Ask Drone U

Is Christian Mollica's book "FPV Flight Dynamics" a good read for drone pilots and how can it help them? Today's show is a quick one to respond to a question on whether Christian Mollica's book is a good read for drone pilots. We respond to Zane's question, who recently viewed our podcast with Christian Mollica where we reviewed DJI's FPV drone and also went over Christian's book. Zane would like to know if Christian Mollica's book "FPV flight dynamics" is a good and essential read for drone pilots and if it can help drone pilots improve their flying skills. Christian Mollica is renowned in the Drone industry for his acclaimed book "FPV Flight Dynamics" and we discuss in specific what drone pilots can learn from the book. We also discuss the evolution of drone industry and the developments that helped shape the drone industry. Order Christian Mollica's book on Amazon today - https://amzn.to/3p8iS2i You don't want to miss this show ! Get Your Biggest and Most Common Drone Certificate Questions Answered by

As drone hardware reaches a plateau, can developments in Drone software drive the industry forward with new applications for drones? Today's show addresses a critical question which is if developments in drone software can lead to new developments and applications in the drone industry? Our caller for today, Chris, would like to know what the future hold for drone software development and if this can lead to new applications for drones. An excellent question relevant to today's state of the drone industry which has seen hardware levelling itself in terms of drone configurations, parts and build. In our answer to Chris' question, we start off first by listing current hardware in the drone world and its development in the last decade while also expressing our view on how most drone software development companies have had limited impact in driving new applications. Next we look at the automotive industry history as an analogy to the drone industry and how the automotive industry in its formative years starte

Does the Mavic 3 possess a global shutter and what applications can it be used for? Today's show is a quick one to respond to questions from our earlier podcast on the Mavic 3 and whether the Mavic 3 possesses a global shutter or not. We thank everyone for the overwhelming support and comments from our latest podcast on the Mavic 3. One question on everyone's mind from the podcast was if the Mavic 3 possessed global shutter and we would like to clarify and clear these doubts and highlight the applications of the Mavic 3. You don't want to miss this show ! Get Your Biggest and Most Common Drone Certificate Questions Answered by Downloading this FREE Part 107 PDF Make sure to get yourself the all-new Drone U landing pad! Get your questions answered: https://thedroneu.com/. If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is to subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us real quick? While you’re there, leave us a 5-star review, if you’re inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itune

As pilots what are some of the best ways to know a market and understand its pain points? Today's show is about all the efforts that pilots need to put in to understand an industry better so to allow them to provide better service to their customers and increase their overall effectiveness for their business. Today's question for the day is from Robert who would like to know some ways by which he can enhance his knowledge about an industry and stay better informed about the problems faced by the customer. We discuss if there is one single way to understand an industry or domain in the drone industry and if pilots can actually use one common methodology to identify customer pain points. While we do agree there is no secret sauce to do this, we address today's question by what it really means to understand customer pain points and how pilots can go about doing this. An integral component of understanding customer pain points involves actually having conversations with customer and we address how pilots can e

How can pilots make smart SD card purchases and is it really worth it? Today's show is about a well discussed topic here at Drone U and also in the drone world. It's about SD cards but it's worth taking a look at SD card considering all the new developments in the tech world. Our question for today, from Tom, who would like to make smart choice on the purchase of an SD card and how pilots can make informed purchasing decisions based on the configuration of the SD card. First, we look into the most important aspect of SD cards, that of understanding and differentiating between read and write speeds and how knowing these can assist in making the right SD card purchase. Next we look into why pilots should avoid purchasing SD cards from discount marketplaces such as Costco and the experiences of pilots (including Paul) who purchased SD cards from such stores. We also look into the meaning of 'Classes' for SD cards and how SD cards are labeled for Classes. Lastly we understand why it is a good strategy to mult

