Maybe the winning combination comes in the form of a smaller
capacity (for lighter weight) higher-voltage battery (for higher
RPM) combined with shorter props (for quicker response) that
have a higher pitch (to move more air). Experimenting with all
these dierent options is what we consider to be the fun part of
building these aircraft.
Increasing Flight Times
The general rule of thumb for increasing
flight time is to go with
a longer prop that has a lower pitch. In the case of the Little Dip-
per kit, we have already bundled it with the 6-inch (largest that
can
fit on the frame) prop at a pitch of either 4.5 or 3. There may
not be a lot of upgrade room left, but it is possible to experiment
and see what you can do. At the time of writing this chapter, 6 ×
2 props are just starting to hit the market, and they are a good
possibility for longer flight times. Of course, decreasing the
weight of the aircraft will also gain you a little more flight time,
so look at that as another option to improve your air time.
Troubleshooting in the Drone
Community
Our final recommendation in this book is that you come to
terms with the fact that as long as drones are in your life, repairs
and problem solving are as well.
Troubleshooting issues that arise and aect flight performance
are a normal part of being a small UAV enthusiast. You will be
completing routine maintenance and systems checks before
each flight to minimize unfortunate events while flying, but
repairs are inevitable. Luckily, you are not alone. As mentioned
in Chapter 1, there is an entire, well-established online drone
community that we encourage you to get involved with.
Helpful and popular online forums include:
•
DIY Drones is a really great resource if you are using APM
components.
•
MultiRotorForums.com is a fantastic resource filled with
experienced pilots and beginners alike.
184 Make: Getting Started with Drones
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