Thanks for the tips. I extended the antenna to 3/4 wavelength. To avoid holding the controller at a funny angle all the time, I drilled a hole next to the beginner/expert mode buttom, folded the antenna so that it lies along the top edge of the circuit board (much like the pre-mod config) and with the extension sticking out of the hole on the side. Didn't notice much increase in horizontal range (probably because I tested it in a rather built up area), but definite increase in vertical range.
Total length of the wire antenna (original + extension) should be about 125 mm (4.92 inches). Wire should be good copper wire. Thickness is less important, but should be sufficient thickness to prevent breakage if bent repeatedly.
Thank for insight, so the wire needs to have some heat shrink tubing around the 4.92 in correct? 125mm , do you leave it straight as it leave the cone ?
well 125 mm(milimeter) is too small you probably meant 125 cm(centimeter)xD but no problem,well I have seen other videos where they say the best total wavelength must be 6,25cm (2,5 inches) so its half the full wavelength then??
+Teo Pit Back to school for you. Just think about it for a while and you should realize where you went wrong. A lot of Americans don`t know their metric.
Go figure I do a search for something quad copter related and find an QC 101 video on the subject! I'm not even surprised anymore! You rock, sir! Just had a similar experience with my Syma X5 Explorers model (sans camera, I'm using others 808 #16, etc.) I didn't want to invest anything, so I replaced that antenna wire with a little 2.4Ghz dipole antenna on a piece of coaxial cable that I had removed from another transmitter. The additional soldering for the coaxial cable was easy as there is a solder pad for the shield right next to that antenna wire solder pad on the transmitter PCB. I didn't bother to drill the antenna housing to pull the wire part though; I just pushed the dipole up into the housing until it stopped and then secured it with a dab of glue. I've also modified the flyer itself by pulling the wire antenna inside up so that it's vertical and sticks out of the top just a little bit. -That alone improved the range. I just did my transmitter modification last night so I'll be heading out to my local field later to do some range testing.
Sinichi, yes you can, but you'll also need to use a shielded cable, and an RP-SMA connector, and it would probably only work as well as the simple wire modification.
Quadcopter 101 I wish I got 150 feet, mine drops like a rock at 75 feet or so, desperately need to modify this antenna range. I'm thinking about hacking my old router for parts since it does not work properly any longer. Oh and btw, I made a modification for my camera angle by using duct tape 2 med sized washers and masking tape to hold it all in place. that way I can remove my camera without taking off the door ^^
Ken K is spot on. A full wave antenna presents a high impedance and thus a mismatch for the transmitter (which is obviously in the 50-70 range due to the stock 1/4 wave ground plane antenna). It would also introduce lobes into the field strength pattern.
Northsman, it should be 4.92" total length from where it exits the circuit board to the end tip of the wire extension. In other words, the original antenna plus its extension should total 4.92". Its best to solder an extension to make it greater than 4.92", and then measure and snip off any excess.
Michael Pickering Yes it is important to try to get it as close as possible to 4.92", which is the actual wavelength of your 2.4 Ghz transmitter. If you go longer, you should try to keep it as an odd quarter segment of the wavelength. The next longest length would be 5/4ths the wavelength of 4.92", which is 6.15". But making it any longer than 6.15" will not significantly improve performance.
the remote controller of my drone has an antenna consisting of thin wire which has a shielding ..the total length of the wire is 10centimeters, but 7.5cm is shielded and around 2.5cm is bare......so I am confused to make an extension as you say, because you didn't avised any possible shielding and I am worried to remove it ..so..total lenght of 4.92 inches should be only the naked(unshielded) wire, or the shielded part of wire is included? .the logic says to me, that only naked "radiator" is what we count as an active antenna we are taling about, but I am not shure....btw, the shielding is soldered to groun of the remote circuit.. many thanx!
Either a 1/4 wave or 3/4 wave should be the best length. This is assuming the circuit board mating point for the antenna is 50 ohms. A half wave or full wave would present a mismatch preventing most of the RF to travel down the antenna. It would be reflected back to the transmitter and could cause damage to the circuit. If you open a WiFi antenna that claims more than 2-3dB gain you will see a coil in line with the wire. This helps present a 50 ohm impedance at the base of the antenna to match transmitter. More than likely all these 2.4Ghz transmitter have a 50-70 ohm impedance. Just my 2cents worth on how I would approach it. Ken
What are you using for your conductor? A solid inner piece of coax cable? Do you have a video on RUclips showing your work at the workbench? I've been enjoying all your videos on RUclips. Thanks
Yep, this type of modification is easy to implement. It really should work with most of these toy quadcopters that use a cheap 31mm quarter wavelength wire antenna (in other words, nearly all toy quadcopters can have their range enhanced with this simple mod :)
Hello, just wanted to say I've watched all your videos for drones so far. You seem very knowledgeable on drowns, being that I wanted your advice. If I wanted to put a antenna on the transmitter, what dBi would I need ? Does it matter? Just as long as it's 2.4 ghz. Thank you and looking forward to more of your videos
Nice job. I hope the motors on the Syma are better than the v262. I'd try to do a range test on my Cheerson CX 20, but it will go into return home mode if I fly out of range. Not ready to test that function out yet..
Hi 101 I have very little. I have been flying the X1 for a couple months in house and back yard and a few micros for a couple months before that. I am very patient and will take my time learning what you tell me I need to know. thanks again for the help, Matt PS I have a Syma X5C-1 coming in the mail this Monday I figured that would be the next step.
Good move X5C-1. But you should not be considering a CX20 at this point. It could be a very costly and dangerous move. It would be best to first learn the basics of translational horizontal flight, along with maintaining quadcopter orientation by movement alone. The following web site may help. Index to the tutorials are in the right column: quadcopter101.blogspot.com/2014/12/quadcopter-flight-school-4-horizontal.html
First things first, you make GREAT videos! My question is, would putting a longer wire on the Rx do anything? I was thinking that 62.5mm would work well. Or does it not really matter since it's only receiving?
Complete newbie here-Does the antenna have to be straight or could it be coiled like a spring and still fit inside the original controller? Still waiting on our X5C ordered mid December; a disadvantage of living on the east coast I guess, but the anticipation is adding to the excitement for when it finally arrives! Thank you for your great videos and blog.
Try to keep it somewhat straight. But remember that most of the energy come out of the sides of the antenna, with less energy coming out the tip. So when flying distant, try holding the controller to point the antenna sides at the quadcopter. Also, as a beginner, try to avoid flying distant until you're very familiar with your quadcopter. In fact, recommend not even thinking of modifying your antenna until you're very familiar with your quadcopter :)
Quadcopter 101 Oh, this is something that I'll be 'filing away' for when I'm further along in flying. Right now I'm just watching and hopefully learning while I'm waiting for it to arrive. Thanks for sharing all of your knowledge.
What up brotha man. Hey did u solder that thing on the tip of the antenna or to the side a little bit? Finally got me a Syma x5c-1 thanks to you making me want one lol.
+Quadcopter 101 ok thanks. searched that plenty of times =]. will solder a piece of wire to make it 4 92". total. Think some speaker wire or anything with copper inside would be fine? maybe try to keep it same thickness and well? thankd boss quad. lol =]
I did the transmitter mode with the sma connector and have the antenna connector neatly built into the top of the unit- looks stock!. I normally bave a 3db on it but can switch to a 5db I call Big Daddy. I may be modifying the receiver antenna in the quad also. I'll remove the junk cable from the board and solder in a real RC antenna that drops down through the body out a small hole in the bottom. Unfortunately, where I've been flying I have only had it out about 150 feet so far.
Nice job with the range. That space is so incredibly enormous. I'm surprised you fly such small quads there. That place is crying for some long range gear.
I know. I always make sure that there are no members of the local RC club present so I don't get razzed :) But it is perfect for testing range. There's even a better place for doing such out in the local desert. WLToys V262 Quadcopter Drone: Maximum Range Test
I assume you checked that the antenna wasn't loaded on the board? Apparently your mod worked per your own testing. That's bad if they're selling Txmitters with the antenna wavelengths cut wrong. The life expectancy of the Txmitter will be cut short due to a mismatch (high reflected energy). Curious if users are having Tx problems after prolonged use?
Excellent mod and video, thanks. I may have asked before, but you appear to have the best vids on quadcopters and mods - you at least articulate (some mumble). If you take two standard batteries 500MAh each and wire them together in series, doubling the voltage, insert one in the battery slot and tape or velcro the other in the place where the camera goes, will this increase in voltage increase lift or cause damage? I assume that the throttle controls voltage to the motors, more voltage = more rpm = more lift. So starting with a higher voltage, you could use the throttle in the lower range and either carry more cargo (camera) or increase flying time - just a guess. Would a higher voltage cause damage (the camera maybe)?
