News - Page 26 of 35 - Unmanned Systems Source

25JanJanuary 25, 2017

NuWaves Engineering Releases 15 Watt L-& S- Band Bidirectional Amplifier Module

January 24, 2017 – NuWaves Engineering announced the addition of their latest miniaturized bidirectional amplifier to their line of NuPower Xtender bidirectional amplifier products. This product is ideal for communications, telemetry and electronic warfare markets. “We are excited to offer this bidirectional amplifier module. This product is targeted at the unmanned aircraft system (UAS) market, filling the gap in the market for small bidirectional amplifiers,” said Jeff Wells, President and CEO of NuWaves Engineering. “The NuWaves’ team takes pride in our ability to support our clients with best-in-class RF solutions, rapidly fulfilling the ever-changing needs of the Warfighter.”

L- & S- Band Bidirectional Amplifier Module Specifications

The NuPower™ Xtender™ 12C04A model, part number NW-BA-12C04A, provides 15 watts of RF power across L- & S- band frequencies of 1.0 to 2.5 GHz, ideal for extending the communication range of half-duplex transceivers with constant-envelope waveforms. Adjacent radio frequency bands, such as the popular 900 MHz Industrial, Scientific, and Medical (ISM) band are also supported at lower peak power levels. In receiver mode, the 12C04A bidirectional amplifier offers a low noise figure of 3.5 dB and a low noise amplifier that provides 13 dB of gain. The module accepts a +5 dBm input level and provides a minimum 35 dB of transmit gain, all while operating with 30% or better power efficiency. This bidirectional amplifier features the option of manual transmit / receive (T/R) mode selection or automatic transmit sensing, coupled with an extremely fast T/R mode switch time of < 1.5 μs to support a variety of digital data links, including AeroVironment’s DDL, FreeWave Technologies’ radios, and Microhard Systems’ radios.

Small form factor and power efficiency

All of this has been designed into a system with a small form factor of 6.9 in3 by utilizing state-of-the-art Gallium Nitride (GaN) power amplifier device technology, the NuPowerTM XtenderTM 12C04A bidirectional amplifier module is ideal for broadband RF telemetry and communication systems that require reliability and minimal size, weight, and power consumption (SWaP).

About NuWaves Engineering

NuWaves Engineering is a premier supplier of RF and Microwave solutions for Department of Defense (DoD), government, and industrial customers. An RF Engineering powerhouse, NuWaves offers a broad range of design and engineering services related to the development and sustainment of key communications, telemetry and electronic warfare systems, as well as a complete line of commercially available RF products. Unmanned Systems Source is proud to partner with NuWaves Engineering. Shop their line of RF solutions, here.

By PamelaVendor News12C04A, bidirectional amplifier, NuWavesComments OffRead more...

24JanJanuary 24, 2017

Steps to Take Before You Experience a Flyaway

Up, Up and Away!

A gust of wind. Interruption or loss of the control link. Pilot error. A dreaded flyaway. There are many ways to lose a drone. But when you think about the various hazards surrounding flight, outright loss may not come to mind. In fact, loss of a drone during flight is more common than you may think. Of course, today’s drones are more and more automated and most come equipped with GPS. But that doesn’t mean things can’t and don’t go wrong…because they do. In the event of a catastrophe, the odds of finding your drone improve based on the steps you take before such an event occurs.

Register your drone with the manufacturer

There are two basic camps when it comes to registering product with the manufacturer: those who automatically do it and those who consider it a waste of time. Don’t neglect this step; there are many benefits to registering your drone. Some benefits include: proof of ownership, more efficient warranty services, product updates and recalls, and more. The minute you unpack your new vehicle, take the time to register it with the manufacturer. If your drone flies away, some helpful individual may contact the manufacturer and help reunite you with your drone.

Register your drone with the FAA

As you know, as of December 21, 2015, the FAA requires all drones, model aircraft and other sUAS weighing between 0.55 and 55 pounds to be registered. You must register before your first flight. Registering your drone with the FAA is inexpensive, easy and it can save you from getting hefty fines.

Update your drone’s GPS

If your drone has a GPS, power it up in a place that gives clear view of the sky and give the GPS time to update. Updates are automatically sent from the satellites. This step usually takes about 15 minutes but is well worth your time. Updated GPS helps ensure that in the event you need the drone to “return home” it has accurate positioning.

