FlyingRC Airspeed sensor

FlyingRC Airspeed sensor is a digital airspeed sensor suitable for airplanes, flying wings and VTOL aircraft running ArduPilot firmware. Pressure sensing is integrated into the module, eliminating the need for an external Pitot tube and 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 GPS alone cannot replace. It allows the flight controller to detect an approaching stall speed even when flying downwind, control the transition from hovering to forward flight more precisely on VTOL aircraft, and maintain the set cruising speed in automatic throttle modes. It also increases the success rate of hand launches and helps extend range. With ArduPilot firmware, the sensor also enables automatic thermalling.

The module calculates airspeed from the pressure difference measured by two SPA06-003 absolute pressure sensors. Each operates within a range of 300-1100hPa. Under standard conditions at sea level (1013.25hPa, air density 1.225kg/m³), this leaves a dynamic pressure range of approximately 8.68kPa, corresponding to a theoretical speed of around 119m/s (428km/h). This is the calculated upper limit of the sensor range, not a guaranteed operating speed. The actual limit depends on ambient air pressure and density, sensor placement, and airflow around the model.

The module output is compatible with the MS4525D protocol, so in ArduPilot it is configured using the ARSPD_TYPE = 1 parameter. It connects via the I2C bus using 5V, SCL, SDA and GND pins; both a connector and solder pads are available. Pressure measurement accuracy is 0.5Pa (RMS), the sampling frequency is 512Hz, and data is output at an update rate of 8Hz. The sensor supports temperature-compensated calibration, so the reading does not drift with temperature changes during flight.

Each unit is factory calibrated for zero drift, so ARSPD_SKIP_CAL = 1 can be set and the sensor does not need to be covered during startup. Ground wind will therefore not affect the measurement. We recommend installing the sensor only after the model has been successfully test flown, and after installation, allowing automatic calibration to run in Loiter or RTL mode for at least five minutes. Automatic calibration must then be disabled using the ARSPD_AUTOCAL = 0 parameter; it must remain disabled for normal flying.

The complete module measures 25x15x5mm and weighs 2.8g.

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

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