This page describes the '''most convenient method''' for setting up a Flarmradar Ground Station. This component reads out the flarm device and streams the data it to the Flarmradar Server. More specific solutions (WLAN, mobile Stations, etc) can be found here 

[[Image(ground_station.jpg, align=right)]]    

= Flarm Radar Groundstation Construction Manual =

=== Before you start ===
While the ground station can be built in short time, consider that it takes a considerable amount of time for finding a good spot on the airfield. A direct line of sight to the entire runway and the open sky are optimal conditions to achieve a good result.  

'''Prerequisites:'''
  - a Flarm device, equipped with the latest Firmware (at least 5.09 from 2013/03/01) and a GPS receiver
  - a working internet connection from the place where ground station is installed

'''Components to buy:'''
  - a [http://www.raspberrypi.org Raspberry PI] Type B, order also a pre-formatted SD card
  - the rs232 communication board for the Raspberry (the board can be ordered [http://www.abelectronics.co.uk/products/3/Raspberry-Pi/29/Serial-Pi-RS232-Interface here]) 
  - a power supply for 12V and 5V (e.g. [http://www.meanwell.com/search/ADD-55/ADD-55-spec.pdf Mean Well ADD-55A])
  - an external antenna for the flarm device
  - a box to incorporate and connect all components (e.g a small [http://www.pelishop.com/peli-cases-small.html Peli Case], 25x25x12cm minimal interior dimensions) 
  - for the [wiki:communication_cable communication cable] between Flarm, Raspberry and Powersupply
    - a short RJ45 cable (will be cut in parts)
    - a 9-Pin Sub-D connector
    - a micro-usb connector cable (will be cut in parts)
  - alternatively: Order a pre-built cable from info@flarmradar.ch

=== Step-by-Step ===

==== Bring the Raspberry into service ====

We use Raspbian (a descendant of the Linux Debian operating system), You will need a USB keyboard (a USB mouse is optional but helps) and a screen which connects to Chinch-video signal or HDMI for initial OS setup. Once your Pi is connected to the network, you can disconnect the peripherals and access it remotely via SSH.

==== The communication cable ====
The communication cable has multiple functions
  - transport the RS232 signal from the Flarm device to the Raspberry 
  - power supply for the Flarm device
  - power supply for the Raspberry

Heat up your soldering iron and [wiki:communication_cable craft your own] or contact mailto:info@flarmradar.ch if you are afraid of bruning fingers. We probably can help out.

==== Wire the components ====

... to be written

==== Configuration & Testing ====

... to be written

==== Software Installation ====

... to be written

==== Final installation ====

... to be written