Discussions

Firstly, Hello all!

I have been browsing DIYDrone forums for a while now (longer than i've had a profile!) And learned a few things. But as i have no direct buddies around me who are interested in the topic of RC planes and UAVs I have only learned what i know from people on here. (Thank you to those people!)

I have dabbled in electronics and computers since i was 7 pretty much, so i know the basics there... As for RC planes. I have built and owned one. And Crashed one. Since then no RC planes haha!

I am a pilot by trade these days, but i want to get involved in Unmanned Aerial Systems in the future. My plan is to build a hobby plane - and learn the skills from  this plane whilst i invest in a more professional custom designed platform.

I have choosen the AMR Payload master for the test hobby plane. The same as being built by another member here on DiyDrones.  Seen Here

Now to make sure I'm buying the right goods i have drawn a sort of flow chart plan of what i need, seen below:

Now the questions i have are:

1) With the USBtoPPM Generator, is it possible to turn an xbox360 gamepad into the USB input?

2) T/x wise, what is a recommended 2.4Ghz Transmitter, and is it 8 channels or more i need for ArduAutopilot? And how much can i find it* for?

3) My Camera Gimbal mount is controlled by my 2.4Ghz Transmitter Channel correct?

4) With an ArduAutopilot combined with GPS, I do still require Thermopiles Correct?  - I just wonder if the Autopilot takes GPS data into account and can remain Wings level etc from GPS information.

5) Is this setup pictured CORRECT?! lol ...Or does it need anything added?

I noticed a lot of people ask very broad questions, and many members reply it's hard to answer correctly without knowing what the platform will actually be doing. Here is a summary of its intended use.

I intend to operate this UAS in Australia/New Zealand. Within NZ the platform will be operated within Line of Sight and under Direct control operator In accordance with local laws. Application, if capable will be lodged to test the platform in a fully autonomous flight, excluding take off and landing, which will be performed by an operator. I believe if i get permission to test the Auto pilot, it will have to be within line of sight. But still, to test it that should be ok.

In Australia, the platform will be operated at maximum 3kms from the Ground station, most likely out of direct contact with the operator. Altitude will vary, but will not exceed 150m.  During operations in Australia, the platform will be flown for around 90minutes. I have checked Radio Frequencies and believe the setup - freq wise is correct for operation in Aussie and New Zealand.

^hope that helps.

I may post more questions in the near future, but thank you in advance.

Cheers,

Ollie