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Drone Tracking Antenna Setup Guide

Preparation

  1. Go Outdoors: Ensure you are outside; the Arduino code requires GPS signals to function properly.

  2. Position the Antenna: For best results, align the antenna to face north. Have the drone at least a few feet away from the Antenna

Network Setup

  1. Enable Network Connectivity:

    • Turn on your Wi-Fi router, or enable your hotspot.

    • If using a hotspot, note down the device’s IP address.

  2. Open Command Line Interface (CLI):

    • Enter the following command:

      mavproxy --master=udp:127.0.0.1:14550 --out x.x.x.x:port_number

    • Replace x.x.x.x with the forwarding IP address:

      • Router: Use 192.168.0.2

      • Hotspot: Enter your noted IP address.

    • Replace port_number with 16550.

    • mavproxy --master=udp:127.0.0.1:14550 --out 192.168.0.2:16550

Mission Planner Configuration

  1. Connect to the Drone:

    • Open Mission Planner.

    • Turn on the drone.

    • Connect the RFID module to both the drone and the laptop.

    • Select the appropriate port and click Connect.

  2. MAVlink Setup:

    • Navigate to the Data page.

    • Press Ctrl + F to open additional options.

    • Select MAVlink.

    • From the dropdown, choose UDP - Client and click Connect.

    • Confirm any pop-ups by clicking OK.

  3. Verify Communication:

    • Check the MAVproxy CLI window to ensure it is receiving data from Mission Planner.

Arduino and Antenna Setup

*If using router for MavProxy - At this point make sure the Laptop you are using is connected the same Router connection

  1. Arduino IDE Configuration:

    • Open Arduino IDE

    • Select the XIAO_ESP32C3 as the board.

    • Open the Serial Moniter

    • Upload the Arduino-TA code to the Seeeduino board on the tracking antenna.

  2. Calibrate the Antenna:

    • Identify the north direction and align the tracking antenna accordingly:

    • Use the Serial Monitor to adjust the antenna direction:

      • Enter ‘a’ to move -3 degrees.

      • Enter ‘d’ to move +3 degrees.

    • Press space and hit enter once Antenna is facing north.

Final Check

  • The tracking antenna should now follow the drone’s location.

  • Data will display in the Serial Monitor and the MAVproxy window.

  • Once everything is functioning, you may disconnect the USB cable between the laptop and the Seeeduino board.

Enjoy your drone tracking antenna system! 🚀

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