Tag it with a tracker

GPS-based trackers are an inexpensive and popular option. GPS trackers provide accurate positioning details of a lost drone. In the event your drone flies away, information on the longitude and latitude of its location helps you zero in on, at the very least, your search area. There are several trackers available on the market today, each with their own pluses and minuses.

Tag is with your number

It might not sound very tech savvy but putting your phone number on your drone is helpful. Consider this, if your drone flies off into the sunset, eventually, it comes crashing to the ground. There’s a chance some unsuspecting individual finds it, “Oh look, a lost drone!” If your phone number is taped somewhere on the drone, this good Samaritan may just give you a call. Low-tech but effective. Of course, it is always advisable for new flyers to grow their skills in open fields, away from obstructions and innocent bystanders. Keeping the drone within line of sight is also vital. Remember to fly with fully charged batteries and return home before the battery is completely drained. Read more helpful tips for first time drone operators.

If you find a drone

If you happen to find a lost drone, there are a few steps you can take to help reunite the little buddy with his fretful owner. One option is to locate the serial number, call the manufacture and report it “found”. If the manufacturer is able to help, they’ll outline next steps. If the drone has a camera you can attempt to use the feed to communicate with the owner, which likely goes to their computer or mobile device. A shot of the phone number where the owner can contact you, is one suggestion. Place an ad on Craigslist. It might seem unlikely but an ad could help you find the rightful owner. And, of course, if the owner placed his number on the drone, simply give him or her a call. In the event you experience a dreaded flyaway or simply lose your drone somewhere over the rainbow, consider the proactive steps listed above. Of course, there are no guarantees but the steps outlined may just help you get your drone back.

By PamelaUSS Newsdrone, found drone, lost drone, suasComments OffRead more...

20JanJanuary 20, 2017

Drone Repair Shops

Today, thanks to a continued decrease in price, drones are now a fairly mainstream product. The skies, which were once the domain of experienced pilots, are filling with newbie operators trying their hand at drone flight. As such, some have discovered that “ready-to-fly” – as many drones are marketed – can really mean, “ready-to-crash”. Of course, even veteran operators experience the odd mishap or two. When it inevitably occurs, a crash can impact the vehicle in a number of ways – from slight damage to outright destruction or complete loss of the vehicle. So, what should you do in the event your drone requires repairs? While some may have the skill and confidence to make their own repairs, other may hesitate. After all, these technological wonders, though more affordable, still cost hundreds of dollars. For the hesitant, perhaps a professional drone shop is the answer. But, what should you look for when choosing a shop? How do you get about getting your drone fixed? And how much will it cost? Read on to discover answers to these commonly asked questions.

Drone repair shops: a growing industry

As the number of drones have steadily increased, so have the number of drone repair shops. It’s not surprising given the costs associated with purchasing these vehicles. Many would rather spend money repairing their drone versus simply discarding it once its damaged. To ensure your drone works as it should, it is advisable to entrust the repair work to a professional. For those with a professional repair facility nearby, its an easy solution. Simply call the shop, set up an appointment and take your drone to the shop. For those users who don’t have a local repair shop, there’s good news. Many drone repair stores accept drone delivery by mail. All you have to do is box up your damaged vehicle and send it to them.

Emerging companies

As mentioned, the number of professional drone service companies, though growing, is still relatively limited. A web search should prove useful when determining your service repair options. There are a few companies attempting to distinguish themselves in this burgeoning industry. Unmanned Systems and Solutions (USAS) recently opened a 120,000 square foot facility in Chicago, Illinois. They claim to offer quick evaluation and repair of many major manufactured brands. Consumers can print a mailing label and ship their drone in for evaluation – which is usually completed within 48-hours. Another company is Expert Drones, which operates from its Old Town Alexandria repair location. Like USAS, Expert Drones also accepts damaged drones at any of their four repair facilities. Drone e-commerce website DroneFly also offers a repair service although that is currently closed to new repairs due to high volume. One thing to remember, not every shop fixes all brands of drones. Make sure you double check that they can service the make and model of your drone before you send it to them for repairs.

