New to APM2.5

Hello folks,

I am relatively new to drones, especially the APM2.5 and am planning my first build.

The only real problem i have come up against is that i cant figure out how i am going to power the APM2.5 board!

I have read through all the pages i can find, and what it keeps coming back to is something like:

You can power it from the RC input, but also from the output with an ESC.

Now does this mean i can plug all my outputs from my 6ch RX into the inputs on the board, with the BEC from the ESC still going to my RX like normal?

Or does it mean i have to do the above - like normal - then plug some other power supply into one of the outputs on the APM2.5?

I understand the ESC must be in the outputs so the APM2.5 can control the throttle, but how can the board possibly get power from the input of the ESC?

Hope all that makes sense!

Any help would be much appreciated - as once i get this sorted out i can start assembling the parts!

Thanks

Replies

Randy Brazeau November 7, 2012 at 2:56pm

Well to power just the APM, a 2S 1000 mah battery should be fine?

I assume both batteries would need a common ground to function properly
Developer

Antonius Lourenço Kasbergen October 27, 2012 at 4:36pm

So I understand that when JP1 is open, I have to power APM from 2 power sources (ESC and BEC for example) at the same time on input and output, right? But if I understand it right, if one power source fails, the APM and servos will shut down. Or not? Because at the wiki it reads:

NOTE: if JP1 open, power is required on both Input PWM and Output PWM

So, whats the point having 2 power sources if as soon one fails the system fails?

And second, I have a 1700mah for APM and a 2x5000mah for ESC/MOTOR, I use a BEC for APM. Can someone tell me the best option from the alternatives below?

1) APM powered via a 1700mah battery (OUTPUT PWM) + BEC + 2x5000mah for the motor

2) APM and Motor powered by main battery 2x5000mah, APM via a dedicated BEC on OUTPUT PWM

3) APM and Motor powered by main battery 2x5000mah, APM via ESC BEC

What it is better to power APM via Input or Output? I understand that via input you have to put more voltage (5.3V)

Thanks!
Developer

Antonius Lourenço Kasbergen October 23, 2012 at 5:18pm

Is anyone using a dual power setup?

Thanks!
Finnius October 17, 2012 at 8:22pm

Thanks guys!

I think i have the APM2.5 power supply sorted out now:

- leave the JP1 jumper in place

- 800mAh 3S w/ 3A BEC connected to one of the APM2.5 outputs

Cheers
3D Robotics

Chris Anderson October 13, 2012 at 9:58pm

"Now does this mean i can plug all my outputs from my 6ch RX into the inputs on the board, with the BEC from the ESC still going to my RX like normal?"

Yep! Standard ESCs have a power regulator onboard, which can power both APM and the RC receiver.

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