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Spectrum monitoring, direction finding and microwave link measurements from the air

The LS OBSERVER Airborne Monitoring Unit (AMU) is an advanced drone-based RF monitoring solution, designed to perform spectrum monitoring, direction finding, and microwave link measurements from the air. Equipped with specialized shielding and interference reduction technologies, the AMU enables high-precision signal detection, geolocation, and regulatory enforcement - even in challenging environments.

With multiple RF payload configurations and flexible deployment options, the AMU adapts to various operational needs, including battery-powered short-term missions or tethered long-duration flights for continuous data collection. Controlled via the LS OBSERVER CMS software, it integrates seamlessly into existing monitoring networks to enhance spectrum management and enforcement capabilities.

Whether for critical surveillance, interference detection, or regulatory compliance, the AMU delivers unmatched airborne RF intelligence.

Unparalleled Airborne Spectrum Monitoring Capabilities

Enhance your spectrum surveillance with precision and flexibility.

AMU drone receives clear radio signals from above, avoiding obstacles like trees and buildings that block the ground-based station's view.

Get a clearer picture

  • Fly above obstacles that absorb or weaken radio signals
  • Receive signals with a better signal to noise ratio (SNR)
AMU drone captures more radio signals than ground-based stations by monitoring from above, even in hilly or urban terrain.

Increase coverage

  • Detect more emissions than from ground level especially in urban areas or hilly terrain
  • Capture a larger area for monitoring in comparison to ground-based stations
AMU drone measures microwave link signals efficiently, avoiding climbing or lifting platforms and accessing hard-to-reach areas.

Measure microwave links

  • Capture the signal inside the fresnelzone
  • Cost-effective and timesaving (no lifting platforms and no climbing on buildings required)
  • Measurements in inaccessible areas
AMU drone improves direction finding accuracy by maintaining a clear line of sight above obstacles and metal structures.

Increase DF and triangulation accuracy

  • Direct line of sight to emitter
  • Fly above obstacles/metal structures which reduce DF accuracy
  • Achieve a better direction finding and localization accuracy in urban areas or hilly terrain

Configurable Payloads & Extended Flight Operations

Tailor the AMU to your mission requirements with specialized payloads and power options.

Two monitoring drones equipped with different RF payload configurations including directional, omni, and high-frequency antennas for flexible mission use.

Multiple RF Payload Configurations

Attach specialized antennas and receivers based on mission needs - directional antennas for DF, omni antennas for spectrum monitoring, and high-frequency payloads for SHF/EHF applications.

AMU drone tethered to a pick-up truck for continuous power and stable data connection during extended operations.

Battery-Powered or Tethered Operations

Choose battery mode for flexible, short operations or tethered mode for continuous data collection and stable power supply.

Screenshot of AMU drone mission management software, showing a detailed map view and flight planner.

User-Friendly, Mission-Optimized Software

Plan, automate, and execute precise flight paths with ColMP software (ArduPilot™ based) for accurate, repeatable mission execution.

Seamless Integration with LS OBSERVER & mySPECTRA

Connect the AMU to your monitoring network for automated data analysis and compliance enforcement.

Diagram showing LS OBSERVER monitoring network with connections to fixed stations, mobile equipment, airborne station, and control center.

Integration with LS OBSERVER Networks

Deploy the AMU alongside fixed and mobile monitoring stations, integrating all data into a single centralized monitoring network.

AMU drone measuring microwave signals, with results displayed on detailed software analysis screens.

Automated Direction-Finding & Geolocation

Combine AMU direction-finding results with ground-based stations for precise triangulation and interference localization.

Mask overlay on the power vs frequency chart with 10 channels. Each channel has an expected level which is indicated as a straight line as well as an upper tolerance which is indicated as a dotted line. The 3rd and 5th channel are marked as red (alarm) as the signal in it exceeds the threshold. The signal in the 6th channel is at the expected level but does not exceed the upper tolerance so there is no alarm.

Regulatory Compliance & Spectrum Audits

Leverage LS OBSERVER CMS and mySPECTRA to compare real vs. licensed spectrum use, ensuring compliance and detecting spectrum anomalies.

Measurement diagram and waterfall for the WiFi spectrum. The graphs show several narrowband signals jumping in frequency and interfering with the WiFi signals. These signals are being generated by a drone. The drone signal triggers an alert, which is shown as a red highlight on the full spectrum graph.

ITU-Compliant Measurements & Automation

Perform ITU-compliant signal measurements, automate spectrum audits, and detect license violations in real-time.