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MATEKSYS H7A3-SLIM

MATEKSYS H7A3-SLIM Flight Controller

Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

The MATEKSYS H7A3-SLIM is a high-performance flight controller designed for FPV (First Person View) long-range racing drones and other RC aircraft. Featuring an STM32H7A3RIT6 microcontroller, ICM42688P IMU, and a robust power system, it provides precise control and extensive connectivity options for advanced aerial applications. This manual provides essential information for the proper setup, operation, and maintenance of your H7A3-SLIM Flight Controller.

2. Specifications

General

  • MCU: STM32H7A3RIT6, 280MHz Cortex-M7, 1.4MB RAM, 2MB Flash
  • IMU: ICM42688P
  • Barometer: SPL06-001
  • OSD: AT7456E
  • Blackbox: 128MB Flash (1G-bit NAND)
  • UARTs: 6x (1,2,3,4, 5, 6) with built-in inversion
  • PWM Outputs: 11x
  • I2C: 1x
  • CAN: 1x
  • ADC: 4x (VBAT, Current, VB2, Cur2)
  • LEDs: 3x for FC STATUS (Blue, Red) and 3.3V indicator (Red)
  • USB: Type-C (USB2.0)
  • ESC Connectors: 8x PWM outputs on 2x JST-SH1.0_8pin connector for 2x 4in1 ESC
  • CAN Port Connector: 1x JST-GH1.25_4pin (5V/CAN-H/CAN-L/G)
  • 9V Output: ON/OFF switchable
  • Digital Video OSD: Supported by any spare UART

Power

  • Vbat Input: 6~36V (2~8S LiPo)
  • BEC 5V: 2A continuous (Max. 3A)
  • BEC 9V: 2A continuous (Max. 3A)
  • LDO 3.3V: Max. 200mA
  • Current Sensor: No built-in current sensor
  • ADC VB2 Pad: Supports Max. 69V (voltage divider: 1K:20K)

Physical

  • Mounting: 30.5 x 30.5mm, Φ4mm with Grommets Φ3mm
  • Dimensions: 36 x 36 x 5 mm
  • Weight: 7g

3. Package Contents

The H7A3-SLIM package includes the following items:

  • 1x H7A3-SLIM Flight Controller
  • 6x Silicon grommets (M4 to M3)
  • 2x JST-SH1.0_8pin cable (5cm, with 8pin connectors)
  • 1x JST-GH-4P to JST-GH-4P cable for CAN port (20cm)

4. Layout and Pinout

Understanding the layout and pin assignments is crucial for correct wiring. Refer to the diagram below for detailed pinout information.

Detailed layout diagram of the H7A3-SLIM Flight Controller, showing pin assignments and component locations.
Figure 1: H7A3-SLIM Flight Controller Layout and Pinout Diagram. This diagram shows the location of all ports, pins, and key components. Key labels include: VTX/Rx1/USART6, Buz & 5V, ISVCS, Boot, C-L, C-H, G, 4V5, Tx4/Rx4, SCL/SDA, Tx2/Rx2, Tx3/Rx3, S1-S11 PWM outputs, VB2, Cur2, SWD, 3V3, D+ D- VBUS, G Cam, VTX, 9V, 5V, G. Note: 5V is not supplied when connecting via USB only.

Key Pinout Details:

  • UARTs: Dedicated Tx/Rx pins for various peripherals. UART1 (Tx1/Rx1) is for VTX/USART6. UART2 (Tx2/Rx2) is for Serial Rx by default. UART3 (Tx3/Rx3) is for USART8. UART4 (Tx4/Rx4) is for I2C3.
  • Power: Vbat for battery voltage input (6-36V). 9V and 5V BEC outputs. 3V3 LDO output.
  • ADC: VB2 for battery voltage sensing (up to 69V with 1K:20K divider), Current (Curr) for current sensor signal input, Cur2 for BATT2 current sensor ADC.
  • CAN: CAN-L and CAN-H pins for CAN bus communication.
  • PWM: S1-S11 for motor and servo outputs.
  • USB: Type-C port for configuration and firmware flashing.

5. Setup and Wiring

Careful wiring is essential for the proper functioning and safety of your drone. Always double-check connections before powering on the system.

5.1. Octocopter Wiring Diagram

This diagram illustrates a typical wiring setup for an Octocopter using the H7A3-SLIM Flight Controller with two 4-in-1 ESCs. Ensure correct polarity and signal connections for motors, battery, and peripherals.

Wiring diagram for an Octocopter setup using the H7A3-SLIM Flight Controller, including ESCs, motors, battery, analog video system, and optional peripherals.
Figure 2: Octocopter Wiring Diagram. Shows connections for two 4-in-1 ESCs (Motors 1-8), battery (6-24V), analog video system (Camera, VTX), and optional UISS/Beeper extension board and GPS module. Note: If 2x 4in1 ESCs are powered by different batteries, do not connect different battery voltages to 2x "Vbat" in parallel.

