H-Flow (Optical Flow + Distance)
Besteld: H-Flow × 1
Store: https://holybro.com/products/h-flow
Prijs (order): $125.00
Docs: https://docs.holybro.com/peripherals/h-flow-dronecan/overview
DroneCAN optical flow + laser distance sensor + IMU (PAA3905 + AFBR-S50 + ICM-42688).
Local files
| File | Inhoud |
|---|---|
| holybro-overview.md | Overzicht & features |
| holybro-setup-guide.md | PX4 + ArduPilot parameters |
| holybro-firmware.md | Firmware |
| holybro-dimensions.md | Afmetingen |
| holybro-pinout.md | CAN pinout |
| holybro-downloads.md | Downloads |
| product-info.md | Store product summary |
Notes for this build
- Aansluiting via CAN Hub → CAN1.
- Monteer naar beneden, lens schoon, binnen range (min ~8 cm, max ~30 m).
- ArduPilot highlights uit setup guide:
FLOW_TYPE=6,RNGFND1_TYPE=24, EKF3 source opts voor flow. - PX4:
UAVCAN_SUB_FLOW,UAVCAN_SUB_RNG, EKF2 optical flow params.
Decision report
What it is
Holybro H-Flow (DroneCAN): optical flow (PixArt) + ToF-afstand + IMU in één module.
What it’s for
Snelheid/positiehulp dicht bij de grond of bij zwak GNSS (loiter/land). Niet 360° avoidance (dat is LD-06).
Our choice
H-Flow op CAN — één connector, geen extra UART; past Mini-poortbudget.
Alternatives (approx. prices)
| Alternative | ≈ prijs | When |
|---|---|---|
| HereFlow / PX4Flow-achtig | ≈ €80–150 | Ander ecosysteem |
| MATEK optical flow + aparte lidar | ≈ €40–90 | UART i.p.v. CAN |
| Alleen rangefinder (LW20/TFMini) | ≈ €30–100 | Geen flow, wel hoogte |
Online tests & reviews
- Holybro H-Flow product
- Holybro setup guide
- ArduPilot optical flow setup
- Discourse case: H-Flow loiter anomaly — check obstructie/logs.
Product Info
H-Flow (Optical Flow and Distance Sensor Module)
- Handle:
h-flow - Vendor: PCBA
- Product type: Sensor
- Store URL: https://holybro.com/products/h-flow
Description
Overview The Holybro H-Flow is a compact o ptical flow and distance sensor module that combines a PixArt PAA3905E1 optical flow sensor, a Broadcom AFBR-S50LV85D distance sensor, and an InvenSense ICM-42688-P 6-axis IMU. This all-in-one design simplifies installation, while the onboard infrared LED enhances visibility in low-light conditions. The H-Flow features a Pixhawk-standard 4-pin CAN connector, ensuring seamless integration with Pixhawk-compatible controllers via the CAN port. Utilizing the DroneCAN protocol offers reliable and high-speed data transmission between the sensor and the flight controller. Feature Integrated Optical Flow and Rangefinder Module PixArt Optical Flow Sensor for Accurate Motion Tracking Broadcom ToF Sensor for Precise Distance Measurement Infrared LED for Optical Low-Light Performance DroneCAN Protocol Specification PixArt PAA3905E1 Optical Flow Sensor Tracks under low light conditions of >5 lux Effective Viewing angle up to 42° Wide working ranges from 80mm up to 30m Up to 7.4 rad/s 40 mW 120° viewing angle IR LED built onto the board for improved low-light operation Broadcom AFBR-S50LV85D Time-of-Flight Distance Sensor Integrated 850 nm laser light source Field-of-View (FoV) of 12.4° x 6.2° with 32 pixels Typical distance sensing range up to 30m Operation of up to 200k Lux ambient light Works well on all surface conditions Transmitter beam of 2° x 2° to illuminate between 1 and 3 pixels InvenSense ICM-42688-P 6-Axis IMU STM32F412CEU6 MCU Pixhawk Standard CAN Connector (4 Pin JST GH) Compact Form Factor Software-Controlled CAN Termination Weight: 15.2g (3.5g without casing) Reference Links Setup Guide Firmware Setup & Upgrade Pinout AFBR-S50LV85D Datasheet Package Includes: 1x H-Flow 4-pin GH cable 2x M2.5 Screws 2x M2.5 Nylon Locking Hex Nuts Dimension With Case PCB Only
Variants
- Default Title: $125.00 — SKU
19006— available=None
Options
- Title: Default Title
Photos