Evaluation, Costs and Duration

Once you’ve selected the repair shop, the next consideration is cost. How much can you expect to pay to have your damaged drone evaluated and repaired? Most shops will charge to evaluate your drone as well as provide a list of repairs and the costs associated with each. Evaluation fees fluctuate between the various companies. On average, the cost for a drone repair evaluation is around $30. Repair costs of course depend on the damage the drone sustained. Average repairs cost around $200, with most jobs completed in less than a week. Don’t forget to account for ship time. Given these factors, most drone owners can expect to have their drone flying again within two weeks. The growing number of repair facilities is welcome news for frustrated pilots with damaged drones who hope to fly again quickly. When compared to the cost of purchasing a high-end drone, the price of repairs is reasonable. If the unfortunate does happen and your drone is damaged, professionals are now available to provide repairs. And, whether your damaged drone is for work or pleasure, you’ll soon be flying again in no time.

By PamelaUSS Newsdrone repair shops, drones, repair, suas, uavComments OffRead more...

18JanJanuary 18, 2017

Indian Student Develops Landmine-Clearing Drone

Fourteen-year-old Indian student develops a drone designed to clear mines.

A landmine clearing drone may sound incredible. However, a fourteen-year-old from India has designed a machine that does just that – an anti-landmine drone that can detect and clear landmines. Harshwardhan Zala found inspiration for his creation while watching news footage. “I learned that a large number of soldiers succumb to injuries sustained due to landmine blasts while defusing them manually,” Zala said in an interview with the Times of India. The news report got Zala's mind spinning. In response, Zala designed and constructed a drone to dispose of landmines in a safer manner with less risk to human life. The first few vehicles were funded by Zala's parents. “I started making drones on my own and set up an interface with a base station but realized I need to do more,” said Zala. “So I fixed payloads that detect landmines.” Those small beginnings quickly changed when he won an innovation prize at the L.D. College of Engineering in Gujarat. Soon after, Zala found himself at Google headquarters where he was invited to share his invention with investors. And most recently, the government of India at the Vibrant Gujarat Summit, granted the designer a contract to produce these drones for use in war zones.

The danger of landmines

According to the International Campaign to Ban Landmines website, antipersonnel landmines are explosive devices placed under or on the ground. They are designed to detonate by the presence, proximity or contact of a person. These devices can lie dormant for years and even decades until a person or animal triggers the mechanism - inflicting catastrophic injuries and even death. Landmines are indiscriminate; whoever triggers the mine, whether a child, a soldier, or an aid-worker becomes its victim. Mines placed during a conflict against enemy forces can still kill or injure civilians decades later. Removing landmines is extremely hazardous which is why Zala's drone has garnered such interest.

Payloads for a landmine clearing drone

Payloads for this drone include an infrared, RGB sensor and a thermal meter, and a 21-megapixel camera with a mechanical shutter. The camera can take high-resolution pictures, as well. The drone also comes equipped with a 50-gram explosive that is used to safely destroy the mine without risking life. Zala has registered his drone for a patent and started his own company, Aerobotics. His intention is to produce more sUAS in the future.

By PamelaUSS Newsdrones, landmines, mine-disablingComments OffRead more...

16JanJanuary 16, 2017

NuWaves Engineering nears completion of 4-watt, linear VHF/UHF bi-directional amplifier module

January 16, 2017 – NuWaves Engineering has announced near completion on the Internal Research and Design (IRaD) phase of their miniaturized VHF/UHF RF bidirectional amplifier (BDA). The NuPower™ Xtender™ 16A06A model features high linearity performance, small size and weight, high ACLR, and broad supply voltage range. It is a low-cost solution. Initial low rate production is scheduled to start early February with testing starting shortly after. Demo units will be available by late March. The NuPower™ Xtender™ 16A06A will provide 4 Watts of linear power over the frequency range of 225 MHz to 512 MHz. The BDA will produce greater than 10 Watts of saturated output power for applications where linearity is not required (i.e., constant envelope waveforms). Available as a circuit card assembly or an enclosed module, this BDA provides the system integrator with the choice of a small, lightweight assembly for highly embedded designs, or a module for rugged reliability under harsh conditions. “We are excited to add this bidirectional amplifier module to our NuPowerTM XtenderTM line of products," said Jeff Wells, President and CEO of NuWaves Engineering. "This product is targeted at the unmanned aircraft system (UAS) market, filling the gap in the market for small, linear VHF/UHF power amplifiers."

The specifications

As a circuit card assembly, the BDA measures 2.34” x 2.34” x 0.61” and weighs 1.92 ounces, while the fully enclosed module version measures 2.34” x 2.34” x 0.70” at 2.88 ounces. Targeting an adjacent channel leakage ratio (ACLR) of -33 dBc at 4 watts’ average power output, this BDA is capable of achieving higher data throughput and a clearer reliable signal. This BDA also features a broad supply voltage range of +10 to +32 VDC, capable of supporting an array of RF communications, telemetry and electronic warfare applications, including systems running on battery power. "The NuWaves’ team takes pride in our ability to support our clients with best-in-class RF solutions, rapidly fulfilling the ever-changing needs of the Warfighter,” said Wells.

