SkyStation5060POE FAQs

The SkyStation5060POE is an all-weather, network-ready C-Band Ground Radio System (GRS) designed for permanent installation on a tower. It features an integrated POE++ power supply and includes a pole mounting kit for simplified deployment. It integrates seamlessly with the uAvionix SkyLine Cloud Managed BVLOS Service, including automatic registration.

It operates in the C-Band frequency range of 5030 to 5091 MHz.

Key features include: Integrated C-Band radio system, integrated GPS receiver, IP67-grade enclosure, directional 12 dBi gain antennas with a 110-degree beam, pole mounting kit, automatic GRS registration with SkyLine, and Ethernet reprogramming and configuration interface.

Input Power: 802.3bt POE++ 65W Peak; Size: 42 x 264 x 746 mm; Weight: 225 grams; Operating Temperature: -45 to 70°C.

It complies with FCC 47 CFR Part 15.247, with FCC ID: 2AFFTC2XCP0 (in process).

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.

You will need a POE++ compliant switch or injector for power and network connection, an internet-connected Local Area Network (LAN), and possibly tools for mounting like a pole or tower.

Yes, it is compatible with SkyLink5060, SkyLink5060micro, and muLTElink5060 airborne radio systems.

(1) Secure the mounting bracket to a pole using the included stainless steel hose clamps. The bracket is angled 6° upward. (2) Align the GRS with the bracket and slide it into place. (3) Fasten with the included mounting screws. (4) Attach the antennas, tighten, and adjust orientation by pointing the directional arrows toward the operational area for 110-degree coverage.

(1) Fasten the Hub Mounting Bracket to the pole with hose clamps (not angled, mounts perpendicular). (2) Align and slide the Hub into place. (3) Fasten with the mounting screw. Position the Hub away from the GRS to avoid interference, with the GPS antenna pointing up.

Connect via POE++ using an M12 X-Coded connector. Specifications: Standard 802.3bt (Type4 POE++), Transmit Power Class 4 (40 W), Voltage Range 41–57 V, Supported Cabling Shielded Cat 3 or 5, Maximum Cable Length 100 meters. Follow the M12 wiring diagram for connections.

Each antenna has a directional arrow on the end cap indicating the transmit/receive direction. Point both arrows toward the operational area for optimal performance, providing 110 degrees of horizontal sector coverage (55 degrees on either side).

(1) Connect to a POE++ switch on a DHCP-enabled network via the M12 X-Coded port. (2) Use a network scanner (e.g., Advanced IP Scanner) to find the device's IP (named "SkyStation-XXXX"). (3) Access the IP in a web browser. (4) Update the "Websocket URL" field with the specific SkyLine POD URL (obtained from uAvionix support). (5) Click "Save." (6) Verify the device appears in SkyLine under Devices GRS.

Once powered and connected to the internet via POE++, the device automatically registers with the SkyLine Cloud Managed BVLOS Service. Ensure the Websocket URL is correctly configured in the web interface.

Use a network scanning tool like Advanced IP Scanner to locate a device named "SkyStation-XXXX" where XXXX matches the last four hex characters of the MAC address.

Link switching manages paths like LTE vs. Satcom using SkyDM. It evaluates 1-second averages of received user data every second with double-hysteresis. It switches when the active link becomes inactive (1 second no data) to the active link with the highest received rate, prioritizing stability.

Roaming selects the lead GRS within a single link when multiple are available. It uses network connectivity, RSSI strength, and ARS heartbeat reception, evaluating every 1.5 seconds with single hysteresis. It prefers the strongest RSSI among qualified GRS to reduce unnecessary swaps.

Link switching chooses the primary link medium (e.g., LTE vs. Satcom), while roaming selects the lead GRS within that medium. Operators should monitor these for stable BVLOS operations.

Yes, it requires GPS for timing of frequency hopping and message transmission. The GPS is provided through an external SkyStation Hub.

Check power connections (POE++), network connectivity, and ensure the Websocket URL is correctly set in the web configuration. Verify the IP address using a scanner and confirm internet access. If issues persist, submit a Support Ticket at uAvionix.com/support. 

Ensure the SkyStation Hub is installed with the GPS antenna pointing up and away from interference sources like the GRS. Check connections and positioning.

Verify antenna orientation points to the operational area. Ensure proper cabling and shielding. Check for environmental factors or nearby devices causing interference. Contact support if needed.

Confirm POE++ compliance (65W peak, 41-57V), cable length under 100m, and correct M12 wiring. Inspect for damage or loose connections.

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