. of Tucson, Arizona announced their latest innovation, the Micro Portable Ground Control Station (uPGCS). The uPGCS builds upon the functionality provided by the Cloud Cap Technologies Portable Ground Control Station (PGCS) commonly used for the Command and Control (C2) of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) utilizing the commercially available line of Piccolo autopilots.
In addition to providing standard C2 capabilities, the Brock Technologies handheld uPGCS also includes a pilot console, ground station computer, video monitor, two video receivers, and an assortment of internal antennas thereby creating an all-in-one control solution. The uPGCS form factor of 12.0″ L x 9.25″ W x 4.95″ H weights a mere 5.875 lbs and features an ergonomic, all waterproof case and a 7″ daylight readable touchscreen. An accessory port on the top of the uPGCS enables shore power to be used for charging of the two internal batteries or for continuous operation during extended missions.
Additionally, the accessory port has a USB interface enabling the use of Human Interface Devices (HID)s such as external keyboards, mice, data hubs, video capture devices, and even external storage devices. The uPGCS is customizable, but the standard is equipped with both a 2.4GHz and L-Band video receiver.
“This new system is very comprehensive – providing everything needed to plan and execute a wide assortment of missions with minimal hardware. The uPGCS permits communication with the UAS and the ability to down-link the images and other information with a single handheld device” said Keith Brock, Vice President of Brock Technologies.
Brock Technologies is currently utilizing the uPGCS with their own UAS platforms. The firm envisions the uPGCS will replace collections of other systems employed by UAS operators which require a backpack or shipping case to house all the components which are often sprawled out in an operations trailer or center during use.
With the added flexibility to use the system as a standalone video receiver, or pass control of a UAS from one uPGCS to another, the handheld device can be used by many mission participants in the field enabling mass dissemination of data and increasing the operational range of UAS utilizing a Piccolo autopilot. The uPGCS aims to reduce the logistical footprint of UAS operations without compromising capabilities of t hose systems in both the military and civilian UAS markets.
Source: Press Release