Ask Drone U

Ask Drone U

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Ask Drone U episodes

  • ADU 0704: What is the life expectancy of my drone?
    Today, we talk about the life expectancy of drones.  How long is your drone going to last you?  Tom called in from California to ask how long he should expect his drone to last.
    We all know that drones don’t last forever.  However, you’re going to have to replace certain drones more frequently than others.  For example, an Inspire 1 is going to last you a lot longer than a Phantom.  Phantoms tend to fly for around 800 hours.  Afterwards, it’s going to need some repairs.  Your motor, gimbal, and other parts will eventually start to give out and you’ll need to replace it.  
    In order to help drone entrepreneurs prepare for the future, we talk about being realistic about your drone's life expectancy and give some advice on budgeting for equipment.  Hope you enjoy!  Fly safe!
    Also, the folks over at Energen are offering a special discount on their amazing portable chargers for all Drone U members.  Use one the following promo codes at checkout, depending on which battery you buy, to get a great deal on a killer battery:
    Energen A40 Model:  DRONEUA40
    Energen M10 Model:  DRONEU M10
    Energen P40 Mode:  DRONEU P40
    Get your questions answered: http://askdroneu.com/.

    If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us really quick? While you're there, leave us a 5-star review, if you're inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.

    Follow us:
    Site - http://thedroneu.com/
    Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/droneu
    Instagram - https://instagram.com/thedroneu/
    Twitter - https://twitter.com/thedroneu
    YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/droneu

    Get your copy of "Livin’ the Drone Life" - http://amzn.to/2nalUDH
    Get your copy of our Part 107 Study Guide - http://amzn.to/2omQatT

    Timestamps

    Does life expectancy of different drone models vary quite a bit?
    Does your flying frequency drastically affect the life expectancy of your drone?
    How long can you expect your Phantom and Inspire to last?
    Typically when will you need to replace the motors on your Inspire?
    Is it wise to place for a new drone purchase every single year?
    How much can you expect to spend every year after drone accessories?
    Find out how amortizing your expenses can save you money every year

    15 min
  • ADU 0703: What do I need to know about RTK?
    Today, we talk about using Real Time Kinematics, otherwise known as RTK.  Because he's heard us mention RTK a few times, Mike from California called in to ask for some information.  Specifically, he wants to know if he can use RTK instead of having to lay out Ground Control Points (GCP).

    In order to help Mike, we go pretty deep into the details both RTK and GCP.  Because drone pilots in the construction industry work heavily with both of these technologies, we think that this episode should be extremely useful.

    Thanks for the question Mike!  Fly safe!

    P.S – Our friends at Videoblocks are currently offering a “Triple Bundle” package, which gives you full-access to copyright-free video, audio and images for only $149 per year!  Make sure to check them out!

    Get your questions answered: http://askdroneu.com/.

    If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us really quick? While you're there, leave us a 5-star review, if you're inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.

    Follow us:
    Site - http://thedroneu.com/
    Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/droneu
    Instagram - https://instagram.com/thedroneu/
    Twitter - https://twitter.com/thedroneu
    YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/droneu

    Get your copy of "Livin’ the Drone Life" - http://amzn.to/2nalUDH
    Get your copy of our Part 107 Study Guide - http://amzn.to/2omQatT

    Timestamps

    Paul and Rob share information about the new Drone U courses
    Today, we talk about using Real Time Kinematics, otherwise known as RTK
    Defining Ground Control Points (GCP) and listing their benefits
    We discuss how Real Time Kinematics are important for drone mapping
    Discussing how using Ground Control Points result in more accurate elevation data
    What is the the drawback using Trimble GPS data?
    What is the cost of a propeller?
    We discuss how you can do progression modeling and build a time lapse model
    Learn how the Litchi App can come handy while on a mapping mission
    Is the Yuneec 520 better suited for creating hyper lapse models compared to the Phantom?
    We talk about the superior capabilities of the Yuneec 520 with regards to processing JPEG images
    Is the Phantom 4 Pro better suited for mapping compared to the Phantom 4 Advanced?

    18 min
  • ADU 0702: How do you prepare for a system failure emergency?
    Today, we talk about preparing for a system failure.  After all, you never know when you might find yourself in the middle of an emergency landing.

