The High Pro Glow

Welcome! The topics introduced in this blog will vary wildly. Here, you will find a lot of odd topics that are here to help somebody in need. I post off-beat information, hard to find history, & stuff that is otherwise seldom regurgitated in our modern place. Sit back & find something interesting. Comment if you have a need or suggestion.

Thank you for crossing paths!

Christopher R. Smith (aka. Littlehorn)

I've got it on! Have you got it on?

Tuesday, February 22, 2022

For Sale - Parrot Skycontroller Power Adapters & USB Port Repair

 

The.High.Pro.Glow - Parrot Skycontroller Power Upgrades

For All Versions of Parrot Bebop 2, Bebop 2 Power, Bebop-Pro, Disco and Anafi SkyControllers

** PLEASE READ EVERYTHING **  I have a professional work life combined with an ultra-busy family life while making stuff on the side to help folks enjoy their drones. Please, choose the appropriate adapter matching your specific Skycontroller using the descriptions and pictures below then email me your name, adapter selection and mailing address for a payment link. Questions Are Welcomed.

The prices below include USPS shipping within the USA with tracking but without insurance. Insurance adds $12 for USA addresses. International shipping with tracking but without insurance is usually $17 USD. $38 International shipping with insurance. Please send me your address to verify the cost before ordering. USA Customers, I accept and prefer PayPal payments. PayPal charges a 2.9%+.30 fee. It's safe, fast, and easy! Please, add your name, item list and mailing address in the payment note. Email Me for other payment options. 

What?
■ Replace the expensive/out-of-production original battery setup with an 18650 battery adapter.
■ Future-Proof Your Skycontroller with the ability to use inexpensive common 18650 batteries.

Why Upgrade?
■ Skycontroller battery charges but discharges very quickly.
■ Skycontroller was stored and now it just will not charge at all.
■ Break-away from Parrot's proprietary battery design and future-proof your Skycontroller.
■ The original battery's direct replacement is expensive and the same fate is inevitable. The Skycontroller slowly discharges it's connected battery even while powered off...over-discharging until the battery is destroyed.
■ Need a backup or replacement power option?
■ Fully replace the original battery and power a Skycontroller 2 or Skycontroller 3 with common 18650 Li-Ion Rechargeable batteries.

Notes & Tips:
■ Remove batteries by pressing through bottom of tray.
■ Insert batteries exactly as described per specific version diagram. Failure to do so can be disasterous for batteries and Skycontroller.
■ Do not charge installed 18650 batteries with the original kit charger while in the Skycontroller. Remove all 18650 batteries from the Skycontroller and charge with an appropriate 18650 Battery Charger.
■ Disconnect the battery after a day of use and before storage at about 65% charge to promote battery health and longevity. Skycontrollers can discharge batteries even while powered off.
■ Keep extra 18650 batteries charged and ready.
■ The original battery's blue wire (thermister) is deleted, not needed and does not effect operation.
■ The in-app on-screen realtime flight telemetry remains intact and unaffected by this upgrade.
■ 18650 Batteries have a potential capacity/runtime rating listed on labels as the mAh number. A higher mAh number is better but current 18650 are still limited to a maximum possible capacity of about 3600mAh per cell and some sellers over-boost numbers on labels. I've used inexpensive knock-offs that out-performed the actual brand name cells costing 2x more. Stick with brand name cells from a reliable source.
■ Using 18650 cells with over-charge/over-discharge "Protection" circuits is highly recommended. Expect a very snug but safe fit.
■ A simple inexpensive 18650 Battery Charger is required to charge 18650 Batteries separate from the Skycontroller.

