Sony Announces Airpeak Upgrades, Including RTK Kit

Airpeak upgradesSony Announces Upgrades for Airpeak S1 Drone

by DRONELIFE Staff Writer Ian M. Crosby

Sony Electronics Inc. has announced new upgrades designed to improve the precision, performance, and reliability of the Airpeak S1 drone.

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These upgrades include an RTK Kit, an advanced gimbal, and an improved battery, all of which will contribute to the enhanced capabilities of the S1.

The Real Time Kinematic (RTK) Kit enables the Airpeak S1 to achieve highly precise positioning and navigation without lag, resulting in a stable flight path and the collection of precise data. The kit utilizes a base station that receives satellite signals from the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS), as well as an Airpeak mounted receiver using those signals to deduce its position. Comparing signals from multiple GNSS satellites allows the system to determine Airpeak’s precise location, velocity, and orientation, granting centimeter-level accuracy in positioning. Its geotagging feature is able to sync image and mapping data. The RTK system can alternatively be connected to the internet to access a GNSS correction data service. The RTK Kit’s current networking port could also enable additional applications, increasing the value of drones for various industries.

The Gremsy Gimbal, PX1 for Airpeak, is a sophisticated, lightweight gimbal specially designed for the Airpeak drone that grants numerous advanced features to assist with the capture of high-quality aerial footage and data. This new model is more than 40% lighter than the Gremsy Gimbal T3 for Airpeak. The PX1 is compatible with full-size mirrorless interchangeable lens α cameras including Sony’s A7R V, A7R IV, or the A7R IVA cameras, and supports lenses like the Zeiss 35mm F2.8, the 24mm F2.8G, 40mm F2.5 G, or the 50 F2.5 G. In combination with the RTK Kit, via Hot Shoe Cable, PX1 can more accurately record positioning and log orientation to capture vital data. It also pairs with Airpeak and the Flight app using the remote controller, enabling remote control of the gimbal’s movements and precise adjustment of camera settings.

The new LBP-HM1 battery boasts a higher capacity than the prior version, enabling longer flight times and less frequent battery changes. The Airpeak S1 is now capable of up to 30 minutes of flight without a payload, and up to 20 minutes when combined with the new RTK Kit, PX1 gimbal, an A7RIV, and the Zeiss 35mm F2.8. A configuration with the T3 gimbal for Airpeak, A7S III and a 24mm F1.4 G-Master lens can achieve up to 17 minutes. Its intelligent battery management system lets users access real-time information about the battery’s status through the Airpeak Flight App. The battery has four LEDs, offering clear feedback on its charge level and charging progress.

The RTK Kit w/ Base Station (RTK-1) will go for a MSRP of $3,999.99 USD, with a customer delivery date of June 9th, 2023. The Gremsy Gimbal PX1 for Airpeak (GBL-PX1) will start at $3.999.99 USD, with a delivery date of May 19th, 2023. Finally, the 3,938mAh Enhanced Battery for Airpeak S1 (LBP-HM1) will be priced at $399.99 USD, with a June 23rd, 2023 delivery date.

Alongside these new releases, Sony will be updating the Airpeak system software to version 2.0.0 for the aircraft and controller, offering support for the new products, gimbal camera shake correction combined with the FX3 camera (for video only), and display and notification functions along with other enhancements.

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Ian attended Dominican University of California, where he received a BA in English in 2019. With a lifelong passion for writing and storytelling and a keen interest in technology, he is now contributing to DroneLife as a staff writer.

Sony Electronics Launches New Accessories and Advancements for Its Professional Airpeak S1 Drone

Sony Electronics Inc. announced today new upgrades for their Airpeak S1 drone, aimed at enhancing the precision, performance, and reliability of the drone for a wide range of applications1. The new upgrades include an RTK Kit, a new advanced and lightweight gimbal, and an enhanced battery2, providing industrial users with the tools necessary to capture high-quality aerial footage and data. These exciting developments promise to take the capabilities of the S1 to new heights, by offering a significant boost to efficiency, productivity and overall functionality.

The Real Time Kinematic (RTK) Kit

The Real Time Kinematic (RTK) Kit for Sony’s Airpeak S1 is an exciting development that further enhances the capabilities of drones for industrial applications. With the RTK system, the Airpeak S1 can achieve highly precise positioning and navigation without lag, enabling it to maintain a stable flight path and gather precise data to geotag images for inspections and other applications.

The RTK system uses a base station that receives satellite signals from the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) and an Airpeak mounted receiver that uses these signals to determine its position, making for stable flight even in environments with strong magnetic field interference. By comparing the signals from multiple GNSS satellites, the system can calculate Airpeak’s precise location, velocity, and orientation, providing centimeter-level accuracy in positioning and reproducible flight. This provides centimeter-level accuracy in positioning, allowing the S1 to maintain a stable flight path and gather precise data for inspections and other applications. Alternatively, to the use of the base station, the RTK system can be connected to the internet and make use of a GNSS correction data service to achieve centimeter-level accuracy supporting various work environments.

Looking ahead, the networking port currently available with the RTK Kit for Airpeak S1 could open additional use cases, further enhancing the value of drones for a variety of industries. The geotagging feature has the ability to sync image and mapping data which is key for any user. Overall, the RTK Kit for Sony’s Airpeak S1 is an exciting development that promises to take the capabilities of drones for industrial applications to new heights.

