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This section describes how to attach the antennas to the radio modem.
Remove the two protective caps from the RF ports (G).
Remove the Silvus antennas from the upper right compartment of the flight case, and connect the two antennas to the RF ports (G).
To disconnect the antennas, follow the steps above in reverse order.
The following chapter gives a basic overview of the Silvus StreamCaster 4240-EP.
The DeltaQuad Evo TAC/TAC+ comes with the Silvus StreamCaster 4240-EP, which consists of a handheld radio modem, two omnidirectional antennas, and a detachable battery. A breakout cable is included to establish the connection to the DeltaQuad Toughbook.
At the top of the radio modem, you find the following connections:
For operation with the DeltaQuad Evo TAC/TAC+, only the RF Ports (G), the Primary Port (A), and the Battery Port (E) will be used.
This section describes how to charge the Silvus battery.
Take the Silvus charging dock and the charging cable out of the lower right compartment of the flight case.
Connect the power adapter to the charging dock.
Connect the power adapter to a power outlet.
The Silvus battery can be charged either while assembled with the radio modem and antennas or by charging the battery alone. Place the unit in one of the available charging slots (A or B) in the charging dock.
When charging the radio in its fully assembled state, make sure to power down the radio before charging.
While charging, the LED indicators will blink yellow. When charging is complete, the LEDs will be solid green.
The Silvus charging dock can be used as a stand-alone stand during field operations when a flat and stable surface is not available. Do not charge the battery while using the dock as a stand and when the Silvus radio is powered on.
This section describes how to attach the Silvus battery to the radio modem.
Take the Silvus StreamCaster 4240-EP and the Silvus battery out of the upper right compartment of the flight case.
Connect the top of the battery to the bottom of the radio modem.
Align the battery in a 45-degree angle.
Connect both units and turn to align them. The battery locking mechanism will make an audible click sound.
To detach the battery for storage or charging, pull up the battery release latch on the side of the radio modem and turn the battery until it is released.
The following section provides a basic overview of the DeltaQuad Toughbook, and the handheld controller.
The DeltaQuad Evo Tactical comes with the DeltaQuad Toughbook, which has Auterion Tactical Mission Control pre-installed. This software provides the communication link between your UAV and the ground systems. The DeltaQuad Military Toughbook is a MIL-STD ruggedized touch-screen laptop, built using the Panasonic TOUGHBOOK FZ-55 with a magnesium chassis, flexible configurations, and a universal bay.
To charge the Toughbook, please use the provided power adapter.
The handheld controller enables manual override, precision landing, and camera gimbal control during fixed-wing flight.
To connect the handheld controller to the Toughbook, plug the USB connector of the controller to any of the USB ports of the Toughbook.
Number
Type
Function
1
Left joystick
In hover mode
Stick up: climb
Stick down: descend
Stick left: yaw left
Stick right: yaw right
In fixed-wing mode (payload dependent)
Stick up: gimbal up
Stick down: gimbal down
Stick left: gimbal left
Stick right: gimbal right
2
Right joystick
In hover mode
Stick up: move forward
Stick down: move backward
Stick left: move left
Stick right: move right
In fixed-wing mode
Stick up: descend (nose down)
Stick down: climb (nose up)
Stick left: bank left
Stick right: bank right
3
Shoulder buttons L1 and R1
Gimbal zoom for ISR payloads
This chapter discusses the GCS, its components, and how to assemble it.
A Ground Control Station (GCS) refers to a centralized system or interface that allows operators to communicate with and control unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) or drones. The GCS serves as a command center where operators can monitor the drone's telemetry data, receive real-time video feeds from its cameras, and send commands for navigation, flight parameters, and other operational tasks.
The transmission and control system of the DeltaQuad Evo Tactical includes three essential components: a radio modem and antenna(s), and a Toughbook with a hand controller.
There are two antenna options available:
This section provides important information on how to properly store the Silvus StreamCaster 4240-EP.
When disassembling and storing the Silvus StreamCaster, it is best practice to detach the Silvus battery from the radio modem and store both items separately in their designated flight case compartments.
Important Guidelines for Storing the Silvus StreamCaster 4240-EP:
Never store the Silvus StreamCaster in the flight case while powered on and with the antennas detached. The high transmission power can cause significant damage to the radio module, particularly when the antennas are not installed.
Reflected Power and Overload: When a radio modem transmits, the energy must be radiated through the antenna. Without an antenna, the transmitted power has nowhere to go and reflects back into the radio’s circuitry, especially the transmitter. This can lead to overheating or damage to critical components, particularly the power amplifier.
