Hi guys,
I want to get my first drone going but I am only seeing the APM1.0 included in the 3DR kits.
I have a desire to get the latest hardware versions figuring they will be supported longer, plus it is smaller and lighter. Or is the 3DR-B kit with the APM1.0 board set just the way I should go?
What are my options here? I also need a radio, thinking about the spektrum DX8/AR8000.
I have an electronics background, so the soldering and such of a kit is no problem (I have surface mount soldered 0402 resistors and 144 pin TQFP packages)
I am a newbie when it comes to the RC hobby and UAVs though.
Thanks for any advice,
Rick
Replies
Buy the motor and frame kit, and then buy the APM 2.0=the exact same function and parts at the full APM1.0 kits
https://store.diydrones.com/ArduCopter_3DR_B_Frame_Motors_Kit_p/kt-...
Also, the 850kv motors are good and I personally use the 11x4.7 props with them.
In theory the 880kv motors give you more lift, but that's up to you for the expense and then go with 12x4.5 props.
https://store.diydrones.com/product_p/br-ardupilotmega-04.htm
The motor and frame kit is everything (frame, motors, props, power distro board), then APM 2.0 has everythign on it unlike APM1.0 where it was separates (gps, magnetometer, etc).
Add sonar if you want
You really want to use the 3DR 915 mhz teletemetry radio kit here in the US.
https://store.diydrones.com/3DR_RadioTelemetry_Kit_915_Mhz_p/kt-tel...
I highly applaud your smart decision to go with a Spektrum DX8 and AR8000, as that radio is very good and exactly what I use for all of my drones and RC projects. Very good proven failsafe, excellent range!!!
The main reason they are selling the kits that way is they have APM1.0s ready to ship where demand for APM2.0 because it's better and cheaper (how often does that happen?) is about 2 weeks wait from your order.
Also, just a heads up is all the differnc ein the 3DR "B" kit is that they made the whole APM and RC gear mounting plate removable. There is not like a huge design change,but it is a little better than the old frame in that respect to assemble and then work on later.