At long last, I finally beat MAVLink into Java submission. I wasn't able to find any MAVLink bindings for Java (needed by android), so I ended up using JNI and wrote a MAVLink wrapper. It works nicely and makes using MAVLink very easy. Its available for download here. I've included both the "common" and the "pixhawk" messages.
As you see above, I've added a HUD mode.
I've uploaded the new copy of the GCS for easy download or through the Android Market (search copter-gcs). Of course the source is available through SVN
I am focused on Copters, as that is what I fly, but with MAVLink support, the copter-gcs is now also useful for ArduPilotMega. I loaded the APM code on my quad (minus the props :-) ), and was able to see / tune track just fine with it. The only thing missing is that the PID tuning widgets I have are currently only setup for the copter. The next version I expect will have the APM pids added in. For now you can just use the Parameters view to set anything you like:
When you make a change, just hit the button next to is to save it.
That's about the news for now. I will be working on Mission Planning and some clean-up next.
If anyone has any problems, let me know. Same thing if there is a feature missing (no promises though).
So far USB host mode for tablets (connect XBee directly) and Wifi links have been requested, although i'm not sure when/if they will make it in.
Comments
Thanks Bart,
Let us know when the other app is launch on market so I can get that one.
@ Hai
Check out http://code.google.com/p/copter-gcs/wiki/CopterLink for info on the bluetooth link.
As a note, the current version has no USB support. I've been looking into it, and it looks like it will need to be a branch from the current version, with a slightly different service for comms. I can add it in to the current app, but the libraries required for this are only available on android 2.3+, and most of the people using the software are on 2.2 (at least those whose stats are reported using the market). Unless android allows for targeting multiple versions (will look into), it will end up being a second app.
@Jani
The crash report you provided (I received one) through the market is great, it showed a NULL error with the Readouts view. Those reports (whichever way you submitted it), is perfect.
@All,
There are a few reported bugs (darn), which I will get fixed ASAP. I found the trouble with the PIDs (buffer overrun on the XBee, sending 12 mavlink param_set packets is too much, so I need to slow things down a touch). I'll get the readout bug, PID bug and some hud scaling issues taken care of and send out an update. In the mean time, feel free to let me know any other bugs you find. Easiest is to report them as issues on http://code.google.com/p/copter-gcs/issues/list
Sorry for the bugs, but as Jani said, its only release 2 :-)
Cheers,
Bart.
Just went out an bought an Iconia A501 with 3G. It seems like the only one with USB host port.
Copter GCS $4.79 on the Android store?
Hai,
I was just testing that same BT Gold on APM directly and it works just fine, you need to configure your BT module first to 57k due as default it works on 115k.
I have galaxy tab and having some stability problems with current gcs. It freezes and hangs rather often but it's early software anyways.
It looks great thou.
Bart, is there some logs or other information that I could try to look and send to you to see why it crashes often on my tab??
What parts do I need to make a Bluetooth to Xbee adaptor?
I was thinking of using Xbee + Xtreambee + Bluetooth mate gold (http://www.sparkfun.com/products/9358)
Sorry too Bart cant help test this yet as I dont have the bluetooth unit for the Xbee.
I still think you are doing great progress...
Hello all,
I just found a bug with the latest release where MAVLink PIDs don't save when using the PID activity. I'm fixing it, but in the mean time the Parameter mode lets you access them as well, and it works fine.
Sorry for the bug,
Bart
No need to do the iPhone v Android debate, I own 4 macs (and I run Windows when I need to), so I've got the tools to write apps for iPhone or Android, unfortunately I don't know Java, and the SDK and doco for Android really sucks, which didn't make it easy for me to port my apps across.
I've just started using Corona SDK, which uses LUA as a programming language, the learning curve is quite easy, and the best part, the apps run on iPhone and Android! Releasing my first game app next week in Apple AppStore, and will probably follow with Android release soon after.
Might go buy a Xoom tomorrow. Copter GCS makes good excuse to get one, as I can't think of any other app I'd want to use on Android.
Bart, I have a very rooted and hacked Viewsonic Gtablet. Its a 10.1" screen, Tegra 2 based tablet with full size USB host. I'm not much of a coder but I'll load just about anything on this tablet to test. Let me know if I can help in any way.
-John
http://www.ftdichip.com/Support/Documents/TechnicalNotes/TN_132_Add...
Yup the never ending argument but for me I migrated to Android lol
Bart there is an even better link now Android dev place sample coding for USB host accessory. Here is the old pdf file that implemented a sort of debugging but still have the 2way communication.
With your MAVLink support your app is definitely be the best there is. No more laptop to bring the field.
Great Job Bart
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