About NuWaves Engineering

NuWaves Engineering is a premier supplier of RF and Microwave solutions for Department of Defense (DoD), government, and industrial customers. An RF engineering powerhouse, NuWaves offers a broad range of design and engineering services related to the development and sustainment of key communications, telemetry and electronic warfare systems, as well as a complete line of commercially available RF products. NuWaves’ products include wideband frequency converters, high-efficiency and miniature solid state power amplifiers and bidirectional amplifiers, high intercept low noise amplifiers and miniature RF filters. Unmanned Systems Source is proud to distribute NuWaves Engineering line of products.

By PamelaUSS News, Vendor News16A06A, bidirectional amplifier, NuWaves, NuWaves Engineering, VHF/UHFComments OffRead more...

11JanJanuary 11, 2017

Travel Tips for Drone Users

Simple tips to keep airline travel with your drone headache free.

So, you’re planning a vacation and you want to bring your favorite companion…your drone! Before you book those flights, read our helpful tips for traveling with a drone.

Protective Case is a must

A drone is certainly an expensive piece of equipment. Whether traveling or not, investing in a protective case for your drone is highly recommended. In the event you need to check your drone as baggage, a protective case is an absolute must. A hard-sided protective case, combined with a custom foam interior, keeps sensitive equipment safe and secure during transport…no shifting, no scratches, no damage. Protective cases are crush and impact resistant and feature latches that won’t pop open under stress. Some even include pressure-release valves and can be padlocked to keep equipment safe from theft. Just be sure to purchase a TSA approved padlock if you go this route.

Also, it’s a good idea to keep the case free of logos, branding, etc. An ordinary looking protective case reduces the risk of additional airline scrutiny (which often comes with drones) as well as interest from would-be thieves. Find the right protective case for your drone. Of course, the best option is to treat your done as a carry-on. And, as long as you comply with the carry-on size restrictions for the airline, you should have no problem. Carrying your drone reduces the risk of damage and theft. However, it is still a good idea to find a soft protective case for your drone. When choosing a soft protective case, make sure it meets the airlines carry-on requirements and offers adequate padding to protect your equipment from the bumps and jostles of flight.

Traveling with LiPo batteries

When handled improperly, LiPo batteries can be extremely dangerous. Quick changes in temperature and air pressure make LiPo batteries susceptible to catching fire. As such, there are several requirements for traveling with LiPo batteries on airlines. Current International Air Transport Association (IATA) Dangerous Goods Regulations allows passengers to bring LiPo batteries inside carry-on luggage but there are precautions you need to take. Remember, never check LiPo batteries inside your luggage. Advanced preparation is key when traveling with LiPo batteries.

Deplete your batteries before you transport them. Batteries must be transported at a state of charge (SoC) not exceeding 30% of their rated design capacity.
Remove depleted batteries, protect the battery terminals from short circuit.
Place batteries inside a separate fire proof LiPo safety bag.

Remember, never travel with damaged or puffy LiPo batteries. Instead, follow the proper protocol for disposing LiPo batteries. Read more about the FAA guidelines and travel with LiPo batteries. Most airlines allow 2 lithium batteries over 100 watt hours. Of course, each airline may have different requirement when it comes to LiPo batteries. To eliminate any hassle on the day of travel, check with the airline in advance to make sure you are in compliance.

Come prepared

We all want to fly our drones without incident, however, mishaps do occur. Plan ahead! Prepare and pack a basic repair kit. Many operators take into consideration the last few repairs their drone needed and pack the tools and equipment needed to fix the issue. Keep your repair kit smart, simple and lightweight.

Check destination regulations

Regulations regarding drone use vary from state to state; some have additional requirements, others do not. It is your responsibility to be aware of local regulations and stay in compliance. Read more about current sUAS state laws. When traveling internationally, a little advanced homework will save you a lot of headaches. Some countries require that you declare your drone upon entry. Others require you to fill out an application prior to travel. Follow these travel tips for drone users and book those flights! A little advanced preparation ensures your trip is enjoyable and a flying success.

By PamelaGuides and Tutorials, USS NewsComments OffRead more...