China FPV Thermal Imaging Camera Module CVBS 22gram 21*21mm

model: UC-541, CVBS video 384*288 640*512 1280*1024 optional, micro size 21*21mm, 22gram, 4mm and 9.X lens optional,A compact 21×21mm CVBS thermal camera module for non-U.S. FPV drones and UAV payloads. Designed for live analog thermal video through VTX, DVR, OSD or FPV goggles, not calibrated temperature measurement.

Details

 

Goobuy UC-541 21×21mm CVBS FPV thermal camera module is designed for non-U.S. FPV drone builders and UAV payload integrators who need lightweight, low-latency analog thermal video through VTX, DVR, OSD, FPV goggles or AV ground-station monitors. It is a non-radiometric video-only thermal module for live viewing, not a calibrated temperature measurement camera.

Product Overview

The FPV Thermal Imaging Camera Module is a 21×21 mm, 22 g ultra-light solution that delivers low-latency analog CVBS output (PAL/NTSC), making it an excellent fit for FPV drones, autonomous robots, and energy monitoring systems.

Unlike digital modules, its analog CVBS video ensures near-zero delay, ideal for real-time FPV navigation and inspection flights. With support for multiple color palettes, robust thermal sensitivity, and flexible integration, it provides engineers with an affordable and practical tool for embedded thermal vision.21*21mm Mini CVBS thermal camera modules (256*192, 384*288, 640*512, 1280*1024, analog output) are ideal for drones, UAVs, and FPV systems where low latency, analog transmission is preferred over digital for real-time monitoring.The core advantages of the 22g ultra-light CVBS thermal imaging module (4 resolutions) are its extreme weight and high integration, making it a revolutionary solution for scenarios where weight and space are critical

Thermal Imaging (Uncooled Microbolometer): This core technology detects infrared radiation (heat) rather than visible light.

Solves: The inability to see in complete darkness, through smoke, fog, light dust, or certain thin materials. It also detects invisible temperature anomalies (hot/cold spots) and enables non-contact temperature measurement.

Meets Demand: Enhanced situational awareness in challenging visual conditions; predictive maintenance (identifying overheating components); security in absolute darkness; process control based on temperature; fire detection.

Core Decision Snapshot

Choose this module if you need:

  • Lightweight thermal video for FPV drones or UAV payloads
  • CVBS analog output for VTX / DVR / OSD / FPV goggles
  • PAL / NTSC video chain compatibility discussion
  • Live thermal viewing, not temperature measurement
  • A compact 21×21mm thermal camera module
  • 384×288 / 640×512 / other resolution options by project
  • Lens, FOV, cable, connector, mounting or housing discussion
  • Non-U.S. drone market integration

Not ideal if you need:

  • U.S. market or U.S.-regulated drone procurement
  • Radiometric temperature measurement
  • USB / HDMI / Ethernet / MIPI digital thermal output
  • AI-readable thermal data
  • Certified firefighting, rescue or life-safety payload
  • Medical diagnosis
  • Weaponized drone, targeting or harmful use
  • A complete certified drone payload instead of a camera module

Market Scope Note

This product page is intended for non-U.S. FPV drone and UAV integration projects only. Goobuy does not position this module for the U.S. market or U.S.-regulated drone procurement projects. Buyers are responsible for confirming local import, export, aviation, radio transmission and thermal imaging regulations before purchase.

 

Many FPV drone builders already have a working analog video chain: VTX, DVR, OSD, FPV goggles or AV ground-station monitor.

Their real problem is not building a thermal imaging system from zero. Their problem is finding a small, lightweight CVBS thermal camera module that can fit the drone payload space and connect to the existing FPV video chain.

This module is designed for that specific need:

lightweight thermal visibility + CVBS analog video + non-radiometric live viewing + practical UAV integration.

 

 

Why CVBS for FPV Thermal Video?

CVBS is useful when the drone already uses analog FPV hardware.

Compared with USB, HDMI, Ethernet or MIPI thermal modules, CVBS can be simpler for FPV live viewing because it can connect into analog video paths such as:

  • FPV VTX
  • onboard DVR
  • OSD module
  • analog FPV goggles
  • AV ground-station monitor

This module is not designed for AI data processing or calibrated temperature analysis. It is designed for live thermal video viewing by the operator or pilot.

Actual end-to-end latency depends on the thermal core, VTX, DVR, OSD, wireless link, goggles and display processing.

 

Best-Fit FPV / UAV Uses

1. FPV Drone Thermal Live View

For drone builders who need real-time thermal visibility through an existing analog FPV video chain.

2. UAV Thermal Payload Prototype

For payload integrators testing a lightweight thermal module before designing a custom enclosure, fixed mount or small gimbal.

3. VTX / DVR / OSD Thermal Video Integration

For teams that need thermal video to pass through existing analog FPV components.

4. Non-U.S. Drone Thermal Viewing Kit

For drone equipment companies building compact thermal viewing kits or upgrade modules for non-U.S. markets.

Sensor vs Output

  • Thermal core: LWIR 8–14 µm band, [resolution: 256×192 / 384×288 / 640×512], [pixel pitch 12 µm/17 µm], typical NETD ≤ [xx mK], lens options for narrow/medium/wide FOV.
  • Module output: CVBS PAL/NTSC @ 25/30 fps, analog video stream for FPV goggles/DVR/VTX, supports multiple color palettes and OSD overlays.

