DRONE-UAV

RFOptic has developed custom antenna remoting technology for drones and UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles). This innovative technology enables high dynamic range, bi-directional RF over Fiber (RFoF) support, allowing for the effective distancing of the often emissions-targeted drone or UAV antenna from its operator and control trailer.

The system transmits the UAV/Drone flight control signals over a single-mode fiber, amplifying them to achieve an extended range of communications. On the downlink path, return signals from the UAV are amplified and sent back to the controller through the same single-mode fiber, along with associated signals such as video and other reconnaissance data. This solution is engineered to deliver the full 4 GHz to 6 GHz band commonly used by UAV controllers and can be customized to support frequency ranges of up to 12 GHz and 18 GHz.

In the system, RF input signals are converted into a modulated optical signal at a specific wavelength, which is then transmitted over the single-mode fiber and converted back into an RF signal at the remote antenna site. The UAV’s return signal is modulated onto an optical signal with a different wavelength, allowing it to travel over the same fiber in the opposite direction. This signal is demodulated at the controller site to reproduce the original RF signal.

Moreover, Ethernet signaling can be integrated into the same fiber connection to provide network connectivity at the remote antenna site, facilitating the monitoring and control of additional equipment.

RFoF converters include gain control features and pre-configuration capabilities, simplifying deployment in various operational scenarios.