Veronte XDL24 radio datalink

The Veronte XDL24 is a radio datalink for line-of-sight communications, built by Embention around a Digi XBee 3 radio module and connected to the host by USB. It is used to link a ground computer with Veronte Autopilot, and also works with compatible Digi XBee equipment. As a LOS link it carries configuration and telemetry data between the ground side and the aircraft.

The module is intended for unmanned aircraft operations where the vehicle stays within radio line of sight of the operator. It can be set up in point-to-point, point-to-multipoint and repeater networks, so one ground unit can serve several vehicles, or a relay node can extend the coverage of a link.

The main figures are an ISM 2.4 GHz operating band and a maximum RF data rate of 250 kbps. That rate is suited to telemetry, command and configuration traffic, and is not meant for video. Link payloads are protected with AES encryption at 128 or 256 bits. The XBee 3 radio generation on which the module is based lists a line-of-sight outdoor range of the order of 1,200 m for the standard version and 3,200 m for the PRO version, in free-air conditions with limited interference; the real range depends on antenna, power and terrain.

For integration, the unit takes a 5 V supply and draws 0.5 W typical, so it can be powered over the USB connection. Weight is 82 g, or 100 g with the antenna fitted. The antenna port is an SMA female connector, so omnidirectional or directional antennas with a matching connector can be selected for the installation. The housing is aluminum and the unit is rated IP68, which suits use outdoors in dust and rain, and it works over a temperature range from -40 to 85 degrees C.

Typical applications are ground control stations and test benches for Veronte-based UAS, short-range telemetry and command links, and multi-vehicle or relayed setups where several radios share one network.