The Best Video Transmitter of 2021
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A video transmitter or VTX is a device that can be connected to a camera to transmit video signals from a drone back to you. The data is transmitted to people standing on the ground while the drone is in the air via the airwaves. All the data is sent in real-time, so you always know what the drone is up to. Sounds great, right? But choosing a video transmitter is not as cool as its technology is. You need to know the product comprehensively before buying it. The following guide throws light on the aspects you must look at before the purchase.
Types of Video Transmitter
Based on their operating range, they can be categorized as follows:
Short-Range Video Transmitters
As the name implies, they are only capable of transmitting the video signals over a short distance, say like 3000 feet. They are ideal to be employed for home security purposes, or rearview car monitoring system.
Long-Range Video Transmitters
The long-range video transmitters can transmit video signals across 5 miles. They are ideal to be paired with drones, quadcopters, for transmitting real-time aerial videos.
Factors To Be Aware Of Before Purchasing Video Transmitters
Frequency
The frequency of an FPV transmitter depends on where you are located. In the US, 900 MHz is the popular option. The highest frequency achievable is 5.8Ghz. However, most people do well with 1.3Ghz or 2.4Ghz wireless video transmitter devices.
Channels
A wireless video transmitter also has channels just like your regular TV. You can set the transmitter to broadcast on specific channels or frequency. Having more channels is useful if you are flying with other FPV pilots. You can go for 32 or 40 channel FPV transmitters these days.
Compatibility
This is the most vital thing when choosing a video transmitter. You need to ensure that the FPV transmitter is compatible with the FPV receiver, be it the monitor or goggles. Though many brands want you to stick with their own FPV transmitters, it’s not essential to do that. You must ensure that both devices have the same channels to ensure they run on the same frequency. Also, remember that most 40Ch transmitters are compatible with almost every type of FPV receivers.
Range
To get the most range out of your FPV system, choose the best possible antennas or high gain antennas while picking a long-range wireless video transmitter-receiver.
Power Levels
Most people stick to a low power video transmitter because there are regulations on the power levels you can use. In the US, it’s 200mW while in the UK it’s 25MW only. Check the legal limits in your country before you proceed.
Power Requirements
You also need to remember the voltage requirements. Cross-check whether the video transmitter supports the voltage of a flight battery or not. For instance, if the FPV transmitter has a maximum voltage of 12V, you won’t be able to connect it to the 4S LiPo battery directly. A solution here could be to use a voltage regulator 236.
Price
Their cost ranges from $20 to $500 depending on the brand, transmitting range, frequency, and the above-mentioned factors.
Conclusion
Once you choose a video transmitter with the features above, you can focus on other add-on features like size, weight, internal microphone, pit mode for darkness, etc. Always know which features you need and which are good to have to ensure that you don’t buy a device beyond your budget. Choosing a model from the list of top ten video transmitters of the year will spare you some regret.