FlyingRC Airspeed-Sensor

FlyingRC Airspeed sensor is a digital airspeed sensor suitable for airplanes, flying wings, and VTOL aircraft with ArduPilot firmware. Pressure sensing is integrated into the module, so there is no need for an external Pitot tube or silicone tubing, which can easily be damaged or clogged on the model. 

The sensor measures the model's speed relative to the surrounding air, which is data that GPS alone cannot replace. Thanks to it, the control unit can detect an approaching stall speed even in tailwind flight, manage the transition from hover to forward flight more accurately on VTOL aircraft, and maintain the set cruise speed in modes with automatic throttle. It also increases the success rate of hand launches and helps extend range. With ArduPilot firmware, the sensor also enables automatic climbing in thermals.

The sensor is compatible with the MS4525D protocol, so in ArduPilot it is set using the ARSPD_TYPE = 1 parameter. It connects via the I2C bus using the 5V, SCL, SDA and GND pins; a connector and solder pads are available. Pressure measurement accuracy is 0,5Pa (RMS), sampling frequency is 512Hz, and data output refresh rate is 8Hz. The sensor supports calibration with temperature compensation, so readings do not drift with temperature changes during flight.

Each unit is factory calibrated for zero drift, so you can set ARSPD_SKIP_CAL = 1 and not cover the sensor at startup — wind on the ground will not affect the measurement. We recommend installing the sensor only after successfully test-flying the model, and after installation letting the automatic calibration run in Loiter or RTL mode for at least five minutes. Automatic calibration must then be disabled with the ARSPD_AUTOCAL = 0 parameter; for normal flying it must remain off.

The entire module measures 25x15x5mm and weighs 2,8g.

Important notice: the manufacturer provides the setup procedure only for ArduPilot firmware.

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