How come none of you ever think about doing the same mod to the copter antenna wire?? It's just as likely to increase the range..... In fact what you have there is a vertically polarised 1/2 wavelength antenna, transmitting to a horizontally polarised 1/4 wavelength antenna. Having just ordered one of these quads, I've been watching a few of these videos with antenna mods and I've decided I'm going to do the antenna extension to the transmitter, but also to the copter and try make it vertical. Hopefully stick out the top of the housing, or even just dangle underneath.
Glen Petherick this should be true. Modding both may even enable you to quadruple its range. The main thing is to make sure that there's no chance for the quad's antenna to get tangled up in the props.
Yep, will do. I plan on using a stiff copper wire, like that found in transformer windings. Hoping it'll poke out through a small hole in the top. Should keep it clear of the props.
The router wire mod looks good, but I'm just not experienced enough to do the soldering onto the board etc. I have no problem joining 2 wires together, either by solder or by crimping. Would using a crimp connector be bad? Also, I would like to keep it inside the "original antenna". From my understanding after reading through the comments, would a 1/2 wave length would be ok at 62mm? Thank you in advance. PS: The video that you have been posting showing how the wire mod was done is not working for me at all, on any device. I'm just going by what you have said on here.
Hey Quadcopter 101 :-) As always, thank you for your product review videos... I check with you first before buying anything. So with this X5C range mod... Would soldering on the proper length of core copper wire from a coaxial cable to the existing antenna wire work(I think so based on this thread) BUT THEN bending it sideways inside a pigtail plastic housing and leaving it bent work better than keeping the antenna straight up and down from the board? That way you wouldn't have to worry so much about the direction the tx is pointed? What is your expert opinion please? And thank you!
Fantastic mod. I have a X5C and am very disappointed with the quad response even when in High mode - have you come across this? there appears to be a 2-3 second delay following an input. Could it be the transmitter positioning? Thanks for any advice!
This occurs with me when the quad is at the limits of its range. It seems to maintain for a couple seconds the last input it received before either coming back into range of the transmitter, or dropping out of the sky. But yes, recommend giving this mod a try. It should help. As for better flight characteristics, try removing the camera. It flies MUCH better (as seen in the above video) when it doesn't have to lug around its heavy camera.
any links for how you did it? am i overthinking it? you opened it up, soldered about the same gauge wire as the original antenna, nothing special and then cut the wire atboard point to end 4.92 inches thats 12.5cm? drilled a little hole in the fake antenna and then you are good to go?- i'm about to do this. i need to be specific and precise on the length from board to antenna, yes? i am overthinking i am sure. thanks for your vids cheers
Is it possible to upgrade the range of the antenna on the quad x5c itself? Can you tell me if this would extend the range even further than your transmitter modification (which I have successfully done on mine). Do you know what would be the best length for inside the quad? Thanks for the vids you upload. I have learned a lot from them.
Hi Quad, hope you had a good Christmas and Happy New Years. Thinking of getting a X5C-1, as I'm building a kinda Phantom look-a-like family, so extending the distance seems reasonable. Awhile back I needed some Antenna wire so I bought some JR antenna wire, (JRPA 170) tho the core wire doesn't look like copper, is that an issue??? or should I find some copper wire (solid OK,) also once installed can I cove the wire and it's insulation with an antenna cover, similar to what is used in RC cars. and last, should the extension, once soldered, be a total of 4.92" (125mm), be measured from the original soldered antenna point on the board??....whew, thats it.
Your wire should work fine. Yes you can cover the wire with insulation if you like. Yes the length of 125mm is measured from the antenna solder point on the board. Note that a 1/2 wavelength antenna (63mm) should also work almost as well if you don't want an antenna that extends out the top. And this fellow shows in detail how to do it ruclips.net/video/EQbRnQsHLHA/видео.html ruclips.net/video/b_IWbiYfvfQ/видео.html
Michael Aguirre Nothing by now. There should no longer be any original X5C's out there in any shop's inventory anymore. As such, Syma is going back to calling them just "X5C", and hopes that everyone forgets that there once was a difference :) (by the way, the original had serious flight performance issues. ruclips.net/video/hxRjUH-9pU8/видео.html )
you can only go 1/4 of wavelength a time : if you make a 1/2 wave antenna or a 1ful wave one the the impedence at the base will be raise to several Kohm instead of 50 ohm i'll try a COLLINEAR configuration witch is made of several quarters of wave in series separated by another quarter of antenna wonded in coils
Hi 101, I have had the Syma X5c since Christmas and I love it. However, the range is very disappointing and the flight time should be a little longer. I know if you don't use the camera it helps a lot but this what I want to use it for. So, you have just solve my range problem ( thank you very much) but how about flight time with the camera. By the way great video, keep up the good work.
This is how I get up to 7 minutes flight time with my X5C. I use a different camera with its own battery power :) Notice I'm also using the range mod in this video ruclips.net/video/Yk4p_9oEAb0/видео.html
I did the same thing today on my x5sw ..before fer some reason it wouldn't go more the say 50 ft without losing range..I did wire extension.. but haven't tested it yet..hopefully it works
Great! I´ll try to change my antenna. The other issue I find with this drone is that the battery doesn´t last more than 13 minutes. Do you think I can change it for another one with more capacity?
Alright, I get it.. it can fly very far.. but.. HOW do you see it that far out? I'm sure the camera doesn't pick up the quad so good, of course.. but it cant be that easy to see with your eyes also? For me, with that range, it feels like its lost xP haha.. At that range, the only thing would be FPV for me, I guess =D Great video!
Quadcopter I have taken lots of my old drones apart to take out their antennas but after I put them all together the range did not increase at all please tell me what I doing wrong
Hi Quadcopter 101 do you think this will work as well on the Syma X-1? I am thinking of buying the CX-20 GPS Auto Pathfinder Open - source Flight Controller Quadcopter with Camera Mounting Base. Do you have any thoughts on this model? Thanks for any help or info, Matt
Thank you 101 I have added that site to my favorites and right after the Seahawks win I will start watching them. You have been very helpful thanks. I will wait on the CX20 and get some time on the X5C with the tutorials. I will go in and watch some more of your videos also.
Hi, How many centre meters of wire did you solder on?. I have a old wifi antenna is it okay if I take all the wire out of the antenna and put 2.5 centre meters (2.4ghz antenna length) into the antenna, does the wire have to extend to the tip of the antenna?, thanks
What I did in the above video is soldered a thin extension wire onto the tip of the current antenna. Total length was 125mm (2.4Ghz wavelength). But, would recommend not modifying your wifi router antenna, and using it as-is. It should work well. Here's how ruclips.net/video/g1GblSfwlog/видео.html
Based on your recommendation, I ordered one. First flight today and I notice the range is extremely poor; I do live downtown and was flying on a football field with lots of WiFi around. But I am getting like 30 40 ish feet range :-( will try the range mod to see if things get better. One newbie question, what should one do when quad loses signal? It seems the quad just stick to command prior to losing signal! What should I do to avoid having it flying away?
When signal is lost, it maintains last input for about 2 seconds, trying to regain signal, before the motors stop and the quadcopter drops. But once it starts dropping you'll need to manually try rebinding (repeatedly moving the throttle up and down). Here's an example video showing what to do when signal is lost ruclips.net/video/odVxR90USz8/видео.html
Little confused about the X5C in regards to the wire needed for longer range, at 4.92 in from the board or over all ? Any help would really appreciate your help .
Hi there ! I'm looking for some advice about some quad copters. I'm looking for one to attach my gopro to but I don't want to spend a extreme amount of money. Any recommendations ? Thanks :)
Not sure how much you're willing to spend. But you'll need something with enough power to lift the GoPro. On the low end (about $80) is the WLToys V262, V333, and V353. I use these inexpensive ones in my flights for no other reason than their low cost. For my purposes they work well: WLToys V262 Quadcopter: Cayucos Beach, CA WLToys V262 Quadcopter Aerial Video: Canebrake CA But there are issues with these cheap quadcopters. The main one being that their motors need frequent maintenance/replacement. But replacement motors only run about $3.80 each. There's also a big jump in price to the next group of quads that can carry the GoPro. These run in $300 to $400 range, but they include more features such as GPS and return to home. But again I'm happy with the cheaper models, and have become quite adept at changing out their motors if needed. Here are a couple examples: www.banggood.com/WLtoys-Galaxy-V353-Headless-Mode-24G-4CH-6-Axis-Gyro-RC-Quadcopter-p-931314.html?p=RB0922217402201307U3 www.banggood.com/V262-Upgraded-WLtoys-V333-Headless-Mode-24G-6-Axis-RC-Quadcopter-RTF-p-929889.html?p=RB0922217402201307U3
Mode 1 and 2 popularity is separated believe it or not by geography. Mode 1 (right side throttle) controllers are generally more popular in those countries that drive on the left side of the road with right side car steering wheels. Mode 1 is generally more popular in UK, Australia, and New Zealand (forgive me if I missed a country). Mode 2 (left side throttle) is generally more popular in those countries that drive on the right side of the road with left side steering wheels. In effect, it has something to do with how our brains have been programmed from driving. So depending on where you are in the world, choose appropriately ;)
In both of Syma's modes, the throttle is on the left. I was asking if you have the yaw on the left or right stick. It defaults to the left stick with the throttle. Was wondering if its easier to fly one way or the other.