Does the latest firmware update bring any improvements to the Mavic 3? Today's show is about the Mavic 3's latest firmware update and if the latest updates bring significant improvements to the Mavic 3 and how pilots can make the best out of the latest updates. Our question for today, from Tom, is about the latest update from DJI for its drone Mavic 3. Tom would like to know if the latest firmware update did actually bring about improvement for the Mavic 3 or if its better to stick to DJI's last update for the Mavic 3 We respond to Tom's question by highlighting the performance of the Mavic 3 when it first launched. We delve deep to understand DJI's decision of timing the market with Mavic 3's launch and how DJI possibly navigated through supply chain constraints and what it meant for the Mavic 3's performance. We then dig into the changes the new firmware update bring in to the Mavic 3 and how drone pilots can make the best of them by making purchases such as the FlyMore combo. We also look into how the M

What benefits does using sophisticated GCPs bring? Can naturally occurring markers replace them? Today's show is all about understanding the use and importance of sophisticated GCPs and their importance in ensuring quality deliverables. Our question for today, from DeWayne, is about using sophisticated GCPs. DeWayne is observing his co-workers and team rely more on naturally occurring markers to make do with their mapping missions. He would like to know if they are indeed effective and if pilots can get away using naturally occurring markers or stand-in markers such as paints and pinstripes A very valid question and we answer the question by first addressing the need for conducting effective geo-referencing in mapping projects. We then dig deep into the use of sophisticated GCPs and the rules that pilots need to consider while carrying out missions. We then list out all the possible errors that can occur in georeferencing due to poor selection of GCPs and how it can impact final deliverables and follow it

Will DJI Introduce Dual Operator Setup on the DJI Air 2S? Today's show is if the Air2S will have a firmware update that will allow dual operator setup for pilots and if they should opt for Inspire or Air2S platform. Our caller for today, Larry, wants to know if the all-new DJI Air 2S would allow for dual operator setup through a future firmware update. What are some DJI alternatives that come with dual controller setup? To help Larry out, we first delve into the pros and cons of a dual operator setup. Does the DJI Mavic 3 come up with a dual operator setup? What are some affordable options out there that provide maximum bang for the buck? For all this and much more, do not miss the latest show of Ask Drone U. Get Your Biggest and Most Common Drone Certificate Questions Answered by Downloading this FREE Part 107 PDF Make sure to get yourself the all-new Drone U landing pad! Get your questions answered: https://thedroneu.com/. If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is to subscribe

Today's show is all about purchasing a new drone/equipment and how drone pilots can get the best value for their money. Our caller for today, Bryan from Chicago, who has received a go ahead from his employer on purchasing a new drone. Bryan would like to know all the factors that a buyer should keep in mind when purchasing a new equipment so they can make the most of their investment. We address Bryan's question today by revisiting specific drone characteristics and specifications that pilots must have to conduct successful drone missions and how pilots need to be mindful of their flying conditions so they can look at purchasing a drone specifically built to address those flying conditions. Next we look into understanding the transitions from Phantom to Inspire drones and differences between X4 and P4 cameras and how pilots need to understand their transitions as they upgrade or add drones to their fleet and how these drones and cameras can interoperate to provide a seamless deliverable. Lastly we go over

Today's show is understanding the many liabilities that drone pilots are exposed to, when flying out on missions and contracts. Our caller for today, Isaac, and his family operate a drone business and would like to know what are the potential liabilities that a drone pilot would need to cover when undertaking a project and how pilots can be prepared for these liabilities. We address Isaac's question today by going over the many liabilities that a drone pilot can encounter. While some of these are pretty forward, most come from years of experience navigating challenging conditions. Our first topic of discussion is understanding video and picture copyrights and how as a pilot you can use tools such as pixie to enforcing licensing contracts. Next we look into flying conditions and how changes in flying conditions outside of a pilots control can impact the mission and equipment and how pilots need to be prepared for such eventualities. Knowing the best conditions for flight and understanding controllable fact

