your drone from potential damage during assembly.
Programming with Betaflight
Setting Up Betaflight Configurator
Betaflight is a powerful tool for configuring and fine-tuning your FPV drone. Start by downloading the Betaflight Configurator and connecting your flight controller to access setup options. Follow the prompts to install the necessary firmware, ensuring your hardware is up to date for optimal performance.
Configuring Ports and Receiver Setup
Within Betaflight, configure ports by enabling necessary devices such as the receiver or GPS module. Set up your receiver type—whether ExpressLRS or Crossfire—to ensure it communicates correctly with the flight controller. Proper port configuration is vital for smooth signal transmission and reliable control during flights.
Personalizing Features and Craft Name
Use Betaflight to personalize your drone’s settings, such as naming your quadcopter and configuring features like Air Mode, OSD (On-Screen Display), and motor direction. Take advantage of adjustable parameters to tailor the drone’s performance to your preferences, enhancing your flying skills and overall experience.
Receiver and VTX Configuration
Receiver Binding Process
Binding your receiver to your radio controller is crucial for establishing a connection. Begin by placing both devices into binding mode, then link the two using the protocol specified by your receiver model. Once bound, verify the connection stability to ensure that your inputs are accurately translated during flight.
Configuring Channel Maps and Switches
Within Betaflight, adjust the channel map to align with your transmitter’s outputs, enabling accurate control input for functions like arming, flight mode switching, and buzzer activation. Assign switches on your controller to easily toggle these functions, enhancing your ability to manage your drone’s capabilities mid-flight.
Downloading and Adjusting VTX Tables
To maximize your VTX performance, download the correct VTX table within Betaflight, ensuring your frequency and power settings are correctly mapped. Adjust power levels as necessary, adhering to local regulations while optimizing video signal transmission for stable and clear FPV feeds.
Motor and ESC Protocols
Setting the Correct ESC Protocols
Configuring the correct ESC protocol in Betaflight ensures your motors respond effectively to commands. Protocols like DShot600 or DShot300, depending on your flight controller’s capabilities, offer precise control, contributing to smoother and more responsive flying.
Configuring Motor Timing and Direction
Adjust motor timing settings to improve performance, matching your setup’s specifications for efficient operation. Use tools within Betaflight to verify motor direction, ensuring each prop spins correctly to avoid unwanted behavior like flipping upon takeoff.
Using Motor Direction Wizard
The Motor Direction Wizard in Betaflight is a valuable feature for verifying and adjusting motor spin direction. By testing each motor’s response, confirm and correct orientation to ensure balanced lift and controlled maneuvers during flight, reducing the chance of misalignment-related accidents.
Conclusion
Recap of Building Steps
Building an FPV freestyle drone involves selecting compatible parts, thoughtful assembly, precise soldering, and comprehensive programming. Each step has an integral role in crafting a drone capable of dazzling tricks and controlled flights, making attention to detail paramount throughout the process.
Encouragement for New Builders
While the technical aspects of building a drone may seem daunting at first, patience and curiosity are your best allies. Embrace challenges as learning opportunities, and remember that every builder started where you are now, gradually mastering the art through practice and persistence.
Final Thoughts on FPV Freestyle Drones
FPV freestyle drones open up a world of creativity and exploration, rewarding your efforts with breathtaking aerial experiences. As you hone your skills and upgrade your build, you’ll discover the joy of flight and witness the skies through a new lens. Whether for hobby or sport, each adventure offers a unique story waiting to be written. Enjoy the journey, and happy flying!