2020-08-21          Katana-LR5x   (Long Range 5 inch)        My fifth (5th) Build             My Journal
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The Katana-LR5x (Long Range 5 inch) is my fifth (5th ) build and is a Long Range quad. The "x" designator indicates that this is an experimental build. Once the original configuration is built, tested, and flown for a while; the quad will be used to test various components and perhaps combinations {even including, perhaps, adjustments to the frame}. First, the frame kit (TomoQuads, Katana 2, the 5 inch version) appears to be identical to the Katana 2, 4 inch except that the arms are longer. My intention is to use the same electronic components that are in the Katana-LR4 build except for larger motors and props. So...I will only post pictures of parts that are different or lend added value in this thread. 

Specifically, I have some FPV Cycle {KababFPV} 2203 3450kv T-Mount motors that I want to try. These motors are red and white and look really cool   . They are heavy at 20g per motor so I hope they perform well. I will try other motors as we move along.

I will update this post with parts as I receive or change them until the initial build is complete. The post will then be a complete parts list for reference. The actual build will be put in other posts as things are completed.

NOTE: Misc parts, bolts, connectors, fabricated plates, columns, wire, etc. will NOT be included.


____________  PARTS LIST ____________ {will update as needed until build is complete}

Frame:            Katana 2, 5" version, color = Red                                     Here at TomoQuads
FC:                 JHEMCU GHF411 30A AIO   {2020-08-30}                         Here at FPV Cycle
FC:                 JHEMCU GHF405 25A AIO   {2020-08-30}                         Here at PyroDrone
Motors:           FPV Cycle 2203 3450kv T-Mount                                       Here at FPV Cycle
Props:             HQProp Durable Prop T5x3 Grey; Model T5x3GR-PC           Here at PyroDrone
VTX:               Flywoo GoKu TX-Nano 450mw                                          Here at PyroDrone
VTX Antenna:  VAX Minion Pro  {2020-08-30}                                          Here at PyroDrone
Camera:          Foxeer Razer Nano 1200TVL                                             Here on AMAZON
Rx Receiver:    FrSky R9MM  {will wire as SBUS} **
RX Antenna:    FrSky 900Hz Dipole T IPEX 4 {2020-08-30}                        Here on AMAZON
GPS:               Matek M8Q-5883                                                             Here at PyroDrone
Capacitor:        Sanyo 1000uf 35v                                                           Here on AMAZON


** These are ACCST {NOT the ACCESS ones} that I bought before they were all sold out. 

{2020-08-22} Update: Added some pictures: 0001, 0002, 0003.

After unpacking the flight controllers, I have two different JHEMCU FCs; a GHF411 and a GHF405. Reference the 0003 picture. the GHF405 has more UARTS, bigger motor mount pads, and the other pads are spaced out better {yeah, you can read the pad information a lot better, too} ...so... I think that I will use the GHF405 25A  flight controller.

{2020-08-30} Update: Added picture of VTX, VTX antenna, R9MM with antenna attached.

I did use the GHF405 25A flight controller. This board is actually easier to work on, and it has more free UARTS than the GHF411 30A flight controller. Thanks to SnowLeopardFPV, I was able to fully connect the GPS unit including the compass feature:  [HELP] GPS - Wiring the Compass on Matek M8Q-5883

{2020-09-01} Update: Added some pictures.

The build is now complete. The AUW with a 3s 650mAh GNB battery is 241 grams.  
I will update this thread with flight videos, test results, and any changes or  upgrades to the craft.

Jump to the most recent post HERE 

this is gonna be exciting

(22-Aug-2020, 03:12 AM)TStroFPV Wrote: this is gonna be exciting

Yeah, I hope so. If all goes well, the initial build should be a real blast to fly {them motors look huge to me, but look real cool}. I will get some pics of the parts tomorrow... then the build begins. I intend to use "header pins" to connect the motors so I can swap them out as needed {these are heavier than normal connectors and should handle the load easily}. I will also use a 1000 uf 35v capacitor. Not sure yet, but I might also use a custom fabricated top plate that I have been designing; super light weight 1mm or 1.5mm carbon fiber or heavy duty plastic {yet to be determined}. I also have an extra set of 1504.5 3950kv motors and might buy the Flywoo NIN 1404 3150kv motors {like in the Flywoo BNF}. Let's see what works best. 

Nice man! These motors are the pancake motors right? I'm intrigued to see them in action. Gonna be a fun build. Can't wait to see the results.

I like how your font gets smaller through your post lol.

Note 14mm motor mount is not a flush arrangement with the shaft from the motor. Check the shaft clearance hole in the cf arms for clearance.

Just a note for you.

(22-Aug-2020, 04:30 AM)wllmlutz Wrote: Nice man! These motors are the pancake motors right? I'm intrigued to see them in action. Gonna be a fun build. Can't wait to see the results.

Yes, they are; the bell is multi-piece {"pancake", "Oreo cookie"} from FPV Cycle; the ones designed by KababFPV specifically for his Cinespore and toothpick frames. Even so, they are heavier than the 1504.5's on the Katana-LR4. I want to try them first to see how they perform...the Red / White looks really cool 

{2020-08-22} Update: The Motors.

