Elistair is a provider of tethered drone stations for various sectors, including defense, surveillance, and emergency response. Tethered drones, also known as tethered UAV systems (unmanned aerial vehicles), provide significant advantages for security and safety professionals.
These drones are linked to a ground station via a tether, which supplies power and ensures stable communication. This configuration not only extends operational flight duration but also enhances situational awareness and secures both flight and communication.
Selecting the right tethered drone station can be a complex process. Below, Elistair outlines which factors should be considered when choosing the most suitable tethered drone station for specific user needs.
Choosing a Tethered Drone Station
Several performance characteristics must be assessed when choosing a tethered drone station. Below are the critical aspects to keep in mind:
Flight Altitude
One of the primary considerations is flight altitude, as different applications demand different height capabilities. Ensure the station supports the required operational altitude for your specific tasks.
For example, surveillance drones used for monitoring large events may need to hover at greater altitudes for extended coverage. Tethered drones equipped with long cables (100 meters) provide broader visibility, optimizing surveillance capabilities.
Drone Compatibility
If you already own a drone, check its compatibility with the tethered station under consideration. The onboard module should be lightweight and compact.
The tethered system must also supply adequate power for the drone’s operations while accommodating power fluctuations that may occur in demanding conditions, such as strong winds or during takeoff and landing.
Some manufacturers offer tethered drone stations compatible with multiple drone models. This is particularly beneficial for professionals who operate a variety of drones, as a single station can be adapted to an entire fleet, allowing the operator to select the most suitable system for each mission.
Portability & Ease of Deployment
Portability is another essential factor. If your operations involve frequent movement, opt for a lightweight and easily transportable tether station. Look for systems that can be deployed in under 10 minutes and require minimal personnel for setup.
Power Supply
A reliable and continuous power source is critical. Since tethered drones depend on an uninterrupted power supply from the ground station, ensure that the station provides stable and consistent energy output. This is particularly crucial for long-duration missions, where any power disruption could compromise the entire operation.
Durability & Weather Resistance
Public safety operations often occur in diverse environments, ranging from urban areas to extreme weather conditions. Choose a tethered drone station designed for all-weather performance. It should withstand wind, rain, and dust while maintaining stability in challenging environments such as festivals or outdoor emergency response scenarios.
Data Transmission
Secure and reliable data transmission is vital for surveillance applications. Look for tethered stations that feature robust communication systems, minimizing the risk of signal interference or loss. High-quality data transmission ensures accurate and timely information collection, which is crucial in emergency response situations.
Heavy Lift Drone Capability
For applications requiring the transportation of heavier payloads, selecting a tethered station compatible with heavy lift drones is essential.
These drones can carry more advanced equipment, such as high-performance cameras and sensors, enhancing operational versatility. Since these drones consume more power, ensure that the tether station can meet the increased energy demand.
Ligh-T 4 Portable Tethered Drone Station
Advantages of Tethered Drones
Tethered drones are transforming industries by offering extended flight duration, improved security, and cost-effective solutions for long-term operations.
Extended Flight Duration
One of the primary benefits of tethered drones is their prolonged operational capability. Unlike battery-powered drones, tethered UAV systems can remain airborne for extended periods, making them ideal for long-duration missions. This is particularly advantageous in applications requiring continuous surveillance, such as border monitoring or large-scale event security.
Enhanced Security
In addition to their physical tether preventing unintended flyaways, the tether provides a secure communication link, significantly reducing the risk of signal interference or hacking.
This is particularly important for sensitive operations that require high levels of security. For instance, in military applications, a secure communication link ensures that confidential information remains protected. However, some drones restrict data transfer to their proprietary applications. In such cases, data (including images and videos) cannot be transmitted via the tether.
Cost Efficiency
Over time, tethered drones can prove to be a more cost-effective solution. They eliminate the need for frequent battery replacements, reducing both operational expenses and downtime. This cost advantage is particularly beneficial for large-scale operations where multiple drones are deployed over extended periods.
Selecting the right tethered drone station requires careful evaluation of performance characteristics, compatibility, and specific operational needs. By thoroughly assessing these factors, users can make an informed decision that enhances drone capabilities and overall efficiency.
