Foxeer PDB400 8S 400A Power Distribution Board Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

The Foxeer PDB400 is a high-performance Power Distribution Board (PDB) designed for FPV drones and other remote-controlled vehicles. It is engineered to handle up to 8S LiPo battery input and deliver a continuous current of 400A, providing stable power distribution to Electronic Speed Controllers (ESCs) and regulated 12V and 5V outputs for various onboard electronics such as flight controllers, video transmitters (VTX), and cameras.

This manual provides essential information for the safe and effective installation, operation, and maintenance of your Foxeer PDB400.

2. Safety Information

• ⚠️ Disclaimer: For recreation use only. Illegal modification of drones/planes is prohibited. Please also pay attention to the relevant laws and regulations on the use of drones/planes in your country/area to ensure legal use.
• Always ensure correct polarity when connecting the battery and other components to avoid damage to the PDB and connected devices.
• Exercise extreme caution when soldering. Use appropriate safety gear, including eye protection, and work in a well-ventilated area.
• Verify all connections are secure and insulated before applying power to prevent short circuits.
• Do not exceed the maximum voltage (8S LiPo) or current (400A) ratings of the PDB.
• Keep the PDB away from water, moisture, and extreme temperatures.

3. Product Overview

3.1 Package Contents

• 1x Foxeer PDB400 8S 400A Power Distribution Board

3.2 Component Identification

The Foxeer PDB400 features a compact octagonal design with clearly marked solder pads for easy integration into your FPV build. Refer to the images below for a visual guide to the board's components and connection points.

• Main Battery Input Pads: Large pads marked '+' and '-' for connecting your LiPo battery.
• ESC Solder Pads: Multiple sets of '+' and '-' pads around the perimeter for connecting up to 8 ESCs.
• 12V Output Pads: Dedicated pads labeled '12V' and 'GND' for devices requiring 12V power.
• 5V Output Pads: Dedicated pads labeled '5V' and 'GND' for devices requiring 5V power.
• Small Connector: A multi-pin connector (e.g., JST-SH) for potential flight controller integration or other peripherals.

4. Specifications

5. Setup Instructions

5.1 Pre-installation Checklist

• Soldering iron and solder
• Heat shrink tubing or electrical tape
• Wire cutters/strippers
• Multimeter for continuity and voltage checks
• Safety glasses
• Appropriate gauge wires for battery and ESC connections

5.2 Mounting

The Foxeer PDB400 can be mounted using standard standoffs. Align the mounting holes on the PDB with your frame's mounting points. Ensure no components on the PDB are shorting against the frame or other conductive surfaces.

5.3 Wiring Connections

Carefully plan your wiring layout before soldering. Ensure all connections are clean, strong, and properly insulated. Refer to Figure 1 for the location of various solder pads.

1. Main Battery Input: Solder your main battery connector (e.g., XT60, XT90) to the large '+' and '-' pads designated for battery input. Double-check polarity.
2. ESC Connections: Solder the positive and negative power wires from each of your ESCs to the corresponding '+' and '-' pads around the perimeter of the PDB. Ensure each ESC is connected to its own set of pads.
3. Flight Controller Power: Connect the flight controller's power input to either the 5V or 12V output pads, depending on your flight controller's voltage requirements. Connect the flight controller's GND to a PDB GND pad.
4. VTX/Camera Power: Connect your Video Transmitter (VTX) and FPV camera to the appropriate 5V or 12V output pads, based on their specifications. Connect their GND wires to a PDB GND pad.
5. Other Peripherals: If using other components that require 5V or 12V, connect them to the respective output pads, ensuring not to exceed the current limits of the PDB's regulators.
6. Small Connector: If your setup utilizes the small multi-pin connector, refer to your flight controller or peripheral manual for specific wiring instructions to this port.

After all soldering is complete, use a multimeter to check for any short circuits between positive and negative terminals before connecting the battery. Also, verify that the 5V and 12V outputs are providing the correct voltage.

6. Operating Instructions

Once the Foxeer PDB400 is correctly installed and wired, operation is straightforward:

1. Connect Battery: Carefully connect your LiPo battery to the main battery input connector. The PDB will immediately distribute power to all connected components.
2. Power On Sequence: Observe the power-on sequence of your flight controller and other components. Ensure all devices are receiving power and functioning as expected.
3. Power Off: Disconnect the LiPo battery from the main input connector to power down the system.

7. Maintenance

• Regular Inspection: Periodically inspect the PDB for any signs of physical damage, loose solder joints, or burnt components.
• Cleaning: Keep the PDB clean and free from dust, dirt, and debris. Use a soft brush or compressed air for cleaning. Avoid using liquids.
• Storage: Store the PDB in a dry, cool environment when not in use.

8. Troubleshooting

9. Warranty and Support

For warranty claims or technical support, please contact the retailer or manufacturer directly. Keep your proof of purchase for any warranty-related inquiries.

Please note the disclaimer regarding recreational use and adherence to local laws and regulations for drone operation.