DISCLAIMER
This is still an open source project so may still have bugs but that's why together we can get everything sorted out and have a cheap and reliable system.
this is my first stable version.
Based on 1.10 by Melih
Thanks to Devonian for the 459 mod
------
A lot of time went into this firmware so if anyone wants to send me some Pringles and Red Bull to keep me going here is the magic button :))
(http://s11.postimage.org/ofenkcx0f/Paypal_Donate_Button.png) (http://tinyurl.com/425x4hj/)
Pringles & Red Bull Thank You list so far :)
- pk-surfing
- papa_lazerous
- simondale
- Melih (@ Flytron.com)
- CrashingDutchman (@ Flytron.com)
---------------------------------
Current Features
- NEW!!! DIVERSITY
- NEW!!! Booster Friendly TX version
- thUndead's RSSI MOD - fine tuned 3.2 to 0v rssi Vout
- In Flight Fail Safe MOD << YES YOU CAN :P
- 38.4Kbps Baud Rate - still looking into lowering it
----------------------------------
Upcoming Features - Will release one more firmware and that's it
- Smart manual hopping
INSTALLATION
!!! PLEASE DO NOT USE ARDUINO 1.0 SDK! IT will break things! use 0.22 or 0.23 instead !!!
-Load up the firmwares in Arduino and flash them accordingly.
-noob friendly guide in the works
Available FWs:
459Mhz thUndeadMOD v1.0
=http://www.multiupload.com/YZI8WTK7A0 (http://=http://www.multiupload.com/YZI8WTK7A0)
459Mhz thUndeadMOD v1.5 - DIVERSITY
http://www.multiupload.com/W0UYR2IJDM (http://www.multiupload.com/W0UYR2IJDM)
-----------------------------------
DOCUMENTATION
Booster Friendly FW for TX
If you have Melih's booster you need to make BOOSTER 1 in config.h. This changes the output power from 1 0 0 mw to 50mw which is the recommended input power for the booster.
----------------------------------
DIVERSITY
The Diversity algorithm uses a Master-Slave approach.
The master receives packets from the TX and the Slave RX as well so if master RX looses signal it will still get valid packets if the Slave RX still has a connection. Simple :D
Hardware Installation is very simple, just use a 2 wire Servo cable to supply the slave RX with GND and VCC from onw of the master RX's free servo ports or other 5V supply.
Software Installation: Just load the openLRS_RXS firmware onto the slave receiver and you are ready to go.
WARNING!
Diversity currently works if telemetry is off! Will implement a telemetry friendly version after the Holidays.
RSSI on the slave RX is still available either on pin 8 (v2 hw) or pin 9 (v1 hw)
OpenLRS Diversity (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FfLd-YUNpEE#)
------------------------------------
RSSI: V output: min/max 0-3.2v
CALIBRATION:
uncomment Serial_RSSI in the config.h file (the RX one) and with you TX and RX ON check the outputted value in the Serial Monitor ( going in the other room might increase the value lol ) and that should be your max RSSI output.
in the config.h change the max value accordingly:
//###### RSSI STUFF ########
//
#define RSSI_MAX 110 //turn on the RSSI debug and see what values you r getting at close range....
#define RSSI_SMOOTH 60 //increase if the Vout is still jumpy.
RSSI ON v2 BOARDS IS on CH 8 !
If the Vout is still jumpy, increase RSSI_SMOOTH and recheck your RSSI_MAX
-----------------------
In Flight Fail-Safe: nothing to change/calibrate here. Simply press and release the TX button after 2 secs and your F/S values are stored. You should see the red LED on the RX blink when FS has been saved.
---------------------
OpenLRS FACTS
------------------
- this first stable release adds the much needed RSSI and Quick n Easy fail safe to Melih's firmware.
- Here are my conclusions about the openLRS system after some long weeks of tuning, coding and analyzing all the approaches I could think of (FHSS,manual hopping, adaptive hopping etc...)
1. Stock antennas are crap crap craptastic! Change them ASAP. My antenna mod in 2nd post.
2. thing is good for planes for >2km flights.
3. thing is crap for multi-rotors flying low when on crappy stock antennas.
4. Video is rubbish for anything Long Range related. Want more ? go for a booster.
Sorry for my pessimistic view on the system but lost too much time trying to get the best out of the hardware without much success.
Hope that was an interesting read, + Happy Holidays to everybody!
Cheers,
Mihai.
RX ANTENNA MOD
(http://s9.postimage.org/j51xbduh7/openlrs_receiver_v2_1.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/j51xbduh7/)
(http://s9.postimage.org/ifo6w5097/openlrs_receiver_v2.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/ifo6w5097/)
Element length: 163mm for 459Mhz (Thanks Nigel :) )
(http://s8.postimage.org/xzgvep8ch/IMG_20111204_183031.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/xzgvep8ch/)
(http://s8.postimage.org/moe7qc1hd/IMG_20111204_183054.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/moe7qc1hd/)
Think I know which UHF system I am getting now :P
:P Tested the FS on my tricopter today (was shi**ing myself :)) ) and worked as expected. Turned the tx off and FS positions kicked in instantly. There is a small lag when regaining the signal (when switching the tx on again) but its barely noticeable for planes. My tri lost like 5cm altitude during the lag but that's negligible even for multirotors.
Custom Baud coming tonight... :D
Regards,
Mihai.
Quote from: Badwolve1 on November 15, 2011, 08:33:13 AM
Think I know which UHF system I am getting now :P
Nice job! On my list for next year....!
Hmmmmm how does 10 channel FHSS sound ? :D Testing the theory now....
Top job Mihai !!
At long last, there seems to be some real interest in OLRS ;)
Watching with interest...
Nigel.
well currently can't afford an EzUHF so might as well improve what I got :) I'm working on the 10ch FHSS now and will move to baud after I get that working...
Uhm guuys, We've got 10ch 10byte encoded FHSS ;D Its amazing what I can do with a Red Bull and some Pringles haha. Been hopping for 30min now and not a packet lost :) Will brush the code up a bit and release a new FW :)
UPD: first post updated.
I want to make a couple of antenna tuned to 459Mhz. I read that the choice of material to support the wire is important since that affects the length of wire required. I also read that Nyrod is a good material for making the supporting outer bit. I cannot find anyone in the UK who supplies this - has anyone got any ideas. If not then can anyone tell me where I can get supporting tube in PVC or something like that. I have been googling and searching for these guides or whatever but have not had much luck.
I would be pleased to make a couple of these so if anyone would like a set I will supply them at cost.
have you seen this ?
http://fpvlab.com/forums/showthread.php?382-Sander-style-(Ez)UHF-antennas (http://fpvlab.com/forums/showthread.php?382-Sander-style-(Ez)UHF-antennas)
http://fpvlab.com/forums/showthread.php?1680-Proper-wire-for-building-DIY-antennas (http://fpvlab.com/forums/showthread.php?1680-Proper-wire-for-building-DIY-antennas)
most people just use pvc piping. I'd just use some drinking straws :)
this looks promising as well (vor Video at least) http://fpvlab.com/forums/showthread.php?1592-New-double-stacked-dipole-antenna-looks-very-promising (http://fpvlab.com/forums/showthread.php?1592-New-double-stacked-dipole-antenna-looks-very-promising)
Mihai.
