GEPRC Tern-LR40 – Lightweight and Reliable Long-Range FPV Drone

GEPRC Tern-LR40 is a 4-inch analog FPV drone designed for long-range flying, combining low weight, an efficient powertrain and a reliable dual-band ExpressLRS control link. DeadCat-style frame, analog 5.8 GHz video system, GEP-M10Nano GPS and ELRS Gemini Xrossband receiver make it suitable for exploring landscapes, recording smooth aerial footage and covering longer distances.

Drone features an ELRS Gemini Xrossband receiver supporting both 2.4 GHz and the European-compatible 868 MHz frequency band. Combining two frequency bands improves control-link reliability and helps reduce interference in demanding flight conditions. To use full Xrossband functionality, radio controller or external transmitter module must also support ExpressLRS Gemini Xrossband.

Lightweight and Rigid DeadCat Frame

GEPRC Tern-LR40 is built around a DeadCat frame with a 180 mm wheelbase. Front motors are positioned outside camera’s field of view, helping prevent propellers from appearing in video footage. This configuration is well suited to forward flight and capturing unobstructed landscape views. Frame combines carbon fibre with aviation-grade 7075 aluminium components, providing excellent rigidity and durability without unnecessary weight.

Top plate is 1.5 mm thick, middle plate measures 2.0 mm, bottom plate is 1.5 mm thick and arms have a thickness of 3.5 mm. This construction makes drone strong enough for regular use while maintaining low weight and energy efficiency required from a compact 4-inch long-range FPV platform.

Low-Latency Analog Video System

GEPRC Tern-LR40 Analog uses a Caddx Ratel 2 FPV camera that delivers clear, low-latency analog video. Camera performs well across different lighting conditions and helps maintain good visibility in high-contrast scenes and lower-light environments.

Video signal is transmitted by a GEPRC RAD Mini 5.8 GHz VTX with maximum output power of 1 W. Higher transmission power can improve video range and stability when flying in open areas, provided that all local radio-frequency regulations are observed. Included GEPRC Peano 5.8 GHz RHCP antenna uses a U.FL connector and is optimised for analog FPV video transmission.

ELRS Gemini Xrossband 2.4 GHz and 868 MHz Receiver

One of this version’s most important advantages is its ELRS Gemini Xrossband receiver. Based on ExpressLRS technology, system can use both 2.4 GHz and 868 MHz frequency bands, providing a more flexible and interference-resistant control link than a conventional single-band solution.

When both frequency bands are used simultaneously, control data can be transmitted across both bands, reducing risk that interference on one frequency will destabilise connection. 2.4 GHz is well suited to fast response times and high data rates, while 868 MHz can provide strong signal propagation over longer distances in favourable conditions. Receiver also supports Gemini operation within a single frequency band and can achieve a refresh rate of up to 1000 Hz with a compatible configuration.

Using Xrossband mode requires an ELRS transmitter module supporting 2.4 GHz and 868 MHz Gemini Xrossband operation. Depending on its configuration, receiver can also be used with compatible single-band ExpressLRS transmitters.

Powerful TAKER G4 45A AIO Flight Controller

At heart of GEPRC Tern-LR40 is a TAKER G4 45A AIO board, which combines flight controller and electronic speed controllers for all four motors on a single compact circuit board. Flight controller uses an STM32G473CEU6 microcontroller and ICM42688-P gyroscope, delivering fast processing and precise motion-data handling.

Integrated 45 A 8-bit ESC provides stable motor control even under heavier loads. Betaflight OSD with an AT7456E chip can display important flight information on FPV goggles or monitor, including battery voltage, flight time, signal data and other user-selected parameters.

GPS and More Reliable Rescue Mode

GEP-M10Nano GPS installed on GEPRC Tern-LR40 uses a sensitive GNSS chipset for fast satellite acquisition and supports Betaflight GPS Rescue. GPS module is mounted on top of frame, away from other electronic components, helping reduce impact of electromagnetic interference on satellite reception.

When configured correctly, GPS Rescue can help guide drone back towards its take-off area if control signal is lost. It is an assistance function whose performance depends on satellite count, flight altitude, configuration and surrounding conditions. Settings should therefore be checked and tested in a safe environment before undertaking longer flights.

Integrated BB alarm can provide a low-battery-voltage warning and helps make drone easier to locate after landing or a crash.

Efficient Powertrain and Extended Flight Time

GEPRC Tern-LR40 uses four GEP-SPEEDX2 1404 3000KV brushless motors paired with HQProp T4x2.5 propellers. This combination of efficient motors and 4-inch bi-blade propellers is optimised for smooth, energy-efficient flight. It provides enough power for confident control while keeping current consumption suitable for long-range use.

Drone is designed for 4S 660–850 mAh LiPo batteries or a suitable 4S 18650 3000 mAh battery pack when extended flight time is preferred. A compact XT30 connector is used for power connection. Depending on battery type, flight speed, weather, payload and flying style, flight time can range from approximately 10 to 25 minutes. Smaller LiPo batteries are better suited to more dynamic flying, while an 18650 pack is ideal for calmer, energy-efficient long-range flights.

Suitable for Carrying a Recording Camera

DeadCat frame design and included GoPro-style mount allow a suitable compact recording camera to be installed on GEPRC Tern-LR40. This makes it possible to capture higher-quality footage alongside analog FPV feed. Camera weight should be considered carefully, as additional payload affects handling, energy consumption and flight time.

GEPRC Tern-LR40 is particularly well suited to FPV pilots looking for a compact analog long-range drone without moving to a large and heavy 7-inch platform. Lightweight frame, efficient 1404 motors, 1 W video transmitter, GPS and dual-band ELRS Gemini Xrossband control link create a versatile platform for relaxed exploration flights and smooth aerial filming.