RFD868x Long-Range Telemetry Modem Kit (UK)

We’ve spent 10 years supplying commercial UAV radio systems to the UK, so we know your headaches. You need a reliable drone communication link that doesn't quit when your client demands a mission in freezing rain. The RFD868x is a professional-grade long-range telemetry modem built to keep your Ground Control Station (GCS) locked in. Powered by an ARM 32-bit core and open-source SiK firmware, it delivers a massive 500kbit/s air data rate. Say goodbye to mid-flight panic and hello to rock-solid Mavlink protocol framing and FHSS (Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum) reliability. With simultaneous RC PPM pass-through, this telemetry kit actually gets your data home, keeping CAA paperwork off your desk.

Key Highlights

• Unapologetic Range: >40km depending on antennas and GCS setup (80km demonstrated on a weather balloon), supported by real-time automatic antenna diversity switching.
• Heavy-Duty Processing: ARM 32-bit core pushing 500kbit/s air data rates with fully working AES hardware-accelerated encryption.
• Bulletproof Design: Every single I/O port is fully ESD protected and filtered, backed by automatic duty cycle throttling to prevent overheating.

Why You Want This Long-Range Telemetry Modem

Because dealing with signal loss mid-survey is bad for your blood pressure and worse for your margins. The RFD868x isn't just about raw power—though it has a full 1 Watt (+30dBm) of it. It’s engineered with a transmit low-pass filter, a >20dB low-noise amplifier (high IP3), and an RX SAW filter to punch through the noise floor. Add in Mavlink radio status reporting (Local/Remote RSSI and Noise) and beta support for asynchronous multipoint firmware, and you have a radio link that outsmarts the environment. Tested to survive operational temperatures from -73°C to +123°C, this modem will outlive your airframe, your client's patience, and probably you.

Specifications

• Weight: 14.5g
• Dimensions: 30 mm (wide) x 57 mm (long) x 12.8 mm (thick) - Including RF Shield, Heatsink, and connectors
• Frequency Range: 868-869 MHz
• Output Power: 1W (+30dBm), controllable in 1dB steps (+/- 1dB @=20dBm typical)
• Air Data Transfer Rates: 4, 8, 16, 19, 24, 32, 48, 64, 96, 128, 192, 250, and 500 kbit/sec (User selectable, 64k default)
• UART Data Transfer Rates: 9600, 19200, 38400, 57600, 115200, 400k, 921k baud (User selectable, 57600 default at N, 8, 1)
• Receive Sensitivity: >121 dBm at low data rates
• Power Supply: +5 V nominal (+3.5 V min, +5.5 V max), ~800 mA peak at maximum power
• Interfaces: 2 x RP-SMA RF connectors (diversity switched), Logic level TTL (+3.3v) Serial, 6x GPIO (Digital, ADC, PWM capable)
• RF Architecture: Transmit low-pass filter, >20dB Low noise amplifier, RX SAW filter
• Mounting: 3 x M2.5 screws, 3 x header pin solder points
• Temperature Range: -40 to +85 deg C (Tested operational from -73 to +123 deg C)
• Compatibility: 3DR / Hope-RF radio modules, integrated APM Planner support

FAQ

Can I use the RFD868x for both RC control and telemetry at the same time?

Yes. The RFD868x natively supports RC PPM pass-through concurrently with your telemetry data. It's designed specifically to streamline your payload wiring and reduce the number of potential failure points on your commercial rig.

What’s in the Box*

• 2× RFD868x Radio Modems
• 1× 868-900MHz Quarter wave monopole antenna (2.1dBi)
• 1× 868-900MHz Right Angle Quarter wave monopole antenna (2.1dBi)
• 4× 868-900MHz Half wave dipole antennas (3dBi)
• 1× FTDI USB cable

Disclaimer

Designed for compliance with FCC Part 15.247 and AS/NZS 4268:2012, but you are strictly responsible for ensuring compliance with your local UK/European radio transmission laws. We supply the high-end hardware; we do not pay your fines if you decide to illegally blast 1W of transmit power in a restricted zone. Check your local regulations.

Still Here?

The research balloon guys hit 80km with this exact setup. You're just trying to map a quarry without dropping packets. Put it in the cart and go get the job done.