Drone Remote ID Units: A Buying Guide
In the wake of the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) Remote Identification (RID) rule, drone owners are seeking solutions to ensure their older models comply with the new regulations. This article provides an overview of key considerations and available options for retrofitting drones with FAA-approved Remote ID modules.
## Key Considerations for Remote ID Modules
1. **FAA Compliance**: To ensure legal compliance, the module must be FAA-approved. 2. **Type of Module**: - **Standalone**: Self-contained modules can be attached to the drone without additional hardware. Examples include the DroneTag Mini and the Pierce Aerospace B1. - **Add-On**: These modules require integration with the drone's existing system, possibly requiring additional programming or hardware. The Blue Mark DB121 is an example of an add-on module. 3. **Range and Signal Strength**: A robust signal is essential for reliable data transmission. Modules like the DroneTag Mini and the Pierce B1 offer impressive ranges. 4. **Price**: Costs vary widely depending on the module's features and complexity. Options like the Flite Test EZID and the Blue Mark DB121 cater to budget-conscious users.
## General Options
- **DJI Remote ID**: DJI offers a Remote ID module that can be integrated into their drones, broadcasting critical information like location and unique identifiers. - **uAvionix pingRGB**: Known for its compact design and integration capabilities, uAvionix offers solutions suitable for various drone models. - **Other Manufacturers**: Companies like Kitty Hawk, Skydio, and others are developing RID modules. The best option for you would depend on your drone model and specific needs.
## Implementation
Remote ID modules typically function by broadcasting data using Bluetooth or Wi-Fi signals, allowing authorized observers to track a drone's activity. To find the best module for your specific use case, it's advisable to:
1. Check for FAA approval and compatibility with your drone. 2. Consider the range and signal strength needed for your application. 3. Evaluate the cost and any additional features required.
Staying up-to-date with the latest developments from manufacturers and regulatory bodies is crucial, as the drone industry continues to evolve.
New entrants in the Remote ID market include SkyID, priced between $69 and $99 and weighing 14 grams. The DroneTag Beacon, a smaller and cheaper version of the DroneTag Mini, is priced at $229 and weighs 16 grams. The Flite Test EZID requires 7.4-30.4 V (2S-8S) power and uses Bluetooth. The SkyID works via Bluetooth and needs 3.3 to 9 V of power.
The UAS Sentry, although not designed for this purpose, performed surprisingly well as a drone detector during testing. Part 107 pilots will need a separate Remote ID module for every single drone they own that is currently not Remote ID-compliant.
The DroneTAG DRI is the most complicated Remote ID module in terms of setup, as it does not come with a GPS module and requires external GPS for compliance. The DroneTAG BS, one of the cheapest Remote ID modules available, is priced at $89 and weighs 1.5 grams. The Blue Mark DB121 is a lightweight and affordable add-on Remote ID module, weighing 11 grams and costing $119.
The maximum range of the DroneTag Beacon with the Drone Scanner app is 341 feet, while the Drone Scanner app consistently detected longer ranges during testing, particularly for the Dronetag Mini and the Pierce B1.
- The FAA-approved DroneTag Mini and the Pierce Aerospace B1 are examples of standalone Remote ID modules, which can be attached to drones without additional hardware to ensure compliance with Part 107 regulations.
- For drone gadget enthusiasts on a budget, affordable options such as the Flite Test EZID cater to cost-conscious users seeking Remote ID solutions for their technology.