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Quality Statement - Built to NASA High-Reliability Hand-Soldering fabrication, process, and verification standards. All OEM connectors, high-grade silicone wiring, and high-quality gold plated connectors with appropriate wire sizes matched to specific applications in alignment with industry standards. 
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#SC2
- 18650 Battery Tray Power Adapter for Parrot Skycontroller 2 (for SC2 version 1 with Silver control sticks, fully replaces the original retangular 2S battery).
- Adapts common 18650 Li-Ion batteries to power the SC2. Highest Quality. Charge batteries separate from the SC2 with an appropriate 18650 battery charger. Batteries & Charger Not Included.: $27 USD Email Me


































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#SC2P 
- 18650 Battery Tray Power Adapter for Parrot Skycontroller 2P (for SC2P with Black control sticks, fully replaces the original cylindrical 1S battery).
- Adapts 1 or 2 common 18650 Li-Ion batteries to power the SC2P. Installing 2 cells potentially doubles runtime. Highest Quality. Charge batteries separate from the SC2P with an appropriate 18650 battery charger. Easy removal of the battery clip plate in the battery bay is required. VIDEO. Batteries & Charger Not Included.: $27 USD Email Me


































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#SC3
- 18650 Battery Tray Power Adapter for Parrot Skycontroller 3 (for SC3 Anafi, fully replaces the original cylindrical 1S battery).
- Adapts a common 18650 Li-Ion battery to power the SC3. Highest Quality. Charge battery separate from the SC3 with an appropriate 18650 battery charger. Easy removal of the battery strap plate in the battery bay is required. VIDEO. Battery & Charger Not Included.: $27 USD Email Me























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#SCRR
SkyController Repair Service 
Parrot SkyController 1, 2 & 3. 
Repair USB Port Connector damage. Bricked Unit/Stuck Firmware Update Fix. Battery Reconfigurations. Connector Replacements. Custom work available upon request. Just Ask.: 
$15 USD initial diagnostic inspection only. Additional cost per required repair. Return shipping not included. I try to keep all costs as inexpensive as possible. USD Email Me

If you made it down here, feel you've got this and want to expedite your order...use my quick PayPal.Me payment link adding your Name, Adapter Selection and Mailing Address into the payment notes. It's fast, easy & safe. If you would rather use EMAIL, please do. Questions are always welcomed.

Sunday, April 21, 2019

For Sale - Parrot Bebop, Disco, & Skycontroller Power & Charge Cables

The.High.Pro.Glow - Custom Cables

For All Versions of Parrot Drones, Controllers, & Batteries


** PLEASE READ EVERYTHING **  I have a professional work life combined with an ultra-busy family life. I make cables as a side project because people need these specialized items. Unfortunately, too many people do not read anything on this page before ordering and cant seem to send their mailing addresses. So, I have to disable the instant ordering/payment links for a while. Please, compile your order then email me for a payment link. Questions Are Welcomed.

Prices Include Shipping to US Addresses. USPS shipping recently increased. Sorry!

What?  -I am offering a wide array of cable/adapter solutions built to NASA fabrication standards using the genuine OEM connectors to help keep all models/versions of Parrot Bebops, the Disco, and Skycontrollers powered and working better for longer. I make these cables/adapters for my own use and now for anyone else that can see the benefits. I will explain each cable and their intended use and the benefits they offer.

Why?  -There are many reasons that cables/adapters are needed when departing from the proprietary stock charging and powering setups of the Parrot Bebops, Discos, and Skycontrollers. Specifically, the proprietary stock powering and charging systems are rather weak, expensive, and some ar no longer available. Most of the setups are not providing adequate maintenance to keep battery packs healthy for long-term use and they do not convey adequate information about what is happening within battery packs. Simply charge and hope everything is good to go. Costing users time and money and confidence when an aircraft drops for no apparent reason. This outcome can be avoided with a little knowledge and practicing a little care. 

Purpose?  -Better Balance Charging, reliable power as expected, extending longevity, adaptation between stock proprietary connections and common aftermarket options. These cables adapt Bebop 2 (LiPo), Bebop 2 Power (LiHV), Bebop-Pro (LiHV), the Parrot Disco (LiPo), and Skycontroller (SC2/LiPo, SC2P/Li-Ion) battery packs to typical aftermarket Balance Chargers..so you can ditch the stock chargers..and adapt common R/C power systems and batteries to the stock connections.

