BetaFPV SuperG Nano TX: First GEMINI ELRS transmitter

Since I constructed my first ExpressLRS-enabled FPV drone, I transformed all current drones to ELRS because of the glorious vary and hyperlink stability. BetaFPV’s new SuperG Nano TX module is the primary GEMINI-compliant transmitter with dual-frequency variety communication. The module was developed by BetaFPV in cooperation with the ExpressLRS staff. It’s based mostly on ELRS V3.3 and guarantees improved connectivity even in difficult environments.

BetaFPV has at all times been a pioneer in ExpressLRS know-how; they have been the primary producer to supply a variety of receivers with two antennas. I’ve been utilizing the SuperD RX on my FlyFish Volador VD6 long-range FPV drone with nice success over the previous couple of months.

The GEMINI ELRS, as an alternative of promising an extended vary (which is already wonderful), is targeted on a lot larger and steady LQ by concurrently transmitting packets in two frequencies to extend the possibility of receiving the pocket by the receiver. The picture under is a superb exemplification of how Single antenna, Twin antenna, Variety, and GEMINI modes work.

BetaFPV SuperG Nano TX assessment

Iris from BetaFPV despatched me the SuperG Nano TX final week, along with an additional Nano to Micro bay adapter, two SuperD RX modules, and another surprises. I like that they at all times embody further goodies, and this time, too, I didn’t know what else was included. After I obtain a package deal from them, it’s like Xmas unboxing :).

The SuperG Nano transmitter is available in the identical field as the unique single-antenna Nano TX module. By way of design, in addition they look comparable, simply the GEMINI SuperG is made solely from CNC aluminum, not plastic, as its predecessor. Scaling near 50 grams, you’ll fill the additional weight when put in on compact, light-weight radios.

Along with the SuperG Nano TX module, the field contains two linearly polarized dipole rubber ducky antennas, a Micro-Nano bay adapter, a USB Kind-C information cable, a Kind-C to XT30 energy cable, and a person handbook.

The TX unit has three standing LEDs (one RGB within the heart and one beneath every antenna) and two customizable management buttons. It has a built-in fan for improved warmth administration that begins solely when the transmission energy is ready above 250mW. After a couple of minutes of utilization, it turns into heat however not too sizzling to burn your pores and skin.

On the highest, there are two RP-SMA interfaces for the antennas. As I discussed, it comes with two rubber ducky antennas, however it may be geared up with Moxon ones as nicely. This ExpressLRS TX-RX information will aid you get hold of the perfect efficiency by matching antenna sorts and selecting their proper orientation.

A Kind-C energy on the backside permits firmware improve and energy the SuperG TX module.

Management buttons: Default capabilities

By accessing the online interface, you customise the button’s motion in response to your wants. After ending the modifications, bear in mind to press SAVE to finish the configuration.

BetaFPV SuperG Nano TX 2.4GHz: Distant controller and RX compatibility

Due to the included Nano-Micro bay adapter, the SuperG Nano TX can be utilized with most EdgeTX and OpenTX radio transmitters that help CRSF. Out of the field suits instantly into radios with Nano bay (Lite), or when you’ve got an even bigger full-size controller with Micro JR bay, you possibly can conveniently use the included adapter. The JST to servo cable permits the usage of older controllers.

I efficiently examined it with Radio Grasp Zorro and Jumper T-Lite radios, however in response to BetaFPV can be used with BetaFPV LiteRadio 3/3Pro, TBS Tango 2, Radiomaster TX16/Boxer/Pocket, Jumper T16/T20/T Professional, Frsky QX7/X9/X Lite, and others. When larger TX energy (over 500mW) is chosen, an exterior battery (2 or 3s) could also be required to energy the unit utilizing the type-C to XT30 cable individually.

That includes a number of working modes (antenna1, antenna2, or GEMINI), it’s suitable with all kinds of 2.4GHz ELRS receives no matter model or configuration (single antenna or variety). The one factor it’s essential to take note of is that the receiver should have firmware model 3.0.0 or newer. For greatest efficiency, I like to recommend utilizing the BetaFPV’s SuperD RX.

When mixing several types of RX modules is really useful to make use of “Mannequin Match” through LUA script to set the right antenna mode based mostly on the energetic Mannequin on the radio. For instance, use Mannequin 1 for single antenna receivers and Mannequin 2 for Gemini-capable receivers. Within the LUA script for dual-antenna variety ELRS receivers, you need to additionally configure the RX to work in Gemini mode.

The net person handbook (obtain from right here) is a superb help for this ELRS transmitter. It explains configuration parameters, methods to bind with radio receivers, standing LED colour codes, and extra. Upgrading the firmware may be conveniently accomplished through WIFI connectivity and ExpressLRS configurator.

Pricing, availability, and choices

The SuperG Nano Transmitter may be ordered from BetaFPV ‘s official on-line retailer for $69.99. For now, solely 2.4GHz is accessible (no 915MHz868MHz), and you may go for Black, Crimson, or Gray colours. This worth contains the Nano to Micro bay adapter. If you are going to buy it in a bundle with a SuperD RX module, it can save you 5 bucks ($18.88 + $66.10).

BetaFPV SuperG Nano TX with GEMINI ELRS: Efficiency

For a lot of, efficiency is the same as vary (max management distance). The SuperG Nano TX options two radio modules with as much as 1 Watt broadcast energy every. Usually, you’d count on the vary to be doubled (1W+1W=2W), however throughout my assessments, the max flight distance till the failsafe is activated was much like my current commonplace (single antenna) 1W TX.

Even the ExpressLRS staff doesn’t promise an extended flight distance when utilizing GEMINI mode. As a substitute, they promise a extra dependable hyperlink in difficult environments by transmitting the identical packets on two channels concurrently -it helps keep the next LQ to the purpose of failsafe. Those that fly in an city space with a whole lot of RF noise will profit most from the GEMINI ELRS.

GEMINI mode additionally improves telemetry (TLM) high quality (drone to floor station hyperlink) by receiving simultaneous packets. Moreover, the TLM hyperlink turns into stronger with fewer missed packets, even when not utilized in Gemini mode and with single antenna receivers.

Gemini ELRS SuperG Nano TX: Key options

• [Era of GEMINI ExpressLRS] Introducing the pioneering Gemini Twin-Frequency Variety Transmitter, propelling ELRS into the period of dual-frequency capabilities.
• [Dual 1W Output Power] The SuperG Nano Transmitter with Twin-active Antennas and Twin Frequencies, every boasting a strong 1W transmission energy. Expertise stronger alerts, longer transmission distances, and enhanced distant management vary.
• [Cooling System Iteration] The casing half is product of CNC aluminum alloy with an anodized floor for sturdiness. It effectively dissipates warmth because of its optimized inside airflow and high-speed fan with copper warmth fins. Fly with confidence and revel in dependable efficiency each time.

Technical parameters