Gremsy Gimbal, PX1 for Airpeak
The Gremsy Gimbal, PX1 for Airpeak, is a state-of-the-art, lightweight gimbal that has been designed specifically to be used with Sony’s Airpeak drone and provides an extensive range of advanced features to capture high-quality aerial footage and data. The PX1 is particularly useful for industries that require superior image quality and accuracy, such as those involved in inspecting wind turbines or surveying urban developments. The PX1 can achieve all of this while being over 40% lighter than the Gremsy Gimbal T3 for Airpeak saving valuable weight to improve flight time.

The PX1 operates smoothly with compatible with full-size mirrorless interchangeable lens α cameras such as Sony’s A7R V, A7R IV, or the A7R IVA cameras, and it supports various lenses such as the Zeiss 35mm F2.8, the 24mm F2.8G, 40mm F2.5 G, or the 50 F2.5 G. When combined with the RTK Kit, via Hot Shoe Cable, it can even more precisely record positioning and log orientation to capture vital data. The powerful motors and advanced control algorithms allow the S1 to handle its payload more effectively, even in challenging conditions.

The PX1 also pairs with Airpeak and the Flight app via the remote controller,3 allowing users to control the gimbal’s movements and adjust camera settings with precise tuning. Settings can be changed and adjusted according to the situation without touching the camera, enabling streamlined operation during capturing. In addition, it supports touch-operated focus area setting and selection of focus position. The focus position can be flexibly changed on the mobile app, enabling more accurate capturing.

It’s easy to use with only 2 mounting points and the ability to swap out cards and batteries without having to remove the camera from the gimbal. The PX1 is an essential tool for businesses that demand high-quality footage, data, and reliable performance.

Enhanced Battery:
Sony’s new LBP-HM1 Battery is specifically designed to provide longer flight times2. Combined with the previously announced LBP-H1 Battery Station, increased efficiency for Airpeak S1 drone is realized. In the case of industrial applications such as inspections and surveying2  where longer flights and less downtime to cover more ground and perform more tasks are required, these two products provide increased productivity.

The LBP-HM1 battery has a higher capacity than the previous generation, which allows for longer flight times and less need for battery changes, minimizing the risk of accidents and need for battery swaps. The Airpeak S1 can now fly for up to 30 minutes without a payload and when combined with the new RTK Kit, PX1 gimbal, an A7RIV, and the Zeiss 35mm F2.8, users can expect flight times up to 20 minutes2. A configuration with the T3 gimbal for Airpeak, A7S III and a 24mm F1.4 G-Master lens can realize up to 17 minutes.

The LBP-HM1 battery is tailored to deliver superior performance and seamless integration with the advanced capabilities of the Airpeak S1. With its intelligent battery management system, users can access real-time information about the battery’s status through the Airpeak Flight App3, enabling them to optimize its performance2. Additionally, the battery boasts four LEDs that provide clear feedback on its charge level and charging progress, enhancing its ease of use and accessibility. In sum, the Airpeak S1 and LBP-HM1 battery are poised to offer a significant boost to efficiency, productivity and overall functionality.

Pricing and Availability

RTK Kit w/ Base Station (RTK-1)
RTK GNSS system for Airpeak S1 with high-precision positioning capability
MSRP: $3,999.99 USD
Customer Delivery Date: June 9, 2023

Gremsy Gimbal PX1 for Airpeak (GBL-PX1)
Lightweight, easy-to-use gimbal for the enterprise
Price: $3.999.99 USD
Customer Delivery Date: May 19, 2023

3,938mAh Enhanced Battery for Airpeak S1 (LBP-HM1)
High-capacity battery for extended flight time
Price: $399.99 USD
Customer Delivery Date: June 23, 2023

New System Firmware Updates
As part the new product releases, Sony is also updating the Airpeak system software to version 2.0.0 for the aircraft and controller.  This new software provides support for the newly released products, gimbal camera shake correction in combination with the FX3 camera (for video only), and the addition of display and notification functions to improve usability during shooting among other enhancements. The ongoing system software updates made to the Airpeak since introduction are part of Sony’s commitment to enhance the Airpeak system.

To learn more about this recent update, please visit:
https://www.sony.com/electronics/support/other-products-drones/ars-s1#downloads

For more information about Airpeak, please visit: https://electronics.sony.com/airpeak

About Sony Electronics Inc.
Sony Electronics is a subsidiary of Sony Corporation of America and an affiliate of Sony Group Corporation, one of the most comprehensive entertainment companies in the world, with a portfolio that encompasses electronics, music, motion pictures, mobile, gaming, robotics and financial services. Headquartered in San Diego, California, Sony Electronics is a leader in electronics for the consumer and professional markets. Operations include research and development, engineering, sales, marketing, distribution and customer service. Sony Electronics creates products that innovate and inspire generations, such as the award-winning Alpha Interchangeable Lens Cameras and revolutionary high-resolution audio products. Sony is also a leading manufacturer of end-to-end solutions from 4K professional broadcast and A/V equipment to industry leading 4K and 8K Ultra HD TVs. Visit http://www.sony.com/news for more information.