Quote from: Splashy on November 16, 2011, 03:56:57 AM
I want to make a couple of antenna tuned to 459Mhz. I read that the choice of material to support the wire is important since that affects the length of wire required. I also read that Nyrod is a good material for making the supporting outer bit. I cannot find anyone in the UK who supplies this - has anyone got any ideas. If not then can anyone tell me where I can get supporting tube in PVC or something like that. I have been googling and searching for these guides or whatever but have not had much luck.
I would be pleased to make a couple of these so if anyone would like a set I will supply them at cost.
Correcting myself, NYROD is an acronym for Nylon Rod :))))))
http://www.airfieldmodels.com/information_source/glossary/entry.php?Term=NyRod (http://www.airfieldmodels.com/information_source/glossary/entry.php?Term=NyRod)
So here you go:
http://www.theplasticshop.co.uk/nylon-66-tube-all-od-x-id-sizes-1764-0.html (http://www.theplasticshop.co.uk/nylon-66-tube-all-od-x-id-sizes-1764-0.html)
http://www.ebay.co.uk/sch/i.html?LH_PrefLoc=1&_trkparms=65%253A12%257C66%253A2%257C39%253A1%257C72%253A5701&rt=nc&_nkw=nylon+tube&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14&_sop=15&_sc=1 (http://www.ebay.co.uk/sch/i.html?LH_PrefLoc=1&_trkparms=65%253A12%257C66%253A2%257C39%253A1%257C72%253A5701&rt=nc&_nkw=nylon+tube&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14&_sop=15&_sc=1)
gotta loge Ebay :)))
Hope that helped, and I'm in for an antenna sample if you can also test them :)
Regards,
Mihai.
Some tube ordered from eBay. Many thanks for that. I do feel a bit dumb for not searching for nylon tube though!
hehe happens to me every time :)) Always seem to end up on Ebay or china stores after my searches :laugh:
Here's my method of making a 1/4 wave 459MHz antenna...
http://www.fpvuk.org/forum/index.php?topic=2925.msg28229#msg28229 (http://www.fpvuk.org/forum/index.php?topic=2925.msg28229#msg28229)
Nigel.
Nigel check first post ;)
Quote from: Devonian on November 16, 2011, 12:52:16 PM
Here's my method of making a 1/4 wave 459MHz antenna...
http://www.fpvuk.org/forum/index.php?topic=2925.msg28229#msg28229 (http://www.fpvuk.org/forum/index.php?topic=2925.msg28229#msg28229)
Nigel.
Great work thundead, Am currently in the process of designing a board to use the openLRS firmware and then maybe hoping to have an all inone board that integrates my multiwii controller with the open LRS, Do you think it would be possible to produce a 459mhz booster if it is needed much like the 433mhz one that flytron sells?
Thanks
Brett
Hey Brett,
If you look @ the flytron booster's datasheet, the IC's freq range is: 400-470MHz so can be used without any problems with our 459Mhz band.
Only problem is that you only get Unidirectional link meaning no telemetry (which is fine with me haha).
Also power output is proportional to input voltage. apparently goes from 0.8W (3.7v) up to 10W(9v)
So my take on the booster is this:
use this schematic: http://www.flytron.com/pdf/7w_booster_schematic.pdf (http://www.flytron.com/pdf/7w_booster_schematic.pdf)
Implement an adjustable switching voltage regulator (buck ) for your Vin and there you go :D
I'd suggest this one: LM2576HVT-ADJ (not the high voltage version though) << I used this in an ROV project to step down 48v to 12v for my cameras.
Might be other ICs out there but something in those lines :)
Can give you a hand with circuit design and PCBs.
Regards,
Mihai.
Are these FWs based on the latest from Flytron and are they compatible with both the v1 and v2 Rx/Tx boards?
I've just modded my 5v FTDI board to 3.3v so I'm about to upload and didn't want to brick my boards (if that's even possible with an Arduino!). I have the v2 boards.
Additionally, can I check the RSSI without additional equipment. I'm guessing not.
What's the best way to go about monitoring it?
yup, FW compatible with both v1 and v2 boards. Just change you board in the config.h file :)
I used a multimeter :D
for v2 boards,
if you want rssi change
#define RSSI_MODE 0 //0=disable 1=enable
#define RSSI_OUT 10 //Servo7 or RSSI
to #define RSSI_MODE 1 //0=disable 1=enable
#define RSSI_OUT 10 //Servo7 or RSSI
in the config.h, #if (RX_BOARD_TYPE==2) section !!!!!!!!!!!!
otherwise RSSI wont work.
I personally have v1 hardware.
thundead,
It looks like the Red Bull and Pringles are the trigger for your inspiration....
(from your first post)
"After some Redbull and Pringles I finally came up with an experimental implementation for FHSS."
I'm sending you a PM asking for your PayPal address so I can at least get you one round of Pringles and Red Bull in.... you're putting in a lot of time with this programming that we are all benefiting from so it's my way of helping a bit (cos I can't hack the programming !)
:cheers:
PK
Many Thanks PK. Much appreciated! you should see a tinyurl link in my signature :)
Quote from: pk-surfing on November 16, 2011, 09:54:31 PM
thundead,
It looks like the Red Bull and Pringles are the trigger for your inspiration....
(from your first post)
"After some Redbull and Pringles I finally came up with an experimental implementation for FHSS."
I'm sending you a PM asking for your PayPal address so I can at least get you one round of Pringles and Red Bull in.... you're putting in a lot of time with this programming that we are all benefiting from so it's my way of helping a bit (cos I can't hack the programming !)
:cheers:
PK
OK. I've had a play.
I uploaded "Devonian's Original UK FW + thUndeadMOD" to both my v2 Tx and Rx and changed the board types to v2 in the code and also enabled RSSI in the Rx code.
Both of my Tx and Rx units are using 459Mhz custom whip antennas.
Here are my observations.
Failsafe
Can't see a problem with my simulated test. This is powering the rx with a standalone lipo on a BEC and a single servo on channel one. Switching off the Tx does indea set the servo into it's failsafe position.
I do however have an observation, but it's not specific to your firmware, but is also apparent in the standard UK firmware from the Google code repository. Occasionally when I turn the Tx back on again after simulating a failsafe condition, the Rx lights flicker rapidly (Red and Blue alternating) and the servo movements are very jerky but still responsive. This can sometimes clear in a second or two, but sometimes can persist for longer. Do you have any idea what could be going on here?
RSSI
I measured the RSSI voltage on servo pin 9 and when the Rx and Tx are sat next to each other I get a reading in the region of 1.7v. When I move to the other side of the house the RSSI voltage goes up to 1.75v. Now I expected the RSSI voltage to drop as I assumed the closer to 0v the worse the signal was getting.
I'm also assuming that when the red led rx light flashes that that is indicating a packet loss. Do you have any ideas?
I know these are really questions for Melih, but I thought I write up my results here of your custom firmware and keep all my observations and question in one place.
Paul
I guess also that testing FHSS is going to be just ensuring the Radio link is consistent. Without a frequency analyzer there's not a great deal else to test?
...Something big is coming for the openLRS (sometime tonight).... be sure to watch the first post :D
Thanks for the feedback. Ive got the v1 hardware so can't test the v2 boards but from what I see from the code, the pin for rssi is 7 I think. I'll have a look begore releasing tonight's fw :)
Cheers,
Mihai.
Quote from: SouthPawPaul on November 17, 2011, 10:50:26 AM
OK. I've had a play.
I uploaded "Devonian's Original UK FW + thUndeadMOD" to both my v2 Tx and Rx and changed the board types to v2 in the code and also enabled RSSI in the Rx code.
