Cobham introduces mini video transmitter for UAVs

Cobham has introduced a new high definition (HD), dual stream video transmitter, called M2TE (Messenger 2 Transmitter Enhanced), for use on unmanned aerial vehicles.

"The M2TE transmitter provides a bird's eye view in real time for ground forces," said Steve Schaefer, Vice President of Cobham Tactical Communications and Surveillance. "It supports two video streams over one wireless video link with extremely low latency, or delay, giving it true tactical capability."

The M2TE is a miniature video transmitter with AVC/h.264 video encoding for dual input HD or SD (standard definition) video and data programs. The technology supports any combination of HD or SD video using HDSDI, SDI or composite camera inputs from 1080p 60 fps down to 480i/576i (NTSC or Pal).

The COFDM modulation makes this link robust over water, just above the horizon and even some non line-of-site. These conditions can be a problem for signal carrier links such as FM, DDL and CDL. RF bands are available from 0.9 to 7 GHz in bands with AES-128/256 encryption. Control is provided via the local panel or remote LAN Web Server or serial interface. The small size (3.6" X 3.12" X 0.75"), light weight (10 oz) and low power draw (12 Watts), allow it to support small UAS's and have a range of 5 or 10 miles on L-Band with a dual or single video feed and simple patch antennas at the receiver. System delay (aka latency) is 44 ms end to end ensuring the operator sees video as it happens in real time. With the addition of our miniature VEPA 2W RF Power Amplifier, the range is increased to 15 or 30 miles with dual or single video feed. Other combinations of compatible amplifiers and antennas can be utilized to push the range out beyond a 100 miles.

Cobham has been supplying tactical video links to US and foreign militaries for decades, for both aerial and ground unmanned vehicles.

Source: Cobham