Review of the Airbot Cube Pilot Carrier Board
The Airbot Cube Pilot Carrier Board is a powerful addition for those looking to enhance their Cube Autopilot systems. This latest offering from Airbot Systems aims to replace the original carrier board while introducing several new features, including built-in power delivery and voltage regulation. In this blog post, we will delve into its specifications, functionalities, comparisons, pricing, and who it’s best suited for.
Overview of the Airbot Cube Pilot Carrier Board
The Airbot Cube Pilot Carrier Board comes in two different versions: a 100 amp and a 200 amp variant. This flexibility allows users to choose the appropriate version based on the size and power requirements of their aircraft, be it a drone or fixed-wing plane.
Key Features
The Airbot Cube Pilot Carrier Board boasts several features that set it apart from its predecessors:
- Modularity: The Cube is a fully modular system, allowing easy mounting and integration of the autopilot onto the carrier board.
- Power Distribution: The board comes with dual BECs, ensuring efficient power delivery to the Cube autopilot and other essential components.
- High Voltage Support: Both versions support a maximum input voltage of 12S, equating to over 50 volts, making it suitable for larger systems.
- Telemetry Integration: The board provides telemetry data for current sensing and voltage monitoring, ensuring users can keep an eye on battery health and remaining capacity.
Specifications
Here are the detailed specifications for both the 100A and 200A versions of the Airbot Cube Pilot Carrier Board:
- Dimensions: Compact size suitable for various applications.
- Weight: Lightweight design for easy integration into drones.
- Power Output: 5V BEC with a 3A output for powering the Cube, configurable second BEC for either 5V or 12V.
- Input Voltage: Supports a maximum input voltage of 12S.
Design and Build Quality
The design of the Airbot Cube Pilot Carrier Board is straightforward and user-friendly. The Cube mounts securely onto the board, and all necessary I/O ports are easily accessible. The layout includes:
- Power ports for both input and output
- Eight pads for Electronic Speed Controllers (ESCs)
- Additional headers for telemetry, GPS, and RC inputs
Comparative Analysis
When comparing the Airbot Cube Pilot Carrier Board to other carrier boards in the market, its advantages become apparent:
- Power Handling: With options for up to 200A, it significantly outperforms many other boards that max out at lower ratings.
- Built-in BECs: The dual BECs provide flexibility in power management, a feature often lacking in competitor models.
- Modular Design: The Cube's modularity allows for easy upgrades and modifications as technology advances.
Pros and Cons
As with any product, the Airbot Cube Pilot Carrier Board has its strengths and weaknesses:
Pros:
- Modular and easy to install
- High power output options available
- Comprehensive telemetry features
- Compact size suitable for various applications
Cons:
- Does not include advanced features like ADS-B that some competitors offer
- Higher price point may deter budget-conscious buyers
Who Is It For?
The Airbot Cube Pilot Carrier Board is ideal for:
- Drone enthusiasts looking for high-performance components
- Developers of custom UAV solutions requiring modular systems
- Professionals needing reliable telemetry and power management in their aerial systems
🛒Where To Buy
The pricing for the Airbot Cube Pilot Carrier Board is competitive given its features:
The complete kit consists of of 1x PDB and 1x Carrier board and 1x Cube Pilot.
When ordering, it's essential to select the current rating that best suits your needs. Opting for the higher rating without necessity may lead to unnecessary costs.
Conclusion
The Airbot Cube Pilot Carrier Board is a robust and versatile solution for anyone looking to enhance their Cube Autopilot setup. With its high power ratings, modular design, and comprehensive telemetry capabilities, it stands out as a top choice for drone builders and enthusiasts alike. Whether you're working on a drone or a fixed-wing aircraft, this carrier board offers the reliability and performance needed for advanced UAV applications.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is the Airbot Cube Pilot Carrier Board compatible with all Cube versions?
Yes, it is compatible with the Cube Orange, Orange Plus, and other current Cube models.
2. Can I use this board for smaller drone applications?
Absolutely! The mini carrier board version is particularly well-suited for smaller drones and applications where space is limited.
3. What kind of telemetry data can I expect?
You can monitor battery health, current sensing, and voltage levels, which are crucial for ensuring the longevity and performance of your aircraft.
4. Where can I purchase the Airbot Cube Pilot Carrier Board?
You can order it directly from the Airbot Systems website or authorized retailers such as Unmanned Tech in the UK.
5. How do I mount the Cube to the carrier board?
Mounting is straightforward. Simply align the Cube with the mounting holes on the carrier board and secure it in place with screws.