    In order to prepare yourself for an emergency landing, you'll need to understand the proper protocols.  For example, you may have to land your drone in a tree during a system failure.  This will minimize the damage to your drone and prevent you from harming anyone around you.  Therefore, it is important to learn when and how to land your drone safely during an emergency.  You don't want to miss this episode!

    Thanks to Devin in New York for the question!  Fly safe!
    Also, the folks over at Energen are offering a special discount on their amazing portable chargers for all Drone U members.  Use one the following promo codes at checkout, depending on which battery you buy, to get a great deal on a killer battery:
    Energen A40 Model:  DRONEUA40
    Energen M10 Model:  DRONEU M10
    Energen P40 Mode:  DRONEU P40
    Get your questions answered: http://askdroneu.com/.

    If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us really quick? While you're there, leave us a 5-star review, if you're inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.

    Follow us:
    Site - http://thedroneu.com/
    Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/droneu
    Instagram - https://instagram.com/thedroneu/
    Twitter - https://twitter.com/thedroneu
    YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/droneu

    Get your copy of "Livin’ the Drone Life" - http://amzn.to/2nalUDH
    Get your copy of our Part 107 Study Guide - http://amzn.to/2omQatT

    Timestamps

    Today, we talk about preparing for a system failure
    Discussing some pre-flight battery tests for preventing a system failure
    What is a recommended emergency maneuver if you hit a tree but don't crash?
    What should you do if you lose control of your drone?
    How can you bring your drone home if you are experiencing excessive GPS interference?
    What is an emergency procedure that you should follow if you are flying with landing gear?

    13 min
  • ADU 0701: How do I get drone jobs while traveling?
    Today, we talk about getting drone jobs on the road while traveling.  Our friend Taylor in New York is taking off on a road trip and wants to know how he can make money with his drone along the way.

    First, we want to congratulate Taylor on setting out to truly live the Drone Life.  We can't tell you how excited (and jealous!) we are that he's taking his drone business international.  Making money with your drone while traveling is a real possibility for many people and we're happy to see you giving it a shot.  Of course, you'll have to pitch hard and show people that your drone services can really add to their business.

    In order to get drone jobs along the way, you'll need to reach out to the businesses you come in contact with.  Hotels, for example, have a great need for drone services.  By showing them the value that you can provide, you should be able to pick up a number of drone jobs as you travel.

    If you're looking to get drone jobs while traveling, this episode is for you.  However, if you're just looking for some advice on networking, pricing and making money with your drone, you'll also enjoy this one.  Fly safe!

    P.S – Our friends at Videoblocks are currently offering a “Triple Bundle” package, which gives you full-access to copyright-free video, audio and images for only $149 per year!  Make sure to check them out!

    Get your questions answered: http://askdroneu.com/.

    If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us really quick? While you're there, leave us a 5-star review, if you're inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.

    Follow us:
    Site - http://thedroneu.com/
    Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/droneu
    Instagram - https://instagram.com/thedroneu/
    Twitter - https://twitter.com/thedroneu
    YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/droneu

    Get your copy of "Livin’ the Drone Life" - http://amzn.to/2nalUDH
    Get your copy of our Part 107 Study Guide - http://amzn.to/2omQatT

    Timestamps

    Today, we talk about getting drone jobs on the road while traveling
    We talk about the traveling and living the drone life
    We discuss how you can negotiate and work out a good deal
    Is it a a good idea to check out drone job sites for work?
    Apart from hotels and resorts, who are the potential prospects that you can reach out to?

    16 min
  • ADU 0700: How can I build a good maintenance checklist?
    Today, we talk about maintaining you drone.  If you want your drone last as long as possible, after all, you need to take properly take care of it.  This includes changing propellor blades, maintaining batteries and keeping the motor in good shape. 
    In order to help you all prevent breaking your drone, we talk about a few key aspects of maintenance.  Replacing propellor blades, maintaining the motor and switching out the batteries when necessary will ensure that your drone lives a long, happy life.
    Thanks to Mark in Pittsburgh for the question!  We’re glad to have you on board Mark!  Fly safe!
    Also, the folks over at Energen are offering a special discount on their amazing portable chargers for all Drone U members.  Use one the following promo codes at checkout, depending on which battery you buy, to get a great deal on a killer battery:
    Energen A40 Model:  DRONEUA40
    Energen M10 Model:  DRONEU M10
    Energen P40 Mode:  DRONEU P40
    Get your questions answered: http://askdroneu.com/.

