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DragonOS FocalX: T-Halow Experience & Quick Setup Guide (Serial Port Assistant)

In this video, I share my experience so far with the LilyGO T-Halow hardware, including some initial hurdles like replacing the chips (thanks to LilyGO for providing those) due to ...an early firmware fix. My units were likely part of the first production run, so I walk through key things to be aware of, like understanding the LED behavior when running on battery power. For example, the current hardware revision only shows an LED if the USB-C cable is connected or an active Ethernet connection is present. This can be important—if you’re not paying attention and unplug both Ethernet and USB-C, you might forget to switch the device off using the hardware switch.

I also show how I built Serial Port Assistant and made it into a deb package that DragonOS users can easily install, or at least I share the repo for anyone interested. Additionally, I dive into accessing the T-Halow TX-AH via the micro USB port and configuring it through the serial application. Since I had already done the configuration before, I talk through how to do it and what to expect, focusing on setting one device as a station (STA) and the other as an access point (AP), and how to start and stop the pairing sequence to get them connected.

This video is both a documentation of my experience and a visual aid to go along with the LilyGO documentation.

In a previous video, I showed how I made a 1km connection between two T-Halows, and I plan to extend that distance using multiple drones and multiple T-Halows in future experiments.

Relevant Links:
Lilygo T-Halow GitHub Info: https://github.com/Xinyuan-LilyGO/T-Halow?tab=readme-ov-file

Lilygo T-Halow Product Page: https://github.com/Xinyuan-LilyGO/T-Halow

Serial Port Assistant GitHub Repo: https://github.com/KangLin/SerialPortAssistant[+] Show More

DragonOS FocalX: T-Halow Experience & Quick Setup Guide (Serial Port Assistant)

In this video, I share my experience so far with the LilyGO T-Halow ...

DragonOS FocalX 1km Wireless Bridge Mode Link w/ T-Halow (AntSDR, Pi5, HackRF)

In this video, I set up a wireless bridge using two T-Halow devices ...

WarDragon Enhancing Drone Remote ID Real-Time Tracking + ADS-B w/ ATAK (TAR1090, Sniffle) Part 3

In this third and final video of our series, we take a deep dive into ...

In this third and final video of our series, we take a deep dive into updating the WarDragon system, focusing specifically on the dongle dedicated to Bluetooth sniffing and drone ...Remote ID. I'll guide you through updating the SniffleToTak application and walk you through setting up WarDragon to detect, decode, and convert Remote ID (Bluetooth Long Range Extended type) into Cursor on Target (CoT) messages in real-time, which are then sent directly to your TAK server.

** Remote ID Transmitter attached to DJI
Holy stone RID
** Second Transmitter
Roku RID

Firmware Update (as of 30 August 2024):
https://drive.google.com/drive/u/1/folders/1OgErnqXpj4RYb74eHGolY2p6zButDrmv

SniffleToTak:
https://github.com/alphafox02/SniffleToTAK

We’ll configure the WarDragon system to work seamlessly over the internet using a WireGuard VPN connection between WarDragons, an ATAK-equipped tablet, and the WireGuard server. I’ll demonstrate how to view the real-time location tracking of a drone within ATAK, alongside simultaneous ADS-B detection from another WarDragon, all displayed in the ATAK interface.

CoT Integration Recap: In this video, I revisit the importance of Cursor on Target (CoT) and how it allows for the real-time exchange of position and status information within a TAK ecosystem. This capability is vital for maintaining situational awareness, whether you're monitoring drones or aircraft.

So What? By updating your WarDragon and integrating these advanced tracking features, you’re unlocking powerful capabilities for real-time decision-making and coordination. This setup is particularly useful for both emergency response scenarios and advanced hobbyist tracking, ensuring you stay ahead of the curve.

To close, I share some valuable tips on improving the ADS-B setup discussed in part two, helping you get the most out of your WarDragon system.

WarDragon available here (when in stock): https://cemaxecuter.com/?post_type=product

Don’t miss out on staying connected: Catch updates on Twitter: https://twitter.com/cemaxecuter

Supporting the channel: If you find this content helpful, please consider supporting the channel through Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cemaxecuter[+] Show More

DragonOS FocalX Fast Setup: FobosSDR Initial Library Install (CubicSDR, SigDigger, SDRPP)

No edits, no retakes—just a quick and dirty run-through of getting the ...

