The DJI Mini 4 Pro is a compact, feature-packed drone that’s perfect for capturing stunning aerial footage. However, some users have reported issues with its obstacle avoidance system. Whether it’s not working as expected or failing to engage in specific situations like during night flights, understanding how the obstacle avoidance system operates and troubleshooting common problems can enhance your drone-flying experience.
In this blog post, we’ll explore why obstacle avoidance on the DJI Mini 4 Pro might not be working, and how to troubleshoot it, especially in tricky conditions like night flying. We’ll also cover important topics like calibration, sensor settings, and more to ensure you get the most out of your drone’s obstacle avoidance capabilities.
Table of Contents
Understanding DJI Mini 4 Pro Obstacle Avoidance System
Obstacle avoidance is a critical safety feature in modern drones, and DJI’s Mini 4 Pro is no exception. The system works by using vision sensors and other technologies to detect and avoid objects in its flight path.
When functioning properly, the DJI Mini 4 Pro’s obstacle avoidance system helps prevent crashes and allows for smoother flights in tight or challenging environments. However, there are some conditions where it may not work as expected.
Common Reasons Why DJI Mini 4 Pro Obstacle Avoidance Isn’t Working
- Vision Sensors Are Blocked or Dirty
The DJI Mini 4 Pro uses vision sensors to detect objects. If these sensors are blocked, dirty, or covered with dust, they won’t function properly. It’s essential to clean the sensors regularly to ensure optimal performance. - Low Light Conditions or Night Flights
The obstacle avoidance system on the DJI Mini 4 Pro doesn’t work as well in low-light conditions, especially at night. The sensors rely on visible light to detect objects, and when it’s dark, the system may not detect obstacles accurately. This is one of the reasons users experience problems during night flights. - Vision Sensors Unavailable Error
If you’re seeing an error message that says “Vision Sensors Unavailable,” it could be due to a software glitch, improper calibration, or blocked sensors. Make sure your firmware is up-to-date, and consider recalibrating the sensors if the issue persists. - Obstacle Avoidance Not Properly Enabled
Obstacle avoidance settings might be turned off or set incorrectly. You can check and adjust these settings in the DJI Fly app.
Troubleshooting DJI Mini 4 Pro Obstacle Avoidance
1. Check and Clean Vision Sensors
The first step is to visually inspect the vision sensors on your drone. Any dirt, dust, or debris can block the sensors and cause issues with obstacle avoidance. Use a clean, soft cloth to gently wipe down the sensors.
2. Calibrate the Vision Sensors
If cleaning doesn’t solve the problem, try recalibrating the vision sensors. You can do this through the DJI Fly app. Here’s how:
- Open the DJI Fly app and connect your Mini 4 Pro.
- Navigate to “Settings” and find the “Obstacle Avoidance” or “Sensors” section.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the calibration process.
3. Adjust Obstacle Avoidance Settings
Sometimes, the obstacle avoidance feature may not work because it’s disabled in the settings. To check this:
- Open the DJI Fly app.
- Go to the settings menu and look for the “Obstacle Avoidance” section.
- Make sure that obstacle avoidance is enabled and correctly configured for your flight needs.
4. Fly in Well-Lit Conditions
As mentioned earlier, obstacle avoidance systems struggle in low-light conditions. If you’re flying at night or in dim environments, the system might not perform optimally. Whenever possible, fly in well-lit areas during daylight hours to ensure the sensors work properly.
5. Ensure Firmware Is Up to Date
DJI regularly releases firmware updates that include performance improvements and bug fixes. If you’re experiencing persistent problems with obstacle avoidance, make sure your drone’s firmware is updated to the latest version.
6. Check Obstacle Avoidance Distance
The DJI Mini 4 Pro has a specific range within which it can detect and avoid obstacles. If you’re flying too close to objects, especially at high speeds, the system may not have enough time to react. Always fly at a safe distance and give the drone enough room to maneuver.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Does the DJI Mini 4 Pro have collision avoidance?
Yes, the DJI Mini 4 Pro is equipped with a collision avoidance system that uses multiple vision sensors to detect obstacles in its path.
Does the DJI Mini 4 Pro obstacle avoidance work at night?
The obstacle avoidance system on the DJI Mini 4 Pro doesn’t work well at night or in low-light conditions. It’s best to fly during the day or in well-lit environments for optimal performance.
How good is the Mini 4 obstacle avoidance?
The DJI Mini 4 Pro has an effective obstacle avoidance system, but its performance can be hindered by factors such as low light, sensor blockage, and proximity to objects. Under normal conditions, it works well to prevent collisions.
How do I turn on obstacle avoidance on DJI Mini 4 Pro?
You can enable or adjust obstacle avoidance in the DJI Fly app. Go to the settings menu, find the “Obstacle Avoidance” section, and ensure it is turned on and configured properly.
Which DJI drone has the best obstacle avoidance?
DJI’s more advanced models like the DJI Mavic 3 and DJI Air 3 have superior obstacle avoidance systems, featuring omnidirectional sensors for improved accuracy compared to the DJI Mini 4 Pro.
Final Thoughts
The DJI Mini 4 Pro is an excellent drone with great obstacle avoidance capabilities, but like any technology, it has its limitations. If your obstacle avoidance system isn’t working, make sure to troubleshoot the common issues mentioned above, and remember to fly in optimal conditions to get the best results. By keeping your sensors clean, calibrating them regularly, and updating the firmware, you can enjoy a safer and more seamless flying experience.