I was contemplating getting this quad and doing the modification to the controller. I just found out about the hobby king 100$ fpv kit and was wondering if this could carry the receiver and all of the required equipment that goes on the quad. I realize that I'm not going to be able to fly a mile with the fpv kit or the quad. Would this be a good quad for a beginner fpv quad for a nice open field or would you recommend something else. I'm looking to spend 50-75 on a quad that will suit these needs. This seems like it will pack it because it packed the mobius and hopefully the fpv kit is much lighter so it's not so weak and sluggish and I'm not overworking the motors to bad But I'm open to nearly any quad as long as it's durable big enough to hold fpv gear and fly decently fast Thank you much
Brandon Mitchell Recommend looking at this ruclips.net/video/ZAF18fsanvA/видео.html And if that didn't fit your fancy, then this might ruclips.net/video/xxI_MwoSu3s/видео.html
Wow the 60$ one looks awesome. Although it loses reception a little I think it would be cool to make goggles with a phone holder and maybe I could use my 7" tablet which would be awesome. Does the device have to be on the controller to be used. By the way thanks for the reply. I really appreciate it
Brandon Mitchell No that's just a convenient holder for it, but it can be anywhere. And yes a tablet should give a nice big screen. You can try the WiFi app now, as it's free on Google Play and the App Store. Look up "HT WiFi".
Hi There, Thank you for the great video. I just have a quick question. i bought one a few days ago and when i turn it around left to right and opposite, the direction control doesnt respond normally. i mean when i turn it lets say 90 degrees to right direction all the direction switches and when i go for example to right it goes forward instead of right, is it normal? when I rotate it in different direction shouldnt the right control handle responds the same?
It's behaving normally. The right control handle is always referenced to the front nose of the quadcopter. If the nose is pointed away from you, and you push forward on the right stick, the quadcopter should move away from you. If the nose is pointed to the right, and you push forward on the right stick, the quadcopter should move to the right.
Nobody has in all the videos I have seen of this modification mentioned what you do with the other end of the cable. 1 / do you leave the end open (in a cut state)? 2/ Do you solder the screen to the centre wire? 3/ Surely the cable must be in a loop (to allow the aerial/antenna to have a circuit?) Can somebody enlighten us all to what happens to the end of this cable?
+Saiful Raznan Yes it would. But the big problem with your X5SW is the WiFi FPV operating on the same frequency as you transmitter. Ditch the camera, and you'll get much better range.
Hey quad, I did the range mod with the transmitter (X5C-1)soldering in a 2.4ghz router antenna. I am currently changing a motor and want to know if there is anything I can change to the quad itself while in here.
+wild300zx No, don't recommend messing with the innards if not needed. And regarding motor changes, you can also just splice the motor wires instead of soldering.
+Quadcopter 101 Gotter done soldering them in the right way like they were, we're up and flying high. I left the quad antenna alone for now I did put it down the towards one of the legs instead crammed under board. Also resoldered the leds so the green is in front now, just my preference on that one. Getting around 7+ mins with the camera on using Turnigy 750mha batts. Looking at the H5P now, really, really like the looks and feedback it's getting.
wild300zx The H5P is very good, good camera, very stable, and really can fly over 15 minutes. But don't recommend flying 15 minutes non-stop with it, as it will damage the battery. It's important to break flights down into two shorter 7 minute hops with a cooldown break in between. ruclips.net/video/FngMTK8loOg/видео.html ruclips.net/video/TGm45rm-DZ0/видео.html
Are you flying with the camera attached? It takes a lot of battery power to lift it and also run it. If you're not taking video, recommend flying with the battery door and camera removed. The camera easily unplugs, and the door can be slanted in its hinge grooves to easily remove it. The battery plug blocks the battery from sliding out of its holding bracket, so the door isn't really needed in the first place.
Can you make a similar modification on a jjrc h11d? the fpv that comes with it has a bigger range than the quad itself. I hope such a thing could be possible.
Any copper wire should work well. And here's a fellow showing how: Syma X5C Remote - Easy Antenna Range Extender Mod (1 of 2) Syma X5C Remote - Easy Antenna Range Extender Mod (2 of 2)
I have a Hubsan X4 FPV - the range SUCKS. 20 feet and you can't see anything on the FPV screen. I was wondering if the same concept of range extension would work for the remote?
Yes it would. This fellow put a minor extension to his transmitter's antenna, and also put a cloverleaf antenna to replace the quadcopter's antenna (about $7 from Banggood). Claiming FPV ranges out to 150m. See the Nerobeous67 post on the RCGroups link for how-to pictures: Hubsan x4 H107D long range FPV www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1842561&highlight=Nerobeus67&page=188
that wire looks like it is longer then 4.92 inches can you please clarify this whole wire thing for me I have researched it and I cant make any sense I read your comments below too. but the controller you have has to "total' more than 4.92
+Nick The wire starts at the top of the circuit, not the full length of the transmitter. And yes, total length of the wire from where it leaves the circyuit board is 4.92 inches. Finally, please do not attempt this if you're not familiar with soldering as there is potential for damaging your transmitter.
Hey dude i have a rip off version of this along with the official syma x8hg, anyway the controller for the ripoff ( x5c-1 ) died without warning would be possible to use the official syma ( x5c-1 ) controller with the ripoff version since it is the same frequency and all the buttons do the same thing?
question, i notice that my X5C after like 30sec of flight i give it full throttle and it just hovers about 2 or 3 feet of the ground when i fly it backwards it gains altitude but when i push forward it loses altitude and drops to the ground and has a hard time of going back up.Tell me can a bad battery cause this ?......i did this MOD and then i notice this happening so i removed the wire and brought it back to its original state but still having the problem ..what could it be ? please help me out here
+franko nick Actually it sounds like a failing motor, or sand or debris in the gears. ruclips.net/video/LzzD3BPVvH0/видео.html To check ro the suspect motor or gears, try a rapid takeoff from the ground. If the quadcopter momentarily tilts in the direction of any particular motor, that is the suspect motor or gears.
Michael M Yes this works for any of these "toy grade" quads. The length measurement begins at the point where the original antenna is soldered to the circuit board. So original antenna + extension = 4.92"
I was playing with my x5c quadcopter and it land on a builden i think its up side down beacuse i can see the lights flash and i can hear it is there any way it has a return fuction?
I'm going to try this mod right now with the copper core from a coaxial cable. should be good. should i insulate the protruding end with a shrink tube or no?
A coaxial cable has an inner wire that is shielded by an outer wire mesh wrap. The outer wire wrap may block your signal. I've used coax for this simple mod in other transmitters, but I've used the outer wire as nothing is blocking it.
Quadcopter 101 I think you misunderstand. I stripped a coaxial cable down to just the copper core and then used that. after modding the controller i noticed a marked range improvement however this got me thinking. Now there isn't room for a full wavelength antenna in the x5 itself, BUT there is room to upgrade the internal antenna to half wavelength. I went ahead and did this as well with another piece of copper wire and the quad now goes far enough i can't see it. .
Layne Brown Thanks you for sharing that. Modding the quadcopter's receiver antenna has been proposed before but have never seen anyone try that yet. Now I'm going to try modding some of mine :) Thanks again for sharing!
Andersen Fuller Well then here's a listing of some neat ones coming very soon: www.banggood.com/Syma-X8C-Venture-with-2MP-5MP-Wide-Angle-Camera-2_4G-4CH-RC-Quadcopter-p-965758.html?p=RB0922217402201307U3 www.banggood.com/JJRC-H12C-Headless-Mode-One-Key-Return-RC-Quadcopter-With-5MP-Camera-p-964872.html?p=RB0922217402201307U3 www.banggood.com/YiZhan-Tarantula-X6-RC-Quadcopter-Wide-Angle-500W200W-With-IOC-p-964160.html?p=RB0922217402201307U3 www.banggood.com/WLtoys-V686G-FPV-Headless-Mode-RC-Quadcopter-with-2MP-Camera-p-965223.html?p=RB0922217402201307U3 www.banggood.com/JJRC-V686-5_8G-FPV-Headless-Mode-RC-Quadcopter-with-HD-Camera-Monitor-p-965561.html?p=RB0922217402201307U3
Andersen Fuller Yes, such as the Syma X5C is a great flier, but its range is mediocre. As such, many people do a simple modification to its antenna to improve its range ruclips.net/video/EQbRnQsHLHA/видео.html ruclips.net/video/b_IWbiYfvfQ/видео.html
Sure it's possible, but it may work spotty if you don't make a good connection. You'll need to make good metal to metal contact between the existing antenna and your wire extension. One way to do it would be to strip off enough of the clear insulation from the current antenna, and then wrap one end of your extension wire around the exposed antenna to make good metal to metal contact. Then wrap some insulation tape over that to hold it in place.
