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Model-F OWA Assembly Instructions

Complete build guide from frame to flight-ready drone

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0Build Overview

Complete drone assembly
Model-F OWA drone platform - completed build reference

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.

Required Tools

  • Hex driver set (1.5mm, 2mm, 2.5mm, 3mm)
  • Soldering iron (60W+)
  • Solder (60/40 or lead-free)
  • Flux (rosin-based)
  • Wire strippers
  • Multimeter
  • Heat gun or lighter
  • Zip ties (small)
  • Double-sided tape
  • Loctite 243 (blue)
  • Isopropyl alcohol
  • Smoke stopper
Required tools
Recommended tools for drone assembly

Component Checklist

  • 8" Carbon frame kit
  • Motors x4
  • Propellers x4
  • ESC 4-in-1
  • Flight Controller
  • GPS Module
  • VTX
  • FPV Camera
  • VTX Antenna
  • Receiver
  • RX Antenna
  • Battery
  • XT60 connector
  • Capacitor
  • Payload mount
  • Payload cradle
  • Release servo
  • Wiring/connectors

1Frame Assembly

~30 min
Carbon fiber drone frame
Carbon fiber X-frame components

Start with the airframe. The Model-F uses a stretched X-frame configuration optimized for 8" propellers with 4mm carbon fiber plates.

1

Unpack and Inspect Frame Kit

Lay out all frame components and hardware. Verify you have:

  • Top plate (main body)
  • Bottom plate
  • Arms x4 (or integrated X-frame)
  • Standoffs (M3 aluminum, ~25-30mm)
  • M3 screws (various lengths)
  • Camera mount hardware
2

Assemble Arms to Bottom Plate

If using separate arms, attach each arm to the bottom plate using M3x8 screws. Use 2 screws per arm.

  • Apply small drop of Loctite 243 to each screw
  • Tighten in star pattern (opposite corners)
  • Verify arms are seated flat against plate
3

Install Standoffs

Thread M3 standoffs (25-30mm) into the bottom plate at the 4 corner mounting positions.

  • Hand-tighten first, then use hex driver
  • Standoffs will support the electronics stack
  • Verify all are same height

Pro Tip: Do NOT install the top plate yet. You'll need access to mount electronics first.

Frame Assembly Checklist

  • All arms secured with Loctite
  • Standoffs installed and level
  • Frame is square (measure diagonals)
  • No cracks or damage in carbon

2Motor Installation

~20 min
Brushless motor
Brushless DC motor
Propeller
Propeller (CW/CCW pairs)

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.

1

Motor Position Reference (Props Out)

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
                        
2

Mount Motors to Arms

Use 4x M3 screws per motor (typically M3x6 or M3x8):

  • Thread screws through motor base into arm
  • Apply Loctite 243 to each screw
  • Tighten in cross pattern
  • Do NOT overtighten (can strip threads)
3

Route Motor Wires

Run motor wires along the arms toward the center:

  • Keep wires away from prop arc
  • Use zip ties or tape to secure
  • Leave enough slack for ESC connection
  • Note: Wire order determines rotation direction

Wire Order: If motor spins wrong direction, swap ANY two of the three motor wires. You can also change direction in BLHeli configurator.

Motor Installation Checklist

  • All 4 motors secured with Loctite
  • Wires routed away from prop arc
  • Motors spin freely (no binding)
  • Labeled positions (M1-M4)

3Electronics Stack

~30 min
Flight controller
Flight Controller (FC)
Electronics stack
4-in-1 ESC Stack

Build the electronics stack: ESC on bottom, Flight Controller on top, with GPS mounted externally.

3A. ESC Installation

1

Prepare ESC

The 4-in-1 ESC sits on the bottom plate, supported by the frame standoffs:

  • Clean ESC with isopropyl alcohol
  • Apply double-sided tape or soft mount to bottom
  • Identify motor output pads (M1-M4)
  • Identify battery input pads (B+ / B-)
2

Solder Motor Wires

Solder each motor's 3 wires to the ESC motor pads:

  • Tin pads and wire ends first
  • Use 350-380°C iron temperature
  • Keep joints clean and shiny
  • Match motor positions: M1=Rear Right, M2=Front Right, M3=Rear Left, M4=Front Left
3

Solder Power Input

Solder battery lead wires to ESC power pads:

  • Use 12-14 AWG silicone wire
  • Red = Positive (B+)
  • Black = Negative (B-)
  • Add 35V 1000uF capacitor across B+/B- (close to ESC)
  • Add XT60 connector at end

POLARITY: Double-check polarity before connecting battery. Reversed polarity will instantly destroy ESC and FC.

