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In the last 4 years of being involved with UAVs I’ve always lacked a good ground station, one that’s practical and quick to deploy.

So I started drawing up a list of requirements. I had to draw the line somewhere, or the cost and weight would run away, so I ended up with a shortlist of key requirements that I need from a ground station. I had a look around and could not find a good fit – most of the pro systems are for non-APM auto pilots and they start at US$ 11 000 with very little standard features.

I decided to build my own and after 4 major revisions, I ended up with a prototype that’s been with us for more than a year, working reliably day in and day out, through dust and rain, extreme heat, cold and wet. It’s been a life saver with work and demonstrations and makes the tricky job of UAV operations that much simpler.

I highly recommend anyone in the business to take serious the setup of a practical ground station. For those who do not have the time or inclination to DIY (it does take a surprising amount of time to develop), we can offer “Field Ops”.

Features:

• Internal lithium ion power pack capable of 8 hours’ continuous operation with peripherals
• Embedded in a Pelican case – crush proof, water proof, dust proof – VERY tough
• Thumbstick for controlling the aircraft or camera gimbals
• Secure on-off switch with key to ensure no accidental switch-off
• USB 3 Port
• LAN Port
• HDMI Output
• Wifi & Buetooth (Embedded 4G optional)
• Internal APM Telemetry 1/2 Watt radio (433, 868 or 915) or as required
• Wireless keyboard
• External DC (12-20v) or AC input with automatic charging of internal batteries
• Stowage for RC control accommodating space for external transmitter modules at the back of the radio (e.g. Dragonlink on the back of a Taranis transmitter)
• Intel i7 PC with SSD drive
• Super bright 10” HD screen for PC (Mission Planner)
• Super bright 7” FPV screen (Internal diversity 5.8ghz receivers, DVR, Aux Input via front console)
• Tough ABS Plastic panelling

To order, please contact us on info@airsecure.co.za. Our web site is on http://airsecure.co.za. Cost ranges from US$4 500 - US$ 5 500 depending on options and building takes about 7 work days.

Also feel free to email us to discuss options or ask questions on how to DIY.