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View Full Version : Discussion Using a GPS / GSM based tracker for downed plane locating


air
Oct 01, 2007, 01:10 PM
Hi all,
Just wondering on your thoughts on using a combined gps/gsm tracker for locating craft that go down for one reason or another.
I've always seen it recommended that mobile phones should be kept well away from RC tx and rx's, however doing a basic test I made a call with my gsm phone and simultaneously ran a check using the scanner module of my MPX Evo tx and it didnt show up any significant signal levels on any channel.
Given that there are devices out there that weigh as low as 80g without battery (the tracker devices will generally accept the 5v supply that will already be onboard for servos, rx etc), it seems to me to be a good option.
I realise it relies on cell network availability also but this is not an issue for me personally.
An example of such a tracker is the Sanav CT-24.
It seems to me that it would virtually guarantee recovery of the UAV except for a crash into water or an area with no cell reception.
Your thoughts would be appreciated.

Gary Mortimer
Oct 02, 2007, 06:32 AM
I have flown my Nokia N90 a few times with no dramas.

I use http://free.3dtracking.net/ select the free tracking option.

The other method of course is APRS, packet tracking and I think a couple of people here have tryed 801.11

Cheers

G