Acxico PDB-XT60 Drone Power Distribution Board

1. Introduction

The Acxico PDB-XT60 is a compact power distribution board designed for multi-rotor aircraft and other remote-controlled (RC) applications. It efficiently distributes power from a LiPo battery to Electronic Speed Controllers (ESCs), flight controllers, and other onboard electronics, providing regulated 5V and 12V outputs for various components.

2. Safety Instructions

• Always disconnect the battery before making any connections, modifications, or performing maintenance on the board.
• Ensure correct polarity when connecting the battery and all other components to prevent damage to the PDB and connected devices.
• Use appropriate soldering techniques and safety gear, such as eye protection, when working with the board.
• Avoid creating short circuits between solder pads or components.
• Do not exceed the specified input voltage range (3-4S LiPo, 9-18V) or the maximum output current limits for the 5V and 12V BECs.
• Keep the board away from moisture, dust, and extreme temperatures.

3. Product Overview

The Acxico PDB-XT60 integrates an XT60 connector for direct battery input, multiple large solder pads for ESCs, and dedicated regulated outputs for 5V and 12V devices. Its compact design and robust construction make it suitable for various drone builds.

Image 1: Top view of the Acxico PDB-XT60 board, showing the XT60 input pads, ESC output pads, and integrated voltage regulators.

4. Specifications

Image 2: Rear view of the Acxico PDB-XT60, displaying key specifications such as copper thickness and BEC output ratings.

5. Setup and Wiring

Careful wiring is essential for the proper function and safety of your drone. Refer to the diagram below for typical connections.

1. Battery Connection: Solder your XT60 battery connector to the designated LIPO 3-4S input pads on the PDB, ensuring correct positive (+) and negative (-) polarity.
2. ESC Connections: Solder the power wires from each Electronic Speed Controller (ESC) to the corresponding large solder pads on the PDB. Each corner of the board provides pads for one ESC. Ensure positive to positive and negative to negative connections.
3. 5V Output Devices: Connect devices requiring 5V power, such as your flight controller, receiver, or LEDs, to the 'Gnd 5V' output pads.
4. 12V Output Devices: Connect devices requiring 12V power, such as your video transmitter (VTX) or FPV camera, to the 'Gnd 12V' output pads.
5. Ground Connections: Ensure all ground (GND) connections are properly made to the common ground plane of the PDB.

Image 3: Detailed wiring diagram illustrating connections for a 3-4S LiPo battery, ESCs, flight controller, receiver, video transmitter, and FPV camera to the PDB-XT60.

6. Operating Instructions

Once all components are securely wired and connections are verified:

1. Connect a fully charged 3-4S LiPo battery to the XT60 input.
2. Observe the connected components for proper power-up (e.g., flight controller initialization, VTX LED).
3. If available, use a multimeter to verify the 5V and 12V outputs are stable before proceeding with flight or full system operation.

7. Maintenance

• Regularly inspect all solder joints for cracks or cold joints. Re-solder if necessary.
• Keep the board clean and free from debris, dust, and conductive materials.
• Check for any signs of physical damage or component overheating (discoloration, burnt smell).
• Ensure proper airflow around the PDB, especially if operating at higher current loads, to prevent overheating of the voltage regulators.

8. Troubleshooting

• No Power to Components:
  • Check battery connection and ensure it is charged.
  • Verify all solder joints for continuity and proper connection.
  • Inspect for any accidental short circuits on the board.
• Incorrect or Unstable Voltage Output:
  • Confirm the input voltage from the LiPo battery is within the 3-4S range (9-18V).
  • Ensure the current draw from the 5V or 12V outputs does not exceed their specified limits (2A for 5V, 500mA for 12V). Overloading can cause voltage drops or regulator shutdown.
  • Check for any shorts on the output lines.
• Board Overheating:
  • This can occur if the board is overloaded or if there is a short circuit. Immediately disconnect power.
  • Verify that the total current draw from all connected components, especially ESCs, does not exceed the board's capabilities. While the PDB distributes main battery power to ESCs, the integrated BECs have specific current limits.
  • Ensure adequate ventilation around the board.

9. Warranty and Support

Acxico products are designed for reliability. For any technical support or warranty inquiries, please contact your retailer or the manufacturer directly. Please have your purchase information and product model number (PDB-XT60) available when seeking assistance.