Table of Contents
A8 mini 4K AI MINI ZOOM GIMBAL CAMERA USER MANUAL
INTRODUCTION
Product Features
Powerful Imaging System
A8 mini carries an 1/1.7-inch Sony image sensor, an 8 megapixels CMOS with remarkable photosensitivity ability, impressive 4K video recording and photography.
Up to 6x digital zoom. The scenery is clear, making it easy to produce grand pictures.
*The images recorded by A8 mini will have GPS location information and time attributes.
Starlight Night Vision
The ultra-sensitive starlight CMOS keep images bright in low light environment.
HDR
HDR (High Dynamic Range) precisely captures good details of highlights and shadows in dynamic scenes to get true colors and natural brightness.
AI Enhanced Smart Identify and Tracking
Built-in NPU neural network computing unit, combined with SIYI Technology’s self- developed new AI algorithm, A8 mini gimbal camera will be able to automatically identify people, vehicles, ships, and other moving targets. And through the cooperation of the gimbal attitude control and flight control system, it can realize autonomous identification, positioning, and even continuous tracking. With the automatic zoom function of the visible light camera, the target will always be in the
center of the screen and maintain a clear and visible screen ratio.
*AI feature is under development and can be supported by upgrade later.
Incomparable Gimbal Control Interface
SIYI gimbal cameras provide powerful compatibility to contribute to smart robotics ecology in all dimensions. They can be controlled through traditional S.Bus signal by switches and dials, or through Ethernet by touchscreen or by UDP based on SIYI SDK, or through UART by SIYI SDK or popular open-source protocols like Ardupilot driver and Mavlink.
*Developing on SIYI SDK through Ethernet UDP or UART can control SIYI optical pods by protocol and acquire relevant data.
*The Mavlink protocol control for SIYI optical pods is in development and will be supported by upgrade later.
Gimbal Motion Mode Upside Down Mode
Gimbal automatically activates upside down mode when it is placed upside down, very convenient to be mounted on multiple kinds of vehicles like UGV, USV, robot dog, and more robotics.
Follow Mode
Horizontally, gimbal follows when aircraft rotates.
Lock Mode
Horizontally, gimbal does not follow when aircraft rotates.
FPV Mode
Gimbal rotates simultaneously as aircraft rolls to get FPV view, and output enhanced stable images.
High Accuracy and High Collaboration Control Algorithms
SIYI has made multiple breakthroughs in control algorithms and stabilization algorithms.
IMU Calibration Algorithms
Compensate and correct errors of the inertial measurement unit, reduce interference factors such as zero bias, scale factor, inter-axis error, temperature drift, noise, etc., greatly improve the measurement accuracy of IMU, and improve the stability of the gimbal in large temperature differences, wide margin steering, and strong vibration environments.
Attitude Fusion Algorithms
Comprehensively utilize the data of sensors such as accelerometers and gyroscopes, obtain the pitch angle, roll angle, and yaw angle of the gimbal through mathematical models and filtering algorithms, and fuse this information to effectively improve system performance, stability, and robustness.
Industry-Level 3-Axis Stabilization Algorithms
Deeply integrate and utilize 3-axis gyroscopes, 3-axis accelerometers, PID controllers, motors, and magnetic encoders to achieve gimbal attitude stabilization control and continuously output stable high-definition video images during motion.
High-Precision FOC Motor Control Algorithms
Control the current components of the motor to control torque and magnetic field respectively, thereby achieving decoupling control of the brushless motor and greatly reducing picture jitter.
Various Video Output, Ultra Low Latency
A8 mini gimbal camera provides triple popular video output options, Ethernet, HDMI, and CVBS (AV). RC plane and FPV drone users can experience very low latency FPV through CVBS video output and analog image transmission system.
*A8 mini configured as ultra-low-latency mode, CVBS output to analog FPV transmitter, view from the monitor connected to FPV receiver, the overall latency is 60ms. Direct HDMI output from A8 mini to monitor, the latency is 65ms.
Parts
At a Glance
Ports on A8 mini
Mark
The early manufacturing lots of A8 mini may not support 6S input, please refer to the product sticker and carefully use.
Technical Specification
Overall
Video Output Port | Ethernet, HDMI, CVBS(AV) |
Control Signal Input Port | S.Bus, UART, Ethernet UDP |
Control Signal Output Port | S.Bus |
High Accuracy 3 Axis Stabilization | Yaw, Pitch, Roll |
Working Voltage | 11 ~ 25.2 V (Early manufacturing lots may not support 25.2V, please be careful) |
Power Consumption | Average 5 W Summit 12 W |
Working Temperature | -10 ~ 50 ℃ |
Dimension | 55 x 55 x 70 mm |
Weight | 95 g |
Gimbal
Angular Vibration Range | ±0.01° |
Controllable Pitch Angle | -135° ~ +45° |
Controllable Yaw Angle | -160° ~ +160° |
Rotatable Roll Angle | -30° ~ +30° |
Camera
Lens | Fixed Focal Length 6X Digital |
Equivalent Focal Length | 21 mm |
Image Sensor | Sony 1/1.7-inch, 8 MP effective resolution |
Aperture | F2.8 | ||
FOV | Horizontal: 81° | ||
TF Card Recording Resolution | 4K (4096 x 2160) @ 25 fps 2K (2560 x 1440) @ 30 fps 1080p (1920 x 1080) @ 30 fps 720p (1280 x 720) @ 30 fps | ||
Video Storage Bitrate | 12 Mbps (H.265 Codec) | ||
Supported File System | FAT32 | ||
Photography File Format | JPG | ||
Video File Format | MP4 | ||
Supported TF Card Type | MicroSD Class10, max 128 GB | ||
Still Photography Mode | Single | ||
White Balance | Auto |
Mark
To make sure that you get smoothly recorded video, please format the SD card, and make the minimum storage unit as 64 KB before recording.
Packing List
1 x MK15 / HM30 Air Unit S.Bus Y Cable
(Connect SIYI MK15 and HM30 air unit’s S.Bus port to acquire control signal, then one connector of the cable goes to SIYI gimbal, another goes to flight controller)
1 x 3 in 1 Control Cable
(A universal cable for ZT30, ZR30, and A8 mini, it connects SIYI gimbal’s control signal port with SIYI link and controller, including UART control input, S.Bus input and output)
1 x SIYI Gimbal Power Cable (Power supply cable for SIYI gimbal)
1 x SIYI Gimbal Ethernet Cable
(A backup cable for customer DIY purpose to connect SIYI gimbal to third-party Ethernet devices)
1 x SIYI Gimbal to SIYI Link Cable
(An all-in-one cable for only touch screen control to SIYI gimbal through SIYI link, it can power SIYI gimbal and can also transfer video stream and control signal)
1 x SIYI Gimbal Ethernet to RJ45 Cable (Connect SIYI gimbal with RJ45 device directly)
1 x A8 mini Screw Pack
(Using with the fixing board to mount the gimbal, including 6 x Hex Socket Cap Screw M2.5*5, 10 x Cross Recessed Flat Head Screw M2.5*10, 8 x M2.5 Nut Black)
1 x A8 mini Mounting Board & Damper Pack
(For mounting and fixing gimbal and stabilization)
Indicator Definition
The status indicator on SIYI gimbal uses three different colors and different blinking frequencies to indicate the system’s working or abnormal status.
Solid Green: Normally working.
Slow Green Blinks: S.Bus signal input is normal.
Slow Red Blinks: Firmware does not match (camera firmware or gimbal firmware or neither).
Red-Red-Yellow Blinks Continuously: Fail to identify camera board.
Yellow Blinks: Power input voltage is low (lower than 10 V).
Double Red Blinks: IMU temperature rising is abnormal.
Double Yellow Blinks: IMU temperature is rising.
Triple Yellow Blinks: IMU temperature is abnormal.
