PaparazziUAV - User contributions [en]

Modems

2016-05-10T20:00:28Z

BartSlinger: esp link to new firmware

The Paparazzi autopilots generally feature a TTL serial port to interface with any common radio modem. The bidirectional link provides real-time telemetry and in-flight tuning and navigation commands. The system is also capable overlaying the appropriate protocols to communicate through non-transparent devices such as the Coronis Wavecard or Maxstream API-enabled products, allowing for hardware addressing for multiple aircraft or future enhancements such as data-relaying, inter-aircraft communication, RSSI signal monitoring and automatic in-flight modem power adjustment. Below is a list of some of the common modems used with Paparazzi, for details on configuring your modem see the [[Airframe_Configuration#Telemetry_.28Modem.29|Airframe Configuration]] and [[XBee_configuration|XBee Configuration]] pages.

==General comparison==
'''This is ONLY a comparison between modules on this page'''

All modules listed here work without issue and are generally available.
{| border="1" cellspacing="0" style="text-align:center" cellpadding="2%"
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''Feature'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Digi_XBee_Pro_DigiMesh_.2F_802.15.4_.28.22Series_1.22.29|XBee Series 1]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Digi_XBee_Pro_DigiMesh_.2F_802.15.4_.28.22Series_1.22.29|XBee Pro Series 1]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Digi_XBee_Pro_ZB_.2F_ZNet_2.5_.28.22Series_2.22.29|XBee Series 2]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Digi_XBee_Pro_ZB_.2F_ZNet_2.5_.28.22Series_2.22.29|XBee Pro Series 2]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Digi_XBee_868LP|XBee 868LP]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Digi_XBee_Pro_900HP|XBee Pro 900HP]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Digi_XBee_Pro_XSC_900MHz|XBee Pro XSC 900]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Digi_9XTend|Digi 9XTend]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#SiLabs_Si1000_SoC_based_modems|SiLabs Si1000]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#AC4790-200|Aerocom AC4790-200]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#AC4790-1000|Aerocom AC4790-1000]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Laird_RM024|Laird RM024 50mW]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Laird_RM024|Laird RM024 125mW]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#RN-41_Bluetooth_module.28Sparkfun.27s_WRL-08497.29|RN-41 Bluetooth]]'''
|-
| style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''frequency'''||2,4GHz||2,4GHz||2,4GHz||2,4GHz||868MHz||900MHz||900MHz||900MHz, 2.4GHz||240-960MHz||900MHz||900MHz||2,4GHz||2,4GHz||2,4GHz
|-
| style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''output power'''||1mW||63mW (US) 10 mW (Int'l)||2mW||63mW||5mW||250mW||250mW||1mW-1W||max 100mW||5-200mW||5-1000mW||2,5-50mW||2,5-125mW||32mW
|-
| style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''RF speed'''||250kbps||250kbps||250kbps||250kbps||10kbps, 80kbps||10 or 200kbps||10, 20kbps||9.6, 115.2kbps|| ||76.8kbps||76.8kbps||280, 500kbps||280, 500kbps||300kbps
|-
| style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''antenna'''||chip, wire, rpsma, u.fl||chip, wire, rpsma, u.fl||chip, wire, rpsma, u.fl||chip, wire, rpsma, u.fl||external required||wire, rpsma, u.fl||wire, rpsma, u.fl||rpsma, MMCX||external required||MMCX, internal Antenna||MMCX||u.fl, chip, both||u.fl, chip, both||pcb trace
|-
| style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''pinout'''||XBee||XBee||XBee||XBee||SMD||XBee||XBee||20 pin 2,54mm/USB||SMD (42 pin LGA)||20 pin mini connector||20 pin mini connector||XBee/SMD||XBee/SMD||SMD
|-
| style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''price'''||16€||26€||14€||28€||18€||32€||32€||150€||4€||52€||64€||30€||30€||20€
|-
| style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''for Country'''||Worldwide||Worldwide||Worldwide||Worldwide||Europe||North America, Australia||North America, Australia||Worldwide||Worldwide||North America, Australia||North America, Australia||Europe||North America||Worldwide
|}

== Frequencies ==

Analog and digital signals (video and data/modem) can not be transmitted over the same frequency band since the analog signal will "block" the digital one. (Attention ! the common 2.4 or 5.8GHz frequencies have multiple channels, if the analog and digital transmitter/receiver modules are set up to different channels/frequencies, they should work (even on 2.4GHz)).

You may want to inform yourself about your countries laws ! Different countries allow different frequencies at different power. 
Sending on a wrong frequency or with too much power may end in a serious lawsuit !

Digi: [http://www.digi.com/technology/rfmodems/agencyapprovals Government Agency Certifications]

== HAM / CEPT Licence ==

If possible, consider making a HAM radio (amateur radio) licence. (e.g. CEPT, depends on your locality)

You will learn about the radio technology, operational technology and legislation. 
With a HAM radio licence, you can also use other frequencies or transmit on a higher power. (e.g. In some countries, the 5.8GHz video transmission is for non licenced people restricted to 10mW!) 

'''Licence Pros'''
* You will be informed well about the (local and international) legislations.
* You can transmit on a higher power (depends on frequency).
* You will learn a lot about the techniques and be more than a standard "consumer" of radio electronic products.
* It will be easier to find faults in your radio systems.
* You can build (if you want) high gain/focused antennas which can give you a better signal, wider range and won't disturb anyone else.
* Well educated people respecting the legislation just looks much better in looks to UAV's :)

'''Licence Cons'''
* You will need to learn for the test (can be compared with a diverce licence).
* The certificate and books will cost about 70€ (total, can vary !).
* Maybe some costs (per year) for your call sign.

=== CEPT Licence in Austria ===

A short description about getting the CEPT 1 (not the CEPT Novice !) licence in Austria.

You will need the appropriate books which cost 50€ (70€ if you want them with the ask catalog and answers which can be helpful) and rough 18€ for the exam and certificate. The ÖVSV offers also some courses, but you can also learn everything with the books.

The are (regularly?) HAM licence courses at the https://metalab.at/ in Vienna.

To be continued...

=== Links ===

[http://www.oevsv.at/ Austrian ÖVSV] 
[http://www.darc.de/ German DARC]

== Digi XBee modules ==

Digi (formerly Maxstream) offers an increasing variety of Zigbee protocol modems well suited for Paparazzi in 2.4 GHz, 900MHz and 868Mhz frequencies. The "Pro" series are long range, up to 40km! Standard series are slightly smaller/lighter/lower power consumption and very short range. All versions are all pin compatible and weigh around 2 grams with wire antennas. All Digi modems can be operated in transparent mode (as a serial line replacement) or in "API mode" with hardware addressing, managed networking, and RSSI (signal strength) data with the Paparazzi "Xbee" option.

Four antenna options are offered: RP-SMA, U-FL, wire antenna, chip antenna

* XBee (PRO) ZB (the current series)
* XBee (PRO) ZNet 2.5 (formerly Series 2) (only legacy -> use XBee-PRO ZB)
The XBee & XBee-PRO ZB share hardware (ember stack) with XBee & XBee-PRO ZNet 2.5. As a result, modules can be "converted" from one platform to another by loading different firmware onto a given module.

These two also share the same hardware and can be converted from one to another by flashing a different firmware:
* XBee-PRO 802.15.4 (formerly Series 1)
* XBee-PRO DigiMesh 2.4

'''Note: Modules based on Freescale chipset (formerly Series 1) are not compatible with Ember chipset based modules (Series 2).'''

If only point to point or point to multipoint communication is required 802.15.4 will do the job. These are designed for high data rates and low latency. 
Modules with Zigbee firmware are needed for mesh functionality(communication between the UAV's)

See the [[XBee_configuration|XBee Configuration]] page. This [http://pixhawk.ethz.ch/tutorials/how_to_configure_xbee tutorial] is also good to configure and get started with XBee Pro.

=== Module Comparison ===
{|border="1"
|-valign="top"
||'''Module'''||'''Point-to-Multipoint'''||'''ZigBee/Mesh'''||'''Chipset'''|||'''Software stack'''||'''Frequency'''||'''TX Power normal/PRO'''||'''Notes'''
|-
|'''XBee ZB'''
|
|yes
|Ember
|EmberZNet PRO 3.1 (ZigBee 2007)
|2.4 GHz
|2mW/50mW
|coordinator needed
|-
|'''XBee ZNet 2.5'''
|
|yes
|Ember
|EmberZNet 2.5 ZigBee
|2.4 GHz
|2mW/50mW
|(only legacy -> use XBee-PRO ZB) coordinator needed
|-
|'''XBee DigiMesh 2.4'''
|
|yes
|Freescale
|
|2.4 GHz
|
|all nodes equal (no special coordinators/routers/end-devices)
|-
|'''XBee 802.15.4'''
|yes
|
|Freescale
|
|2.4 GHz
|
|
|-
|'''XBee-PRO 868'''
|yes
|
|?
|
|868 MHz
|500mW
|Only High Power Frequency allowed in the UK. 2.4GHz limited to 10mW
|}

==== Pinout ====

[[Image:Maxstream_Xbee_pinout.jpg|left|thumb|Maxstream XBee pinout]]
 

{|border="1"
|-valign="top"
||''Xbee 20-pin Header''||''Name''||''Notes''||''Suggested Color''||
|-
|1
| +3.3v
| Power
|Red
|-
|2
|DOUT
|Tx output - connect to Autopilot Rx
|Green
|-
|3
|DIN
|Rx input - connect to Autopilot Tx
|Blue
|-
|10
|GND
| Ground
|Black
|}

The image view is from above, top, thus NOT at the side where the connector pins come out

Note : DTR and RTS need to be wired for upgrading firmware

=== GCS Adaptation ===

There are several vendors of hardware to connect the ground XBee radio modem to the GCS computer. 
More information about general USB-Serial adapters can be found on the [[Serial_Adapter]] page.

====Adafruit====

[[Image:xbeeadapter_LRG.jpg|thumb|left|Adafruit XBee adapter board]][[Image:xbeeadapterftdi_LRG.jpg|thumb|Adafruit XBee adapter with FTDI cable]]
[http://www.adafruit.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=29&products_id=126 Adafruit] offers a great adapter board kit for the Xbee modules that includes a 5-3.3V voltage regulator, power and activity LEDs, and pins to connect directly to your FTDI cable for $10! Some assembly required.

 

====Droids====

[[Image:XBee_Simple_Board.jpg|thumb|left|XBee Simple Board]]

[[Image:XBee_USB_Board.jpg|thumb|left|XBee USB Board]]

[http://www.droids.it/cmsvb4/content.php?143-990.001-XBee-Simple-Board XBee Simple Board]

Simple breakout board with voltage regulator.

[http://www.droids.it/cmsvb4/content.php?152-990.002-XBee-USB-Board XBee USB Board]

Adapter with FTDI chip for direct USB connection.

 

====PPZUAV====

[[Image:FTDI_Utility_Board.jpg|thumb|left|FTDI Utility Board 1.0‎]]

[https://www.ppzuav.com/osc/product_info.php?products_id=111 ppzuav.com product link] 
More information at the [[Serial_Adapter#FTDI_utility_Board]] page.

FTDI Utility Board 1.0 with FTDI232RL 
On board XBEE connector and Molex Picoblade connectors.

 

====Sparkfun====

[[Image:XBee_Explorer_USB.jpg|thumb|left|XBee Explorer USB]]

[http://www.sparkfun.com/products/8687 sparkfun.com]

XBee Explorer USB with FTDI232RL

 

=== Digi XBee Pro DigiMesh / 802.15.4 ("Series 1") ===
*Note: Products based on XBee ZNet 2.5 (formerly Series 2) modules do not communicate with products based on XBee DigiMesh / 802.15.4 (formerly Series 1) modules.

These relatively cheap and light modules implement the [http://www.zigbee.org/en/index.asp ZigBee/IEEE 802.15.4] norm. They allow up to 1.6km (1 mile) range (Paparazzi tested to 2.5km (1.5 miles)). The main drawback of using such 2.4Ghz modules for datalink is that it will interfere with the 2.4Ghz analog video transmitters and a inevitable decrease in range when in proximity to any wifi devices. For the plane, get the whip antenna version if you are not planning to build a custom antenna.

{|
|-valign="top"
|[[Image:Xbee_Pro_USB_RF_Modem.jpg|thumb|left|XBee Pro USB Stand-alone Modem (XBP24-PKC-001-UA)]]
|
* Frequency Band 2.4GHz
* Output Power 100mW (Xbee Pro)
* Sensitivity -100 dBm
* RF Data Rate Up to 250 Kbps
* Interface data rate Up to 115.2 Kbps
* Power Draw (typical) 214 mA TX / 55 mA RX
* Supply Voltage 3.3v
* Range (typical, depends on antenna & environment) Up to 1500m line-of-sight
* Dimensions 24 x 33mm
* Weight 4 grams
* Interface 20-pin mini connector
* Chip antenna, ¼ monopole integrated whip antenna or a U.FL antenna connector (3 versions)
* Price: 16€, Pro 26€
|
[[Image:XBee_pro.jpg|thumb|left|XBee Pro OEM Modem]]
|}
Mouser: [http://au.mouser.com/Search/ProductDetail.aspx?qs=sGAEpiMZZMtJacPDJcUJYzVn8vIv7g2fIpf5DCzJqko%3d 888-XBP24-PKC-001-UA] 
NOTE: If you wish to use this unit with another XBee type other than the 802.15.4 (i.e. XBee-PRO ZB) then purchase a modem with the U.fl connector.

==== Documentation ====

* [http://www.maxstream.net/products/xbee/xbee-pro-oem-rf-module-zigbee.php product page]
* [http://www.maxstream.net/products/xbee/datasheet_XBee_OEM_RF-Modules.pdf datasheet]
* [http://www.maxstream.net/products/xbee/product-manual_XBee_OEM_RF-Modules.pdf user manual]
* To program your Xbee you need X-CTU you can download it [http://www.digi.com/support/productdetl.jsp?pid=3352&osvid=57&tp=5&s=316 here]. (only windows)
* explanation on X-CTU [http://www.ladyada.net/make/xbee/configure.html here].
* [http://ftp1.digi.com/support/firmware/update/xbee/ Drivers for XB24 and XBP24 modules]

=== Digi XBee Pro ZB / ZNet 2.5 ("Series 2") ===

The low-power XBee ZB and extended-range XBee-PRO ZB use the ZigBee PRO Feature Set for advanced mesh networking.

{|
|-valign="top"
|[[Image:XBee_Pro_2SB.jpg|thumb|left|Digi XBee Pro ZB]]
|
* Low-cost, low-power mesh networking
* Interoperability with ZigBee PRO Feature Set devices from other vendors*
* Support for larger, more dense mesh networks
* 128-bit AES encryption
* Frequency agility
* Over-the-air firmware updates (change firmware remotely)
* ISM 2.4 GHz operating frequency
* XBee: 2 mW (+3 dBm) power output (up to 400 ft RF LOS range)
* XBee-PRO: 50 mW (+17 dBm) power output (up to 1 mile RF LOS range)
* RPSMA connector, U.FL connector, Chip antenna, or Wired Whip antenna
* price : 14€, Pro 28€
|
|}
These are available from Mouser: 
[http://au.mouser.com/Search/Refine.aspx?Keyword=888-XBP24-Z7WIT-004 888-XBP24-Z7WIT-004] XBee-PRO ZB with whip antenna 
[http://au.mouser.com/Search/Refine.aspx?Keyword=XBP24-Z7SIT-004 888-XBP24-Z7SIT-004] XBee-PRO ZB with RPSMA

See [[XBee_configuration|XBee Configuration]] for setup.

==== Documentation ====
* [http://www.digi.com/products/wireless/zigbee-mesh/xbee-zb-module.jsp http://www.digi.com/products/wireless/zigbee-mesh/xbee-zb-module.jsp]

=== Digi XBee Pro 868 ===

'''WARNING - THESE MODEMS HAVE A 10% DUTY CYCLE, AND CURRENTLY HAVE SEVERE ISSUES WITH PAPARAZZI'''

868MHz is a limited band. Please read the [[868MHz Issues]]

XBee-PRO 868 modules are long range embedded RF modules for European applications. Purpose-built for exceptional RF performance, XBee-PRO 868 modules are ideal for applications with challenging RF environments, such as urban deployments, or where devices are several kilometers apart.

{|
|-valign="top"
|[[Image:xbeeproxsc-rpsma.jpg|thumb|left|Maxstream XBee Pro 868]]
|
* 868 MHz short range device (SRD) G3 band for Europe
* Software selectable Transmit Power
* 40 km RF LOS w/ dipole antennas
* 80 km RF LOS w/ high gain antennas (TX Power reduced)
* Simple to use peer-to-peer/point-to-mulitpoint topology
* 128-bit AES encryption
* 500 mW EIRP
* 24 kbps RF data rate
* price : ~70 USD
|
|}

See [[XBee_configuration#XBee_Pro_868_MHZ|XBee Configuration]] for setup.

==== Documentation ====
* [http://www.digi.com/products/wireless/point-multipoint/xbee-pro-868.jsp http://www.digi.com/products/wireless/point-multipoint/xbee-pro-868.jsp]

=== Digi XBee 868LP ===

XBee 868LP modules are a low-power 868 MHz RF module for use in Europe. The range is shorter than it's brother the XBee PRO-868, but it can use the 868 G4 band with hopping which does not have restrictions on it's duty cycle. This is a big advantage if one want to have a good stream of telemetry data

{|
|-valign="top"
|[[Image:868lp.jpg|thumb|left|XBee 868LP]]
|
* 868 MHz short range device (SRD) G4 band for Europe
* 4 km RF LOS w/ u.fl antennas
* 5 mW EIRP
* 10 or 80 kbps RF data rate
* price : 18€
|
|}

==== Documentation ====
* [http://www.digi.com/products/wireless-wired-embedded-solutions/zigbee-rf-modules/zigbee-mesh-module/xbee-868lp#overview http://www.digi.com/products/wireless-wired-embedded-solutions/zigbee-rf-modules/zigbee-mesh-module/xbee-868lp#overview]

==== Trial ====

With a quickly crafted and not optimal positioned antenna on the airframe we managed to get the advertised 4000 meter range. Data throughput was not high and the Iridium Telemetry XML configuration document was therefore used. All in all, cheap, easy to setup, pin compatible with regular modules and quite a range and usable in Europe without hassle.

=== Digi XBee Pro 900HP ===
* Frequency band 900Mhz
* RF rate 10 or 200 kbps
* up to 250mW output power
* 5 to 8 grams
* price: 32€

==== Documentation ====
[http://ftp1.digi.com/support/documentation/90002173_H.pdf http://ftp1.digi.com/support/documentation/90002173_H.pdf]

=== Digi XBee Pro XSC 900MHz ===

Maxstream has recently announced a promising new line of modems combining the small size and low cost of their popular Xbee line with the long range and 2.4 GHz video compatibility of their high end 900 MHz models. Sounds like the perfect modem for anyone who can use 900 MHz. Give them a try and post your results here!
{|
|-valign="top"
|[[Image:xbeeproxsc-rpsma.jpg|thumb|left|Maxstream XBee Pro XSC]]
|
* Frequency Band 900 MHz
* Output Power 100 mW (+20 dBm)
* Sensitivity -100 dBm
* RF Rate: 10 or 20 kbps
* Range (typical, depends on antenna & environment) Up to 24km (15 miles) line-of-sight
* Interface 20-pin mini connector (Xbee compatible pinout)
* RPSMA, integrated whip antenna or U.FL antenna connector (3 versions)
* price : 32€
|
|}

==== Documentation ====
* [http://www.digi.com/products/wireless/point-multipoint/xbee-pro-xsc.jsp http://www.digi.com/products/wireless/point-multipoint/xbee-pro-xsc.jsp]

==== Trials ====
Tested one today and it worked great. Going to try a multiUAV test with it soon
--Danstah
 
 
MultiUAV tests concluded this is probably not the best module to use. Even though it says you can change the baudrate inside x-ctu that is not the case, it is fixed at 9600 bps. This is a great modem however for single UAV's and I do recommend.
--Danstah
 
 
Why would the European (868 MHz) be good to 24kbps and this only to 9600? When I was altering my XBees (2.4Ghz Pro's) I had this problem altering baud rates until I read you have to send a "commit and reboot" type command after setting the baud rate. Could this be the case? --GR

=== Digi 9XTend ===

These larger units have been tested on the 900Mhz band, but are also available in 2.4Ghz. They are a bit on the heavy side, about 20 grams, but give good performance at range. They have adjustable transmit power settings from 100mW to 1W. Testing has shown range up to 5.6km (3.5 Miles) with XTend set to 100mW with small 3.1dB dipole antenna.

{|
|-valign="top"
|
[[Image:XTend_USB_RF_Modem.jpg|frame|left|9XTend USB Modem]]
|
* Frequency Band 900Mhz and 2.4Ghz (2 versions)
* Output Power 1mW to 1W software selectable
* Sensitivity -110 dBm (@ 9600 bps)
* RF Data Rate 9.6 or 115.2 Kbps
* Interface data rate up to 230.4 Kbps
* Power Draw (typical) 730 mA TX / 80 mA RX
* Supply Voltage 2.8 to 5.5v
* Range (typical, depends on antenna & environment) Up to 64km line-of-sight
* Dimensions 36 x 60 x 5mm
* Weight 18 grams
* Interface 20-pin mini connector or USB
* RF connector RPSMA (Reverse-polarity SMA) or MMCX (2 versions)
* price : 150€
|
[[Image:Xtend_module.jpg|frame|left|9XTend OEM Modem]]
|}

==== Pinout ====

[[Image:Maxstream_9XTend_Pinout.gif|thumb|left|Maxstream 9XTend Pinout]]

{| border="1"
|-valign="top"
||'''''9XTend 20-pin Header'''''||'''''Name'''''||'''''Tiny Serial-1 Header'''''||'''''Notes'''''
|-
||1||GND||1 (GND)||Ground
|-
||2||VCC||2 (5V)||5V power (150mA - 730mA Supplied from servo bus or other 5V source)
|-
||5||RX||8 (TX)||3-5V TTL data input - connect to Tiny TX
|-
||6||TX||7 (RX)||5V TTL data output - connect to Tiny RX
|-
||7||Shutdown||2||This pin must be connected to the 5V bus for normal operation
|}
Notes: 
* 9XTend can run on voltages as low as 2.8V but users are strongly advised against connecting any modem (especially high power models) to the sensitive 3.3V bus supplying the autopilot processor and sensors.
 

==== Documentation ====

* [http://www.maxstream.net/products/xtend/oem-rf-module.php product page]
* [http://www.maxstream.net/products/xtend/datasheet_XTend_OEM_RF-Module.pdf datasheet]
* [http://www.maxstream.net/products/xtend/product-manual_XTend_OEM_RF-Module.pdf user manual]

==== Configuration ====

These modems need to be carefully configured based on your usage scenario to obtain the best possible range and link quality. In addition, it is always good to make sure the firmware is up to date.

Some typical configurations that may work well, but can still depend your particular situation, are given below. For further details, be sure to consult the XTend users manual. Your application may need a different or modified configuration. The radiomodems do not need identical settings and can in fact be optimized with different settings. A good example is delays and retries: if each radio has the same number of retries and no delay, when a collision occurs each will continuously try to re-transmit, locking up the transmission for some time with no resolution or successful packet delivery. Instead, it is best to set the module whose data should have a lower latency to have no delay and a lower number of retries, while the other module has a delay set (RN > 0) and a greater number of retries. See acknowledged mode example below.

* Acknowledged Polling Mode ('''Recommended'''):
** This causes one radio to be the base and the other(s) to be the remote(s). It eliminates collisions because remotes do not send data unless requested by the base. It can work in acknowledged mode (RR>0), basic reliable mode (MT>0) or in basic mode (no acknowledgement or multiple packets). It is recommended that the lower latency and/or higher data rate side be configured as the base (i.e. if you are sending lots of telemetry then the air module configured as the base is probably a good idea, but if you are using datalink joystick control, the ground side might be better as the base. It may require some experimentation).
* Acknowledged Point-to-(Multi)Point Mode:
** Each radio sends a packet and requests and acknowledgement that the packet was sent from the receiving side. The retries and delays must be set appropriately to ensure packet collisions are dealt with appropriately. It can also work without acknowledgements in basic reliable mode (MT>0) without any acknowledgements (RR=0, MT=0). Some experimentation may be required.

{| border="1"
|-valign="top"
||'''''Setting Name'''''||colspan="2"|'''''Acknowledged Mode'''''||colspan="2"|'''''Polling Mode (Acknowledged)'''''||'''''Notes'''''
|-
|| ||'''''Airside Module'''''||'''''Groundside Module'''''||'''''Base Module'''''||'''''Remote Module'''''||
|-
||BD||6||6||6||6||Adjust to match your configured autopilot and ground station baud rates (default for these is 57600bps)
|-
||DT||default||default||0x02||0x01||Can be adjusted if consistency maintained across addressing functionalities (see manual)
|-
||MD||default||default||3 (0x03)||4 (0x04)||
|-
||MT||0||0||0||0||Use this to enable Basic Reliable transmission, link bandwidth requirement increases (see manual)
|-
||MY||default||default||0x01||0x02||Can be adjusted if consistency maintained across addressing functionalities (see manual)
|-
||PB||default||default||0x02||default||Can be adjusted if consistency maintained across addressing functionalities (see manual)
|-
||PD||default||default||default||default||Can be adjusted to increase polling request rate and DI buffer flush timeout (see manual)
|-
||PE||default||default||0x02||default||Can be adjusted if consistency maintained across addressing functionalities (see manual)
|-
||PL||default||default||default||default||''Transmit power level should be reduced for lab testing!!''
|-
||RN||0 (0x00)||8 (0x08)||default||default||
|-
||RR||6 (0x06)||12 (0x0C)||6 (0x06)||12 (0x0C)||
|}

'''Note:''' All settings are assumed to be default except those listed. Those listed are in decimal unless hex 0x prefix included. Depending on your firmware version, slight modifications may be necessary.

Here is some additional information and alternative instructions to configure the polling mode from the Digi site: [http://www.digi.com/support/kbase/kbaseresultdetl?id=2178 Polling Mode for the 9XTend Radio Modem]

== SiLabs Si1000 SoC based modems ==

[[Image:R0_V1_1_Top_Prototype.jpeg|thumb|left|R0 Sub GHz Telemetry Radio Modem]]

The Si1000 radio System on Chip (SOC) produced by SiLabs is found in a number of radio modules, for example the cheap and widely used HopeRf module. There is [https://github.com/RFDesign/SiK open source firmware] for these radios which makes them suitable for use in MAVs.

The latest SiK firmware supports also mesh topologies.

Online documentation for the Sik firmware shows how to configure it for various jurisdictions. The firmware supports 433 MHz, 470 MHz, 868 MHz and 900 MHz radios. The new RFD868 also works in the European spectrum licenses (868 MHz)

Note: When using a SiK firmware radio with Paparazzi, you should set "ATS6=0" (MavLink packing off) and configure Paparazzi for transparent serial mode. Better still create a special module to make full use of the RFDxxx modem.

[http://www.rfdesign.com.au/index.php/rfd900 This module] is well proven and supports antenna diversity. A combination of 6dbi Yagi plus a dipole on the ground station, with a pair of orthogonality oriented dioples in the airframe, has been extensively tested and proven reliable at >8km range (theoretical range of > ~40km).

Alternatively, for shorter range a pair of HopeRF-based modems such as the [[R0]] sub GHz telemetry radio modem. It was developed by [[1BitSquared]] specifically for the use with the Paparazzi UAV framework and is part of the [[Elle]] avionics system.

The RFD900 can be paired with the [[R0]] radio that has only a single front-end. You can for example, use a small short range airframe with a ground station that is also used for long range operations.

 

== Laird (ex Aerocom) ==
Lairds's API mode is already implemented but some system integration is required. Full API more with addressed packets works well and was tested with AC4790-1x1 5mW low power modules. Maximim range achieved with a whip quater-wave antenna was 1Km.

How to use this modem on ground station side? [http://paparazzi.enac.fr/wiki/index.php/User:SilaS#SDK-AC4868-250_ground_modem_part]

See folder paparazzi3 / trunk / sw / aerocomm. It has all the required files to use this modem on the airborne and ground station side. The link.ml file is a direct replacement of the "main" link.ml file of the ground sttaion and will be merged into it in the future.. or you can do it as well.

{|
|
=== AC4790-200 ===
* Frequency 902-928MHz (North America, Australia, etc).
* Output Power 5-200mW
* Sensitivity (@ full RF data rate) -110dB
* RF Data Rate up to 76.8 Kbps
* INterface Data Rate Up to Up to 115.2 Kbps
* Power Draw (typical) 68 mA
* Supply Voltage 3.3v & 5.5V
* Range (typical, depends on antenna & environment) Up to 6.4 kilometers line-of-sight
* Dimensions 42 x 48 x 5mm
* Weight < 20 grams
* Interface 20-pin mini connector
* Antenna MMCX jack Connector or internal
* price : 52€
|
[[Image:ac4868_transceiver.jpg|thumb|left|AC4868 OEM Modem]]
|
|-
|
=== AC4790-1000 ===
* Frequency 902-928MHz (North America, Australia, etc).
* Output Power 5-1000mW
* Sensitivity (@ full RF data rate) -99dB
* RF Data Rate up to 76.8 Kbps
* INterface Data Rate Up to Up to 115.2 Kbps
* Power Draw (typical) 650 mA
* Supply Voltage 3.3V only
* Range (typical, depends on antenna & environment) Up to 32 kilometers with high-gain antenna
* Dimensions 42 x 48 x 5mm
* Weight < 20 grams
* Interface 20-pin mini connector
* Antenna MMCX jack Connector
* price : 64€
|}

=== Pinout ===

[[Image:Aerocomm_AC4868_pinout.jpg|thumb|left|Laird AC4868 modem pinout]]
[[Image:Aerocomm_AC4490-200_wired.jpg|thumb|left|Laird AC4490 wiring example]]
 

{| border="1"
|+ Wiring the Laird AC4868 to the Tiny
|-valign="top"
||'''''AC4868 20-pin Header'''''||'''''Name'''''||'''''Color'''''||'''''Tiny v1.1 Serial-1'''''||'''''Tiny v2.11 Serial'''''||'''''Notes'''''
|-
||2||Tx||green||7||7||''(Note 1)''
|-
||3||Rx||blue||8||8||''(Note 1)''
|-
||5||GND||black||1||1|| -
|-
||10+11||VCC||red||2||3||+3.3v ''(Note 2)''
|-
||17||C/D||white||3||?||Low = Command High = Data
|}
''Note 1 : names are specified with respect to the AEROCOMM module''

''Note 2 : AC4790-1000 needs pins 10 and 11 jumped to work properly''

=== Laird RM024 ===
[[Image:Laird_LT2510_RM024-P125-C-01-side.jpg|thumb|RM024 P125]]
[[Image:Lt2510_prm123.jpg|thumb|LT2510 Modem]]
The RM024 replaces the discontinued LT2510 (they are backwards compatible).

General features:
* Frequency Band 2.4GHz
* Output Power 2,5mW - 125mW
* Sensitivity -98dbm @ 280kbps/-94 dBm @ 500kbps
* RF Data Rate 280/500 kbps
* UART up to 460800 baud
* Power Draw 90mA - 180mA TX / 10mA RX
* Supply Voltage 3.3v
* Range up to 4000m
* Dimensions 26 x 33 x 4mm
* Weight 4 grams
* Interface 20-pin mini connector (smd solder pad or XBee compatible pin header)
* Chip antenna, U.FL antenna connector or both
* Price: 29-31€ @ mouser (SMD / XBEE header)

Two different mounting/pinuts are available: 
* smd version: can be soldered on a pcb 
* pin header: standard XBEE pinout (this is the SMD version mounted on a seperate pcb with male pin headers)

Available in two different output power versions:
{|border="1"
|-valign="top"
||''value''||''50mW version''||''125mW version''
|-
|output power
| 2,5 mW - 50 mW
| 2,5 mW - 125 mW
|-
|output power dbm
|4 dbm - 17 dbm
|4 dbm - 21 dbm
|-
|TX drain
|90mA
|<180mA
|-
|max range (280kbps with 2 dbi antenna)
|2400m
|4000m
|-
|approval
|CE for EU, FCC/IC for USA,
Canada PRM122/123 also for Japan
|FCC/IC for USA, Canada
|}

The RM024 uses frequency hopping (FHSS) which needs a client/server model. That means that one modem (most appropriately the ground station modem) needs to be set to server mode. It will transmit a beacon message and have all client modems synchronize to that in a time and frequency hopping scheme manner. For that all modems need to have the same channel (in fact the hopping scheme) and system-id. Clients can be set to auto-channel and auto-system-id to follow any/the first visible server.

