Flight Controller Recommendations For Tarot 650 Quad?

ArduCopter Copter 4.5
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As some of you know, I have had considerable trouble with my Tarot 650 Sport quad using an APM controller. While I have been able to fly it, the motors have not run smoothly. My tests have eliminated propeller, motor, ESC issues but failing to isolate the problem, I’ve decided to bite the bullet and replace the controller with something that is compatible with the current version of Mission Planner.

Towards, this end, I’m looking a controllers made by Holybro, specifically the Pixhawk 6C. Does anyone have any experience with it? Would this be a good choice for a large wuad such as my Tarot? I’d appreciate any suggestions/recommendations.

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Yes, that is a good one.

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Actually doesn’t matter which FC to use. I build large copter on Matek-405TE.
All FC diffenence is Flash size for Optic Flow sensor use f.e., CAN bus, number of servos…

So first you need deceide what periphery you will use and which AP options are necerrary.
Second- vibro isolation of FC/IMU.

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My needs are modest. The Tarot has a Tarot 3 axis gimbal which I will control separately bypassing the F.C. No other sensors. My main reason for switching from the APM is that in flight, the motors are not running smoothly in synch and I’ve eliminated all other components except the F.C. I’m hoping that a newer controller in conjunction with a current version of M.P. will take care of the problem.

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A new FC with new firmware, with a new MP version is only a part of the solution.

You need to configure it properly otherwise it won’t get the job done.

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I’m using a Pixhawk 6c on a Tarot 690. It works well. What ESCs and GPS are you using?

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Any supported flight controller will do the job. Buy a branded one, there are many to choose from.

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What do you mean by “configure it properly”? I’m well aware that I will have to go through all the radio, ESC, compass configurations after I’ve flashed the firmware. Do you have something else in mind?

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I’m using T-Motor Air 40 A ESCs controlling T-Motor MN5008 400KV motors. The GPS is a Ublox M8N - will probably replace it with an M9N module that comes with the Pixhawk 6C.

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The Pixhawk 6C is availablle at the Holybro store for $211.99 U.S. but there are other sources such as AliExpress that offer the FRC, GPS, telemetry modems, power module, etc. for $124.10 - 43% off from $219.14. I’m tempted to buy that one. Any thoughts?

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Yes, I do, use ArduPilot Methodic Configurator software to do it properly.

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The Pixhawk 6c is a great FC. I’m running mine with the M9N. As you mentioned it plugs right into the FC. You’ll want a Holybro power module that’s specific for the 6c NOT the 6x. It explains it on the Holybro website. I also like their PDB that has a main XT60 battery connector and XT30 ESC connections.

Whichever FC you decide to go with you’ll need to configure it using the parameters list part of the Mission Planner software. Those are additional steps after you calibrate the FC and GPS. I recommend searching for Painless360 on YouTube. He did an ArduPilot build using a Pixhawk FC. It takes you step by step through the building and configuration process all the way up to the maiden flight. Lots of great info in his videos.

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Thanks for the advice! I am using a MATEK PDB but may replace it (I have a spare MATEK but I’m not closed to trying some other). I have to essentially completely disassemble the aircraft in order to get to the bottom deck (I modified my Tarot so that it has three center plates), where the PDB, power module and ESCs are installed.

I am familiar with the Painless360 videos - lots of good info!

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I will check out the steps. I still have to order the fc and after it arrives, take apart install new components and reassemble so I have plenty of time to become familiar.

Thanks for the link!