Airspeed calibration
Last updated
Last updated
The airspeed calibration needs to read a stable baseline with no airspeed in order to determine the calibration offset. If calibrating outdoors you will need to block any wind during the test (i.e. by cupping hands over the pitot tube). The calibration is ended by blowing into the tube.
Airspeed sensors are usually present on VTOL and Fixed Wing vehicles (but not multicopters)
To calibrate the airspeed sensor:
Select Vehicle Overview from the menu and then Sensors > Airspeed in the left sidebar:
Shield the sensor from the wind if outdoors (i.e. cup it with your hand). Take care not to block any of its holes.
Click OK in the right-side prompt to start the calibration.
Blow across the Pitot tube to signal the end of calibration.
Blowing across the tube is also a basic check that the dynamic and static ports are installed correctly. If they are swapped then the sensor will read a large negative differential pressure when you blow into the tube, and the calibration will abort with an error.
Wait for 2-3 seconds before removing the covering (calibration completes silently after several seconds)
A quick test after the calibration is to press your finger against the tip of the pitot and hold it. The system should show and holds a positive airspeed until you release your finger.
