Learning to fly an eye in the sky
This drone is controlled by your phone
THERE are many gadgets that offer fun, but few that offer an experience.
I have always wondered how some people manage to get their hands on such amazing pictures of Durban or other destinations.
Recently, I was at the Umhlanga lighthouse and spotted a guy on his smartphone.
He had a very focused look, as if he were making a Mission Impossible decision. After a few minutes, I noticed a plane-like object hovering above him and he started saying: “I can’t actually believe this!”
I moved in for a closer look and realised it was not a bird or a plane, but a drone — the Parrot Ar Drone 2.
What is it? A unique fourprop drone controlled through your cellphone or tablet and carrying an HD camera and a wide-angle lens.
First, you have to download the app applicable to your phone. You control the drone with your phone through Wi-Fi, and it is not as easy as you think.
I was fortunate enough to have a drone loaned to me, but it had a few broken edges when I returned it. So, when you get yours, don’t be brave with it. Try flying low at first to get used to it. You can easily break the hull (and, trust me, you are bound to), but this can be replaced.
The Parrot Ar Drone 2 is a great gadget. If only the battery life was as great. On a full battery, you’ll get a mere 25 minutes of flying time. The 720 pixel camera will record video or take pictures straight to your phone.
The drone costs about R4 000 and, I hasten to add, it’s not a toy. It’s great if you love photography and want to take your passion to new heights.
The design makes it look like an insect, and lights indicate that the propellers are on.
There are a few safety features, for example, if you move out of Wi-Fi range, it will warn you. If the wind is too strong and you are afraid of where it might land, there is an emergency drop that can be activated.
Note that I said “drop”, so that also means it could break when falling.
This is a great gadget and one I totally loved. I felt like I could get great shots of my house from the rooftop and also sneak a few shots of my neighbour’s house.
For the modern technology we are embracing, this is a must.
Parrot has done well with the Drone 2, now all that’s left is for you to test it for yourself.
Deon Govender is a DJ at East Coast Radio.
Find him on Facebook — Deon Govender DJ — and follow him on Twitter @djdeong