DJI Relay by DJI Technology, Inc.: Deep Dive, Specs, and FCC ID SS3-RL016523 Teardown

Introduction

The DJI Relay by DJI Technology, Inc. (Model: RL01-65) emerges as a sophisticated wireless solution engineered to extend and stabilize communication between DJI remote controllers and aircraft. Designed for challenging environments—such as orchards or fields with tall crops—where direct line-of-sight is often obstructed, the relay acts as a critical intermediary to maintain robust signal integrity. This ensures reliable control and video transmission, which is vital for professional drone operations in agriculture, surveying, and other outdoor industries.

A key mark of its engineering and market readiness is its FCC certification under FCC ID SS3-RL016523. This regulatory milestone signifies that the DJI Relay complies with stringent US standards for radio frequency emissions and electromagnetic compatibility, making it legal for sale and use within the United States. For users and integrators, the FCC certification offers assurance that the device meets both safety and performance benchmarks.

In this article, we’ll explore the DJI Relay’s key features, detailed technical specifications, supported wireless technologies, and internal component architecture. We’ll also examine its regulatory compliance and highlight practical use cases, providing a comprehensive view for tech enthusiasts, engineers, and advanced users seeking an expert-level understanding of this innovative device.

Key Features & Specifications

The DJI Relay is engineered for high-performance wireless communication, integrating advanced hardware and thoughtful design to deliver stable, long-range connectivity. Below are its standout features and technical specifications:

Key Features

• USB-C Port
  Enables fast charging and firmware updates, ensuring compatibility with modern power sources and streamlined maintenance.
• Extended Working Time
  Built-in battery provides up to 4 hours of operation, with the option to extend runtime using an external mobile power supply—ideal for all-day field deployments.
• Multi-Standard Compliance
  Certified for FCC, CE, MIC, SRRC, and KCC regulatory standards, making it suitable for international use and diverse market requirements.
• Flexible Mounting Options
  Can be installed on extension rods of varying heights, allowing optimal placement for signal propagation in different terrains and crop heights.
• Stable Signal Transmission
  Designed to maintain reliable connections in complex, obstructed environments, mitigating signal loss and interference.
• Dual-Band Operation
  Supports both 2.4 GHz and 5.8 GHz frequencies, maximizing compatibility with modern wireless protocols and reducing congestion.
• Status Indicators
  Features battery level and status LEDs for at-a-glance device monitoring.
• Modular Antenna Support
  Mounts easily with extension rods and supports multiple antenna configurations for optimal range and performance.

Technical Specifications

• Operating Frequency:
• 2.4000–2.4835 GHz
• 5.725–5.850 GHz
  (Covers primary Wi-Fi and DJI proprietary bands)
• Antenna Gain:
• 3.5 dBi (2.4G SRD)
• 4.5 dBi (5.8G SRD)
• Minimum Safe Distance (Operation): 20 cm from antenna
• Battery:
• Type: Li-ion
• Capacity: 6500 mAh
• Working Time: Up to 4 hours (extendable with mobile power supply)
• Charging Time: Approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes (via USB-C)
• Operating Temperature: 0°C to 40°C
• Max Transmission Distance:
• 5 km (SRRC)
• 4 km (MIC/KCC/CE)
• 7 km (FCC)
  (Tested at 2.5 m altitude, unobstructed, no interference)
• Power Consumption:
• 9 W (SRRC)
• 12 W (FCC)
• Wireless Capabilities:
• Wi-Fi: 2.4 GHz, 5.8 GHz
• Bluetooth: Present (details unspecified)
• User Interface: Battery status and operational LEDs for real-time feedback

Benefit to Users: These features coalesce to deliver a device that is robust, versatile, and optimized for real-world field conditions. The dual-band operation and high antenna gain directly enhance range and signal reliability, while multiple compliance certifications open up broader deployment scenarios. The USB-C interface and battery flexibility address the need for quick turnaround and extended missions, making the DJI Relay a practical companion for demanding professional applications.

Operating Frequencies

A closer look at the DJI Relay’s FCC filing (FCC ID SS3-RL016523) reveals a sophisticated multi-band, multi-power wireless design. Here’s a breakdown of its operational frequency ranges and associated output power:

Why It Matters:
These frequency bands and output power levels enable the DJI Relay to operate efficiently across various regulatory domains, supporting robust, long-range, and interference-resistant wireless communication. The device’s adherence to multiple FCC Rule Parts demonstrates its flexibility in handling both unlicensed and specialized wireless protocols, essential for high-performance drone operations.

