Introduction
The Mavic Air 2, manufactured by SZ DJI TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD., represents a leap forward in consumer drone technology—balancing power, intelligence, and portability in a compact, foldable design. Engineered for both hobbyists and aspiring aerial content creators, the Mavic Air 2 combines high-performance flight capabilities with advanced imaging and intelligent automation. Its core mission: to make stunning aerial photography and videography accessible, safe, and reliable for users of all skill levels.
A critical milestone for any wireless device entering the U.S. market is Federal Communications Commission (FCC) certification. The Mavic Air 2, under Model MA2UE1N and FCC ID SS3-RC2311911, has secured this approval. This certification confirms legal eligibility for sale and use in the United States and demonstrates compliance with rigorous standards for radio frequency (RF) emissions—ensuring safe coexistence with other wireless technologies and minimal electromagnetic interference.
In this article, we’ll explore the Mavic Air 2’s standout features, technical specifications, wireless capabilities, and the engineering prowess under its hood. We’ll also provide an expert teardown analysis of its internal components and discuss regulatory insights gleaned from its FCC documentation.
Key Features & Specifications
The Mavic Air 2 is designed to deliver professional-grade aerial imaging and robust flight performance in a remarkably portable form factor. Here’s a detailed look at its key features and technical specifications:
Key Features
- 4K Video and 48 MP Photos: Capture ultra-high-definition video and detailed stills, enabling cinematic content creation.
- Video Transmission up to 1080p: Real-time HD video feed to the remote controller, ensuring pilots see exactly what the drone sees.
- Obstacle Sensing: Advanced sensors on multiple sides help detect and avoid obstacles, enhancing flight safety and enabling complex maneuvers.
- Intelligent Flight Modes:
- ActiveTrack 3.0: Tracks moving subjects with precision, keeping them centered in the frame.
- Point of Interest (POI) 3.0: Automatically orbits a point of interest, perfect for dynamic shots.
- QuickShot: Pre-programmed flight paths for cinematic effects at the tap of a button.
- Advanced Pilot Assistance Systems 2.0 (APAS 2.0): Real-time path planning for smooth, obstacle-avoiding flight.
- Maximum Transmission Range: Up to 5 miles (8 km) using DJI OcuSync 2.0, ensuring reliable long-range control and video feedback.
- Folding Design: Compact, foldable arms and propellers for easy transportation and quick deployment.
- Infrared Sensing System: Enhances environmental awareness, aiding in precise landings and indoor flight.
- DJI OcuSync 2.0: Proprietary long-range transmission technology for low-latency, robust HD video streaming, even in challenging environments.
Technical Specifications
General:
– Model: MA2UE1N
– FCC ID: SS3-RC2311911
– Operating Temperature: 0°C to 40°C (remote controller and aircraft)
– Charging Temperature Range: 5℃ – 40℃
Flight Battery:
– Type: LiPo 3S
– Capacity: 3500 mAh
– Voltage: 11.55 V
– Energy: 40.4 Wh
– Maximum Flight Time: Up to 34 minutes (under ideal conditions)
Camera:
– Sensor: 48 MP
– Video Resolution: Up to 4K
Wireless & Transmission:
– DJI OcuSync 2.0: Dual-frequency support (2.4 GHz and 5.8 GHz)
– Wi-Fi: 2.4-2.4835 GHz, 5.725-5.850 GHz
– Bluetooth: Present (details not specified)
– Maximum Transmission Range: 8 km (FCC), 5 km (CE/SRRC/MIC, region-dependent)
Transmitter Power:
– Aircraft 2.4G: ≤20 dBm (FCC/CE/SRRC/MIC)
– Aircraft 5.8G: ≤23.5 dBm (FCC), ≤14 dBm (CE), ≤26 dBm (SRRC)
– Remote Controller 2.4G: ≤24.5 dBm (FCC), ≤20 dBm (CE/SRRC/MIC)
– Remote Controller 5.8G: ≤23.5 dBm (FCC), ≤14 dBm (CE), ≤26 dBm (SRRC)
– Remote Controller Operating Temperature: 0°C to 40°C
Additional:
– Maximum Flight Speed: 42.5 mph (68.4 kph)
– Folding Design: Newly engineered for improved portability and structural integrity
Benefits and Practical Implications:
– Extended Range and Reliable Connectivity: OcuSync 2.0 ensures pilots can fly farther with minimal interference.
– Safety and Automation: Obstacle sensing and intelligent flight modes make complex shots feasible for beginners and pros alike.
– Portability: The folding design and lightweight battery support easy travel and rapid setup.
– Professional Imaging: The 48 MP camera with 4K video supports high-resolution media production and advanced post-processing.
