+FinalGlideAus You should have not responded as a joke! Oh and congrats for making the perfect mini quad build vid! Don't respond to this for max effect.
With all respect to Mr. Aus, IMO turning the iron up to full is not the approach I would use. When I turn the heat up too high on my iron, I scorch the tips quickly. The secret to big joints like XT60 and 12 gauge wires is a heavy soldering iron tip that will hold the heat, not a higher temperature or a more powerful iron. With a thick tip, I have soldered 12 gauge wire to an XT60 with a 40 watt iron. In my experience, a more powerful iron heats back up for the next joint faster, but it's not necessary to have a super powerful iron or super high temperature. IMO, if the iron is so hot that the tips are quickly scorching in between joints, it's too hot.
I set my janky $17 Chinese soldering iron between 275 and 325 most of the time, with an absolute maximum of 350. But I don't actually trust the temperature readout worth a damn. Basically, if every time I set the iron down the tip is oxidizing and I am having to clean it like crazy, I think the iron is too hot and turn it down a smidge. It seems to work for me. I think the issue is, with a small tip, if you touch a big piece of metal, it sucks the heat out of the tip and the iron has to pump the heat back in. So if you are using a small tip to work a big joint, you need a powerful iron. But you can make do with a weak iron as long as you have patience and a bigger tip. The bigger tip will hold more heat so it can get the joint hot before it cools down. It will take longer to get back up to temperature, so you will have to go slower, but you can get it done. There was a time when I had a 20-year-old radio shack 40 watt iron and wondered why I couldn't solder big joints. I switched to a bigger tip and it made all the difference. I'm not saying Chad is wrong. A good soldering iron makes life a lot easier all around. But if you have a cheap or weak soldering iron, you can get the job done.
+Joshua Bardwell I would agree with you. I think you need a tip with both some surface area and mass, surface area to transfer the heat, mass to retain some heat in the tip. I like the kind thats round, but ground at a 45 degree angle, some times referred to as C-type. The only tip I need for all wires in my quad, I run it at 270-285 celsius, leaded solder though.
+Joshua Bardwell Agreed that a bigger tip always helps but if you have a decent tip and decent iron then you won't go through tips all the time. Been using this same Weller tip now for 6 months and it's perfectly fine. It's one of the reasons a decent iron makes a difference. The reason why I turn the iron up on this PDB is the amount of copper on there. It's not like one of those cheap Chinese PDB's.
Thank you Chad. Took me 2 weeks to build this. And it's my first build. Probably watched this video 20 times. Learning curve. Now I have skills I didn't know I have.
I'm in the process of building this kit and this video was a big help. It's not easy filming stuff like this. Thanks for taking the time to do it. You guys have been great to deal with purchase-wise and an absolute big help in general, helping us new guys get started. I love this hobby because right now the majority of people are sharing their experience and knowledge and it's great to be a part of a community like that. Everyone involved with Rotor Riot seem like real stand-up people. Keep up the good work.
+Head Trip FPV Biggest piece of advice for a first build is take your time, watch different videos, and plan things out. You'll pick up lots of tips and tricks from other build videos and planning things out makes sure that you're able to put everything together correctly nothing worse than having a complete build and then take it apart because you forgot to put liquid electrical tape etc over certain joints. And practice your soldering too, becomes very easy after your first build but takes time to be confident. Best of luck with your build.
+jussa101 thanks for the advice! I don't watch TV or do anything other then watch videos on builds lol. I don't plan on getting it done in one sitting I will absolutely take my time. I'm nervous just because it's my first one, but I'm ready to dive into it. wish me luck and thanks again!
+jussa101 I will do my first ever build soon and i pre ordered the Alien5"RR today;) …but i decided to use the TBS unify pro for my VTX…so now i need a pololu step down regulator for my HS1177? i didn't knew this….good i am reading all this posts! do i also need a LC filter now? …noob questions i know, sorry;)
+RobbyCrash the tbs vtx runs on 4.5-5 volts so you would need a step down regulator. A pololu is cutting it close as they only supply 300 milliamps and the vtx requires 300 milliamps so your cutting it very close. I have not used the same vtx and can't be absolutely 100% confident in what I've said so I would recommend that you contact someone at tbs and ask them a few questions as they would be able to answer all your questions correctly. And an lc filter is useful to cut out any fuzz that you could potentially see in your image, I would recommend it as it helps get you a clearer image. Again just ask the guys at tbs just to double check. Good luck on your build hope it turns out nice.
