Operating Systems for Ground Control Stations: An Overview

Given the wide-ranging requirements of different operators, UXV Technologies’ ground control stations are versatile, compatible with an array of operating systems, including Android, Windows, and Linux.

Android Operating System

Ground control stations that support the Android operating system are commonly found in mobile applications. These applications are developed to run on Android tablets, providing operators with a portable and user-friendly interface. Leveraging the touchscreen capabilities and sensors of devices, Android GCS applications offer intuitive controls and real-time telemetry data.

The following ground control stations are built to run on Android-based computers: Aeronav Android, SRoC, Navigator Tab 3, and Micronav Android. 

Here's a general overview of what an Android system might entail:

• Platform hardware: The GCS hardware made by UXV Technologies is customized in a way that the GCS can be running an Android operating system. The hardware includes a tablet for the handheld ground control stations equipped with enough processing power, memory, and storage capacity to run the GCS software smoothly.
• GCS Software: The software running on the Android operating system would serve as the GCS interface. It would include functionalities like flight planning, mission management, telemetry data visualization, real-time video streaming, and communication with the drone. The software would also incorporate features for controlling the unmanned vehicle, such as sending commands for takeoff, landing, waypoint navigation, and emergency procedures. Customers typically install software themselves.
• Communication: The GCS needs to establish a reliable communication link with the unmanned vehicle for receiving telemetry data and sending commands. This is typically done using wireless technologies such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or cellular networks. The Android device provides with the necessary hardware and software support for these communication methods.

Windows Operating System

Windows is a widely used operating system, and the following ground control stations are built to run on Windows-based computers: Aeronav, Micronav, C2Nav, G2Nav. This GCS software application is typically feature-rich, offering advanced functionalities such as mission planning, data analysis, and real-time video streaming. Windows GCS software often provides a comprehensive and customizable user interface, making it suitable for professional applications.

• Platform hardware: The GCS hardware made by UXV Technologies is customized in a way that the GCS can be running a Windows operating system. The hardware can, depending on the specific requirements of the unmanned vehicle operations, range from a tablet for the handheld ground control stations such as Aeronav and Micronav equipped with enough processing power, memory, and storage capacity to run the GCS software smoothly to a larger and more powerful ground control station such as the G2Nav used often for forward operating base missions. 
• GCS Software: The software running on the Windows operating system provides the interface for operators to control and monitor the UV. There are various GCS software options available, both open-source and commercial, that offer features such as flight planning, mission management, telemetry data visualization, video streaming, and control capabilities.
• Communication: The GCS software establishes a communication link with the UV for exchanging commands and receiving telemetry data. This is typically done using wireless communication technology such as Wi-Fi, radio modules, or cellular networks. The GCS software should support the necessary communication protocols and hardware interfaces.
• Integration and Customization: Windows-based GCS software often provides flexibility for integration with external sensors, payloads, or third-party software tools. It may support the use of APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) for customizing the GCS functionality or connecting to other systems, such as mission planning software or data analytics tools.

Linux Operating System 

Linux is an open-source operating system known for its stability and flexibility. Ground control stations designed for Linux offer a high level of customization and are often favored by experienced operators or developers. Linux-based GCS software can be tailored to specific requirements, making it suitable for advanced users who prefer a more hands-on approach to their operations. 

The following ground control stations are built to run on Linux-based computers: Aeronav, Micronav, G2Nav.

• Platform hardware: The GCS hardware made by UXV Technologies is customized in a way that the GCS can be running a Linux operating system. The hardware can, depending on the specific requirements of the unmanned vehicle operations, range from a tablet for the handheld ground control stations such as Aeronav and Micronav equipped with enough processing power, memory, and storage capacity to run the GCS software smoothly to a larger and more powerful ground control station such as the G2Nav used often for forward operating base missions. 
• GCS Software: Linux provides a wide range of open-source software options for GCS development. Some popular choices include Mission Planner, QGroundControl, and Dronecode. These software packages offer functionalities such as mission planning, telemetry data visualization, real-time video streaming, drone control, and more. Installed by the customers.
• Integration and Customization: Linux-based GCS software often provides flexibility for integration with external sensors, payloads, or third-party software tools. It may support the use of APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) for customizing the GCS functionality or connecting to other systems, such as mission planning software or data analytics tools.
• Security and Reliability: Linux is known for its stability and security. The GCS software adheres to best practices for data encryption, user authentication, and secure communication protocols to protect against unauthorized access and data breaches.

The availability of ground control stations of UXV Technologies for multiple operating systems ensures that operators can choose the platform that best suits their needs, preferences, and existing infrastructure. It allows for compatibility with a wide range of devices, facilitating seamless integration and enhancing the overall user experience. Additionally, the support for different operating systems promotes cross-platform collaboration and interoperability, enabling operators to work together efficiently regardless of their preferred operating system.

For further information about our products, please feel free to contact our sales representative at sales@uxvtechnologies.com. We look forward to engaging with you and addressing your inquiries.