Pixhawk GPS/NMEA Serial Configuration

@Mahihassi

As an Electrical Engineer with a Master's degree in Embedded Systems, I possess the precise skill set you need for your challenging ArduPilot project. I have hands-on experience with ArduPilot and Mission Planner, Pixhawk, GNSS/NMEA, and embedded serial debugging - all critical to solving the "EKF3 waiting for GPS config data" issue you're experiencing. My expertise doesn't stop at firmware development and PCB design; I've been involved in projects covering the entire IoT product engineering process, leveraging hardware-software integration, intelligent connectivity, and RF hardware (which comes into play here) to deliver robust embedded solutions. Skilled in remote working, I'm ready to diagnose the issue over a screen-share session using your logs, parameter files, wiring images, and my proficiency in Pixhawk GPS configuration. In addition to my core skills, my adaptability has allowed me to work on an impressive array of projects spanning from industrial automation to AI to game development - giving me the edge of a versatile approach. My goal is to render complete solutions from concept to market-readiness; so you can be assured of not only bug-fixing but a more holistic solution for your system. Engage me for your project and let me show you how good it feels when problems are solved efficiently through collaborative efforts!

@yaroslavmark

Hi, I am a Senior Embedded Systems Engineer with 10+ years of experience in ArduPilot, Pixhawk, GNSS, UART debugging, and IoT hardware development, including successful integration of GPS/RTK modules, STM32 controllers, and wireless communication systems across 50+ embedded projects. My approach: ✅ I will analyze the provided Mission Planner parameters, ArduPilot logs, and wiring details to identify the GPS configuration, UART protocol, or EKF initialization issue. ✅ I will verify the LC29H NMEA output settings, UART baud/parity configuration, GPS message format, and Pixhawk SERIAL port mapping using ArduPilot diagnostic methods. ✅ I will perform remote debugging through Mission Planner MAVLink inspection, parameter validation, and real-time serial data analysis to restore reliable GPS position acquisition. ✅ I will provide the corrected parameter configuration and explain the required settings for stable RTK operation. Questions: ✅ Can you provide the current .param file, DataFlash log, and screenshots of the GPS status/messages tab in Mission Planner? ✅ Which Pixhawk UART port is physically connected, and what exact NMEA sentences (GGA, RMC, VTG, etc.) is the LC29H currently outputting? ✅ Is the rover receiving RTK FIX status inside the GNSS module interface before connecting it to ArduPilot? Best, Yaroslav

@maxscender

I can help you. The EKF3 status means the autopilot is not getting valid GPS position data. NMEA is one-way in ArduPilot — `GPS_TYPE=5` and `GPS_AUTO_CONFIG` won’t configure the LC29H; they only tell the autopilot to listen. So the LC29H must already be sending valid `$GPGGA` / `$GPRMC` at the baud rate you set. First isolate the stream: connect a USB-UART adapter to the LC29H’s TX pin directly and see if NMEA is being output at all, and at what baud. If no NMEA, the LC29H is not configured for NMEA output on that UART — that’s your root cause. If NMEA is present, reconnect to the Pixhawk GPS port, set `SERIAL3_BAUD` to exactly that baud rate, `SERIAL3_PROTOCOL=5`, `GPS_TYPE=5`, reboot, and watch Mission Planner’s GPS screen for “Fix: 3D” and satellite count. Also confirm your clone’s GPS UART is actually `SERIAL3`; some Pixhawk 2.4.8 clones route the GPS connector to a different UART. The RTK lock on the LC29H doesn’t matter if the NMEA sentences never reach the flight controller’s GPS serial pin.

@miguelcen64

Hello, I reviewed your project regarding **Pixhawk GPS/NMEA Serial Configuration**, and I understand that you need help diagnosing why ArduRover 4.7.0 is stuck at EKF3 waiting for GPS config data during a remote screen-share session. I have over three years of experience with **Arduino, Robotics and GPS** and have worked on similar projects involving **Pixhawk, ArduPilot, Mission Planner, GNSS/NMEA, and embedded serial debugging**. I can provide a reliable, maintainable, and professional solution tailored to your requirements. For this project, I will: • Review the requirements and current setup • Implement **a focused diagnosis of the Pixhawk GPS serial configuration and EKF3 startup issue** • Test the solution thoroughly • Provide clear progress updates • Deliver clean, documented, and maintainable work • Support you with any related issues after delivery I am available to begin immediately and can complete the work within **2 days**. Please share any existing files, references, or additional requirements so I can confirm the best implementation approach Would you like me to focus first on Mission Planner parameters and logs, or inspect the UART/NMEA wiring and baud timing live?. Best regards, Miguel

