Why does my CoDrone EDU battery level change rapidly at times?
Updated
by
Robolink Support
Have you ever noticed the battery percentage on your CoDrone EDU changing frequently—especially during flight or while running code? Unlike a phone, which shows steady battery levels, your drone’s battery reading may seem to bounce around. This is totally normal! Here’s why it happens and what you can do about it.
When you check your phone’s battery, it shows the remaining charge based on capacity. But on the CoDrone EDU, the battery percentage reflects the real-time voltage being used—not how much total charge is left. This means the number you see can change depending on what the drone is doing at that moment. These changes are just a reflection of your drone’s active voltage draw, not actual battery life. As voltage drops under load and rebounds at rest, the displayed percentage adjusts accordingly.
Understanding Voltage and Its Impact:
Voltage is a measure of electrical potential difference between two points in a circuit. In the case of drones, the voltage being utilized fluctuates based on various factors, such as flight maneuvers, environmental conditions, and power consumption by onboard systems.
Why Does Voltage Fluctuate?
- Flight Maneuvers: When you're manually flying a drone or executing pre-programmed maneuvers through autonomous coding, the power demands on the battery can vary significantly. For example, rapid ascents or descents, sharp turns, or sudden changes in speed can cause fluctuations in voltage usage.
- Onboard Systems: Drones are equipped with various sensors, all of which draw power from the battery. The activation and usage of these systems can lead to fluctuations in voltage.
Tips for More Consistent Readings
- Use a fully charged battery before each session.
- Let the drone rest for 3-5 seconds before checking the battery reading—it may rise once the drone sits without moving.
- Avoid rapid, repeated commands without brief pauses or delays.
(NOTE: including flips regularly in your code will rapidly drain your battery! We suggest you do not include flips as part of your regular code)
- Fly on flat, well-lit, non-reflective surfaces to reduce strain on stabilization systems.
While fluctuations are normal, here are signs that a battery might actually need replacement:
- The drone won’t stay airborne for more than a minute or two, even on a full charge.
- You see error messages related to battery or sudden shutdowns.
If you suspect a deeper issue, feel free to contact us at support@robolink.com for troubleshooting or battery replacement options.