====Documentation====
[http://www.lairdtech.com/WorkArea/DownloadAsset.aspx?id=2147488576 RM024 User Manual] 
[http://www.lairdtech.com/WorkArea/linkit.aspx?LinkIdentifier=id&ItemID=4379 LT2510 User Manual] 
[http://www.lairdtech.com/zips/Developer_Kit.zip Windows configuration tool]

'''Setup'''

Look at the [[Laird_RM024_setup page]]

== Bluetooth ==
These modems do not give you a great range but Bluetooth can be found in a lot of recent laptops built-in. Maybe not useful for fixed wing aircrafts it might be used for in-the-shop testing or quadcopters. Make sure you get a recent Class 1 EDR 2.0 stick if you buy one for your computer.
{|
|
=== RN-41 Bluetooth module(Sparkfun's WRL-08497) ===
* Frequency Band 2.4GHz
* Output Power 32 mW
* RF Data Rate up to ~300 kbps in SPP
* Interface Data Rate up to 921 kbps
* Power Draw (typical) 50 mA TX / 40 mA RX
* Supply Voltage 3.3v
* Range (typical, depends on antenna & environment) 100 meters line-of-sight
* Dimensions 26 x 13 x 2mm
* Weight ~1.5 grams
* Interface solder connector
* price : 20€
|
[[Image:roving_nw_wiring.jpg|thumb|Roving Networks modem wiring]]
|-
|

To connect to it, get the MAC address of the bluetooth modem

me@mybox:~$ hcitool scan
Scanning ...
00:06:66:00:53:AD FireFly-53AD

either make a virtual connection to a Bluetooth serial port each time you connect

sudo rfcomm bind 0 00:06:66:00:53:AD

or configure it once in /etc/bluetooth/rfcomm.conf

rfcomm0 {
bind yes;
device 00:06:66:00:53:AD;
}

now you can use Bluetooth as '''/dev/rfcomm0''' with the Paparazzi 'link'. You might need to restart 'link' in case you get out of range and it disconnects (tbd). Set the Tiny serial speed to 115200 as the modules come preconfigured to that.
|}

== WiFi ==

== ESP8266 Chip Module ==

[[File:ESP8266.jpg|thumbnail|left|ESP8266 WiFi module]]

=== ESP as client ===
The WiFi chip tries to connect to a hotspot or router. The GCS is connected to the same network. No additional tools are required on the GCS computer.
See https://github.com/paparazzi/esp8266_udp_firmware for installation and usage instructions

=== ESP as host ===
To have a simple connection from your GCS to your autopilot, one can use your GCS computer built-in WiFi to establish a dataconnection. THe only thing you need is a WiFimodule connected to your Autopilot dataport and a laptop or other GCS device with Wifi.

Flash the Wifimodule with [https://github.com/beckdac/ESP8266-transparent-bridge transparent bridge firwmware] using [https://github.com/themadinventor/esptool esptool]. When connected through WiFi, you can use telnet to set the baud rate.

telnet 192.168.4.1
+++AT BAUD 57000

To use with paparazzi GCS, the TCP signals need to be tunnelled to a virtual serial device. This was accomplished with the "socat" command

$ socat -d -d PTY,link=/dev/mywifi TCP:192.168.4.1:23

Satar up Paparazzi Center and make line like:

 

== Telemetry via Video Transmitter==

[[Image:video_tx_small.jpg|thumb|2.4GHz Video Transmitter]]
In order for the UAV to transmit video from an onboard camera, an analog video transmitter can be used. These vary in power, and thus range, and run normally on 2.4Ghz. Small UAVs can get about 600m of range from the 50mW version, and extended range can be achieved using units up to 1W. Weight for these units varies from a couple grams to about 30 for the 1W with shielding. Please check for your countries regulations on 2.4Ghz transmission, as each is different.

It is possible to use the audio channel to send simple telemetry data to the groundstation. Uploading telemetry not possible via analog audio transmitter only.
 

== Antennas ==

Here are some examples of lightweight and efficient 868MHz antennas developped by the RF laboratory at ENAC.
[[Image:868mhz_twinstar_antenna_1.jpg|thumb|left|868MHz copper foil antenna attached to the aircraft tail]]
[[Image:868mhz_twinstar_antenna_2.jpg|thumb|left|868MHz copper foil antenna bottom view]]
[[Image:868mhz_ground_antenna.jpg|thumb|left|868MHz ground antenna]]
 

This wiki page might give some ideas about antennas: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dipole_antenna

[[Category:Hardware]]

Flight Plans

2016-03-10T10:14:49Z

BartSlinger: note fig-eight works only for fixedwing

A '''flight plan''' is a XML document which one can create and store aboard an autopilot. The flight plan will describe how you want your aircraft to travel if released into into the wild blue yonder.

== DTD and Structure ==

The formal description of the flight plan file is given in the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Document_Type_Definition '''DTD'''] (located in <tt>conf/flight_plans/flight_plan.dtd</tt>). This
DTD must be referenced in the header of your flight plan XML document using the following line: 

<source lang="xml"><!DOCTYPE flight_plan SYSTEM "flight_plan.dtd"></source>

The flight plans are stored in the <tt>conf/flight_plans</tt> directory. The [[Flight_Plan_Editor|flight plan editor]] can be used to create basic flight plans via the GUI.

Extract from the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Document_Type_Definition DTD]:
<tt><!ELEMENT flight_plan (header?,waypoints,sectors?,variables?,includes?,exceptions?,blocks)></tt>

'''A flight plan is composed of two mandatory elements: [[#waypoints|waypoints]] and [[#blocks|blocks]]'''

The root <tt>flight_plan</tt> element is specified with several attributes:
<tt>'''<flight_plan name lat0 lon0 ground_alt security_height home_mode_height qfu alt max_dist_from_home>'''</tt>
; <tt>'''name'''</tt>: The name of the mission (a text string)
; <tt>'''lat0, lon0'''</tt>: Defines the latitude and longitude coordinates of the reference point {0,0} in WGS84 degree coordinates
; <tt>'''ground_alt'''</tt>: The ground altitude (in meters), Above Sea Level where you are flying. It defines the <tt>GROUND_ALT</tt> constant value which can be used in combination with a waypoint <height> parameter to define a waypoint height
; <tt>'''security_height'''</tt>: The height (over <tt>'''ground_alt'''</tt>) used by the circle-home failsafe procedure and in other flight procedures such as formation flight and anti-collision avoidance. Warnings are produced if you place a waypoint lower than <tt>'''security_height'''</tt> (usually the case for the landing point)
; <tt>'''home_mode_height'''</tt> (optional): This optional attribute available since v4.2 allows to override <tt>'''security_height'''</tt> as failsafe height in home mode. If <tt>'''home_mode_height'''</tt> Is set lower than <tt>'''security_height'''</tt>, the later is used. This attribute is useful if you need to return home at a high altitude rather than a low altitude.
; <tt>'''qfu'''</tt> (optional): defines the global constant <tt>QFU</tt>. It usually is the magnetic heading in degrees (north=0, east=90) of the runway, the opposite of wind direction. This constant may be used in the mission description. It is also used by the simulator as the original course of the aircraft. So if you want to take off and climb to the West you would use qfu=270.
; <tt>'''alt'''</tt>: The default altitude of waypoints ([[Altitude_definitions|Above Sea Level]]). So if your ground altitude is 400 then alt needs to be a value greater than ground altitude and above any obstructions in the flight plan.
; <tt>'''max_dist_from_home'''</tt>: A radius representing the maximum allowed distance (in meters) from the HOME waypoint. Exceeding this value (ie flying outside the circle with this radius) will trigger an exception. It is up to you to define the block to be executed (ie what to do) for the exception.

''Here is an '''example''' of such a line in the top of a flight plan:''

<source lang="xml">
<flight_plan alt="250" ground_alt="185" lat0="43.46223" lon0="1.27289" name="Example Muret" max_dist_from_home="300" qfu="270" security_height="25" >
</source>

Note that a flight plan could also contain optional <tt>include</tt>'s and <tt>exceptions</tt> cases.

In English the above flight plan says the name is Example Muret. The reference coordinates for the 0,0 point is: 43.46223 (lat) and 1.27289 (long). The flying site 0,0 location is 185m above sea level. The security height is 25m above 0,0 point or 210m above sea level. The default (ie if not defined in a waypoint this alt is used) altitude is 250m (above sea level). The home mode block altitude is defined to be 150m above sea level. Also, for security, a circle is defined with a radius that's 300m from 0,0 position. This is the max_dist_from_home value. Fly 301m from 0,0 and an exception is triggered. A useful block is to trigger/go to the home mode block and return to home when the aircraft flies outside the safety circle. Example flight plans are helpful for study before you build your own from scratch.

== Waypoints ==

The waypoints are the geographic locations used to specify the trajectories. A waypoint is specified by it's name and coordinates:
<tt>''' <waypoint name wpx wpy [alt] [height]/> '''</tt>
where wpx and wpy are real positional coordinates ( <tt>'''lat/lon'''</tt> ) '''or''' UTM coordinates ( <tt>'''utm_x0/utm_y0'''</tt> ) '''or''' relative coordinates ( <tt>'''x/y'''</tt> ) in meters from your reference point {0,0} . <tt>alt</tt> is an optional parameter and can be used to assign an altitude to a particular waypoint that is different from the globally defined <tt>alt</tt> parameter of the flightplan. The <tt>height</tt> attribute can be used to set the waypoint height relative to the [[Altitude_definitions|ground altitude]] (<tt>ground_alt</tt>) of the flight plan for this waypoint.

An example:
<source lang="xml">
<waypoints>
<waypoint name="HOME" x="0.0" y="30.0"/>
<waypoint name="BRIDGEOVERRIVER" x="-100.0" y="60.0" alt="270."/>
<waypoint name="MyBarn" x="-130.0" y="217.5" alt="3000."/>
<waypoint name="3" x="-30.0" y="50" height="50."/>
<waypoint name="4" x="-30.0" y="50." alt="ground_alt + 50"/>
<waypoint name="_MYHELPERSPOT" x="-30.0" y="60" height="50."/>
<waypoint name="_MYOTHERHELPERSPOT" x="-70.0" y="90" height="70."/>
<waypoint name="TOWER" lat="48.858249" lon="2.294494" height="324."/>
<waypoint name="MountainCAFE" utm_x0="360284.8" utm_y0="4813595.5" alt="1965."/>
</waypoints>
</source>

'''Tips'''
* Waypoints are easily adjusted with the [[Flight_Plan_Editor|flight plan editor]].
* If a waypoint name starts with an underscore ( _ ), the waypoint is '''not displayed''' in the GCS, except in editor mode.
* The maximum number of waypoints is 254.
* A waypoint named <tt>HOME</tt> is required if the failsafe HOME mode procedure is used.
* A waypoints index/reference pointer is derived by prefixing the waypoint name with "WP_". Useful when a [[#Call |call function]] uses the waypoints reference index vs. it's name.

== Sectors ==

=== Static sectors (default) ===

Flat ''Sectors'' can be described as an area defined by list of waypoint corners. Such an area will be displayed in the Ground Control Station (GCS) by colored lines connecting the cornerpoints.
A function is generated to check if a point, usually the aircraft itself, is ''inside'' this sector. Currently, this feature requires that the polygon is convex and described in a clockwise order. For a sector named <tt>MyBigGarden</tt> the generated function for the example here would be <tt>bool_t InsideMyBigGarden(float x, float y);</tt> where <tt>x</tt> and <tt>y</tt> are east and north coordinated, in meters, relative to the geographic reference of the flight plan. If the flight plan is dynamically relocated, such a sector will be relocated but the display is currently not updated on the GCS. It would be great if one would help improving that part of the source code. Note that sector names are not allowed to contain spaces.

For example, with the following element in a flight plan.
<source lang="xml">
<sectors>
<sector name="MyBigGarden" color="red">
<corner name="_1"/>
<corner name="_2"/>
<corner name="_3"/>
<corner name="_4"/>
</sector>
</sectors>
</source>

It is then possible to add an exception clause to your flightplan. For example if the aircraft for some reason flies outside this, defined by us, sector the airframe will fly to a standby waypoint. The exclamation mark (!) means the boolean operator <tt>NOT</tt> in this example. In regular language one would describe "If my airframe is NOT inside the MyBigGarden sector anymore then deroute it to the standby waypoint. In Flightplan "Speak" this is written like:
<source lang="xml">
<exception cond="! InsideMyBigGarden(GetPosX(), GetPosY())" deroute="standby"/>
</source>

NOTE: editing of the waypoints of the sector during the flight will not dynamically update the inside function. It will always check if the position is inside the original sector.

'''Tips'''
* A nice option in the corner notation is that one can add an underscore ( _ ) in front of the name; a corner or waypoint name that starts with an underscore is not displayed in the GCS. Only in editor mode it is visible. It is visible in editor mode, because if you the could not see it, it also would be not possible to edit or drag the corner or waypoint to another position.
* The color indicating the sector borders is not fixed but can be defined by oneself if wished for via the color attribute.

=== Dynamic sectors ===

With the latest version (v5.5-devel-628), it is possible to create dynamic sectors. The procedure to create the sector is the same than for the static version with an extra attribute '''type="dynamic"''':
<source lang="xml">
<sectors>
<sector name="MyBigGarden" color="red" type="dynamic">
<corner name="C1"/>
<corner name="C2"/>
<corner name="C3"/>
<corner name="C4"/>
</sector>
</sectors>
</source>

It is also recommended to avoid using hidden waypoints (no _ prefix), so you can move the corner of your sector from the GCS. The polygon is updated on the 2D map to reflect the new waypoints positions.
Beside the possibility to change the shape of the area in flight, one of the main benefit is that the algorithm behind allows concave hulls. The only restriction is that the edges of the polygon should not cross each other.

The generated function is the same than the static version and can be used the same way.

== Variables ==

'''Available since v5.9'''

It is possible to declare a list of variables that will be automatically created during the flight plan generation and available for the rest of the system from the generated flight plan header and of course inside the flight plan itself. With appropriate attributes, it is also possible to make the variables accessible from the telemetry as a [[Settings|setting]].

The following code will produce a '''float''' variable initialized to 0:
<source lang="xml">
<variables>
<variable var="my_var"/>
</variables>
</source>

The type and the initial value can be changed with the '''type''' and '''init''' attributes:
<source lang="xml">
<variables>
<variable var="my_var" init="10" type="int"/>
</variables>
</source>

To produce an automatic setting for a variable, at least '''min''', '''max''' and '''step''' attributes need to be specified:
<source lang="xml">
<variables>
<variable var="my_var" min="0." max="10." step="0.1"/>
</variables>
</source>
They will appear under the '''Flight Plan''' settings tab in the GCS. So more attributes can be specified: '''shortname''', '''unit''', '''alt_unit''', '''alt_unit_coef''', '''values'''. See [[Settings]] page for more information about these options.

== Includes ==

<tt>include</tt> is used to add some flight plan elements defined in an external procedure. It’s useful to include pre-written procedures with only few arguments and then clarify the flight plan.
Here is the structure:
<tt><include name procedure> [<arg name value />]*[<with from to />]*</include></tt>
where <tt>name</tt> attribute of the include element will be used in this flight plan to prefix the blocks of the <tt>procedure</tt>, the XML referenced file.
Named arguments may be given with their value in the <tt>arg</tt> elements. The <tt>with</tt> tag allows to link labels (e.g. attribute of a deroute instruction or of an exception) from the procedure to blocks of the main flight plan.
Then, each block of the procedure is like any block of the flight plan and is designated with a dotted identifier: block <tt>b</tt> of a procedure named <tt>p</tt> is named <tt>b.p</tt> .

Here is an example:
<source lang="xml">
<includes>
<include name="landing" procedure="landing.xml"/>
</includes>
</source>

== Blocks ==

Block elements are the main part of a flight plan: they describe each unit of the mission.
They are made of various primitives, called stages and exceptions, you can put one after the other. When a
stage (or a block) is finished, the autopilot goes to the next one. The behaviour after the last stage of the last block is undefined.

As described in the DTD, the <tt>blocks</tt> element is composed of <tt>block</tt> elements which are sequence of ''stages'':
<source lang="xml">
<!ELEMENT blocks (block+)>
<!ELEMENT block (exception|while|heading|attitude|go|xyz|set|call|circle|deroute|stay|follow|survey_rectangle|for|return|eight|oval|home|path)*>
</source>

Example:
<source lang="xml">
<block name="circlehome">
<circle radius="75" wp="HOME"/>
</block>
</source>

You can add a button in the [[GCS#Strips|strip of the aircraft]] with the attribute <tt>strip_button</tt>:
<source lang="xml">
<block name="descent" strip_button="Descent">
<circle wp="HOME" throttle="0.0" pitch="-15" vmode="throttle"/>
</block>
</source>
This button will activate the block. If the attribute <tt>group</tt> is specified, all strip buttons of the same group will be placed vertically on top of each other.

In the same way, a key shortcut can be specified:
<source lang="xml">
<block key="D" name="descent" strip_button="Descent">
<circle wp="HOME" throttle="0.0" pitch="-15" vmode="throttle"/>
</block>
</source>
Modifiers are allowed, using the syntax of [http://library.gnome.org/devel/gtk/2.15/gtk-Keyboard-Accelerators.html#gtk-accelerator-parse GTK accelerators].

An icon can be specified to display the button. The <tt>strip_button</tt> label then is a tooltip for the icon. The icon must be an image file available in the directory <tt>data/pictures/gcs_icons</tt>:
<source lang="xml"><block name="Takeoff" strip_icon="takeoff.png" strip_button="Takeoff"></source>

You can call functions before or after each execution of the block:
<source lang="xml">
<block name="circlehome" pre_call="function_to_call_before_circle()" post_call="function_to_call_after_circle()">
<circle wp="HOME"/>
</block>
</source>

==== Expressions ====

Most of the numeric attributes in stages are analyzed as C expressions. The syntax of this C expression is restricted to
* numeric constants
* some internal autopilot variables (not fully documented, see [[Flight_Plans#Internal_Variables_in_Flight_Plans|internal variables section]] below and other examples)
* Some binary operators: <, >, <=, >=, <>, ==, +, -, /, *
* Some utility functions

Some examples of usable expressions are given in the next sections.
=== Initialization Blocks ===
Most flight plans will have three blocks of flight plan initialization blocks. It is good practice to follow this example below if you first start learning to create flightplans

The first block waits until the GPS fix has been established, as shown below.
<source lang="xml">
<blocks>
<block name="Wait GPS">
<set value="1" var="kill_throttle"/>
<while cond="!GpsFixValid()"/>
</block>
</source>
The second block updates the local waypoints with respect to the UAV.
<source lang="xml">
<block name="Geo init">
<while cond="LessThan(NavBlockTime(), 10)"/>
<call fun="NavSetGroundReferenceHere()"/>
</block>
</source>
This next block prevents the UAV from starting the engine and taking off.
<source lang="xml">
<block name="Holding point">

<set value="1" var="kill_throttle"/>
<attitude roll="0" throttle="0" vmode="throttle"/>
</block>
</source>

=== Exceptions ===

The flight manager can handle exceptions. They consist in conditions checked periodically (at the same pace as the navigation control), allowing the control to jump to a given block. Here is the syntax of exceptions:
<source lang="xml"><exception cond="..." deroute="..."></source>
where <tt>cond</tt> is an expression and <tt>deroute</tt> is the name of the block we want to switch to as soon as the condition is true.

Here are some example of exceptions:
<source lang="xml">
<exception cond="10 > PowerVoltage()" deroute="go_down"/>
<exception cond="(ground_alt+10 > GetPosAlt())" deroute="go_up"/>
<exception cond="(autopilot_flight_time > 840)" deroute="quick_land"/>
</source>

Exceptions can be local to a block or global to the flight plan, in the <tt><exceptions></tt> element. In the following example, time since last reception of a message from the ground station is monitored and the navigation is switched to the <tt>Standby</tt> block if no message have been received for 22s. This exception is valid for '''all''' the blocks.
<source lang="xml">
<flight_plan ...>
<waypoints> ... </waypoints>
<exceptions>
<exception cond="datalink_time > 22" deroute="Standby"/>
</exceptions>
<blocks> ...
</source>

=== Deroute ===

The <tt>deroute</tt> is the ''goto'' directive of the flight plan; it switches the navigation to the given block:
<source lang="xml"><deroute block="landing"/></source>

Note that this primitive should not be used to execute loops which are provided by the following elements.

=== Return ===

The <tt>return</tt> is also a ''goto'' directive that brings you back to the last block (and last stage). It has no argument.
<source lang="xml"><return/></source>

=== Loops ===

Unbounded loops are written with <tt>while</tt> elements whose <tt>cond</tt> attribute is a boolean expression.
Children of <tt>while</tt> are stages:
<source lang="xml">
<while cond="TRUE">
<go wp="A"/>
<go wp="B"/>
<go wp="C"/>
<while cond="5 > stage_time"/>
</while>
</source>
In this example, we run an infinite loop, letting the aircraft try to go via waypoints <tt>A</tt>, <tt>B</tt> and <tt>C</tt> and waiting for 5 seconds before repeating.

Bounded loops are written with the <tt>for</tt> tag:
<source lang="xml">
<for var="i" from="0" to="3">
...
</for>
</source>
where the body of the loop will be run four times.

The variable of a <tt>for</tt> loop can be used inside expressions appearing as attributes of the stages:
<source lang="xml">
<for var="i" from="1" to="5">
<circle wp="HOME" radius="75" alt="ground_alt+50*$i" until="stage_time>10" />
</for>
</source>

In this example, the aircraft will circle around waypoint '''HOME''' for 10 seconds at and altitude above ground of 50m, 10 seconds at altitude 100 meter (50+50), ... until 250m (5x +50).

Note: Two bounded loops using the same control variable are not allowed in the same block.

=== Navigation modes ===

Navigation modes give the description of the desired trajectory in 3D. While the horizontal mode is specified through
''stages'', the vertical control is specified with various attributes of these stages. The current available navigation stages are
* attitude : just keep a fixed attitude;
* heading : keep a given course;
* go : go to a given waypoint;
* path : list of waypoints linked by ''go''
* circle : circle around a waypoint;
* oval : two half circles with a straight between two nav points
* eight : fly a figure of eight through a waypoint and around another
* stay : hold the position (hard to realize for a fixed-wing aircraft);
* follow : follow another aircraft;
* xyz : circle around a point moveable with the RC transmitter stick (obsolete with the datalink).

The vertical control is achieved using the <tt>vmode</tt> attribute of these stages. The possible values are
* '''alt''' (the default) : the autopilot keeps the desired altitude which is the altitude of the waypoint (if any) or the altitude specified with the <tt>alt</tt> attribute;
* '''climb''' : the autopilot keeps the desired vertical speed specified with the <tt>climb</tt> attribute (in m/s);
* '''throttle''' : the autopilots sets the desired throttle specified with the <tt>throttle</tt> attribute (between 0 and 1);
* '''glide''' : the autopilot keeps the desired slope between two waypoints

The default control is done with the throttle. However, setting the <tt>pitch</tt> attribute to '''auto''' and the <tt>throttle</tt> attribute to a constant allows a vertical control only by controlling the attitude of the A/C.
The <tt>pitch</tt> attribute also can be set to any value (in degrees) while the throttle control is in use: it usually affects the airspeed of the aircraft.

The different navigation modes are detailed in the next sections.

=== Attitude ===

Element <tt>attitude</tt> is the navigation mode which corresponds to the current lowest control loop for horizontal mode.
The autopilot then keeps a constant attitude. The <tt>roll</tt> attribute is required (in degrees, positive to put right wing low).

To fly away, at constant airspeed:
<source lang="xml"><attitude roll="0" vmode="throttle", throttle="0.5"/></source>

To fly around, holding a given altitude:
<source lang="xml"><attitude roll="30" alt="ground_alt+50"/></source>

Note that it is not a ''safe'' navigation mode since the geographic position of the plane is not controlled. However, this mode is useful to tune the roll attitude control loop.

=== Heading ===

<tt>heading</tt> primitive is relative to the second level loop for horizontal mode in the autopilot which will keep the given <tt>course</tt>, a required attribute (in degrees, clockwise, north=0, east=90).

One example to takeoff, following the QFU, 80% throttle, nose up (15 degrees) until height of 30m is reached:
<source lang="xml"><heading course="QFU" vmode="throttle" throttle="0.8" pitch="15" until="(GetPosAlt() > ground_alt+30)"/></source>

=== Go ===

The <tt>go</tt> primitive is probably the most useful one. Basically, the autopilot will try to join a given waypoint (<tt>wp</tt>, the only required attribute). So the simplest thing you can ask for is
<source lang="xml"><go wp="HOME"/></source>
which will set the '''HOME''' waypoint as the desired target position. Note than since <tt>vmode="alt"</tt> is the default, the altitude of the target waypoint is also taken into account. The navigation will switch to the next stage as soon as the target is reached.

It is usually not a good idea to try to join a waypoint without asking for a precise trajectory, i.e. a given line.
Setting the <tt>hmode</tt> attribute to '''route''', the navigation will go over a segment joining two waypoints:
<source lang="xml"><go from="wp1" wp="wp2" hmode="route"/></source>

The target altitude is the altitude of the target waypoint; it can also be set with the <tt>alt</tt> attribute. The following example keeps an altitude with fixed throttle:
<source lang="xml"><go from="wp2" wp="wp3" hmode="route" pitch="auto" throttle="0.75" alt="ground_alt+100"/></source>

The attributes related to the vertical control can also be set to replace the default altitude mode:
<source lang="xml"><go from="wp1" wp="wp2" hmode="route" vmode="climb" climb="1.5"/></source>

Finally, the <tt>approaching_time</tt> (in seconds) attribute helps to decide when the target is ''reached''. It can be set
to '''0''' to go over the target waypoint (default value is the '''CARROT''' time, set in the airframe configuration file).
<source lang="xml"><go from="wp1" wp="wp2" hmode="route" approaching_time="1"/></source>

=== Path ===

The <tt>path</tt> primitive is just a shorthand expression for a set of <tt>go</tt> primitives. A list of waypoints defined with the <tt>wpts</tt> attribute is pre-processed into a set of <tt>go</tt> primitives with the <tt>hmode</tt> attribute. For example:
<source lang="xml"><path wpts="wp1, wp2, wp3"/></source>

Other attributes are optional:
<source lang="xml"><path wpts="wp3, wp1, wp2" approaching_time="1" pitch="auto" throttle="0.5"/></source>

=== Circle ===

The <tt>circle</tt> primitive is the second main navigation mode: the trajectory is defined as a circle around a given waypoint with a given radius:
<source lang="xml"><circle wp="HOME" radius="75"/></source>
A positive radius makes the UAS move clockwise, a negative counter-clockwise.

The <tt>until</tt> attribute may be used to control the end of the stage. The following example defines an ascending trajectory at constant throttle, nose up (15 degrees), over growing circles, until the battery level is low:
<source lang="xml"><circle wp="wp1" radius="50+(GetPosAlt()-ground_alt)/2" vmode="throttle" throttle="0.75" pitch="15" until="10>PowerVoltage()"/></source>

=== Oval ===
The oval consists of two half circles that are connected with two straight lines. This flight path is usefull when a IMU is used because the straights allow for level flight.
<source lang="xml"> <oval p1="1" p2="2" radius="nav_radius"/> </source>

=== Eight ===
'''Works only for Fixed-wing!''' Fly a figure of eight that consists of two straight legs that pass though the center and the center of the half circle at the end of the two legs is in the turn around waypoint. The altitude of the center waypoint is used for the entire figure. The turn around waypoint is moved to match radius given.
<source lang="xml"> <eight center="1" radius="nav_radius" turn_around="2"/> </source>

=== Survey rectangle ===
Fly a survey rectangle defined by two waypoints. The distance between the legs of the grid (in meter) and the orientation of the grid (NS or WE) can be set by the operator. The plane will turn outside of the border of the rectangle before starting a new leg.
<source lang="xml"> <survey_rectangle wp1="1" wp2="2" grid="200" orientation="NS"/> </source>

=== Follow ===

The <tt>follow</tt> is a special primitive which makes the UAS follow another UAS (real or simulated, named with its <tt>ac_id</tt>) at a given <tt>distance</tt> (in meters) behind and at a given <tt>height</tt> (in meters) above.

In this example, the autopilot will try to follow A/C number '''4''', staying '''50'''m behind and '''20'''m above.
<source lang="xml"><follow ac_id="4" distance="50" height="20"/></source>

=== Stay ===

The <tt>stay</tt> is a mode for UAS's able to hover:
<source lang="xml"><stay wp="HOME" alt="10"/></source>

=== XYZ ===

<tt>xyz</tt> is a special mode where the UAS circles around a user moveable waypoint. This waypoint is moved with the RC sticks:
* YAW channel controls the point over the west-east axis;
* PITCH channel controls the point over the south-north axis;
* ROLL channel controls the altitude.

Example (default radius is '''100'''):
<source lang="xml"><xyz radius="40"/></source>

=== Set ===

The <tt>set</tt> element is a dangerous one which should be used only by expert users: it is used to directly set an internal variable of the autopilot. For example, you can change the value of the default ground altitude, a variable used by the home mode failsafe procedure (and maybe by your own flight plan):
<source lang="xml"><set var="ground_alt" value="ground_alt+50"/></source>
This directive is extremely powerful and has great potential for error - use with caution.

=== Call ===

The <tt>call</tt> allows the user to define its own navigation procedures in C. The <tt>value</tt> must be a call to a boolean function which must return TRUE as long as the stage is not completed (a function which should be called only once would then return immediately FALSE).
This feature is illustrated with the '''line''' pattern:
<source lang="xml">
<call fun="nav_line_setup()"/>
<call fun="nav_line_run(WP_1, WP_2, nav_radius)"/>
</source>
where <tt>nav_line_setup()</tt> returns FALSE and <tt>nav_line_run()</tt> always returns TRUE (this stage never ends). '''Note''' that a waypoints index is derived/denoted by prefixing the waypoint name with <tt>WP_</tt>(i.e.: 1 --> WP_1, 2 --> WP_2)
 

To call ''any'' function exactly once regardless of the return value (e.g. call a void function), add <tt>loop="FALSE"</tt>
<source lang="xml">
<call fun="viewvideo_take_shot(TRUE)" loop="FALSE"/>
</source>

Such extra navigation functions are usually written as a [[Modules|Module]] and the header files are included automatically.

If you want to call functions that are not part of a module, you need to include the header file which contains the function declaration:or supplementary C file which must be specified in the
<source lang="xml">
<header>
#include "path/to/header.h"
</header>
</source>
where the path is relative to the <tt>sw/airborne</tt> directory.

You can also call functions before or after each execution of the block (this means continuously on each iteration of each stage of the block, not just when entering o exiting the block).
<source lang="xml">
<block name="circlehome" pre_call="function_to_call_before_circle()" post_call="function_to_call_after_circle()">
<circle wp="HOME"/>
</block>
</source>

=== Pre Call ===

<source lang="xml">
<block name="Standby" strip_button="Standby" strip_icon="home.png" pre_call="if(!InsideKill(GetPosX(), GetPosY())) NavKillThrottle();">
</source>

=== Post Call ===

<source lang="xml">
<block name="traj" pre_call="formation_pre_call()" post_call="formation_flight()"> 
</source>

== Procedures ==

Procedures are libraries which can be included in flight plans. They are composed of waypoints, sectors and blocks. The header of a procedure may contain some parameters which are replaced by arguments when the procedure is included.

Extract of the DTD: a procedure is a sequence of parameters, waypoints, ...:
<source lang="xml"><!ELEMENT procedure (param*,header?,waypoints?,sectors?,exceptions?,blocks?)></source>

A <tt>param</tt>eter is just a name. A parameter is optional if it is declared with a default value.
An example with a required and an optional parameter:
<source lang="xml">
<param name="alt"/>
<param name="radius" default_value="75"/>
</source>

Procedures are called with the <tt>include</tt> element in a flight plan. A procedure cannot be included twice or by another procedure. A procedure call requires:

* the name of the procedure file, the name given to this inclusion;
* values for the parameters;
* backlinks for block name exits of the procedure.

For example:
<source lang="xml"><include name="landing" procedure="landing.xml"/></source>

Here is the corresponding procedure '''landing.xml''':
<source lang="xml">
<!DOCTYPE procedure SYSTEM "flight_plan.dtd">
<procedure>
<waypoints>
<waypoint name="AF" x="177.4" y="45.1" alt="30"/>
<waypoint name="TD" x="28.8" y="57.0" alt="0"/>
<waypoint name="_BASELEG" x="168.8" y="-13.8"/>
</waypoints>
<blocks>
...
<block name="land">
<call fun="nav_compute_baseleg(WP_AF, WP_TD, WP__BASELEG, nav_radius)"/>
<circle radius="nav_radius" until="NavCircleCount() > 0.5" wp="_BASELEG"/>
<circle radius="nav_radius" until="And(NavQdrCloseTo(DegOfRad(baseleg_out_qdr)-10), 10 > fabs(GetPosAlt()- WaypointAlt(WP__BASELEG)))" wp="_BASELEG"/>
</block>
...
</blocks>
</procedure>
</source>

Note that the name of procedure '''land''' block will be renamed into '''landing.land''':
<source lang="xml"><deroute block="landing.land"/></source>
will jump to this procedure block.

Suppose you have a go-around condition in your landing procedure. You would write it
<source lang="xml"><exception cond="..." deroute="go-around"/></source>
then you must link this block exit with one of your block (e.g. <tt>Standby</tt>). So you would include the procedure as follows:
<source lang="xml">
<include name="landing" procedure="landing.xml">
<with from="go-around" to="Standby"/>
</include>
</source>

== Internal Variables in Flight Plans ==

The flight plan can use several internal variables, macros and functions coming from the rest of the system or the flight plan API itself. The following list present some of the most commonly used variables, but much more are actually available:

* '''autopilot_flight_time''': time in seconds since autopilot was booted (integer)
* '''datalink_time''': time in seconds since last connection of telemetry to ground control station (including ''subsystems/datalink/datallink.h'' in the '''header''' section is required) (integer)
* '''GetPosAlt()''': returns the current altitude above ground level in meter (float)
* '''GetPosX()''': returns x (easting) of current position relative to reference in meter (float)
* '''GetPosY()''': returns y (northing) of current position relative to reference in meter (float)
* <s>'''ground_alt''': altitude above ground level in meter (float)</s> (v5.8 and higher - use '''GetAltRef()''' instead)
* '''GetAltRef()''': returns reference altitude, usually ground_alt
* '''NavSetGroundReferenceHere()''': reset position and altitude reference point to current position
* '''NavSetAltitudeReferenceHere()''': reset altitude reference to current alt but keep previous horizontal position reference
* '''NavSetWaypointHere(_wp)''': set position of a waypoint given as argument to the current position
* '''WaypointX(_wp)''': returns x (easting) of waypoint position relative to reference in meter (float)
* '''WaypointY(_wp)''': returns y (northing) of waypoint position relative to reference in meter (float)
* '''WaypointAlt(_wp)''': returns waypoint altitude in meter (float)
* '''nav_radius''': free variable usually used to set circle radius in flight plan
* '''NavKillThrottle()''': function to switch off throttle
* '''PowerVoltage()''': returns current voltage of the battery
* all functions from the [http://docs.paparazziuav.org/latest/group__state__interface.html state interface API]
* all functions from the [http://docs.paparazziuav.org/latest/subsystems_2navigation_2waypoints_8h.html waypoint API]
* all variables declared in [[modules]] headers

== Advanced Examples ==

Parameters used in a flight plan can be computed expressions. In this example, the plane is asked to perform 5 circles at progressively increasing altitudes for exactly one minute at each altitude:
<source lang="xml">
<for var="i" from="1" to="5">
<circle wp="HOME" radius="75"
alt="ground_alt + 50*$i"
until="stage_time > 60" />
</for>
</source>

Below you find some random examples of the posibilities. This is only the tip of the iceberg, use your imagination and go wild with new creative ideas for your flightplan

=== Gains on the fly ===

It is very well possible to set specific gain for an airframe if it reaches e.g a certain block.

