Designed for Developers, Built for Production
RockBLOCK has been the go-to solution for developers looking to integrate satellite communication quickly, and RockBLOCK 9704 continues that tradition. It provides a direct path from prototype to production, ensuring a smooth development process from day one.
By handling power, antenna, and serial interface requirements, RockBLOCK 9704 eliminates unnecessary complexity. Whether you’re building a remote IoT sensor, a UAV communication system, or a maritime tracking solution, it allows you to start sending and receiving messages with minimal setup time.
A Smarter Way to Work with IMT
RockBLOCK 9704 provides access to Iridium Messaging Transport (IMT), the successor to Short Burst Data (SBD). With higher throughput and larger message sizes (up to 100 KB), it’s a powerful tool for developers needing reliable, global satellite connectivity.
To make integration even easier, Ground Control’s C & Python libraries come with extensive developer resources, including tutorials, examples, and video guides. Combined with Cloudloop Data, our data management platform, messages can be delivered seamlessly to AWS, Azure, Google Cloud, or via webhooks, MQTT, and email – without developers having to build complex backend systems.
- Seamless integration with the Iridium 9704 module for fast prototyping and deployment
- Supports Iridium Messaging Transport (IMT) for faster throughput and larger messages (up to 100 KB)
- Compact, lightweight design ideal for space-constrained enclosures
- Simple 3.3V UART serial interface for easy communication
- Available with an embedded patch antenna or SMA connector for external antennas
- Fully compatible with the RockBLOCK ecosystem for a smooth development path
- Low latency, truly global connectivity, delivering messages anywhere on Earth in seconds
- Reliable two way messaging, even in remote and extreme environments
- Prepaid airtime with automatic suspension to prevent unexpected costs
- Extensive developer resources, including C & Python libraries, tutorials, and examples
- Cloudloop Data integration for effortless message handling and delivery to cloud services
- Designed for real-world deployment without the need for a hardware redesign
IMPORTANT: This is intended to provide early access information to interested parties during the development process. While we strive to maintain accuracy, any part of the specification or design of these products may change without notice.
Physical – Patch Antenna
- Dimensions: 72 x 72 x 16 mm
- Weight: TBD
- Form Factor: PCB assembly with 4mm mounting holes
- Antenna: Integrated patch antenna
Physical – SMA
- Dimensions: 48 x 52 x 16 mm
- Weight: TBD
- Form Factor: PCB Assembly with notched edge for slot-mounting
- Approved antenna (combined Iridium & GNSS) required. Cable options from 0.2m to 2m
Environmental
- Operating temperature: -40C to +70C, <95% RH
- Vibration & Shock: SAE J 1455
- Ingress Rating: n/a
Cable Connections
- 16-pin 0.1″ pitch multi-strand
- USB-C
- U.FL for GNSS
- SMA for Iridium / GNSS
Electrical & Power
- Voltage: 3.6-5.3V DC, 5V USB-C
- Power consumption (max): 2.5W (4W via solderable link)
- Power consumption (min): <25mW (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: U.FL connector available for separate GNSS Passthrough
- Serial: TTL UART connection (default: 230400baud)
- USB-C: USB-Serial bridge (default: 230400baud)
- Digital GPIO: 5x inputs, 4x outputs. Connection via 16 way cable assembly
Developer & Platform Support
- C & Python libraries, tutorials, and example code
- Cloudloop integration for message handling and cloud service delivery
- Prepaid airtime with automatic suspension for cost control
The following plans are representative only. We strongly encourage you to contact us with your requirements so we can provide you with a tailored quote.
Reserve your units now
RockBLOCK 9704 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 9704, 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.