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Hyper S3 Rocket - V3 Prototype conclusions

A project log for HYPER S3 ROCKET + Power Protect Precise Portable

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stemforgephilstemforge.phil • 2 days ago•0 Comments

The V3 Prototype is mostly successful with a few small changes taking place. 

- The current sensing was not adequate. A redesign of the dual mosfet was needed, though this was a quick process.

- Power Diodes were misaligned during manufacture. Consultation shows that I had created larger pads than required according to the datasheet, and this enabled the diodes to move and short. Simple change to diode footprint was needed.

- Reverse polarity circuit was successful for the external Battery pin of the MODULE board, and I decided to incorporate this for the JST connector also to save the board (and battery) from wrong polarity. Even though the JST PH 2.0 connector is polarized, there is no standard. I have gone with the (Red on the Right) option, as looking at the connector. I'll put a small video on YouTube for those that need to adjust their LIPO battery pins.

- With these few changes, the project is moving into pre-production status. The next board on order will have high quality ink, thicker internal copper and the changes mentioned. Also being tested is manufacturer's final board electrical testing, firmware flashing along with individual ESD packaging and package labelling. The next prototype is also going back to red and will have castellated pins for the four versions (LOGGER, DATA, CHARGE, MODULE).

- Note, MODULE is the only version with the copper for batteries connected at the B+ pin. All other versions use the JST connector.

- Did some flight testing yesterday (02-11-26) with the five boards made by JLCPCB. Fortunately I noticed three of the boards had misaligned sensors on the LOGGER. Sensors affected were the Magnetometer and the Barometric Pressure sensor. To move forward, I'm incorporating testing within the firmware for the LOGGER with the Flight Code so all sensors will be tested by the manufacturer before shipping to enhance the reliability. It's understandable with these tiny sensors, but not acceptable going ahead.

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