OVERVIEW

The benefits of the Pixhawk system include integrated multithreading, a Unix/Linux-like 

programming environment, completely new autopilot functions such as sophisticated 

scripting of missions and flight behavior, and a custom PX4 driver layer ensuring tight timing 

across all processes. These advanced capabilities ensure that there are no limitations to 

your autonomous vehicle. Pixhawk allows existing APM and PX4 operators to seamlessly 

transition to this system and lowers the barriers to entry for new users to participate in the 

exciting world of autonomous vehicles.

The flagship Pixhawk module will be accompanied by new peripheral options, including a 

digital airspeed sensor, support for an external multi-color LED indicator and an external 

magnetometer. All peripherals are automatically detected and configured.

Documentation and User Guides

Note: Pixhawk is a PPM-input autopilot, which means that it gets RC input from a single 

cable to the receiver, either via the PPM port, the Futaba S.BUS port, or the special satellite 

receiver port for Spektrum gear. Most modern RC receivers (and all those sold by 3D 

Robotics) allow for PPM output, but some, such as non-S.BUS Futaba receivers, do not. If 

your receiver does not support PPM output, please add a PPM encoder board option to 

your order below.

Pixhawk includes:

• Pixhawk autopilot

• Buzzer

• Safety switch button

• 3DR power module with XT60 connectors and 6-position connector cable

• Extra 6-position cable to connect a 3DR GPS+Compass module

• Micro USB cable

• SD card and adapter

• Mounting foam

• 3-wire servo cable

• I2C splitter module with cable

Features
• Advanced 32 bit ARM Cortex® M4 Processor running NuttX RTOS

• 14 PWM/servo outputs (8 with failsafe and manual override, 6 auxiliary, high-power 

compatible)

• Abundant connectivity options for additional peripherals (UART, I2C, CAN)

• Integrated backup system for in-flight recovery and manual override with dedicated 

processor and stand-alone power supply

• Backup system integrates mixing, providing consistent autopilot and manual 

override mixing modes

• Redundant power supply inputs and automatic failover

• External safety button for easy motor activation

• Multicolor LED indicator

• High-power, multi-tone piezo audio indicator

• microSD card for long-time high-rate logging

Options:

• PPM encoder for RC receivers that do not provide PPM output.

• External USB and LED module for convenient status indicator and micro-USB port 

on your vehicle

• Digital airspeed sensor for fixed-wing aircraft

• Telemetry radios with one-mile range for two-way control, telemetry and 

datalogging via free mobile apps or PC/Mac/Linux ground station

• u-blox GPS with compass (required for autonomous flight)

Specifications:

Microprocessor:

• 32-bit STM32F427 Cortex M4 core with FPU

• 168 MHz/256 KB RAM/2 MB Flash

• 32 bit STM32F103 failsafe co-processor

Sensors:

• ST Micro L3GD20 3-axis 16-bit gyroscope

• ST Micro LSM303D 3-axis 14-bit accelerometer / magnetometer

• Invensense MPU 6000 3-axis accelerometer/gyroscope

• MEAS MS5611 barometer
Interfaces:

• 5x UART (serial ports), one high-power capable, 2x with HW flow control

• 2x CAN

• Spektrum DSM / DSM2 / DSM-X® Satellite compatible input up to DX8 (DX9 and 

above not supported)

• Futaba S.BUS® compatible input and output

• PPM sum signal

• RSSI (PWM or voltage) input

• I

2

C®

• SPI

• 3.3 and 6.6V ADC inputs

• External microUSB port

Power System:

• Ideal diode controller with automatic failover

• Servo rail high-power (7 V) and high-current ready

• All peripheral outputs over-current protected, all inputs ESD protected

Weight and Dimensions:

• Weight: 38g (1.31oz)

• Width: 50mm (1.96")

• Thickness: 15.5mm (.613")

• Length: 81.5mm (3.21")