=== Dynacmically adjustable maximum speed ===

=== Immobilize Actuators ===

h_ctl setpoints variable are set by the h_ctl_attitude_loop() (from fw_h_ctl.c) loop) which can be disabled with the h_ctl_disabled flag:

<source lang="xml">
<set var="h_ctl_disabled" value="TRUE"/>
<set var="h_ctl_aileron_setpoint" value="0"/>
<set var="h_ctl_elevator_setpoint" value="MAX_PPRZ/2"/>
.... waiting for a condition ...
<set var="h_ctl_disabled" value="FALSE"/>
</source>

== Tips and Tricks ==

There are many ways to skin a cat just as there are many ways to craft your flight plan. Following the best practices tips can save you from a lot of frustration and mishap.

* Simulate your flight plan before taking it to the sky. Flight plans should always be carefully tested prior to flight, take a look at the [[Simulation|simulation]] page for details on how to simulate your plan.
* Make an subdirectory in the Flight_plan directory with your own name and add your flight plans there. Make sure that the location of the DTD is correct, e.g by using relative directory double dots as in <tt><!DOCTYPE flight_plan SYSTEM "../flight_plan.dtd"></tt>

* Take a good look at other flight plans included with Paparazzi. To learn from example flight plans please visit the [[Flight_Plan_Examples|flight plan examples]] page
* There are several option to build failsafe features into you flightplan, [[Failsafe|for some examples visit the Failsafe page]].
* Some flight plan examples define waypoint locations using relative coordinates. These are relative positions from the fixed lat and lon in the header of the flight plan. When simulating your flight plan the aircraft always use the lat/lon as defined in the flight plan since a regular simulation has no notion of you current position of you local PC where you simulate on. This is something to keep in mind if you test your flight plan in real flights.

=== V5.8+ ===
* If you don't like the '''No SRTM data found to check altitude''' warning, either in your flight plan editor or in GCS itself click on the '''Nav->display SRTM'''. It will ask you whether you want to download SRTM data. Say yes, and it will save the data in ''data/srtm'' directory, so you don't get the warning any more and check the ground altitude even without GPS.

[[Category:Software]] [[Category:User_Documentation]]

Lisa/S

2016-02-24T10:37:02Z

BartSlinger: added servo connection definitions

[[File:tudelft_logo.jpg|left|120px|link=http://mavlab.lr.tudelft.nl/en/]]
[[File:1bitsquared_logo.png|left|120px|link=http://1bitsquared.com]]
[[Image:Lisa S V0 1 r2 on finger.jpg|300px|right]]

__TOC__

== Lisa/S ==

Lisa/S is a very small general purpose autopilot. The main goal of creating an autopilot of minimal size and weight, while providing enough functionality to enable fully autonomous operation.

=== Mechanical Dimensions ===

* '''Size: 20mm x 20mm x 5mm (0.787" x 0.787" x 0.197")'''
* '''Weight: 2.8g (0.1oz)'''

=== Features ===

* 72MHz 32bit ARM Cortex M3 MCU with 16KB RAM and 512KB Flash
* Combined 3 Axis Gyroscope and 3 Axis Accelerometer
* 3 Axis Magnetometer
* Barometer (Altimeter)
* Onboard U-Blox GPS
* Pads to simply connect a [[SuperbitRF|Superbit CYRF]] RC and telemetry module
* Switching buck/boost converter allowing wide range of power input making it perfect and stable for operation from a 1S LiPO cell.
* 2 MOSFET switches connected to PWM output channels
* 6 PWM (servo) outputs
* 1 UART port
* 1 CAN interface
* 1 Bind/Boot tact switch
* SWD programming/debugging interface
* Size: 20mm x 20mm x 5mm (0.787" x 0.787" x 0.197")
* Weight: 2.8g (0.1oz)

=== Pictures ===

[[Image:Lisa_s_v0_1_r2_top_ruler.jpg|300px]]
[[Image:Lisa_s_v0_1_r2_bottom_ruler.jpg|300px]]
[[Image:Lisa_s_v0_1_r2_top_superbit.jpg|300px]]
[[Image:Lisa_s_v0_1_r2_bottom_superbit.jpg|300px]]

So if you are ready to make your tiny plane fly autonomously,[http://1bitsquared.com/collections/frontpage/products/lisa-s you can already order one here]

== Where to Purchase ==

[[File:1bitsquared_logo.png|100px|link=http://1bitsquared.com]] The Lisa/S Autopilot is available for purchase from [http://1bitsquared.com/products/lisa-s-starter-kit 1 BIT SQUARED].

== Pinout ==

For a good example with which pins to connect where go to [[Lisa/S/Tutorial/Nano_Quadcopter]]. For more pinout info the site of manufacturer [http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0245/8645/products/LisaS_pinout_61ab6205-3e69-4602-8fbc-4c27ac55bbc4_1024x1024.jpg]

== Servo connections ==

MOT1 (DC) = SERVO3 (PWM) = nb 0 (airframe)
MOT2 (DC) = SERVO4 (PWM) = nb 1 (airframe)
MOT3 (DC) = SERVO5 (PWM) = nb 2 (airframe)
MOT4 (DC) = SERVO6 (PWM) = nb 3 (airframe)
SERVO1 (PWM) = nb 4 (airframe, not compatible with I2C1)
SERVO2 (PWM) = nb 5 (airframe, not compatible with I2C1)

== Block Diagrams ==

TODO

== Barometer ==

In order to use the barometer, you just need to add one line to your firmware block (in your airframe file) :

{{Box Code|conf/airframes/myplane.xml|
<source lang="xml">
<firmware name="fixedwing">
<target name="ap" board="lisa_s_0.1">
...
</target>
...
<define name="USE_BAROMETER" value="TRUE"/>
...
</firmware>
</source>
}}

Once that line is added to the airframe file, you should be able to get the values of the barometer and paparazzi is going to take them into account when doing it's calculations.

Warning : the barometer doesn't seams to be working at a higher frequency than 120Hz in a fixed wing airframe. Than mean that in a fixed wing airframe the PERIODIC_FREQUENCY must be equal or lower than 120. In rotorcraft the barometer works fine.

== Schematics ==

[[Image:Lisa_s_0_1_r1_schematic.png|300px|thumb|none|Lisa/S V0.1 R1 Schematic]]
[[Image:Lisa_s_1_0_r12_schematic.png|300px|thumb|none|Lisa/S V1.0 R12 Schematic]]

== Pre-Release v0.1 ==

One of the earliest versions of the board which is still used in the [http://www.mavlab.info/ MAVlab] of the TU-Delft is the Lisa/S V0.1R2. If you are not working there, this info is of no importance to you...Else as a reminder to all: This version is slightly different from newer versions:

* The SWIO and GND pin from the Serial Wire Debug (SWD) headers are flipped, such that the order becomes TRACE-SWCLK-SWDIO-GND.
* There is no capacitor to enable a warm start for the GPS.
* Instead of four, only two brushed motors can be connected.

=Lisa/S Nano Quadcopter Kit Assembly Tutorial=

1. Go the the [[Lisa/S/Tutorial/Nano_Quadcopter|Lisa/S Nano Quadcopter Kit Assembly Tutorial]] Page to get a good explanation for how to connect your board to a Nano Quadcopter.

[[Category:Lisa]] [[Category:User_Documentation]] [[Category:Autopilots]]

SDLogger SPI Direct

2015-11-23T12:11:31Z

BartSlinger:

=Introduction=

The direct SPI SD Logger is originally designed to be used with the Lisa/S, but should also be compatible with other supported autopilots. It connects directly to the SPI bus of the autopilot and communicates using the SDCards SPI interface. This method is slower than when using it in SD mode, but the speed is sufficient to log IMU data at 512 Hz.

=Hardware=
[[File:LisaSD.jpeg|thumbnail|Lisa/SD module]]

== Installation ==

The SD Card needs to be connected to the SPI bus of the autopilot. The pinout for an SD Card is shown in the figure.
* VSS = Ground
* VDD = 3.3V
[[File:Microsd_pinout.png|left|microSD pinout ([http://elasticsheep.com/2010/01/reading-an-sd-card-with-an-atmega168/ source])]]

 

== Lisa/SD ==

A SuperbitRF-sized PCB connects the SD card to the Lisa/S. Additionally, this PCB has pads to connect a Deltang R31d RC receiver and a molex connector for general purpose.

[[File:LisaSDback.jpeg|frame|x300px|left|Lisa/SD module with Deltang R31d]]

=Software=

=Retrieving the data=

A logger is of no use if one can not easily retrieve the logged data. To make this a simple reality there is an app for that.

# Connect the FTDI cable to the computer and autopilot.
# Plug the battery or external power to the autopilot.
# Start the logger download tool.

The tool is found in sw/logalizer.

./sdlogger_download -a <AC_ID> -p /dev/ttyACM1 -b 115200
where <AC_ID> is your aircraft ID.

=Using it=

==Example on Lisa/S rotorcraft==

==Exmaple on Lisa/M fixedwing==

[[Category:Modules]]

SDLogger SPI Direct

2015-11-10T23:16:42Z

BartSlinger:

The direct SPI SD Logger is originally designed to be used with the Lisa/S, but should also be compatible with other supported autopilots. It connects directly to the SPI bus of the autopilot and communicates using the SDCards SPI interface. This method is slower than when using it in SD mode, but the speed is sufficient to log IMU data at 512 Hz.

[[File:LisaSD.jpeg|thumbnail|Lisa/SD module]]

== Installation ==

The SD Card needs to be connected to the SPI bus of the autopilot. The pinout for an SD Card is shown in the figure.
* VSS = Ground
* VDD = 3.3V
[[File:Microsd_pinout.png|left|microSD pinout ([http://elasticsheep.com/2010/01/reading-an-sd-card-with-an-atmega168/ source])]]

 
== Lisa/SD ==
A SuperbitRF-sized PCB connects the SD card to the Lisa/S. Additionally, this PCB has pads to connect a Deltang R31d RC receiver and a molex connector for general purpose.

[[File:LisaSDback.jpeg|frame|x300px|left|Lisa/SD module with Deltang R31d]]

SDLogger SPI Direct

2015-11-10T23:13:53Z

BartSlinger:

The direct SPI SD Logger is originally designed to be used with the Lisa/S, but should also be compatible with other supported autopilots. It connects directly to the SPI bus of the autopilot and communicates using the SDCards SPI interface. This method is slower than when using it in SD mode, but the speed is sufficient to log IMU data at 512 Hz.

[[File:LisaSD.jpeg|thumbnail|Lisa/SD module]]

== Installation ==

The SD Card needs to be connected to the SPI bus of the autopilot. The pinout for an SD Card is shown in the figure.
* VSS = Ground
* VDD = 3.3V
[[File:Microsd_pinout.png|framed|left|microSD pinout ([http://elasticsheep.com/2010/01/reading-an-sd-card-with-an-atmega168/ source])]]

=== Lisa/SD ===
A SuperbitRF-sized PCB connects the SD card to the Lisa/S. Additionally, this PCB has pads to connect a Deltang R31d RC receiver and a molex connector for general purpose.

[[File:LisaSDback.jpeg|frame|x300px|left|Lisa/SD module with Deltang R31d]]

File:Microsd pinout.png

2015-11-10T23:08:42Z

BartSlinger:

File:LisaSDback.jpeg

2015-11-10T22:50:25Z

BartSlinger:

SDLogger SPI Direct

2015-11-10T22:49:58Z

BartSlinger:

File:LisaSD.jpeg

2015-11-10T22:40:05Z

BartSlinger:

SDLogger SPI Direct

2015-11-10T22:39:30Z

BartSlinger: Page creation

Modems

2015-04-15T14:06:23Z

BartSlinger: /* ESP8266 WiFi Module */

The Paparazzi autopilots generally feature a TTL serial port to interface with any common radio modem. The bidirectional link provides real-time telemetry and in-flight tuning and navigation commands. The system is also capable overlaying the appropriate protocols to communicate thru non-transparent devices such as the Coronis Wavecard or Maxstream API-enabled products, allowing for hardware addressing for multiple aircraft or future enhancements such as data-relaying, inter-aircraft communication, RSSI signal monitoring and automatic in-flight modem power adjustment. Below is a list of some of the common modems used with Paparazzi, for details on configuring your modem see the [[Airframe_Configuration#Telemetry_.28Modem.29|Airframe Configuration]] and [[XBee_configuration|XBee Configuration]] pages.

==General comparison==
'''This is ONLY a comparison between modules (found on this page) which work acceptably'''

All modules listed here work without issue and are generally available.
{| border="1" cellspacing="0" style="text-align:center" cellpadding="2%"
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''Feature'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Digi_XBee_Pro_DigiMesh_.2F_802.15.4_.28.22Series_1.22.29|XBee Series 1]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Digi_XBee_Pro_DigiMesh_.2F_802.15.4_.28.22Series_1.22.29|XBee Pro Series 1]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Digi_XBee_Pro_ZB_.2F_ZNet_2.5_.28.22Series_2.22.29|XBee Series 2]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Digi_XBee_Pro_ZB_.2F_ZNet_2.5_.28.22Series_2.22.29|XBee Pro Series 2]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Digi_XBee_868LP|XBee 868LP]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Digi_XBee_Pro_900HP|XBee Pro 900HP]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Digi_XBee_Pro_XSC_900MHz|XBee Pro XSC 900]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Digi_9XTend|Digi 9XTend]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#SiLabs_Si1000_SoC_based_modems|SiLabs Si1000]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#AC4790-200|Aerocom AC4790-200]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#AC4790-1000|Aerocom AC4790-1000]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Laird_RM024|Laird RM024 50mW]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Laird_RM024|Laird RM024 125mW]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#RN-41_Bluetooth_module.28Sparkfun.27s_WRL-08497.29|RN-41 Bluetooth]]'''
|-
| style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''frequency'''||2,4GHz||2,4GHz||2,4GHz||2,4GHz||868MHz||900MHz||900MHz||900MHz, 2.4GHz||240-960MHz||900MHz||900MHz||2,4GHz||2,4GHz||2,4GHz
|-
| style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''output power'''||1mW||63mW (US) 10 mW (Int'l)||2mW||63mW||5mW||250mW||250mW||1mW-1W||max 100mW||5-200mW||5-1000mW||2,5-50mW||2,5-125mW||32mW
|-
| style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''RF speed'''||250kbps||250kbps||250kbps||250kbps||10kbps, 80kbps||10 or 200kbps||10, 20kbps||9.6, 115.2kbps|| ||76.8kbps||76.8kbps||280, 500kbps||280, 500kbps||300kbps
|-
| style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''antenna'''||chip, wire, rpsma, u.fl||chip, wire, rpsma, u.fl||chip, wire, rpsma, u.fl||chip, wire, rpsma, u.fl||external required||wire, rpsma, u.fl||wire, rpsma, u.fl||rpsma, MMCX||external required||MMCX, internal Antenna||MMCX||u.fl, chip, both||u.fl, chip, both||pcb trace
|-
| style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''pinout'''||XBee||XBee||XBee||XBee||SMD||XBee||XBee||20 pin 2,54mm/USB||SMD (42 pin LGA)||20 pin mini connector||20 pin mini connector||XBee/SMD||XBee/SMD||SMD
|-
| style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''price'''||16€||26€||14€||28€||18€||32€||32€||150€||4€||52€||64€||30€||30€||20€
|-
| style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''for Country'''||Worldwide||Worldwide||Worldwide||Worldwide||Europe||North America, Australia||North America, Australia||Worldwide||Worldwide||North America, Australia||North America, Australia||Europe||North America||Worldwide
|}

== Frequencies ==

Analog and digital signals (video and data/modem) can not be transmitted over the same frequency band since the analog signal will "block" the digital one. (Attention ! the common 2.4 or 5.8GHz frequencies have multiple channels, if the analog and digital transmitter/receiver modules are set up to different channels/frequencies, they should work (even on 2.4GHz)).

You may want to inform yourself about your countries laws ! Different countries allow different frequencies at different power. 
Sending on a wrong frequency or with too much power may end in a serious lawsuit !

Digi: [http://www.digi.com/technology/rfmodems/agencyapprovals Government Agency Certifications]

== HAM / CEPT Licence ==

If possible, consider making a HAM radio (amateur radio) licence. (e.g. CEPT, depends on yur locality)

You will learn about the radio technology, operational technology and legislation. 
With a HAM radio licence, you can also use other frequencies or transmit on a higher power. (e.g. In some countries, the 5.8GHz video transmission is for non licenced people restricted to 10mW!) 

'''Licence Pros'''
* You will be informed well about the (local and international) legislations.
* You can transmit on a higher power (depends on frequency).
* You will learn a lot about the techniques and be more than a standard "consumer" of radio electronic products.
* It will be easier to find faults in your radio systems.
* You can built (if you want) high gain/focused antennas which can gice you a better signal, wider range and won't disturb anyone else.
* Well educated prople respecting the legislation just looks much better in looks to UAV's :)

'''Licence Cons'''
* You will need to learn for the test (can be compared with a diverce licence).
* The certificate and books will cost about 70€ (total, can vary !).
* Maybe some costs (per year) for your call sign.

=== CEPT Licence in Austria ===

A short description about getting the CEPT 1 (not the CEPT Novice !) licence in Austria.

You will need the appropriate books which cost 50€ (70€ if you want them with the ask catalog and answers which can be helpful) and rough 18€ for the exam and certificate. The ÖVSV offers also some courses, but you can also learn everything with the books.

To be continued...

=== Links ===

[http://www.oevsv.at/ Austrian ÖVSV] 
[http://www.darc.de/ German DARC]

== Digi XBee modules ==

Digi (formerly Maxstream) offers an increasing variety of Zigbee protocol modems well suited for Paparazzi in 2.4 GHz, 900MHz and 868Mhz frequencies. The "Pro" series are long range, up to 40km! Standard series are slightly smaller/lighter/lower power consumption and very short range. All versions are all pin compatible and weigh around 2 grams with wire antennas. All Digi modems can be operated in transparent mode (as a serial line replacement) or in "API mode" with hardware addressing, managed networking, and RSSI (signal strength) data with the Paparazzi "Xbee" option.

Four antenna options are offered: RP-SMA, U-FL, wire antenna, chip antenna

* XBee (PRO) ZB (the current series)
* XBee (PRO) ZNet 2.5 (formerly Series 2) (only legacy -> use XBee-PRO ZB)
The XBee & XBee-PRO ZB share hardware (ember stack) with XBee & XBee-PRO ZNet 2.5. As a result, modules can be "converted" from one platform to another by loading different firmware onto a given module.

These two also share the same hardware and can be converted from one to another by flashing a different firmware:
* XBee-PRO 802.15.4 (formerly Series 1)
* XBee-PRO DigiMesh 2.4

'''Note: Modules based on Freescale chipset (formerly Series 1) are not compatible with Ember chipset based modules (Series 2).'''

If only point to point or point to multipoint communication is required 802.15.4 will do the job. These are designed for high data rates and low latency. 
Modules with Zigbee firmware are needed for mesh functionality(communication between the UAV's)

See the [[XBee_configuration|XBee Configuration]] page. This [http://pixhawk.ethz.ch/tutorials/how_to_configure_xbee tutorial] is also good to configure and get started with XBee Pro.

=== Module Comparison ===
{|border="1"
|-valign="top"
||'''Module'''||'''Point-to-Multipoint'''||'''ZigBee/Mesh'''||'''Chipset'''|||'''Software stack'''||'''Frequency'''||'''TX Power normal/PRO'''||'''Notes'''
|-
|'''XBee ZB'''
|
|yes
|Ember
|EmberZNet PRO 3.1 (ZigBee 2007)
|2.4 GHz
|2mW/50mW
|coordinator needed
|-
|'''XBee ZNet 2.5'''
|
|yes
|Ember
|EmberZNet 2.5 ZigBee
|2.4 GHz
|2mW/50mW
|(only legacy -> use XBee-PRO ZB) coordinator needed
|-
|'''XBee DigiMesh 2.4'''
|
|yes
|Freescale
|
|2.4 GHz
|
|all nodes equal (no special coordinators/routers/end-devices)
|-
|'''XBee 802.15.4'''
|yes
|
|Freescale
|
|2.4 GHz
|
|
|-
|'''XBee-PRO 868'''
|yes
|
|?
|
|868 MHz
|500mW
|Only High Power Frequency allowed in the UK. 2.4GHz limited to 10mW
|}

==== Pinout ====

[[Image:Maxstream_Xbee_pinout.jpg|left|thumb|Maxstream XBee pinout]]
 

{|border="1"
|-valign="top"
||''Xbee 20-pin Header''||''Name''||''Notes''||''Suggested Color''||
|-
|1
| +3.3v
| Power
|Red
|-
|2
|DOUT
|Tx output - connect to Autopilot Rx
|Green
|-
|3
|DIN
|Rx input - connect to Autopilot Tx
|Blue
|-
|10
|GND
| Ground
|Black
|}

The image view is from above, top, thus NOT at the side where the connector pins come out

Note : DTR and RTS need to be wired for upgrading firmware

=== GCS Adaptation ===

There are several vendors of hardware to connect the ground XBee radio modem to the GCS computer. 
More information about general USB-Serial adapters can be found on the [[Serial_Adapter]] page.

====Adafruit====

[[Image:xbeeadapter_LRG.jpg|thumb|left|Adafruit XBee adapter board]][[Image:xbeeadapterftdi_LRG.jpg|thumb|Adafruit XBee adapter with FTDI cable]]
[http://www.adafruit.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=29&products_id=126 Adafruit] offers a great adapter board kit for the Xbee modules that includes a 5-3.3V voltage regulator, power and activity LEDs, and pins to connect directly to your FTDI cable for $10! Some assembly required.

 

====Droids====

[[Image:XBee_Simple_Board.jpg|thumb|left|XBee Simple Board]]

[[Image:XBee_USB_Board.jpg|thumb|left|XBee USB Board]]

[http://www.droids.it/cmsvb4/content.php?143-990.001-XBee-Simple-Board XBee Simple Board]

Simple breakout board with voltage regulator.

[http://www.droids.it/cmsvb4/content.php?152-990.002-XBee-USB-Board XBee USB Board]

Adapter with FTDI chip for direct usb connection.

 

====PPZUAV====

[[Image:FTDI_Utility_Board.jpg|thumb|left|FTDI Utility Board 1.0‎]]

[https://www.ppzuav.com/osc/product_info.php?products_id=111 ppzuav.com product link] 
More information at the [[Serial_Adapter#FTDI_utility_Board]] page.

FTDI Utility Board 1.0 with FTDI232RL 
On board XBEE connector and molex picoblade connectors.

 

====Sparkfun====

[[Image:XBee_Explorer_USB.jpg|thumb|left|XBee Explorer USB]]

[http://www.sparkfun.com/products/8687 sparkfun.com]

XBee Explorer USB with FTDI232RL

 

=== Digi XBee Pro DigiMesh / 802.15.4 ("Series 1") ===
*Note: Products based on XBee ZNet 2.5 (formerly Series 2) modules do not communicate with products based on XBee DigiMesh / 802.15.4 (formerly Series 1) modules.

These relatively cheap and light modules implement the [http://www.zigbee.org/en/index.asp ZigBee/IEEE 802.15.4] norm. They allow up to 1.6km (1 mile) range (Paparazzi tested to 2.5km (1.5 miles)). The main drawback of using such 2.4Ghz modules for datalink is that it will interfere with the 2.4Ghz analog video transmitters and a inevitable decrease in range when in proximity to any wifi devices. For the plane, get the whip antenna version if you are not planning to build a custom antenna.

{|
|-valign="top"
|[[Image:Xbee_Pro_USB_RF_Modem.jpg|thumb|left|XBee Pro USB Stand-alone Modem (XBP24-PKC-001-UA)]]
|
* Frequency Band 2.4GHz
* Output Power 100mW (Xbee Pro)
* Sensitivity -100 dBm
* RF Data Rate Up to 250 Kbps
* Interface data rate Up to 115.2 Kbps
* Power Draw (typical) 214 mA TX / 55 mA RX
* Supply Voltage 3.3v
* Range (typical, depends on antenna & environment) Up to 1500m line-of-sight
* Dimensions 24 x 33mm
* Weight 4 grams
* Interface 20-pin mini connector
* Chip antenna, ¼ monopole integrated whip antenna or a U.FL antenna connector (3 versions)
* Price: 16€, Pro 26€
|
[[Image:XBee_pro.jpg|thumb|left|XBee Pro OEM Modem]]
|}
Mouser: [http://au.mouser.com/Search/ProductDetail.aspx?qs=sGAEpiMZZMtJacPDJcUJYzVn8vIv7g2fIpf5DCzJqko%3d 888-XBP24-PKC-001-UA] 
NOTE: If you wish to use this unit with another XBee type other than the 802.15.4 (i.e. XBee-PRO ZB) then purchase a modem with the U.fl connector.

==== Documentation ====

* [http://www.maxstream.net/products/xbee/xbee-pro-oem-rf-module-zigbee.php product page]
* [http://www.maxstream.net/products/xbee/datasheet_XBee_OEM_RF-Modules.pdf datasheet]
* [http://www.maxstream.net/products/xbee/product-manual_XBee_OEM_RF-Modules.pdf user manual]
* To program your Xbee you need X-CTU you can download it [http://www.digi.com/support/productdetl.jsp?pid=3352&osvid=57&tp=5&s=316 here]. (only windows)
* explanation on X-CTU [http://www.ladyada.net/make/xbee/configure.html here].
* [http://ftp1.digi.com/support/firmware/update/xbee/ Drivers for XB24 and XBP24 modules]

=== Digi XBee Pro ZB / ZNet 2.5 ("Series 2") ===

The low-power XBee ZB and extended-range XBee-PRO ZB use the ZigBee PRO Feature Set for advanced mesh networking.

{|
|-valign="top"
|[[Image:XBee_Pro_2SB.jpg|thumb|left|Digi XBee Pro ZB]]
|
* Low-cost, low-power mesh networking
* Interoperability with ZigBee PRO Feature Set devices from other vendors*
* Support for larger, more dense mesh networks
* 128-bit AES encryption
* Frequency agility
* Over-the-air firmware updates (change firmware remotely)
* ISM 2.4 GHz operating frequency
* XBee: 2 mW (+3 dBm) power output (up to 400 ft RF LOS range)
* XBee-PRO: 50 mW (+17 dBm) power output (up to 1 mile RF LOS range)
* RPSMA connector, U.FL connector, Chip antenna, or Wired Whip antenna
* price : 14€, Pro 28€
|
|}
These are available from Mouser: 
[http://au.mouser.com/Search/Refine.aspx?Keyword=888-XBP24-Z7WIT-004 888-XBP24-Z7WIT-004] XBee-PRO ZB with whip antenna 
[http://au.mouser.com/Search/Refine.aspx?Keyword=XBP24-Z7SIT-004 888-XBP24-Z7SIT-004] XBee-PRO ZB with RPSMA

See [[XBee_configuration|XBee Configuration]] for setup.

==== Documentation ====
* [http://www.digi.com/products/wireless/zigbee-mesh/xbee-zb-module.jsp http://www.digi.com/products/wireless/zigbee-mesh/xbee-zb-module.jsp]

=== Digi XBee Pro 868 ===

'''WARNING - THESE MODEMS HAVE A 10% DUTY CYCLE, AND CURRENTLY HAVE SEVERE ISSUES WITH PAPARAZZI'''

868MHz is a limited band. Please read the [[868MHz Issues]]

XBee-PRO 868 modules are long range embedded RF modules for European applications. Purpose-built for exceptional RF performance, XBee-PRO 868 modules are ideal for applications with challenging RF environments, such as urban deployments, or where devices are several kilometers apart.

{|
|-valign="top"
|[[Image:xbeeproxsc-rpsma.jpg|thumb|left|Maxstream XBee Pro 868]]
|
* 868 MHz short range device (SRD) G3 band for Europe
* Software selectable Transmit Power
* 40 km RF LOS w/ dipole antennas
* 80 km RF LOS w/ high gain antennas (TX Power reduced)
* Simple to use peer-to-peer/point-to-mulitpoint topology
* 128-bit AES encryption
* 500 mW EIRP
* 24 kbps RF data rate
* price : ~70 USD
|
|}

See [[XBee_configuration#XBee_Pro_868_MHZ|XBee Configuration]] for setup.

==== Documentation ====
* [http://www.digi.com/products/wireless/point-multipoint/xbee-pro-868.jsp http://www.digi.com/products/wireless/point-multipoint/xbee-pro-868.jsp]

=== Digi XBee 868LP ===

XBee 868LP modules are a low-power 868 MHz RF module for use in Europe. The range is shorter than it's brother the XBee PRO-868, but it can use the 868 G4 band with hopping which does not have restrictions on it's duty cycle. This is a big advantage if one want to have a good stream of telemetry data

{|
|-valign="top"
|[[Image:868lp.jpg|thumb|left|XBee 868LP]]
|
* 868 MHz short range device (SRD) G4 band for Europe
* 4 km RF LOS w/ u.fl antennas
* 5 mW EIRP
* 10 or 80 kbps RF data rate
* price : 18€
|
|}

==== Documentation ====
* [http://www.digi.com/products/wireless-wired-embedded-solutions/zigbee-rf-modules/zigbee-mesh-module/xbee-868lp#overview http://www.digi.com/products/wireless-wired-embedded-solutions/zigbee-rf-modules/zigbee-mesh-module/xbee-868lp#overview]

==== Trial ====

With a quickly crafted and not optimal positioned antenna on the airframe we managed to get the advertised 4000 meter range. Data throughput was not high and the Iridium Telemetry XML configuration document was therefore used. All in all, cheap, easy to setup, pin compatible with regular modules and quite a range and usable in Europe without hassle.

=== Digi XBee Pro 900HP ===
* Frequency band 900Mhz
* RF rate 10 or 200 kbps
* up to 250mW output power
* 5 to 8 gramm
* price: 32€

==== Documentation ====
[http://ftp1.digi.com/support/documentation/90002173_H.pdf http://ftp1.digi.com/support/documentation/90002173_H.pdf]

=== Digi XBee Pro XSC 900MHz ===

Maxstream has recently announced a promising new line of modems combining the small size and low cost of their popular Xbee line with the long range and 2.4 GHz video compatibility of their high end 900 MHz models. Sounds like the perfect modem for anyone who can use 900 MHz. Give them a try and post your results here!
{|
|-valign="top"
|[[Image:xbeeproxsc-rpsma.jpg|thumb|left|Maxstream XBee Pro XSC]]
|
* Frequency Band 900 MHz
* Output Power 100 mW (+20 dBm)
* Sensitivity -100 dBm
* RF Rate: 10 or 20 kbps
* Range (typical, depends on antenna & environment) Up to 24km (15 miles) line-of-sight
* Interface 20-pin mini connector (Xbee compatible pinout)
* RPSMA, integrated whip antenna or U.FL antenna connector (3 versions)
* price : 32€
|
|}

==== Documentation ====
* [http://www.digi.com/products/wireless/point-multipoint/xbee-pro-xsc.jsp http://www.digi.com/products/wireless/point-multipoint/xbee-pro-xsc.jsp]

==== Trials ====
Tested one today and it worked great. Going to try a multiUAV test with it soon
--Danstah
 
 
MultiUAV tests concluded this is probably not the best module to use. Even though it says you can change the baudrate inside x-ctu that is not the case, it is fixed at 9600 bps. This is a great modem however for single UAV's and I do recommend.
--Danstah
 
 
Why would the European (868 MHz) be good to 24kbps and this only to 9600? When I was altering my XBees (2.4Ghz Pro's) I had this problem altering baud rates until I read you have to send a "commit and reboot" type command after setting the baud rate. Could this be the case? --GR

=== Digi 9XTend ===

These larger units have been tested on the 900Mhz band, but are also available in 2.4Ghz. They are a bit on the heavy side, about 20 grams, but give good performance at range. They have adjustable transmit power settings from 100mW to 1W. Testing has shown range up to 5.6km (3.5 Miles) with XTend set to 100mW with small 3.1dB dipole antenna.

{|
|-valign="top"
|
[[Image:XTend_USB_RF_Modem.jpg|frame|left|9XTend USB Modem]]
|
* Frequency Band 900Mhz and 2.4Ghz (2 versions)
* Output Power 1mW to 1W software selectable
* Sensitivity -110 dBm (@ 9600 bps)
* RF Data Rate 9.6 or 115.2 Kbps
* Interface data rate up to 230.4 Kbps
* Power Draw (typical) 730 mA TX / 80 mA RX
* Supply Voltage 2.8 to 5.5v
* Range (typical, depends on antenna & environment) Up to 64km line-of-sight
* Dimensions 36 x 60 x 5mm
* Weight 18 grams
* Interface 20-pin mini connector or USB
* RF connector RPSMA (Reverse-polarity SMA) or MMCX (2 versions)
* price : 150€
|
[[Image:Xtend_module.jpg|frame|left|9XTend OEM Modem]]
|}

==== Pinout ====

[[Image:Maxstream_9XTend_Pinout.gif|thumb|left|Maxstream 9XTend Pinout]]

{| border="1"
|-valign="top"
||'''''9XTend 20-pin Header'''''||'''''Name'''''||'''''Tiny Serial-1 Header'''''||'''''Notes'''''
|-
||1||GND||1 (GND)||Ground
|-
||2||VCC||2 (5V)||5V power (150mA - 730mA Supplied from servo bus or other 5V source)
|-
||5||RX||8 (TX)||3-5V TTL data input - connect to Tiny TX
|-
||6||TX||7 (RX)||5V TTL data output - connect to Tiny RX
|-
||7||Shutdown||2||This pin must be connected to the 5V bus for normal operation
|}
Notes: 
* 9XTend can run on voltages as low as 2.8V but users are strongly advised against connecting any modem (especially high power models) to the sensitive 3.3V bus supplying the autopilot processor and sensors.
 

