# Holybro DroneCAN M8N GPS

The Holybro DroneCAN GPS has an UBLOX M8N module, BMM150 compass, tri-colored LED indicator.

The GPS module uses the DroneCAN protocol for communication. DroneCAN connections are more resistant to electromagnetic interference compared to serial connection, making it more reliable. In addition, using DroneCAN means that the GPS and compass do not occupy any flight controller serial ports (different/additional CAN devices can be connected to the same CAN bus via a CAN splitter board).

# Where to Buy

Order this module from:

# Hardware Specifications

DroneCAN M8N
GNSS Receiver Ublox NEO M8N
Number of Concurrent GNSS 2 (Default GPS + GLONASS)
Processor STM32G4 (170MHz, 512K FLASH)
Compass BMM150
Frequency Band

GPS: L1C/A
GLONASS: L10F
Beidou: B1I
Galileo: E1B/C

GNSS Augmentation System SBAS: WAAS, EGNOS, MSAS, QZSS
Navigation Update 5Hz Default(10Hz MAX)
Navigation sensitivity –167 dBm
Cold starts ~ 26s
Accuracy 2.5m
Speed Accuracy 0.05 m/s
Max # of Satellites 22+
Default CAN BUS data rate 1MHz
Communication Protocol DroneCAN @ 1 Mbit/s
Supports Autopilot FW PX4, Ardupilot
Port Type GHR-04V-S
Antenna 25 x 25 x 4 mm ceramic patch antenna
Voltage 4.7-5.2V
Power consumption Less than 200mA @ 5V
Temperature -40~80C
Size

Diameter: 54mm
Thickness: 14.5mm

Weight 36g
Cable Length 26cm
Other
  • LNA MAX2659ELT+ RF Amplifier
  • Rechargeable Farah capacitance
  • Low noise 3.3V regulator
  • 26cm cable included

# Hardware Setup

# Mounting

The recommended mounting orientation is with the arrow on the GPS pointing towards the front of vehicle.

The sensor can be mounted anywhere on the frame, but you will need to specify its position, relative to vehicle centre of gravity, during PX4 configuration.

# Wiring

The Holybro DroneCAN GPS is connected to the CAN bus using a Pixhawk standard 4 pin JST GH cable. For more information, refer to the CAN Wiring instructions.

# Pinout

Diagram showing GPS pinouts

# Dimensions

Diagram showing GPS dimensions

# PX4 Configuration

You need to set necessary DroneCAN parameters and define offsets if the sensor is not centred within the vehicle. The required settings are outlined below.

Note

The GPS will not boot if there is no SD card in the flight controller when powered on.

# Enable DroneCAN

In order to use the ARK GPS board, connect it to the Pixhawk CAN bus and enable the DroneCAN driver by setting parameter UAVCAN_ENABLE to 2 for dynamic node allocation (or 3 if using DroneCAN ESCs).

The steps are:

Once enabled, the module will be detected on boot. GPS data should arrive at 5Hz.

DroneCAN configuration in PX4 is explained in more detail in DroneCAN > Enabling DroneCAN.

# Sensor Position Configuration

If the sensor is not centred within the vehicle you will also need to define sensor offsets: