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Site Selection and Setup

    Updated

There is no limit on the number of launch and emergency sites you can create. You will, however, want to carefully consider where you establish your launch site.

Launch Site Selection Criteria

When selecting a launch site, consider the following criteria:

  • Security: You will need to have free access to the physical location. You should be able to access the site as needed and secure it when required.
  • Connectivity:
    • High-speed internet is required for both the Remote Pilot In Command (RPIC) and Remote Operator.
    • Be sure there are no firewall or other network security issues. Refer to the Firewall Security article to ensure you can connect to the drone and stream video back to the DroneSense platform. 
    • For the best results, you will need at least 20 Mbps download and upload speeds on each site.
    • At a minimum, you will need at least 5 Mbps download and upload speeds. At this level you will experience degraded video quality and potentially some additional lag in signal communication.
  • To adequately test your network connection, stability, and quality, use a speed test that measures performance over time. The following link is the one we recommend:
    https://speed.cloudflare.com/
    • This test can be run on the remote controller and computer.
    • Ideally, your Network Quality Score should be Good.
    • In the example below, you can see the speeds are close to our recommended download and upload speeds, but the Network Quality Score is Bad for video streaming and would not be adequate for remote operations.
    • These results can change over time, so do a speed test at different times.
    • Be especially aware of any RF interference in the area - cell towers, power lines or utility infrastructure, and so on.
  • Power requirements:
    • RPIC: should have full 110v power access via hardwire or generator for general use
    • At least 4 plugs should be available at the table where drone is being operated
    • Be sure to have ample plugs and amperage capacity to charge batteries for all devices and drones. A professional-grade extension cable with additional plugs is often a good choice.
  • Line of Sight: Make note of any obstructions to line of sight during operations considering the full area of coverage and anticipated RTH altitudes.
    • Does the location have a 360-degree view?
    • Are there ridges, buildings, or other obstructions further out that could interfere with the drone-to-controller signal?
    • Are there obstructions that need to be geofenced in your operations area?
  • Safety: Requirements will depend on the location. Be mindful of the environment and the conditions RPICs will be dealing with when on site. Common issues to consider:
    • Protective barriers from falls
    • Tripping hazards
    • Drinking water
    • Power lines or other physical hazards
    • Areas where water (or ice) can collect
    • Wind risk
    • Excessive glare from nearby structures
  • Storage: In addition to being able to set up as a launch site, the location should ideally have available storage for extra equipment, along with the ability to secure everything when the site is offline. Common items to consider:
    • Drone equipment (charging cables, batteries, spare controllers, replacement props, etc.)
    • Folding table and seating
    • Laptop, monitor, and related peripherals
    • Additional iPads
    • Additional PS5 controllers
    • Extension cords, power strips, cord covers
    • Binoculars
  • Shelter: RPIC comfort and safety is important, so be sure there is adequate shelter for extended periods of activity.
    • Temperature control
    • Tent or other protection from sun and weather
    • Shelter straps or weights to reduce risk from wind
  • Operational proximity: Sites should ideally be located in areas where calls are or may be frequent. Depending on the criteria listed above, you might need to select a site that isn't as central of a location as you'd prefer for operational proximity.
  • To adequately test your network connection, stability, and quality, use a speed test that measures performance over time. The following link is the one we recommend:
    https://speed.cloudflare.com/
    • This test can be run on the remote controller and computer.
    • Ideally, your Network Quality Score should be Good.
    • In the example below, you can see the speeds are close to our recommended download and upload speeds, but the Network Quality Score is Bad for video streaming and would not be adequate for remote operations.
    • These results can change over time, so do a speed test at different times.
  • To adequately test your network connection, stability, and quality, use a speed test that measures performance over time. The following link is the one we recommend:
    https://speed.cloudflare.com/
    • This test can be run on the remote controller and computer.
    • Ideally, your Network Quality Score should be Good.
    • In the example below, you can see the speeds are close to our recommended download and upload speeds, but the Network Quality Score is Bad for video streaming and would not be adequate for remote operations.
    • These results can change over time, so do a speed test at different times.

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