Doodle Labs Mesh Rider Mini (Mini-OEM)

The Mesh Rider Mini (Mini-OEM) from Doodle Labs is an OEM radio module for IP mesh links on unmanned systems, carrying video and data on the same network. It is offered in several frequency-band variants, including 2.4 GHz, 900 MHz plus 2.4 GHz, and a variant for Japan at 5650 to 5755 MHz. It is fitted, among others, in the Freefly Astro. The manufacturer markets strongly to defence; civil use is evidenced by its Commercial sector and a case study on industrial inspection with the Freefly Astro.

The radio system works with MIMO and builds a mesh in which several participants relay one another. Throughput is up to 80 Mbit/s. Transmit power is 1.6 W at most (32 dBm). The manufacturer typically quotes a range of more than 50 km and, for HD video streaming, more than 80 km; such figures describe best cases in the air with clear line of sight, not everyday use, and they cannot be compared with ranges of other systems while the conditions are missing. The module weighs 34 g at 46 x 51 x 6.5 mm and draws 5 W on average and 8 W at peak.

In radio-law terms the maximum power cannot be used licence-free: in the 2.4 GHz band the EU allows only 100 mW EIRP without authorisation, and the module's 1.6 W is far above that. Which variant, band and power is permitted in a given country is set by the national frequency assignment; equipment may be operated in the EU only in the frequency ranges and power levels approved there.

When choosing, the band variant counts: it determines where the module may be operated. The power draw of 5 to 8 W produces heat that has to be dissipated. Antennas and antenna cables are the wear points, and the firmware should be kept current.