Technology Deep Dive

The DJI Relay leverages advanced wireless technologies, predominantly operating within the 2.4 GHz and 5.8 GHz frequency bands—core spectrums for Wi-Fi and proprietary low-latency RF links. The presence of Bluetooth (details unspecified) suggests auxiliary connectivity for pairing, diagnostics, or low-bandwidth data transfer.

Implications of Frequency Design:
Operating in both 2.4 GHz and 5.8 GHz bands allows the relay to dynamically select the optimal channel for communication, balancing range, throughput, and resistance to interference. The 2.4 GHz band is renowned for its superior penetration through obstacles, making it ideal for environments with dense foliage or structures. Conversely, the 5.8 GHz band offers higher data rates and less congestion, which is advantageous in open or interference-prone scenarios.

Performance and Range:
The device’s high output power (up to 442.6 mW in certain bands) and multi-antenna support (as evidenced by internal analysis) underpin its capacity for long-range, high-reliability links. Robust power management and EMI shielding, highlighted in internal documentation, ensure signal integrity and regulatory compliance even under demanding conditions.

Power Consumption and Efficiency:
With a maximum power draw of 12 W (FCC mode), the relay balances performance and battery life, enabling up to 4 hours of autonomous operation. The ability to supplement power via USB-C ensures uninterrupted missions.

In summary, the DJI Relay’s wireless architecture is tailored for professional-grade, low-latency, and interference-resilient communication, directly addressing the needs of advanced drone operations in the field.

In-Depth Internal Component Analysis / Teardown

A thorough teardown of the DJI Relay reveals the hallmark of DJI’s engineering expertise: high-density integration, robust EMI control, and modular design. Below, each internal photograph is analyzed, highlighting the critical components and their role within the system.

The main PCB is densely populated, with extensive EMI shielding and thermal pads ensuring both electromagnetic compliance and effective heat dissipation. Key integrated circuits are strategically positioned, with power management, microcontrollers, and memory chips likely housed beneath the shields. The use of multi-layer PCB construction and numerous ground vias reflects careful attention to signal integrity and RF isolation. A coaxial connector at the top edge hints at support for external or FPC antennas, vital for robust dual-band wireless operation. The overall layout prioritizes high-frequency performance and reliable power delivery, essential for the relay’s long-range communication capabilities.

A secondary PCB features a centrally located USB Type-C connector, surrounded by high-density surface-mount components. The presence of two prominent ICs—likely a microcontroller and power management chip—suggests this board handles charging, data interface, and possibly system monitoring. Differential pairs near the USB-C port indicate high-speed data support. Large inductors and capacitors point to robust local power regulation, while gold fingers at the board edge may facilitate modular assembly or testing. The absence of visible antennas or RF shields implies this board’s focus is on power and interface management within the device.

USB-C interface board with power management and high-speed data handling.

A compact, high-density PCB features two NANYA DRAM chips and custom SoCs or FPGAs, underscoring the relay’s substantial processing and buffering capabilities. Four coaxial connectors along the right edge enable multiple antenna configurations, likely supporting MIMO operation for enhanced throughput and reliability. The right side’s gold-plated antenna feedlines and shielded RF section highlight the board’s role as the primary wireless interface. Extensive use of multilayer construction, controlled impedance traces, and local power regulation ensures high-speed, low-latency signal processing—crucial for seamless drone communication.

High-density PCB with DRAM, custom SoCs, and multi-antenna RF section.

Another PCB assembly is dominated by extensive EMI shielding, with labeled gold-plated pads for antenna connections (MAIN, DIV, GNSS, 2.4/5G). The presence of a USB-C connector and high component density reflects a design optimized for compactness and modularity. The shields likely cover sensitive RF and processing ICs, while unshielded sections house power management or interface logic. The clean separation of functional domains, combined with robust connectorization, supports the relay’s need for multi-band, high-speed wireless transmission in challenging environments.

PCB with extensive EMI shielding and modular antenna connectors.

A section of the internal assembly showcases the relay’s robust RF engineering. Multiple coaxial cables, each labeled and securely routed, connect antenna feeds to the main PCB. A large metal shield with thermal paste indicates high-power RF or SoC components beneath, with the shield serving both EMI suppression and thermal management. The modular cable design enhances serviceability, while the mechanical robustness (screws, standoffs) ensures durability in field conditions. This section exemplifies DJI’s commitment to performance and reliability in high-frequency wireless devices.

Antenna feed section with coaxial cables, EMI shield, and thermal management.

A densely populated PCB reveals a Samsung eMMC flash (8GB) and DRAM, paired with a likely ARM-based SoC under EMI shields. The layout demonstrates clear separation of digital, RF, and power domains, with local power regulation circuits adjacent to shielded areas. Numerous test points and gold-plated mounting holes facilitate manufacturing and grounding. This board likely serves as the core processing and communication hub, handling firmware, data buffering, and high-speed wireless protocols for the relay’s operation.