==== Documentation ====

* [http://www.maxstream.net/products/xtend/oem-rf-module.php product page]
* [http://www.maxstream.net/products/xtend/datasheet_XTend_OEM_RF-Module.pdf datasheet]
* [http://www.maxstream.net/products/xtend/product-manual_XTend_OEM_RF-Module.pdf user manual]

==== Configuration ====

These modems need to be carefully configured based on your usage scenario to obtain the best possible range and link quality. In addition, it is always good to make sure the firmware is up to date.

Some typical configurations that may work well, but can still depend your particular situation, are given below. For further details, be sure to consult the XTend users manual. Your application may need a different or modified configuration. The radiomodems do not need identical settings and can in fact be optimized with different settings. A good example is delays and retries: if each radio has the same number of retries and no delay, when a collision occurs each will continuously try to re-transmit, locking up the transmission for some time with no resolution or successful packet delivery. Instead, it is best to set the module whose data should have a lower latency to have no delay and a lower number of retries, while the other module has a delay set (RN > 0) and a greater number of retries. See acknowledged mode example below.

* Acknowledged Polling Mode ('''Recommended'''):
** This causes one radio to be the base and the other(s) to be the remote(s). It eliminates collisions because remotes do not send data unless requested by the base. It can work in acknowledged mode (RR>0), basic reliable mode (MT>0) or in basic mode (no acknowledgement or multiple packets). It is recommended that the lower latency and/or higher data rate side be configured as the base (i.e. if you are sending lots of telemetry then the air module configured as the base is probably a good idea, but if you are using datalink joystick control, the ground side might be better as the base. It may require some experimentation).
* Acknowledged Point-to-(Multi)Point Mode:
** Each radio sends a packet and requests and acknowledgement that the packet was sent from the receiving side. The retries and delays must be set appropriately to ensure packet collisions are dealt with appropriately. It can also work without acknowledgements in basic reliable mode (MT>0) without any acknowledgements (RR=0, MT=0). Some experimentation may be required.

{| border="1"
|-valign="top"
||'''''Setting Name'''''||colspan="2"|'''''Acknowledged Mode'''''||colspan="2"|'''''Polling Mode (Acknowledged)'''''||'''''Notes'''''
|-
|| ||'''''Airside Module'''''||'''''Groundside Module'''''||'''''Base Module'''''||'''''Remote Module'''''||
|-
||BD||6||6||6||6||Adjust to match your configured autopilot and ground station baud rates (default for these is 57600bps)
|-
||DT||default||default||0x02||0x01||Can be adjusted if consistency maintained across addressing functionalities (see manual)
|-
||MD||default||default||3 (0x03)||4 (0x04)||
|-
||MT||0||0||0||0||Use this to enable Basic Reliable transmission, link bandwidth requirement increases (see manual)
|-
||MY||default||default||0x01||0x02||Can be adjusted if consistency maintained across addressing functionalities (see manual)
|-
||PB||default||default||0x02||default||Can be adjusted if consistency maintained across addressing functionalities (see manual)
|-
||PD||default||default||default||default||Can be adjusted to increase polling request rate and DI buffer flush timeout (see manual)
|-
||PE||default||default||0x02||default||Can be adjusted if consistency maintained across addressing functionalities (see manual)
|-
||PL||default||default||default||default||''Transmit power level should be reduced for lab testing!!''
|-
||RN||0 (0x00)||8 (0x08)||default||default||
|-
||RR||6 (0x06)||12 (0x0C)||6 (0x06)||12 (0x0C)||
|}

'''Note:''' All settings are assumed to be default except those listed. Those listed are in decimal unless hex 0x prefix included. Depending on your firmware version, slight modifications may be necessary.

Here is some additional information and alternative instructions to configure the polling mode from the Digi site: [http://www.digi.com/support/kbase/kbaseresultdetl?id=2178 Polling Mode for the 9XTend Radio Modem]

== SiLabs Si1000 SoC based modems ==

The Si1000 radio System on Chip (SOC) produced by SiLabs is found in a number of radio modules, for example the cheap and widely used HopeRf module. There is [https://github.com/tridge/SiK open source firmware] for these radios which makes them suitable for use in MAVs.

Note that (unlike some XBee modules) the SiK firmware does not support mesh topologies, it is strictly a point-to-point link. If you are working with swarming vehicles they may not be the best choice.

Online documentation for the Sik firmware shows how to configure it for various jurisdictions. The firmware supports 433 MHz, 470 MHz, 868 MHz and 900 MHz radios, if you are aware of any hardware supporting the European spectrum licences (868 MHz) please add them to this wiki.

Note: When using a SiK firmware radio with paparazzi, you should set "ATS6=0" (MavLink packing off) and configure paparazzi for transparent serial mode.

[http://www.rfdesign.com.au/index.php/rfd900 This module] is well proven and supports antenna diversity. A combination of 6dbi Yagi plus a dipole on the ground station, with a pair of orthogonality oriented dioples in the airframe, has been extensively tested and proven reliable at >8km range (theoretical range of ~40km).

Alternatively, for shorter range a pair of cheap generic HopeRF-based modems [http://rctimer.com/index.php?gOo=goods_details.dwt&goodsid=815 such as these]

The RFD900 can be paired with cheap generic (single front-end) modules, if for example you use a small short range airframe with a ground station that's also used for long range operations.

== Laird (ex Aerocom) ==
Lairds's API mode is already implemented but some system integration is required. Full API more with addressed packets works well and was tested with AC4790-1x1 5mW low power modules. Maximim range achieved with a whip quater-wave antenna was 1Km.

How to use this modem on ground station side? [http://paparazzi.enac.fr/wiki/index.php/User:SilaS#SDK-AC4868-250_ground_modem_part]

See folder paparazzi3 / trunk / sw / aerocomm. It has all the required files to use this modem on the airborne and ground station side. The link.ml file is a direct replacement of the "main" link.ml file of the ground sttaion and will be merged into it in the future.. or you can do it as well.

{|
|
=== AC4790-200 ===
* Frequency 902-928MHz (North America, Australia, etc).
* Output Power 5-200mW
* Sensitivity (@ full RF data rate) -110dB
* RF Data Rate up to 76.8 Kbps
* INterface Data Rate Up to Up to 115.2 Kbps
* Power Draw (typical) 68 mA
* Supply Voltage 3.3v & 5.5V
* Range (typical, depends on antenna & environment) Up to 6.4 kilometers line-of-sight
* Dimensions 42 x 48 x 5mm
* Weight < 20 grams
* Interface 20-pin mini connector
* Antenna MMCX jack Connector or internal
* price : 52€
|
[[Image:ac4868_transceiver.jpg|thumb|left|AC4868 OEM Modem]]
|
|-
|
=== AC4790-1000 ===
* Frequency 902-928MHz (North America, Australia, etc).
* Output Power 5-1000mW
* Sensitivity (@ full RF data rate) -99dB
* RF Data Rate up to 76.8 Kbps
* INterface Data Rate Up to Up to 115.2 Kbps
* Power Draw (typical) 650 mA
* Supply Voltage 3.3V only
* Range (typical, depends on antenna & environment) Up to 32 kilometers with high-gain antenna
* Dimensions 42 x 48 x 5mm
* Weight < 20 grams
* Interface 20-pin mini connector
* Antenna MMCX jack Connector
* price : 64€
|}

=== Pinout ===

[[Image:Aerocomm_AC4868_pinout.jpg|thumb|left|Laird AC4868 modem pinout]]
[[Image:Aerocomm_AC4490-200_wired.jpg|thumb|left|Laird AC4490 wiring example]]
 

{| border="1"
|+ Wiring the Laird AC4868 to the Tiny
|-valign="top"
||'''''AC4868 20-pin Header'''''||'''''Name'''''||'''''Color'''''||'''''Tiny v1.1 Serial-1'''''||'''''Tiny v2.11 Serial'''''||'''''Notes'''''
|-
||2||Tx||green||7||7||''(Note 1)''
|-
||3||Rx||blue||8||8||''(Note 1)''
|-
||5||GND||black||1||1|| -
|-
||10+11||VCC||red||2||3||+3.3v ''(Note 2)''
|-
||17||C/D||white||3||?||Low = Command High = Data
|}
''Note 1 : names are specified with respect to the AEROCOMM module''

''Note 2 : AC4790-1000 needs pins 10 and 11 jumped to work properly''

=== Laird RM024 ===
[[Image:Laird_LT2510_RM024-P125-C-01-side.jpg|thumb|RM024 P125]]
[[Image:Lt2510_prm123.jpg|thumb|LT2510 Modem]]
The RM024 replaces the discontinued LT2510 (they are backwards compatible).

General features:
* Frequency Band 2.4GHz
* Output Power 2,5mW - 125mW
* Sensitivity -98dbm @ 280kbps/-94 dBm @ 500kbps
* RF Data Rate 280/500 kbps
* UART up to 460800 baud
* Power Draw 90mA - 180mA TX / 10mA RX
* Supply Voltage 3.3v
* Range up to 4000m
* Dimensions 26 x 33 x 4mm
* Weight 4 grams
* Interface 20-pin mini connector (smd solder pad or XBee compatible pin header)
* Chip antenna, U.FL antenna connector or both
* Price: 29-31€ @ mouser (SMD / XBEE header)

Two different mounting/pinuts are available: 
* smd version: can be soldered on a pcb 
* pin header: standard XBEE pinout (this is the SMD version mounted on a seperate pcb with male pin headers)

Available in two different output power versions:
{|border="1"
|-valign="top"
||''value''||''50mW version''||''125mW version''
|-
|output power
| 2,5 mW - 50 mW
| 2,5 mW - 125 mW
|-
|output power dbm
|4 dbm - 17 dbm
|4 dbm - 21 dbm
|-
|TX drain
|90mA
|<180mA
|-
|max range (280kbps with 2 dbi antenna)
|2400m
|4000m
|-
|approval
|CE for EU, FCC/IC for USA,
Canada PRM122/123 also for Japan
|FCC/IC for USA, Canada
|}

The RM024 uses frequency hopping (FHSS) which needs a client/server model. That means that one modem (most appropriately the ground station modem) needs to be set to server mode. It will transmit a beacon message and have all client modems synchronize to that in a time and frequency hopping scheme manner. For that all modems need to have the same channel (in fact the hopping scheme) and system-id. Clients can be set to auto-channel and auto-system-id to follow any/the first visible server.

====Documentation====
[http://www.lairdtech.com/WorkArea/DownloadAsset.aspx?id=2147488576 RM024 User Manual] 
[http://www.lairdtech.com/WorkArea/linkit.aspx?LinkIdentifier=id&ItemID=4379 LT2510 User Manual] 
[http://www.lairdtech.com/zips/Developer_Kit.zip Windows configuration tool]

'''Setup'''

Look at the [[Laird_RM024_setup page]]

== Bluetooth ==
These modems do not give you a great range but Bluetooth can be found in a lot of recent laptops built-in. Maybe not useful for fixed wing aircrafts it might be used for in-the-shop testing or quadcopters. Make sure you get a recent Class 1 EDR 2.0 stick if you buy one for your computer.
{|
|
=== RN-41 Bluetooth module(Sparkfun's WRL-08497) ===
* Frequency Band 2.4GHz
* Output Power 32 mW
* RF Data Rate up to ~300 kbps in SPP
* Interface Data Rate up to 921 kbps
* Power Draw (typical) 50 mA TX / 40 mA RX
* Supply Voltage 3.3v
* Range (typical, depends on antenna & environment) 100 meters line-of-sight
* Dimensions 26 x 13 x 2mm
* Weight ~1.5 grams
* Interface solder connector
* price : 20€
|
[[Image:roving_nw_wiring.jpg|thumb|Roving Networks modem wiring]]
|-
|

To connect to it, get the MAC address of the bluetooth modem

me@mybox:~$ hcitool scan
Scanning ...
00:06:66:00:53:AD FireFly-53AD

either make a virtual connection to a Bluetooth serial port each time you connect

sudo rfcomm bind 0 00:06:66:00:53:AD

or configure it once in /etc/bluetooth/rfcomm.conf

rfcomm0 {
bind yes;
device 00:06:66:00:53:AD;
}

now you can use Bluetooth as '''/dev/rfcomm0''' with the Paparazzi 'link'. You might need to restart 'link' in case you get out of range and it disconnects (tbd). Set the Tiny serial speed to 115200 as the modules come preconfigured to that.
|}

== ESP8266 WiFi Module ==

[[File:ESP8266.jpg|thumbnail|left|ESP8266 WiFi module]]
Connect directly to the autopilot from your computers built-in WiFi connection. No additional devices are required. This chip was sucesfully tested in the lab, but no test flights have been performed yet.

The chip was flashed with [https://github.com/beckdac/ESP8266-transparent-bridge transparent bridge firwmware] using [https://github.com/themadinventor/esptool esptool]. When connected trough WiFi, you can use telnet to set the baud rate.

telnet 192.168.4.1
+++AT BAUD 57000

To use with paparazzi GCS, the TCP signals need to be tunneled to a virtual serial device. This was accomplished with socat

socat -d -d PTY,link=/dev/mywifi TCP:192.168.4.1:23

 

== Telemetry via Video Transmitter==

[[Image:video_tx_small.jpg|thumb|2.4GHz Video Transmitter]]
In order for the UAV to transmit video from an onboard camera, an analog video transmitter can be used. These vary in power, and thus range, and run normally on 2.4Ghz. Small UAVs can get about 600m of range from the 50mW version, and extended range can be achieved using units up to 1W. Weight for these units varies from a couple grams to about 30 for the 1W with shielding. Please check for your countries regulations on 2.4Ghz transmission, as each is different.

It is possible to use the audio channel to send simple telemetry data to the groundstation. Uploading telemetry not possible via analog audio transmitter only.
 

== Antennas ==

Here are some examples of lightweight and efficient 868MHz antennas developped by the RF laboratory at ENAC.
[[Image:868mhz_twinstar_antenna_1.jpg|thumb|left|868MHz copper foil antenna attached to the aircraft tail]]
[[Image:868mhz_twinstar_antenna_2.jpg|thumb|left|868MHz copper foil antenna bottom view]]
[[Image:868mhz_ground_antenna.jpg|thumb|left|868MHz ground antenna]]
 

This wiki page might give some ideas about antennas: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dipole_antenna

[[Category:Hardware]]

Modems

2015-03-29T10:11:49Z

BartSlinger:

The Paparazzi autopilots generally feature a TTL serial port to interface with any common radio modem. The bidirectional link provides real-time telemetry and in-flight tuning and navigation commands. The system is also capable overlaying the appropriate protocols to communicate thru non-transparent devices such as the Coronis Wavecard or Maxstream API-enabled products, allowing for hardware addressing for multiple aircraft or future enhancements such as data-relaying, inter-aircraft communication, RSSI signal monitoring and automatic in-flight modem power adjustment. Below is a list of some of the common modems used with Paparazzi, for details on configuring your modem see the [[Airframe_Configuration#Telemetry_.28Modem.29|Airframe Configuration]] and [[XBee_configuration|XBee Configuration]] pages.

==General comparison==
'''This is ONLY a comparison between modules (found on this page) which work acceptably'''

All modules listed here work without issue and are generally available.
{| border="1" cellspacing="0" style="text-align:center" cellpadding="2%"
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''Feature'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Digi_XBee_Pro_DigiMesh_.2F_802.15.4_.28.22Series_1.22.29|XBee Series 1]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Digi_XBee_Pro_DigiMesh_.2F_802.15.4_.28.22Series_1.22.29|XBee Pro Series 1]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Digi_XBee_Pro_ZB_.2F_ZNet_2.5_.28.22Series_2.22.29|XBee Series 2]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Digi_XBee_Pro_ZB_.2F_ZNet_2.5_.28.22Series_2.22.29|XBee Pro Series 2]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Digi_XBee_868LP|XBee 868LP]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Digi_XBee_Pro_900HP|XBee Pro 900HP]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Digi_XBee_Pro_XSC_900MHz|XBee Pro XSC 900]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Digi_9XTend|Digi 9XTend]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#SiLabs_Si1000_SoC_based_modems|SiLabs Si1000]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#AC4790-200|Aerocom AC4790-200]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#AC4790-1000|Aerocom AC4790-1000]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Laird_RM024|Laird RM024 50mW]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Laird_RM024|Laird RM024 125mW]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#RN-41_Bluetooth_module.28Sparkfun.27s_WRL-08497.29|RN-41 Bluetooth]]'''
|-
| style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''frequency'''||2,4GHz||2,4GHz||2,4GHz||2,4GHz||868MHz||900MHz||900MHz||900MHz, 2.4GHz||240-960MHz||900MHz||900MHz||2,4GHz||2,4GHz||2,4GHz
|-
| style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''output power'''||1mW||63mW (US) 10 mW (Int'l)||2mW||63mW||5mW||250mW||250mW||1mW-1W||max 100mW||5-200mW||5-1000mW||2,5-50mW||2,5-125mW||32mW
|-
| style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''RF speed'''||250kbps||250kbps||250kbps||250kbps||10kbps, 80kbps||10 or 200kbps||10, 20kbps||9.6, 115.2kbps|| ||76.8kbps||76.8kbps||280, 500kbps||280, 500kbps||300kbps
|-
| style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''antenna'''||chip, wire, rpsma, u.fl||chip, wire, rpsma, u.fl||chip, wire, rpsma, u.fl||chip, wire, rpsma, u.fl||external required||wire, rpsma, u.fl||wire, rpsma, u.fl||rpsma, MMCX||external required||MMCX, internal Antenna||MMCX||u.fl, chip, both||u.fl, chip, both||pcb trace
|-
| style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''pinout'''||XBee||XBee||XBee||XBee||SMD||XBee||XBee||20 pin 2,54mm/USB||SMD (42 pin LGA)||20 pin mini connector||20 pin mini connector||XBee/SMD||XBee/SMD||SMD
|-
| style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''price'''||16€||26€||14€||28€||18€||32€||32€||150€||4€||52€||64€||30€||30€||20€
|-
| style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''for Country'''||Worldwide||Worldwide||Worldwide||Worldwide||Europe||North America, Australia||North America, Australia||Worldwide||Worldwide||North America, Australia||North America, Australia||Europe||North America||Worldwide
|}

== Frequencies ==

Analog and digital signals (video and data/modem) can not be transmitted over the same frequency band since the analog signal will "block" the digital one. (Attention ! the common 2.4 or 5.8GHz frequencies have multiple channels, if the analog and digital transmitter/receiver modules are set up to different channels/frequencies, they should work (even on 2.4GHz)).

You may want to inform yourself about your countries laws ! Different countries allow different frequencies at different power. 
Sending on a wrong frequency or with too much power may end in a serious lawsuit !

Digi: [http://www.digi.com/technology/rfmodems/agencyapprovals Government Agency Certifications]

== HAM / CEPT Licence ==

If possible, consider making a HAM radio (amateur radio) licence. (e.g. CEPT, depends on yur locality)

You will learn about the radio technology, operational technology and legislation. 
With a HAM radio licence, you can also use other frequencies or transmit on a higher power. (e.g. In some countries, the 5.8GHz video transmission is for non licenced people restricted to 10mW!) 

'''Licence Pros'''
* You will be informed well about the (local and international) legislations.
* You can transmit on a higher power (depends on frequency).
* You will learn a lot about the techniques and be more than a standard "consumer" of radio electronic products.
* It will be easier to find faults in your radio systems.
* You can built (if you want) high gain/focused antennas which can gice you a better signal, wider range and won't disturb anyone else.
* Well educated prople respecting the legislation just looks much better in looks to UAV's :)

'''Licence Cons'''
* You will need to learn for the test (can be compared with a diverce licence).
* The certificate and books will cost about 70€ (total, can vary !).
* Maybe some costs (per year) for your call sign.

=== CEPT Licence in Austria ===

A short description about getting the CEPT 1 (not the CEPT Novice !) licence in Austria.

You will need the appropriate books which cost 50€ (70€ if you want them with the ask catalog and answers which can be helpful) and rough 18€ for the exam and certificate. The ÖVSV offers also some courses, but you can also learn everything with the books.

To be continued...

=== Links ===

[http://www.oevsv.at/ Austrian ÖVSV] 
[http://www.darc.de/ German DARC]

== Digi XBee modules ==

Digi (formerly Maxstream) offers an increasing variety of Zigbee protocol modems well suited for Paparazzi in 2.4 GHz, 900MHz and 868Mhz frequencies. The "Pro" series are long range, up to 40km! Standard series are slightly smaller/lighter/lower power consumption and very short range. All versions are all pin compatible and weigh around 2 grams with wire antennas. All Digi modems can be operated in transparent mode (as a serial line replacement) or in "API mode" with hardware addressing, managed networking, and RSSI (signal strength) data with the Paparazzi "Xbee" option.

Four antenna options are offered: RP-SMA, U-FL, wire antenna, chip antenna

* XBee (PRO) ZB (the current series)
* XBee (PRO) ZNet 2.5 (formerly Series 2) (only legacy -> use XBee-PRO ZB)
The XBee & XBee-PRO ZB share hardware (ember stack) with XBee & XBee-PRO ZNet 2.5. As a result, modules can be "converted" from one platform to another by loading different firmware onto a given module.

These two also share the same hardware and can be converted from one to another by flashing a different firmware:
* XBee-PRO 802.15.4 (formerly Series 1)
* XBee-PRO DigiMesh 2.4

'''Note: Modules based on Freescale chipset (formerly Series 1) are not compatible with Ember chipset based modules (Series 2).'''

If only point to point or point to multipoint communication is required 802.15.4 will do the job. These are designed for high data rates and low latency. 
Modules with Zigbee firmware are needed for mesh functionality(communication between the UAV's)

See the [[XBee_configuration|XBee Configuration]] page. This [http://pixhawk.ethz.ch/tutorials/how_to_configure_xbee tutorial] is also good to configure and get started with XBee Pro.

=== Module Comparison ===
{|border="1"
|-valign="top"
||'''Module'''||'''Point-to-Multipoint'''||'''ZigBee/Mesh'''||'''Chipset'''|||'''Software stack'''||'''Frequency'''||'''TX Power normal/PRO'''||'''Notes'''
|-
|'''XBee ZB'''
|
|yes
|Ember
|EmberZNet PRO 3.1 (ZigBee 2007)
|2.4 GHz
|2mW/50mW
|coordinator needed
|-
|'''XBee ZNet 2.5'''
|
|yes
|Ember
|EmberZNet 2.5 ZigBee
|2.4 GHz
|2mW/50mW
|(only legacy -> use XBee-PRO ZB) coordinator needed
|-
|'''XBee DigiMesh 2.4'''
|
|yes
|Freescale
|
|2.4 GHz
|
|all nodes equal (no special coordinators/routers/end-devices)
|-
|'''XBee 802.15.4'''
|yes
|
|Freescale
|
|2.4 GHz
|
|
|-
|'''XBee-PRO 868'''
|yes
|
|?
|
|868 MHz
|500mW
|Only High Power Frequency allowed in the UK. 2.4GHz limited to 10mW
|}

==== Pinout ====

[[Image:Maxstream_Xbee_pinout.jpg|left|thumb|Maxstream XBee pinout]]
 

{|border="1"
|-valign="top"
||''Xbee 20-pin Header''||''Name''||''Notes''||''Suggested Color''||
|-
|1
| +3.3v
| Power
|Red
|-
|2
|DOUT
|Tx output - connect to Autopilot Rx
|Green
|-
|3
|DIN
|Rx input - connect to Autopilot Tx
|Blue
|-
|10
|GND
| Ground
|Black
|}

The image view is from above, top, thus NOT at the side where the connector pins come out

Note : DTR and RTS need to be wired for upgrading firmware

=== GCS Adaptation ===

There are several vendors of hardware to connect the ground XBee radio modem to the GCS computer. 
More information about general USB-Serial adapters can be found on the [[Serial_Adapter]] page.

====Adafruit====

[[Image:xbeeadapter_LRG.jpg|thumb|left|Adafruit XBee adapter board]][[Image:xbeeadapterftdi_LRG.jpg|thumb|Adafruit XBee adapter with FTDI cable]]
[http://www.adafruit.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=29&products_id=126 Adafruit] offers a great adapter board kit for the Xbee modules that includes a 5-3.3V voltage regulator, power and activity LEDs, and pins to connect directly to your FTDI cable for $10! Some assembly required.

 

====Droids====

[[Image:XBee_Simple_Board.jpg|thumb|left|XBee Simple Board]]

[[Image:XBee_USB_Board.jpg|thumb|left|XBee USB Board]]

[http://www.droids.it/cmsvb4/content.php?143-990.001-XBee-Simple-Board XBee Simple Board]

Simple breakout board with voltage regulator.

[http://www.droids.it/cmsvb4/content.php?152-990.002-XBee-USB-Board XBee USB Board]

Adapter with FTDI chip for direct usb connection.

 

====PPZUAV====

[[Image:FTDI_Utility_Board.jpg|thumb|left|FTDI Utility Board 1.0‎]]

[https://www.ppzuav.com/osc/product_info.php?products_id=111 ppzuav.com product link] 
More information at the [[Serial_Adapter#FTDI_utility_Board]] page.

FTDI Utility Board 1.0 with FTDI232RL 
On board XBEE connector and molex picoblade connectors.

 

====Sparkfun====

[[Image:XBee_Explorer_USB.jpg|thumb|left|XBee Explorer USB]]

[http://www.sparkfun.com/products/8687 sparkfun.com]

XBee Explorer USB with FTDI232RL

 

=== Digi XBee Pro DigiMesh / 802.15.4 ("Series 1") ===
*Note: Products based on XBee ZNet 2.5 (formerly Series 2) modules do not communicate with products based on XBee DigiMesh / 802.15.4 (formerly Series 1) modules.

These relatively cheap and light modules implement the [http://www.zigbee.org/en/index.asp ZigBee/IEEE 802.15.4] norm. They allow up to 1.6km (1 mile) range (Paparazzi tested to 2.5km (1.5 miles)). The main drawback of using such 2.4Ghz modules for datalink is that it will interfere with the 2.4Ghz analog video transmitters and a inevitable decrease in range when in proximity to any wifi devices. For the plane, get the whip antenna version if you are not planning to build a custom antenna.

{|
|-valign="top"
|[[Image:Xbee_Pro_USB_RF_Modem.jpg|thumb|left|XBee Pro USB Stand-alone Modem (XBP24-PKC-001-UA)]]
|
* Frequency Band 2.4GHz
* Output Power 100mW (Xbee Pro)
* Sensitivity -100 dBm
* RF Data Rate Up to 250 Kbps
* Interface data rate Up to 115.2 Kbps
* Power Draw (typical) 214 mA TX / 55 mA RX
* Supply Voltage 3.3v
* Range (typical, depends on antenna & environment) Up to 1500m line-of-sight
* Dimensions 24 x 33mm
* Weight 4 grams
* Interface 20-pin mini connector
* Chip antenna, ¼ monopole integrated whip antenna or a U.FL antenna connector (3 versions)
* Price: 16€, Pro 26€
|
[[Image:XBee_pro.jpg|thumb|left|XBee Pro OEM Modem]]
|}
Mouser: [http://au.mouser.com/Search/ProductDetail.aspx?qs=sGAEpiMZZMtJacPDJcUJYzVn8vIv7g2fIpf5DCzJqko%3d 888-XBP24-PKC-001-UA] 
NOTE: If you wish to use this unit with another XBee type other than the 802.15.4 (i.e. XBee-PRO ZB) then purchase a modem with the U.fl connector.

==== Documentation ====

* [http://www.maxstream.net/products/xbee/xbee-pro-oem-rf-module-zigbee.php product page]
* [http://www.maxstream.net/products/xbee/datasheet_XBee_OEM_RF-Modules.pdf datasheet]
* [http://www.maxstream.net/products/xbee/product-manual_XBee_OEM_RF-Modules.pdf user manual]
* To program your Xbee you need X-CTU you can download it [http://www.digi.com/support/productdetl.jsp?pid=3352&osvid=57&tp=5&s=316 here]. (only windows)
* explanation on X-CTU [http://www.ladyada.net/make/xbee/configure.html here].
* [http://ftp1.digi.com/support/firmware/update/xbee/ Drivers for XB24 and XBP24 modules]

=== Digi XBee Pro ZB / ZNet 2.5 ("Series 2") ===

The low-power XBee ZB and extended-range XBee-PRO ZB use the ZigBee PRO Feature Set for advanced mesh networking.

{|
|-valign="top"
|[[Image:XBee_Pro_2SB.jpg|thumb|left|Digi XBee Pro ZB]]
|
* Low-cost, low-power mesh networking
* Interoperability with ZigBee PRO Feature Set devices from other vendors*
* Support for larger, more dense mesh networks
* 128-bit AES encryption
* Frequency agility
* Over-the-air firmware updates (change firmware remotely)
* ISM 2.4 GHz operating frequency
* XBee: 2 mW (+3 dBm) power output (up to 400 ft RF LOS range)
* XBee-PRO: 50 mW (+17 dBm) power output (up to 1 mile RF LOS range)
* RPSMA connector, U.FL connector, Chip antenna, or Wired Whip antenna
* price : 14€, Pro 28€
|
|}
These are available from Mouser: 
[http://au.mouser.com/Search/Refine.aspx?Keyword=888-XBP24-Z7WIT-004 888-XBP24-Z7WIT-004] XBee-PRO ZB with whip antenna 
[http://au.mouser.com/Search/Refine.aspx?Keyword=XBP24-Z7SIT-004 888-XBP24-Z7SIT-004] XBee-PRO ZB with RPSMA

See [[XBee_configuration|XBee Configuration]] for setup.

==== Documentation ====
* [http://www.digi.com/products/wireless/zigbee-mesh/xbee-zb-module.jsp http://www.digi.com/products/wireless/zigbee-mesh/xbee-zb-module.jsp]

=== Digi XBee Pro 868 ===

'''WARNING - THESE MODEMS HAVE A 10% DUTY CYCLE, AND CURRENTLY HAVE SEVERE ISSUES WITH PAPARAZZI'''

868MHz is a limited band. Please read the [[868MHz Issues]]

XBee-PRO 868 modules are long range embedded RF modules for European applications. Purpose-built for exceptional RF performance, XBee-PRO 868 modules are ideal for applications with challenging RF environments, such as urban deployments, or where devices are several kilometers apart.

{|
|-valign="top"
|[[Image:xbeeproxsc-rpsma.jpg|thumb|left|Maxstream XBee Pro 868]]
|
* 868 MHz short range device (SRD) G3 band for Europe
* Software selectable Transmit Power
* 40 km RF LOS w/ dipole antennas
* 80 km RF LOS w/ high gain antennas (TX Power reduced)
* Simple to use peer-to-peer/point-to-mulitpoint topology
* 128-bit AES encryption
* 500 mW EIRP
* 24 kbps RF data rate
* price : ~70 USD
|
|}

See [[XBee_configuration#XBee_Pro_868_MHZ|XBee Configuration]] for setup.

==== Documentation ====
* [http://www.digi.com/products/wireless/point-multipoint/xbee-pro-868.jsp http://www.digi.com/products/wireless/point-multipoint/xbee-pro-868.jsp]

=== Digi XBee 868LP ===

XBee 868LP modules are a low-power 868 MHz RF module for use in Europe. The range is shorter than it's brother the XBee PRO-868, but it can use the 868 G4 band with hopping which does not have restrictions on it's duty cycle. This is a big advantage if one want to have a good stream of telemetry data

{|
|-valign="top"
|[[Image:868lp.jpg|thumb|left|XBee 868LP]]
|
* 868 MHz short range device (SRD) G4 band for Europe
* 4 km RF LOS w/ u.fl antennas
* 5 mW EIRP
* 10 or 80 kbps RF data rate
* price : 18€
|
|}

==== Documentation ====
* [http://www.digi.com/products/wireless-wired-embedded-solutions/zigbee-rf-modules/zigbee-mesh-module/xbee-868lp#overview http://www.digi.com/products/wireless-wired-embedded-solutions/zigbee-rf-modules/zigbee-mesh-module/xbee-868lp#overview]

==== Trial ====

With a quickly crafted and not optimal positioned antenna on the airframe we managed to get the advertised 4000 meter range. Data throughput was not high and the Iridium Telemetry XML configuration document was therefore used. All in all, cheap, easy to setup, pin compatible with regular modules and quite a range and usable in Europe without hassle.

