Working ROV #2

[fryslan76]

If you are going to use an Arduino in the ROV consider a compas and gyro. Also put some thought about communication between the Arduino and your control on shore.

[timothyalderson]

Ok. What is needed for communication? I can make anything but I don't know what to make or use. I have zero knowledge with arduino. And a compass etc would be nice. I'm looking at the OPENROV kits know but still want this one working also.

[fryslan76]

See some of the other ROV projects around here for communication, most I have seen are either serial or UTP and then TCP/IP or UDP. Openrov is using TCP/IP over a powerline network adapter.

BTW those pictures look awesome.

[KR2_Diving]

Hey Tim!
If you are willing to tinker with Arduino, I can suggest a few ready to go libraries that you can essentially copy paste into your unit and roll with it!

I am using RS485 coms in full duplex mode on my ROV. I have posted quite a bit on my build page. Feel free to drop me a PM if you have any specific questions!

Advantage to RS485 vs Ethernet:
Only 4 wires required! (Ethernet needs 8!)
Simple protocol
Long distance transmission possible! (Ethernet limit 100m, RS485 2000m)
For hobbiests: cheaper to source components!

Disadvantage:
Not suitable for video transmission (however, in my case, I am using video baluns, so with the 4 extra wires in the CAT5 cable I'm using, I can transmit 2 live feeds with no lag and minimal signal degredation!)
Limited bandwidth
Would require a small amount of soldering to set up.

I am communicating between 2 arduinos. Total cost is less then 100 GBP. (Less then 150 USD)
2 - arduino (30-75gpb depending on model)
2 - max488 chips (8gbp total)
2 - resistors (pennies)
1 - tilt compensated compass (provides bearing, pitch and roll values) (25gbp)
Done! (I got my tether for free...)

[timothyalderson]

So any two Arduinos will work? I was looking at the Uno. What about the motor Control?

[KR2_Diving]

Yup! Two arduino Unos would be prefect! One in your rov, and one on the surface. In my case I have oa Mega in the ROV because I want to have lots of sensors. But an uno would be fine. If you are not familar with Arduino, a set of Unos may be best because most of the examples online are based on the Uno. (Besure you get Rev3)!

[timothyalderson]

Ok guys I got my new end caps machined and a new tube done. Should start getting it together again soon