Technical articles
From radio links to imaging principles, explore the technology and operating conditions behind equipment performance.
Does higher dBi always mean more range? Antenna gain and beamwidth
Antenna gain concentrates existing RF energy in particular directions; it does not increase transmitter output power.
Why do straight objects lean during fast camera movement? Rolling shutter
Different sensor rows capture different instants; motion during readout can distort the shape of a single frame.
Where does the text on an FPV image come from? Understanding OSD
An on-screen display turns flight-controller data into readable status on a live camera image.
Why do wide-angle images bend near the edges? FOV and lens distortion
A wide field of view captures more surroundings, but lens projection can change how straight lines and distances appear.
Why a visible path can still have a weak link: the Fresnel zone
Radio waves need clearance around the direct line between antennas, not merely a thin visible sight line.
Why must a video transmitter have an antenna before transmitting?
A missing or mismatched antenna can reflect RF power toward a transmitter's output stage.
Why does backlit FPV footage lose detail? Understanding WDR
Wide dynamic range helps a camera retain useful detail when bright and dark regions share one frame.
Why two receive antennas do not double range: diversity reception
Diversity gives a receiver another path when reflections or orientation create a deep signal fade.
Choosing analog FPV channels: bands, channels and interference
A repeatable channel plan starts with actual frequencies and enough separation for every transmitter at the site.
Why antenna polarization and orientation affect video quality
A radio link depends on compatible antenna polarization and clear radiation paths as the aircraft moves.
4K, 90 fps and Mbps: why resolution alone cannot describe a video link
Pixel count, frame rate, compression and radio capacity together determine useful video performance.
How can thermal imaging see without visible light?
Thermal cameras detect emitted infrared radiation and turn differences into a visible image.
2 ms, 35 ms and one frame: where does latency come from?
Radio round-trip time and camera-to-screen delay measure different parts of a video system.
Why Mesh networks suit mobile systems and emergency sites
Compatible nodes can create and change forwarding paths when a direct link is obstructed.
Transmit power is not range: four link-budget variables
Frequency, antennas, receiver sensitivity and environment jointly determine usable radio margin.