The DroneBeacon db121 is a so-called direct or broadcast Remote ID long-range transponder, equipped with its own GPS receiver and needs to be powered by the drone. A transponder is also called add-on, tracker, tag or (wireless) number plate. The db121 has two flavors: a transponder with enclosure or a PCB only. It is compliant with the (upcoming) standards in the EU and USA. The FAA has approved the db121/db121pcb for usage in the USA. Furthermore, the transponder is optimized for long range due to its transmit power and antenna design. It also supports all transmission protocols for maximum flexibility.
DroneBeacon db121 can be attached to a drone by using the included M3 dual-lock stickers or use the M5 screw noses. On the other hand the db121pcb has 4x M2 holes. There is a status LED to show the status. The transponder can be configured easy using any device, by pressing the configuration button and connect to the dronebeacon Access Point.
Users (in the USA) need to register their drone at the FAA website: https://www.faa.gov/uas/getting_started/register_drone In the EU you need to enter the operator ID in the configuration settings.
June 2024: see this product notification. We advise all users to upgrade to the latest firmware in order to be fully compliant.
If you need a transponder with battery, the db120 is a better choice. If you want to use an external GPS receiver, the db122fpv will be a better fit.
Applications for the DroneBeacon Remote ID transponder
Specifications db121
FAA approval
NDAA compliant
components are not on the NDAA blacklist
Short-range radio
Bluetooth and WiFi 2.4GHz, output power (ERP): + 20 dBm (100 mW)
Positioning
GPS, GLONASS, 2.5m positioning precision
Antennas
0 dBi WLAN/BLE antenna (internal omni-directional high-performance PCB antenna)
0 dBi GLS antenna
Power
2-pin JST-GH 1.25mm connector 5 – 14 V
LED lights
status, configuration mode
Enclosure
plastic (nylon)
Fastening mechanism
3M dual-lock or M5 screws using the screw noses
IP rating
IP43
Operating temperature
-5°C to +40°C
Dimensions
36 x 38 x 28 mm. With screw nodes the dimensions are 36 x 55 x 28 mm
Weight
11 grams
Specifications db121pcb
FAA approval
NDAA compliant
components are not on the NDAA blacklist
Short-range radio
Bluetooth and WiFi 2.4GHz, output power (ERP): + 20 dBm (100 mW)
Positioning
GPS, GLONASS, 2.5m positioning precision
Antennas
3 dBi WLAN/BLE antenna (IPEX connector)
0 dBi GPS antenna (IPEX connector)
Power
2-pin JST-GH 1.25mm connector 5 – 14 V
auxiliary unpopulated 2.54mm 2-pin header 5 – 14 V
LED lights
status, configuration mode
Fastening mechanism
4x M2 screws
Operating temperature
-5°C to +40°C
Dimensions
33 x 35 x 5 mm
Weight
5 grams (including antennas)
