Thank you & perfect timing.. I bought myself a MA2 Combo kit last week (not flown it as yet) but I'm expecting my Smart controller delivery in about an hour. Can't wait to set it up 👍️
@@Grandmasterjord I love the SC, I mainly got it so that I didn't have to use my phone all the time as a screen. If anything I find the only disadvantage with the SC is the range, which seems less than the standard controllers. I have still only flown my Air 2 handful of times (mainly due to Covid restrictions) and in an area that is renowned for EMI interference so thins could cause range limitations. The SC has had one or two firmware updates since I last flew it in December so maybe it will be even better now. And yes, for me it was definitely worth the money. Hopefully Covid restrictions will be being reduced soon in the UK.. so I'm eager to get out with the drones again ASAP :)
Smart Controller looks great, but still needs to connect WiFi from mobile phone, right? If yes, why not just use the original Mavic Air 2 controller with iPhone or iPad with bigger screen?
The several advantages to the smart controller is the ultra bright screen in any conditions, much brighter than phone or iPad. It also doesn’t heat up like phones do. I live in Arizona and had iPad issues in the past while flying in the summer. Never did with the smart controller. And lastly not having to mess with connecting a phone. Turn on and it’s ready to fly, that’s a big plus for me.
Yes. you will need to use your phone as a wifi hotspot now and then. Especially if you need fly zone authorization. The SC will need some mobile data to do this. It has no sim card. So you must use your phone. Some cell plans charge extra for hotspot use.
Hello my friend. I'm new in this, will be buying Mavic Air 2. So, in order to use the DJI Goggles I need to but the DJI Smart Controller right? so I connect the Goggles and the Smart Controller with HDMI Cable. Is it possible to control the Mavic Air 2 Camera movement and tilt (Head Tracking) with the movement of your head using the DJI Goggles? Thank you very much. Sorry if this is a stupid question, I'm learning about this technology.
I've never tried but from my understanding of the tech, you can also bind one controller at a time so I'm guessing you'd have to rebind a different controller. Worth trying.
Great video! I have a question. I just now got the DJI Mavic Air 2 with a bundle containing the Smart Controller. It seems when I am in the DJI Fly App, and try to set my max altitude and RTH height using the slider buttons, it is very sensitive to the touch and difficult to land on the heights I want. Is there another way (more accurate) to set these heights rather than using my finger to try and slide the button to my desired height? Thank you
Trying to setup my smart controller. Was able to update the software without issue. When connecting, It brings up my my dii air2, and my screen shows the current status( drone sitting on table) and all the buttons, etc. I am also getting an error message that my account is not logged in. I am directed to the flight checklist. When I select log in, I can enter either my email or phone#. when either are entered I get an error message that the info is invalid. If I go to settings on the pull down menu and go to account, my correct email appears. Not sure what to do?
Jim, the smart controller uses the same app as your phone or tablet, so unless that functionality is available in the app natively, it won't be added on the smart controller.
@@gregreverdiau246 Thanks so much for the quick response. You just saved me $750 :-) I really like the additional features on the smart controller but not at that price. The larger screen would be nice but my iPhone 11 Max does very well. Thanks for your UA-cam channel and the valuable information you share.
once you do the update, can you link in the dji fpv googles to the smart controller and fly the air 2 as a fpv drone w/the fpv googles through a HDMI cable?
Thanks for posting this video Greg. I recently got a smart controller for my Mavic 2 Zoom and I like it a lot, good to know that I can get the Air and use it with that as well. There is one aspect of the smart controller that was unexpected and a bit annoying......I wanted to try out and compare some different mapping softwares (like dronedeploy and mapsmadeeasy), however, only a few were compatible with the smart controller (measure for example). Are you aware of any good mapping apps that work with the smart controller Greg?
I haven't seen the bag with the fly more combo but the smart controller is a bit bigger (not by much) than the original controller so I would guess it would be ok.
@@ihcgcyhvg3760 THe mini 2 only requires registration if flown under part 107 (not for recreational purposes). If you're flying for fun, no need to register it (but you still need to follow all other regulation such as airspace and flights over people).
@@ihcgcyhvg3760 Rules are nationwide so be sure to know those. For California specific restrictions, here's a link: pilotinstitute.com/drones/states/california/
Good day, I followed your instructions (i just got the smart controller for my Mavic air 2) at the end i kept receiving a message that says DJY Fly isn't responding - green lights are blinking - the drone is linked to the controller, i can even start it with the sticks but i do not get any image on the screen. need help. What should i do?
