What does USB ribbon cable actually do?

[tvleaker]

2 weeks with my new Phantom 2/Gimbal. Somehow ripped off ribbon cable to GoPro. Am I safe to fly without it? what does it actually do?
I looked for replacement part but came up empty. Thanks

 

[QYV]

you're talking about the thin little cable that comes from the back of the gimbal and goes into the USB plug that plugs into the gopro?
unless you have a FPV system that cable was only carrying power to the gopro. It also carries a video signal back to the Phantom main board, but that's only used for FPV.

can you fly without it? absolutely. keep in mind your GoPro will be running on battery power

 

[tvleaker]

thanks, sounds like it's not essential. good to know. It seemed so flimsily I knew it would be a problem, didn't think it would only last 2 weeks. GoPro battery lasts much longer than Phantom Battery, so I should be fine

 

[OI Photography]

If you ever do add FPV and need the replacement cable, just google "H3-3D ribbon cable" and you'll find plenty, most DJI dealers carry them now.