Notes:

  1. Operating a drone in the United States is subject to federal law and regulations. State and local ordinances may also apply to certain operations. When operating an aircraft, it is the remote pilot/operator’s responsibility to always comply with applicable laws, regulations, and ordinances.
  2. Actual performance varies based on settings, environmental conditions, storage, and usage. Batteries are consumable products, and their capacity degrades over time as they age. Sony does not guarantee the life span of the battery.
  3. All apps require network services, content, and operating system and software subject to terms and conditions and may be changed, interrupted, or discontinued at any time and may require fees, registration, and credit card information.
More Drones with Sony Cameras? Sony SDK Updated, Enabling Remote Operation and Setting Changes

Sony SDK updates, drones with Sony cameras

Sony Electronics Launches New SDK Version, Taking Remote Shooting and Camera Integration to the Next Level: More Drones with Sony Cameras?

Sony is a world leader in cameras, and drones equipped with Sony cameras have advantages for engineering and industrial applications.  Sony’s own Airpeak hit the market last year.   Now, Sony’s latest SDK version further eases integration of drones with Sony products.

The company has been steadily improving integration capabilities for drones and other platforms: version 1.06 of the SDK added a drone GPS sync function, among other features.  The newly released version 1.08 “widens the range of potential applications with new features, as well as expanding the compatible models,” says the announcement.

“With each SDK release, we are integrating learnings from customers and expanding the functionality and magnitude of applications and capabilities,” says Yang Cheng, Vice President, Imaging Solutions, Sony Electronics Inc. “The updated SDK allows our cameras to be used in more industrial and B2B applications, ranging from photogrammetry or medical companies, to inspection, and e-Commerce. We are excited for professional clients to have the ability to explore new functionalities.”

“With this SDK release, software developers can design bespoke applications tailored to business requirements, integrating Sony’s equipment for size-critical drone and speed camera systems, as well as other medical, education, government, and e-commerce applications,” says the announcement. “This SDK will continue to be available free of charge. The Camera Remote SDK can be used to control several cameras in the Sony camera range including Cinema Line cameras, with the full list of compatible cameras available here.”

For details and download of the Camera Remote SDK, please refer to the following URL: Camera Remote SDK | SONY

Read more:

Sony Electronics Launches New SDK Version Taking Remote Shooting and Camera Integration to the Next Level

Sony Electronics announces the launch of a new version (Version 1.08) of the Camera Remote Software Development Kit (SDK) that enables remote operation and setting changes of Sony cameras. Version 1.08 widens the range of potential applications with new features, as well as expanding the compatible models. Version 1.08 means the SDK can be used with the ZV-E1 full-frame interchangeable lens camera, announced on March 29, 2023.

“With each SDK release, we are integrating learnings from customers and expanding the functionality and magnitude of applications and capabilities,” says Yang Cheng, Vice President, Imaging Solutions, Sony Electronics Inc. “The updated SDK allows our cameras to be used in more industrial and B2B applications, ranging from photogrammetry or medical companies, to inspection, and e-Commerce. We are excited for professional clients to have the ability to explore new functionalities.”

Key new features include:

  • Improved processing speed: In repetitive shooting scenarios, the processing speed for setting, shooting, and transferring files is reduced by approximately 20%i, improving workflow efficiency. This will be perfect for e-Commerce applications, where users need to take 360 degree continuous pictures of an object or model for web publishing, with quick turnaround times. Capturing more frames in a shorter time also means that battery life is optimized, which is particularly important for drone applications such as mapping or surveying.
  • Added support for shutter trigger by electrical signal and remote power on/offii. In photogrammetry, photobooths or even road traffic management, an electrical signal improves the accuracy for triggering image capture, opposed to a software-based trigger.
  • New remote settings support: Version 1.08 supports remote menu settings for video, including picture profile settings and timecode (TC)/user bit (UB) settingsiii. This will create an enhanced workflow for video making and widen possibilities for existing photo-based applications.
  • “Overheating warning” status notification: This function allows the camera to notify remote users of any significant increase in temperatureiv. In outdoor applications such as desert roads or systems where the camera is embedded in a wider computer infrastructure with high heat due to processing, users will be able to monitor the cameras more precisely.

With this SDK release, software developers can design bespoke applications tailored to business requirements, integrating Sony’s equipment for size-critical drone and speed camera systems, as well as other medical, education, government, and e-commerce applications. This SDK will continue to be available free of charge. The Camera Remote SDK can be used to control several cameras in the Sony camera range including Cinema Line cameras, with the full list of compatible cameras available here.

For details and download of the Camera Remote SDK, please refer to the following URL: Camera Remote SDK | SONY 

About Sony Electronics, Inc. 

Sony Electronics is a subsidiary of Sony Corporation of America and an affiliate of Sony Group Corporation, one of the most comprehensive entertainment companies in the world, with a portfolio that encompasses electronics, music, motion pictures, mobile, gaming, robotics and financial services. Headquartered in San Diego, California, Sony Electronics is a leader in electronics for the consumer and professional markets. Operations include research and development, engineering, sales, marketing, distribution and customer service. Sony Electronics creates products that innovate and inspire generations, such as the award-winning Alpha Interchangeable Lens Cameras and revolutionary high-resolution audio products. Sony is also a leading manufacturer of end-to-end solutions from 4K professional broadcast and A/V equipment to industry leading 4K and 8K Ultra HD TVs. Visit http://www.sony.com/news for more information. 

