What has a better transmission range? Rc2 or Rc Pro?

[PyroProdigy]

I'm just wondering if anyone has experience using the Rc2 or the RC pro and if there's a noticeable difference in the range you get? I have an RC Pro 2. Have not used it yet with my M4P. Someone mentioned that the RC2 has better range over the RC Pro 2. I do not know if that's true or not. So I am considering getting the RC2 to use with the drone. But the ability to side load apps would be nice but I'd rather better range over anything! And I can do that with my RC pro 2. I can't imagine that if it's true that the RC2 has better range over the RC pro 2 than the RC Pro would not be any better.

 

[GadgetGuy]

RC Pro 2 is better. However, you must make sure the antennas are pointed at the drone in the sky and not the horizon. The antennas only rotate down and not out, and with the screen tipped, and the controller level, the antennas are pointed at the horizon. Make sure to tip the controller up and keep the screen parallel to the controller.

 

[Vic Moss]

I fly with both. I get much cleaner transmission with the RC Pro. Especially in areas of high interference. And I have a BVLOS waiver, and fly out 2 miles regularly. The RC2 will work, but I'm more confident in the RC Pro for better transmission and control.

 

[KS-6]

RC Pro 2 is better. However, you must make sure the antennas are pointed at the drone in the sky and not the horizon. The antennas only rotate down and not out, and with the screen tipped, and the controller level, the antennas are pointed at the horizon. Make sure to tip the controller up and keep the screen parallel to the controller.

It’s the one thing I am annoyed by on the RC2 Pro, I wish there were more options in regards to directionality with the antennas.

I suspect the specs may be different in that regard, it would be good to know either way.

 

[GadgetGuy]

I fly with both. I get much cleaner transmission with the RC Pro. Especially in areas of high interference. And I have a BVLOS waiver, and fly out 2 miles regularly. The RC2 will work, but I'm more confident in the RC Pro for better transmission and control.

For clarity, I presume you mean the RC Pro 2 on OS 4+, rather than the original RC Pro on OS 3, as the OP is flying the Mavic 4 Pro, and the RC 2 is also OS 4.

Biggest difference is OS 4+ on the RC Pro 2, and only OS 4 on the RC 2.

• RC Pro 2: Uses DJI's latest O4+ transmission protocol, offering a stronger signal, lower latency, and longer range (up to 30km with Mavic 4 Pro).
  
  
• RC 2: Employs the standard O4 system, with a maximum range of 20km, while remaining compatible with a wider range of current DJI drones, including the Mini 4 Pro and Air 3.
• Antennas:
  • RC Pro 2: Features enterprise-level, high-gain multibeam antennas for superior signal strength and stability, especially in challenging environments.
    
    
  • RC 2: Utilizes standard antennas.

Starting at 8:10 regarding transmission differences:

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[GadgetGuy]

It’s the one thing I am annoyed by on the RC2 Pro, I wish there were more options in regards to directionality with the antennas.

I suspect the specs may be different in that regard, it would be good to know either way.

I agree. i was definitely disappointed to discover that they cannot be flipped up, nor out, only rotated down. However, they are so powerful that many never even bother to rotate them down! I suspect the choice of rotating down only may have something to do with avoiding the Hall Effect from proximity to the sticks, which became an issue with the compass in the Mavic 2 remotes. I keep getting remote compass error messages on the RC Pro 2, but there is no calibration routine that works, just like on the RC Pro. In any event, keeping the external antennas as far away as possible from the screen and the sticks and the RC itself is accomplished by rotating them down and away.

Here's an AI summary:

Potential link between Hall Effect sensors and DJI remote control compass calibration:
DJI remote controllers utilize compasses for navigation and accurate drone control, similar to the drone itself. Calibration of the remote controller's compass is sometimes required, especially after firmware updates or if prompted by the controller. The calibration process involves maneuvers like drawing an "8-figure" path to ensure proper compass functionality.
While Hall Effect sensors are commonly used in joysticks for accurate and durable control, the potential for interference with a sensitive compass needs consideration.
Possible sources of magnetic interference related to Hall Effect sensors:

• Nearby Electronic Devices: Other electronic devices or even the remote's own components can create magnetic fields that interfere with compass readings.
• Electrical Interference: Electromagnetic interference from internal wiring or other components might disrupt the signals from the compass sensor.
• Material Compatibility: The proximity of the Hall Effect sensor to certain materials, especially those with magnetic properties, could affect the compass's magnetic field measurements.

Troubleshooting compass calibration issues on DJI remote controllers:

• Minimize Magnetic Interference: Move away from metallic objects, power lines, and other electronic devices during calibration.
• Check Firmware Updates: Ensure both the drone and remote controller have the latest firmware installed.
• Calibrate in a Clear Area: Perform the calibration in an open area, free from strong magnetic fields or large metallic structures.
• Restart and Reattempt Calibration: Sometimes, restarting both the drone and controller and reattempting the calibration can resolve issues.
• Contact DJI Support: If the problems persist, it's recommended to contact DJI support for further assistance and potential repairs.

