ATOMRC Dolphin - Build Video Update - Vista VTX Airflow Mod & Motor Upgrades

[@eadrianbasila]

Gotta love the Starfleet Logo at the wingtips :DD

[@kevalinopicks5555]

Some stunning scenery! I've just got a Dolphin and scratching my head where to mount stuff so this is very useful. I have only 1 Air unit which I swap between my AR and AR Pro which makes things awkward.

[@ZaksterBlue]

I also posted a build video for my second Dolphin. Similar, but with the full air unit. kzbin.info/www/bejne/g5m6pHVjaL-tjc0

[@J2onton]

Thanks for the info and video. Beginning to fancy. Would use a folding prop.

[@ZaksterBlue]

No worries! I'm still using the original HQProp after more than a year. The 3D print motor mount is more important an upgrade.

[@JD_1]

Good Upgrades!

[@paulwilliamson5783]

Hello fellow Ken Behren, I think we live close by. I fly similar aircraft running Ardupilot, the learning curve is worth it - often at CMAC.

[@ZaksterBlue]

I've dabbled with ardu but am pretty happy with iNav as I use Acro mode 99% of the time so really only need a functional RTH. CMAC looks like a good club!

[@Willf85]

Just moved two planes to ardu 4.1 so good

[@npcfpv9542]

I think I'm going to switch to your motor and prop combo over the winter. I've got 20 packs through my dolphin running AT2310 and APC 6x4, but I really like the way you're describing your power. I did think ahead and put a 50amp ESC in it, so I'm looking forward to getting some of that low end torque! Love your videos and your posts on RCG!

[@ZaksterBlue]

Main problem I ran into with the new quad motors is the 16x16mm bolt pattern, instead of regular 16x19mm to mount it to a regular plane x-mount. I had to be creative.

[@npcfpv9542]

@@ZaksterBlue I got my 2507 in this week and saw the issue you warned about! I asked someone who had made an adapter for a nice version of the Dolphin motor mount if he could make one to support the 16x16 pattern and to my surprise, he did it overnight! Feels like a Christmas miracle! I'm printing it right now, so stoked to try your power set up! Thanks!

[@ZaksterBlue]

@@npcfpv9542 Ah nice! Is the mount file being placed on the web somewhere? I wouldn't mind having a look.

[@WheelzTV]

@@npcfpv9542 Just following up on ZaksterBlue's question, are the specs for that motor adapter online anywhere that we can access it to be printed? Thanks

[@ZaksterBlue]

Whoops, thought I'd responded with the link. www.thingiverse.com/thing:4834533

[@rogergravel6638]

Very Very good review help me a lot thanks

[@landiahillfarm6590]

Zak, I know this video is over a year old, but I wonder if I could ask a question? I'm sorta new to the hobby, I learned about FPV well over a decade ago but the responsibilities of life got in the way and I wasn't able to pursue the dream. I recently saw a video that got me back interested now that I can afford the "fun" things in life, and your videos are a true inspiration. I've got my eyes on a few different models of planes, including the idea of building my own [Experimental Airlines style], but fact is I'm still a newb. I love the look of the Dolphon and have heard nothing but good things about it from the FPV community. Would you be comfortable saying this might be a good airframe for a beginner? My idea was to build an easy handling [ie docile] starter plane with basic FPV stuff, but also an FC to help aide a newbie pilot and RTH for when I screw up [which is inevitable]. I own enough land to fly "at home" [I think] but more importantly I'm loking for that right starter plane. Thoughts?

[@ZaksterBlue]