Hi hey how many inches from the original to the extesion u sadder do I have to cut 4.92 inches on the copper or couple inches fron were u sadder please tell me
Well, I drilled a small hole (1/16 in) in the top of the X5C-1 that keeps the antenna vertical when you put it through. I went out to range check it (with it on, walked out with the Tx until the quad blinked, showing loss of signal) for a reference distance. It was 355 feet (108m). Expected 60m. The quad antenna is close to 31mm. I can't wait to see if there is any more distance when the Tx wire is changed. I'm going to use 5/4 (6.15in). I don't expect much more range. I need to measure the quad antenna exactly (then I'll make it 1/4 or 3/4, I don't like 1/2 wavelength). I should probably lay it behind the PCB board like I found it and see what that range was. I may also leave it at 100m, as it is pretty small and hard to orient at this distance. (I don't know why some people get really short range out of the box? Tx antenna cut short or wrapped around something?)
B Tankful The stock antenna is 1/4 wavelength omni-directional. Now keep in mind with your extended antenna that you'll need to orient the sides of the antenna at the quad for best range (do not point the tip of the antenna at the quad as you'll see reduced range).
Quadcopter 101 Oh, ok. By "sides of the antenna" are you saying the radiation pattern (Tx) is right angles to the wire? Is it like a washer or a donut shape from the sides of the wire? What is the best orientation you can get then (for a straight wire), both wires parallel? That's what it sounds like you're saying. That would explain why you don't point the antenna directly at the Rx antenna (quad). There would be reduced signal from the top of the donut hole? Thanks.
B Tankful Yes, like a donut. The same amount of energy is coming out of the antenna. But with the larger antennas, the amount coming out the sides is increased, with less energy coming out the tips (increasing antenna gain). That's how you can get increased range without an amplifier. 3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZucbgrbJrUg/TtiwHjyfuUI/AAAAAAAAAHo/nsswDBUA9Qc/s1600/2.png
Yes. It has to be a multiple of a quarter wavelength of the 2.4 Ghz transmitter frequency. The stock antenna is 1/4 wavelength at 31mm. But you could try 2/4 wavelength (62mm), 3/4 (93mm), or even one full wavelength (125mm). Any copper wire should work. Length is total length from the antenna solder point on the circuit board (total = original antenna + extension).
Here's another fellow that shows how to do it. He does a half wavelength (62mm) modification. But I've been told that you can get even better results with 5/4 wavelength (6.15 inches or 156 mm length). Use a wire longer initially longer than that. Then after soldering, just measure out that length from the base of the circuit board, and then snip the end of the wire to get the desired length. And here's that fellow showing how: Syma X5C Remote - Easy Antenna Range Extender Mod (1 of 2) Syma X5C Remote - Easy Antenna Range Extender Mod (2 of 2)
A common mistake most new fliers make is to send it up to see how high it can go. Unfortunately the wind at altitude can be very different than that near the ground. As such, most new fliers are unprepared when the wind starts to blow it away, quickly lose orientation, and that's that. As such, always stay close to the ground when learning to fly until your skills improve.
+Quadcopter 101 yeah I got my x5c for Christmas and watched your video that day and it helped. Then I saw you have a video about flying it far away and that helped too. Then 2 months later I flew it into a wall! One motor broke and I ordered the motor 3 months later lol. It took a week for the motor to get here and I just installed it last night. I forgot how fun it was to fly! The motor took me 1 1/2 hours to install but I'm sure I could do one in like 20-30 mins now. I want to do the range mod soon.
+Darryl Davis Make sure that your battery is fully charged. Turn on and place quadcopter on a flat and level surface. Wait 5 seconds for the gyros to stabilize, then turn on the transmitter. Move the left stick throttle full up then full down to bind the transmitter.
![SYMA X5C Quadcopter Drone RANGE MOD - Step by Step - [Works For Any RC]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/g1GblSfwlog/mqdefault.jpg)
![SYMA X5C Quadcopter Drone RANGE MOD - Step by Step - [Works For Any RC]](/img/tr.png)
Thanks for the tips. I extended the antenna to 3/4 wavelength. To avoid holding the controller at a funny angle all the time, I drilled a hole next to the beginner/expert mode buttom, folded the antenna so that it lies along the top edge of the circuit board (much like the pre-mod config) and with the extension sticking out of the hole on the side. Didn't notice much increase in horizontal range (probably because I tested it in a rather built up area), but definite increase in vertical range.
Total length of the wire antenna (original + extension) should be about 125 mm (4.92 inches). Wire should be good copper wire. Thickness is less important, but should be sufficient thickness to prevent breakage if bent repeatedly.
Thank for insight, so the wire needs to have some heat shrink tubing around the 4.92 in correct? 125mm , do you leave it straight as it leave the cone ?
Can you dok a tutorial video on how to do this?
well 125 mm(milimeter) is too small you probably meant 125 cm(centimeter)xD but no problem,well I have seen other videos where they say the best total wavelength must be 6,25cm (2,5 inches) so its half the full wavelength then??
+Teo Pit and also how many meters does a full wave lenght antenna give?
+Teo Pit Back to school for you. Just think about it for a while and you should realize where you went wrong. A lot of Americans don`t know their metric.
Go figure I do a search for something quad copter related and find an QC 101 video on the subject! I'm not even surprised anymore!
You rock, sir!
Just had a similar experience with my Syma X5 Explorers model (sans camera, I'm using others 808 #16, etc.)
I didn't want to invest anything, so I replaced that antenna wire with a little 2.4Ghz dipole antenna on a piece of coaxial cable that I had removed from another transmitter. The additional soldering for the coaxial cable was easy as there is a solder pad for the shield right next to that antenna wire solder pad on the transmitter PCB.
I didn't bother to drill the antenna housing to pull the wire part though; I just pushed the dipole up into the housing until it stopped and then secured it with a dab of glue.
I've also modified the flyer itself by pulling the wire antenna inside up so that it's vertical and sticks out of the top just a little bit. -That alone improved the range.
I just did my transmitter modification last night so I'll be heading out to my local field later to do some range testing.
Sinichi, yes you can, but you'll also need to use a shielded cable, and an RP-SMA connector, and it would probably only work as well as the simple wire modification.
Does this work for syma x5c-1?
Riker Wilson Yes it does.
Quadcopter 101 ok thanks!
Quadcopter 101 I wish I got 150 feet, mine drops like a rock at 75 feet or so, desperately need to modify this antenna range. I'm thinking about hacking my old router for parts since it does not work properly any longer. Oh and btw, I made a modification for my camera angle by using duct tape 2 med sized washers and masking tape to hold it all in place. that way I can remove my camera without taking off the door ^^
Ken K is spot on. A full wave antenna presents a high impedance and thus a mismatch for the transmitter (which is obviously in the 50-70 range due to the stock 1/4 wave ground plane antenna). It would also introduce lobes into the field strength pattern.
Northsman, it should be 4.92" total length from where it exits the circuit board to the end tip of the wire extension. In other words, the original antenna plus its extension should total 4.92". Its best to solder an extension to make it greater than 4.92", and then measure and snip off any excess.
Does it have to be exactly 4.92" or does it matter if it's longer? Sorry if it's a dumb question, I'm new to RC
Michael Pickering Yes it is important to try to get it as close as possible to 4.92", which is the actual wavelength of your 2.4 Ghz transmitter. If you go longer, you should try to keep it as an odd quarter segment of the wavelength. The next longest length would be 5/4ths the wavelength of 4.92", which is 6.15". But making it any longer than 6.15" will not significantly improve performance.
the remote controller of my drone has an antenna consisting of thin wire which has a shielding ..the total length of the wire is 10centimeters, but 7.5cm is shielded and around 2.5cm is bare......so I am confused to make an extension as you say, because you didn't avised any possible shielding and I am worried to remove it ..so..total lenght of 4.92 inches should be only the naked(unshielded) wire, or the shielded part of wire is included? .the logic says to me, that only naked "radiator" is what we count as an active antenna we are taling about, but I am not shure....btw, the shielding is soldered to groun of the remote circuit.. many thanx!
Either a 1/4 wave or 3/4 wave should be the best length. This is assuming the circuit board mating point for the antenna
is 50 ohms. A half wave or full wave would present a mismatch preventing most of the RF to travel down the antenna.
