DJI has launched a new lightweight and affordable video transmission system. The DJI SDR Transmission uses advanced Software Defined Radio technology for sending video rather than solely relying on Wi-Fi. DJI says that this ensures stable video transmissions even in complex shooting environments.
Software Defined Radio
Software Defined Radio (SDR) is a radio system that uses software to replace hardware components such as amplifiers, modulators and demodulators. In addition, DJI’s new SDR video transmission system supports Wi-Fi transmission for extra flexibility. The transmitter can output three SDR signals and two Wi-Fi signals simultaneously. In broadcast mode, it can also connect to unlimited receivers.
Video transmission
The DJI SDR Transmission can deliver up to a 1080p 60 fps live video feed. It also features a bit rate of up to 20 Mbps and a signal delay as low as 35 milliseconds. The system has an impressive video transmission range of up to 10,000 feet — that’s 1.8 miles (three kilometers). In addition, DJI says that SDR Transmission has superior penetration capabilities so your video feeds should remain stable even in complex shooting environments. If there’s any interference, the system automatically hops across 2.4 GHz, 5.8 GHz and DFS frequency bands to find the most optimal channel.
Transmitter
The DJI SDR Transmission transmitter has both SDI and HDMI video inputs as well as a 3.5 mm stereo jack. There are also two USB-C ports for power, gimbal communication and firmware updates. The transmitter is compact, measuring 3.4 inches by 2.5 inches by 1.3 inches (86.5 x 64 x 32 mm) excluding the antenna. In addition, the antenna folds down for storage. The transmitter doesn’t add much weight to your setup either, coming in at only 5.1 ounces (145 g).
Receiver
The DJI SDR Transmission receiver can connect to video monitors via SDI or HDMI. In addition, you can connect the receiver to smartphones and tablets via USB-C or Wi-Fi. The Wi-Fi connection gives you a cost-effective, dual-channel monitoring experience without the need for another receiver. The receiver is also lightweight and compact, with the same dimensions as the transmitter.
Power
The DJI SDR Transmission transmitter and receiver use a standard PD protocol charger with a USB-C power input. You can also power the transmitter directly with an RS 4 Pro, RS 4 or RS 3 Pro gimbal when mounted and used together. In addition, on the back of the transmitter and receiver units, there is a standard NP-F battery plate as an alternative to USB-C for power.
Remote camera controls
The DJI SDR Transmission supports Force Mobile, virtual joystick and gimbal recentering functions with the DJI RS Series Stabilizers. In addition, with compatible cameras, it supports PTP control, displaying and adjusting aperture, shutter and ISO. It can even trigger the camera’s photo-taking and video-recording functions through the app. DJI Transmission can also support CEC control of Sony cameras to bring Mirror Control mode into play.
Collaboration
The DJI SDR Transmission can transmit meta along with the video signal, improving collaboration through the filming process. When the system is connected to the DJI Ronin app in Broadcast mode, you can also switch between camera indexes inside the app. In addition, even ARRI and RED cinema cameras can be adapted via SDI. This means that directors, cinematographers and DIT (digital imaging technician) teams can have real-time access to detailed shooting information.
What we think
DJI’s new SDR Transmission promises a much more stable video connection than with Wi-Fi-based systems which can struggle in some environments. The ability to connect multiple receivers to one transmitter is also a huge benefit. In addition, the option to connect via Wi-Fi means you can reduce your initial outlay by just buying a transmitter and using your smartphone or tablet. You can then add receivers to expand your system as your requirements, and budget, grow. The DJI SDR Transmission offers excellent value for money and could be the perfect solution for many filmmakers.
Pricing and availability
The DJI SDR Transmission system is available now. For $549, the DJI SDR Transmission Combo comes with one transmitter and one receiver. You can also buy a single transmitter or receiver for $309. In addition, DJI has produced accessory kits to integrate the receiver with either a tablet or smartphone which retail at $49 each.