Today's show is all about software options available to pilots working in SAR missions and how these applications can greatly aid a pilot in executing a comprehensive SAR mission. Our caller for today, Colin from Canada, performs a range of SAR missions and would like to know the best application to be utilized that can help him in using a variety of drones to perform SAR missions with ease. Search and Rescue Missions (SAR) have today progressed as a life saving tool to quickly assess and rescue people. In our response to Colin's question we start with discussing how thermal and digital imagery are now being combined to increase the success rates in SAR missions. Our first software pick is the Pix4D React that can help and assist a drone pilot in ensuring they have covered the entire search area and that no search area is missed. Our next choice of application is the 'Lost Person Behavior' app that can assist drone pilots in drawing a psychological map of the person they are trying to rescue and utilize a

We start off 2022 with CES 2022 and all the latest in the drone industy, 7-Eleven now begins drone deliveries in Japan and all the latest in the drone industry in this week Drone Life News show. In our latest episode of Drone Life News show we cover all the latest updates in the drone industry - from CES 2022 updates to drone deliveries to all the latest developments in the new drones for 2022 In our first  news segment of the drone life news, we discuss all the updates from CES 2022. Paul and Miriam discuss all the news from CES including new drones and featured presentations and where the industry is positioning itself this year In our next story, we talk about Zenith AeroTech's NDAA Tethered station production plans in collaboration with VIRTEX to ensure growing demand and to ensure US drone manufacturing requirements. Next up, we discuss how drones are being increasingly used across the world for providing emergency medical equipment to medical professionals. In this story from Switzerland, a drone del

Today’s show is about determining the best and most efficient workflow for flying drones in agriculture. Our caller from today, all the way from Portugal wants to know the best and most efficient workflow for scanning agricultural fields with drones. To help our caller out, we first explain the fundamentals of agricultural drone mapping. You will learn how crops emit a wide range of spectral densities, and how you can use multi-spectral cameras to “read” this data. And different software to accurately interpret it. You will also learn about different drone laws and regulations that you need to be aware of if you are planning on flying drones in agriculture. If already generating revenue from this lucrative vertical, listening to this show will give you some quick wins. Get Your Biggest and Most Common Drone Certificate Questions Answered by Downloading this FREE Part 107 PDF Make sure to get yourself the all-new Drone U landing pad! Get your questions answered: https://thedroneu.com/. If you enjoy the

Today's show is a special one as we are joined by Watts Innovation founder, Bobby Watts. Bobby shares his insights and views on the state of the drone industry and how the industry is set to grow in terms of autonomous flights and changing regulations to permit such flights. Paul and Bobby discuss the Prism, an all-American product from Watts Innovation, that comes with variable propulsions and flexible payloads and how the PRISM its set to lead the disruptive changes in the drone world. We also discuss all the specifics of PRISM Sky, the latest solution from Watts Innovation stable and the thought process behind its development and deployment In other discussions on the industry, we dig deep into BVLOS regulations, autonomous flights, the Amazon vs Walmart drone delivery battles and much much more. Tune in to learn more about all these exciting developments and hear it first hand from Bobby Watts. Get Your Biggest and Most Common Drone Certificate Questions Answered by Downloading this FREE Part 107 PDF

Today’s show is about using the DJI Mavic 3 for drone mapping. Does this new DJI drone have the specs and capabilities required for building an accurate 3D drone map or model? Our caller for today, David is a new commercial drone pilot and a proud owner of the DJI Mavic 3. Now, he is keen to take on drone mapping jobs, and wants to know if he can use his new drone for the same. On today’s show, you will learn why the DJI Mavic 3 should NOT be used for drone mapping. To make things simple for David, we reveal the 4 questions that every drone pilot should ask when buying a mapping drone. We do a deep-dive into the world of drone mapping, and touch upon topics like thirty-party apps, how to pick the right drone mapping software, and the importance of using a drone with a global shutter. You will also receive some excellent tips on how to maximize profitability in drone mapping. Do not miss this one! Get Your Biggest and Most Common Drone Certificate Questions Answered by Downloading this FREE Part 107 PDF