PCB with eMMC, DRAM, SoC, and dual EMI shields for RF/digital separation.

A close-up of the antenna interface highlights four labeled antenna connectors (ANT0–ANT3), each attached via micro-coaxial cables. The large shielded area with thermal interface material indicates the presence of sensitive RF transceivers or wireless SoCs beneath. The use of multiple antennas supports advanced wireless techniques such as MIMO or diversity, enhancing signal robustness. The PCB’s ENIG finish and meticulous grounding further underscore the relay’s focus on high-performance, reliable RF operation.

Antenna interface with four coaxial connectors and shielded RF section.

Two main PCB assemblies are shown side by side, illustrating the modular architecture of the relay. The upper board is heavily shielded, likely housing the main processing and RF circuits, while the lower board features a USB-C connector, a large inductor, and multiple interface ICs—indicative of power management and system control functions. The modular design, with separate power/interface and RF/processing boards, facilitates easier manufacturing, maintenance, and EMI isolation, aligning with professional-grade wireless equipment standards.

Modular PCBs: shielded RF/processing board and USB-C power/interface board.

A well-organized PCB features a likely microcontroller or interface IC, two white FPC/FFC connectors for modular assembly, and a small tactile switch. The clean layout and absence of major RF or power components suggest this board is dedicated to system control, user interface, or auxiliary functions. High-quality ENIG finish and precise component placement ensure reliable signal integrity and manufacturability. The design supports DJI’s ethos of modular, serviceable, and high-reliability electronic systems.

Control/interface PCB with modular connectors and microcontroller.

Regulatory Insights & FCC Filing

The DJI Relay’s FCC ID SS3-RL016523 is a testament to its compliance with rigorous US electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio frequency (RF) standards. This certification, registered via FCC.gov, ensures that the device is legally permitted for sale and operation in the United States, and that it meets essential safety and performance criteria for wireless equipment.

What’s in the FCC Filing?
FCC filings for devices like the DJI Relay typically encompass comprehensive test reports (covering RF exposure, electromagnetic compatibility, and spurious emissions), detailed internal and external photographs, user manuals, schematics, and block diagrams. These documents provide transparency regarding the device’s operational characteristics, internal construction, and compliance with regulatory limits.

Key Documentation Insights:
According to the user manual, the DJI Relay is purpose-built as a wireless signal transmission device that extends and stabilizes connections between DJI controllers and aircraft, particularly in environments with obstructed line-of-sight such as orchards or fields with tall crops. Internal documentation emphasizes the device’s robust EMI shielding, modular antenna support, and advanced power management—all factors that contribute to its high performance and regulatory compliance.

The FCC ID SS3-RL016523 not only validates the relay’s technical integrity but also assures users, integrators, and resellers of its readiness for deployment in professional and commercial applications.

Potential Use Cases & Target Audience

Given its advanced feature set and robust wireless capabilities, the DJI Relay is ideally suited for several demanding scenarios:

• Agricultural Drone Operations
  For users managing drone fleets in orchards, vineyards, or fields with tall crops, the relay overcomes signal blockages caused by foliage and terrain. By mounting the relay on an extension rod at strategic points, operators can maintain continuous, stable command and video links, boosting mission reliability and coverage.
• Surveying and Mapping in Complex Terrains
  Surveyors and GIS professionals often operate drones in hilly, forested, or urban environments where direct line-of-sight is compromised. The relay acts as a signal repeater, ensuring robust connectivity even when the operator or drone is partially obstructed.
• Extended Field Deployments
  Industrial users and first responders benefit from the relay’s 4-hour battery life (extendable via mobile power supply), enabling prolonged operations in remote or infrastructure-poor locations. The stable wireless link is critical for missions where communication reliability is non-negotiable.

In all cases, the DJI Relay’s combination of long-range, dual-band operation, regulatory compliance, and modular deployment options makes it an indispensable tool for professional drone operators facing challenging RF environments.

Conclusion

The DJI Relay by DJI Technology, Inc. (Model: RL01-65, FCC ID SS3-RL016523) stands as a meticulously engineered solution for extending and stabilizing wireless communication in demanding environments. Its robust dual-band operation, advanced internal architecture, and comprehensive regulatory compliance position it at the forefront of professional drone communication accessories. The FCC certification not only assures legal operation but also underscores DJI’s commitment to safety, reliability, and performance. For operators seeking seamless connectivity in complex terrains, the DJI Relay delivers the technology, flexibility, and assurance needed to keep missions on course.

Related Documents

• User Manual
• Internal Photos
• External Photos
• Label And Location