GET READY TO USE A8 MINI
Installation
Screw Holes’ Position and Distance
Mark
The specs of the screws for fixing the four tube screws are M.25*8 mm. Quantity: 4. Welcome to contact SIYI to get the SIYI Gimbal 3D Model for pre-installation.
Connection and Power
SIYI optical pod and gimbal camera can be powered in many ways. If you plan to carry SIYI gimbal by your plane and the plane may roll in a wide margin, then please use connect SIYI gimbal’s power port directly by a 3S to 6S power battery, not through power distribution board or air unit.
Mark
The early manufacturing lots of A8 mini may not support 6S input, please refer to the product sticker and carefully use.
Interesting Functions and Cautions
SIYI optical pod and gimbal camera can save time and location information into captured pictures in EXIF format. The preconditions that the function will work are:
- Time Information: The ground station must connect to internet and run the latest SIYI FPV app.
- Location Information: Gimbal must communicate to flight controller through UART.
Mark
Location information can only be acquired from Mavlink protocol at this moment.
The above functions are only available in SIYI optical pods and gimbal cameras which support capturing pictures and TF card recording.
GIMBAL CONTROL
SIYI optical pod and gimbal camera support multiple methods to control.
Control Gimbal Camera from SIYI FPV App or SIYI QGC App on SIYI Handheld Ground Station
Gimbal connects to air unit directly to control gimbal rotation, gimbal functions, and video display in SIYI FPV app or SIYI QGC app when the air unit is communicating with the ground station.
Preparation
It is necessary to prepare the tools, firmware, and software below before controlling gimbal camera in this way.
- SIYI Handheld Ground Station (MK32 Standard Combo / MK15 Enterprise Standard Combo is suggested for excellent compatibility with SIYI gimbal cameras).
- A8 mini Gimbal Camera.
Mark
Above products can be purchased from SIYI directly or from SIYI authorized dealers.
- SIYI Gimbal to SIYI Link Cable.
Mark
Above tools come with product package.
- SIYI FPV App (v2.5.12.572 or latest version)
- SIYI QGC App
Mark
Above software can be downloaded from relevant product page on SIYI official website.
SIYI FPV App Steps
- Power air unit and bind it with ground station.
- Use SIYI Gimbal to SIYI Link Cable to connect the air unit’s Ethernet port with the gimbal camera’s Ethernet port.
- Update SIYI FPV app to the latest.
- Run SIYI FPV app, go to “Settings” and select the relevant SIYI camera type with main / sub stream, video stream will display. Gimbal motion and camera functions can be controlled by ground station touchscreen.
SIYI QGC App Steps
- Power air unit and bind it with ground station.
- Use SIYI Gimbal to SIYI Link Cable to connect the air unit’s Ethernet port with the gimbal camera’s Ethernet port.
- Run SIYI QGC app, go to “Comm Links – Video Settings”, and select “RTSP Video Stream” for “Source”, then enter the default RTSP addresses of SIYI gimbal camera, video stream will display. Gimbal motion and camera functions can be controlled by ground station touchscreen.
Gimbal Pitch and Yaw Rotation
While SIYI FPV App or SIYI QGC app is running,
Sliding on touchscreen can control gimbal rotation. Sliding left and right are yaw rotation, up and down are gimbal pitch rotation.
Double tap touchscreen, gimbal will automatically center.
Mark
Slide on touchscreen and hold it, gimbal will continue rotating till it reaches physical limit. Farther that you hold it from the center of the screen, faster the gimbal rotates.
Zoom
While SIYI FPV App or SIYI QGC app is running,
Touching “Zoom in” or “Zoom out” icon on can control the zoom camera, up to 6X digital zoom.
Take pictures and Record Video
While SIYI FPV App or SIYI QGC app is running,
Touch “Photo” icon once on to take a picture. Touch “Record” icon to start video recording. Touch “Recording” icon to stop video recording.
Mark
Before taking a picture or recording video, it is necessary to insert SD card into the camera.
Control Gimbal through S.Bus Signal (Taking an example of MK15 remote controller)
Gimbal camera can be connected to MK15 air unit for control through joysticks, dials, switches, and buttons on MK15 remote controller when it is communicating with the air unit.
Preparation
It is necessary to prepare tools, firmware, and software below before controlling gimbal camera in this way.
- MK15 Mini Handheld Ground Station (Enterprise standard combo is suggested for excellent compatibility with SIYI gimbal camera)
- A8 mini Gimbal Camera
Mark
Above products can be purchased from SIYI directly or from SIYI authorized dealers.
- SIYI Gimbal to SIYI Link Cable
- 3 in 1 Control Cable (For ZT30, ZR30, and A8 mini)
- MK15 / HM30 Air Unit S.Bus Y Cable
Mark
Above tools come with product package.
- Cable (USB-C to USB-A)
Mark
Above tools should be prepared by customer.
- SIYI PC Assistant (v1.3.4 or latest version)
Mark
Above software can be downloaded from relevant product page on SIYI official website.
Steps
- Power MK15 air unit and bind it with MK15 remote controller.
- Use SIYI Gimbal to SIYI Link Cable to connect MK15 air unit’s Ethernet port with gimbal camera’s Ethernet port.
- Wire the 3 in 1 Control Cable with the MK15 / HM30 Air Unit S.Bus Y Cable.
- Then use the combined cable to connect MK15 air unit’s RC port and gimbal quick release board’s control signal port.
- Install and run SIYI PC Assistant on Windows computer.
- Use the USB-C to USB-A cable to connect the gimbal to the computer, then run SIYI PC Assistant and go to “Gimbal Config” page.
7. Under “Channel Config” page, assign remote controller channel 1 to 16 to target gimbal and camera functions according to your requirement.
8. For the assigned channels, operate their mapped joysticks, dials, switches, and buttons on MK15 remote controller to confirm if they are working normally.
Gimbal Pitch and Yaw Rotation (Taking an example of MK15 Dials)
Below are suggested MK15 channel mapping settings for testing, customers are free to assign MK15 channel mappings as required through SIYI TX app.
- Channel 7 = Left Dial (Reversed)
- Channel 8 = Right Dial
- Channel 12 = Button D
In SIYI PC Assistant, map “Yaw” function to channel 7 and “Pitch” to channel 8, “Center” to channel 12.
Then, if you operate the left dial on MK15 remote controller, gimbal will rotate on yaw axis. If you operate the right dial, gimbal will rotate on pitch axis. Press button D, gimbal will center itself automatically.
Mark
Hold the dial from its center position, gimbal will keep rotating unless there was a physical limit. Farther you hold it away from center, faster gimbal rotates.
Zoom (Taking an example of MK15 Switches)
Below is the suggested MK15 channel mapping settings for testing, customers are free to assign MK15 channel mappings as required through SIYI TX app.
- Channel 13 = Left Switch SA
In SIYI PC Assistant, map “Zoom” function to channel 13。
Then, if you operate the SA switch on MK15 remote controller, camera will zoom in or zoom out, max 6X digital zoom.
Take Pictures and Record Video (Taking an Example of MK15 Buttons)
Below is the suggested MK15 channel mapping settings for testing, customers are free to assign MK15 channel mappings as required through SIYI TX app.
- Channel 9 = Button A
- Channel 10 = Button B
In SIYI PC Assistant, map “Photo” function to channel 9 and “Record” to channel 10.
Then, if you press button A on MK15 remote controller, camera will take a picture. If you press button B, camera will start or stop video recording.
Mark
Before taking pictures or recording video, it is necessary to insert SD card into the camera.
UART / UDP Control (through SDK)
SIYI gimbal camera provides control protocol for all customers. Please refer to the below guide for secondary development based on SIYI gimbal camera.
