Do Drone Range Extenders Really Work - YES

Mavic Parabolic
Website - tinyurl.com/y3...
Amazon - amzn.to/3nxR5G3
Mavic Yagi Uda
Website - tinyurl.com/yx...
Amazon - amzn.to/3ddqVU9
Mavic 2 Yagi Uda
Website - tinyurl.com/y5...
Amazon - amzn.to/34VlJAT
In this clip I explain how drone extenders works and help you decide which one might be right for you. I cover both the parabolic and Yagi Uda versions and show you the increase in power you can expect when using these with your quad. Please let me know if you have any questions and thanks for watching!
Drone Valley Website - www.dronevalley...
Drone Valley Amazon Store - www.amazon.com...
Drone Valley Twitter - / dronevalley1
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#yagi #drone range extender #Mavic Air 2 #Drone signal booster

[@pupdaddymail]

As a licensed Ham operator I must say that is a pretty darn good explanation of how the antennas work. Yes, if they are made correctly a parabola helps. It's important to understand that it (usually) only affects the backward radiating portion of the signal. The forward signal remains the same and the backwards signal is reflected forwards. To be sure, this would mean an increased in measured signal in front of the antenna. Typically there will be some power gain, especially if measured with an untuned power receiver. Unless it reflects a signal that is close to 180 degrees out of phase with the front facing part that translates to a higher power level and more range. It certainly can't hurt anyway. At 2.4 gHz a quarter wave director element would be just around one inch in length with the elements getting smaller as you go forward. Correspondingly, the reflector element should be longer than the radiating element and ~ 1 inch away. For a Yagi to work at it's best it should have the right element lengths relative to the radiator, or the antenna on the remote control. But again, it is unlikely to hurt your range and could help. By the way, the antenna on the mini remote is a folded dipole. It already squeezes the signal to go forward and backwards, and squeezing it more is probably not going to hurt, and it might help. And by the way, the FCC only cares about the signal strength being radiated by the antenna. You are free to manipulate that signal anyway you want to make it work better. Just remember, phasing matters. A lot. The reflected signal needs to be pretty close to in phase with the front. This is why hams typically don't use parabolics or Yagis unless they are very carefully tuned. Surprisingly, a lot of the increase in signal to noise ration that contributes to range is because the parabolic reflector also tends to block noise from behind. Get a Ham license and you can play around with more powerful remote controls.

[@thinkinsidetheboxsquarecir3303]

I learned something new today!💯👍🏽 Thanks! I may even get a HAM license 🤔

[@EeZ3-808]

Interesting. I have my general license, this is the first time I’m hearing I can modify for more power from my controller. I’ll look it up to read more about it. Thanks for the info! 73

[@Stuff_happens]

How would this work? it is my understanding that the driven element would be shorter than the reflector?

[@ErrolKane2331]

Love the schooling you gave on this video, especially the history of YagiUdo and that’s what I will call it from now on, giving both gentlemen the credit.

[@jayebzzz338]

For all the people who keep asking for proof here it is. I screen recorded 2 flights last night exactly the same route in town. 3000ft each at 250ft altitude. I count 37 glitches without anything. With parabolic it glitched twice. You don’t need to fly 17 miles to prove they work. I find the Yagis work well too, although they are a lot less forgiving with controller orientation. Great channel Rick!

[@nickdaws4493]

I might be a sucker, but I immediately ordered a set after watching this video. Awesome explanation

[@Iloveyoutube11]

Same! Haha

[@mickwolf1077]

He makes a great salesman

[@scottrobinson1564]

Which ones?

[@janioribeiro]

We looking for a real review, not a sales man who don’t care if works or not, I starterd vídeo thinking buy, now I will definitely don’t ! Don’t be foo

[@nickdaws4493]

@@scottrobinson1564 drone valley

[@BillCozzolino]

