This project guide explains how to use power distribution boards (PDBs) in drone builds. PDBs simplify wiring and power management for electronic speed controllers (ESCs), flight controllers, cameras, and other components. Using a PDB improves the organization and reliability of your drone's power system. This is crucial for safe and efficient drone operation.

Here are some project ideas that benefit from using a PDB:

• Building a custom quadcopter or hexacopter.
• Integrating a high-resolution camera for aerial photography.
• Adding an FPV (First-Person View) video transmitter for real-time flight control.
• Installing LED lights for improved visibility during night flights.

Hardware/Components

The project uses two types of power distribution boards: a passive PDB (no voltage regulation) and an active PDB (with regulated 5V and 12V outputs). (in video at 00:08)

You will also need:

• Electronic Speed Controllers (ESCs)
• Battery (3-4 cell LiPo recommended)
• Multimeter (for voltage measurements)
• Wires and connectors
• LEDs (optional)

Wiring Guide

The passive PDB (in video at 01:31) has clearly labeled positive and negative terminals. All positive terminals are internally connected, as are all negative terminals. Each ESC connects to a positive and negative pair. Additional connections are available for LEDs and other components. (in video at 01:39)

The active PDB (in video at 04:39) also has positive and negative terminals for battery connection and provides regulated 5V and 12V outputs. This board also includes switches to control the power to the 12V and 5V outputs, and optionally the LEDs. (in video at 03:37)

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Code Explanation

No code is required for this project.

Live Project/Demonstration

The video demonstrates the connection and testing of both PDBs. The presenter connects a multimeter to measure the voltage at various points on the boards, showing the distribution of power and the function of the voltage regulators in the active PDB. (in video at 02:56)

The video showcases the use of switches to control the power to the 12V and 5V outputs and LEDs. (in video at 03:37, 05:52) The presenter also shows how different battery voltages (e.g., 15.5V from a 4-cell battery) are regulated to provide stable 5V and 12V outputs. (in video at 07:07)

Chapters

• [00:03] Introduction to Power Distribution Boards
• [00:35] Passive vs. Active PDBs
• [01:30] Passive PDB Wiring and Connections
• [02:56] Passive PDB Testing and Demonstration
• [04:39] Active PDB Overview and Features
• [05:33] Active PDB Wiring and Connections
• [06:00] Active PDB Testing and Demonstration
• [07:07] Active PDB Voltage Regulation