Radiometrix supplies transceivers for research

It supplied the pair of customised UHX1 multi-channel radio transceivers tuned to a special VHF frequency (147MHz) with US distributor, Lemos International.

The programme is sponsored by NASA and releases weather balloons with ceilings exceeding 25,000m.

The balloons have payloads made up of a camera box, an automatic position reporting system for tracking purposes, and a flight computer.

In addition, the balloons can carry various experiments from extremeophile bacteria research to simple egg drop mechanisms.

Weight is a key concern to comply with the US Federal Aviation Administration's 12lb weight limit on these flights.

'Finding a compact, lightweight radio solution was vital to the continued success of the project,' said Professor Tim Frazier, the project's faculty sponsor.

Ben Estes, programme member, said: 'Researchers have been looking at how to miniaturise the multi-channel tracking package and the Radiometrix module offered a way of achieving this.

'Lemos and Radiometrix have worked with us to choose a suitable transceiver and associated electronics for the project.

'The UHX-1 module from Radiometrix has enabled a transparent serial link between the control station and the flight computer in the balloon once it is airborne.

'This allows full communication between the balloon and the ground crew, allowing them to operate vents, cut-down mechanisms, parachute deployment, and actuate any other mechanisms needed,' he added.