DC1 Micro UAV Gimbal Camera for Visible-Light Imaging
Camera Systems · Product guide
The DC1 is a 71 g three-axis micro UAV gimbal camera for operators who need stabilized visible-light imaging from compact airborne or mobile platforms. It combines 1920×1080 output at 50 fps with 10x optical zoom, 40x hybrid zoom, Picture in Picture, and rich OSD information, while supporting network video and serial or network control.
Verified specifications
| Weight | 71 g |
|---|---|
| EO resolution and frame rate | 1920×1080 at 50 fps |
| Optical zoom | 10x |
| Hybrid zoom | 40x |
| Field of view | 98.5°x66.3° to 26.2°x14.9° |
| Stability accuracy | 0.1 mrad at 1°/2 Hz, 1 sigma |
| Video output | UDP/RTSP with H.264 or H.265 encoding |
| Control interface | RS232 and network control |
| Power input | 12-28V DC |
| Power consumption | Average 15 W or less; maximum 30 W |
Imaging and Zoom Performance
The DC1 produces visible-light EO video at 1920×1080 and 50 fps. Its 10x optical zoom changes the optical view rather than relying only on digital magnification, while the documented 40x hybrid mode provides a wider zoom range for observing distant subjects. The listed field of view ranges from 98.5°x66.3° at the wide end to 26.2°x14.9° at the narrow end.
Dual visible-light imaging is included in the product description, while the detailed specifications identify the EO stream at 1920×1080 and 50 fps. Picture in Picture supports a secondary displayed image, and the rich OSD can present camera, target, and robot information. MP4 is specified for video storage.
- Wide FOV supports broader scene coverage.
- Narrow FOV and optical zoom support more detailed observation.
- PiP and rich OSD assist operational awareness.
Stabilization and Gimbal Operation
The DC1 uses three-axis gyro stabilization for horizontal, roll, and pitch movement, helping limit image movement caused by platform motion. Its documented stability accuracy is 0.1 mrad at 1°/2 Hz, with a 1 sigma value. Mechanical travel is rated at ±150° for yaw, -90° to +30° for pitch, and ±45° for roll.
Maximum gimbal angular velocity is listed as at least 100°/s. These ranges describe the gimbal's movement envelope rather than guaranteed subject-tracking performance. Operators can position the camera within the stated mechanical limits while retaining network or serial command control.
- Yaw travel: ±150°.
- Pitch travel: -90° to +30°.
- Roll travel: ±45°.
- Maximum angular velocity: at least 100°/s.
Civilian Observation Applications
Compact dimensions and a 71 g weight make the DC1 relevant to UAV payloads that must balance imaging capability with limited carrying capacity. Documented applications include public-security observation, forest-fire monitoring, law-enforcement observation, and industrial inspection of facilities, structures, or mobile work areas.
The camera can also support security surveillance and robotic vision on mobile platforms. Wide-to-narrow field-of-view selection and zoom allow operators to move from general scene coverage toward a tighter view. These are supported use cases, but actual suitability depends on aircraft integration, lighting, viewing distance, and operator procedures.
Payload Selection Tradeoffs
The main advantage of the DC1 is its combination of stabilization, optical zoom, compact weight, and multiple control options in a micro-gimbal format. A buyer comparing larger gimbals should consider whether the 71 g payload, 12-28V DC input, and specified mechanical travel suit the available space and power budget.
Hybrid zoom extends the framing options beyond 10x optical zoom, but it should not be treated as equivalent to 40x optical magnification. Video encoding, network configuration, and control requirements also need to be evaluated before selection. The product is documented for H.264 and H.265 output, UDP/RTSP streaming, and RS232 or network control.
- Confirm the 71 g payload allowance before installation.
- Verify available voltage and power capacity for the platform.
- Compare zoom needs with the distinction between optical and hybrid zoom.
- Plan for the required video and control connections.
Integration and Operating Checks
Integration should begin with the aircraft or mobile platform's available payload area, power, weight allowance, and mounting requirements. The DC1 accepts 12-28V DC and averages no more than 15 W, reaching a listed maximum of 30 W. Its operating temperature range is -20°C to +55°C, and the storage range is -20°C to +50°C.
Video integration uses UDP/RTSP with H.264 or H.265 encoding, while commands can be issued through RS232 or network control. Operators should verify the control protocol, stream configuration, and display requirements during integration. These checks confirm fit and connectivity; they do not by themselves establish performance in a specific aircraft or operating environment.
- Check payload clearance and mounting stability.
- Validate the platform's 12-28V DC supply.
- Confirm UDP/RTSP stream and encoder settings.
- Test RS232 or network command integration.
Frequently asked questions
What resolution and frame rate does the DC1 provide?
The DC1’s documented EO output is 1920×1080 at 50 fps. This applies to its FHD visible-light imaging configuration, while the product description also identifies dual visible-light imaging without providing separate resolutions for each visible channel.
Does the DC1 provide fully optical 40x zoom?
No. The documented specifications distinguish 10x optical zoom from 40x hybrid, or mixed, zoom. The 10x range is optical, while the wider 40x mode combines additional magnification and should be assessed separately when detailed distant observation is required.
Which video and control interfaces are available?
Video is available through UDP/RTSP using H.264 or H.265 encoding, and MP4 is specified for storage. Control is available through RS232 or network methods. Buyers should confirm that their display, recording, and command systems support the selected connection and configuration.
What should be checked before mounting the DC1?
Check available payload weight, mounting space, mechanical clearance, and the platform’s 12-28V DC supply. The camera weighs 71 g and can consume up to 30 W. Also verify the required UDP/RTSP video format and RS232 or network control connection before flight or field deployment.
