In the ever-evolving world of FPV drones, the latest release from ItsFPV, the Era O4 frame, has caught the attention of enthusiasts and builders alike. Ian from MadsRC takes us through an in-depth look at this innovative frame, designed specifically for the DJI O4 Pro air unit and camera. Here’s everything you need to know about the Era O4 Edition.
What’s New in the Era O4 Frame?
The Era O4 frame comes with a tweaked design compared to its predecessor, the original Era frame. It features a new front cage, adapted carbon fiber plates, and is specifically tailored to accommodate the O4 Pro camera setup. Ian clarifies that existing Era owners cannot simply upgrade their frames with the new cage alone, as significant changes to the carbon fiber plates were necessary.
Unboxing the Era O4
Upon receiving the frame, Ian showcases the unboxing experience. The kit arrives in a well-designed box, complete with a picture of the quad. Inside, it contains all the necessary components for assembly:
- New nylon front end
- Wiring protectors for motor wires
- Bottom plate, mid plate, and top plate
- Centerpiece for the arms with foam for vibration isolation
- Screws, accessories, and battery straps
- Sticky battery pad
Material Innovations
One of the standout features of the Era O4 is its front end, which utilizes a new manufacturing process. Unlike the molded nylon of the original, this part is made using Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) 3D printing. This method allows for in-house production without the need for expensive molds, leading to a unique texture and robustness.
Frame Assembly Process
Ian walks through the assembly process, detailing the steps to put the frame together. He emphasizes the importance of inserting the press nuts for the carbon fiber plates before assembly, ensuring that the flight stack standoffs are in place early on. Here’s a quick rundown of the assembly:
- Attach the bottom plate with countersunk holes facing up.
- Insert the foam centerpiece and secure the arms.
- Install the mid and top plates.
- Add the camera cage at the front.
Camera Integration
Installing the O4 camera can be a bit tricky, as Ian points out an important tip: the camera needs to be mounted before securing the cage. He demonstrates how to fit the camera and discusses the options for adjustability, which are somewhat limited compared to other setups. The integration of the air unit is also highlighted, showcasing a TPU antenna mount for dual antennas.
Flight Performance Insights
While this article isn’t focused on flight video, Ian does provide insights into how the frame performs in the air. He conducted initial test flights to assess the vibration isolation and overall handling. The results were promising, especially for a compact frame. Ian notes that while the O4 is not an out-and-out cinematic frame, it is a capable flyer that can produce decent footage.
Price and Availability
The Era O4 frame is available for around £86 in the UK, with prices varying globally. Ian encourages viewers to check out the Its FPV website for more details on specifications and additional accessories.
Final Thoughts
Overall, Ian expresses satisfaction with the new Era O4 frame, praising its design and build quality. However, he suggests that the addition of silicone mounts for the camera could enhance vibration isolation, addressing some of the common concerns with the O4 camera setup.
FAQ
Can I upgrade my existing Era frame to the O4 version?
No, the new design requires specific changes to the carbon fiber plates, making it incompatible with the original Era frame.
What materials are used in the Era O4 frame?
The frame features a nylon front end made with SLS 3D printing, providing a unique texture and strength compared to traditional molded nylon.
Is the Era O4 frame suitable for cinematic flying?
While it can produce good footage, the Era O4 is primarily designed as a flying frame and may not offer the same level of cinematic quality as dedicated cinematic frames.
This article was based from the video IT'S FPV Era O4 Edition - DJI O4 Pro Edition
