Transmitter/Receiver module for DYI Quadcopter

[feller94]

Hi there, new guy here!

So, let's see how to say this..
These days I'm searching informations and learning more about drones in general, because I'd like to build one myself. I don't have many problem (at least, for now), except for the tx/rx modules.
Oh, I forgot to mention: I prefer building my tx controller too!
I want to use Arduino (Nano/UNO/Mega) for both the FCU (with Multiwii firmware) and the controller: it should be possible, I think.
Now, my problem is that I don't have a big budget, in fact I'm gonna buy parts "once in a while", aka when I have the money XD
For this reason I want to ask you if you can name/suggest some good tx/rx chip. I found out the Xbee-pro and immediately think to get it: Arduino friendly (at least, I've seen some websites about that), powerful, with a good range (1 miles/1600m stated).. But it costs around 40€ each (I'm in EU, Italy)!

Then I searched some more and discovered the NRF24L01+. I've read that this should work for 1000m, but most times it's not (maybe the cheap "chinese" ones). About this problem I found out this page, where a "fix" is suggested to reach 1000m for real.. I don't know how this could be true, though..

So, what do you think? Is there something similar, even some clones if necessary? My main requirement is that I can drive my will-be-quadcopter for a reasonable distance, not only 300ft/90m (like the Xbee standard).. Let's say 500m or more if possible.
Telemetry support should be also included: I'd like to get infos from the drone about batteries and other stuff..

Am I asking too much?

Thank a lot!!

 

[OldGazer]

Hi there, new guy here!

So, let's see how to say this..
These days I'm searching informations and learning more about drones in general, because I'd like to build one myself. I don't have many problem (at least, for now), except for the tx/rx modules.
Oh, I forgot to mention: I prefer building my tx controller too!
I want to use Arduino (Nano/UNO/Mega) for both the FCU (with Multiwii firmware) and the controller: it should be possible, I think.
Now, my problem is that I don't have a big budget, in fact I'm gonna buy parts "once in a while", aka when I have the money XD
For this reason I want to ask you if you can name/suggest some good tx/rx chip. I found out the Xbee-pro and immediately think to get it: Arduino friendly (at least, I've seen some websites about that), powerful, with a good range (1 miles/1600m stated).. But it costs around 40€ each (I'm in EU, Italy)!

Then I searched some more and discovered the NRF24L01+. I've read that this should work for 1000m, but most times it's not (maybe the cheap "chinese" ones). About this problem I found out this page, where a "fix" is suggested to reach 1000m for real.. I don't know how this could be true, though..

So, what do you think? Is there something similar, even some clones if necessary? My main requirement is that I can drive my will-be-quadcopter for a reasonable distance, not only 300ft/90m (like the Xbee standard).. Let's say 500m or more if possible.
Telemetry support should be also included: I'd like to get infos from the drone about batteries and other stuff..

Am I asking too much?

Thank a lot!!

Yep, you are.

Arduino based FCs are dinosaurs, and so is MultiWii.

For what you want to do you need something like a Pixhawk running AruduCopter , and a radio using a UHF transmitter module and a UHF receiver.

 

[sophia lee]

In order to meet the user's requirement in harsh conditions, we newly added IP65 level waterproof shell to TFmini! In addition, the switching value function is also added. First, let's take a look at the changes in appearance



Left one is the update, pretty cool. Wow!

If interested, please contact bw@benewake.com

Those who don't know TFmini before can get familiar with product through the following introduction



TFmini Product Introduction

TFmini is a milestone for Benewake to promote the process of low cost LiDAR.
With its unique optical, structural, and electronic designs, the product possesses 3 major advantages: low cost, tiny volume and low power consumption. The built-in algorithm adapted to indoor and outdoor environments can guarantee an excellent ranging performance at a low cost and in a tiny volume, which highly expands the application fields and scenarios of LiDAR and lays a solid foundation for future “eyes” in the smart era.



For more information, please visit our website at http://www.benewake.com/tfmini.html

If interested, please contact bw@benewake.com



The highlights of TFmini updating

1. Protective shell
2. Switching value

1. Protective shell
In order to meet TFmini's requirement in some harsh environments, we have launched protective accessory that allow the TFmini to meet IP65 protection level, while only increasing a little volume.



2. Switching value
We update the firmware so that TFmini can output switching value. Current functions are:
① The standard UART communication can be switched to the I/O push-pull output via a serial command, and it can also be switched back through the command to achieve one-touch switching.
② The distance threshold value of switching can be changed via the serial command to increase the flexibility of uses;
③ Default output states: if there are obstacles (range value within the certain distance), TFmini output high level of 3.3V; if no obstacle or out of range (ranging distance outside the certain distance), TFmini output low level of 0V. The the output level can be changed according to requirements.



Coming soon: Wide power supply voltage of 5-28V; upgrade type TFmini which meets IP65 protection level without customized protective shell; output switching value signal without firmware update requirement and switching value output high level up to 24V. Welcome to contact us!

Any questions, feel free to contact us via bw@benewake.com