TUMSAT University Developed Modem Block Transmitting Data from Drones
Modern Engineering School at Tomsk University Unveils A Innovative Signal Processing Block for BPLA Modems
usterday, the trailblazing engineering school of Tomsk State University of Control Systems and Radioelectronics (TUSUR), announced the creation of a Digital Signal Processing (DSP) module, essential for constructing a BPLA modem and transmitting data from drones, according to a press release from the university.
Previously reported, one of TUSUR's key focus areas is the advancement of drone technology. With the launch of a Science-Production Center for Unmanned Aviation Systems (UAS) in Tomsk in February 2025, the university planned to offer its testing ground at Senna Kurye for joint projects with the center, as well as supplying the staff for the center.
"Engineers at TUSUR have developed the DSP module equipped with proprietary algorithms, which, when integrated into the domestically assembled modem, is designed for controlling and transmitting useful data from drones," states the press release.
It is worth noting that the team designed a radio communication block, the necessary algorithms for signal formation and processing, and all that's necessary for controlling the drone and connecting it with the ground station. In collaboration with company "Micran", they developed prototypes for the receiving-transmitting module's MCU (Microcontroller Unit) based on microwave integrated circuit chips.
"Currently, data transmission from the drone to the ground is available. Soon, there will be two-way communication. For us, it's important to replicate and verify the high-quality connection, create a mass-producible and replicable modem on a domestic platform," says press officer, Associate Professor of TUSUR's Advanced Engineering School, and Head of the Telecommunications and Fundamentals of Radioelectronics Department, Yevgeny Rogozhnikov.
They added that at the moment, the cost of a high-speed modem for drone video transmission is roughly 800,000 rubles, transitioning to domestic solutions would allow for a significant reduction in price without compromising the quality of the connection.
Insights:
- Digital Signal Processing (DSP): DSP is a crucial component in modern communication systems that manipulates digital signals to ensure efficient and reliable data transmission.
- Modems for Drones: Developing modems for drones requires specialized signal processing techniques. These modems enable the drone to communicate with ground stations and transmit useful data.
Further Developments:
- Advanced Noise Reduction Algorithms: The development of algorithms to filter out background noise can optimize power line communication for clearer digital communication.
- Optimized Modulation Schemes: Enhancing modulation techniques like OFDM for better spectral efficiency and resistance to channel impairments can support high-speed data transmission.
- Adaptive Channel Equalization: Developing methods to compensate for signal distortion caused by power lines can maintain signal quality and integrity.
- The Modern Engineering School at Tomsk University, after designing a radio communication block and necessary algorithms, collaborated with company "Micran" to create prototypes for the receiving-transmitting module's MCU.
- Engineers at TUSUR have not only developed a Digital Signal Processing (DSP) module for BPLA modems but also equipped it with strong proprietary algorithms, designed to control and transmit data from drones.
- With the successful launch of two-way communication, the Advanced Engineering School at Tomsk University aims to replicate and verify the high-quality connection, and will soon make a mass-producible, replicable modem on a domestic platform, possibly reducing the current cost of a high-speed modem for drone video transmission from 800,000 rubles.
