TTGO T-Beam Guide
The T-Beam is an ESP32-based development board with integrated LoRa radio, GPS, and battery management. Perfect for full-featured DIY aviation transmitter builds with Stratux integration.
T-Beam Hardware Specifications
| Processor | ESP32 (dual-core 240 MHz) |
| LoRa Radio | SX1276 or SX1262 (868/915 MHz) |
| GPS Module | u-blox NEO-6M or NEO-M8N |
| Battery | 18650 Li-Ion holder (battery not included) |
| Power Input | USB-C, 5V input |
| Current Draw | ~160-280 mA (active) |
| Connectivity | WiFi, Bluetooth, USB Serial, UART |
| Barometer | Optional (add BMP280 sensor) |
| Dimensions | ~100 × 32 × 15 mm |
SX1276 vs SX1262: Which LoRa Chip?
T-Beam modules come with different Semtech LoRa chips. The SX1262 is the newer generation with better power efficiency, though both work excellently for aviation use.
| Aspect | SX1276 (Gen 1) | SX1262 (Gen 2) |
|---|---|---|
| Generation | Gen 1 (2013) | Gen 2 (2018) |
| TX Power | Up to +20 dBm | Up to +22 dBm (better PA) |
| RX Sensitivity | -137 to -142 dBm | Up to -148 dBm |
| Power Draw (RX) | ~10-11 mA | ~4.6 mA (50% less) |
| Firmware Support | Fully supported (most common) | Supported (verify version) |
| Availability | T-Beam v1.0, v1.1 | T-Beam Supreme, newer |
| Recommendation | Maximum compatibility | Battery-powered setups |
💡 Newer Gen 3/4 chips (LR1121, LR2021) exist but aren't yet common in T-Beam modules. The SX1262 remains the best choice for new builds in 2026.
T-Beam Wiring & Integration
USB Connection (Recommended)Recommended
Connect T-Beam to Raspberry Pi via USB cable. Stratux auto-detects the device. Simple and reliable.
T-Beam USB-C → USB-A cable → Pi USB port
UART Serial (Advanced)
For custom integrations, T-Beam exposes 3.3V UART pins. Connect TX→RX, RX→TX, GND→GND. Useful for permanent installations.
T-Beam TX (GPIO 1) → Pi RX (GPIO 15) T-Beam RX (GPIO 3) → Pi TX (GPIO 14) T-Beam GND → Pi GND
Stratux Integration Modes
T-Beam runs independently with SoftRF or GXAirCom firmware, transmitting position and receiving nearby traffic. Can output to EFB via WiFi/Bluetooth.
T-Beam connected to Stratux via USB or UART. Stratux provides position data, T-Beam handles transmission. Best of both worlds: SDR reception + T-Beam OGN TX.
Our Stratux Pro and Dual Pro models include pre-configured T-Beam module(s) for plug-and-play OGN transmission. No wiring or firmware flashing required.
Best Use Cases for T-Beam
DIY Stratux Builds
Full-featured transmitter module for custom Stratux installations with maximum flexibility.
Glider Clubs
Affordable OGN tracking solution for club fleets. Battery-powered for easy installation.
Standalone Trackers
Independent OGN/FLARM tracker with WiFi output to EFB apps. No Stratux required.
Related Technology Guides
Ready to Build?
Check out our DIY guides for T-Beam firmware flashing and Stratux integration, or explore pre-built Stratux Pro systems with integrated T-Beam.
Disclaimer
Stratux is not certified aviation equipment. It does not replace a transponder or relieve the pilot of traffic awareness responsibilities. Use as supplementary situational awareness only. Dross:Aviation assumes no responsibility or liability for the use of Stratux devices, firmware flashing, or hardware modifications. All DIY guides are provided without warranty-use at your own risk.