First of all, thanks for a really great video on the range extenders. It's a pleasure to listen to someone explain it and show some actual meter readings rather than just taking you for a long boring ride and telling you how far they got. I have been thinking for a long time about that those Yagi range extender antennas and wondering why we had to have a set of two with one for each frequency. I know that there are two wires going up to the antenna module and that there are two different size antennas in the module at the top. I just assumed that one of the antennas was for the higher frequency and one for the lower. I would think you'd be able to build a Yagi attachment with the higher frequency on one side and lower frequency on the other and not have to worry about setting the frequencies manually. I have an electronics background and so I see some inconsistency between what is said on the videos and what I know in my brain. I am an extra class ham and I build antennas for fun. I know that at these frequencies the cutting and placement of every element is critical. To resolve the conflict, I got the bloody things for my Air 2 and gave them a run. I have done some field strength testing and not found a worthy difference with or without the extenders. I also don’t see much of a directional tendency with just the stock antennas or with the extenders. Even with an extender installed, I can drive to near the end range and turn my back on the drone without loosing contact. If the antenna was directional, I would drop the majority of my signal and contact with the drone. There is no matching to the Yagi as the stock antenna must act as the driven element, and the remaining directional elements are all the same length and distance.. Don’t make sense. This is the only "Yagi" I have seen with all lengths and spacing the same. Plug the freq, into any Yagi design software on the web and you will see what I mean. The stock antennas are flat so they will have the typical null on the ends and I think that is what we are seeing on the meters. They appear to operate like a cell phone antenna. The Alientech antennas are the same shape as the stock but larger, perhaps by a couple of wavelengths. They work much better but cost a bunch and require modification to the controller that can be reversed. Thanks again for taking the time do dig into these issues. I look forward to your explaining my questions. Thanks again for all you do.

[@gimpman1357]

I use ParaYagi Boosters (both yagiUDA and parabolic together) with my mavic mini. Increases my range by 40%. Most importantly it gives me nice smooth uninterrupted FPV throughout the flight.

[@cyjonzjones2762]

I’ve been using the parabolics for quite sometime with my mavic mini. I just ordered the Yagi Yuda from you just because 😏. I’m a little like you I just like to tinker. Always like your videos Rick keep up the good work!

[@DougieWotherspoon]

I have been looking at these and found all the range examples on you tube to be very bla.. this is concise and straight to the point. You are by far my favourite drone content sir. Very well explained and simple to understand. Bravo!!

[@curtisw5732]

Loved the video, I have tried a couple yagi uda extenders but the 8x yagi uda from Miniformer US is the Best. They are also designed to work and fit perfectly with the parabolic reflector. I get amazing range (with spotters) but I have them mostly because I want a strong sign that doesn't cut in and out especially in urban areas where there is lots of wifi interference and trees that momentarily block the signal. Like I said the best set I've found is from Miniformer US, they have an additional reflector on their yagi uda to enhance their ability and also work with the parabolic reflector making the signal rock solid. Miniformer US also have a KZbin video showing the nerdy stuff about signal gain. The yagi uda are more directional but when you're facing the drone for LOS it not a big deal. Some have gone 8000m before the signal drops off. Keep up the great videos, I love all the nerdy details too!

[@ronaldrt]

With spotters?

[@curtisw5732]

@@ronaldrt visual line of sight for the Mini lineup is only 500m max so you need someone else in a vehicle to follow the flight, maintaining visual line of sight and continuous communication with the pilot...me. I now have the M3P with the RC controller and have reached 7200m one way 14400m return using the standard battery landing back at my home position with 0% battery. Takeoff was at 910m elevation flying at an altitude of 50m to 120m max in normal mode. There are some that have reached 11000m (22000m return) with the M3P flying at at sea level.

[@emptech]

It's been many years since I was involved in antenna design, but I noticed a couple things in your test. First, the angle of coverage between your two half power points is called beam width, which directly corresponds to antenna gain. An issue known as mutual coupling may exist here, where the transmitting and receiving antennas may be too close together. I don't know what the general rule is though. Polarization, so you have a vertically polarized signal from the DJI controller and your sniffer antenna is horizontal. Making microwave measurements can sometimes be difficult because of the short wavelength, reflections, wave cancellations, etc. That's why we call it PFM, right? BTW, who makes the measuring device you are using, all I have is an HP spectrum analyzer, kind of bulky. Jim

[@gadgetjunkie4217]

Engineer here also and was wondering the same thing emptech. There’s also too many variables when it comes to signal strength as demonstrated with the video when Rick’s pen got in the way and lowered the db count and that was just a foot away. If it’s too good to be true than it is. I’ve had a lot of success with my 4hawks and ITELITE mods but those aren’t perfect and they’re powered!

[@Cagiest]

Yes, I was thinking along the same lines too. As I understand it, you are not meant to hold your controller flat on the Mavic Air 2 but rather hold it with the phone in front of you and then the two vertical phone supports act as vertically polarised Antennas. When this mini yagi(-uda!) is attached then you end up with a more directional but still vertically polarised antenna. However, I think the test is a little misleading because of this as the weakest signal would be coming out of the top of the controller before the extenders are attached. I think we would need to see the signal strength with the controller sitting upright for a true comparison. Having said all that, speaking as a radio ham, this was a fantastic explanation of how these things work and I'm sure there is still some benefit to them. However, if you don't plan to travel (a huge amount) beyond VLOS then I think the current DJI technology would not require any enhancements to maintain a strong signal anyway...

