DJI Camera High FPS Mode Not Available? Try This

⚙️ Understanding High FPS and Its Importance

High FPS, or frames per second, refers to the number of individual frames a camera captures per second. A higher frame rate allows for smoother slow-motion playback when the footage is slowed down during editing. This is crucial for capturing fast-moving subjects or creating cinematic effects.

DJI cameras offer various high FPS options, typically ranging from 60fps to 240fps, depending on the model and resolution. These modes are essential for achieving professional-looking aerial cinematography.

When high FPS mode is unavailable, you’re limited to standard frame rates, which can result in choppy or less fluid slow-motion footage. Identifying the cause is the first step towards restoring this functionality.

⚠️ Common Reasons Why High FPS Mode Might Be Unavailable

Several factors can prevent your DJI camera from accessing high FPS recording. Understanding these potential causes is essential for effective troubleshooting.

• Incorrect Camera Settings: The most common reason is simply having the wrong settings selected. This includes resolution, video format, or other parameters that might conflict with high FPS recording.
• SD Card Compatibility: Using an SD card that doesn’t meet the required speed and capacity specifications can restrict high FPS functionality. The camera needs to be able to write data quickly enough to keep up with high frame rate recording.
• Firmware Issues: Outdated or corrupted firmware can cause various camera malfunctions, including the inability to access high FPS modes.
• Overheating: If the camera overheats, it may disable certain features, including high FPS recording, to prevent damage.
• Resolution Limitations: Some DJI cameras limit high FPS recording to specific resolutions. For example, you might only be able to record at 1080p in high FPS, not 4K.
• Software Glitches: Occasionally, temporary software glitches can prevent high FPS from being available.

🛠️ Troubleshooting Steps to Restore High FPS Functionality

Follow these steps to systematically troubleshoot and resolve the issue of your DJI camera’s high FPS mode being unavailable.

1. Verify Camera Settings

The first step is to carefully examine your camera settings. Ensure that you have selected a resolution and video format compatible with high FPS recording.

• Go to the camera settings menu in the DJI app or on the drone’s remote controller.
• Check the resolution and frame rate settings. Make sure you’re not trying to record at a resolution that doesn’t support high FPS.
• Ensure the video format (e.g., MP4, MOV) is compatible with high FPS recording on your camera model.
• Disable any features that might conflict with high FPS, such as HDR video or certain intelligent flight modes.

2. Check SD Card Compatibility

An incompatible SD card is a frequent culprit behind high FPS limitations. DJI cameras require specific SD card types to handle the high data rates associated with high frame rate recording.

• Speed Class: Ensure your SD card has a speed class of V30 or higher. This indicates that it can sustain a minimum write speed of 30MB/s, which is often necessary for high FPS recording.
• UHS Rating: Look for a UHS-I or UHS-II rating. UHS-II cards offer faster data transfer speeds, which can be beneficial for high FPS recording.
• Capacity: Make sure the SD card has sufficient capacity to store the footage you intend to record. High FPS video files can be quite large.
• Brand and Model: Use a reputable brand known for producing reliable SD cards. Consult the DJI website or user manual for recommended SD card models.
• Test with a Different SD Card: If possible, try using a different SD card that meets the recommended specifications to see if the issue is resolved.

3. Update Firmware

Outdated firmware can lead to various camera issues, including the unavailability of high FPS mode. Updating to the latest firmware version can often resolve these problems.

• Connect your DJI device (drone or camera) to the DJI app on your mobile device.
• Check for firmware updates in the app. If an update is available, follow the on-screen instructions to install it.
• Ensure that the firmware update process is completed without interruption. A failed update can cause serious issues.
• After the update, restart your DJI device and check if the high FPS mode is now available.

4. Allow the Camera to Cool Down

Overheating can trigger the camera to disable high FPS recording to protect its internal components. If you’ve been recording for an extended period or in hot conditions, allow the camera to cool down.

• Turn off the DJI device and remove the battery.
• Allow the camera to cool down in a shaded area for at least 30 minutes.
• Avoid using the camera in direct sunlight or in environments with poor ventilation.
• Consider using a sunshade or other cooling accessories to help prevent overheating.

5. Reset Camera Settings

If none of the above steps work, try resetting the camera settings to their default values. This can often resolve software glitches or configuration errors that might be preventing high FPS mode from working.

• Go to the camera settings menu in the DJI app or on the drone’s remote controller.
• Look for an option to reset the camera settings to their default values.
• Confirm the reset and wait for the process to complete.
• After the reset, reconfigure your camera settings and check if the high FPS mode is now available.

6. Calibrate the IMU and Gimbal

Sometimes, issues with the IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) or gimbal can indirectly affect camera functionality. Calibrating these components can help resolve such problems.

• In the DJI app, navigate to the IMU and gimbal calibration settings.
• Follow the on-screen instructions to calibrate each component.
• Ensure that the calibration process is performed on a level surface and without any movement.
• After the calibration, restart your DJI device and check if the high FPS mode is now available.

7. Check for Physical Obstructions

Although less common, physical obstructions around the camera or gimbal can sometimes interfere with its operation. Ensure there are no obstructions.

• Visually inspect the camera and gimbal for any obstructions, such as debris, stickers, or loose wires.
• Carefully remove any obstructions that you find.
• Ensure that the gimbal can move freely without any restrictions.

📞 When to Contact DJI Support

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and the high FPS mode is still unavailable, it’s time to contact DJI support. There might be a hardware issue or a more complex software problem that requires professional assistance.

When contacting DJI support, be prepared to provide the following information:

• Your DJI device model
• The firmware version you’re using
• The steps you’ve already taken to troubleshoot the issue
• A detailed description of the problem