I love the Dolphin for its versatility, endurance and stability compared to others of its size. If you keep it light (no GoPro, 35gm multirotor motor, reasonable flight batteries), it can fly quite sedately without much risk of stalling (as long as you balance on the CG markers). Even loaded up with GoPro and 4200mah of 4x 21700mah Ion cells, it still feels very manageable to me and doesn't stall until under 40kph. You can also use a 7A Li-Ion (if no HD cam up front) which equates to a LOT of flight time if cruising. Other than the zip-tie skids, I've only used one mod which is the 3D printed motor mount. Well worth it if you know anyone with a printer. Matek flight controllers seem to have gotten pretty expensive. The Matek 'F405 Wing V2' or the SpeedyBee 'F405 Wing' are probably the most cost effective yet powerful INAV/Arduplane compatible FCs on the market right now as prices have been going up. I prefer to have a FC which allows the video power to be switched ON/OFF via radio switch, so use the Matek H743-Wlite (they used to be 30% cheaper). Otherwise, the Dolphin just needs two servos and a 35-45gm motor, between 1650-1900kv. T-motor F80 1900kv is a quality choice. And I recommend EMAX ES08MD II servos if you can find genuine ones, as they can run at 6v for more responsiveness/torque, and also use higher refresh rates through the FC. Happy shopping!

[@ZaksterBlue]

It occurs to me while I've gained experience over a long period of time with soldering FCs, sorting out pin assignments on the GPS and RX, and configuring INAV, this would be daunting if you don't have anyone to help you the first time. Some good videos out there on INAV - Painless 360 has done a series not too long ago. Updating and configuring EdgeTX on a new radio is the next learning curve. Then updating/configuring ELRS, and installing the ELRS LUA script on your radio to control its features... all this takes time, and once again, a few good videos out there for each step. (Joshua Bardwell has several) However, if you are not technically inclined, you may want to consider one of the 'RTH' versions of the AtomRC products. Expensive, but they come with all the PNP kit (servos, motor, ESC), plus a flight controller already programmed for the plane, (and I assume reasonable instructions to get it all hooked up to your radio gear to get flying). The AtomRC Dolphin, Swordfish, and Penguin all come in RTH versions.

[@glenharto9699]

Hey bud! I'm in between looking at the dolphin or the Heewing F01, I currently have the Dart xl with DJI and Runcam thumb set up, but it's just to slow 🐌 Great info mate and missing Home like crazy.

[@ZaksterBlue]

Thanks! Both of those choices will be fun. I like the stability of the Dolphin. Not as smooth as the DartXL but definitely more agile.

[@EnglishTurbines]

Great info on the motor / prop combo...Seems like a capable little wing, a lot of them are so badly designed in comparison...Your outlet area on cooling ducts usually needs to be larger than the inlet area...Using the old L9R RX too..🤔😀🇬🇧

[@alcmann]

Thanks for the upload info and sharing. How would you say the dolphin compares to the ZOHD Talon ? I see larger bay size and low speed control ?

[@ZaksterBlue]

I only have the ZOHD Dart XL Extreme Enhanced (that's a mouthful!) to compare against. Dart is bigger in and out, but heavier, slower, more draggy, and made of bio-foam which can crumble on impact. The nose and wingtips have broken off so many times, the plane is too weak to be taken on a roadtrip. Unsure if the Talon uses the same foam.

[@alcmann]

@@ZaksterBlue Excellent thanks, Ended up purchasing the Dolphin. Mount broke off on 3rd flight exactly like yours did. 3D printing a couple to test now. How did you attach the mount to the foam just screws with the new 3d mount ? or glue ?_ -edit- sorry disregard, I see the comment about clear liquid nails.

[@ZaksterBlue]

@@alcmann enjoying the Dolphin?

[@alcmann]

@@ZaksterBlue for sure yes ! On rails both high and low speed. Having some OSD flickering issues ( FC ground issue I think ) other than that is a rock solid module, minus the kind of weak crappy setup for the engine mount.

[@thebrotherhoodlc]

Looks awesome what kind of goggles do you use?

[@ZaksterBlue]

DJI digital gear 🙂

[@maro0016]

Did you publish the motor mount? I want to mount a double, counter rotating motor😊

[@ZaksterBlue]

I used one of the files from thingyverse.

[@maro0016]

@@ZaksterBlue thank you - it’s really a great model!

[@tubamanandy2]

Where did you mount your ESC as mine overheats in the rear bay - maybe I should put it underneath in some airflow

[@ZaksterBlue]

Yep, I use the designed ESC bay underneath and it's been fine.

[@micsherwood4930]

Do you still have the 3d print file for the airflow mod, and vista antenna mount?