Wanted to come back and say I built this quad exactly as they say to and it is a flat out amazing flyer. It even makes me look like a decent pilot which shouldn't be possible. Thanks Rotor Riot!
so grateful to the rotor riot crew!!! I'm new to the hobby in a rural setting....i don't know anybody in the hobby. and just built my first quad following the alien build, taranis and kiss fc setup vids. I flew it yesterday for the first time line of sight. everything worked and functioned perfectly.....so stoked!!! so grateful for an awesome and successful introduction....keep up the great entertaining and informative vids. 👍👍👍☝👍👍
+FinalGlideAus Can you please ask Chad what date these frames will be available for ordering again on the website? They are currently unavailable. Thank you for the video!
Hi fg, i just want to thank you for this vid, I'm a mode 1 flyer in the uk and have been inspired by you guys, I started with a rtf nighthawk but have now built a geprc 210 with eMax red bums, kiss fc and esc's and immersion vtx all set up as per your vid. I test flew it today and omg it's stunning, I used your pids and rates and the tune is like a video game. Without this and your other vids I would really struggle with this, thanks again, Gary.
Excellent build video. I have a 6" Alien already, but this is making me want to try a Kiss-powered 5" build. I'd love to see a follow up that goes over the configuration/setup of the Kiss FC and ESCs.
Thanks for the video. Your pointers on the mounting of the antennas was very useful. You have the voice of experience and have just saved me a lot of grief in the future. Many broken antennas in my past.
Good one again guys! Simple things are hard to believe sometimes... This kind of info unveils and clears all the ghosts of how a top pilot does a build. Pretty straight forward, thanks Chad and RR. Nice one to come back and re-watch.
+MTL Racing The reason I use it is because it just works. I have plenty of room in the frame for it and I'm kind of over watching all the cheap Chinese vtx's having issues. I need something I can trust. I don't trust the others. If yours works that's fine. I just don't trust those since I'm flying over very unfriendly terrain a lot of the time.
+FinalGlideAus I'm not sure I have seen any "cheap Chinese" VTx's with issues that couldnt be attributed to the users inability to use it properly. There are a few that the specs are over rated, but thats a different issue. I have been flying FPV for many years and have always used the "cheap Chinese" VTx's, with no issues whatsoever. There have also been issues with the expensive Chinese Immersion stuff!!!
Insane amount of valuable information on this video about on all you need to know to build a top-notch quality FPV quad. I'm sold on the RR5 kit!. You rock Chad!
This is a great build tutorial that answered all of the questions I had regarding the spare parts that were included in the kit. I finally have a quality frame for my new kiss 24a and kiss fc and I only wish I had switched over sooner. When it comes to these KISS electronics the hype is real, folks!
Quality is seems is more than just the sum of all the parts - its about patience, care and build technique. Excellent vid Chad - really enjoyed the tips and hints.
I appreciate how you let us in on the thought process during the build. As for parts, even I get gear crazy, but it's really about trying things and what suits the individual. I think I gleam that too from listening to the top pros. The equipment they use they have discovered what works for them. And tomorrow things may change, so go out and develop your skill and have fun!
Thanks so much for this video, Chad. I couldn't have finished the build without this video. Working nights, I finished building it in about a week and I just did the maiden flight today. I ran through five batteries already, and she flies beautifully! The KISS FC is so awesome! Everything just goes together so well, in the build and in flight.
THANKS for the build video & Taking the time to make it... So cool offering your wealth of info & experience. I did like the simplicity of VTX powering the camera with direct power from PDB... The fact that it's already filtered is great. I learned a bunch of excellent tips from this video! It seems you have a method of being able to work on the quad quickly & efficiently with this setup... Very cool to see a RR edition offered soon!!! Cheers!
My RR5 came the other day. I start my build tomorrow with Kiss FC, Kiss 24A and Skitz Purple motors. I'll be building this with you Chad, so really looking forward to this build.
I really wish you would do a Rotor Riot workshop tour, that place looks so cool, and would be so good to see you go through alot of your tools and storage :)
Amazing video, very well done. I thought with an hour long video I would be hitting fast forward a lot, but I didn't even think about forwarding once, testament to what great build video you've made! Can't wait for the next RR video, thanks.
Super helpful, Chad (and Chad). Thanks for putting this together. One additional note on finishing the carbon is to epoxy the edges. I've done it on my 2 Aliens and they are super strong and look nice and clean.
I would love to see video of how you keep your build so clean, the different ways and ideas to keep all your wires in order. Also maybe tips for a cheap way and a not as cheap way to do this, as this is an issue I am having with my first build. Thank you, you guys are awesome.
I love the alien 5" frame. I have built two. Super easy builds, plenty of room for whatever you want. I run a unify vtx in the back and x4r mounted to the top plate. Besides that, pretty much the same setup.
awesome video, i too would like a complete kit version with all the components in one box, love the channel and all you guys do for the love of the hobby.
haven't read all comments so someone may have said something similar but on KISS ESC jumper depending on your soldering tip you can tin a wire with a bit extra solder then while its still hot dab the wire on the jumper with a touch from the iron and then pull away. I had screwed with the first one for a min and decided to try that instead of charring chips and PCB and it worked very well. Hope someone finds it helpful.
