Why Zoom Matters
When it comes to industrial inspections, there’s a lot at stake - the extremely valuable equipment and assets being inspected, the pricy drone and camera zipping through the air, personnel safety, the requirement for accurate and usable data to be gathered, etc. With these factors in mind, it just makes sense to employ aerial imaging solutions that minimize risks to each element involved. One such method is the use of powerful zoom cameras that can maintain a safe distance from a subject or inspection target, and still gather the high-resolution, detailed images you need. 

There are several good aerial zoom camera options currently available on the market, but they are not all created equal. Two of the options that we most often recommend are the DJI Zenmuse Z3 and the DJI Zenmuse Z30. To determine which of these will best suit your particular needs, drop us a line and one of our experts will be happy to assist you. 

DJI Zenmuse H20T
The Zenmuse H20T has a 20MP 1/1.7" CMOS sensor. This larger sensor allows the camera to have a 200x max zoom. This zooming capability allows the user to easily identify a small object from over half a mile away. With these zooming capabilities along with DJI's robust software simply double-click on the point of interest and your camera/gimbal will automatically move to the point of interest. With smart-track, identify and follow moving subjects like people, vehicles, and boats with the auto-zoom function, while continuously acquiring the subject’s dynamic location. The H20 series cameras are only compatible with the DJI Matrice 300 RTK.

DJI Zenmuse Z30
With a 30x optical and 6 digital (for total of 180x zoom), the Zenmuse Z30 is unmatched in zoom capability for aerial cameras. This level of zoom ensures that for industrial applications, you can maintain a safe distance, and still achieve the level of accuracy and detail you demand. This level of magnification also means that movement from flight, wind, etc. are exaggerated in the image; however, DJI’s industry leading 3-axis gimbal technology offers the stabilization (to within 0.01°) necessary to maintain high-fidelity, blur free images.

The Zenmuse Z30 is compatible with any of the Matrice Series drones, with plug-and-play connection. When connected to the DJI Go App, the Z30 can be operated with a variety of automatic and smart features, such as TapZoom, intelligent flight modes, and automatic flight logs. Compatibility with the DJI Lightbridge 2 controller offers extended range (up to 3.1 miles, or 5km), for improved efficiency in your data gathering operations.