Impedance Mismatch: Antennas are designed to match the radio modem's impedance. Without an antenna, a significant impedance mismatch occurs, preventing the efficient transfer of RF energy. This mismatch causes high voltage standing wave ratios (VSWR), which can result in damage to the modem.
The Silvus StreamCaster 4240-EP is equipped with advanced features like automatic power control, designed to protect the system in situations where the antennas are not properly connected. This feature, known as power throttling, reduces transmission power to prevent damage to internal components in the event of an antenna connection issue. Additionally, the device may issue warnings or errors if it detects that the antennas are not attached, further reducing the risk of damage due to reflected power.
However, even with these safeguards in place, it is still best practice to avoid powering on the radio without the antennas properly installed.
While power control features help protect the device, they are not a guarantee against potential damage if the issue persists.
This section describes how to connect the breakout cable to the radio modem.
The Silvus StreamCaster comes with a breakout cable.
Remove the protective cap from the Primary Port (PRI).
Connect the end of the cable with one plug to the PRI Port on the radio modem.
To properly connect the plug to the socket, ensure that the red dots on both are aligned.
To detach the cable for storage, simply pull the plug out of the PRI socket by gripping the base of the plug and pulling it upward.
The following section describes how to establish a connection between the GCS and the DeltaQuad Evo Tactical.
Before connecting the GCS to your UAV, the Silvus StreamCaster must be connected to the Toughbook, and both items must be switched on.
Follow the instructions in the chapter Silvus StreamCaster 4240-EP on properly setting up the radio module.
Connect the Ethernet plug from the Silvus breakout cable to the Ethernet port on the Toughbook.
Open the Toughbook, and turn it on.
Start the application Auterion Mission Control (AMC).
Before launching AMC, connecting the Toughbook to a mobile hotspot or Wi-Fi network is recommended. The Toughbook uses internet connectivity to load satellite maps and for LTE communication with the UAV.
Pull out the rotary knob on top of the Silvus radio modem and set it to 1.
Do NOT set the dial of the rotary knob to Z, as this is resetting the radio to its default settings. This makes the radio unusable.
The Silvus StreamCaster 4240-EP is configured and set up properly in our factory. There is no need for further configuration. The system is plug-and-play ready.
Switch on the DeltaQuad Evo. Follow the steps described in the chapter Powering the Vehicle.
During initialization, the GCS and the DeltaQuad Evo automatically establish a connection. The bi-color Status LED on the Silvus radio modem should change from red to green.
The following list provides an overview of the possible LED color codes and their corresponding meanings.
In the upper left corner of AMC, the vehicle status indicator will show the connection status to the DeltaQuad Evo. When the indicator is green (Ready to Fly), the vehicle is ready for takeoff.
The connection between the GCS and the DeltaQuad Evo has been established.
Red
The radio is in the process of booting up.
Flashing Green
The radio is fully booted but not wirelessly connected to the vehicle.
Green
Spectrum Scan is in Progress. Connection to the vehicle has been established.
Flashing Red
Radio has recovered from a bad state and has reverted to factory default settings.
Rapid Flashing Red for 1 second
The battery is less than or equal to 20%. LED will blink red rapidly for 1 second then go back to normal. This will repeat every 5 seconds.
Rapid Flashing Green
When the multi-position switch is rotated to a new position, the LED will rapidly flash green while the new settings are being applied. The LED will return to normal indication once the settings have been applied.
This section will explain how to access the Silvus StreamCaster GUI for optional changes.
All Silvus radios come preconfigured and are ready for immediate use. Changing the settings is recommended only for advanced users.
Each Silvus radio modem has a dedicated IP address consisting of four octets separated by periods. For example 172.20.123.123.
The individual IP address of each Silvus StreamCaster is marked on the back of the radio module.
To access the Silvus StreamCaster GUI, ensure that the Toughbook is connected to the Silvus StreamCaster and both units are powered on.
On the Toughbook, open a browser. In the address bar, enter the IP address of the radio modem and press Enter.
If you encounter issues with the Google Chrome browser while using the GUI, try switching to an incognito window, which may help resolve the problem.
The battery level of the radio modem is displayed in the top right corner of the GUI's menu bar.
Critical battery levels are indicated by the radio modem's LED. For more information, please refer to the following section.
After a few seconds, the browser should display the Silvus StreamCaster GUI. Navigate to the tab Local Radio Configuration -> RF -> Basic to access the basic radio frequency settings. Here, you can configure parameters such as Frequency, Bandwidth, and Total Transmission Power.
To ensure proper functionality, all changes must be applied to both the handheld radio and the DeltaQuad Evo. To save and apply changes to both devices, make sure they are powered on and connected. Selecting SAVE AND APPLY TO NETWORK will store the changes in both devices, preserving them even after a reboot. Using APPLY will only apply the changes temporarily until the next reboot.