It would be reflected back to the transmitter and could cause damage to the circuit.
If you open a WiFi antenna that claims more than 2-3dB gain you will see a coil in line with the wire.
This helps present a 50 ohm impedance at the base of the antenna to match transmitter.
More than likely all these 2.4Ghz transmitter have a 50-70 ohm impedance.
Just my 2cents worth on how I would approach it.
Ken
What are you using for your conductor? A solid inner piece of coax cable? Do you have a video on RUclips showing your work at the workbench? I've been enjoying all your videos on RUclips. Thanks
Thanks for the tip. I modified mine with a full wavelength wire too and got mine to go out at least 105 yards, using a football field to measure.
Thanks, I tried it with my syma x5c-1 and it really works! Measured it, and the safely controllable distance was about 80-85 meters.
Yep, this type of modification is easy to implement. It really should work with most of these toy quadcopters that use a cheap 31mm quarter wavelength wire antenna (in other words, nearly all toy quadcopters can have their range enhanced with this simple mod :)
Hello, just wanted to say I've watched all your videos for drones so far. You seem very knowledgeable on drowns, being that I wanted your advice.
If I wanted to put a antenna on the transmitter, what dBi would I need ? Does it matter? Just as long as it's 2.4 ghz. Thank you and looking forward to more of your videos
+jarka1361 I recommend no higher than 5dB as it is the best balance of increased range with a still relatively wide lobe that can be aimed easily.
Nice job. I hope the motors on the Syma are better than the v262. I'd try to do a range test on my Cheerson CX 20, but it will go into return home mode if I fly out of range. Not ready to test that function out yet..
Hi 101 I have very little. I have been flying the X1 for a couple months in house and back yard and a few micros for a couple months before that. I am very patient and will take my time learning what you tell me I need to know. thanks again for the help, Matt
PS I have a Syma X5C-1 coming in the mail this Monday I figured that would be the next step.
Good move X5C-1. But you should not be considering a CX20 at this point. It could be a very costly and dangerous move. It would be best to first learn the basics of translational horizontal flight, along with maintaining quadcopter orientation by movement alone. The following web site may help. Index to the tutorials are in the right column: quadcopter101.blogspot.com/2014/12/quadcopter-flight-school-4-horizontal.html
First things first, you make GREAT videos!
My question is, would putting a longer wire on the Rx do anything? I was thinking that 62.5mm would work well. Or does it not really matter since it's only receiving?
Complete newbie here-Does the antenna have to be straight or could it be coiled like a spring and still fit inside the original controller? Still waiting on our X5C ordered mid December; a disadvantage of living on the east coast I guess, but the anticipation is adding to the excitement for when it finally arrives! Thank you for your great videos and blog.
Try to keep it somewhat straight. But remember that most of the energy come out of the sides of the antenna, with less energy coming out the tip. So when flying distant, try holding the controller to point the antenna sides at the quadcopter. Also, as a beginner, try to avoid flying distant until you're very familiar with your quadcopter. In fact, recommend not even thinking of modifying your antenna until you're very familiar with your quadcopter :)
Quadcopter 101 Oh, this is something that I'll be 'filing away' for when I'm further along in flying. Right now I'm just watching and hopefully learning while I'm waiting for it to arrive. Thanks for sharing all of your knowledge.
What up brotha man. Hey did u solder that thing on the tip of the antenna or to the side a little bit? Finally got me a Syma x5c-1 thanks to you making me want one lol.
+jred23pyro To the top. Search the RUclips search bar for syma x5c antenna mod
+Quadcopter 101 ok thanks. searched that plenty of times =]. will solder a piece of wire to make it 4 92". total. Think some speaker wire or anything with copper inside would be fine? maybe try to keep it same thickness and well? thankd boss quad. lol =]
I did the transmitter mode with the sma connector and have the antenna connector neatly built into the top of the unit- looks stock!. I normally bave a 3db on it but can switch to a 5db I call Big Daddy. I may be modifying the receiver antenna in the quad also. I'll remove the junk cable from the board and solder in a real RC antenna that drops down through the body out a small hole in the bottom. Unfortunately, where I've been flying I have only had it out about 150 feet so far.
Nice job with the range.
That space is so incredibly enormous. I'm surprised you fly such small quads there. That place is crying for some long range gear.
I know. I always make sure that there are no members of the local RC club present so I don't get razzed :) But it is perfect for testing range. There's even a better place for doing such out in the local desert. WLToys V262 Quadcopter Drone: Maximum Range Test
I assume you checked that the antenna wasn't loaded on the board? Apparently your mod worked per your own testing. That's bad if they're selling Txmitters with the antenna wavelengths cut wrong. The life expectancy of the Txmitter will be cut short due to a mismatch (high reflected energy). Curious if users are having Tx problems after prolonged use?
Excellent mod and video, thanks. I may have asked before, but you appear to have the best vids on quadcopters and mods - you at least articulate (some mumble). If you take two standard batteries 500MAh each and wire them together in series, doubling the voltage, insert one in the battery slot and tape or velcro the other in the place where the camera goes, will this increase in voltage increase lift or cause damage? I assume that the throttle controls voltage to the motors, more voltage = more rpm = more lift. So starting with a higher voltage, you could use the throttle in the lower range and either carry more cargo (camera) or increase flying time - just a guess. Would a higher voltage cause damage (the camera maybe)?
It would likely damage the flight control circuit board since it also powered by the battery, and designed for only 3.7V.
How come none of you ever think about doing the same mod to the copter antenna wire?? It's just as likely to increase the range.....
In fact what you have there is a vertically polarised 1/2 wavelength antenna, transmitting to a horizontally polarised 1/4 wavelength antenna.
Having just ordered one of these quads, I've been watching a few of these videos with antenna mods and I've decided I'm going to do the antenna extension to the transmitter, but also to the copter and try make it vertical. Hopefully stick out the top of the housing, or even just dangle underneath.
Glen Petherick this should be true. Modding both may even enable you to quadruple its range. The main thing is to make sure that there's no chance for the quad's antenna to get tangled up in the props.
Yep, will do. I plan on using a stiff copper wire, like that found in transformer windings. Hoping it'll poke out through a small hole in the top. Should keep it clear of the props.
The router wire mod looks good, but I'm just not experienced enough to do the soldering onto the board etc. I have no problem joining 2 wires together, either by solder or by crimping. Would using a crimp connector be bad? Also, I would like to keep it inside the "original antenna". From my understanding after reading through the comments, would a 1/2 wave length would be ok at 62mm? Thank you in advance. PS: The video that you have been posting showing how the wire mod was done is not working for me at all, on any device. I'm just going by what you have said on here.
Hey Quadcopter 101 :-) As always, thank you for your product review videos... I check with you first before buying anything.
So with this X5C range mod... Would soldering on the proper length of core copper wire from a coaxial cable to the existing antenna wire work(I think so based on this thread) BUT THEN bending it sideways inside a pigtail plastic housing and leaving it bent work better than keeping the antenna straight up and down from the board? That way you wouldn't have to worry so much about the direction the tx is pointed? What is your expert opinion please? And thank you!
Fantastic mod. I have a X5C and am very disappointed with the quad response even when in High mode - have you come across this? there appears to be a 2-3 second delay following an input. Could it be the transmitter positioning? Thanks for any advice!
This occurs with me when the quad is at the limits of its range. It seems to maintain for a couple seconds the last input it received before either coming back into range of the transmitter, or dropping out of the sky. But yes, recommend giving this mod a try. It should help. As for better flight characteristics, try removing the camera. It flies MUCH better (as seen in the above video) when it doesn't have to lug around its heavy camera.
and here's my review of the "base" X5C (not the X5C-1). As you can guess, I wasn't very impressed with it: Syma X5C Quadcopter Drone Test Flight
Quadcopter 101 Thanks for that! I will give it a go this coming weekend, and let you know how I get on. Regards from the UK
any links for how you did it? am i overthinking it? you opened it up, soldered about the same gauge wire as the original antenna, nothing special and then cut the wire atboard point to end 4.92 inches thats 12.5cm? drilled a little hole in the fake antenna and then you are good to go?- i'm about to do this. i need to be specific and precise on the length from board to antenna, yes? i am overthinking i am sure. thanks for your vids cheers
Hi, great video, I just bought one of these and want to modified the range, which type of wire is used for this? or just any type of wire..thank you
Any type of conductive wire should be good. I use copper stranded wire.
Quadcopter 101 Thank you..Il be doing this soon as I get it
Is it possible to upgrade the range of the antenna on the quad x5c itself? Can you tell me if this would extend the range even further than your transmitter modification (which I have successfully done on mine). Do you know what would be the best length for inside the quad? Thanks for the vids you upload. I have learned a lot from them.
thank you for all the great movies you paste here in you tube-love it, ur cool dude:-)
Can you add a Gopro to this quadcopter?