[@JoeWilly69]

I have to say that regardless of what your talking about, your really focused, never ever pause or say uhh or ya know and you explain principles perfectly clear. I've never seen anyone, anywhere on KZbin or TV be as clear and on point as you! Your very impressive man. My only criticism is your a little bit paranoid about breaking the law. I'm retired Leo and I'm not really big on these laws that are governing drones. For me they go a bit far, very picky but I understand how dangerous they can be in many levels as nefarious people can use drones in a way that can be harmful to many people, and I understand the fact that they can get sucked into an engine on a plane if you're flying in an area where there's a lot of congestion in the air.

[@Dronevalley]

Mike, I really appreciate your comments and it's always great to hear that folks are enjoying the clips. I love tech and do my best to present the details behind how things work so you can better enjoy the product. Drones are a big hobby for me and I do what I can to pass along what I've learned. Stay tuned for more content this week and thanks again! Rick

[@craigwflys]

One of the best videos I've ever seen on the subject so far. Right after I got my Mini back in January I bought the parabolic ones and they easily doubled my range. Wouldn't fly without them. Then back in June got some 8 rod Yagi's with the side extensions (made by Miniformer US who has his own channel) and they seem to work just a little better then the parabolic ones. I also prefer using the Yagi's because they have a much smaller footprint over my remote so they don't get in the way of my thumbs as much. I've tried using both together at the same time but if anything the Yagi's work better by themselves. Another thing I've noticed to help range is to manually pick your own channel.

[@BobDiaz123]

Without question, using Range Extenders on the Mini makes a lot of sense. However, the Air 2 has such a solid connection thanks to OCCUSYNC 2.0, I'm not sure it's necessary, except for when you fly in urban areas with a massive amount of RF noise.

[@bashkillszombies]

Finding ones for the Mini 2 is nearly impossible, and when you do they're all utterly different in spacing of the Yagi Uda elements which drives me nuts! I've seen many tested, they rarely yield more than 100 meters gain which is dismal compared to if you added that element to a regular antenna! Wish DJI would just give us a bloody external antenna port!

[@RC-Flight]

I purchased the parabolic boosters and the Yagi Uda last week from Drone Valley and have made 5 flighst with them both on and in 5.8 mode. They definitely allow you to go further. Before using them in my urban area, I would start to loose video feed at about 525 meters. But with the two sets of boosters on I’m now getting out too 730 meters so a good 200 meters further. I’m flying 5.8 in FCC mode.

[@cameltoeinspector6015]

thank you Drone Valley Employee

[@RC-Flight]

@@cameltoeinspector6015 Actually, if you click on my picture, it takes you too my KZbin page and you will soon figure out I’m from Canada. So your theory is way wrong! I’m not an employer, just a frustrated Spark owner, who wasn’t getting good range! And wanted too try these affordable options. Now my range is improved, but still not anywhere close to what DJI states.

[@jasomkovac9115]

Well thank you, I now know the real name of the yagi-uda's. Rather interesting and sad how it got shortened with no credit to uda. So you've taken care of my learning something new every day, and great videos too by the way. By the way, yagi-uda's are made for 2.4 ghz band.

[@anonymous134y]

the short bars are 5ghz (usually coupled with the parabolics online) and the long bars (much harder to find) are for 2.4ghz

[@stevesedio1656]

The nice thing about directional antennas is they increase both the controller signal and range the drone signal can be received. The two antennas on the controller are powered in phase, so the signal is doubled going forward and backward. Assuming the antennas are an odd multiple 1/2 wavelength, the side to side signal cancels, resulting in a radiation pattern that looks like the infinity sign as seen from the top of the antennas. The antennas are taller than a typical 1/2 wave. A 5/8 wavelength reduced the radiation pattern top to bottom, as seen from the side, further increasing the signal. The parabola works for 2.4GHz and 5.8GHz, the Yagi Uda is only 5.8GHz.

[@davburrows]

Hi Rick. I have been quietly watching your videos from Canada since July. I joined the drone world with a Mavic Mini in mid July. Although not required I went ahead and got what we call the Small Basic Licence. I have learned so much from your videos and very grateful. I have been considering range extenders and you just help me to decide to make the purchase. I am also a Ham radio operator so have some understanding of signals. Love your explanation. Keep up the great work!

[@petetherealrelentless6542]

This is the best video I have found on the subject.. lots of great information and obviously very knowledgeable about the subject. Thanks.

