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Connectors and Pinouts

Connector Layout Overview​

JTA-01 uses a Pixhawk FMU v6x RT–compliant connector layout, ensuring compatibility with standard Pixhawk ecosystem peripherals, cables, and accessories.

The connectors are arranged to:

  • Separate power, control, and sensing interfaces
  • Minimize electrical noise coupling
  • Enable clean and predictable wiring
  • Reduce installation errors

All connectors are keyed and labeled to prevent incorrect insertion.

Power Input Ports​

JTA-01 supports dedicated power input connectors designed for safe and redundant power delivery.

Power Port Characteristics​

  • Accepts regulated DC input as defined by Pixhawk FMU v6x RT standards
  • Supports voltage and current sensing (when used with compatible power modules)
  • Internally isolated from sensitive sensor domains

Power Input Guidelines​

  • Always use a regulated power source or power module
  • Do not power motors or high-current devices from JTA-01
  • Do not back-feed power through signal connectors

ℹ️ Note - USB power is intended for configuration and bench testing only. It must not be used as the primary power source during flight.

USB and Debug Interface​

JTA-01 includes a USB interface used for:

  • Firmware loading and updates
  • Initial configuration
  • Log retrieval
  • Ground control station connection

USB Notes​

  • USB provides limited power and should not be relied upon for full system operation
  • Always disconnect motors before connecting USB
  • USB connection follows standard Pixhawk USB device behavior

Debug interfaces, if present, are intended for factory testing and advanced diagnostics.

GPS and External Sensor Ports​

JTA-01 provides a dedicated GPS port compatible with Pixhawk-standard GPS modules.

GPS Port Features​

  • UART interface for GNSS data
  • I²C lines for external compass (if supported by the GPS module)
  • Regulated power output for GPS modules

Installation Notes​

  • Use GPS modules designed for Pixhawk FMU v6x RT pinout
  • Route GPS cables away from power and motor wiring
  • Place GPS modules with clear sky visibility

Telemetry Ports (UART)​

Multiple telemetry ports are available for:

  • Telemetry radios
  • Companion computers
  • External sensors

Telemetry Port Characteristics​

  • Standard UART signaling levels
  • Configurable baud rates via firmware
  • Independent ports for flexibility and redundancy

Recommended uses:

  • One port for telemetry radio
  • One port for companion computer or onboard computer

RC Input Interface​

JTA-01 supports standard RC input methods used in the Pixhawk ecosystem.

Supported RC input types typically include:

  • PWM (via external decoder)
  • SBUS
  • PPM
  • Serial RC protocols (depending on firmware configuration)

RC Input Notes​

  • Use only compatible receivers
  • Ensure correct signal voltage levels
  • Verify RC calibration during setup

CAN Bus (DroneCAN)​

JTA-01 includes one or more CAN interfaces designed for DroneCAN peripherals.

Supported CAN use cases:

  • CAN-based ESCs
  • CAN GPS modules
  • CAN airspeed sensors
  • CAN power modules

CAN Wiring Guidelines​

  • Use twisted-pair cabling
  • Terminate the CAN bus correctly
  • Avoid star topologies

CAN interfaces enable robust, noise-resistant communication suitable for safety-critical peripherals.

Motor and Actuator Outputs​

JTA-01 provides multiple motor and actuator output channels compliant with Pixhawk FMU v6x RT output architecture.

Output Capabilities​

  • Supports PWM and digital ESC protocols (as supported by firmware)
  • Deterministic timing suitable for multirotor and fixed-wing platforms
  • Designed for connection to ESCs and servos only

Output Safety Notes​

  • Never connect motors during initial setup
  • Verify output order and direction before flight
  • Use external power for servos when required

I²C and SPI Expansion Interfaces​

JTA-01 includes expansion interfaces for:

  • Additional sensors
  • Peripheral modules

Usage Notes​

  • Follow Pixhawk-compatible wiring conventions
  • Avoid long cables on high-speed buses
  • Do not overload bus power pins

These interfaces are intended for low-speed peripherals and auxiliary sensing, not high-current devices.

Connector Usage Best Practices​

To ensure reliable operation:

  • Use quality cables and connectors
  • Secure cables to prevent vibration-induced stress
  • Label cables during installation
  • Avoid sharp bends and tension

Improper wiring is one of the most common causes of system instability.