ArduPilot Mega Logo

ArduPilot Mega

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Ardupilot Mega (APM) is a professional quality IMU autopilot that is based on the Arduino Mega platform.  This autopilot can control fixed-wing aircraft, multi-rotor helicopters, as well as traditional helicopters.  It is a full autopilot capable for autonomous stabilisation, way-point based navigation and two way telemetry with Xbee wireless modules.  Supporting 8 RC channels with 4 serial ports.  ArduPilot Mega consists of the main processor board (red one above) and the IMU shield which fits above or below it (shown mounted together below).  

The open source control software is constantly being updated with new and improved features by a team of about 30 core developers, supported by a community of over 10000 members. 

APM Features

  • Free open source firmware supports planes, multicopters (tri, quad, hex, oct, etc), traditional helicopters and ground rovers!
  • Simple setup process and firmware loading via a point-and-click utility. No programming required! (But if you do want to fiddle with the code, you can with the easiest embedded programming toolkit available: Arduino)
  • Full mission scripting with point-and-click desktop utilities
  • Can support hundreds of 3D waypoints
  • Two-way telemetry and in-flight command using the powerful MAVLink protocol
  • Choice of free Ground Stations, including the state-of-the-art HK GCS, which includes mission planning, in-air parameter setting, on-board video display, voice synthesis, and full datalogging with replay.
  • Autonomous takeoff, landing and special action commands such as video and camera controls
  • Supports full "hardware-in-the-loop" simulation with Xplane and Flight Gear
  • 4MB of onboard data-logging memory. Missions are automatically datalogged and can be exported to KML
  • Built-in hardware failsafe processor, can return-to-launch on radio loss.

Powerful Ground Control Software

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The ArduPilot Mega Mission Planner allows you to easily plan mission, or upload new firmware with only a few clicks of the mouse, enabling any user to easily get started.
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With the addition of a Telemetry Kit, you can track your UAV in real time, or even change your mission while your ArduPilot Mega powered UAV is in the air.

Two Main Code Branches

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ArduPlane is the fixed wing UAV code branch of the project.  This software is designed for fixed wing UAV's that can range from flying wings to traditional aircraft, or anything in between.
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ArduCopter is the rotary wing code branch of the project.  This enables you to fly multi-rotor and traditional helicopter style UAV's.  For more information see arducopter.co.uk

The ArduPilot Family

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 Images courtesy of Ardupilot Mega Project