To transmit information from an aircraft to Earth using cell towers [1], the question arises of how the flight information is transmitted. The most relevant, at the moment, will be the use of universal modems that work with any of the cellular operators located on the territory of the Russian Federation.

The purpose of this article is a detailed analysis of cellular modems from various manufacturers and the choice of the most suitable one for its further installation on an aircraft [2,3]. 

Modems can be divided into two main categories - universal and operator. Universal modems are independent of specific operators, and any SIM card can be inserted into them. But operator modems are easier to set up, just connect to the device, run a special program that will automatically output to the Network, and also display all the necessary information, such as consumed traffic. Through the same program it is possible to send SMS and make voice calls. Inside the modem is the same communication module as inside the cell phone [2,4-7]. 

Another important criterion for choosing a modem is the speed of its operation and support for certain data transfer protocols. Basic is GPRS support. This data transfer protocol supports speeds up to 64 Kbps, although theoretically it reaches 115 Kbps. Depends on the workload of the base stations and the level of reception. The next step is support for the EDGE standard, which makes it possible to transfer data at speeds up to 384 Kbps. This standard is supported by almost all commercially available USB modems. For comparison: if GPRS only allows you to work with e-mail without large attachments and open light versions of sites optimized for mobile viewing, then with EDGE you can safely open regular sites and even listen to streaming audio with a low bitrate. Both standards refer to networks of the second generation (2G), respectively, a modem with their support will work properly wherever there are GSM networks [8-11]. 

Thus, it can be emphasized that in order to transfer data from the aircraft to the ground in accordance with the requirements of the 101st ICAO Amendment, the choice should be focused on universal cellular modems, since this type of modem can interact with any Russian cellular operator [12-14].

The best universal device to use can be considered 4G USB Huawei 3372 (high-speed, works in 4G). A unique device with firmware that allows you to work in any country in the world. Easily handles all standards, including 5G. It does not take up much space, and the setup takes a few minutes. The average cost of this modem is 6000 rubles (Figure 1).

Figure 1: Modem Huawei 3372

A worthy opponent will be a portable 4G Wi-Fi router ZTE MF 920 (MTX connect card  for  abroad).  Easy  to  set up, connects up to 8 different devices. However, it has minor problems with the network abroad, because of which it is necessary to purchase an additional special SIM card. Among analogues, the Sprint U300 modem competes with 3G/4G USB (supports 3G and 4G). Capable of giving out good speed, up to 6 devices are easily connected to it. Among the disadvantages is the lack of space for the antenna and the need for flashing, in case of going abroad (Figure 2).

Figure 2:  Modem Router ZTE MF 920

It is worth noting that 4 DGI modems with a wi-fi router reveal the potential of using the Internet a little better. Due to the strong signal and continuous data transmission, such equipment can easily cope with the strongest interference and dead zones, 3G/4G Wi-Fi router Sierra Netgear AC791L (Figure 3). Autonomous operation without recharging is 24 hours. This is a universal 4G modem with an external antenna-there are two antenna inputs. Works with all operators in the country, and is compatible with any operating systems.

Figure 3: Modem Sierra Netgear AC791L

Router Novatel 4620LE supports LTE technology. It is inferior in terms of functionality to the first candidate (ZTE MF 920), but it also costs half as much. If there is a need to travel outside the country, there are some problems with flashing this modem (Figure 4).

Figure 4: Novatel 4620LE Router

If there is no need to connect many gadgets, then in such a situation, the Samsung SCH-LC11 3G Wi-Fi modem with LTE support may be the best fit. An excellent option, due to the high noise immunity regardless of location (Figure 5).

Figure 5: Samsung SCH-LC11 Modem

• Choose the type of connection of the aircraft to the towers of cellular operators

• Analysis of the most suitable modem types that meet the requirements of ICAO 101 Amendment

• The technology to create and operate electronic registers is already proven and trusted

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