Notes:
i When compared with the combination of α1 and Camera Remote SDK Version 1.07. According to Sony measurement conditions. Compatible models: ZV-E1, α7R V, and α7 IV, when using their latest available software update.
ii Compatible model: ZV-E1. To use the extended interface function, users must configure and connect through another device. Please refer to the API reference for details.
iii Compatible models: ZV-E1, α7R V, α7 IV when using the latest software update
iv Compatible models: ZV-E1, α1, α9 II, α7R V, α7R IV, α7S III, α7 IV, α7C, FX3, FX30, DSC-RX0M2

Hitec is 50!

Hitec RCD is celebrating our golden anniversary as a world-renowned and influential electronics manufacturer.

Founded in 1973, Hitec RCD began as an exporter of light emitting diodes, with a mission to bring burgeoning technology to a worldwide audience. Our founders quickly recognized the fast- growing pace of the radio control industry. We then set our sights on researching and developing radio and servo system technologies.

For 50 years, our investment in both our products and customers has established Hitec as a world leader and innovator, trusted by industrial and hobby consumers alike. Our unwavering dedication to engineering the most reliable components available has generated a rock-solid reputation of which we are extremely proud.

Our 2002 acquisition of the highly esteemed German-based Multiplex Modellsport combined the strengths of two respected brands, facilitating extensive expansion of our product lines.

Throughout our first five decades, Hitec has manufactured award winning servos and engineered technological advancements that have become milestones in the commercial, industrial and hobby sectors. Looking forward to our next half century, Hitec RCD remains committed to producing the highest-quality, precision control servo actuators and radio control components with our state-of-the-art R&D, engineering and manufacturing facilities.

The entire Hitec family is dedicated to improving your quality of life through progressive technology. Join us as we celebrate our ongoing commitment to our global community, and continue our mission to provide trusted and innovative product lines.



Manna – Senior Electronics Engineer

The Senior Electronics Engineer is a senior member of the fast-growing, exciting Next Gen (ZX) aircraft design team reporting to our CTO out of our Irish-based workshops and offices.

ABOUT MANNA

At Manna, our mission is to improve the world by making high-speed suburban deliveries affordable, green, and safe. We design and build our own aviation-grade drones to deliver food and other items directly from restaurants, centralised kitchens, and local stores to consumers’ homes.

THE JOB IN 2 BULLETS

  • Vital part of a team of senior hardware engineers building the prototype for the next generation of aircraft, owning the electronics system architecture, and leading, on a project basis, our small electrical engineering team on projects.
  • Roll up your sleeves and get your hands dirty in the weeds of prototype building, but also have a strategic vision for the craft and define and meet deadlines associated.

ROLE PURPOSE

The Senior Electronics Engineer is a vital part of the snr engineering team that is creating mission-critical aircraft systems for our next generation aircraft while also helping stabilize our current fleet. Each of our aircraft designs consists of structure, airframe, propulsion system, avionics, cargo winch, and battery subsystem all of which must be designed to rigorous aviation reliability standards.

STUFF YOU’LL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR

  • Key part of the senior engineering team tasked with delivering various aspects of Manna’s next-generation drone prototype.
  • Work alongside other senior engineers on our snr engineering team to define the prototype build, define schematics and layout of electrical components, add peers as necessary and share the line management of the engineering team on a project-to-project basis.
  • Ownership of defined items on the regulatory (design verification/type certification) process
  • Electronics specification and verification
  • Design Verification test planning and execution
  • Designing, building, and delivering new electronic items
  • Along with the other members of the growing senior engineering team, you will be responsible for tasks that include but are not limited to:
  • Avionics bay
  • Payload bay, payload bay doors, top-loading battery, FTS, waterproofing
  • Motors, motor mounts, ESCs, and power cabling
  • Battery, BMS, gas gauging, battery connection to aircraft
  • External sensors, navigation, dual GPS, Lidar/Radar for obstacle avoidance
  • Integration testing
  • Leading on a project basis, a small team of electronic engineers tasked with delivering the aircraft, along with rigorous test and validation reports, supporting documentation, and regulatory certifications.

PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES + KEY QUALIFICATIONS EXPECTED FOR THIS ROLE

  • You’re a self-starter who thrives in ambiguity and loves adapting to changing priorities
  • You are as comfortable working as part of a team of electronic engineers as you are working alone on small projects.
  • Despite your many years of experience, no element of the prototyping process is beneath you.
  • You love working to achieve tight deadlines
  • You have 10 + years in proven experience developing electronics and system design and knowledge of manufacturing and design standards

Competitive Salary & Benefits

Apply for this job

Autonomy & Positioning Reality Summit earns IEEE accreditation, will provide credits as part of HxGN LIVE Global
Autonomy & Positioning Reality Summit earns IEEE accreditation, will provide credits as part of HxGN LIVE Global

The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) recognises the education-first approach in Autonomy & Positioning Reality Summit sessions

Hexagon’s Autonomy & Positioning division is proud to announce the Autonomy & Positioning Reality Summit, taking place as part of HxGN LIVE Global 2022, has earned IEEE accreditation for Summit attendees. HxGN LIVE Global is Hexagon’s digital reality solutions conference, bringing together visionaries from around the world to discuss, debate and experience the autonomous future.

Engineers from all disciplines are required to earn professional development hours (PDH) or continuing education units (CEU) to maintain their IEEE membership. By awarding certification status to the Autonomy & Positioning Reality Summit, IEEE recognises the educative value of this industry-leading conference.