"Grommet this, grommet that, what the @#%& is a grommet" 🤣🤣🤣🤣 great build video guys! It's long, but educational for many other builds as well. Keep up the good work Chad, and all of the Rotor Riot team members. I hope to meet you all someday! I know I could learn so much
I just found out about this hobby and it's insane! Flying a drone with video feeds looks like an amazing time haha. I would love to get into something like this but it all seems overwhelming.
Wow most intuitive build I have seen. Thank you and especially going above n beyond with explaining things clearly along with the tips n tricks learned through experience!! Well done!!
Great video dude, I hope a lot of people watching this take your advice about filing and rounding off their frames!! (for those that don't know: this doesn't get rid of sharp edges because they will cut ya, but because it removes stress risers, which are locations on a body where stresses are maximum when the body is subjected to a load... i.e. during crashes). Even if you don't get a perfectly round shape, adding any fillet will drastically reduce the damage a crash can inflict on your frame. And on a couple of side notes, I am right there with ya on the Fahrenheit crap and on the "soLdering" pronunciation! Thanks for making these videos, most excellent stuff!
this couldn't have come out at a better time...my RR frame and KISS electronics are arriving today!!! oh and hey Chad looks like you have a nail biting problem...hahaha
after watching all your video and then seeing this amazing build walk through I decided to buy one for myself and I love it. so much fun putting it together and now to tune it. can't wait to see more from you guys.
.....Just gonna solder these ESCs, vtx, and tvl to the PDB with a BEC. Oh, the acronyms and abbreviations. I watch this video daily to master building. Thanks!!
Ordered the frame and 2 full sets of props. Semi-patiently waiting for the ESC's, Motors, and FPV cam to be in stock to order those along with the other electronics i will need.
Hell ya I'd buy a kit from you guys. Great to have a build video to follow exactly. I've built a few mini quads now but it seems a good portion of the time is coming up with a neat lay-out. This certainly could eliminate that.
Thanks a bloody shítload Chad! That's the easiest to follow build video I have seen & very well explained👍🏽 I've ordered my Alien 5" & am gonna follow this when I build it✌🏽Thanks again mate! Boz
Great Video. On point Tips throughout, and apprecaite the variations! Thanks to everyone involved for taking the time to put that together. Prepping for my 2nd quad build, and found this to be a great resource. Can't wait for my pre-ordered frame from the next batch on the RR store :-D
Thanks for the great build Chad! it was very helpful as I just built a RR 5" alien. hoping to maiden this weekend :DJust a note on Receiver wire colors, I followed Chads colors but am using an Frsky XSR receiver... the yellow and white wire colors are reversed :D White is SBus and yellow is telemetry.Thanks again!Tim
I've gotten into this whole FPV thing last july.since then I've wasted a lot of money on 58 Vtx that don't perform like the IRC 600mw 58 Vtx. For me I happen to go with the solid reliable big ol Immersion. It's like Boris the Blade from "Snatch" he said to Beniccio Del Torro some thing like this about the gun... "The weight is sign of reliability...and if doesn't work, you can always hit them in the head with it!" Can't do that with a 8 gram Vtx!!!
Just got my kit. I reversed the motor wires rather than bridge the pads. Maybe my soldering tip is too big, but that seems like the perfect way to ruin an esc. There's tiny little (transistors?) near there and after about 3 seconds of trying to get solder in there and having it collect on my iron, everything in the area was black. I don't think I damaged anything, but fk those pads. I couldn't care less about the aesthetics of having two crossed wires. You need a really fine tip to get in there. Or, maybe I just need a better iron... it's not adjustable - it's 60W and can burn things quickly... Anyway, this video is masterfully made! I've built quads, but am always looking to learn something new and would've done several things differently which I'm glad I didn't after watching this. You guys rock!
Chad, for the helping hands alligator clip protector / insulation heatsink actually works much better. it form fits to the clip and covers the entire clip with no additional bulk. I'm actually working on a 'Soldering 101 for R/C' video, I'll share it when I'm done.
+SoLongSidekick I went with silicon outer from 12awg wire. That way when my soldering iron inevitably touches the clip (typically late at night:) it won't burn and smell. Seems to work well. Also prefer those brillo/scouring pad type cleaners for soldering iron tips, nicer than a wet pad.
+Simon McKenna (Si) Yeah same here. I use a Hakko brass sponge (what they're called). It doesn't cool the tip down like a wet sponge does. I hardly ever use a helping hand to be honest, I use my vise far more often.