Learn everything about heavy lift drones and their applications, Dizi drone launch for nuclear industry, Percepto receives BVLOS flight approval and all the latest in the airspace security domain. In our latest episode of Drone Life News show we cover all the latest updates in the drone industry - from new launch to fundings, acquisitions. In our first segment of the drone life news, we discuss everything about heavy lift drones and how they are increasingly becoming an important sector for the drone industry. We talk about its applications and how heavy lift drones are being increasingly used for modern day applications. In our next story, we talk about Azur's Dizi drone launch at nuclear convention with a focus on radiation detection and advanced application at nuclear sites. Next up, we discuss CASA's approval for the Percepto drone  for carrying out BVLOS flights in Australian airspace allowing autonomous flights in the Australian airspace. Learn how this development is significant for the drone indust

Managing a Large Drone Inventory, Buying the Right Drone Insurance, and Refining Skillsets Today’s show is about managing a drone fleet. We talk about team and inventory management, & buying the best and most affordable drone insurance. Our caller for today, Andrew has some interesting questions for us today about managing a large drone fleet. Specifically, some of the questions that we discuss today… Will setting up a drone business LLC shield your personal assets from any potential business liabilities? Does your insurance policy cover autonomous flights as well? Should you register your drone under your name or your drone business’s name? You will also learn about PROPS, a platform by Drone U built specifically to administer large teams of drone pilots. Do not miss this one! Get Your Biggest and Most Common Drone Certificate Questions Answered by Downloading this FREE Part 107 PDF Make sure to get yourself the all-new Drone U landing pad! Get your questions answered: https://thedroneu.com/. If

DJI Mavic 3 Review - Does This New DJI Drone Live Up To All the Hype? We are discussing a red-hot topic on today’s show – the DJI Mavic 3. Our caller for today, Tom is flummoxed with all the mixed opinions about this newly launched DJI drone. Difficult market conditions and the onset of covid had pushed up the launch of this much-awaited DJI drone. And over the past year, we have heard numerous rumors that further contributed to all the hype. But, now that the Chinese market leader has finally launched the new Mavic, we bring to you the real truth about this drone. These are some of the things that we touch upon in today’s show: DJI Mavic 3 vs. DJI Mavic 2 and the Phantom 4 Pro – do the older DJI drones provide more bang for the buck? How much extra flight time do you get ? Is the lack of SDK on the DJI Mavic 3 a huge deal for drone pilots? Should you consider buying the Sony Airpeak instead? Should you buy the DJI Mavic 3 this holiday season? Get Your Biggest and Most Common Drone Certificate Que

Is the DJI Mini SE Still a Good Buy? Today’s show is about the DJI Mini SE. If you are considering buying the DJI Mini SE or are already flying one, this show will be particularly interesting to you. Recently FAA placed the DJI Mini SE on their cover list. And our caller for today, Marcus, a hobby pilot is wondering if he should still go ahead and purchase this beginner DJI drone. Does this development impact drone pilots like Marcus in any way? You will learn whether or not the DJI Mini SE can be made remote-id compliant once new regulations kick in. Do not miss this one! Enjoy! Get Your Biggest and Most Common Drone Certificate Questions Answered by Downloading this FREE Part 107 PDF Make sure to get yourself the all-new Drone U landing pad! Get your questions answered: https://thedroneu.com/. If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is to subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us real quick? While you’re there, leave us a 5-star review, if you’re inclined to

Drone Delivery Service Provider, DroneUp Acquires AirMap, Archer Aviation Applies for Air-Worthiness Certificate for its New eVTOL Aircraft ~ Tune in for the Latest Drone News Now! Our biggest story this week is about the drone delivery industry. In what could possibly be one of the biggest industry consolidations of 2021, Drone Delivery service provider, Drone Up has acquired AirMap. How will this development impact the drone delivery space as a whole? And particularly retail major, Walmart? Drone enthusiasts might recall Walmart’s strategic investment in DroneUp sometime back. Next up, you will learn how Archer Aviation has applied for an FAA airworthiness certificate for its new eVTOL aircraft. In this segment of the show, we discuss at length the different features of this new aircraft. Don’t miss this one. Fly Safe! Get Your Biggest and Most Common Drone Certificate Questions Answered by Downloading this FREE Part 107 PDF Enjoy! Make sure to get yourself the all-new Drone U landing pad! Get your q