Simple 5.8Ghz Antenna Tracker for ImmersionRC

thingiverse

Thanks for stopping by! This is a Simple 5.8Ghz Antenna Tracker, remixed from micromet's Pan and Tilt for Standard Servo project found here: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:1941574 I call this a Simple Tracker because it doesn't use gears or bearings; the servos do the jobs of panning and tilting a 5.8Ghz patch or directional antenna just fine. Anything larger, you may want to consider a different setup. Demo here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j_r5vclBEM8 On to the parts list! (All parts links are for clarification only; shop around for the best prices – I'm not affiliated with any vendor.) UPDATE: Video link added 28Feb18 UPDATE: Pics added 26Feb18 SPECS: * Max Tilt = 90 deg +/- 2 deg * Min Tilt = -15 deg +/- 5 deg * Max Pan = 180 deg +/- 5 deg * Min Pan = -180 deg +/- 5 deg PRINTED PARTS: 1 X TRIPOD BASE 1 X REAR PLATE 1 X LEFT SIDE PLATE (SMA BULKHEAD) 1 X 24MM BASE PLATE 1 X TOP ANTENNA MOUNT 1 X PAN MOUNT 1 X BASE PLATE STANDARD (optional) TRIPOD: 1 X 75" ELITE SERIES FULL SIZE TRIPOD MISC: 2 X SMA CABLES SMA ADAPTERS as needed SMALL ZIP TIES HEAT SHRINK Assembly is pretty straightforward – no independently moving parts. You should be able to figure it out from the photos. After printing, you may need to file here and there for a perfect fit; most everything will go together nicely. After building the Base Plate, take some 320 grit sandpaper and run it around the circular part to remove layer lines. Add marine grease to the Pan Mount for lubrication if needed. Below are the notes that assist in planning and assembly: Note 1: Use this base plate with the GWS s125 Sail Winch Servo because its servo disk is 24mm wide, about 2mm bigger than plastic versions. Note 3: This antenna plate was designed for the listed 12 Turn Helical Long Range RHCP Antenna; modify mounting tabs in TinkerCad as needed. Don't forget to print the top antenna mount separately. Note 4: Purchase at least a 1-foot SMA cable length – this is more than enough for 180 degrees rotation. Get SMA adapters depending on your particular cable and antenna setup. Note 5: Use a second Lewan Soul LD-27MG Servo for pan, which only does 270 degrees; it's ideal for those who won't fly behind themselves or rely on the circular polarized antenna when the directional can't point to the aircraft. Print BASE PLATE STANDARD instead of the 24mm base plate. Note 6: Print the Pan Mount with the circular ring facing upwards, and use supports for portions touching the build plate.