Getting Started with H7-Digital
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get your flight controller up and running safely.
What’s in This Section
This section covers the essential first steps with your H7-Digital:
Unboxing
What’s included in the box, initial hardware inspection, and what additional items you’ll need to get started.
Building Your FPV Drone
Build your FPV drone with the H7-Digital flight controller.
Choosing Firmware
Understand the differences between ArduPilot and Betaflight to choose the right firmware for your application.
First Flight Checklist
Pre-flight safety checks and procedures to ensure your first flight goes smoothly.
Before You Begin
Required Items
To get started with your H7-Digital, you’ll need:
- H7-Digital flight controller (what you just unboxed)
- Frame/airframe appropriate for your application
- ESCs compatible with your chosen firmware (DShot recommended)
- Motors and propellers matched to your frame
- Battery (3S-6S LiPo)
- Radio transmitter and receiver (ELRS, CRSF, SBUS, or PWM)
- Digital VTX (OpenIPC, DJI, Walksnail, or HDZero)
- USB-C cable for connecting to computer
- Computer running Windows, macOS, or Linux
Optional but Recommended
- GPS module (required for ArduPilot autonomous flight)
- Companion computer (Raspberry Pi, Jetson, etc.)
- MicroSD card (for blackbox logging or firmware updates)
- External compass (if using GPS for autonomous flight)
Quick Start Overview
Here’s the high-level process to get flying:
- Unbox and inspect your hardware
- Choose your firmware (ArduPilot or Betaflight)
- Mount the flight controller on your frame
- Connect peripherals (ESCs, receiver, GPS, etc.)
- Install firmware using appropriate tools
- Configure and calibrate following firmware-specific guides
- Perform pre-flight checks using the checklist
- Test flight in safe environment
Safety First
Important Safety Information
- Always remove propellers when testing on a bench
- Never arm your aircraft with propellers installed indoors
- Follow all local regulations and airspace restrictions
- Complete all calibration procedures before first flight
- Test in open area away from people and property
Firmware Decision
Not sure which firmware to use? Here’s a quick comparison:
| Feature | ArduPilot | Betaflight |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Autonomous flight, waypoints | Manual FPV flight, racing |
| GPS Required | Yes (for auto modes) | No |
| Companion Computer | Excellent support (MAVLink) | Limited |
| Tuning Complexity | Moderate | Simple to advanced |
| NDAA Compliance | Yes (with secure firmware) | Standard builds |
| Mission Planning | Full support | Not applicable |
| Acrobatic Flight | Basic | Excellent |
See the Choosing Firmware page for a detailed comparison of ArduPilot vs Betaflight capabilities, use cases, and installation instructions.
Support Resources
If you run into any issues during setup:
- H7-Digital Hardware: support@aerocogito.com
-
ArduPilot Firmware: ArduPilot Forum Discord - Betaflight Firmware: Betaflight Discord
Next Steps
Ready to begin? Start with unboxing your flight controller: