Complete build guide from frame to flight-ready drone
This guide covers complete assembly of the Model-F OWA (One-Way Attack) drone platform from individual components to a flight-ready system. Estimated total build time is 3-4 hours for experienced builders.
ITAR/EAR WARNING: This documentation contains export-controlled information. Distribution to non-U.S. persons is prohibited without proper authorization.
Start with the airframe. The Model-F uses a stretched X-frame configuration optimized for 8" propellers with 4mm carbon fiber plates.
Lay out all frame components and hardware. Verify you have:
If using separate arms, attach each arm to the bottom plate using M3x8 screws. Use 2 screws per arm.
Thread M3 standoffs (25-30mm) into the bottom plate at the 4 corner mounting positions.
Pro Tip: Do NOT install the top plate yet. You'll need access to mount electronics first.
Install motors on each arm. Motor positions and rotation directions must be correct for proper flight control.
CRITICAL: Motor rotation must match firmware configuration. Incorrect rotation will cause immediate crash on arm.
Standard Betaflight "Props Out" configuration:
FRONT
M4 (CCW) M2 (CCW)
\ /
\ /
\ /
\ /
X
/ \
/ \
/ \
/ \
M3 (CW) M1 (CW)
REAR
Motor 1 (Rear Right): CW - Props spin inward
Motor 2 (Front Right): CCW - Props spin inward
Motor 3 (Rear Left): CW - Props spin inward
Motor 4 (Front Left): CCW - Props spin inward
Use 4x M3 screws per motor (typically M3x6 or M3x8):
Run motor wires along the arms toward the center:
Wire Order: If motor spins wrong direction, swap ANY two of the three motor wires. You can also change direction in BLHeli configurator.
Build the electronics stack: ESC on bottom, Flight Controller on top, with GPS mounted externally.
The 4-in-1 ESC sits on the bottom plate, supported by the frame standoffs:
Solder each motor's 3 wires to the ESC motor pads:
Solder battery lead wires to ESC power pads:
POLARITY: Double-check polarity before connecting battery. Reversed polarity will instantly destroy ESC and FC.
FC mounts above ESC using soft-mount grommets or standoffs:
Connection between ESC and FC varies by model. Common methods:
GPS should be mounted on a mast, away from electronics:
GPS connects via UART (serial port):
Complete all remaining electrical connections. Use the FC pinout diagram for your specific board.
┌─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
│ FLIGHT CONTROLLER │
│ │
│ ┌─────┐ ┌─────┐ ┌─────┐ ┌─────┐ ┌─────┐ ┌─────┐ │
│ │UART1│ │UART2│ │UART3│ │UART4│ │UART5│ │UART6│ │
│ │ │ │ │ │ │ │ │ │ │ │ │ │
│ │ RX │ │ GPS │ │ VTX │ │ Free│ │ LED │ │ Free│ │
│ └─────┘ └─────┘ └─────┘ └─────┘ └─────┘ └─────┘ │
│ │
│ ┌─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐│
│ │ BATTERY IN (+/-) │ 5V OUT │ CAM │ SERVO │ BUZZ ││
│ └─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘│
└─────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘
Typical UART Assignments:
- UART1: Crossfire Receiver (RX only)
- UART2: GPS
- UART3: VTX Smart Audio / Tramp
- UART4: Available
- SERVO: Payload release (if FC has servo output)
Organize and secure all wires:
Install and connect the FPV camera and video transmitter.
Camera mounts in the front of the frame:
Camera wiring (3 wires typical):
VTX placement considerations:
VTX connections:
Antenna installation is critical:
NEVER power VTX without antenna connected. Running VTX without antenna will damage the transmitter.
Install the TBS Crossfire receiver for long-range control link.
Receiver placement:
Crossfire Nano connections:
Crossfire Immortal-T antenna:
Binding: Receiver must be bound to your TBS Tango 2 transmitter. Use TBS Agent software or transmitter menu to bind.
Install the Model-F payload mounting and release system. The basic payload holder (MF-BPH) provides a simple, reliable mounting solution.
The MF-BPH-001 frame adapter:
Mount plate attaches to underside of main frame:
The MF-BPH-002 cradle:
For servo-actuated release (optional):
Slide cradle onto mount plate rail:
Payload insertion procedure:
WEIGHT LIMIT: Maximum payload capacity varies by motor selection. Typical limit: 500g-2kg depending on configuration.
Complete the build by installing the top plate, props, and performing final checks.
Secure the top plate:
Add battery mounting system:
Prop installation for motor spin test:
REMOVE PROPS before configuration and indoor testing. Only install props for outdoor flight tests.
Configure Betaflight firmware, bind receiver, and verify all systems.
Initial connection:
Configure serial ports:
Essential settings:
Verify motor operation:
Binding procedure:
Standard channel assignment:
Critical safety setting:
Comprehensive testing before first flight.
First power-on procedure:
Verify FPV video:
Verify GPS operation:
Verify control inputs (PROPS OFF):
First hover procedure:
If anything seems wrong during hover test, LAND IMMEDIATELY. Do not try to troubleshoot in the air.
Your Model-F OWA drone is now ready for mission configuration and deployment.