SDK Protocol Format
Field | Index | Bytes | Description |
STX | 0 | 2 | 0x6655: starting mark Low byte in the front |
CTRL | 2 | 1 | 0: need_ack (if the current data pack need “ack”) 1: ack_pack (if the current data pack is an “ack” package) 2-7: reserved |
Data_len | 3 | 2 | Date field byte length Low byte in the front |
SEQ | 5 | 2 | Frame sequence (0 ~ 65535) Low byte in the front |
CMD_ID | 7 | 1 | Command ID |
DATA | 8 | Data_len | Data |
CRC16 | 2 | CRC16 check to the complete data package. Low byte in the front |
SDK Communication Commands
Acquire Firmware Version
CMD_ID:0x01——Acquire Firmware Version | |||
Send data format | |||
No. | Data Type | Data Name | Description |
ACK data format | |||
uint32_t | code_board_ver | Camera firmware version | |
uint32_t | gimbal_firmware_ver | Gimbal firmware version | |
uint32_t | zoom_firmware_ver | Zoom firmware version | |
Eg：0x6E030203 –> firmware version v3.2.3
Mark:
Ignore the 4th byte (higher byte)
Zoom firmware version is only available for ZR10 and ZR30 at this moment.
Acquire Hardware ID
CMD_ID:0x02—— Hardware ID | |||
Send data format | |||
No. | Data Type | Data Name | Description |
ACK data format | |||
Uint8_t | hardware_id[12] | Hardware ID character string (10 digits) | |
Auto Focus
CMD_ID:0x04——Auto Focus | |||
Send data format | |||
No. | Data Type | Data Name | Description |
1 | uint8_t | auto_focus | 1: Start auto focus for once |
ACK data format | |||
1 | uint8_t | sta | 1: Success 0: Fail |
Mark: Auto focus command is only available for optical zoom gimbal cameras like ZT30, ZR30, and ZR10 at this moment.
Manual Zoom and Auto Focus
CMD_ID:0x05——Manual Zoom and Auto Focus | |||
Send data format | |||
No. | Data Type | Data Name | Data Description |
1 | int8_t | zoom | 1: Start zooming in 0: Stop zooming in / out (send when released from control command) -1: Start zooming out |
ACK data format | |||
uint16_t | zoom_multiple | Current (hybrid) zoom multiples, (zoom_multiple / 10, accurate to one decimal point) | |
Mark:
- Auto focus command is only available for optical zoom gimbal cameras like ZT30, ZR30, and ZR10 at this moment.
- Under this command, A8 mini can only do manual zoom and cannot do auto focus.
Absolute Zoom and Auto Focus
CMD_ID:0x0F——Absolute Zoom and Auto Focus | |||
Send data format | |||
No. | Data Type | Data Name | Data Description |
1 | uint8_t | Absolute_movemen t_int | Input the integer part of the target multiple (0X1 ~ 0X1E) |
2 | uint8_t | Absolute_movemen t_float | Input the fractional part of the target multiple (0X0 ~ 0X9) |
ACK data format | |||
uint8_t | Absolute_movemen t_ask | Success and return to 1 | |
Mark:
- Absolute zoom command is only available for optical zoom gimbal cameras like ZT30, ZR30, and ZR10 at this moment.
- Under this command, A8 mini can only do absolute zoom and cannot do auto focus.
Acquire the Max Zoom Value
CMD_ID:0x16——Acquire the Max Zoom Value | |||
Send data format | |||
No. | Data Type | Data Name | Description |
ACK data format | |||
uint8_t | zoom_max_int | Integer of the max zoom value | |
uint8_t | zoom_max_float | Float of the max zoom value | |
Manual Focus
CMD_ID:0x06——Manual Focus | |||
Send data format | |||
No. | Data Type | Data Name | Description |
1 | int8_t | focus | 1: Long shot 0: Stop manual focus (send when released from control command) -1: Close shot |
ACK data format | |||||
uint8_t | sta | 1: Success 0: Fail | |||
Gimbal Rotation
CMD_ID:0x07——Gimbal Rotation | |||
Send data format | |||
No. | Date Type | Date Name | Description |
1 | int8_t | turn_yaw | -100~0~100: Negative and positive represent two directions, higher or lower the number is away from 0, faster the rotation speed is. Send 0 when released from control command and gimbal stops rotation. |
2 | int8_t | turn_pitch | -100~0~100: Same as above |
ACK data format | |||
uint8_t | sta | 1: Success 0: Fail | |
Center
CMD_ID:0x08——Center | |||
Send data format | |||
No. | Data Type | Data Name | Description |
1 | uint8_t | center_pos | 1: gimbal centers to position 0 |
ACK data format | |||
1 | uint8_t | sta | 1: Success 0: Fail |
Acquire Gimbal Configuration Information
CMD_ID:0x0A——Acquire Gimbal Configuration Information | |||
Send data format | |||
No. | Data Type | Data Name | Description |
ACK data format | |||
1 | uint8_t | reserved | |||
2 | uint8_t | hdr_sta | 0: HDR OFF 1: HDR ON | ||
3 | uint8_t | reserved | |||
4 | uint8_t | record_sta | 0: Recording OFF 1: Recording ON 2: TF card slot is empty 3: (Recording) Data loss in TF card recorded video, please check TF card | ||
5 | uint8_t | gimbal_motion_mode | 0: Lock Mode 1: Follow Mode 2: FPV Mode | ||
6 | uint8_t | gimbal_mounting_dir | Gimbal Mounting Method 0: Reserved 1: Normal 2: Upside Down | ||
7 | uint8_t | video_hdmi_or_cvbs | (Only available on A8 mini) Video output status of HDMI and CVBS: 0: HDMI output ON CVBS output OFF 1: HDMI output OFF CVBS output ON |
Function Feedback Information
CMD_ID:0x0B——Function Feedback Information | |||
Send data format | |||
No. | Data Type | Data Name | Description |
ACK data format | |||
1 | uint8_t | info_type | 0: Success 1: Fail to take a photo (Please check if TF card is inserted) 2: HDR ON 3: HDR OFF 4: Fail to record a video (Please check if TF card is inserted) |
Photo and Video
CMD_ID:0x0C——Photo | |||
Send data format | |||
No. | Data Type | Data Name | Description |
uint8_t | func_type | 0: Take a picture 1: Switch on / off HDR (not supported yet) 2: Start / Stop Recording 3: Motion – Lock Mode 4: Motion – Follow Mode 5: Motion – FPV Mode 6: Set video output as HDMI (Only available on A8 mini, restart gimbal to take effect) 7: Set video output as CVBS (Only available on A8 mini, restart gimbal to take effect) 8: Turn off both HDMI and CVBS video output (Only available on A8 mini, restart gimbal to take effect) | |
ACK data format | |||
No ack | |||
Acquire Gimbal Attitude
CMD_ID:0x0D——Acquire Gimbal Attitude | |||
Send data format | |||
No. | Data Type | Data Name | Description |
ACK data format | |||
int16_t | yaw | Yaw axis degree | |
int16_t | pitch | Pitch axis degree | |
int16_t | roll | Roll axis degree | |
int16_t | yaw_velocity | Yaw axis rotation speed | |
int16_t | pitch_velocity | Pitch axis rotation speed | |
int16_t | roll_velocity | Roll axis rotation speed | |
Mark:
The above data to be divided by 10 is the actual degree, accuracy in one decimal place.
Set Gimbal Control Angle
CMD_ID:0x0E——Set Gimbal Control Angle
Send data format | ||||
No. | Data Type | Data Name | Description | |
int16_t | yaw | Target yaw angle | ||
int16_t | pitch | Target pitch angle | ||
ACK data format | ||||
int16_t | yaw | Current yaw angle | ||
int16_t | pitch | Current pitch angle | ||
int16_t | roll | Current roll angle | ||
Angle Control Range
Yaw:
- A8 mini: -135.0 ~ 135.0 degree
- ZR10 / ZR30: Same with A8 mini
- ZT30: Limitless
Pitch：
- A8 mini: -90.0 ~ 25.0 degree
- ZR10 / ZR30 / ZT30: Same with A8 mini
Mark:
- The accuracy of the control angle is in one decimal place. Eg: Set yaw as 60.5 degrees, the command number should be set as 605.
