6. Python Programming
6.1. Python Setup
You may actually use any programming language that can establish a UDP connection to send commands to the Tello drone, however, in this book, we will use Python to send commands to the drone. Python programming is an intermediate to advanced subject. Make sure you are comfortable and familiar with Python programming. Start learning Python today by going to our online book. The Python code is adapted from the DJI GitHub repository.
To be able to run the Python programs, you will need to have Python 3.x or higher. The use of Miniconda or Anaconda is highly recommended. Setting up the environment you will need to get the Python drone programming examples working is rather involved. We recommend you select your favorite Python environment and follow the installation instruction. Additionally, please stop by One-Off Coder for hands-on help.
6.2. Tello Software Development Kit
You may establish a UDP connection to the Tello on port 8889 and send commands. There are versions 1.0 and 2.0 to communicate with the Tello and Tello EDU, respectively. We will be using version 1.0. The following are manuals listing the commands that may be sent.
We list the Tello 1.0 commands in the following table.
Command |
Description |
Response |
|---|---|---|
command |
Enter command mode |
OK|False |
takeoff |
Auto takeoff |
OK|False |
land |
Auto landing |
OK|False |
up |
Fly upward [20, 500] cm |
OK|False |
down |
Fly downward [20, 500] cm |
OK|False |
left |
Fly left [20, 500] cm |
OK|False |
right |
Fly right [20, 500] cm |
OK|False |
forward |
Fly forward [20, 500] cm |
OK|False |
cw |
Rotate clockwise [1, 360] degrees |
OK|False |
ccw |
Rotate counter-clockwise [1, 360] degrees |
OK|False |
flip |
Flip [l, r, f, b] |
OK|False |
speed |
Set speed [1, 100] cm/s |
OK|False |
Speed? |
Get current speed |
|
Battery? |
Get current battery percentage |
|
Time? |
Get current flight time |
|