HGLRC Forward F765 Flight Stack Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, setup, operation, and maintenance of your HGLRC Forward F765 Flight Stack. This advanced flight stack integrates a dual-gyro F7 flight controller and a BLHeli_32 65A 4-in-1 Electronic Speed Controller (ESC), designed for high-performance FPV racing drones. Please read this manual thoroughly before use to ensure proper functionality and safety.

2. Product Overview

The HGLRC Forward F765 Flight Stack is engineered for optimal performance and reliability in FPV applications. It features a robust design with advanced components to provide precise control and efficient power delivery.

Figure 2.1: HGLRC Forward F765 Flight Stack showing overall dimensions (46mm x 45mm x 25mm).

2.1 Flight Controller (FC) Features

• CPU: STM32F745VGT6
• MPU: Dual gyros, ICM20608 (32K) & MPU6000-SPI, for enhanced flight stability.
• Input Voltage: 3-6S Lipo.
• Multiple UART ports for extensive peripheral connectivity.

Figure 2.2: Close-up view of the Flight Controller (top) highlighting the ICM20608, MPU6000, and STM32F745, and the ESC (bottom) with its STM32L431 CPU.

2.2 Electronic Speed Controller (ESC) Features

• CPU: STM32L431, 32-bit high-performance processor.
• Firmware: BLHeli_32.
• Input Voltage: 3-6S Lipo.
• Steady Current: 65A.
• Peak Current: 75A.
• Integrated CNC multi-function heat sink for efficient heat dissipation and overcurrent protection.
• Supports DSHOT1200/600/300/150, Oneshot125/42, MultiShot protocols.

Figure 2.3: Overview of the FD765 Stack, indicating the STM32F745VGT6 CPU on the FC and the L431 BLHeli_32 65A ESC with a 75A peak current.

2.3 Innovative Design

The stack incorporates an innovative soft mounting design to isolate the gyroscopes from frame vibrations, ensuring a stable and accurate operating environment for precise flight control.

Figure 2.4: Illustration of the innovative soft design, showing the flight stack and the included rubber grommets for vibration isolation.

3. Specifications

Figure 3.1: Visual representation of the Flight Controller and ESC specifications.

4. Package Contents

Verify that all items listed below are present in your package:

• 1x HGLRC Forward F765 Flight Controller
• 1x HGLRC Forward 65A 4-in-1 BLHeli_32 ESC
• 1x Connection Cable for FC to ESC
• 1x XT60 Connector
• 1x Electrolytic Capacitor (1000uF 35V)
• 4x M3 Screws
• 4x M3 Nuts
• 8x Rubber Grommets (for soft mounting)
• Assorted signal and power wires

Figure 4.1: All components included in the HGLRC Forward F765 Flight Stack package.

5. Setup & Wiring

Careful attention to wiring is crucial for the proper and safe operation of your flight stack. Refer to the diagrams below for correct connections.

5.1 ESC Wiring Diagram

Connect your motors and battery to the ESC as shown. Ensure correct polarity for the battery connection. The included capacitor should be soldered to the main battery pads (BAT+ and BAT-) on the ESC to filter power noise.

5.2 Flight Controller Connections

The F765 Flight Controller supports various peripherals. Connect your camera, VTX (Video Transmitter), RC Receiver, GPS, and Buzzer according to the diagram. Pay close attention to the correct UARTs and power pins.

5.3 Mounting the Stack

Mount the flight stack onto your drone frame using the provided screws, nuts, and rubber grommets. The soft mounting grommets are essential for reducing vibrations transmitted to the flight controller's gyroscopes, improving flight performance.

Figure 5.3: The HGLRC Forward F765 Flight Stack correctly installed on a quadcopter frame.

6. Operating Instructions

After completing the physical installation and wiring, proceed with the software configuration and initial flight checks.

6.1 Firmware Flashing and Configuration

1. Connect to PC: Use a USB cable to connect the flight controller to your computer.
2. Install Drivers: Ensure necessary drivers (e.g., STM32 Virtual COM Port Driver, Zadig for DFU mode) are installed.
3. Flight Controller Firmware: Open Betaflight Configurator (or your preferred flight control software). Select the correct target for the F765 FC (e.g., HGLRCF765) and flash the latest stable firmware.
4. ESC Firmware: Use BLHeliSuite32 to update and configure the ESCs. Ensure all ESCs are running the same firmware version.
5. Initial Configuration: Follow the standard Betaflight setup wizard for sensor calibration, motor direction, receiver setup, and mode assignments.

6.2 Pre-Flight Checks

• Verify all connections are secure and correctly oriented.
• Check motor spin direction in Betaflight Motors tab (with propellers removed).
• Confirm receiver inputs respond correctly in Betaflight Receiver tab.
• Ensure battery voltage and current sensor readings are accurate.
• Perform a range check with your radio system.

7. Maintenance

Regular maintenance helps ensure the longevity and reliable performance of your HGLRC Forward F765 Flight Stack.

• Visual Inspection: Periodically inspect the boards for any signs of damage, loose connections, or burnt components.
• Cleaning: Keep the flight stack free from dust, dirt, and moisture. Use compressed air or a soft brush for cleaning. Avoid using liquids directly on the electronics.
• Firmware Updates: Regularly check for and apply the latest firmware updates for both the FC (Betaflight) and ESCs (BLHeliSuite32) to benefit from performance improvements and bug fixes.
• Soft Mounts: Inspect the rubber grommets for wear or damage. Replace them if they appear compressed or torn to maintain vibration isolation.

8. Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your flight stack.

8.1 Common Issues and Solutions

• No Power:
  • Check battery connection polarity.
  • Inspect main power leads for breaks or poor solder joints.
  • Verify the XT60 connector is properly seated.
• Motors Not Spinning / ESC Protocol Unknown:
  • Ensure the FC-to-ESC cable is correctly connected and not damaged.
  • Verify motor signal wires are connected to the correct pads (M1-M4).
  • Confirm ESC firmware is updated and configured correctly in BLHeliSuite32.
  • Check Betaflight motor output settings and ESC protocol selection.
• Unstable Flight / Excessive Vibrations:
  • Ensure soft mounting grommets are correctly installed and not damaged.
  • Check for loose propellers or damaged motor bearings.
  • Recalibrate accelerometers and gyroscopes in Betaflight.
  • Adjust PID tuning if necessary.
• No Video Signal:
  • Verify VTX and camera connections to the FC.
  • Check VTX power and ground connections.
  • Ensure VTX is powered on and set to the correct frequency/channel.
• FC Not Connecting to Betaflight:
  • Ensure USB cable is functional and connected securely.
  • Install necessary USB drivers (STM32 Virtual COM Port Driver).
  • If in DFU mode, use Zadig to install the correct driver.
  • Try a different USB port or cable.

For more detailed troubleshooting, refer to online resources and community forums for Betaflight and BLHeli_32.

9. Warranty & Support

HGLRC products are designed for performance and reliability. For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official HGLRC website or contact their customer service directly.

• Official Website: Visit the HGLRC Official Website for product updates, FAQs, and contact information.
• Customer Service: For specific issues or warranty claims, contact HGLRC customer support through their website.
• Community Forums: Engage with the FPV community on forums and social media for peer support and shared knowledge.

Note: Damage caused by improper installation, misuse, or unauthorized modifications is not covered under warranty.