RockBLOCK 9704
RockBLOCK 9704 gives developers reliable global satellite connectivity, combining the Iridium Certus 9704 module with onboard power regulation, USB-C and TTL UART interfaces, optional GNSS passthrough, open-source C and Python libraries, and Cloudloop Data integration.
Key Capabilities
Built for fast prototyping and straightforward integration, RockBLOCK 9704 supports larger satellite messages, low power operation and reliable two way communication anywhere on Earth with a clear view of the sky.
Messages up to 100 KB for richer data transfer
Latency as low as 10 seconds end to end
Global Iridium coverage for remote deployments
Low power operation for battery deployments
USB-C and TTL UART for easy integration
Move from Prototype to Production
RockBLOCK 9704 is supported by open source C and Python libraries, with tutorials and example code to help developers integrate it quickly.
The libraries handle JSPR command sequencing, session and power mode management, message fragmentation and reassembly, and flow control. Configure the serial port, then use simple send and receive functions without implementing the underlying Iridium protocol yourself.
From Remote Device to Application
Once messages leave the device, Cloudloop Data seamlessly routes uplinks and downlinks to your HTTPS or MQTT endpoint, and exposes a REST API and dashboard for device metadata, transmission status, and message history.
With flexible, pay-per-message billing and real time usage dashboards, Ground Control delivers true full stack support, from hardware and network transport through to data delivery, so you can prototype fast and scale instantly.
Iridium Certus 9704 Hardware Comparison
 RockBLOCK 9704 SMA
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 RockBLOCK 9704 Patch
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 RockBLOCK Pro OEM
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 RockBLOCK Pro
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|---|---|---|---|---|
| Form Factor | PCB assembly with notched edge for slot-mounting | PCB assembly with 4 mm mounting holes | PCB assembly with mounting frame | Aluminum enclosure |
| Dimensions | 48 x 52 x 16 mm | 72 x 72 x 16.5 mm | 104 x 65 x 29 mm | 121 x 75 x 57 mm |
| Weight | < 35 g (exc. antenna) | < 50 g (inc. patch antenna) | 108 g (exc. antenna) | 400 g (inc. antenna) |
| Environmental | None | None | None | IP66 |
| Power | 4.0–5.3 V DC; 3.6–4.5 V battery; 5 V USB-C | 4.0–5.3 V DC; 3.6–4.5 V battery; 5 V USB-C | 5–30 V DC, 5 V USB-C | 5–30 V DC, 5 V USB-C |
| Antenna | SMA connector for Iridium/GNSS + U.FL for GNSS passthrough | Integrated patch antenna | SMA connector; approved combined Iridium + GNSS antenna required | Optional built-in antenna; or use SMA connector |
| Protocol | IMT only | IMT only | IMT + 9603 AT commands | IMT + 9603 AT commands |
| Onboard Processing | ||||
| GNSS | External GNSS via U.FL passthrough | External GNSS via U.FL passthrough | Concurrent reception of 4 GNSS | Concurrent reception of 4 GNSS |
| I/O Options | 5 x inputs & 3 x outputs via 16-way cable assembly | 5 x inputs & 3 x outputs via 16-way cable assembly | 2 x inputs & 2 x outputs via 30-way header | 4 x configurable channels (0–10 V analog input / open-drain digital output / dry-contact input) |
| Buy Now | Buy Now | View Product | View Product |
UAV Backup Comms
Provide a secondary communications path for telemetry, status updates and important commands when cellular or radio links are unavailable.
USV and Buoy Telemetry
Send position, sensor readings and mission data from autonomous vessels, drifting buoys and other offshore platforms operating beyond terrestrial coverage.
Environmental Monitoring
Return larger sensor datasets from weather stations, hydrology systems, scientific instruments and monitoring equipment in isolated locations.
Mobile Asset Telemetry
Transmit location, operating status and diagnostic information from vehicles, machinery and other assets moving through areas with limited terrestrial connectivity.
Scientific Instrumentation
Retrieve measurements, logs and diagnostic data from equipment deployed in difficult or expensive to access environments.
Product Development
Add Iridium IMT connectivity to a prototype quickly, then use the same core hardware, libraries and platform services as the application moves toward production.
Technical Essentials
Key integration details covering message capacity, power, interfaces, antenna options and physical fit.
25 Bytes to 100 KB per Message
Send and receive two way data using Iridium Messaging Transport (IMT).
Global Iridium Satellite Coverage
Communicate from anywhere on Earth with a clear view of the sky.
Latency as Low as 10 Seconds
Messages can arrive in under 10 seconds under optimal conditions.
Compact PCB for Embedded Integration
Choose a 48 × 52 mm SMA board or a 72 × 72 mm patch version.
Integrated or External Antenna
Choose an onboard patch or qualified antenna for the SMA version.
DC, Battery or USB-C Power
Accepts 4.0-5.3 V DC, 3.6-4.5 V battery input, or 5 V USB-C.
Under 5 mW in Sleep Mode
Uses around 60 mW when idle and approximately 1.4 W while transmitting.
