LDARC FB156 FPV Flyball Soccer Drone Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

The LDARC FB156 Flyball Soccer Drone is an innovative FPV quadcopter designed for both recreational flying and educational drone soccer competitions. Its unique design integrates a drone with a protective spherical cage, making it highly durable and resistant to impacts. This ultra-low center of gravity design provides a "tumbler effect," allowing it to withstand hits and rolls without significant damage, which is ideal for training and competitive environments.

The mini-sized FB156 is capable of flying freely in small spaces. Constructed from impact-resistant PP material, it offers excellent broken resistance, contributing to lower training costs. It is suitable for entry-level pilots, educational training programs, drone soccer competitions, and recreational barrier-breaking games.

Equipped with an F411 Flight Controller and a Blheli_S 25A ESC AIO board, the drone supports BETAFLIGHT parameter adjustments and OSD (On-Screen Display) for real-time aircraft status monitoring. The high anti-current 25A 4-in-1 ESC enhances the overall durability of the aircraft. For FPV versions, a RUSH VTX and RUNCAM camera are included, providing a good user experience. Additional card recording equipment can be integrated for improved indoor shooting safety.

The FB156 offers a flight time of up to 5 minutes when using a 3S 600mAh battery.

The FB156 FPV Flyball Soccer Drone, featuring its protective cage and LED lighting.

2. Safety Precautions

• Age Restriction: This product is not suitable for children under 36 months and is recommended for individuals aged 14 and above.
• Battery Voltage: The overall PNP configuration supports only 3S battery voltage. It is strictly forbidden to use higher voltage batteries, as this can cause severe damage to the drone.
• Flight Environment: Always operate the drone in open areas, away from people, animals, and obstacles. Avoid flying near power lines, buildings, or in crowded spaces.
• Pre-Flight Check: Before each flight, ensure all components are securely attached, propellers are free from damage, and the battery is fully charged and properly installed.
• Propeller Safety: Keep hands and face clear of rotating propellers. Always disarm the drone before handling it.
• Environmental Conditions: Avoid flying in strong winds, rain, or other adverse weather conditions.
• Dangerous Actions: Do not imitate dangerous actions shown in promotional videos. Always prioritize safety during operation.
• Failsafe Check: Before flying, always verify that the failsafe function is working correctly to prevent loss of control.

3. Package Contents

The FB156 drone is available in different versions (Racer, FPV, RTF) with varying package contents. Please check your specific version against the list below.

Common Items:

• FB156 Drone (PNP/BNF version, without remote controller) - 1 pc
• Battery bandage strap - 1 pc
• Original Box

Version-Specific Contents:

• Racer Version: PNP*1 (Plug-N-Play, requires your own receiver, battery, and remote controller)
• FPV Version: PNP*1 (includes VTX and camera, requires your own receiver, battery, and remote controller)
• RTF Version: PNP*1 + X6*1 (remote controller) + battery*1 + RX2A receiver*1 + handbag*1 (Ready-To-Fly, a complete package)

Note: BNF (Bind-N-Fly) versions include a receiver (AC900 or RX2A PRO optional), but do not include a remote controller or battery unless specified as RTF.

4. Specifications

5. Setup & Assembly

5.1. Motor Direction and Propeller Installation

Ensure the motors rotate in the correct direction and propellers are installed accordingly. Incorrect installation can lead to unstable flight or damage.

The motor direction diagram (refer to FB156 Flyball Manual, page 9) shows a quadcopter layout. Motors M1 and M4 rotate clockwise (CW), while M2 and M3 rotate counter-clockwise (CCW). Propellers should be matched to their respective motor rotation directions.

5.2. Battery Installation

First, fix the balance head of the battery with a rubber band. Then, carefully place the battery upright into its designated compartment within the drone's frame. Ensure it is secure and does not interfere with any moving parts. For a visual guide, refer to the original FB156 Flyball Manual (page 4).

