Troubleshooting

Solution: Make sure your throttle is at its lowest position, all switches are in safe positions, and GPS has a lock (if required). Check Betaflight for any pre-arm warnings.

Solution: Double-check motor direction and that propellers are installed on the correct motors. Reversed props or incorrect motor rotation will cause instability.

Solution: This is usually due to incorrect motor direction or flight controller orientation. Recheck motor direction, propeller placement, and confirm Betaflight motor layout matches wiring.

Solution: Check 5V and GND continuity from ESC to FC. Verify polarity of power wires and that no components are shorting against the frame.

Solution: Immediately disconnect power. Double-check polarity on battery leads and all solder joints. Use a smoke stopper for first-time power-up to catch shorts safely.

Solution: Always click “Save and Reboot” at the bottom of each tab. If problems persist, reflash firmware with “Full chip erase” enabled.

Solution: Try a different USB cable and port. Use the ImpulseRC Driver Fixer or install STM32 drivers manually. Ensure no other app is blocking the COM port.

Solution: Ensure you're using a compatible charger and the correct settings for LiPo or Li-ion. Check for physical damage or puffing. Inspect the balance lead and XT60 connector for corrosion or broken wires.

Solution: Flying aggressively, cold weather, or damaged cells can cause rapid drain. Verify battery health with a LiPo checker and make sure you're using the correct cell count and capacity for your build.

Solution: Overheating can indicate you're over-discharging or drawing too much current. Fly more conservatively, use batteries with a higher C-rating, and let them cool before recharging.

Solution: Stop using the battery immediately. Swelling is a sign of internal failure. Store it in a fireproof container and dispose of it at a battery recycling center — never in household garbage.

Solution: This often happens with older or low-C rated batteries under high load. Upgrade to batteries with better discharge performance or reduce amp draw through tuning.

Solution: Check battery connectors and solder joints to the ESC. Loose XT60 leads or cold solder joints can cut power unexpectedly. Inspect battery logs in Betaflight Blackbox if available.

Solution: Reduce interference by flying in open areas. Check that your camera and VTX are receiving consistent power, and verify that the correct PAL/NTSC format is set if applicable.

Solution: Confirm the camera is wired to the correct pads (Video, 5V, GND). Ensure the VTX is powered and that your goggles are on the correct band/channel. Do not power the VTX without an antenna attached.

Solution: Mismatched video format (PAL vs. NTSC) can cause this. Check Betaflight OSD settings or your camera menu to switch to the correct format for your goggles.

Solution: Gently rotate the camera lens to adjust focus. Make sure the lens is clean and free of debris or moisture. If using a protective film, remove it.

Solution: Ensure OSD is enabled in the Betaflight Configuration tab. Also check that the video wire from the camera goes into the FC first (for OSD overlay), then to the VTX.