Project #MicroLongRange [3 Inch version]

Last crawled date: 4 years, 3 months ago

ABOUT THE DESIGN
This design is a 3 inch version of my MicroLongRange 4" frame. I decided to put it in a separate post since its not only
shorter arms but also new bottom plate to adapt the angle of the dead cat layout. Just like the 4 inch version this frame
configuration allows you to easily fit an impressive amount of feature in your sub 250 setup:
GPS for speed, location, return home etc.
4K video footage with no props in view
And independent buzzer for easier post crash recovery even if the battery is ejected
3+ miles of range with and 800mW VTX
FRAME SPEC
Max. Prop Size: 3 Inch
Frame weight: ~ 32 g
Front Stack: 16x16 only
Rear Stack: 20x20 only
Cam mounts: 19mm Micro
Motor Mounts: 9-12mm 4-hole
Standoffs: M2x25 and M2x20
BUILD RECOMMENDATIONS
The build recommendations for the 3 inch version are basically identical to the 4 inch version except the motors and props obviously.

Motors: This frame and build will too heavy for 3" toothpick / ultralight motors like 1204 and 1303 so recommend going for medium sized stators like the RCinpower 1207 5000kV or iFlight Xing 1206 5000kV both on 3S. Those worked very well for me on similar 3" builds


Props: For best control and efficiency you should go for Gemfan 3016 tri-blades. Heavier props like the Emax Avan Mini will also work pretty well on 1207 stators and have higher cruising speeds. But they so tend to be pretty amp hungry in higher throttle regions....


Video Transmitter: The VTX should have 20x20 mounts and sit on the rear mount. The Rush Tank Mini 800mW is currently the best option. It's very user friendly when it comes to switching the channels through the buttons instead of using SmartAudio. Not having to use SmartAudio is a big plus here because it frees up one of the scarce UARTs on your 16x16 FC.


Receiver: Crossfire Nano RX is the way to go! You can comfortably zip tie the Immortal-T antenna to the front of the quad.


Camera: The Caddx Tarsier is the way to go if you want the best video quality (both FPV and HD). The Runcam Split 3 Nano is the best low cost and low weight option. Important: The RunCam Hybrid does not fit in the standard frame because it's stupid big. Please use the dedicated version of the top plate for the Hybrid that is included in the thing files. If you don't care about HD footage and want to have the best FPV quality go for a RunCam Micro Eagle with it's best in class image quality. You can also add a DVR with 20x20 mounts like the RunCam DVR


ESC/FC stack: I recommend getting the HGLRC 16x16 stack since it has two main advantages: First a cable connector instead of fragile pins and second two fully accessible UARTS (RX and TX).


Props: HQ T4x2.5 are pretty much the only option for 4 Inch t-mount prop at the moment. They are really smooth and efficient.


FPV Antenna: I had the best results using a full sized Lumenier Axii but you can also go for the Nano version if you want to shave off a few extra grams


Buzzer: An independent buzzer is absolutely crucial on a micro long range build. Good luck finding such a small quad without it! My recommendation is the Full Speed Luck Box. Not the loudest at 90dB but incredibly light and small.

GPS: The GPS mount is designed for the BN-180 GPS
CARBON PARTS SOURCES:

North America & Global: Send an email to Nick from CNC Madness with a link to the post. They will know what to do and can also add the required M2 standoffs and screws. Prices should be similar the $24 the 4" version costs.

Germany / Europe: AHLtec Please be aware that you will have to email them in German. Hit me up if you need some help ;-)
Disclaimer: I'm not directly affiliated to the the above third party CNC service providers. These are recommendations only and I cannot guarantee prices, quality and shipping times.
REQUIRED HARDWARE
6x M2 20mm Standoff
2x M2 25mm Standoff
4x M2 Nut
4x M2x8 Steel screw
12x M2x5 Steel screw
4x M2x12 Steel screw