Phantom can't find satellites

BasHuijben · Apr 21, 2014

Hi there,

I have been having an issue with my Phantom and I can't seem to figure out what the problem is.
I should mention that it had a crash about half a year ago and the body got damaged.
After that I replaced the body with a new one and all seemed fixed.

The problem is though that the LED indicator keeps telling me it sees less than 6 satellites (2 green and 3 red)
This doesn't stop after a callibration with the software or the compass.
The software also tells me everything is fine and I can see every parameter that is available.
As I move the Phantom around the values change which is also normal in my opinion.

Still I can't get it to fly stable in GPS mode and it just drifts away with the slightest bit of wind.
Does anybody know what could be the problem and the solution to this?

Thank you in advance!

KG4MXV · Apr 21, 2014

What model phantom
What version of firmware

Have you done a full calibration with the assistant software?

rilot · Apr 21, 2014

Tahe the Phantom shell apart and remove the GPS antenna from the top. Take a look at the ceramic antenna as they can crack in a crash causing exactly what you describe.

Seahorse · Apr 21, 2014

You can also break it without cracking the ceramic, as I did, they are however, simple enough to replace and dirt cheap.

UPDATE: Part is here @ $3.15. Seeing as shipping to the UK cost $12, probably worth buying a couple just in case.

BasHuijben · Apr 21, 2014

Thanks so much!
I took a look at the posted thread and then took the GPS module from the Phantom and examined it.
It also has the cracked back as seen on the picture.

Guess I'll have to replace this then.
I suppose they are on the pricey side?

Thank you for the advise!

rilot · Apr 21, 2014

You can go ahead and replace the entire unit for $$$ or you can replace just the antenna piece for a a couple of bucks. Someone on here did this and posted a link of where to buy the part. Have a search.

Madwak · Apr 21, 2014

rilot said:
You can go ahead and replace the entire unit for $$$ or you can replace just the antenna piece for a a couple of bucks. Someone on here did this and posted a link of where to buy the part. Have a search.

The link is already in this thread above the picture posted, read it and it tells you where to find the parts. - "simple enough to replace and dirt cheap"