- The actual angle data returned to be divided by 10 is the actual degree, accuracy in one decimal place.
Acquire Camera Image Type
CMD_ID:0x10——Acquire Camera Image Type | |||
Send data format | |||
No. | Data Type | Data Name | Description |
ACK data format | |||
1 | uint8_t | vdisp_mode | Camera Image Mode: 0: Split Screen (Main: Zoom & Thermal. Sub: Wide Angle) 1: Split Screen (Main: Wide Angle & Thermal. Sub: Zoom) 2: Split Screen (Main: Zoom & Wide Angle. Sub: Thermal) 3: Single Image (Main: Zoom. Sub: Thermal) 4: Single Image (Main: Zoom. Sub: Wide Angle) 5: Single Image (Main: Wide Angle. Sub: Thermal) 6: Single Image (Main: Wide Angle. Sub: Zoom) 7: Single Image (Main: Thermal. Sub: Zoom) 8: Single Image (Main: Thermal. Sub: Wide Angle) |
Mark: Acquire camera image type command is only available for ZT30 at this moment.
Set Camera Image Type
CMD_ID:0x11——Set Camera Image Type | |||
Send data format | |||
No. | Data Type | Data Name | Description |
1 | uint8_t | vdisp_mode | Camera Image Mode: 0: Split Screen (Main: Zoom & Thermal. Sub: Wide Angle) 1: Split Screen (Main: Wide Angle & Thermal. Sub: Zoom) 2: Split Screen (Main: Zoom & Wide Angle. Sub: Thermal) 3: Single Image (Main: Zoom. Sub: Thermal) 4: Single Image (Main: Zoom. Sub: Wide Angle) 5: Single Image (Main: Wide Angle. Sub: Thermal) 6: Single Image (Main: Wide Angle. Sub: Zoom) 7: Single Image (Main: Thermal. Sub: Zoom) 8: Single Image (Main: Thermal. Sub: Wide Angle) |
ACK data format | |||
1 | uint8_t | vdisp_mode | Camera Image Mode: 0: Split Screen (Main: Zoom & Thermal. Sub: Wide Angle) 1: Split Screen (Main: Wide Angle & Thermal. Sub: Zoom) 2: Split Screen (Main: Zoom & Wide Angle. Sub: Thermal) 3: Single Image (Main: Zoom. Sub: Thermal) 4: Single Image (Main: Zoom. Sub: Wide Angle) 5: Single Image (Main: Wide Angle. Sub: Thermal) 6: Single Image (Main: Wide Angle. Sub: Zoom) 7: Single Image (Main: Thermal. Sub: Zoom) 8: Single Image (Main: Thermal. Sub: Wide Angle) |
Mark: Set camera image type command is only available for ZT30 at this moment.
Read Temperature of a Point
CMD_ID:0x12——Read Temperature of a Point | |||
Send data format | |||
No. | Data Type | Data Name | Description |
1 | uint16_t | x | X coordinate of the point | ||
2 | uint16_t | y | Y coordinate of the point | ||
3 | uint8_t | get_temp_flag | 0: Turn off temperature measuring 1: Measure the temperature once 2: Continuous temperature measuring at 5 Hz | ||
ACK data format | |||||
1 | uint16_t | temp | Temperature of the point / 100 (two decimal places) | ||
2 | uint16_t | x | X coordinate of the point | ||
3 | uint16_t | y | Y coordinate of the point | ||
Mark: Read temperature of a point command is only available for ZT30 at this moment.
Read Temperature of a Box on Screen
CMD_ID:0x13——Read Temperature of a Box on Screen | |||
Send data format | |||
No. | Data Type | Data Name | Description |
1 | uint16_t | startx | X coordinate of the starting point of the box |
2 | uint16_t | starty | Y coordinate of the starting point of the box |
3 | uint16_t | endx | X coordinate of the ending point of the box |
4 | uint16_t | endy | Y coordinate of the ending point of the box |
5 | uint8_t | get_temp_flag | 0: Turn off temperature measuring 1: Measure the temperature once 2: Continuous temperature measuring at 5 Hz |
ACK data format | |||
1 | uint16_t | startx | X coordinate of the starting point of the box |
2 | uint16_t | starty | Y coordinate of the starting point of the box |
3 | uint16_t | endx | X coordinate of the ending point of the box |
4 | uint16_t | endy | Y coordinate of the ending point of the box |
5 | uint16_t | temp_max | Max temperature in the box / 100 (two decimal places) |
6 | uint16_t | temp_min | Min temperature in the box / 100 (two decimal places) |
7 | uint16_t | temp_max_x | X coordinate of the max temperature in the box |
8 | uint16_t | temp_max_y | Y coordinate of the max temperature in the box |
9 | uint16_t | temp_min_x | X coordinate of the min temperature in the box | ||
10 | uint16_t | temp_min_x | Y coordinate of the min temperature in the box |
Mark:
- Thermal camera supports digital zoom, the temperature measuring box will zoom in and out according to the digital zoom. Under digital zoom, the temperature measuring range should refer to the box responded by the camera.
- Read temperature of a box command is only available for ZT30 at this moment.
Read Temperature of the Full Screen
CMD_ID:0x14——Read Temperature of the Full Screen | |||
Send data format | |||
No. | Data Type | Data Name | Description |
1 | uint8_t | get_temp_flag | 0: Turn off temperature measuring 1: Measure the temperature once 2: Continuous temperature measuring at 5 Hz |
ACK data format | |||
1 | uint16_t | temp_max | Max temperature of the full screen / 100 (two decimal places) |
2 | uint16_t | temp_min | Min temperature of the full screen / 100 (two decimal places) |
3 | uint16_t | temp_max_x | X coordinate of the max temperature in the full screen |
4 | uint16_t | temp_max_y | Y coordinate of the max temperature in the full screen |
5 | uint16_t | temp_min_x | X coordinate of the min temperature in the full screen |
6 | uint16_t | temp_min_x | Y coordinate of the min temperature in the full screen |
Mark: Read temperature of the full screen is only available for ZT30 at this moment.
Read Range from Laser Rangefinder
CMD_ID:0x15——Read Range from Laser Rangefinder | |||
Send data format | |||
No. | Data Type | Data Name | Description |
ACK data format | |||
1 | uint16_t | info_type | Range from Laser Rangefinder low byte in the front, high byte in the back Minimum value is 50 Data unit is dm |
Mark: Read range from laser rangefinder is only available for ZT30 at this moment.
SIYI Gimbal Camera SDK Communication Interface
TTL Serial Port
- Baud rate: 115200
- Data position: 8 digits. Stop position: 1 digit. No check.