[@The321asdfff]

Thanks for this video Rick. Didn't know about the Yagi Uda extenders. I already bought the parabolic one from you and just ordered the YagiUda today. Can't wait to use them both on my Mavic2 Pro.

[@yohendyC]

Any update on your experience?

[@kentwilliams4152]

Interesting. I have been a Han Radio license holder since 1955 and never heard anyone use the word, “UDA” when discussing a yagi antenna. Learnt something new. 🤓

[@m80116]

Great video Rick! I liked how easily you managed to explain the principles between the two types of antennas, I campaigned the same for the Yagi/Uda name in the forum I follow. Speaking of range extenders from a CE standpoint using a Mini on 5.8 GHz (manual selection), I slightly prefer the parabolics as they are better looking, easier to handle and give a wider beam, they fall a bit shorter of the Y/U boosters reach but they go out (at least the Mini does) with a reassuring loss of video downlink, meanwhile the Y/U they go out with a more worrisome loss of connection. Basically with the parabolics you can back out the drone, with the Y/U you have to wait and hope to regain connection otherwise RTH would kick in. When I did these tests there was zero wind, had full battery, flown over mostly open ex-open-pit mine area. I even combined the two reflectors+Y/U but the improvement is negligible.

[@bblair502]

Excellent explanation! Yagi Uda antennas are now available for the 2.4 band. They are larger physically (double the wavelength so double the length of the individual elements). A search on Amazon for "2.4 Yagi booster for DJI" will list many. They're still not too bulky as they have fewer elements but should help increase the reliability of a 2.4 connection As a side note, I've seen several KZbin "range tests" that claim the"Yagi boosters" weren't working. It was apparent that 5.8 Yagi's were being used on the 2.4 band! This is likely a common mistake causing a lot of the "they don't work" claims. It's important that users understand that the add-on Yagi antennas are specifically designed for use on only one of the two 2.4 & 5.8 GHz. The parabolic reflectors should be of benefit on both bands.

[@jasomkovac9115]

Funny thing that, how could you buy a product, go through the effort of making a video and not do a tiny bit of research on the proper type of antenna. It's not at all difficult. There's a ton of videos explaining tem.

[@DenBlackburn]

Thanks, im from the UK so our drones have both 2.4GHz and 5GHz, that little lesson you just gave has cleared so much up for me, I have both Yagi Uda 2.4 and 5GHz and the parabolic, so before flight ive always checked to see what frequencies are the clearest, but quite a few people have said to me that its pointless using both Yagi Uda and parabolic, but ive always had a fantastic connection and thats on my mavic mini 1, when I had the mavic pro before all the silly laws changed, because its bigger I could fly that 1/2 mile plus, and still see it and that never dopped any connection, in my opinion it made it a lot safer, but hey, I dont make the laws, I just go ahead and follow them. But again a huge thanks for all that info you gave, its proven I was doing right.

[@Alanhobbs.droneadventures]

Rick test and try strobe lights for night flying. Think ill like to try but would like to see what you think and is it worth it?

[@dereksuperstrong1210]

Can you use both of them at the same time

[@keaaul808]

I always look forward to your very informative and useful videos. BTW,confessing I break the law every single day driving over 35, 45, 55, etc mph in those speed zones.

[@LabBrios]

I may be wrong, Could someone tell me if am correct or not?. The antenna, that is a pair of single wire. the emmiting shape of a simple wire is a toroidal shape centered in the antenna. There is no double beam like an 8 shape centered in the wire. And the effect of the parabolic shape is reflect and create a constructive wave beam. And there is no dipole in this configuration, It may be a single Tx and a single Rx, or some MIMO tech in between. This is just a thought, great video, great explanation, great quality and production for the video. Keep it going

[@digitalnightfall2930]

Hi Rick, thank you for the informative video. I am wondering why the Yagi-Uda antenna is only for 5.8 Ghz rather than the 2.4 Ghz considering that 2.4 has a longer range. If I am not mistaken, the 5.8 has a broader bandwidth (higher frequency) with a shorter range while 2.4 has a more narrow bandwidth with of course longer range. Maybe broader bandwidth is needed for higher quality video transmission? I am interested if you have tried or tested any of the Alientech products. As near as I can tell, they are "omni directional" antennas. Some amplified and some not. Why would I want to amplify a transmission when the receiving device is not amplified? It seems as though I could send instructions and possibly not receive a response. Just thoughts from an amateur! Thank you again!

[@tompaddlez]

can someone reply to this

[@kebabthunder2813]

@@tompaddlez The Yagi-Uda also has the 2.4 Ghz version. But they do have a different length on it's antenna. You can check it up. Just type "2.4 Ghz Mavic Mini Yagi Antenna".