[@ZaksterBlue]

Haha, no 3d printer here! A friend did my motor mount, but otherwise, the air scoop is half a takeaway soup spoon, and the antenna mount is screwed onto a piece of a store loyalty card hot glued to the foam. 😄

[@marcnowalinski9406]

Hi, do you still fly the "Brother Hobby" motor is it a good tough motor ?

[@ZaksterBlue]

Yes, still using the same motor in my first dolphin. It must be at least 18 months with plenty of flights and a couple of decent crashes.

[@CarContent-wa]

hey mate im thinking of buying the dolphin is there anychance i could get your build for enduro pls because i generally fligh drones but im looking for a change and i love your vids

[@ZaksterBlue]

I listed my parts on the second Dolphin build video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/g5m6pHVjaL-tjc0 If you are not running a heavy GoPro up front like I do, you can probably squeeze 2x 3500mah 4S Li-ion packs (18650), either as one brick to slide into the middle section, or as two separate packs in parallel, under front and back hatches. 7A at a steady 5A cruise is plenty of flight time!

[@CarContent-wa]

@@ZaksterBlue thanks mate

[@eitaje]

Hi, nice video :-) which kind of firmware did you install on your FC? iNav or Arduplane (or something else?) also, do you have airspeed meter? I found that the airspeed is very helpful, especially for landings and for flying efficiently. Cheers 🍻

[@ZaksterBlue]

Hi, iNav works fine for me. I've not installed an airspeed sensor on my planes lately as I'm flying with others that don't have it and it's harder to fly in formation if you use different speed measurements. That and I'm keeping this plane light and clean.

[@-exeCy-]

Hey Zak, thank you for all the info. I recenlty built my first wing Heewing T1. My goal is to fly over the clouds, and T1 is not the right plane for this. Do you suggest Dolphin for this purpose ? Thanks

[@ZaksterBlue]

Hi, why do you find the T1 unsuitable? On 4S li-ion and a suitable motor/prop combo it should be able to cruise for at least half an hour? The Dolphin has way more flexibility for battery size and motor/prop sizes, so yes, it would be easier to achieve a longer, faster flight. You won't regret getting one!

[@WheelzTV]

So I have a problem that I haven't found info on... I used hot glue to hold the stock wood motor mount in the rear of the dolphin, and it's melting from motor heat. lol I'm using a 4 cell/2500 Lipo, a 50A ESC, 2507-1850Kv motor and a 7x4 3 Bladed prop. Even with easy half throttle or less flying for 10 minutes with a few bursts here and there, the hot glue gets soft enough that when I come in to land, if the prop touches the grass, it pulls the mount out. I read and commented below on the different size motor adapter, guessing maybe my motor being bolted right to the wood without the bigger adapter/spacer is just too close. Do you think the printed motor mount might also help with this cooling? Or did you use something different to hold the motor mount into the foam of the plane? Thanks

[@ZaksterBlue]

The 3d printed motor mount on thingyverse is a worthy upgrade as it pokes through into the wire gap and is quite strong. I use clear Liquid Nails, I think known as Goop in some countries.

[@ZaksterBlue]

I'd also recommend you consider trying the hqprop 7x4.5 two blade prop to unload the motor. It'll be more efficient at cruise, and still hit ~170kph at full throttle.

[@WheelzTV]

@@ZaksterBlue I purchased the 3 blades and then a couple 6x4.5 2 blades as well... was going with 3 for the torque for my maiden. I'll give the 2 blades a try next.

[@WheelzTV]

@@ZaksterBlue Got it, I'll print out the motor mount and use liquid nails... thanks for the help. I also have to find the larger motor mount adapter. What are the dimensions of it again? 16x16 to 16x19?

[@ZaksterBlue]

Not sure what you're asking. The 3D print design has standard x-mount holes at 34x34mm. The inner motor mounting itself depends on your motor. Mine (Brotherhobby Avenger 2507) is 16x16mm, whereas some motors are 19x19, or 16x19 (standard plane motor config).

[@lostre86]

Hello ZacksterBlue! Im about to be a dolphin owner and that is going to be my first airplane on my Rc times! I watched your videos about it, and i found them very informative, especially this one with the upgrades. The place you fly is very nice! is there a way to contact you for further infos?

