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FAQ

Which drones is RIDER compatible with?

RIDER is drone-agnostic – it detects Remote ID from any compliant drone or module, including DJI, Autel and many others.
If a drone does not transmit Remote ID (for example, some sub-250 g drones), RIDER cannot detect it.

Where can I view detected data?
  • Dronetag App (with an active Data Bundle or free trial) – provides cloud storage, history, and remote access.
  • Drone Scanner app (Gen. 2) – free offline use via Bluetooth, without cloud history.
Can RIDER locate the pilot?

Yes. If the Remote ID message includes pilot position data, RIDER displays it alongside the drone location.
If not, RIDER will show the take-off position instead.

What is the detection range and speed?
  • Range: Up to 5 km with the default omnidirectional antenna, extendable with optional directional antennas.
  • Speed: Detection is real-time – messages are processed immediately.
How long does RIDER last on battery?

RIDER runs 8–12 hours on a full charge and is rechargeable via USB-C.

How durable is RIDER in the field?

RIDER is compact, portable, and resistant to regular outdoor use.
It’s best suited for mobile operations where flexibility and portability are key.

Can RIDER data be exported or integrated?

Yes. Data can be exported from the app or integrated into third-party systems via APIs or through the Dronetag Cloud.

How fast is RIDER deployment?

Deployment is very fast – even the first time.
Just turn it on, register it in the Dronetag App, and start scanning. Ready in minutes.

Who typically uses RIDER?
  • Law enforcement and police units
  • Security teams
  • First responders
  • Event organizers needing portable airspace monitoring
I got an email saying I need a new Data Bundle. Why?

Every RIDER includes a 2-month free trial. After this period, you have two options:

  1. Purchase a new Data Bundle and keep using RIDER with the Dronetag App.
  2. Use RIDER for free with the Drone Scanner (Gen. 2) app.

We know it might feel confusing why you need a Data Bundle. Here’s the reason:

  • With the Dronetag App, RIDER sends detection data to the cloud via its built-in LTE SIM. The Data Bundle covers this data usage and gives you:

    • Access to detections anywhere, even when you are not near RIDER
    • Shared access for other users on the same account
    • Stored detection history

  • With the Drone Scanner app, RIDER connects to your phone via Bluetooth only. No data is sent to the cloud, so there is no history, but you still get live situational awareness.

👉 More details here: RIDER Subscriptions Help

My RIDER is blinking red on the LINK LED.

This usually means:

  • RIDER is not registered to any account, or
  • You are out of Data Bundle.

Check in the Dronetag App or Web App that your RIDER is registered.
If it is registered but still blinking red, open the app and check your Data Bundle status under Account.

How can I share situational awareness from RIDER?

Simply share your account credentials with trusted people.
They will see the live airspace picture around RIDER and also access its detection history.

My RIDER is not working in some countries.

RIDER can only detect drones that broadcast Remote ID.
In countries where Remote ID is not mandatory, drones may not transmit anything unless they have an external Remote ID module.

Modern drones often decide automatically whether to broadcast Remote ID based on GNSS location.
That’s why the same drone may be visible in one country but invisible in another.

RIDER has a short range. Why?

Unfortunately, this is both law and physics:

  • Remote ID must be transmitted on 2.4 GHz, the same frequencies used by Wi-Fi and many smart devices.
  • These bands are crowded, so signals can suffer from interference.
  • As a result, RIDER may only pick up Remote ID messages when the drone is close enough.
My RIDER is not detecting small drones.

By law, drones under 250 g are not required to broadcast Remote ID.
Since RIDER is a Remote ID receiver, it cannot detect drones that don’t transmit.

Does the drone have to be airborne to be detected?

No. The drone does not need to be flying, but it must have a GNSS fix and the motors must be running.
Once these conditions are met, the drone starts broadcasting Remote ID, and RIDER can detect it.

tip

Some drones only start broadcasting Remote ID after take-off.

  • If your drone is powered on but not detected, try arming or taking off to trigger Remote ID transmission.