Long-distance communication for robotics and drones

Robotics Long-Distance Communication for Robotics and Drones

2026-03-13 From | Translated by AI 1 min Reading Time

Robonode is a Qualcomm-Dragonwing solution for long-range, low-latency, and mission-critical communication in robotics, drones, and industrial facilities. Distributor Codico provides information.

Robonode's DVK Development Kit: This is available through Codico's sample shop.(Image: 8DEVICES) — Robonode's DVK Development Kit: This is available through Codico's sample shop.
(Image: 8DEVICES)

Qualcomm's Robonode is an all-in-one plug-and-play communication system with powerful CPU and DSP processing as well as robust, low-latency Wi-Fi transmission for long distances. The Robonode solution is the latest fully certified plug-and-play communication system from Codico's partner 8DEVICES.

Technical specifications of the Robonode

Robonode is based on Qualcomm's latest SoC and Wi-Fi technology and integrates all essential components for communication subsystems in drones, mobile and stationary robotic systems, as well as industrial facilities.

The core is the powerful Quad-Core ARM SoC, the Qualcomm QCS405, with DSP processing for codecs, a dedicated GPU for video and graphics, and numerous interfaces. The processing power is complemented by Qualcomm's latest MU-MIMO Wi-Fi6 module WNC9074, specifically designed for long-range Wi-Fi. Additionally, the MU-MIMO Wi-Fi5 module WCN9380 is integrated to connect high-speed peripherals in close proximity. The ready-to-use system is embedded in a robust aluminum housing with an integrated fan for efficient cooling—additional fan mounts are included for extreme operating conditions.

More range, robustness, security

As a communication expert, 8DEVICES has optimised the architecture to significantly enhance the range and robustness of Wi-Fi connections. Robonode supports dual-band Wi-Fi and offers an impressive output power of 28 dBm per antenna chain (2.4 GHz) and 27 dBm (5 GHz). Additionally, 5 MHz and 10 MHz channel widths are supported to ensure stable long-range connections.

Further improvements include, for example, forward error correction, extended frequency ranges, and the use of non-standard center frequencies to minimise interference. Practical tests have confirmed ranges of over 15 km (approx. 9 miles), with further improvements expected through future software updates.

The computing and communication functions are accessible via the Robonode SDK (based on Open Embedded/Yocto with LTS Kernel v4.14). After installation, both Wi-Fi modules are available through API interfaces.

Core functions include, for example, Wi-Fi broadcast with forward error correction in various modes for audio, video, and telemetry transmission between Robonodes in drones, robots, and ground stations. (mk)

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