PPM/PWM to SBUS converter?

FPVSteve · February 05, 2020, 12:37:35 PM

Is anyone aware of an inline component I can use to convert normal PPM/PWM to SBUS?

Basically what I want to do is use a ZOHD KoPilot (which only supports SBUS) with a Frsky D8RII receiver (which does not support SBUS).

Why? Because they're great receivers, support telemetry back to the Tx, and I have many spare ones lol.

So I imagine you'd wire it from the Rx using male to male servo leads, it would sit inline between the Rx and the flight controller ... it would convert the PPM output from the receiver across multiple channels into the SBUS signal required by the flight controller.

Any ideas? Ta!

ched · February 05, 2020, 02:25:32 PM

Not tried this but this converter might work http://bit.ly/2GYDIKS
It suggests either sbus in or out and pwm.
Another similar http://bit.ly/2H2pQiF

Coyote · February 07, 2020, 08:47:51 AM

I've used the older version of this RCMile one :

https://www.flyingtech.co.uk/electronics/rmilec-v3-18-channel-pwm-ppm-sbus-signal-converter

Sometimes it wouldn't boot up right so needed a reset ( older version ) but that was very rare it happened.

FPVSteve · February 07, 2020, 12:46:18 PM

hmmm - might as well buy a new rx at that price

ched · February 07, 2020, 01:47:57 PM

I was thinking the same!!! New rx cheaper and probably more reliable than some converter.

FPVSteve · February 07, 2020, 03:10:58 PM

Cheers for your response too Ched... think i'll just splurge on a new receiver, less faff :)

ORCA · February 07, 2020, 11:19:53 PM

"Basically what I want to do is use a ZOHD KoPilot (which only supports SBUS) with a Frsky D8RII receiver (which does not support SBUS)."
May I suggest you read the instructions again. The KoPlot lite comes with leads to take PPM/PWM from the Rx channel OP's and use them. Or, you could buy a Jumper R1+ which is D16, gives S-BUS and weighs 2gm https://www.quadcopters.co.uk/jumper-radios/jumper-r1---d16-frsky-compatible-micro-receiver-with-sport-and-sbus

FPVSteve · February 08, 2020, 12:23:42 AM

Now there's an answer.

I had not seen that - oh well problem solved. That'e excellent, thanks!

Edit: that's the KoPilot Lite .. is that the same as the KoPilot?

ORCA · February 08, 2020, 12:47:53 PM

Not seen 'just' a KoPilot. The 'light' is for fixed wing. Is yours the same as this one https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IZrWgzjxe_U

RCGroups thread https://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?3396769-ZOHD-KOPILOT-Lite-Official-thread

Painless360 video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-rj0O1Lc5Os

A Google search will bring up loads of info.

Drone 5 · February 08, 2020, 03:17:48 PM

Hi Steve

I have just installed the KoPilot into a new AR Wing and it works great.

Even the auto assist launch works. I put the TX on the ground, set the switch to RTL, put the throttle to max and threw the wing. Bingo, the motor started and off she went.

The only problems I had setting up the KoPilot was that I could not set the auto level with the sticks. Turned out that I had set up the stick throws (rates) and they were not fully traveling to 100% throw rate.

Second problem was that the elevator trim on the radio is reversed. Wing mixing is done in the KoPilot not on the TX.
On her maiden she was diving, so up trim was added. The more I put in the worse it got. Brown pants moment.
I brought her in and on investigation it seems that the elevator trim is reversed. Never seen that before on any of my auto pilots. Just need to remember that.
The aileron trim is OK.

FPVSteve · February 08, 2020, 04:58:01 PM

It's coming in the Zohd Dart250 so whichever one that is.

Good to know, Drone 5! I bet that woke you up lol

ORCA · February 08, 2020, 05:29:46 PM

That'll be the 'lite'. I've got a ZOHD Dart 250g. But, I've not started to put it together as I've been playing/updating my new Jumper T16 Hall Pro with the internal multi protocol module. I'll be using the Jumper R1+ Rx (S-BUS) D16 FrSky protocol. I've looked at the main power and the initial install will be two 18650 Li-ion cells. A possible alternative is the 21700/20700 Li-ion cells for more endurance but they are 10g heavier each cell and may push it over the 250g.

FPVSteve · February 08, 2020, 06:12:08 PM

I was toying with buying one of those too actually, I'm still using a 9XR Pro but I have never gotten along with it, the form factor is just really bulky and it feels naff. So looking for an upgrade ... Jumper T16 is top of the list at the minute.

ORCA · February 08, 2020, 06:59:10 PM

The Jumper T16 is a 'Futaba' case knock off. Uses OpenTx and has a JR module slot for TBS crossfire etc. The Taranis is a smaller form factor but and it is a big but they are trying IMO to lock users into their equipment with the V2 ACCST protocol and ACCESS. Lots of videos on YouTube about T16 from Joshua Bardwell, Paweł Spychalski, Painless360 and others. Also, 'Jumper Technology' on facebook.

ched · February 08, 2020, 08:10:47 PM

Quote from: ORCA on February 08, 2020, 05:29:46 PM
That'll be the 'lite'. I've got a ZOHD Dart 250g. But, I've not started to put it together as I've been playing/updating my new Jumper T16 Hall Pro with the internal multi protocol module. I'll be using the Jumper R1+ Rx (S-BUS) D16 FrSky protocol. I've looked at the main power and the initial install will be two 18650 Li-ion cells. A possible alternative is the 21700/20700 Li-ion cells for more endurance but they are 10g heavier each cell and may push it over the 250g.

I would be interested to see you you get on with the Dart 250g. I was toying with the idea of trying a plane and the sub 250 gms appeals as I am only flying sub 250 quads.