WarDragon Setting Up TAK Server 5.2 on DragonOS + Flightview_GUI with AirspyR2 (TAR1090) Part 2

In this second video of this three-part series, we dive deeper into ...

WarDragon Setting Up TAK Server 5.2 on DragonOS + Flightview_GUI with AirspyR2 (TAR1090) Part 1

In this video, I take you through the setup of the latest TAK Server ...

WarDragon Remote Drone ID Detection Update w/ Node-Red Map Plotting (Sniffle, DragonTooth)

In this video, I'll guide you through the setup of a modified Sniffle ...

In this video, I'll guide you through the setup of a modified Sniffle repository designed to decode FAA Remote ID from drones, focusing specifically on Bluetooth 5 Long Range Extended ...types. I'm using DragonOS, specifically on a WarDragon configured with all the necessary equipment. Let's dive into the details!

*Key Highlights:*
- *Repository Setup on DragonOS:* Step-by-step instructions to set up the modified Sniffle repository on DragonOS, tailored for FAA Remote ID decoding.
- *Bluetooth 5 Long Range Extended:* In-depth focus on capturing and decoding signals using Bluetooth 5 Long Range Extended.
- *Troubleshooting Node-Red:* Tips and tricks for resolving common issues with a Node-Red Docker setup. Mostly my fault.
- *Sniffle with ZMQ Server:* How to start up the Sniffle Python code with ZeroMQ server support.
- *Node-Red Flow Configuration:* Configuring a Node-Red flow to connect to the Sniffle ZMQ server and process the decoded drone information.
- *Plotting on a World Map:* Displaying decoded drone information, including latitude and longitude, on a world map.

*Understanding Remote ID and Regulations:*
The FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) in the United States and equivalent regulatory bodies in Europe require drones to broadcast their identification and location for safety and security purposes. Remote ID acts as a digital license plate for drones, providing crucial information to law enforcement and other agencies to enhance airspace safety.

*Why Tracking Drones is Helpful:*
Tracking drones can significantly enhance safety and security by providing real-time information about drone activities. This is particularly important for preventing unauthorized drone operations in sensitive areas, assisting in the coordination of drone traffic, and ensuring compliance with aviation regulations.

*Ethical Use and Testing:*
It's important to note that the modified Sniffle repository includes the ability to transmit Remote ID packets for testing purposes. This feature is intended solely for educational and development purposes. I strongly discourage any misuse of this capability and urge viewers to use this feature responsibly and ethically.

By the end of this video, you'll have a fully functional setup capable of decoding FAA Remote ID signals from drones using Bluetooth 5 Long Range Extended and visualizing the data on a world map using Node-Red.

*Links to the Repository:*
Modified Fork https://github.com/bkerler/Sniffle
Original https://github.com/nccgroup/Sniffle
FlightViewGui (mentioned in the video) https://github.com/alphafox02/flightview_gui

WarDragon available here (when in stock):
https://cemaxecuter.com/?post_type=product

Don't miss out on staying connected:
Catch updates on Twitter: https://twitter.com/cemaxecuter

Supporting the channel:
If you appreciate the value this content brings, I invite you to consider extending your support through Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cemaxecuter[+] Show More

DragonOS FocalX Transmit and Receive Meshtastic w/ SDR (hackRF, Airspy R2, R36)

In this video, we take a deeper dive into the setup and usage of the ...

DragonOS FocalX Updates to Real-time Decoding Drone Remote ID BT5 LR (Sniffle)

In this video, I'll guide you through the setup process to decode ...

In this video, I'll guide you through the setup process to decode FAA-required Remote ID signals transmitted over Bluetooth 5 Long Range Extended (BT5 LR) using Sniffle. We’ll leverage a ...combination of Sniffle, tshark, and a Wireshark Remote ID dissector to achieve real-time decoding of drone signals.

