TBS Source One V5 7-Inch Frame: The Ultimate Long-Range FPV Drone Frame

Introduction to the TBS Source One V5 7-Inch Deadcat Frame

The TBS Source One V5 7-Inch Deadcat (DC) Frame is engineered for pilots who demand performance, reliability, and compatibility with the most modern FPV components. With a long-standing reputation for community-driven design, this 7-inch iteration is tailored for long-range flights, efficient cinematic capture, and deadcat motor placement for cleaner visuals.

Whether you’re flying analog or HD digital systems like DJI O3, the V5 Deadcat variant eliminates front prop visibility, providing an immersive and obstruction-free video feed. This frame is also ideal for custom builds, with flexible mounting options and reinforced durability for rugged field performance.

Key Features of the TBS Source One V5 7-Inch DC Frame

1. Deadcat Geometry Optimized for HD Cinematic Footage

Deadcat geometry shifts the front arms outward and backward, ensuring no propellers enter the camera view, which is critical for capturing cinematic-grade video using DJI O3, Caddx Vista, Walksnail, or analog VTX systems.

• Camera Compatibility: Supports 20mm and 19mm camera mounts with vibration-isolated TPU inserts.

• Widescreen View: No cropping or post-stabilization needed due to prop-free footage.

2. Robust Carbon Fiber Construction

Made from high-quality Toray 3K carbon fiber, the Source One V5 offers unmatched rigidity and crash resilience.

• Arm Thickness: 6mm thick for maximum impact resistance.

• Top and Bottom Plates: 2.5mm carbon fiber.

• Side Plates and Braces: 2mm, optimized for minimal flex.

3. Stack and Mounting Options for Versatile Builds

• Dual Stack Layout: Supports both 30.5×30.5mm and 20x20mm mounting.

• Rear Stack Space: Ideal for digital VTX systems or long-range modules.

• Rear Arms: Independent mounting arms for quick swaps without disassembling the whole frame.

4. Battery and Antenna Mounting Customization

The top plate is designed for top-mounted batteries using secure straps and foam padding, ensuring balance and CG optimization during flight. TPU mounts are included or printable for:

• Crossfire Immortal-T

• GPS Modules

• Vertical and horizontal VTX antenna mounts

Ideal Use Cases for the TBS Source One V5 7-Inch Frame

Long-Range Exploration

With enhanced vibration damping and support for large props, this frame is ideal for 6S or 7S Li-ion pack builds, optimized for endurance missions over forests, mountains, or industrial inspections.

Cinematic Freestyle

Designed for smooth, low-throttle footage, the deadcat arm placement makes it a prime choice for FPV filmmakers looking for clean shots using a naked GoPro or DJI Action Cam.

Custom FPV Builds and Modding

Its modular arm layout and open-source 3D file ecosystem make it a go-to platform for engineers and modders building telemetry-rich or sensor-integrated drones.

Recommended Build Configuration

Performance Highlights

⚙️ Stability and Control

Thanks to its symmetrical center of gravity and deadcat layout, the frame eliminates oscillations often seen in larger quads, especially when using efficient tri-blade props.

🚀 Efficient Flight Times

When paired with Li-ion packs, expect flight durations of:

• 18-25 minutes for cruising

• 12-15 minutes under moderate freestyle

Assembly and Maintenance

The V5 Deadcat’s arm-swapping mechanism and accessible stack layout allow for field repairs in under 10 minutes.

Tools Needed:

• 2mm and 2.5mm hex drivers

• Thread locker for motor screws

• M3 vibration dampers

An FPV drone frame is the backbone of your drone’s build, providing stability and structure for the rest of the components. At the FPV Project, we offer a wide range of FPV drone frames for sale that cater to both beginners and seasoned pilots, providing a foundation for building high-performance drones. With our selection of FPV frames, you can customize and build your drone to your exact specifications and take your flying skills to the next level.