What is HDZero Digital FPV System (Formerly Shark Byte)

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HDZero is a new digital FPV system, a step up from the traditional analog FPV system. HDZero offers higher definition video feed and is less prone to interference. In this article we will talk about what makes HDZero so popular, its products, and how it compares to DJI’s FPV system.

Shark Byte Becomes HDZero

HDZero digital FPV system was developed by Divimath, Fatshark pushed the technology to the FPV market and and rebranded it as “Shark Byte” (the earlier iteration was called “Byte Frost“). Around the end of 2021, HDZero transitioned from being the supplier and manufacturer of Shark Byte to providing products directly to retailers and customer supports, and they started using the name HDZero on its products. Meanwhile, Fatshark announced that Divimath will take over support for the Shark Byte system.

DJI vs. HDZero

Currently there are three major digital FPV systems: DJI’s digital FPV system, Walksnail Avatar and HDZero. We also know that Orqa is working on their own digital FPV system, but there’s no confirmed timeline yet on the release.

Let’s talk about how HDZero compares to DJI’s FPV system as of today, since DJI is the most popular digital FPV system currently.

Popularity and Development

DJI’s system was released in 2019, it has been around for much longer therefore it’s more widely adapted than HDZero today by comparing the size and activity of their respective user groups on Facebook .

However, being the new kid on the block, HDZero appears to be more willing to listen to its users and keeps pushing out new features that the community asks for. It can take literally forever for DJI to fix some small bugs, let alone new features.

Image Quality

HDZero’s video resolution is 1280x720p, same as DJI. The image quality from both systems look impressive compared to traditional analog system. However, DJI has better image quality than HDZero. It’s not better in all situations, but on average DJI is better.

Here’s a sample footage from the VRX recording (what you see in the goggles when flying):

However, the DJI video feed tends to just freeze when you lose video signal instead of gradually becoming worse like analog. The image of HDZero gets “blocky” as signal degrades, it might not look pretty but it gives the pilot a warning of how signal strength changes.

Performance

DJI handles multi-pathing interference better than HDZero (for example when flying in bando and underground carpark). However, DJI’s delay changes with signal quality, the variable latency makes it harder to control and unreliable in some situations.

While that’s usually not a problem for cruising and freestyle, HDZero has become very popular among FPV racers because of its consistent latency regardless signal strength or distance.

The other consideration is signal interference handling. Although HDZero handles interference better than analog, it still cannot match the performance of DJI’s FPV system in these noisy environments.

Price

If you are new to the hobby, both systems cost about the same if you are buying everything from scratch:

DJI:

• FPV Goggles ($570)
• Vista or Air Unit with original camera combo ($165-$200)
• Total ($735-$770)

HDZero with analog goggles:

• Analog Goggles ($210-$550)
• Video Receiver ($240)
• Video Transmitter ($50-$100)
• Camera ($50)
• Antennas ($50-$100)
• Total ($600-$950)

HDZero with HDZero FPV goggles:

• HDZero FPV Goggles ($600)
• Video Transmitter ($50-$100)
• Camera ($50)
• Antennas ($50-$100)
• Total ($750-$850)

On average, both systems cost about the same, but if you already own a pair of FPV Goggles with HDMI input that’s compatible with HDZero, you would be saving a considerable amount of money (for example, the Skyzone SKY04X, Orqa FPV.ONE Pilot or the Fatshark HDO2). The HDZero video receiver can used with most FPV goggles with HDMI input (check compatibility before purchasing).

With the DJI FPV system, you would have to get the DJI FPV Goggles to use it.

Apart from the goggles, the costs of the VTX and cameras are similar between the two systems.

Betaflight OSD Support

DJI supports some of the OSD elements in Betaflight, but not all of them, for example Link Quality, which has been an ongoing request for at least a couple of years now and I don’t see full OSD support coming any time soon to be honest. On the other hand, HDZero supports Betaflight OSD fully just like analogue system.

