Are you ready to take your FPV flying experience to new heights? If so, let us introduce you to the revolutionary HDZero VRX-an innovative device that brings high-definition visuals to your FPV goggles. In this article, we’ll explore the HDZero VRX, its features, and the impact it can have on your FPV adventures.
Before diving into the HDZero VRX review, it’s important to understand what the VTX system is in FPV. The VTX system is a critical component of FPV flying, enabling immersive real-time video transmission.
A quality VTX system has a significant impact on our FPV flight experience and plays a key role in determining overall flight performance. The system consists of two main parts: the transmitter on the drone and the receiver, which can be FPV goggles or an FPV monitor.
Using a fixed radio frequency and frequency band, the VTX system facilitates the transmission of live video footage captured by the camera from the transmitter to the receiver, providing a first-person viewing experience.
In the realm of FPV, VTX devices generally fall into two categories. The first is the analog signal transmission mode, which is the predominant method used in the majority of current FPV solutions. This analog mode is widely used in multirotor drones, fixed-wing UAV, and other Quad models.
The second category is the digital video transmission mode, spearheaded by DJI, which represents the most advanced digital VTX mode currently available.
However, both analog and digital VTX solutions have their own distinct advantages and disadvantages that address different deployment scenarios.
Analog VTX systems offer the advantage of low latency, typically around 4ms, and cost effectiveness. However, they may lack high image clarity, reminiscent of a vintage television display.
On the other hand, digital VTX HD systems offer high-definition visuals and improved viewing quality. However, they tend to have higher latency, such as the DJI HD VTX, which has a delay of about 28ms. Another drawback of digital VTX systems is their higher price point, with a complete VTX system costing approximately $715.
What is HDZero VRX?
The HDZero VRX is a cool device，it’s a video receiver that receives the video signal from your HDZero video transmitter, and displays the video in your FPV goggles via an HDMI cable. that you can use to convert your analog FPV goggles into high definition goggles. It’s like giving your goggles a serious upgrade!
Basically, it takes the analog video signal from your drone and converts it to a crystal clear high definition signal. This means you’ll be able to watch your FPV footage with stunning detail and clarity, just like you’re right there in the cockpit!
Now, keep in mind that the HDZero VRX is designed for a specific group of FPV pilots who want to take their flying experience to the next level. If you’re already using analog goggles and craving better picture quality, this device can be a game changer for you. It’s a bit like turning up the resolution on your favorite video game-it makes everything look sharper and more immersive.
But here’s the catch: the HDZero VRX is not for everyone. It’s for those who are really into their FPV racing or Whoop flying and want that extra level of visual fidelity. If you’re just starting out or aren’t too concerned about high-definition visuals, you might not need it.
Oh, and one more thing to note-it’s not the most budget-friendly option out there. It does come with a higher price tag compared to regular analog systems. So if you’re serious about getting top-notch HD visuals for your FPV adventures, the HDZero VRX might be worth considering.
The HDZero VRX is specifically designed to be mounted on Fatshark and Skyzone FPV goggles, making it an ideal fit for these particular goggles. However, it may not work seamlessly with other goggles that have different shapes and sizes.
If you have goggles other than Fatshark or Skyzone, you may need a custom mount to ensure proper compatibility and secure mounting of the HDZero VRX.
HDZero VRX Review
Specifications
- Model: HDZero VRX
- Frequency:5.725-5.850GHz
- Resolution Default:1280*720@60fps
- RF Sensitivity: -105dBm
- RF Connector: 4 x SMA
- Video Connector:Mini HDMI
- Additional functions:
– Real time clock
– ELRS Backpack expansion plug
– Audio Recording - Size: 105mm x 47mm x 30mm
- Weight: 85g
- Power:12W
- Power input: 7V-26V(2S-6S)
- Mounting: Remove the Goggle’s fan cover
- Other Important Notes:
-Direct-Pass Cable, no regulator inside
-Check Goggle input v oltage range first to av oid goggle damage: HDZero VRX supports 2S-6S.
Price
$219.99 at HDZero
Unboxing
The HDZero VRX consists of three key components: an FPV goggle receiver module, a drone transmitter module, and an HD lens upgrade model.
The receiver module serves as a direct upgrade for analog goggles and features a compact size. It is designed to hold up to 4 antennas and supports internal pin antennas with SMA interface.
On the top of the module you’ll find a convenient 3-segment selection confirmation button. This allows for easy adjustment of the display parameters prior to connecting the goggles.
On the bottom of the module, you’ll find the upgrade cable interface, a mini-HDMI output interface, and a TF card slot. The TF card slot allows direct insertion of TF cards for DVR recording, while the other interfaces provide advanced connectivity options.
In addition to the module, the HDZero VRX package includes various accessories such as a reference board, an HDMI transmission cable, a power cord, and several small scattered accessories.
These components work in harmony to upgrade your FPV goggles and provide improved functionality and performance. With the HDZero VRX, you can expect an enhanced FPV experience with advanced features and convenient add-ons.