 

[akdrone]

I’ve yet to even unfold my antennas while in flight and have had a strong signal at all times

 

[PINEBARON]

I’ve yet to even unfold my antennas while in flight and have had a strong signal at all times

You'd notice a difference when flying a further distance away; it is always wise to unfold the antennas with antenna flat sides facing the drone to maximise transmission signal radiation towards the drone.

The DJI RC 2's antenna system, combined with the O4 video transmission technology, allows for a maximum transmission range of 20km when paired with compatible drones like the DJI Air 3. The DJI RC Pro 2, a more advanced controller, utilizes enterprise-grade multibeam antennas and the O4+ transmission system, offering a range of up to 30 km with the DJI Mavic 4 Pro, according to DJI.

 

[PyroProdigy]

Ok well I'm coming from the original M1P to the M4P Creator with the RC pro 2. I've had nothing in-between. So no exp with any other controllers or drones. I just spoke with someone who said that his RC pro 2 lost transmission at a shorter distance than his RC2. He was able to fly further with his RC2. So he bought the Fly-More combo & sold his Creator Combo to me because of that. Which I thought was quite a convincing change. He flies over the water a lot and I do not plan on doing that.
Which is why I am considering getting a RC2 controller. I was just wondering other people's experience with it. But if that's not the general consensus, I won't spend the extra $$$ for a 2nd controller.
And yeah I did notice that the RC pro 2's antennas only point down.

 

[GadgetGuy]

Ok well I'm coming from the original M1P to the M4P Creator with the RC pro 2. I've had nothing in-between. So no exp with any other controllers or drones. I just spoke with someone who said that his RC pro 2 lost transmission at a shorter distance than his RC2. He was able to fly further with his RC2. So he returned his Creator Combo for the Fly-more combo because of that. Which I thought was quite a convincing change. He flies over the water a lot and I do not plan on doing that.
Which is why I am considering getting a RC2 controller. I was just wondering other people's experience with it. But if that's not the general consensus, I won't spend the extra $$$ for a 2nd controller.
And yeah I did notice that the RC pro 2's antennas only point down.

User error.

The person you spoke with, who lost transmission with the RC Pro 2 at a shorter distance than his RC 2, clearly didn't know what he was doing. Because the RC Pro 2 screen can be positioned into a different plane than the controller, the innate wrong tendency is to tip the screen up, while keeping the controller level, which aims the RC Pro 2 antennas at the horizon instead of the drone in the sky.

Instead, when lifting the screen up off the controller, it must still be kept parallel to the plane of the RC from which it was elevated. Now, when the screen is tipped for best viewing, the downward rotated antennas are also tipped up toward the drone in the sky. It's in the manual and there are several diagrams that clearly depict this. Typical RYFM error.

With the RC 2, the screen and the controller are in the same plane. Tipping the screen up also tilts the antennas up and toward the drone.

RC 2 is idiot proof. The RC 2 Pro requires a modicum of intelligence and understanding of proper antenna positioning to optimize its signal. Reading the manual also helps! LOL!

 

[GadgetGuy]

I’ve yet to even unfold my antennas while in flight and have had a strong signal at all times

I did a test flight with my Mini 4 Pro and the RC Pro 2 (so only OS 4), while flying from inside my parked car. Antennas were rotated down.I was able to fly the Mini 4 Pro in all directions around me, at up to a full half a mile away, without needing to even point the controller in the direction of the drone, until exceeding half a mile away! This was from inside a BMW sedan with a closed sunroof. Even when I received a warning about signal degradation at half a mile, AirData reported green signal transmission throughout the flight. Amazing! RC 2 Pro FPV display is also the best I have ever experienced. Instead of merely being used for framing and navigation with low-res washed out quality, it gives you a true live visual experience of the flight. Highly recommended, if you can get your hands on one!

 

[PINEBARON]

The RC 2 and the Pro like other DJI controllers are dual band 5.5GHz and 2.4GHz. 5.5GHz has less penetration and signal will rapidly degrade due to obstructions, is better suited for clear line of sight use; 2.4GHz on the other hand supports a higher level of penetration and ability to maintain connectivity despite obstructions. Both frequencies have their uses and drawbacks; 5,5GHz supports faster data transmission rates and is less susceptable to interference and works better for LOS use; 2.4GHz on the other hand although provides better penetration, supports lower data transmission rates is prone to interference from the crowded 2.4GHz band.