I literally just finished my 5" Alien build last week with almost the same setup (I used EMAX RS2205 instead plus a minimOSD), and this video would have been very useful to have while I was building! Damn timing. Oh well, at least I can now go through and make sure I did everything correctly...
Nice build Chad as always mate. I'm going to own one of the alien frames one day...just getting back into the sport/Hobby. ..thanks again guys you put hard work in & play hard. ..
Sooo many questions after this vid. Not so many details like Steele, but still awesome, because of camera pointed to the quad while building. 1. Every time I race and crash, I have to replace broken zip ties that hold RX antennas with new one, because top plate work as guillotine in moment of impact with the ground 2. Use VTX to keep lipo strap? Hmm.... I'm still fighting with this issue, because my and many other pilots use smaller VTX and they can't use them to keep straps to top plate. I have to be an engineer to find a way to keep them to top plate. 3. To change camera angle, I have to unscrew those two screws that keep it under angle completely and after adjustment to screw them back. On the field it's a problem. On Alien4" is a little bit better. I've built 2 frames already and I love them, but some small issues requires to invent
+Alexandru Covaliov 1. Get decent quality Zipties and finish the edges of the carbon. I have not had a broken ziptie in 4 months now. 2. The vtx has nothing to do with the lipo strap. Have a closer look. If you use a smaller vtx then you have more places to put it which makes life easier. 3. I've never had a problem changing angle at all. It's just two bolts. The 4" design is much less durable and breaks a lot easier. Plus, how many times are you changing a camera angle at the field?
Full Props (get the pun?) ( sorry Aussie humor) to the delivery Team.. I will have to share the drawing of Rudolph (name for my new quad) that they included...The whole team rocks!!!
In fact...No thats not enough..Chad I charge you to take a bottle of Bundy Rum to these boys and party with them until they can sing the Aussie Anthem backwards...don't let me down!
That was an absolutely fantastic video and alway nice to her correct pronunciation lol. I always have trouble with tuning, so what would be cool was the build quad loaded with stock setting, and then taken out to tune. Please.
Huuuuuuuuuge respect for actualy responding to all the comments! Not many people do that.
+neclovekSK Cheers mate, I try my best.
+FinalGlideAus You should have not responded as a joke!
Oh and congrats for making the perfect mini quad build vid! Don't respond to this for max effect.
Ok, I won't :)
With all respect to Mr. Aus, IMO turning the iron up to full is not the approach I would use. When I turn the heat up too high on my iron, I scorch the tips quickly. The secret to big joints like XT60 and 12 gauge wires is a heavy soldering iron tip that will hold the heat, not a higher temperature or a more powerful iron. With a thick tip, I have soldered 12 gauge wire to an XT60 with a 40 watt iron. In my experience, a more powerful iron heats back up for the next joint faster, but it's not necessary to have a super powerful iron or super high temperature.
IMO, if the iron is so hot that the tips are quickly scorching in between joints, it's too hot.
+Joshua Bardwell What temperature do you use?
I set my janky $17 Chinese soldering iron between 275 and 325 most of the time, with an absolute maximum of 350. But I don't actually trust the temperature readout worth a damn. Basically, if every time I set the iron down the tip is oxidizing and I am having to clean it like crazy, I think the iron is too hot and turn it down a smidge. It seems to work for me.
I think the issue is, with a small tip, if you touch a big piece of metal, it sucks the heat out of the tip and the iron has to pump the heat back in. So if you are using a small tip to work a big joint, you need a powerful iron. But you can make do with a weak iron as long as you have patience and a bigger tip. The bigger tip will hold more heat so it can get the joint hot before it cools down. It will take longer to get back up to temperature, so you will have to go slower, but you can get it done.
There was a time when I had a 20-year-old radio shack 40 watt iron and wondered why I couldn't solder big joints. I switched to a bigger tip and it made all the difference.
I'm not saying Chad is wrong. A good soldering iron makes life a lot easier all around. But if you have a cheap or weak soldering iron, you can get the job done.
Joshua Bardwell Thanks for the very detailed reply! That is about the same temperature range I also use.
+Joshua Bardwell I would agree with you. I think you need a tip with both some surface area and mass, surface area to transfer the heat, mass to retain some heat in the tip. I like the kind thats round, but ground at a 45 degree angle, some times referred to as C-type. The only tip I need for all wires in my quad, I run it at 270-285 celsius, leaded solder though.
+Joshua Bardwell Agreed that a bigger tip always helps but if you have a decent tip and decent iron then you won't go through tips all the time. Been using this same Weller tip now for 6 months and it's perfectly fine. It's one of the reasons a decent iron makes a difference. The reason why I turn the iron up on this PDB is the amount of copper on there. It's not like one of those cheap Chinese PDB's.