Isaac Tedrow no bro the motor or battery will burn..go pro is heavy so the dji drone and 4k camera can lift it not the syma..but syma x8 can
i just wana say that this video helped me a lot! i increase the range on my syma just like you did.
Hi Quad, hope you had a good Christmas and Happy New Years.
Thinking of getting a X5C-1, as I'm building a kinda Phantom look-a-like family, so extending the distance seems reasonable. Awhile back I needed some Antenna wire so I bought some JR antenna wire, (JRPA 170) tho the core wire doesn't look like copper, is that an issue??? or should I find some copper wire (solid OK,) also once installed can I cove the wire and it's insulation with an antenna cover, similar to what is used in RC cars. and last, should the extension, once soldered, be a total of 4.92" (125mm), be measured from the original soldered antenna point on the board??....whew, thats it.
Your wire should work fine. Yes you can cover the wire with insulation if you like. Yes the length of 125mm is measured from the antenna solder point on the board. Note that a 1/2 wavelength antenna (63mm) should also work almost as well if you don't want an antenna that extends out the top. And this fellow shows in detail how to do it ruclips.net/video/EQbRnQsHLHA/видео.html
ruclips.net/video/b_IWbiYfvfQ/видео.html
Thanks Quad
Say Quad, what is the primary difference in the X5C and X5C-1, is it the board, motors, performance is enhanced how??
Michael Aguirre Nothing by now. There should no longer be any original X5C's out there in any shop's inventory anymore. As such, Syma is going back to calling them just "X5C", and hopes that everyone forgets that there once was a difference :) (by the way, the original had serious flight performance issues. ruclips.net/video/hxRjUH-9pU8/видео.html )
you can only go 1/4 of wavelength a time : if you make a 1/2 wave antenna or a 1ful wave one the the impedence at the base will be raise to several Kohm instead of 50 ohm i'll try a COLLINEAR configuration witch is made of several quarters of wave in series separated by another quarter of antenna wonded in coils
collinear antenna are still omnidirectional but they have up to 10 db of real gain !!!!! Collinear configuration is used in marine transceivers
another antenna configuration you could like are the 7/8 waves used mostly in CB RTX on 10meters band (27 Mhz)
Hi 101, I have had the Syma X5c since Christmas and I love it. However, the range is very disappointing and the flight time should be a little longer. I know if you don't use the camera it helps a lot but this what I want to use it for. So, you have just solve my range problem ( thank you very much) but how about flight time with the camera. By the way great video, keep up the good work.
This is how I get up to 7 minutes flight time with my X5C. I use a different camera with its own battery power :) Notice I'm also using the range mod in this video ruclips.net/video/Yk4p_9oEAb0/видео.html
I did the same thing today on my x5sw ..before fer some reason it wouldn't go more the say 50 ft without losing range..I did wire extension.. but haven't tested it yet..hopefully it works
Great! I´ll try to change my antenna. The other issue I find with this drone is that the battery doesn´t last more than 13 minutes. Do you think I can change it for another one with more capacity?
13 minutes is perfect for a drone of that size its actually brilliant
Alright, I get it.. it can fly very far.. but.. HOW do you see it that far out? I'm sure the camera doesn't pick up the quad so good, of course.. but it cant be that easy to see with your eyes also? For me, with that range, it feels like its lost xP haha..
At that range, the only thing would be FPV for me, I guess =D
Great video!
Quadcopter I have taken lots of my old drones apart to take out their antennas but after I put them all together the range did not increase at all please tell me what I doing wrong
Hi Quadcopter 101 do you think this will work as well on the Syma X-1? I am thinking of buying the CX-20 GPS Auto Pathfinder Open - source Flight Controller Quadcopter with Camera Mounting Base. Do you have any thoughts on this model? Thanks for any help or info, Matt
How much quadcopter flying experience do you have? Which ones have you flown?
Would you have time to do a tutorial video showing step by step what you do and link to what you used e.g. what type of wire etc?
Please see my response to Happy Calamar below.
Thank you 101 I have added that site to my favorites and right after the Seahawks win I will start watching them. You have been very helpful thanks. I will wait on the CX20 and get some time on the X5C with the tutorials. I will go in and watch some more of your videos also.
Hi, How many centre meters of wire did you solder on?. I have a old wifi antenna is it okay if I take all the wire out of the antenna and put 2.5 centre meters (2.4ghz antenna length) into the antenna, does the wire have to extend to the tip of the antenna?, thanks
What I did in the above video is soldered a thin extension wire onto the tip of the current antenna. Total length was 125mm (2.4Ghz wavelength).
But, would recommend not modifying your wifi router antenna, and using it as-is. It should work well. Here's how ruclips.net/video/g1GblSfwlog/видео.html
Can this mod be done for the Q7? Also should the copper wire be bare? Probably a dumb question. thanks
Based on your recommendation, I ordered one. First flight today and I notice the range is extremely poor; I do live downtown and was flying on a football field with lots of WiFi around. But I am getting like 30 40 ish feet range :-( will try the range mod to see if things get better.
One newbie question, what should one do when quad loses signal? It seems the quad just stick to command prior to losing signal! What should I do to avoid having it flying away?
When signal is lost, it maintains last input for about 2 seconds, trying to regain signal, before the motors stop and the quadcopter drops. But once it starts dropping you'll need to manually try rebinding (repeatedly moving the throttle up and down). Here's an example video showing what to do when signal is lost ruclips.net/video/odVxR90USz8/видео.html
Quadcopter 101 Thanks will try that next time!
Have you tried adding or modding the antenna inside the quadcopter?
Little confused about the X5C in regards to the wire needed for longer range, at 4.92 in from the board or over all ? Any help would really appreciate your help .
Hello, very good their video tutorials, my query is only the transmitter antenna is changed? or receiver as well. thanks
Hernan Dip Only the transmitter.
Ah ok thanks, and one last question, the cable diameter which is recommended for you? or which it is the one used
Hernan Dip Any diameter that wouldn't break easily. But I do recommend single strand wire.
Hey, i have 2 questions, what is the lenght that you used in the video? what is the thickness of the wire?
Thanks :D
הוד סבג juts a simple copper wire I think
Hi there ! I'm looking for some advice about some quad copters. I'm looking for one to attach my gopro to but I don't want to spend a extreme amount of money. Any recommendations ? Thanks :)
Not sure how much you're willing to spend. But you'll need something with enough power to lift the GoPro. On the low end (about $80) is the WLToys V262, V333, and V353. I use these inexpensive ones in my flights for no other reason than their low cost. For my purposes they work well:
WLToys V262 Quadcopter: Cayucos Beach, CA
WLToys V262 Quadcopter Aerial Video: Canebrake CA
But there are issues with these cheap quadcopters. The main one being that their motors need frequent maintenance/replacement. But replacement motors only run about $3.80 each. There's also a big jump in price to the next group of quads that can carry the GoPro. These run in $300 to $400 range, but they include more features such as GPS and return to home. But again I'm happy with the cheaper models, and have become quite adept at changing out their motors if needed. Here are a couple examples:
www.banggood.com/WLtoys-Galaxy-V353-Headless-Mode-24G-4CH-6-Axis-Gyro-RC-Quadcopter-p-931314.html?p=RB0922217402201307U3
www.banggood.com/V262-Upgraded-WLtoys-V333-Headless-Mode-24G-6-Axis-RC-Quadcopter-RTF-p-929889.html?p=RB0922217402201307U3
What kind of signal sends the remote control? I need to know that in order to build a big repeater of signal to increase the range more than 10 times
Which mode do you use to fly? Mode1 with rotation on the left stick or Mode2 with it on the right? Are there any pros/cons to either mode? Thanks.
Mode 1 and 2 popularity is separated believe it or not by geography. Mode 1 (right side throttle) controllers are generally more popular in those countries that drive on the left side of the road with right side car steering wheels. Mode 1 is generally more popular in UK, Australia, and New Zealand (forgive me if I missed a country). Mode 2 (left side throttle) is generally more popular in those countries that drive on the right side of the road with left side steering wheels. In effect, it has something to do with how our brains have been programmed from driving. So depending on where you are in the world, choose appropriately ;)
In both of Syma's modes, the throttle is on the left. I was asking if you have the yaw on the left or right stick. It defaults to the left stick with the throttle. Was wondering if its easier to fly one way or the other.
Joe Augustino I prefer yaw on the left.
I just tried this method and a couple of other recently. Nothing increases the range.
The original antenna works better.
Is it possible to use liquid solder for this mod. I don't have access to normal solder and would like to do this mod asap. Thanks!
