Discussions

Hello,

I just got my APM2 unassembled kit from lipoly.de (2 weeks earlier than expected, Yeah!) and since it beat the 3DR Hexacopter kit to my doorstep I am now reading up on the possiblities of the hardware a bit more.

There are various discussions about how to disable the integrated GPS but I have not found the following question discussed yet:

Is it possible to install the shield-board "on a leash" by extending the 12-pin stacking connector through a (flat) cable (say, 10 cm length)? Looking at the signals going through that connection:

1. GPS serial connection... should not be so critical

2. Magnetometer connection... don't know how fast that one talks?

3. SD connection... this is where I am wondering whether a cable would work signal-timing-wise

I am just asking because I might want to try and locate the shield board higher in the stackup on my hexcopter than the mainboard (potentially put the radio receiver on the middle level). lipoly did not offer the option without GPS. I am not particularly expecting trouble but locating a GPS away from other HF sources is always a good idea, I think.

If separation can be done, do I need to keep the long sides of the boards parallel (Are the magnetometer and IMU sensors aligned)? Should I replace the now missing groundplane on top of the main processor with a replacement to reduce HF emissions?

If it cannot be done, should I locate the radio receiver sideways away from the APM and keep the APM uncovered by additional decks of the stackup?

Greetings from Germany, Otto