1W (30dBm) output, controllable in 1dB steps, for kilometre-scale long-range links
In stock
Telemetry Antennas
RFD900+ 915MHz Long-Range Telemetry Modem
The RFD900+ is a 1W (30dBm) long-range telemetry modem from Australian manufacturer RFDesign, designed for serious UAV and UGV operators who need a dependable command-and-telemetry link far beyond what a typical SiK radio can deliver.
₹14,499 + 18% GST
SKU: BOTBIT-TEL-03 · Best for: Long-range BVLOS-capable fixed-wing and VTOL telemetry links
Overview
About RFD900+ 915MHz Long-Range Telemetry Modem.
The RFD900+ is a 1W (30dBm) long-range telemetry modem from Australian manufacturer RFDesign, designed for serious UAV and UGV operators who need a dependable command-and-telemetry link far beyond what a typical SiK radio can deliver. It operates in the 902-928MHz band and features two RP-SMA antenna connectors with automatic diversity switching, so the modem always uses whichever antenna has the better signal. A low-noise amplifier with high IP3 makes it resilient in high-interference environments.
Running open-source SiK firmware, the RFD900+ passes MAVLink transparently and is field-upgradeable and easy to configure, integrating cleanly with ArduPilot, PX4, Mission Planner and QGroundControl. Air data rates are selectable to balance range against throughput, and UART baud rates run from 1200 up to 115200 and beyond. With directional antennas and a properly configured ground station, links of 40km or more have been achieved, making it a benchmark for affordable long-range telemetry.
It suits professional mapping, surveying, BVLOS-capable platforms, long-endurance fixed-wings and any mission where losing the telemetry or control link is not an option. Note that the RFD900+ has been largely superseded by the ARM-based RFD900x; buyers wanting the latest hardware and AES encryption should compare both.
Key features
Why it stands out.
Dual RP-SMA connectors with automatic antenna diversity switching for link reliability
Low-noise amplifier with high IP3 performs well in high-interference RF environments
Open-source SiK firmware passes MAVLink transparently and is field-upgradeable
ESD-protected and filtered I/O with selectable air and UART data rates for tuning
Specifications
Selection facts.
| Frequency range | 902-928 MHz |
|---|---|
| Output power | 1 W (30 dBm), 1 dB steps |
| Receive sensitivity | >-121 dBm at low data rates |
| RF connectors | 2 x RP-SMA, diversity switched |
| Air data rates | 4 to 250 kbps (64 kbps default) |
| UART baud rates | 2400 to 115200 (57600 default) |
| Supply voltage | 5 V, ~800 mA peak |
| I/O voltage | 3.3 V TTL |
| Dimensions | 30 x 57 x 12.8 mm |
| Weight | 14.5 g |
Applications
Where it is used.
- Long-range BVLOS-capable fixed-wing and VTOL telemetry links
- Aerial mapping and survey missions over large areas
- Long-endurance UAV command-and-control with diversity antennas
- Ground vehicle (UGV) and boat links over open terrain
- Industrial and research telemetry needing high interference immunity
- Repeater or relay links between distant ground nodes
Buying guide
How to choose.
The RFD900+ operates in the 902-928MHz band, which is allocated differently across regions. Before purchasing for use in India, confirm the legal ISM/license-exempt allocation and permitted power for this band, as the 915MHz family is not license-exempt everywhere and high-power transmission may require authorisation.
Choose the RFD900+ when you need genuine long-range, high-margin links and antenna diversity that SiK radios cannot match. For the longest range, pair it with directional antennas on the ground and a clean omnidirectional whip on the aircraft, and budget for proper coaxial cabling and connectors.
Because the RFD900+ has been largely superseded by the ARM-based RFD900x, which adds AES hardware encryption, higher air data rates and more I/O, compare the two before buying. Pick the RFD900+ for legacy compatibility or cost, and the RFD900x (BOTBIT-TEL-04) when you want current hardware and encryption.
FAQ
Common questions.
How far can the RFD900+ transmit?
With directional antennas, clear line of sight and a properly configured ground station, links of 40km or more have been achieved. Real-world range depends heavily on antennas, terrain, mounting and air data rate; lower data rates give the greatest range.
What is antenna diversity and why does it matter?
The RFD900+ has two RP-SMA connectors and automatically switches to whichever antenna currently has the better signal. This reduces dropouts from multipath fading and changing aircraft orientation, improving link reliability over a single-antenna radio.
Is the 915MHz band legal in India?
The 902-928MHz band is allocated differently by region and is not license-exempt everywhere. Confirm the current rules and permitted power for this band in India before operating, and obtain any required authorisation for high-power transmission.
Does it work with ArduPilot and Mission Planner?
Yes. It runs open-source SiK firmware and passes MAVLink transparently, so it integrates with ArduPilot, PX4, Mission Planner and QGroundControl. Firmware is field-upgradeable and configurable over the serial link.
How is it different from the RFD900x?
The RFD900x is the newer ARM-based successor adding AES hardware encryption, higher maximum air data rates (up to 500/750 kbps) and more GPIO. The RFD900+ remains a capable 1W modem but lacks built-in encryption and the newer processor.
What power supply does it need?
It runs on a nominal 5V supply and draws around 800mA peak at full 1W transmit power. Provide a stable, adequately rated 5V source, especially on the aircraft, to avoid brownouts during transmission bursts.
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