Hey Greg, I just purchased a Smart Controller and was wondering if I always have to go through the pairing/binding process of pushing and holding the power button on my MA2 each time I use the Smart Controller? Or is there a way to just do this process one time?
If you're using the SC with only one UAS, then you only need to do it once. I use mine for 3 different drones so if I need to use a different one than the one last time, then I need to pair again. You only need to push that button on the side to pair, then it's automatic. A pretty quick process.
Thank you for the video Greg. Does the Smart controller notify pilots of planes in the area? I was under the impression that an internet connection was needed for this. $800 is alot of money for a device that would still require my phone nearby, if I'd have to establish a hotspot when working remotely.
I always have my phone with me regardless so it’s not a big deal to have it tethered if need be. I have only used it with the Mavic 2 series to date until this update, which doesn’t have the capability to show aircraft in the area. I need to read more about how that works and what technology it actually uses.
Hi - I managed to link both aircraft MA2 and M2P To my new controller - The issue I now have is switching between both aircraft - How do I switch between them without having to rebind particularly with the MA2 - I have to bind by pressing the power button every time -Surely just opening the correct App should be enough? GO4 For M2P and DJI Fly App for MA2 - Thanks for your assistance and enjoying your content Thanks 😊
The hard part is to connect it to the drone. After that, it works just like a mobile device with Go4 on it. What kind of other information would you be interested in?
@@PilotInstitute I think they're saying - rename the video. what it's called and what you do in the video aren't the same. It's not now to "USE" it's how to setup or install the update. The video is good though on who to do the install. As for your problem with connecting with your home wifi. It's very likely your wifi is an older version like 802.1g 802.1n can see 802.1g networks but the connection won't work. If you're router does G it's pretty old. Time to update. If you're router can do N or AC then make sure those are on and you should be able to connect. Your iphone is using N or higher which is likely why it's successful. There can be another issue but that is the most common.
@@JohnTye Like I mentioned in the other comment, there's no video needed to "use" the SC. It's the same exact app as you would have on your cell phone. Thanks for the tip on the router, I'll definitely take a look, you'd think DJI would have suggested that when I contacted them months ago about the issue.
Mista Kool...This is for all of you who have tried EVERYTHING to download the firmware to be able to use the smart controller to fly your Mavic Air 2. I tried everything to no avail. I contacted DJI through their on line chat. I was asked for my controller’s serial number. Then they verified it and then told me to try the download again. SUCCESS!!! Worked perfectly!
They kind of kept their promise....2 weeks turned into 6 months. 😬 That was hell to update Greg...how do they get away with these sloppy updates FULL of secret handshakes?! Ugh. I made a video too explaining on what I did and what DJI told me. They are having server issues that are making this hard. Engineers know supposedly and are working on it.
Haha, I was expecting never so I guess 6 months isn’t all that bad. And the engineers have known for several years since the ronin S came out and I reported that the servers weren’t working. I had to figure out myself that tethering to my phone was the way to fix it... sad.
Why did you not explain that in order bind the smart controller to the Mavic Air 2 you need to FIST UNBIND the original controller? I've looked at a number of videos on this process and none of them mentioned this....? WTF? After almost an hour on the phone with DJI I finally figured this out and how to do it.
Does the smart controller also work with mini 2 and the air 2s
Thank you & perfect timing.. I bought myself a MA2 Combo kit last week (not flown it as yet) but I'm expecting my Smart controller delivery in about an hour. Can't wait to set it up 👍️
How are you enjoying the Smart Controller?
Worth the money for you?
@@Grandmasterjord I love the SC, I mainly got it so that I didn't have to use my phone all the time as a screen. If anything I find the only disadvantage with the SC is the range, which seems less than the standard controllers.
I have still only flown my Air 2 handful of times (mainly due to Covid restrictions) and in an area that is renowned for EMI interference so thins could cause range limitations. The SC has had one or two firmware updates since I last flew it in December so maybe it will be even better now. And yes, for me it was definitely worth the money.
Hopefully Covid restrictions will be being reduced soon in the UK.. so I'm eager to get out with the drones again ASAP :)
Good tutorial. Simple and to the point! Thank you
is it possible to do a live stream with smart controller and mavic air 2?
Not that I know of.
Smart Controller looks great, but still needs to connect WiFi from mobile phone, right? If yes, why not just use the original Mavic Air 2 controller with iPhone or iPad with bigger screen?