    If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us really quick? While you're there, leave us a 5-star review, if you're inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.

    Follow us:
    Site - http://thedroneu.com/
    Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/droneu
    Instagram - https://instagram.com/thedroneu/
    Twitter - https://twitter.com/thedroneu
    YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/droneu

    Get your copy of "Livin’ the Drone Life" - http://amzn.to/2nalUDH
    Get your copy of our Part 107 Study Guide - http://amzn.to/2omQatT

    Timestamps

    Today's question is about maintaining your drone and ensuring that your drone lasts as long as possible
    When should you consider changing your propeller blades?
    Does flying at higher elevation affect the performance of your drone?
    What are some of the telltale signs that you should bring your drone down?
    What are some of the battery tests that you can perform to gauge battery health?
    What are the chances of a motor failure? Is it a concern?

    18 min
  • ADU 0699: Can I monetize YouTube videos recorded while I was still hobbyist?
    Oftentimes, hobbyist pilots upload drone videos to YouTube with no intention of monetizing them.  However, they usually want to make money off of these videos once they get their Part 107.

    Today, we talk about this problem.  Can you monetize YouTube videos you shot as a hobbyist pilot?

    Well, it all depends on the content of the videos.  Of course, the video can't contain footage of you doing anything illegal with your drone.  If you were flying in restricted airspace, for example, you won't want to use the footage for business purposes.  Otherwise, you should be fine.

    Thanks to Neal in Colorado for calling in with today's question!  Fly safe!

    P.S – Our friends at Videoblocks are currently offering a “Triple Bundle” package, which gives you full-access to copyright-free video, audio and images for only $149 per year!  Make sure to check them out!

    Get your questions answered: http://askdroneu.com/.

    If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us really quick? While you're there, leave us a 5-star review, if you're inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.

    Follow us:
    Site - http://thedroneu.com/
    Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/droneu
    Instagram - https://instagram.com/thedroneu/
    Twitter - https://twitter.com/thedroneu
    YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/droneu

    Get your copy of "Livin’ the Drone Life" - http://amzn.to/2nalUDH
    Get your copy of our Part 107 Study Guide - http://amzn.to/2omQatT

    Timestamps

    Today's question is about monetizing videos recorded while you were a hobbyist
    Can a hobbyist, upon receiving his Part 107 monetize a video that he shot in restricted airspace?
    Is it okay for a hobbyist to monetize a video shot with no commercial intent?
    Is it possible to prove that a video was shot with commercial intent?

    9 min
  • ADU 0698: Can I obtain a night waiver if I don’t know which drone I’ll be flying?
    Today, we talk about obtaining a night waiver from the FAA.  Earlier this week, we received a call from a listener who has a very specific question about drone waivers.

    As a Part 107 pilot, he has a registered drone of his own.  However, he was recently approached by a company seeking his drone services.  Currently, he can't disclose what the work entails, but it will most likely involve flying at night.  Our caller wants to know if he can obtain a night waiver from the FAA even if he doesn't know where exactly he'll be flying.  More importantly, he wants to know if he can apply for a night waiver if he doesn't know which of the company's drones he'll be flying.  What can he do?

    Fortunately, the process of obtaining an FAA night waiver is easier than it used to be.  We have a video about night waivers here:

    How to Apply for an FAA Night Waiver

    In that video (and this episode), we explain why our caller's problem isn't as complicated as it seems.  In the end, it should be pretty simple!  We hope you enjoy!  Fly safe!
    Also, the folks over at Energen are offering a special discount on their amazing portable chargers for all Drone U members.  Use one the following promo codes at checkout, depending on which battery you buy, to get a great deal on a killer battery:
    Energen A40 Model:  DRONEUA40
    Energen M10 Model:  DRONEU M10
    Energen P40 Mode:  DRONEU P40
    Get your questions answered: http://askdroneu.com/.