 

[PyroProdigy]

I did a test flight with my Mini 4 Pro and the RC Pro 2 (so only OS 4), while flying from inside my parked car. Antennas were rotated down.I was able to fly the Mini 4 Pro in all directions around me, at up to a full half a mile away, without needing to even point the controller in the direction of the drone, until exceeding half a mile away! This was from inside a BMW sedan with a closed sunroof. Even when I received a warning about signal degradation at half a mile, AirData reported green signal transmission throughout the flight. Amazing! RC 2 Pro FPV display is also the best I have ever experienced. Instead of merely being used for framing and navigation with low-res washed out quality, it gives you a true live visual experience of the flight. Highly recommended, if you can get your hands on one!

I have an rc pro 2 that came with my M4P creator

 

[PyroProdigy]

The RC 2 and the Pro like other DJI controllers are dual band 5.5GHz and 2.4GHz. 5.5GHz has less penetration and signal will rapidly degrade due to obstructions, is better suited for clear line of sight use; 2.4GHz on the other hand supports a higher level of penetration and ability to maintain connectivity despite obstructions. Both frequencies have their uses and drawbacks; 5,5GHz supports faster data transmission rates and is less susceptable to interference and works better for LOS use; 2.4GHz on the other hand although provides better penetration, supports lower data transmission rates is prone to interference from the crowded 2.4GHz band.

Yes I do know how wireless bands work. I've watched some videos online of people flying drones and they are using 5 GHz complaining that it doesn't go as far as advertised. Like duh, these people claim to be professional drone pilots and are demonstrating the drone & controllers capabilities and don't even understand how the wireless bands work.

I watched some guy showing how cellular Dongles work and he was flying towards the beach and the open ocean complaining that the dongle was losing reception. OF COURSE IT IS! There is no net of cell towers in the ocean!

5GHz have a shorter wavelength so it doesn't go as far but is faster while 2.4GHz band is a tad slower but is much wider so can go further and get through things like trees and buildings easier. It's why 2.4 GHz will work better if you are outside your house and 5GHz works good inside but loses connection outside.

Both controllers have both bands correct?

 

[PyroProdigy]

User error.

The person you spoke with, who lost transmission with the RC Pro 2 at a shorter distance than his RC 2, clearly didn't know what he was doing. Because the RC Pro 2 screen can be positioned into a different plane than the controller, the innate wrong tendency is to tip the screen up, while keeping the controller level, which aims the RC Pro 2 antennas at the horizon instead of the drone in the sky.

Instead, when lifting the screen up off the controller, it must still be kept parallel to the plane of the RC from which it was elevated. Now, when the screen is tipped for best viewing, the downward rotated antennas are also tipped up toward the drone in the sky. It's in the manual and there are several diagrams that clearly depict this. Typical RYFM error.

With the RC 2, the screen and the controller are in the same plane. Tipping the screen up also tilts the antennas up and toward the drone.

RC 2 is idiot proof. The RC 2 Pro requires a modicum of intelligence and understanding of proper antenna positioning to optimize its signal. Reading the manual also helps! LOL!

I never asked him how his controller was oriented towards the drone. He did some kind of job with the drone. It's a relative of a friend who was in Japan for some job he did with the drone. He's also who is the one that brought me back my M4P Creator Combo from Japan. So I can't say whether I know or not his experience level with flying. I do not have any contact with this person to ask further either.

 

[akdrone]

You'd notice a difference when flying a further distance away; it is always wise to unfold the antennas with antenna flat sides facing the drone to maximise transmission signal radiation towards the drone.

The DJI RC 2's antenna system, combined with the O4 video transmission technology, allows for a maximum transmission range of 20km when paired with compatible drones like the DJI Air 3. The DJI RC Pro 2, a more advanced controller, utilizes enterprise-grade multibeam antennas and the O4+ transmission system, offering a range of up to 30 km with the DJI Mavic 4 Pro, according to DJI.

I'm sure that's true but I can easily get BVLOS (if I wanted to) with the antennas not extended at all so that seems good to go for me .

 

[GadgetGuy]

I have an rc pro 2 that came with my M4P creator

Same here. That's why you certainly don't need an RC 2 if you want the best range!

 

[GadgetGuy]

Both controllers have both bands correct?

Correct, so the bands used are irrelevant, as both are set to auto band selection by default. It is incontrovertible that the RC Pro 2, using OS4+ instead of OS4 on the RC 2, has better range by 50%! (30km instead of 20km).

 

[GadgetGuy]

I never asked him how his controller was oriented towards the drone. He did some kind of job with the drone. It's a relative of a friend who was in Japan for some job he did with the drone. He's also who is the one that brought me back my M4P Creator Combo from Japan. So I can't say whether I know or not his experience level with flying. I do not have any contact with this person to ask further either.

No need to ask further. He clearly didn't know how to get the best signal from the RC Pro 2. DJI's own specs establish 30km instead of 20km. No one is disputing this.