[@antdx316]

I have done commercial drone jobs w/ and w/o Yagis. Yagis make a big difference in terms of feed reliability. I get less issues w/ them on than off.

[@alexrios7051]

Tried it myself and it certainly does work. I was skeptical at first but I’m glad I bought it. Great addition to my DJI SE.

[@mikek4443]

Ordered the Yagi Uda half way through your video lol thanks for not only testing them but giving us the ability to buy them from you directly.

[@heavymetalrockman]

Some very great and informative information for someone who didn't know the principles of how these antenna boosters work and how they differ. I do have a question though. Most of the Yagi and parabolic boosters have aluminum rods and aluminum deflectors but copper ones are available. Is there any advantage with copper over aluminum?

[@WiljanWiljan]

How can the antennas be used on the DJI RC Pro? any recommendation ? and does it actually improve the signal strength?

[@williamschuman4951]

Always good stuff from the Drone Whisperer, yes I need the Yagi-Uda

[@droneready8278]

I got both of these about a week ago for my Mavic Air and had no video drop out for a mile+...I use both at the same time.

[@charlesleggett2546]

Hello Sir and thank you for this video. I really enjoyed it and the information was excellent. I plan on getting a DJI Air 3 within a month from now. I like how you used both of the 2 different boosters together at once. I think the antennas on the air 3 are shorter than the ones that you have on your remote. Do you have parabolic boosters that will fit the antennas for the Air 3?

[@ShoelessNomadThailand]

Awesome vlog the best explanation I've ever seen. Thank so much for sharing your knowledge. I use these adds ons on my Fimi 2020 not for distance but for consistency of signal. Never had a drop off. For a few dollars more means less chance of losing your drone. Stay safe

[@Failons89]

The question now is: do the yagi-uda worsen the signal when the RC switches to the other frequency? AKA: can we mount a 5.8 tuned yagi-uda, and still use the remote in auto mode? Thanks!

[@ArmedGringo45]

Did you ever figure this out? Not sure what to have my settings at.

[@zack79official60]

The signal is suitable for use on drones in Malaysia. The reason for the special design for Malaysia is CE. Not the FCC

[@MeOnTech]

Amplification on one end relay does not do much good. You need a two way connection and if the Drone does not also have an amplified single. Well... then... However the devices you are showing also work for improved reception as well as transmission. Nice Video!

[@Dronevalley]

Yep, both of these signal boosters work in both transmission and reception so you're all set. They are passive but do a great job of improving the signal strength in both directions. Thanks for the post! Rick

[@herman679]

I just ordered one , you sold me, thanks

[@The_SemperFiGuy]

Thank you Professor. I have just ordered my Yagi Uda range extender for my MA2. Appreciate you taking the time to put this video up Rick. Best wishes from Largo, FL

[@namdsibor]

Do they work

[@epsonexxon1088]

Hi Rick, thanks for confirming and explaining that these signal boosters do work and how they work! Living in CE countries, these do improve the video feed and range since we are having lower transmission powered CE version compared to the much powerful transmission FCC version you are having especially with the Mini. Our Mini version is so much underpowered in terms of transmission power that flying in urban areas seems impossible, so this boosters do help. Thanks!

[@nibbscbr]

Time for me to dig out the para's I've had for years without using. I too thought it wasn't going to help much. Then again I've never had any connection issues with the Mavic Pro. I think I bought them to get the dollar amount for free air freight.

[@yakub1939]

Great video, just got started flying drones, picked up a Mavic Air & was completely surprised of the Technology, just purchased an Mavic Air 2 & it's really "blown" me away! Interesting new world for me, very fun hobby to have, thanks for the insightful video, also ordered a yagi antenna, keep the great videos coming!

[@fosscamfosscam1169]

Love the info and your channel thanks for continuing to post good information

[@blablah538]

5.8GHz Yagi-Udas seem silly given that 2.4GHz is the band designed for range and, with OccuSync 2, will automatically be what you're using at long range. A 2.4GHz Yagi-Uda actually does make sense

[@cardinalview]

Great video. I have both but never used the Yagi-Uda.

[@tedc3895]

I used to tune whip antennae with an oscilloscope about 30 feet away use a piece of wire wrapped on a stick. Just for max signal. Works easier than swr . object being to get heat down in the xmiter.