The several advantages to the smart controller is the ultra bright screen in any conditions, much brighter than phone or iPad. It also doesn’t heat up like phones do. I live in Arizona and had iPad issues in the past while flying in the summer. Never did with the smart controller. And lastly not having to mess with connecting a phone. Turn on and it’s ready to fly, that’s a big plus for me.
Yes. you will need to use your phone as a wifi hotspot now and then. Especially if you need fly zone authorization.
The SC will need some mobile data to do this. It has no sim card. So you must use your phone. Some cell plans charge extra for hotspot use.
Hello my friend. I'm new in this, will be buying Mavic Air 2. So, in order to use the DJI Goggles I need to but the DJI Smart Controller right? so I connect the Goggles and the Smart Controller with HDMI Cable. Is it possible to control the Mavic Air 2 Camera movement and tilt (Head Tracking) with the movement of your head using the DJI Goggles? Thank you very much. Sorry if this is a stupid question, I'm learning about this technology.
Can you pair both the smart controller AND the standard controller to the MA2 or do you have to repair every time you switch controllers?
I've never tried but from my understanding of the tech, you can also bind one controller at a time so I'm guessing you'd have to rebind a different controller. Worth trying.
Great video! I have a question. I just now got the DJI Mavic Air 2 with a bundle containing the Smart Controller.
It seems when I am in the DJI Fly App, and try to set my max altitude and RTH height using the slider buttons, it is very sensitive to the touch and difficult to land on the heights I want. Is there another way (more accurate) to set these heights rather than using my finger to try and slide the button to my desired height?
Thank you
Can you fly drone with Smart controller without connecting to wifi or hotspot?
Yes absolutely!
Trying to setup my smart controller. Was able to update the software without issue. When connecting, It brings up my my dii air2, and my screen shows the current status( drone sitting on table) and all the buttons, etc. I am also getting an error message that my account is not logged in. I am directed to the flight checklist. When I select log in, I can enter either my email or phone#. when either are entered I get an error message that the info is invalid. If I go to settings on the pull down menu and go to account, my correct email appears. Not sure what to do?
Does the Smart Controler have waypoints enabled on the MA2? Not just the Hyperlapse feature but true waypoints? Can I set the waypoints pre-flight?
Jim, the smart controller uses the same app as your phone or tablet, so unless that functionality is available in the app natively, it won't be added on the smart controller.
@@gregreverdiau246 Thanks so much for the quick response. You just saved me $750 :-) I really like the additional features on the smart controller but not at that price. The larger screen would be nice but my iPhone 11 Max does very well. Thanks for your UA-cam channel and the valuable information you share.
once you do the update, can you link in the dji fpv googles to the smart controller and fly the air 2 as a fpv drone w/the fpv googles through a HDMI cable?
You should be able to but we haven't tested it.
Thanks for posting this video Greg. I recently got a smart controller for my Mavic 2 Zoom and I like it a lot, good to know that I can get the Air and use it with that as well. There is one aspect of the smart controller that was unexpected and a bit annoying......I wanted to try out and compare some different mapping softwares (like dronedeploy and mapsmadeeasy), however, only a few were compatible with the smart controller (measure for example). Are you aware of any good mapping apps that work with the smart controller Greg?
Third party apps are hard to add on the smart controller so I'm actually not sure what mapping software would be good for that.
Does the smart controller fit in the bag that came with the mavic air 2 fly more combo?
I haven't seen the bag with the fly more combo but the smart controller is a bit bigger (not by much) than the original controller so I would guess it would be ok.
yes it does.
Can it connect to the mini 2
No it's not compatible with the Mini 2.
@@PilotInstitute ok cool thanks. Also do i neet to register the dji mini 2 in California
@@ihcgcyhvg3760 THe mini 2 only requires registration if flown under part 107 (not for recreational purposes). If you're flying for fun, no need to register it (but you still need to follow all other regulation such as airspace and flights over people).
@@PilotInstitute thanks again where can i find the guidelines for California as a hobbyist
@@ihcgcyhvg3760 Rules are nationwide so be sure to know those. For California specific restrictions, here's a link: pilotinstitute.com/drones/states/california/
Your Title says Mavic Air 2,, but you talk about others, will this work with my Mavic Air 2 ?? If so what is it called.
I have a new MA2 with Smart Controller. The zoom wheel doesn't seem to work. Is there anything I need to do to activate the zoom wheel for videos?
Does the zoom work with the original controller? Have you updated the drone to the latest software?
