Embedded HF/VHF Modem Modules
Radio makers face increasing functional and performance demands when developing HF and V/UHF radios. At RapidM, we specialise in delivering a comprehensive range of narrowband and wideband, standards-compliant and proprietary products designed to meet the growing demands of modern radio communication. Our embedded modem modules provide radio makers with next-generation digital capabilities that enhance both new or existing radio designs with minimal integration effort and low overall development cost. In line with our commitment to our clients, we offer various associated services, including integration support and product adaptation. These services are backed by our strong assurance of supply, enabling leading radio makers to effectively manage the supply of their resources and reliably meet demand.
TC Modem Modules: High-Performance in a Compact Package
The modem modules in the TC family are engineered for an ultra-compact footprint with low power consumption, making them ideal for radio makers seeking performance without compromise.
With standards-based functions and proprietary waveforms for HF and V/UHF radios, the TC modules deliver robust capabilities, including:
- Secure Digital Voice
- Positioning Services
- Narrowband and Wideband Data Modems
- Automatic Link Establishment (ALE) Controllers
Standards compliance is key to the versatility of our TC modules, which conform to numerous industry standards such as:
- Data Modems: MIL-STD-188-110A/B/C/D, STANAG 4285, 4415, 4529, 4539, 4691, 5065
- 2G ALE: MIL-STD-188-141A/B/C
- 3G ALE: STANAG 4538 FLSU
- 3G Packet Data Modems: STANAG 4538 xDL
- 4G WALE: MIL-STD-188-141D
In addition, the TC modules can host secure communication functions, featuring low-rate (600 to 2400 bps) TWELP and MELPe vocoders as well as AES-256 encryption for secure voice and data transmission.
TC Local/Link Module Set: Enhanced Security and Networking
For applications requiring advanced security and networking, RapidM offers a local/link module solution that pairs a TC2 local-side processing module with a TC2 / TC5 link-side modem module. This configuration provides all the capabilities of the TC modem modules with the added benefits of:
- ARQ Protocols
- Higher-Level Networking
- Advanced Security Features
This separation between the modules is strategically designed to accommodate the integration of a security processor incorporating sovereign encryption, ideal for markets that require country-specific security protocols while maintaining the highest performance in digital modem technology.
Supporting Software
RapidM provides a suite of PC software applications designed to complement our TC embeddable modules, enabling higher-level communication services. These applications offer features such as email, chat messaging, file transfer, and positioning services, along with gateway connectivity to IP and GSM networks.
Products
TC5 Wideband HF & V/UHF Modem, ALE and SDV Module – 4G, 24 kHz
The TC5 is an embedded data modem and ALE controller for integration into HF/VHF/UHF radios, enabling high-speed BLOS and HF surface wave communications. It supports wideband HF modem functions (MIL-STD-188-110C App. D, up to 24 kHz) and is future-ready for 4G ALE (MIL-STD-188-141D). The TC5 also hosts a VHF circuit modem with data rates up to 256,000 bps and includes RapidM’s EF-256 embedded functions, such as secure digital voice (SDV) and AES-256 encryption, ensuring secure, high-performance communications.
TC2 HF & V/UHF Modem, ALE and SDV Module – 3G, 3, 6 kHz
The TC2 is an embedded modem module for integration into LF, HF and V/UHF radios, offering data modems and 2G/3G ALE (STANAG 4538). It hosts RapidM’s EF-256 functions, including secure digital voice (SDV) and AES-256 encryption for secure communications. Ideal for upgrading TC4-based designs, the TC2 offers lower power consumption, digital voice capabilities, and V/UHF data rates up to 128,000 bps in a 24 kHz channel.
TC4-LP HF & V/UHF Modem, ALE and Voice Module – 3G, 3, 6 kHz
The TC4-LP is a high-performance LF, HF and V/UHF modem, ALE and voice module. The TC4-LP is optimised for low power consumption. The module is suitable for integration into LF, HF and V/UHF radios and other communication equipment. The TC4-LP is recommended for new designs.
