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How to Use F4V3S Plus: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

Image of F4V3S Plus
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Introduction

The F4V3S Plus, manufactured by Sudemota, is a high-performance flight controller designed specifically for multirotors and drones. It features advanced stabilization algorithms, seamless integration with multiple sensors, and support for a wide range of communication protocols. This makes it an excellent choice for both hobbyists and professionals seeking precise control and reliable performance in aerial applications.

Explore Projects Built with F4V3S Plus

Use Cirkit Designer to design, explore, and prototype these projects online. Some projects support real-time simulation. Click "Open Project" to start designing instantly!
Raspberry Pi 4B-Based GPS and GSM Tracking System with Audio Feedback
Image of unlimited range: A project utilizing F4V3S Plus in a practical application
This circuit features a Raspberry Pi 4B as the central processing unit, interfaced with a GPS NEO-6M V2 module for location tracking and an Adafruit FONA 808 Shield for cellular communication. It includes a PAM8406 5V Digital Audio Amplifier connected to an Adafruit STEMMA Speaker for audio output, and a Condenser Microphone connected to the FONA 808 for audio input. Power management is handled by a 12V battery connected to a voltage regulator that steps down the voltage to 5V and 3V required by the various components.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
Beelink Mini S12 N95 and Arduino UNO Based Fingerprint Authentication System with ESP32 CAM
Image of design 3: A project utilizing F4V3S Plus in a practical application
This circuit features a Beelink MINI S12 N95 computer connected to a 7-inch display via HDMI for video output and two USB connections for power and touch screen functionality. An Arduino UNO is interfaced with a fingerprint scanner for biometric input. The Beelink MINI S12 N95 is powered by a PC power supply, which in turn is connected to a 240V power source. Additionally, an ESP32 CAM module is powered and programmed via a USB plug and an FTDI programmer, respectively, for wireless camera capabilities.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
ESP32-S3 Based Vibration Detection System with TFT Display and Power Backup
Image of IOT Thesis: A project utilizing F4V3S Plus in a practical application
This circuit features an ESP32-S3 microcontroller connected to various peripherals including an ADXL355 accelerometer, an SW-420 vibration sensor, a buzzer module, and an ILI9341 TFT display. The ESP32-S3 manages sensor inputs and provides output to the display and buzzer. Power management is handled by a 12V to 5V step-down converter, and a UPS ensures uninterrupted power supply, with a rocker switch to control the power flow.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
Raspberry Pi-Controlled Drone with Brushless Motors and Camera Module
Image of ROV: A project utilizing F4V3S Plus in a practical application
This circuit is designed for a multi-motor application, likely a drone or a similar vehicle, featuring eight brushless motors controlled by two 4-in-1 electronic speed controllers (ESCs). The ESCs are powered by a 3s2p 18650 battery pack and interfaced with a Pixhawk flight controller for motor management. Additionally, the system includes a Raspberry Pi 4B for advanced processing and control, which is connected to a NoIR camera module and a cooling fan, and a power module to supply and monitor the power to the Pixhawk.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer

Explore Projects Built with F4V3S Plus

Use Cirkit Designer to design, explore, and prototype these projects online. Some projects support real-time simulation. Click "Open Project" to start designing instantly!
Image of unlimited range: A project utilizing F4V3S Plus in a practical application
Raspberry Pi 4B-Based GPS and GSM Tracking System with Audio Feedback
This circuit features a Raspberry Pi 4B as the central processing unit, interfaced with a GPS NEO-6M V2 module for location tracking and an Adafruit FONA 808 Shield for cellular communication. It includes a PAM8406 5V Digital Audio Amplifier connected to an Adafruit STEMMA Speaker for audio output, and a Condenser Microphone connected to the FONA 808 for audio input. Power management is handled by a 12V battery connected to a voltage regulator that steps down the voltage to 5V and 3V required by the various components.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
Image of design 3: A project utilizing F4V3S Plus in a practical application
Beelink Mini S12 N95 and Arduino UNO Based Fingerprint Authentication System with ESP32 CAM
This circuit features a Beelink MINI S12 N95 computer connected to a 7-inch display via HDMI for video output and two USB connections for power and touch screen functionality. An Arduino UNO is interfaced with a fingerprint scanner for biometric input. The Beelink MINI S12 N95 is powered by a PC power supply, which in turn is connected to a 240V power source. Additionally, an ESP32 CAM module is powered and programmed via a USB plug and an FTDI programmer, respectively, for wireless camera capabilities.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
Image of IOT Thesis: A project utilizing F4V3S Plus in a practical application
ESP32-S3 Based Vibration Detection System with TFT Display and Power Backup
This circuit features an ESP32-S3 microcontroller connected to various peripherals including an ADXL355 accelerometer, an SW-420 vibration sensor, a buzzer module, and an ILI9341 TFT display. The ESP32-S3 manages sensor inputs and provides output to the display and buzzer. Power management is handled by a 12V to 5V step-down converter, and a UPS ensures uninterrupted power supply, with a rocker switch to control the power flow.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer
Image of ROV: A project utilizing F4V3S Plus in a practical application
Raspberry Pi-Controlled Drone with Brushless Motors and Camera Module
This circuit is designed for a multi-motor application, likely a drone or a similar vehicle, featuring eight brushless motors controlled by two 4-in-1 electronic speed controllers (ESCs). The ESCs are powered by a 3s2p 18650 battery pack and interfaced with a Pixhawk flight controller for motor management. Additionally, the system includes a Raspberry Pi 4B for advanced processing and control, which is connected to a NoIR camera module and a cooling fan, and a power module to supply and monitor the power to the Pixhawk.
Cirkit Designer LogoOpen Project in Cirkit Designer

Common Applications and Use Cases

  • Multirotor drones (quadcopters, hexacopters, octocopters)
  • Autonomous aerial vehicles (AAVs)
  • FPV (First-Person View) racing drones
  • Aerial photography and videography platforms
  • Research and development in UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) systems
  • Educational projects in robotics and aerodynamics

Technical Specifications

The F4V3S Plus is packed with features to ensure optimal performance and compatibility with a variety of drone setups.

