Optional: Boom Probe¶
A boom probe is a reference AOA measurement device used for testing and calibration validation. It provides independent alpha (AOA) and beta (sideslip) measurements.
When You'd Use One¶
- Calibration validation — comparing OnSpeed's computed AOA against a reference measurement
- Research installations — flight test data collection
- Development — firmware development and algorithm testing
Most normal installations do not need a boom probe.
Wiring¶
- OnSpeed RX: GPIO 3 (BOOM_SER_RX)
- OnSpeed TX: GPIO 8 (BOOM_SER_TX, normally not used)
- Baud rate: 115200, 8N1
Data Provided¶
When connected, the boom probe provides:
| Field | Units | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Static pressure | PSI | Reference static pressure |
| Dynamic pressure | PSI | Reference pitot pressure |
| Alpha | degrees | Angle of attack |
| Beta | degrees | Sideslip angle |
| IAS | knots | Indicated airspeed |
This data is logged alongside OnSpeed's own measurements for post-flight comparison.
Configuration¶
- Set Boom to
Enabledin the web interface configuration - Optionally enable Boom Checksum validation (
bBoomChecksum) to reject corrupted packets
Both settings are runtime configuration toggles — no firmware reflash needed.
Serial port sharing
The boom probe shares Serial1 with the display serial interface. Both can be active, but simultaneous transmission from both could cause conflicts.