This article lists the minimum and recommended specifications for a tablet that runs Commander. Use it to confirm that an existing tablet is suitable, or as a guide before a new purchase. For the devices that Emesent tests and verifies, see Supported devices and compatibility.
Phone and tablet use
Commander operates on Android phones and tablets. Emesent recommends a tablet.
A phone has a smaller screen area. Some controls are more difficult to use, and the experience can change between devices.
Autonomy missions need a tablet. Use a tablet that meets the specifications below for all autonomy missions.
Tablet specifications
A tablet must meet the minimum specifications in the tables below to run Commander. For the best performance, use the recommended specification where one is given.
Operating system
Specification | Details |
|---|---|
Minimum | Android 10 |
Recommended | Android 14 or later |
Android 10 is the minimum version that Commander supports. For a new tablet, select Android 14 or later. Older Android versions have a shorter remaining support life.
Processor
Specification | Details |
|---|---|
Minimum | Qualcomm Snapdragon 778G or Samsung Exynos 1380 |
Recommended | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 |
Memory
Specification | Details |
|---|---|
Minimum | 8 GB |
Recommended | 12 GB |
Storage
Specification | Details |
|---|---|
Minimum | 64 GB |
Recommended | 128 GB |
Emesent recommends 128 GB to download scans to the tablet.
Display
Specification | Details |
|---|---|
Minimum | 8 inches |
Maximum | 11 inches |
Connectivity
Specification | Details |
|---|---|
Minimum | Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) |
Recommended | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) |
A 5 GHz tablet is not necessary. The connection uses the 2.4 GHz band.
Ruggedness
A ruggedized or IP-rated tablet is not necessary. Emesent recommends one for outdoor, dusty, or wet field conditions.
Device performance warnings
Commander measures the performance of the device. If the device is below the minimum specification, Commander gives several indications.
When Commander first opens, a message shows that poor performance is expected. This message shows one time for each installation.
When a scan starts, the notification shows on the sidebar.
In 3D View, a small turtle icon shows at the bottom right of the screen.
On a device with a low rating, the robot can stop for approximately one second when a new point cloud comes in. The point cloud view can also be slow.
A poor rating does not prevent operation. The device continues to work, but the visual performance is lower. The rating is a recommendation to use a better device.
Emesent tablet mount
Physical fit is separate from software compatibility. A tablet that meets the minimum specifications can still be too large or too thick for the Emesent tablet mount.
Mount requirements depend on the platform:
The DJI M300 uses the DJI Smart Controller or the Cendence Controller. These controllers need the Emesent tablet mount to hold a tablet.
The DJI M350 uses the DJI RC Plus, which runs Commander. An external tablet and the Emesent tablet mount are optional.
The Freefly Astro and the Freefly Astro Max run Commander on the platform controller. An external tablet and mount are not necessary.
The Emesent tablet mount opens to approximately 240 mm. This measurement applies to the shorter side of the tablet.
Measure the tablet before purchase. Measure the tablet with the protective case attached, because a case increases the width and the thickness.
To confirm that a tablet fits the Emesent tablet mount, contact the Client Support team before purchase.
Unverified tablets
Tablets that meet these specifications but are not on the verified list are likely to be compatible. Emesent does not test them. Confirm performance on a non-critical mission before field use.