Thank you Chad. Took me 2 weeks to build this. And it's my first build. Probably watched this video 20 times. Learning curve. Now I have skills I didn't know I have.
And the camera guy talks too much. AHaahaahaa!
I'm in the process of building this kit and this video was a big help. It's not easy filming stuff like this. Thanks for taking the time to do it. You guys have been great to deal with purchase-wise and an absolute big help in general, helping us new guys get started. I love this hobby because right now the majority of people are sharing their experience and knowledge and it's great to be a part of a community like that. Everyone involved with Rotor Riot seem like real stand-up people. Keep up the good work.
I fucking love you guys! I was literally sitting down to build my alien! it's my first build so I was nervous but now I got this shit! Thanks!
+Head Trip FPV Biggest piece of advice for a first build is take your time, watch different videos, and plan things out. You'll pick up lots of tips and tricks from other build videos and planning things out makes sure that you're able to put everything together correctly nothing worse than having a complete build and then take it apart because you forgot to put liquid electrical tape etc over certain joints. And practice your soldering too, becomes very easy after your first build but takes time to be confident. Best of luck with your build.
+jussa101 thanks for the advice! I don't watch TV or do anything other then watch videos on builds lol. I don't plan on getting it done in one sitting I will absolutely take my time. I'm nervous just because it's my first one, but I'm ready to dive into it. wish me luck and thanks again!
+jussa101 I will do my first ever build soon and i pre ordered the Alien5"RR today;) …but i decided to use the TBS unify pro for my VTX…so now i need a pololu step down regulator for my HS1177? i didn't knew this….good i am reading all this posts! do i also need a LC filter now? …noob questions i know, sorry;)
+RobbyCrash the tbs vtx runs on 4.5-5 volts so you would need a step down regulator. A pololu is cutting it close as they only supply 300 milliamps and the vtx requires 300 milliamps so your cutting it very close. I have not used the same vtx and can't be absolutely 100% confident in what I've said so I would recommend that you contact someone at tbs and ask them a few questions as they would be able to answer all your questions correctly. And an lc filter is useful to cut out any fuzz that you could potentially see in your image, I would recommend it as it helps get you a clearer image. Again just ask the guys at tbs just to double check. Good luck on your build hope it turns out nice.
jussa101 Thanks for the reply…i will figure it out with that unify pro.
Wanted to come back and say I built this quad exactly as they say to and it is a flat out amazing flyer. It even makes me look like a decent pilot which shouldn't be possible. Thanks Rotor Riot!
so grateful to the rotor riot crew!!! I'm new to the hobby in a rural setting....i don't know anybody in the hobby. and just built my first quad following the alien build, taranis and kiss fc setup vids. I flew it yesterday for the first time line of sight. everything worked and functioned perfectly.....so stoked!!! so grateful for an awesome and successful introduction....keep up the great entertaining and informative vids. 👍👍👍☝👍👍
THE BEST How to / build video ever. Well done Chad and camera operator. A difficult task performed flawlessly. I''l be buying this ASAP.
Please do a follow up that goes over the configuration/setup of the Kiss FC and ESCs.
+Biffedvin Wil do.
+FinalGlideAus Thanks. Thats when it gets complex....
+Mark Jennings I already have a basic how too guide on my CZcams channel. You've already seen the entire setup for the esc's.
Indeed, do a follow up!
Third!!!
+FinalGlideAus Can you please ask Chad what date these frames will be available for ordering again on the website? They are currently unavailable.
Thank you for the video!
+FinalGlideAus I've been looking for those nut and hex drivers, do you have a link by chance?
+Spazstix FPV We are working on it. Should not be long now and we are working on get more stock out there to meet customer demand.
+Wesley Matthews RR is looking at stocking them shortly.
+FinalGlideAus Chad, thank you man! The website has been updated to accept pre orders now. I just ordered mine!
Hi fg, i just want to thank you for this vid, I'm a mode 1 flyer in the uk and have been inspired by you guys, I started with a rtf nighthawk but have now built a geprc 210 with eMax red bums, kiss fc and esc's and immersion vtx all set up as per your vid. I test flew it today and omg it's stunning, I used your pids and rates and the tune is like a video game. Without this and your other vids I would really struggle with this, thanks again, Gary.
Excellent build video. I have a 6" Alien already, but this is making me want to try a Kiss-powered 5" build.
I'd love to see a follow up that goes over the configuration/setup of the Kiss FC and ESCs.
+Brent Collier Will try to soon mate
love to hear solder being pronounced correctly!
No thats wrong!
Thanks for the video. Your pointers on the mounting of the antennas was very useful. You have the voice of experience and have just saved me a lot of grief in the future. Many broken antennas in my past.
Good one again guys!
Simple things are hard to believe sometimes...
This kind of info unveils and clears all the ghosts of how a top pilot does a build.
