DJI has introduced its DJI Digital First Person Viewing (FPV) Transmission System, which it describes as an “advanced digital ecosystem” that includes FPV goggles, an FPV Air Unit Transmission Module, an FPV remote controller and an FPV camera.

According to DJI, this technology is the “next evolutionary step” forward in drone racing technology, as it opens a world of creative possibilities for pilots by offering “smooth, clear HD video, ultra-low end-to-end latency and long-range transmission with strong anti-interference technology packaged into a simplified setup.”

“As drone racing grows in popularity, FPV racers are looking for the next technology to keep up with their demands. The new DJI FPV System was designed using our vast experience creating aerial and ground transmission systems and offers technology truly unique to the market,” explains Ferdinand Wolf, creative director, DJI Europe.

“As the only digital video transmission solution on the market that performs at the same level as analog, even surpassing it in some aspects, we hope to set a new standard for digital FPV.”

According to DJI, the DJI FPV Air Unit Module uses DJI HD Low Latency FPV Transmission technology (DJI HDL FPV Transmission), which integrates a two-way data communication mechanism to deliver “integrated control over the entire system and a stable, seamless signal connection.” DJI HDL FPV offers a low end-to-end latency of 28 milliseconds, which is similar to high-performance analogue systems, DJI notes.

The FPV system has a maximum transmission range of 2.5 miles. There is an anti-interference technology that provides a reliable feed to the goggles during flight.

There is also a “Focus Mode” that narrows down the signal bitrate to the center of the frame, which thwarts any interference so that even in challenging environments, a clear image is provided.

The digital signal features low latency, as well as clear, 720p footage at 120 fps for an “overall enhanced flight experience,” which is especially valuable for fast paced moments. The FPV system can record on the FPV camera attached to the UAS, as well as to the FPV goggles using a micro SD card.

Racers can capture video content on the FPV Camera in 1080p at 60 fps or 720p at 120 fps while the FPV Goggles can record 720p at 60 fps, which can be instantly played back for quick review.

The DJI HDL FPV Transmission System and DJI FPV Air Unit are equipped with eight 5.8GHz frequency channels, which allows up to eight UAS to fly at the same time under one system. Each operator has an exclusive channel, which reduces cross-channel interference for the “optimal racing experience.” Additionally, pilots can view the camera of other racers connected through the “Audience Mode.”

The DJI FPV Air Unit, DJI FPV Camera, DJI FPV Goggles and DJI FPV Remote Controller work well together to provide integrated control for the “ultimate racing experience,” DJI says. Using a 4-in-1 closed loop software, the FPV remote controller allows users to adjust parameters for the other three components remotely. Users can make changes to settings on the controller, and it will automatically sync the entire system, which helps reduce operational error.

The DJI FPV Camera provides three camera modes; racing, standard and LED mode, allowing users to maneuver around obstacles in a variety of scenarios. Racing mode is ideal for most racing situations, as it delivers images at a higher saturation rate to distinguish brightly-colored objects such as course obstacles. Standard mode is ideal for capturing content by reducing color loss and preserving original details. And LED mode allows racers to easily operate their units in low light settings by increasing the color saturation and reducing image noise to help pilots efficiently keep track of their unit’s location.

DJI says that aside from racing, the DJI FPV Camera also offers “exceptional filming capabilities,” as a 150 degree ultra-wide-angle lens creates a “dramatic and unique” perspective while the 1080p or 720p footage can easily be integrated with video captured by other imaging devices.

“As DJI continues to develop equipment and accessories for a more extensive flight experience for drone racing enthusiasts, DJI welcomes collaboration from all drone-related manufacturers with the goal of working together to create an improved ecosystem for drone racing,” DJI says.