I got my order in today with my APM 2.5+ kit (GPS & APM Power Module w/Deans). I also ordered
(4) ArduCopter 20A ESC (which has BEC), (4) AC2830-358 850KV motors and the 3DR Quadcopter Power Distribution Board.
Looking for some guidance on how to hook up the power to ESC. I see how the APM Power Module hooks from Battery, to the APM power connector out to the Distribution board. I know how the ESC power and Cables connect to the 3DR Power Distribution board. There are some additional cables for the APM I think the multi-color cable and there is a +/gnd cable (I think). Here is a link to the board:
3DR Quadcopter Power Distribution Board
This is my first build in the RC Air world. I have built RC kits and robotic kits - not afraid to do some basic soldering. I also do not feel like brick'n my APM 2.5+ so figure I would ask the community and get some advice first.
I am actually going to test the APM 2.5+ on my ground 6x6 wheel rover first.
If anyone is interested - I have been posting some of what I have been up to with the 3D Printer and working out my own frame for Quadcopter:
Replies
The two wire red/black cable from the PDB is used if you do not have a 3DR PM.
It has the combined (parallel) ESC BEC outputs. With the PM, you should pull/cut the red wire from the connector.
If not, you will have more than one power source to the APM -- not a good idea in general.
In short (no pun intended) do not connect the red wire of the red/black cable.
The black wire needs to be connected as it is the return for the ESC drive signals.
As you are applying APM to a rover, the other 3 ESC lines will be redundant at this time.
It is also important to remove JP1 as indicated in THIS instruction.
-=Doug