“The Summit has been designed as an education-first experience. Many of the presentations are based on case studies to show that an autonomous future is here, right now,” said Michael Ritter, president of Hexagon’s Autonomy & Positioning division.

These case studies include applications from urban taxis and rural transit vehicles to off-road autonomous tractors and automated road-train hauling for mining.

“Along with demonstrating autonomy, we have speakers sharing how to build reliable and robust positioning solutions so your application becomes resilient against jamming, spoofing and interference,” said Ritter.

Summit attendees will be able to claim up to 10 PDH or 1 CEU to put towards their IEEE certificates. In addition to autonomy case studies, the Summit will share technical presentations on assured positioning, navigation and timing resiliency techniques, functional safety processes, sensor fusion methods and the benefits of positioning redundancies through correction services.

The Autonomy & Positioning Reality Summit will host keynotes from:

Dr. Robert Thirsk, engineer and astronaut with the Canadian Space Agency
Mr. Michael Ritter, president of Hexagon’s Autonomy & Positioning division
Prof. Venkat Krovi, Clemson University
Dr. Todd Walter, Stanford University
Mr. Omar Ahmad, University of Iowa

Additional speakers announced include: Sandy Kennedy, VP of innovation; Lee Baldwin, director of core autonomy; Sara Masterson, director of positioning services; Gordon Heidinger, automotive segment manager; Bryan Leedham, enclosures and post-processing product manager and James Szabo, agriculture autonomy product manager. See the full programme here.

“Whether your focus is on assured positioning with global corrections and interference resiliency, or safe autonomy with perception sensors and functional safety, this summit illustrates the reality of autonomy and positioning technologies today,” Ritter said.

The Autonomy & Positioning Reality Summit takes place as part of HxGN LIVE Global June 20-23, 2022, at the Venetian Resort and Hotel in Las Vegas. Registration begins at $1,099 USD with the Last Chance rate, ending June 10. Group rates are available.



Are DJI Drones Waterproof? (Explained)
Are DJI Drones Waterproof? (Explained)

Water and electronics have never been a match made in heaven, but with the way technology is evolving to the point that now some phones are waterproof or water-resistant, you may be wondering “is my DJI drone waterproof?”

After all, you can get some pretty stunning and dramatic shots in rainy landscapes, so I’m sure you’ve asked this question before.

DJI Drones Waterproof
Image Credit: PhantomRain.org

The answer is no, DJI drones are not waterproof…yet! There are a few models of DJI drones that are water-resistant, however, but most of these are not for the average drone enthusiast.

So what’s the difference between waterproof and water-resistant anyway? What models of DJI drones are water-resistant? And what’s the danger of flying in the rain or getting your drone wet in general?

I’ll cover all these topics and more right here!

Waterproof vs. water-resistant

Merriam Webster defines waterproof as “impervious to water”. What that basically means is that water cannot penetrate or leak through the surface of the material. It is sealed.

For example, a wooden boat treated with a waterproof coating will not allow water to enter the boat or be absorbed by the wood. This coating is waterproof.

Water-resistant, on the other hand, means that it slows the penetration of water for a short time, but ultimately, water will seep in.

For example, you could have a bag that’s water-resistant that can shelter your items from the rain for a small amount of time, meaning they will not get soaked as if you just left your items outside, but eventually, water will seep into the bag and moisture can damage your items.

It is considered the lowest level of water protection.

If you want to get fancy and technical about measuring the protection a device has against water, you can use the Ingress Protection Code.

The IP Code (what I will call it from now on) measures the protection of a device casing against the intrusion of external substances, such as dust, or water.

What we’re interested in when we’re looking at water is the second number in an IP Code (ex: IP67: we’re interested in the 7). This rating is from 0-8 with 0 being the lowest amount of protection against water and 8 the highest.

Although there is a 9K measurement for a device that can withstand pressurized steam cleaning (Now that’s durable!).

Water-resistant DJI drones

DJI’s consumer drones are definitely not recommended to fly in wet weather conditions, but there are certain DJI commercial drones that are considered water-resistant and can withstand a splash or light rain temporarily.

For example, the DJI Matrice series, like the 300 model or the new 30 series have some level of water resistance. The 300 model has an IP rating of 45 and the Matrice 30 series has an IP rating of 55, which means it is protected from water spray in any direction.

Of course, this does not mean you can submerge the drone in a body of water (it’s still not waterproof).

Another water-resistant drone is the DJI Agras, which is spray-proof as well (this drone is used for spraying in the agriculture industry).

Most likely, you’re not using one of these drones unless you work in a specialized industry, so what about DJI’s more popular drones like the Mavic series or the Phantom? How are they affected by water?

Water and your drone

Okay, so you’re flying your drone, it’s about 500 meters away and suddenly, almost out of nowhere, it starts to rain. What will happen and what should you do?

The danger is that water can come in contact with the electronic components of your drone, such as the battery, circuit boards, motors, etc. Water can enter through small spaces in the casing or vents and, in some cases, short circuits may occur.

Water can also burn your ESCs (electronic speed controllers) which directly affect the power of your drone’s motors.

Usually, the drone will be able to hold up for a short period of time in light rain, so you’ll have to hurry to make it back and land as soon as you can.

