cheap* data links
goal: mavlink to FC running PX4 over a wireless link
*sub $100 tx+rx cost
existing options
| link | Manufacturer | frequency | tx cost | rx cost | notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SiK | Holybro | 915MHz | ~$60 | $0 | <ul><li>kit with pair of tx and rx in plastic enclosure</li><li>100mW & 500mW options</li></ul> |
| SiK | RFDesign | 902-928MHz | ~$170 | ~$105 | <ul><li>AES in hardware</li><li>heatsink looks cool</li><ul> |
| Microhard | Holybro | 902-928MHz | $225 | $225 | |
| Microhard | ARK | 900MHz | $500 | $500 | frequently out of stock |
| Microhard | ARK | 2.4GHz | $500 | $500 | frequently out of stock |
| TBS Crossfire | TBS | 900MHz | ~$70 | ~$30 | easy local pickup at ProgressiveRC |
| TBS Tracer | TBS | 2.4GHz | ~$70 | ~$30 | easy local pickup at ProgressiveRC |
Not exhaustive and does not attempt to compare qualitatively (power, range, etc.)
mavlink on TBS Crossfire
current build incorporating TBS Crossfire
Components
- Holybro Kakute H7 mini v1.3
- Tekko32 AM32 ESC
- ublox M10 GNSS -> UART4
- RadioMaster RP2 - UART6
- TBS CRSF Nano Rx Pro -> UART2
PX4 1.15 built from source with boardconfig serial ports mapped
- TELEM1 -> /dev/ttyS1
- GPS1 -> /dev/ttyS3
- RC -> /dev/ttyS4
