Using Your CoDrone EDU Controller (Part 1): Features

CoDrone EDU Controller Features

Megan introduces the CoDrone EDU controller, the main device for communicating with the drone, whether flying it manually or programming it. The video covers the controller’s power options, flight controls, display, and buttons, including differences between the Standard and JROTC editions.

Power and connection

Both editions connect to a computer through a USB port in the same location:

• Standard Edition: micro-USB cable
• JROTC Edition: USB-C cable

Use the cable included with the kit to connect the controller to a computer for programming. For the best signal, extend the antenna fully and point it toward the drone.

The controller can be powered by USB or batteries:

• Standard Edition: two AA batteries
• JROTC Edition: the battery pack included with the kit, which is also used by the drone

To turn on the controller using battery power, hold the power button in the top-right corner until the LCD screen turns on. When connected to USB, the Standard Edition turns on automatically; the JROTC Edition requires you to press and hold the power button.

On the JROTC Edition, flashing green LEDs indicate that the battery is charging when the controller is plugged in but powered off.

Display and operating states

The LCD screen on top of the controller displays information about the drone, controller, and flight. It can also be used to view settings and data.

Connecting the controller by USB automatically puts it in link state, which is needed for programming. To pilot the drone, switch to remote control state by pressing the power button once. The LCD shows the change.

Joystick flight controls

In remote control state, the two top joysticks control the drone’s movements:

• Throttle: up and down
• Roll: side to side
• Pitch: forward and backward
• Yaw: rotation to the right or left

By default, the left joystick controls throttle and yaw, while the right joystick controls pitch and roll.

Top-center buttons

• Directional trim buttons: Adjust for drift the drone may experience while flying.
• S button: Hold for a few seconds to open the settings screen. Press once to switch display screens.
• P button: Press to pair the controller with a drone, which is useful when changing which drone is connected. Press once to switch display screens.
• H button: Toggle the controller’s backlight. Hold for three seconds to tell the drone to return to its takeoff location, or “home.”

Front buttons

• L1 button: Hold to command the drone to take off or land. Press and release once to change the drone’s speed.
• R1 button: Change the LED color on the drone and controller.

Main takeaway

The video recommends practicing with the controller to become familiar with its controls and functions.

Speaker and source

Megan is the presenter and narrator.