5.3. Receiver Wiring (if applicable)

If your drone is a PNP/BNF version and requires receiver installation, follow these wiring guidelines:

• S.BUS Receiver: The default wiring for S.BUS receivers uses three wires: white for the S.BUS signal line, red for 5V power, and black for GND (Ground).
• Other Receiver Types: For SPEKTRUM Satellite, Crossfire RX, or other receiver types, refer to their specific instruction manuals for proper wiring. Generally, connect the signal wire to the appropriate RX pad on the flight controller, 5V to the 5V pad, and GND to the GND pad.

For detailed wiring diagrams for S.BUS RX, SPEKTRUM Satellite, and Crossfire RX, please consult the original FB156 Flyball Manual (page 7-8) and the specific receiver manuals (AC900, RX2A PRO).

5.4. General Assembly (Exploded View)

The drone consists of several key components assembled within the protective cage. An exploded view diagram (refer to FB156 Flyball Manual, page 9) typically shows the following layers from top to bottom:

1. M2 self-tightening nut
2. Canopy
3. VTX (Video Transmitter)
4. Bracket
5. FC (Flight Controller)
6. M2 shock absorbing ball
7. Frame
8. Carbon plate
9. M2*18 Hex socket screw

Ensure all screws (e.g., M2*5, M2*6, PA1.5*9, M2*9) are securely fastened during assembly. Refer to the original FB156 Flyball Manual (page 10) for detailed assembly diagrams.

6. Receiver Binding & Failsafe

This section covers the binding process for compatible receivers and setting up failsafe. The FB156 supports AC900 (FUTABA S-FHSS, FRSKY D16) and RX2A PRO (AFHDS2A) receivers.

6.1. Status LED Indicator

Upon power-on, the receiver's LED will blink twice, then become solid. The meaning of these blinks indicates the receive mode and failsafe mode, while the solid light indicates signal status. Refer to the AC900 Receiver Manual (page 2) or RX2A PRO Receiver Manual (page 2) for visual representation.

6.2. Binding Procedure

Before binding, check the current receive mode indicated by the first LED blink after power on (e.g., green for S-FHSS, yellow for D16, red for AFHDS2A).

• For AC900 (FUTABA S-FHSS / FRSKY D16):
  1. Turn on your remote controller (TX).
  2. Press and hold the button on the AC900 receiver, then power on the AC900.
  3. The green LED will fast blink, indicating bind mode. You can release the button.
  4. For FRSKY D16, set your TX into D16 bind mode. The red LED will become solid, indicating bind finished. Exit TX bind mode.
  5. The receiver's green LED will become solid, indicating normal operation.
• For RX2A PRO (AFHDS2A):
  1. Press and hold the button on the RX2A PRO receiver, then power on the receiver.
  2. The green LED will fast blink, indicating bind mode. You can release the button.
  3. Set your TX into bind mode. The green LED will turn off, and the red LED will become solid, indicating bind finished. Exit TX bind mode.
  4. The receiver's green LED will become solid, indicating normal operation.

6.3. Failsafe Settings

The receiver supports two failsafe modes. It is crucial to test the failsafe functionality thoroughly before flight.

• Failsafe Mode 1: After 1 second of losing transmitter signal, S.BUS output continues. Throttle will be set to 988us, and all other channels to 1500us.
• Failsafe Mode 2: After 1 second of losing transmitter signal, S.BUS will not output. Users must configure flight controller parameters to handle failsafe in this mode.

6.4. Switching Failsafe Mode / Receive Mode

• To Switch Failsafe Mode: While the AC900 is working normally, press and hold the button. The LED will turn off. After 3 seconds, the yellow LED will blink once. Release the button to switch to the other failsafe mode. The receiver will restart automatically, and the LED will blink twice then become solid.
• To Switch Receive Mode: While the AC900 is working normally, press and hold the button. The LED will turn off. After 3 seconds, the yellow LED will blink once. Continue holding until the yellow LED becomes solid. Release the button to switch to the other receive mode. The receiver will restart automatically, and the LED will blink twice then become solid.

