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Mohiudin Malik

A step-by-step video guide to understanding and building your very own drone. The course will take someone who has little to no prior experience with radio controlled model flying to someone that fully understands all the basic concepts by building a drone from scratch.

You should take this course if you want to fast track your understanding of the field instead of tirelessly reading countless forums to get a basic understanding of the hobby.

Read more

A step-by-step video guide to understanding and building your very own drone. The course will take someone who has little to no prior experience with radio controlled model flying to someone that fully understands all the basic concepts by building a drone from scratch.

You should take this course if you want to fast track your understanding of the field instead of tirelessly reading countless forums to get a basic understanding of the hobby.

In the course we’ll build a super-fast racing quadcopter which can be built on a budget. The concepts talked about can be applied to any type of multi-rotors, even the ones used to carry expensive video equipment by filming crews.

Course is structured in a way that it fully explains the theory and demonstrates the build in a very easy to understand manner.

How long the course takes to complete depends on how much time you allocate to it and how much experience you have with similar projects.

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Understand the theory behind how drones work.
  • Understand the basic concepts involved in radio controlled model flying.
  • Understand the individual components that make up a drone.
  • Build a complete quad copter drone from scratch.

Syllabus

Introduction

Introduction to the course

At the of the section, students will understand what a drone is and some of the design variations out there.
Read more

Lesson exploring what a drone is and some of the variations out there.

At the end of this section, students will understand all the various drone components and see a drone being built through step by step build videos.

Learn all about drone frames.

Watch a build video of a frame assembly.

Learn all about motors used in drone building.

Watch a build video of motors being mounted to the frame.

Quiz about drone motors

Learn all about the electronic speed controllers that control the motors on a drone.

Watch a build video of the speed controllers being mounted onto the frame.

Quiz about speed controllers

Learn all about drone batteries and ways to distribute power on-board.

Watch a build video of the power distribution board being mounted onto the frame.

Quiz about drone batteries and power distribution

Learn all about the flight controllers used in drones.

Watch a build video of the flight controller being mounted onto the frame.

Quiz about flight controllers

Learn all about the radio system that is used with drones.

Watch a build video of the radio receiver being mounted onto the frame.

Quiz about drone radio systems

The Wings - Propellers
Propeller Mount Video

A quiz about drone propellers

At the end of this section, students will understand how to setup a flight controller

Introduction to flight controller setup

A quick video showing how to bind a radio receiver and a radio transmitter together.

A quick video showing how to setup AUX channels on a radio transmitter.

Quick check to see if motors are setup correctly.

What you need to setup the flight controller

Program the flight controller with the latest available software.

Calibrate the motion sensor on-board the flight controller.

Set the general settings for the flight controller.

End of the course.

Quick test to see if motors are working correctly.

Quick test to see if radio systems are working correctly.

Setup flight modes on the flight controller.

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Provides a step-by-step video guide to understanding and building a drone, which is helpful for hands-on learners
Explains the theory behind how drones work and the basic concepts involved in radio controlled model flying, which builds a strong foundation
Focuses on building a racing quadcopter, which may not be applicable to all types of multi-rotors or drone applications
Teaches how to build a drone from scratch, which requires learners to source and purchase individual components separately
Uses software to program the flight controller, which may be outdated since the course was created in 2020
Covers the individual components that make up a drone, which is essential knowledge for anyone looking to customize or repair drones