=== Digi XBee Pro 900HP ===
* Frequency band 900Mhz
* RF rate 10 or 200 kbps
* up to 250mW output power
* 5 to 8 gramm
* price: 32€

==== Documentation ====
[http://ftp1.digi.com/support/documentation/90002173_H.pdf http://ftp1.digi.com/support/documentation/90002173_H.pdf]

=== Digi XBee Pro XSC 900MHz ===

Maxstream has recently announced a promising new line of modems combining the small size and low cost of their popular Xbee line with the long range and 2.4 GHz video compatibility of their high end 900 MHz models. Sounds like the perfect modem for anyone who can use 900 MHz. Give them a try and post your results here!
{|
|-valign="top"
|[[Image:xbeeproxsc-rpsma.jpg|thumb|left|Maxstream XBee Pro XSC]]
|
* Frequency Band 900 MHz
* Output Power 100 mW (+20 dBm)
* Sensitivity -100 dBm
* RF Rate: 10 or 20 kbps
* Range (typical, depends on antenna & environment) Up to 24km (15 miles) line-of-sight
* Interface 20-pin mini connector (Xbee compatible pinout)
* RPSMA, integrated whip antenna or U.FL antenna connector (3 versions)
* price : 32€
|
|}

==== Documentation ====
* [http://www.digi.com/products/wireless/point-multipoint/xbee-pro-xsc.jsp http://www.digi.com/products/wireless/point-multipoint/xbee-pro-xsc.jsp]

==== Trials ====
Tested one today and it worked great. Going to try a multiUAV test with it soon
--Danstah
 
 
MultiUAV tests concluded this is probably not the best module to use. Even though it says you can change the baudrate inside x-ctu that is not the case, it is fixed at 9600 bps. This is a great modem however for single UAV's and I do recommend.
--Danstah
 
 
Why would the European (868 MHz) be good to 24kbps and this only to 9600? When I was altering my XBees (2.4Ghz Pro's) I had this problem altering baud rates until I read you have to send a "commit and reboot" type command after setting the baud rate. Could this be the case? --GR

=== Digi 9XTend ===

These larger units have been tested on the 900Mhz band, but are also available in 2.4Ghz. They are a bit on the heavy side, about 20 grams, but give good performance at range. They have adjustable transmit power settings from 100mW to 1W. Testing has shown range up to 5.6km (3.5 Miles) with XTend set to 100mW with small 3.1dB dipole antenna.

{|
|-valign="top"
|
[[Image:XTend_USB_RF_Modem.jpg|frame|left|9XTend USB Modem]]
|
* Frequency Band 900Mhz and 2.4Ghz (2 versions)
* Output Power 1mW to 1W software selectable
* Sensitivity -110 dBm (@ 9600 bps)
* RF Data Rate 9.6 or 115.2 Kbps
* Interface data rate up to 230.4 Kbps
* Power Draw (typical) 730 mA TX / 80 mA RX
* Supply Voltage 2.8 to 5.5v
* Range (typical, depends on antenna & environment) Up to 64km line-of-sight
* Dimensions 36 x 60 x 5mm
* Weight 18 grams
* Interface 20-pin mini connector or USB
* RF connector RPSMA (Reverse-polarity SMA) or MMCX (2 versions)
* price : 150€
|
[[Image:Xtend_module.jpg|frame|left|9XTend OEM Modem]]
|}

==== Pinout ====

[[Image:Maxstream_9XTend_Pinout.gif|thumb|left|Maxstream 9XTend Pinout]]

{| border="1"
|-valign="top"
||'''''9XTend 20-pin Header'''''||'''''Name'''''||'''''Tiny Serial-1 Header'''''||'''''Notes'''''
|-
||1||GND||1 (GND)||Ground
|-
||2||VCC||2 (5V)||5V power (150mA - 730mA Supplied from servo bus or other 5V source)
|-
||5||RX||8 (TX)||3-5V TTL data input - connect to Tiny TX
|-
||6||TX||7 (RX)||5V TTL data output - connect to Tiny RX
|-
||7||Shutdown||2||This pin must be connected to the 5V bus for normal operation
|}
Notes: 
* 9XTend can run on voltages as low as 2.8V but users are strongly advised against connecting any modem (especially high power models) to the sensitive 3.3V bus supplying the autopilot processor and sensors.
 

==== Documentation ====

* [http://www.maxstream.net/products/xtend/oem-rf-module.php product page]
* [http://www.maxstream.net/products/xtend/datasheet_XTend_OEM_RF-Module.pdf datasheet]
* [http://www.maxstream.net/products/xtend/product-manual_XTend_OEM_RF-Module.pdf user manual]

==== Configuration ====

These modems need to be carefully configured based on your usage scenario to obtain the best possible range and link quality. In addition, it is always good to make sure the firmware is up to date.

Some typical configurations that may work well, but can still depend your particular situation, are given below. For further details, be sure to consult the XTend users manual. Your application may need a different or modified configuration. The radiomodems do not need identical settings and can in fact be optimized with different settings. A good example is delays and retries: if each radio has the same number of retries and no delay, when a collision occurs each will continuously try to re-transmit, locking up the transmission for some time with no resolution or successful packet delivery. Instead, it is best to set the module whose data should have a lower latency to have no delay and a lower number of retries, while the other module has a delay set (RN > 0) and a greater number of retries. See acknowledged mode example below.

* Acknowledged Polling Mode ('''Recommended'''):
** This causes one radio to be the base and the other(s) to be the remote(s). It eliminates collisions because remotes do not send data unless requested by the base. It can work in acknowledged mode (RR>0), basic reliable mode (MT>0) or in basic mode (no acknowledgement or multiple packets). It is recommended that the lower latency and/or higher data rate side be configured as the base (i.e. if you are sending lots of telemetry then the air module configured as the base is probably a good idea, but if you are using datalink joystick control, the ground side might be better as the base. It may require some experimentation).
* Acknowledged Point-to-(Multi)Point Mode:
** Each radio sends a packet and requests and acknowledgement that the packet was sent from the receiving side. The retries and delays must be set appropriately to ensure packet collisions are dealt with appropriately. It can also work without acknowledgements in basic reliable mode (MT>0) without any acknowledgements (RR=0, MT=0). Some experimentation may be required.

{| border="1"
|-valign="top"
||'''''Setting Name'''''||colspan="2"|'''''Acknowledged Mode'''''||colspan="2"|'''''Polling Mode (Acknowledged)'''''||'''''Notes'''''
|-
|| ||'''''Airside Module'''''||'''''Groundside Module'''''||'''''Base Module'''''||'''''Remote Module'''''||
|-
||BD||6||6||6||6||Adjust to match your configured autopilot and ground station baud rates (default for these is 57600bps)
|-
||DT||default||default||0x02||0x01||Can be adjusted if consistency maintained across addressing functionalities (see manual)
|-
||MD||default||default||3 (0x03)||4 (0x04)||
|-
||MT||0||0||0||0||Use this to enable Basic Reliable transmission, link bandwidth requirement increases (see manual)
|-
||MY||default||default||0x01||0x02||Can be adjusted if consistency maintained across addressing functionalities (see manual)
|-
||PB||default||default||0x02||default||Can be adjusted if consistency maintained across addressing functionalities (see manual)
|-
||PD||default||default||default||default||Can be adjusted to increase polling request rate and DI buffer flush timeout (see manual)
|-
||PE||default||default||0x02||default||Can be adjusted if consistency maintained across addressing functionalities (see manual)
|-
||PL||default||default||default||default||''Transmit power level should be reduced for lab testing!!''
|-
||RN||0 (0x00)||8 (0x08)||default||default||
|-
||RR||6 (0x06)||12 (0x0C)||6 (0x06)||12 (0x0C)||
|}

'''Note:''' All settings are assumed to be default except those listed. Those listed are in decimal unless hex 0x prefix included. Depending on your firmware version, slight modifications may be necessary.

Here is some additional information and alternative instructions to configure the polling mode from the Digi site: [http://www.digi.com/support/kbase/kbaseresultdetl?id=2178 Polling Mode for the 9XTend Radio Modem]

== SiLabs Si1000 SoC based modems ==

The Si1000 radio System on Chip (SOC) produced by SiLabs is found in a number of radio modules, for example the cheap and widely used HopeRf module. There is [https://github.com/tridge/SiK open source firmware] for these radios which makes them suitable for use in MAVs.

Note that (unlike some XBee modules) the SiK firmware does not support mesh topologies, it is strictly a point-to-point link. If you are working with swarming vehicles they may not be the best choice.

Online documentation for the Sik firmware shows how to configure it for various jurisdictions. The firmware supports 433 MHz, 470 MHz, 868 MHz and 900 MHz radios, if you are aware of any hardware supporting the European spectrum licences (868 MHz) please add them to this wiki.

Note: When using a SiK firmware radio with paparazzi, you should set "ATS6=0" (MavLink packing off) and configure paparazzi for transparent serial mode.

[http://www.rfdesign.com.au/index.php/rfd900 This module] is well proven and supports antenna diversity. A combination of 6dbi Yagi plus a dipole on the ground station, with a pair of orthogonality oriented dioples in the airframe, has been extensively tested and proven reliable at >8km range (theoretical range of ~40km).

Alternatively, for shorter range a pair of cheap generic HopeRF-based modems [http://rctimer.com/index.php?gOo=goods_details.dwt&goodsid=815 such as these]

The RFD900 can be paired with cheap generic (single front-end) modules, if for example you use a small short range airframe with a ground station that's also used for long range operations.

== Laird (ex Aerocom) ==
Lairds's API mode is already implemented but some system integration is required. Full API more with addressed packets works well and was tested with AC4790-1x1 5mW low power modules. Maximim range achieved with a whip quater-wave antenna was 1Km.

How to use this modem on ground station side? [http://paparazzi.enac.fr/wiki/index.php/User:SilaS#SDK-AC4868-250_ground_modem_part]

See folder paparazzi3 / trunk / sw / aerocomm. It has all the required files to use this modem on the airborne and ground station side. The link.ml file is a direct replacement of the "main" link.ml file of the ground sttaion and will be merged into it in the future.. or you can do it as well.

{|
|
=== AC4790-200 ===
* Frequency 902-928MHz (North America, Australia, etc).
* Output Power 5-200mW
* Sensitivity (@ full RF data rate) -110dB
* RF Data Rate up to 76.8 Kbps
* INterface Data Rate Up to Up to 115.2 Kbps
* Power Draw (typical) 68 mA
* Supply Voltage 3.3v & 5.5V
* Range (typical, depends on antenna & environment) Up to 6.4 kilometers line-of-sight
* Dimensions 42 x 48 x 5mm
* Weight < 20 grams
* Interface 20-pin mini connector
* Antenna MMCX jack Connector or internal
* price : 52€
|
[[Image:ac4868_transceiver.jpg|thumb|left|AC4868 OEM Modem]]
|
|-
|
=== AC4790-1000 ===
* Frequency 902-928MHz (North America, Australia, etc).
* Output Power 5-1000mW
* Sensitivity (@ full RF data rate) -99dB
* RF Data Rate up to 76.8 Kbps
* INterface Data Rate Up to Up to 115.2 Kbps
* Power Draw (typical) 650 mA
* Supply Voltage 3.3V only
* Range (typical, depends on antenna & environment) Up to 32 kilometers with high-gain antenna
* Dimensions 42 x 48 x 5mm
* Weight < 20 grams
* Interface 20-pin mini connector
* Antenna MMCX jack Connector
* price : 64€
|}

=== Pinout ===

[[Image:Aerocomm_AC4868_pinout.jpg|thumb|left|Laird AC4868 modem pinout]]
[[Image:Aerocomm_AC4490-200_wired.jpg|thumb|left|Laird AC4490 wiring example]]
 

{| border="1"
|+ Wiring the Laird AC4868 to the Tiny
|-valign="top"
||'''''AC4868 20-pin Header'''''||'''''Name'''''||'''''Color'''''||'''''Tiny v1.1 Serial-1'''''||'''''Tiny v2.11 Serial'''''||'''''Notes'''''
|-
||2||Tx||green||7||7||''(Note 1)''
|-
||3||Rx||blue||8||8||''(Note 1)''
|-
||5||GND||black||1||1|| -
|-
||10+11||VCC||red||2||3||+3.3v ''(Note 2)''
|-
||17||C/D||white||3||?||Low = Command High = Data
|}
''Note 1 : names are specified with respect to the AEROCOMM module''

''Note 2 : AC4790-1000 needs pins 10 and 11 jumped to work properly''

=== Laird RM024 ===
[[Image:Laird_LT2510_RM024-P125-C-01-side.jpg|thumb|RM024 P125]]
[[Image:Lt2510_prm123.jpg|thumb|LT2510 Modem]]
The RM024 replaces the discontinued LT2510 (they are backwards compatible).

General features:
* Frequency Band 2.4GHz
* Output Power 2,5mW - 125mW
* Sensitivity -98dbm @ 280kbps/-94 dBm @ 500kbps
* RF Data Rate 280/500 kbps
* UART up to 460800 baud
* Power Draw 90mA - 180mA TX / 10mA RX
* Supply Voltage 3.3v
* Range up to 4000m
* Dimensions 26 x 33 x 4mm
* Weight 4 grams
* Interface 20-pin mini connector (smd solder pad or XBee compatible pin header)
* Chip antenna, U.FL antenna connector or both
* Price: 29-31€ @ mouser (SMD / XBEE header)

Two different mounting/pinuts are available: 
* smd version: can be soldered on a pcb 
* pin header: standard XBEE pinout (this is the SMD version mounted on a seperate pcb with male pin headers)

Available in two different output power versions:
{|border="1"
|-valign="top"
||''value''||''50mW version''||''125mW version''
|-
|output power
| 2,5 mW - 50 mW
| 2,5 mW - 125 mW
|-
|output power dbm
|4 dbm - 17 dbm
|4 dbm - 21 dbm
|-
|TX drain
|90mA
|<180mA
|-
|max range (280kbps with 2 dbi antenna)
|2400m
|4000m
|-
|approval
|CE for EU, FCC/IC for USA,
Canada PRM122/123 also for Japan
|FCC/IC for USA, Canada
|}

The RM024 uses frequency hopping (FHSS) which needs a client/server model. That means that one modem (most appropriately the ground station modem) needs to be set to server mode. It will transmit a beacon message and have all client modems synchronize to that in a time and frequency hopping scheme manner. For that all modems need to have the same channel (in fact the hopping scheme) and system-id. Clients can be set to auto-channel and auto-system-id to follow any/the first visible server.

====Documentation====
[http://www.lairdtech.com/WorkArea/DownloadAsset.aspx?id=2147488576 RM024 User Manual] 
[http://www.lairdtech.com/WorkArea/linkit.aspx?LinkIdentifier=id&ItemID=4379 LT2510 User Manual] 
[http://www.lairdtech.com/zips/Developer_Kit.zip Windows configuration tool]

'''Setup'''

Look at the [[Laird_RM024_setup page]]

== Bluetooth ==
These modems do not give you a great range but Bluetooth can be found in a lot of recent laptops built-in. Maybe not useful for fixed wing aircrafts it might be used for in-the-shop testing or quadcopters. Make sure you get a recent Class 1 EDR 2.0 stick if you buy one for your computer.
{|
|
=== RN-41 Bluetooth module(Sparkfun's WRL-08497) ===
* Frequency Band 2.4GHz
* Output Power 32 mW
* RF Data Rate up to ~300 kbps in SPP
* Interface Data Rate up to 921 kbps
* Power Draw (typical) 50 mA TX / 40 mA RX
* Supply Voltage 3.3v
* Range (typical, depends on antenna & environment) 100 meters line-of-sight
* Dimensions 26 x 13 x 2mm
* Weight ~1.5 grams
* Interface solder connector
* price : 20€
|
[[Image:roving_nw_wiring.jpg|thumb|Roving Networks modem wiring]]
|-
|

To connect to it, get the MAC address of the bluetooth modem

me@mybox:~$ hcitool scan
Scanning ...
00:06:66:00:53:AD FireFly-53AD

either make a virtual connection to a Bluetooth serial port each time you connect

sudo rfcomm bind 0 00:06:66:00:53:AD

or configure it once in /etc/bluetooth/rfcomm.conf

rfcomm0 {
bind yes;
device 00:06:66:00:53:AD;
}

now you can use Bluetooth as '''/dev/rfcomm0''' with the Paparazzi 'link'. You might need to restart 'link' in case you get out of range and it disconnects (tbd). Set the Tiny serial speed to 115200 as the modules come preconfigured to that.
|}

== ESP8266 WiFi Module ==

[[File:ESP8266.jpg|thumbnail|left|ESP8266 WiFi module]]
Connect directly to the autopilot from your computers built-in WiFi connection. No additional devices are required. This chip was sucesfully tested in the lab, but no test flights have been performed yet.

The chip was flashed with [https://github.com/beckdac/ESP8266-transparent-bridge transparent bridge firwmware]. When connected trough WiFi, you can use telnet to set the baud rate.

telnet 192.168.4.1
+++AT BAUD 57000

To use with paparazzi GCS, the TCP signals need to be tunneled to a virtual serial device. This was accomplished with socat

socat -d -d PTY,link=/dev/mywifi TCP:192.168.4.1:23

 

== Telemetry via Video Transmitter==

[[Image:video_tx_small.jpg|thumb|2.4GHz Video Transmitter]]
In order for the UAV to transmit video from an onboard camera, an analog video transmitter can be used. These vary in power, and thus range, and run normally on 2.4Ghz. Small UAVs can get about 600m of range from the 50mW version, and extended range can be achieved using units up to 1W. Weight for these units varies from a couple grams to about 30 for the 1W with shielding. Please check for your countries regulations on 2.4Ghz transmission, as each is different.

It is possible to use the audio channel to send simple telemetry data to the groundstation. Uploading telemetry not possible via analog audio transmitter only.
 

== Antennas ==

Here are some examples of lightweight and efficient 868MHz antennas developped by the RF laboratory at ENAC.
[[Image:868mhz_twinstar_antenna_1.jpg|thumb|left|868MHz copper foil antenna attached to the aircraft tail]]
[[Image:868mhz_twinstar_antenna_2.jpg|thumb|left|868MHz copper foil antenna bottom view]]
[[Image:868mhz_ground_antenna.jpg|thumb|left|868MHz ground antenna]]
 

This wiki page might give some ideas about antennas: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dipole_antenna

[[Category:Hardware]]

Modems

2015-03-29T10:06:08Z

BartSlinger:

The Paparazzi autopilots generally feature a TTL serial port to interface with any common radio modem. The bidirectional link provides real-time telemetry and in-flight tuning and navigation commands. The system is also capable overlaying the appropriate protocols to communicate thru non-transparent devices such as the Coronis Wavecard or Maxstream API-enabled products, allowing for hardware addressing for multiple aircraft or future enhancements such as data-relaying, inter-aircraft communication, RSSI signal monitoring and automatic in-flight modem power adjustment. Below is a list of some of the common modems used with Paparazzi, for details on configuring your modem see the [[Airframe_Configuration#Telemetry_.28Modem.29|Airframe Configuration]] and [[XBee_configuration|XBee Configuration]] pages.

==General comparison==
'''This is ONLY a comparison between modules (found on this page) which work acceptably'''

All modules listed here work without issue and are generally available.
{| border="1" cellspacing="0" style="text-align:center" cellpadding="2%"
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''Feature'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Digi_XBee_Pro_DigiMesh_.2F_802.15.4_.28.22Series_1.22.29|XBee Series 1]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Digi_XBee_Pro_DigiMesh_.2F_802.15.4_.28.22Series_1.22.29|XBee Pro Series 1]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Digi_XBee_Pro_ZB_.2F_ZNet_2.5_.28.22Series_2.22.29|XBee Series 2]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Digi_XBee_Pro_ZB_.2F_ZNet_2.5_.28.22Series_2.22.29|XBee Pro Series 2]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Digi_XBee_868LP|XBee 868LP]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Digi_XBee_Pro_900HP|XBee Pro 900HP]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Digi_XBee_Pro_XSC_900MHz|XBee Pro XSC 900]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Digi_9XTend|Digi 9XTend]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#SiLabs_Si1000_SoC_based_modems|SiLabs Si1000]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#AC4790-200|Aerocom AC4790-200]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#AC4790-1000|Aerocom AC4790-1000]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Laird_RM024|Laird RM024 50mW]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Laird_RM024|Laird RM024 125mW]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#RN-41_Bluetooth_module.28Sparkfun.27s_WRL-08497.29|RN-41 Bluetooth]]'''
|-
| style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''frequency'''||2,4GHz||2,4GHz||2,4GHz||2,4GHz||868MHz||900MHz||900MHz||900MHz, 2.4GHz||240-960MHz||900MHz||900MHz||2,4GHz||2,4GHz||2,4GHz
|-
| style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''output power'''||1mW||63mW (US) 10 mW (Int'l)||2mW||63mW||5mW||250mW||250mW||1mW-1W||max 100mW||5-200mW||5-1000mW||2,5-50mW||2,5-125mW||32mW
|-
| style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''RF speed'''||250kbps||250kbps||250kbps||250kbps||10kbps, 80kbps||10 or 200kbps||10, 20kbps||9.6, 115.2kbps|| ||76.8kbps||76.8kbps||280, 500kbps||280, 500kbps||300kbps
|-
| style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''antenna'''||chip, wire, rpsma, u.fl||chip, wire, rpsma, u.fl||chip, wire, rpsma, u.fl||chip, wire, rpsma, u.fl||external required||wire, rpsma, u.fl||wire, rpsma, u.fl||rpsma, MMCX||external required||MMCX, internal Antenna||MMCX||u.fl, chip, both||u.fl, chip, both||pcb trace
|-
| style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''pinout'''||XBee||XBee||XBee||XBee||SMD||XBee||XBee||20 pin 2,54mm/USB||SMD (42 pin LGA)||20 pin mini connector||20 pin mini connector||XBee/SMD||XBee/SMD||SMD
|-
| style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''price'''||16€||26€||14€||28€||18€||32€||32€||150€||4€||52€||64€||30€||30€||20€
|-
| style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''for Country'''||Worldwide||Worldwide||Worldwide||Worldwide||Europe||North America, Australia||North America, Australia||Worldwide||Worldwide||North America, Australia||North America, Australia||Europe||North America||Worldwide
|}

== Frequencies ==

Analog and digital signals (video and data/modem) can not be transmitted over the same frequency band since the analog signal will "block" the digital one. (Attention ! the common 2.4 or 5.8GHz frequencies have multiple channels, if the analog and digital transmitter/receiver modules are set up to different channels/frequencies, they should work (even on 2.4GHz)).

You may want to inform yourself about your countries laws ! Different countries allow different frequencies at different power. 
Sending on a wrong frequency or with too much power may end in a serious lawsuit !

Digi: [http://www.digi.com/technology/rfmodems/agencyapprovals Government Agency Certifications]

== HAM / CEPT Licence ==

If possible, consider making a HAM radio (amateur radio) licence. (e.g. CEPT, depends on yur locality)

You will learn about the radio technology, operational technology and legislation. 
With a HAM radio licence, you can also use other frequencies or transmit on a higher power. (e.g. In some countries, the 5.8GHz video transmission is for non licenced people restricted to 10mW!) 

'''Licence Pros'''
* You will be informed well about the (local and international) legislations.
* You can transmit on a higher power (depends on frequency).
* You will learn a lot about the techniques and be more than a standard "consumer" of radio electronic products.
* It will be easier to find faults in your radio systems.
* You can built (if you want) high gain/focused antennas which can gice you a better signal, wider range and won't disturb anyone else.
* Well educated prople respecting the legislation just looks much better in looks to UAV's :)

'''Licence Cons'''
* You will need to learn for the test (can be compared with a diverce licence).
* The certificate and books will cost about 70€ (total, can vary !).
* Maybe some costs (per year) for your call sign.

=== CEPT Licence in Austria ===

A short description about getting the CEPT 1 (not the CEPT Novice !) licence in Austria.

You will need the appropriate books which cost 50€ (70€ if you want them with the ask catalog and answers which can be helpful) and rough 18€ for the exam and certificate. The ÖVSV offers also some courses, but you can also learn everything with the books.

To be continued...

=== Links ===

[http://www.oevsv.at/ Austrian ÖVSV] 
[http://www.darc.de/ German DARC]

== Digi XBee modules ==

Digi (formerly Maxstream) offers an increasing variety of Zigbee protocol modems well suited for Paparazzi in 2.4 GHz, 900MHz and 868Mhz frequencies. The "Pro" series are long range, up to 40km! Standard series are slightly smaller/lighter/lower power consumption and very short range. All versions are all pin compatible and weigh around 2 grams with wire antennas. All Digi modems can be operated in transparent mode (as a serial line replacement) or in "API mode" with hardware addressing, managed networking, and RSSI (signal strength) data with the Paparazzi "Xbee" option.

Four antenna options are offered: RP-SMA, U-FL, wire antenna, chip antenna

* XBee (PRO) ZB (the current series)
* XBee (PRO) ZNet 2.5 (formerly Series 2) (only legacy -> use XBee-PRO ZB)
The XBee & XBee-PRO ZB share hardware (ember stack) with XBee & XBee-PRO ZNet 2.5. As a result, modules can be "converted" from one platform to another by loading different firmware onto a given module.

These two also share the same hardware and can be converted from one to another by flashing a different firmware:
* XBee-PRO 802.15.4 (formerly Series 1)
* XBee-PRO DigiMesh 2.4

'''Note: Modules based on Freescale chipset (formerly Series 1) are not compatible with Ember chipset based modules (Series 2).'''

If only point to point or point to multipoint communication is required 802.15.4 will do the job. These are designed for high data rates and low latency. 
Modules with Zigbee firmware are needed for mesh functionality(communication between the UAV's)

See the [[XBee_configuration|XBee Configuration]] page. This [http://pixhawk.ethz.ch/tutorials/how_to_configure_xbee tutorial] is also good to configure and get started with XBee Pro.

=== Module Comparison ===
{|border="1"
|-valign="top"
||'''Module'''||'''Point-to-Multipoint'''||'''ZigBee/Mesh'''||'''Chipset'''|||'''Software stack'''||'''Frequency'''||'''TX Power normal/PRO'''||'''Notes'''
|-
|'''XBee ZB'''
|
|yes
|Ember
|EmberZNet PRO 3.1 (ZigBee 2007)
|2.4 GHz
|2mW/50mW
|coordinator needed
|-
|'''XBee ZNet 2.5'''
|
|yes
|Ember
|EmberZNet 2.5 ZigBee
|2.4 GHz
|2mW/50mW
|(only legacy -> use XBee-PRO ZB) coordinator needed
|-
|'''XBee DigiMesh 2.4'''
|
|yes
|Freescale
|
|2.4 GHz
|
|all nodes equal (no special coordinators/routers/end-devices)
|-
|'''XBee 802.15.4'''
|yes
|
|Freescale
|
|2.4 GHz
|
|
|-
|'''XBee-PRO 868'''
|yes
|
|?
|
|868 MHz
|500mW
|Only High Power Frequency allowed in the UK. 2.4GHz limited to 10mW
|}

==== Pinout ====

[[Image:Maxstream_Xbee_pinout.jpg|left|thumb|Maxstream XBee pinout]]
 

{|border="1"
|-valign="top"
||''Xbee 20-pin Header''||''Name''||''Notes''||''Suggested Color''||
|-
|1
| +3.3v
| Power
|Red
|-
|2
|DOUT
|Tx output - connect to Autopilot Rx
|Green
|-
|3
|DIN
|Rx input - connect to Autopilot Tx
|Blue
|-
|10
|GND
| Ground
|Black
|}

The image view is from above, top, thus NOT at the side where the connector pins come out

Note : DTR and RTS need to be wired for upgrading firmware

=== GCS Adaptation ===

There are several vendors of hardware to connect the ground XBee radio modem to the GCS computer. 
More information about general USB-Serial adapters can be found on the [[Serial_Adapter]] page.

====Adafruit====

[[Image:xbeeadapter_LRG.jpg|thumb|left|Adafruit XBee adapter board]][[Image:xbeeadapterftdi_LRG.jpg|thumb|Adafruit XBee adapter with FTDI cable]]
[http://www.adafruit.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=29&products_id=126 Adafruit] offers a great adapter board kit for the Xbee modules that includes a 5-3.3V voltage regulator, power and activity LEDs, and pins to connect directly to your FTDI cable for $10! Some assembly required.

 

====Droids====

[[Image:XBee_Simple_Board.jpg|thumb|left|XBee Simple Board]]

[[Image:XBee_USB_Board.jpg|thumb|left|XBee USB Board]]

[http://www.droids.it/cmsvb4/content.php?143-990.001-XBee-Simple-Board XBee Simple Board]

Simple breakout board with voltage regulator.

[http://www.droids.it/cmsvb4/content.php?152-990.002-XBee-USB-Board XBee USB Board]

Adapter with FTDI chip for direct usb connection.

 

====PPZUAV====

[[Image:FTDI_Utility_Board.jpg|thumb|left|FTDI Utility Board 1.0‎]]

[https://www.ppzuav.com/osc/product_info.php?products_id=111 ppzuav.com product link] 
More information at the [[Serial_Adapter#FTDI_utility_Board]] page.

FTDI Utility Board 1.0 with FTDI232RL 
On board XBEE connector and molex picoblade connectors.

 

====Sparkfun====

[[Image:XBee_Explorer_USB.jpg|thumb|left|XBee Explorer USB]]

[http://www.sparkfun.com/products/8687 sparkfun.com]

XBee Explorer USB with FTDI232RL

 

=== Digi XBee Pro DigiMesh / 802.15.4 ("Series 1") ===
*Note: Products based on XBee ZNet 2.5 (formerly Series 2) modules do not communicate with products based on XBee DigiMesh / 802.15.4 (formerly Series 1) modules.

These relatively cheap and light modules implement the [http://www.zigbee.org/en/index.asp ZigBee/IEEE 802.15.4] norm. They allow up to 1.6km (1 mile) range (Paparazzi tested to 2.5km (1.5 miles)). The main drawback of using such 2.4Ghz modules for datalink is that it will interfere with the 2.4Ghz analog video transmitters and a inevitable decrease in range when in proximity to any wifi devices. For the plane, get the whip antenna version if you are not planning to build a custom antenna.

{|
|-valign="top"
|[[Image:Xbee_Pro_USB_RF_Modem.jpg|thumb|left|XBee Pro USB Stand-alone Modem (XBP24-PKC-001-UA)]]
|
* Frequency Band 2.4GHz
* Output Power 100mW (Xbee Pro)
* Sensitivity -100 dBm
* RF Data Rate Up to 250 Kbps
* Interface data rate Up to 115.2 Kbps
* Power Draw (typical) 214 mA TX / 55 mA RX
* Supply Voltage 3.3v
* Range (typical, depends on antenna & environment) Up to 1500m line-of-sight
* Dimensions 24 x 33mm
* Weight 4 grams
* Interface 20-pin mini connector
* Chip antenna, ¼ monopole integrated whip antenna or a U.FL antenna connector (3 versions)
* Price: 16€, Pro 26€
|
[[Image:XBee_pro.jpg|thumb|left|XBee Pro OEM Modem]]
|}
Mouser: [http://au.mouser.com/Search/ProductDetail.aspx?qs=sGAEpiMZZMtJacPDJcUJYzVn8vIv7g2fIpf5DCzJqko%3d 888-XBP24-PKC-001-UA] 
NOTE: If you wish to use this unit with another XBee type other than the 802.15.4 (i.e. XBee-PRO ZB) then purchase a modem with the U.fl connector.

==== Documentation ====

* [http://www.maxstream.net/products/xbee/xbee-pro-oem-rf-module-zigbee.php product page]
* [http://www.maxstream.net/products/xbee/datasheet_XBee_OEM_RF-Modules.pdf datasheet]
* [http://www.maxstream.net/products/xbee/product-manual_XBee_OEM_RF-Modules.pdf user manual]
* To program your Xbee you need X-CTU you can download it [http://www.digi.com/support/productdetl.jsp?pid=3352&osvid=57&tp=5&s=316 here]. (only windows)
* explanation on X-CTU [http://www.ladyada.net/make/xbee/configure.html here].
* [http://ftp1.digi.com/support/firmware/update/xbee/ Drivers for XB24 and XBP24 modules]

=== Digi XBee Pro ZB / ZNet 2.5 ("Series 2") ===

The low-power XBee ZB and extended-range XBee-PRO ZB use the ZigBee PRO Feature Set for advanced mesh networking.

{|
|-valign="top"
|[[Image:XBee_Pro_2SB.jpg|thumb|left|Digi XBee Pro ZB]]
|
* Low-cost, low-power mesh networking
* Interoperability with ZigBee PRO Feature Set devices from other vendors*
* Support for larger, more dense mesh networks
* 128-bit AES encryption
* Frequency agility
* Over-the-air firmware updates (change firmware remotely)
* ISM 2.4 GHz operating frequency
* XBee: 2 mW (+3 dBm) power output (up to 400 ft RF LOS range)
* XBee-PRO: 50 mW (+17 dBm) power output (up to 1 mile RF LOS range)
* RPSMA connector, U.FL connector, Chip antenna, or Wired Whip antenna
* price : 14€, Pro 28€
|
|}
These are available from Mouser: 
[http://au.mouser.com/Search/Refine.aspx?Keyword=888-XBP24-Z7WIT-004 888-XBP24-Z7WIT-004] XBee-PRO ZB with whip antenna 
[http://au.mouser.com/Search/Refine.aspx?Keyword=XBP24-Z7SIT-004 888-XBP24-Z7SIT-004] XBee-PRO ZB with RPSMA

See [[XBee_configuration|XBee Configuration]] for setup.

==== Documentation ====
* [http://www.digi.com/products/wireless/zigbee-mesh/xbee-zb-module.jsp http://www.digi.com/products/wireless/zigbee-mesh/xbee-zb-module.jsp]

=== Digi XBee Pro 868 ===

'''WARNING - THESE MODEMS HAVE A 10% DUTY CYCLE, AND CURRENTLY HAVE SEVERE ISSUES WITH PAPARAZZI'''

868MHz is a limited band. Please read the [[868MHz Issues]]

XBee-PRO 868 modules are long range embedded RF modules for European applications. Purpose-built for exceptional RF performance, XBee-PRO 868 modules are ideal for applications with challenging RF environments, such as urban deployments, or where devices are several kilometers apart.

{|
|-valign="top"
|[[Image:xbeeproxsc-rpsma.jpg|thumb|left|Maxstream XBee Pro 868]]
|
* 868 MHz short range device (SRD) G3 band for Europe
* Software selectable Transmit Power
* 40 km RF LOS w/ dipole antennas
* 80 km RF LOS w/ high gain antennas (TX Power reduced)
* Simple to use peer-to-peer/point-to-mulitpoint topology
* 128-bit AES encryption
* 500 mW EIRP
* 24 kbps RF data rate
* price : ~70 USD
|
|}

See [[XBee_configuration#XBee_Pro_868_MHZ|XBee Configuration]] for setup.

