CubePilot Herelink 1.1 (Air Unit)

The Herelink 1.1 from CubePilot (Australia) is an integrated radio link that carries HD video, remote control and MAVLink telemetry over a single connection on 2.4 GHz. The air unit sits in the drone, and on the ground there is a handheld controller running Android; the package is aimed at ArduPilot and PX4 systems in the mid-size multicopter class. Unlike goggle-based FPV systems it is meant for camera imagery and telemetry in commercial work.

The picture is delivered at 720p and 30 fps or at 1080p and 30 or 60 fps. Video delay is 110 ms; that is far more than digital FPV systems and rules out racing and freestyle, but it is enough for inspection, mapping and camera operation. The range of 20 km is an FCC figure; under CE, SRRC and MIC conditions the manufacturer gives 12 km. The air unit outputs the RC signal only as S.Bus (S.Bus1 and S.Bus2). It weighs 98 g with antennas, measures 78.5 x 30 x 15 mm and needs about 7 V, with 6 to 12 V permitted.

In the EU, only 100 mW EIRP may be radiated in the 2.4 GHz band without a licence; the CE range of 12 km is therefore the realistic planning figure, not the 20 km under FCC. Equipment may be operated in the EU only in the frequency ranges and power levels approved there. In the open category visual line of sight applies; long ranges are no selection criterion there, but they are for operations in the specific category.

When choosing, check whether the flight controller has an S.Bus input, because the Herelink outputs no other RC protocol. At 98 g the air unit is a noticeable load, and its heat must be able to escape. The antennas are the most vulnerable parts after landings and crashes; the firmware of air unit and ground controller has to match.