What You'll Learn:

1. FIFO Setup for Sniffle: Learn how to configure the Sonoff dongle with Sniffle to capture BT5 LR packets.
2. Real-Time Decoding with tshark: Use tshark in conjunction with the Wireshark Remote ID dissector to decode these packets into JSON format, revealing the exact locations of drones.
3. Advanced Configurations: While the video focuses on real-time decoding, I'll also discuss and show the commands necessary to pipe the JSON output to a network connection for further analysis.

Key Points:

1.This tutorial assists users in getting started with WarDragon, which includes the exact dongle and required software.
2. It's also relevant for those installing DragonOS.
3. The setup demonstrates how multiple software tools can be combined to receive, decode, and display drone location information.
4. This is strictly for research purposes and not intended for any malicious use.

Why Bluetooth 5 Long Range Extended?
Bluetooth 5 Long Range (BT5 LR) is a powerful enhancement to the standard Bluetooth protocol, enabling extended range and better performance over longer distances. I have personally confirmed reception of Remote ID BT5 LR over a 1km distance from the transmitter.

Important Notes:

- While the results can include exact drone locations, this video ensures no personal locations are revealed.
- Piping JSON output to a network connection can allow for more extensive analysis and display.

Useful Links:
https://github.com/nccgroup/Sniffle
https://github.com/alphafox02/wireshark-dissector/tree/headless

WarDragon available here (when in stock):
https://cemaxecuter.com/?post_type=product

Don't miss out on staying connected:
Catch updates on Twitter: https://twitter.com/cemaxecuter

Supporting the channel:
If you appreciate the value this content brings, I invite you to consider extending your support through Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cemaxecuter[+] Show More

WarDragon Real-Time Decoding Meshtastic w/ GNU Radio & SDR (RTLSDR v3)

In this video, I'll be showing a project called *Meshtastic_SDR.* This ...

In this video, I'll be showing a project called *Meshtastic_SDR.* This project leverages *GNU Radio* and a *software-defined radio (SDR)* to decode Meshtastic messages using a Python-based decoder. You can ...find the project on GitLab here
https://gitlab.com/crankylinuxuser/meshtastic_sdr

*What is Meshtastic?*
Meshtastic is a powerful open-source project that enables communication via low-cost LoRa radios. It’s designed for creating mesh networks, allowing devices to relay messages across a wide area without relying on traditional infrastructure. The protocol is perfect for off-grid communication, emergency situations, and hobbyist networking projects.

*Project Overview:*
In this video, I demonstrate how to use a flow graph designed specifically for all US-based frequencies with a 250 kHz bandwidth setting using an *RTL-SDR*.

*Key Components:*
- *GNU Radio:* The open-source software toolkit that processes the radio signals.
- *RTL-SDR:* The affordable software-defined radio used to capture the signals.
- *Python Decoder:* A script that decodes the Meshtastic messages from the radio signals.

*Technical Details:*
The flow graph utilizes separate ports on a ZMQ sink for different preset types (e.g., long, fast), allowing the Python decoder to be opened multiple times, each instance pointing to a specific port, facilitating simultaneous decoding of various message types. The AES key of the Meshtastic network is required to decode the messages.

*Advantages of Using SDR:*
The major benefit of using an SDR in this setup is its ability to monitor multiple presets at once, unlike traditional Meshtastic equipment, which is usually limited to a single preset.

*Conclusion:*
Join me in exploring how this Meshtastic_SDR project can emulate standard Meshtastic equipment, with the added versatility of SDR technology. Whether you're a radio enthusiast, a software developer, or just curious about off-grid communication systems, this project has something to offer.

*Resources:*
- Meshtastic Project https://meshtastic.org/
- Meshtastic_SDR on GitLab https://gitlab.com/crankylinuxuser/meshtastic_sdr
- GNU Radio https://www.gnuradio.org/
- RTL-SDR https://www.rtl-sdr.com/

WarDragon available here (when in stock):
https://cemaxecuter.com/?post_type=product

Don't miss out on staying connected:
Catch updates on Twitter: https://twitter.com/cemaxecuter

Supporting the channel:
If you appreciate the value this content brings, I invite you to consider extending your support through Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cemaxecuter[+] Show More

WarDragon YateBTS Calling Real Phones w/ VK8FOES Rob + Nuand Rob (bladeRFxA9, diamondcard) part 2

In this video, I'll be demonstrating a call to a real-world number in ...