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Quality Statement! -Built to NASA High-Reliability Hand-Soldering fabrication, process, and verification standards. All OEM connectors, high-grade silicone wiring, and high-quality gold plated connectors with appropriate wire sizes matched to specific applications in alignment with industry standards. 

Aftermarket Balance Chargers have specific connections with a few options of different connector types. I can match connectors to chargers upon request. The Red&Black 4mm Banana connectors are for typical 4-button balance chargers, some use Red Dean's T-Plug type connectors, or Yellow XT-60 for iSDT chargers and the Parrot Disco charging setups. Other connectors available. If you are not sure what you need, just Email Me.

The prices below include USPS shipping within the USA with tracking but without insurance. Insurance adds $12 for USA addresses. International shipping with tracking but without insurance is usually $17 USD. $38 International shipping with insurance. Please send me your address to verify the cost before ordering. USA Customers, I accept PayPal payments via the links below. PayPal charges a 2.9%+.30 fee. It's safe, fast, and easy! Please, add your address in the payment note. Email Me for other payment options. 

-- Use the links below to purchase cables --
BEFORE PLACING ORDERS
PLEASE NOTE:
**Prices includes shipping.
(**Please, Contact Me Before Placing International Orders)
-- Please, use the PayPal links provided. It is safe, easy, and free!
-- Please, add a note in PayPal listing the ordered item(s) and your shipping address.
-- Please, combine multi-cable orders into one by changing the total amount in PayPal before completing the payment process.
-- Please, DO NOT inhale fumes from smoking cables.

#C1 - Parrot Bebop 1 Charge Adapter Cable. Charge stock Bebop 1 battery packs with an aftermarket balance charger: $15 USD

    #C2 (pictured "A" top or "B" bottom ) - Parrot Bebop 2, Bebop 2 Power, Bebop-Pro Balance Charge Cable. Charge any Bebop 2 type battery with an aftermarket balance charger. "#C2A" = 4mm Banana plugs common R/C chargers. "#C2B" = XT60 connector for iSDT chargers.: $35 - Stock Low. Email Me for availability.

      #C3 - Parrot Disco Balance Charge Cable. Charge the Disco battery pack with an aftermarket balance charger: $25 USD Email Me

        #C4 - Parrot Skycontroller 1 (Red, Yellow, Blue) Power Adapter Cable. Adapts any 3S LiPo battery pack to power the SC1 (R/Y/B versions). Can also be used to provide bench-power to the Bebop 1: $14 USD

        #C5 - Parrot Skycontroller 1 Black Edition Power Adapter Cable. Adapts a common 3S LiPo battery pack to power the SC1 Black Edition. Also can be used to provide bench-power to the Bebop 2. Battery Not Included.: $26 USD



          #C6 - Parrot Skycontroller 2 - Battery Power Adapter Cable. Adapts a common 2S LiPo battery pack to power the SC2 v1. Battery Not Included.: $18 USD




          #C7 - Parrot Skycontroller 2 - 2S Battery Charge Cable. Charge the stock Ver.1 Flat 2S LiPo Modified or Unmodified Battery. (Add $5 to include a JST-XH Balance Lead, shown below in gallery): $18 USD Email Me




          #C8 - 5.5mm to XT60 Adapter Cable. Adapts Wall Power Supply cable with a 5.5mm connector to iSDT Charger's power input XT60 connector : $10 USD


            #C9 - Parrot Skycontroller 2, 2P & 3 - 18650 Battery Power Adapters. Replaces original battery. Adapts 1 or 2 common 18650 Li-Ion batteries to power the Skycontroller. $27 USD Skycontroller Adapter Details HERE


            #C10 - Parrot Skycontroller 2P (SC2P) - 1S Battery Charge Cable (Ver. 2P Cylindrical Li-Ion Battery). Adapter to charge the stock cylindrical battery with an aftermarker charger: $19 USD Email Me


            #C11 - JST-XH 2S Battery Balance Lead Pre-Cut & Bridge/Soldered. (needed for Skycontroller 2 Ver.1 flat LiPo Balance Charge Modification)($5 uncut/unsoldered shown below in gallery): $9 USD


            Tap on the images to enlarge.






















