Hi. Have Mavic pro preordered. Had friends P4 for few days to play around a bit. Have one question. Is sensors for obstacle avoidance workind just in front of P4? What is bottom one for? Or i just don't understand the idea of it? Shouldn't it stop aircraft from smashing into the ground same as tree or wall going forward?

Thanks

it senses in front and below.

Yes, obstacle avoidance are the Forward Vision System sensors (FVS), the downward ultrasonic and video sensors are Vertical Positioning System (VPS) to help maintain vertical positioning when indoors or when flying below 2m-3m. Here's an older video from Ken Booth showing the Phantom 3 VPS in action:

terrylewis Posted at 2016-10-9 15:08
Yes, obstacle avoidance are the Forward Vision System sensors (FVS), the downward ultrasonic and vid ...

So just to confirm. Sensors won't stop me from crashing into the ground, just front crash. Right?

Thanks guys

Richis Posted at 2016-10-9 10:37
So just to confirm. Sensors won't stop me from crashing into the ground, just front crash. Right?
...

Correct, with a couple of caveats ->

- FVS obstacle avoidance doesn't function in SPORT mode.
- Both systems operate within specified boundaries:

               

terrylewis Posted at 2016-10-9 17:09
Correct, with a couple of caveats ->

- FVS obstacle avoidance doesn't function in SPORT ...

Thanks! I'm newbie so it might be some stupid questions from me

Richis Posted at 2016-10-9 15:37
So just to confirm. Sensors won't stop me from crashing into the ground, just front crash. Right?
...

No will not stop you crashing. They are an aid only and absolutely no substitute for learning to fly properly. The same as ABS brakes on a car won't stop you killing yourself, they are an added measure of 'safety'

Avoidance also doesn't work over 22mph or in sport mode

Richis Posted at 2016-10-9 12:23
Thanks! I'm newbie so it might be some stupid questions from me

The only stupid question is the one NOT asked....

Good luck and always fly safely.

P.S. If in the US (rather than the UK), check out the FAA Android or iOS app (Click here to read about the FAA B4UFLY App)