In the world of drones, one of the most exciting advancements has been the idea of controlling drones remotely over the internet. This technology, which allows for long-distance flight via network connections, opens up a wide range of business opportunities, especially in industries like surveying, agriculture, infrastructure inspection, and even emergency response. But can you fly a DJI drone over the internet? The short answer is yes — with the right technology and infrastructure, it’s possible. In this article, we will dive into how this technology works, the types of DJI drones that are compatible, and the potential benefits for businesses looking to leverage remote operations.
How Does Flying a DJI Drone Over the Internet Work?
Flying a drone remotely over the internet requires more than just a standard radio signal connection. It involves setting up a remote piloting system that allows a drone to communicate with its operator through a cloud-based or internet network, rather than being directly controlled via traditional radio frequency (RF) signals. The key elements involved in flying a DJI drone over the internet are:
- Cellular Networks: Using 4G or 5G networks, drones can be connected to the internet, allowing operators to control them from virtually anywhere with a stable internet connection.
- DJI’s Cloud Solutions: DJI offers cloud-based platforms and applications that enable real-time control and monitoring of drones, making remote flight over the internet a feasible option. These platforms include DJI’s Skyport and DJI Pilot app, which allow for data transmission and control over long distances.
- Communication Systems: To ensure reliable communication over the internet, the drone needs a robust data transmission system that can handle both video feeds and control signals. DJI drones that support LTE/5G cellular connectivity are ideal candidates for such remote operations.
Which DJI Drones Are Capable of Internet-Controlled Flight?
While flying drones over the internet is a growing field, not all DJI drones are designed with this functionality in mind. However, DJI has integrated remote control capabilities in several of their advanced commercial models that are compatible with internet-based flight.
1. DJI Matrice Series (M300 RTK & M30 Series)
The DJI Matrice 300 RTK and the Matrice 30 Series are among the most advanced commercial drones DJI offers, and they are capable of operating in remote or challenging environments. These drones are equipped with a variety of options for communication and can be used for long-range remote piloting over the internet.
- Matrice 300 RTK: This industrial-grade drone offers 5G connectivity, making it an ideal candidate for internet-based remote operations. It can be controlled via DJI’s Pilot 2 app and integrates with DJI’s cloud services for real-time monitoring and control over long distances.
- Matrice 30 Series: With an intelligent transmission system, the M30 series also supports cloud-based remote operations, which means it can be flown over the internet in real-time, providing businesses in industries like infrastructure inspection and mapping with the ability to conduct operations from afar.
Pros:
- Supports 5G/4G networks for internet-based flight.
- High-quality camera options and payload versatility.
- Advanced RTK and GPS systems for precise operations.
Cons:
- Expensive investment for small businesses.
- Requires proper setup and infrastructure to ensure stable internet communication.
For more details on the Matrice 300 RTK, visit the DJI Matrice 300 RTK page.
2. DJI Phantom 4 RTK
Another option for remote-controlled, internet-connected flight is the DJI Phantom 4 RTK, designed for precision surveying and mapping. This drone can be integrated with DJI Terra, DJI’s mapping software that allows for cloud-based operations.
Pros:
- RTK Precision: Offers high-precision data collection, which is perfect for industries that require exact mapping and surveying data.
- Support for Remote Operations: The ability to link with DJI’s cloud-based systems enables remote monitoring and control.
Cons:
- Lacks the same extensive connectivity options as the Matrice series for ultra-long-distance flights.
Learn more about the Phantom 4 RTK on the DJI Phantom 4 RTK page.
3. DJI Inspire 2 with Cloud Integration
The DJI Inspire 2, known for its cinematic-grade capabilities, can be used for remote-controlled flights over the internet with the addition of DJI’s cloud-based monitoring systems. While it is mainly a film-production drone, its advanced transmission technology allows for extended remote operations via internet control.
Pros:
- Excellent video quality for remote filming projects.
- Strong transmission system for real-time video and data transfer.
Cons:
- More suited for cinematic applications rather than industrial uses.
- Higher cost and specialized use-case compared to drones focused on industrial applications.
Learn more about the Inspire 2 at the DJI Inspire 2 page.
Why Businesses Should Consider Internet-Controlled Drones
There are several key reasons businesses should explore the potential of flying DJI drones over the internet:
- Remote Operations: Internet-controlled drones allow businesses to operate drones from remote locations, even when their physical presence is not possible. This is especially valuable for industries like agriculture, where drones can monitor large farms, or infrastructure inspection, where drones can fly over bridges and power lines in dangerous areas.
- Increased Productivity: With internet control, multiple drones can be flown simultaneously, and data can be monitored in real-time from a central location. This enables faster decision-making and more efficient project management.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Flying drones over the internet can reduce travel costs and eliminate the need for local operators in remote locations, making it easier to scale operations for global or large-scale projects.
- Data Sharing and Collaboration: By using cloud-based systems, businesses can share drone-collected data in real-time with teams across the globe, enhancing collaboration and ensuring that decisions are based on the latest information.
Challenges and Considerations
While the benefits are clear, there are some important challenges businesses should consider when flying drones over the internet:
- Internet Connectivity: To fly a drone over the internet, stable and fast internet connections (preferably 4G or 5G) are essential. In areas with weak network coverage, connectivity issues can hinder the drone’s flight performance.
- Regulatory Compliance: Remote drone operations are subject to local regulations, which may limit the extent to which drones can be flown over the internet. Operators need to be aware of and comply with these rules.
- Latency and Control: Internet-based drone flight may suffer from latency issues, which can affect real-time control. It is crucial to ensure that the drone’s communication systems are optimized for low-latency operations.
Conclusion: The Future of Internet-Controlled Drone Flights
Flying DJI drones over the internet is not just a futuristic concept; it is becoming a reality with advancements in connectivity and cloud-based technologies. Drones like the Matrice 300 RTK and Matrice 30 Series provide businesses in various industries with the ability to conduct operations remotely, which can significantly improve productivity and reduce operational costs. As the technology continues to evolve, it’s likely that more DJI drones will support internet-based flight capabilities, allowing businesses to streamline their operations even further.
For more information on DJI’s capabilities for remote drone operations, visit the official DJI website.
This B2B article highlights the key benefits and technical considerations for businesses exploring remote drone operation over the internet, ensuring they understand both the possibilities and limitations of this cutting-edge technology.