Where do you find the active track feature using a dji smart conroller? (mavic air 2)
Good day, I followed your instructions (i just got the smart controller for my Mavic air 2) at the end i kept receiving a message that says DJY Fly isn't responding - green lights are blinking - the drone is linked to the controller, i can even start it with the sticks but i do not get any image on the screen. need help. What should i do?
Hey Greg, I just purchased a Smart Controller and was wondering if I always have to go through the pairing/binding process of pushing and holding the power button on my MA2 each time I use the Smart Controller? Or is there a way to just do this process one time?
If you're using the SC with only one UAS, then you only need to do it once. I use mine for 3 different drones so if I need to use a different one than the one last time, then I need to pair again. You only need to push that button on the side to pair, then it's automatic. A pretty quick process.
Thank you for the video Greg. Does the Smart controller notify pilots of planes in the area? I was under the impression that an internet connection was needed for this. $800 is alot of money for a device that would still require my phone nearby, if I'd have to establish a hotspot when working remotely.
I always have my phone with me regardless so it’s not a big deal to have it tethered if need be. I have only used it with the Mavic 2 series to date until this update, which doesn’t have the capability to show aircraft in the area. I need to read more about how that works and what technology it actually uses.
I use the SC with MA2 all the time with NO internet connection. I DO get the planes in the area notification.
I can't find the active track modes on my smart controller. What am I missing? (mavic air 2)
Hi - I managed to link both aircraft MA2 and M2P To my new controller - The issue I now have is switching between both aircraft - How do I switch between them without having to rebind particularly with the MA2 - I have to bind by pressing the power button every time -Surely just opening the correct App should be enough? GO4 For M2P and DJI Fly App for MA2 - Thanks for your assistance and enjoying your content Thanks 😊
Nice Video Thank You, Does Mavic Air 2 takes 360 Panoramas?
Yes it does. Great pano's.
With new go Fly app update 1.2.1 the air 2 will not work. you have to use old app version or wait for DJI to fix it
When i get to the go fly bit, i get no video feed. Its just a pitcj black screen:( can anyone help?
ISO set to the high rates like 16000 etc
Steve must be the apple products, I updated my smart controller and my drone in 5 min on my laptop.
If you tried to update with the controllers power below 20% you might have problems. Your controller in the video was at 16%
This video is not "How to use the DJI Smart Controller with the Mavic Air 2".
Only how to update and connect the two. 👎
The hard part is to connect it to the drone. After that, it works just like a mobile device with Go4 on it. What kind of other information would you be interested in?
@@PilotInstitute I think they're saying - rename the video. what it's called and what you do in the video aren't the same. It's not now to "USE" it's how to setup or install the update. The video is good though on who to do the install.
As for your problem with connecting with your home wifi. It's very likely your wifi is an older version like 802.1g
802.1n can see 802.1g networks but the connection won't work. If you're router does G it's pretty old. Time to update. If you're router can do N or AC then make sure those are on and you should be able to connect. Your iphone is using N or higher which is likely why it's successful. There can be another issue but that is the most common.
@@JohnTye Like I mentioned in the other comment, there's no video needed to "use" the SC. It's the same exact app as you would have on your cell phone.
Thanks for the tip on the router, I'll definitely take a look, you'd think DJI would have suggested that when I contacted them months ago about the issue.
Not everyone has a Mac or pc some of us have iPad Pro or Tablet.
In this case, you can use the mobile device option that I mention in there.
Pilot Institute it will no go past 99%
Mista Kool...This is for all of you who have tried EVERYTHING to download the firmware to be able to use the smart controller to fly your Mavic Air 2. I tried everything to no avail. I contacted DJI through their on line chat. I was asked for my controller’s serial number. Then they verified it and then told me to try the download again. SUCCESS!!! Worked perfectly!
They kind of kept their promise....2 weeks turned into 6 months. 😬 That was hell to update Greg...how do they get away with these sloppy updates FULL of secret handshakes?! Ugh. I made a video too explaining on what I did and what DJI told me. They are having server issues that are making this hard. Engineers know supposedly and are working on it.
Haha, I was expecting never so I guess 6 months isn’t all that bad.
And the engineers have known for several years since the ronin S came out and I reported that the servers weren’t working. I had to figure out myself that tethering to my phone was the way to fix it... sad.
Why did you not explain that in order bind the smart controller to the Mavic Air 2 you need to FIST UNBIND the original controller? I've looked at a number of videos on this process and none of them mentioned this....? WTF? After almost an hour on the phone with DJI I finally figured this out and how to do it.
That’s because you don’t need to unbind first. We do this several times a week with drones and never once had we unbinded the drone first.