Operating Frequencies
The Mavic Air 2 (FCC ID SS3-RC2311911) operates across multiple frequency bands, enabling robust wireless communication and compliance with regulatory requirements. The following table summarizes the key frequency ranges, output power, and relevant FCC Rule Parts from the official filing:
Frequency Range (GHz) | Output Power (mW) | FCC Rule Part |
---|---|---|
2.4055–2.4765 | 9.1 | 15CCC1.42.4055 |
2.4565 | 249.5 | 15CCC1.32.4175 |
2.4565 | 171.8 | 15CCC3.35.7285 |
2.4655 | 254.7 | 15CCC1.12.4075 |
2.4655 | 198.2 | 15CCC3.12.40912 |
2.46712 | 242.1 | 15CCC1.22.40912 |
2.46712 | 189.2 | 15CCC3.22.4105 |
2.4725 | 8.6 | 15CCC1.52.4105 |
2.4725 | 8.6 | 15CCC3.52.4175 |
2.4765 | 8.9 | 15CCC3.42.4075 |
5.8395 | 15.2 | 15ECC2.55.7355 |
5.8395 | 15 | 15ECC4.5 |
5.8445 | 193.6 | 15ECC2.15.7285 |
5.8445 | 136 | 15ECC4.15.73012 |
5.8445 | 165.2 | 15ECC2.35.7305 |
5.8445 | 145 | 15ECC4.35.7325 |
5.8445 | 15.5 | 15ECC2.45.7325 |
5.8445 | 15 | 15ECC4.45.7355 |
5.84612 | 181.6 | 15ECC2.25.73012 |
5.84612 | 153 | 15ECC4.25.7305 |
These frequency allocations support the drone’s dual-band operation, enabling both short-range and long-range, interference-resilient communications necessary for modern aerial systems.
Technology Deep Dive
The Mavic Air 2 leverages advanced wireless technologies to deliver seamless control and high-quality video transmission. At its core is DJI’s OcuSync 2.0, utilizing both 2.4 GHz and 5.8 GHz frequency bands—common in Wi-Fi and proprietary RF communication systems. This dual-band approach enables the drone to dynamically select the clearest channel, minimizing interference from other wireless devices and optimizing range.
Bluetooth functionality is present for quick device pairing and potentially for accessory connectivity, though detailed implementation specifics are not provided. The inclusion of robust Wi-Fi support ensures compatibility with mobile devices for live preview, firmware updates, and sharing content.
Operating on these frequencies allows the Mavic Air 2 to maintain stable connections even in challenging RF environments, such as urban areas with congested wireless traffic. The wide range of output power levels—scaled to region and operational context—maximizes both compliance and performance. Lower power levels reduce the risk of interference and conserve battery life during close-range operation, while higher outputs extend range and signal integrity for distant flights.
Test reports referenced in the FCC filing confirm the device’s adherence to stringent RF emission limits, ensuring not only regulatory compliance but also the safety and reliability of its wireless subsystems. The design choices reflect a careful balance between maximizing range, minimizing latency, and maintaining robust connections in real-world conditions.
In-Depth Internal Component Analysis / Teardown
Peripheral Interface Board: Compact USB/Charging Module
A compact, black PCB assembly with an attached flex cable exemplifies the modular engineering underpinning the Mavic Air 2’s design. Measuring approximately 25mm x 10mm, this board is populated with a handful of surface-mount passives and a small integrated circuit—likely serving power management or ESD protection roles. The layout is straightforward, with wide traces and multiple vias indicative of a 2–4 layer design. Notably, it features a fine-pitch flex connector and what appears to be a micro-USB or USB Type-C port, suggesting its primary function is as a charging or data interface. The absence of RF components or antennas, combined with robust mounting provisions, points to its role as a replaceable interface module, supporting ease of repair and system modularity—key for consumer drones exposed to demanding field conditions.
USB Type-C Interface Board: Flex-Rigid Connectivity
This small, meticulously engineered PCB showcases a USB Type-C connector mounted on a rigid section, transitioning into a flexible tail for integration within the drone’s tight internal spaces. The board features labeled test points and traces meticulously routed for USB data (DP, DM), power (VBUS), and control (CC1, CC2), reflecting careful signal integrity management. A few passive components near the connector provide ESD protection and filtering, while the absence of active ICs or shielding underscores the board’s primary role as a high-reliability signal and power conduit. The flex-rigid construction minimizes mechanical stress on the USB-C port during repeated use, enhancing durability. This module exemplifies DJI’s focus on robust, user-friendly connectivity, enabling firmware updates, charging, and data transfer while maintaining the drone’s compact profile.
