Overview
The DJI Zenmuse L3 is DJI’s next-generation LiDAR + RGB mapping payload designed for high-accuracy surveying, mapping, inspection, and large-area data capture. It combines a long-range 1535 nm LiDAR sensor, dual 100 MP RGB mapping cameras, an integrated high-precision positioning system, and a 3-axis stabilised gimbal. It is built for professional workflows where data quality, consistency, and efficiency are critical.
Compatibility
The Zenmuse L3 is only compatible with the DJI Matrice 400 series aircraft.
It does not support Matrice 350 RTK, Matrice 300 RTK, or other DJI platforms.
It must be connected using the Zenmuse L3 single gimbal connector, and DJI recommends connecting via the E1 port on the underside of the aircraft to maintain optimal accuracy.
Core System Specifications
Payload type: LiDAR + dual RGB mapping cameras
Weight (payload): approx. 1.6 kg
Connector weight: approx. 145 g
Power consumption: ~64 W typical, up to 100 W max
Ingress protection: IP54
Operating temperature: -20 °C to +50 °C
Stabilisation: 3-axis mechanical gimbal
LiDAR Performance
Laser wavelength: 1535 nm (eye-safe, long-range)
Maximum detection range (10% reflectivity target):
Up to ~950 m at 100 kHz
Up to ~700 m at 350 kHz
Returns: Supports up to 16 returns per pulse (depending on configuration)
Scan modes:
Linear scan (approx. 80° horizontal × 3° vertical)
Star-shaped scan (approx. 80° × 80°)
Non-repetitive scan (approx. 80° × 80°)
These modes allow flexibility depending on whether the mission is corridor mapping, terrain capture, forestry, or infrastructure inspection.
Mapping Camera Specifications
The Zenmuse L3 includes dual RGB mapping cameras designed to improve colourisation and photogrammetric outputs.
Sensor: 4/3 CMOS
Image resolutions:
100 MP (12,288 × 8,192)
25 MP (6,144 × 4,096)
Video recording:
4K at 30 fps
Full HD at 30 fps
Codec: H.265
These cameras support high-detail texture capture for coloured point clouds and visual context.
Accuracy (Typical Performance)
When flown with proper mission planning and RTK enabled, DJI states typical performance of:
At ~120 m flight altitude:
Vertical accuracy: ~3 cm RMSE
Horizontal accuracy: ~4 cm RMSE
At ~300 m flight altitude:
Vertical accuracy: ~5 cm RMSE
Horizontal accuracy: ~7.5 cm RMSE
Final accuracy always depends on RTK quality, mission parameters, and post-processing.
Activation & First-Time Setup
The Zenmuse L3 must be activated before first use via DJI Pilot 2.
Activation requires an internet connection.
A memory card must be inserted before recording LiDAR or camera data.
DJI recommends removing the payload during transport and storage to protect damping components and extend lifespan.
Recommended Flight Parameters
To avoid noisy data, missing points, or RNG errors, DJI provides recommended operating envelopes based on sampling frequency:
100 kHz:
Flight altitude: < 500 m
Distance to object: < 1500 m
350 kHz:
Flight altitude: < 300 m
Distance to object: < 430 m
1000 kHz:
Flight altitude: < 100 m
Distance to object: < 150 m
2000 kHz:
Flight altitude: < 50 m
Distance to object: < 75 m
Using higher sampling frequencies outside these limits can result in excessive noise, missing data, or errors such as RNG showing “NA”.
RTK and Positioning Guidance
For best results, the aircraft should operate with RTK FIX status.
Supported positioning methods include:
DJI D-RTK base station
Network RTK (NTRIP)
Third-party base stations (recommended to support at least three GNSS constellations)
If RTK signal quality is poor, data quality will be reduced even if the LiDAR itself performs correctly.
Supported Flight Modes (DJI Pilot 2)
Zenmuse L3 supports intelligent mission types including:
Waypoint routes
Area routes
Linear routes
It also supports advanced modes such as:
Terrain follow
Power line follow
Power line follow is designed for 10 kV and above transmission/distribution lines. It may not perform reliably on low-voltage lines or complex cable junctions.
Real-Time Point Cloud vs Final Outputs
The system supports real-time point cloud preview during flight.
This preview is intended for situational awareness only. DJI clearly states that real-time point cloud accuracy is not guaranteed.
For survey-grade outputs, data should be processed using DJI Terra.
Post-Processing Workflow
Typical DJI workflow for Zenmuse L3 data:
Import flight data into DJI Terra
Create a LiDAR Point Cloud processing task
Apply RTK/base station data if used
Process dataset
Review quality report and outputs
Optionally refine or edit in DJI Modify
DJI states that point cloud processing for Zenmuse L3 is included in DJI Terra without additional licence fees, including advanced optimisation tools.
Common Operational Issues
If customers report:
Layered point clouds or odd colour artefacts
→ Run LiDAR calibration inside DJI Terra.RNG showing “NA” or excessive noise
→ Check that sampling rate, altitude, and distance are within recommended limits.Poor results from night missions
→ DJI advises disabling RGB colouring at night and notes that modelling quality can be affected by lighting conditions.Concerns about storage/transport damage
→ DJI recommends removing the payload during transport and storage.
Top 10 FAQs
Is the Zenmuse L3 compatible with Matrice 350 RTK or Matrice 300 RTK?
No. It is only compatible with the DJI Matrice 400 platform.Do I need DJI Terra to process L3 data?
Yes. DJI Terra is the recommended tool for accurate point cloud processing and deliverables.Is there an extra licence cost in Terra for L3 processing?
No. DJI states that Zenmuse L3 point cloud processing features are included.Can I rely on the real-time point cloud during flight?
No. Real-time point cloud is for preview only. Accurate outputs require post-processing.Does the L3 support RTK?
Yes. It relies heavily on RTK for high-accuracy outputs and supports D-RTK, NTRIP, and third-party base stations.What is the maximum range of the LiDAR?
Up to approximately 950 m (at 100 kHz, 10% reflectivity target) under test conditions.Why does my data look noisy or incomplete?
This is usually caused by flying too high, too far from the subject, or using too high a sampling frequency for the mission.Can I use it for power line inspections?
Yes. It supports power line follow mode and is designed for 10 kV and above infrastructure.Do I need to activate the payload before use?
Yes. Activation via DJI Pilot 2 with an internet connection is required before first use.Can I leave the payload mounted on the drone during transport?
DJI recommends removing it during transport and storage to protect the damping system.