Beginner Flight Controller?

[mojo2008]

Greetings!

First off, I apologize if this has been already addressed. If so, I overlooked the topic.

I am starting my first build and have everything (I think) ready to go except for the flight controller. I was originally going to use the OpenPilot CC3D, but shipping from France to the US is a killer. My next choice is the MicroWii ATmega32U4. From what I gather I think I will like the stability features it offers. A few questions though...

1. The pictures of this board look pretty bare. Does it actually include the sensors (gyro,compass/baro) on the board or is it just connections for separate modules?
2. Is this a good option for a patient beginner with limited flight experience?
3. If this is not a good option, what would you recommend? Please keep in mind I am trying to keep the price low for my first build and if possible I would like to purchase stateside to avoid excessive shipping costs.

Thanks in advance for any help!

Andy

 

[Tahoe Ed]

To use this controller you need some knowledge of the code that goes into it. MultiWii Arduino. For someone one new, I would not recommend it. You would be better off getting a KK board than deal with the programming. The CC3D is a better board and the interface is much more user friendly but you still have to tune it.

 

[Benchmark]

Save up and get a Naza, you will not regret it. It's the most beginner friendly controller out there.

 

[Efliernz]

KK2 with lcd.
Basic, cheap, works without any other device like a pc. Yes, you will need to learn how to fly rather than relying on the gps to do it... but you get to learn to fly! Not the damn controller.

I see so many "multicopter pilots" that cant fly manual. I just don't see the point. It would be like a commercial 747 pilot only working the autopilot!

Pete

 

[mojo2008]

Thanks guys for all of the information. I was actually pretty concerned that too much automation would keep me from really learning to fly, so I'm glad you mentioned that Pete.

Unfortunately the cost, at least at this point, is a driving factor. Eventually though I hope to be able to step up to the more expensive components such as the Naza.

 

[Efliernz]

The Naza is a good step up. Once you start building and flying these things, you will suddenly find your shed full of them!

 

[DucktileMedia]

I couldnt agree with you more Pete. That will be one good argument for a license. I too would say the Naza is your best bet. But the KK will get you flying for very little. As an alternative, you might try buying one of those walkera ladybirds to learn on. No point in spending more than you need to for learning purposes. it's also a LOT of fun and is small enough to fly indoors. Forget cameras until you can fly manually with confidence. Things do and will go wrong, learn cheap, be safe.

 

[mojo2008]

It turns out I have a ladybird. It has been my "gateway addiction." Very fun little bird.

 

[Bartman]

one little rub you may encounter, saving up to get a Naza while flying other stuff like the KK2 may leave you beyond where the NAZA can get you by the time you're ready to buy the NAZA. the first few steps happen fast, that KK2 will take you farther than you might think. good luck and have fun.

 

[Bowley]

Agree for a starter Naza is a little too easy in ATTI and a little too fiesty in Manual. Its good though, does exactly what it says on the tin.

 

[Efliernz]

I agree with Bowley... the KK2 will take you far.
A quick warning. Don't look at the pro-grade videos from multis. They are the 5% that have spent $Ks and have years of flying experience!

This is an example what a bit of diy, 18mm square pine and G10 or Hobbyking carbon plate + KK2 will let you do... all in manual mode.

 

[Jackella]

agree KK2 board a cracker,swopped one over from Naza on my FPV quad,i fly all manual mode anyway
first quick hover/flight LOS with KK2