Here's a noob question. Is it safe to use the BEC within one of the 6 ESC's I have to power a camera (gopro)? Will everything function OK if I remove the 5v lead from my ESC connecting to the PDB, leaving only the signal wire?
Here is the ESC I am using http://clubheli.com/Maytech-SimonK-Multi-Rotor-ESC-30A.html
alternatively - can I use the 5v out from my PDB to power a camera? I have a 3DR power module providing power to my APM, so from my understanding this connection is not necessary from the PDB to the APM?
Replies
@Raph,
I've just done the same thing to power the GoPro, by plugging the power module's 5V output into two power pins on the output rail on the APM, and plugging the GoPro + and - into another pair of output pins on the output rail. Did you run into any problems with this, or find a better way?
Also, how did you wire in your 12V BEC? I've got one for my gimbal and video tx, and I'm trying to figure out where to wire it into the power system. I can see if connecting to a balance plug on one of the batteries, or maybe going in between the battery and the power module with an XT60 splitter and an XT60->JST adapter. I assume it wouldn't go in after the power module, because that would just increase the draw through the power adapter.
Thanks.
I.e. with one of these between the main battery and the power module:
http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/catalog/18869-2.jpg
If you are powering the amp with a 3DR power module and jumper one is removed, that's the way the amp gets power. You get some added features with the 3DR power module. Powering the amp with the 3DR power module is the recommended way to power and amp.