Argus ECO F405 Flight Controller Stack User Manual

1. Product Overview

The Argus ECO series from Axisflying includes a Flight Controller (FC) and Electronic Speed Controller (ESC) stack designed for FPV drones. This lightweight stack aims to reduce the overall weight of the FPV system while providing stable and excellent control performance.

Key features include:

• 55/60A 6S BlHeli-S ESC
• Axisflying F405 FC
• ICM 42688P Gyro for precise flight data
• 16MB Blackbox for flight logging
• 6 UARTs for extensive peripheral connectivity
• Support for HD and Analog video systems
• GPS support for navigation capabilities

The Argus ECO is designed with an open circuit board, facilitating easy soldering and customization. It supports up to 4 motor outputs, making it suitable for various drone builds. Status indicator lights allow for quick verification of the FC's operational status.

Figure 1.1: Assembled Argus ECO F405 Flight Controller Stack.

2. Package Contents

Please verify that all items listed below are included in your package:

• Argus ECO F405 Flight Controller Stack
• 55/60A 6S BlHeli-S ESC
• Axisflying F405 FC
• Connecting cable * 1
• M3*30 Screw * 4
• M3 Locknuts * 4
• 4.35V 1000uF Capacitor * 1
• Rubber damping ring * 8 (ESC * 4, FC * 4)
• XT60 Power cable
• Connecting cable for receiver * 1
• Connecting cable for HD * 1
• Connecting cable for Analog * 1
• Connecting cable for LED & beeper * 1

Figure 2.1: Diagram showing included components and assembly points.

3. Technical Specifications

4. Installation and Wiring

Proper installation and wiring are crucial for the safe and correct operation of your flight controller stack. Please follow these instructions carefully.

4.1 Stack Assembly

The Argus ECO F405 FC and 60A ESC are designed to be stacked. Use the provided M3 screws, locknuts, and rubber damping rings to assemble the stack securely onto your drone frame. Ensure the damping rings are correctly positioned to minimize vibrations transmitted to the FC's gyroscope.

4.2 Flight Controller Wiring (F405 FC)

Refer to the diagram below for detailed wiring connections for the Argus ECO F405 Flight Controller. All connections should be made with care, ensuring correct polarity and solder joints.

Figure 4.1: Argus ECO F405 Flight Controller Wiring Diagram.

• Power Input: Connect the main battery voltage (VBAT) and ground (GND) from the ESC to the corresponding pads on the FC.
• Camera: Connect Camera Video Out (VO) to the FC's Video In (VI) pad. Provide 5V or VBAT power and GND as required by your camera.
• Analog VTX: Connect VTX Video In (VI) to the FC's Video Out (VO) pad. Provide 12V or VBAT power and GND.
• HD System (e.g., DJI O3 Air Unit, Vista/Link): Connect the HD system's video signal (T1, R1) and control signals (SBUS) to the designated UARTs on the FC. Provide 12V or VBAT power and GND.
• Receiver (TBS/ELRS, SBUS): Connect the receiver's signal output (RX) to the appropriate UART RX pad (e.g., R2) on the FC. Provide 5V power and GND.
• GPS: Connect GPS TX/RX to dedicated UARTs (e.g., R4/T4) on the FC. Provide 5V power and GND.
• LED Strip: Connect the LED strip's data input (IN) to the LED pad on the FC. Provide 5V power and GND.
• Buzzer: Connect the buzzer's positive (+) and negative (-) terminals to the B+ and BZ- pads on the FC.

4.3 ESC Wiring (60A ESC)

The Argus ECO 60A ESC handles power distribution to the motors. Follow the diagram below for correct motor and power input connections.

Figure 4.2: Argus ECO 60A ESC Wiring Diagram.

• Motor Connections: Solder the motor wires to the corresponding M1, M2, M3, and M4 pads on the ESC. Ensure correct motor rotation direction is configured in your flight controller software (e.g., Betaflight).
• Power Input: Solder the XT60 power cable to the large positive (+) and negative (-) pads on the ESC. Ensure correct polarity to prevent damage.

After all connections are made, it is recommended to perform a smoke stopper test before connecting the main battery to prevent short circuits and damage.

5. Operation

Once the Argus ECO stack is correctly installed and wired, and your flight controller software (e.g., Betaflight) is configured, you can proceed with operation.

• Power On: Connect a 4-6S LiPo battery to the XT60 connector on the ESC. The FC will power on, and status indicator lights will illuminate.
• Status Indicators: The flight controller features status indicator lights. Refer to your flight controller software documentation for the meaning of different light patterns (e.g., solid, blinking) which typically indicate arming status, GPS lock, or error conditions.
• Arming: Arm the drone using your remote controller as configured in the flight controller software. Ensure propellers are removed during initial testing and configuration.
• Flight: Operate the drone according to standard FPV flight practices. The Argus ECO stack provides stable control and efficient power delivery.

6. Maintenance

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your Argus ECO Flight Controller Stack, follow these maintenance guidelines:

• Regular Inspection: Periodically inspect all solder joints and wire connections for any signs of wear, corrosion, or damage.
• Cleaning: Keep the boards clean from dust, dirt, and debris. Use a soft brush or compressed air. Avoid using liquids directly on the electronics.
• Environmental Protection: Protect the stack from moisture, extreme temperatures, and direct sunlight. Consider conformal coating for enhanced protection in humid or wet environments.
• Firmware Updates: Regularly check for firmware updates for both the FC (e.g., Betaflight) and ESC (e.g., Bluejay). Updates can provide performance improvements, bug fixes, and new features.

7. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your Argus ECO Flight Controller Stack, consider the following troubleshooting steps:

• No Power:
  • Check battery connection and voltage.
  • Verify XT60 solder joints on the ESC.
  • Inspect for any visible shorts or component damage.
• FC Not Connecting to PC:
  • Ensure USB cable is functional and connected securely.
  • Install necessary VCP (Virtual COM Port) drivers for the STM32 microcontroller.
  • Try a different USB port or PC.
  • Check if the FC is in DFU mode (bootloader mode) if flashing firmware.
• Motors Not Spinning/Incorrectly:
  • Verify motor wire connections to the ESC.
  • Check ESC calibration and motor protocol settings in flight controller software.
  • Ensure the drone is armed and throttle is above minimum threshold.
  • Inspect for damaged motors or ESCs.
• Unstable Flight:
  • Check for vibrations; ensure damping rings are correctly installed.
  • Verify PID tuning in flight controller software.
  • Ensure propellers are balanced and undamaged.
  • Check for correct gyroscope orientation.

For more detailed troubleshooting, consult online resources, community forums, or the official documentation for Betaflight and Bluejay firmware.

8. Warranty and Support

Axisflying products are manufactured to high standards. For specific warranty terms and conditions, please refer to the purchase documentation or contact your retailer. In most cases, warranty covers manufacturing defects but not damage caused by improper installation, misuse, or accidents.

For technical support, product inquiries, or warranty claims, please contact Axisflying customer service through their official website or the retailer from whom you purchased the product. Providing your product model and purchase details will help expedite the support process.