The wait is over! We are proud to introduce the next generation 3DR autopilot, Pixhawk Mini. Pixhawk Mini is an upgraded Pixhawk designed in collaboration with HobbyKing and optimized to run the Dronecode PX4 firmware stack and QGroundControl multi-platform ground station (Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS).
For just $199, Pixhawk Mini includes autopilot, GPS, and all the cables and connectors needed to get started building DIY quads, planes, rovers, and boats.
What's improved over Pixhawk 1?
One third the size--dimensions reduced from 50 mm x 81.5 mm x15.5 mm to 38 mm x 43 mm x 12 mm. Smaller airframes can now operate autonomously without making sacrifices for the Pixhawk footprint.
Rev 3 STM32 processor allow for full utilization of 2MB flash memory. Pixhawk Mini operates at only 50% compute capacity, 40 percentage points lower than the original Pixhawk. There is significantly more overhead available to run custom code.
Improved sensors, including both primary and secondary IMU (MPU9250 and ICM20608, respectively), lead to much better vibration handling and increased reliability.
GPS module included--Neo M8N with quad-constellation support and upgraded HMC5983 compass.
Micro JST connectors replace DF-13. We can all breath a sigh of relief.
Integrated piezo speaker and safety switch
What's improved over Pixfalcon?
Again, improved sensors, including both primary and secondary IMU (MPU9250 and ICM20608 respectively) for much better vibration handling and increased reliability.
Dedicated CAN port for UAVCAN applications.
Includes 8-channel servo output board for planes and other vehicles requiring powered PWM output.
Includes I2C breakout board for a total of 5 I2C connections.
Pixhawk Mini features an advanced processor and sensor technology from ST Microelectronics® and a NuttX real-time operating system, delivering incredible performance, flexibility, and reliability for controlling any autonomous vehicle.
SPECIFICATIONS
Main Processor: STM32F427 Rev 3
IO Processor: STM32F103
Accel/Gyro/Mag: MPU9250
Accel/Gyro: ICM20608
Barometer: MS5611
Dimensions: 38x43x12mm
Weight: 15.8g
GPS Module: ublox Neo-M8N GPS/GLONASS receiver; integrated magnetometer HMC5983
Dimensions: 37x37x12mm
Weight: 22.4g
Interface
1 x UART Serial Port (for GPS)
Spektrum DSM/DSM2/DSM-X® Satellite Compatible RC input
Futaba S BUS® Compatible RC input
PPM Sum Signal RC Input
I2C (for digital sensors)
CAN (for digital motor control with compatible controllers)
ADC (for analog sensors)
Micro USB Port
What’s Included?
Pixhawk Mini Flight Controller
GPS with uBlox M8N module with
Concurrent reception of up to 3 GNSS (GPS, Galileo, GLONASS, BeiDou)
Industry leading –167 dBm navigation sensitivity
Security and integrity protection
Supports all satellite augmentation systems
Advanced jamming and spoofing detection
Product variants to meet performance and cost requirements
Backward compatible with NEO‑7 and NEO‑6 families
Integrated Power Module (up to 6s batteries) and power distribution board for quadcopters
8-channel servo output board for planes and other vehicles requiring powered PWM output.
Cables
4 pin I2C cable and breakout board
6 pin GPS+Compass cable
6 to 6/4 ‘Y’ adapter for additional I2C devices
4 JST to 6 DF13 cable for legacy telemetry radios
External safety switch cable
RCIN cable for PPM/SBUS input
8 channel RC output cable
6 pin power cable for included Power Distribution Board
OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES
All available here
Comments
Also you said that the Pixfalcon has been optimised to run PX4 stack Vs the Pixhawk1. Can you tell us what are this optimisations? I doubt you are referring at the Rev 3 SMT processor, as Pixhawk1 is available with the same processor too. Also with the current PX4 FW what will be the noticeable difference from Rev 2 to Rev 3 processors?
Hi Chris.
You mentioned twice that the new IMU in the Pixfacon (MPU9250 and ICM20608) has increased reliability. Can you please elaborate more? Do you or invensense have any data to prove this claims?
Thanks
it looks like holybro did the work. That's there accessories that hobbyking sells, distro, telem.
http://www.holybro.com/
Are they mild steel? (ie: magnetic)?
Another one: Black screws that tastefully contrast with the black plastic case!
On Sunday, Gary asked what was different between the Pixfalcon, and the Pixhawk Mini. Chris responded:
So what are the 20+ changes?
Yeah, Marc, there's that. Though I'm not sure there's actually a hardware change for that. That would still leave 10 improvements over the Pixfalcon, which Chris claimed on Monday.
Johnatan: The IO processor is completely pointless multirotor. Zero benefit at all, other than the extra couple of outputs (6 on Pixracer, 8 on Pixfalcon). There is no safety benefit at all. On an airplane, the pure RC-passthrough could help if the main processor crashes. But I haven't heard any cases of that in a LONG time.
IMO, both systems would benefit from SBUS output. And it could be added to the Pixracer with some software changes to repurpose one of the UARTs. I don't think the PixFalcon has exposed any of the extra UARTs, so it wouldn't be possible.
@Rob: What about IO processor? Does it make Pixhawk mini better than the Pixracer?
Stephen, it can for sure run Ardupilot/Arducopter. Chris just won't say that because PX4 is his new shiny thing he's promoting.
Chris, you claimed the new Pixhawk Mini would have 13 improvements over the Pixfalcon. What are these? I can see the IMU's are changed. The peripherals you are including are not improvements to the Pixfalcon. Those are just accessory inclusions.
So what are the other 11 improvements over the Pixfalcon?
The Rev 3 silicon is nothing new. Just about every Pixhawk-compatible board for sale these days is using it. And that includes mRobotic's revised board:
http://store.mrobotics.io/product-p/mro-pixhawk1-bb-mr.htm