Remote Controller Mainboard: RF, Processing, and Power Integration
Inside the remote controller, a densely populated multi-layer PCB is revealed, partially shielded to protect sensitive RF and processing circuits. Coaxial cables connect to embedded antennas, supporting robust OcuSync 2.0 communication. The central area—under metal shielding—likely houses the main microcontroller or SoC, RF transceivers, and power management ICs, forming the core of the controller’s real-time processing and wireless functions. Surrounding connectors interface with joysticks, buttons, and the controller’s battery cells, which are visible as blue-wrapped cylindrical components. The design emphasizes EMI control, signal integrity, and modularity, supporting reliable, low-latency operation and user interface responsiveness. This layout ensures the controller can deliver precise, interference-resistant command and telemetry links—critical for professional-grade drone operation.
Flight Control Mainboard: Processing, RF, and Sensor Hub
A complex, high-density PCB forms the heart of the Mavic Air 2’s flight control and communication system. Dominated by two large shielded zones, this board likely houses the main SoC, RF transceivers, and memory, with careful thermal management via interface pads. Connectors along the edges support cameras, antennas, and sensors, while local power regulation is handled by visible capacitors and inductors. The presence of a MEMS sensor—possibly an IMU or barometer—underscores the board’s role in flight stability and environmental awareness. The multi-layer, gold-finished PCB is engineered for high-speed, low-noise operation, with meticulous EMI shielding and ground management. This integration of processing, RF, and sensing capabilities enables the drone’s intelligent flight modes, obstacle avoidance, and real-time video streaming—delivering the advanced features that distinguish the Mavic Air 2.
Sensor/Subsystem Mainboard: Shielded Processing and Modular Interface
This densely populated PCB exhibits two prominent shielded areas, likely protecting the main SoC, RF transceivers, and memory or power management circuits. Modular FPC/FFC connectors line the edges, providing flexible integration with cameras, antennas, and other subsystems. The board’s black ENIG finish and multi-layer construction support high-speed data and RF communication, while numerous test points facilitate manufacturing and diagnostics. A circular component, probably a MEMS microphone or buzzer, hints at audio feedback or alert functionality. The robust shielding and thermal management reflect the high processing and RF activity required for advanced drone features, ensuring reliable operation and signal integrity in demanding environments.
Regulatory Insights & FCC Filing
The Mavic Air 2’s FCC ID SS3-RC2311911 signifies full compliance with U.S. regulations on electromagnetic interference and radiofrequency emissions, a prerequisite for legal sale and operation in North America. This certification, registered with the FCC, confirms that the device meets stringent standards for safety, emissions, and coexistence with other wireless systems.
FCC filings for devices like the Mavic Air 2 typically include comprehensive documentation: RF exposure and EMC test reports, internal and external photographs, user manuals, block diagrams, and schematics. These documents collectively verify that the device’s wireless subsystems—spanning 2.4 GHz and 5.8 GHz bands—operate within prescribed power limits and frequency allocations, minimizing the risk of harmful interference.
Key insights from the user manual and filing documentation highlight the Mavic Air 2’s advanced capabilities: a 3-axis gimbal camera supporting 4K video and 48 MP stills, intelligent flight modes, and multi-directional obstacle sensing. Internal test reports confirm that both the aircraft and its controller adhere to FCC Part 15 requirements for unlicensed wireless devices, ensuring safe and reliable operation across diverse environments. The thoroughness of the filing reflects DJI’s commitment to regulatory compliance and user safety.
Potential Use Cases & Target Audience
With its blend of advanced imaging, intelligent automation, and robust wireless performance, the Mavic Air 2 is well-suited to a diverse range of users and scenarios:
- Aerial Content Creators: Videographers and photographers seeking cinematic shots benefit from the 4K/48 MP camera, intelligent flight modes, and obstacle sensing. Automated features like ActiveTrack and QuickShot make complex maneuvers accessible, even for solo operators.
- Surveying and Inspection Professionals: The drone’s extended flight time (up to 34 minutes), long-range transmission, and high-resolution imagery are ideal for mapping, infrastructure inspection, and environmental monitoring—delivering actionable data with minimal downtime.
- Enthusiasts and Adventurers: Hobbyists looking for a portable, reliable drone appreciate the foldable design, durable construction, and easy-to-use controls. The Mavic Air 2’s robust connectivity and safety features enable confident exploration of new environments, whether capturing landscapes or documenting outdoor adventures.
Conclusion
The Mavic Air 2 by SZ DJI TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD. stands as a benchmark for consumer drones, combining professional-grade imaging, intelligent automation, and robust wireless performance in a portable, user-friendly package. Its FCC certification under ID SS3-RC2311911 not only ensures legal compliance but also attests to its engineering quality and RF safety. Through advanced features, meticulous internal design, and regulatory diligence, the Mavic Air 2 offers a compelling solution for creators, professionals, and enthusiasts seeking a reliable, high-performance aerial platform. As drone technology continues to evolve, the Mavic Air 2 exemplifies the fusion of innovation, safety, and user empowerment in the skies.