Hardware Options

When it comes to VTX, DJI only has two and they are both pretty big and heavy for micro drones. There’s no new VTX expected anytime soon that supports the current system. However, HDZero is constantly releasing new hardware, and there will be options for aircraft of all sizes and voltage requirements.

When it comes to cameras, both systems support third party cameras, but since HDZero is relatively new, there are currently more camera options for the DJI system than HDZero, but that is likely to change in the future as HDZero’s popularity increases.

User Experience

While HDZero is evolving rapidly, it still feels slightly more complicated to setup and use than other major digital FPV systems.

Open Source

The owner of Divimath announced on 24th April 2022 (source) that some of the software and hardware of HDZero will be open source. Hopefully this allows other companies to release their own compatible hardware for the HDZero system!

A List of HDZero Hardware

To use HDZero, you will need the following parts, which can be bought separately:

1. Video Receiver (VRX) or HDZero-compatible goggles
2. Video Transmitter (VTX)
3. Camera
4. MIPI Cable (for connecting the camera and VTX)

Let’s talk about all the HDZero hardware and specs.

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HDZero Video Receivers

Apart from the Shark Byte VRX, there’s currently only one VRX module under HDZero’s name.

HDZero VRX Receiver Module

Product Pages:

• GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-umlj
• RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-hik3
• AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_AP9v2b
• NBD: https://oscarliang.com/product-4atn

This is the latest video receiver from HDZero, expected to be available in May 2022.

See my review here for a more detailed overview of the HDZero VRX.

The HDZero video receiver module is designed to be mounted on the front of your FPV Goggles. It supports most FPV Goggles with HDMI input, though it’s optimized for the shape of Fatshark FPV Goggles. For other goggles you might need to get creative how you mount it (might require 3D printed adapter for example).

There are four SMA antenna connectors, and you should choose the right antennas for the job. When racing or just flying around the house, all omni antennas would work well. When flying outdoor and long range, using a patch antenna like the TrueRC X-Air MK II along with a couple of onmi would be an excellent choice.

The real time clock (RTC) automatically timestamps your DVR recordings to make it easier to review footage.

ExpressLRS Backpack expansion plug makes it easy to switch channel, output power and other features from your radio.

Ambient audio recording allows you to capture the sound around the pilot, such as lap times callouts and pilot commentary.

Shark Byte RX5.1

The original video receiver module for Shark Byte but also compatible with HDZero gear.

Product Page: Discontinued

The Shark Byte receiver module (aka RX5.1)  is an attachable module to Fatshark FPV Goggles. It’s weighs 80 grams, measures 105 x 21 x 39 mm.

It has two built-in patch antennas, and two SMA antenna connectors for two additional antennas (not supplied). Since the DVR in the goggles cannot record digital video, the RX5.1 has its own DVR.

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HDZero VTX

Although both DJI FPV system and HDZero use MIPI between the camera and VTX, the MIPI connectors are actually different sizes in the two system and not interchangeable. Make sure you get the compatible cable for HDZero.

HDZero Race V2

A full feature VTX that’s great for general use. It supports SmartAudio which allows you to change VTX settings from your OpenTX/EdgeTX radios. The U.FL connector can be secured by zip tie. It also has a built-in TVS diode for power protection. The mounting holes are designed for rubber grommets for protection against physical impacts.

Product Pages:

• GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-ee00
• RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-i6a0
• AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_9JbEVV

Specs:

• RF power: 25mw/200mw
• Antenna Connector: U.FL
• SmartAudio: Yes
• MSP Canvas Mode: Yes
• Power: 410mA@12V
• power input: 7V-26V(2S-6S)
• Size: 34mm x 34mm x 6mm
• Weight: 5.9g
• Mounting: 20mm x 20mm M4 with rubber grommets

HDZero Whoop

The Whoop board has 25.5×25.5mm mounting holes, which are designed to be mounted on top of flight controllers in whoops and toothpicks. It’s one of the cheapest, smallest and lightest VTX options for HDZero, while still providing a respectable 200mW output power.

