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Persistent Systems has announced that it has released a Lower C-Band RF module for its MPU5 radio system, reflecting the company’s goal of creating a truly modular radio architecture. The new Lower C-Band module operates in the 4400 to 5000 MHz frequency band that is utilized by NATO Military Forces, Federal / Homeland Security (DHS, DOJ), and Public Safety organizations. The Lower C-Band frequency is also a requirement of multiple Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV) Programs of Record. Persistent’s radio module provides 6W of transmit power via its 3×3 MIMO architecture, resulting in long range performance and high throughput.
“By following a modular approach to radio bands, we’ve basically made the MPU5 future-proof,” said Nick Naioti, VP of Business Development. “As spectrum relocation continues, our customers’ investment is protected. Compliance can be achieved by simply swapping the module as opposed to replacing the whole system.”
The US Government alone spends large amounts of money every year migrating their communication systems to new frequency bands as the Federal Spectrum Relocation process auctions off bandwidth to commercial wireless carriers. Money raised through FCC spectrum auctions is often utilized to provide funding to Federal Agencies who must migrate to new frequencies as they are forced from those that have been auctioned. However, if Federal communication systems employed a modular frequency architecture, the money saved could be appropriated for other important initiatives. Persistent has been advocating for Federal agencies to require a modular frequency architecture in government procurements to future-proof Federal communication systems and reduce the burden on taxpayers.
The new Lower C-Band Radio Module will also play a critical role in the Unmanned Ground Robotics (UGV) market, since this frequency band is a requirement for multiple programs of record that are actively being competed. Persistent, currently the largest provider of communication systems to the UGV market, has been working with many UGV platform providers to ensure that the Lower C-Band Module meets and exceeds all programmatic communication requirements.
“Radio modules with 6W of transmit power and 3×3 MIMO technology mean that soldiers can operate UGV systems from much greater distances. UGV systems are typically utilized to inspect or neutralize explosive devices. Every bit of range and performance that we can offer directly increases soldier safety, and we designed our modules with this in mind,” commented Eric Stern, Director of Engineering.
