The tether power unit, converts 100–240 V AC into high-voltage DC, delivered to the drone through a 50 m (164 ft) Kevlar®-reinforced cable. With steady power from the ground, pilots can eliminate mid-mission battery changes and stay focused on the inspection.
Anti-Flip Swivel
Building on Flyability’s proven collision-tolerant know-how, the anti-flip swivel secures the cable while allowing it to move freely around the drone, eliminating disturbances from the tether. This ensures perfect stability, even during sharp maneuvers or a cable snag. The swivel rotates 360° around the drone, allowing the tether to attach from any direction. This rotation removes directional constraints, ensuring inspections are never limited by tether orientation.
Easy Tether-to-Battery Swap
The air unit connects the cable to the drone and can be swapped with an Elios 3 battery in seconds. This lets pilots fly beyond the tether’s reach, ensuring complete data collection in all conditions.
Kevlar-Reinforced Tether Cable
The 50 m (164 ft) tether cable is made from lightweight, high-strength Kevlar® fiber, offering exceptional durability and a tensile strength of up to 50 kg. Its robust construction ensures reliable performance and resistance to wear, even in demanding operational environments.
Backup Battery
The tether ground power unit is equipped with a backup battery either Elios 3 standard or high-capacity battery that automatically supplies enough power for a safe, controlled landing during unexpected power loss.
Worldwide Power Compatibility
Supports 100–240 V AC input, making it compatible with most power outlets worldwide.
EU C5 Classified
Elios 3 tethered is compliant with the C5 class marking under EU regulations, enabling STS-01 operations in populated environments.
| Technical Specifications |
|---|
| Swivel Mechanism | Anti-flip swivel for secure and flexible positioning |
| Tether Connection | Easy tether-to-battery swap for quick and efficient operation |
| Tether Cable | Kevlar-reinforced cable for maximum strength and durability |
| Power Supply | Includes backup battery for uninterrupted power |
| Power Compatibility | Worldwide power compatibility for global use |
| Certification | EU C5 classified |
How do I switch between tethered and untethered flight?
The process is tool-free and takes less than a minute. Land the drone and power off the tether system. Remove the tether air unit and detach the mount (two manual screws). Insert a charged Elios 3 battery, power on the drone, and continue your mission untethered.
Can the tether unit be powered from a generator or portable power station?
Yes. The tether can operate from a standard outlet, a portable generator, or a power station, provided the source meets the system’s power requirements. Please refer to the technical specifications for details.
What happens if power is lost during flight?
If external power (e.g., mains or generator) is interrupted, the backup battery integrated into the ground unit automatically takes over, providing sufficient time for a safe and controlled landing
Can I travel with the tether?
Yes. The tether system can be transported like other drone equipment. The ground unit itself does not contain a battery, making it fully compliant for air travel under airline and IATA regulations. However, to function, the tether requires a backup battery (either an Elios 3 standard or high-capacity battery). The standard battery is below the 100 Wh limit and generally accepted for air travel, while the high-capacity battery exceeds 100 Wh and is subject to airline and IATA restrictions.
How can I make the tether work with my Elios 3?
Installation is quick and requires no permanent modification to the drone. Mount two small brackets on the Elios 3 cage, attach the drone mount with two manual screws, insert the air unit into the battery holder, and power up the tether. The full setup takes only a few minutes.
What are the system’s power requirements?
The tether runs on standard 100–240 V AC outlets worldwide, typically drawing 10 A at 230 V or 20 A at 120 V. For field use, a ≥2.5 kVA generator or a suitable portable power station is required. Please refer to the technical specifications for more details.