[@theampedlife]

Love your enthusiasm and passion for your hobby. Together with your science you convinced me to pick one up for my Mavic Air. Yes I still fly the 1 👌

[@Dronevalley]

Thanks for the post and the kind words on the content. I still fly the Mavic Air and am still blown away at how amazing that drone was for the time (and still is today) I hope you have a great summer of flying! Be sure to stop back and sub the channel so you don't miss anything. Rick

[@theampedlife]

@@Dronevalley Subbed, thank you for the reply. It's winter here in South Africa, good stable air for flying. Maybe an Air 3 in the bag soon. Just wondering if there is a 3S or 4 around the corner. Good deals up for grabs here on the 3, so something must be happening.

[@LEXPIX]

Great explanation. I recently got my ham radio license and reminds me of the RF concepts discussed there.

[@jeromesettles]

How about with the DJI Smart Controller? Thanks

[@dennisbrooks240]

Guys are coming tomorrow to help me dredge my Mavic Mini off the bottom of the pond. It looks like about $50 for the Yagu Uda's and reflectors for the two transmitters. Are the Drone Valley products better tuned? I also learned that you ALWAYS put floatation on when flying over water, even if it turns over, it floats and can be recovered for replacement!

[@Dronevalley]

Dennis, the Yagi-Udas and the parabolics will help increase your signal with the quad but also be careful about flying too low over water. I did a clip a while back explaining that the VIO sensors on the bottom of the quads can get "confused" by reflective surfaces like snow or water and force the drone to take a nosedive if you get too low. I stay above 15' when flying over water to make sure I don't go swimming. Thanks for the post and we have plenty of both items in stock if you decide you want them. Rick

[@dennisbrooks240]

I did read/watch several articles on over water flight after mine sark.. I was flying through an arch over water under a bridge. Lost height perspective and the drone wentin the water. So much for video through arch /tunnel out to look at waterfall. Orange flotation fills going on the drone from. Adds to VLOS, keeps the drove out of the dirt and it will float, even if upside down should I get dunnb again.

[@MyMiniDroneLife]

Hey Rick, Thanks for the explanation, I did purchase them from Amazon and I may not understand the science behind it, but I can say they definitely work for my MIni SE very well. I have a bunch of tall trees in my neighborhood and I was able to fly out way further than I could before.

[@usov656]

Here's one thing, without getting into the legal details, if you were to, say, connect your drone controller to a directional, parabolic antenna fixed to a tall pole to amplify it's signal, would you be able to extend your drone's range even more? If yes, then how much of an extension are we talking about here?

[@rossbrigolimusic]

One thing to note, they are not boosters, they are just focuses. They focus the beam to a specific direction instead of spreading them equally around the rod antenna. The downside is that they will become highly directional. Meaning you need to always point your remote control to the drone.

[@Dronevalley]

Ross, thanks for the post and I agree that these are both "wave shapers" that redirect the signal and I think I mentioned it like 6 times in the clip. They are also the ONLY legal way of increasing your signal strength since they are passive. The other antenna "boosters" actually violate the FCC limits for transmission power and can cause a lot of interference to other devices in the 2.4 and 5.8 gHz range when used.

[@timbenracing]

Great video. Now I need some yagi uda for my new mavic mini.

[@lidarman2]

Good explanation without referring to the JD Jackson text. ...What other consumer gadget allows one to violate FAA and FCC rules simultaneously? ;)...I guess if you deliver food or medicine with a drone, you can add FDA in there.

[@liquidvitriol4363]

You still have "line of sight" even at 5 miles out as long as it's unobstructed. There's no way to prove someone can or can't see something, that's why there's not a set distance limit

[@zhuguidai]

I mean you could technically prove it. One way could be to take the controller and stand behind the original pilot, make the drone to a number of actions and if the optional pilot is always right you know they can see it. If they are wrong then it is out of line of sight

[@voytekbrazok1064]

All I need was answered in 35sec. Thanks

[@chriskaprys]

So good. I'd also love to see a communication map / explanation of what's being communicated between the controller, the connected satellites, and the drone. Very curious about what those transmissions provide and accomplish. 👍

[@tekzonianfilms2664]

I bought the Yagi. I estimate a 25% improvement which makes it well worth your money. Less flickering for sure...

[@RESISTAGE]

In ham radio definition a good Yagi antenna can boost your signal 8 or more times. now that does not mean that your distance will also be increased by a factor of 8. every four times of radio waves increase is only a factor of 1 for range increase. and that works only if yagi is placed behind the radio wave emission. in case of a drone RC's it's not cause it in front.

