Event 38 QX1 Companion Computer Now Available

Event 38 is today announcing the release of a Companion Computer to the Sony QX1 camera. The companion computer is a fully integrated solution for streamlining the mapping and geotagging process on the E384, E386, and other Pixhawk-powered drones. It allows users to completely bypass the normal geotagging post-processing step. This relieves a burden on operators running frequent missions and improves the geotag accuracy of those missions at the same time. That can lead to faster and more accurate orthomosaic stitching, too.

The Companion Computer connects directly to both the Sony QX1 camera and the Pixhawk autopilot. When you power on the aircraft, the camera automatically powers up and connects to the Companion Computer. In flight, the Companion Computer verifies directly with the camera that each picture was taken as expected. As each picture is taken, the Companion Computer transfers the image from the QX1 in real time to its own, easily accessible thumb drive. As each picture is saved, its geotags are added directly into its EXIF data as part of the same file and also written to a text log. The images with EXIF data can be imported directly into almost any post-processing software without further handling.

The Companion Computer currently requires a modified version of the QX1 available from Event 38 or by request to a user’s camera. The system is available now at www.Event38.com.