DJI Matrice 400 FAQ: All Your Questions Answered

DJI Matrice 400 is emerging as the new standard for enterprise drone operations across industries such as energy, infrastructure, surveying, mining, and public safety. With advanced sensing, powerful payload integration, and high-precision capabilities, it’s a platform designed for professionals who demand performance in complex environments.

If you’re considering DJI Matrice 400 as an upgrade or planning to integrate it into your fleet, this Q&A dives into the most commonly asked questions from operators and technical teams.

Aircraft & Flight Capabilities

What’s the IP rating of DJI Matrice 400? Can it fly in the rain?

DJI Matrice 400 carries an IP55 rating, meaning it is protected against dust and low-pressure water jets. However, it should not be flown in rain heavier than 100 mm/24 hr. Like all IP-rated systems, protection may degrade over time with wear and tear.

What is the max wind speed resistance of M400?

The max wind speed resistance of the DJI M400 is 12m/s

What sensors does the drone use for obstacle detection?

This is one of DJI’s most comprehensive systems to date. DJI Matrice 400 features:

  • Omnidirectional binocular vision
  • Upward-facing LiDAR and downward 3D infrared
  • Horizontal rotating LiDAR
  • mmWave radar for six-directional detection

This suite enables accurate object recognition even around complex infrastructure, although performance may vary in fog, snow, or low-visibility conditions.

Can it detect power lines?

Yes. DJI M400 is capable of recognizing steel-core aluminum lines:

  • Up to 25 m/s when flying toward main lines (21.6 mm)
  • Up to 17 m/s when both main and distribution lines (12 mm) are present

Still, high-speed objects and adverse weather can limit obstacle avoidance. Caution is advised in dynamic or cluttered airspace.

What’s the maximum payload capacity?

Up to 6 kg using the third gimbal connector. If multiple gimbals are used (single, dual, and third gimbal), the combined non-DJI payload must not exceed 6 kg.

Does the Matrice 400 use dual batteries?

No, it uses a single TB100 battery, but includes a power-hold capacitor for rapid hot-swapping without rebooting—provided the swap is completed within 45 seconds.

Which cameras and accessories are compatible?

Gimbal Cameras:

Other key accessories:

Can I use DJI Matrice 350 accessories with DJI Matrice 400?

No. Accessories between DJI M350 and DJI M400 are not cross-compatible due to structural and port changes.

How many payload ports does it support?

Out of the box, DJI M400 offers four E-Port V2 interfaces, expandable to seven payload ports via a HUB expansion plate.

Why are the propellers at different heights?

The staggered propeller layout enhances propulsion efficiency and flight stability, especially when operating in windy or high-altitude environments.

Onboard Computing: Manifold 3

When and why can you use the Manifold 3 computer?

Manifold 3 enables powerful onboard AI computing. It is ideal for edge-based applications like real-time video analysis, object recognition, or custom computer vision tasks. 

Remote Controller & Signal Systems

What’s the difference between the DJI RC Plus 2 Enterprise and the Enhanced version?

The Enhanced version supports the sub2G SDR Module, enabling low-frequency transmission for greater range and anti-interference (country-dependent). To learn more about the DJI RC Plus 2 Enterprise Controller, check our previous article.

Is it compatible with other drones?

DJI RC Plus 2 Enhanced supports the DJI Matrice 4 and 4D series (must be upgraded to version 14.1), but not compatible with DJI Mavic 3 Enterprise, DJI Matrice 3D, or DJI Matrice 350 RTK.

Can I use third-party USB-C chargers?

Yes. Use PD-compatible chargers with 65W or higher for best results.

Is MSDK supported?

Yes. Both versions support DJI’s Mobile SDK, enabling custom app integration.

What’s the difference in signal architecture between drone and controller?

Drone:

  • WLAN Antenna × 8 (6 vertically polarized antennas and 2 horizontally polarized antennas)
  • sub2G Antenna × 2 (2 vertically polarized antennas)
  • 4G Antenna × 4
  • Operating Mode: 2T4R

Controller:

  • 2T4R (2.4GHz/5.8GHz) multi-beam high-gain antenna
  • 2T2R , sub 2G module

Is the Sub-2G antenna built into the remote controller?

No, it comes as an external accessory with the remote controller.

What is the purpose of the Sub-2G antenna included with the RC?

Since sub-2G frequencies are not permitted for commercial use in certain regions, the module is offered as an optional accessory, allowing flexibility based on local regulations.

Battery System

How long does it take to charge a TB100 battery?

With the BS100 Battery Station:

  • 45 min (Fast Mode, 220V)
  • 110 min (Silent Mode, 220V)
  • 70 min (Fast Mode, 110V)
  • 110 min (Fast Mode, 110V)

Does the BS100 charge 3 TB100 batteries simultaneously?

No, the station charges one TB100 battery at a time, not all three at once.

How many cycles and working hours does the TB100C tethered battery support?

  • Up to 400 charging cycles
  • Approximately 10 working hours, depending on mission profile

Does tethered charging count as a cycle?

No. Since the battery maintains a fixed charge state (e.g. 75%) during tethered operation, this does not count as a full charging cycle. To estimate working time, calculate your drone’s power consumption per hour, then compare it to battery cycles.

Does it support self-heating?

Yes. Both on-aircraft and via battery station:

  • Using the battery with battery station: If the temperature of the TB100/TB100C battery is below 5°C, insert the battery into the battery station and turn on the power. The battery will automatically begin to heat. Once the battery temperature exceeds 20°C, self-heating will stop and charging will start.
  • Using the battery with the aircraft: If the battery temperature is below 20°C, insert the battery into the aircraft. The battery will automatically heat up to 20°C, then stop heating and enter a temperature maintenance mode.

What about tethered operation?

The TB100C supports tethered or docked operation using ecosystem partner hardware.

Note: Do not lift the battery by the tethered cable, as it’s not load-rated.

What is power-off endurance?

The built-in capacitor allows for battery hot-swaps without full shutdown. No button presses needed unless you want to turn the drone off completely.

Any tips for battery handling?

  • Ensure batteries click securely into place
  • Do not attach payloads under the aircraft during vessel landings
  • Clean the LiDAR dome regularly for optimal obstacle sensing

Software, SDKs & Connectivity

Can I upgrade the firmware remotely?

Yes. You can update via:

  1. DJI Assistant 2 (Enterprise)
  2. DJI Pilot 2 app
  3. SD card with offline firmware package

Is DJI FlightHub 2 supported?

Yes. DJI Matrice 400 fully integrates with FlightHub 2, enabling remote operations, route planning, and payload control.

What SDK options are available?

  • Payload SDK
  • Mobile SDK 
  • Cloud API
  • Manifold 3 onboard computer

Does it support relay functionality?

Yes. One DJI Matrice 400 can act as a relay node for another DJI M400, useful for beyond visual line of sight operations.

Final Thoughts

DJI Matrice 400 represents a significant leap forward in terms of payload versatility, flight performance, and automation readiness. Whether you’re flying for surveying, public safety, or inspection, DJI Matrice 400 is a purpose-built, intelligent, and scalable drone platform for demanding field operations.

Still have questions? Get in touch with our technical team to get a consultation.