The DeltaQuad Evo Tactical includes an Interference Avoidance License. In areas with RF jamming, the system will employ frequency hopping to maintain the strongest possible link. The frequency set in the Basic Configuration acts as the starting point for the system's operation.
Under the tab Network Management -> Network Topology, you can view the individual nodes along with their signal strength.
Under the tab Security -> Encryption, you can configure the security keys.
During factory setup, we generate random keys that are not stored for security reasons. When changing these keys, ensure you save and apply the changes to both the handheld radio and the DeltaQuad Evo.
Under the tab Security -> White/Black List, you can create either a white list or a black list. A black list can block specific nodes from accessing the network, while a white list specifies which nodes are allowed to access the network.
For more information, please follow this link.
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.
Mount and secure the sector antenna on the provided tripod.
At the top of the tripod pole, there are ridges that fit the antenna holder, providing more stability for the antenna mount.
Extend the antenna away from the tripod pole during the radio installation.
The Tripod-Mounted Sector Antenna comes with two coaxial antenna cables. Connect the smaller coaxial plugs to the RF Ports (G) of the Silvus StreamCaster.
Velcro is attached to the back of the Silvus handheld radio. Install the radio onto the corresponding Velcro on the backside of the sector antenna.
Connect the other end of the antenna cables to the RF ports of the sector antenna.
Special care must be taken when connecting the antenna cables to the Silvus handheld radio and the sector antenna. Ensure that the connection is secure and that the plugs are fully seated.
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.
The vertical angle of the sector antenna can be changed by adjusting the lower extender arm. It features a degree scale for precise adjustments.
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.
Here is a table showing the necessary elevation angles (in degrees) for the antenna at different altitudes (HGT - relative to the takeoff location) and distances from the GCS, assuming that the GCS and antenna are placed close to each other near the takeoff location (values can be rounded up or down):
This table gives the required vertical alignment for the sector antenna to cover the vehicle flying at altitudes between 500 meters and 5500 meters at varying distances (10 km, 20 km, 30 km, and 40 km).
The following is a graph representing the necessary antenna elevation angles for different altitudes and distances from the GCS. The x-axis shows the distance from the GCS, and the y-axis shows the corresponding elevation angles in degrees for various altitudes ranging from 500m to 5500m. Each line represents a specific altitude and shows how the required elevation angle changes as the UAV moves farther from the GCS.
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.
The following section explains how to change the encryption settings for the Silvus radio network.
This guide will help you configure the encryption settings for the Silvus radios in the DeltaQuad Evo Tactical to meet your needs. Following these steps will ensure secure communication and protect your data from unauthorized access and cyber threats.
The Silvus radio in the DeltaQuad Evo Tactical comes with encryption enabled by default. DeltaQuad uses randomized encryption keys that are not recorded. It is the operator's responsibility to modify the radio encryption to meet the specific operational requirements.
Encryption is crucial for securing data transmitted between drones and ground stations. It protects sensitive information, such as video feeds and control commands, from unauthorized access. By employing encryption, you can guard against cyber threats, eavesdropping, and tampering, thereby maintaining the integrity and confidentiality of your communications.
The DeltaQuad Evo Tactical supports several encryption protocols, each offering varying levels of security:
AES 56-bit
AES 128-bit
AES 256-bit
These protocols utilize Advanced Encryption Standard (AES), with higher bit numbers providing stronger security. For instance, AES-256 is highly recommended for the highest level of security.
Access the Configuration Interface:
Connect to the Silvus radio through a web browser using the radio's IP address. A connection guide can be found .
Navigate to the Security Settings:
Locate the security settings tab and click on Encryption.
Select the Encryption Protocol:
Choose the desired AES encryption level (56, 128, or 256-bit) from the dropdown menu or selection box.
Generate a Wrapping and HMAC key and input Encryption key:
Click on the respective fields to generate a Wrapping and HMAC key. The system does not store these keys for security reasons. They are randomly generated based on the chosen encryption method.
Click on the field to input the Encryption key. Enter your encryption key, ensuring it meets the protocol requirements for length and complexity. The system does not store this key for security reasons.
Save and Apply Settings:
After configuring the encryption settings, ensure that you save and apply these settings not only on the device you are currently configuring but also across the entire network. This means applying and saving the settings for all radios, both ground and air units, to ensure uniform encryption across all communication links.
Testing and Verification:
Perform a communication test to ensure that the encryption is working correctly. Verify that data transmission is secure and that there are no connectivity issues.