Both of my Tx and Rx units are using 459Mhz custom whip antennas.
Here are my observations.
Failsafe
Can't see a problem with my simulated test. This is powering the rx with a standalone lipo on a BEC and a single servo on channel one. Switching off the Tx does indea set the servo into it's failsafe position.
I do however have an observation, but it's not specific to your firmware, but is also apparent in the standard UK firmware from the Google code repository. Occasionally when I turn the Tx back on again after simulating a failsafe condition, the Rx lights flicker rapidly (Red and Blue alternating) and the servo movements are very jerky but still responsive. This can sometimes clear in a second or two, but sometimes can persist for longer. Do you have any idea what could be going on here?
RSSI
I measured the RSSI voltage on servo pin 9 and when the Rx and Tx are sat next to each other I get a reading in the region of 1.7v. When I move to the other side of the house the RSSI voltage goes up to 1.75v. Now I expected the RSSI voltage to drop as I assumed the closer to 0v the worse the signal was getting.
I'm also assuming that when the red led rx light flashes that that is indicating a packet loss. Do you have any ideas?
I know these are really questions for Melih, but I thought I write up my results here of your custom firmware and keep all my observations and question in one place.
Paul
Hehe :P all I can say now is tx on micro mode in the opposite side of my house + rx in washing machine (Faraday cage attempt haha) = perf sig :D
Still need to brush up some code and I'll also try to use the 458Mhz spectrum. After that FW ready for use :D
Here is me right now haha
(http://s9.postimage.org/j45y98fvv/image.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/j45y98fvv/)
Mihai.
Quote from: papa_lazerous on November 18, 2011, 02:38:16 PM
Quote from: thundead on November 18, 2011, 02:36:19 PM
...Something big is coming for the openLRS (sometime tonight).... be sure to watch the first post :D
Nobody likes a tease :P
I've just checked the firmware and in Config.h there's the following line
#define RSSI_OUT 6 //Servo9 or RSSI
I'll check again tonight just in case there was some "finger trouble" ;)
hmm in that case seems that pin 9 shoul dbe the RSSI out. Try the rssi test in micro mode (holding button on TX before turning on )
Mihai.
Just looked at the code again and I looked at the v1 section of code and not the v2 section of code.
#define RSSI_OUT 10 //Servo7 or RSSI
I know you're probably flat out trying to get whatever it is you're doing published for tonight, but why is did you use Servo7 for the v2 hardware and Servo9 for the v1 hardware?
I didn't , Melih used it this way. No idea why.
Retested the RSSI mod on my v1 hardware just now and works ok. Try ch7 and see if you get the rssi.
Regards,
Mihai
Right, here is a little something showing rssi and FS and my Faraday Cage haha.
ThUndeadMods Olrs test (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WH27bdP9fMQ#ws)
I refixed the RSSI and is nice and stable now.
I'm off to a Range test and after that I'll post my beast \0/
Regards,
Mihai.
Quote from: thundead on November 18, 2011, 06:34:39 PM
Right, here is a little something showing rssi and FS and my Faraday Cage haha.
ThUndeadMods Olrs test (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WH27bdP9fMQ#ws)
I refixed the RSSI and is nice and stable now.
I'm off to a Range test and after that I'll post my beast \0/
Regards,
Mihai.
PS my voice sounds just awful :)))
New FW up for grabs :D Check first post :D Omlet time for me :)
Regards,
Mihai.
FHSS FTW :) Just a few more months, then its MINE :D
OK. I've done a quick flash of the new FW and I've rechecked the RSSI.
Despite what the firmware says, I only get RSSI type voltage on Servo9, I've checked all the other servo pins and they have signal type voltage on them so I think I'm on the right pin.
This video shows my result. The quality is lower than I'd hoped when I show the RSSI voltage and the serial monitor, you can just make it out. If you can't, I'll upload a better quality version.
OpenLRS thundead RSSI test (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-xjMG98eYsI#)
hmm it shouldnt oscillate that much. can you show me a dump of your serial RSSI values and your settings in config.h ? I'll recheck the thing again just in case. Cheers.
update: rechecked and its working fine. do this:
in config.h, incerase RSSI_SMOOTH to 100, reflash and check the RSSI value (the first one) when you get a max value for that, change your MAX_RSSI in config.h and recheck voltage :)
Mihai.
http://dl.dropbox.com/u/45872086/FHSS%20Debug.zip (http://dl.dropbox.com/u/45872086/FHSS%20Debug.zip)
I have changed the Unique Seed to 72
that's all I've changed (apart from HW board type and RSSI debug compiler directive)
I noticed that the voltage is more stable when RSSI debug is not turned on.
Ive updated the previous post at the same time you replied haha:
update: rechecked and its working fine. do this:
in config.h, incerase RSSI_SMOOTH to 100, reflash and check the RSSI value (the first one) when you get a max value for that, change your MAX_RSSI in config.h and recheck voltage
Mihai.
^^^^^^ thats how to calibrate your RSSI out :)
from the prntscreen: your peak rssi value seems to be 112 so go to config.h and change MAX_RSSI to 112
BUT FIRST, change RSSI_SMOOTH to 100, reflash and recheck your peak value and adjust accordingly.
Lemme know how it went :D
Quote from: thundead on November 18, 2011, 10:36:25 PM
Ive updated the previous post at the same time you replied haha:
update: rechecked and its working fine. do this:
in config.h, incerase RSSI_SMOOTH to 100, reflash and check the RSSI value (the first one) when you get a max value for that, change your MAX_RSSI in config.h and recheck voltage
Mihai.
^^^^^^ thats how to calibrate your RSSI out :)
That is much more stable.
My RSSI voltage only fluctuates now by +/- .05v
Why is my RSSI voltage that much lower than that which you showed in your video ?
Hmmm not a clue. in theory, it should go up to 3 v . Try adding a reistor on the signal line (1-2k) and see if that helps.
I will get a v2 board eventually :)
Hmmm if you want to use 9 ch you will have to disable rssi. what you could actually do is enable serial ppm if your gear supports it. think we are limited to 8ch plus rssi for now. ill look into it but its not a priority
good luck with the lrs and looking fw to your results :)
Thank you very much for the Beer :) will be used wisely for the upcoming firmware :D
I'm currently working on improving recovery times.
Let me know how the flashing went :D
Mihai.
Quote from: papa_lazerous on November 19, 2011, 01:23:25 PM
Hmm I kinda thought that was the case, serial ppm isnt an option. So I'm limited to 8 channels right now.
I am going to use 1 switch to control my OSD (apparently possible using a 3pos switch) and have pan control only on my cam and use another pot on my tgy9x for the gain on my guardian. Once I have everything set up and i have proved that the guardian works well and my RTH function works well I will take the gain channel and use it for tilt. So I will swap everything about, kinda long winded way of doing my setup but it should work. I have been reading up on adding a head tracker to my radio so with the OpenLRS and your firmware things should be pretty slick.
I have just tested that the OpenLRS all works out of the box with the standard FW on it (ok its on the wrong frequency but I doubt it will matter for 5 minutes in my house lol) just about to flash with 459Mhz FW wish me luck
PS I added to your beer fund as a thanks, as you sent me enough information on youtube replies and are doing allot here. Dont drink it all at once or your head will hurt
John
Now that's odd as I get an RSSI voltage on Servo pin 9 with my v2 hardware unless of course servo pin 9 is actually channel 7?
hmmm try this:
in the config.h section go to
#if (RX_BOARD_TYPE==2)
and change #define RSSI_OUT 10 //Servo7 or RSSI to
#define RSSI_OUT 12 //Servo9 or RSSI
Mihai :)
hows the fhss holding up btw ?
