A Small Nuisance (DJI drone controller RC-N1)

The standard hand-held remote controller for several DJI aerial camera drones is RC-N1. (These drones include DJI Mini 2, Mini 3, Mavic 3, Mavic Air 2 and 2S.) While this controller includes a small USB cable that hides when not in use, the cable commonly cannot be attached to a smartphone if that phone has a protective case. It fits any phone with a USB-C port but not if there is a protective case on the phone.

Here are two products that solve that problem. One is an adapter and the other is a replacement cable.

USB C 3.1 Extension Cable 90 Degree Male to Male Gen 2 (10Gbps)

USB C 90 Degree Adapter Up Down (2 Pack) Low Profile

I keep the adapter in my drone carry bag for when I might need it. As it is quick and easy to attach, there is no need to leave it attached at all times.

The replacement cable is a bit thicker and bulkier than the standard DJI cable; it does not store nicely in the folded controller; see the photo here. You can decide for yourself if this is acceptable.

The Latest Drone – DJI Does It Again

The Latest Drone – DJI Does It Again

DJI Mavic Air
DJI photo

January 23, 2018 – DJI officially announced the new Mavic Air, which again raises the bar for ease of use and safety for aerial drones. Having watched the announcement live this morning, here are the essential details I have noted (somewhat filtered according to what I find most interesting). So, for those interested in aerial drones or aerial photo/video with drones, here is what you need to know in 60 seconds.

Physical

  • Half the size of Mavic Pro and 41% lighter
  • Antennas concealed within the landing legs (away from the body)
  • 8GB internal storage + SD card slot
  • USB type C port
  • Controller is pocketable, removable control sticks
  • Available in black, white, or red

Camera

  • 1/2.3″ image sensor (same size as Mavic Pro and Phantom 3 Pro)
  • 4K video
  • 12MP still photos
  • HDR capture mode
  • 360-degree panorama, auto stitching up to 25 images
  • New 3-axis gimbal, improved vibration dampening, better image stabilization

Flight control

  • Intelligent flight modes, including improved auto-tracking moving subject and two new quick-shot modes
  • Controllable with hand gestures (up to 19 feet)
  • Advanced pilot assist can automatically go around obstacles
  • More stable, can withstand wind speeds up to 22 mph
  • Fly Safe geo system – information about airspace restrictions

Pricing

  • $799 complete
  • $999 with accessories (extra battery, extra propellers, carrying case, etc)

Availability

  • Shipping Jan.29, 2018.

(I am guessing that demand will be high for this product and it will take some time for DJI to fulfill all the orders.)