Pretty straight forward, thanks Chad and RR. Nice one to come back and re-watch.
would love to see how you guys mount your gopros.
+doluseb That's an upcoming vid
+doluseb I'll take a punt, Cobra motor foam wedge and velcro strap? :)
+RCShufty yes, the video should be out on Wednesday
+FinalGlideAus Where is the video
FinalGlideAus where is the Video about how to Mount the GoPro?! i can't find it!!!;(
IRC 600 mW vTX whyyyy???
because big, heavy and expensive video transmitters are cool :)
(I still prefer my aomway vtx though)
+MTL Racing yeah 18g is crazy
+MTL Racing The reason I use it is because it just works. I have plenty of room in the frame for it and I'm kind of over watching all the cheap Chinese vtx's having issues. I need something I can trust. I don't trust the others. If yours works that's fine. I just don't trust those since I'm flying over very unfriendly terrain a lot of the time.
+FinalGlideAus How clean is the video quality you're viewing in the Dominators from this VTX?
+FinalGlideAus I'm not sure I have seen any "cheap Chinese" VTx's with issues that couldnt be attributed to the users inability to use it properly. There are a few that the specs are over rated, but thats a different issue. I have been flying FPV for many years and have always used the "cheap Chinese" VTx's, with no issues whatsoever. There have also been issues with the expensive Chinese Immersion stuff!!!
Insane amount of valuable information on this video about on all you need to know to build a top-notch quality FPV quad. I'm sold on the RR5 kit!. You rock Chad!
By far the best build series on CZcams. Sweet!
This is a great build tutorial that answered all of the questions I had regarding the spare parts that were included in the kit. I finally have a quality frame for my new kiss 24a and kiss fc and I only wish I had switched over sooner. When it comes to these KISS electronics the hype is real, folks!
Quality is seems is more than just the sum of all the parts - its about patience, care and build technique. Excellent vid Chad - really enjoyed the tips and hints.
I appreciate how you let us in on the thought process during the build. As for parts, even I get gear crazy, but it's really about trying things and what suits the individual. I think I gleam that too from listening to the top pros. The equipment they use they have discovered what works for them. And tomorrow things may change, so go out and develop your skill and have fun!
Thanks alot for taking the extra time to explain the nuances in your build. Chad you're a G.
Awesome Build! this is definitely on the top of my "Gotta have list".
+chris miller Hell yea. :) Great vid Rotor Riot
Thanks so much for this video, Chad. I couldn't have finished the build without this video. Working nights, I finished building it in about a week and I just did the maiden flight today. I ran through five batteries already, and she flies beautifully! The KISS FC is so awesome! Everything just goes together so well, in the build and in flight.
The absolute best quad build video I've watched so far! Excellent!
I watched Mr. Steel's build and he sped through many important steps. Thank Chad Kapper for doing a great build video like he does for FliteTest.
Awesome, I'm going to watch this tonight in my bathrobe with a notebook, thanks Chad!
You guys are so Awesome. Thank you, Chad and Chad and Rotor Riot...as always.
Thanks! As an experienced builder I have learnt many new little things. Make more videos like that, with very clean results!:)
Great and clean build. Thanks a lot Chad to take the time for us !! You rock !! ;)
massive props for this hour long behemoth... editing and uploading would be a task and a half too... huge thanks!!
THANKS for the build video & Taking the time to make it... So cool offering your wealth of info & experience. I did like the simplicity of VTX powering the camera with direct power from PDB... The fact that it's already filtered is great. I learned a bunch of excellent tips from this video! It seems you have a method of being able to work on the quad quickly & efficiently with this setup...
Very cool to see a RR edition offered soon!!! Cheers!
My RR5 came the other day. I start my build tomorrow with Kiss FC, Kiss 24A and Skitz Purple motors. I'll be building this with you Chad, so really looking forward to this build.
Thank you for the close up shots of soldering. Nice to know i'm doing things right and all with butane soldering iron.
I really wish you would do a Rotor Riot workshop tour, that place looks so cool, and would be so good to see you go through alot of your tools and storage :)
Amazing video, very well done. I thought with an hour long video I would be hitting fast forward a lot, but I didn't even think about forwarding once, testament to what great build video you've made! Can't wait for the next RR video, thanks.
Super helpful, Chad (and Chad). Thanks for putting this together. One additional note on finishing the carbon is to epoxy the edges. I've done it on my 2 Aliens and they are super strong and look nice and clean.
I've tried it but found no extra strength protection for it apart from it looking nice
Nice work Chad...one of the most detailed build videos I've ever watched.
I would love to see video of how you keep your build so clean, the different ways and ideas to keep all your wires in order. Also maybe tips for a cheap way and a not as cheap way to do this, as this is an issue I am having with my first build. Thank you, you guys are awesome.