3B. Flight Controller Installation

4

Mount Flight Controller

FC mounts above ESC using soft-mount grommets or standoffs:

  • Use soft-mount grommets to reduce vibration
  • Align FC arrow with frame forward direction
  • Connect FC to ESC via ribbon cable or solder pads
  • Verify UART, power, and signal connections
5

Connect ESC to FC

Connection between ESC and FC varies by model. Common methods:

  • Ribbon Cable: Plug directly if using matched FC/ESC
  • Solder Pads: Connect ESC signal wires to FC motor pads
  • Verify 5V/GND power from ESC BEC to FC

3C. GPS Installation

6

Mount GPS Module

GPS should be mounted on a mast, away from electronics:

  • Use 4" carbon fiber or 3D printed mast
  • Mount at rear of frame, above battery area
  • GPS antenna faces UP (sky-facing)
  • Arrow on GPS points forward
  • Keep away from VTX and ESC (interference)
7

Connect GPS to FC

GPS connects via UART (serial port):

  • GPS TX → FC RX (on selected UART)
  • GPS RX → FC TX (on selected UART)
  • 5V → 5V
  • GND → GND
  • Note which UART for Betaflight config

Electronics Stack Checklist

  • ESC mounted and motor wires soldered
  • Capacitor installed across battery pads
  • XT60 connector soldered (correct polarity)
  • FC mounted with correct orientation
  • ESC-to-FC connection verified
  • GPS mounted on mast, facing up
  • GPS UART connection noted

4Wiring Harness

~20 min
Wiring harness
Wire routing and management
Soldering connections
Soldering connections

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)
                
1

Clean Up Wiring

Organize and secure all wires:

  • Bundle wires with small zip ties
  • Keep signal wires away from power wires
  • Ensure no wires can contact props
  • Leave service loop for battery lead

Wiring Checklist

  • All connections soldered (no cold joints)
  • Heat shrink on all exposed connections
  • Wires secured away from props
  • Battery lead has service loop

5Video System

~20 min
FPV camera
FPV Camera
VTX antenna
VTX Antenna (RHCP)

Install and connect the FPV camera and video transmitter.

5A. Camera Installation

1

Mount FPV Camera

Camera mounts in the front of the frame:

  • Adjust tilt angle: 25-35° typical for FPV flight
  • Use included mounting hardware
  • Ensure lens is protected from prop strikes
  • Secure with appropriate screws
2

Wire Camera

Camera wiring (3 wires typical):

  • Yellow/White = Video signal → VTX video in
  • Red = Power (5V) → FC 5V out or VTX 5V out
  • Black = Ground → Common ground

5B. VTX Installation

3

Mount VTX

VTX placement considerations:

  • Mount with antenna connector accessible
  • Keep away from GPS (interference)
  • Ensure adequate cooling (airflow)
  • Use double-sided tape or zip ties
4

Wire VTX

VTX connections:

  • Video In ← Camera video out
  • Power (7-26V typical) ← Battery voltage or regulated
  • GND ← Common ground
  • Smart Audio/Tramp ← FC UART TX (for OSD control)
5

Install VTX Antenna

Antenna installation is critical:

  • Use RHCP (Right Hand Circular Polarized) antenna
  • Ensure connector is secure (MMCX, UFL, or SMA)
  • Mount antenna vertical or at 45° angle
  • Keep antenna away from carbon (blocks signal)

NEVER power VTX without antenna connected. Running VTX without antenna will damage the transmitter.

Video System Checklist

  • Camera mounted at correct angle
  • Camera video wire to VTX
  • VTX powered (correct voltage)
  • Smart Audio connected (optional)
  • Antenna installed and secure
  • Antenna polarization matches goggles (RHCP)

6Receiver Installation

~15 min
Crossfire receiver
TBS Crossfire Nano receiver with Immortal-T antenna

Install the TBS Crossfire receiver for long-range control link.

