Using OBS Studio for Drone FPV and Recording

Overview

• Utilizing a laptop as FPV goggles and recording device for a drone.
• Software used: OBS Studio (Open Broadcaster Software).

Installation of OBS Studio

• Download from OBS Project Website.
• File size: 68 MB.
• May need Visual C++ Redistributable.
• Installation Steps:
  • Launch installer.
  • Agree to terms.
  • Complete installation.

Setting Up the Receiver

• Use a 5.8 GHz video signal receiver.
• Connect receiver to laptop via USB (USB to microUSB).
• Check for system sound indicating detection of the receiver.
• Launch OBS automatically after installation.

Configuring OBS Studio

1. Adding Video Source:

   • In OBS, click on the Sources section.
   • Click on the + button and select Video Capture Device.
   • Create a new source and click OK.
   • Choose the correct device (e.g., USB to PC camera).

2. Connecting the Drone:

   • Plug in the drone.
   • Ensure video feed is being received (should show as "runcam").
   • If no image, press and hold the receiver's frequency search button.

Viewing and Recording Video

• Expand the video display in OBS by clicking it.
• Video may have some lag, but is acceptable for non-racing purposes.
• To record:
  • Click Start Recording in the lower right.
  • Recording format: MOV (recommended to avoid issues with power failure).
  • Bitrate settings can be adjusted (default may be 2.5 Mbps).
  • Set hotkeys for recording:
    • Start recording: F9
    • Stop recording: F10

File Management

• Recorded files saved in the Videos folder.
• Sound recorded from the laptop's microphone, not from the drone.

Full-Screen Usage

• OBS can be set to full screen for FPV flying.
• Disconnecting the receiver will stop the video feed and recording.

Key Takeaways

• OBS Studio is a versatile tool for both FPV viewing and recording drone footage.
• Proper setup of video sources and receiver is crucial for successful operation.