| TC Family Products Comparison | TC5 | TC2 | TC4-LP |
HF Modems (MIL-STD/STANAG) | |||
| Wideband HF Data Modem MS110C (24 kHz), Fully Compliant | [ ] | ||
| HF Data Modem: Up to 9600 bps (3 kHz, SSB) | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] |
| 3G ALE (S4538 FLSU) | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] |
| HF Data Modem: Up to 19200 bps (2×3 kHz, 2-ISB) | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] |
HF Protocols (MIL-STD/STANAG) | |||
| 4G ALE | [ ] | ||
| 3G ALE (S4538 FLSU) | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] |
| 3G Packet Data (S4538 xDL) | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] |
| 2G ALE | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] |
V/UHF Modems (Proprietary) | |||
| RapidM V/UHF Modem: CL9 up to 256 kbps (50 kHz) | [ ] | ||
| RapidM V/UHF Modem: LITE up to 128 kbps (25 kHz) | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] |
Digital Voice (Vocoder and Modem) | |||
| 2400 bps TWELP/MELPe | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] |
| 700 – 2400 bps TWELP | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] |
| 600 – 2400 bps TWELP/MELPe (Export Controlled) | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] |
| 300 bps TWELP (Export Controlled) | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] |
Encryption (Digital Voice and Data) | |||
| 56-bit Encryption | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] |
| AES-256 (Export Controlled) | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] |
Interfaces | |||
| UART A (Data, Config and Control) | |||
| UART B (Radio Control) | |||
| UART C (Spare, Customisable) | |||
| USART (Data) | [ ] | ||
| Analogue Audio 1 (Radio Baseband) | |||
| Analogue Audio 2 (2-ISB Radio Baseband or EAR/MIC) | |||
| Routable Analogue I/O Capability | |||
| Differential Analogue I/O Signal Capability | |||
| PTT In | |||
| PTT Out | |||
| McASP Digital Audio | |||
| McBSP Digital Audio | |||
| PPS (GPS Time) Input | |||
| Internal Clock | |||
| Clock Input | |||
| Clock Output | |||
| Ethernet | |||
| SPI | |||
| I2C | |||
| 1.8 V I/O Voltage Capability | |||
| Remote Control Protocol: RAP1/RIPC | |||
| Remote Control Protocol: ASCII S5066 Annex E | [ ] | [ ] | [ ] |
[ ] = Option
Key Benefits: Why Choose RapidM?
At RapidM, we understand the unique challenges that radio makers face, and our solutions are designed to address these with a focus on long-term success. Here are some of the key benefits you can expect when choosing our embedded modules:
Standards Compliance
Conforming to a wide range of industry standards for assured compatibility.
Best-In-Class Performance
Our technology is built to handle even the most challenging environments, ensuring superior communication in long-range or interference-prone settings.
Integration Assistance
Our dedicated engineering teams work hand-in-hand with our client’s team to provide seamless integration into your radio products.
High-Quality Manufacturing
Every module is produced with the highest standards of quality control, ensuring reliability and longevity.
Long-Term Assured Supply
We ensure reliable access to key components through supply agreements and ample stock, helping radio manufacturers confidently manage production timelines.
Long-Term Price Stability
We offer predictable pricing throughout the product’s lifecycle, enabling our clients to plan effectively.
Best-In-Class Performance: Overcoming Communication Challenges
Long-range communication, particularly in HF environments, is vulnerable to channel fading, distortion, and interference. RapidM’s expertise in HF and V/UHF modem design allows us to mitigate these challenges through advanced features like adaptive equalisation, which significantly improves signal quality, extends range, and increases throughput.Services to Support Integration
RapidM offers a full range of services to support radio makers throughout every stage of the development and integration process:
Embedded Product Integration Support
At RapidM, we go beyond just providing hardware – we offer comprehensive support throughout the integration process. Our integration services are designed to help radio makers looking to enhance their existing HF radio product range with advanced HF data modem and ALE capabilities. We offer specialised design support, and close collaboration with the radio maker’s engineering teams to support successful implementation, whether they are developing a new system or upgrading an existing one.
Waveform Adaptation and Design
In addition to our standards-based solutions, RapidM offers proprietary waveform design and networking protocols tailored to HF and V/UHF communication needs. These include:
- Wideband waveforms optimised for packet data transmission over HF (beyond-line-of-sight) and challenging mobile V/UHF fixed-frequency radio links.
- Proprietary secure data streaming and packet data ECCM waveforms designed for HF (BLOS) and mobile V/UHF frequency-hopping radio links.
- Proprietary secure digital voice ECCM waveforms tailored for secure voice communication over HF (BLOS) and mobile V/UHF frequency-hopping radio links.
- Radio networking protocols (MANET) engineered for HF (BLOS) and V/UHF radio links.
Training
RapidM's technical experts provide in-depth training on key topics, including HF communication principles, simulation practices, product usage, and standardised specifications. Each training program is tailored to meet the specific needs and expectations of our clients, ensuring our clients are well-prepared to utilise our technology effectively.
Design and Engineering Assistance
From integration support for our secure digital voice and modem solutions to assistance with our embedded HF and V/UHF modem modules, RapidM offers specialised design and engineering support tailored to our customers’ needs. Additionally, our bespoke electronic board design and verification services ensure high-quality solutions that meet each client’s specific requirements.