When NewBeeDrone requested me to overview the BeeID module, I hesitated at first as a result of I’m not notably on this RemoteID stuff. However after they defined that the BeeID doubles as a GPS module and a drone tracker that will help you discover your quad if you crash, I used to be intrigued. That seemed like a reasonably cool concept, so I needed to learn the way it really works. On this overview, I’ll stroll you thru what the BeeID does, how I set it up, and the way it performs.
Be taught extra about GPS Rescue mode in Betaflight: https://oscarliang.com/setup-gps-rescue-mode-betaflight/
The place to Purchase
Get the BeeID GPS Module from NewBeeDrone: https://oscarliang.com/product-hvyt
What Is the NewBeeDrone BeeID?
The BeeID is a light-weight GPS module that mixes FAA Distant ID performance with a built-in Bluetooth beacon.
If you happen to’re within the US, Distant ID compliance is a consideration when flying FPV drones. If you happen to’re outdoors the US, you don’t — however that doesn’t imply this module isn’t helpful.
Even in case you don’t care about Distant ID, the BeeID doubles as a drone tracker. If you happen to lose video or management hyperlink, it could possibly allow you to find your quad. On high of that, you should utilize it simply as a typical GPS module for Betaflight’s GPS Rescue mode, or with iNav and Ardupilot. Internally, it’s mainly an M10 GPS module.
By way of dimension and weight, it’s someplace between the HGLRC M100 Mini and the BN220:
- HGLRC M100 Mini: 3.3 g
- BeeID: 5.3 g
- BN220: 5.7 g
- GOKU GM10 Professional V3: 7.4 g
Why This Issues: GPS Rescue Isn’t All the time Sufficient
Betaflight’s GPS Rescue is a superb security web — but it surely’s not foolproof. I’ve personally had instances the place GPS Rescue didn’t work after I misplaced video, and the drone by no means got here again. Perhaps the battery died earlier than it made the return journey, perhaps it hit a tree, or perhaps it simply went off track. There are numerous potentialities, and also you’ll by no means actually know.
The BeeID offers you an additional layer of security. In case your quad goes down, you’ll be able to depend on:
- The final identified GPS coordinates out of your radio’s telemetry.
- Actual-time Bluetooth-based monitoring by way of a smartphone app, exhibiting you precisely the place the drone is on a map.
How Does Drone Monitoring Work?
When your drone goes down, you’ll be able to examine its location utilizing the Drone Scanner app in your cellphone. You may obtain it from Play Retailer without spending a dime.
Bluetooth naturally has restricted vary, however I used to be impressed — in my checks with a Google Pixel 8 Professional, I used to be capable of decide up the BeeID from greater than 150m away, which is surprisingly far. As soon as in vary, the module popped up on display on the map.
The app isn’t excellent, although. It tends to crash once I lose Bluetooth sign, forcing me to reopen it — probably a software program bug. Nonetheless, when it really works, it’s very handy, as it could possibly present your drone’s actual location.
However what if the drone is simply too far for Bluetooth? In that case, you’ll be able to fall again to your radio’s telemetry. Simply seize the final GPS coordinates, plug them right into a website like “gps-coordinate.org”, and also you’ll get a pin on a map. When you get nearer and Bluetooth is in vary, it could possibly take over and information you the remainder of the best way.
Connecting BeeID to a Flight Controller
Connecting the BeeID is similar as wiring any GPS module to a flight controller. You solely want 4 connections:
That’s it.
Right here’s the guide that comes with the module for reference:
That is the primary time I related the module to my cellphone and the Drone Scanner app mechanically discovered it by way of bluetooth. To configure BeeID (setup mannequin, class, weight, area and so forth) it’s worthwhile to join by way of WiFi.
Setting It Up
For detailed directions on configuring GPS in Betaflight, see my tutorial: https://oscarliang.com/setup-gps-rescue-mode-betaflight/.
To get GPS coordinates in your EdgeTX radio:
- Energy in your drone.
- Go to the telemetry display in your radio (Web page 11 within the mannequin setup).
- Click on “Uncover New Sensors” and ensure you see GPS coordinates.
- Earlier than flying, all the time affirm satellite tv for pc lock. As advisable by Betaflight, you’ll want 8 satellites for dependable GPS location.
- As soon as performed, your radio will present real-time GPS coordinates all through the flight.
If you happen to don’t see telemetry knowledge in your radio, open Betaflight Configurator, go to the Receiver tab, and ensure the Telemetry choice is enabled.
GPS Efficiency
I can affirm the BeeID GPS Efficiency is on par with high tier M10 GPS modules I examined prior to now.
- Chilly begin: Acquires 8 satellites inside 1 minute
- After 5 minutes: As much as 17 satellites locked
- Sizzling begin: 3D repair inside 15 seconds
Very strong efficiency general.
The module additionally has a helpful LED indicator: When it’s flashing slowly means it’s trying to find satellites; And when it turns strong inexperienced, it means a 3D repair has been acquired.
Conclusion
✅ Professionals:
- Performs like a top-tier M10 GPS, whereas additionally functioning as an FAA-compliant Distant ID gadget and drone tracker
- Easy Betaflight setup
- Light-weight and compact—excellent for many FPV builds
- Pairs simply with any cellphone (Drone Scanner app is free)
❌ Cons:
- Bluetooth monitoring vary is proscribed (as much as 150 meters in my testing)
- Requires exterior energy (e.g. from the drone) — if the LiPo disconnects, monitoring stops
- GPS accuracy depends upon satellite tv for pc lock; if the quad is the wrong way up in a ditch, it could not work reliably
- Wires use warmth resistant PVC insulation — sturdy and simple to solder, however stiff and never versatile. Silicone wires could be a better option.