However it’s designed specifically for whoops and micros, and not intended to be used for racing as it’s more prone to damage in hard crashes.

Product Pages:

• GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-jbk6
• RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-l8o8
• AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_AkOmLZ

Specs:

• RF power: 25mw/200mw
• Antenna Connector: U.FL
• SmartAudio: No
• MSP Canvas Mode: Yes
• Power: 410mA@12V
• power input: 7V-26V(2S-6S)
• Size: 32.5mm x 32.5mm x 7mm
• Weight: 5.4g
• Mounting: 25.5mm*25.5mm,M2 clearance hole

HDZero Freestyle V1

Although the HDZero Freestyle VTX has surge protection built-in, a large low ESR capacitor (450uF or bigger) is recommended to soldered to the battery leads in order to reduce voltage spikes and chances of frying the VTX. The VTX also comes with a BEC that converts 6S to fixed 5.8V with maximum 5A output current, since the input voltage of the VTX only supports up to 4S.

Out of the box, it is limited to 25mW/200mW, but it is capable of up to 1W if you have the required HAM radio license to use this power output. Download the special firmware from www.hd-zero.com/document to enable higher RF output modes.

Product Pages:

• GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-umiy
• RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-c6xg
• AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_9JZfw7

Specs:

• RF power: 25mw/200mw/500mw/1000mw
• Antenna Connector: U.FL
• SmartAudio: Yes
• MSP Canvas Mode: Yes
• Power: 6-15W
• Power input: 7V-17V(2S-4S)
• Size: 40mm x 42mm x 10mm
• Weight: 28g
• Mounting: 30.5mm x 30.5mm M3 holes

HDZero Freestyle V2

The HDZero Freestyle V2 VTX has the same 1W output power, but smaller in size with several improvement over the original Freestyle VTX. It boasts an impressive a compact design, improved RF shielding, and the flexibility of casing removal for those seeking weight optimization. See review for more: https://oscarliang.com/hdzero-freestyle-v2-vtx/

Product Pages:

• AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DkoyILh
• RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-47i8
• GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-1lf1

Specifications:

• Frequency Range: 5.725-5.850GHz
• Transmitter Power Options: 25mW, 200mW, 500mW, and a maximum of 1W
• Mounting Format: 20x20mm with M2 holes
• Antenna Connection: Secure U.FL interface
• Video Input: Sturdy MIPI
• SmartAudio: Integrated
• MSP Canvas Mode: Supported
• Power Requirements: 7-25V, with consumption ranging between 6W-15W based on RF output
• Weight: 22.3g
• Dimensions: 29x30x14mm

HDZero Whoop Lite

This is a new version of the Whoop VTX, it targets the smaller micro FPV drones such as tiny whoops. It supports lower input voltage (down to 1S), and also added SmartAudio capability.

Product Pages:

• RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-x3g9
• AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DeXQpih
• GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-nsgx
• NBD: https://oscarliang.com/product-wrqp

Specs:

• RF power: 25mw/200mw
• Antenna Connector: U.FL
• SmartAudio: Yes
• MSP Canvas Mode: Yes
• Power: TBC
• power input: 1S to 3S
• Size: 32.5mm x 32.5mm x 4mm (29x29mm inner)
• Weight: 4.5g (without shilding)
• Mounting: 25.5mm*25.5mm, M2 soft mounting

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HDZero Cameras

HDZero Micro V3 Camera

Find the HDZero Micro V3 camera here:

• AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DE25tsd
• RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-ex5y

The HDZero Micro V3 camera is designed for a 16:9 aspect ratio that make full use of the HDZero Goggle’s 16:9 screen. According to HDZero, the large lens on this camera delivers better sharpness and contrast, reduced fish-eye distortion, and great low-light performance.

