The DroneBeacon db120 is a so-called direct or broadcast Remote ID long-range transponder, equipped with its own GPS and battery. A transponder is also called add-on, tracker, tag or (wireless) number plate. The DroneBeacon can be attached to any (consumer) drone using the 3M dual-lock tape. It is compliant with the (upcoming) standards in the EU and USA. The FAA has approved the db120 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. If you need a transponder without battery, but powered by the drone, the db121 or db121pcb is a better choice. Or the db122fpv that needs an external GPS receiver too.
DroneBeacon can be attached to a drone by using the included M3 dual-lock stickers or use the M5 screw noses. Fully charged, the transponder allows a battery live over 3 hours. There are 4 battery LEDs to show the current battery level. 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.
Applications for the DroneBeacon Remote ID transponder
Specifications db120
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 antenna (internal omni-directional high-performance PCB antenna)
Battery
LiPo 3.7V 600 mAh, battery life > 3 hours
charging, 5V USB-C, 1 hour from a discharged state
LED lights
charging, battery level (4x), 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
48 x 38 x 28 mm. With screw nodes the dimensions are 48 x 51 x 28 mm
Weight
25 grams
Specifications db100 (first generation)
FAA approval
Short-range radio
Bluetooth and WiFi 2.4GHz, output power (ERP): + 20 dBm (100 mW)
Positioning
GPS, GLONASS, 2.5m positioning precision < 35 seconds for first fix
Antennas
2 dBi antenna (SMA connector)
Battery
LiPo 3.7V 1200 mAh, battery life > 7 hours
charging, 5V USB-C, 2 hours from a discharged state
LED lights
charging, battery level (4x), configuration mode
Enclosure
plastic
Fastening mechanism
3M dual-lock or M5 screws using the screw noses
IP rating
IP43
Operating temperature
-5°C to +40°C
Dimensions
99 x 66.5 x 10 mm (without antenna). With antenna, the height is 41 mm
Weight
56 grams