Image Credit: PhantomRain.org

Even if there were no risks to the electronic components of your drone, as soon as a rain droplet falls onto the camera, since you can’t wipe them off mid-flight, your footage is, well, ruined.

So you’ve flown your drone back and safely landed in the rain and everything seems to be working okay, what a sigh of relief! Not so fast, you’re still not out of the woods.

There may not have been immediate damage, but the water that has seeped through can now cause corrosion over time, not to mention a battery that has been water damaged is no longer safe.

Corrosion will break the electronic components of your drone beyond repair.

The best thing you can do if your drone gets rained on is to disconnect the battery, dry the components off and, if needed, do the old rice trick (but make sure not to get the rice stuck in small components or holes where you are unable to get it out).

For a full in-depth description of what to do if your drone gets wet, you can visit this article right here.

Salt water damage and your drone

So we’ve talked about the dangers of your drone in the rain and how over time, this water damage can cause corrosion on the electronic components of your drone.

Saltwater damage is even more dangerous when it comes to corrosion. Why? Well, here’s a little chemistry lesson:

As we know, saltwater has salt in it (go figure), or sodium chloride (NaCl). NaCl acts like charged ions when separated by water, which means they have a strong enough bond to attract electrons that were otherwise needed in the original electronic component to conduct electricity.

In simple terms, this mineral present in saltwater has a charge strong enough to mess with the balance of the electronic components of your drone and fry them. This interaction can also cause an electrical fire, so you need to be really careful!

What should you do if your drone is damaged by saltwater? Well, although this may seem counterintuitive, you need to wash your drone with deionized or purified water.

If any sodium chloride remains on the drone even after it dries, it will still cause corrosion, so you need to clean it off.

And, since it’s not actually the water, but the minerals or chemicals present in water that will corrode your electronics, using deionized water is safe and will not short circuit your electronics if they have not already been fried by the saltwater.

Keep in mind though, that your regular tap water is not deionized, so it’s best to leave that cleaning process to the professionals.

Now you may be thinking, hey, rainwater is not saltwater, but it has the ability to corrode my electronics. How is that?

Rainwater is not purified or pH balanced. It is not deionized and is usually full of contaminants and minerals that will cause corrosion over time.

Maybe not as fast as saltwater, but it’s just best to stay away from any water in general when it comes to keeping your drone safe from corrosion because you just never know what’s in it.

Can I make my DJI Drone waterproof?

There is currently no way to completely waterproof your drone, but you can make it more water-resistant using a silicone conformal coating. This coating will protect the parts of your drone most vulnerable to water damage, but only if you apply it correctly.

For a step-by-step on how to safely coat your DJI drone with silicone conformal coating, please refer to this article.

For now, and probably for the foreseeable future, most consumer-level DJI drones are not waterproof. They are not advertised with an IP rating, which would normally determine their water resistance, like with the DJI Matrice series and DJI Agras.

Although some people may swear by certain models’ durability in the rain, if the manufacturer doesn’t recommend it, it’s best not to test the waters if you are uncomfortable with possibly breaking your drone. Test the waters, get it?

Image Credit: PhantomRain.org

I think everyone can agree it would be very cool to be able to fly a drone into a body of water and then use it as an underwater camera. I can just imagine what kind of possibilities that would open up, but DJI has yet to release a drone like that.

Will waterproof DJI drones exist in the future? I don’t see why not. Only time will tell.

Reference:
The GPS Store (link)

What Does a DJI Warranty Cover? (Explained) | Droneblog

Any reputable electronics company offers a warranty on their products as a way to assure their consumers that they can trust their products. And DJI, being the leading drone manufacturer globally, is one such company. So, what does a DJI Warranty cover?

DJI’s standard warranty covers manufacturing defects and issues caused by manufacturing defects, as long as the drone is used within the stipulated guidelines. Each drone’s component has its warranty period, ranging from 3 to 12 Months.

Keep reading to learn more about the DJI Warranty, its limitations, and what other options to consider to keep your drone protected.

How is a DJI Manufacturer’s warranty different than DJI Care Refresh?

The DJI Warranty is different from the DJI Care Refresh in that the warranty is free and automatically comes with your new drone, as long as you use the drone within the stipulated guidelines. 

DJI Care Refresh, on the other hand, offers more protection for your drone at an extra cost.

For instance, DJI Warranty will only cover manufacturing defects and will not cover anything resulting from the operator’s error (more on this later). But the DJI Care Refresh package will cover operator’s error, crashes, signal interference, accidents, drop damage, and even lost drones for some models.

Read more about DJI Care and DJI Care Refresh in this post »

What does a DJI Warranty cover?

As mentioned earlier, DJI’s standard warranty is offered for free on every DJI product, as long as you follow all the guidelines that come with it. 

You can find these guidelines on the product’s manual, DJI’s website, or the app. You also need to make sure you purchase the drone from DJI directly or from authorized dealers in order for the warranty to be valid.

So, what does the DJI standard warranty cover?

For starters, DJI doesn’t guarantee that their products will function error-free or without any issues, so you can expect malfunctions to occur even when everything else checks out. 

That’s why in the warranty, they offer to fix or replace your drone if it develops any manufacturing defects within the warranty period. A manufacturing defect means that the problem is due to the way the drone was constructed as it came out of the factory.

