Doodle Labs adds Boost amplifier for Mesh Rider radios

Two Boost versions exist, for S-Band and for C-Band, and either can be added to Mesh Rider radios in the field without replacing them. Model BDA-4464-04-22O2, the C-Band unit, tunes from 4,400 to 6,400 MHz. In a 2x2 MIMO setup its peak output is 36 dBm (4 W). Transmit gain is up to 13 dB, receive gain about 8 dB, and the amplifier changes between transmit and receive by itself in about 1 µs.

The unit measures roughly 47 x 35 x 21 mm and weighs 147 g, neither figure including a heatsink. Cooling is passive or active.

A Smart Bypass Mode, controlled in software, manages the power budget. With sufficient native link margin the amplifier stays idle and the platform draws about 1.2 W. When distance or jamming calls for more, it switches on without operator action, and consumption rises toward 4 W at full output. An always-on high-power amplifier would drain the battery throughout the flight.

The C-Band Boost is meant for Mesh Rider radios that support C-band, among them the Dual Radio model with NATO and U.S. government frequencies. Ruggedized versions, custom frequency ranges and other output levels are available only by arrangement, so integrators should confirm requirements with Doodle Labs first.

Why it matters

Sense needs under 100 ms to move a Mesh Rider radio between bands and channels, and Dual Radio units keep two independent bands running. Boost contributes a third measure, more power at the radio itself. The company says this lifts the signal-to-jamming ratio seen by the receiver and stretches range, so an adversary must bring a stronger jammer or approach.

Doodle Labs reports 330 km on Mesh Rider links with third-party amplifiers, at a cost in size, weight, price and supply. Boost targets drone platforms specifically to remove those drawbacks.

Programmes with radios mounted far from the antenna, or flying at long standoff range, are pointed to the Boost product page for RF specifications and the datasheet.