Discussions

I have started building my first octocopter and using using it as a learning curve along the way. The largest unit I have built was the DJI F550 Hexa with an aftermarket gimbal and skids which now seems elementary compared to the unit I have been working on for a while. 

Here are some of the Specs and what I plan to install on the unit. The unit is currently being built to monitor parking usage across a large area. The next stage of development would be to use the drone to downlink image data and develop a software to calculate the number of cars parked at various times in the day. 

I have asked a few questions below under some of the items and would be grateful for any advice and support. I am still trying to work out a few things, for example the best most efficient way to power the auxiliaries and a wiring schematic. Help on this would be great!

 1. Frame: Tarot T15

I picked this as it seemed to be the most cost effective frame and is also foldable. I was surprised to see the build quality of the parts is very good although it does have some issues with the slight diameter variance across the 8 booms. This made the installation of the CNC  machine motor mounts a little difficult and time consuming when it came to alignment with the rest of the boom. 

2. Motors: Tarot 5008 High Power Brushless Motor (340kv) 

The only criticism I have on these would be the packaging they arrived in. The Tarot frame was presented very well in a visually attractive box (inspired by DJI). I have not used these as yet but have read some good reviews on these motors. They will be propelling 16" CF props.

3. ESC: Hobbywing FlyFun 40A-OPTO

As above, purchased based on reviews and recommended by the website as a good fit to the motors. Will update once the unit is in the air.

4. Power Distribution: Hobby King Octocopter Power Distribution

Cost effective and does the job and in reality I couldn’t find anything this small anywhere else. Please feel free to recommend alternatives.

5. Flight Controller: DJI A2

I did make a small error and purchased the Naza V2 only to find out that it supports 8 motors through the two extra Function bays, (F1 and F2). This would leave no connection point for the Gimbal. 

6. OSD: DJI IOSD Mini

7. FPV: DJI 5.8GHz Video Downlink

The idea is to have two cameras, one for FPV and one for taking the high resolution photos. I am still deciding on a camera and advice would be embraced.

8. Data Link: 2.4G Data Link LK24-BT

Is this still required since I have upgraded to the A2?

9. Power: Pulse Lipo 10,000mAh (6s 22.2V 25C)

I purchased two of these and will test out the flight times with one and with the two.

10. Gimbal: Zenmuse Z15 (For the Nex 7)

11. HD Video Downlink: Light Bridge

What is the recommendation here? FPV link or would it be possible to have this connected to the NEX 7 to attain live view?

12. Camera: Sony Nex

13. Auxiliary power: 2200mAh Lipo

This battery is to drive the gimbal and other units such as the FPV, downlink and Lightbridge. Do I have enough power?

14. Ground Station Equipment

IPad Air with Bluetooth 4.0 Support

PC Laptop

Liliput 7” 663 LED Monitor 1280x80 (would I require a second monitor for live view?)

Aerial for FPV (although flight plan will not lose line of sight nor be greater than 1KM at all times any recommendations? I am able to connect the antenna to the roof of my 3 storey building and set up the ground station on the roof)

15. TX/RX: Undecided

I am aware that the A2 works well with the Futaba Fasst controllers and would like to know what you guys think. How many channels and assuming I will require two controllers how many channels each? 

I will post photos soon to updating on the build. 

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