            Saturday, March 23, 2019

            Parrot Skycontroller 1 Disco Firmware


            At some point during the Parrot Disco's development, possibly before the Skycontroller 2 was integrated, it seems Parrot added Disco control support to the classic Skycontroller 1 for development testing but never officially released the firmware to the public. It's out in the wild now...and Parrot may have accidently released this very special Skycontroller 1 firmware 2.0.0-rc3 (Build Date: August 2017) during their website reorganization in October 2018.

            This firmware allows the SC1 to control the Disco. Streaming flight video feed with overlays is available via FreeFlightPro as well as via SC1's HDMI-out. That's a huge bonus...the SC1's HDMI-out port offers the unrestricted use of HDMI Goggles, HDTVs, HDMI compatible tablets, or stand-alone HDMI displays to be used for viewing the live flight video feed.

            Additionally, this firmware should also technically allow control of the Disco via the 5GHz WiFi band frequencies within the SC1 capabilities, as CHUCK also supports 5GHz.

            Setup Note:
            North is recorded for OSD flight telemetry upon Disco's power-up...so, point the Disco North before powering up CHUCK.

            Installation Notes:
            This firmware may require a 'force installation' command before installation can be initiated. Notes coming soon.

            A USB thumbdrive is required to manually install this firmware into a Skycontroller 1. Copy the firmware file to the root directory of the thumbdrive making sure the filename does not change. Center the control sticks and buttons and do not touch them during the installation. An HDMI cable may be used to watch the installation progress on an HDTV or display. Insert the thumbdrive into the SC1's USB port and power on. The SC1 will display information and a light show will tick away as the installation progresses. When complete, the SC1 will be able to operate the Disco!

            Get the Skycontroller 1 Disco Firmware HERE.
             https://drive.google.com/file/d/144GiaFwpkrnuxjz-U09D4_bEtFfXHo53/view?usp=drivesdk

            The Newest SC1 Firmware v1.7.4 (for Bebop control) is HERE.
             https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hku6MaPefnZjsJiXPvWrOwujQIp1FtW0/view?usp=drivesdk

            Wednesday, December 12, 2018

            Parrot Bebop User Quick Start Guide

            ***Frequently Updated***

            This information is for the Parrot Bebop, Bebop 2, Bebop 2 Power, and the Bebop-Pro Thermal airframes.

            Parrot Drones are training-drones for a lot of people. The Bebop's are very good despite the low prices that draws in the masses. There are some aspects of using these systems that can become problems as these systems are still very technically involved despite the lack of included instructions. To help curb the learning-curve and possible problems beginners will have here is a list of the information that can improve anyone's enjoyment duration. The more you know...the longer you can fly. It involves some reading...but the knowledge will pay you back with maximum fun.

            I have been a part of the Bebop Facebook groups for 4+ years. I visit daily and help users understand what they are experiencing. The problems I see are very common because the Bebop's are attracted by a unique type of user. No Offense meant..Most of the users have very little technical experience...few are ready when they rip open the box and fly it as high/far as it can go before the battery is even fully-charged for the first time. No manual read. Just go at it expecting Parrot and the drone to take care of everything. It is a "Ready-to-fly" kit carrying extremely high expectations. Everything that could go wrong is then perceived as a fault of the drone. Misperceptions are very easy at that point and blaming everything else without any placed on operator error is very common. It is a combination of conditions and Parrot is not free of blame. The manuals are not included and very hard to find...out of date...and not as informative as they could be for the target demographic they sell these drones to. There are hidden pitfalls and even environmental impacts that contribute to users having bad experiences and hating Parrot. I can help.

