Firmware
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Firmware: is low-level code embedded directly into hardware
(ROM/Flash) to control functionality, rarely updated, and essential for
booting (e.g., BIOS, router OS).
Software: is high-level, user-facing applications (e.g., Windows, apps) stored on disk, designed for user interaction and updated frequently.
| What | Runs on/Used for | Opensource | License | When to consider | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ArduPilot | Firmware/Software having very large hobbyist community | planes, copters, rovers, subs | Yes | GPL | Long Range |
| ArduCopter | Ardupilot version. | multirotors and helicopters | Yes | GPL | |
| PX4 | Modern Firmware/Software runs NuttX OS | commercial, academic, or research applications | Yes | BSD | High Precision |
Hardware Board
| What | Bit | |
|---|---|---|
| APM(ArduPilotMega) | Older, obsolete flight controller board designed around 2011. | 8 bit |
| Pixhawk | Advanced | 32 bit |
Vehicle Types
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Planes (Fixed-Wing Aircraft): Fast, and have long ranges but
require runways for takeoff and landing.
Helicopters (Rotary-Wing): Use one or two large, main rotors to generate lift, allowing vertical takeoff, landing, and hovering. slower than planes.
Multicopters/Multirotors (Drones) are aerial vehicles. Rovers(operate on land) Subs(operate underwater)
SITL (Software-in-the-Loop)
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SITL (Software-in-the-Loop) is a simulation technology allowing
developers to run autopilot code (like ArduPilot or PX4) directly on a
computer without physical hardware. It enables testing flight algorithms
and vehicle behavior in a virtual environment, preventing damage to real
drones.