Why I used a Micro Camera The obvious trick would be to replace the existing camera with a standard or 'mini' sized camera which would be a direct swap however I had a spare micro sized camera kicking around so wanted to use that. Also note that micros are much more common now than mini or standard to there is a wider range AND they are cheaper. I used the Foxeer Arrow Micro V2 (below) but would recommend the Micro Arrow Pro as the RRP is lower and has better default settings. Lastly a micro camera saves you almonst 10g over this full sized one. Parts Needed It took me a while to figure out how to install cleanly but was able to do so cleanly in the end with a minimum of parts and tools:
How to install Here are the steps youl need to take to replace the camera:
Results
Needless to say a night and day difference, so muck more confident now I have this better camera. I'm not at a level that I can tell but the new micro cameras have a lot less latency than the last generation CMOS as comes stock with the X215. Before I fired up the camera I though for sure I'd have the frame in view but to my pleasant suprised it was a completed unobstructed view with a very well recessed lense. Given the strength of this frame I don't think I'll ever have to worry about damage to the camera. Conclusion I've always liked the way this quad flies but now that it has a camera that is good rather substandard I find myselt wanting to fly it much more. It's amazing how much the FPV system affects your enjoyment of flying when I know personally that I get carried away with motor specs and props or 4s vs 6s etc... A properly functioning camera and video transmission system a real world difference that you can immediately tell. Links Furibee X215: https://www.gearbest.com/brushless-fpv-racer/pp_708202.html Foxeer Arrow Micro: https://www.gearbest.com/camera/pp_650430.html 20mm Standoffs: https://www.banggood.com/Suleve-M3AS11-10Pcs-M3-20mm-Aluminum-Alloy-Standoff-Spacer-Round-Column-MultiColor-Smooth-Surface-p-1290426.html
9 Comments
Henry
19/5/2018 11:32:36 am
I love this. And I fully plan to get around to doing this to my Furibee x215. I have a query though. The 20mm standoffs you link to... will they need to be cut back to 19mm? I found these https://www.banggood.com/Diatone-2018-GT-R90-FPV-Racing-Drone-Spare-Part-M219mm-Two-way-Knurled-Aluminum-Standoff-p-1225439.html?rmmds=buy&cur_warehouse=CN - would they be a better choice? Would massively value your input. Oh and also I found this https://www.banggood.com/Foxeer-Arrow-Micro-Pro-13-CCD-600TVL-PALNTSC-FPV-Camera-with-OSD-BlackBlueRed-p-1248761.html?rmmds=search&stayold=1&cur_warehouse=CN and am wondering if it will be a suitable one to use. It's practically the same from what I can see but would value expert knowledge before sitting to wait for slow ship from China and finding parts aren't what I expected! Many many thanks for great writeup!
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QuadifyRC
21/5/2018 11:17:12 am
Hey Henry!
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Henry
22/5/2018 08:48:17 am
Thanks so much for replying. I have a few final queries if you don't mind answering that I would be ever so grateful to hear back from you on. I am slightly nervous to drill the frame and make sure I align things properly. Firstly, is it easy to drill or tricky in any way (anything to watch out for?). I am no expert with a drill but I can do basic stuff. A little concerned I botch it and end up with not fit for purpose holes! Secondly, aligning the holes properly. Can you give me any tips? I've been wanting to rip this camera off for a while now. And I am all for camera protection (chinese don't seem to care about this!). BTW if there was anything else you would change on this quad.. what would it be? I'm wondering how far I can soup up the basic specs. Thanks again for sharing your knowledge!!
QuadifyRC
23/5/2018 02:00:35 pm
Hey Henry. I can appreciate why you might be nervous. If you have a scrap lying around practice on that first to get a feel for it but drilling carbon fibre is easy, especially for a M@ hole. Make sure you don't get close to the dust and wash with water after as it is potentially toxic.
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QuadifyRC
8/10/2018 09:10:21 am
Hi Croydon. I don't believe you can buy a ready made replacement without getting a whole new camera. As I mentioned in this article the camera is the weak link in this quad, a new one make a huge difference in the enjoyment of FPV. OF the credible retailers, Hobbycool has the best price micro arrow pro camera going at the moment: $18 http://hobbycool.com/arrow-micro-pro-600tvl-fpv-camera-with-osd/?afmc=1x
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croydon
8/10/2018 03:33:43 pm
Then would you know where to buy the stock camera? as i don't have a soldering iron to put a different one on it
QuadifyRC
9/10/2018 11:38:50 am
Sorry I had a look but can't be sure of a direct replacement. You should be able to get around soldering by snipping wires, twisting and heatshrinking.
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