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Hi,

we have performed RC range simulations for 2 systems:

35MHz, 2.5m mean antenna height, 1m receiver height (vertical mast on the UAV)

and

2.4GHz, 2m TX antenna height, 0.5m receiver height (short antennas)

in order to simulate it over a vast terrain we know and use.

The range plot was made from 4km2 elevation model made by Pix4D and Pteryx UAV.

Treat it as a kind of reminder of what happens when landing using FPV.

We know the results are valid since they match our experience

and measurements of range at several altitude levels.

We don't name the systems but mentioned RC systems are the best hobby grade you can buy off the shelf without law & power restrictions.

Things look perfect at flight altitude of 5m, but even with slightly undulated area the horror starts during touchdown, you get anything from 300m to 2km range. The area pictured is 2x2km.

Atmosferic wave diffraction is accounted for (negligible impact here).

ftp://ftp.aerialrobotics.eu/2011-05-18%20czyste/czyste1_txrange_2m.kmz

866MHz 100mW modems were tested and have shown similar range as 35MHz range at ground level (but only with huge 35MHz antenna, strictly vertical). The plot really shows where we have 95% modem bandwidth or good RC control, when overall low control latency is required: during the landing.