Optional Tripod-Mounted Sector Antenna
The following section outlines the basic assembly and operation of the tripod-mounted sector antenna.
The tripod-mounted sector antenna extends the Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) range by up to 40 km. It has a horizontal field of view (beamwidth) of 120 degrees and a vertical field of view of 12 degrees. For standard operation, the antenna requires a Silvus StreamCaster 4240-EP.
Assembly
Mount and secure the antenna on the provided tripod.
Connect the RF antenna cables to the RF ports of the antenna.
Connect the battery to the Silvus StreamCaster as described here.
Connect the Silvus breakout cable to the Silvus StreamCaster as described here.
Connect the other end of the RF antenna cables to the RF Ports (G) of the Silvus StreamCaster.
Mount the Silvus StreamCaster to the tripod with the provided velcro.
Please follow these steps to establish a connection between the GCS and the vehicle.
Positioning the Tripod-Mounted Sector Antenna
For general information and tips on radio range and line-of-sight operation, please read here.
The optimal angle for a sector antenna to operate effectively with a drone depends on several factors, including the antenna’s beamwidth and the drone’s flight path. A sector antenna typically has a directional beam covering a specific angular range, known as the beamwidth.
The provided tripod-mounted sector antenna has a horizontal beamwidth of 120 degrees and a vertical beamwidth of 12 degrees.
Consider the following:
Antenna Beamwidth: Sector antennas have a defined beamwidth within which the main lobe of the radiation pattern operates. Align the antenna so that the main lobe covers the area where the drone is expected to operate most frequently.
Drone Flight Path: Take into account the expected flight path of the DeltaQuad Evo Tactical. If the drone will operate within a specific sector, align the antenna to cover that sector. It’s common to point the sector antenna slightly upward, depending on the drone’s altitude.
Altitude Changes: If the drone is expected to fly at various altitudes, adjust the tilt of the sector antenna to ensure consistent coverage across different heights.
Obstructions: Be aware of any potential obstructions between the antenna and the drone. Adjust the antenna angle to avoid obstacles and maintain a clear line of sight.
Coverage Area: Determine the desired coverage area and adjust the sector antenna’s angle accordingly. Sector antennas are typically used to cover specific sectors of a 360-degree area.
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