If you’re looking for a cellular-based FPV solution, here’s what I’ve been using. It’s not perfect, but it works reliably for me. Currently I will skip the details in order to separate some troubles. You need certain basic skills and effort.
The star of this setup is OpenIPC – currently the most popular open-source HD FPV system. While other systems like OpenHD also support cellular FPV but it just outdated.
Most developers don’t recommend celluar FPV due to the inherent latency and signal interruptions as modems switch between cell towers. Personally, I’ve made peace with these limitations by pairing the system with an ArduPilot flight controller that automatically returns home if signal is lost. Even with these constraints, it’s still incredibly fun to use!
Here’s how to set it up:
Hardware You’ll Need:
- An OpenIPC camera (Runcam or OpenIPC store models work best, choose sc338 at least)
- An EC20 USB modem (single u.fl connector version, A compact industrial router could be much easier but gets hot easily)
- An optional antenna for better signal
- A cloud server with static IP
Why I recommend these:
- The pre-made wiring harness eliminates the need for USB-TTL adapters
- Flashing is simple with just a router
- The ssc338 is powerful.
Setup Process:
- Modem Preparation:
The EC20 defaults to an unusable mode. You’ll need to:
- First upgrade its firmware (I obtained a special version from their engineers)
- Then switch it to RNDIS mode (RMNET/ECM/MBIM won’t work for our needs)
- Camera Firmware:
Due to limited flash storage, we must carefully select only essential modules:
- Start with the FPV config file
- Remove unnecessary components (wifibroadcast, msposd, mavlinkfwd)
- Add wireguard/zerotier and datalink support, mavlinkrouterd.
- Modify the kernel config with 4 crucial USB-related lines
- Firmware Installation
4. Server Configuration: Install zerotier or wireguard.
5. Camera Configuaration: Edit majestic.conf “outgoing” to your address.
Now use qgroundstation or the equivalent combine the vpn that you chose to controll it. Enjoy.
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