M. Agung Wahyudi, Pakhrur Razi
This article presents the design and development of an Arduino-based quadcopter-type drone, aiming to provide an affordable, versatile, and customizable solution for various applications such as aerial photography, surveillance, and educational purposes. The project utilizes an Arduino microcontroller as the central control unit, which integrates with essential components including motors, ESCs (Electronic Speed Controllers), sensors, and a GPS module. The drone’s flight stability and maneuverability are ensured through the use of gyroscopes and accelerometers, while communication with the ground control system is facilitated via a wireless link. The design process focuses on optimizing the drone’s performance, balancing payload capacity, flight time, and stability. This article discusses the selection of components, the integration of the control system, and the programming of the Arduino to control the flight dynamics. The quadcopter is designed to be cost-effective, with an emphasis on open-source hardware and software, making it an ideal project for hobbyists, engineers, and educational institutions interested in drone technology. The results demonstrate the feasibility of building a functional and reliable drone using Arduino, providing insights into the challenges and potential improvements in future designs. Additionally, the project serves as an accessible platform for learning about robotics, electronics, and aerodynamics. © The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 2026.
Department of Physics, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Universitas Negeri, Padang, 25131, Indonesia; Center of Disaster Monitoring and Earth Observation (DMEO), Universitas Negeri, Padang, 25131, Indonesia
