DJI Zenmuse H30

The DJI Zenmuse H30 is a gimbal payload for heavy multicopters of the Matrice line (Matrice 400, 350 RTK and 300 RTK). It attaches through the detachable DJI SKYPORT interface and combines a wide-angle camera and a zoom camera with a laser rangefinder. It is meant for inspections where details must be recognised from a safe distance.

The wide-angle camera uses a 1/1.3-inch CMOS sensor with 48 megapixels, the zoom camera a 1/1.8-inch CMOS with 40 megapixels; the 48 MP figure therefore belongs to the wide-angle camera. Zoom is quoted as 34x hybrid-optical and up to 400x magnification. Only the optical share raises detail resolution; hybrid and digital steps merely enlarge the image. Video runs at 3840 × 2160 and 30 frames per second. The rangefinder works at 905 nm and measures from 3 to 3,000 m. Three stabilised axes keep the picture steady; the unit weighs 920 g (±5 g) and is protected to IP54 against dust and splashing water.

The payload counts towards the take-off mass of the aircraft; the EU class limits are 250 g (C0), 900 g (C1), 4 kg (C2) and 25 kg (C3 and C4). A camera that can show people recognisably makes operator registration necessary, and recordings fall under data-protection law. On the Matrice 300 RTK, the H30 works only with the DJI RC Plus remote controller.

For surveying, large sensors, fixed lenses and a global shutter matter; the H30 is instead a zoom camera for inspection. Zoom mechanics and gimbal motors wear through dust, moisture and shocks. The front optics of the rangefinder should stay clean, and the firmware is maintained together with the aircraft.