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SD Card & Blackbox Logging

SAMPATHI 1 supports onboard Blackbox logging using a microSD card.
Blackbox logs are useful for flight analysis, tuning, and troubleshooting.

Using an SD card for logging is optional.
SAMPATHI 1 operates normally even without an SD card installed.

What Is Blackbox Logging​

Blackbox logging records flight data such as:

  • Gyro and accelerometer data
  • Motor outputs
  • Control inputs
  • System performance metrics

These logs can later be reviewed to:

  • Improve flight tuning
  • Diagnose instability or oscillations
  • Investigate unusual flight behavior

Supported SD Cards​

For best results:

  • Use microSD cards from reputable brands
  • Recommended card size: 8 GB to 32 GB
  • Use cards formatted as FAT32

Very large or very slow cards may not perform reliably for logging.

Installing the SD Card​

  • Power off the FCU
  • Insert the microSD card into the SD card slot
  • Ensure the card is fully seated
  • Power the FCU back on

⚠️ Do not insert or remove the SD card while the FCU is powered.

Enabling Blackbox Logging in Betaflight​

To enable logging:

  • Connect to Betaflight Configurator
  • Open the Blackbox tab
  • Select SD Card as the logging device
  • Choose appropriate logging rate and settings
  • Click Save and Reboot

Default logging settings are sufficient for most users.

Verifying SD Card Detection​

After reboot:

  • The Blackbox tab should show available SD card space
  • If the card is detected correctly, logging will start automatically during flight

If the card is not detected:

  • Power off the FCU
  • Re-seat the SD card
  • Try a different SD card if the issue persists

Retrieving Blackbox Logs​

To access recorded logs:

  • Power off the FCU
  • Remove the SD card
  • Insert the SD card into a computer using an adapter
  • Copy log files for analysis

Logs can be viewed using:

  • Betaflight Blackbox tools
  • Third-party Blackbox analysis software

Logging Best Practices​

  • Use a dedicated SD card for flight logging
  • Format the card if logging errors occur
  • Avoid filling the card completely
  • Periodically back up and clear old logs

When to Use Blackbox Logging​

Blackbox logging is recommended when:

  • Tuning a new build
  • Diagnosing flight issues
  • Testing changes to configuration or hardware

Logging may be disabled when:

  • Storage is not required
  • Minimal setup is preferred

Common SD Card Issues​

  • Card not detected
    Try a different card or reformat the existing one.

  • Logging stops unexpectedly
    Use a faster or higher-quality SD card.

  • Corrupted log files
    Ensure the FCU is powered off before removing the card.