I have used the
Smart Controller (
SC) with the
Air2S since it has been introduced.
I guess I should preface this by stating I am in the US (FCC not CE) so that might be one of the issues with the
SC some are experiencing?.
The first few firmware releases were actually noticeable to me as far as the stuttering, lagging, etc but it is now actually as good as the "regular" controller/phone. There were a few videos claiming it was dangerous, etc!! I never thought that.
Yes, it is at the "limit" of functionality especially with the Fly app and
Air2S but it has worked well and I will make a few concessions since I love the
SC's convenience/features as opposed to the remote/phone/tablet combo.
There are a few things that seem to be common issues: constant screen recording, "caching" of the images/videos, using "HD" as opposed to smooth for the transmission, SD card, and clearing the recent, cache and general "maintenance" of the
SC. Mine still gets a slight lag when first loading a map at a new spot but then recovers.
I have experimented with the antenna placement/aiming and having then pointed "down" or "up" (90 degrees from the screen) result in the same/best range. Pointing "straight out" is the worst.
Anybody that has the screen recording going constantly seems to experience more lag/stuttering and I, personally, don't understand why you'd want to do that as a normal procedure? Something required for some task/job?
Same thing with the "caching" of the feed... just uses up valuable storage space. Just to have it in case of a lost drone?
The HD feed is nice but not a requirement normally...the "keeper" video is on the SD anyway. I do toggle it from HD from smooth if fine-tuning WB, focus, etc but smooth is the norm.
The SD card used in the drone HAS to be a top-shelf U3 V30 and that wouldn't hurt for the
SC (if using one in the
SC).
Since the
SC is so obviously "at its limit", basic memory maintenance is required and that involves clear the application caches, recently used apps, free space, unnecessary files/apps, turn off Bluetooth and HDMI if not needed, etc
If I open the map (drag up from the lower corner) for the first time in a new location, it does lag but only for a few seconds and then recovers. It takes a few seconds to just do that at a new spot when first launching so no lost time or trouble at all.
Again, many will suggest that doing these "tasks" shouldn't be required for this product and I agree.... but... since I have had the
SC for the
Mavic 2 and now the
Air2S, its pros outweigh the cons and worth the few extra steps.
Yes, a newer, more modern/powerful version would be nice but until then we have to make do.
Yes, the CE versions are apparently worse but I suspect that even the issues brought on by the limited transmit power can be helped