Setup Procedure for Tracking Antenna

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! 🚀