(22-Aug-2020, 07:18 AM)ph2t Wrote: I like how your font gets smaller through your post lol.

Note 14mm motor mount is not a flush arrangement with the shaft from the motor. Check the shaft clearance hole in the cf arms for clearance.

Just a note for you.

Well, the font size is just a coincidence; in fact, I am not really sure why 
These 2203 motors have a 12mm motor mount and the center hole in the frame has plenty of room for shaft.
They are a KababFPV special so they fit the "smaller" frame specifications rather than the "big" style 5 inchers.

Thanks.  

{2020-08-25}

I think I have all of the part, so I will start work on the frame today. First thing is to see where I can shave off some weight; then get the base plates and arms assembled.

{2020-08-30}

I have been working on the Katana-LR5. I don't work fast, I take time for the wife and "house" things, but I am coming along. Also, I will try something and it if doesn't work out will switch to another method. I had planned to use connectors for the motor wires so that swaps would be easier, however, that did not work out how I wanted, so I decided to just solder the motor wires directly to the FC. This looks much better {probably won't work any different, just looks cleaner to me}. Any way, here is where I am at: the frame base and core electrical components are in place, mounted, and tested for shorts.

Also, I did not shorten the motor wires since these motors might not stay with this build. First, they are a little heavy in my opinion, but hey, just had try them. Also, I have another use for them. 

On the other hand, you never know. For me, it will all come down to efficiency and Fly Time. We will see  

I've got a tiny bit dull question related to capabilities of build like yours: Do you estimate this quad to be capable of successfully lifting GoPro-like devices?

(30-Aug-2020, 05:45 PM)Meryler Wrote: I've got a tiny bit dull question related to capabilities of build like yours: Do you estimate this quad to be capable of successfully lifting GoPro-like devices?

In my opinion, it will likely handle a GoPro-like device. This particular setup should be pretty strong. The dry weight of the quad right now is 143 grams. I am expecting the finished dry weight to be about 150-160 grams. These 2203 3450kv motors were developed for higher power in the smaller drones; 3 to 5 inch category. In fact, I believe the motors to be overpowered for what I am working for, but we will see. Keep in mind that my build is pretty light for a 5 inch, this will be a sub 250g build. I plan to use a 3s 1100mAh GNB battery (66 grams). 

So with these motors, there should be power enough for a payload. How much    Don't know yet 

Although, I plan to use 3s, it will handle 4s. I have a couple of 4s 1550 mAh batteries (for my goggles) that I might try just to see how it flies. 

Do you know about how much camera "weight" you want to use  ??

 I could add an equivalent payload and see how it flies.     That would be the best that I could offer 

Camera weight would be somewhat around 125g. Going run tests is not necessary, I'm just theoretically trying to work out area to explore with my future builds, but I do appreciate your help there.
I'm pushing myself to keep my bench as clean as possible and not to enter areas requiring eg. lipos I woulnd't use at any other occurrence, but am almost certain those motors anyway would lift Li-Ion 3s power packs I'm about to utilise for m mid-to-long range mountain divers

Cheers!

(30-Aug-2020, 07:18 PM)Meryler Wrote: Camera weight would be somewhat around 125g. Going run tests is not necessary, I'm just theoretically trying to work out area to explore with my future builds, but I do appreciate your help there.
I'm pushing myself to keep my bench as clean as possible and not to enter areas requiring eg. lipos I woulnd't use at any other occurrence, but am almost certain those motors anyway would lift Li-Ion 3s power packs I'm about to utilise for m mid-to-long range mountain divers

Cheers!

First, it will easily handle an extra 125 grams. I have just run a 2s 18650 3000 mAh setup on my Phantom-X build with pretty good results; Fly Time over 21 minutes.  Now, I am working on a holder for 3 18650 cells for that build and it is only running 1303 5000kv motors. I don't like soldering batteries together like most people do, so...I just use an appropriate "holder" so I can just pop out the batteries, put in fresh ones, and recharge them on a regular 18650 charger. I might also consider trying the 3s holder on this build. In fact, this build {Katana-LR5} should easily handle a 4s pack with these motors.

If you want a rig to carry payload, keep the frame and electronics as light as possible and put any extra build "weight" into more powerful motors; balance the motor power to weight ratio for optimal power/gram. By keeping the craft weight lower for the motor power, you will be able to carry larger payload. The larger the payload, the larger the extra power (and craft size) will need to be. 

One of my goals is to see how much I can get and stay in the sub 250 gram AUW (including battery).  The AIO flight controller that I am using is rated at 25A, but they make a 35A version which should handle some pretty strong motors. 

{2020-08-31}

The Katana-LR5x build is complete.    Introducing my sub 250 gram 5 inch quad. 

I knew that this build was going to be a little heavy due to the monster 2203 3450kv motors, but it is still under the 250g mark {at least with a 3s 650 GNB battery }  

Love it. That there is a no-nonsense-get-outta-me-way-Imma-comin-through solid build. You literally considered every issue faced by long range and addressed it. Can't wait to see the maiden!