HobbyKing's done it again. Check out this deal: their mini-quad with four motors for $33.95! (Or $31.95 if you just let your browser sit open on that page for a few minutes).
All you need to add to make a RC quad (in addition to your regular RC system and LiPo batteries) is:
- A KK controller board ($19.99)
- 4 ESCs ($7.39 each)
- Some 7" props (regular and counter-rotating) ($2.53)
- An AVR programmer ($4.75)
That's $90 all told. Now, in fairness, this is a pretty crappy little frame and it won't last past a crash or two. I also wouldn't expect too much outside in the wind. But what a great way to get started!
Comments
I would add 20 bucks and upgrade to this frame: http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewItem.asp?idProduct=...
I use these 1200Kv ones, from HK, and they work fine with plenty of power for flying with 9x5" props and good response. but if you want to heavy lift, the lower kv, likeDT750, are better.
The motors that come with this wooden frame are 2300kv, but only run on 2s batteries. You need them that high with the 2s and they recommend 6x3 props. It's not going to be a heavy lifter, but should be good for some pretty tame flying. These motors are not very efficient, I suspect. It weighs 16g.
Oh and for those, who don't know about HK Buddy codes, there's a web site where you can get discounts from people who post their Buddy codes. This kit can be gotten for $28,36. You'll need to have a Hobby King account to see the swarm price.
http://hk.rc-international.info/swarm
It's a good deal. If I wasn't printing, and making my own frames now I'd get one of those. I think wood makes a good frame. Nature's version of carbon fibre, and non-toxic.
Honestly, how many quad frames can survive any kind of real crash. (Except my Firefly, of course.)
From where can we get the firmware to flash the board. Or do we have to write our own code and flash it?
yes, you're stuck with a 7" or smaller prop. Actually, 2200kV says 7" is pushing it (may low, low pitch). 6"x3 would be more appropriate.
@ Fabien Bruning
Many thanks for the details of your quad ! :)
Your description and pictures are very clear
I wish you a good first flight when the weather over your place will be better
I will be happy to read your comments !
cheers
JC
@Andreas
the DT700 motor Fabien used is Kv: 700rpm/v on HK specifications
A correction by the way, I chose the Turnigy Plush 30A which are only 11.60$ each, they're more expensive in the EU warehouse.
The motor is indeed the DT700, total weight of the quad is about 1.5 kg with everything on it.
Complete specs:
Turnigy Nano-tech 5Ah
11x4.7 Props (note: these have 2.5mm holes, the DT700 shaft is 4mm. You need to drill, but they're cheap!)
I'm curious about flight time myself as well, I assembled it with a friend the day before yesterday and it's snowing outside.. I think, with my testing of about 15 minutes and a battery half empty, I should get 20+ minutes. I also have a separate battery, it takes about 60-70% throttle to lift off so it should have plenty of power.
The aluminum tubing is 20x20x1.5mm, it's weight is equal to 15x15x2mm but much stiffer. Would have preferred a thinner wall thickness but you can't really get those.
The tubing interconnection is made by cutting half of the tube out of the other, so they fit inside of each other. They're secured with a single screw. There is a plate on top that also acts as a holder for the electronics box, which counteracts any rotational movement of the tubes. (may not be needed)
By connecting the tubes this way, you can circumvent the use of relatively weak plate material as the center hub, the connection between each of the booms is now essentially half the thickness, 10mm, which you could never get with a plate. (unless it weights a ton)
I hope you can see something in these pictures:
@ Fabien Bruning
Hello Fabien,
Read your answer and i am interested by your DIY quadrotor
Could you please provide more details about it ?
1)What is the aluminium tube section and thickness ?
2)Is this the motor you are using ?
3)which ESC did you choose?
4)Also would be interested to get more details about your quadrotor like
propeller size, LIPO battery and flying time you are getting
Best regards,
JC
getting started with a frame that lasts only one crash? xD
I got my quad for:
1x 2m square aluminium tube: 12$
4x DT700 : 40$
4x PLush 56$
Which is still orders of magintude cheaper than any traditional hobby shop, I still don't know how they can make a DT700 for 10$.
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