I flashed my v1 boards with the RSSI firmware and made a short video of the output (pin 9 on v1 Rx)
I use these RSSI signal strength meter on some of my VTx's:
http://www.dpcav.com/xcart/product.php?productid=16562&cat=0&page=1 (http://www.dpcav.com/xcart/product.php?productid=16562&cat=0&page=1)
You can see the signal strength percentage at the bottom right of the video...
OpenLRS_RSSI_459MHz (http://vimeo.com/32364828)
I notice no beeps for lost signal packets at the Tx end now - should it be like that Mihai?
Would be nice to retain that I think.
Haven't looked through the code, I simply uploaded your f/w and made the quick test.
I got to about 25 metres and several brick walls in the way in micro power mode - pretty good I think.
Nigel.
Thanks for the quick test Nigel :)
Nope, its not beeping because the FW is uni-directional so no telemetry.
I'm still improving the FHSS feature so telemetry mode is not a priority yet.
Anyway, everyone uses RSSI on their OSDs and RSSI goes to 0 whenerver a packet is lost or if FS initializes :)
If you feel that RSSi voltage is still jumpy, just play with the RSSI settings a bit :) My RSSI_SMOOTH is 100 now and really happy with it :)
Mihai.
yup, ch 7 is definitely the RSSI out for the v2 board apparently. I'll have a quick look again over the code and maybe I can spot something lol.
Re-change the code to the original until I figure out what's the prob.
Cheers,
Mihai
Right, try this
as before , in the board 2 section
paste this over:
#define RSSI_OUT 12 //Servo9 or RSSI
#define Servo1_OUT_HIGH PORTD |= _BV(3) //Servo1
#define Servo2_OUT_HIGH PORTD |= _BV(5) //Servo2
#define Servo3_OUT_HIGH PORTD |= _BV(6) //Servo3
#define Servo4_OUT_HIGH PORTD |= _BV(7) //Servo4
#define Servo5_OUT_HIGH PORTB |= _BV(0) //Servo5
#define Servo6_OUT_HIGH PORTB |= _BV(1) //Servo6
#define Servo7_OUT_HIGH PORTB |= _BV(2) //Servo7
#define Servo8_OUT_HIGH PORTB |= _BV(3) //Servo8
#define Servo9_OUT_HIGH PORTB = PORTB //Servo9 /RSSI
let me know if that did it :)
Hmmm that is strange.....
I'm looking into the issue now.
I am properly confused.
Your v1 RSSI video shows your RSSI up @ around 2.6v and then drops when you put it in your makeshift Farady cage :)
The v2 boards seem to show a 3.29v RSSI voltage. (confusion #1).
When I read up about analogWrite it tells me that calling this function with a pin number and a value in the range of 0-255 will output a PWM signal on the specified pin.
A PWM signal is a square wave, and the duty cycle of this square wave is altered depending on the value passeed to analogueWrite(Pin#, 0-255); according to the docs.
How are you measuring a voltage drop on a PWM signal with a DMM? As far as I can tell, the voltage should remain constant and the frequency of the pwm signal changes? (confusion #2)
This is hurting my head. :shrug:
Yup, I'm getting over 3v in the last FW as well.
THe max output from the arduino is 3.3v and I limited the pwm to 250.
It's not a voltage drop that's the thing. What pwm does is it switches 3.3v on and off very fast.
What the multi-meter sees is a voltage depending on how the PWM duty cycle is.
Same principle applies for motor speed control. You PWM the motor's VCC and motor sees a specific voltage according to the duty cycle.
Hope that sorted things out :)
Quote from: SouthPawPaul on November 19, 2011, 06:24:26 PM
I am properly confused.
Your v1 RSSI video shows your RSSI up @ around 2.6v and then drops when you put it in your makeshift Farady cage :)
The v2 boards seem to show a 3.29v RSSI voltage. (confusion #1).
When I read up about analogWrite it tells me that calling this function with a pin number and a value in the range of 0-255 will output a PWM signal on the specified pin.
A PWM signal is a square wave, and the duty cycle of this square wave is altered depending on the value passeed to analogueWrite(Pin#, 0-255); according to the docs.
How are you measuring a voltage drop on a PWM signal with a DMM? As far as I can tell, the voltage should remain constant and the frequency of the pwm signal changes? (confusion #2)
This is hurting my head. :shrug:
Ok please try this :
in config.h
#define Servo9_OUT 11 //Servo9
#define RSSI_OUT 12 //Servo9 or RSSI
Hope it was that easy :))
Lemme know if it worked.
Mihai.
Quote from: papa_lazerous on November 19, 2011, 05:27:48 PM
getting 0.000v on channel 9 now :(
EDIT
Seems I can put the RSSI only channel 8 easy enough
#define RSSI_OUT 12 //Servo9 or RSSI
changing the 12 to 11 meaning...
#define RSSI_OUT 11 //Servo8 or RSSI
It is strange I can move it around from where it was on channel 7 to channel 8 but not 9
melih's coding is a bit weird. For example, the fw sends 8 channel servo data so in theory channel 9 shouldn't do anything anyway.
Could you please test the FS and maybe do a quick range test in micro mode ?
Cheers,
Mihai.
Quote from: papa_lazerous on November 19, 2011, 06:57:29 PM
Ive tried what you suggested, its a no go. I posted over at Flytron also about the issue of it being on Channel 7 not 9 and that I cant change it. I think Melih may have goofed with the coding
Mihai,
Would it be possible to simply copy/paste your various bit of code into the fully working OLRS_V_1_10 firmware?
If so, I may just have a go at that over the weekend...(wish I could program properly!!).
Nigel.
FS aka Fail Safe :) with everything on , hook up a servor or something and hold it in some position. Hold the TX button pressed until it beeps :) , turn tx off and see if the servo goes to where you put it :)
Quote from: papa_lazerous on November 19, 2011, 07:37:09 PM
Test the FS?
my FW was kinda designed from scratch :)) didn't keep a lot of stuff from the original fw.
I could have a go and see what happens :)
I'll let u know it it worked or not.
Quote from: Devonian on November 19, 2011, 07:37:55 PM
Mihai,
Would it be possible to simply copy/paste your various bit of code into the fully working OLRS_V_1_10 firmware?
If so, I may just have a go at that over the weekend...(wish I could program properly!!).
Nigel.
That's great! thanks. I just love that feeling when everything works as it should haha :)
Quote from: papa_lazerous on November 19, 2011, 07:40:11 PM
Tested that earlier it works all ok
I'm hopping in 70 channels right now haha :)) (not ism channels though) still on 459 :)
you mean its not working at all or just the channel thing ?
Mihai.
Haha my gf got used to it haha. gd luck tomorrow looking fw to the results :)
Mihai,
Have you seen this, maybe some use...
http://www.open.com.au/mikem/arduino/RF22/index.html (http://www.open.com.au/mikem/arduino/RF22/index.html)
Download the zip file and look at some of the files ;)
http://www.open.com.au/mikem/arduino/RF22/RF22-1.11.zip (http://www.open.com.au/mikem/arduino/RF22/RF22-1.11.zip)
Nigel.
