Domo Tactical Communications (DTC) has introduced an innovative miniature Software Defined Radio (SDR) transceiver tailored for applications in unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and other unmanned systems where size, weight, and power (SWaP) are critical. The SOL8SDR-M BluCore module supports a diverse array of IP Mesh and unidirectional COFDM waveforms, including DTC’s cutting-edge MeshUltra MANET (Mobile Ad Hoc Networking) waveform.
This compact radio module is remarkably lightweight at just 60 grams and has dimensions of 54mm x 50mm x 11mm, making it notably suitable for ultra-light drone platforms, such as sub-250g nano-UAS. Additionally, it is available in even smaller OEM configurations. With an RF output of 200mW, it enables high data transmission rates over considerable distances, making it effective for Non-Line-of-Sight (NLOS) and urban scenarios. This capability allows for the streaming of Electro-Optical (EO) and Infrared (IR) Full Motion Video (FMV),and also audio,data,and telemetry control for both flight and payload. When paired with an optimized antenna and additional amplifier setups, RF Line of Sight (LOS) ranges can reach up to 250 kilometers.
The SOL8 SDR-M ensures reliable, low-latency, and low-jitter IP connectivity via USB, featuring two USB ports that can accommodate USB cameras, headsets, and various dongles for Wi-Fi, cellular, and Ethernet connections. Furthermore, the BluCore can interface with a variety of host devices through RNDIS “ethernet over USB” connectivity.
IP Mesh radios enhance UAVs’ connectivity by providing high data rates even in challenging RF and operational conditions. The dynamic self-healing and self-forming mesh architecture enables UAVs to share and relay essential video and data, both among themselves and back to command centers.The operational range can be expanded by incorporating repeater units or other mesh-enabled assets,facilitating the implementation of ‘swarm’ and ‘mother/daughter’ UAV configurations with ease.
DTC’s MeshUltra waveform can support over 80 nodes on a single frequency,effectively distributing network data throughput. Radios can be quickly deployed to establish a mobile ad-hoc IP network, ensuring secure, low-latency, and encrypted communications.
