Hey there, it’s Kristen!
Ever found yourself flying your FPV drone in remote or risky locations, hoping you won’t lose control or lose your quad altogether?
Well, I’ve been there too.
But instead of relying on luck, I prefer being prepared to ensure I can always find my drone, even in emergencies.
Today, I’m sharing three essential tips to help you do the same. Let’s dive in!
Table Of Contents
Tip 1: Embrace DVR recording
First off, DVR recording. I know it’s a bit cliché, but trust me, it’s a game-changer. Some pilots still don’t use DVR, and not all goggles are equipped with such advanced technology. DVR recording can actually help you in two ways.
When flying long-range or mid-range, or when your battery isn’t cooperating, you can spot distinctive landmarks while reviewing your DVR footage. Later, you can use these landmarks on Google Maps to locate your drone and land it safely.
Secondly, let’s talk about losing your line of sight, your drone’s connection, or when your battery decides to play games and drain faster than expected, causing your drone to plummet like a rock.
You can always analyze your DVR footage and compare what you saw in your camera with what’s available on Google Maps.
Since you generally know where you took off from and the direction you were heading, it’s easier to identify your drone’s potential location.
However, only these steps might not be enough to find your drone in every situation.
Tip 2: Invest in a buzzer
Picture this: your drone suddenly plummets from the sky, battery unplugged. That’s where a battery-powered buzzer, like the Hellgate, comes in.
Unlike motor sounds that fade after a battery disconnects, a buzzer keeps beeping, gradually getting louder. This is crucial for locating your drone, especially in dense areas like forests.
Remember, preparation beats praying to the prop guts any day. So, gear up, fly safe, and rest assured that you’re equipped to find your lost quad, no matter where it decides to take an unexpected dive.
Tip 3: Leverage Bluetooth and GPS
Lastly, consider any WiFi, Bluetooth, or GPS devices.
This approach helped us greatly in France when my drone crashed off a castle. We were scouring the woods on the mountain to find it, and while we lacked a buzzer, we had an Insta 360 Go camera with Bluetooth connectivity.
A friend, Jake, used my phone to connect to the camera.
If you possess any device like a GoPro, Insta 360, or Codex with Bluetooth capabilities, try connecting your phone to it. This way not only provides a rough location but can also display images that help you locate your drone.
Another high-tech solution is using devices like Chipolo or Tile that communicate via Bluetooth. If you’re willing to spend more, Apple’s AirTags are equipped with GPS. Numerous alternatives exist with built-in GPS capabilities, but I personally opt for the camera solution.
FAQs
Final words
Instead of relying on luck, I prefer being prepared to ensure I can always find my drone, even in emergencies.
So, I hope these tips help you make informed decisions about your long-range and mid-range drone setups, ensuring you won’t lose your drone anytime soon.
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