The props-off bench check before a first flight

Create a safe state

Remove every propeller and put them away from the bench. Do this before connecting a flight battery for configuration; a software setting, switch assignment or accidental input can start a motor. Inspect the frame for loose hardware, trapped wires, damaged insulation and debris. Confirm antennas are attached as their manufacturer requires before powering a video transmitter. Use a clear surface, remove conductive scraps and keep the aircraft restrained from sliding.

Record the flight-controller firmware version and save a configuration backup using the tool appropriate to that version before making changes. Betaflight's Setup tab shows arming-disable flags and live battery information; those messages are diagnostic information, not obstacles to bypass. If the configurator, firmware or vendor manual disagrees with an old tutorial, stop and use documentation for the installed version and exact board.

Verify inputs before outputs

Power the radio with the correct model selected, then connect the aircraft as its manual directs. In the Betaflight Receiver tab, move one stick at a time and confirm roll, pitch, yaw and throttle move the named channels in the expected direction. Check centers and endpoints, then each auxiliary switch. In the Modes tab, confirm the intended arm position and any beginner mode or beeper assignment. Betaflight notes that an incorrect receiver protocol can produce no signal or misinterpreted signal, so diagnose configuration rather than forcing arming.

Check the Setup tab's animated model against gentle physical movement: nose down should display nose down, roll right should display roll right. Confirm the on-screen display or goggles show plausible pack voltage and the warnings you depend on. Betaflight's power documentation explains that voltage and current sources require correct setup and calibration; an attractive number is not proof it is accurate. Compare voltage with a suitable meter only if you know the safe procedure, otherwise seek experienced help.

• Props physically removed—not merely disabled in software.
• Correct radio model and live receiver channels confirmed.
• Arm, mode and beeper switches observed in Configurator.
• Aircraft orientation and displayed voltage plausible.
• Antennas secure and video visible without prolonged hot bench operation.

Test the protection path

With props still off, follow current Betaflight guidance to confirm flight-controller failsafe. Betaflight recommends a receiver send no data on signal loss so the controller can recognize it. Observe the receiver and Configurator state when the link is removed, then restore the link and confirm that an active arm switch does not cause an automatic re-arm. Do not improvise an airborne failsafe test as a first check.

Motor direction and order checks are outputs and deserve extra care. Use only the current configurator workflow, at the lowest useful command, with props off and the aircraft secured. Stop immediately for unexpected order, direction, heat, smell or sound. This guide intentionally does not provide wiring or motor-test recipes because board layouts and configurator controls vary; use the board and Betaflight documentation or an experienced builder.

Finish by disconnecting the flight battery, then USB, and writing down what changed. Refit props only after their direction and fastening method have been checked against the aircraft documentation, away from the configuration workspace. At the field, repeat a shorter physical inspection and switch check before each flight.