==== Documentation ====
* [http://www.digi.com/products/wireless/point-multipoint/xbee-pro-868.jsp http://www.digi.com/products/wireless/point-multipoint/xbee-pro-868.jsp]

=== Digi XBee 868LP ===

XBee 868LP modules are a low-power 868 MHz RF module for use in Europe. The range is shorter than it's brother the XBee PRO-868, but it can use the 868 G4 band with hopping which does not have restrictions on it's duty cycle. This is a big advantage if one want to have a good stream of telemetry data

{|
|-valign="top"
|[[Image:868lp.jpg|thumb|left|XBee 868LP]]
|
* 868 MHz short range device (SRD) G4 band for Europe
* 4 km RF LOS w/ u.fl antennas
* 5 mW EIRP
* 10 or 80 kbps RF data rate
* price : 18€
|
|}

==== Documentation ====
* [http://www.digi.com/products/wireless-wired-embedded-solutions/zigbee-rf-modules/zigbee-mesh-module/xbee-868lp#overview http://www.digi.com/products/wireless-wired-embedded-solutions/zigbee-rf-modules/zigbee-mesh-module/xbee-868lp#overview]

==== Trial ====

With a quickly crafted and not optimal positioned antenna on the airframe we managed to get the advertised 4000 meter range. Data throughput was not high and the Iridium Telemetry XML configuration document was therefore used. All in all, cheap, easy to setup, pin compatible with regular modules and quite a range and usable in Europe without hassle.

=== Digi XBee Pro 900HP ===
* Frequency band 900Mhz
* RF rate 10 or 200 kbps
* up to 250mW output power
* 5 to 8 gramm
* price: 32€

==== Documentation ====
[http://ftp1.digi.com/support/documentation/90002173_H.pdf http://ftp1.digi.com/support/documentation/90002173_H.pdf]

=== Digi XBee Pro XSC 900MHz ===

Maxstream has recently announced a promising new line of modems combining the small size and low cost of their popular Xbee line with the long range and 2.4 GHz video compatibility of their high end 900 MHz models. Sounds like the perfect modem for anyone who can use 900 MHz. Give them a try and post your results here!
{|
|-valign="top"
|[[Image:xbeeproxsc-rpsma.jpg|thumb|left|Maxstream XBee Pro XSC]]
|
* Frequency Band 900 MHz
* Output Power 100 mW (+20 dBm)
* Sensitivity -100 dBm
* RF Rate: 10 or 20 kbps
* Range (typical, depends on antenna & environment) Up to 24km (15 miles) line-of-sight
* Interface 20-pin mini connector (Xbee compatible pinout)
* RPSMA, integrated whip antenna or U.FL antenna connector (3 versions)
* price : 32€
|
|}

==== Documentation ====
* [http://www.digi.com/products/wireless/point-multipoint/xbee-pro-xsc.jsp http://www.digi.com/products/wireless/point-multipoint/xbee-pro-xsc.jsp]

==== Trials ====
Tested one today and it worked great. Going to try a multiUAV test with it soon
--Danstah
 
 
MultiUAV tests concluded this is probably not the best module to use. Even though it says you can change the baudrate inside x-ctu that is not the case, it is fixed at 9600 bps. This is a great modem however for single UAV's and I do recommend.
--Danstah
 
 
Why would the European (868 MHz) be good to 24kbps and this only to 9600? When I was altering my XBees (2.4Ghz Pro's) I had this problem altering baud rates until I read you have to send a "commit and reboot" type command after setting the baud rate. Could this be the case? --GR

=== Digi 9XTend ===

These larger units have been tested on the 900Mhz band, but are also available in 2.4Ghz. They are a bit on the heavy side, about 20 grams, but give good performance at range. They have adjustable transmit power settings from 100mW to 1W. Testing has shown range up to 5.6km (3.5 Miles) with XTend set to 100mW with small 3.1dB dipole antenna.

{|
|-valign="top"
|
[[Image:XTend_USB_RF_Modem.jpg|frame|left|9XTend USB Modem]]
|
* Frequency Band 900Mhz and 2.4Ghz (2 versions)
* Output Power 1mW to 1W software selectable
* Sensitivity -110 dBm (@ 9600 bps)
* RF Data Rate 9.6 or 115.2 Kbps
* Interface data rate up to 230.4 Kbps
* Power Draw (typical) 730 mA TX / 80 mA RX
* Supply Voltage 2.8 to 5.5v
* Range (typical, depends on antenna & environment) Up to 64km line-of-sight
* Dimensions 36 x 60 x 5mm
* Weight 18 grams
* Interface 20-pin mini connector or USB
* RF connector RPSMA (Reverse-polarity SMA) or MMCX (2 versions)
* price : 150€
|
[[Image:Xtend_module.jpg|frame|left|9XTend OEM Modem]]
|}

==== Pinout ====

[[Image:Maxstream_9XTend_Pinout.gif|thumb|left|Maxstream 9XTend Pinout]]

{| border="1"
|-valign="top"
||'''''9XTend 20-pin Header'''''||'''''Name'''''||'''''Tiny Serial-1 Header'''''||'''''Notes'''''
|-
||1||GND||1 (GND)||Ground
|-
||2||VCC||2 (5V)||5V power (150mA - 730mA Supplied from servo bus or other 5V source)
|-
||5||RX||8 (TX)||3-5V TTL data input - connect to Tiny TX
|-
||6||TX||7 (RX)||5V TTL data output - connect to Tiny RX
|-
||7||Shutdown||2||This pin must be connected to the 5V bus for normal operation
|}
Notes: 
* 9XTend can run on voltages as low as 2.8V but users are strongly advised against connecting any modem (especially high power models) to the sensitive 3.3V bus supplying the autopilot processor and sensors.
 

==== Documentation ====

* [http://www.maxstream.net/products/xtend/oem-rf-module.php product page]
* [http://www.maxstream.net/products/xtend/datasheet_XTend_OEM_RF-Module.pdf datasheet]
* [http://www.maxstream.net/products/xtend/product-manual_XTend_OEM_RF-Module.pdf user manual]

==== Configuration ====

These modems need to be carefully configured based on your usage scenario to obtain the best possible range and link quality. In addition, it is always good to make sure the firmware is up to date.

Some typical configurations that may work well, but can still depend your particular situation, are given below. For further details, be sure to consult the XTend users manual. Your application may need a different or modified configuration. The radiomodems do not need identical settings and can in fact be optimized with different settings. A good example is delays and retries: if each radio has the same number of retries and no delay, when a collision occurs each will continuously try to re-transmit, locking up the transmission for some time with no resolution or successful packet delivery. Instead, it is best to set the module whose data should have a lower latency to have no delay and a lower number of retries, while the other module has a delay set (RN > 0) and a greater number of retries. See acknowledged mode example below.

* Acknowledged Polling Mode ('''Recommended'''):
** This causes one radio to be the base and the other(s) to be the remote(s). It eliminates collisions because remotes do not send data unless requested by the base. It can work in acknowledged mode (RR>0), basic reliable mode (MT>0) or in basic mode (no acknowledgement or multiple packets). It is recommended that the lower latency and/or higher data rate side be configured as the base (i.e. if you are sending lots of telemetry then the air module configured as the base is probably a good idea, but if you are using datalink joystick control, the ground side might be better as the base. It may require some experimentation).
* Acknowledged Point-to-(Multi)Point Mode:
** Each radio sends a packet and requests and acknowledgement that the packet was sent from the receiving side. The retries and delays must be set appropriately to ensure packet collisions are dealt with appropriately. It can also work without acknowledgements in basic reliable mode (MT>0) without any acknowledgements (RR=0, MT=0). Some experimentation may be required.

{| border="1"
|-valign="top"
||'''''Setting Name'''''||colspan="2"|'''''Acknowledged Mode'''''||colspan="2"|'''''Polling Mode (Acknowledged)'''''||'''''Notes'''''
|-
|| ||'''''Airside Module'''''||'''''Groundside Module'''''||'''''Base Module'''''||'''''Remote Module'''''||
|-
||BD||6||6||6||6||Adjust to match your configured autopilot and ground station baud rates (default for these is 57600bps)
|-
||DT||default||default||0x02||0x01||Can be adjusted if consistency maintained across addressing functionalities (see manual)
|-
||MD||default||default||3 (0x03)||4 (0x04)||
|-
||MT||0||0||0||0||Use this to enable Basic Reliable transmission, link bandwidth requirement increases (see manual)
|-
||MY||default||default||0x01||0x02||Can be adjusted if consistency maintained across addressing functionalities (see manual)
|-
||PB||default||default||0x02||default||Can be adjusted if consistency maintained across addressing functionalities (see manual)
|-
||PD||default||default||default||default||Can be adjusted to increase polling request rate and DI buffer flush timeout (see manual)
|-
||PE||default||default||0x02||default||Can be adjusted if consistency maintained across addressing functionalities (see manual)
|-
||PL||default||default||default||default||''Transmit power level should be reduced for lab testing!!''
|-
||RN||0 (0x00)||8 (0x08)||default||default||
|-
||RR||6 (0x06)||12 (0x0C)||6 (0x06)||12 (0x0C)||
|}

'''Note:''' All settings are assumed to be default except those listed. Those listed are in decimal unless hex 0x prefix included. Depending on your firmware version, slight modifications may be necessary.

Here is some additional information and alternative instructions to configure the polling mode from the Digi site: [http://www.digi.com/support/kbase/kbaseresultdetl?id=2178 Polling Mode for the 9XTend Radio Modem]

== SiLabs Si1000 SoC based modems ==

The Si1000 radio System on Chip (SOC) produced by SiLabs is found in a number of radio modules, for example the cheap and widely used HopeRf module. There is [https://github.com/tridge/SiK open source firmware] for these radios which makes them suitable for use in MAVs.

Note that (unlike some XBee modules) the SiK firmware does not support mesh topologies, it is strictly a point-to-point link. If you are working with swarming vehicles they may not be the best choice.

Online documentation for the Sik firmware shows how to configure it for various jurisdictions. The firmware supports 433 MHz, 470 MHz, 868 MHz and 900 MHz radios, if you are aware of any hardware supporting the European spectrum licences (868 MHz) please add them to this wiki.

Note: When using a SiK firmware radio with paparazzi, you should set "ATS6=0" (MavLink packing off) and configure paparazzi for transparent serial mode.

[http://www.rfdesign.com.au/index.php/rfd900 This module] is well proven and supports antenna diversity. A combination of 6dbi Yagi plus a dipole on the ground station, with a pair of orthogonality oriented dioples in the airframe, has been extensively tested and proven reliable at >8km range (theoretical range of ~40km).

Alternatively, for shorter range a pair of cheap generic HopeRF-based modems [http://rctimer.com/index.php?gOo=goods_details.dwt&goodsid=815 such as these]

The RFD900 can be paired with cheap generic (single front-end) modules, if for example you use a small short range airframe with a ground station that's also used for long range operations.

== Laird (ex Aerocom) ==
Lairds's API mode is already implemented but some system integration is required. Full API more with addressed packets works well and was tested with AC4790-1x1 5mW low power modules. Maximim range achieved with a whip quater-wave antenna was 1Km.

How to use this modem on ground station side? [http://paparazzi.enac.fr/wiki/index.php/User:SilaS#SDK-AC4868-250_ground_modem_part]

See folder paparazzi3 / trunk / sw / aerocomm. It has all the required files to use this modem on the airborne and ground station side. The link.ml file is a direct replacement of the "main" link.ml file of the ground sttaion and will be merged into it in the future.. or you can do it as well.

{|
|
=== AC4790-200 ===
* Frequency 902-928MHz (North America, Australia, etc).
* Output Power 5-200mW
* Sensitivity (@ full RF data rate) -110dB
* RF Data Rate up to 76.8 Kbps
* INterface Data Rate Up to Up to 115.2 Kbps
* Power Draw (typical) 68 mA
* Supply Voltage 3.3v & 5.5V
* Range (typical, depends on antenna & environment) Up to 6.4 kilometers line-of-sight
* Dimensions 42 x 48 x 5mm
* Weight < 20 grams
* Interface 20-pin mini connector
* Antenna MMCX jack Connector or internal
* price : 52€
|
[[Image:ac4868_transceiver.jpg|thumb|left|AC4868 OEM Modem]]
|
|-
|
=== AC4790-1000 ===
* Frequency 902-928MHz (North America, Australia, etc).
* Output Power 5-1000mW
* Sensitivity (@ full RF data rate) -99dB
* RF Data Rate up to 76.8 Kbps
* INterface Data Rate Up to Up to 115.2 Kbps
* Power Draw (typical) 650 mA
* Supply Voltage 3.3V only
* Range (typical, depends on antenna & environment) Up to 32 kilometers with high-gain antenna
* Dimensions 42 x 48 x 5mm
* Weight < 20 grams
* Interface 20-pin mini connector
* Antenna MMCX jack Connector
* price : 64€
|}

=== Pinout ===

[[Image:Aerocomm_AC4868_pinout.jpg|thumb|left|Laird AC4868 modem pinout]]
[[Image:Aerocomm_AC4490-200_wired.jpg|thumb|left|Laird AC4490 wiring example]]
 

{| border="1"
|+ Wiring the Laird AC4868 to the Tiny
|-valign="top"
||'''''AC4868 20-pin Header'''''||'''''Name'''''||'''''Color'''''||'''''Tiny v1.1 Serial-1'''''||'''''Tiny v2.11 Serial'''''||'''''Notes'''''
|-
||2||Tx||green||7||7||''(Note 1)''
|-
||3||Rx||blue||8||8||''(Note 1)''
|-
||5||GND||black||1||1|| -
|-
||10+11||VCC||red||2||3||+3.3v ''(Note 2)''
|-
||17||C/D||white||3||?||Low = Command High = Data
|}
''Note 1 : names are specified with respect to the AEROCOMM module''

''Note 2 : AC4790-1000 needs pins 10 and 11 jumped to work properly''

=== Laird RM024 ===
[[Image:Laird_LT2510_RM024-P125-C-01-side.jpg|thumb|RM024 P125]]
[[Image:Lt2510_prm123.jpg|thumb|LT2510 Modem]]
The RM024 replaces the discontinued LT2510 (they are backwards compatible).

General features:
* Frequency Band 2.4GHz
* Output Power 2,5mW - 125mW
* Sensitivity -98dbm @ 280kbps/-94 dBm @ 500kbps
* RF Data Rate 280/500 kbps
* UART up to 460800 baud
* Power Draw 90mA - 180mA TX / 10mA RX
* Supply Voltage 3.3v
* Range up to 4000m
* Dimensions 26 x 33 x 4mm
* Weight 4 grams
* Interface 20-pin mini connector (smd solder pad or XBee compatible pin header)
* Chip antenna, U.FL antenna connector or both
* Price: 29-31€ @ mouser (SMD / XBEE header)

Two different mounting/pinuts are available: 
* smd version: can be soldered on a pcb 
* pin header: standard XBEE pinout (this is the SMD version mounted on a seperate pcb with male pin headers)

Available in two different output power versions:
{|border="1"
|-valign="top"
||''value''||''50mW version''||''125mW version''
|-
|output power
| 2,5 mW - 50 mW
| 2,5 mW - 125 mW
|-
|output power dbm
|4 dbm - 17 dbm
|4 dbm - 21 dbm
|-
|TX drain
|90mA
|<180mA
|-
|max range (280kbps with 2 dbi antenna)
|2400m
|4000m
|-
|approval
|CE for EU, FCC/IC for USA,
Canada PRM122/123 also for Japan
|FCC/IC for USA, Canada
|}

The RM024 uses frequency hopping (FHSS) which needs a client/server model. That means that one modem (most appropriately the ground station modem) needs to be set to server mode. It will transmit a beacon message and have all client modems synchronize to that in a time and frequency hopping scheme manner. For that all modems need to have the same channel (in fact the hopping scheme) and system-id. Clients can be set to auto-channel and auto-system-id to follow any/the first visible server.

====Documentation====
[http://www.lairdtech.com/WorkArea/DownloadAsset.aspx?id=2147488576 RM024 User Manual] 
[http://www.lairdtech.com/WorkArea/linkit.aspx?LinkIdentifier=id&ItemID=4379 LT2510 User Manual] 
[http://www.lairdtech.com/zips/Developer_Kit.zip Windows configuration tool]

'''Setup'''

Look at the [[Laird_RM024_setup page]]

== Bluetooth ==
These modems do not give you a great range but Bluetooth can be found in a lot of recent laptops built-in. Maybe not useful for fixed wing aircrafts it might be used for in-the-shop testing or quadcopters. Make sure you get a recent Class 1 EDR 2.0 stick if you buy one for your computer.
{|
|
=== RN-41 Bluetooth module(Sparkfun's WRL-08497) ===
* Frequency Band 2.4GHz
* Output Power 32 mW
* RF Data Rate up to ~300 kbps in SPP
* Interface Data Rate up to 921 kbps
* Power Draw (typical) 50 mA TX / 40 mA RX
* Supply Voltage 3.3v
* Range (typical, depends on antenna & environment) 100 meters line-of-sight
* Dimensions 26 x 13 x 2mm
* Weight ~1.5 grams
* Interface solder connector
* price : 20€
|
[[Image:roving_nw_wiring.jpg|thumb|Roving Networks modem wiring]]
|-
|

To connect to it, get the MAC address of the bluetooth modem

me@mybox:~$ hcitool scan
Scanning ...
00:06:66:00:53:AD FireFly-53AD

either make a virtual connection to a Bluetooth serial port each time you connect

sudo rfcomm bind 0 00:06:66:00:53:AD

or configure it once in /etc/bluetooth/rfcomm.conf

rfcomm0 {
bind yes;
device 00:06:66:00:53:AD;
}

now you can use Bluetooth as '''/dev/rfcomm0''' with the Paparazzi 'link'. You might need to restart 'link' in case you get out of range and it disconnects (tbd). Set the Tiny serial speed to 115200 as the modules come preconfigured to that.
|}

== ESP8266 WiFi Module ==

[[File:ESP8266.jpg|thumbnail|left|ESP8266 WiFi module]]
Connect directly to the autopilot from your computers built-in WiFi connection. No additional devices are required. This chip was sucesfully tested in the lab, but no test flights have been performed yet.

The chip was flashed with [https://github.com/beckdac/ESP8266-transparent-bridge transparent bridge firwmware]. When connected trough WiFi, you can use telnet to set the baud rate.

telnet 192.168.4.1
+++AT BAUD 57000

 

== Telemetry via Video Transmitter==

[[Image:video_tx_small.jpg|thumb|2.4GHz Video Transmitter]]
In order for the UAV to transmit video from an onboard camera, an analog video transmitter can be used. These vary in power, and thus range, and run normally on 2.4Ghz. Small UAVs can get about 600m of range from the 50mW version, and extended range can be achieved using units up to 1W. Weight for these units varies from a couple grams to about 30 for the 1W with shielding. Please check for your countries regulations on 2.4Ghz transmission, as each is different.

It is possible to use the audio channel to send simple telemetry data to the groundstation. Uploading telemetry not possible via analog audio transmitter only.
 

== Antennas ==

Here are some examples of lightweight and efficient 868MHz antennas developped by the RF laboratory at ENAC.
[[Image:868mhz_twinstar_antenna_1.jpg|thumb|left|868MHz copper foil antenna attached to the aircraft tail]]
[[Image:868mhz_twinstar_antenna_2.jpg|thumb|left|868MHz copper foil antenna bottom view]]
[[Image:868mhz_ground_antenna.jpg|thumb|left|868MHz ground antenna]]
 

This wiki page might give some ideas about antennas: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dipole_antenna

[[Category:Hardware]]

File:ESP8266.jpg

2015-03-29T09:56:23Z

BartSlinger: https://www.sparkfun.com/products/13252

https://www.sparkfun.com/products/13252

Modems

2015-03-29T09:55:16Z

BartSlinger:

The Paparazzi autopilots generally feature a TTL serial port to interface with any common radio modem. The bidirectional link provides real-time telemetry and in-flight tuning and navigation commands. The system is also capable overlaying the appropriate protocols to communicate thru non-transparent devices such as the Coronis Wavecard or Maxstream API-enabled products, allowing for hardware addressing for multiple aircraft or future enhancements such as data-relaying, inter-aircraft communication, RSSI signal monitoring and automatic in-flight modem power adjustment. Below is a list of some of the common modems used with Paparazzi, for details on configuring your modem see the [[Airframe_Configuration#Telemetry_.28Modem.29|Airframe Configuration]] and [[XBee_configuration|XBee Configuration]] pages.

==General comparison==
'''This is ONLY a comparison between modules (found on this page) which work acceptably'''

All modules listed here work without issue and are generally available.
{| border="1" cellspacing="0" style="text-align:center" cellpadding="2%"
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''Feature'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Digi_XBee_Pro_DigiMesh_.2F_802.15.4_.28.22Series_1.22.29|XBee Series 1]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Digi_XBee_Pro_DigiMesh_.2F_802.15.4_.28.22Series_1.22.29|XBee Pro Series 1]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Digi_XBee_Pro_ZB_.2F_ZNet_2.5_.28.22Series_2.22.29|XBee Series 2]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Digi_XBee_Pro_ZB_.2F_ZNet_2.5_.28.22Series_2.22.29|XBee Pro Series 2]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Digi_XBee_868LP|XBee 868LP]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Digi_XBee_Pro_900HP|XBee Pro 900HP]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Digi_XBee_Pro_XSC_900MHz|XBee Pro XSC 900]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Digi_9XTend|Digi 9XTend]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#SiLabs_Si1000_SoC_based_modems|SiLabs Si1000]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#AC4790-200|Aerocom AC4790-200]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#AC4790-1000|Aerocom AC4790-1000]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Laird_RM024|Laird RM024 50mW]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Laird_RM024|Laird RM024 125mW]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#RN-41_Bluetooth_module.28Sparkfun.27s_WRL-08497.29|RN-41 Bluetooth]]'''
|-
| style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''frequency'''||2,4GHz||2,4GHz||2,4GHz||2,4GHz||868MHz||900MHz||900MHz||900MHz, 2.4GHz||240-960MHz||900MHz||900MHz||2,4GHz||2,4GHz||2,4GHz
|-
| style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''output power'''||1mW||63mW (US) 10 mW (Int'l)||2mW||63mW||5mW||250mW||250mW||1mW-1W||max 100mW||5-200mW||5-1000mW||2,5-50mW||2,5-125mW||32mW
|-
| style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''RF speed'''||250kbps||250kbps||250kbps||250kbps||10kbps, 80kbps||10 or 200kbps||10, 20kbps||9.6, 115.2kbps|| ||76.8kbps||76.8kbps||280, 500kbps||280, 500kbps||300kbps
|-
| style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''antenna'''||chip, wire, rpsma, u.fl||chip, wire, rpsma, u.fl||chip, wire, rpsma, u.fl||chip, wire, rpsma, u.fl||external required||wire, rpsma, u.fl||wire, rpsma, u.fl||rpsma, MMCX||external required||MMCX, internal Antenna||MMCX||u.fl, chip, both||u.fl, chip, both||pcb trace
|-
| style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''pinout'''||XBee||XBee||XBee||XBee||SMD||XBee||XBee||20 pin 2,54mm/USB||SMD (42 pin LGA)||20 pin mini connector||20 pin mini connector||XBee/SMD||XBee/SMD||SMD
|-
| style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''price'''||16€||26€||14€||28€||18€||32€||32€||150€||4€||52€||64€||30€||30€||20€
|-
| style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''for Country'''||Worldwide||Worldwide||Worldwide||Worldwide||Europe||North America, Australia||North America, Australia||Worldwide||Worldwide||North America, Australia||North America, Australia||Europe||North America||Worldwide
|}

== Frequencies ==

Analog and digital signals (video and data/modem) can not be transmitted over the same frequency band since the analog signal will "block" the digital one. (Attention ! the common 2.4 or 5.8GHz frequencies have multiple channels, if the analog and digital transmitter/receiver modules are set up to different channels/frequencies, they should work (even on 2.4GHz)).

You may want to inform yourself about your countries laws ! Different countries allow different frequencies at different power. 
Sending on a wrong frequency or with too much power may end in a serious lawsuit !

Digi: [http://www.digi.com/technology/rfmodems/agencyapprovals Government Agency Certifications]

== HAM / CEPT Licence ==

If possible, consider making a HAM radio (amateur radio) licence. (e.g. CEPT, depends on yur locality)

You will learn about the radio technology, operational technology and legislation. 
With a HAM radio licence, you can also use other frequencies or transmit on a higher power. (e.g. In some countries, the 5.8GHz video transmission is for non licenced people restricted to 10mW!) 

'''Licence Pros'''
* You will be informed well about the (local and international) legislations.
* You can transmit on a higher power (depends on frequency).
* You will learn a lot about the techniques and be more than a standard "consumer" of radio electronic products.
* It will be easier to find faults in your radio systems.
* You can built (if you want) high gain/focused antennas which can gice you a better signal, wider range and won't disturb anyone else.
* Well educated prople respecting the legislation just looks much better in looks to UAV's :)

'''Licence Cons'''
* You will need to learn for the test (can be compared with a diverce licence).
* The certificate and books will cost about 70€ (total, can vary !).
* Maybe some costs (per year) for your call sign.

=== CEPT Licence in Austria ===

A short description about getting the CEPT 1 (not the CEPT Novice !) licence in Austria.

You will need the appropriate books which cost 50€ (70€ if you want them with the ask catalog and answers which can be helpful) and rough 18€ for the exam and certificate. The ÖVSV offers also some courses, but you can also learn everything with the books.

To be continued...

=== Links ===

[http://www.oevsv.at/ Austrian ÖVSV] 
[http://www.darc.de/ German DARC]

== Digi XBee modules ==

Digi (formerly Maxstream) offers an increasing variety of Zigbee protocol modems well suited for Paparazzi in 2.4 GHz, 900MHz and 868Mhz frequencies. The "Pro" series are long range, up to 40km! Standard series are slightly smaller/lighter/lower power consumption and very short range. All versions are all pin compatible and weigh around 2 grams with wire antennas. All Digi modems can be operated in transparent mode (as a serial line replacement) or in "API mode" with hardware addressing, managed networking, and RSSI (signal strength) data with the Paparazzi "Xbee" option.

Four antenna options are offered: RP-SMA, U-FL, wire antenna, chip antenna

* XBee (PRO) ZB (the current series)
* XBee (PRO) ZNet 2.5 (formerly Series 2) (only legacy -> use XBee-PRO ZB)
The XBee & XBee-PRO ZB share hardware (ember stack) with XBee & XBee-PRO ZNet 2.5. As a result, modules can be "converted" from one platform to another by loading different firmware onto a given module.

These two also share the same hardware and can be converted from one to another by flashing a different firmware:
* XBee-PRO 802.15.4 (formerly Series 1)
* XBee-PRO DigiMesh 2.4

'''Note: Modules based on Freescale chipset (formerly Series 1) are not compatible with Ember chipset based modules (Series 2).'''

If only point to point or point to multipoint communication is required 802.15.4 will do the job. These are designed for high data rates and low latency. 
Modules with Zigbee firmware are needed for mesh functionality(communication between the UAV's)

See the [[XBee_configuration|XBee Configuration]] page. This [http://pixhawk.ethz.ch/tutorials/how_to_configure_xbee tutorial] is also good to configure and get started with XBee Pro.

=== Module Comparison ===
{|border="1"
|-valign="top"
||'''Module'''||'''Point-to-Multipoint'''||'''ZigBee/Mesh'''||'''Chipset'''|||'''Software stack'''||'''Frequency'''||'''TX Power normal/PRO'''||'''Notes'''
|-
|'''XBee ZB'''
|
|yes
|Ember
|EmberZNet PRO 3.1 (ZigBee 2007)
|2.4 GHz
|2mW/50mW
|coordinator needed
|-
|'''XBee ZNet 2.5'''
|
|yes
|Ember
|EmberZNet 2.5 ZigBee
|2.4 GHz
|2mW/50mW
|(only legacy -> use XBee-PRO ZB) coordinator needed
|-
|'''XBee DigiMesh 2.4'''
|
|yes
|Freescale
|
|2.4 GHz
|
|all nodes equal (no special coordinators/routers/end-devices)
|-
|'''XBee 802.15.4'''
|yes
|
|Freescale
|
|2.4 GHz
|
|
|-
|'''XBee-PRO 868'''
|yes
|
|?
|
|868 MHz
|500mW
|Only High Power Frequency allowed in the UK. 2.4GHz limited to 10mW
|}

==== Pinout ====

[[Image:Maxstream_Xbee_pinout.jpg|left|thumb|Maxstream XBee pinout]]
 

{|border="1"
|-valign="top"
||''Xbee 20-pin Header''||''Name''||''Notes''||''Suggested Color''||
|-
|1
| +3.3v
| Power
|Red
|-
|2
|DOUT
|Tx output - connect to Autopilot Rx
|Green
|-
|3
|DIN
|Rx input - connect to Autopilot Tx
|Blue
|-
|10
|GND
| Ground
|Black
|}

The image view is from above, top, thus NOT at the side where the connector pins come out

Note : DTR and RTS need to be wired for upgrading firmware

=== GCS Adaptation ===

There are several vendors of hardware to connect the ground XBee radio modem to the GCS computer. 
More information about general USB-Serial adapters can be found on the [[Serial_Adapter]] page.

====Adafruit====

[[Image:xbeeadapter_LRG.jpg|thumb|left|Adafruit XBee adapter board]][[Image:xbeeadapterftdi_LRG.jpg|thumb|Adafruit XBee adapter with FTDI cable]]
[http://www.adafruit.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=29&products_id=126 Adafruit] offers a great adapter board kit for the Xbee modules that includes a 5-3.3V voltage regulator, power and activity LEDs, and pins to connect directly to your FTDI cable for $10! Some assembly required.

 

====Droids====

[[Image:XBee_Simple_Board.jpg|thumb|left|XBee Simple Board]]

[[Image:XBee_USB_Board.jpg|thumb|left|XBee USB Board]]

[http://www.droids.it/cmsvb4/content.php?143-990.001-XBee-Simple-Board XBee Simple Board]

Simple breakout board with voltage regulator.

[http://www.droids.it/cmsvb4/content.php?152-990.002-XBee-USB-Board XBee USB Board]

Adapter with FTDI chip for direct usb connection.

 

====PPZUAV====

[[Image:FTDI_Utility_Board.jpg|thumb|left|FTDI Utility Board 1.0‎]]

[https://www.ppzuav.com/osc/product_info.php?products_id=111 ppzuav.com product link] 
More information at the [[Serial_Adapter#FTDI_utility_Board]] page.

FTDI Utility Board 1.0 with FTDI232RL 
On board XBEE connector and molex picoblade connectors.

 

====Sparkfun====

[[Image:XBee_Explorer_USB.jpg|thumb|left|XBee Explorer USB]]

[http://www.sparkfun.com/products/8687 sparkfun.com]

XBee Explorer USB with FTDI232RL

 

=== Digi XBee Pro DigiMesh / 802.15.4 ("Series 1") ===
*Note: Products based on XBee ZNet 2.5 (formerly Series 2) modules do not communicate with products based on XBee DigiMesh / 802.15.4 (formerly Series 1) modules.

These relatively cheap and light modules implement the [http://www.zigbee.org/en/index.asp ZigBee/IEEE 802.15.4] norm. They allow up to 1.6km (1 mile) range (Paparazzi tested to 2.5km (1.5 miles)). The main drawback of using such 2.4Ghz modules for datalink is that it will interfere with the 2.4Ghz analog video transmitters and a inevitable decrease in range when in proximity to any wifi devices. For the plane, get the whip antenna version if you are not planning to build a custom antenna.

{|
|-valign="top"
|[[Image:Xbee_Pro_USB_RF_Modem.jpg|thumb|left|XBee Pro USB Stand-alone Modem (XBP24-PKC-001-UA)]]
|
* Frequency Band 2.4GHz
* Output Power 100mW (Xbee Pro)
* Sensitivity -100 dBm
* RF Data Rate Up to 250 Kbps
* Interface data rate Up to 115.2 Kbps
* Power Draw (typical) 214 mA TX / 55 mA RX
* Supply Voltage 3.3v
* Range (typical, depends on antenna & environment) Up to 1500m line-of-sight
* Dimensions 24 x 33mm
* Weight 4 grams
* Interface 20-pin mini connector
* Chip antenna, ¼ monopole integrated whip antenna or a U.FL antenna connector (3 versions)
* Price: 16€, Pro 26€
|
[[Image:XBee_pro.jpg|thumb|left|XBee Pro OEM Modem]]
|}
Mouser: [http://au.mouser.com/Search/ProductDetail.aspx?qs=sGAEpiMZZMtJacPDJcUJYzVn8vIv7g2fIpf5DCzJqko%3d 888-XBP24-PKC-001-UA] 
NOTE: If you wish to use this unit with another XBee type other than the 802.15.4 (i.e. XBee-PRO ZB) then purchase a modem with the U.fl connector.

==== Documentation ====

* [http://www.maxstream.net/products/xbee/xbee-pro-oem-rf-module-zigbee.php product page]
* [http://www.maxstream.net/products/xbee/datasheet_XBee_OEM_RF-Modules.pdf datasheet]
* [http://www.maxstream.net/products/xbee/product-manual_XBee_OEM_RF-Modules.pdf user manual]
* To program your Xbee you need X-CTU you can download it [http://www.digi.com/support/productdetl.jsp?pid=3352&osvid=57&tp=5&s=316 here]. (only windows)
* explanation on X-CTU [http://www.ladyada.net/make/xbee/configure.html here].
* [http://ftp1.digi.com/support/firmware/update/xbee/ Drivers for XB24 and XBP24 modules]

=== Digi XBee Pro ZB / ZNet 2.5 ("Series 2") ===

The low-power XBee ZB and extended-range XBee-PRO ZB use the ZigBee PRO Feature Set for advanced mesh networking.