    If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us really quick? While you're there, leave us a 5-star review, if you're inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.

    Follow us:
    Site - http://thedroneu.com/
    Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/droneu
    Instagram - https://instagram.com/thedroneu/
    Twitter - https://twitter.com/thedroneu
    YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/droneu

    Get your copy of "Livin’ the Drone Life" - http://amzn.to/2nalUDH
    Get your copy of our Part 107 Study Guide - http://amzn.to/2omQatT

    Timestamps

    Today's question is about night waiver from the FAA
    Paul suggests checking out the YouTube video, "How to Apply for an FAA Night Waiver"
    Can you obtain a night waiver if you don't know where you will be flying and which drone you will be flying?
    Will having an individual night time waiver give you an edge over others in your company?

    11 min
  • ADU 0697: How much should I charge to map a 1,000 acre property?
    Today, we talk about mapping and modeling a one-thousand acre property.  Adrian calls in with a few questions about a drone job he's been hired for.  In addition to how much he should charge, Adrian wants to know what the best equipment for a modeling job this size would be.  Also, he asks for tips on completing the job successfully.

    In this case, the equipment, pricing and best practices all depend on what the landscape looks like.  Depending on whether the property is covered in trees or contains buildings, Adrian will have to use different equipment.  He may be using lidar, photogrammetry or some combination of the two.  Furthermore, the cost and equipment will be determined by the industry Adrian is working in.

    Do you have a big drone job and don't know where to start?  This episode might be helpful!  Fly safe!

    P.S – Our friends at Videoblocks are currently offering a “Triple Bundle” package, which gives you full-access to copyright-free video, audio and images for only $149 per year!  Make sure to check them out!
    Also, the folks over at Energen are offering a special discount on their amazing portable chargers for all Drone U members.  Use one the following promo codes at checkout, depending on which battery you buy, to get a great deal on a killer battery:
    Energen A40 Model:  DRONEUA40
    Energen M10 Model:  DRONEU M10
    Energen P40 Mode:  DRONEU P40
    Get your questions answered: http://askdroneu.com/.

    If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us really quick? While you're there, leave us a 5-star review, if you're inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.

    Follow us:
    Site - http://thedroneu.com/
    Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/droneu
    Instagram - https://instagram.com/thedroneu/
    Twitter - https://twitter.com/thedroneu
    YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/droneu

    Get your copy of "Livin’ the Drone Life" - http://amzn.to/2nalUDH
    Get your copy of our Part 107 Study Guide - http://amzn.to/2omQatT

    Timestamps

    We discuss the recent security issues with DJI products
    What are some of the advantages of using LIDAR technology on a mapping mission?
    Today's question is about mapping and modeling a one-thousand acre property
    Why should you opt for LIDAR over photogrammetry if your mapping site is covered with dense foliage?
    How do you deal with clients who want buildings to appear lifelike in the final deliverable? Can you use LIDAR as well as photogrammetry?
    Will using LIDAR result in significant time savings on a mapping mission?
    Can you use photogrammetry to map an area of 1,000 acres?
    What will be cost of batteries if you attempt to map a large 1,000 acre area?
    We discuss why it is not feasible to shoot for longer duration in winter
    Will your effort and hence, charge go up if your client demands the final deliverable as an object file?
    How much should charge for mapping a 1,000 acre area if you are using LIDAR? What about photogrammetry?
    What are the some of the considerations if your mapping mission has an agricultural purpose?
    In which instances would a fixed wing drone like PrecisionHawk be a good solution?
    Is it better to quote a Package price for a mapping job of such large scale? Is it better than making an itemized quote?
    Why is it important to define requirements of your final deliverable before bidding for job? Should you consider offering multiple packages?
    We talk about tips and tricks to negotiate with a prospect without offending them
    Should you consider opting for a home-built fixed wing drone for a similar large scale mapping job?
    29 min
  • ADU 0696: I want to map with my P4P+ but can’t download third-party apps. What should I do?
    Today, we talk about the Phantom 4 Pro Plus and third-party apps.  Those of you who own the Phantom 4 Pro Plus probably know that it doesn't work with third-party apps.  Therefore, it is nearly impossible to use for mapping and modeling.