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Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Drones For Beginners 2020 with these activities:
Review Basic Electronics
Reviewing basic electronics concepts will help you better understand the function of each component in the drone and how they interact.
Show steps
  • Review basic circuit theory concepts.
  • Study the function of resistors, capacitors, and inductors.
  • Understand voltage, current, and power relationships.
Practice Soldering Techniques
Practicing soldering techniques will improve your ability to assemble and repair drones effectively.
Show steps
  • Gather soldering equipment and practice materials.
  • Practice soldering wires and components together.
  • Desolder and resolder components to improve technique.
Read 'Getting Started with Drones' by Terry Kilby and Belinda Kilby
Reading this book will provide a broader understanding of drone technology and its applications, supplementing the course material.
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of 'Getting Started with Drones'.
  • Read the book, focusing on chapters relevant to the course syllabus.
  • Take notes on key concepts and terminology.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Create a Drone Component Resource List
Compiling a resource list of drone components will help you quickly find and compare different parts for future projects.
Show steps
  • Research different drone components and their specifications.
  • Create a spreadsheet or document listing components, prices, and vendors.
  • Organize the list by component type (e.g., motors, ESCs, flight controllers).
  • Update the list regularly with new components and information.
Create a Drone Building Guide
Creating a drone building guide will reinforce your understanding of the assembly process and allow you to share your knowledge with others.
Show steps
  • Document the steps involved in building a drone, including photos and videos.
  • Write clear and concise instructions for each step.
  • Organize the guide into a logical sequence.
  • Share your guide online or with other drone enthusiasts.
Design a Custom Drone Frame
Designing a custom drone frame will allow you to apply the knowledge gained in the course and explore different design considerations.
Show steps
  • Research different drone frame designs and materials.
  • Sketch your own frame design, considering weight, aerodynamics, and component placement.
  • Create a 3D model of your frame design using CAD software.
  • Consider 3D printing or laser cutting your design.
Read 'The Drone Pilot's Manual' by Eddie Kalajian
Reading this book will provide a deeper understanding of drone piloting and regulations, enhancing your overall knowledge of the field.
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of 'The Drone Pilot's Manual'.
  • Read the book, focusing on chapters related to regulations and safety.
  • Take notes on key regulations and best practices.

