Converting your BlueROV2 to Navigator: the complete guide

Visit BlueROV2 from Blue Robotics is widely recognized for its robustness and modularity. But if you want to benefit from state-of-the-art performance, modernize your interfaces or simplify your cables, it's time to convert your BlueROV2 with the Navigator controller.

Why switch to Navigator?

Visit Navigator Flight Controller is the ideal replacement for the Pixhawk 1, with major advantages:

• It connects directly to a Raspberry Pi 4, The previous model used a Raspberry Pi 3 and a separate Pixhawk.
• It features a set of on-board sensors: 6-axis IMU, dual magnetometers, barometer, ADCs for voltage/current measurement, as well as integrated leak detection, RC input (SBUS) and status LED.
• It offers 16 PWM outputs, 4 serial ports, 2 I²C ports, ADC port, external LED (Neopixel), and redundant power supply inputs.
• The Navigator kit includes an SD card preloaded with BlueOS, complete system with autopilot management, video streaming, software updates and user extensions.

These new features bring greater reliability, flexibility and software scalability (ArduSub, BlueOS, QGroundControl, etc.).

Conversion stages: what you need to know

The official guide details each step, but here are the main points:

1. Recommended equipment :
   • Navigator Flight Controller (with Raspberry Pi 4)
   • JST-GH to DF13 adapter if you're using an older version Bar30 sensor (R1)
   • Tools: Phillips screwdriver #1, hex key 2.5 mm & 1.5 mm, tape and pen to identify cables.
2. Dismantling the old system :
   • Remove the electronics box and label the cables (ESC, sensors, leak sensor, etc.).
3. Navigator installation :
   • Fix it in the housing (in place of the Pixhawk).
   • Reconnect the cables in the correct channels (prior labeling essential).
4. Compatibility and adapters :
   • Navigator requires a Raspberry Pi 4 (incompatible with Pi 3B).
   • Use adapters to connect DF13 sensors to newer JST-GH ports.
5. Software configuration :
   • Use BlueOS and QGroundControl to install ArduSub firmware, calibrate sensors, motors, leakage, etc.

Concrete benefits after conversion

• Less wiring thanks to modern connectors, reducing failure points
• Technical scalability to recent sensors, extensions and SDKs (navigator-lib etc.)
• Ease of use firmware management via SD files, accessible logs, more robust updates

ROV Expert: your partner for a successful upgrade

As a official Blue Robotics distributor and marine robotics expert, ROV Expert offers you :

• Complete kits for BlueROV2 conversion → Navigator (including adapters, Raspberry Pi 4, etc.)
• Installation and configuration in the workshop
• Training and technical support to prepare your teams
• Support to extend the life of your equipment and exploit its full potential

Conclusion

Converting your BlueROV2 to the Navigator Flight Controller is a real opportunity to boost performance, reliability and future compatibility.

For customized support or ready-to-use kits, contact ROV Expert - your marine and underwater robotics expert.