TTL UART and USB-C Serial
Connect using 3.3 V TTL UART or the FTDI USB-C serial interface.
Product Specifications
Physical Properties
- Patch Version Dimensions
- 72 x 72 x 16.5 mm; 95 mm overall including the cable exit
- Patch Version Weight
- <50g (inc. patch antenna)
- Patch Version Form Factor
- PCB assembly with 4mm mounting holes
- Patch Version Antenna
- Integrated patch antenna
- SMA Version Dimensions
- 48 x 52 x 16 mm
- SMA Version Weight
- <35g (exc. antenna)
- SMA Version Form Factor
- PCB Assembly with notched edge for slot-mounting
- SMA Antenna Requirement
- Approved combined Iridium and GNSS antenna required
Environmental
- Operating Temperature
- -40°C to +70°C
- Relative Humidity
- Less than 95%
- Vibration and Shock
- SAE J1455
- Ingress Rating
- None; integrate within a suitable enclosure
Connections
- Main Connection
- 16-pin, 0.1-inch pitch multi-strand cable
- USB
- USB-C
- GNSS Passthrough
- U.FL connector for antenna passthrough to a separate GNSS receiver
- External Antenna
- SMA connector for the qualified combined Iridium and GNSS antenna
Electrical and Power
- DC Input
- 4.0-5.3 V at up to 500 mA
- Battery Input
- 3.6-4.5 V at up to 1.1 A
- USB-C Supply
- 5 V, capable of supplying 500 mA
- Transmit Power Consumption
- 1.4 W
- Sleep Mode Consumption
- Less than 5 mW with indicator LEDs disabled
- Idle Consumption
- Approximately 60 mW while registered, listening and ready to transmit or receive
Communications
- Satellite Protocol
- Iridium Messaging Transport
- Message Size
- 25 to 100,000 bytes
- Data Rate
- 4.8 kbps
- Serial Interface
- TTL UART connection (default: 230400baud)
- USB Interface
- USB-C serial bridge (default: 230400baud)
- Digital I/O
- Five inputs and three outputs through the 16-way cable assembly
- GNSS
- U.FL connection available for separate GNSS passthrough
Regulatory
- Satellite Certification
- Iridium certified
- EMC
- Meets EN 55032 Class B limits at pre-compliance testing
Developer Support
RockBLOCK 9704 is supported by open source C and Python libraries, with tutorials, example code and full developer documentation to help with integration. The libraries handle the underlying JSPR command flow, session management, message fragmentation and reassembly, so developers do not need to build those functions from scratch.
Cloudloop Data manages message delivery between deployed devices and cloud applications. Data can be routed to HTTPS or MQTT endpoints, while the REST API provides access to device, message and delivery information. Prepaid and contract airtime options are available, with usage and billing managed through Cloudloop.
RockBLOCK 9704 Product Showcase
In this overview, we explain how the RockBLOCK 9704 family compares with the classic 9603, where Iridium Messaging Transport fits, and the differences between the developer module, ruggedized options and products with more built-in functionality.
Our aim is to help you identify the right RockBLOCK for your application. If you would like to talk it through, our team is always happy to help.
FAQs
No, the 9704 uses a proprietary protocol which Iridium call JSPR (JSON-Based Serial Protocol for REST). It’s a little more complicated than an AT style interface, and requires you to exchange JSON documents with the module. Due to the limited on-board memory, when sending large messages, there are some quite strict timing rules too.
All of this complexity is handled elegantly by our open source C library, so in practice we don’t expect people to implement the JSPR protocol themselves, and will instead use our library in their projects.
That said, the RockBLOCK Pro and Pro OEM devices expose an AT command interface that is largely compatible with the 9602/9603 modem command set, though there are some differences and extensions specific to these products.
Yes. Cloudloop Data includes a “legacy RockBLOCK HTTP Post” option, so your existing integrations should continue to work without changes. That said, Cloudloop also supports a wide range of modern destination types – ideal if you’re using services like AWS, Google Cloud, or Azure – so it’s worth exploring those for even more flexibility.
Yes, it’s TTL level UART at the 16-pin header.
Yes, we offer a plastic mounting enclosure as an accessory for the SMA version. This enclosure is designed to securely hold the PCB in place, with integrated features such as screw holes for easy mounting, so you won’t need to develop a custom solution unless you prefer to.
No, the RockBLOCK 9704 does not integrate with the existing RockBLOCK admin dashboard. Instead, it’s managed through Cloudloop, our modern platform that provides all the same functionality and more.
You’ll still be able to activate units, manage delivery groups, and send mobile-terminated (MT) messages manually via the user interface. Cloudloop supports these features across all devices and transport types, offering a more flexible and scalable approach to device management.
Kickstart Your Remote IoT Application
RockBLOCK 9704 is available to order online today for fast dispatch, or get in touch with our expert team if you have any questions. Whether you need technical guidance, help choosing the right version, or want to discuss volume orders, we’re here to help.
Fill in the form or email hello@groundcontrol.com, and we’ll reply within one working day; or head to our Shopify site to place your order online.