What is the SkyLink915Micro?
The SkyLink915Micro is an ISM Band (902-928 MHz) bi-directional dual radio data link system designed for UAS Command and Control (C2). It provides a protocol-agnostic autopilot telemetry interface and includes built-in status, integrity, and health monitoring to meet RTCA DO-377A requirements.
What frequency band does the SkyLink915Micro operate in, and does it require licensing?
It operates in the ISM band from 902 to 928 MHz. No FCC licensing or FAA permission is required for transmission, as it is designed for unlicensed use in this band. However, it complies with FCC 47 CFR Part 15.247 and has FCC ID 2AFFTC2XISM.
What are the key features of the SkyLink915Micro?
Key features include dual radio architecture for path diversity, frequency hopping for interference mitigation, integrated status monitoring, transparent RS232 autopilot interface, UTC synchronized TDD frame structure, seamless integration with muLTElink5060, support for SkyLine Cloud Managed BVLOS Service, Environmental DO-160G compliance, Software DO-178C Level C, and Complex Hardware DO-254 Level C.
What are the technical specifications of the SkyLink915Micro?
Input Voltage: 4-6 VDC; Peak Power: 1.7 W; Size: 31 x 26 x 9.5 mm; Weight: 16 grams; Operating Temperature: -45 to 70°C; Transmit Power: 1 W (4 W EIRP); Receiver Sensitivity: -118 dBm; Bandwidth: 200 kHz; User Data Rate: 4400 Bytes/sec.
What regulatory compliance does the SkyLink915Micro have?
It is FCC compliant under 47 CFR Part 15.247 with ID 2AFFTC2XISM. Note that for U.S. sales (except to government or exports), FCC authorization is required before offering for sale or lease. It also meets Environmental DO-160G Temperature Cat B2.
What power supply is required for setup?
The device requires a 4-6 VDC input voltage with a peak power consumption of 1.7 W. Ensure a stable power source is connected during setup to avoid interruptions.
What interfaces are needed for initial setup?
The SkyLink915Micro uses a 3.3V TTL interface for timing/position input (1 PPS UTC time pulse and NMEA 0183 at 115,200 bps for position). It also features a transparent RS232 autopilot telemetry interface for C2 data.
Does the SkyLink915Micro require a GPS module?
Yes, it requires a GPS input for position data (NMEA 0183) and UTC timing (1 PPS pulse). Compatible modules include truFYX EXT GPS (UAX-90088-01).
What ground radio systems is it compatible with?
It connects to SkyStation915POE and SkyStation915LTE ground radio systems. For LTE integration, it works seamlessly with muLTElink5060.
How do I physically install the SkyLink915Micro on a UAV?
Mount the device securely using its compact size (31 x 26 x 9.5 mm) and weight (16 grams). Ensure it is placed away from interference sources. Refer to the ARS User Manual Section 10.1 for physical installation guidelines and Section 10.2 for antenna placement.
How should the antennas be installed?
Use the recommended ISM Band Dipole Antennas (UAV-1004675-008). Install antennas for path diversity, ensuring they are separated and oriented to minimize interference. Connect via appropriate connectors as shown in the datasheet's mechanical specifications.
How do I connect the GPS during installation?
Connect the GPS module to provide 1 PPS UTC time pulse and NMEA 0183 position data at 115,200 bps via the 3.3V TTL interface. Ensure proper wiring as per the ARS Manual Section 10.3.
What environmental considerations are there for installation?
The device operates from -45 to 70°C and meets DO-160G Category B2. Install in a location protected from extreme moisture or vibration, and ensure ventilation for heat dissipation.
What environmental considerations are there for installation?
The device operates from -45 to 70°C and meets DO-160G Category B2. Install in a location protected from extreme moisture or vibration, and ensure ventilation for heat dissipation.
Can it be integrated with other radio systems?
Yes, it integrates seamlessly with muLTElink5060 for multiple link airborne radio systems. For wiring diagrams, refer to ARS Manual Appendix Section 13.
How do I configure the SkyLink915Micro with an autopilot?
For Mission Planner/Ardupilot, follow ARS Manual Section 10.7.1. For Auterion/PX4, see Section 10.7.2. It uses a protocol-agnostic RS232 interface. Ensure telemetry settings match 115,200 bps.
How do I register the SkyLink915Micro with SkyLine?
Follow the ARS Manual Sections 10.5 and 10.6 for SkyLine ARS registration steps. This enables cloud-managed BVLOS service integration.
What software tools are needed for configuration?
Use the SkyLine Cloud Managed Service for configuration. Autopilot-specific tools like Mission Planner for Ardupilot or appropriate software for PX4 are required for telemetry setup.
How do I set up frequency hopping?
Frequency hopping is built-in for diversity and interference mitigation in the 902-928 MHz band. No manual configuration is needed; it activates automatically as per the device's design.
Is there a configuration for LTE integration?
For LTE, integrate with muLTElink5060 as described in ARS Manual Sections 9.1.1 and 9.1.2. Configuration involves setting up multiple links in the autopilot software.
What is the data transmission rate during operation?
The user data rate is 4400 Bytes/sec, with a bandwidth of 200 kHz. It supports transparent telemetry for C2.
How does it handle interference during operation?
It uses frequency hopping design to mitigate ISM band interference and dual radio architecture for path diversity.
What monitoring features are available during operation?
Built-in status, integrity, and health monitoring for both airborne and ground radios, meeting RTCA DO-377A DTSR requirements. Use SkyLine for real-time monitoring.
What is the operational range and power output?
Transmit power is 1 W (4 W EIRP) with receiver sensitivity of -118 dBm. Range depends on environment, but it's optimized for BVLOS operations with SkyLine support.
What are the recommended checks and maintenance procedures for SkyLink radios?
Regular maintenance includes checking the antenna connections, ensuring the device is free from physical damage, and verifying that the firmware is up to date. Conduct routine tests to ensure the system’s operational reliability, especially in diverse environmental conditions.
What should I do if there is no connection to the ground station?
Check power supply (4-6 VDC), antenna connections, GPS signal, and ensure compatibility with SkyStation915. Verify SkyLine registration and autopilot telemetry settings. Refer to ARS Manual Section 11 for link switching logic.
How do I address interference issues?
The frequency hopping should handle most ISM interference. If persistent, relocate antennas for better path diversity or check for nearby ISM devices. Monitor health status for diagnostics.
How do I address interference issues?
The frequency hopping should handle most ISM interference. If persistent, relocate antennas for better path diversity or check for nearby ISM devices. Monitor health status for diagnostics.
What if the device overheats or powers off unexpectedly?
Ensure operating temperature is within -45 to 70°C and power input is stable. Check for ventilation and reduce peak power usage if possible.
How can I check the system's health and status?
Use the integrated monitoring features via SkyLine or autopilot software. The device provides real-time status for local and remote radios as per RTCA DO-377A.
Where can I get support for issues?
Contact uAvionix support as detailed in the manuals' Support sections (GRS Manual Section 14, ARS Manual Section 12). Provide part numbers and describe the issue.
What are the FAA requirements for operating SkyLink radios, particularly in the C-Band spectrum?
Operation in the C-Band spectrum requires adherence to FAA and FCC regulations, including obtaining the necessary frequency authorizations and ensuring compliance with any regional or national restrictions related to aviation-protected frequencies.
I still have questions. Where do I go for customer support?
For additional customer support, please submit a Support Ticket to the uAvionix customer support team.
Comments
0 comments
Please sign in to leave a comment.