Low Cost UAV AutoPilot Launched

By Caroline Rees / 22 May 2012

Smart Sourcing for Unmanned Systems

Discover cutting-edge solutions from leading global suppliers
SUPPLIER SPOTLIGHT
Follow UST

3D Robotics has released its AdruPilot Mega 2.0 AutoPilot. Seen at this year’s Bay Area Maker Faire, the APM2 is a complete open source autopilot system.

The AdruPilot Mega 2.0 chip features MediaTek 3329 chip system, serial interface Dataflash memory, digital compass, motion-tracking system, barometric pressure sensor, and many more. It is compatible with the Adruino microcontroller, and only costs $199.95. As posted by 3D Robotics:

“The AdruPilot Mega 2.0 is a complete open source autopilot system, with no assembly required. It allows the user to turn any fixed, rotary wing or multirotor vehicle (even cars and boats) into a fully autonomous vehicle; capable of performing programmed GPS missions with waypoints.”

The price is not bad at all since other systems like Adrino’s GPS Module Shield that includes GPS module costs $117. For an additional $82.95, users can get a whole lot more capability. This is also ideal for hobbyists, since higher end autopilot systems could cost thousands of dollars.

What’s good about the APM2 is that it can be used with free open-source firmware. It can be incorporated in a model plane, rotary-wing aircraft, and ground or water vehicle using the Arduplane, Arducopter and ArduRover respectively.

The APM2 is perfect for use on amateur UAV applications. Amateur UAVs typically fly under “recreational” exceptions to Federal Aviation Administration regulations, as long as the pilot or programmer will keep the aircraft within tight altitude and distance limits. It is manually controlled using Radio Control at takeoff and landing, and switched into GPS-guided autonomous mode when it reached a safe altitude.

Creating a UAV will require a RC plane, helicopter or multicopter; an autopilot system like the APM2, and a payload like a digital camera—although this component is optional. A complete setup is consists of APM2 autopilot system, Mission Planner Software and the aircraft’s respective autopilot software.

What makes the autopilot system useful is the fact that it combines the sophisticated Inertial Measurement Unit-based autopilot electronics with free Arduino-based autopilot software. This could turn any RC vehicle into a fully autonomous UAV.

Source: AMOG

Posted by Caroline Rees Caroline co-founded Unmanned Systems Technology and has been at the forefront of the business ever since. With a Masters Degree in marketing Caroline has her finger on the pulse of all things unmanned and is committed to showcasing the very latest in unmanned technical innovation. Connect & Contact

Latest Articles

High-Energy Density Batteries for Drones & Robotic Vehicles

The SCIO Brick® platform offers industry-leading energy density in a compact and lightweight footprint, and can be scaled to meet high-voltage requirements

Jul 12, 2025
Most Read Articles on UST This Week

Here’s our round-up of the five most read articles on UnmannedSystemsTechnology.com this week

Jul 11, 2025
Vertiq Speed Firmware v0.1.1 Now Available with Bug Fixes

Vertiq has released firmware v0.1.1 to correct a parameter bug affecting telemetry and 3D mode settings on select G1 and G2 modules

Jul 11, 2025
The Role of ROVs in Unmanned Marine Operations

Oceanbotics has answered the most common questions about ROVs, covering how they work, where they're used, and key capabilities

Jul 11, 2025
LiveU File Transfer Speeds Up Drone Data Delivery for Critical Missions

LiveU’s File Transfer enables rapid transmission of large drone data files, reducing delays and supporting faster decision-making in public safety and infrastructure operations.

Jul 11, 2025
Exploring Differences Between M9PLUS & M9 GNSS Antennas

Discover the key upgrades in Maxtena’s new M9PLUS GNSS antenna, including improved performance, signal purity, and multipath mitigation over the original M9

Jul 11, 2025

Featured Content

USAF Uses Inertial Labs Drone Lidar for Tree Obstruction Survey

The US Air Force successfully used Inertial Labs drone Lidar and cloud software to quickly map tree obstructions at Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM), improving airfield safety

Jul 11, 2025
New UAV to Combine Solar Hydrogen & Battery Power for Extended Flight

XSun and H3 Dynamics are developing the first UAV powered by solar, hydrogen, and batteries, aiming to deliver zero-emission, long-endurance unmanned flight

Jul 07, 2025
Enhancing Mangrove Restoration Through 3D Printed Drone Design

Explore how Inverto Earth, in collaboration with HP Additive, is using sustainable 3D printing and drone technology to drive large-scale mangrove restoration and protect vulnerable coastal ecosystems

Jul 03, 2025
Advancing Unmanned Systems Through Strategic Collaboration UST works with major OEMs to foster collaboration and increase engagement with SMEs, to accelerate innovation and drive unmanned systems capabilities forward.