I’m currently working on an ArduPilot-based FPV quad project, primarily for FPV and autonomous flying (features like QGroundControl, LiDAR, and high-quality FPV with DJI O3). Due to budget constraints, I want to start my learning process by customizing my original DJI F450 frame, temporarily using as many existing components as possible (DJI 2312 motors, 420 Lite ESCs, Graupner MX-12 HoTT RX/TX), while upgrading to ArduPilot, QGroundControl, LiDAR-supported landing, and the DJI FPV system.
However, the plan is to gradually upgrade to more capable hardware.
So far, after researching around, I’ve collected a possible component list for the final build; as my skills are more in IT and scripting than in hardware design or CAD, I would greatly appreciate any recommendations or advice from more experienced members.
Flight Controller: Holybro Pixhawk 6C Mini
ESC: TBS Lucid 3-6S 4in1 ESC (AM32, MPU-6000)
Motors: T-Motor F90 2806.5 1300KV (Long Range)
Frame: Possibly iFlight Chimera7 Pro V2 LR (mainly for looks, space & build quality)
FPV: DJI O3 Air Unit
I would appreciate feedback on:
Are there better alternatives for ESCs or motors for reliable ArduPilot performance (focus on stability and efficiency)?
Are there modern frame recommendations specifically designed with DJI O3 compatibility and good vibration isolation for FC and ESC?
Any caveats with the Chimera7 LR frame for ArduPilot builds?
Visual appeal and a neat internal layout are important to me – 5", 6", or 7" is secondary as long as it’s well-designed and durable.
Thanks! That’s an awesome and extremly helpful Blog. Will definitife help.
Do you know if I should consider to use Walksnail Avatar HD V2 instead of DJI O3 or O4 Air. Personally I honor DJI for their awesome quality but I don’t like their pricing and closed sourced mentality.
With DJI O3 it seems to be the only option (to be not forced to use goggles) to buy a remote controler like (DJI RC2). Maybe with an alternative I can do it better.
i reviewed the suggested part list and I want to understand how the power circuit for the FPV setup has been handled there. Somewhere I read that it’s important to keep it clean and constant. How did andyp1per handle this in his build?
My first idea was to use the Pixhawk 6C Mini as FC. But I think I understood correctly that it’s not a good choice for FPV purpose because of it MAVLink-only output instead of MAVLink + MST Canvas. Am I right? Therefore he uses the Matek H743 Slim.
Can you or someone else help me how to find the right flight controller for a quadrocopter setup like I want to build?
The Matek board has an OSD chip Pixhawks do not. They will also take direct battery power so you don’t need to find a place for a Power Module. Smaller and lighter. The Matek board is a good choice.
Thanks both. I will read more about the other mentioned FC. The LEDs are looking nice. Can you list the other components you have used (for LEDs, ESC, Camera, Power Delivery for camera and the rest, frame, etc..)
. That doesn’t feel nice.
