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GPS and Navigation Setup

This section explains how to correctly install, configure, and validate GPS-based navigation on JTA-01. Proper GPS setup is essential for position-hold, autonomous flight modes, return-to-home, and geofencing.

GPS Placement Guidelines​

Correct physical placement of the GPS module is critical for reliable navigation performance.

Recommended Placement:

  • Mount the GPS module as far as possible from motors, ESCs, and power wiring
  • Place the GPS with clear sky visibility
  • Use a mast or raised mount when possible
  • Keep the GPS antenna facing upward

What to Avoid:

  • Mounting near high-current power lines
  • Mounting directly above ESCs or power distribution boards
  • Placing GPS beneath carbon fiber plates without clearance

Poor GPS placement can result in:

  • Slow satellite acquisition
  • Inaccurate position estimation
  • Unstable navigation modes

GPS Module Compatibility​

JTA-01 supports Pixhawk-compatible GPS modules that provide:

  • GNSS position data over UART
  • Optional external compass over I²C
  • Regulated power from the flight controller

Supported GNSS constellations depend on the GPS module used and may include:

  • GPS
  • GLONASS
  • Galileo
  • BeiDou

Use only GPS modules wired according to Pixhawk FMU v6x RT pinout conventions.

GPS Wiring and Power​

Wiring Rules:

  • Connect the GPS module to the dedicated GPS port on JTA-01
  • Ensure connectors are fully seated and strain-relieved
  • Avoid routing GPS cables alongside motor or battery wires

Power Notes:

  • GPS modules receive regulated power from JTA-01
  • Do not connect GPS modules to external power sources unless explicitly supported

GPS Configuration​

Once the GPS module is connected:

  • Power up JTA-01
  • Connect to the ground control software
  • Verify that GPS is detected
  • Confirm the reported number of satellites

Typical GPS indicators include:

  • Satellite count
  • Fix type (no fix / 2D fix / 3D fix)
  • Horizontal position accuracy

ℹ️ Note
A 3D fix is required for navigation modes.

Compass Configuration and Alignment​

If the GPS module includes an external compass:

Configuration Steps:

  • Verify the external compass is detected
  • Disable unused internal compasses if recommended by firmware
  • Perform compass calibration after installation

Alignment Notes:

  • Ensure compass orientation matches the GPS module orientation
  • Incorrect alignment can cause yaw instability
  • Recalibrate compass if GPS placement changes

Interference and Magnetic Hygiene​

Navigation accuracy depends heavily on magnetic cleanliness.

Best Practices:

  • Keep GPS and compass away from power cables
  • Twist power wires to reduce magnetic fields
  • Avoid steel screws near the compass
  • Recheck compass calibration after wiring changes

Position-Hold Validation​

Before using autonomous modes, basic navigation validation is required.

Validation Steps:

  • Wait for stable GPS lock
  • Arm the vehicle (without propellers, if possible)
  • Observe position estimate stability in ground control software
  • Verify heading consistency when rotating the vehicle slowly

Only after successful validation should position-hold or autonomous flight modes be used.

Common GPS and Navigation Issues​

Symptoms and Causes:

  • No GPS detected → Wiring or connector issue
  • Low satellite count → Poor placement or interference
  • Drifting position hold → Compass interference or calibration issue
  • Unstable yaw → Compass misalignment

Most navigation issues are resolved through correct placement and calibration rather than parameter tuning.

Before proceeding to flight: ❏ GPS detected and reporting position
❏ Stable 3D fix achieved
❏ Compass calibrated and aligned
❏ No GPS or compass warnings present

Once complete, JTA-01 is ready for flight safety configuration and failsafe setup.