1

Mount Receiver

Receiver placement:

  • Mount away from ESC and VTX (interference)
  • Use double-sided tape or zip ties
  • Ensure antenna can be routed externally
  • Consider crash protection
2

Wire Receiver

Crossfire Nano connections:

  • TX → FC UART RX (UART1 typical)
  • 5V → FC 5V
  • GND → FC GND
  • Note: Crossfire uses CRSF protocol (serial)
3

Install RX Antenna

Crossfire Immortal-T antenna:

  • Route antenna away from carbon frame
  • Secure with zip tie at frame edge
  • Keep antenna element straight, not coiled
  • 915MHz range - antenna should be ~8cm exposed

Binding: Receiver must be bound to your TBS Tango 2 transmitter. Use TBS Agent software or transmitter menu to bind.

Receiver Checklist

  • Receiver mounted securely
  • UART connection correct
  • Antenna routed away from carbon
  • Antenna secured at frame edge

7Payload System Assembly

~30 min
Payload mounting system
Payload mounting system components (MF-BPH series)

Install the Model-F payload mounting and release system. The basic payload holder (MF-BPH) provides a simple, reliable mounting solution.

Payload System Components

  • MF-BPH-001 Frame Mount Plate
  • MF-BPH-002 Payload Cradle
  • 9g Digital Servo
  • M3 hardware kit
  • Retention straps

7A. Frame Mount Installation

1

Print/Source Mount Plate

The MF-BPH-001 frame adapter:

  • 3D print in PETG or ABS (strength required)
  • 100% infill recommended
  • Dimensions: 80mm x 50mm x 8mm
  • Features dovetail rail on bottom
2

Attach to Frame Bottom

Mount plate attaches to underside of main frame:

  • Align with center of frame
  • Use 4x M3x8 screws through frame holes
  • Apply Loctite to screws
  • Verify plate is level and centered

7B. Payload Cradle Assembly

3

Print/Source Payload Cradle

The MF-BPH-002 cradle:

  • 3D print in PETG or ABS
  • 100% infill for structural integrity
  • Dimensions: 80mm x 70mm x 60mm internal cavity
  • Features dovetail interface on top
  • Strap slots on sides
4

Install Release Servo

For servo-actuated release (optional):

  • Mount 9g servo in designated pocket
  • Connect servo to FC SERVO output
  • Wire: Signal → FC servo pad, 5V → 5V, GND → GND
  • Test servo movement range
5

Attach Cradle to Mount

Slide cradle onto mount plate rail:

  • Align dovetail interfaces
  • Slide cradle forward onto rail
  • Verify secure engagement
  • Add retention pin/clip if designed

7C. Payload Integration

6

Load Payload

Payload insertion procedure:

  • Insert payload into cradle cavity
  • Center payload for balanced CG
  • Secure with retention straps
  • Verify payload cannot shift in flight
  • Check total weight is within limits

WEIGHT LIMIT: Maximum payload capacity varies by motor selection. Typical limit: 500g-2kg depending on configuration.

Payload System Checklist

  • Mount plate secured to frame
  • Cradle slides smoothly on rail
  • Servo installed and wired (if used)
  • Retention straps functional
  • CG checked with payload loaded

8Final Assembly

~15 min
Final assembly
Final assembly overview
Battery
LiPo battery installation

Complete the build by installing the top plate, props, and performing final checks.

1

Install Top Plate

Secure the top plate:

  • Verify all wires are tucked inside
  • GPS mast passes through or around plate
  • Use M3 screws into standoffs
  • Don't overtighten (carbon can crack)
2

Install Battery Strap

Add battery mounting system:

  • Thread strap through frame slots
  • Add non-slip pad on top plate
  • Test strap tension
3

Install Propellers (For Testing Only)

Prop installation for motor spin test:

  • Match CW props to CW motors (M1, M3)
  • Match CCW props to CCW motors (M2, M4)
  • Hand tighten prop nuts
  • Verify props spin freely, no rubbing

REMOVE PROPS before configuration and indoor testing. Only install props for outdoor flight tests.

Final Assembly Checklist

  • Top plate installed
  • All wires contained
  • Battery strap functional
  • Nothing loose or rattling
  • Weight verified (with battery)

9Software Configuration

~30 min

Configure Betaflight firmware, bind receiver, and verify all systems.