UDP
- IP: 192.168.144.25
- Port Number: 37260
TCP
- IP: 192.168.144.25
- Port Number: 37260
- Heartbeat Package Data: 55 66 01 01 00 00 00 00 00 59 8B
SIYI Gimbal Camera SDK Communication Code Examples
Zoom 1
55 66 01 01 00 00 00 05 01 8d 64
Zoom -1
55 66 01 01 00 00 00 05 FF 5c 6a
Absolute Zoom (4.5X)
55 66 01 02 00 01 00 0F 04 05 60 BB
Acquire the Max Zoom Value 55 66 01 00 00 00 00 16 B2 A6
Manual Focus 1
55 66 01 01 00 00 00 06 01 de 31
Manual Focus -1
55 66 01 01 00 00 00 06 ff 0f 3f
Take Pictures
55 66 01 01 00 00 00 0c 00 34 ce
Record Video
55 66 01 01 00 00 00 0c 02 76 ee
Rotate 100 100
55 66 01 02 00 00 00 07 64 64 3d cf
Auto Centering
55 66 01 01 00 00 00 08 01 d1 12
Gimbal Status Information
55 66 01 00 00 00 00 0a 0f 75
Auto Focus
55 66 01 01 00 00 00 04 01 bc 57
Acquire Hardware ID
55 66 01 00 00 00 00 02 07 f4
Acquire Firmware Version
55 66 01 00 00 00 00 01 64 c4
Lock Mode
55 66 01 01 00 00 00 0c 03 57 fe
Follow Mode
55 66 01 01 00 00 00 0c 04 b0 8e
FPV Mode
55 66 01 01 00 00 00 0c 05 91 9e
Acquire Attitude Data
55 66 01 00 00 00 00 0d e8 05
Set Video Output as HDMI (Only available on A8 mini, restart to take effect) 55 66 01 01 00 00 00 0c 06 f2 ae
Set Video Output as CVBS (Only available on A8 mini, restart to take effect) 55 66 01 01 00 00 00 0c 07 d3 be
Turn Off both CVBS and HDMI Output (Only available on A8 mini, restart to take effect) 55 66 01 01 00 00 00 0c 08 3c 4f
Read Range from Laser Rangefinder (Low byte in the front, high byte in the back, available on ZT30) 55 66 01 00 00 00 00 15 D1 96
SDK CRC16 Code
const uint16_t crc16_tab[256];
/*********************************************************** CRC16 Coding & Decoding G(X) = X^16+X^12+X^5+1
***********************************************************/
uint16_t CRC16_cal(uint8_t *ptr, uint32_t len, uint16_t crc_init)
{
uint16_t crc, oldcrc16; uint8_t temp;
crc = crc_init; while (len--!=0)
{
temp=(crc>>8)&0xff; oldcrc16=crc16_tab[*ptr^temp]; crc=(crc
Advanced Guide for SIYI Gimbal SDK Integration
This special guide is to help developers (especially whose development is based on Linux platform) use SIYI gimbal SDK.
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Before using the guide, please do read the chapter 3.3.1 to 3.3.5 of the user manual.
This guide is using UDP protocol:
- Go to chapter 3.3.4 of this manual for SIYI Gimbal Camera SDK Communication Code Examples and fill your required examples to “send_buff” following the below format in hexadecimal.
2. Chang the gimbal camera’s server port and IP addresses to what you need. The double quotation marks of the IP addresses should be kept.
3. Create a socket keyword.
4. Send data to the gimbal camera and do not revise.
5. Receive data responded by the gimbal camera and do not revise.
6. Print the received data in hexadecimal and do not revise.
7. Following the above steps, compile and run the SDK and you will see the printed data below, which means data can be sent and received normally. At this moment, please observe if the gimbal camera executes the relevant actions.
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Before using the SDK to communicate with the gimbal camera in UDP protocol, please do make sure that the device and the gimbal camera are in the same gateway, which means that ubuntu can ping the gimbal camera’s IP addresses successfully.
If they still didn’t communicate, the possible reason is that the Windows firewall is interrupting the sending and receiving of data, then try to disable Windows firewall temporarily.
Relevant Code Examples
#include <stdio.h>
#include <stdlib.h>
#include <string.h>
#include <errno.h>
#include <sys>
#include <netinet>
#include <arpa>
#include <unistd.h>
#define RECV_BUUF_SIZE 64
#define SERVER_PORT 37260 // Gimbal Camera (Server) Port
#define SERVER_IP "192.168.144.25" // Gimbal Camera (Server) IP Addresses
int main(int argc, char *argv[])
{
int sockfd;
int ret, i, recv_len;
struct sockaddr_in send_addr, recv_addr;
unsigned char send_buf[] = {0x55,0x66,0x01,0x01,0x00,0x00,0x00,0x08,0x01,0xd1,0x12}; // Frame protocol of the relevant functions in hexadecimal
unsigned char recv_buf[RECV_BUUF_SIZE] = {0};
/* Create UDP Socket
AF_INET: ipv4 addresses SOCK_DGRAM: UDP protocol
0: automatically choose the default protocol of the relevant type
*/
if ((sockfd = socket(AF_INET, SOCK_DGRAM, 0))
</unistd.h></arpa></netinet></sys></errno.h></string.h></stdlib.h></stdio.h>
Control SIYI Gimbal Camera in SIYI QGC Windows Software through HM30 Image Transmission System
Gimbal camera connects to air unit directly to control gimbal rotation, gimbal functions, and video display in SIYI QGC Windows software when the air unit is communicating with the ground unit.
Preparation
It is necessary to prepare tools, firmware, and software below before controlling gimbal camera in this way.
- SIYI HM30 Full HD Image Transmission System
- A8 mini Gimbal Camera
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Above products can be purchased from SIYI directly or from SIYI authorized dealers.
- SIYI Gimbal to SIYI Link Cable
- HM30 Ground Unit LAN to RJ45 Cable
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Above tools come with product package.
- SIYI QGC Windows Software
Mark
Above software can be downloaded from relevant product page on SIYI official website.
Steps
- Power air unit and bind it with ground unit.
- Use SIYI Gimbal to SIYI Link Cable to connect the air unit’s Ethernet port with the gimbal camera’s Ethernet port.
- Then use HM30 Ground Unit LAN to RJ45 cable to connect the ground unit’s LAN port with the computer’s RJ45 port.
- Modify the computer’s Ethernet settings to have the same gateway with SIYI link and avoid IP addresses conflict.
For example, let’s assign “192.168.144.30” for the computer IP addresses.
5. Run SIYI QGC Windows software, go to “Comm Links – Video Settings”, and select “RTSP Video Stream” for “Source”, then enter the default RTSP addresses of SIYI gimbal camera, video stream will display. Gimbal motion and camera functions can be controlled by mouse in QGroundControl.
Gimbal Pitch and Yaw Rotation
While SIYI QGC Windows software is running,
Drag the mouse on screen can control gimbal rotation. Dragging the mouse left and right are yaw rotation, up and down are pitch rotation.
Double click the mouse on screen, gimbal will automatically center.
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Drag the mouse on screen and hold it, gimbal will continue rotating unless there is a physical limit. Farther you hold it from the center of the screen, faster the gimbal rotates.
Zoom
While SIYI QGC Windows software is running,
Clicking “Zoom in” or “Zoom out” icon on can control the zoom camera, up to 6X digital zoom.
Take pictures and Record Video
While SIYI QGC Windows software is running,
Click “Photo” icon once on to take a picture. Click “Record” icon to start video recording. Click “Recording” icon to stop video recording.
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Before taking a picture or recording video, it is necessary to insert SD card into gimbal camera.
Control SIYI Gimbal Camera by the Ardupilot Driver through UART
Gimbal camera’s UART port connects to Ardupilot flight controller’s UART port directly to communicate with the flight controller and to control gimbal rotation, gimbal functions, and camera functions.
Preparation
It is necessary to prepare the tools, firmware, and software below before controlling gimbal camera in this way.
- Ardupilot Flight Controller (v4.3.1 and above firmware)
- A8 mini Gimbal Camera
Mark
Above products can be purchased from SIYI directly or from SIYI authorized dealers.
- SIYI Gimbal to Ardupilot Flight Controller UART Cable
Mark
Above tools should be made by customers at this moment. Please refer to the below picture for pinouts and diagram.
SIYI will provide a standard cable to support the direct connection between Ardupilot flight controller and SIYI gimbal. Welcome to follow our product updates!
- Mission Planner
Mark
Above software can be downloaded from Mission Planner official link.
Steps
- Power SIYI gimbal camera and Ardupilot flight controller.
- Connect gimbal camera’s UART port to Ardupilot flight controller’s UART port and make sure they are communicating with each other.
