Triad RF Systems has published a new article, accompanied by a technical brief, that underscores the risks associated with using custom amplification solutions to enhance the range of ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance) radio links in UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles) and other unmanned systems.
The technical brief, titled “Build or Buy: Evaluating Assembled and Integrated ISR Link Solutions,” is available for download on Triad’s website.
As the use of unmanned systems continues to surge, ensuring the power and distance of radio output integrity is crucial. Factors such as distance, environmental conditions, and power variations can lead to signal degradation, which may result in critical failures in ISR radio links. When seeking solutions to enhance signal strength and quality, the dilemma often arises: should you implement new BDAs (bi-directional amplifiers), increase power, or redesign your systems for more consistent output? Triad addresses this challenge with its innovative line of Amplified Radio Systems.
Evaluating the Build vs. Buy Dilemma
This age-old question persists among engineers: Is it more advantageous to create necessary functionalities from the ground up or to opt for a pre-existing solution that can be tailored to specific needs? While the allure of crafting a solution that perfectly aligns with unique operational demands is strong,custom-built systems often encounter signal degradation,especially over extended distances. These in-house solutions frequently fall short of meeting the size, weight, performance, and cost criteria (SWaP-C) essential for long-range radio links. UAVs/UAS and ground/surface vehicles (UGV/USV) operating in extreme weather and difficult terrains are prime candidates for the effective application of Triad Amplified Radio Systems.
Utilizing a bolt-on ISR data link solution is a common approach. In fact, manny companies have dedicated RF/microwave integration teams for this purpose. However, the reality is that each additional bi-directional amplifier (BDA) can diminish the overall performance of the system. Moreover, every integration point introduces another potential failure point that may require troubleshooting if signal strength and quality issues arise. Even minor fluctuations in power due to temperature changes can drastically affect performance, with each added BDA compounding issues that could reduce link range by as much as 30% during a single flight test.A frequent challenge identified during in-house integrations is that establishing a reliable long-distance radio link demands notable expertise in optimizing RF margins—a realization often made only after the decision to integrate in-house has been finalized.
Triad’s RF amplifiers and ISR link solutions excel even in the most demanding environments, giving operators the assurance that their signals will remain clear and reliable.
A technical brief detailing the various trade-offs between self-assembly and purchasing ready-made Triad amplified radios can be accessed here: www.triadrf.com/updates/tech-brief-build-or-buy-comparing-assembled-and-integrated-isr-link-solutions/
