New Matrice 30 Series joins DJI Enterprise Line

DJI just announced two new additions to their DJI Enterprise series, the M30 and the M30 T. Both models bring significant improvements over previous iterations while elevating the Enterprise line to become a more effective and efficient solution for operators. In this article, we're going to look at some of the series' new features and the implications they have for public safety operators.

The M30 Series Overview

The DJI Matrice 30 takes its place between the Mavic 2 Enterprise Advanced (M2EA) and M300. It is second in the lineup in terms of size, capability, and price. Combining the function of the advanced Matrice 300 RTK with the form of the smaller Mavic 2 Enterprise, the M30 offers the best of both models and a true middle-tier option within the Enterprise lineup.

General Specifications

• Max Flight Time: 41 min.
• Max Speed: 23 m/s (~51 mph)
• Range: Up to 15 km. (9.3 miles)
• Service Ceiling: 7000 m (~22,966 ft.)
• IP55 rated
• OcuSync 3 Enterprise transmission system
• TB30 Intelligent Battery system (hot swappable)

Build Design

The most obvious differences between the new Matrice 30 Series and other Enterprise models lie in its exterior design. Larger than the M2EA, yet smaller than the Matrice 300, the M30 has a profile comparable to DJI’s FPV drone. The lack of landing gear and its folding carbon-fiber arms make for a portable UAV. Furthermore, its payload and gimbal remain within the frame contributing to a compact profile.

Like the larger Matrice 300, the M30 features an FPV camera, providing the pilot with greater situational awareness for improved handling and flight safety. It also has 6 sets of obstacle-avoidance sensors and two RTK modules at the end of two arms for positioning accuracy.

New Payload

Perhaps the most important feature of the M30 is its payload. A hybrid sensor, the M30’s payload features a wide-angle camera, a 48MP optical zoom camera, and a laser rangefinder that’s effective up to 1200m. The M30T includes all of these plus a 640p thermal imaging camera. The payload is stabilized by a 3-axis gimbal.

The M30’s sensors bring significant improvements in capabilities. One of these improvements includes smart low-light photo, which takes several pictures and creates one final high-resolution image in low light. The laser rangefinder not only displays the distance to the selected target; it provides the coordinates of the target. These coordinates are displayed on the map and shared with other decision-makers.

Also, note that the M30 does not offer interchangeable payloads. So, depending on the demands of your agency, you will have to decide between the M30 and M30T.

DJI RC Plus Enterprise Smart Controller

The second component of the M30 series is the introduction of the new Enterprise-series controller, known as the DJI RC Plus. Tailor-made for the demanding missions of Enterprise users, the RC Plus boasts a wide range of features including:

• An ultra-bright 7-inch touchscreen display;
• IP54 Protection for use in all weather conditions;
• A four-antenna OcuSync 3 transmission system;
• A 6-hour battery life with fast-charging and hot-swappable batteries;
• Customizable function buttons

M30 users have the option to hand off controls to other authorized pilots within range of the aircraft. Built into the controller is an indicator light signaling which controller is in command of the aircraft for a safe and seamless operation.

Also new with the RC Plus is the DJI Pilot 2 App flight interface. Efficient and intuitive, DJI Pilot 2 makes it easy to fly the M30 with a pre-flight checklist, an enhanced navigation display, and alerts that keep pilots aware of changing conditions.

M30 Series and the Future of Public Safety UAS

A compact profile, a powerful payload, and a capable controller all make the M30 and M30T innovative platforms and game-changers for public safety pilots. Agencies no longer must choose between the size of the M2EA and the capability of the Matrice 300 RTK. Now, they have an effective compromise between the two.

The features of the DJI Matrice 30 drone also provide insight into the future of public safety UAS. First, we are seeing that physical size is no longer limiting performance. We can expect to see UAVs with a smaller footprint perform on par with larger counterparts.

Second, the UAS industry is recognizing the value of specialized enterprise solutions. Drones are no longer just the toys of hobbyists; they are essential workhorses across various sectors. Companies like DJI recognize this by designing products like the RC Plus and the DJI Dock (expected Q4 2022, pictured below).

Finally, the public safety operators can expect more collaborative cloud-based features integrations in UAS platforms. In addition to providing actionable intelligence, UAVs are now extensions of a broader information-sharing network. DJI’s FlightHub 2 is a prime example of this. Information gathered by the DJI Matrice 30T drone is easily shared with commanders, ground teams, and decision-makers offsite, so that everyone has efficient access to the capability of the UAS platform.

Conclusion

The announcement of DJI’s M30 Enterprise UAV provides exciting capabilities for enterprise operators and is another step towards the integration of UAS in public safety. Are you interested in obtaining an M30 for your agency? Check out our website or contact us here.