For more detailed information, refer to the AC900 Receiver Manual and RX2A PRO Receiver Manual.

7. Flight Controller & OSD Settings

The FB156 utilizes an MR26-AIO-F411E25A Flight Controller (FC) which supports Betaflight for configuration.

7.1. Flight Controller Details

• FC Target: LDARCF411
• ESC Target: g_H_30
• Ammeter: 100/0

The FC board features components such as MPU6000, AT7456E, and MOSFET TOSHIBA 2R203. Key connections include T1, VIDEO_OUT, VIDEO_IN, 5V, GND, 3V3, and LIPO for power. For a visual representation of the FC layout and pinouts, please refer to the original FB156 Flyball Manual (page 5).

7.2. Betaflight Configuration

To adjust parameters and fine-tune your drone, connect the FC to a computer running the Betaflight Configurator software. The Betaflight Configurator provides a graphical interface for managing settings, flashing firmware, and analyzing flight data. For detailed instructions on using Betaflight, refer to the Betaflight documentation.

A screenshot of the Betaflight Configurator interface can be found in the original FB156 Flyball Manual (page 6).

7.3. OSD (On-Screen Display) Setting Interface

The OSD allows you to view real-time flight information directly on your FPV feed. To access the OSD setting interface using your remote controller:

1. Center the throttle stick.
2. Push the throttle stick to the left.
3. Simultaneously pull the pitch stick up. This action will enter the OSD setting interface.
4. Use the pitch stick (up/down) to select menu items.
5. Center the roll stick to enter a submenu.

An OSD menu diagram showing options like PROFILE, FEATURES, OSD, FC. FW INFO, MISC, and SAVE/EXIT is available in the original FB156 Flyball Manual (page 6).

7.4. VTX (Video Transmitter) Information

For the FPV version, the drone includes a TINY ROCKET VTX. For the VTX manual and the VTX list file needed for the FC, please access the following link: VTX Manual and List File.

8. Operating Instructions

8.1. Arming and Disarming

To arm (start motors) or disarm (stop motors) the drone using a compatible remote controller:

• The green LED light on the remote controller (if applicable) indicates DISARMED state.
• The red LED light on the remote controller (if applicable) indicates ARMED state.
• Click "Button 5" on your remote controller to toggle between DISARM and ARM states.

Refer to your remote controller's manual for specific button assignments if different. A diagram of the transmitter with Button 5 highlighted can be found in the original FB156 Flyball Manual (page 3).

8.2. Basic Flight

Once armed, slowly increase the throttle to lift off. Use the control sticks to maneuver the drone. The protective cage allows for robust indoor and outdoor flight, including contact with surfaces without immediate damage.

8.3. Competition Types

The FB156 is designed for drone soccer and various competition types:

• Control Competition: Focuses on piloting skills.
• Assembly Competition: Involves building and then flying the drone.
• Individual Competition: Single pilot against others.
• Team Competition: Multiple pilots working together.
• Perspective-based: First Person View (FPV) or Third Person (visual) flying.

FB156 drones configured for "Team red" and "Team blue" for competitive play.

9. Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your FB156 drone.

9.1. General Care

• Cleaning: Keep the drone clean from dust, dirt, and debris. Use a soft, dry cloth.
• Propellers: Inspect propellers for cracks, bends, or chips before each flight. Replace damaged propellers immediately.
• Battery: Follow proper battery charging and storage guidelines. Do not overcharge or over-discharge. Store in a cool, dry place.
• Frame: Check the protective cage and main frame for any signs of damage after impacts.