[@Hawkertempest1]

Thanks for doing this test, and your explanation was extremely valuable. 👍

[@Dronevalley]

Glad you enjoyed it! I love exploring tech and these range extenders are really helpful. Stay tuned for more technical updates this week and some new product reviews as well. Rick

[@BlairAir]

Finally! I have been seeking scientific measurement based analysis of the Yagi type in particular. (Uda was a troublemaker) I've seen them on building mounted antennas so I knew there was some principles at work, but if I had to see one more knucklehead video of some guy flying 600 feet further, with all of the constantly changing conditions outdoors I was gonna... well just glad to see this!

[@allanw.gackstetter7969]

Rick…..again OUTSTANDING informative and fun….. Thank you

[@BigSirrRob1959-sg5ld]

What your not mentionung is that if you use manual and you see a high spike in transmission you can lose any communication with your drone. The higher your camera is set to plays a big part as well. Because you will get less distance as it will cause more interference. DJI Mavric air 2 controller is limited to only only type of extender that i am aware of and it doesn't work.

[@kewlmanable]

A lot of this is common sense, but regardless I learned a lot as a new drone owner. Maybe it's because Im one of the few trucksers that run a CB. Awsome video though!

[@Eric2300jeep]

Just ordered the parabolic for my Mini through your Amazon store. Thanks!!

[@richardgard7221]

When using the Yagi antenna should you switch your controller to 5.8 or go ahead and use it in dual band mode?

[@ArmedGringo45]

Did you ever figure this out?

[@droningwesternaustralia]

Hey Rick, Great review. As a technician it annoys me when these things are called range extenders or boosters. The one thing that you didn't mention is that both of these will also help in receiving the weak signal from the drone as well by reflecting the drones signal back onto the receiving antenna. There is a way you could have conducted the test here on earth and only have the transmitter signal eliminating all other 2.4/5.8 GHz signals. But you would need access to a Faraday cage to do it. What would be interesting to know is you cam get 2.4 and 5 8 Yagi Uda's. I wonder if you had both those atennas attached if you would end up improving both frequency bands or would they "fight" each other and actually degrade transmitted signal

[@mishamisha7441]

woow so well explained, thank you

[@3style.4life]

Good, informative video, thanks for that 👌🏻 I was looking if it's worh to buy it for DJI Mini 4 Pro. I'm still thinking if this set will fit the antennas of DJI RC2, have you maybe tested it ?

[@Aerosnapper]

Just one small point - and understand I’m a great fan of you and Drone Valley. You say at 3:17 that the energy levels are much higher, but, you don’t explain that this is at a given distance down range. The devices don’t increase energy output at source. You had said that, but you appear to contradict yourself here. Your overall explanation of the wave theory is great and really helpful.

[@CrystalClearNM]

just bought one for my MA2...great price for a little better reception not to go any further than I do now but to hopefully not lose connection again...it's only happened twice before but scary when it did!

[@TomSpurlock]

Nice episode Rick, I've used a parabolic "concentrator" antenna with my DJI craft for 5yrs. YES, they work great! It would be nice to see the measurement comparison with the Yagi and parabolic together on an M2 RC. BTW, my measurements show a big drop-off of signal strength beyond a 75 degree direction spread when using the parabolic, and that was the best out of the 4 I tested. Others were good for about 45 degrees. Have you measured the spread?

[@Brucemarshall2014]

Great and informative video, you are fantastic at explaining things so we can all understand

[@DerrickThomas17]

Another rock solid review Rick. I often wondered about extenders/boosters. Now I know. I like the idea of having the signals not bouncing back towards me. Will pick one up for my MA2.

[@grehahn_fpv]

Can we have both a 5.8Ghz and 2.4Ghz setup? So whenever the controller decides to switch we covered both? I believe 2.4Ghz is also longer in range? Thank you.

[@MrZmikeyz]

Thank you. That was very informative and now I see the difference.

[@Dronevalley]

Glad it was helpful! They work really well and are backed by science that goes way back to the ancient Greeks.

[@meathead2676]

Man I just watched this video and you talked so fast but it was simple and easy to understand....👍

[@1EyeInTheSky]

KZbinr Milesdeep got contacted by the FAA because during Covid theses FAA guys are working from home and are watching youtube videos and contacting those that are breaking the rules. Miles even had to go get his part 107 because he makes money from KZbin. So the wise choice is to abide by the rules. They were very nice and explained what he needed to do and he went and got his Cert and even made a video to explain those rules to others.

[@bashkillszombies]

Your rules are dumb and need to be broken with reckless abandon until they stop enforcing them. If your country managed to decriminalise all kinds of drugs surely you can decriminalise using kids toys.

