UAVOS has announced the introduction of a new Portable Ground Control Station for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), the PGCS 3. The basic system configuration features and ergonomic control panel built around a military-grade rugged Getac X500 laptop. The PGCS 3 can be integrated with a variety of different 15” laptop computer models, making the system highly versatile.
The PGCS 3 consists of a detachable computer and a console with additional controls. The system is fully compatible with UAVOS’ UAV autopilot. The console joysticks, push-buttons and switches are industrial water-proofed units. The panel is equipped with a quick-release mechanism for docking the laptop.
The PGCS 3 is designed to monitor, control and display live video streaming from UAVs, and can also be used as a simulator. The station is designed for simultaneous work with an aircraft carrying a payload. A digital modem integrated into the system provides UAV control without using an external antenna. UAVOS has also developed a switching and power supply board which allows the PGCS 3 to work from various power sources, as well as to charge the docked computer.
The PGCS 3 has a compact form factor (length 25.8in/656mm, width 13in/332mm), height 5in/128mm). The console weighs 8.6lb (3.9kg) and the Getac X500 weighs 12lb (5.5kg). The console housing is made of an aluminum alloy and provides protection from moisture and dirt.
“PGCS 3 is another example of UAVOS developing industry-grade technology that supports our customers’ unique needs. The system incorporates features and technologies such as fail-safe features and redundancy, moisture resistance and the ability to operate in a wide range of temperatures – for mission flexibility, scalability, and ease of use, thus making it universally capable for the wide range of future projects,” said Aliaksei Stratsilatau, UAVOS’ Chairman of the Board and lead developer.