What a DJI Warranty doesn’t cover

As we’ve established, the warranty only applies when issues are a result of manufacturing defects. As such, this warranty doesn’t cover problems with your drone caused by the following issues:

  • Crashes due to pilot errors
  • Unauthorized modification and disassembly which doesn’t follow the provided guidelines.
  • Taking a drone to an unauthorized repairs service provider.
  • Using a drone in a way that’s against the provided guidelines. This includes flying too far than the provided range, flying too high, flying until the battery is depleted, etc.
  • Flying in adverse conditions, such as when it’s raining, snowy, or very windy.
  • Flying in areas with electromagnetic interference, such as areas close to radio towers, cell phone towers, or power stations and transmission wires.
  • Making the drone carry more weight than it can handle.
  • Using unauthorized third-party hardware or software.
  • Attempting to fix your drone by following tips provided by non-DJI technicians or service providers.
  • Using damaged or low-charged batteries.
  • Altering your drone or the third-party part where you even remove the identification label.

Does a DJI Warranty cover crashes?

Whether or not the DJI warranty will cover a crash depends on what caused the crash. If the crash resulted from manufacturing defects and was well within the warranty period, they might repair or replace the drone. 

But if the crash resulted from pilot errors, you will have a lot of back and forth with DJI support, and you will most likely end up having to pay for the repairs or buy a new drone.

How long is a DJI Warranty valid?

Each drone’s part or accessory has its own warranty period, ranging from 3 to 12 months. For instance, the controller, including the built-in screen, if it has one, and sometimes the whole unit usually comes with a 12-Month warranty. 

Propulsion systems (excluding propellers), visual positioning systems, cameras, gimbals, batteries, and battery chargers mostly have a 6-Month warranty. 

For the battery to be eligible for the warranty, it must not exceed 200 charging cycles. For high-end drones like the Matrice 600, the battery and charging hub’s warranty is extended to 9 months.

Therefore, you should always check the drone you’re using and review the warranty that DJI has provided for the drone.

How to claim a DJI Warranty?

When the drone fails to function as expected within the warranty period, you should start by contacting DJI support. You can do this by calling them directly, emailing, or submitting a ticket on their support page (link). 

You have to prove you bought the drone from them or an authorized dealer by providing an order number, receipt, and proof of purchase.

DJI’s technicians will try to diagnose the problem and guide you on how to fix the issue remotely. But not all problems can be fixed with them guiding you over the phone, and they may require you to ship the drone to them or an authorized repair service provider. 

DJI may choose to fix the drone and send it back to you, or they could send you a new drone. In your best-case scenario, you will not have to pay for anything as long as the problem lies within the warranty’s provision.

Other limitations

DJI takes responsibility for any damage or loss as the drone is in transit (as long as they handle the transportation) and when it’s in their possession.

NOTE: The warranty terms may differ slightly based on the region’s regulations. 

Is a DJI Warranty transferable?

Yes, it is. When selling a drone or gifting a drone, you can transfer the proof of purchase to the new owner. As long as the malfunctions develop within the warranty period, the new owner can also benefit from the warranty. 

However, this doesn’t mean you can transfer the warranty of one drone to another drone.

Will DJI replace a lost drone?

Yes, DJI can replace a lost drone, but this is not included with the standard warranty. Replacement for lost drones due to a flyaway is included with a DJI Care Refresh plan, but it only applies to the DJI Mini 2 and the Mavic Air 2. 

The cost for one of these drones new is $225 for the Mini 2 or $399 for the Mavic Air 2. Then on top of that, the DJI Care Refresh costs $49 for the Mini 2 and $149 for the Mavic Air 2. 

When you add that to the replacement costs, you’ll end up paying less than buying a new drone from the store. 

Unfortunately, that’s the only replacement you can get for a lost drone, as the flyaway coverage doesn’t apply to other drone models, and you’ll not be eligible if the drone crashes into the water and gets lost, if the drone gets stolen, or gets lost due to negligence.

How to register a DJI Warranty

You don’t necessarily need to do anything, or register to be eligible for a DJI warranty. The warranty takes effect the day the drone is delivered. What you need to do is to activate your drone when you first get it. 

Follow these steps to activate your drone:

  • Make sure the battery is fully charged.
  • Switch on your controller and connect it to the smartphone.
  • Switch on your drone and connect it to the controller.
  • Open the DJI GO 4 app and click “Next” on the first screen that appears.
  • You will be prompted to name the drone, set the type of control you prefer, set the measurement units, and customize the buttons.
  • Create your DJI account and activate it using your email.
  • And that’s it, you will be ready to fly, and the drone will be eligible for the warranty.

FAQ

Can DJI track a lost drone?

Yes, they can, but the options are pretty limited. If you suffered a flyaway or your drone was stolen, chances of recovering it are very minimal. 

And as we’ve mentioned, except for the Mavic Mini 2 and Mavic Air 2, you can’t get a replacement if a drone gets lost. There are two options to track a lost DJI drone:

  • DJI Aeroscope – This is DJI’s drone detection system mainly designed for law enforcement. It was designed to combat illegal activities and will only detect drones within the 50KM range. But these drones have to be powered on. If the battery is removed or not working, then the drone can’t be detected.
  • Find my Drone App – DJI drones come with a Find My Drone app, which helps you find your drone as long as it’s near the controller, and the drone is powered on.

We have also discussed how to manually track your lost drone in this post »

Can I buy DJI Care Refresh after a crash?