In this video, I'll be demonstrating a call to a real-world number in Australia. To start, I make the call using a Samsung S4 with a Sysmocom SIM inserted, connecting ...to a BTS created with PCS1900. You'll see a video splice from the other end where Rob from the YouTube channel Rob VK8FOES answers. Rob has provided a screen recording with a webcam of himself so you can see the interaction from his perspective.

By the way, here is Rob's channel.
https://www.youtube.com/@UCfXUqFrOLphS3gTrhxRTogA

During the call, Rob places me on hold and calls Rob from Nuand. Robert Ghilduta, from what I understand, is the main person behind Nuand and the bladeRF products. His company has significantly contributed to the open-source community for a long time. Robert agreed to be part of this recorded YouTube video. I should note that none of this video would be possible without the bladeRF hardware, which is a great product. Neither Rob from Australia nor I were paid to say that; these are merely our personal views. However, Nuand sent me the bladeRF xA9 over a year ago for free.

BladeRF Site
https://www.nuand.com/bladerf-2-0-micro/

I conclude the video by showing the exact configuration I use within the diamondcard.us site for IAX and the settings I configure within the YateBTS web interface to make these calls possible.

To give you some context, IAX (Inter-Asterisk eXchange) and SIP (Session Initiation Protocol) are both protocols used for VoIP (Voice over IP) communications. SIP is more widely used and is an open standard that supports a broad range of multimedia communication, including voice and video calls. IAX, on the other hand, was designed specifically for Asterisk, an open-source PBX software. IAX is known for its efficiency in bandwidth usage and its ability to handle NAT traversal issues better than SIP. In this setup, we're using IAX for its reliability and efficient use of resources in our GSM environment.

It's important to point out the typical YouTube warning: transmitting a BTS over the air without proper precautions is likely illegal. This video is solely for experimentation and educational purposes. No one was harmed, and all equipment used was my own.

WarDragon available here (when in stock):
https://cemaxecuter.com/?post_type=product

Don't miss out on staying connected:
Catch updates on Twitter: https://twitter.com/cemaxecuter

Supporting the channel:
If you appreciate the value this content brings, I invite you to consider extending your support through Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cemaxecuter[+] Show More

DragonOS FocalX YateBTS w/ Ability to Call Real Phones + Yate QT5 fix (bladeRFxA9) part 1

In this video, I'll take you through a detailed process of building a ...

In this video, I'll take you through a detailed process of building a fork of Yate with Qt5 support and installing it on DragonOS FocalX. This tutorial is aimed at ...enthusiasts and professionals who are looking to deepen their understanding of GSM technology and YateBTS. At one point in the video I have a brain fart - REGEXP = Regular Expression

https://github.com/svedm/yate

We'll start by compiling and building Yate with Qt5 support, providing you with a comprehensive, step-by-step guide to ensure a smooth installation over the existing DragonOS FocalX setup. Once we have Yate running, we'll move on to configuring YateBTS to allow a GSM phone to connect.

I’ll briefly touch on the steps necessary for setting up YateBTS, which I have covered in previous videos, ensuring that all precautions are in place for transmitting GSM signals. My focus is on educational purposes, aiming to learn and share more about cellular technology without any intention of misuse.

One of the highlights of this video is demonstrating how to call real world numbers using YateBTS. I’ll introduce the site that provides this service, giving you a quick overview of how it works and why it’s essential for our setup.

I also mention my plans for an upcoming video where I’ll show the configuration of the account created in this tutorial and the setup of the outgoing section of Yate/YateBTS via the web GUI. In that video, I'll demonstrate calling a few guests using the handset over the BTS to illustrate the system in action.

Join me on this journey to explore the fascinating world of GSM technology with YateBTS, and stay tuned for more detailed configurations and live demonstrations in future videos.

WarDragon available here (when in stock):
https://cemaxecuter.com/?post_type=product

Don't miss out on staying connected:
Catch updates on Twitter: https://twitter.com/cemaxecuter

Supporting the channel:
If you appreciate the value this content brings, I invite you to consider extending your support through Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cemaxecuter[+] Show More

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DragonOS FocalX: T-Halow Experience & Quick Setup Guide (Serial Port Assistant)