Tri-copter build, couple questions....

[Beemerider]

I'm finally getting around to scratch building a tri-copter. For the most part I think I have the necessary components. Back last summer I bought the i86 multi-rotor control board from HK. It's about $22 and supposedly has I think up to 8 possible rotor configurations.

A week ago a local heli flier had just completed a quad using the HK KK2.0 Multi-rotor LCD board (about $30) and he was really singing it's praises.
That particular board wasn't available when I bought the other one. I went ahead and ordered it. I had originally another plan for the i86 board so I don't feel like I've bought something I'll never use. My first question is this: Is my first controller board (i86) a good enough choice for a 1st multi-rotor build (tri-copter)? Can I safely assume that the controller board needs to occupy the center point or position on the frame at least for the sake of the gyro's?

Next question--I'm using 3 identical motors (750kv) and 3 identical esc's(30amp). I've seen some simple designs using a standard servo for the yaw axis control. In setting up prop rotation and numbering the yaw adjustable motor #1, should #2 and #3 be counter rotating to cancel out the torque forces?

I'm still thinking about props so I'd welcome advice there as well. I also bought a small board that makes a common input for power to all 3 esc's.

I'm a newbie and I move somewhat slowly--but I very much appreciate and value any good advice you folks may offer. I'm sure I'll have other questions. My rememberer doesn't remember well these days!

[tarheal63]

From my own personal experiece, I would go with the KK2 board, brilliantly easy to set up. But use what you have and it should be fine.
I don't use counter rotating blades on mine and it works great. I would recommend looking on youtube for the user hallstudio. He has put together some great videos on cheap easy tricopters. Also check rceplorer.se. Lots of good instruction there. On the 750's you can easily use 10x47 sf props from gws or 10x45 sf props from gemfan. One thing to keep in mind, the longer your arms, the more stable the platform. You can probably find alot of tips on rcgroups revolving around your particular board. Invest in LOTS of zip ties. And yes, the board goes in the middle of your hub and it should have an arrow which indicates the front. Good luck in this endeavor. I have alot of fun with mine. My first tri had kk 5.5 blackboard, i then moved to a KK2 on a quadcopter, now I have a multiwii on my tricopter. The MW is somewhat of a pain to program though. Miss my other KK2. One more thing to keep in mind is what TX programming you use. Do your research. If you look, you can find what you need out there.

[Beemerider]

tarheal63--I very much appreciate your advice and the links. I kinda figured that longer arms would translate to being a bit more stable--I appreciate the reinforcement! I assembled my frame this evening. I think my arms are about 20" so the diameter will be near 3' or so. When it's done I'll post a pic or two.

Well we're getting a bit of snow tonite and tomorrow--it will be a good day to work on this build!

[pizzano]

Beemerider.......

Check out this forum. You might find it valuable. A buddy of mine is a serious contributor there....that's how I learned about it.

http://www.multirotorforums.com/forum.php

[Beemerider]

Cool..thanks!