A drone jammer is a digital shield that disrupts the communication between a drone and its pilot, stopping it from flying around your house or office. While privacy invasion is one of the most common reasons to build a drone jammer, the technology can also be useful for security purposes and other applications such as blocking Wi-Fi signals in public spaces.
For decades, people have been using radio frequency jammers to interfere with electronic devices. They work by sending electromagnetic noise at the same frequencies that drones use to operate and overriding the signal. In some cases, they look like guns and often broadcast their signal in a cone of around 30 to 45 degrees. The most advanced drone jammers can cover up to a mile in range and are especially effective as the drone’s GPS signal becomes weaker.
The problem is that drone jammers violate federal law, which bans the marketing of such devices unless they are used by authorized federal agencies. This hasn’t stopped online retailers and even some drone technology companies from selling jammers, despite warnings from the FCC and other government agencies. Some of these drone jammers are sold through third-party sellers on Amazon or through dedicated websites geared to the technology. Others are available from domestic or foreign manufacturers that specialize in drones and other electronic devices.
When a drone receives the jammer’s signal, it will lose its GPS and cannot communicate with the remote control. This will usually force the drone to return to its point of origin, allowing for an easy forensic investigation. The most sophisticated jammers can even disable the drone’s motors, forcing it to crash into a building or a person.
As the threat of drone terrorism grows, some governments have begun to introduce laws to prevent the proliferation of the technology. In response, some people have taken matters into their own hands, buying or making drone jammers to stop unauthorized surveillance and other activities.
Drone jammers are a relatively simple device, consisting of a transmitter that sends out competing signals to those of the drone. These signals are designed to override the drone’s GPS, preventing it from locating its location and causing it to crash or land in an unsafe area. These devices are widely available on the internet, with some of the most popular ones offering a wide variety of frequencies and modes to choose from.
The most popular drone jammers are small and portable, capable of interrupting the drone’s signal within a close proximity. They are favored by security forces and individuals who need a quick solution to counter unauthorized drone intrusions. Some are designed to be permanent, mounted in critical locations such as airports or military bases. However, it’s important to understand the complexities of these devices before attempting to use them. They can easily interfere with cellular communication or GPS and must be used carefully to avoid a potential electrical fire hazard. To minimize the risk, only purchase products that are designed for specific use cases.