ULS-XSpot Datasheet

ULSDC-PBDS231125 · version 1.0.1 · issued November 23, 2025
The numbered PDF is the controlled copy: download it from the portal.

Introduction

Purpose

The purpose of this datasheet is to provide comprehensive technical information about the ULS-XSpot System family, specifically designed for tethered drone operations. This includes specifications, performance characteristics, and detailed descriptions of system components, such as the tether-compatible transmitter and receivers. By outlining the interfaces between these components, the datasheet aims to facilitate seamless integration and operation for system engineers, integrators, and developers working with tethered drone systems.

Scope

This document is intended for use by system engineers, integrators, and developers working with ULS-XSpot systems in tethered drone applications. It provides detailed information on the system, with special emphasis on tethered drone operation requirements and the 50-meter working range.

Key Differences from ULS-Heli-G2

The ULS-XSpot system is optimized for tethered drone operations and features the following key differences:

1. Tethered Design: Transmitter features a center hole for tether cable passage, enabling integration with tethered drone power and data systems
2. Simplified Optics: Standard IR optical link without DACS technology, over the same 50-meter working distance as ULS-Heli-G2
3. Application Focus: Specifically designed for stationary or slow-moving tethered drone operations with continuous power availability

System Base Components

Transmitter (Ground Unit - Tethered Design)

Figure: ULS-XSpot Transmitter with Center Tether Hole The ULS-XSpot transmitter is specifically designed for tethered drone systems. It features a center hole for tether passage, allowing the drone’s power and data cable to pass through while maintaining optical positioning capabilities. The transmitter is placed on the ground (platform, moving object) and emits a signal in the Infrared range, serving as a positioning beacon for tethered drone landing and station-keeping.

The primary function of the transmitter is to continuously send out a coded signal that can be detected and interpreted by the receiver unit onboard the tethered copter. This signal contains critical information needed for the operation of the system, such as positional data and status. The tethered design allows for extended flight duration while maintaining precision positioning.

Key Features:

• Center hole for tether cable passage (integrated tether management)
• Working range: 50 meters working distance
• Optimized for tethered drone operations
• Continuous power available via tether connection

Receiver (Onboard Unit)

Figure: ULS-XSpot Receiver The receiver is a device that is placed on board the tethered aircraft. The receiver decodes the IR signal to derive flight information such as positional coordinates, real-time transmitter status updates, and positioning guidance. It interprets the data to navigate accurately and ensure the drone maintains its position relative to the ground station. It provides feedback to autopilot systems, such as Ardupilot and PX4, to adjust the flight parameters as needed for optimal station-keeping, landing, or hovering operations while connected to the tether.

Key Features:

• Compatible with tethered drone configurations
• Real-time position feedback for station-keeping
• Seamless integration with tether management systems

Part Numbering

Table: Part Numbering

System Specification

Table: Common Specification

Table: Receiver (Slave) Specifications

Table: Receiver (Master) Specifications

Table: Transmitter (Ground) Specifications - Tethered Design

Pinout Information

Transmitter Pinout

Table: Transmitter 10 Pin Connector Pinout

Special Note for ULS-XSpot: The transmitter includes a center hole for tether cable passage. Ensure tether cable routing does not obstruct the IR emission pattern.

Receiver Pinout

Table: 4 Pin Connector Pinout

Table: 8 Pin Connector Pinout

Mechanical Dimensions

Figure: Slave Receiver Mechanical Dimensions

Figure: Master Receiver Mechanical Dimensions

Figure: Transmitter Mechanical Dimensions with Center Tether Hole

Note: The transmitter features a center hole designed for tether cable passage, enabling integration with tethered drone power and data systems.

Packaging Information

Figure: ULS-XSpot System Package

The ULS-XSpot system is packaged in a protective hard case designed for field deployment in tethered drone operations.

Package Contents

• 1x Transmitter unit (with center tether hole)
• 1x Master receiver unit
• 2x Slave receiver units
• Connection cables
• Mounting hardware
• Quick start guide
• USB configuration cable

Package Specifications

Table: Package Specifications

Environmental Conditions - Industrial Grade

Equipment is designed to operate reliably in demanding environmental conditions typical of aerospace, industrial automation, and outdoor applications.

Operating Temperature Range

• Standard operating range: -20°C to +55°C
• Covers most industrial and outdoor applications
• Reliable performance across temperature extremes
• No performance degradation within specified range

Humidity Tolerance

• Relative humidity: Up to 70% (non-condensing)
• Protected against moisture in typical operating conditions
• Suitable for outdoor and semi-protected installations
• Condensation prevention through sealed design

Ingress Protection

• IP67 rated (Dust tight and water immersion resistant)
  • 6 - Complete protection against dust ingress
  • 7 - Protected against temporary immersion in water (up to 1 meter depth for 30 minutes)
• Suitable for harsh industrial environments
• Protected against rain, splashing, and temporary submersion
• Dust-tight sealing for contaminated environments

Storage Conditions

• Storage temperature: -40°C to +70°C
• Relative humidity: Up to 95% (non-condensing)
• Long-term storage in industrial facilities

Operational Environment Standards

• Designed to meet industrial equipment requirements
• Suitable for UAV/drone applications
• Outdoor installation capable
• Protected against:
  • Dust and particulate matter
  • Water spray and rain
  • Temporary water immersion
  • Temperature fluctuations
  • High humidity

Tethered Operation Guidelines

System Integration

The ULS-XSpot system is specifically designed to work with tethered drone platforms. Key integration considerations include:

1. Tether Routing: Route the tether cable through the center hole of the transmitter
2. Clearance: Maintain minimum 10cm clearance around transmitter for optimal IR propagation
3. Cable Management: Secure tether to prevent interference with optical path
4. Ground Station Setup: Position transmitter at the tether connection point for optimal positioning reference

Advantages for Tethered Drones

• Extended Flight Time: Continuous power via tether enables unlimited operation duration
• Stable Reference: Tether provides additional stability reference for position control
• Simplified Design: Center hole design integrates cleanly with tether management systems
• Enhanced Safety: Physical tether connection adds redundancy to positioning system
• Weather Resilience: Extended operation capability in various weather conditions with continuous power

Change Control

All changes to this document must be reviewed and approved by the relevant technical leads and stakeholders