The GEPRC Vapor BNF is a strong alternative proper out of the field—well-tuned, well-built, and able to fly. However like many Bind-and-Fly (BNF) quads, there’s at all times room for enchancment. Whether or not you’re aiming for higher efficiency, longer flight time, simpler upkeep, or simply wish to fine-tune the drone to your preferences, this information will stroll you thru the simplest upgrades and modifications you may make to the Vapor D5.
Take a look at my overview of the Vapor right here: https://oscarliang.com/geprc-vapor-d5-o4/
You should purchase the GEPRC Vapor D5 from these distributors:
Attempt Totally different Propellers
Making an attempt completely different propellers is maybe one of many most cost-effective and best methods to improve your quad.
The Vapor ships with Gemfan Vanny Model 5136 props. It is a 5.1-inch propeller with a 3.6-inch pitch (that’s what the “5136” stands for). These are nice for energy and velocity. Nonetheless, you might wish to attempt lighter props—both smaller in diameter or decrease pitch.
Lighter props may generate much less thrust, however they permit for sooner RPM modifications. Meaning faster throttle response, higher cornering grip, and improved instability dealing with.
Personally, I discover that HQ props are usually smoother than Gemfan. Certainly one of my favorites is the HQ 5×4.3×3 V2S. Whereas there are even lighter choices, they typically sacrifice an excessive amount of energy. The Vapor isn’t the lightest quad, so the 5×4.3×3 strikes a great stability between effectivity and management.
For those who fly freestyle, this improve can noticeably enhance flight really feel. However for those who primarily do cinematic cruising or fly long-range, you might not discover as a lot profit—inventory props are completely tremendous for that.
Take away Pointless Components
For those who use the Vapor as a basher, you most likely wish to preserve all of the protecting elements for sturdiness. However for those who’re chasing peak efficiency, decreasing weight can go a great distance.
Right here’s what I faraway from my construct:
- Aspect plates (~15g): Secure to take away for most individuals, minimal impression on sturdiness.
- Arm guards (~15g): Maintain these for those who crash typically.
- Plastic motor wire tubes (~4g): Exchange with fabric or electrical tape. Once more, for those who crash commonly, take into account retaining them.
- One battery strap (~5g): Use only one strap for those who’re assured in your battery mounting.
- Exchange metallic stack locking nuts with nylon/plastic ones (~1.5g saved).
For superior pilots, take into account eradicating two screws from every motor to save lots of a number of extra grams. However you MUST apply threadlocker to the remaining screws to keep away from motor detachment mid-flight. If you wish to play secure, you can even simply take away one screw per motor.
By eradicating pointless elements and optimizing the construct, I managed to shave off 44 grams – it’s even lighter than my very own customized construct utilizing the Vapor body. That’s a ten% discount in weight—fairly spectacular!
Vertical Receiver Antenna Mount
As talked about in my Vapor D5 overview, I wasn’t a fan of the inventory receiver antenna mount. To repair that, I designed a customized vertical mount that attaches to the rear standoff. This orientation gives a greater antenna alignment for long-range flying. Notice: The antenna wire is comparatively quick, so you might have to reposition the receiver barely to forestall pressure within the antenna connector.
Obtain my 3D print file right here: https://www.thingiverse.com/factor:7035383
For those who solely fly inside 1 km, this improve will not be vital.
Transfer GPS to the Entrance
Relocating the GPS module to the entrance of the body provides two advantages:
- Improved GPS sign – It’s farther from the VTX and RX antennas, there’s much less interference. I’m getting as much as 30 satellites even on overcast days.
- Addresses tail heavy concern – Redistributing the load balances the quad higher.
A customized made GPS mount can be perfect, however I reused the inventory mount and easily taped it to the entrance utilizing double-sided foam tape and strengthened with a zipper tie, labored like a allure. I additionally minimize a slot within the base of the mount, so I may rotate the GPS 180°, because the cable wasn’t lengthy sufficient to succeed in in its unique orientation.
Tune the PID & Filters
For those who’ve lowered the load of your quad, and wish to maximize efficiency, it’s a good suggestion to tune the PID and filter settings. To not point out the inventory GEPRC tune is considerably conservative and there’s room for enhancements.
An optimized tune can:
- Make your quad extra responsive
- Scale back latency
- Enhance monitoring in quick, acrobatic strikes
- Scale back prop wash
For those who principally simply cruise for cinematic photographs, the inventory tune is ok. However for freestyle and acro flying, tuning is well worth the effort.
I share my customized PID and filter settings on my Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/posts/128765386
Superior Mods for Lengthy-Vary Effectivity
For those who’re pushing your Vapor for long-range efficiency, listed here are a number of further tweaks to enhance effectivity and flight time:
Set Motor Output Restrict to 75–80%
The inventory motors are fairly excessive in KV and past 80% throttle, it’s actually energy hungry. Decreasing the restrict cuts present draw and boosts effectivity. Nonetheless, it’s not perfect for freestyle, solely really helpful for cruising flights.
Trim and resolder motor wires
The Vapor got here with motor wires soldered just like the 2nd picture under. You could possibly shorten the motor wires and solder them just like the third picture and shave a number of grams.
Improve to a variety receiver
A single antenna receiver will inevitably get blocked by the battery or body. A real variety receiver with antennas mounted on either side of the body will present higher sign protection and eliminates blind spots.
Add Conformal Coating
For those who plan to fly in humid environments or mild rain, making use of conformal coating to your flight controller and ESC is a smart transfer.
Why it’s helpful:
- Provides moisture resistance
- Protects delicate parts
- Helps stop shorts and corrosion
Take a look at my conformal coating tutorial for those who’re new to the method: https://oscarliang.com/waterproofing-drone-electronics/
Ultimate Ideas
Out of the field, the GEPRC Vapor D5 is already a improbable FPV drone, however with these easy modifications, it will probably turn into even higher for flight time and freestyle efficiency. Whether or not you’re after improved responsiveness, longer flight occasions, or just a lighter construct—these tweaks will enable you degree up your flying expertise.
Acquired your individual favourite mod? Share it within the feedback or tag me along with your customized construct pics—I’d like to see what you give you!
