# Cube

> Open source autopilot hardware derived from pixhawk

**Wikidata**: [Q109996753](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q109996753)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/cube-q109996753

## Summary
Cube is an open-source autopilot hardware platform derived from Pixhawk, developed by Cubepilot Pty Ltd. It serves as a versatile flight controller for drones and other unmanned vehicles, supporting both Ardupilot and PX4 autopilot software.

## Key Facts
- Inception: 2018, developed by Cubepilot Pty Ltd
- Based on Pixhawk hardware architecture
- Supports both Ardupilot and PX4 autopilot software
- Official website: https://www.cubepilot.com
- Also known as Pixhawk Cube, Cube Autopilot, Cube Pilot, and CubePilot
- Part of the Cube Orange Standard Set
- Classified as an electronic device model series, brand, open hardware, and technical standard
- Subclass of autopilot systems

## FAQs
### Q: What is Cube used for?
A: Cube is an autopilot hardware platform used for controlling drones and other unmanned vehicles. It serves as a flight controller that supports both Ardupilot and PX4 autopilot software.

### Q: Who developed Cube?
A: Cube was developed by Cubepilot Pty Ltd, an Australian company that specializes in open-source autopilot hardware.

### Q: What software can run on Cube?
A: Cube supports both Ardupilot and PX4 autopilot software, making it a versatile platform for different unmanned vehicle applications.

## Why It Matters
Cube represents a significant advancement in open-source autopilot technology, providing a robust and flexible hardware platform for the drone and unmanned vehicle industry. By building upon the established Pixhawk architecture while adding enhanced capabilities, Cube has become a popular choice for both hobbyists and professional applications. Its dual compatibility with both Ardupilot and PX4 software ecosystems makes it uniquely versatile in the market, allowing users to choose their preferred flight control software. The open hardware nature of Cube promotes innovation and customization in the drone community, while its reliability and performance have made it a trusted platform for various applications including aerial mapping, autonomous navigation, and research.

## Notable For
- Open-source hardware design based on Pixhawk architecture
- Dual compatibility with both Ardupilot and PX4 autopilot software
- Development by Cubepilot Pty Ltd, an Australian technology company
- Multiple aliases including Pixhawk Cube and CubePilot
- Part of the Cube Orange Standard Set product line

## Body
### Technical Specifications
Cube is built on the Pixhawk hardware foundation, providing enhanced capabilities for drone and unmanned vehicle control. The hardware platform supports various sensors and peripherals necessary for autonomous flight operations.

### Software Compatibility
The Cube platform is compatible with both major autopilot software ecosystems:
- Ardupilot: Open control software for RC vehicles with auto-navigation capabilities
- PX4 autopilot: BSD-licensed flight control software for drones and other unmanned vehicles

### Product Line
Cube is part of a broader product ecosystem that includes the Cube Orange Standard Set, offering various configurations to meet different user needs. The platform has evolved since its inception in 2018 to include multiple variants and improvements.

### Documentation and Support
Comprehensive documentation is available through the official CubePilot website and user guides, including:
- User manual: https://docs.cubepilot.org/user-guides/autopilot/the-cube-user-manual
- Technical documentation: https://docs.cubepilot.org/user-guides
- Community support through official forums: https://discuss.cubepilot.org/

### Development History
The Cube project began in 2018, with its development tracked through GitHub commits. The platform has continued to evolve, maintaining compatibility with both Ardupilot and PX4 software while adding new features and capabilities.

## References

1. [Source](https://ardupilot.org/copter/docs/common-thecube-overview.html)
2. [Source](https://github.com/proficnc/The-Cube/commit/d68c203ba83cd8e62ea87134dd91ce771bd02da5)
3. [Source](https://docs.cubepilot.org/user-guides/autopilot/the-cube-series-firmware-and-connection-troubleshooting)