- Run ground station and set the following parameters.
The params below assume the autopilot’s telem2 port is used and the Camera1 control instance.
- SERIAL2_PROTOCOL to 8 (“SToRM32 Gimbal Serial”)
- SERIAL2_BAUD to “115” for 115200 bps
- MNT1_TYPE to “8” (“SIYI”) and reboot the ardupilot
- MNT1_PITCH_MIN to -90
- MNT1_PITCH_MAX to 25
- MNT1_YAW_MIN to -160
- MNT1_YAW_MAX to 160
- MNT1_RC_RATE to 90 (deg/s) to control speed of gimbal when using RC targetting
- CAN1_TYPE to 4 (Mount / SIYI) to allow control of the camera.
- RC6_OPTION = 213 (“Mount Pitch”) to control the gimbal’s pitch angle with RC channel 6
- RC7_OPTION = 214 (“Mount Yaw”) to control the gimbal’s yaw angle with RC channel 7
- RC8_OPTION = 163 (“Mount Lock”) to switch between “lock” and “follow” mode with RC channel 8
Optionally these auxiliary functions are also available.
- RC9_OPTION = 166 (“Camera Record Video”) to start/stop recording of video
- RC9_OPTION = 167 (“Camera Zoom”) to zoom in and out
- RC9_OPTION = 168 (“Camera Manual Focus”) to adjust focus in and out
- RC9_OPTION = 169 (“Camera Auto Focus”) to trigger auto focus
Control SIYI Gimbal Camera by Mavlink Gimbal Protocol through UART
Gimbal camera’s UART port connects to PX4 / Ardupilot flight controller’s UART port directly to communicate with the flight controller and to control gimbal rotation, gimbal functions, and camera functions.
Preparation
It is necessary to prepare the tools, firmware, and software below before controlling gimbal camera in this way.
- PX4 / Ardupilot Flight Controller
- A8 mini Gimbal Camera
Mark
Above products can be purchased from SIYI directly or from SIYI authorized dealers.
- SIYI Gimbal to Ardupilot Flight Controller UART Cable
Mark
Above tools should be made by customers at this moment. Please refer to the below picture for pinouts and diagram.
SIYI will provide a standard cable to support the direct connection between PX4 / Ardupilot flight controller and SIYI gimbal. Welcome to follow our product updates!
- Mission Planner
Mark
Above software can be downloaded from Mission Planner official link.
Steps
- Power SIYI gimbal camera and flight controller.
- Connect gimbal camera’s UART port to flight controller’s UART port and make sure they are communicating with each other.
- Run ground station and set the following parameters.
The params below assume the autopilot’s TELEM1 port is used for instance.
- SERIAL1_PROTOCOL to 2 (Mavlink 2)
- SERIAL1_BAUD to “115” for 115200 bps
- Optional: BRD_SER2_RTSCTS to “0” to disable serial flow control
- MNT1_TYPE to “4” (SToRM32 MAVLink) and reboot the ardupilot
- MNT1_PITCH_MIN to -90
- MNT1_PITCH_MAX to 25
- MNT1_YAW_MIN to -160
- MNT1_YAW_MAX to 160
- RC6_OPTION = 213 (“Mount Pitch”) to control the gimbal’s pitch angle with RC channel 6
- RC7_OPTION = 214 (“Mount Yaw”) to control the gimbal’s yaw angle with RC channel 7
- RC8_OPTION = 163 (“Mount Lock”) to switch between “lock” and “follow” mode with RC channel 8
Optionally these auxiliary functions are also available.
- RC9_OPTION = 166 (“Camera Record Video”) to start/stop recording of video
- RC9_OPTION = 167 (“Camera Zoom”) to zoom in and out
- RC9_OPTION = 168 (“Camera Manual Focus”) to adjust focus in and out
- RC9_OPTION = 169 (“Camera Auto Focus”) to trigger auto focus
Integrate Mavlink Flight Controller Attitude to Improve Gimbal Performance While Aircraft Attitude Is Changing Fast
Now SIYI gimbal comes with flight controller attitude integration algorithms. Gimbal attitude control and flight controller attitude data coordinates to improve gimbal stability while aircraft attitude is changing fast, such as fast take off, fast yawing, and fast / continuous rotation.
Preparation
It is necessary to prepare the tools, firmware, and software below before controlling gimbal camera in this way.
- PX4 / Ardupilot Flight Controller
- A8 mini Gimbal Camera
Mark
Above products can be purchased from SIYI directly or from SIYI authorized dealers.
- SIYI Gimbal to PX4 / Ardupilot Flight Controller UART Cable
Mark
Above tools should be made by customers at this moment. Please refer to the below picture for pinouts and diagram.
SIYI will provide a standard cable to support the direct connection between PX4 / Ardupilot flight controller and SIYI gimbal. Welcome to follow our product updates!
- Mission Planner
Mark
Above software can be downloaded from Mission Planner official link.
Steps
- Power SIYI gimbal camera and flight controller.
- Connect gimbal camera’s UART port to flight controller’s UART port and make sure they are communicating with each other.
- Run ground station and set the following parameters.
The params below assume the autopilot’s TELEM1 port is used for instance.
- SERIAL1_BAUD to “115” for 115200 bps
- SR1_EXTRA1 to “50” to set flight controller attitude angle data sending frequency.
After configuration, it is necessary to “Write Parameters” and reboot the flight controller to take effect.
Necessary Trouble Shooting Steps When Gimbal Attitude Control Is Abnormal
Let’s take an example of the problem that gimbal roll axis tilts abnormally.
VIDEO OUTPUT
A8 mini gimbal camera comes with three video output methods: Ethernet, HDMI, and CVBS(AV).
Mark
The default video output method of A8 mini gimbal is Ethernet. When “Video Output” option is set as “OFF” in SIYI FPV app, A8 mini’s Ethernet video output will get the best performance.
Output and Display Video Stream on SIYI Ground Station
Gimbal camera can connect to the air unit directly, then video will be displayed in SIYI FPV app or SIYI QGC app or other app that are compatible with SIYI link and SIYI gimbal camera when the air unit is communicating with the ground station.
Please refer to chapter 3.1 of this manual for more detail.
Output Video Stream to Android Device through HM30 Full HD Image Transmission System
Gimbal camera connects to HM30 air unit directly, then video will be displayed in SIYI FPV app or SIYI QGC app or other app that are compatible with SIYI link and SIYI gimbal camera when the air unit is communicating with the ground unit.
Preparation
It is necessary to prepare the tools, firmware, and software below before outputting video stream in this way.
- HM30 Full HD Image Transmission System
- A8 mini Gimbal Camera
Mark
Above products can be purchased from SIYI directly or from SIYI authorized dealers.
- SIYI Gimbal to Link Cable
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Above tools come with product package.
- SIYI FPV App (v2.5.12.572 or latest version)
- SIYI QGC App
Mark
Above software can be downloaded from relevant product page on SIYI official website.
SIYI FPV App Steps
- Power air unit and bind it with ground unit.
- Use SIYI Gimbal to SIYI Link Cable to connect the air unit’s Ethernet port with the gimbal camera’s Ethernet port.
- Update SIYI FPV app to the latest.
- Run SIYI FPV app, go to “Settings” and select the relevant SIYI camera type with main / sub stream, video stream will display. Gimbal motion and camera functions can be controlled by app touchscreen.
SIYI QGC App Steps
- Power air unit and bind it with ground unit.
- Use SIYI Gimbal to SIYI Link Cable to connect the air unit’s Ethernet port with the gimbal camera’s Ethernet port.
- Run SIYI QGC app, go to “Comm Links – Video Settings”, and select “RTSP Video Stream” for “Source”, then enter the default RTSP addresses of SIYI gimbal camera, video stream will display. Gimbal motion and camera functions can be controlled by ground station touchscreen.