You can choose between 720p60 standard resolution mode and 1080p30 high resolution mode (no 560p 90fps mode). The 1080p 30fps option is suitable for slower flying where high resolution is more important than frame rate, while the 720p 60fps mode is ideal for general freestyle flying.

Micro V3 has the following advantages over Micro V2:

• Native 16:9 without any cropping.
• Sharper lens and better low light performance.
• Enhanced dust resistance.

HDZero Nano V3 Camera

Find the HDZero Nano V3 camera here:

• AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DE25tsd
• RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-2mtd

The HDZero Nano V3 camera is intended to replace the Nano v2 and Nano lite cameras.

The HDZero Nano V3 camera is small and light, making it perfect for whoops and micro drones. This camera is optimized for 4:3 aspect ratio but can be switched to 16:9 in the camera’s settings menu (with some cropping). With its large FOV (field of view) lens, the “16:9 cut mode” offers a decent amount of FOV, and the “16:9 full mode” offers a very large FOV, albeit with some vignetting.

Nano v3 has the following improvements over Nano v2:

• Larger FOV (94° vs 89°).
• Sharper lens.
• Lighter weight (half as light).

Nano v3 has the following improvements over Nano lite:

• Larger FOV (94° vs 84°).
• Sharper lens.
• Much better colors and contrast.
• Slight weight increase (0.7g).

HDZero Nano 90FPS Camera

Two modes, 720p60fps and 510p 90fps, offers ultra low latency and designed specifically for the HDZero FPV Goggles.

Find the HDZero Nano 90fps camera here:

• GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-cwhq
• Amazon: https://amzn.to/3yIjakU
• AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DnS4LtL

Runcam HDZero Micro V2

 

The Runcam HDZero Micro V2 is arguably the best camera for HDZero in terms of image quality at the moment. It supports camera menu for adjusting brightness, contrast, saturation, horizontal and vertical flip, and other camera settings. It has excellent low-light performance thanks to its ultra-high sensitivity image sensor.

Product Pages:

• GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-5rbr
• RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-fbtl
• AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_AA5H5t

Specs:

• Sensor Size: 1/2 inch
• Aspect Ratio: 4:3 / 16:9
• Diagonal FOV: 155° (4:3), 145° (16:9)
• Resolution: 720p60
• Sensitivity: 10650mV/Lux-sec
• Input Power: 3.3V
• Power Consumption: 0.5W
• Weight: 8.5 g
• Dimensions: 19x19x21mm

Runcam HDZero Nano

The HDZero Nano camera uses the same sensor as the HDZero Micro V1 camera, but it’s just smaller with the size of only 14x16mm!

Product Pages:

• GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-xfem
• RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-2l7b
• AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_9fTw0L

Specs:

• Sensor: 1/2.9”
• Diagonal FOV: 150°
• Resolution: 1280*720@60fps
• Aspect Ratio: 16:9
• Power: [email protected]
• Weight: 4.3g
• Dimensions:: L16mm*W14mm*H20mm

Foxeer Digisight V3

Product Pages:

• GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-qw3l
• RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-mb57
• AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_AFKgEf

Specs:

• Power Consumption: [email protected]
• Sensor Type: Sony 1/2″ CMOS Sensor
• Minimum Illumination: 0.00001Lux
• Resolution: Digital 720P/60fps
• Diagonal FOV: 170° (Starlight) 160° (standard)
• Aspect Ratio: 16:9
• Menu: No
• White Balance: Auto
• Size: 19*19mm
• Weight: 9.8g

HDZero Nano Lite Camera

The HDZero Nano Lite Camera is designed for feather-light micro FPV drones, it weighs only 1.5g, combined with the new Whoop Lite VTX at 4.5g with a 0.4g dipole antenna, this combo is the world’s lightest digital FPV solution right now, all together at under 7g.

