HolyBro X500 V2 Drone Kit Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the assembly, operation, and maintenance of your HolyBro X500 V2 Frame Kit or Almost-Ready-to-Fly (ARF) Kit. The X500 V2 is a robust and lightweight carbon fiber professional drone platform designed for various applications, offering easy assembly and compatibility with popular flight controllers and companion computers.

2. Key Features

• Minimal Assembly: Designed for quick setup, with an estimated assembly time of approximately 15 minutes for the ARF kit.
• Durable Construction: Features a full carbon fiber frame with fiber-reinforced nylon connectors for enhanced strength and straightforward installation.
• Pre-installed Components (ARF Kit): Motors, ESCs, and power distribution board (PDB) are pre-installed, simplifying the build process.
• Solder-Free PDB: Power distribution board includes XT60 and XT30 plugs, eliminating the need for soldering.
• Flight Controller Compatibility: Fully compatible with Holybro Pixhawk series, Durandal, Pix32 V5, and other flight controllers.
• Companion Computer Mount: Integrated mounting holes for popular companion computers like Raspberry Pi and Nvidia Jetson Nano.
• Optional Depth Camera Mount: Supports various depth cameras such as Intel RealSense and Structure Core (mount sold separately).
• Enhanced Accessibility: Increased spacing between top and bottom carbon fiber plates for easier access to internal components.
• Adjustable Battery Mount: Enlarged and adjustable battery mounting board to accommodate larger batteries for extended flight times.
• Rail Mounting System: Dual 10mm Ø rod x 250 mm long rail system for attaching camera mounts and gimbals.

3. Kit Contents

3.1. X500 V2 ARF Kit

• X500 V2 Frame Kit
• Pre-installed Holybro 2216 KV920 Motors (4 pcs)
• Pre-installed BLHeli S 20A ESCs (4 pcs)
• 1045 Propellers (6 pcs)
• Pre-installed Power Distribution Board (PDB) with XT60 (battery) & XT30 (ESCs & peripherals) plugs

3.2. X500 V2 Frame Kit

• Full Carbon Fiber Top & Bottom plates (144 x 144mm, 2mm thick)
• High strength & ultra-lightweight 16mm carbon fiber arm tubes
• Newly designed fiber reinforced nylon connectors for arms
• Landing gear consisting of 16mm & 10mm diameter carbon fiber tubes with strengthened plastic tee connectors
• Platform board with mounting holes for GPS & companion computers (e.g., Raspberry Pi 4, Jetson Nano)
• Dual 10mm Ø rod x 250 mm long rail mounting system
• Battery mount with two Battery Straps
• Hand tools for installation

4. Assembly and Setup

The HolyBro X500 V2 is designed for quick and straightforward assembly. For the ARF kit, most major components are pre-installed, significantly reducing build time.

4.1. Frame Assembly (Frame Kit)

1. Unpack Components: Carefully unbox all components and verify against the 'Kit Contents' list.
2. Assemble Arms: Attach the 16mm carbon fiber arm tubes to the central frame plates using the fiber-reinforced nylon connectors. Ensure the notches align for proper orientation.



3. Install Landing Gear: Secure the 16mm and 10mm carbon fiber tubes for the landing gear using the improved plastic tee connectors.



4. Mount Top Plate: Secure the top carbon fiber plate to complete the main frame structure. The increased spacing between plates allows for easier access to electronics.
5. Install Rail System: Attach the dual 10mm Ø rod x 250 mm long rail mounting system to the bottom of the frame.



6. Attach Battery Mount: Install the adjustable battery mounting board and secure it with the provided battery straps.

4.2. Electronics Installation (Frame Kit) & Wiring (Both Kits)

1. Mount Motors and ESCs: Securely attach your chosen motors to the arm ends and mount the ESCs.



2. Connect ESCs to PDB: For the ARF kit, the ESCs are pre-wired. For the Frame Kit, connect your ESCs to the Power Distribution Board (PDB). The PDB features XT60 for battery input and XT30 plugs for ESCs and peripherals, eliminating the need for soldering.





3. Install Flight Controller: Mount your chosen flight controller (e.g., Holybro Pixhawk series) to the designated area on the frame.
4. Install GPS Module: Utilize the mounting holes on the platform board to install your GPS module.
5. Mount Companion Computer (Optional): If using, mount your companion computer (e.g., Raspberry Pi, Jetson Nano) to the dedicated mounting holes.



6. Attach Propellers: Secure the 1045 propellers to the motors. Ensure correct rotation direction for each motor.

5. Operation

Once assembled and all electronics are connected, refer to the specific documentation for your chosen flight controller for detailed configuration and flight procedures. The X500 V2 provides a stable platform for various flight applications.

5.1. Pre-Flight Checks

• Ensure all connections are secure and free from obstruction.
• Verify battery is fully charged and properly secured to the battery mount.
• Check propeller attachment and ensure they are free from damage.
• Perform a pre-flight calibration of your flight controller as per its manual.
• Confirm proper radio control functionality and failsafe settings.

5.2. Flight Controller Integration

The X500 V2 is compatible with a range of flight controllers. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for your specific flight controller to configure motor outputs, sensor calibration, and flight modes. Ensure the PDB is correctly supplying power to all components.

6. Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and safe operation of your X500 V2 drone.

• Frame Inspection: Periodically check carbon fiber plates and tubes for cracks or damage. Inspect nylon connectors for wear or looseness.
• Motor & Propeller Check: Ensure motors spin freely and are free of debris. Check propellers for chips, cracks, or bending. Replace damaged propellers immediately.
• Wiring & Connectors: Inspect all wiring for fraying or damage. Ensure XT60 and XT30 connectors are clean and make solid contact.
• Fasteners: Verify all screws and bolts are tight. Apply thread-locker where appropriate during initial assembly.
• Cleaning: Keep the frame and components clean from dust, dirt, and moisture. Use a soft, dry cloth.

7. Troubleshooting

This section provides general troubleshooting tips. For specific issues related to your flight controller or other electronics, consult their respective manuals.

• Drone Not Powering On: Check battery connection (XT60), ensure battery is charged, and inspect PDB connections.
• Motors Not Spinning: Verify ESC connections to PDB (XT30) and flight controller. Check motor wiring for continuity. Ensure flight controller is armed.
• Unstable Flight: Re-check propeller orientation and balance. Ensure flight controller is properly calibrated and mounted securely. Inspect for loose frame components.
• Loss of Control/Signal: Check radio receiver connections and antenna placement. Verify failsafe settings on your flight controller and radio.
• Excessive Vibration: Inspect propellers for damage or imbalance. Check motor mounts and bearings.

8. Specifications

8.1. Mechanical Specifications

8.2. Recommended Combinations (Not Included)

• Flight Controller: Pixhawk 5x, Pixhawk 4, Pixhawk 4 Mini, Durandal, Pix32 v5
• Power Module: PM02D, PM02 V3
• GPS: Holybro M8N/M9N GPS, H-RTK M8P/F9P Rover Lite & Helical
• Battery: 4S 2000-5000mAh Lipo

9. User Tips

• Always double-check all electrical connections before powering on your drone to prevent short circuits or component damage.
• Ensure propellers are correctly installed and balanced to minimize vibrations and improve flight stability.
• For optimal performance, keep your flight controller firmware updated to the latest stable version.
• When installing a companion computer, ensure proper power isolation and communication protocols are followed to avoid interference with the flight controller.

10. Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official HolyBro website or contact your authorized dealer. Keep your proof of purchase for any warranty claims.