2022 system

RC Comms candidates

 

Update: decided on TBS Crossfire Micro:

https://rotorgeeks.com/tbs-crossfire-micro-tx-v2

https://rotorgeeks.com/electronics/radio-receivers/tbs-crossfire-nano-diversity-receiver

Same as TBS Crossfire entry but fits form factor of Taranis

Name

Link

Price

pros

cons

Notes

Name

Link

Price

pros

cons

Notes

Dragonlink Slim

https://www.getfpv.com/dragonlink-433mhz-v3-advanced-slim-complete-system-w-wifi-bluetooth.html

$336 USD

  • Mavlink passthough → can replace an xbee?

  • bidirectional

  • compatible with current systems → uses PPM, PWM, sbus

  • needs external power source

 

  • 433mhz

  • typical range 60+km supposedly

    • require testing, but 99% confident range will be at least 3km

  • includes receiver

  • the most “industry standard”

TBS Crossfire

https://www.getfpv.com/tbs-crossfire-tx-long-range-r-c-link.html

$209 USD

  • drops in to transmitter (JR module)

  • cheaper

  • needs external power source

  • limited telemetry

  • 900mhz

  • no rated distance but should be good for 5+ km

  • most popular “hobby-grade” choice

SIYI FM30

 

~$75 CAD

  • straight drop-in

  • no external power source needed

  • mavlink passthrough

  • cheapest

  • probably the sketchiest option (least well known)

  • 2.4ghz

  • rated by manufacturers for 30+km

    • Personally tested to 2km (where it then failesafed) but there was 2.4ghz interference between transmitter and drone

  • Have one on-hand, can lend as needed

ExpressLRS

 

~150CAD

  • drops in to transmitter

  • cheaper-er

  • no telemetry

  • external power supply

  • can buy for 2.4ghz or 915mhz

  • newest product (open source, may require more work to get working)

  • supposedly tested for 30+km

Note: links are just preemptive, look for better sourcing if radio is picked