Glad to hear that at least the Video test went ok. Not sure about the OLRS. I've got a few ideas for the next firmware which will have telemetry as well ( packet beeps at the moment ) that I'll be releasing in a few days. Still not sure if range was caused by my hopping routine or by the actual device. would be great to do a test with Melih's firmware versus mine.
Anyway, working hard on my next fw which will be an adaptive hopping pattern.
Nigel , already saw that thanks :) If my next fw doesn't life to expectations I'll try to implement that the open.com.au library and see if it works.
Bad day for me as well. Crashed my tri :( My battery tray came off at 100m altitude and went down like a brick. filmed the whole thing though so vid coming soon.
Regards,
Mihai.
Quote from: papa_lazerous on November 20, 2011, 06:23:19 PM
Quote from: thundead on November 20, 2011, 02:15:53 AM
Haha my gf got used to it haha. gd luck tomorrow looking fw to the results :)
Just got back from range tests....
Bit of a mixed result. I was testing the OpenLRS with stock antenna on the Rx and I had a Diamond SRH771 on the Tx (I know its tuned to 433Mhz but I figured it had to be better than the stock rubby ducky) I was also testing my Video for range. That was running 250mW on 5.8Ghz with a cloverleaf antenna on the Vtx and I had EagleEyes with pan/tilt running 2 Rx's for diversity. I had a skewplanar wheel as my static Rx and a 5 turn helical as my directional antenna on the pan/tilt.
I had rock solid radio showing full RSSI till about 400 metres out then it started dropping down, I rang the girlfriend and got her to turn round and face me with the test rig and hold it up high just incase she was affecting the signal but it didnt make any real difference (my test rig was a big block of dense foam with holes cut out for lipos and other pieces of kit to protect them) I decided that while I had the girlfriend captive that we should continue with a video rangetest!! 2.2Km out I still had a rock solid video, I switched the diversity off and forced the EagleEyes to take a feed from the Skew planar wheel, and while the video was a little grainy I was pretty impressed that I still had signal, with the helical antenna it was so crystal clear I think that the range would have easily gone allot further. Unfortunately I got a call from the little lady, and she was cold and getting a little fedup trudging across the sand. So I packed up and fetched her in the car lol
All in all quite happy with the video, infact I am over the moon with the video as a first test. As its all wired kinda quick and and nasty (ie no ferrite rings to stop noise etc)
The OpenLRS kinda disappointed, I dont know if the video Tx could have been affecting it or the camera (RCV922) as I am sure they put out a fair amount of noise. Obviously in the plane there will be some smart wiring and wide seperation between these parts. I dont know if a better Rx antenna would help...? I know you have had much better range than me I was kinda expecting something similar, especially when the video went well and we all here about people getting video problems lol
that's good news! My tri has been rebuilt, it lives to fly another day haha. anyway lessons learned: do not CA things like battery trays haha. Sleep now and back to fw cooking tomorrow :)
Regards
Mihai.
let me know what u found and we'll figure it out in the end :) bed time for me now. talk tomorrow
Mihai.
thx for the research :) I'm off to the gym now but I'll look into it when I come back.
Here is something that made my day:
http://forum.flytron.com/viewtopic.php?f=7&t=207&p=1623#p1622 (http://forum.flytron.com/viewtopic.php?f=7&t=207&p=1623#p1622)
Good news for my fw :D
Mihai.
Loool definely go for my last fw. the yltra kight one was an ultra beta. the 18ch one is the most stable from my tests.
Regarding range test i'd test it in the worst case scenario possible lol.
Cheers,
Mihai
Quote from: papa_lazerous on November 21, 2011, 06:05:28 PM
Yh thats good news! I may try the 18 channel hopping FW as I am running your ultralight FW right now and see if I get better range. It may be more hopping makes me more immune to interference and gives me better distance.... I should add where I was testing was really close to the coastguard station (100metres) and they have a kinda large antenna lol I only thought of it just now that they transmit VHF ship to shore radio I think that may have had an effect on my range. Will have to find somewhere else to range check.... Not easy to find somewhere thats an open space here
For 459MHz, it's only sensible to hop over 8 channels, because it's recommended that aircraft control is from 459.1MHz to 459.475MHz as that is not a shared useage part of the band (maybe 459.5MHz as this is the band edge but that's pushing things as your signal will 'spread' out of band).
Of course, you can have up to 20 channels if you want to venture into the shared useage part of the band from 458.5MHz to 459.075MHz.
The RFM22B can only be made to space it's channels in multiples of 10kHz, so 25kHz spacing is not easily achieved, but 50kHz is easy to achieve (every other channel availability, depending on your start/base frequency).
It would have been great if we could have 5kHz spacing as then you could have 17 channels of hopping in the prime useage part of the band, but I'd settle for 8 channel hopping of prime band use.
459MHz band plan...
http://www.ukrcc.org/459mhz.html (http://www.ukrcc.org/459mhz.html)
Nigel.
Hey Nigel,
The 18CH firmware (latest one) hops on the following channels:
458.600
458.650
458.700
458.750
458.800
458.850
458.900
458.950
459.000
459.050
459.100
459.150
459.200
459.250
459.300
459.350
459.400
459.450
Regards,
Mihai.
Quote from: Devonian on November 21, 2011, 10:00:06 PM
For 459MHz, it's only sensible to hop over 8 channels, because it's recommended that aircraft control is from 459.1MHz to 459.475MHz as that is not a shared useage part of the band (maybe 459.5MHz as this is the band edge but that's pushing things as your signal will 'spread' out of band).
Of course, you can have up to 20 channels if you want to venture into the shared useage part of the band from 458.5MHz to 459.075MHz.
The RFM22B can only be made to space it's channels in multiples of 10kHz, so 25kHz spacing is not easily achieved, but 50kHz is easy to achieve (every other channel availability, depending on your start/base frequency).
It would have been great if we could have 5kHz spacing as then you could have 17 channels of hopping in the prime useage part of the band, but I'd settle for 8 channel hopping of prime band use.
459MHz band plan...
http://www.ukrcc.org/459mhz.html (http://www.ukrcc.org/459mhz.html)
Nigel.
Hmmm anyone still on around here ? :D Need a suggestion.
Here is my idea for the next fw:
-Bi-Directional FW (tx beeps letting you know RSSI is getting low )
Now this is the interesting bit:
- OLRS will only hop if rssi goes down to a specific value (50 ? where rssi range is 40-110) and will scan for the channel with the best RSSI value.
I want to go for this approach because the link seems to be better if the freq is static (not hopping everywhere)
So in the end will only hop it it really needs to donno.
Lemme know what u think so I can start coding :D
Mihai.
Easy, Leave the TX in your car and take the rx for a walk :D
It;s this one http://www.multiupload.com/C0P34NPZVX (http://www.multiupload.com/C0P34NPZVX)
Try both in micro mode and normal mode. Put the TX in servo test mode ( in my futaba ff9 its under servo ) so the servos move. Try going as far as possible until the glitches are unbearable.
Mihai.
Yaaaaay :D
I'm going to start work on the next fw after I finish some pcb stuff in Eagle. we'll see how it goes haha
Quote from: papa_lazerous on November 22, 2011, 12:07:06 AM
Quote from: thundead on November 21, 2011, 11:43:30 PM
It;s this one http://www.multiupload.com/C0P34NPZVX (http://www.multiupload.com/C0P34NPZVX)
Try both in micro mode and normal mode. Put the TX in servo test mode ( in my futaba ff9 its under servo ) so the servos move. Try going as far as possible until the glitches are unbearable.
Mihai.