Key Technical Details

Parameter Specification
Processor STM32F405RGT6 (32-bit ARM Cortex-M4)
IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) MPU6000 (6-axis gyro and accelerometer)
Input Voltage Range 5V - 16.8V (2S to 4S LiPo batteries)
Communication Protocols UART, I2C, SPI, SBUS, DSMX, CRSF
PWM Outputs 8 channels
Flash Memory 16MB onboard
USB Interface Micro-USB
Dimensions 36mm x 36mm
Mounting Hole Spacing 30.5mm x 30.5mm (M3 screws)
Weight 7 grams

Pin Configuration and Descriptions

The F4V3S Plus features a well-labeled pinout for easy integration into drone systems.

Main Pinout Table

Pin Name Description
GND Ground connection
5V 5V power output for peripherals
VBAT Battery voltage input (2S-4S LiPo)
M1 - M8 Motor outputs (PWM signals)
UART1 RX UART1 receive pin for telemetry or peripherals
UART1 TX UART1 transmit pin for telemetry or peripherals
UART2 RX UART2 receive pin for external devices
UART2 TX UART2 transmit pin for external devices
I2C SDA I2C data line for external sensors
I2C SCL I2C clock line for external sensors
SBUS Serial input for SBUS receivers
DSMX Serial input for DSMX receivers
CRSF Input for Crossfire receivers
BOOT Bootloader mode selection

Usage Instructions

The F4V3S Plus is designed for ease of use, but proper setup is essential for optimal performance. Follow these steps to integrate the flight controller into your drone system.

Step 1: Wiring and Connections

  1. Power Supply: Connect the VBAT pin to the positive terminal of your LiPo battery (2S-4S). Ensure the GND pin is connected to the battery's ground.
  2. Motors: Connect your ESC (Electronic Speed Controller) signal wires to the M1-M8 pins, depending on the number of motors in your drone.
  3. Receiver: Connect your receiver to the appropriate input pin (e.g., SBUS, DSMX, or CRSF).
  4. Peripherals: Attach additional sensors or devices (e.g., GPS, barometer) to the I2C or UART pins as required.

Step 2: Firmware Installation

  1. Download the latest firmware for the F4V3S Plus from the Sudemota website.
  2. Connect the flight controller to your computer via the Micro-USB port.
  3. Use a compatible configuration tool (e.g., Betaflight Configurator) to flash the firmware onto the flight controller.

Step 3: Configuration

  1. Open the configuration tool and connect to the flight controller.
  2. Calibrate the accelerometer and set up the desired flight modes.
  3. Configure the motor outputs and receiver settings.
  4. Test all connections and ensure proper functionality before flight.

Step 4: Arduino Integration (Optional)

The F4V3S Plus can be interfaced with an Arduino UNO for custom applications, such as additional sensor processing or telemetry.

Example Code for UART Communication

#include <SoftwareSerial.h>

// Define RX and TX pins for UART communication
SoftwareSerial mySerial(10, 11); // RX = pin 10, TX = pin 11

void setup() {
  // Initialize serial communication
  Serial.begin(9600); // Monitor communication
  mySerial.begin(115200); // Communication with F4V3S Plus

  Serial.println("Starting communication with F4V3S Plus...");
}

void loop() {
  // Send a test message to the flight controller
  mySerial.println("Hello, F4V3S Plus!");

  // Check for incoming data from the flight controller
  if (mySerial.available()) {
    String data = mySerial.readString();
    Serial.println("Received from F4V3S Plus: " + data);
  }

  delay(1000); // Wait 1 second before sending the next message
}

Best Practices

  • Always use a high-quality LiPo battery to ensure stable power delivery.
  • Secure all connections to prevent disconnections during flight.
  • Perform a pre-flight check to verify all systems are functioning correctly.
  • Update the firmware regularly to benefit from the latest features and bug fixes.

Troubleshooting and FAQs

Common Issues and Solutions

  1. Flight Controller Not Powering On

    • Ensure the VBAT and GND connections are secure.
    • Verify the battery voltage is within the supported range (5V-16.8V).
  2. Motors Not Spinning

    • Check the motor connections to the M1-M8 pins.
    • Verify the ESCs are properly calibrated and powered.
  3. No Communication with Configuration Tool

    • Confirm the Micro-USB cable is functional and supports data transfer.
    • Ensure the correct COM port is selected in the configuration tool.
  4. Unstable Flight

    • Recalibrate the accelerometer and check the PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) settings.
    • Inspect the drone for mechanical issues, such as loose propellers or frame damage.

FAQs

Q: Can the F4V3S Plus support GPS modules?
A: Yes, the flight controller supports GPS modules via the UART or I2C interface.

Q: What is the maximum number of motors supported?
A: The F4V3S Plus supports up to 8 motors, making it suitable for octocopters.

Q: Is the F4V3S Plus compatible with Betaflight?
A: Yes, the flight controller is fully compatible with Betaflight and other popular configuration tools.

Q: How do I enter bootloader mode?
A: Hold the BOOT pin to ground while powering on the flight controller to enter bootloader mode.

By following this documentation, users can effectively integrate and operate the F4V3S Plus flight controller in their drone systems.