Howdy, I want to add a lightweight tracking device to my drone in case of a fly away episode. The problem is that I work in areas outside of cell networks (northern Canada). So to my understanding that only leaves a gps tracking device - like a Spot Trace - as an option. I don't mind the $120 cost for the device, but I hate the idea of having to spend another $100 per year for "service". Any thoughts or alternatives?
Thanks,
Peter
Replies
You don't have FPV?, We use FPV with minim and a little DVR in our GC, rec the video, if we lost the plane, we have the GPS position recorded, copy to a handheld GPS and go for it; your FPV antennas have to be in relation with your distance fly capacity, I have a patch and tested up to 30kms and works well; then, near the scene, with the tablet you can have better position if the plane continues trasmitting or have a beep (HK ones aren't usefull) or try to acelerate the motor if works; we found many planes like this
I should have clarified that I am thinking about long range Fly Away - like 10-20 km. Heck my Skyhunter with 2 x 4000mah could really leave the scene!
I am using a 3dr Radio for telemetry, but don't imagine the range on this is very far. Probably ok for copters, but makes me nervous regarding my plane.
I guess the scenario I'm outlining is a catastrophic fly away, which is not likely, but if it happens would be very expensive!
Not 10km, but up to 2.5 miles, it claims:
http://www.readymaderc.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&a...
And not cellular based.
Is this not a cellular based product? From reading their product page they only mention that they track via cellular networks, which does me no good. So far the only lightweight solution I can find is satellite based messaging, via a Spot Trace device, for fly aways in the "wilderness". So thinking of plunking down the money for a Spot Trace and giving it a go. And it seems that currently there is a 50% off deal for this device in Canada (so that would be $60 for the device and then $100 per year or $12 per month).
PS: Check it out....
https://github.com/DroidPlanner/droidplanner/releases
It was added in V2.8.orc1 item #1177
I use Driod Planner 2.8 It has a Locator built in. DP records a Tlog file. After your flight you load the Tlog into locator
then walk to your Quad. I use a Nexus 7 and 3D radio. Not sure how much range I can get with the 3d radio. From the Tlog file you get the last location . If the onboard goes dead you still have the location.