ArduPilot Board V3, assembled

We're now testing the ArduPilot code on the real board (not just a breadboard prototype), which is the through-hole version of Beta 3. A few notes on assembling this board, if you've got one on order:

I've updated the parts list in the original post to reflect our recommended configuration (with pigtails rather than right-angle servo and RC receiver connectors)
The GPS connector doesn't have as robust a physical connection to the board as we'd like (we need to tweak the board to give it a little more room). If you're using this board, you might want to epoxy it on before soldering its electrical connections.
We accidentally designed this board with a surface-mount reset button, when the reset button that comes with the Boarduino kit that we use for parts is through-hole. I've listed the surface-mount part you need in the original post, but we'll tweak the board to use the through-hole version in the future.
Use the jumper that comes with the Boarduino kit to bridge the power selector pins (top left corner in the photo above) for the option you want: power from the RC receiver or another source. I use the RC receiver and it works great, but if you want power redundancy you may want to go with a second battery just for the autopilot.

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3D Robotics

Chris Anderson October 29, 2008 at 8:26pm

Thanks for the prod, Brian. The first production candidates failed (a wrong chip got placed) and we're now testing the second production candidate. Maybe another month?
Moderator

Brian October 29, 2008 at 8:14pm

Hi Chris, when you get a chance can you post an update for release. Thanks, - Brian
3D Robotics

Chris Anderson August 10, 2008 at 5:14pm

Again, all info will be released in Sept. I've already mentioned a target price of around $30 for the basic ArduPilot board (you'll also need to get a GPS module and the FMA Co-Pilot) and perhaps $100-$150 for the ArduPilot Pro, which has GPS and co-pilot/stablization functions built in. ArduPilot basic will be released first; we hope to releas ArduPilot Pro by the end of the year.
tychoc August 10, 2008 at 4:15pm

Nice! I saw that you mentioned over in RCGroups that the ArduPilot will go on sale in September. Do you have any more information about this release? Where to buy? Price etc.?

thanks,

-tychoc
3D Robotics

Chris Anderson August 10, 2008 at 2:11pm

Yes. You'll probably have to splice the connector, but otherwise any GPS that outputs NMEA is fine.
tychoc August 10, 2008 at 12:35pm

This looks very interesting. I see that in the other thread, you list the EM406 GPS as the modeule to use. It is possible to use the EB-85A instead? I already use this one for my OSD, and rather not have two GPS modules on board.

thanks,

tychoc
3D Robotics

Chris Anderson August 8, 2008 at 3:23pm

Phil,

That's correct.
Phil Wilshire August 8, 2008 at 12:25pm

Hi...
ATTiny Pin1.
I assume this is hiding behind the resonator X1
The board is not marked and I have not looked too buch at the schematic.

I got the 157D on the board OK.
Thanks
Phil
Moderator

Brian July 11, 2008 at 11:06pm

Chris,
I finally got my board, but it's the previous verson. I see the obvious difference in their layouts. Am I going to have success using the earlier board or do I need to just use it as a practice platform for my soldering skills (or lack of...)? The plus side to this board is the reset is the correct one to match the boardino kit... Do you have a photo of one of the earlier boards assembled? If you do could you post it or send me a copy?
paul hubner July 8, 2008 at 9:40am

Grats!

Its good to see your progress Chris and Jordi

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