Matek Mateksys Servo PDB Instruction Manual

1. Introducció

The Matek Mateksys Servo PDB (Power Distribution Board) is a compact and efficient solution designed to provide stable and adjustable power to servos in RC fixed-wing airplanes and FPV drones. It features a built-in BEC (Battery Eliminator Circuit) that converts a wide input voltage range (5.5V to 36V) to a selectable output voltage (5V, 6V, 7.2V, or 8.2V) for your servos. This device is particularly useful for flight controllers that lack a dedicated BEC for servos, or for large-scale RC aircraft where reducing circuit loss and voltage drop on servo power wires is critical.

2. Contingut del paquet

• 1 x SVPDB-8S Servo PDB
• Dupont 2.54mm pins

3. Especificacions

Figure 3.1: Dimensions of the Matek Servo PDB (26mm x 21mm).

4. Precaucions de seguretat

• Always ensure correct polarity when connecting power. The Servo PDB has no protection against reversed input polarity, which can cause permanent damage to the unit and connected components.
• No supereu el volum màxim d'entradatage de 36V.
• Ensure the total current draw of your servos does not exceed the continuous load current of 4A or the burst current of 7A.
• Handle the board with care to avoid electrostatic discharge.
• Mantingueu la unitat allunyada de la humitat i temperatures extremes.

5. Configuració i instal·lació

5.1. Voltage Selecció

The Servo PDB allows you to select the output voltage for your servos (Vx) from 5V, 6V, 7.2V, or 8.2V. The default output is 5V. To change the output voltage, you need to solder the corresponding pads on the back of the board. Refer to the diagram below for the voltage selection pads.

Figura 5.1: Esquena view of the Servo PDB showing voltage selection pads. Solder the desired Vx pad (6V, 7.2V, or 8.2V) to override the default 5V output.

5.2. Esquemes de cablejat

The Servo PDB connects between your battery/ESC, flight controller, and servos. It takes power directly from the battery (VBAT IN) and provides regulated power to your servos (Vx OUT). The signal lines from your flight controller's servo outputs are passed through the PDB to the servos.

Basic Wiring with Flight Controller

This diagram illustrates a typical connection for a single Servo PDB with a flight controller, battery, ESC, and multiple servos.

Figure 5.2: Basic wiring diagram. Connect VBAT IN to your battery, Vx OUT to servos, and pass servo signal lines from the flight controller through the PDB.

Multiple Servo PDBs in a Fixed-Wing Airplane

For larger setups or to distribute power more effectively, multiple Servo PDBs can be used. Each PDB can power a group of servos, reducing voltage drop over long wires and ensuring stable power delivery.

Figure 5.3: Application diagram showing multiple Servo PDBs (SVPDB '1' through '4') connected to different servo groups in a fixed-wing aircraft, all drawing power from the main VBAT.

6. Instruccions de funcionament

Once installed and wired correctly, the Matek Servo PDB operates automatically. It will regulate the input voltage to the selected output voltage (Vx) for your servos. Simply power on your RC system as usual. The PDB will provide consistent power to your servos, enhancing their performance and reliability.

• Before first flight, always double-check all connections and ensure the selected output voltage matches your servo requirements.
• Monitor servo performance during initial operation to confirm stable power delivery.

7. Manteniment

• Regularly inspect all solder joints and connections for signs of wear or corrosion.
• Keep the board clean and free from dust, dirt, and debris.
• Ensure adequate airflow around the PDB, especially if operating at high current loads, to prevent overheating.
• Avoid physical stress or impact to the board.

8. Solució De Problemes

• No power to servos:
  • Comproveu el volum d'entradatage (VBAT IN) from the battery.
  • Verify all wiring connections, especially power and ground, for continuity and correct polarity.
  • Ensure the selected output voltage (Vx) is appropriate for your servos.
• Servos behaving erratically:
  • Comproveu si hi ha connexions soltes o si el subministrament d'energia és intermitent.
  • Ensure the current draw of your servos does not exceed the PDB's capacity (4A continuous, 7A burst). Overloading can cause voltage gotes.
  • Inspect for any short circuits on the output side. The PDB is short-circuit tolerant for 3 seconds, but prolonged shorts can cause issues.
• Board overheating:
  • Reduce the load on the PDB or ensure better ventilation.
  • Comproveu que l'entrada voltage es troba dins del rang especificat (5.5 V-36 V).
• Damage after connection:
  • This often indicates reversed input polarity. Always double-check positive and negative connections before applying power.

9. Consells d'usuari

• Comprovació prèvia al vol: Before each flight, perform a quick visual inspection of the PDB and its connections. Confirm that all wires are securely attached and there are no signs of damage.
• Voltage Verificació: After setting your desired output voltage, use a multimeter to verify the actual output voltage (Vx) before connecting your servos. This ensures your servos receive the correct power.
• Gestió de cables: Keep wiring neat and organized to prevent accidental shorts or disconnections during flight. Use zip ties or heat shrink tubing where appropriate.

10. Garantia i Suport

This product is intended for hobby use. Please refer to the manufacturer's website or your retailer for specific warranty information and support resources. Proper installation and adherence to safety guidelines are crucial for the longevity and performance of the device.