RF Update Fail!

[jmhinsd]

So, I've had my Hpro for about 1 1/2 years and it's been just about flawless. Any issues have typically been user error. Nevertheless, a month or so ago, I had an issue with the controller not binding to the craft, I could get the camera bound no problem. So I did a controller reset, wiped the App cache and started fresh. That seemed to do the trick for a bit but then I had the issue again and no resetting of anything would allow me to bind the craft (yes, the craft was tilted forward until orange blinking lights start). So, I decided to reload firmware, downloaded a fresh copy from Yuneec. However, despite many attempts and resets, still no joy. I get RF Update Fail! If I select yes it then tries to load TX update followed by the expected reset of the controller. But again, unsuccessful. If I select "No" when I get the RF Update Fail! error then it just resets. I have a second st16 that is for parts and more or less junk but at least it will bind to craft.

I'd certainly appreciate your thoughts.

 

[Eagle's Eye Video]

Have you attempted to do the update via a microSD card rather than a OTA update? Using an microSD card for updates is standard for the H Pro.

 

[WTFDproject]

Or take the 2.4 Ghz RF module out of the spare and put it in the good one. Sounds like you might have a bad RF Module.

 

[jmhinsd]

Yep, in fact I've never even attempted OTA, always used the same SD card, freshly formatted.

Thanks WTFD, that's what I was thinking/afraid of. I've just never busted open an st16. Is RF mod replacement fairly straight forward?

 

[WTFDproject]

I've just never busted open an st16. Is RF mod replacement fairly straight forward?

Yup. It is pretty much the same as the receiver on a Q500, except no shrink wrap and the wires are cut a lot shorter. It's held to the board by sticky tape. The two antenna connectors snap on/off. The wires just plug in. There is no soldering involved.
This link was the first I found on Youtube. All you need of it is the first few minutes for opening the case:
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This is the 2.4 Ghz RF Module:

 

[jmhinsd]

So you were correct WTFD, swapped out RF and now she fires up like a champ. And ya, easy fix, 15 min.

 

[jmhinsd]

Thinkin' about it, I guess I got lucky it didn't happen mid-flight.

 

[John Hennessy]

Thinkin' about it, I guess I got lucky it didn't happen mid-flight.

Hi jmhinsd,
Just reading this thread with interest and knowledge, and thought, at anytime have you started the st16 without the antennas installed. Just a thought, it is said that this can burn out your rf module by accident . Just a possible reason. Johnno Hennessy. Keep flying on the green side of the grass.

 

[Mrgs1]

Hi jmhinsd,
Just reading this thread with interest and knowledge, and thought, at anytime have you started the st16 without the antennas installed. Just a thought, it is said that this can burn out your rf module by accident . Just a possible reason. Johnno Hennessy. Keep flying on the green side of the grass.

The amount of times I've seen that on eBay. I don't know why they do it!

 

[jmhinsd]

Hi jmhinsd,
Just reading this thread with interest and knowledge, and thought, at anytime have you started the st16 without the antennas installed. Just a thought, it is said that this can burn out your rf module by accident . Just a possible reason. Johnno Hennessy. Keep flying on the green side of the grass.

Thanks for heads up Johnno but not likely, haven't had a reason to remove them, until now