DJI has announced a new video transmission device that lets creators control cameras and gimbals and view video from up to 1.8 miles away. Called DJI SDR Transmission (SDR stands for “software-defined radio”), the device is designed for use in “complex environments” and is targeted at small to medium-sized film crews.
The system consists of a transmitter and receiver (each weighing 5.1 ounces) that are sold separately or as a combo, and you can also purchase a phone or tablet holder kit along with an RX-to-phone connection cable.
Filmmakers can watch live footage on a monitor (whether a dedicated Atomos-type system, an iPhone, or a tablet) in 1080p/60fps with a bitrate of 20Mbps and low latency of 35ms. DJI claims the video can be transmitted up to 3 kilometers (1.8 miles) and remains stable in obstacle-ridden environments with “excellent penetration capabilities.”
DJI
DJI SDR Transmission can output three SDR signals and two Wi-Fi signals simultaneously. In broadcast mode, it can connect to unlimited receivers for multiple users. Users can connect to a monitor via SDI/HDMI and a smartphone/tablet via USB-C or Wi-Fi. “The Wi-Fi option enables a cost-effective dual-channel monitoring experience without a separate receiver,” DJI said.
In addition to monitoring, the system allows for remote control of the camera and gimbal, enabling features such as virtual joysticks and gimbal recentering, as well as DJI’s Force Mobile feature, which allows you to control the gimbal by tiling and rotating your smartphone. It also supports PTP (USB-C) camera control for compatible devices, and CEC for Sony cameras, providing full camera control on a remote screen.
DJI
The new product is similar to DJI’s transmission system, which can transmit 1080 60p video up to 20km (12.4 miles), but costs $2,500. It appears to be part of DJI’s efforts to move away from drones in the face of a possible ban in the U.S. Given the success of the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 and other products, this would likely encourage DJI to further its foray into the camera market.
The DJI SDR Transmission System is currently available in the US, Europe and other regions for $549 for the combo, or $309 if you buy the transmitter or receiver separately. The phone and tablet holders are $49 each, and the RX-to-phone connection cable is $10.
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