1. Introduction
The HGLRC SPECTER 12S Distribution Board (PDB) is designed to efficiently distribute power to multiple Electronic Speed Controllers (ESCs) and other components in FPV drones and RC aircraft. It supports a wide input voltage range and provides regulated 5V and 12V outputs, along with telemetry feedback and an amperemeter for monitoring.
2. Package Contents
Verify that all items are present in your package:
- HGLRC SPECTER 12S Distribution Board PDB
- Buzzer
- Wiring Harness
3. Specifications
Detailed technical specifications for the SPECTER 12S PDB:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Distribution Board |
| Number of ESCs Supported | 8 |
| Telemetry Feedback | Supported (ESCs must support telemetry feedback) |
| 5V BEC Output | 5A |
| 12V BEC Output | 4A |
| Amperemeter | Supported |
| PCB Current (Continuous) | 4 * 100A |
| PCB Current (Instantaneous) | 120A |
| Input Voltage | 8-60V DC (3-12S LiPo) |
| Frame Size | 50mm * 50mm * 9.8mm |
| Hole Size | 30.5mm * 30.5mm / M3 |
| Weight | 24g (±2g) |
| Material | Composite Material |
| Recommended Age | 14+ years |
| Use | Vehicles & Remote Control Toys (Airplanes) |
4. Setup and Wiring
Follow these steps for proper installation and wiring of your HGLRC SPECTER 12S PDB:
- Mounting: Secure the PDB to your drone frame using M3 screws, aligning with the 30.5mm x 30.5mm mounting holes. Ensure it is mounted securely to prevent vibrations.
- Power Input: Connect your LiPo battery (3-12S, 8-60V DC) to the 'BAT' and 'GND' pads on the PDB. Ensure correct polarity.
- ESC Connections: Connect up to 8 ESCs to the designated 'S1' through 'S8' pads. Each pad provides power distribution for one ESC.
- BEC Outputs:
- Use the '5V' and 'GND' pads to power components requiring 5V (e.g., flight controller, receiver).
- Use the '12V' and 'GND' pads to power components requiring 12V (e.g., VTX, camera).
- Telemetry and Amperemeter:
- Connect the 'TX' pads for telemetry feedback from compatible ESCs to your flight controller.
- The integrated amperemeter provides current sensing data. Connect the relevant output to your flight controller for current monitoring.
- Buzzer: Connect the included buzzer to the designated buzzer pads if your flight controller supports it.
Important: Always double-check all connections for correct polarity and secure soldering before applying power to avoid damage to the PDB or other components.
5. Operating Instructions
Once properly installed and wired, the HGLRC SPECTER 12S PDB operates automatically:
- Connect your LiPo battery to the main power input. The PDB will distribute power to all connected ESCs and provide regulated 5V and 12V outputs to your flight controller and other peripherals.
- Monitor current consumption and battery voltage through your flight controller's OSD (On-Screen Display) or telemetry system, utilizing the PDB's integrated amperemeter and voltage sensing capabilities.
- Ensure that your ESCs are compatible with telemetry feedback if you intend to use this feature.
6. Maintenance
To ensure the longevity and reliable performance of your PDB:
- Regular Inspection: Periodically check all solder joints and connections for any signs of corrosion, loose wires, or damage.
- Cleaning: Keep the PDB free from dust, dirt, and moisture. Use a soft brush or compressed air for cleaning. Avoid using liquid cleaners directly on the board.
- Environmental Protection: Operate and store the PDB in a dry environment, away from extreme temperatures and direct sunlight. Consider conformal coating for enhanced moisture protection in humid conditions.
- Physical Damage: Avoid physical impacts or bending the board, as this can damage internal traces or components.
7. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your PDB, consider the following:
- No Power to Components:
- Check the main battery connection to the PDB for correct polarity and secure soldering.
- Verify the input voltage from your battery is within the 8-60V DC (3-12S LiPo) range.
- Inspect the 5V and 12V BEC output connections for continuity and correct wiring.
- ESCs Not Receiving Power:
- Ensure ESCs are correctly soldered to their respective pads (S1-S8).
- Check for any short circuits on the ESC power lines.
- Incorrect Voltage Readings / No Amperemeter Data:
- Verify the amperemeter and voltage sensing output connections to your flight controller are correct.
- Ensure your flight controller firmware is configured to read data from the PDB's current and voltage sensors.
- Overheating:
- Ensure adequate airflow around the PDB.
- Check for excessive current draw from connected components, which might exceed the BEC or PCB current limits.
8. User Tips
- Clean Soldering: Always use a good quality soldering iron and lead-free solder for clean, strong connections. Cold solder joints are a common cause of intermittent issues.
- Insulation: Insulate all exposed solder pads and connections with heat shrink tubing or electrical tape to prevent accidental short circuits, especially in tight builds.
- Test Before Flight: After assembly and wiring, always perform a bench test to verify all components are receiving correct power and signals before attempting flight.
- Firmware Configuration: Ensure your flight controller's firmware (e.g., Betaflight, ArduPilot) is correctly configured for the PDB's current sensor and voltage monitoring.
9. Warranty and Support
For warranty claims, technical support, or further assistance, please contact the seller or manufacturer directly. Keep your proof of purchase for any warranty-related inquiries.
