User Manual

USER GUIDE
33
5.2 Mounting the Optional GPS/MAG Sensor
5.2.1 GPS Signal Interference
RF noise from video transmitters, cameras, other devices, and even increased solar activity can interfere with
GPS reception, causing GPS position drift, or complete loss of GPS signal.
It’s important to mount the GPS/MAG as far away from all RF noise sources as practical and to mount it so that
it is higher than, and as far away as possible from, transmitting antennas on the model.
Also, obstructions such as trees or buildings that block the MicroVector from having a clear, unobstructed view
of the sky can cause issues with GPS reception.
If the GPS position drifts during GPS flight modes (like Loiter), the MicroVector will compensate to hold
the same GPS position, which can cause sudden movement of the model! Never approach a hovering
multirotor, and always be ready to switch out of GPS flight mode if drift should occur! If the GPS loses signal
during GPS flight modes, such as RTH or Loiter, the MicroVector will exit these flight modes.
GPS satellites are constantly moving around in the sky, and GPS signals are affected by changes in
weather, so GPS fix quality can vary greatly over time, even at the same location.
5.2.2 Magnetometer Interference
Power lines generate electromagnetic fields when current flows through them. These magnetic fields will
interfere with the compass function of the GPS if insufficient separation is observed. Unless you don’t plan to
use the compass (it’s required for multirotor GPS modes and optional for fixed wing GPS modes) you must
mount the GPS/MAG at least 8cm (3.5”) away in all directions from any high current carrying wires, such as
your battery wires, ESC wires, or motor wires. Additionally, magnets (such as motor magnets or canopy
magnets) can interfere with the compass, and the GPS/MAG should be mounted as far away from them as is
feasible.
If the compass is enabled, and there is electromagnetic interference, GPS flight modes such as RTH and
loiter will not work correctly, and the model may fly erratically when in these modes! Multirotor
models could “toilet bowl” and the model may fly the wrong direction in RTH!
5.2.3 GPS/MAG Mounting Orientation
The GPS should be mounted so that the top of the GPS (the label) normally faces toward the sky.
If you are going to use the magnetic compass, there are some additional
mounting requirements:
 The GPS/MAG must be mounted flat and level, and facing
forward.
 The GPS/MAG cannot be tilted or rotated relative to the
MicroVector.
 The arrow on the GPS/MAG must be pointing in the same direction as the MicroVector arrow.
If the compass is enabled, and the GPS/MAG is not mounted in the correct orientation or detaches from
its mounting during flight, flight modes such as RTH and loiter will not work correctly, and the model
may fly away at high speed when in these modes! Multirotor models could “toilet bowl” and the model may
fly the wrong direction at high speed during RTH!