Ive just figured out I have a servo test mode on my ER9x firmware :P Well thats going to make life easier!! Uploading firmware now range tests in the morning
Would be cool :D by the way if you or anyone else is able to make tuned 459 antennas and test them (anyone have a SWR meter ? ) as well I want some :D
Quote from: papa_lazerous on November 22, 2011, 12:11:43 AM
I havent used Eagle in ages...... I fired up my Picoscope a little while ago, wanted to probe the PPM output of my radio to see whats what. Might post some traces if you are geek enough to be interested lol
My head is hurting just trying to keep up with all this progress :dazed:
You are moving on at almost one idea each day...... is there still plenty of empty space left in the memory to take your ideas ?
PK
haha I've just begun. ANyway my idea is to test as many ideas and release lets say 3 more fws and settle on the one that worked best and optimize it to death haha.
here is a neat fact: checked the datasheet for the transceiver module and apparently it also supports diversity :o :o . But needs hardware modification in order to work. Not a very complicated thing, just needs to add a spdt switch connected to a gpio port and the module does all the diversity work for us :D I'll email Melih about this after I finish my next firmware.
cool stuff anyway haha
Ive got a 1/2 wave 433 antenna on my tx and is miles better than the stock one. :))
Quote from: papa_lazerous on November 22, 2011, 12:22:38 AM
Its simple to make an antenna for Rx thats going to be pretty accurate for our needs,
This link is a nice method of making the antenna http://webx.dk/rc/uhf-link3/mcx-antenna.htm
Obviously the length of the active elements is wrong also the connector we use will be sma but the method is there.
I have some RG316 coax which is perfect for the job, following this link http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showpost.php?p=13840325&postcount=5 (http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showpost.php?p=13840325&postcount=5) you can calculate the active length required for our frequency. with the hopping we just use the middle frequency for our calculations. It has got to be leaps better than the stock Rx. I dont have access to a SWR meter though :(
As far as a tuned antenna for 459Mhz for the Tx I have no clue, which is why I have a diamond SRH771 its not perfect but it should still perform well. I hope someone reading this knows about a tuned Tx antenna
Quote from: thundead on November 22, 2011, 12:15:05 AM
Would be cool :D by the way if you or anyone else is able to make tuned 459 antennas and test them (anyone have a SWR meter ? ) as well I want some :D
shiit that's bad. strange the earlier version worked ok. Could be indeed something to do with the v2 hardware not sure. but both v1 and v2 hardware have 16mhz clock spd.
Almost finished sketching my next fw and I'll start coding it tomorrow. Next fw should fix any desync issued since it will integrate dynamic channel allocation. ETA lets say 2 days so bare with me :)
Have a good night.
Mihai.
Dont loose hope just yet :) I'm in the same boat. Had a CL but sold it because I don't want Ofcom chasing me around the field haha. Gimme 2 days to cook up my next fw which I think will be the winner.
Mihai.
Quote from: papa_lazerous on November 22, 2011, 02:22:33 AM
Right now I am going to drop back to previous FW.... Kinda bummed with the Open LRS as I cant have my 8 channels and RSSI. I think I may just try and sell it or let it gather dust on a shelf and go buy something else even if its technically not uk legal. Ive spent a fortune getting my skywalker ready for maiden and this is the only thing stopping me.
Donation sent Thundead!
If you'd like discount vouchers for v2 email me -
[email protected]Excellent work!
Hi Simon,
Thanks for the kind contribution to the Pringles and Red Bull Fund. That should keep me going haha.
Email Sent. Thank you again,
Mihai.
Quote from: simondale on November 22, 2011, 09:48:28 AM
Donation sent Thundead!
If you'd like discount vouchers for v2 email me - [email protected]
Excellent work!
Right,
Pringles Check
Red Bull Double Check
Pseudo code Check
Starting new fw :D
Popcorn check
Coffee check
Wife to give massage check
v2 hardware check
waiting on your new cooked fw :)
you forgot wife on standby for range test haha :D
Quote from: SouthPawPaul on November 22, 2011, 02:46:37 PM
Popcorn check
Coffee check
Wife to give massage check
v2 hardware check
waiting on your new cooked fw :)
Coding like a Bauss :o :o :o :P :P :P :cooldance:
Like A Boss (ft. Seth Rogen) - Uncensored Version (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NisCkxU544c#ws)
Quote from: papa_lazerous on November 22, 2011, 05:31:12 PM
:laugh: :laugh: :laugh:
Stop making jokes and write some code :P
Quote from: thundead on November 22, 2011, 02:48:37 PM
you forgot wife on standby for range test haha :D
that's great news :D
Here's some more good news: I now get adaptive channel selection according to RSSI :rocks:
Need to test the robustness of the algorithm and will add whatever's left :)
Some debugging goodness:
Hopping Next CH
Rssiavg: 100 maxrssi[0]: 90
Keeping CH12
Rssiavg: 101 maxrssi[0]: 100
Keeping CH12
in P
98
Hopping Next CH
Rssiavg: 96 maxrssi[0]: 98
Going Back...13
Hopped Back...
in P
91
Hopping Next CH
Rssiavg: 94 maxrssi[0]: 91
Keeping CH14
Quote from: thundead on November 23, 2011, 04:43:32 AM
that's great news :D
Here's some more good news: I now get adaptive channel selection according to RSSI :rocks:
Need to test the robustness of the algorithm and will add whatever's left :)
yup, tx tests random channels and polls rssi at specific intervals and if rssi is lower than previous value it goes to the last best channel :D hopping on 18 channels (gotta stay legal for now haha) Everything is in perfect sync now so it will work on anything (thats my 4AM theory haha).
Quote from: papa_lazerous on November 23, 2011, 04:49:44 AM
Are you saying that the Rx only hops if the RSSI drops below a certain value but if the RSSI is strong it stays where it is? That sounds like a smart idea! How many channels are you hopping in total will it still be 18? And will it work on V2 harware unlike the last FW lol Allot of questions at nearly 4am lol
My in-house range tests are much much better than the fhss firmware. its sending just 2bytes back so shouldnt affect anything. will implement buzzer warnings for 30%, 20% 10% signal level as well so should be useful. WHy don't you want to use telem ?
I'm waiting for Simon to reply to my email regarding some v2 hardware :D and if this fw will work good, my next plan is diversity :D
Quote from: papa_lazerous on November 23, 2011, 05:01:27 AM
This means you are using telemetry between Tx and Rx...... Shame as thats something I want to not use
Quote from: thundead on November 23, 2011, 04:59:10 AM
yup, tx tests random channels and polls rssi at specific intervals and if rssi is lower than previous value it goes to the last best channel :D hopping on 18 channels (gotta stay legal for now haha) Everything is in perfect sync now so it will work on anything (thats my 4AM theory haha).
Quote from: papa_lazerous on November 23, 2011, 04:49:44 AM
Are you saying that the Rx only hops if the RSSI drops below a certain value but if the RSSI is strong it stays where it is? That sounds like a smart idea! How many channels are you hopping in total will it still be 18? And will it work on V2 harware unlike the last FW lol Allot of questions at nearly 4am lol
Quote from: papa_lazerous on November 23, 2011, 05:10:51 AM
Diversity would rock! although would require some modding or a new Rx design altogether...
At the moment sure I could use telemetry but I do plan on using a booster one day ;) nothing crazy just an emergency switch to give me say 0.5W to get me outta trouble for a few seconds if I drop signal.
