The Foxtech VDC-22 / VDC-55 is a long-range video and data transmission system designed for industrial-grade applications, offering integrated video, data, and SBus signal transmission in a compact and powerful package. The system is available in two models, VDC-22 and VDC-55, differing primarily in their transmission range.
Function Description
The VDC-22 / VDC-55 system facilitates long-range communication between an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and a ground station. It integrates video, data, and SBus signal transmission into a single unit, simplifying UAV operations by eliminating the need for separate antenna setups on the ground end. This integration shortens preparation time and streamlines the overall workflow. The system supports various frequency bands, including 800MHz, 1.4GHz, and 2.4GHz, allowing users to select the appropriate band based on their needs and local radio control regulations.
The system comprises two main components: the Sky End (air unit) and the Base End (ground unit). The Sky End is mounted on the UAV and is responsible for transmitting video, data, and SBus signals. The Base End, located at the ground station, receives these signals, decodes them, and provides interfaces for connecting to a Ground Control Station (GCS) or a host computer for video display and data processing.
Important Technical Specifications
- Transmission Distance:
- VDC-22: 22 km
- VDC-55: 55 km
- Modulation Mode: OFDM
- Data Transmission: 2*UART / 2*SBUS, multi-channel transmission support
- Video Transmission: 1*Ethernet Port
- Frequency Modulation: Frequency Hopping / Fixed Frequency
- Working Frequency: 800 MHz / 1.4 GHz / 2.4 GHz
- 800MHz: 806MHz~825MHz
- 1.4GHz: 1427MHz~1447MHz
- 2.4GHz: 2408MHz~2488MHz
- Channel Bandwidth: 5MHz/10MHz/20MHz
- Working Bandwidth: 5/10/20 MHz
- Output Power:
- VDC-22: 30dBm ± 1dB
- VDC-55: 33dBm ± 1dB
- Sensitivity: <-95dBm
- Speed In The Air: 30Mbps@20MHz
- Power Input: DC 9~28V (3S~6S Battery)
- Power Consumption: ≤8.5W
- Working Temperature: -40°C ~ +70°C
- Storage Temperature: -40°C ~ +85°C
- Humidity: 5~95%, no Condensation
- Antenna:
- Air Unit: 2*SMA, 1*N
- Ground Unit: 2*SMA, 1*N
- Air Unit Interface:
- 1*XT30 Input Power
- 2*UART1 RS232; UART2 TTL 3.3V level
- Ground Unit Interface:
- 2*UART1; UART2 RS232
- Ethernet: 1*RJ45
- SBUS: 2*SBUS Input
- SBUS (Air Unit): 2*SBUS Output
- Baud Rate: 115200 (Default), support 57600, 38400, 19200, 9600
- Port (Air Unit): SMA
- Port (Ground Unit): N
- Enclosure (Air Unit): Black rubber
- Enclosure (Ground Unit): White plastic Panel
- Antenna Type (Air Unit): Rubber Antenna 20cm, Grey fiberglass
- Antenna Type (Ground Unit): Panel 25cm*25cm, Fiberglass Antenna 30cm
- Polarization Type: Vertical
- Gain:
- Air Unit: 2.5dBi
- Ground Unit: Fixed: 12dBi, omnidirectional: 5dBi
- SWR: ≤2.0
Usage Features
- Integrated Design: The system's all-in-one design for video, data, and SBus signals simplifies setup and operation, making it user-friendly, especially for the ground side which doesn't require special antenna configurations.
- Multiple Frequency Bands: Users can choose from 800MHz, 1.4GHz, and 2.4GHz frequency bands, providing flexibility to comply with local regulations and optimize performance for different environments.
- Robust Thermal Design: The industrial thermal design ensures reliable operation in demanding conditions, making it suitable for a wide range of industry-grade applications.
- GCS Connectivity: The Base End can connect to a GCS via Ethernet or UART interface, allowing for seamless integration with flight planning and control software like Mission Planner.
- Video Display: Video signals received by the Base End can be transferred to decoding software (e.g., VCL) on a host computer or GCS for real-time display.
- Data Transmission: Data from the Sky End's UART2 interface can be forwarded by Ethernet on the Base End to the GCS. Additionally, the Base End can send data to a host computer via a serial port using a UART to USB module.
- RC Control: The system supports RC control by connecting the SBUS_OUT interface on the VDC-22 / VDC-55 to the SBUS interface on the Flight Controller (FC).
- Status Indicators: The Base End features a signal display screen that shows signal strength, frequency, and bandwidth. It also has five LED lights indicating power, connection status, and signal strength. The Sky End includes a green light status indicator for various operational states, including initiating success at different frequencies, mode changes, setting mode, abnormal working, wireless connection success, and failure.
- Power Indicator: A solid green light indicates the air unit is booting.
- WI-Fi Signal Strength Indicator: Three lights indicate strong signal and high transmission quality, two lights indicate OK signal and medium quality, and one light indicates weak signal and low quality. No lights indicate no signal or connection failure.
Maintenance Features
- Mounting Precaution:
- Ensure the antenna is tightly mounted to the device to prevent damage.
- Verify the input voltage is within acceptable limits to avoid damage.
- Position the air unit's antenna facing the ground vertically, avoiding blocks, to maintain optimal transmission signal and distance.
- Mounting location should avoid metal parts, with at least a 20-cm clear area around the antenna.
- Use only manufacturer-designated antennas to ensure correct frequency and impedance.
- Maintain appropriate distance between modules to minimize electromagnetic interference.
- Using Precaution:
- Ensure all connections are firm and tight.
- Verify no objects are inside the equipment.
- Allow approximately 15 seconds after powering up for the system to start working and data transmission to become available.
- Avoid operating the VDC-22 / VDC-55 near other high-powered wireless emitting equipment on the same frequency to prevent interference with image reception.
- If the received signal is poor, adjust the angle of the receive antenna.
- Battery Compatibility: The Base End supports SONY XXXX batteries. External power supply is preferred if connected via interface No. 4.
- Gimbal Connection: When connecting a gimbal with HDMI/SDI/AV interface, an additional module may be required.
- Wiring Best Practices: Signal lines should be kept away from motor or BEC wires to prevent interference.
- User Manual Access: Users can log in to the Foxtech website for the latest product information, technical support, and user manual. It is recommended to download and use the latest version of the manual, as it is subject to change.
- Customer Support: Product usage information and technical support are available through official customer service.
- Product Variations: Due to different production batches, slight variations in appearance or function parameters may occur but will not affect normal product use.