AR Drone

AR Drone is a quadcopter and is controlled primarily by an Apple iPhone, iPod touch, or iPad units. An open API allows for development of applications.

The control system is based on an ARM prosessor and Linux operating system. Control signals go through a 802.11b/g/n wireless IP connection. Two cameras provide a live video stream to the display on the remote. The AR.FreeFlight app can be downloaded from the App Store.

My setup 2010-10-23

• AR Drone - purchased end of September 2010
  • AR Drone hw v11.0 - Firmware v1.1.3
  • Inertial hw v6.0 - Firmware v4.55
  • Motors 1-4 type: 1.1 - hw v3.0 - firmware 1.7
• iPhone 3GS 32GB
  • AR.FreeFlight v1.1.3 - remote control v1.4

Settings

Here is my current favorite settings as of 2010-10-23:

• iPhone
  • Control level: Beginner
  • iPhone tilt: 12.43
• AR Drone
  • SSID: ardrone_ivc
  • Altitude limited: On
  • Outdoor shell: Off
  • Outdoor flight: Off
  • Yaw speed: 125.35
  • Vertical speed: 608.37
  • Tilt: 17.06
  • Trim select: Auto

Tips

• Replace the Tamiya power connector with Deans to improve the surface area and longevity
• To fix erratic and wobbly flight when using the indoor hull, pad the front neck to get a firm insert