[@whatsup7202]

@@bashkillszombies "Kid's toys"? My MA2 could easily be turned into a deadly weapon or be used to peep into windows.

[@Latchfpv]

Great video, thank you very much for the explanation and demonstration. Most appreciated. Can't wait for Yagi Uda to arrive, and I guess I'll be nabbing a parabolic as well.

[@timgodin1]

Another great educational video....thank you. I just ordered a pair of the Yagi-Uda's for my Mavic Air 2.

[@kentwilliams4152]

I am kinda lost. If the meter is a field strength meter shouldn’t it read higher with the yagi antenna? That is, if it is not in the null.

[@nimueh4298]

All your recommendation are for DJI drones, do the same products work with Autel drones? I assume they do but want to verify.

[@borislipschitz2740]

I've tried the reflector version, and i've learned i kinda prefer omni-directional to a longer range after all. I know you are generally supposed to pay attention and look in the right direction all the time, in theory, but things like bystanders asking me "what do you see on that" and me actually showing them DID happen. With a stable GPS reception (read - not in ATTI) and the drone hovering in a safe spot this isn't really a problem, unless... you have a DIRECTIONAL ANTENNAS on your remote. With directional antennas i suddenly turn away from the drone, ending up seeing the video breaking up and at some point the RTH engaging.

[@prmath]

Rick, if a Yagi is mounted atop the Mini and pointed toward the pilot ....... will it help get the signal from the drone Back to the pilot’s location? Just wondering 😄👋🏼😄

[@jamesfonger3410]

Would love to see a comparison of your two signal shapers to passive Alien Tech and other wide antennas wired into the controllers that do the same thing. They appear to be more substantial but I am not sure if they behave any better.

[@beldavius]

Just ordered the Yagi Uda from your site, as well as the Firehouse Arc V strobe! Great explanation that even a scientist could understand! ;-)

[@DkalL_Mc]

Nice one. Mine are in the post.

[@Dronevalley]

Thanks for the post and they're going to help you maintain a stronger signal. Tree's are not your friend because of their high water content and will block your signal. These can help a lot in that situation as well. Happy Flying!

[@HHHorea]

can you and should you use both? better performance?

[@edelwisebeato6701]

Great content, very informative, clear, and concise. Thank you!

[@cavanaughsgarage]

Great explanation. Does the yagi uda also work for the received signal or can it only wave-shape the transmission

[@keefmeister77]

My own experience is: the Udas by themselves make little difference; the Udas and the parabolic together make a big difference, range went from 800 meters to over 1600 meters, this is a Mini SE flying over forests of tall trees. PS: I used to be a radio announcer and I can't talk like that, I'd have to stop and clear my throat or something.

[@torsteneide4915]

Ummmm, could a person use both at the same time or might that generate some kind of unwanted side effect..?

[@curtismes]

Excellent explanation...i have both...

[@dhansel4835]

If you use the parabolic reflector be careful to peel the sticker off the gold colored metal. When I pulled my sticker off some of the glue stuck to the reflector. I had to get a Q-tip and a drop of 'Goo-Gone' to loosen up the glue being careful not to damage the reflector surface.

[@bblair502]

The sticker has no practical effect on the antenna other than cosmetics. Yes, it looks better but at the 2.4 MHz & 5.8 MHz frequencies, both plastic and paper are completely transparent. They are shiny and "pretty" to appeal to the buyer. Actually, the reflectors could in theory be black, brown, or whatever as long as they are of quality metal and have an approximate parabolic shape and distance from the main antenna. (Many radar antennas on ships and in the North are covered with radar transparent - plastic or fiberglass protective covers. Many radars operate at similar frequencies.)

[@dhansel4835]

@@bblair502 I agree it's cosmetic but the gold looks better never the less. I saw on one of the KZbin Channels they used two types of antenna boosters. The first was the parabolic reflector that slid half way down the antennas then he took the Yagi antennas and slipped them over the antennas and then slid the parabolic reflector on down the antennas. I don't know if this will cause constructive RF waves or destructive waves. Radio waves do strange things at that frequency. I'm used to operating in the 75 & 80 meter ham radio bands.

[@camarochip]

I know this video is older but I was wondering which one to get if I'm trying to get a little bit more range ,the 2.4 or the 5.8, the RC link starts dropping before my video link on fpv Drone

[@MrMeasureTwice]

@Drone Valley - can you please tell us what RF meter you used? Also, do you have others that you would recommend if you the one in this video is not your first choice? Thank you!!

[@djmochaman]

Dude wonderful Video Many thanks for all the Geeking out stuff you did I have a better understanding for all the above from this video alone. buying extenders now..