DJI Matrice 4 Series - Frequently Asked Questions

DJI Matrice 4 Series - Frequently Asked Questions (SkyKelpie)

This FAQ covers the DJI Matrice 4T (Thermal) and DJI Matrice 4E (Mapping) as used by SkyKelpie for livestock management, paddock scanning, mapping and broader on-farm operations.

Quick Answers (Most Asked)

What is the battery time?

Specifications say 49 minutes, but expect 30-40 minutes per battery, depending on wind, payload and flying style. In practical farm use, each minute in the air can replace many minutes on the ground. With multiple batteries charging as you go, you can stay operational all day.

How far can it fly?

The Matrice 4 Series offers enterprise-grade transmission range, well beyond what is typically required for compliant on-farm operations. Range is ultimately governed by aviation rules, terrain, and line-of-sight requirements rather than the aircraft itself.

Does it have a thermal camera?

• Matrice 4T: Yes. Thermal imaging is ideal for locating livestock, checking paddocks early morning, finding missing stock and monitoring animal behaviour.
• Matrice 4E: No thermal camera. It is optimised for mapping and visual data capture.

Does it have a zoom camera?

Yes. Both models include a high-quality zoom (telephoto) camera, allowing operators to assess stock, infrastructure and terrain from a safe distance without pushing animals.

Can I draw paddock boundaries on the map?

Yes. Using DJI Pilot 2, you can draw paddock boundaries, create area missions, and plan repeatable flights for paddock scans, mapping or monitoring. This is central to SkyKelpie’s workflow.

Aircraft Overview

What versions are available?

• DJI Matrice 4T - Thermal + visual camera. SkyKelpie’s most popular option for mustering, stock location and animal monitoring.
• DJI Matrice 4E - Mapping-focused platform with a 20MP wide-angle camera and 48MP telephoto camera, ideal for paddock mapping, orthomosaics and farm planning.

Is it waterproof?

No. The Matrice 4 Series is not waterproof. If rain begins, land as soon as practical and allow the aircraft to dry fully before reuse.

Do I need to unfold the arms before powering on?

Powering on with folded arms will not damage the gimbal, but unfolding first is recommended to avoid arm movement during system checks.

Mapping & Accuracy

Does it support RTK?

Yes. The Matrice 4 Series includes an integrated RTK module for high-accuracy positioning.

Can I use Network RTK without a 4G dongle?

Yes. Network RTK can be accessed via Wi-Fi on the remote controller.

Can it map without Ground Control Points (GCPs)?

• Matrice 4E (wide-angle camera): Yes, with RTK enabled.
• Telephoto camera: No, GCPs are required.

Is the Matrice 4T suitable for precision mapping?

The 4T can collect mapping data, but the 4E is the recommended platform where mapping accuracy is critical.

Remote Controllers

Which controller does it use?

• DJI RC Plus 2 Enterprise (standard)
• DJI RC Plus 2 Enterprise Enhanced (expanded interfaces for specialised accessories)

Does it support dual control?

No. The Matrice 4 Series operates with a single controller.

Can I use third-party USB-C chargers?

Yes. Use 100W+ USB-C chargers that support PD (Power Delivery).

Batteries & Charging

How are the batteries charged?

Batteries are charged only via the DJI Matrice 4 Charging Hub. They cannot be charged while installed in the aircraft.

How long does charging take?

• 100W hub: ~78 minutes (100%), ~60 minutes (Ready-to-Fly 90%)
• 200W hub: ~55 minutes (100%), ~40 minutes (Ready-to-Fly 90%)

Do the batteries self-heat?

No. In cold conditions, batteries should be pre-warmed before flight.

Operating temperature range?

• -10°C to 40°C (reduced flight time in colder conditions)

Speaker (DJI AS1) - Optional Accessory

Useful for directional audio cues, safety messaging or specialist operations.

• Text-to-speech (English & Mandarin)
• Real-time broadcasting with echo cancellation
• Can be paired with the spotlight
• Slightly reduces aircraft performance when installed

Spotlight (DJI AL1) - Optional Accessory

Best suited to night operations, infrastructure inspection or recovery tasks.

• Always-on and strobe modes
• Gimbal-linked illumination
• Wide FOV lighting option
• Obstacle avoidance is disabled when active

Software & Integration

What software does it use?

• DJI Pilot 2 (flight, mapping, mission planning)
• DJI FlightHub 2 (fleet management and live operations)
• Supports third-party software via DJI SDKs

How do I update firmware?

Via DJI Pilot 2, DJI Assistant 2, or offline using an SD card.

Regional Use

Can I use it internationally?

The Matrice 4 Series is region-locked. Confirm compatibility before purchasing for overseas use.

Need Help Choosing the Right Setup?

SkyKelpie doesn’t just sell drones, we help match the right platform, training and workflow to your operation, whether that’s mustering, paddock scanning, mapping or monitoring.

If you need advice beyond this FAQ, our team is ready to help.