RockBLOCK Pro incorporates the new Iridium 9704 module, a small, lightweight unit that connects to the globally available Iridium satellite constellation; specifically the Iridium Messaging Transport service. This enables messages of up to 100 kB, which is large enough to accommodate aggregated sensors’ data, images and audio clips.
IMT is a natural successor to the Iridium SBD service, and RockBLOCK Pro supports the original AT command set implemented by the 9602 and 9603 transceivers. This means you can switch out your SBD module with RockBLOCK to enjoy the benefits of IMT: larger message sizes, faster throughput, and in most cases, lower data costs.
*83% reduction in idle power consumption compared to 9603
RockBLOCK Pro is a rugged, IP66 rated terminal with either a built-in antenna, or provision for an external antenna. It’s also available as an OEM version, for integration into your enclosure. It is designed to operate on extremely low power; when idle, the RockBLOCK Pro consumes less than 200mW, and its maximum power consumption is 3W. This makes it ideal for remote, unmanned applications powered with batteries or solar.
RockBLOCK Pro is also tightly integrated with Cloudloop, our IoT platform which provides data storage, processing and delivery for your IoT messages. Cloudloop supports all major public cloud services, including AWS, Google Cloud, and Azure.
- Utilizes the Iridium 9704 module
- Sends messages of up to 100 kB via Iridium Messaging Transport (IMT)
- Designed for low power consumption
- Multiple interfaces for easy integration
- Available as a rugged (IP66) terminal with a built-in antenna, or with provision for an external antenna
- Also available as an OEM version for integration into your enclosure
- Tightly integrated with Cloudloop for data storage, processing and delivery of your IoT messages
IMPORTANT: This is intended to provide early access information to interested parties during the development process. Whilst we strive to maintain accuracy, any part of the specification or design of these products may change without notice.
Physical
- Size: 100 x 75 x 55 mm / 3.9″ x 3″ x 1.1″
- Weight: <400 g (including antenna) / 0.88 lbs
- Case: Aluminum enclosure
Environmental
- Vibration & Shock: SAE J 1455
- Ingress Rating: IP66
- Operating Temperature: -40C to +70C, <95% RH
Cable Connections
- Power: 2m 12-core cable or USB-C
- Antenna: SMA connector. Cable options from 0.2m to 4m. Approved antenna (combined Iridium & GNSS) required
Electrical & Power
- Voltage: 5-30V DC, 5V USB-C
- Power Consumption (Maximum): 3W
- Power Consumption (Minimum): <75mW (sleep mode)
- Power Consumption (Idle): <200mW (registered with network, listening, ready to transmit/receive)
Communication Interfaces
- Iridium Messaging Transport: 4.8kbps bi-directional messages from 10 to 100,000 bytes. Latency typically < 10s between remote and cloud applications
- GNSS: Concurrent reception of 4 GNSS – BeiDou, Galileo, GLONASS, GPS / QZSS
- Bluetooth: BLE 5.0. App for configuration/status. Future sensor connectivity planned
- Serial: RS485 or RS232. Proprietary serial API & support for legacy 9603 AT commands
- USB-C: Serial port. MSD file system
- Digital GPIO: 2x inputs, 2x outputs. Connection via 12 way cable assembly
These prices are representative, and we can offer tailored pricing based on your specific usage. Please get in touch for a quote.
Reserve your units now
RockBLOCK Pro is currently in development, with the first units available for beta testing in April, followed by full production from July 2025.
If you would like to be among the first to test the RockBLOCK Pro, or have any questions about the device, please complete the form, or email hello@groundcontrol.com.
In all probability, we will not have enough beta test units to meet the demand, so please get in touch quickly if you would like to participate.