In today's tech spotlight, DJI has taken its autonomous drone-in-a-box concept to new heights with the launch of the DJI Dock 3—a versatile, enterprise-grade solution that now supports launching drones from moving vehicles! Designed for critical applications such as inspecting power lines and emergency response, the new dock accommodates DJI’s latest Matrice 4D and Matrice 4TD models using an optional gimbal mount accessory. With integrated features including a weather station, built-in surveillance cameras, antennas, and an internal backup battery, the DJI Dock 3 remains compact enough to be transported in a pickup truck. What’s more, it can operate in extreme conditions, boasting an improved IP56 rating and an extended operational temperature range from -30 to 50 degrees Celsius—although “DJI says preheating will be needed when temperatures are that cold.” Priced for enterprise budgets, the system comes in bundles of $21,059 with the Matrice 4D and $23,409 with the Matrice 4TD, not including additional installation and upgrade costs.

Key Points:

• Autonomous Operation: Designed for missions like power line inspections and emergency responses, now supports mobile launches from a moving vehicle with an optional gimbal mount.
• Product Compatibility: Works with new IP55-rated versions of DJI Matrice 4 Series drones, including the Matrice 4D and Matrice 4TD.
• Integrated Features: Includes a built-in weather station, surveillance cameras, antennas, internal backup battery, and options for cellular 4G connectivity.
• Enhanced Durability: Improved IP56 dust and water resistance with expanded operating temperatures (-30°C to 50°C), although preheating is required in extreme cold.
• Extended Range: Communicates with drones up to 10 kilometers away, extendable to 25 kilometers using elevated relays for fixed deployments.
• Enterprise Pricing: Available in two bundles—$21,059 with the Matrice 4D and $23,409 with the Matrice 4TD, excluding installation, deployment services, and optional upgrades.
• Regulatory Note: Autonomous operation at extended distances in the US requires a Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) waiver from the FAA.
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