9A. Betaflight Setup

1

Connect to Betaflight Configurator

Initial connection:

  • Download Betaflight Configurator (Chrome app)
  • Connect FC via USB
  • Install drivers if needed (STM32 Virtual COM Port)
  • Select correct COM port and Connect
2

Ports Configuration

Configure serial ports:

  • UART1: Serial RX → Enable
  • UART2: GPS → Enable (if GPS on UART2)
  • UART3: VTX (TBS SmartAudio) → Enable Peripherals
  • Save and Reboot
3

Configuration Tab

Essential settings:

  • Mixer: Quad X
  • ESC/Motor Protocol: DShot300 or DShot600
  • Motor Direction: Props Out
  • Receiver: Serial, CRSF protocol
  • GPS: Enable if installed
  • Arming: Set appropriate angle limit
4

Motor Test (PROPS OFF!)

Verify motor operation:

  • Go to Motors tab
  • Enable motor test mode
  • Slide each motor to ~20%
  • Verify correct motor responds
  • Verify correct spin direction
  • Fix any reversed motors (swap wires or BLHeli direction)

9B. Receiver Binding

5

Bind Crossfire Receiver

Binding procedure:

  • On Tango 2: Menu → Crossfire → Bind
  • Power on drone (receiver in bind mode or button press)
  • Wait for solid green LED on receiver
  • Verify in Betaflight Receiver tab: channel values move with sticks
6

Channel Mapping

Standard channel assignment:

  • CH1: Roll (Aileron)
  • CH2: Pitch (Elevator)
  • CH3: Throttle
  • CH4: Yaw (Rudder)
  • CH5: Arm switch
  • CH6: Flight mode
  • CH7+: AUX functions (beeper, etc.)

9C. Failsafe Configuration

7

Set Failsafe Behavior

Critical safety setting:

  • Go to Failsafe tab
  • Set Stage 1: Hold last values
  • Set Stage 2: Drop (disarm) or GPS Return (if equipped)
  • Test by turning off transmitter
  • Verify motors stop within 1 second

Configuration Checklist

  • Betaflight connects via USB
  • UARTs configured correctly
  • Motor test passed (all 4 correct)
  • Receiver bound and responding
  • Channel mapping correct
  • Failsafe configured and tested
  • Arm switch working

10Pre-Flight Testing

~20 min
Testing equipment
Testing equipment setup
GPS lock
GPS satellite lock verification

Comprehensive testing before first flight.

10A. Smoke Test

1

Use Smoke Stopper

First power-on procedure:

  • Connect smoke stopper between battery and drone
  • Watch for smoke stopper LED/buzzer
  • If smoke stopper trips: STOP - find short
  • If no trip: proceed to next step

10B. System Verification

2

Video System Test

Verify FPV video:

  • Power on goggles
  • Power on drone
  • Verify video feed on goggles
  • Check for interference/static
  • Test OSD displays (if configured)
3

GPS Lock Test

Verify GPS operation:

  • Take drone outside (clear sky view)
  • Wait for GPS lock (green LED on GPS)
  • Verify satellite count in OSD or Betaflight
  • Minimum 6 satellites for reliable position
4

Control Response Test

Verify control inputs (PROPS OFF):

  • Arm drone (may require throttle down + switch)
  • Move sticks gently
  • Listen for motor speed changes
  • Verify pitch, roll, yaw respond correctly
  • Disarm immediately after test

10C. First Flight (Outdoor)

5

Hover Test

First hover procedure:

  • Go to open outdoor area (no people/obstacles)
  • Install propellers (final check on direction)
  • Set drone on level ground
  • Arm and slowly raise throttle
  • Hover at 1-2 meters
  • Check for stability, any drift or oscillation
  • Land and check motors (not hot = good)

If anything seems wrong during hover test, LAND IMMEDIATELY. Do not try to troubleshoot in the air.

Final Pre-Flight Checklist

  • Smoke test passed
  • Video feed working
  • GPS lock achieved
  • Control response verified
  • Failsafe tested
  • Props tight and correct direction
  • Battery charged and secured
  • Flying area clear
  • Hover test completed successfully

Build Complete

Completed FPV drone
Model-F OWA - Flight Ready

Your Model-F OWA drone is now ready for mission configuration and deployment.

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