    Unfortunately, our friend David in El Paso just purchased a Phantom 4 Pro Plus and wants to get into the mapping business.  Of course, he found out quickly that he couldn't download any third-party apps like Pix4D.  He wants to know what he should do.

    Honestly, it may be his best option to exchange his new drone for a regular Phantom 4 Pro.  In that case, he'll be able to use his phone to download Pix4D and get to making maps and models.  Due to the fact that David purchased the drone within the past week, he should be able to do so just fine.

    Let us know how it works out for you, David.  Fly safe!
    Also, the folks over at Energen are offering a special discount on their amazing portable chargers for all Drone U members.  Use one the following promo codes at checkout, depending on which battery you buy, to get a great deal on a killer battery:
    Energen A40 Model:  DRONEUA40
    Energen M10 Model:  DRONEU M10
    Energen P40 Mode:  DRONEU P40
    Get your questions answered: http://askdroneu.com/.

    If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us really quick? While you're there, leave us a 5-star review, if you're inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.

    Follow us:
    Site - http://thedroneu.com/
    Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/droneu
    Instagram - https://instagram.com/thedroneu/
    Twitter - https://twitter.com/thedroneu
    YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/droneu

    Get your copy of "Livin’ the Drone Life" - http://amzn.to/2nalUDH
    Get your copy of our Part 107 Study Guide - http://amzn.to/2omQatT

    Timestamps

    Today's question is about Phantom 4 Pro Plus and third party apps
    Can you use third party apps with the Phantom 4 Pro Plus?
    Is the Android version of Pix4D better than the iPhone version? If yes, why?
    Can you download third party apps using your CrystalSky monitor? Are there any issues while doing so?
    Can you return a DJI product that you buy from Amazon?

    10 min
  • ADU 0695: How can I build a drone business in a rural area?
    Today’s episode is for those of you drone pilots who work in rural areas with low populations.  Bill called in to ask us about running a drone business in a place with a relatively small community. 
    Of course, any drone business in a smaller area is going to face some challenges when it comes to finding clients and getting work.  At the same time, however, the process of finding clients will generally be the same.
    Remember, drones can help businesses everywhere.  Real estate agencies need aerial photographs.  Construction companies love progression maps.  Tourist bureaus can use drone footage to advertise the area and entice people to come visit.  Photogrammetry is something that has growing value in a ton of industries. 
    All in all, you’ll just have to make a demo reel showcasing your drone skills and get it in front of the right people.  Focus on the niches where you think you can really shine, show your potential customers how you can help them and don’t give up.  Whether you're in Manhattan or the rural Midwest, businesses need the skills that you have to offer.  
    Thanks for the question Bill!  Fly safe!
    P.S – Our friends at Videoblocks are currently offering a “Triple Bundle” package, which gives you full-access to copyright-free video, audio and images for only $149 per year!  Make sure to check them out!

    Get your questions answered: http://askdroneu.com/.

    If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us really quick? While you're there, leave us a 5-star review, if you're inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.

     

    Follow us:
    Site - http://thedroneu.com/
    Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/droneu
    Instagram - https://instagram.com/thedroneu/
    Twitter - https://twitter.com/thedroneu
    YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/droneu

    Get your copy of "Livin’ the Drone Life" - http://amzn.to/2nalUDH
    Get your copy of our Part 107 Study Guide - http://amzn.to/2omQatT
    Support net neutrality by signing up here - https://www.battleforthenet.com/

    Timestamps

    Today's question is about starting a business in a rural area
    Are online platforms good sources for getting drone jobs?
    Paul urges anyone thinking of getting into the drone business to make a compelling demonstration video
    What are some of the possible areas that you can consider if you planning to enter the drone business?
    Paul explains how you can systematically and strategically build your drone business
    Paul shares some online sites where you can get work and kick start your drone business
    Should you consider looking for work outside your city?
    Rob explains why marketing your drone services through your city's Chamber of Commerce is a great idea

    12 min

About Ask Drone U

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We’re Drone U, a group of guys who have turned their passion for flight into a profitable business. We love hearing from our fans, and we love helping by answering their questions. That’s why we…

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