Note: This version is non-radiometric (video-only, no temperature measurement)

Integration & Compatibility

  • Plug directly into VTX/DVR/OSD modules for FPV or recording
  • PAL/NTSC selectable for global use
  • Multiple lens FOV options for UAV gimbals and industrial enclosures
  • Compact size fits into small gimbals, robots, and monitoring cabinets

 

compare real video screenshot between 640*512 EFL 9.1mm lens thermal camera and 256*192 EFL 3.1mm lens thermal camera

( picture had been compressed much)

Resolution Selection Guide

384×288

Best for balanced cost, compact size and practical FPV thermal viewing.

640×512

Better for higher image detail, longer viewing distance and more professional UAV payloads.

1280×1024

For higher-end projects where weight, cost, power, output mode and integration requirements are confirmed first.

The best resolution depends on drone size, payload limit, viewing distance, display device, lens FOV and target price.

Lens / FOV Selection

A wide FOV lens is better for near-range awareness and easier FPV orientation.

A narrower FOV lens is better when the drone needs to observe heat signatures at longer distance or reduce wide-angle scene distortion.

Before selecting lens/FOV, please confirm:

  • flight altitude
  • viewing distance
  • target size
  • drone speed
  • mounting direction
  • display device
  • payload space

 

online raw test video of Goobuy UC-541 Thermal Imaging Camera (date: 09.11.2024) resolution: 1280*1024 full color

 

Project-Based Configuration

Goobuy can discuss:

  • CVBS PAL / NTSC format
  • thermal resolution version
  • lens / FOV
  • cable length
  • connector
  • power wiring
  • mounting direction
  • lightweight housing discussion
  • fixed mount or small payload integration
  • sample validation with your real VTX / DVR / OSD / goggles

 

Not Ideal For

This module is not the right fit for:

  • U.S. market projects
  • calibrated temperature measurement
  • radiometric thermal mapping
  • AI thermal data analysis
  • USB / HDMI / Ethernet digital thermal output
  • certified firefighting or rescue payloads
  • weaponized drones or targeting systems
  • medical or human diagnostic use
  • buyers who need a complete certified drone payload
  • buyers who cannot confirm local drone, RF and thermal imaging compliance

Professional FAQ

1. We already use analog FPV goggles and a CVBS VTX. Can this thermal module connect to our existing drone video chain?

Yes. This module is designed for analog FPV video chains using CVBS PAL/NTSC through VTX, DVR, OSD modules, FPV goggles or AV ground-station monitors. Compatibility should be tested with your actual VTX, goggles, DVR, OSD, cable length, video format and power supply.


2. Is this FPV thermal camera radiometric?

No. This version is non-radiometric and video-only. It is for live thermal visibility, not calibrated temperature measurement, thermal mapping or temperature-data analysis.


3. Should we choose 384×288 or 640×512 for a UAV payload?

384×288 is usually better for balanced cost and compact FPV projects. 640×512 provides better image detail and may be better for higher-value UAV payloads or longer viewing distance. The right choice depends on payload limit, display resolution, lens FOV, distance, power budget and target price.


4. Why choose CVBS instead of USB, HDMI or Ethernet?

CVBS is useful when the drone already uses analog FPV hardware such as VTX, DVR, OSD, goggles or AV monitors. USB, HDMI or Ethernet may be better when the project needs digital thermal data, AI processing, high-resolution recording or embedded computer integration.


5. Can this 21×21mm module fit a small FPV drone?

The 21×21mm size refers to the thermal camera module board. Final installation depends on lens length, cable exit direction, connector, protective housing, heat dissipation, mounting bracket and payload space. Please send your payload bay drawing or photos before sample configuration.


6. What should we send before requesting samples?

Please send your target country/region, drone platform, payload weight limit, VTX/goggles/DVR/OSD model, PAL/NTSC requirement, power supply, mounting space, preferred resolution, lens/FOV requirement, cable/connector need, sample timeline and expected batch quantity.


7. Can this module be used for night flight viewing or inspection recording?

It can be evaluated for permitted non-U.S. drone thermal viewing, pilot awareness, observation or recording where local laws allow. It is not a certified life-safety, firefighting, rescue, military targeting or weaponized-use system.


8. Do you supply this FPV thermal camera to the U.S. market?

No. This page is intended for non-U.S. FPV and UAV integration projects. Goobuy does not position this module for the U.S. market or U.S.-regulated drone procurement projects. Buyers must confirm local compliance before purchase.


RFQ / Sample Validation CTA

Ready to Test a CVBS Thermal Camera in Your FPV Drone Video Chain?

If your drone already uses analog FPV goggles, VTX, DVR, OSD or AV ground-station monitor, send Goobuy your project background instead of only asking for a unit price.

We can evaluate whether this micro CVBS thermal module fits your non-U.S. FPV / UAV project, or whether another USB, HDMI, radiometric or higher-resolution thermal module is more suitable.

Please include:

  • Target country / region
  • Confirmation that the project is outside the U.S. market
  • Drone type or payload platform
  • Payload weight limit
  • Existing video chain: VTX / DVR / OSD / FPV goggles / AV monitor
  • PAL or NTSC requirement
  • Power supply available on the drone
  • Required thermal resolution
  • Lens / FOV requirement
  • Expected flight altitude or viewing distance
  • Cable length and connector requirement
  • Sample testing schedule
  • Expected first batch quantity
  • Whether NRE is possible for custom lens, cable, connector, housing or mounting work

Send your FPV drone video-chain details to Goobuy. We will help check whether this CVBS thermal module is suitable for your non-U.S. UAV project.

 

Feedback and comment from our customers

 

 

 

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