{|
|-valign="top"
|[[Image:XBee_Pro_2SB.jpg|thumb|left|Digi XBee Pro ZB]]
|
* Low-cost, low-power mesh networking
* Interoperability with ZigBee PRO Feature Set devices from other vendors*
* Support for larger, more dense mesh networks
* 128-bit AES encryption
* Frequency agility
* Over-the-air firmware updates (change firmware remotely)
* ISM 2.4 GHz operating frequency
* XBee: 2 mW (+3 dBm) power output (up to 400 ft RF LOS range)
* XBee-PRO: 50 mW (+17 dBm) power output (up to 1 mile RF LOS range)
* RPSMA connector, U.FL connector, Chip antenna, or Wired Whip antenna
* price : 14€, Pro 28€
|
|}
These are available from Mouser: 
[http://au.mouser.com/Search/Refine.aspx?Keyword=888-XBP24-Z7WIT-004 888-XBP24-Z7WIT-004] XBee-PRO ZB with whip antenna 
[http://au.mouser.com/Search/Refine.aspx?Keyword=XBP24-Z7SIT-004 888-XBP24-Z7SIT-004] XBee-PRO ZB with RPSMA

See [[XBee_configuration|XBee Configuration]] for setup.

==== Documentation ====
* [http://www.digi.com/products/wireless/zigbee-mesh/xbee-zb-module.jsp http://www.digi.com/products/wireless/zigbee-mesh/xbee-zb-module.jsp]

=== Digi XBee Pro 868 ===

'''WARNING - THESE MODEMS HAVE A 10% DUTY CYCLE, AND CURRENTLY HAVE SEVERE ISSUES WITH PAPARAZZI'''

868MHz is a limited band. Please read the [[868MHz Issues]]

XBee-PRO 868 modules are long range embedded RF modules for European applications. Purpose-built for exceptional RF performance, XBee-PRO 868 modules are ideal for applications with challenging RF environments, such as urban deployments, or where devices are several kilometers apart.

{|
|-valign="top"
|[[Image:xbeeproxsc-rpsma.jpg|thumb|left|Maxstream XBee Pro 868]]
|
* 868 MHz short range device (SRD) G3 band for Europe
* Software selectable Transmit Power
* 40 km RF LOS w/ dipole antennas
* 80 km RF LOS w/ high gain antennas (TX Power reduced)
* Simple to use peer-to-peer/point-to-mulitpoint topology
* 128-bit AES encryption
* 500 mW EIRP
* 24 kbps RF data rate
* price : ~70 USD
|
|}

See [[XBee_configuration#XBee_Pro_868_MHZ|XBee Configuration]] for setup.

==== Documentation ====
* [http://www.digi.com/products/wireless/point-multipoint/xbee-pro-868.jsp http://www.digi.com/products/wireless/point-multipoint/xbee-pro-868.jsp]

=== Digi XBee 868LP ===

XBee 868LP modules are a low-power 868 MHz RF module for use in Europe. The range is shorter than it's brother the XBee PRO-868, but it can use the 868 G4 band with hopping which does not have restrictions on it's duty cycle. This is a big advantage if one want to have a good stream of telemetry data

{|
|-valign="top"
|[[Image:868lp.jpg|thumb|left|XBee 868LP]]
|
* 868 MHz short range device (SRD) G4 band for Europe
* 4 km RF LOS w/ u.fl antennas
* 5 mW EIRP
* 10 or 80 kbps RF data rate
* price : 18€
|
|}

==== Documentation ====
* [http://www.digi.com/products/wireless-wired-embedded-solutions/zigbee-rf-modules/zigbee-mesh-module/xbee-868lp#overview http://www.digi.com/products/wireless-wired-embedded-solutions/zigbee-rf-modules/zigbee-mesh-module/xbee-868lp#overview]

==== Trial ====

With a quickly crafted and not optimal positioned antenna on the airframe we managed to get the advertised 4000 meter range. Data throughput was not high and the Iridium Telemetry XML configuration document was therefore used. All in all, cheap, easy to setup, pin compatible with regular modules and quite a range and usable in Europe without hassle.

=== Digi XBee Pro 900HP ===
* Frequency band 900Mhz
* RF rate 10 or 200 kbps
* up to 250mW output power
* 5 to 8 gramm
* price: 32€

==== Documentation ====
[http://ftp1.digi.com/support/documentation/90002173_H.pdf http://ftp1.digi.com/support/documentation/90002173_H.pdf]

=== Digi XBee Pro XSC 900MHz ===

Maxstream has recently announced a promising new line of modems combining the small size and low cost of their popular Xbee line with the long range and 2.4 GHz video compatibility of their high end 900 MHz models. Sounds like the perfect modem for anyone who can use 900 MHz. Give them a try and post your results here!
{|
|-valign="top"
|[[Image:xbeeproxsc-rpsma.jpg|thumb|left|Maxstream XBee Pro XSC]]
|
* Frequency Band 900 MHz
* Output Power 100 mW (+20 dBm)
* Sensitivity -100 dBm
* RF Rate: 10 or 20 kbps
* Range (typical, depends on antenna & environment) Up to 24km (15 miles) line-of-sight
* Interface 20-pin mini connector (Xbee compatible pinout)
* RPSMA, integrated whip antenna or U.FL antenna connector (3 versions)
* price : 32€
|
|}

==== Documentation ====
* [http://www.digi.com/products/wireless/point-multipoint/xbee-pro-xsc.jsp http://www.digi.com/products/wireless/point-multipoint/xbee-pro-xsc.jsp]

==== Trials ====
Tested one today and it worked great. Going to try a multiUAV test with it soon
--Danstah
 
 
MultiUAV tests concluded this is probably not the best module to use. Even though it says you can change the baudrate inside x-ctu that is not the case, it is fixed at 9600 bps. This is a great modem however for single UAV's and I do recommend.
--Danstah
 
 
Why would the European (868 MHz) be good to 24kbps and this only to 9600? When I was altering my XBees (2.4Ghz Pro's) I had this problem altering baud rates until I read you have to send a "commit and reboot" type command after setting the baud rate. Could this be the case? --GR

=== Digi 9XTend ===

These larger units have been tested on the 900Mhz band, but are also available in 2.4Ghz. They are a bit on the heavy side, about 20 grams, but give good performance at range. They have adjustable transmit power settings from 100mW to 1W. Testing has shown range up to 5.6km (3.5 Miles) with XTend set to 100mW with small 3.1dB dipole antenna.

{|
|-valign="top"
|
[[Image:XTend_USB_RF_Modem.jpg|frame|left|9XTend USB Modem]]
|
* Frequency Band 900Mhz and 2.4Ghz (2 versions)
* Output Power 1mW to 1W software selectable
* Sensitivity -110 dBm (@ 9600 bps)
* RF Data Rate 9.6 or 115.2 Kbps
* Interface data rate up to 230.4 Kbps
* Power Draw (typical) 730 mA TX / 80 mA RX
* Supply Voltage 2.8 to 5.5v
* Range (typical, depends on antenna & environment) Up to 64km line-of-sight
* Dimensions 36 x 60 x 5mm
* Weight 18 grams
* Interface 20-pin mini connector or USB
* RF connector RPSMA (Reverse-polarity SMA) or MMCX (2 versions)
* price : 150€
|
[[Image:Xtend_module.jpg|frame|left|9XTend OEM Modem]]
|}

==== Pinout ====

[[Image:Maxstream_9XTend_Pinout.gif|thumb|left|Maxstream 9XTend Pinout]]

{| border="1"
|-valign="top"
||'''''9XTend 20-pin Header'''''||'''''Name'''''||'''''Tiny Serial-1 Header'''''||'''''Notes'''''
|-
||1||GND||1 (GND)||Ground
|-
||2||VCC||2 (5V)||5V power (150mA - 730mA Supplied from servo bus or other 5V source)
|-
||5||RX||8 (TX)||3-5V TTL data input - connect to Tiny TX
|-
||6||TX||7 (RX)||5V TTL data output - connect to Tiny RX
|-
||7||Shutdown||2||This pin must be connected to the 5V bus for normal operation
|}
Notes: 
* 9XTend can run on voltages as low as 2.8V but users are strongly advised against connecting any modem (especially high power models) to the sensitive 3.3V bus supplying the autopilot processor and sensors.
 

==== Documentation ====

* [http://www.maxstream.net/products/xtend/oem-rf-module.php product page]
* [http://www.maxstream.net/products/xtend/datasheet_XTend_OEM_RF-Module.pdf datasheet]
* [http://www.maxstream.net/products/xtend/product-manual_XTend_OEM_RF-Module.pdf user manual]

==== Configuration ====

These modems need to be carefully configured based on your usage scenario to obtain the best possible range and link quality. In addition, it is always good to make sure the firmware is up to date.

Some typical configurations that may work well, but can still depend your particular situation, are given below. For further details, be sure to consult the XTend users manual. Your application may need a different or modified configuration. The radiomodems do not need identical settings and can in fact be optimized with different settings. A good example is delays and retries: if each radio has the same number of retries and no delay, when a collision occurs each will continuously try to re-transmit, locking up the transmission for some time with no resolution or successful packet delivery. Instead, it is best to set the module whose data should have a lower latency to have no delay and a lower number of retries, while the other module has a delay set (RN > 0) and a greater number of retries. See acknowledged mode example below.

* Acknowledged Polling Mode ('''Recommended'''):
** This causes one radio to be the base and the other(s) to be the remote(s). It eliminates collisions because remotes do not send data unless requested by the base. It can work in acknowledged mode (RR>0), basic reliable mode (MT>0) or in basic mode (no acknowledgement or multiple packets). It is recommended that the lower latency and/or higher data rate side be configured as the base (i.e. if you are sending lots of telemetry then the air module configured as the base is probably a good idea, but if you are using datalink joystick control, the ground side might be better as the base. It may require some experimentation).
* Acknowledged Point-to-(Multi)Point Mode:
** Each radio sends a packet and requests and acknowledgement that the packet was sent from the receiving side. The retries and delays must be set appropriately to ensure packet collisions are dealt with appropriately. It can also work without acknowledgements in basic reliable mode (MT>0) without any acknowledgements (RR=0, MT=0). Some experimentation may be required.

{| border="1"
|-valign="top"
||'''''Setting Name'''''||colspan="2"|'''''Acknowledged Mode'''''||colspan="2"|'''''Polling Mode (Acknowledged)'''''||'''''Notes'''''
|-
|| ||'''''Airside Module'''''||'''''Groundside Module'''''||'''''Base Module'''''||'''''Remote Module'''''||
|-
||BD||6||6||6||6||Adjust to match your configured autopilot and ground station baud rates (default for these is 57600bps)
|-
||DT||default||default||0x02||0x01||Can be adjusted if consistency maintained across addressing functionalities (see manual)
|-
||MD||default||default||3 (0x03)||4 (0x04)||
|-
||MT||0||0||0||0||Use this to enable Basic Reliable transmission, link bandwidth requirement increases (see manual)
|-
||MY||default||default||0x01||0x02||Can be adjusted if consistency maintained across addressing functionalities (see manual)
|-
||PB||default||default||0x02||default||Can be adjusted if consistency maintained across addressing functionalities (see manual)
|-
||PD||default||default||default||default||Can be adjusted to increase polling request rate and DI buffer flush timeout (see manual)
|-
||PE||default||default||0x02||default||Can be adjusted if consistency maintained across addressing functionalities (see manual)
|-
||PL||default||default||default||default||''Transmit power level should be reduced for lab testing!!''
|-
||RN||0 (0x00)||8 (0x08)||default||default||
|-
||RR||6 (0x06)||12 (0x0C)||6 (0x06)||12 (0x0C)||
|}

'''Note:''' All settings are assumed to be default except those listed. Those listed are in decimal unless hex 0x prefix included. Depending on your firmware version, slight modifications may be necessary.

Here is some additional information and alternative instructions to configure the polling mode from the Digi site: [http://www.digi.com/support/kbase/kbaseresultdetl?id=2178 Polling Mode for the 9XTend Radio Modem]

== SiLabs Si1000 SoC based modems ==

The Si1000 radio System on Chip (SOC) produced by SiLabs is found in a number of radio modules, for example the cheap and widely used HopeRf module. There is [https://github.com/tridge/SiK open source firmware] for these radios which makes them suitable for use in MAVs.

Note that (unlike some XBee modules) the SiK firmware does not support mesh topologies, it is strictly a point-to-point link. If you are working with swarming vehicles they may not be the best choice.

Online documentation for the Sik firmware shows how to configure it for various jurisdictions. The firmware supports 433 MHz, 470 MHz, 868 MHz and 900 MHz radios, if you are aware of any hardware supporting the European spectrum licences (868 MHz) please add them to this wiki.

Note: When using a SiK firmware radio with paparazzi, you should set "ATS6=0" (MavLink packing off) and configure paparazzi for transparent serial mode.

[http://www.rfdesign.com.au/index.php/rfd900 This module] is well proven and supports antenna diversity. A combination of 6dbi Yagi plus a dipole on the ground station, with a pair of orthogonality oriented dioples in the airframe, has been extensively tested and proven reliable at >8km range (theoretical range of ~40km).

Alternatively, for shorter range a pair of cheap generic HopeRF-based modems [http://rctimer.com/index.php?gOo=goods_details.dwt&goodsid=815 such as these]

The RFD900 can be paired with cheap generic (single front-end) modules, if for example you use a small short range airframe with a ground station that's also used for long range operations.

== Laird (ex Aerocom) ==
Lairds's API mode is already implemented but some system integration is required. Full API more with addressed packets works well and was tested with AC4790-1x1 5mW low power modules. Maximim range achieved with a whip quater-wave antenna was 1Km.

How to use this modem on ground station side? [http://paparazzi.enac.fr/wiki/index.php/User:SilaS#SDK-AC4868-250_ground_modem_part]

See folder paparazzi3 / trunk / sw / aerocomm. It has all the required files to use this modem on the airborne and ground station side. The link.ml file is a direct replacement of the "main" link.ml file of the ground sttaion and will be merged into it in the future.. or you can do it as well.

{|
|
=== AC4790-200 ===
* Frequency 902-928MHz (North America, Australia, etc).
* Output Power 5-200mW
* Sensitivity (@ full RF data rate) -110dB
* RF Data Rate up to 76.8 Kbps
* INterface Data Rate Up to Up to 115.2 Kbps
* Power Draw (typical) 68 mA
* Supply Voltage 3.3v & 5.5V
* Range (typical, depends on antenna & environment) Up to 6.4 kilometers line-of-sight
* Dimensions 42 x 48 x 5mm
* Weight < 20 grams
* Interface 20-pin mini connector
* Antenna MMCX jack Connector or internal
* price : 52€
|
[[Image:ac4868_transceiver.jpg|thumb|left|AC4868 OEM Modem]]
|
|-
|
=== AC4790-1000 ===
* Frequency 902-928MHz (North America, Australia, etc).
* Output Power 5-1000mW
* Sensitivity (@ full RF data rate) -99dB
* RF Data Rate up to 76.8 Kbps
* INterface Data Rate Up to Up to 115.2 Kbps
* Power Draw (typical) 650 mA
* Supply Voltage 3.3V only
* Range (typical, depends on antenna & environment) Up to 32 kilometers with high-gain antenna
* Dimensions 42 x 48 x 5mm
* Weight < 20 grams
* Interface 20-pin mini connector
* Antenna MMCX jack Connector
* price : 64€
|}

=== Pinout ===

[[Image:Aerocomm_AC4868_pinout.jpg|thumb|left|Laird AC4868 modem pinout]]
[[Image:Aerocomm_AC4490-200_wired.jpg|thumb|left|Laird AC4490 wiring example]]
 

{| border="1"
|+ Wiring the Laird AC4868 to the Tiny
|-valign="top"
||'''''AC4868 20-pin Header'''''||'''''Name'''''||'''''Color'''''||'''''Tiny v1.1 Serial-1'''''||'''''Tiny v2.11 Serial'''''||'''''Notes'''''
|-
||2||Tx||green||7||7||''(Note 1)''
|-
||3||Rx||blue||8||8||''(Note 1)''
|-
||5||GND||black||1||1|| -
|-
||10+11||VCC||red||2||3||+3.3v ''(Note 2)''
|-
||17||C/D||white||3||?||Low = Command High = Data
|}
''Note 1 : names are specified with respect to the AEROCOMM module''

''Note 2 : AC4790-1000 needs pins 10 and 11 jumped to work properly''

=== Laird RM024 ===
[[Image:Laird_LT2510_RM024-P125-C-01-side.jpg|thumb|RM024 P125]]
[[Image:Lt2510_prm123.jpg|thumb|LT2510 Modem]]
The RM024 replaces the discontinued LT2510 (they are backwards compatible).

General features:
* Frequency Band 2.4GHz
* Output Power 2,5mW - 125mW
* Sensitivity -98dbm @ 280kbps/-94 dBm @ 500kbps
* RF Data Rate 280/500 kbps
* UART up to 460800 baud
* Power Draw 90mA - 180mA TX / 10mA RX
* Supply Voltage 3.3v
* Range up to 4000m
* Dimensions 26 x 33 x 4mm
* Weight 4 grams
* Interface 20-pin mini connector (smd solder pad or XBee compatible pin header)
* Chip antenna, U.FL antenna connector or both
* Price: 29-31€ @ mouser (SMD / XBEE header)

Two different mounting/pinuts are available: 
* smd version: can be soldered on a pcb 
* pin header: standard XBEE pinout (this is the SMD version mounted on a seperate pcb with male pin headers)

Available in two different output power versions:
{|border="1"
|-valign="top"
||''value''||''50mW version''||''125mW version''
|-
|output power
| 2,5 mW - 50 mW
| 2,5 mW - 125 mW
|-
|output power dbm
|4 dbm - 17 dbm
|4 dbm - 21 dbm
|-
|TX drain
|90mA
|<180mA
|-
|max range (280kbps with 2 dbi antenna)
|2400m
|4000m
|-
|approval
|CE for EU, FCC/IC for USA,
Canada PRM122/123 also for Japan
|FCC/IC for USA, Canada
|}

The RM024 uses frequency hopping (FHSS) which needs a client/server model. That means that one modem (most appropriately the ground station modem) needs to be set to server mode. It will transmit a beacon message and have all client modems synchronize to that in a time and frequency hopping scheme manner. For that all modems need to have the same channel (in fact the hopping scheme) and system-id. Clients can be set to auto-channel and auto-system-id to follow any/the first visible server.

====Documentation====
[http://www.lairdtech.com/WorkArea/DownloadAsset.aspx?id=2147488576 RM024 User Manual] 
[http://www.lairdtech.com/WorkArea/linkit.aspx?LinkIdentifier=id&ItemID=4379 LT2510 User Manual] 
[http://www.lairdtech.com/zips/Developer_Kit.zip Windows configuration tool]

'''Setup'''

Look at the [[Laird_RM024_setup page]]

== Bluetooth ==
These modems do not give you a great range but Bluetooth can be found in a lot of recent laptops built-in. Maybe not useful for fixed wing aircrafts it might be used for in-the-shop testing or quadcopters. Make sure you get a recent Class 1 EDR 2.0 stick if you buy one for your computer.
{|
|
=== RN-41 Bluetooth module(Sparkfun's WRL-08497) ===
* Frequency Band 2.4GHz
* Output Power 32 mW
* RF Data Rate up to ~300 kbps in SPP
* Interface Data Rate up to 921 kbps
* Power Draw (typical) 50 mA TX / 40 mA RX
* Supply Voltage 3.3v
* Range (typical, depends on antenna & environment) 100 meters line-of-sight
* Dimensions 26 x 13 x 2mm
* Weight ~1.5 grams
* Interface solder connector
* price : 20€
|
[[Image:roving_nw_wiring.jpg|thumb|Roving Networks modem wiring]]
|-
|

To connect to it, get the MAC address of the bluetooth modem

me@mybox:~$ hcitool scan
Scanning ...
00:06:66:00:53:AD FireFly-53AD

either make a virtual connection to a Bluetooth serial port each time you connect

sudo rfcomm bind 0 00:06:66:00:53:AD

or configure it once in /etc/bluetooth/rfcomm.conf

rfcomm0 {
bind yes;
device 00:06:66:00:53:AD;
}

now you can use Bluetooth as '''/dev/rfcomm0''' with the Paparazzi 'link'. You might need to restart 'link' in case you get out of range and it disconnects (tbd). Set the Tiny serial speed to 115200 as the modules come preconfigured to that.
|}

== ESP8266 WiFi Module ==

[[File:ESP8266.jpg|thumbnail|left|ESP8266 WiFi module]]
Connect directly to the autopilot from your computers built-in WiFi connection. No additional devices are required. This chip was sucesfully tested in the lab, but no test flights have been performed yet.
 

== Telemetry via Video Transmitter==

[[Image:video_tx_small.jpg|thumb|2.4GHz Video Transmitter]]
In order for the UAV to transmit video from an onboard camera, an analog video transmitter can be used. These vary in power, and thus range, and run normally on 2.4Ghz. Small UAVs can get about 600m of range from the 50mW version, and extended range can be achieved using units up to 1W. Weight for these units varies from a couple grams to about 30 for the 1W with shielding. Please check for your countries regulations on 2.4Ghz transmission, as each is different.

It is possible to use the audio channel to send simple telemetry data to the groundstation. Uploading telemetry not possible via analog audio transmitter only.
 

== Antennas ==

Here are some examples of lightweight and efficient 868MHz antennas developped by the RF laboratory at ENAC.
[[Image:868mhz_twinstar_antenna_1.jpg|thumb|left|868MHz copper foil antenna attached to the aircraft tail]]
[[Image:868mhz_twinstar_antenna_2.jpg|thumb|left|868MHz copper foil antenna bottom view]]
[[Image:868mhz_ground_antenna.jpg|thumb|left|868MHz ground antenna]]
 

This wiki page might give some ideas about antennas: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dipole_antenna

[[Category:Hardware]]

Modems

2015-03-29T09:49:37Z

BartSlinger:

The Paparazzi autopilots generally feature a TTL serial port to interface with any common radio modem. The bidirectional link provides real-time telemetry and in-flight tuning and navigation commands. The system is also capable overlaying the appropriate protocols to communicate thru non-transparent devices such as the Coronis Wavecard or Maxstream API-enabled products, allowing for hardware addressing for multiple aircraft or future enhancements such as data-relaying, inter-aircraft communication, RSSI signal monitoring and automatic in-flight modem power adjustment. Below is a list of some of the common modems used with Paparazzi, for details on configuring your modem see the [[Airframe_Configuration#Telemetry_.28Modem.29|Airframe Configuration]] and [[XBee_configuration|XBee Configuration]] pages.

==General comparison==
'''This is ONLY a comparison between modules (found on this page) which work acceptably'''

All modules listed here work without issue and are generally available.
{| border="1" cellspacing="0" style="text-align:center" cellpadding="2%"
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''Feature'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Digi_XBee_Pro_DigiMesh_.2F_802.15.4_.28.22Series_1.22.29|XBee Series 1]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Digi_XBee_Pro_DigiMesh_.2F_802.15.4_.28.22Series_1.22.29|XBee Pro Series 1]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Digi_XBee_Pro_ZB_.2F_ZNet_2.5_.28.22Series_2.22.29|XBee Series 2]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Digi_XBee_Pro_ZB_.2F_ZNet_2.5_.28.22Series_2.22.29|XBee Pro Series 2]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Digi_XBee_868LP|XBee 868LP]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Digi_XBee_Pro_900HP|XBee Pro 900HP]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Digi_XBee_Pro_XSC_900MHz|XBee Pro XSC 900]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Digi_9XTend|Digi 9XTend]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#SiLabs_Si1000_SoC_based_modems|SiLabs Si1000]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#AC4790-200|Aerocom AC4790-200]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#AC4790-1000|Aerocom AC4790-1000]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Laird_RM024|Laird RM024 50mW]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#Laird_RM024|Laird RM024 125mW]]'''
| align="center" style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''[[Modems#RN-41_Bluetooth_module.28Sparkfun.27s_WRL-08497.29|RN-41 Bluetooth]]'''
|-
| style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''frequency'''||2,4GHz||2,4GHz||2,4GHz||2,4GHz||868MHz||900MHz||900MHz||900MHz, 2.4GHz||240-960MHz||900MHz||900MHz||2,4GHz||2,4GHz||2,4GHz
|-
| style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''output power'''||1mW||63mW (US) 10 mW (Int'l)||2mW||63mW||5mW||250mW||250mW||1mW-1W||max 100mW||5-200mW||5-1000mW||2,5-50mW||2,5-125mW||32mW
|-
| style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''RF speed'''||250kbps||250kbps||250kbps||250kbps||10kbps, 80kbps||10 or 200kbps||10, 20kbps||9.6, 115.2kbps|| ||76.8kbps||76.8kbps||280, 500kbps||280, 500kbps||300kbps
|-
| style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''antenna'''||chip, wire, rpsma, u.fl||chip, wire, rpsma, u.fl||chip, wire, rpsma, u.fl||chip, wire, rpsma, u.fl||external required||wire, rpsma, u.fl||wire, rpsma, u.fl||rpsma, MMCX||external required||MMCX, internal Antenna||MMCX||u.fl, chip, both||u.fl, chip, both||pcb trace
|-
| style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''pinout'''||XBee||XBee||XBee||XBee||SMD||XBee||XBee||20 pin 2,54mm/USB||SMD (42 pin LGA)||20 pin mini connector||20 pin mini connector||XBee/SMD||XBee/SMD||SMD
|-
| style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''price'''||16€||26€||14€||28€||18€||32€||32€||150€||4€||52€||64€||30€||30€||20€
|-
| style="background:#f0f0f0;"|'''for Country'''||Worldwide||Worldwide||Worldwide||Worldwide||Europe||North America, Australia||North America, Australia||Worldwide||Worldwide||North America, Australia||North America, Australia||Europe||North America||Worldwide
|}

== Frequencies ==

Analog and digital signals (video and data/modem) can not be transmitted over the same frequency band since the analog signal will "block" the digital one. (Attention ! the common 2.4 or 5.8GHz frequencies have multiple channels, if the analog and digital transmitter/receiver modules are set up to different channels/frequencies, they should work (even on 2.4GHz)).

You may want to inform yourself about your countries laws ! Different countries allow different frequencies at different power. 
Sending on a wrong frequency or with too much power may end in a serious lawsuit !

Digi: [http://www.digi.com/technology/rfmodems/agencyapprovals Government Agency Certifications]

== HAM / CEPT Licence ==

If possible, consider making a HAM radio (amateur radio) licence. (e.g. CEPT, depends on yur locality)

You will learn about the radio technology, operational technology and legislation. 
With a HAM radio licence, you can also use other frequencies or transmit on a higher power. (e.g. In some countries, the 5.8GHz video transmission is for non licenced people restricted to 10mW!) 

'''Licence Pros'''
* You will be informed well about the (local and international) legislations.
* You can transmit on a higher power (depends on frequency).
* You will learn a lot about the techniques and be more than a standard "consumer" of radio electronic products.
* It will be easier to find faults in your radio systems.
* You can built (if you want) high gain/focused antennas which can gice you a better signal, wider range and won't disturb anyone else.
* Well educated prople respecting the legislation just looks much better in looks to UAV's :)

'''Licence Cons'''
* You will need to learn for the test (can be compared with a diverce licence).
* The certificate and books will cost about 70€ (total, can vary !).
* Maybe some costs (per year) for your call sign.

=== CEPT Licence in Austria ===

A short description about getting the CEPT 1 (not the CEPT Novice !) licence in Austria.

You will need the appropriate books which cost 50€ (70€ if you want them with the ask catalog and answers which can be helpful) and rough 18€ for the exam and certificate. The ÖVSV offers also some courses, but you can also learn everything with the books.

To be continued...

=== Links ===

[http://www.oevsv.at/ Austrian ÖVSV] 
[http://www.darc.de/ German DARC]

== Digi XBee modules ==

Digi (formerly Maxstream) offers an increasing variety of Zigbee protocol modems well suited for Paparazzi in 2.4 GHz, 900MHz and 868Mhz frequencies. The "Pro" series are long range, up to 40km! Standard series are slightly smaller/lighter/lower power consumption and very short range. All versions are all pin compatible and weigh around 2 grams with wire antennas. All Digi modems can be operated in transparent mode (as a serial line replacement) or in "API mode" with hardware addressing, managed networking, and RSSI (signal strength) data with the Paparazzi "Xbee" option.

Four antenna options are offered: RP-SMA, U-FL, wire antenna, chip antenna

* XBee (PRO) ZB (the current series)
* XBee (PRO) ZNet 2.5 (formerly Series 2) (only legacy -> use XBee-PRO ZB)
The XBee & XBee-PRO ZB share hardware (ember stack) with XBee & XBee-PRO ZNet 2.5. As a result, modules can be "converted" from one platform to another by loading different firmware onto a given module.

These two also share the same hardware and can be converted from one to another by flashing a different firmware:
* XBee-PRO 802.15.4 (formerly Series 1)
* XBee-PRO DigiMesh 2.4

'''Note: Modules based on Freescale chipset (formerly Series 1) are not compatible with Ember chipset based modules (Series 2).'''

If only point to point or point to multipoint communication is required 802.15.4 will do the job. These are designed for high data rates and low latency. 
Modules with Zigbee firmware are needed for mesh functionality(communication between the UAV's)

See the [[XBee_configuration|XBee Configuration]] page. This [http://pixhawk.ethz.ch/tutorials/how_to_configure_xbee tutorial] is also good to configure and get started with XBee Pro.

=== Module Comparison ===
{|border="1"
|-valign="top"
||'''Module'''||'''Point-to-Multipoint'''||'''ZigBee/Mesh'''||'''Chipset'''|||'''Software stack'''||'''Frequency'''||'''TX Power normal/PRO'''||'''Notes'''
|-
|'''XBee ZB'''
|
|yes
|Ember
|EmberZNet PRO 3.1 (ZigBee 2007)
|2.4 GHz
|2mW/50mW
|coordinator needed
|-
|'''XBee ZNet 2.5'''
|
|yes
|Ember
|EmberZNet 2.5 ZigBee
|2.4 GHz
|2mW/50mW
|(only legacy -> use XBee-PRO ZB) coordinator needed
|-
|'''XBee DigiMesh 2.4'''
|
|yes
|Freescale
|
|2.4 GHz
|
|all nodes equal (no special coordinators/routers/end-devices)
|-
|'''XBee 802.15.4'''
|yes
|
|Freescale
|
|2.4 GHz
|
|
|-
|'''XBee-PRO 868'''
|yes
|
|?
|
|868 MHz
|500mW
|Only High Power Frequency allowed in the UK. 2.4GHz limited to 10mW
|}

==== Pinout ====

[[Image:Maxstream_Xbee_pinout.jpg|left|thumb|Maxstream XBee pinout]]
 

{|border="1"
|-valign="top"
||''Xbee 20-pin Header''||''Name''||''Notes''||''Suggested Color''||
|-
|1
| +3.3v
| Power
|Red
|-
|2
|DOUT
|Tx output - connect to Autopilot Rx
|Green
|-
|3
|DIN
|Rx input - connect to Autopilot Tx
|Blue
|-
|10
|GND
| Ground
|Black
|}

The image view is from above, top, thus NOT at the side where the connector pins come out

Note : DTR and RTS need to be wired for upgrading firmware

=== GCS Adaptation ===

There are several vendors of hardware to connect the ground XBee radio modem to the GCS computer. 
More information about general USB-Serial adapters can be found on the [[Serial_Adapter]] page.

====Adafruit====

[[Image:xbeeadapter_LRG.jpg|thumb|left|Adafruit XBee adapter board]][[Image:xbeeadapterftdi_LRG.jpg|thumb|Adafruit XBee adapter with FTDI cable]]
[http://www.adafruit.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=29&products_id=126 Adafruit] offers a great adapter board kit for the Xbee modules that includes a 5-3.3V voltage regulator, power and activity LEDs, and pins to connect directly to your FTDI cable for $10! Some assembly required.

 

====Droids====

[[Image:XBee_Simple_Board.jpg|thumb|left|XBee Simple Board]]

[[Image:XBee_USB_Board.jpg|thumb|left|XBee USB Board]]

[http://www.droids.it/cmsvb4/content.php?143-990.001-XBee-Simple-Board XBee Simple Board]

Simple breakout board with voltage regulator.

[http://www.droids.it/cmsvb4/content.php?152-990.002-XBee-USB-Board XBee USB Board]

Adapter with FTDI chip for direct usb connection.

 

====PPZUAV====

[[Image:FTDI_Utility_Board.jpg|thumb|left|FTDI Utility Board 1.0‎]]

[https://www.ppzuav.com/osc/product_info.php?products_id=111 ppzuav.com product link] 
More information at the [[Serial_Adapter#FTDI_utility_Board]] page.

FTDI Utility Board 1.0 with FTDI232RL 
On board XBEE connector and molex picoblade connectors.

 

====Sparkfun====

[[Image:XBee_Explorer_USB.jpg|thumb|left|XBee Explorer USB]]

[http://www.sparkfun.com/products/8687 sparkfun.com]

XBee Explorer USB with FTDI232RL

 

=== Digi XBee Pro DigiMesh / 802.15.4 ("Series 1") ===
*Note: Products based on XBee ZNet 2.5 (formerly Series 2) modules do not communicate with products based on XBee DigiMesh / 802.15.4 (formerly Series 1) modules.

These relatively cheap and light modules implement the [http://www.zigbee.org/en/index.asp ZigBee/IEEE 802.15.4] norm. They allow up to 1.6km (1 mile) range (Paparazzi tested to 2.5km (1.5 miles)). The main drawback of using such 2.4Ghz modules for datalink is that it will interfere with the 2.4Ghz analog video transmitters and a inevitable decrease in range when in proximity to any wifi devices. For the plane, get the whip antenna version if you are not planning to build a custom antenna.