Career center

Learners who complete Drones For Beginners 2020 will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Drone Technician
A Drone Technician assembles, maintains, and repairs drones, ensuring their safe and effective operation. This course will help you become a Drone Technician by providing a hands-on understanding of drone components and assembly. The step-by-step build process will give you a solid grasp of the hardware involved in drone technology, allowing you to confidently work with a variety of drone types. This course is especially useful for someone who wants to move from hobbyist to professional drone technician, as the course focuses on building a racing quadcopter, which requires similar skills to working on commercial drones.
Remote Pilot
A Remote Pilot operates drones for commercial or recreational purposes. It will be helpful to take this course to become a Remote Pilot since they will be much more adept at handling drones if they are also familiar with how they are built. Building a racing quadcopter from scratch as taught in this course, is a great way to learn about the various components of any drone. The hands on experience in the course will help a remote pilot understand the practical and mechanical side of drone operation.
Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Pilot
An Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Pilot operates drones for various purposes, including photography, surveying, and inspection. Although this course does not explicitly teach how to pilot a drone, it will help you become an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Pilot by providing an in-depth understanding of the technology behind drones and their construction. This knowledge will help the pilot understand how to best operate the drone and troubleshoot any issues that might arise in the field. The course explains both the theory and application of drones, which helps the prospective pilot build a foundation of understanding.
Drone Sales Representative
A Drone Sales Representative sells drones and related products to customers. This course will help you become a Drone Sales Representative because it teaches you the fundamentals of drone technology. This course will prepare the prospective representative to explain each component and the system as a whole. The hands-on component will aid you in your sales pitches. The course teaches about various components including the frame, motors, electronic speed controllers, batteries, and flight controllers, which will all be useful when assisting customers.
Drone Videographer
A Drone Videographer uses drones to capture aerial footage for various projects and clients. While this course does not teach the art of videography, it helps prepare someone to be a Drone Videographer by explaining the construction of a drone. By understanding the technical characteristics, you will be better able to control the drone. The course will help you better understand the drone's capabilities and limitations. The course offers a well rounded survey of drone construction, and will be valuable to someone who wishes to become a drone videographer.
Avionics Technician
An Avionics Technician installs, maintains, and repairs the electronic systems of aircraft, including drones. This course will help a career as an Avionics Technician by teaching the fundamentals of drone electronics. The course explains all the components of a drone, including the frame, motors, speed controllers, batteries, flight controllers, and radio systems. By working through the course, you will build a drone from scratch, which will give you confidence in your hands on abilities. Even though the course does not cover traditional aircraft, the concepts are similar enough to help you build a foundation of understanding.
Surveying Assistant
A Surveying Assistant uses various technologies, including drones, to create detailed maps of land. This course may be useful for a career as a Surveying Assistant since the course offers a thorough understanding of the technology. The course teaches the basics of drone operation by building a drone from the ground up. This hands-on experience will give you practical knowledge of the platform you will be using in your job. Many surveying professionals use drones, and the course helps prepare someone to use them.
Remote Sensing Technician
A Remote Sensing Technician collects and analyzes data using remote sensing technologies, often mounted on drones. This course may be useful for a Remote Sensing Technician because it directly relates to the technology used in the field. Though this course focuses on design and construction, a complete understanding of the physical components of a drone will help someone develop a more complete understanding of the technology as a whole. The course includes building a drone from scratch, which helps the technician understand the various parts and their functions.
Robotics Technician
A Robotics Technician builds, tests, and maintains robotic systems. This course may be useful as it covers the basics of robotics by demonstrating how to build a drone from the ground up. The core concepts in the course, such as understanding the individual components of a drone, its electronic speed controllers, and flight controllers are also useful for someone who wants to become a robotics technician. This course is particularly helpful for individuals interested in hands-on work, which is a primary component of robotics technology.
Model Vehicle Designer
A Model Vehicle Designer conceives of, designs, and engineers models for various applications such as toys, research, or entertainment. This course may be helpful for someone interested in becoming a Model Vehicle Designer, as it covers the fundamental concepts of radio controlled model flying, and teaches how to build a drone by starting with the frame and incorporating motors, controllers, and batteries, to make a functional final product. The course provides a hands-on approach, essential for understanding the practicalities of model design. The course uses a racing quadcopter as an example, which introduces the prospective designer to aerodynamic concepts.
Hobby Shop Associate
A Hobby Shop Associate works in retail, assisting customers with their purchases and providing technical advice. This course may be useful for a career as a Hobby Shop Associate because it teaches the fundamentals of drone technology, from understanding the various components to building a complete quadcopter. This in depth, hands-on knowledge will help you confidently assist customers looking for drone parts and full builds. The course will prepare you to discuss the various components of a drone, which will be useful in guiding customers.
Engineering Assistant
An Engineering Assistant supports engineers in various tasks, including design, testing, and documentation. This course may be useful for an Engineering Assistant, particularly if they are working on projects involving robotics or drones. The course provides a solid foundation in the practical aspects of drone technology, focusing on the various parts and their assembly. This course teaches the practical side of drone engineering which is useful for anyone wanting to become an Engineering Assistant. It gives you a hands-on understanding of a complex technical field. An associate's or bachelor's degree is often required for this role.
Research Assistant
A Research Assistant helps researchers with experiments, data collection, and analysis. This course may be useful for a Research Assistant working on projects involving drones. The course teaches the fundamental concepts of drone technology, including the individual components that make up a drone and how to assemble them. This foundation will help any Research Assistant who is working with drones as part of their work. The course demonstrates how the drone works, which is helpful for understanding how to incorporate them into a research setting. Advanced degrees are often required for this role.
Geospatial Technician
A Geospatial Technician uses geographic data to create maps, databases, and visualizations. This course may be useful for a Geospatial Technician who will be involved in the use of drones for data collection. The course teaches the fundamentals of drone technology by building a drone from scratch. You will gain a practical understanding of drone components as well as the overall system. The course may be helpful to anyone who will be using the data from drones.
Photogrammetry Technician
A Photogrammetry Technician uses photographs to create maps and 3D models, often employing drone imagery. This course can be useful for a career as a Photogrammetry Technician, because it provides an understanding of drone hardware. By building a drone, you will learn the core functions and components of the device, which will help you better understand its operation in a work environment. The course introduces students to radio systems, which play an important role in controlling drones.

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Drones For Beginners 2020.
Provides a comprehensive introduction to drones, covering everything from basic concepts to advanced techniques. It's a great resource for beginners who want to learn more about the technology and its applications. The book offers practical advice on choosing, building, and flying drones, making it a valuable companion to the course. It also delves into the legal and ethical considerations surrounding drone use.
This manual comprehensive guide to drone piloting, covering regulations, safety procedures, and best practices. It's particularly useful for understanding the legal and ethical aspects of drone operation. The book also provides practical tips on flight planning, weather considerations, and emergency procedures. It serves as a valuable resource for anyone looking to become a responsible and skilled drone pilot.

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