APM has done it again with the new APM 2.5+. Lower price and more features including a power module.
http://store.diydrones.com/category_s/1.htm


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It seems the 2.5+ is just a cased version of the APM 2.5. Maybe you're seeing something that I'm not.... It does however make it a harder choice between legit hardware at $180 (Board and GPS) or the RCTimer knock off for $150 (Complete with board, GPS, and Telemetry).

I actually ordered a few cases for my APM 2.5. Gives it a cleaner look.

I think that the main improvement is the power module and case.

They also use a different uBlox GPS module. Not sure it both have the same compatibility or performance.

I wonder is the case available on its own?

Looks sweet, much better than the cheap tat that's doing the rounds in the UAV forums.

/ns

Yes, the case is available on its own for $4.99 in top pin and side pin styles. These are free to any current owner of an APM 2.5. Just follow the instructions here on your next order.

Originally Posted by RC Man

I think that the main improvement is the power module and case.

They also use a different uBlox GPS module. Not sure it both have the same compatibility or performance.

It's actually a new MediaTek module, with an improved antenna and firmware, along with a battery backup. The uBlox 6 is also available as an higher-end option. The uBlox still performs a bit better, but the gap between those two has really shrunk. We can now recommend either for all applications.

Originally Posted by zlite

It's actually a new MediaTek module, with an improved antenna and firmware, along with a battery backup. The uBlox 6 is also available as an higher-end option. The uBlox still performs a bit better, but the gap between those two has really shrunk. We can now recommend either for all applications.

I’m very glad top see that we finally have a battery on the Media Tek GPS. That will really speed up getting back into the air.

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Originally Posted by zlite

Yes, the case is available on its own for $4.99 in top pin and side pin styles. These are free to any current owner of an APM 2.5. Just follow the instructions here on your next order.

Is this available only through 3dr or all of their distributors? I purchased my unit from a UK distributor (BuildYourOwnDrone)

Originally Posted by netsurfer

Is this available only through 3dr or all of their distributors? I purchased my unit from a UK distributor (BuildYourOwnDrone)

These are new products and it says that the first shipment will go out November 29. I assume that all the dealers will eventually have all the new products. You could contact your dealer and see if they have a delivery schedule.



It also says that there are only 16 assembled boards available so they have probably just started production. I remember when the APM2 first came out – it took a while before the supply could keep up with the demand.



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Originally Posted by zlite

along with a battery backup

That alone on the current mTek is a improvement. I was jelly when I saw the new version had a battery backup on it. Good to know you can get the case for free. I'll have to look into that on my next order.

Anyone figured out how to get the voucher for the free case if you'd already purchased a 2.5 before they dropped the price and added the case?

Jimmy

Not that it's cheating.. I ordered a APM from RCTimer. I need a case for it and will order one from 3dR. When I order that I'll put in the codes for my old orders and get the cases for my other two 3dR APM's.

Otherwise order a cable or something and toss in the codes and order numbers for your previous purchase.

Originally Posted by zlite

It's actually a new MediaTek module, with an improved antenna and firmware, along with a battery backup. The uBlox 6 is also available as an higher-end option. The uBlox still performs a bit better, but the gap between those two has really shrunk. We can now recommend either for all applications.

Grreat to now read that the uBlox6 is now considered to be only a minimal upgrade over the stock/inc in price MediaTek "after" dishing-out the 27.775% Upgrade premium for the uBlox6.....that's fine though & especially when considering that the APM 2.5+/uBlox pkg is 79.091% less expensive than a WK-M