SkyStation5060LTE FAQs

The SkyStation5060LTE is a mobile, battery-powered C-Band ground radio system (GRS) designed for easy setup in take-off and landing zones (LZ). It provides reliable UAS platform control using aviation-protected spectrum and integrates an LTE radio for Command Non-Payload Control (CNPC). It seamlessly connects with uAvionix SkyLine Cloud Managed BVLOS Service.

Key features include: Integrated Global LTE Cat 1 radio for CNPC, Integrated C-Band (5030-5091 MHz) radio, Integrated eSIM with Hologram global service (optional nanoSIM support), Automatic GRS registration with SkyLine, Ethernet interface for reprogramming and configuration, Compatibility with Dewalt 20V MAX POWER STACK batteries, and Mounting on standard tripods with 1/4-20 bolts.

Input Voltage: 20 V; Size (without battery): 108 x 61 x 47 mm; Weight (without battery): 65 grams; Operating Temperature: -45 to 70°C. C-Band Radio: Band 5030-5091 MHz, Transmit Power 100 mW (0.4 W EIRP), Bandwidth 210 kHz, Sensitivity -113.5 dBm. LTE: Global Cat 1, FDD Bands 1,2,3,4,7,8,12,13,18,19,20,26,28; TDD Bands 38,39,40,41; SIM: Global IoT eSIM.

FCC 47 CFR Part 87 ID: 2AFFTC2XCP0 (in process); LTE FCC ID: XPYUBX21BE01. Note: This device has not been authorized by the FCC and may not be offered for sale or lease until authorization is obtained, except for direct sales to the U.S. Government or exports.

LTE FDD Bands: 1, 2, 3, 4, 7, 8, 12, 13, 18, 19, 20, 26, 28; LTE TDD Bands: 38, 39, 40, 41.

The GRS (Ground Radio Station) uses SkyDM (SkyLine DataMux) to manage both link switching (between mediums/paths) and roaming (between multiple GRS within a medium). SkyDM is the key component that multiplexes the C2 links during a flight. Link Switching: Link Switching chooses the primary link medium/paths (e.g., LTE vs Satcom) on the ground. • Inputs: 1-second average of received user data on all links. • Scope: Evaluates and switches between different link mediums/paths (e.g., LTE vs. Satcom). • Prioritization: When the current active link becomes inactive (no data for 1 second), chooses an active link with the highest received rate (if multiple). • Evaluation cadence: Every 1 second with double-hysteresis, consistent with muLTElink. • Trigger: Switch occurs when a link is disqualified (0 user data, poor RSSI, or loss of connectivity). • Behavior: Prioritizes stability with hysteresis to avoid unnecessary flapping. Roaming (Within a Link): Roaming chooses the lead GRS within a given link when multiple GRS are available. • Scope: Roaming operates within a single link when multiple GRS are available. • Inputs: Network connectivity status, RSSI strength, and reception of ARS heartbeats. • Qualification: Each GRS is qualified using this combination of factors. • Evaluation cadence: Every 1.5 seconds. • Hysteresis: Single hysteresis applied to reduce unnecessary swaps. • Selection: Chooses the lead GRS from qualified candidates; prefers strongest RSSI if all else equal. Key Takeaway: • Primary vs. Lead distinction: Note that link switching chooses the primary link medium, while roaming chooses the lead GRS within that link.

The kit includes the SkyStation5060LTE unit. Additional COTS items like Dewalt 20V batteries and tripods are required but not included. Refer to the user manual for any specific accessories.

It integrates with commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) Dewalt 20V MAX POWER STACK batteries. Compatible batteries and corded power adapters are listed in Table 7 of the user manual (page 28).

Ensure you have the compatible battery inserted, mount it on a tripod if needed, and connect to power. For LTE connectivity, the eSIM provides out-of-the-box global service via Hologram.

Mount the unit on a standard tripod using 1/4-20 bolts. Insert a compatible Dewalt 20V battery. For portable use, position it in the LZ with clear line-of-sight for C-Band communication. Detailed steps are in Section 11.2.2 of the user manual (page 28).

The device uses 20V input from Dewalt 20V MAX POWER STACK batteries or compatible corded adapters. Refer to Table 7 in the user manual for specifics.

Use a standard tripod with 1/4-20 bolts. Ensure the installation allows for optimal antenna orientation and minimizes interference.

Yes, the operating temperature range is -45 to 70°C, making it suitable for various environmental conditions.

Connect via the Ethernet RJ-45 interface using protocols like HTTP or TCP. Use a tool like Advanced IP Scanner to find the device's IP address, then access the configuration screen in a web browser. Detailed steps are in Section 12 of the user manual (page 30).

It features automatic GRS registration with the SkyLine Cloud Managed BVLOS Service. Once powered and connected, go to Devices GRS in SkyLine to connect the device.

The primary interface is Ethernet (RJ-45) for reprogramming and configuration. LTE is for CNPC, not direct configuration.

Yes, it supports an optional nanoSIM card in addition to the integrated global IoT eSIM.

It provides ground radio support for UAS control using C-Band and LTE for reliable, protected spectrum communication. It integrates with SkyLine for BVLOS operations.

Link switching allows seamless transition between different communication links (e.g., ISM to C-Band). Details are in Section 13.1 of the user manual (page 32).

Roaming enables the system to switch between ground stations within the same link for continuous coverage. See Section 13.2 (page 32) for logic.

Operators should ensure proper battery power, clear line-of-sight, and monitor SkyLine for status. Key takeaways are in Section 13.3 (page 33).

Yes, its battery-powered, portable design minimizes cost and complexity for LZ teams using COTS batteries and tripods.

Check the battery insertion and charge level. Ensure it's a compatible Dewalt 20V battery. Verify connections and try a different battery or corded adapter from Table 7.

Verify the eSIM or nanoSIM is properly installed and activated. Check coverage in your area via Hologram service. Restart the device and monitor SkyLine for status.

Ensure Ethernet connection is secure. Use Advanced IP Scanner to confirm the IP address. Check network settings and firewall. Refer to Figure 11 and 12 in the manual.

Ensure the device is powered and connected to the internet via LTE or Ethernet. In SkyLine, navigate to Devices GRS and follow the connection steps (Figure 13). If issues persist, contact support.

For additional customer support, please submit a Support Ticket to the uAvionix customer support team.