Avionics compatibility
Analog, digital or DroneCAN: choosing a Pixhawk power module
A power module can power a flight controller and still provide the wrong battery-monitoring interface. Check power delivery, voltage/current sensing and communication compatibility as separate parts of the selection.
A power module and a distribution board have different jobs
A distribution board routes battery power to loads. A power module adds regulated controller power and battery measurements, with some designs also incorporating distribution. Start with a wiring diagram showing the battery, motor loads, controller and payload supplies. This makes clear which functions must be supplied by each board.
For this guide, the main decision is how the measurements reach the flight controller. Connector fit is only one check: the controller must also understand the electrical signals and have the correct battery-monitor configuration.
Analog sensing: match the controller inputs and scaling
Analog modules represent battery measurements as scaled electrical signals. Holybro's analog setup guide covers battery-monitor configuration and the controller-specific inputs used by models including Pixhawk 6C and 6C Mini. Voltage and current scaling must match the module.
When replacing a module, record the previous part number and settings before removal. Compare readings with an appropriate independent measurement during a controlled bench check. A believable battery voltage alone does not demonstrate that current sensing is correctly connected or scaled.
Digital I2C: PM02D is not simply another PM02 cable option
Holybro identifies Pixhawk 5X and 6X power sensing as digital I2C, with modules such as PM02D providing that interface. Its digital setup guide distinguishes low- and high-voltage versions and their sensing hardware. Check the exact module revision and supported firmware instead of transferring settings from an analog installation.
An illustrative replacement request is: 'Pixhawk 6X, current firmware version attached, existing PM02D label photographed, battery maximum voltage stated.' That gives the supplier enough context to investigate compatibility. 'Six-pin power module for Pixhawk' does not.
DroneCAN: identify the sensing link and the power output
Holybro lists PM08-CAN separately from its I2C digital modules in the power-module comparison. A supported CAN connection carries its battery-monitoring data; the regulated supply connection must also be planned. Digital is a broad description, so specify I2C or DroneCAN in the bill of materials.
For a CAN installation, include the intended bus layout, controller support and module configuration in the integration review. Label the supply lead and data lead on the drawing. This helps prevent an apparently complete harness from omitting the path needed for measurement reporting.
Check three electrical limits independently
Input voltage: compare the fully charged pack voltage with the exact module's permitted input. Current path: verify the continuous load, stated transient conditions, cable and connectors. Measurement range: check what the sensor can report. A large sensing range is not a continuous-current rating for the board.
Also budget controller and peripheral consumption against the regulated output. Document which loads pass through the current sensor; a separately powered payload can make the flight controller's consumption display incomplete as a measurement of the whole aircraft.
What to send with a power-module enquiry
Include the controller and baseboard model, firmware, battery cell count and maximum voltage, expected continuous and transient load, connector types and required sensing interface. Attach a wiring sketch showing every power branch and whether distribution is already present.
Agree a bench acceptance record covering voltage reading, current reading under a known load, controller supply stability and saved configuration. Carry out the power-system checks with propulsion made safe and follow the module manufacturer's wiring instructions before energising the assembly.
Sources & basis
What this is based on.
- Holybro: analog power-module setup.
- Holybro: digital power-module setup.
- Holybro: module interfaces, electrical ratings and comparison. Verify the revision being supplied.
- Replacement briefs and acceptance suggestions are illustrative integration guidance.
Published 5 September 2026. Last revised 5 September 2026. Corrections to sales@
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