No, you can’t buy DJI Care Refresh if you’ve already crashed your drone. You pretty much always have to buy the DJI Care Refresh within 48 hours of activating your drone. After 48 hours, you may have to provide video proof that the drone is intact, but there’s no guarantee that the drone will be approved for DJI Care Refresh.

The best way to cushion yourself against a loss is to insure your drone through drone insurance companies that offer comprehensive coverage »

Can You Buy DJI Care Refresh Every Year?

No, you can’t. Each drone is only eligible for the Refresh plan once. Once your year of DJI Care Refresh coverage is up, you can purchase one more year of DJI Care Refresh Plus. This effectively limits your coverage to two years. 

If your drone lasts several years, it will eventually run out of both the standard warranty and the Care Refresh, and you’ll be better off with third-party insurance.

Conclusion

As you can see, the DJI Warranty doesn’t offer much. It only covers manufacturing defects, lasts a maximum of 12 months, and not many people get to benefit from it. Let’s face it. You can’t expect much protection for damage to your drone within the provisions of the DJI Warranty. 

That’s why I’d suggest you consider the DJI Care or the DJI Care Refresh package. At a small cost, you get better coverage and for a longer period. Think of it as a way to insure your drone, which is a necessity, by the way, especially for those who use drones for commercial purposes.

Image Credit: Photo by Jake Charles on Unsplash

Ascendance Flight Technologies unveils design of its hybrid-electric aircraft - sUAS News - The Business of Drones
Sony Electronics’ Airpeak S1 Professional Drone Now Available to Order – sUAS News – The Business of Drones

Sony Electronics Inc. today announced the availability timing of the company’s first-ever professional drone, “Airpeak S1.” The introductory model in the new Airpeak line, the S1 is the world’s smallest drone that can be equipped with a full-size mirrorless interchangeable-lens Alpha camera, opening up a new world of creative possibilities for cinematographers and other visual storytelling professionalsi. Pre-sale opens today, December 1, 2021, with an expected customer ship date of December 24, 2021.

Introduced to the public for the first time earlier this year, Airpeak S1 drone is designed for the professional user, and is compatible with a wide range of Sony’s camera bodies including the Alpha 1, Alpha 7S series, the Alpha 7R series, the Alpha 9 series, FX3 and others. It leverages proprietary technology and delivers for smooth manoeuvrability at high speeds with highly stable wind resistance, enabling high-quality aerial images and video content.

“We’re excited to now make the new Airpeak S1 drone available for purchase, and for the amazing set of possibilities this drone opens for cinematographers,” said Yang Cheng, Vice President, Imaging Solutions, Sony Electronics Inc. “The drone’s compact size, new software features and advanced imaging, sensing, AI and robotics reflect the high quality the industry respects Sony for, and enables content creators and commercial professionals to capture images and video not possible before.”

The drone includes “Airpeak Flight”ii iOS®-based application which integrates and monitors all hardware related to the drone, giving the operator real-time status display and updates on screen. “Airpeak Base”ii web application is also available, allowing the operator to manage the equipment, create advanced flight plans, run the same pattern repeatedly, and fully manage and troubleshoot flight logs. For multiple operators, Airpeak S1 also includes a dual operation mode so one user can operate the drone as another operates the gimbal and camera, while each can monitor the content being recorded. An optional cloud service, “Airpeak Plus”ii is available by paid subscription and provides additional data storage, advanced geofencing options, and import/export of flight logs.

Airpeak S1 suggested retail price is around $9,000.00 and will ship with two (2) pairs of propellers, a remote controller, two (2) batteries and a battery charger. A third-party gimbal made specifically for Airpeak S1 will be sold separately. Pricing for Airpeak S1 accessories can be found https://electronics.sony.com/more/c/airpeak. The optional “Airpeak Plus” subscription service will retail for around $300.00 for a 12-month period, with the optional “Protect Plan” coverage also available. 

For more information, please visit: https://electronics.sony.com/airpeak

With this Airpeak news, Sony Group Corporation expands the possibilities for professional creators, enables unprecedented visual expression and drives a sense of Kando. In addition to empowering video creators, Sony will promote co-creation activities for industry professionalsiii in a wide range of fields such as system integrators and industrial partners to explore the benefits of drone uses.

Exclusive stories and exciting new content shot with the new Airpeak S1 and Sony’s other imaging products can be found at www.alphauniverse.com and www.sonycine.com, sites created to educate and inspire fans and customers of Sony α – Alpha brand and Sony’s Cinema Line.

Airpeak S1 is made in Japan. Airpeak is a trademark of Sony Group Corporation.

About Sony Electronics Inc.
Sony Electronics is a subsidiary of Sony Corporation of America and an affiliate of Sony Group Corporation, one of the most comprehensive entertainment companies in the world, with a portfolio that encompasses electronics, music, motion pictures, mobile, gaming, robotics and financial services. Headquartered in San Diego, California, Sony Electronics is a leader in electronics for the consumer and professional markets. Operations include research and development, engineering, sales, marketing, distribution and customer service. Sony Electronics creates products that innovate and inspire generations, such as the award-winning Alpha Interchangeable Lens Cameras and revolutionary high-resolution audio products. Sony is also a leading manufacturer of end-to-end solutions from 4K professional broadcast and A/V equipment to industry leading 4K and 8K Ultra HD TVs. Visit http://www.sony.com/news for more information.