Great video and lots of good comments....thanks for posting
Do you have a link to the RC Groups page you mentioned? Thanks!
www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?2065465-Syma-x5c/page705
I was contemplating getting this quad and doing the modification to the controller. I just found out about the hobby king 100$ fpv kit and was wondering if this could carry the receiver and all of the required equipment that goes on the quad. I realize that I'm not going to be able to fly a mile with the fpv kit or the quad. Would this be a good quad for a beginner fpv quad for a nice open field or would you recommend something else. I'm looking to spend 50-75 on a quad that will suit these needs. This seems like it will pack it because it packed the mobius and hopefully the fpv kit is much lighter so it's not so weak and sluggish and I'm not overworking the motors to bad
But I'm open to nearly any quad as long as it's durable big enough to hold fpv gear and fly decently fast
Thank you much
Brandon Mitchell Recommend looking at this ruclips.net/video/ZAF18fsanvA/видео.html
And if that didn't fit your fancy, then this might ruclips.net/video/xxI_MwoSu3s/видео.html
Wow the 60$ one looks awesome. Although it loses reception a little I think it would be cool to make goggles with a phone holder and maybe I could use my 7" tablet which would be awesome. Does the device have to be on the controller to be used.
By the way thanks for the reply. I really appreciate it
Brandon Mitchell No that's just a convenient holder for it, but it can be anywhere. And yes a tablet should give a nice big screen. You can try the WiFi app now, as it's free on Google Play and the App Store. Look up "HT WiFi".
Hi There,
Thank you for the great video. I just have a quick question. i bought one a few days ago and when i turn it around left to right and opposite, the direction control doesnt respond normally. i mean when i turn it lets say 90 degrees to right direction all the direction switches and when i go for example to right it goes forward instead of right, is it normal? when I rotate it in different direction shouldnt the right control handle responds the same?
It's behaving normally. The right control handle is always referenced to the front nose of the quadcopter. If the nose is pointed away from you, and you push forward on the right stick, the quadcopter should move away from you. If the nose is pointed to the right, and you push forward on the right stick, the quadcopter should move to the right.
Nobody has in all the videos I have seen of this modification mentioned what you do with the other end of the cable.
1 / do you leave the end open (in a cut state)?
2/ Do you solder the screen to the centre wire?
3/ Surely the cable must be in a loop (to allow the aerial/antenna to have a circuit?)
Can somebody enlighten us all to what happens to the end of this cable?
1) Leave it open. It's an antenna.
2) Centre wire
3) No it doesn't need to be in a loop. Keep in mind that it's an antenna.
Hey Quadcopter 101, i wonder if this would work on my syma x5sw? It has pretty similar transmitter or probably an exact transmitter.
+Saiful Raznan Yes it would. But the big problem with your X5SW is the WiFi FPV operating on the same frequency as you transmitter. Ditch the camera, and you'll get much better range.
Hey quad, I did the range mod with the transmitter (X5C-1)soldering in a 2.4ghz router antenna. I am currently changing a motor and want to know if there is anything I can change to the quad itself while in here.
+wild300zx No, don't recommend messing with the innards if not needed. And regarding motor changes, you can also just splice the motor wires instead of soldering.
+Quadcopter 101 Gotter done soldering them in the right way like they were, we're up and flying high. I left the quad antenna alone for now I did put it down the towards one of the legs instead crammed under board. Also resoldered the leds so the green is in front now, just my preference on that one. Getting around 7+ mins with the camera on using Turnigy 750mha batts. Looking at the H5P now, really, really like the looks and feedback it's getting.
wild300zx The H5P is very good, good camera, very stable, and really can fly over 15 minutes. But don't recommend flying 15 minutes non-stop with it, as it will damage the battery. It's important to break flights down into two shorter 7 minute hops with a cooldown break in between. ruclips.net/video/FngMTK8loOg/видео.html
ruclips.net/video/TGm45rm-DZ0/видео.html
also what battery are you using in that .... no sooner has mine launched its tired and wants to come home !!!
Are you flying with the camera attached? It takes a lot of battery power to lift it and also run it. If you're not taking video, recommend flying with the battery door and camera removed. The camera easily unplugs, and the door can be slanted in its hinge grooves to easily remove it. The battery plug blocks the battery from sliding out of its holding bracket, so the door isn't really needed in the first place.
Can you make a similar modification on a jjrc h11d? the fpv that comes with it has a bigger range than the quad itself. I hope such a thing could be possible.
Quadcopter 101 What's the green and red tape you have under each of the props?
Aurangzeb Agha Its small pieces of fluorescent masking tape. It helps me maintain orientation for aiming the quadcopter's camera.
Hi my name is gus I bought a syma x5c-1 can I modified it 2 tell me what kind of wire I should buy
Any copper wire should work well. And here's a fellow showing how:
Syma X5C Remote - Easy Antenna Range Extender Mod (1 of 2)
Syma X5C Remote - Easy Antenna Range Extender Mod (2 of 2)
I have a Hubsan X4 FPV - the range SUCKS. 20 feet and you can't see anything on the FPV screen. I was wondering if the same concept of range extension would work for the remote?
Yes it would. This fellow put a minor extension to his transmitter's antenna, and also put a cloverleaf antenna to replace the quadcopter's antenna (about $7 from Banggood). Claiming FPV ranges out to 150m. See the Nerobeous67 post on the RCGroups link for how-to pictures:
Hubsan x4 H107D long range FPV
www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1842561&highlight=Nerobeus67&page=188
that wire looks like it is longer then 4.92 inches can you please clarify this whole wire thing for me I have researched it and I cant make any sense I read your comments below too. but the controller you have has to "total' more than 4.92
+Nick The wire starts at the top of the circuit, not the full length of the transmitter. And yes, total length of the wire from where it leaves the circyuit board is 4.92 inches. Finally, please do not attempt this if you're not familiar with soldering as there is potential for damaging your transmitter.
Nice video Dave!
I preferred to add a real WIFI antenna Syma X5C Transmitter Range hack
you have 4 inches worth of wire sticking out alone I'm so confused!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Hey dude i have a rip off version of this along with the official syma x8hg, anyway the controller for the ripoff ( x5c-1 ) died without warning would be possible to use the official syma ( x5c-1 ) controller with the ripoff version since it is the same frequency and all the buttons do the same thing?
No, if it is not produced by Syma, can almost guarantee that its transmitter uses a different protocol.
Quadcopter 101 ah shit !thanks tho
Is this mod required for the latest version X5C-1 ?
Ken
Not really. The X5C-1 has sufficient range on its own. But you can increase its range even further if desired with this mod.
what type of battery connector does a syma x5c has and mjx x101
HI, Any pictures to this mod...?
question, i notice that my X5C after like 30sec of flight i give it full throttle and it just hovers about 2 or 3 feet of the ground when i fly it backwards it gains altitude but when i push forward it loses altitude and drops to the ground and has a hard time of going back up.Tell me can a bad battery cause this ?......i did this MOD and then i notice this happening so i removed the wire and brought it back to its original state but still having the problem ..what could it be ? please help me out here
+franko nick Actually it sounds like a failing motor, or sand or debris in the gears. ruclips.net/video/LzzD3BPVvH0/видео.html
To check ro the suspect motor or gears, try a rapid takeoff from the ground. If the quadcopter momentarily tilts in the direction of any particular motor, that is the suspect motor or gears.
how long dis you cut the extension wire
can you do a little closeup tutorial of the modification?
Well this fellow has already done that:
ruclips.net/video/EQbRnQsHLHA/видео.html
ruclips.net/video/b_IWbiYfvfQ/видео.html
Hi can i use wifi router antenna?
I have one but can I fix a GoPro?
Is it too heavy?
Sorry, a GoPro is too heavy for the X5C.
Is there a particular type of wire needed
No not really. Any metallic wire should work. But copper is probably best.
Can I do this mod on the x5sw? Does the totam length of the antenna have ti be 4.92"? Does that include the overlapped part where you solder?
Michael M Yes this works for any of these "toy grade" quads. The length measurement begins at the point where the original antenna is soldered to the circuit board. So original antenna + extension = 4.92"
Yes it's actually blown me away how good it is. Stables reliable and doesn't break. I've crashed it a billion times and still going strong.
can you use a other hand set that's 2.4 ghz I have a dx7 hand set which is 2.4 ghz
I was playing with my x5c quadcopter and it land on a builden i think its up side down beacuse i can see the lights flash and i can hear it is there any way it has a return fuction?
+Martin Rushoe No, sorry. You'll either have to wait until it blows down, or ask someone to go up there to get it.
I'm going to try this mod right now with the copper core from a coaxial cable. should be good. should i insulate the protruding end with a shrink tube or no?
A coaxial cable has an inner wire that is shielded by an outer wire mesh wrap. The outer wire wrap may block your signal. I've used coax for this simple mod in other transmitters, but I've used the outer wire as nothing is blocking it.
