Within a few months, Qualcomm conducted experiments to find out in practical terms how realistic it is to organize the management of drones using the commercial network 4G LTE. Experts at the Qualcomm Research Center in San Diego evaluated key characteristics, including signal quality and delay in various work scenarios. In total, approximately 1,000 flights were performed to collect data for subsequent analysis.
In short, the results of the study indicate that 4G LTE networks are suitable for the safe management of drones flying beyond the line of sight at altitudes up to 120 m. In this case, the transfer of the drone from one base station to another is performed even better than in the case of terrestrial subscribers, since the altitude is less affected or completely lacking in the effect of obstacles absorbing and reflecting radio waves.
A detailed test report is available on the Qualcomm website.