Mauch 030/8 PDB power module with 8AWG input cables

The Mauch PDB power module with 8AWG input cables is an all-in-one power distribution board from Mauch Electronic for large UAVs that fly with the Pixhawk Cube or, through an adapter cable, with any other flight controller. It combines an integrated dual hall current sensor, a Sensor Hub X2 and a 4–14S HYB-BEC with a main power switch rated for 400 A continuous current. One board therefore handles battery distribution, current sensing and flight controller power.

The design separates the connection of the batteries from the power-up of the rest of the aircraft. The main batteries can be connected to heat up the Cube and obtain a GPS lock without powering the remaining equipment. When the vehicle is ready, the operator presses the power switch and flies. Powering up smoothly from GND protects the ESCs and other equipment, and having sensor, hub and BEC on one board means less wiring and cleaner builds. The maker states a recommended maximum all-up weight for the UAV in the product information.

The key figures define how the board fits a power system. It takes two battery inputs, each 4–14S, so dual-battery packs can be fed in parallel paths. The main power switch carries 400 A continuous, and the board tolerates 1,200 A for 1 s, which covers short current surges. The BEC supplies the flight controller with 5.3 V at 3 A, so the flight controller does not need a separate regulator. The Sensor Hub X2 can be deactivated when only a single battery is used. The board weighs 110 g without cables, which keeps the weight penalty low for the function it replaces.

For integration, the board is delivered with short 8AWG input cables in red and black soldered on. Outputs are brought out on banana connectors, and spare BEC connectors are available both after the switch and before the switch, so accessories can be powered either with the main switch or independently of it. The scope of delivery includes a dedicated flight controller cable for the Pixhawk Cube, male bullet connectors, red and black shrink tube and pairs of AMASS connectors. The separate power switch accessory is not part of the delivery. Other flight controllers connect via an adapter cable, and the manufacturer provides a user manual for wiring and setup.

The product information does not list any certifications or standards for this board. Buyers who need qualification evidence should request it from the manufacturer.

Typical applications are large UAVs that use the Pixhawk Cube or another flight controller and need a single compact unit for battery distribution, current sensing and flight controller power. With the Sensor Hub X2 active it serves dual-battery installations, and with it deactivated it serves single-battery installations. The cleaner wiring and the controlled power-up sequence suit multirotor and other electric platforms that require a GPS lock before the propulsion system is energized.