Additional Considerations
Random Key Generation: The system can generate random keys based on the encryption method, enhancing security by preventing predictable patterns.
Non-Storage of Keys: For cybersecurity, encryption keys are not stored. This practice mitigates the risk of unauthorized access to the keys.
Regularly update and manage encryption settings to adapt to evolving security needs and maintain robust protection against cyber threats.
The following section explains how to connect and set up an ATAK device.
ATAK stands for Android Team Awareness Kit. It is a mobile geospatial platform that facilitates real-time collaboration and communication among teams, particularly in military and emergency response scenarios. ATAK provides a map-based interface on Android devices, enabling users to share location data, mark points of interest, and communicate with team members in the field. It is designed to enhance situational awareness and coordination by leveraging geospatial information in a user-friendly mobile application.
Ground Control Station (GCS)
Data-Link
Ethernet Switch
Android device with ATAK installed (Application is available in the Google PlayStore)
Connect the Ground radio to the Ethernet switch.
Connect the tablet/phone running ATAK to the Ethernet switch
Connect the Ethernet switch to the GCS
Power the Ethernet switch
Scroll down to Team Awareness (Smartphone Integration) section.
Turn on Enable Team Awareness and Enable on startup. In Fly View, the Team icon will be highlighted in blue, indicating that ATAK functionality is enabled.
Set Controller Callsign to Mission Control.
Set Destination Address to 172.20.255.255.
Set Destination Port to 4242.
Set Destination Protocol to UDP.
Set Incoming Port to 8089.
Set Incoming Protocol to UDP.
Click on the three dots on the top right. A menu will open.
Choose Settings -> Network Connections. Click on Network Connections in the pop-up window.
Go to the Input/Output Management section and click on Manage Inputs.
Edit the default connection (click on the pencil icon) and set the address to 0.0.0.0.
Tick the advanced options.
Select Input Protocol to UDP.
Set Server Port to 4242.
Confirm changes.
The checkbox next to the default entry must be checked.
Go back to Input/Output Management. Click on Manage Outputs.
Click on the three dots in the top right and select Add.
Set name to AMC.
Set address to 172.20.1.1.
Tick the advanced options.
Select Input Protocol to UDP.
Set Server Port to 8089.
Confirm changes.
The checkbox next to the AMC entry must be checked.
Click on the video symbol in the top toolbar. Click on the + in the menu.
Change Type to rtsp in the popup window.
Add 172.20.110.10:8553/stream1
Optionally: Stream can be named (e.g. "Vehicle 1")
Click on Add. The stream will appear in the left menu.
Make sure to go through AMC-Settings, ATAK-Settings and Video-Settings first.
Connect the vehicle to AMC.
In ATAK, click on the three dots in the top right. A menu will appear. Click on Settings and then Network Connections. A popup will appear. Click on Network Connections. Check that the Primary IP Address is in the range 172.20.XX.XX.
If the Primary IP Address is in a different range, disconnect from the WiFi or cellular network.
As soon as the vehicle has GPS lock, the position as well as the sensor point of interest will appear on the map.
If the vehicle is on the ground, the sensor point of interest may not be visible.
Click on the video icon and select the stream previously configured in the ATAK configuration.
Select the marker icon in the ATAK top toolbar.
A menu with four different markers will appear on the right side.
Select the desired marker and click on the map to place the marker.
Click on send in the bottom right menu. You can either send the marker to a particular device or broadcast it.
The markers will appear on the map in AMC (Fly View only).
Connect the battery to the Silvus StreamCaster as described.
Connect the Silvus breakout cable to the Silvus StreamCaster as described .
Please follow to establish a connection between the GCS and the vehicle.
For general information and tips on radio range and line-of-sight operation, please read .
| Altitude (m) | 10 km Distance | 20 km Distance | 30 km Distance | 40 km Distance |
|---|
Select -> Settings -> General.
500 | 2.86° | 1.43° | 0.95° | 0.72° |
1000 | 5.71° | 2.86° | 1.91° | 1.43° |
1500 | 8.53° | 4.29° | 2.86° | 2.15° |
2000 | 11.31° | 5.71° | 3.81° | 2.86° |
2500 | 14.04° | 7.13° | 4.76° | 3.58° |
3000 | 16.70° | 8.53° | 5.71° | 4.29° |
3500 | 19.29° | 9.93° | 6.65° | 5.00° |
4000 | 21.80° | 11.31° | 7.59° | 5.71° |
4500 | 24.23° | 12.68° | 8.53° | 6.42° |
5000 | 26.57° | 14.04° | 9.46° | 7.13° |
5500 | 28.81° | 15.38° | 10.39° | 7.83° |
