What You Need
Prepare the complete v1 reference build, required tools, software, and a safe test environment before assembly.
Identify required parts and tools before ordering; use the airframe/power guide for build-specific parts.
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# What the v1 reference fixes
ESPFlight Hardware Reference v1.0 fixes the PCB design and firmware-facing interfaces, but it is not a complete retail kit. The release BOM covers PCB-mounted parts; the Wemos D1 mini, MPU-6050 module, battery connection, and related module/header items are handled separately.
ESPFlight v1.0 does not specify one universal frame, motor model, propeller size, or battery model for every build. Those items remain hardware-dependent. Do not substitute an arbitrary motor/battery/frame combination and assume it is validated by the platform.
# Parts for a first manual build
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| Item | Qty | Status / selection rule |
|---|---|---|
| Wemos D1 mini / ESP8266 | 1 | Validated firmware target for v1.0.0. |
| MPU-6050 module | 1 | Reference IMU on the documented I2C bus. |
| Hardware Reference v1.0 PCB | 1 | Use the official Gerber/BOM/Pick-and-Place set or a separately validated compatible board. |
| Motors | 4 | User-selected; must match the frame, propellers, driver stage, and power system. |
| Propellers | 4 | Two CW + two CCW; size/type must match the selected motors and frame. |
| Battery / power connection | 1 set | User-selected; must match the real board and selected motor system. |
| Frame / mounting hardware | 1 set | User-selected; must hold the board, battery, and motors rigidly and keep wiring clear of propellers. |
| USB data cable | 1 | Required to program the Wemos D1 mini. |
| Android phone | 1 | For ESPFlight Application v1.0.0. |
For exact PCB component ordering, use the official Hardware v1.0 BOM. Do not treat the PCB BOM as a complete Drone parts list.
A shopping list is not enough for the frame, motors, propellers, and battery. Use Airframe & Power Selection to evaluate the real parts as one system. Do not consider this preparation step complete until you can satisfy that page's selection checks.
# Required and recommended tools
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| Tool | Need | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Soldering equipment | Required for a manual build | Install headers/modules, power connections, and other hand-soldered items. |
| Digital multimeter | Strongly recommended | Check polarity, continuity/shorts, and real supply voltage before powered testing. |
| USB data cable | Required | Compile/upload verification and Serial Monitor access. |
| Small hand tools | Required as needed | Secure the frame, modules, battery, and motor mounts. |
| Current-limited bench supply | Optional but useful | Provides a controlled first-power method when appropriate to your build. |