-
Reptile X4R 220 – maiden flight
Last week I’ve been finally able to put my new mini quad into the air. It’s based on Reptile XR4 220 frame. Looks like I’ve succeeded with my build this time, since there were no major problems. Few minor, yes, but no major. My Reptile X4R 220 mini quad has following specification: Motors: EMAX RS2205…
-
Hands on: Piranha Multitool from Banggood
All RC enthusiasts know this algorithm: Build Fly Crash Repeat Sometimes there is "buy" instead of "build", but rest stays the same. What goes up must comes down and very often there is a need to fix/repair something on a airfield. Basic tools are a must when going flying! I've decided I carry too many…
-
INAV 1.2 RC1 has been released
After 3 month from previous release, INAV is preparing for a new version. INAV 1.2 will be quite massive, with a lot of new features and improvements. Full change list is available here. I will only describe the most important and “visible” changes. Rates are no longer stored in arbitrary units like 0.4. Who knows…
-
How to dispose / utilize LiPo batteries
LiPo batteries that run RC hobby are potentially dangerous devices. When not handled properly they can ignite or even explode. And they do not live forever. Even the best battery, no matter how taken care off, loses capacity, swells and has to be disposed. When we combine both facts we face a problem: how to…
-
INAV 1.1 for Naze32 with working telemetry
As long as Naze32 / Flip32 are decent flight controllers for those who does not demand too much, they share very big flaw: low flash memory size. While even a year ago 128kB of flash was enough, times changed, and limited flash makes a problem for advanced flight controller software like INAV. Starting from INAV…
-
3D Printed RunCam HD / Mobius camera mount for Reptile X4R 220
After I finished my new Reptile X4R 220 racing mini-quad, I’ve realized, that there is no way I will be able to mount my RunCam HD on it. Comparing to ZMR250, 220 frame is just small. On a top plate there is enough room to fit battery, RC and FPV antennas and all what is…
-
Flyinglemon AIR32 STM32F3 flight controller
It was a good week for flight controllers from Poland. Few days ago ROTORACER showed his RACEBASE FC, yesterday Flyinglemon showed his AIR32 STM32F3 board. Comparing to RACEBASE F3 it is maybe less advanced in terms of integration, but not always more is better. AIR32 features: integrated 5V step-down 600mA BEC compatible up to 6S…
-
Hands on: Reptile X4R 220 quadcopter frame
Last week, first parts for my new racing quadcopter started to arrive. One of them, was carbon fiber frame: Reptile X4R 220. Why this one? Like I stated many times: I’m cheap. Plus, I did not wanted to go with another ZMR250 build. This frame was easily available, within budget and good looking. So, few…
-
Hands on: Matek PDB-XT60
As long as quality is decent, there is nothing better like "el cheapo" electronic components. Just like below $5 Matek PDB-XT60 Power Distribution Board with integrated 5V and 12V BEC. Preparing to build a new 220 racer I just got my Matek PDB from Aliexpress. Quality, at a first glance looks good. Laminate nicely cut,…