Power and Communications
Power
The RockAIR has two separate power inputs:
- 5 V Micro-USB
- 8–32 V DC via the Molex connector
These inputs are not interchangeable. The Micro-USB port must only ever receive 5 V.
The RockAIR is designed to be attached to mains power. If you choose to power the RockAIR via its Micro-USB port, ensure that the USB power source provides a stable 5 V supply at a minimum of 1.3 A.
The RockAIR also features an internal rechargeable battery that's used should external power be lost. Battery life depends on how it's configured (Report Frequency, GPS modes etc.).
The internal battery will recharge whenever the RockAIR is powered correctly, either via 5 V Micro-USB or the 8–32 V DC Molex input.
| Input Voltage | Accepts power from either the 5 V Micro-USB input or the 8–32 V DC Molex input. These are separate inputs and must not be mixed. |
| Power Consumption | 5V Power Supply: |
| 1100mA Max Consumption when battery is discharged | |
| 410mA Max Consumption when battery is charged | |
| 12V Power Supply: | |
| 650mA Max Consumption when battery is discharged | |
| 230mA Max consumption when battery is charged | |
| Backup Battery | 3.7V Li-Ion Polymer 6.85Wh / 1850mAh |
| Backup Power | 8 Hours / 1 minute Iridium Transmission |
Power Supply Protection and Compliance
For compliance purposes, it is mandatory that the device’s power supply is protected by a 2A fuse installed in line with the positive supply.
Power must only be connected using the correct input. Do not modify cables or apply external voltage to the Micro-USB wiring. Doing so will cause irreversible damage to the device.
Communication
RockAIR units are also equipped with GSM, which may or may not be enabled subject to your monthly tariff (ask your account manager if you are unsure).
If GSM is enabled, the RockAIR will try to transmit over the cellular network first, and over Iridium if that fails. GSM transmissions are significantly cheaper than satellite based transmissions, and should you be spending time in GSM coverage areas, this feature will lower running costs.
The RockAIR can also transmit at different rates when having GSM coverage versus in satellite-only (e.g. faster in cellular areas, more slowly when transmitting over Iridium). See Tracking Context for more information.