DIY WiFi‑Controlled Drone with Height and Position Hold

Description and use

Building a low‑cost WiFi‑controlled drone that automatically holds height and position using open‑source ESP‑Drone firmware.

Problem

Developing a low‑cost, WiFi‑controlled drone that can autonomously maintain altitude and position without a complex flight controller.

Outcome

The drone successfully maintains a stable hover and can hold a specified position when commanded over WiFi, demonstrating the viability of open‑source firmware for hobbyist UAVs.

Workflow

• 1. Gather components: ESP32, brushless motors, ESCs, propellers, Li‑Po battery, frame.
• 2. Assemble the frame and mount the motors and ESCs.
• 3. Wire the ESCs to the ESP32 and connect the battery.
• 4. Flash the ESP‑Drone firmware from the GitHub repo onto the ESP32.
• 5. Configure WiFi credentials and flight parameters via the web interface.
• 6. Power on the drone and use the web UI or mobile app to command take‑off, hover, and position hold.
• 7. Test flight in a safe area, adjusting PID settings if necessary.

Evidence

Builds a DIY WiFi-controlled drone featuring height and position hold

Source