Quadcopter 101 I think you misunderstand. I stripped a coaxial cable down to just the copper core and then used that. after modding the controller i noticed a marked range improvement however this got me thinking. Now there isn't room for a full wavelength antenna in the x5 itself, BUT there is room to upgrade the internal antenna to half wavelength. I went ahead and did this as well with another piece of copper wire and the quad now goes far enough i can't see it. .
Layne Brown Thanks you for sharing that. Modding the quadcopter's receiver antenna has been proposed before but have never seen anyone try that yet. Now I'm going to try modding some of mine :) Thanks again for sharing!
How Long is the added wire
Is there a quad that has a good camera and good range that is lower than $150
There are several new low cost 5MP camera quadcopter about to be released. If you can wait a month, I should have some reviews on them.
I need to get a replacement pretty soon and only 45 meters isn't to great but thanks for your advise
Andersen Fuller Well then here's a listing of some neat ones coming very soon:
www.banggood.com/Syma-X8C-Venture-with-2MP-5MP-Wide-Angle-Camera-2_4G-4CH-RC-Quadcopter-p-965758.html?p=RB0922217402201307U3
www.banggood.com/JJRC-H12C-Headless-Mode-One-Key-Return-RC-Quadcopter-With-5MP-Camera-p-964872.html?p=RB0922217402201307U3
www.banggood.com/YiZhan-Tarantula-X6-RC-Quadcopter-Wide-Angle-500W200W-With-IOC-p-964160.html?p=RB0922217402201307U3
www.banggood.com/WLtoys-V686G-FPV-Headless-Mode-RC-Quadcopter-with-2MP-Camera-p-965223.html?p=RB0922217402201307U3
www.banggood.com/JJRC-V686-5_8G-FPV-Headless-Mode-RC-Quadcopter-with-HD-Camera-Monitor-p-965561.html?p=RB0922217402201307U3
Im stuck between the JJRC V686 and the Syma X8C because the Syma only has a range of 50 meters have you found this to be a problem ever
Andersen Fuller Yes, such as the Syma X5C is a great flier, but its range is mediocre. As such, many people do a simple modification to its antenna to improve its range ruclips.net/video/EQbRnQsHLHA/видео.html
ruclips.net/video/b_IWbiYfvfQ/видео.html
I've hear using an X8 controller vastly improves range.
Only for certain versions of the X5C. Please see the following ruclips.net/video/AzsnpNNoUhI/видео.html
Thanks
using grid antenna for transmitter and put on biquad on reciever will be awesome :p
Also is there a way to do without soldering gun?
Sure it's possible, but it may work spotty if you don't make a good connection. You'll need to make good metal to metal contact between the existing antenna and your wire extension. One way to do it would be to strip off enough of the clear insulation from the current antenna, and then wrap one end of your extension wire around the exposed antenna to make good metal to metal contact. Then wrap some insulation tape over that to hold it in place.
Can you use a solid copper wire? Thank you.
Yes you can.
Quadcopter 101 Thank you again!
Tim Hinzman hai
Hi hey how many inches from the original to the extesion u sadder do I have to cut 4.92 inches on the copper or couple inches fron were u sadder please tell me
Measure so that the original PLUS the extension equals a total length of 4.92 inches (125mm), then snip off any extra.
Thanks what is the thickness of the copper wire
It doesn't really matter. Any copper wire should work well.
This will work for the x5sw v3 right?
And also what kind of wire do I use
He uses copper wire
Can we also do that with our gliders and airplanes?
With the toy transmitters, yes. The hobby grade transmitters already have optimized antennas.
Oh thanx. im still learning how to fly my X5C-1
Hey quad 101 can you make a video on how to mod the syma x5c range on the controller and antenna
+Moe Boss It's already been done by many. Just do a RUclips search for Syma X5C antenna mod.
+Quadcopter 101 yA but when I do videos that come up are so hard and complicated so can you link the video you did it from
Moe Boss ruclips.net/video/EQbRnQsHLHA/видео.html
ruclips.net/video/b_IWbiYfvfQ/видео.html
+Quadcopter 101 thanks
is there a serial model for the x5c1 vs x5c I thought u were going to mention other problems
By now, all of the original problem X5C's should have been sold and removed from inventory.
Quadcopter 101 ok but my question is x5c1 is different from x5c???
thetruth No, not any more.
does the x11 range needs to be modified to improve range??
No, its transmitter is fine.
What kind of type of wire can I use to do this mod?
Any good conductive wire should do. And here's how
ruclips.net/video/EQbRnQsHLHA/видео.html
ruclips.net/video/b_IWbiYfvfQ/видео.html
I heard you guys said it must be of the same width?
Not really. But the lengths are important as described below.
how much distance improves range?
Thanks
The modification will give range improvement out past 100m.
Well, I drilled a small hole (1/16 in) in the top of the X5C-1 that keeps the antenna vertical when you put it through. I went out to range check it (with it on, walked out with the Tx until the quad blinked, showing loss of signal) for a reference distance. It was 355 feet (108m). Expected 60m. The quad antenna is close to 31mm. I can't wait to see if there is any more distance when the Tx wire is changed. I'm going to use 5/4 (6.15in). I don't expect much more range.
I need to measure the quad antenna exactly (then I'll make it 1/4 or 3/4, I don't like 1/2 wavelength). I should probably lay it behind the PCB board like I found it and see what that range was. I may also leave it at 100m, as it is pretty small and hard to orient at this distance. (I don't know why some people get really short range out of the box? Tx antenna cut short or wrapped around something?)
B Tankful The stock antenna is 1/4 wavelength omni-directional. Now keep in mind with your extended antenna that you'll need to orient the sides of the antenna at the quad for best range (do not point the tip of the antenna at the quad as you'll see reduced range).
Quadcopter 101
Oh, ok. By "sides of the antenna" are you saying the radiation pattern (Tx) is right angles to the wire? Is it like a washer or a donut shape from the sides of the wire? What is the best orientation you can get then (for a straight wire), both wires parallel? That's what it sounds like you're saying. That would explain why you don't point the antenna directly at the Rx antenna (quad). There would be reduced signal from the top of the donut hole? Thanks.
B Tankful Yes, like a donut. The same amount of energy is coming out of the antenna. But with the larger antennas, the amount coming out the sides is increased, with less energy coming out the tips (increasing antenna gain). That's how you can get increased range without an amplifier. 3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZucbgrbJrUg/TtiwHjyfuUI/AAAAAAAAAHo/nsswDBUA9Qc/s1600/2.png
What about the antenna inside of the quad?
Yes, that can be modded too with an antenna extension. But you need to make sure to keep the extended antenna clear of the props.
Thanks for replying! Does it have to be a specific length?
Yes. It has to be a multiple of a quarter wavelength of the 2.4 Ghz transmitter frequency. The stock antenna is 1/4 wavelength at 31mm. But you could try 2/4 wavelength (62mm), 3/4 (93mm), or even one full wavelength (125mm). Any copper wire should work. Length is total length from the antenna solder point on the circuit board (total = original antenna + extension).
How dir you do it ?
Here's another fellow that shows how to do it. He does a half wavelength (62mm) modification. But I've been told that you can get even better results with 5/4 wavelength (6.15 inches or 156 mm length). Use a wire longer initially longer than that. Then after soldering, just measure out that length from the base of the circuit board, and then snip the end of the wire to get the desired length. And here's that fellow showing how:
Syma X5C Remote - Easy Antenna Range Extender Mod (1 of 2)
Syma X5C Remote - Easy Antenna Range Extender Mod (2 of 2)
Quadcopter 101 What kind of wire do i have to use? What kind of metal it needs to be made of?
Shompod Mh copper wire is best.
Thanks :)
Ah the good ol days of kwads:)
I flew mine into a 50 ft tree the first day I had it!
A common mistake most new fliers make is to send it up to see how high it can go. Unfortunately the wind at altitude can be very different than that near the ground. As such, most new fliers are unprepared when the wind starts to blow it away, quickly lose orientation, and that's that. As such, always stay close to the ground when learning to fly until your skills improve.
+Quadcopter 101 yeah I got my x5c for Christmas and watched your video that day and it helped. Then I saw you have a video about flying it far away and that helped too. Then 2 months later I flew it into a wall! One motor broke and I ordered the motor 3 months later lol. It took a week for the motor to get here and I just installed it last night. I forgot how fun it was to fly! The motor took me 1 1/2 hours to install but I'm sure I could do one in like 20-30 mins now. I want to do the range mod soon.
+Quadcopter 101 pls tell me long distanc of Quadcopter Aircraft
very lame experience with this quad my 1st quad and It's not syncing to my transmitter after 1 flight this thing is a mistake buyer beware
+Darryl Davis Make sure that your battery is fully charged. Turn on and place quadcopter on a flat and level surface. Wait 5 seconds for the gyros to stabilize, then turn on the transmitter. Move the left stick throttle full up then full down to bind the transmitter.
Thanks :) :D