I have been designing a RC remote control for my plane/tricopter. I have documented the project at LMR
https://www.robotshop.com/letsmakerobots/rc-remote-and-drone
Well,I have run into a problem. The NRF24L01+PA+LNA modules with SMA antenna I have been using so far has only been proved to give reliable connections upto 250m approx, but I want to make solid connections upto 600m atleast. Thus the NRF modules can't be used. I have some options here,either I will buy a radio from a online store, or I will plug in some RF link in my module.
1. The radio I am thinking of buying is this one
http://www.rcbazaar.com/product.aspx?productid=2011
or
http://www.quadkopters.com/product/tx-and-rx/flysky-fs-t6-2-4ghz-6ch-transmitter-and-receiver/
The first one provides about 1km range,so it is good for most of the applications, but the main problem for me is the price (4000 INR). Also I dont think the remote will display the charge left on the LIpo inside the plane(i.e no two way connection).
2.Basically a remote is a few pots connected to a MCU and then to a RF link. So,I can manage the rest of the part except the RF link, here are some choices
a.http://robokits.co.in/wireless-solutions/wireless-rf-serial-link-865-869mhz-2km-range
b.http://robokits.co.in/wireless-solutions/wireless-automation/wireless-rf-serial-link-433mhz-20dbm-2km-range?cPath=7&
c.http://www.thehobbyshop.in/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=823
no (a) and no (b) are serial modules, so they should work with Arduino RX-TX, But will it be ok? Like what Mogul says, money is a limited resource,and so I want to get this job done in minimum amount of expenditure, but again who wants to lose a model aircraft in mid flight?
I want your suggestions, tips on this. Looking forward and oh, take it into consideration that I can't buy from shops out of India