Since this camera uses the same sensor as the Micro v2, it has switchable 4:3 / 16:9 modes, customizable image settings, and excellent low light performance.

Product Pages:

• AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DDtI5wD
• GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-dl3i

Specs:

• Sensor: 1/2”
• Sensitivity: 10650mV/Lux-sec
• Diagonal FOV: 130° (4:3), 122° (16:9)
• Resolution: 720@60fps
• Aspect Ratio: 16:9 / 4:3
• Power: TBC
• Weight: 1.5g
• Dimensions:: 14x16x11mm

HDZero Nano V2

Product Page:

• GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-tych

Specs:

• Setting menu: Yes
• FOV: 4:3: 122° H, 89° V, 16:9: 122° H, 67° V, 16:9 Full: 130° H, 89° V
• Resolution: 720p 60fps
• M8 Lens
• Size: 14 x 16 mm
• Weight: 4.25 g

HDZero Nano 90 Camera

Product page:

• GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-cwhq
• Amazon: https://amzn.to/3yIjakU
• AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DnS4LtL

Specs:

• Setting menu: Yes
• FOV: D160 H127 V92
• Resolution: 720p 60fps, 540p 90fps
• Sensor: 1/3″
• Size: 18x14x18mm
• Weight: 5.2g

It supports various resolutions for different flying environments

• 720x540p90 – 90 FPS – requires HDZero Goggle
• 720x540p60 – 60 FPS at lower resolution gives better penetration/range
• 960x720p60 – 60 FPS at standard 720p resolution

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FPV Goggles

Most analog FPV Goggles with an HDMI input should support HDZero, but goggles listed here have HDZero receiver built-in.

HDZero FPV Goggles

These are the best HDZero goggles you can get today. If you want the full HDZero experience, these are the one to get.

Find the HDZero FPV goggles here:

• AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DFMYx5j
• Amazon: https://amzn.to/3FPdbPh

Here’s the full review of the goggles: https://oscarliang.com/hdzero-fpv-goggles/

Specs:

• On/off Power switch
• The goggles run Linux, all code for the user interface will be open source
• 1920x1080p 90Hz OLED screens with sliding IPD adjustment and dials for focus adjustment
• By integrating the entire goggle display pipeline with HDZero’s fixed-latency video transmission, these goggles achieve 4ms glass-to-glass sub-frame latency with no jitter or dropped frames
• Mounting rails for patch antennas or whatever else you might want to mount
• Recessed front SMA jacks so you don’t have to remove antennas when packing the goggle away. Whether you install stubby antennas or TrueRC slide on patches, setup and teardown will be fast and easy
• Three independently addressable fans work in combination to cool the internals and prevent fogging. They are soft mounted to prevent screen vibration and noise
• HDMI input so you can use a ground station receiver, use for simulators, on the go movies, etc…
• HDMI output so you can share your video feed to others
• 3.5mm combination headphone / microphone jack so you can listen to analog or HDMI source audio or use a high-quality microphone for the pit-mic feature
• 3.5mm analog video/audio input for use with ground station inputs
• Analog input solves the vertical jitter problem found in analog OLED goggles today by using a 2D deinterlacer that adds no delay. This might be the best looking analog goggle display, despite it being a digital goggle
• ELRS backpack support so the goggle can automatically follow the channel of the VTX
• Add-on side-mounted analog module bay that accepts most of today’s analog modules
• Add-on 2.4Ghz WiFi video streaming module to live steam your flights
• Swappable faceplates to support different shaped faces and prevent light leak
• Same display panels as the new FatShark Dominator / WalkSnail Avatar HD goggles
• FOV: TBC – speculation, 46° FOV (16:9), software scalable to lower FOV
• IPD adjustment range: TBC
• Focus adjustment range: TBC
• Power Input: TBC (speculation 2S-6S)
• Dimensions: TBC
• Weight: TBC

Fatshark Scout HD

These goggles are designed for pilots who have some experience in the FPV hobby and are looking for a slight upgrade. The Fatshark Scout HD offers a range of features that can enhance your FPV experience, making them a popular mid range option.