{|
|-valign="top"
|[[Image:Xbee_Pro_USB_RF_Modem.jpg|thumb|left|XBee Pro USB Stand-alone Modem (XBP24-PKC-001-UA)]]
|
* Frequency Band 2.4GHz
* Output Power 100mW (Xbee Pro)
* Sensitivity -100 dBm
* RF Data Rate Up to 250 Kbps
* Interface data rate Up to 115.2 Kbps
* Power Draw (typical) 214 mA TX / 55 mA RX
* Supply Voltage 3.3v
* Range (typical, depends on antenna & environment) Up to 1500m line-of-sight
* Dimensions 24 x 33mm
* Weight 4 grams
* Interface 20-pin mini connector
* Chip antenna, ¼ monopole integrated whip antenna or a U.FL antenna connector (3 versions)
* Price: 16€, Pro 26€
|
[[Image:XBee_pro.jpg|thumb|left|XBee Pro OEM Modem]]
|}
Mouser: [http://au.mouser.com/Search/ProductDetail.aspx?qs=sGAEpiMZZMtJacPDJcUJYzVn8vIv7g2fIpf5DCzJqko%3d 888-XBP24-PKC-001-UA] 
NOTE: If you wish to use this unit with another XBee type other than the 802.15.4 (i.e. XBee-PRO ZB) then purchase a modem with the U.fl connector.

==== Documentation ====

* [http://www.maxstream.net/products/xbee/xbee-pro-oem-rf-module-zigbee.php product page]
* [http://www.maxstream.net/products/xbee/datasheet_XBee_OEM_RF-Modules.pdf datasheet]
* [http://www.maxstream.net/products/xbee/product-manual_XBee_OEM_RF-Modules.pdf user manual]
* To program your Xbee you need X-CTU you can download it [http://www.digi.com/support/productdetl.jsp?pid=3352&osvid=57&tp=5&s=316 here]. (only windows)
* explanation on X-CTU [http://www.ladyada.net/make/xbee/configure.html here].
* [http://ftp1.digi.com/support/firmware/update/xbee/ Drivers for XB24 and XBP24 modules]

=== Digi XBee Pro ZB / ZNet 2.5 ("Series 2") ===

The low-power XBee ZB and extended-range XBee-PRO ZB use the ZigBee PRO Feature Set for advanced mesh networking.

{|
|-valign="top"
|[[Image:XBee_Pro_2SB.jpg|thumb|left|Digi XBee Pro ZB]]
|
* Low-cost, low-power mesh networking
* Interoperability with ZigBee PRO Feature Set devices from other vendors*
* Support for larger, more dense mesh networks
* 128-bit AES encryption
* Frequency agility
* Over-the-air firmware updates (change firmware remotely)
* ISM 2.4 GHz operating frequency
* XBee: 2 mW (+3 dBm) power output (up to 400 ft RF LOS range)
* XBee-PRO: 50 mW (+17 dBm) power output (up to 1 mile RF LOS range)
* RPSMA connector, U.FL connector, Chip antenna, or Wired Whip antenna
* price : 14€, Pro 28€
|
|}
These are available from Mouser: 
[http://au.mouser.com/Search/Refine.aspx?Keyword=888-XBP24-Z7WIT-004 888-XBP24-Z7WIT-004] XBee-PRO ZB with whip antenna 
[http://au.mouser.com/Search/Refine.aspx?Keyword=XBP24-Z7SIT-004 888-XBP24-Z7SIT-004] XBee-PRO ZB with RPSMA

See [[XBee_configuration|XBee Configuration]] for setup.

==== Documentation ====
* [http://www.digi.com/products/wireless/zigbee-mesh/xbee-zb-module.jsp http://www.digi.com/products/wireless/zigbee-mesh/xbee-zb-module.jsp]

=== Digi XBee Pro 868 ===

'''WARNING - THESE MODEMS HAVE A 10% DUTY CYCLE, AND CURRENTLY HAVE SEVERE ISSUES WITH PAPARAZZI'''

868MHz is a limited band. Please read the [[868MHz Issues]]

XBee-PRO 868 modules are long range embedded RF modules for European applications. Purpose-built for exceptional RF performance, XBee-PRO 868 modules are ideal for applications with challenging RF environments, such as urban deployments, or where devices are several kilometers apart.

{|
|-valign="top"
|[[Image:xbeeproxsc-rpsma.jpg|thumb|left|Maxstream XBee Pro 868]]
|
* 868 MHz short range device (SRD) G3 band for Europe
* Software selectable Transmit Power
* 40 km RF LOS w/ dipole antennas
* 80 km RF LOS w/ high gain antennas (TX Power reduced)
* Simple to use peer-to-peer/point-to-mulitpoint topology
* 128-bit AES encryption
* 500 mW EIRP
* 24 kbps RF data rate
* price : ~70 USD
|
|}

See [[XBee_configuration#XBee_Pro_868_MHZ|XBee Configuration]] for setup.

==== Documentation ====
* [http://www.digi.com/products/wireless/point-multipoint/xbee-pro-868.jsp http://www.digi.com/products/wireless/point-multipoint/xbee-pro-868.jsp]

=== Digi XBee 868LP ===

XBee 868LP modules are a low-power 868 MHz RF module for use in Europe. The range is shorter than it's brother the XBee PRO-868, but it can use the 868 G4 band with hopping which does not have restrictions on it's duty cycle. This is a big advantage if one want to have a good stream of telemetry data

{|
|-valign="top"
|[[Image:868lp.jpg|thumb|left|XBee 868LP]]
|
* 868 MHz short range device (SRD) G4 band for Europe
* 4 km RF LOS w/ u.fl antennas
* 5 mW EIRP
* 10 or 80 kbps RF data rate
* price : 18€
|
|}

==== Documentation ====
* [http://www.digi.com/products/wireless-wired-embedded-solutions/zigbee-rf-modules/zigbee-mesh-module/xbee-868lp#overview http://www.digi.com/products/wireless-wired-embedded-solutions/zigbee-rf-modules/zigbee-mesh-module/xbee-868lp#overview]

==== Trial ====

With a quickly crafted and not optimal positioned antenna on the airframe we managed to get the advertised 4000 meter range. Data throughput was not high and the Iridium Telemetry XML configuration document was therefore used. All in all, cheap, easy to setup, pin compatible with regular modules and quite a range and usable in Europe without hassle.

=== Digi XBee Pro 900HP ===
* Frequency band 900Mhz
* RF rate 10 or 200 kbps
* up to 250mW output power
* 5 to 8 gramm
* price: 32€

==== Documentation ====
[http://ftp1.digi.com/support/documentation/90002173_H.pdf http://ftp1.digi.com/support/documentation/90002173_H.pdf]

=== Digi XBee Pro XSC 900MHz ===

Maxstream has recently announced a promising new line of modems combining the small size and low cost of their popular Xbee line with the long range and 2.4 GHz video compatibility of their high end 900 MHz models. Sounds like the perfect modem for anyone who can use 900 MHz. Give them a try and post your results here!
{|
|-valign="top"
|[[Image:xbeeproxsc-rpsma.jpg|thumb|left|Maxstream XBee Pro XSC]]
|
* Frequency Band 900 MHz
* Output Power 100 mW (+20 dBm)
* Sensitivity -100 dBm
* RF Rate: 10 or 20 kbps
* Range (typical, depends on antenna & environment) Up to 24km (15 miles) line-of-sight
* Interface 20-pin mini connector (Xbee compatible pinout)
* RPSMA, integrated whip antenna or U.FL antenna connector (3 versions)
* price : 32€
|
|}

==== Documentation ====
* [http://www.digi.com/products/wireless/point-multipoint/xbee-pro-xsc.jsp http://www.digi.com/products/wireless/point-multipoint/xbee-pro-xsc.jsp]

==== Trials ====
Tested one today and it worked great. Going to try a multiUAV test with it soon
--Danstah
 
 
MultiUAV tests concluded this is probably not the best module to use. Even though it says you can change the baudrate inside x-ctu that is not the case, it is fixed at 9600 bps. This is a great modem however for single UAV's and I do recommend.
--Danstah
 
 
Why would the European (868 MHz) be good to 24kbps and this only to 9600? When I was altering my XBees (2.4Ghz Pro's) I had this problem altering baud rates until I read you have to send a "commit and reboot" type command after setting the baud rate. Could this be the case? --GR

=== Digi 9XTend ===

These larger units have been tested on the 900Mhz band, but are also available in 2.4Ghz. They are a bit on the heavy side, about 20 grams, but give good performance at range. They have adjustable transmit power settings from 100mW to 1W. Testing has shown range up to 5.6km (3.5 Miles) with XTend set to 100mW with small 3.1dB dipole antenna.

{|
|-valign="top"
|
[[Image:XTend_USB_RF_Modem.jpg|frame|left|9XTend USB Modem]]
|
* Frequency Band 900Mhz and 2.4Ghz (2 versions)
* Output Power 1mW to 1W software selectable
* Sensitivity -110 dBm (@ 9600 bps)
* RF Data Rate 9.6 or 115.2 Kbps
* Interface data rate up to 230.4 Kbps
* Power Draw (typical) 730 mA TX / 80 mA RX
* Supply Voltage 2.8 to 5.5v
* Range (typical, depends on antenna & environment) Up to 64km line-of-sight
* Dimensions 36 x 60 x 5mm
* Weight 18 grams
* Interface 20-pin mini connector or USB
* RF connector RPSMA (Reverse-polarity SMA) or MMCX (2 versions)
* price : 150€
|
[[Image:Xtend_module.jpg|frame|left|9XTend OEM Modem]]
|}

==== Pinout ====

[[Image:Maxstream_9XTend_Pinout.gif|thumb|left|Maxstream 9XTend Pinout]]

{| border="1"
|-valign="top"
||'''''9XTend 20-pin Header'''''||'''''Name'''''||'''''Tiny Serial-1 Header'''''||'''''Notes'''''
|-
||1||GND||1 (GND)||Ground
|-
||2||VCC||2 (5V)||5V power (150mA - 730mA Supplied from servo bus or other 5V source)
|-
||5||RX||8 (TX)||3-5V TTL data input - connect to Tiny TX
|-
||6||TX||7 (RX)||5V TTL data output - connect to Tiny RX
|-
||7||Shutdown||2||This pin must be connected to the 5V bus for normal operation
|}
Notes: 
* 9XTend can run on voltages as low as 2.8V but users are strongly advised against connecting any modem (especially high power models) to the sensitive 3.3V bus supplying the autopilot processor and sensors.
 

==== Documentation ====

* [http://www.maxstream.net/products/xtend/oem-rf-module.php product page]
* [http://www.maxstream.net/products/xtend/datasheet_XTend_OEM_RF-Module.pdf datasheet]
* [http://www.maxstream.net/products/xtend/product-manual_XTend_OEM_RF-Module.pdf user manual]

==== Configuration ====

These modems need to be carefully configured based on your usage scenario to obtain the best possible range and link quality. In addition, it is always good to make sure the firmware is up to date.

Some typical configurations that may work well, but can still depend your particular situation, are given below. For further details, be sure to consult the XTend users manual. Your application may need a different or modified configuration. The radiomodems do not need identical settings and can in fact be optimized with different settings. A good example is delays and retries: if each radio has the same number of retries and no delay, when a collision occurs each will continuously try to re-transmit, locking up the transmission for some time with no resolution or successful packet delivery. Instead, it is best to set the module whose data should have a lower latency to have no delay and a lower number of retries, while the other module has a delay set (RN > 0) and a greater number of retries. See acknowledged mode example below.

* Acknowledged Polling Mode ('''Recommended'''):
** This causes one radio to be the base and the other(s) to be the remote(s). It eliminates collisions because remotes do not send data unless requested by the base. It can work in acknowledged mode (RR>0), basic reliable mode (MT>0) or in basic mode (no acknowledgement or multiple packets). It is recommended that the lower latency and/or higher data rate side be configured as the base (i.e. if you are sending lots of telemetry then the air module configured as the base is probably a good idea, but if you are using datalink joystick control, the ground side might be better as the base. It may require some experimentation).
* Acknowledged Point-to-(Multi)Point Mode:
** Each radio sends a packet and requests and acknowledgement that the packet was sent from the receiving side. The retries and delays must be set appropriately to ensure packet collisions are dealt with appropriately. It can also work without acknowledgements in basic reliable mode (MT>0) without any acknowledgements (RR=0, MT=0). Some experimentation may be required.

{| border="1"
|-valign="top"
||'''''Setting Name'''''||colspan="2"|'''''Acknowledged Mode'''''||colspan="2"|'''''Polling Mode (Acknowledged)'''''||'''''Notes'''''
|-
|| ||'''''Airside Module'''''||'''''Groundside Module'''''||'''''Base Module'''''||'''''Remote Module'''''||
|-
||BD||6||6||6||6||Adjust to match your configured autopilot and ground station baud rates (default for these is 57600bps)
|-
||DT||default||default||0x02||0x01||Can be adjusted if consistency maintained across addressing functionalities (see manual)
|-
||MD||default||default||3 (0x03)||4 (0x04)||
|-
||MT||0||0||0||0||Use this to enable Basic Reliable transmission, link bandwidth requirement increases (see manual)
|-
||MY||default||default||0x01||0x02||Can be adjusted if consistency maintained across addressing functionalities (see manual)
|-
||PB||default||default||0x02||default||Can be adjusted if consistency maintained across addressing functionalities (see manual)
|-
||PD||default||default||default||default||Can be adjusted to increase polling request rate and DI buffer flush timeout (see manual)
|-
||PE||default||default||0x02||default||Can be adjusted if consistency maintained across addressing functionalities (see manual)
|-
||PL||default||default||default||default||''Transmit power level should be reduced for lab testing!!''
|-
||RN||0 (0x00)||8 (0x08)||default||default||
|-
||RR||6 (0x06)||12 (0x0C)||6 (0x06)||12 (0x0C)||
|}

'''Note:''' All settings are assumed to be default except those listed. Those listed are in decimal unless hex 0x prefix included. Depending on your firmware version, slight modifications may be necessary.

Here is some additional information and alternative instructions to configure the polling mode from the Digi site: [http://www.digi.com/support/kbase/kbaseresultdetl?id=2178 Polling Mode for the 9XTend Radio Modem]

== SiLabs Si1000 SoC based modems ==

The Si1000 radio System on Chip (SOC) produced by SiLabs is found in a number of radio modules, for example the cheap and widely used HopeRf module. There is [https://github.com/tridge/SiK open source firmware] for these radios which makes them suitable for use in MAVs.

Note that (unlike some XBee modules) the SiK firmware does not support mesh topologies, it is strictly a point-to-point link. If you are working with swarming vehicles they may not be the best choice.

Online documentation for the Sik firmware shows how to configure it for various jurisdictions. The firmware supports 433 MHz, 470 MHz, 868 MHz and 900 MHz radios, if you are aware of any hardware supporting the European spectrum licences (868 MHz) please add them to this wiki.

Note: When using a SiK firmware radio with paparazzi, you should set "ATS6=0" (MavLink packing off) and configure paparazzi for transparent serial mode.

[http://www.rfdesign.com.au/index.php/rfd900 This module] is well proven and supports antenna diversity. A combination of 6dbi Yagi plus a dipole on the ground station, with a pair of orthogonality oriented dioples in the airframe, has been extensively tested and proven reliable at >8km range (theoretical range of ~40km).

Alternatively, for shorter range a pair of cheap generic HopeRF-based modems [http://rctimer.com/index.php?gOo=goods_details.dwt&goodsid=815 such as these]

The RFD900 can be paired with cheap generic (single front-end) modules, if for example you use a small short range airframe with a ground station that's also used for long range operations.

== Laird (ex Aerocom) ==
Lairds's API mode is already implemented but some system integration is required. Full API more with addressed packets works well and was tested with AC4790-1x1 5mW low power modules. Maximim range achieved with a whip quater-wave antenna was 1Km.

How to use this modem on ground station side? [http://paparazzi.enac.fr/wiki/index.php/User:SilaS#SDK-AC4868-250_ground_modem_part]

See folder paparazzi3 / trunk / sw / aerocomm. It has all the required files to use this modem on the airborne and ground station side. The link.ml file is a direct replacement of the "main" link.ml file of the ground sttaion and will be merged into it in the future.. or you can do it as well.

{|
|
=== AC4790-200 ===
* Frequency 902-928MHz (North America, Australia, etc).
* Output Power 5-200mW
* Sensitivity (@ full RF data rate) -110dB
* RF Data Rate up to 76.8 Kbps
* INterface Data Rate Up to Up to 115.2 Kbps
* Power Draw (typical) 68 mA
* Supply Voltage 3.3v & 5.5V
* Range (typical, depends on antenna & environment) Up to 6.4 kilometers line-of-sight
* Dimensions 42 x 48 x 5mm
* Weight < 20 grams
* Interface 20-pin mini connector
* Antenna MMCX jack Connector or internal
* price : 52€
|
[[Image:ac4868_transceiver.jpg|thumb|left|AC4868 OEM Modem]]
|
|-
|
=== AC4790-1000 ===
* Frequency 902-928MHz (North America, Australia, etc).
* Output Power 5-1000mW
* Sensitivity (@ full RF data rate) -99dB
* RF Data Rate up to 76.8 Kbps
* INterface Data Rate Up to Up to 115.2 Kbps
* Power Draw (typical) 650 mA
* Supply Voltage 3.3V only
* Range (typical, depends on antenna & environment) Up to 32 kilometers with high-gain antenna
* Dimensions 42 x 48 x 5mm
* Weight < 20 grams
* Interface 20-pin mini connector
* Antenna MMCX jack Connector
* price : 64€
|}

=== Pinout ===

[[Image:Aerocomm_AC4868_pinout.jpg|thumb|left|Laird AC4868 modem pinout]]
[[Image:Aerocomm_AC4490-200_wired.jpg|thumb|left|Laird AC4490 wiring example]]
 

{| border="1"
|+ Wiring the Laird AC4868 to the Tiny
|-valign="top"
||'''''AC4868 20-pin Header'''''||'''''Name'''''||'''''Color'''''||'''''Tiny v1.1 Serial-1'''''||'''''Tiny v2.11 Serial'''''||'''''Notes'''''
|-
||2||Tx||green||7||7||''(Note 1)''
|-
||3||Rx||blue||8||8||''(Note 1)''
|-
||5||GND||black||1||1|| -
|-
||10+11||VCC||red||2||3||+3.3v ''(Note 2)''
|-
||17||C/D||white||3||?||Low = Command High = Data
|}
''Note 1 : names are specified with respect to the AEROCOMM module''

''Note 2 : AC4790-1000 needs pins 10 and 11 jumped to work properly''

=== Laird RM024 ===
[[Image:Laird_LT2510_RM024-P125-C-01-side.jpg|thumb|RM024 P125]]
[[Image:Lt2510_prm123.jpg|thumb|LT2510 Modem]]
The RM024 replaces the discontinued LT2510 (they are backwards compatible).

General features:
* Frequency Band 2.4GHz
* Output Power 2,5mW - 125mW
* Sensitivity -98dbm @ 280kbps/-94 dBm @ 500kbps
* RF Data Rate 280/500 kbps
* UART up to 460800 baud
* Power Draw 90mA - 180mA TX / 10mA RX
* Supply Voltage 3.3v
* Range up to 4000m
* Dimensions 26 x 33 x 4mm
* Weight 4 grams
* Interface 20-pin mini connector (smd solder pad or XBee compatible pin header)
* Chip antenna, U.FL antenna connector or both
* Price: 29-31€ @ mouser (SMD / XBEE header)

Two different mounting/pinuts are available: 
* smd version: can be soldered on a pcb 
* pin header: standard XBEE pinout (this is the SMD version mounted on a seperate pcb with male pin headers)

Available in two different output power versions:
{|border="1"
|-valign="top"
||''value''||''50mW version''||''125mW version''
|-
|output power
| 2,5 mW - 50 mW
| 2,5 mW - 125 mW
|-
|output power dbm
|4 dbm - 17 dbm
|4 dbm - 21 dbm
|-
|TX drain
|90mA
|<180mA
|-
|max range (280kbps with 2 dbi antenna)
|2400m
|4000m
|-
|approval
|CE for EU, FCC/IC for USA,
Canada PRM122/123 also for Japan
|FCC/IC for USA, Canada
|}

The RM024 uses frequency hopping (FHSS) which needs a client/server model. That means that one modem (most appropriately the ground station modem) needs to be set to server mode. It will transmit a beacon message and have all client modems synchronize to that in a time and frequency hopping scheme manner. For that all modems need to have the same channel (in fact the hopping scheme) and system-id. Clients can be set to auto-channel and auto-system-id to follow any/the first visible server.

====Documentation====
[http://www.lairdtech.com/WorkArea/DownloadAsset.aspx?id=2147488576 RM024 User Manual] 
[http://www.lairdtech.com/WorkArea/linkit.aspx?LinkIdentifier=id&ItemID=4379 LT2510 User Manual] 
[http://www.lairdtech.com/zips/Developer_Kit.zip Windows configuration tool]

'''Setup'''

Look at the [[Laird_RM024_setup page]]

== Bluetooth ==
These modems do not give you a great range but Bluetooth can be found in a lot of recent laptops built-in. Maybe not useful for fixed wing aircrafts it might be used for in-the-shop testing or quadcopters. Make sure you get a recent Class 1 EDR 2.0 stick if you buy one for your computer.
{|
|
=== RN-41 Bluetooth module(Sparkfun's WRL-08497) ===
* Frequency Band 2.4GHz
* Output Power 32 mW
* RF Data Rate up to ~300 kbps in SPP
* Interface Data Rate up to 921 kbps
* Power Draw (typical) 50 mA TX / 40 mA RX
* Supply Voltage 3.3v
* Range (typical, depends on antenna & environment) 100 meters line-of-sight
* Dimensions 26 x 13 x 2mm
* Weight ~1.5 grams
* Interface solder connector
* price : 20€
|
[[Image:roving_nw_wiring.jpg|thumb|Roving Networks modem wiring]]
|-
|

To connect to it, get the MAC address of the bluetooth modem

me@mybox:~$ hcitool scan
Scanning ...
00:06:66:00:53:AD FireFly-53AD

either make a virtual connection to a Bluetooth serial port each time you connect

sudo rfcomm bind 0 00:06:66:00:53:AD

or configure it once in /etc/bluetooth/rfcomm.conf

rfcomm0 {
bind yes;
device 00:06:66:00:53:AD;
}

now you can use Bluetooth as '''/dev/rfcomm0''' with the Paparazzi 'link'. You might need to restart 'link' in case you get out of range and it disconnects (tbd). Set the Tiny serial speed to 115200 as the modules come preconfigured to that.
|}

== ESP8266 WiFi Module ==

[[File:ESP8266.jpg|thumbnail|left|ESP8266 WiFi module]]

== Telemetry via Video Transmitter==

[[Image:video_tx_small.jpg|thumb|2.4GHz Video Transmitter]]
In order for the UAV to transmit video from an onboard camera, an analog video transmitter can be used. These vary in power, and thus range, and run normally on 2.4Ghz. Small UAVs can get about 600m of range from the 50mW version, and extended range can be achieved using units up to 1W. Weight for these units varies from a couple grams to about 30 for the 1W with shielding. Please check for your countries regulations on 2.4Ghz transmission, as each is different.

It is possible to use the audio channel to send simple telemetry data to the groundstation. Uploading telemetry not possible via analog audio transmitter only.
 

== Antennas ==

Here are some examples of lightweight and efficient 868MHz antennas developped by the RF laboratory at ENAC.
[[Image:868mhz_twinstar_antenna_1.jpg|thumb|left|868MHz copper foil antenna attached to the aircraft tail]]
[[Image:868mhz_twinstar_antenna_2.jpg|thumb|left|868MHz copper foil antenna bottom view]]
[[Image:868mhz_ground_antenna.jpg|thumb|left|868MHz ground antenna]]
 

This wiki page might give some ideas about antennas: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dipole_antenna

[[Category:Hardware]]

DevGuide/GDB OpenOCD Debug

2015-01-11T19:31:24Z

BartSlinger: swdp_scan inead of jtag_scan for lisa/s

== JTAG adapters ==
Recently some new [[JTAG]] adapters that use the FTDI2232 USB-parallel converter were introduced through OpenOCD (you can try your Wiggler with that, too). USB JTAG adapters include Floss-JTAG, Olimex or Amontec and also fine with Windows (Yagarto).

'''Also see [[DevGuide/OpenOCD]] for installation and configuration instructions.'''

== Debugging with GDB over JTAG ==
=== Procedure ===
# Start openocd in a new shell since this process needs to remain running.
#* STM targets
#: To connect to the Lisa/L board run the command
#:<pre>openocd -f interface/lisa-l.cfg -f board/lisa-l.cfg</pre>
#: To connect to the Lisa/M board via FLOSS-JTAG run the command:
#:<pre>openocd -f interface/flossjtag.cfg -f board/lisa-l.cfg</pre>
#* NXP LPC targets
#: To connect to the LPC based board via OLIMEX ARM-USB-OCD dongle run the command:
#:<pre>openocd -f interface/olimex-arm-usb-ocd.cfg -f target/lpc2148.cfg</pre>
#: To connect to the LPC based board via OLIMEX ARM-USB-OCD-H dongle run the command:
#:<pre>openocd -f interface/olimex-arm-usb-ocd-h.cfg -f target/lpc2148.cfg</pre>

# Compiler Debug Options
#: On LPC target build your ap file with debug options. See https://github.com/elemhsb/paparazzi/blob/v4.0/conf/Makefile.lpc21 .

# Start GDB with an argument of the elf file created and uploaded to the board.
#: If you programmed with the ap target then the command would be along the lines of
#:<pre>/opt/paparazzi/arm-multilib/bin/arm-none-eabi-gdb var/<airframe>/ap/ap.elf</pre>
#: Replace <airframe> with the name of the airframe that has been built.

# Now connect GDB to the board
#:<pre>target remote localhost:3333</pre>
# Now we need to set some break points in the code.
#: In this example the ap target was part of the rotorcraft and main.c contains the main program. Open rotorcraft sw/airborne/firmwares/rotorcraft/main.c and find a line at which you'd like to set a break point.
#: <pre>break main.c:113</pre>
# Stop the currently running code
#: <pre>monitor reset halt</pre>
# Reset the code back to the start
#: <pre>monitor reset init</pre>
# Now we can run the program which will stop at the break point we set.
#:<pre>continue</pre>

=== Black Magic Probe ===
# Start GDB for arm
#: Open GDB with the correct binary file
#:<pre>/opt/paparazzi/arm-multilib/bin/arm-none-eabi-gdb ./var/AIRFRAME/ap/ap.elf</pre>
#: Set Black Magic Probe as Target over the serial link (see ls /dev/ttyACM*):
#:<pre>target extended-remote /dev/ttyACM0</pre>
#: Probe via JTAG to get a list of devices:
#:<pre>mon jtag_scan</pre>
#: (for [[Lisa/S]], use ''swdp_scan'' instead of ''jtag_scan'')
#:
#: Attach to a device:
#:<pre>attach 1</pre>
# Happy Debugging!

-this information was merged from:
--ht tp :// sourceforge. net/apps/mediawiki/blackmagicdebug/index.php?title=Main_Page
--[[JTAG]]

=== Useful commands ===
* We probably want to ignore the interrupt calls for the moment so we can step through the code as it's being called. Note that we don't always want to do this. (STM32 command only)
*:<pre>monitor cortex_m3 maskisr on</pre>
* A stack trace can be printed with the command
*:<pre>bt</pre>
* show the variable of a variable
*:<pre>print i2c1.status</pre>
* Show (eXamine) the value of the 9 bytes hardware register at address 0x40005800 and show them in hex format:
*:<pre>x/9x 0x40005800</pre>
* In some cases you may not be able to access some memory areas in the mcu, in that case you should try:
*:<pre>set mem inaccessible-by-default off</pre>

Commands can often be issued without typing the entire command. Here are some commonly used commands; many of them can be invoked using only the first letter:
(gdb) quit – exit the debugger
(gdb) file – load an executable file
(gdb) break line-number/function name -- Set a break-point on a line/at start of function
(gdb) run <args> -- start running the program; if there are command-line arguments, put them after the run invocation
(gdb) cont -- continue running, after a break
(gdb) next -- Next program line (step over function calls)
(gdb) step -- Step into function calls.
(gdb) finish - Step out of the present function
(gdb) print expression -- Show value of a variable or expression
(gdb) list – List 10 lines of the program being debugged. The sixth line is the preset statement. Subsequent, consecutive entry of list will list the next 10 lines.
(gdb) where – obtain a backtrace showing all function calls before the current statement
(gdb) up – Move to the function that called the present function. Useful if your program crashes in a library function; use up to get to the last function call in your program
(gdb) down – Reverses the action of up
(gdb) delete – Removes breakpoint by number (see example following). If no number, all deleted.
(gdb) kill – Terminates the program.

=== Setting up .gdbinit for BMP and gdb-regview ===
If you use gdb just with a BMP, you can set some initialization commands in ~/.gdbinit that will run when gdb is started, improving workflow.

A very useful plug-in called gdb-regview [https://github.com/fnoble/gdb-regview (available on GitHub)] can really speedup debugging stm32 processors by providing a pretty-printed summary of register contents.

A sample file for debugging Lisa/M 2.0 would be:
<pre>
set target-async on
set mem inaccessible-by-default off
#for gdb-regview plugin
source /path/to/gdb-regview/gdb-regview.py
regview load /path/to/gdb-regview/defs/STM32F10X_CL.xml
tar ext /dev/BMP_DEVICE
mon version
mon swdp_scan
att 1
</pre>

This should be saved in <tt>~/.gdbinit</tt>.

Then, after one starts gdb as described above, you can view registers easily, for example:
<pre>(gdb) regview show ADC_CR1</pre>

=== Easily load new binaries from inside gdb with BMP ===
It is also easy to rebuild and reload a program from inside gdb. Calling make from the gdb command line will call make in your current directory:
<pre>(gdb) make</pre>

To load a new elf file into gdb after compiling elsewhere (only required when changing the name of the file):
<pre>(gdb) file file_name.elf</pre>

To upload the binary as per the currently loaded elf:
<pre>(gdb) load</pre>
This assumes you have attached to the target already (as per the .gdbinit example just above).

To restart the program from the beginning:
<pre>(gdb) run</pre>
and enter <tt>y</tt>.

gdb should detect that the elf has changed when loading the new binary, so if the file name has not changed, one should just be able to rebuild (make from inside gdb if appropriate) and then call load and run.

[[Category:Hardware]] [[Category:Software]] [[Category:Developer_Documentation]]

Lisa/S

2015-01-11T12:59:18Z

BartSlinger: Added a small section on differences in version 0.1

[[File:tudelft_logo.jpg|left|120px|link=http://mavlab.lr.tudelft.nl/en/]]
[[File:1bitsquared_logo.png|left|120px|link=http://1bitsquared.com]]
[[Image:Lisa S V0 1 r2 on finger.jpg|300px|right]]

__TOC__

== Lisa/S ==

Lisa/S is a very small general purpose autopilot. The main goal of creating an autopilot of minimal size and weight, while providing enough functionality to enable fully autonomous operation.

=== Mechanical Dimensions ===

* '''Size: 20mm x 20mm x 5mm (0.787" x 0.787" x 0.197")'''
* '''Weight: 2.8g (0.1oz)'''

=== Features ===

* 72MHz 32bit ARM Cortex M3 MCU with 16KB RAM and 512KB Flash
* Combined 3 Axis Gyroscope and 3 Axis Accelerometer
* 3 Axis Magnetometer
* Barometer (Altimeter)
* Onboard U-Blox GPS
* Pads to simply connect a [[SuperbitRF|Superbit CYRF]] RC and telemetry module
* Switching buck/boost converter allowing wide range of power input making it perfect and stable for operation from a 1S LiPO cell.
* 2 MOSFET switches connected to PWM output channels
* 6 PWM (servo) outputs
* 1 UART port
* 1 CAN interface
* 1 Bind/Boot tact switch
* SWD programming/debugging interface
* Size: 20mm x 20mm x 5mm (0.787" x 0.787" x 0.197")
* Weight: 2.8g (0.1oz)

=== Pictures ===

[[Image:Lisa_s_v0_1_r2_top_ruler.jpg|300px]]
[[Image:Lisa_s_v0_1_r2_bottom_ruler.jpg|300px]]
[[Image:Lisa_s_v0_1_r2_top_superbit.jpg|300px]]
[[Image:Lisa_s_v0_1_r2_bottom_superbit.jpg|300px]]

So if you are ready to make your tiny plane fly autonomously,[http://1bitsquared.com/collections/frontpage/products/lisa-s you can already order one here]

== Pinout ==

TODO

== Block Diagrams ==

TODO

== Barometer ==

In order to use the barometer, you just need to add one line to your firmware block (in your airframe file) :

{{Box Code|conf/airframes/myplane.xml|
<source lang="xml">
<firmware name="fixedwing">
<target name="ap" board="lisa_s_0.1">
...
</target>
...
<define name="USE_BAROMETER" value="TRUE"/>
...
</firmware>
</source>
}}

Once that line is added to the airframe file, you should be able to get the values of the barometer and paparazzi is going to take them into account when doing it's calculations.

Warning : the barometer doesn't seams to be working at a higher frequency than 120Hz in a fixed wing airframe. Than mean that in a fixed wing airframe the PERIODIC_FREQUENCY must be equal or lower than 120. In rotorcraft the barometer works fine.

== Schematics ==

[[Image:Lisa_s_0_1_r1_schematic.png|300px|thumb|none|Lisa/S V0.1 R1 Schematic]]
[[Image:Lisa_s_1_0_r12_schematic.png|300px|thumb|none|Lisa/S V1.0 R12 Schematic]]

[[Category:Lisa]] [[Category:User_Documentation]] [[Category:Autopilots]]

== Availability ==
[[File:1bitsquared_logo.png|100px|link=http://1bitsquared.com]]

As of 2014-06-25 Lisa/S is available for purchase from [http://1bitsquared.com/products/lisa-s-starter-kit 1 BIT SQUARED].

== Version 0.1 ==

One of the earliest versions of the board which is still used in the [http://www.mavlab.info/ MAVlab] of the TU-Delft is the Lisa/S V0.1R2. This version is slightly different from newer versions:

* The SWCLK and GND pin from the Serial Wire Debug (SWD) headers are flipped, such that the order becomes TRACE-GND-SWCLK-SWDIO.
* There is no capacitor to enable a warm start for the GPS.
* Instead of four, only two brushless motors can be connected.