I love the alien 5" frame. I have built two. Super easy builds, plenty of room for whatever you want. I run a unify vtx in the back and x4r mounted to the top plate. Besides that, pretty much the same setup.
Excellent guide! Especially liked the JonTron reference, had me in stitches.
Been crimping my own plugs for a long time now. Best advice in the video!
Thanks again for making this video, will done... it works be great to see a video where you and Steele go over the differences between your builds...
Thanks, that antenna trick is going to save me a lot of trouble. Rad video!
awesome video, i too would like a complete kit version with all the components in one box, love the channel and all you guys do for the love of the hobby.
haven't read all comments so someone may have said something similar but on KISS ESC jumper depending on your soldering tip you can tin a wire with a bit extra solder then while its still hot dab the wire on the jumper with a touch from the iron and then pull away. I had screwed with the first one for a min and decided to try that instead of charring chips and PCB and it worked very well. Hope someone finds it helpful.
"Grommet this, grommet that, what the @#%& is a grommet" 🤣🤣🤣🤣 great build video guys! It's long, but educational for many other builds as well. Keep up the good work Chad, and all of the Rotor Riot team members. I hope to meet you all someday! I know I could learn so much
Thank you rotor riot this is best how to on the net, GO ROTOR RIOT AWESOME GUYS NO questions asked
I just found out about this hobby and it's insane! Flying a drone with video feeds looks like an amazing time haha. I would love to get into something like this but it all seems overwhelming.
I also crimp my servo leads, with that tool, it's time consuming, but way neat. Great video Chad squared.
Thank you for all the tips, Chad!
Wow most intuitive build I have seen. Thank you and especially going above n beyond with explaining things clearly along with the tips n tricks learned through experience!! Well done!!
Great video dude, I hope a lot of people watching this take your advice about filing and rounding off their frames!! (for those that don't know: this doesn't get rid of sharp edges because they will cut ya, but because it removes stress risers, which are locations on a body where stresses are maximum when the body is subjected to a load... i.e. during crashes). Even if you don't get a perfectly round shape, adding any fillet will drastically reduce the damage a crash can inflict on your frame. And on a couple of side notes, I am right there with ya on the Fahrenheit crap and on the "soLdering" pronunciation! Thanks for making these videos, most excellent stuff!
Watching this makes me want to tear down my quad and do a rebuild. Thank you for the tips. You do good work.
very thorough build, wished this video was available when I first built my quad
Really great tips for any build in this video. Awesome job Chad!
my alien arrived today. Can't wait to finish my first full build.
Woohoo, can't wait! Mine arrives today!
this couldn't have come out at a better time...my RR frame and KISS electronics are arriving today!!! oh and hey Chad looks like you have a nail biting problem...hahaha
after watching all your video and then seeing this amazing build walk through I decided to buy one for myself and I love it. so much fun putting it together and now to tune it. can't wait to see more from you guys.
Most in depth build I've ever seen. Wish they listed all the parts in the description though.. Great video
.....Just gonna solder these ESCs, vtx, and tvl to the PDB with a BEC. Oh, the acronyms and abbreviations. I watch this video daily to master building. Thanks!!
Thank you Chad! you sold me...I'm getting one.
I can see the Built Hornet in the Background, cant wait to see the vid
I'm waiting for this kit to buy my Alien! Hurry up, I can't wait anymore
Thanks for posting. Getting ready to start my build this weekend!!
Looks great, can't wait to build one, thanks guys!
Ordered the frame and 2 full sets of props. Semi-patiently waiting for the ESC's, Motors, and FPV cam to be in stock to order those along with the other electronics i will need.
Thank you Gents for the Inspiration..
Hell ya I'd buy a kit from you guys. Great to have a build video to follow exactly. I've built a few mini quads now but it seems a good portion of the time is coming up with a neat lay-out. This certainly could eliminate that.
Great video Chad - Looking forward to building an Alien 5" soon myself...
best build clip seen so far
Thanks a bloody shítload Chad! That's the easiest to follow build video I have seen & very well explained👍🏽 I've ordered my Alien 5" & am gonna follow this when I build it✌🏽Thanks again mate!
Boz
Great Video. On point Tips throughout, and apprecaite the variations! Thanks to everyone involved for taking the time to put that together. Prepping for my 2nd quad build, and found this to be a great resource. Can't wait for my pre-ordered frame from the next batch on the RR store :-D
Thanks for the great build Chad! it was very helpful as I just built a RR 5" alien. hoping to maiden this weekend :DJust a note on Receiver wire colors, I followed Chads colors but am using an Frsky XSR receiver... the yellow and white wire colors are reversed :D White is SBus and yellow is telemetry.Thanks again!Tim
"What if you put them on the propellers? Will it keep them from braking? " haha love it!!
