Replacing the battery in your Autel X Star Premium drone can be a complex process, especially when dealing with a sealed BMS chip. This guide will walk you through the challenges and potential solutions for Autel X Star Battery Replacement, focusing on unlocking the TI BQ3055 BMS chip.
The Autel X Star Premium drone, while no longer in production, was a sophisticated device with a 4K camera. Many users still find value in its capabilities. However, battery replacement and specifically, dealing with the TI BQ3055 BMS chip, presents a significant hurdle.
Understanding the Autel X Star Battery and BMS
The Autel X Star Premium battery utilizes a TI BQ3055 BMS (Battery Management System) chip. This chip controls charging, discharging, and overall battery health. Unlike the DJI Phantom 3, which uses a similar but different TI BQ30Z55 chip, the BQ3055 in the Autel X Star is often sealed, preventing easy modification or replacement of the internal LiPo cells.
Challenges with the BQ3055 Chip
The primary challenge lies in “unsealing” the BQ3055 chip. This process allows access to the chip’s parameters, enabling adjustments after replacing the internal LiPo cells. Without unsealing, the BMS may not accurately reflect the new battery’s capacity, resulting in reduced flight times and potential performance issues.
Common software used for battery management, such as the NLBA1 Laptop Battery Analyzer and Repair Tool with a DJI license, may not support unsealing the BQ3055. This is because the DJI license typically only covers DJI batteries. While the BQ3055 chip is found in some aftermarket laptop batteries, a specific laptop battery chip license might be required for compatibility.
Potential Solutions for Unsealing and Replacement
Several potential solutions exist for addressing the locked BQ3055:
- Obtaining the Correct License: Purchasing a laptop battery chip license that specifically supports the BQ3055 chip may enable unsealing through compatible software like NLBA.
- Contacting the Software Provider: Reaching out to the developers of battery management software (like the creators of NLBA) directly to inquire about potential solutions or updates for unlocking the BQ3055 on Autel X Star batteries.
- Exploring Advanced Tools: Investigating more specialized tools and software designed for working with TI BMS chips, such as the TI BQ Studio program, might offer alternative methods for unsealing or reprogramming the BQ3055.
Replacing the LiPo Cells
Once the BQ3055 is unlocked, replacing the LiPo cells is possible. It is crucial to use cells with the correct specifications, matching the original battery’s voltage (3.7V per cell, 14.8V total) and capacity (4900mAh per cell). After replacing the cells, the BMS parameters, especially the Design Capacity, must be adjusted to reflect the new cells. This ensures accurate readings and optimal performance. Be aware that using DJI Phantom 3 LiPo cells, while similar, might have different voltage and discharge characteristics, potentially affecting flight time.
Conclusion
Autel X Star battery replacement, particularly dealing with the locked BQ3055 BMS chip, can be challenging but not impossible. By researching the correct tools, software licenses, and replacement LiPo cells, and potentially seeking expert advice, extending the lifespan of your Autel X Star Premium drone is achievable. Remember to exercise caution when working with lithium polymer batteries and consult resources for safe handling practices.
