Gargoyle Sentry
Autonomous Drone Surveillance Platform
The Gargoyle Sentry is a customizable quadcopter-based surveillance drone designed for automated perimeter patrols, area monitoring, and rapid response reconnaissance. Built from readily available components, it provides professional-grade aerial surveillance capabilities at a fraction of commercial system costs.
Build Overview
⏱️ Build Time
6-8 hours
💰 Total Cost
$400-800
🔧 Skill Level
Intermediate
🛠️ Tools Required
Soldering iron, screwdrivers, computer
Parts List
All components are available on Amazon. Click the links to view current prices and availability.
🚁 Drone Frame & Motors
Brushless Motors (4x)
2212 920KV brushless motors for reliable flight performance
~$80 View on Amazon🧠 Flight Control & Power
📷 Surveillance Equipment
Build Instructions
Assemble the Frame
Start by assembling the carbon fiber frame according to the manufacturer's instructions. Ensure all screws are properly tightened and the frame is rigid.
- Attach the four arms to the central frame body
- Install the top and bottom plates
- Mount the landing gear if included
Install Motors and ESCs
Mount the brushless motors to the frame arms and connect them to the electronic speed controllers.
- Secure each motor to the arm with the provided screws
- Connect motor wires to ESCs (order determines rotation direction)
- Mount ESCs to the frame arms, ensuring good airflow
Flight Controller Setup
Install and configure the Pixhawk flight controller for autonomous operation.
- Mount the flight controller with vibration dampeners
- Connect ESC signal wires to the appropriate outputs
- Install GPS module on a mast above the frame
- Connect telemetry radio and power distribution
Camera and FPV System
Install the camera gimbal and video transmission system for surveillance capabilities.
- Mount the camera gimbal to the front of the frame
- Connect camera to gimbal controller and video transmitter
- Install video transmitter antenna clear of propellers
- Configure camera settings for optimal video quality
Software Configuration
🔧 Flight Controller Firmware
The Sentry uses ArduPilot firmware for autonomous flight capabilities:
- Download and install Mission Planner
- Flash the latest ArduCopter firmware to your Pixhawk
- Complete the initial setup wizard for calibration
- Configure waypoint missions for automated patrols
🎮 Ground Control
Control and monitor your Sentry using open source ground station software:
- Install QGroundControl or Mission Planner on your laptop
- Configure telemetry radio connection
- Set up real-time flight data display
- Program automated surveillance patterns
📡 Video Reception
Receive and record live video feed from the Sentry:
- Connect FPV receiver to your computer via USB capture device
- Use OBS Studio or similar software for recording
- Configure video overlay with telemetry data
- Set up automatic recording triggers
⚠️ Safety & Legal Considerations
Important Safety Notes
- FAA Registration Required: Register your drone with the FAA if it weighs over 0.55 lbs
- No-Fly Zones: Check airspace restrictions before every flight
- Line of Sight: Maintain visual contact with the drone during flight
- Privacy Laws: Respect privacy laws and neighbor's property rights
- Battery Safety: Never leave LiPo batteries unattended while charging