9.2. Replacement Parts

If the aircraft is damaged, additional parts can be purchased for replacement. A diagram showing various replacement components is available in the original FB156 Flyball Manual (page 8). Key replacement parts include:

• MR26-AIO-F411E25A (Flight Controller)
• FB156 KIT (Frame kit)
• TINY ROCKET VTX (Video Transmitter)
• MISS 1203-6500KV (Motor)
• GF2020-4blades (Propellers)
• NANO2 (Camera)
• FB156 Red LED / FB156 Blue LED (LED strips)
• Handbag R11 (Carrying case)
• 11.1V 600mAh (Battery)

Visual guide to available replacement parts for the FB156 drone.

10. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your FB156 drone, refer to the following common troubleshooting steps.

10.1. Common Issues & Solutions

• Drone does not power on:
  • Ensure the battery is fully charged and correctly connected.
  • Check for any loose wiring connections to the flight controller or ESC.
• Drone does not bind to remote controller:
  • Verify that both the drone and remote controller are in bind mode.
  • Check the receiver's status LED for indications of binding success or failure.
  • Ensure the receiver and remote controller use compatible protocols (e.g., FRSKY D16, FUTABA S-FHSS, AFHDS2A).
  • Confirm the receiver is correctly wired to the flight controller.
• Unstable flight or unexpected behavior:
  • Check all propellers for damage and ensure they are installed in the correct direction (CW/CCW).
  • Verify motor directions match the configuration in Betaflight.
  • Ensure the flight controller is securely mounted and free from vibrations.
  • Recalibrate accelerometers in Betaflight.
  • Check for proper failsafe configuration.
• No FPV video feed:
  • Ensure the FPV camera and VTX are correctly wired and powered.
  • Check that your FPV goggles/monitor are on the correct frequency/channel.
  • Verify VTX settings in Betaflight OSD.

10.2. Flight Test Check List (Factory Inspection)

This checklist is used during factory inspection to ensure basic functionality. You can use it as a reference for your own checks:

• The transmitter functions normally.
• Test flight in good condition.
• Camera definition is good (for FPV version).
• VTX quality is good (for FPV version).
• Airframe matches the transmitter ID (for RTF version).
• Airframe parts are fully installed.
• Heat shrinkable tube encapsulated in place.
• Complete accessories package.

11. User Tips

• Start Slow: As an "Beginner" to "Intermediate" skill level drone, take your time to learn the controls in a safe, open environment before attempting complex maneuvers or competitive play.
• Indoor Practice: The protective cage makes this drone excellent for indoor practice. Utilize its durability to learn flight dynamics without fear of significant damage.
• Battery Management: Always use a 3S 600mAh battery or equivalent that matches the 3S voltage requirement. Using higher voltage will damage the drone. Consider purchasing multiple batteries for extended flight sessions.
• FPV Immersion: For FPV versions, ensure your goggles are comfortable and properly configured for the best immersive experience. Experiment with OSD settings to display essential flight data.
• Record Your Flights: If you have an FPV version, consider adding external card recording equipment to capture your flights. This can also help in reviewing crashes for troubleshooting.
• Community Resources: For advanced settings or specific issues, online communities for Betaflight and FPV drones can be valuable resources.

12. Warranty & Support

LDARC is committed to providing quality products and support. Please review the following information regarding after-sales service.

12.1. After-Sales Service Policy

• Product Quality Issues: If you receive the product and find it is not working properly due to a manufacturing defect, please return it for inspection. Repair services will be provided free of charge if a product quality issue is confirmed.
• Damage Due to Improper Operation: For product damage caused by improper operation or misuse, a paid repair service will be provided if the item is confirmed to be repairable.
• Contacting Support:
  • Domestic Customers: Please contact the local after-sales service team.
  • Overseas Customers: Please contact your dealer or the LDARC Official Store for support.

12.2. Product Updates and Changes

The manufacturer reserves the right to make changes to the product without prior notice. The company will not be responsible for any changes in the product, nor can it actively inform consumers of any updates or changes. If there are any changes in the material, specification, or contents of the package, please refer to LDARC.com for the latest information.