500mW (27dBm) output delivers stronger link margin and longer reliable range than the 100mW version
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Telemetry Antennas
Holybro SiK Telemetry Radio V3 433MHz 500mW
The Holybro SiK Telemetry Radio V3 (433MHz, 500mW) is the higher-power version of Holybro's popular plug-and-play telemetry set.
₹10,999 + 18% GST
SKU: BOTBIT-TEL-02 · Best for: Longer-range MAVLink telemetry for survey and mapping UAVs
Overview
About Holybro SiK Telemetry Radio V3 433MHz 500mW.
The Holybro SiK Telemetry Radio V3 (433MHz, 500mW) is the higher-power version of Holybro's popular plug-and-play telemetry set. Like the 100mW model it ships as a matched air/ground pair that creates a transparent MAVLink serial link between a Pixhawk-standard flight controller and a ground station, but it boosts transmit power to 500mW (27dBm) for noticeably longer and more robust links. The air module connects to the autopilot TELEM port over a 6-pin JST-GH cable; the ground module plugs into a laptop via USB-C.
It runs the same open-source SiK firmware, using frequency-hopping spread spectrum across up to 50 channels and forward error correction that repairs up to 25% of bit errors. Receive sensitivity reaches -121dBm at low data rates, and air data rates are selectable from 2 to 250kbps so you can trade throughput for range. The result is a dependable wireless data pipe for telemetry, parameter tuning and mission control that holds up better than the 100mW unit at distance and in congested RF.
This 500mW variant suits commercial operators, survey and mapping teams, and serious builders flying longer-range multirotors, VTOLs and fixed-wings on the 433MHz band who need extra link margin without moving to a full 1W long-range modem.
Key features
Why it stands out.
Matched pair pairs automatically and is plug-and-play with Pixhawk-standard autopilots
Open-source SiK firmware streams MAVLink to Mission Planner, QGroundControl, ArduPilot and PX4
FHSS over up to 50 channels plus 25% error correction keeps the link stable in noisy environments
Adjustable RF data rate, baud and power let you tune for maximum range or maximum throughput
Specifications
Selection facts.
| Frequency | 433 MHz |
|---|---|
| Output power | 500 mW (27 dBm), adjustable |
| Receive sensitivity | -121 dBm @ 2 kbps |
| RF data rates | 2 to 250 kbps (64 kbps default) |
| Serial interface | 3.3 V TTL UART, 6-pin JST-GH |
| Baud rates | 1.2 to 115.2 kbps (57.6 kbps default) |
| Supply voltage | 5 V DC (USB or JST-GH) |
| Antenna connector | RP-SMA female |
| Dimensions | 28 x 53 x 10.7 mm (without antenna) |
| Operating temperature | -40 to 85 C |
Applications
Where it is used.
- Longer-range MAVLink telemetry for survey and mapping UAVs
- VTOL and fixed-wing missions needing extra link margin on 433MHz
- Real-time autonomous mission monitoring at extended distances
- Commercial multirotor operations with congested or noisy RF
- Wireless parameter tuning and diagnostics on larger aircraft
- UGV and long-range rover command-and-control links
Buying guide
How to choose.
Step up to the 500mW V3 when the 100mW unit runs out of link margin, for example on longer survey lines, in RF-congested areas, or when you want more headroom before any directional ground antenna is added. The higher output draws more current and runs warmer, so ensure adequate airflow and a stable 5V supply on the air side.
Stick with the 433MHz band for India, Europe and most of Asia, and confirm the permitted ISM power limit for your region before transmitting at 500mW, since some allocations cap output below this level. Where rules allow, pair the radio with a higher-gain directional antenna on the ground station for the best range.
For genuine kilometre-plus long-range work over difficult terrain, consider a dedicated 1W modem such as the RFD900+ or RFD900x; the SiK 500mW unit is the sweet spot for medium-range telemetry at a much lower cost and weight.
FAQ
Common questions.
How much more range than the 100mW model?
The 500mW unit transmits 7dB higher power, which improves link margin and typically extends reliable range and robustness, especially in noisy RF. Exact range depends on antennas, terrain and line of sight; a directional ground antenna adds the most benefit.
Is 500mW legal in India?
433MHz is the band used for telemetry in India and Europe, but permitted ISM power limits vary and some allocations are lower than 500mW. Check the current license-exempt rules for your region and set the radio's output accordingly before transmitting.
Can I lower the output power?
Yes. The SiK firmware lets you set transmit power below the 500mW maximum via Mission Planner or AT commands, so you can stay within local limits or reduce current draw while keeping the same hardware.
Does it run hotter than the 100mW unit?
Higher transmit power increases current draw and heat, so the air module runs warmer than the 100mW version. Provide some airflow and a clean 5V supply, particularly during sustained transmission on long missions.
Will it work with QGroundControl and PX4?
Yes. It uses open-source SiK firmware and passes MAVLink transparently, so it is compatible with QGroundControl, Mission Planner, PX4 and ArduPilot on any Pixhawk-standard flight controller.
Is it a matched pair?
It ships as a matched air/ground pair that shares firmware and pairs automatically. Buying the set ensures both ends are on the same configuration; mixing mismatched modules can require manual reconfiguration.
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