Tethered System Onboard Power Supply Input 90-405Vdc A9(400S48,3.2kg)

Onboard Power Supply A9

AF-400S48-9K  |  9kW Rated / 10kW Peak  |  Kitefly Tethered

Product Overview

The Kitefly AF-400S48-9K (A9) is a ultra-high-power tethered UAV onboard module rated at 9kW continuous with transient peak capacity up to 10kW. Designed for the heaviest-payload tethered drone platforms, it converts high-voltage DC ground power (390–405Vdc) to stable 47–50Vdc output with automatic load compensation, providing the sustained power headroom required for large multi-rotor systems, heavy inspection platforms, and high-endurance aerial operations.

Compatible with Kitefly G15 and G30 high-power ground stations, the A9 eliminates battery endurance constraints entirely — enabling continuous flight for as long as the mission demands. Like all Kitefly tethered power modules, it operates in parallel with the drone's backup battery to ensure safe emergency landing capability at all times.

Key Specifications

Why Choose the A9 for Your Tethered Drone System?

The AF-400S48-9K is engineered for tethered UAV operators who require the highest sustained power output available in the Kitefly onboard module range. At 9kW rated and 10kW peak, it is the top choice for ultra-heavy-lift platforms, large inspection drones, and any application where the combined power demand of motors, payloads, and onboard systems pushes beyond the capacity of smaller modules.

The A9's automatic load compensation output (47–50Vdc) ensures stable voltage delivery even under rapidly changing load conditions — critical for large multi-rotor aircraft where motor demands fluctuate significantly during maneuvering. Its dual-fan air-cooled heatsink design provides effective thermal management for continuous high-power operation in demanding field environments.

Single modules can be paralleled to further increase total system power for the most demanding applications, and the AS150 output connector provides a high-current, reliable connection standard suited to the A9's output capacity.

Protection & Safety Features

• Output overcurrent protection

• Output short-circuit protection

• Output overvoltage protection

• Over-temperature protection

• Parallel operation supported for increased total power

• AS150U output connector with integrated voltage sampling wires (removable if signal conflict with user system)

Important Operating Notes

• Always power on the drone's backup battery first, then power on the A9. Direct power-on without battery may cause startup failure on large UAV systems due to inrush current.

• Ensure backup battery voltage is above 47V at startup. Voltage below 45V may prevent the A9 from starting successfully and will cause excessive charging current that shortens battery life.

• During normal tethered hovering, the UAV power voltage stabilizes at approximately 48V with battery at ~70% capacity. Verify that backup battery capacity is sufficient to support a safe forced landing if ground power is interrupted.

• After completing a tethered mission, maintain and recharge the backup battery to ensure readiness for the next deployment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What makes the A9 different from the A5 and A7 in the Kitefly lineup?

The A9 (AF-400S48-9K) delivers 9kW rated and 10kW peak power — significantly higher than the A5 (4500W rated) and within the standard 360–430Vdc input range shared by most Kitefly onboard modules (unlike the A7 which requires 650–900Vdc input). The A9 is compatible with Kitefly G15 and G30 ground stations, and uses the high-current AS150 output connector suited to its power level. It is the preferred choice when maximum power is needed within the standard ground station voltage architecture.

Q: How long can a drone fly continuously with the A9 tethered power module?

The Kitefly tethered power system removes battery endurance as a limiting factor entirely. Unlike battery-powered drones limited to 20–40 minutes per charge, a drone connected to the A9 can fly continuously for hours or days, depending on mission requirements. Actual flight duration is governed by the drone's own motor endurance, thermal performance, and mechanical lifespan — not the power supply. For extended high-power missions, follow your drone manufacturer's maintenance recommendations.

Q: Why does the drone need to take off with a fully charged battery?

The drone must carry a fully charged backup battery at all times during tethered flight. If ground power is interrupted, the system automatically switches to battery power, allowing a safe emergency landing. During normal tethered operation, the battery maintains approximately 70% charge. Always verify that the remaining battery capacity is sufficient for a full emergency descent before beginning a mission.

Q: What should I do if the A9 fails to start?

The most common cause of startup failure is powering on the A9 before the drone's backup battery, or starting with a battery voltage below 45V. Always power on the backup battery first, ensure battery voltage is above 47V, and then power on the A9. If startup issues persist, contact our technical team for support.

Q: Can I parallel multiple A9 units for even higher power?

Yes. Single A9 modules can be paralleled to increase total system power beyond 9kW for the most demanding ultra-heavy-lift applications. Contact our team to discuss your specific power architecture requirements.

Q: What ground stations are compatible with the A9?

The AF-400S48-9K is compatible with Kitefly G15 and G30 high-power tethered ground stations. Please confirm your ground station model and output specifications before ordering. Contact us if you need compatibility guidance.

Q: What is the lead time and availability?

The A9 is available in stock for immediate shipment. If current stock is insufficient for your order, lead time is 2–3 weeks. Contact Ms. Susy for real-time availability and volume pricing.

Related Products

A1.5 (1500W) | A2 (2000W) | A2.5 (2500W) | A3.5 (3200W/5000W peak) | A4 (3500W/4300W peak) | A5 (4500W/5000W peak) | A7 (6000W/6800W peak)

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