Step-by-Step INAV Configurator for Chrome Tutorial INAV Configurator is the essential tool for setting up GPS navigation, flight control laws, and telemetry on your RC airplanes and quadcopters. While the standalone desktop application is now the standard installation method, many users still look for the classic Chrome-based setup or require an understanding of how to configure INAV step-by-step.
This guide walks you through the entire configuration process from initial connection to your first flight. Step 1: Installation and Initial Connection
Before changing any settings, you must establish a clean connection between your computer and the flight controller (FC).
Download the Configurator: Install the latest stable version of the INAV Configurator from the official GitHub releases page for your operating system.
Install Drivers: Download and install the Virtual COM Port (VCP) drivers and the ImpulseRC Driver Fixer to resolve Windows connection issues.
Plug in the FC: Use a high-quality data-capable USB cable to connect your flight controller to your computer.
Select the Port: Open INAV Configurator, select the correct COM port from the top-right dropdown menu, and click Connect. Step 2: Firmware Flashing
Running matching firmware versions between your flight controller and the configurator prevents software conflicts.
Navigate to Flasher: Click on the Firmware Flasher tab on the left menu.
Choose Your Board: Select your exact flight controller target from the dropdown menu. Choosing the wrong target can brick the board. Select Version: Choose the latest stable release of INAV.
Load Firmware: Click Load Firmware [Online] to fetch the software.
Flash the Board: Click Flash Firmware. Do not unplug the cable until the progress bar shows a successful completion. Step 3: Sensor Calibration
Accurate sensor data is critical for GPS modes and stable flight.
Accelerometer Calibration: Go to the Setup tab. Place your model perfectly flat and click Calibrate Accelerometer. Follow the prompts to calibrate all six sides of the vehicle if required.
Compass Calibration: Go to the Configuration tab to enable your magnetometer. Then, go to the Setup tab, click Calibrate Magnetometer, and rotate the aircraft 360 degrees on all axes away from magnetic interference. Step 4: Mixer and Receiver Setup
This step ensures your radio control inputs match the actual layout of your aircraft.
Choose Mixer: Navigate to the Mixer tab. Select your platform type (e.g., Airplane, Flying Wing, or Quadcopter) and click Load and Write.
Configure Receiver: Move to the Receiver tab. Select your receiver type (e.g., Serial-based receiver like CRSF, SBUS, or ELRS).
Verify Channels: Turn on your radio transmitter. Move the sticks to verify that Roll, Pitch, Yaw, and Throttle match the corresponding bars on the screen. Ensure channels center at 1500 and reach endpoints at 1000 and 2000. Step 5: GPS and Navigation Configuration
GPS setup unlocks RTH (Return to Home) and position-hold capabilities.
Enable GPS: Go to the Ports tab. Find the UART port where your GPS module is physically wired and select GPS under the Sensor column.
GPS Settings: Navigate to the GPS tab. Set the protocol (usually UBLOX) and enable Galileo or Glonass based on your region.
Verify Satellites: Take the model near a window or outdoors. Wait for the 3D Fix status to turn green, showing at least 6 connected satellites before attempting to arm. Step 6: Modes and Failsafe Assignment
Assigning your physical radio switches to software modes prevents accidents.
Arm Switch: Go to the Modes tab. Add a range for the ARM mode and flip your preferred radio switch to lock it into that range.
Flight Modes: Assign switches for baseline modes like ANGLE (stabilized) and navigation modes like NAV RTH (Return to Home) and NAV CRUISE.
Failsafe Setup: Go to the Failsafe tab. Set the procedure to RTH so the aircraft automatically returns to the takeoff point if it loses radio signal. Step 7: Final Pre-Flight Checks Never skip bench checks before attaching propellers.
Motor Direction: Go to the Outputs tab. With the props off and a battery plugged in, spin the motors individually to verify correct rotation.
OSD Layout: Go to the OSD tab to customize your video goggles layout. Drag elements like battery voltage, satellite count, and home arrow to clean locations.
Save Configuration: Always click the Save button on the bottom right of a tab before moving to a new section.
To help tailor this setup for your maiden flight, let me know:
What type of aircraft are you building (Fixed-wing or FPV drone)?
Which GPS module and receiver protocol (ELRS, Crossfire, SBUS) are you using?
I can provide the exact UART port mapping or failsafe values for your hardware.
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