DFH40 (40GHz)
Overview
Designed for rapid deployment, each DF Head integrates seamlessly with CRFS Rapid Deployment Kits (RDKs) and is available across multiple frequency ranges: 30–500MHz, 500 MHz–18GHz, and 500MHz–40GHz.
Lightweight and swappable DF Head Systems (30MHz–40GHz) are ideal for tactical deployments during missions when fixed infrastructure is limited. Our spectrum monitoring and COMINT systems use highly sensitive RFeye Nodes (RF sensors) and innovative DF antennas to search for, capture, and geolocate signals of interest.
Spectrum monitoring antenna (8/18/40GHz)
CRFS has re-engineered the highly sensitive, wideband DF performance of its RFeye Arrays into a smaller form factor. The result: interchangeable, lightweight Compact DF Heads designed for use with Rapid Deployment Kits (RDKs).
These systems deliver an optimal balance of mobility, precision, and interoperability, making them essential assets for tactical Electronic Support and electromagnetic surveillance missions.
At a glance
DF accuracy <2.5°
RMS typical
Compatible with existing
RFeye Nodes
Combined geolocation methodologies
100 MHz IBW wideband frequency monitoring
Small, light, fast
Easy installation, set up,
and operation
Networked for multiple
users & missions
Ruggedized protection against water or dust
BROCHURE
Compact DF Head Systems
Ideal for COMINT, SIGINT, ESM, and ISR operations, the system supports both real-time missions and persistent monitoring in dynamic electromagnetic environments. With five interchangeable Compact DF Heads and three RDK configurations, users can tailor deployments to meet specific mission requirements—delivering unmatched operational flexibility.
Range of spectrum monitoring & DF Head antennas
DFH18 (18GHz)
Signal polarizations
CRFS’ Compact DF Head systems support a wide range of incoming signal polarizations. This enables reliable detection of emissions that may be missed by conventional DF systems.
VHF DF antennas use vertical polarization, while UHF and SHF antennas employ spiral designs. Integrated timing and synchronization enable combined AoA, TDoA, and PoA geolocation techniques.
Fully integrated solution
Detect, intercept, direction find, and geolocate signals with our compact direction-finding technology.
Key features
High system accuracy: DF accuracy <2.5° RMS typical
Wideband signal coverage: Detect, intercept, direction find, and geolocate signals from 30MHz to 40GHz
Advanced signal detection: Capable of DF for frequency-hopping, CW, agile, and burst transmissions
Flexible, modular, and scalable: Supports fixed, mobile, and transportable deployments
Real-time and recorded data: DF results available in real-time or stored for post-processing
Rapid Deployment Kits: Modular mast options available in 2m, 6m, and 10m configurations
System compatibility: Fully interoperable with all RFeye Nodes and CRFS’ V‑Track vehicle solution
Proven DF expertise: Built on 15+ years of Watson-Watt and computational direction-finding innovation
Rapid Deployment Kits (RDKs)
Rapid Deployment Kits (RDKs) are lightweight, ruggedized mast and power subsystems designed for quick, reliable field deployment.
Any Compact DF Head can be used interchangeably with any RDK, enabling flexible mission configurations.
Build your system
Select an RFeye Node
Choose your mast
Pick a compact DF Head
Add optional accessories
| Specifications | Rolatube (2m) | BlueSky AL1 (2m) | BlueSky AL2 (6m) | BlueSky AL2 (10m) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mast specification | Lightweight - 2 meters (max mast height) | Intermediate - 2 meters (max mast height) | Heavyweight - 6 meters (max mast height) | Heavyweight - 10 meters (max mast height) |
| Spectrum Monitoring Antennas (SMA) |  |
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| DFH500 (DF 30MHz to 500MHz) + SMA to 8/18/40 GHz | - | |
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| DFH18 (DF 500MHz to 18GHz) + SMA to 18/40 GHz (avail late 2025) | - | |
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| DFH40 (DF 500MHz to 40GHz) + SMA to 40 GHz (avail late 2025) | - | |
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| Construction material | Composite UV resistant nylon fabric | Aerospace-grade aluminum alloy | Aerospace-grade aluminum alloy | Aerospace-grade aluminum alloy |
| Maximum height (including DFH antenna) | 4m | 4m | 8m | 12m |
| Tripod / mast load capacity | 40kg (88 lbs) | 22kg (50 lbs) | 27kg (60 lbs) | 22kg (48 lbs) |
| Wind rating | 100km/h (62 MPH) | 100km/h (62 MPH) | 100km/h (62 MPH | 100km/h (62 MPH |
| Deployment time | <10 mins | <10 mins | <10 mins | <20 mins |
| Number of people to deploy | 1-2 | 1-2 | 1-2 | 2 |
| Fast elevation system | |
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| Color | Black | Black | Black | Black |
| Compass & bubble system | - | - | |
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| Environmental | Water & dust proof. Maintenance free | Water & dust proof. Maintenance free | Water & dust proof. Maintenance free | Water & dust proof. Maintenance free |
What is included
Optional accessories
Discover software
A comprehensive software suite to monitor, capture, analyze, geolocate, and record signals of interest.
RFeye Site
RFeye Site is a toolbox to monitor the spectrum in real-time and geolocate signals in complex RF environments.
RFeye DeepView
RFeye DeepView is a forensic signal analysis software solution offering a 100% probability of intercept.
Need a fixed alternative?
The RFeye Array is an ultra-wide frequency, multi-mission system.