Nope, no modding needed :P dont have v2 tx but I'll see what's my budget haha.
Great job on the RSSI issue :) I'll add it to the fw as a feature :P
some Reddit for me and off to bed haha
Talk tomorrow m8
Mihai.
Getting V2 Rx would be cool, do you have an M2 Tx already? I already solved the problem of 8ch + RSSI for V2 hahaha
Quote from: thundead on November 23, 2011, 05:05:19 AM
My in-house range tests are much much better than the fhss firmware. its sending just 2bytes back so shouldnt affect anything. will implement buzzer warnings for 30%, 20% 10% signal level as well so should be useful. WHy don't you want to use telem ?
I'm waiting for Simon to reply to my email regarding some v2 hardware :D and if this fw will work good, my next plan is diversity :D
Quote from: papa_lazerous on November 23, 2011, 05:01:27 AM
This means you are using telemetry between Tx and Rx...... Shame as thats something I want to not use
Quote from: thundead on November 23, 2011, 04:59:10 AM
yup, tx tests random channels and polls rssi at specific intervals and if rssi is lower than previous value it goes to the last best channel :D hopping on 18 channels (gotta stay legal for now haha) Everything is in perfect sync now so it will work on anything (thats my 4AM theory haha).
Quote from: papa_lazerous on November 23, 2011, 04:49:44 AM
Are you saying that the Rx only hops if the RSSI drops below a certain value but if the RSSI is strong it stays where it is? That sounds like a smart idea! How many channels are you hopping in total will it still be 18? And will it work on V2 harware unlike the last FW lol Allot of questions at nearly 4am lol
Umm, got some good news and some bad news unfortunately.
Bad news: I fried my RX so can't finish writing the darn firmware. Did a quick inspection of the board but couldn't find anything wrong. Think the micro-controller just failed. can't flash it anymore
Good News: Before it went all to hell (my Rx that is) I managed to get the adaptive algorithm nice and tuned up. I'm getting at least 1.5x more range in micro mode than my last firmware.
Conclusion: eagerly awaiting Simon's email regarding that discount for v2 hardware so I can start the development again.
Sorry guys :(
Mihai.
Had it in a correx case I made. but anything could have caused it donno. sent u a PM ;)
Quote from: papa_lazerous on November 23, 2011, 10:58:05 PM
Man that sucks! Do you think perhaps it took a static zap? I have been toying with putting some heatshrink over my Rx to protect it a little. I really hope you can get a V2 Rx soon... Hopefully Simon can do you a good deal.
Do you have a FW that you want me to flash to my V2 hardware to let you know how its looking, I have it all sat here, would only take 5 minutes to flash and do some tests in micromode.
Bootloader gone pop maybe?
Can you load it again (never tried, but Google brings up lots of results...).
Best of luck, and what have you got to lose if it really is boogered?
Nigel.
It's a no go :(. I'm sending the RX to a friend back home to change the atmega chip. Will take a while to get it back though. Simooon I need you !!
Quote from: papa_lazerous on November 24, 2011, 12:17:38 AM
Nigel thats a good idea! With a bit of luck Mihai could be back in action soon (fingers crossed at least)
Also Mihai you got a PM
Hey everyone, Sorry I've been so quite lately. Uni stuff is starting to get to me haha. Anyway I'll try releasing a firmware over the weekend. Gotta say thanks to Simon for getting me back in the game haha.
Cheers,
Mihai.
haha great work. nop that fw is still as you know it. I messed around with the way stuff is transmitted on a dummy firmware and tried sending the servo info serially (one servo at a time) and my rssi doubled lol so need to look into this. :)
I wish I wasn't so lazy to get my HAM ticket haha but I guess live wouldn't be interesting if we dont struggle a bit haha. anyway fw is on the way :D
Quote from: papa_lazerous on December 03, 2011, 01:49:27 PM
Good stuff! I wish I had the coding skills you posses. I also wish allot of other things that are higher up the list though lol
Everyone, quick heads up :D Range test in micro mode, minimum glitches, no fail safe (was to lazy to cross the street haha) = 162.120 m so I doubled the range hehe :P
:thumbsup:
Quote from: thundead on December 03, 2011, 07:02:05 PM
Everyone, quick heads up :D Range test in micro mode, minimum glitches, no fail safe (was to lazy to cross the street haha) = 162.120 m so I doubled the range hehe :P
What would this relate to in normal mode?
have no idea :) I'll do a range test today and report back :)
Quote from: Ian F on December 04, 2011, 12:13:07 PM
Quote from: thundead on December 03, 2011, 07:02:05 PM
Everyone, quick heads up :D Range test in micro mode, minimum glitches, no fail safe (was to lazy to cross the street haha) = 162.120 m so I doubled the range hehe :P
What would this relate to in normal mode?
I finally managed to drop the baudrate down to 9600 but need to compress data a bit more lol
Quote from: papa_lazerous on December 04, 2011, 12:49:26 PM
You going to get the girlfriend to take the Rx for a long walk? :haha:
I'm going range testing tonight also, finish work in 4 hours then off I go :)
Everyone please check 1st and 2nd post. Cheers.Quote from: thundead on November 15, 2011, 02:17:53 AM
DISCLAIMER
This is still an open source project so may still have bugs but that's why together we can get everything sorted out and have a cheap and reliable system.
this is my first stable version.
Based on 1.10 by Melih
Thanks to Devonian for the 459 mod
------
A lot of time went into this firmware so if anyone wants to send me some Pringles and Red Bull to keep me going here is the magic button :))
(http://s11.postimage.org/ofenkcx0f/Paypal_Donate_Button.png) (http://tinyurl.com/425x4hj/)
Pringles & Red Bull Thank You list so far :)
- pk-surfing
- papa_lazerous
- simondale
---------------------------------
Current Features
- thUndead's RSSI MOD - fine tuned 3.2 to 0v rssi Vout
- In Flight Fail Safe MOD << YES YOU CAN :P
- 38.4Kbps Baud Rate - still looking into lowering it
----------------------------------
Upcoming Features - Will release one more firmware and that's it
- Diversity
- Smart manual hopping
INSTALLATION
-Load up the firmwares in Arduino and flash them accordingly.
-noob friendly guide in the works
Available FWs:
459Mhz thUndeadMOD v1.0
=http://www.multiupload.com/YZI8WTK7A0 (http://=http://www.multiupload.com/YZI8WTK7A0)
-----------------------------------
DOCUMENTATION
RSSI: V output: min/max 0-3.2v
CALIBRATION:
uncomment Serial_RSSI in the config.h file (the RX one) and with you TX and RX ON check the outputted value in the Serial Monitor ( going in the other room might increase the value lol ) and that should be your max RSSI output.
in the config.h change the max value accordingly:
//###### RSSI STUFF ########
//
#define RSSI_MAX 110 //turn on the RSSI debug and see what values you r getting at close range....
#define RSSI_SMOOTH 60 //increase if the Vout is still jumpy.
RSSI ON v2 BOARDS IS on CH 8 !
If the Vout is still jumpy, increase RSSI_SMOOTH and recheck your RSSI_MAX
-----------------------
In Flight Fail-Safe: nothing to change/calibrate here. Simply press and release the TX button after 2 secs and your F/S values are stored. You should see the red LED on the RX blink when FS has been saved.
---------------------
OpenLRS FACTS
------------------
- this first stable release adds the much needed RSSI and Quick n Easy fail safe to Melih's firmware.
