How to Use FC/Companion Computer Bundle: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The FC/Companion Computer Bundle (Manufacturer Part ID: Ark Jetson Orin NX) by ARK Electronics is a cutting-edge combination of a flight controller (FC) and a companion computer. This bundle is specifically designed for drones and robotics applications, providing advanced processing, navigation, and communication capabilities. The integration of a high-performance companion computer with a robust flight controller enables real-time decision-making, AI-based processing, and seamless control of autonomous systems.

• Autonomous drones for delivery, surveillance, and mapping
• Robotics systems requiring AI-based navigation and object detection
• Industrial automation and inspection systems
• Research and development in autonomous vehicles and robotics
• Swarm robotics and multi-agent systems

1. Power Supply: Connect the bundle to a stable DC power source (5V - 12V). Ensure the power supply can handle the maximum power consumption of 25W.
2. Peripheral Connections:
   • Use the PWM outputs on the flight controller to connect motors or servos.
   • Connect sensors (e.g., LiDAR, cameras) to the companion computer via USB, I2C, or SPI.
3. Communication Setup:
   • Use UART, CAN, or Ethernet for communication between the flight controller and other devices.
   • Configure the companion computer to communicate with the flight controller via UART or CAN.
4. Software Configuration:
   • Install the required firmware on the flight controller (e.g., PX4 or ArduPilot).
   • Set up the companion computer with the desired operating system (e.g., Ubuntu 20.04 with NVIDIA JetPack SDK).
   • Use ROS (Robot Operating System) for robotics applications and AI-based processing.

• Cooling: Ensure adequate cooling for the companion computer, especially during high-load operations.
• Power Management: Use a power distribution board (PDB) to manage power for motors, sensors, and the bundle.
• Firmware Updates: Regularly update the firmware for both the flight controller and the companion computer to ensure compatibility and access to the latest features.
• Isolation: Use proper electrical isolation for sensitive components to prevent noise interference.
• Testing: Test the system in a controlled environment before deploying it in real-world applications.

The following example demonstrates how to send data from an Arduino UNO to the flight controller via UART.

#include <SoftwareSerial.h>

// Define RX and TX pins for software serial communication
SoftwareSerial mySerial(10, 11); // RX = pin 10, TX = pin 11

void setup() {
  // Initialize hardware serial for debugging
  Serial.begin(9600);
  while (!Serial) {
    ; // Wait for the serial port to connect
  }
  Serial.println("Arduino to FC Communication Example");

  // Initialize software serial for communication with the flight controller
  mySerial.begin(115200);
}

void loop() {
  // Send a test message to the flight controller
  mySerial.println("Hello, Flight Controller!");

  // Check if data is received from the flight controller
  if (mySerial.available()) {
    String receivedData = mySerial.readString();
    Serial.print("Received from FC: ");
    Serial.println(receivedData);
  }

  delay(1000); // Wait for 1 second before sending the next message
}

1. No Power to the Bundle:

   • Cause: Insufficient power supply or incorrect wiring.
   • Solution: Verify the power supply voltage and current ratings. Check all connections.

2. Communication Failure Between FC and Companion Computer:

   • Cause: Incorrect UART or CAN configuration.
   • Solution: Ensure the baud rate and communication settings match on both devices.

3. Overheating:

   • Cause: Insufficient cooling for the companion computer.
   • Solution: Add a heatsink or active cooling (e.g., a fan) to the companion computer.

4. Motors Not Responding:

   • Cause: Incorrect PWM configuration or wiring.
   • Solution: Verify the motor connections and ensure the flight controller firmware is properly configured.

5. Sensor Data Not Detected:

   • Cause: Incorrect sensor wiring or communication protocol mismatch.
   • Solution: Double-check the sensor connections and ensure the correct protocol (I2C, SPI, etc.) is used.

• Q: Can I use this bundle for fixed-wing drones?

  • A: Yes, the flight controller supports fixed-wing, multirotor, and VTOL configurations.

• Q: What operating systems are supported on the companion computer?

  • A: The companion computer supports Linux-based operating systems, including Ubuntu with NVIDIA JetPack SDK.

• Q: How do I update the firmware on the flight controller?

  • A: Use a USB connection and a compatible ground control software (e.g., QGroundControl) to update the firmware.

• Q: Can I expand the storage on the companion computer?

  • A: Yes, you can use a microSD card or an NVMe SSD for additional storage.

• Q: Is this bundle compatible with ROS 2?

  • A: Yes, the companion computer is fully compatible with ROS 2 for robotics applications.