Output Video Stream to Windows Device through HM30 Full HD Image Transmission System
Gimbal camera connects to HM30 air unit directly, then video will be displayed in SIYI QGC Windows software when the air unit is communicating with the ground unit.
Please refer to chapter 3.4 of this manual for details.
Output Video to Windows Device Directly
Gimbal camera connects to Windows device directly, then video will be displayed in SIYI QGC Windows software.
Preparation
It is necessary to prepare the tools, firmware, and software below before outputting video stream in this way.
- A8 mini Gimbal Camera
Mark
Above products can be purchased from SIYI directly or from SIYI authorized dealers.
- SIYI Gimbal Ethernet to RJ45 Cable
Mark
Above tools come with product package.
- SIYI QGC Windows Software
Mark
Above software can be downloaded from relevant product page on SIYI official website.
Steps
- Power gimbal camera.
- Use SIYI Gimbal Ethernet to RJ45 Cable to connect the gimbal camera’s Ethernet port to Windows device’s RJ45 port. If your computer does not come with RJ45 port, it is suggested to use an RJ45 to USB converter.
- Modify the computer’s Ethernet settings to have the same gateway with SIYI link and avoid IP addresses conflict.
For example, let’s assign “192.168.144.30” for the computer IP addresses.
4. Run SIYI QGC Windows software, go to “Comm Links – Video Settings”, and select “RTSP Video Stream” for “Source”, then enter the default RTSP addresses of SIYI gimbal camera, video stream will display. Gimbal motion and camera functions can be controlled by mouse in QGroundControl.
Output Video to Third-Party Link
SIYI gimbal camera can output video to any third-party link which provides Ethernet port and is compatible with RTSP video stream.
In this way, it is necessary to prepare a customized video cable for connection between SIYI gimbal camera and the third-party link.
CAUTION
SIYI gimbal camera Ethernet port’s “RX-” pinout should connect to the third-party link Ethernet port’s “RX-” pinout, and “RX+” pinout to “RX+” pinout. Do not cross the pinouts, otherwise it will cause damage to the device.
Steps
- Power the air unit of the third-party link and bind it with the ground unit.
- Use the video cable to connect SIYI gimbal camera’s Ethernet port and the third- party link’s Ethernet port.
- Open RTSP video player and input SIYI gimbal camera’s default RTSP addresses, if connection is successful, video will display normally.
Mark
SIYI QGC Android app and Windows software support video display from third-party links as well.
Output by HDMI
A8 mini can output video to any HDMI monitor or to third-party link which support HDMI input through the Micro-HDMI port.
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The default video output mode of A8 mini is Ethernet.
Go to the “Gimbal Config” page in SIYI Assistant program to change the video output mode to HDMI, then A8 mini will stream from its Micro-HDMI port.
When A8 mini is outputting video to a third-party link through HDMI, SIYI FPV and SIYI FPV app cannot control the gimbal by touchscreen. Please use S.Bus or UART control instead.
Output by CVBS / AV Signal
A8 mini can output video stream by AV signal through the Ethernet video output port.
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The default video output method of A8 mini is Ethernet.
Go to the “Gimbal Config” page in SIYI Assistant program to change the video output mode to “CVBS”, then A8 mini video stream will output as AV signal through the CVBS pin in the Ethernet port.
Solutions to No Image
If gimbal camera failed to output video or the video cannot be displayed properly, please follow the steps below for trouble shooting.
- Confirm if the link’s ground unit is communicating with the air unit and if the camera is connected to the air unit.
- Check Camera IP addresses and RTSP addresses.
- If you are using SIYI FPV app, check the connection status, app version, video stream settings.
- If you are using SIYI handheld ground stations, check the Ethernet switch in Android system.
- Please double check if the gimbal camera’s IP addresses was modified accidentally.
If video still does not show up, please follow the steps below and make a deep investigation according to the video output mode, the video display device, and the application / software you are using.
Video Output to Android Device
Input SIYI gimbal’s default IP addresses “192.168.144.25” in the “Ping Tools” app and check if the network communication is successful. If the tool responds, then check if the RTSP address in the application / software is correct.
Successful Network Communication
Network Communication Failed
2. If the network communication is failed, then check the communication between the link’s ground unit and the air unit. If the communication is good, then check if the video cable between the camera and the link’s air unit is good, and if the voltage input is in normal range.
Video Output to Windows Device
- Use the “Win + R” key combo to wake up the “Run” program and input the command “cmd”.
Successful Network Communication
Network Communication Failed
2. Input SIYI gimbal camera’s default IP addresses “192.168.144.25” and press the “Enter” key to check if the communication is successful. If it is, please check the RTSP addresses in the software or try to switch to another software.
3. If the network didn’t connect, then check the communication between the link’s ground unit and the air unit. If the communication is successful, then check if the video cable between the camera and the link’s air unit is good, and if the voltage input is in normal range.
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If you have done all trouble shooting by following the steps above and still didn’t solve the problem, then please contact your dealer, or contact SIYI Support directly.
Common IP Addresses
SIYI Optical Pod / Gimbal Camera’s Default IP Addresses: 192.168.144.25 (OLD) SIYI Optical Pod / Gimbal Camera’s Default RTSP Addresses: rtsp://192.168.144.25:8554/main.264
(NEW) SIYI FPV App’s Private Video Stream Protocol’s Addresses:
- SIYI Camera 1 Main Stream: 192.168.144.25: 37256
- SIYI Camera 1 Sub Stream: 192.168.144.25: 37255
- SIYI Camera 2 Main Stream: 192.168.144.26: 37256
- SIYI Camera 2 Sub Stream: 192.168.144.26: 37255
Mark
SIYI cameras released after ZT30 (including ZT30) start to use the new addresses.
SIYI cameras released before ZT30 still use the old addresses, including ZR30, A2 mini, A8 mini, ZR10, R1M Recording FPV Camera, etc.
SIYI FPV APP
SIYI FPV is an Android application developed by SIYI to configure many SIYI products for video display, camera stream settings, and communication link status monitoring.
Mark
This chapter is edited based on SIYI FPV App v2.5.12.572.
SIYI FPV App can be download from the relevant product pages on SIYI official website.
SIYI FPV App compatible SIYI devices.
- ZT30 Four-Sensor Optical Pod
- ZR30 4K AI 180X Hybrid Zoom Optical Pod
- A2 mini Ultra-Wide-Angle FPV Gimbal
- MK32 / MK32E Enterprise Handheld Ground Station
- A8 mini AI Zoom Gimbal Camera
- ZR10 2K 30X Hybrid Zoom Optical Pod
- R1M HD Recording FPV Camera
- Air Unit HDMI Input Converter
- HM30 Full HD Image Transmission System
- MK15 / MK15E Mini Handheld Ground Station
SIYI FPV App OSD Information Definition
SIYI FPV Camera Function Icon Definition
Settings
In “Settings” page, you can select camera type with stream type, select or input video stream IP addresses, custom app interface, and switch video decoding type.
About Settings
Camera IP: Select between SIYI Camera 1 and SIYI Camera 2, between main stream and sub stream, select or input video stream RTSP addresses, disable image, or rotate the relevant image in 180 degrees.
Cross Sight: Enable / disable a cross sight in the center of the image.
Map: Enable / disable the map box over the left-bottom corner of the image. OSD Color: Custom the color of all OSD information.
Decoding Type: Switch between “Hardware Decoding” and “Software Decoding”. Please refer to your camera and your device to display video for the best decoding type.
Link Status
Display the link status directly over the FPV image.
About Link Status
OSD: Enable / disable standard OSD information.
Mavlink OSD: Enable / disable Mavlink OSD information.
Speed Unit: Switch speed unit between meter per seconds and kilometer per hour. Longitude and Latitude: Enable / disable information.