Taking a closer look at the HDZero VRX
The transmitter of the drone is a mini VTX device with a power output of 200mW. While the brand offers a VTX that supports a maximum power of 1W, for the convenience of installation on my 1s whoop, I deliberately chose this mini VTX model that supports 1-2s power. It has a metal shield that serves the dual purpose of protection and heat dissipation.
As for the camera, it is a Runcam camera that supports digital image capture. Unlike traditional analog cameras, this camera uses a coaxial cable design similar to DJI, with multiple pins for connection. The camera’s cable is securely attached with a buckle. The product list also includes a smaller HD camera option that is more suitable for use on smaller drones.
Interestingly, both cameras use nearly identical circuit chip designs, differing primarily in sensor and lens size. The decision to go with the larger camera was made to achieve superior image quality. The entire 1s drone setup, including this VTX, weighs only 43 grams, making it incredibly compact. This weight is one of the lightest available for indoor FPV setups with HD VTX capability.
Installation
The installation process for the HDZero VRX is surprisingly straightforward, much easier than I initially expected.
To install, all you have to do is remove the top cover of your goggles and replace it with the top cover that comes with the module. Then connect the VTX module to your goggles with an HDMI cable. Power both the goggles and the HDZero VTX receiver module simultaneously using a 1-to-2 power cable.
Finally, select the external signal input on your goggles and you’ll be able to view the high-definition image transmitted by the HDZero VTX directly.
During my first experience with the HDZero VRX, I was immediately impressed by the remarkable clarity it offered. The visuals were incredibly crisp and reminiscent of DJI’s digital VTX technology. Even though the resolution is 720p, the clarity is comparable to, if not significantly better than, what you’d see with the naked eye. It’s a significant improvement over analog cameras and really enhances the FPV viewing experience.
In conclusion, the installation process for the HDZero VRX is hassle-free and the results are stunning. It brings remarkable image clarity to your FPV goggles, rivaling the quality of DJI’s digital VTX. Say goodbye to the limitations of analog cameras and prepare to be amazed by the improved visual fidelity of the HDZero VRX.
Real Experience
Now let’s talk about the real outdoor experience with the HDZero VRX. For the flight test, I mounted it on a 1s T-Motor drone. It happened to be a relatively windy day, so I didn’t focus too much on the stability of the drone at first.
Watching the live video on the screen, I noticed that the overall color reproduction was on the cooler side, which gave the visuals a pleasant and comfortable appearance. The screen latency was impressively low, with the remote control and the corresponding flight screen almost perfectly in sync.
To put this to the test, I followed my usual testing method and found that the VTX’s latency was around 20ms. This latency is more than sufficient to meet the demands of racing competitions. It’s one of the reasons why the HDZero VRX is gaining popularity among professional racing pilots, as its lower latency is proving to be more suitable for their needs compared to the larger DJI Digital VTX.
In terms of signal quality, I noticed a notable difference between the HDZero VRX and DJI’s digital VTX as the signal strength faded. The DJI tends to show large areas of mosaic patterns as the signal bitrate drops, indicating a significant drop in signal quality.
The HDZero VRX, on the other hand, shows scattered snowflakes, representing a degradation in signal quality over distance. This serves as a helpful reminder for pilots to return in a timely manner to avoid video loss.
The HDZero VRX or the HDZero Goggles: Which should I buy?
Choosing between the HDZero VRX and the HDZero Goggles is a matter of personal preference and circumstance.
If you’re new to the hobby, or don’t currently own HDMI-equipped goggles, I’d recommend waiting for the HDZero Goggles (which come with a built-in HDZero receiver). This is because using the VRX with third-party goggles can result in messy cabling, and the added weight of the VRX can be uncomfortable during extended flights.
However, if you’re eager to dive into the HDZero system and can’t wait, the VRX serves as a good entry point. You can use it as a backup receiver or incorporate it into a ground station setup in the future. Keep in mind that the availability and quality of the HDZero goggles is still unknown, so the VRX is a viable option to get the HDZero experience without delay.
Ultimately, the choice between the HDZero VRX and the HDZero goggles depends on your specific needs, timeline, and willingness to wait for the upcoming goggles. Both options have their advantages, so weigh the factors that are important to you and make a decision based on your preferences and needs.
Conclusion
The overall experience with the HDZero VRX conversion device remains positive; however, it is aimed at a specific demographic and follows a distinct professional path.
Pilots with specific needs may find this device appealing. First, racers who already own analog goggles, especially those accustomed to Fat Shark or Skyzone goggles, may choose to upgrade to the HDZero VTX for improved image quality.
In addition, pilots who primarily fly Whoop and Tinywhoop drones indoors and want to enhance their experience with 1s miniature aircraft may also consider this upgrade.
It should be noted that pilots already using the DJI HD VTX system may find it relatively expensive to purchase the HDZero VTX system separately, which is an important factor to consider.
For FPV pilots, how many proven VTX system solutions do you know of that are currently on the market? You can discuss the VTX systems you know in the comments.
