Hi there,
I'm getting a little confused by all of the different hardware configurations that are available, so I was hoping someone could point me in the right direction based on my needs:
I have purchased and built (and upgraded) an HK bixler plane. What I am looking for in an autopilot are the following features:
1.) Ability to take a mission plan and fly the plane with accurate GPS / Baro sensors along set waypoints
2.) Ability to send a trigger command to a CHDK hacked camera to capture images at set points along the flight path
3.) Ability to send telemetry data back to a ground station.
4.) Ability to log gps, baro, and camera attitude data with each image.
Is that too much to ask... :) ?
I see an APM2 available for $199 (amazing), but I also see complete kits including Xbee telemetry running on APM1.X for over $500.
Can someone give me good advice on what to purchase? Assume you're talking to an intelligent baby.
Thanks,
B
Replies
Your telemetry is going to be the problem. There really aren't any good long range solutions out there. The APM 2 ArduPlane board seems to be the best value for the buck at the moment.
It's unfortunate that they're still using old skool 8-bit processors STILL. But if you want something more advanced you'd have to go with paparazzi, in that case you better know your linux well and enjoy editing text files.
-Jake
PS, requirement 3 is optional
:) B