DJI is launching a new drone, Matrice 400. Unlike the DJI Mini, Matrice 400 is not a drone for private customers; the model is clearly aimed at professional customers since its total weight with batteries is around 9,740 grams, and the maximum payload is stated as 6 kilograms (13.2 pounds). This results in completely different regulatory circumstances than with a lighter drone, but also more options for transporting payloads.
First and foremost, Matrice 400 is advertised as being able to fly for up to 59 minutes, even with a payload, making it suitable for long operations such as search and rescue, firefighting and large-scale mapping. IP55 certification is advertised, meaning that the drone can fly in harsh environments and extreme temperatures ranging from -20°C to 50°C. Four external E-Port V2 connections are on board, allowing up to seven payloads to be mounted at the same time. Possible payloads from DJI and third parties include:
- Zenmuse H30 Series: An all-weather multi-sensor payload that has five major modules - a wide-angle camera, a zoom camera, an infrared thermal camera, a laser range finder and an NIR auxiliary light.
- Zenmuse S1: A spotlight for multi-payload drone platforms, with LEP laser bright light technology, offering high brightness and long illumination distance.
- Zenmuse V1: A loudspeaker with high volume and long broadcast distance that supports multiple broadcast modes.
These are just three examples of what is a much wider list of possible payloads. Moreover, Matrice 400 is equipped with a powerful LiDAR, mmWave radar and and full-color low-light fisheye vision sensors, allowing it to discern smaller objects such as high-voltage power lines on a mountain range at night. Image content is supposedly transmitted over distances of up to 40 kilometers via the O4 Enterprise Enhanced system, and it is also possible to use a drone as a relay for transmission, which can be useful in built-up areas.
Further details about Matrice 400 can be found on the product page.