This is perfect, I've already been eyeing your RR5 Alien
I've gotten into this whole FPV thing last july.since then I've wasted a lot of money on 58 Vtx that don't perform like the IRC 600mw 58 Vtx. For me I happen to go with the solid reliable big ol Immersion. It's like Boris the Blade from "Snatch" he said to Beniccio Del Torro some thing like this about the gun... "The weight is sign of reliability...and if doesn't work, you can always hit them in the head with it!" Can't do that with a 8 gram Vtx!!!
Thank you so much for the build video! Going to start building my RR5!
great tutorial. I just ordered my Alien 6 quad. I hope it's as easy as you make it look.
What a clean quad! So lovely
Nice, thank you for my first build
really nice to see u guys preparing a whole quad!
I have catched some ideas how to setup stuff properly! Thanks for that ! :)
Big thumbs up. I really like this kind of clips. So many smart tips and tricks. Thank you guys.
Best...Build...Video...Ever!
Just got my kit. I reversed the motor wires rather than bridge the pads. Maybe my soldering tip is too big, but that seems like the perfect way to ruin an esc. There's tiny little (transistors?) near there and after about 3 seconds of trying to get solder in there and having it collect on my iron, everything in the area was black. I don't think I damaged anything, but fk those pads. I couldn't care less about the aesthetics of having two crossed wires. You need a really fine tip to get in there. Or, maybe I just need a better iron... it's not adjustable - it's 60W and can burn things quickly... Anyway, this video is masterfully made! I've built quads, but am always looking to learn something new and would've done several things differently which I'm glad I didn't after watching this. You guys rock!
I just orderd the alien Kit on your page, i'm soo looking forward for this, many thanks for the great video.
Thanks for time stamps.
Chad, for the helping hands alligator clip protector / insulation heatsink actually works much better. it form fits to the clip and covers the entire clip with no additional bulk. I'm actually working on a 'Soldering 101 for R/C' video, I'll share it when I'm done.
+SoLongSidekick I went with silicon outer from 12awg wire. That way when my soldering iron inevitably touches the clip (typically late at night:) it won't burn and smell. Seems to work well. Also prefer those brillo/scouring pad type cleaners for soldering iron tips, nicer than a wet pad.
+Simon McKenna (Si) Yeah same here. I use a Hakko brass sponge (what they're called). It doesn't cool the tip down like a wet sponge does. I hardly ever use a helping hand to be honest, I use my vise far more often.
there's a temp sensor, so it will be fast at temp again.
this is so relaxing
hey Chad thanks for sharing your knowledge just ordered this set up will copy your build
I literally just finished my 5" Alien build last week with almost the same setup (I used EMAX RS2205 instead plus a minimOSD), and this video would have been very useful to have while I was building! Damn timing.
Oh well, at least I can now go through and make sure I did everything correctly...
Best build video I have seen
Nice build Chad as always mate.
I'm going to own one of the alien frames one day...just getting back into the sport/Hobby. ..thanks again guys you put hard work in & play hard. ..
Sooo many questions after this vid. Not so many details like Steele, but still awesome, because of camera pointed to the quad while building.
1. Every time I race and crash, I have to replace broken zip ties that hold RX antennas with new one, because top plate work as guillotine in moment of impact with the ground
2. Use VTX to keep lipo strap? Hmm.... I'm still fighting with this issue, because my and many other pilots use smaller VTX and they can't use them to keep straps to top plate. I have to be an engineer to find a way to keep them to top plate.
3. To change camera angle, I have to unscrew those two screws that keep it under angle completely and after adjustment to screw them back. On the field it's a problem. On Alien4" is a little bit better.
I've built 2 frames already and I love them, but some small issues requires to invent
+Alexandru Covaliov
1. Get decent quality Zipties and finish the edges of the carbon. I have not had a broken ziptie in 4 months now.
2. The vtx has nothing to do with the lipo strap. Have a closer look. If you use a smaller vtx then you have more places to put it which makes life easier.
3. I've never had a problem changing angle at all. It's just two bolts. The 4" design is much less durable and breaks a lot easier. Plus, how many times are you changing a camera angle at the field?
Finally you did it.
Full Props (get the pun?) ( sorry Aussie humor) to the delivery Team.. I will have to share the drawing of Rudolph (name for my new quad) that they included...The whole team rocks!!!
In fact...No thats not enough..Chad I charge you to take a bottle of Bundy Rum to these boys and party with them until they can sing the Aussie Anthem backwards...don't let me down!
That was an absolutely fantastic video and alway nice to her correct pronunciation lol. I always have trouble with tuning, so what would be cool was the build quad loaded with stock setting, and then taken out to tune. Please.