Gimbal Camera
Configure the basic functions for SIYI gimbal cameras and cameras.
About Gimbal Camera
Auto Record: Turn on / off automatically video recording by TF card on gimbal camera start. Record Resolution: Switch camera record resolution between HD (720p), Full HD (1080p), 2K, and 4K (under 4K recording resolution, A8 mini camera does not zoom).
Video Resolution: Switch camera real-time streaming resolution between HD (720p) and Full HD (1080p).
Working Mode: Switch gimbal motion mode between Lock Mode, Follow Mode, and FPV Mode.
- Under Lock Mode, gimbal rotates simultaneously as aircraft rolls to get FPV and output enhanced stable images, compatible with planes and racing drones especially for FPV scenes.
- Under Follow Mode, gimbal follows when aircraft rotates horizontally, compatible with multi-copter drones.
- Under Lock Mode, gimbal does not follow when aircraft rotates horizontally. Video Output: Switch gimbal camera’s video output method.
- HDMI: A8 mini gimbal camera outputs video stream through the Micro-HDMI port.
- CVBS: A8 mini gimbal camera outputs video stream through the CVBS pin of the Ethernet port by AV signal.
- OFF: A8 mini gimbal camera only outputs video stream through the Ethernet port. HDMI Latency Mode: Switch A8 mini gimbal camera’s latency mode under HDMI / CVBS video output method.
- Normal: Ethernet port outputs video stream, recording function is normal.
- Low Latency: Ethernet port video output is disabled, recording function is normal.
- Lowest Latency: Both Ethernet port video output and recording function are disabled. Camera Firmware Version: Display the current camera firmware version.
Gimbal Firmware Version: Display the current gimbal firmware version.
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After switching video output mode or HDMI latency mode, gimbal camera should be restarted to implement the change.
Gimbal working mode is Follow Mode in default every time it is started.
About SIYI FPV
Displays the software version of SIYI FPV and common contact information of SIYI Technology.
SIYI FPV App Update Log
Firmware Upgrade and Configuration
SIYI PC Assistant is a Windows software developed by SIYI to configure many SIYI products for configuration, firmware update, and calibration.
Mark
The manual is edited based on SIYI PC Assistant v1.3.4.
Gimbal / Zoom Firmware Update
SIYI gimbal camera connects to SIYI PC Assistant for gimbal firmware and zoom firmware update.
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Zoom firmware update is only available for zoom gimbal cameras only.
Before upgrading, it is necessary to prepare the tools, software, and firmware below.
- SIYI PC Assistant (v1.3.4 or latest version)
- Gimbal Firmware
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Above software and firmware can be downloaded from relevant product page on SIYI official website.
- Cable (USB-C to USB-A)
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Customers should prepare the above tools.
Firmware Upgrade Steps
- Install “SIYI PC Assistant” on your Windows device.
- Use the USB-C to USB-A cable to connect Windows device’s USB-A port to gimbal camera’s USB-C port.
- Run “SIYI PC Assistant” and switch to “Upload” page to check gimbal camera’s current firmware version.
4. If the firmware is not latest, then click the “Select File” button in the “Gimbal” to import the latest firmware. And click “Upgrade” and wait till it is “100%” finished.
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Before updating any firmware, gimbal camera should be powered. It is the same process for both gimbal firmware and zoom firmware.
Camera Firmware Update
The camera firmware of SIYI gimbal camera should be upgraded by SD card.
Before upgrading, it is necessary to prepare the tools, software, and firmware below.
- Micro-SD Card (Class10, FAT32)
Mark
Customers should prepare the above tools.
- Camera Firmware
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Above software and firmware can be downloaded from relevant product page on SIYI official website.
Firmware Upgrade Steps
- Save camera firmware’s “.bin” file to the SD card’s root directory and do not change the file name.
2. Restart gimbal camera and wait for 3 to 5 minutes. Camera firmware will be flashed automatically.
3. Run SIYI FPV app or SIYI PC Assistant software to check if camera firmware is updated successfully.
Gimbal Camera Configuration
SIYI gimbal camera can be connected to SIYI PC Assistant for channel settings and camera settings.
Channel Configuration
The “Channel Config” menu under “Gimbal Config” menu can assign the below gimbal camera functions to up to 16 channels and an idle channel (disabled).
Gimbal Functions and Description
- Auto Focus: Control zoom camera for automatic focus.
- Zoom: Control camera for optical zoom and digital zoom.
- Manual Focus: Adjust zoom camera focal length for manual focus.
- Yaw: Control gimbal rotation on yaw axis.
- Pitch: Control gimbal rotation on pitch axis.
- Auto Center: Control gimbal to reset to initial position. Coordinates (0, 0).
- Photo: Control camera to take a picture.
- Record: Enable / disable video recording.
- Motion Mode: Switch gimbal working mode (follow mode, lock mode, FPV mode).
- Auto Down: Control gimbal pitch axis to point downward vertically. Coordinates (0, -90).
- Image Mode: Select the video stream’s image type and camera source. Single image or split image. Zoom camera, wide angle camera, or thermal imaging camera. Max three switches to be assigned for different image mode (for ZT30 only).
Camera Configuration
The “Gimbal Config” menu also supports abundant and core features of SIYI gimbal camera, such as, checking camera firmware version, modifying camera IP addresses, selecting camera source for main / sub stream and video recording, switching camera resolution or zoom mode, enabling / disabling thermal camera’s synchronized zoom, enabling / disabling boot recording.
About Camera Configuration
- IP Config: Modify camera IP addresses.
- Gateway Config: Modify camera gateway
- Gimbal Working Mode: Switch gimbal working mode (follow mode, lock mode, FPV mode)
- Main Stream: Select camera source and switch output resolution for the main stream.
- Sub Stream: Select camera source and switch output resolution for the sub stream.
- Record Resolution: Select camera source and switch video resolution for recording.
- Zoom Mode: Switch zoom camera’s zoom mode (normal, absolute zoom).
- Boot Record: Enable / disable automatic video recording by TF card as soon as gimbal camera is powered.
Gimbal Calibration
The “Gimbal Calibration” can help users do IMU calibration, IMU Constant temperature calibration, and accelerator hexahedral calibration.
IMU Calibration
IMU calibration can keep the inertial measuring unit’s accuracy and reliability.
Steps
- Click “Check”, gimbal camera will power off automatically. Meanwhile, please follow the message box and place the gimbal camera on a flat surface and make sure that the IMU is static. Do not touch or vibrate the gimbal camera. Then go for “Start Checking”.
2. The PC assistant start to check IMU status automatically to determine if the gimbal should be calibrated.
3. If IMU is working normally, there will be a message box to indicate “not necessary to calibrate”.
4. If IMU is not working normally, there will be a message box to indicate “calibration is necessary”.
5. Click “Start Gimbal” and “Calibrate”.
6. The message box will say again “please follow the message box and place the gimbal camera on a flat surface and make sure that the IMU is static. Do not touch or vibrate the gimbal camera”.
7. IMU calibration menu will display “calibrating”.
7. After a few seconds, IMU calibration will be finished.
IMU Constant Temperature Calibration
Specially designed for using gimbals in scenarios with big difference in temperature to avoid the situation that gimbal behaves abnormally because IMU cannot reach constant temperature normally and fast when the environment temperature is far from IMU constant temperature.
Before calibration, please input the environment temperature of your operating field, the software will start to calculate the target IMU constant temperature so that IMU can reach the temperature fast after powering on gimbal camera. The software is showing IMU temperature in real-time.
Accelerator Hexahedral Calibration
Accelerator hexahedral calibration can calibrate the accelerator’s sensitivity, zero bias, and inter axis error, etc. During calibration, the gimbal should be placed in all hexahedrons to record accelerator’s output value on each orientation and build the
error model. Hexahedral calibration can keep the accelerator’s accuracy and reliability.
Camera Configuration
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