@julianm260

With a win more than eight years of experience as an Electronics Engineer, I have satisfied each projects' requirements from concept to final implementation - always ensuring compliance with safety, reliability, and performance standards. My expertise in ArduPilot, Mission Control, embedded serial debugging are perfectly aligned with your project needs. My previous projects have included similar tasks such as utilizing GPS data and configuring Pixhawk 2.4.8 clones effectively with different GNSS/NMEA devices. Utilizing these skills combined with my strong troubleshooting and system integration skills that have been well-utilized on previous projects, I am confident in resolving the issue you face with 'EKF3 waiting for GPS config data'. I'm certain we will identify the root cause of the issue and develop an effective solution through remote means. As a dedicated professional, my priority is to deliver excellent results within tight deadlines. By selecting me for this job, you are choosing a reliable partner who will provide continuous support through screen-share session while walking you through our troubleshooting process from start to finish, inching closer to a suitable solution with each step we take. I am eagerly awaiting the opportunity to work together on this project.

@bojans9

Hello, “EKF3 waiting for GPS config data” – Mission Planner never acquires a position despite the RTK LoRa kit being linked and the GPS port wired. I’ll capture the NMEA stream on the Pixhawk’s SERIAL3 port with a logic analyzer, then set GPS_TYPE = 5 and SERIAL3_BAUD to the exact baud rate the LC29H advertises (typically 115200 8N1). After confirming the checksum and message framing, I’ll enable GPS_AUTO_CONFIG and verify the EKF3 handshake, ensuring the rover reports a valid fix. I’ll also double‑check the I2C/UART switch setting and TX/RX polarity in case of hidden wiring quirks. Do you have a recent MAVLink log (.BIN) from the rover that we can review together? Looking forward to working with you. Bojan

@matthewr254

I can diagnose your ArduRover/Pixhawk GPS issue over a remote screen-share session, with hands-on experience in ArduPilot parameters, NMEA GNSS modules, and serial debugging on Pixhawk clones. I’ll review your parameter file, logs, and wiring photos, then guide you step-by-step through testing baud, protocol, and EKF/GPS configuration until Mission Planner acquires a solid position. I’m available for a focused session and can provide a clear fix report afterward.

@adnanarifali

Hi there, I can work on this job right now. I would like to work with full commitment and I have good communication skills and years of experience. Ready to start now. Kindly direct message me.

@bryanr079

Hey there! My name is Bryan and I'm a certified engineer licensed in the USA, specialized in various fields - including the one your project needs, ArduPilot / Mission Planner, Pixhawk, GNSS/NMEA, and embedded serial debugging. I've spent years working with GPS systems and my portfolio brims with successes in similar projects to solve issues like what you're experiencing now. I'll dive right into diagnosis mode during our screen-share session, meticulously sifting through every available parameter file, log, and photo that you provide, applying my extensive ArduPilot skills to rectify the 'EKF3 waiting for GPS config data' problem. My hands on approach, even remotely, will combine seamlessly with the physical work you're doing on your end. In addition to tackling technical problems head-on, I value building strong collaborative relationships. It's not just about resolving this particular issue but ensuring it doesn't arise again. So let's get that Pixhawk clone back on track together and solidify its connection to the DFRobot RTK LoRa kit. At every step of the way, I'll keep you informed about my progress enabling us to work together effectively. With me on your side, you can be confident we'll soon say goodbye to Mission Planner's error message and hello to Pixhawk's accurate positioning!

@natesd

ArduPilot and Mission Planner are literally my bread and butter. I have been in the tech industry for over 20 years, including working at places like Cisco Systems and Qualcomm. I have a knack for solving complex engineering problems and designing systems that last. Hence, your Pixhawk GPS/NMEA Serial Configuration challenge is right up my alley. Systems and hardware debugging is among my core competencies. In fact, I have handled a range of embedded serial debugging issues and delivered great results to clients. Furthermore, as an ArduPilot expert, I fully understand the underlying intricacies of the platform and can work comfortably with parameter files. My remote technical troubleshooting approach is practically bulletproof as evidenced by my proven track record across various companies. Endowed with a unique combination of software engineering skills mixed with significant hands-on experience on real-time systems, I am perfectly positioned to diagnose your Pixhawk-related issue after reviewing your logs, diagrams, and photos during our screen-share session. Let's get your EKF3 waiting for GPS config data resolved!