5.2. CAN Bus Wiring Diagram

The H7A3-SLIM supports CAN bus communication for compatible peripherals. This diagram shows how to connect various CAN modules, such as GPS, airspeed sensors, and other CAN-enabled devices.

Wiring diagram for CAN bus integration with the H7A3-SLIM Flight Controller, showing connections for GPS, CAN-L4-RC, CAN-L4-BM, and ASPD-DLVR modules.
Figure 3: CAN Bus Wiring Diagram. Illustrates connections for a TAOGLAS M10-L4-3100 GPS module, ASPD-DLVR airspeed sensor, CAN-L4-RC, and CAN-L4-BM modules to the H7A3-SLIM Flight Controller via a CANFD-PDB-4P-8P board. Ensure 5V power is supplied to the CAN port.

5.3. Connector Overview

The H7A3-SLIM features several connectors for easy integration with other components.

Side view showing JST-SH-1.0-8pin, JST-GH-4pin (SM04B-GHS-TB), and USB Type-C connectors on the H7A3-SLIM Flight Controller.
Figure 4: H7A3-SLIM Connectors. Shows the JST-SH-1.0-8pin connectors for ESCs, the JST-GH-4pin (SM04B-GHS-TB) for CAN, and the USB Type-C port.

6. Firmware Flashing

The H7A3-SLIM Flight Controller supports ArduPilot firmware. It is recommended to use ArduPilot MATEKH7A3 firmware (version 4.6 or newer).

6.1. Supported Firmware

6.2. Flashing Procedure

Firmware can be flashed using the STM32CubeProgrammer. Detailed instructions can typically be found on the ArduPilot documentation website or by following the link below:

  • Flashing with STM32CubeProgrammer: Refer to official ArduPilot documentation for specific steps.

7. Operating Instructions

Once the flight controller is correctly wired and flashed with the desired firmware, you can proceed with configuration and operation.

  1. Initial Configuration: Connect the flight controller to your computer via the USB Type-C port. Use the appropriate ground station software (e.g., Mission Planner for ArduPilot) to perform initial setup, calibration of sensors (accelerometer, compass, gyroscope), and radio calibration.
  2. Motor and ESC Calibration: Follow the ESC manufacturer's instructions and the firmware's guidelines to calibrate your ESCs for smooth motor operation.
  3. Flight Modes: Configure various flight modes (e.g., Stabilize, AltHold, Loiter, GPS modes) according to your preference and flight requirements.
  4. Pre-Flight Checks: Before each flight, ensure all connections are secure, battery is charged, GPS lock is acquired (if applicable), and all control surfaces respond correctly to transmitter inputs.
  5. Logging: The H7A3-SLIM includes 128MB of Blackbox flash for flight data logging. Configure logging parameters in your ground station software to record flight data for analysis and troubleshooting.

8. Maintenance

Regular maintenance helps ensure the longevity and reliable performance of your flight controller.

  • Visual Inspection: Periodically inspect the board for any signs of damage, loose connections, or solder joint issues.
  • Cleaning: Keep the flight controller clean and free from dust, dirt, or moisture. Use a soft brush or compressed air for cleaning. Avoid using liquids directly on the board.
  • Firmware Updates: Check for new firmware releases regularly. Updates often include bug fixes, performance improvements, and new features.
  • Environmental Protection: Protect the flight controller from extreme temperatures, humidity, and static discharge. Consider using a protective enclosure if operating in harsh environments.

9. Troubleshooting

Here are some common issues and potential solutions:

Problem Possible Cause Solution
Flight controller not powering on Incorrect power input, faulty wiring, damaged board. Verify Vbat input voltage (6-36V). Check all power connections for continuity and correct polarity. Inspect for physical damage.
No connection to ground station via USB Missing USB drivers, faulty USB cable, incorrect port selection. Install necessary STM32 VCP drivers. Try a different USB cable and port. Ensure correct COM port is selected in ground station software.
Motors not spinning or erratic behavior ESCs not calibrated, incorrect motor order, signal interference. Recalibrate ESCs. Verify motor order and direction in firmware settings. Check for loose PWM signal wires.
Inaccurate sensor readings (IMU, Baro) Improper calibration, vibration, magnetic interference. Perform full sensor calibration. Ensure FC is mounted on vibration-dampening material. Keep magnetic sources away from the compass.

10. User Tips

  • Always start with basic flight modes and gradually progress to more advanced ones after gaining confidence.
  • Utilize the Blackbox logging feature to analyze flight performance and diagnose issues.
  • Join online communities and forums dedicated to ArduPilot and FPV for additional support and shared knowledge.
  • Keep your firmware updated to benefit from the latest features and stability improvements.

11. Warranty and Support

For warranty information, technical support, and further assistance, please refer to the official MATEKSYS website or contact your retailer. Ensure you retain your proof of purchase for any warranty claims.