[@ZaksterBlue]

Hi, feel free to ask for advice on the rcgroups Dolphin forum, www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?3737545-Skyzone-AtomRC-Dolphine-845mm-FPV-Wing-KIT-PNP-FPV-Fastes-cheap-wing

[@WheelzTV]

Trying to gather your ultimate setup... What brand motor is the 2507-1750KV that you've gone with? I found a BrotherHobby 2507-1850Kv... Also the bigger ESC of the same brand is a 45amp and not a 50. Did you stick with HAKRC BLHeli brand? Thanks

[@ZaksterBlue]

Mine is a Brotherhobby. 1850kv will work if you want a little more top end. I'm still using the HAKRC but bought a FlyColor 50A to replace it eventually. Doesn't matter much with the prop I'm using, as it's only pulling around 35A.

[@WheelzTV]

@@ZaksterBlue Thank you so much... and what is the reason for using Lithium Ion vs Lithium Polymer batteries? You're not the first with these FPV wings that I've seen using Li-Ions... but I've always used Li-Po's for all my other planes. And did you put your ESC underneath in the vented compartment? Do you have that in a video anywhere?

[@ZaksterBlue]

@@WheelzTV if you like to go fast and draw high current, stick with lipo. Ions give you more energy density so my 4200mah 4s pack only weighs 290gm, but if I fly around at high throttle a lot, the ion batteries will overheat and become damaged. My batteries are rated to sustain 30A but in reality, they would still be stressed. Other packs might only be rated for 10A so you have to be even more cautious.

[@gonpham195]

Hi ZaksterBlue..! when replace the 2507-1750kv motor, what battery you using? Can you have the battery specs please? to be able to reach a weight of 40g. And how long is the actual flight time?

[@ZaksterBlue]

Hi, I made my own packs using 21700 size, 4200mah batteries. kzbin.info/www/bejne/ep_Haamfa8uBsM0

[@ZaksterBlue]

I get about 45 minutes of cruising.

[@gonpham195]

thank ZaksterBlue. I'm glad you replied

[@AnthonyGonzalez-lw1ek]

Do you want to sell one of your other planes ?

[@ZaksterBlue]

I've already sold the mini talon. 🙂

[@Willf85]

Is this your favourite plane now? Better than the dragon?

[@ZaksterBlue]

I still love flying the Dragon too, but this plane is so good for its size and weight - so efficient.

[@patricehonvault2612]

Hi, ZakerBluen, I am worried about because I bought your previous engine configuration (Emax ECO II 1900 kV) Tell me that it will not be too fair as power, knowing that I will mainly fly cruising without really peaking.

[@ZaksterBlue]

Hi, there was no issue with the Eco motor but I realised that I mostly flew under 60% throttle, so going to a lower kV gives me a little more throttle resolution. The Eco is still a good choice.

[@ZaksterBlue]

When you do upgrade parts next, consider going to a 45-50 amp ESC for a bit more headroom when you do throttle up. I've ordered a Flycolor 50A blheli_s which is a good size and price.

[@patricehonvault2612]

@@ZaksterBlue thank you so much

[@phillip7047]

will the new eco 2306 1750kv work with the dolphin?

[@ZaksterBlue]

Yes, it's not quite as strong as the 2207 option, and going slightly bigger is better. But will be ok with 6" prop, or two blade 7042 prop like the Gemfan Flash. Do a one minute bench test for how hot the motor and ESC get with the prop you choose. Best to keep those small motors under 30A continuous.

[@phillip7047]

@@ZaksterBlue trying to get a setup like your flying, that is the type of flying I intend on doing.

[@ZaksterBlue]

@@phillip7047 if you can get a 2307, 2407, or 2507 you'll have no worries spinning a 7x4.5 like the hqprop that I use. 1750kv is good.

[@phillip7047]

@@ZaksterBlue Awesome , thank you. I have watched all your video's. They are so amazing! Thanks for all you do.

[@triminh31891]

Hello sir. Can you share your 3D print of the motor mount that you use, thank you so much :D

[@ZaksterBlue]

Here it is: www.thingiverse.com/thing:4834533/comments