            I come from a very technical background. I have also been involved with R/C everything for decades. I am a robotics and software developer. I was a Space Shuttle Quality Assurance Inspector for NASA. But, I also read everything before using a Bebop. I have never had a "fly-away" and none of my Bebops have ever done anything that I didn't cause it to do. I can help new users with the difficulties these systems can force upon us.

            The information below is not complete. I will add more as I can gather the time. If you can manage reading this you will gain years of usage from your investment.

            First, Mind The Rules...
            In most developed countries around the world...the common airspace is governed by some authority. They have set forth regulations for certain aircraft so safety for everyone can be maintained. In some areas it is very dangerous to use any small unmanned aircraft system (sUAS) and flying can be illegal without the operator/aircraft being registered. There are not many regulations and most are rather common-sense points for safety. In the USA, any aircraft like a Parrot Bebop weighing 0.55lbs. (250grams) or more is required to be registered before flying outdoors. If you enjoy your freedom I recommend you to become familiar with the sUAS regulations in your country. Operators in the USA should go to FAA's site (the second registration option HERE) for details before jumping into the deep end.

            Manuals:
            --Bebop 1: HERE
            --Bebop 2: HERE
            --Skycontroller 2 & FPV Kit: HERE
            --FreeFlightPro App, FlightPlan, FollowMe: HERE
            --Skycontroller 1 (Red/Blue/Yellow/Blk Ed): HERE
            --Preflight Checklist w/ SC1: HERE
            --Preflight Checklist w/ SC2: HERE

            Battery Quick Tips:
            --Always watch batteries charge. Never leave them alone and go out for lunch or go to bed.
            --New Battery...fly gently for the first few charge/discharge cycles. They need some time/exercise to reach their full true capacity and performance potential. Land at 40%-60% for a few cycles and recharge. Stay low and close and don't push too hard or cells can dump charge and drop a Bebop unexpectedly.
            --Let packs rest for 30-45 minutes after charging and flights.
            --Do not leave packs fully-charged for more than 1-2 days. Do not leave packs discharged for more than 1 day. Storage-charge packs to 3.75V-3.85V per cell.
            --Stock charger flashing red...means the battery is too low to trigger the stock charger to start charging. I recommend using an aftermarket LiPo Balance Charger. But, if the stock charging setup must be used, the charger can be tricked with a good battery to start charging then very quickly swap in the low battery. There are other methods to input a little charge into the low battery. YouTube has many examples. It is not very safe or healthy for flight batteries. Do not leave batteries charging unsupervised indoors.
            --Measure the individual cell voltages before & after charging & flights. Voltages suggest battery condition and health.
            --Battery Measurements: HOW HERE
            --Do not charge aftermarket battery packs with the stock charging setup. Aftermarket batteries do not have the internal balance circuit board inside like the stock battery packs. The aftermarket battery will be harmed and become a potential fire hazard.
            --Important Kit Version & Charging VIDEO.
            --Reasons to buy an aftermarket balance charger and a Bebop adapter cable from me.
            --Bebop 2 & Power Charging: HERE
            --Bebop 1 Charging: HERE
            --Balance Charging & Adapter Cables: HERE
            --If you are handy...Modify your Bebop 2 stock charge cable into a balance charge cable for use with an aftermarket balance charger...HERE.

            Proper Preflight Flattrims & Calibration:
            Before flight...get a green GPS lock outdoors, Flattrim, Calibrate with smooth quick movements, and Flattrim again on a very level surface outside away from metal, power and communication utilities.
            Video: HERE
            --Reasoning: the first Flattrim cleans up some shared memory and zeros sensors and improves accuracy in preparation for the following Calibration. The second Flattrim sets a clean more accurate final zero orientation for stable flight and levels the horizon in flight views and imagery. Before each flight is optimum. The Earth's magnetic fields are always changing. Frequent Calibrations provide more accurate GPS data. Consumer GPS accuracy is approximately +/- 30 feet.