- Here are my conclusions about the openLRS system after some long weeks of tuning, coding and analyzing all the approaches I could think of (FHSS,manual hopping, adaptive hopping etc...)
1. Stock antennas are crap crap craptastic! Change them ASAP. My antenna mod in 2nd post.
2. thing is good for planes for >2km flights.
3. thing is crap for multi-rotors flying low when on crappy stock antennas.
4. Video is rubbish for anything Long Range related. Want more ? go for a booster.
Sorry for my pessimistic view on the system but lost too much time trying to bet the best out of the hardware without much success.
Hope that was an interesting read,
Cheers,
Mihai.
very nice FW!!! Thx a lot!
One question do I have to activate the telemetry for the RSSI?
(TELEMETRY_ENABLED 1)
And how can I transmit the RSSI from the RX to the TX and read it
out by the serial terminal???
Thx
Andy
Telemetry is on by default in my firmware.
set TELEMETRY_OUTPUT_ENABLED to 1 to get rx rssi. that should show you the whole telemetry buffer from which the first value should be your Rssi :D
Mihai
Quote from: gekoch on December 06, 2011, 01:08:41 AM
very nice FW!!! Thx a lot!
One question do I have to activate the telemetry for the RSSI?
(TELEMETRY_ENABLED 1)
And how can I transmit the RSSI from the RX to the TX and read it
out by the serial terminal???
Thx
Andy
hmm thx
but I just get junck like:
Tl0000000000000048
TN0000000000000048
TP0000000000000048
Tp0000000000000048
TR0000000000000048
Tn0000000000000048
T0000000000000048
Tm0000000000000048
Tn0000000000000048
To0000000000000048
TS0000000000000048
T0000000000000048
in the TX Serial monitor. Baud rate are set right, and the first letter after the 'T' should be
the RSSI value but it does not get properly transmitted...
When I use
RF_Tx_Buffer[0]= 'T';
//RF_Tx_Buffer[1]= Rx_RSSI;
if (loop_counter==1) SET_Telemetry(Rx_RSSI,10,1);
in the 'fuctions' section
I get
T13600000000048
and 136 is the RSSI level but still how get I rid of the '0'?
Andy
ok I modifed the code a bit.
On the TX side I made those changes:
#if (TELEMETRY_OUTPUT_ENABLED==1)
for(i = 4; i< (RF_Rx_Buffer[3]+4); i++) //write serial
Serial.print(RF_Rx_Buffer);
Serial.println();
// Serial.println(int(RF_Rx_Buffer[16]));
#endif
now I just get the RSSI values out in the serial Monitor!
Or am I doing something wrong with this change?
But still the RSSI value does can jumo from 60 to 100 back to 70 and so on...
The RSSI level when measured directly on the Servopinsode on the RX is stable
Why is this so?
Andy
nope thats wrong, try
#if (TELEMETRY_OUTPUT_ENABLED==1)
// Serial.println(Rx_RSSI);
#endif
that will still oscillate because I'm using a smoothening algorithm on the RX side but I am not sending the smoothened value but the RAW value for the RX rssi :)
I will change that in my upcoming firmware.
Hope that helps.
Mihai.
Quote from: gekoch on December 06, 2011, 08:37:47 AM
ok I modifed the code a bit.
On the TX side I made those changes:
#if (TELEMETRY_OUTPUT_ENABLED==1)
for(i = 4; i< (RF_Rx_Buffer[3]+4); i++) //write serial
Serial.print(RF_Rx_Buffer);
Serial.println();
// Serial.println(int(RF_Rx_Buffer[16]));
#endif
now I just get the RSSI values out in the serial Monitor!
Or am I doing something wrong with this change?
But still the RSSI value does can jumo from 60 to 100 back to 70 and so on...
The RSSI level when measured directly on the Servopinsode on the RX is stable
Why is this so?
Andy
Quote from: thundead on December 06, 2011, 10:41:58 AM
nope thats wrong, try
#if (TELEMETRY_OUTPUT_ENABLED==1)
// Serial.println(Rx_RSSI);
#endif
What? so I will receive nothing :) ok....
????????????
Quote from: gekoch on December 06, 2011, 11:12:41 AM
Quote from: thundead on December 06, 2011, 10:41:58 AM
nope thats wrong, try
#if (TELEMETRY_OUTPUT_ENABLED==1)
// Serial.println(Rx_RSSI);
#endif
What? so I will receive nothing :) ok....
#if (TELEMETRY_OUTPUT_ENABLED==1)
// Serial.println(Rx_RSSI);
#endif
this means that everything is deactivated
aaa lol without the // of course
Quote from: gekoch on December 06, 2011, 12:00:36 PM
#if (TELEMETRY_OUTPUT_ENABLED==1)
// Serial.println(Rx_RSSI);
#endif
this means that everything is deactivated
ok now this seems more logical :)
Have you got a replacement board yet mihai?
Brett
Hey guys,
Back home at last but no internet :(
great to see the thing working ok for u ;)
@ghost, yup got my stuff, im waiting for another rx and its diversity time :)
Hy got another question:
I send now over the Bride mode from the RX unit the "Rx_RSSI" value.
Now is this the RSSI that tells me how strong the signal is?
Thx
Andy
dude tell me exactly what you want to do. my firmware sends the rssi (signal strength) back to the tx and if it drops to low, the tx will beep. the RSSI is betweel 40 (lowest) and 110(highest).
Bridge mode (im guessing that's the one you're talking about) is used of you have a sensor hooked up to your rx's serial port and want to send the data back to the tx.
Mihai.
Quote from: gekoch on December 16, 2011, 06:45:28 PM
Hy got another question:
I send now over the Bride mode from the RX unit the "Rx_RSSI" value.
Now is this the RSSI that tells me how strong the signal is?
Thx
Andy
Sorry my mistake and yes it's the Bridge mode.
I use the Bridge mode to send some GPS data (already parsed) to the TX and at the same time I would like to get the RSSI so that I can show the values on a external display
that is connected through an Arduino to the TX.
Andy
well the rssi should be sent within the RF_Buffer[1] part of the telemetry buffer.
Quote from: gekoch on December 17, 2011, 12:08:00 PM
Sorry my mistake and yes it's the Bridge mode.
I use the Bridge mode to send some GPS data (already parsed) to the TX and at the same time I would like to get the RSSI so that I can show the values on a external display
that is connected through an Arduino to the TX.
Andy
I know that it is send in the Telemetry mode.
But theire is also this claculation:
Rx_RSSI = ((Rx_RSSI/5)*4) + (RF_Rx_Buffer[1]/5);
So do I have to feed this equation with the RX_RSSI that is sent from the RX so:
RF_Rx_Buffer[1] = RX_RSSI from the RX?
What exactly is done in this equation and why do we have to calculate this?
EDIT: I made a test with and without the equation. The signal looks much smoother.
(http://www.ibrutech.ch/rsssi.png)
hmmm very very interesting! so the equation messes things up if I understand the graphs right. That was meant to smooth the rssi values out since they seem to randomly jump up and down (ex rssi stream: 110 80 90 100 110 75 67 90 ....) if u know what I mean.
The RX already sends the RAW rssi data over telemetry. no equation of the rx side. Hope that answered your question.
Mihai.
Everyone,
I decided to ask Santa to bring us something nice this Xmas so here it is:
OpenLRS Diversity (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FfLd-YUNpEE#)
FW and instructions will be up in a few hours.
Regards,
Santa-Mihai :laugh:
EDIT: 1st post updated wit the goodies :D