Hardware Documentation
Complete technical reference for the H7-Digital flight controller hardware, including specifications, pinouts, connectors, and electrical characteristics.
What’s in This Section
This section provides detailed technical documentation for the H7-Digital hardware:
Specifications
Complete technical specifications including processor, sensors, power system, communication interfaces, and physical dimensions.
Pinout & Connectors
Unified pin assignments and connector reference with detailed UART mapping, motor outputs, servo outputs, and all JST-SH connector pinouts following the BetaFlight standard.
Power System
Power architecture, voltage regulators, battery monitoring, and VTX power control documentation.
Sensors
Details on the IMU, barometer, and external sensor support including GPS and compass modules.
Quick Reference
For detailed pin assignments and connector information, see the Pinout & Connectors page.
When to Reference This Section
Use the hardware documentation when:
- Wiring your build - Connector pinouts and power requirements
- Troubleshooting connections - Verify correct pin assignments
- Planning peripherals - Check available UARTs, I2C, and power
- Mounting considerations - Physical dimensions and orientation
- Understanding capabilities - Processor specs and sensor details
- Selecting components - Compatible GPS, compass, VTX modules
Hardware Overview
The H7-Digital is a high-performance flight controller built around the STM32H743 microcontroller, featuring professional-grade sensors, dual voltage regulators, and comprehensive I/O. Designed exclusively for digital HD video systems and companion computer integration.
Key Highlights:
- Processing: 480MHz ARM Cortex-M7 with 1MB RAM, 2MB Flash
- Sensors: ICM-42688-P IMU (isolated power) + DPS368 barometer
- Connectivity: 6 UARTs (all with DMA), 2 I2C, USB-C, MicroSD
- Power: Dual BECs (5V/2A + 10V/2A software-controlled)
- I/O: 10 PWM outputs with bidirectional DShot support
For complete technical specifications, see Specifications.
For detailed connector locations and pinout, see Pinout & Connectors.
Design Philosophy
Digital HD Only
The H7-Digital is designed exclusively for modern digital HD video systems. There is no analog video hardware on this board.
Supported Systems:
- OpenIPC
- DJI
- Walksnail/Avatar
- HDZero
This focus allows for:
- Modern, future-proof design
- Cleaner power delivery
- Reduced electromagnetic interference
- Reduced complexity and increased reliability
- Increased supply chain resilience (analog OSD implementation relies on outdated/EOL components)
Companion Computer First
Unlike many flight controllers where companion computer support is an afterthought, the H7-Digital prioritizes companion computer integration:
- Dedicated UART5 with DMA for high-bandwidth MAVLink
- Optimized for Raspberry Pi and Jetson platforms
- Tested extensively with common companion setups
NDAA Compliance Ready
Hardware designed from the start for compliance:
- Auditable supply chain
- US-based manufacturing
- No covered entities in design or production
- Secure firmware support available
Compliance
The H7-Digital hardware is designed and manufactured to meet:
- NDAA Section 848 - Operating Software compliance ready
- DIU Blue List Framework - compliant (pending)
- Made in USA - Designed and manufactured domestically
Hardware Revision History
Current Production: REV-A
- Initial production release
- All features verified and tested
- Full documentation available
Hardware revision information is printed on the bottom of the PCB. Contact support@aerocogito.com if you need assistance identifying your hardware version.
Related Documentation
- Getting Started - Unboxing and first setup
- ArduPilot Documentation - Official firmware setup guide
- Betaflight Documentation - Official firmware setup guide
Support
For hardware-related questions:
- Email: support@aerocogito.com
Next Steps
Start with the specifications page to understand the complete technical capabilities: