AeroPoints 2: the Next Generation of Smart Ground Control Points

It’s been five years since we originally launched AeroPoints, the world’s first smart ground control points. 

Our mission was to provide ground control that was easy enough for beginners but precise enough for experts—and that remains true today. AeroPoints continue to be faster, easier, and more affordable than traditional ground control.

Since releasing the first AeroPoints, we’ve learned a lot about high-accuracy ground control through a combination of extensive field testing and customer feedback.

We’ve incorporated that learning into the next generation of smart ground control points—AeroPoints 2.

What are AeroPoints?

AeroPoints are GPS-enabled smart ground control points that deliver the same precision as traditional solutions, with less time and money involved. But their real value comes from their flexibility—use them as ground control, checkpoints, or even base stations. 

AeroPoints were carefully designed to withstand high usage in any environment and offer ultimate compatibility. Use AeroPoints with any drone, anywhere. Then access your data from a single cloud-based platform.

Each AeroPoint 2 includes a solar panel and plug-in charger, battery, GPS, and Wi-Fi inside a fully-sealed, lightweight shell. 

What’s new in AeroPoints 2?

The next generation of AeroPoints offers more robust capability without adding complexity. 

Here are just a few of the updates we’re most excited about:

• A new Wi-Fi chip delivers fast, reliable connectivity.
• Dual-frequency GPS means shorter flight times and better positioning. 
• Upgraded battery performance and plug-in charging provide more flexibility in the field.
• The new AeroPoints app doubles down on diagnostics and makes configuration a breeze.

Higher accuracy and less field time

New dual-frequency GPS means faster satellite fix times and a reduced minimum capture time for our Propeller PPK drone surveying workflow.

The original AeroPoints required at least 45 minutes of capture time, which was time-consuming for customers with several short flights to complete in a single day.  AeroPoints 2 require just 10 minutes (and a 2-minute minimum flight using a known point) to capture the information they need.

What does this mean to you? Less time in the field and more time putting your highly accurate survey data to work.

More power

AeroPoints 2 last more than twice as long as their original counterparts on a single battery charge—100 hours instead of 45 hours. The new plug-in charging port provides a fast charge, so you can get back in the field quickly. (No need to wait for the sun—or long summer days—to light up that solar panel.)

Upgraded hardware

We’ve upgraded internal storage to Flash memory hardware, so you can kiss your SD card goodbye. New Bluetooth capability enables you to receive diagnostic information through the new AeroPoints app (more on that below) while you’re out in the field. And a new Wi-Fi chip enables faster, more reliable uploads.

New AeroPoints app

Our new AeroPoints app puts the confidence that comes with real-time diagnostics into your hands. The app can help answer questions like, “Did my data upload?” and “Is my AeroPoint’s battery charged?”

And in keeping with our commitment to ultimate interoperability, the app works on any Android or iOS device that’s Bluetooth-enabled.

Note: The app isn’t compatible with the original AeroPoints, so you’ll need to upgrade to AeroPoints 2 to use it.

Effortless updates

Keeping your AeroPoints up-to-date is easier than ever! Automatic over-the-air (OTA) firmware updates allow AeroPoints 2 to update automatically, whenever you’ve completed an upload.  These updates include support for the latest functionality as well as security patches and bug fixes. 

Sleek new design

Finally, AeroPoints 2 just look good.  Our updated design includes:

• Detailed instructions printed directly on your AeroPoint for easy use in the field.
• Updated lights to indicate when your AeroPoint is charging and uploading.
• A field-ready QR code so you can quickly access or download the new AeroPoints app.

AeroPoints 2: the ground control you love, but better

There’s a lot to love about AeroPoints, including they’re durable, lightweight design; unmatched interoperability; and powerful, easy-to-use ground control. Now, with AeroPoints 2, the benefits have only increased, offering more power, higher accuracy, easier data accessibility, upgraded hardware, and more.  

AeroPoints 2 are just one piece of the puzzle; at Propeller, we’re focused on revolutionizing every aspect of drone surveying so that it’s simple, safe, and affordable.

Curious how AeroPoints 2 can transform your worksite? Let’s chat!

Keep Reading:

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Drones for Good: How Deakin University Uses Propeller to Monitor Australia’s Shorelines 

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