Pixfra CrossLink: linking the Draco binocular and the Cetus scope

Pixfra has introduced CrossLink, a feature that wirelessly links the Draco binocular and the Cetus thermal scope. The measured distance, the calculated holdover and even the live image are passed from one device to the other. This is not new hardware, but a feature both devices gain through a firmware update.

The problem CrossLink solves

The usual routine in the field is that a hunter first scans the area with a binocular or monocular and, once game is found, switches to the optic on the rifle. In between, one device is set down, the shooter settles in and has to find the target all over again. If several animals are out there, orientation is lost even faster.

Hunting in pairs adds communication to that. Distance is called out loud, which means a risk of misunderstanding and unnecessary noise.

CrossLink simplifies both cases by passing the data directly between the devices.

How it works

The Draco binocular is the transmitter. It scans the area, measures distance with a laser rangefinder, calculates the holdover and can also send a live image.

The Cetus scope is the receiver. It displays the received distance, the calculated holdover and, optionally, the image from the Draco in a small window. The original reticle stays unchanged, so aiming works exactly as before.

The devices connect over a direct Wi-Fi link. No router and no smartphone are needed; the whole thing works on its own in the field.

A practical scenario

You scan a slope with the Draco binocular and find a stag. You press the rangefinder button and the measured value appears on the Cetus display together with the holdover value. You do not have to measure again, you do not have to find the target again and you do not have to calculate anything. You adjust your aim according to the holdover shown and prepare for the shot.

What this means for Cetus owners

Cetus scopes have no built-in laser rangefinder. Until now that meant either measuring with a separate device and remembering the value, or reaching for a considerably more expensive model with an integrated rangefinder.

With CrossLink the Draco binocular takes over that job. So anyone planning to add a good observation device to their kit also gains distance measurement and holdover calculation for the scope they already own.

Supported devices and firmware

CrossLink currently works with the Draco binocular as transmitter and the Cetus scope as receiver. Devices from other brands are not supported.

The required firmware versions are 260806 or newer for the Draco and 260805 or newer for the Cetus. If CrossLink does not appear in the menu, check the firmware version on both devices first.

How to switch CrossLink on

On the Draco: Main menu → Wi-Fi → select the 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz band and confirm that the hotspot is active.

On the Cetus: Main menu → CrossLink → Open → Device search. On the first connection you enter the password of the Draco's Wi-Fi network. You then choose whether you also want the live image shown (the Sub-Display function).

Once connected, every measurement taken on the Draco is passed to the Cetus in real time.

Frequently asked questions

Can I connect several scopes to one binocular?
No. For transmission stability, the pairing is one device to one device.

Does continuous ranging work?
Yes, CrossLink supports both single and continuous distance measurement.

Why does the Cetus not show the measured value?
Check that CrossLink is switched on, that the connection to the Draco is active, and that you actually triggered the measurement on the Draco.

What is the range of the link?
The manufacturer recommends keeping both devices close together, practically within arm's reach. We are verifying the exact figure with our supplier and will add it here.

Summary

CrossLink is a good example of how the usability of optics in the field is often decided by practical details rather than by sensor specifications alone. Two devices that can pass data to each other save time between spotting game and taking the shot, and remove some of the manual steps where mistakes creep in.

The Pixfra Draco and Cetus ranges are in stock. If you are not sure which combination suits you, get in touch - advice is free with us.