RunCam PHOENIX2-SPV3 FPV Drone Camera

Specifications

• Product Name: RunCam Phoenix2 SP
• Image Sensor: 1/2.8" Starlight CMOS
• Horizontal Resolution: 1500TVL
• Lens: 2.1mm (M12) FOV 155° (4:3)
• Screen Format: Switchable 4:3 / 16:9
• Mirror/Flip: Available
• Signal System: NTSC / PAL Switchable
• S/N Ratio: >50dB (AGC OFF)
• Electronic Shutter Speed: Auto
• Auto Gain Control (AGC): Auto
• Min. Illumination: 0.001Lux@1.2F
• WDR: Global WDR
• Day/Night: Color / BW / EXT / Auto
• Menu Control: Cable Control
• Power: DC 5-36V
• Current: 200mA@5V / 85mA@12V
• Housing Material: ABS
• Net Weight: 7.5g
• Dimensions: 19mm x 19mm x 20mm

Applications

• Freestyle FPV Drones: Perfect for 5-inch quads where dynamic range is critical for spotting "ghost branches."
• Long Range Wings: The high sensitivity allows for flights extending into twilight hours.
• Cinewhoops: Provides a clear reference feed for framing shots even in indoor/dimly lit environments.
• RC Cars/Crawlers: Excellent durability and low latency for ground-based FPV driving.

Project Evolution

• Prerequisite: You have likely flown with standard 600-800TVL "kit cameras" or budget CMOS sensors that struggle with light transitions.
• The Upgrade: The RunCam Phoenix 2 SPV3 unlocks "All-Day Flyability." You are no longer grounded when the sun starts to set. The Global WDR allows you to fly directly towards the sun without the ground turning completely black, a critical capability for advanced freestyle maneuvers.
• Effort Level: Intermediate. Requires soldering to a Flight Controller (FC) or VTX and configuring camera settings via the OSD joystick.
• Minimum Hardware: A drone frame capable of mounting a 19mm (Micro) camera, and a VTX/FC with 5V-36V output.

Virtual Technician & Wiring

• ⚠️ Voltage Warning: This camera supports a wide input range (5V to 36V). However, we highly recommend powering it from a regulated BEC (5V or 9V) on your Flight Controller rather than direct LiPo voltage to avoid video noise and spikes. Probots Logic-Safe  protocols recommend adding a low-ESR capacitor to your battery pads to further protect the camera's OSD chip.

Pinout Guide:

• Red (VCC): 5V - 36V Power Input.
• Black (GND): Common Ground.
• Yellow (VID): Video Signal Out (To VTX).
• Green/Blue (Menu): OSD Keypad Control (Connects to the included joystick for s

Downloads:

• PHOENIX2-SPV3- User Manual

Package Includes:

• 1 x RunCam PHOENIX2-SPV3 Camera
• 1 x 6pin FPV silicone cable
• 1 x Set of screws

Feature:

• Crystal-Clear Image Quality
• Low Latency Performance
• Wide Dynamic Range Technology
• Durable and Reliable Construction
• Easy Installation and Configuration

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Does the Phoenix 2 SPV3 support 16:9 aspect ratio?
  Yes, the aspect ratio is switchable between 4:3 and 16:9 via the OSD menu settings.
• Is this camera compatible with digital FPV systems like DJI?
  No, this is an analog camera designed for analog VTX systems. It cannot be used directly with the DJI Air Unit.
• What is the voltage range for the RunCam Phoenix 2?
  It accepts a wide input voltage of DC 5V to 36V.
• Can I power this camera directly from a 4S LiPo?
  Yes, 4S voltage (~16.8V) is within the 36V limit, but a filtered 9V/12V BEC is recommended for cleaner video.
• Does it have a built-in microphone?
  No, the Phoenix 2 SPV3 focuses purely on image quality and does not include an onboard mic.
• What is the difference between the Phoenix 2 and the Eagle 3?
  The Phoenix 2 uses a Starlight sensor better for low light/color, while the Eagle 3 is known for high sharpness but handles low light differently.
• How do I change the settings on the camera?
  You use the included joystick cable or set up "Camera Control" via your Flight Controller UART.
• Will this fit in a standard mini size mount?
  No, this is a "Micro" size camera (19x19mm). You will need a bracket adapter to fit it into "Mini" (21x21mm) mounts.
• What lens does the Phoenix 2 use?
  It uses a high-quality M12 lens with a 2.1mm focal length.
• Is the lens replaceable?
  Yes, it uses a standard M12 thread, so you can swap it, though we recommend sticking to the stock lens for optimal focus.
• Does this camera work in black and white at night?
  Yes, you can set it to Auto, Color, or B/W. In very low light, B/W mode often provides a clearer picture.
• What is Global WDR?
  Global Wide Dynamic Range balances high-contrast scenes (like flying out of a tunnel into sunlight) to prevent the image from being too dark or blown out.
• Why is my video feed black?
  Check that the lens cap is removed and that the VCC/GND wires are correctly soldered and receiving power.
• How much does the camera weigh?
  The net weight is approximately 7.5 grams.
• Can I use this on a fixed-wing plane?
  Absolutely, it is a popular choice for fixed-wing FPV due to its natural color reproduction.
• Does it support PAL or NTSC?
  It supports both. You can switch the signal format in the system menu.
• What is the latency of this camera?
  The Phoenix 2 is known for low latency, making it suitable for high-speed racing and freestyle.
• Do I need a capacitor for this camera?
  While not strictly required for the camera itself, a capacitor on the battery leads is highly recommended to filter noise from the ESCs.
• Can I invert the image if I mount the camera upside down?
  Yes, the OSD menu has options for Image Flip and Mirror.
• Is the case durable?
  Yes, the housing is made of tough ABS plastic designed to withstand moderate crashes.