Product Pages:

• GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-8kt3
• BG: https://oscarliang.com/product-ovdr

Specs:

• Display: 3.5 inch TFT (1920x1080p)
• Screen FOV (field of view): 44 degrees diagonal
• Power Supply: 5.1mm Barrel Connector, 8-16V (2s – 4s)
• IPD (Inter-pupillary Distance): suitable to 55 to 76 mm (fixed – can’t be adjusted)
• Built-in Shark Byte Receiver, supports HDZero
• Interface: Shark Byte TX upgrade port
• Controls: 3 push buttons for OSD menu navigation
• Built-In Patch Antenna (RHCP)
• Built-In DVR, requires micro SD card
• Firmware upgradeable via SD card
• Anti-fog fan
• HDMI Input/Output: No
• Charging Port: USB-C
• Dimensions: 170 x 120 x 90mm
• Weight: 336.5g

Emax Transporter II HDZero FPV Goggles

These goggles are designed for beginners who are just getting into the FPV hobby. They offer a straightforward and user-friendly experience, making them an excellent choice for those who are new to the world of FPV.

Product Page:

• AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DdBuC0b
• GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-zh56
• RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-i3ma

Specs:

• Weight: 411g (In goggle mode w/ antennas + strap)
• SD Card Slot: MicroSD (Supports up to 64GB)
• USB-C Power Input: 5V 2A USB recommended
• Tripod Mount: 1/4“-20 Standard Tripod
• Dimensions: 95mm x 155mm x 84mm
• Built-In Battery: 2200mAh LiPo
• Display: 4.5” 720P 60Hz TFT
• Model: Transporter 2 HD

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Antennas

Note that the Race V2 VTX doesn’t come with antenna, so you’d have to get your own. Any 5.8GHz antenna with U.FL connector would be fine. But make sure to get one with the same polarization as your receiver antenna (e.g. LHCP or RHCP).

These are 3rd party antennas that are either designed specifically for the HDZero, or just work well on the system. You can use any 5.8Ghz antenna with HDZero system.

TrueRC X-Air MK-II Patch & Singularity Stubbies Combo

Product Pages:

• GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-45ta
• RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-zam0

True-RC X-Air MK-II Patch:

• Bandwidth: 5.1GHz-7.0GHz
• Gain: 10 dBic
• Polarization: RHCP
• Beam-width: 120deg
• Beam-width @-3dB: 68deg
• Connector: U.fl
• Dimensions: 34x34x15mm
• Weight: 8.8g each

TrueRC Singularity Stubby:

• Gain: 1.9dbic
• Polarization: RHCP
• Cross-Polar Rejection: -15 to -30dB (1.9%)
• Bandwidth: 5.6GHz-6.0GHz
• Radiation Efficiency: 99%
• SWR: <=1.5:1
• Connector: SMA
• Dimensions: 12.7x20mm
• Weight: 3.7g each

Other HDZero Accessories

MIPI Cable

Beware that neither the FPV camera nor the VTX comes with a MIPI cable, the ribbon cable that connects the camera to the VTX! You have to purchase this cable separately.

Product Page:

• NBD: https://oscarliang.com/product-jp2h
• RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-ds0e
• GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-mrtf

It comes in different length so make sure you measure the length you need before purchasing. Lengths available are: 4cm 8cm, 12cm, 25cm. Note that the DJI MIPI cable doesn’t work with HDZero gear because DJI don’t use standard size MIPI connectors.

Get the longer cable! It’s better be too long than not long enough! I learnt my lesson the hard way. 12cm should be ok for most 5″ frames, but for some with long body it might not if you are mounting the VTX at the very back. Double check.

Edit History

• Apr 2022 – post published
• Dec 2023 – added new V3 micro and nano cameras