            Skycontroller 1 Updating:
            In some fresh kits and configurations or if FreeFlightPro has bern updated the Skycontroller 1 may not connect to a Bebop or if FreeFlightPro. The SC1 just needs to be updated. Do Not Use The SC1 Firmware Update File Currently On Parrot's Website! If you did, follow the options below to unbrick the SC1.
            --Good v1.7.4 Update File Link: HERE
            --Clean SC1 Firmware Update Steps: HERE
            --SC1 UnBricking Options: HERE

            Propeller Tips:
            --To maximize prop longevity remove the props after flight sessions and before transport or storage. Store the props without applied pressure.
            --Locking screws should be tight but still barely removable with bare fingers. Never too tight to struggle with the tool.
            --Check/re-check prop installation between flights.
            --Use only Parrot brand Props. Trust me on this one.
            --Props Installed Reference Pic: HERE
            --Prop Install Trick & Tool Use Video: HERE
            --Prop Balancing Video: HERE

            Reset the Bebop...When, Why & How:
            --Before Updates...Reset, Reset, Update, Reset again.
            --Transfer Any Valued Stored Media First. Resets erase stored videos and pictures. Big DNG picture files require direct Bebop cable to PC transfer.
            --Reset the Bebop anytime you see or suspect strange behaviors. To Reset the Bebop...while powered on hold the power button for 10 seconds and release. The Bebop will rethink life and reboot itself beeping it's motors and starting it's fan when complete. It takes about 2-3 minutes.

            Optimizing the WiFi Setup:
            --When using the Skycontroller 2, turn off WiFi and Bluetooth in the phone/tablet before connecting to the Bebop.
            --Always point the Skycontroller's antenna towards the Bebop. Directly overhead is a WiFi deadspace and connection risk.
            --Connect to the Bebop, in FreeFlightPro's Network Screen, use USA settings, select "Manual", select a clear or clearest  channel 2-3 clear channels apart from the congested channels in use by other networks in the entire flight area even downrange. Use a WiFi scanner app.
            --The Skycontroller 2 can only use the 2.4ghz WiFi band. If you find that the Bebop doesn't connect..it may have been accidentally manually switched to the 5ghz WiFi band. To switch it back...while powered on...hold the power button for 5 seconds and release. The Bebop will switch between WiFi bands. Alternatively, Reset the Bebop to return to its default 2.4ghz WiFi band.
            --The Skycontroller 1 can use both the 2.4ghz and the 5ghz WiFi bands simultaneously. Use the 5ghz band between the SC1 and the phone/tablet, then use the 2.4ghz WiFi band to the Bebop.

            Return To Home:
            -When RTH is initiated: If under 20m altitude, the Bebop will rise to 20m and return in a straight line back to its liftoff point. If over 20m altitude, the Bebop will maintain the current altitude during its return. Obstacles will not be avoided. So, plan ahead.

            Control Sensors vs. Altitude:
            -8m and under the Bebop uses its belly camera and Ultrasonic sensor to maintain height and stability. The belly camera is low rez and needs plenty of light and discernible ground patterns.
            -Above 8m the Bebop uses its barometer and magnetometer to maintain altitude, stability, and orientation. Additional data from the GPS system is also used.

            Repair Guides:
            Bebop 1 Disassembly Video: HERE
            Bebop 2/Power Repair Guides (PDF): HERE

            For more specific information about The.High.Pro.Glow Drone Reflectors for Search&Rescue and Bird Deterrents or many other flight tips...look at my full blog list HERE.

            I hope you had a blast learning how to keep the fun flying..if you want to show me your appreciation by buying me a cup of coffee or a Beer...here's how...click the link below and type in some amount. Its safe and easy as pie!

            PayPal.Chris!

            Thank You!