Quick Start

This user manual covers the mechanical and electrical assembly.

The software user manual explains how to configure and use the Veronte Autopilot 1x.

Veronte Autopilot 1x is the main element in our Flight Control System for UAS.

../_images/system-overview.png

System Overview

Veronte Autopilot 1x contains all electronics and sensors required to properly execute all the UAV functions. A Veronte-based FCS contains the following elements:

  • A Veronte Autopilot 1x installed in a vehicle to control. This autopilot executes GNC algorithms in real time in order to accomplish the planned mission and handle the payload.

  • Veronte Ops - Software dedicated to mission planning, configuration and operation. It allows the user to monitor connected UAS in real time, to interact with them and to replay previous missions for post-flight analysis.

  • A BCS or PCS linked between Veronte Ops and Veronte Autopilot 1x. They support manual and arcade modes with conventional joysticks.

Warnings

  • This user manual includes references to manuals for software applications. Select your software version to read them.

  • Power out of range can cause irreversible damage to the system. Please read carefully the manual before powering the system.

  • Each I/O pin withstands a maximum current of 1.65 mA. See pinout for more information.

  • If the unit has an ADS-B and/or 4G module activated, users must NOT power on a Veronte Autopilot 1x without a suitable antenna or 50 \(\Omega\) load connected to the DAA SSMA.

    Danger

    Disobeying this warning may damage the Autopilot 1x unit.

Limited Operation Firmware

Veronte Autopilot units are delivered with limited-operation firmware installed and must be updated for enabling unlimited autonomous flight capabilities. Operation limits in Veronte Autopilot units can be checked and unlocked in Veronte Ops. For more information about this, see Platform license - Platform section of Veronte Ops user manual.

The different operating firmware options available are explained below:

  • Standard Firmware: Allows fully autonomous operation with no time or distance limitation.

  • Limited-Operation Firmware:

    • Allows fully autonomous flight performance in LOS (500 m) with no time limitations.

    • For BLOS operations (>500 m), there is a limitation of 30min autonomous flights. After 30min from leaving LOS (500m), only internal navigation is permited and the autopilot can not estimate its position nor fly autonomously. Past this time limit, no changes of navigation source are allowed.

      Caution

      External navigation methods such as VectorNav can no longer be used.

  • Target Drone/Loitering Munition Firmware: allows fully autonomous flight performance with no time or distance limitation. This firmware is restricted to 50h operation from the first startup. Once the operation time has expired the unit will not be able to restart.

If you have any questions regarding the firmware capabilities and limitations please contact us at sales@embention.com

Basic connection for operation

The steps described below cover the basic connection of a ground unit necessary for operation:

  1. Connect the GPS antenna to the GNSS 1 port:

    ../_images/basic_connection_step1.gif

    Basic connection - Step 1

  2. Connect the RF antenna to the LOS port:

    ../_images/basic_connection_step2.gif

    Basic connection - Step 2

  3. Connect the autopilot harness and power it using the power supply:

    ../_images/basic_connection_step3.gif

    Basic connection - Step 3

  4. Connect the harness USB to the computer and configure Veronte Link to detect the autopilot 1x:

    Note

    For Veronte Link to detect a Veronte device, the corresponding port must be properly configured. For further information regarding Veronte Link connections, please refer to the Serial connection - Integration examples section of Veronte Link manual.

    ../_images/basic_connection_step4.gif

    Basic connection - Step 4