Communication Systems and Data Links Flashcards
7 cards from real UAS practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Communication Systems and Data Links flashcards as text
Which encryption standard is recommended to secure UAS command and control links against unauthorized command injection?
Answer: AES (Advanced Encryption Standard)
AES is the recommended encryption standard for securing UAS C2 links because it is computationally strong, widely supported, and resistant to known cryptographic attacks.
What is a 'ground data terminal' (GDT) in a UAS system?
Answer: The ground-based radio hardware component that handles the C2 communication link
The ground data terminal (GDT) is the ground-side radio transceiver that handles transmission of commands to the aircraft and reception of telemetry and other downlink data.
Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations typically require which communication infrastructure?
Answer: Satellite communication or cellular LTE/5G network links
BVLOS operations extend beyond the range of standard RC radio links, requiring long-range technologies such as satellite communication systems or cellular LTE/5G networks to maintain reliable C2.
What is the primary operational advantage of using cellular LTE networks for UAS command and control?
Answer: Extended range using existing nationwide infrastructure coverage
Cellular LTE networks leverage existing nationwide tower infrastructure to provide C2 coverage over large areas, enabling BVLOS operations in regions where cellular coverage exists.
What is 'spectrum congestion' and why does it concern UAS operators?
Answer: Too many devices competing for limited frequency bandwidth, increasing interference risk to the control link
Spectrum congestion occurs when many devices share the same frequency bands simultaneously, creating interference that can degrade C2 link reliability and increase the risk of signal loss.
Which communication architecture extends UAS C2 beyond single-radio range by relaying signals through multiple interconnected ground stations?
Answer: Mesh network relay system
A mesh network relay system uses multiple ground stations that pass command and telemetry data along the network, extending operational range well beyond what a single ground station radio can achieve.
What does 'full duplex' communication mean in the context of a UAS data link?
Answer: Simultaneous bidirectional communication where uplink commands and downlink telemetry occur at the same time
Full duplex communication allows simultaneous two-way data flow — the ground station sends commands (uplink) while the aircraft simultaneously sends telemetry and video (downlink) — maximizing link efficiency.