The OddityRC Vortex F405 Mini 40A STACK combines an STM32F405 flight controller with an AM32 ESC in a 20 × 20mm mounting format. Its listed standard input is 3–6S. It is a candidate for a custom compact build when the board dimensions, electrical requirements and current firmware support match the aircraft you are assembling.
For an FC/ESC purchase, the useful questions go beyond the processor name and current label. Available UARTs, regulated power outputs, physical clearance and the firmware recovery path determine how straightforward the finished installation will be.
In this guide: hardware · fit and wiring · AM32 and RPM data · firmware · FAQ
Vortex F405 Mini hardware at a glance
| Item | Listed specification |
|---|---|
| FC processor | STM32F405 |
| Gyro / barometer | ICM42688P / SPL06 |
| Blackbox memory | 16M, as stated in the listing |
| UARTs | Five sets |
| Regulated outputs | 5V 2A and 9V 2A |
| Standard input range | 3–6S |
| Mounting | 20 × 20mm / M2 |
| FC board dimensions / weight | 31 × 30mm / 6.5g |
| ESC board dimensions / weight | 34 × 42mm / 7.3g |
| ESC firmware | AM32 |
| ESC current figures in the listing | 30–40A; peak 50–60A |
The product name includes 40A, while the specification gives current ranges. Check the applicable rating and cooling requirements with OddityRC for the intended motor/propeller combination. Do not use the peak figure as a continuous-current rating.
Make the 20mm format work for the whole installation
A 20 × 20mm hole pattern does not describe the board's outer edges. The ESC is listed at 34 × 42mm, so measure the available space, standoffs, wiring exits and connector access before ordering. Include the space needed to route motor and battery leads without pulling on the boards.
Five UART sets give you interfaces to plan around for a receiver, digital video system, GPS or other supported peripherals. Map each device to the appropriate available pads using the board diagram; a count of five does not mean every pin is interchangeable or free in every setup.
The 5V and 9V BEC outputs are useful when planning peripheral power. Add up the load on each rail and check each device's voltage requirement. In particular, a compatible connector shape does not verify pin order or supply voltage.
What AM32 and bidirectional DShot add to the setup
AM32 provides an ESC firmware and configuration ecosystem. The official AM32 project identifies configuration tools and hardware targets. Preserve the exact target and existing settings when planning an update; firmware choice must match the ESC hardware.
The Vortex listing states that RPM information returns through bidirectional DShot. Betaflight's RPM-filtering documentation explains how the FC can use motor RPM telemetry to track motor-related noise. That is a configuration capability, not a promise that a new stack alone will remove vibration from an aircraft.
Before relying on RPM filtering, verify valid telemetry from every motor and use the correct motor-pole count and supported settings. Remove propellers for powered bench configuration. Inspect mechanical faults rather than using filter changes to work around a damaged propeller or loose mount.
Read the current firmware notice before choosing the board
The current product page says FC firmware is in internal testing and supplies offline firmware and a preset. Confirm the target and version for your board before flashing. Do not assume an online target exists merely because another F405-based controller appears in a configurator.
The product also mentions an 8S version available upon request. The standard listed configuration is 3–6S; that request-only note does not turn a stocked 3–6S board into an 8S part. See the current product notice and downloads when planning the build.
Frequently asked questions
Does the lowest displayed price include the complete stack?
The page offers STACK, ONLY FC and ONLY ESC variants. Select STACK for the FC-and-ESC option and its current price. An individual board's price is not the full-stack price.
Does 20mm mounting guarantee a fit in a 20mm frame?
No. Check the FC and ESC outer dimensions, M2 hardware, stack height, cables and frame clearance together.
Is this the recommended ESC for an ECHO5 build?
The ECHO5 product recommendation calls for a 50A or higher 4-in-1 ESC. The F405 Mini's 30–40A listed range should not be substituted for that recommendation based on mounting fit alone.
Where can I check the exact purchase option?
View Vortex F405 Mini variants, specifications and firmware information before finalising the electronics list.
Sources and related reading
Hardware and firmware notice checked on 26 October 2026: Vortex F405 Mini product page. AM32 and Betaflight references are linked above. For larger ESC options, use the Vortex ESC lineup guide. For the frame-side fit checklist, see our ECHO5 introduction.
