# AIRCRAFT FLIGHT MANUAL

770-00048 | REVISION A | 03.23.2016

# REVISION HISTORY

ALTA 8 AIRCRAFT FLIGHT MANUAL PART NUMBER: 770-00048 

# REVISION DATE DESCRIPTION
A March 2016 Initial Release3 

# CONTENTS

2 Revision History 3 Contents

6 

### ALTA 8 OVERVIEW 7 Disclaimer and Warning 9 Limitation of Liability 11 Introduction 12 Symbols, Abbreviations and Terminology 15 Dimensions 17 Included Items 18 Specifications 22 Limitations 24 System Diagrams 28 ALTA Mobile App 28 Additional Required Components (not included)

29 

### SETTING UP ALTA 8 30 Unfolding/Folding ALTA 8 33 Radio Installation 38 Radio Mapping 43 Configuring for MōVIs 45 Isolator Cartridges 46 Battery Installation 51 Compass Calibration 54 Propellers 56 First Person View (FPV) 63 Tuning ALTA 8 66 ALTA 8 Flight Parameters 69 Resetting ALTA 8 WiFi Password

70 

### OPERATING ALTA 8 71 Flight Controller Modes 74 Home Switch4 75 Disarm Safety Switch 76 Status Light 78 Alarms 79 Orientation Lights 80 ALTA App Monitor 81 Data Logging

82 

### NORMAL PROCEDURES 83 Unpacking and Setup 84 Before Starting 86 Before Takeoff 88 After Every Flight 90 After Last Flight

91 

### EMERGENCY PROCEDURES 92 Emergency Guidance 93 Status Light Warning Indicator Illuminates 94 Pilot Disorientation 95 Unexpected Flight Controller Behavior 96 Battery Exhaustion 97 Loss of Radio Control Signal 98 Loss of FPV Signal

99 

### PERFORMANCE 100 Weight / Endurance Performance Data 101 Allowable Gross Weight Gross Weight

102 

### MAINTAINING ALTA 8 103 General Information and Techniques 104 Maintenance Items 108 Firmware Update Process 109 Motor Alignment 112 Guidelines Following an Accident5 113 

### TROUBLESHOOTING

116 

### APPENDIX 117 Appendix A. Default Tuning Values 118 Appendix B. Data Logging Fields6 

# ALTA 8 OVERVIEW7 

# DISCLAIMER AND WARNING
IMPORTANT - Please read this disclaimer and warning carefully and review the ALTA 8 Aircraft Flight Manual (AFM) prior to flight. If you have any questions, please contact support@freeflysystems.com prior to using the ALTA 8. You can review the most current version of this AFM at www.freeflysystems.com/software-manuals/. By using ALTA 8, you acknowledge that you have read, understand and agree to this disclaimer. You agree that you are solely responsible for your conduct while using ALTA 8, and for any direct or indirect consequences that may result from its use. You agree to only use ALTA 8 for proper purposes that are in accordance with local and airspace rules and regulations.

» ALTA 8 is not a toy and should be operated with extreme care, as improper operation can cause damage to property, serious personal injury or death.

» As with any multi-rotor aircraft, ALTA 8 is a complex and technical machine. Novice pilots should invest sufficient time on a flight simulator and seek training from an experienced pilot prior to operation. The ALTA 8 Aircraft Flight Manual and a flight simulator are no substitute for training with an experienced pilot, particularly when it comes to learning how to safely operate ALTA 8. Novice pilots should never fly without the supervision of an experienced pilot.

» Always check ALTA 8 and its components prior to operation.

» Always maintain a safe distance from ALTA 8 when in use.

» Never attempt to touch ALTA 8 when the propellers are moving.

» Never fly ALTA 8 over or around people, power lines or other aircraft.

» Never fly with any propellers that have visible imperfections or damage.

» Always keep children and animals a safe distance away from ALTA 8 when in use and when changing configurations.

» Only use propellers supplied by Freefly Systems that are designed for use on ALTA 8.

» Always remove the propellers or power ALTA 8 using a low power source when making a change to the configuration of ALTA 8 to prevent propeller strikes in the event of unintentional motor starts.

» Always remove the configuration jumper when making changes to the configuration of ALTA 8.

» Always test ALTA 8 with the propellers removed to make sure that the motors are spinning in the correct direction and that the motor assignment is correct with respect to the Synapse flight controller. If you have either of these wrong, the ALTA 8 will be uncontrollable and dangerous.8 » It is your responsibility to perform a full system check of ALTA 8 prior to every flight.

» It is your responsibility to learn how to safely operate ALTA 8 and to adhere to all applicable rules and regulations.

» Fly at your own risk.

» ALTA 8 is a tuned system with custom components selected for each application. Modification to, removal, or substitution of ALTA 8 components will void the warranty and can lead to unsafe operating conditions.9 

# LIMITATION OF LIABILITY IN NO EVENT SHALL FREEFLY BE LIABLE TO BUYER FOR ANY INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL, PUNITIVE, INCIDENTAL, OR SPECIAL DAMAGES, OR ANY DAMAGES WHATSOEVER RESULTING FROM THE USE OF ALTA OR FROM LOSS OF USE, DATA OR PROFITS (HOWEVER CAUSED AND UNDER ANY THEORY OF LIABILITY), EVEN IF FREEFLY HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. IN NO EVENT SHALL FREEFLY’S LIABILITY FOR A PRODUCT (WHETHER ASSERTED AS A TORT CLAIM, A CONTRACT CLAIM OR OTHERWISE) EXCEED THE AMOUNTS PAID TO FREEFLY FOR SUCH PRODUCT. NOTWITHSTANDING ANYTHING HEREIN, IN NO EVENT SHALL FREEFLY’S LIABILITY FOR ALL CLAIMS ARISING OUT OF OR RELATING TO THIS AGREEMENT EXCEED THE AMOUNTS PAID BY BUYER TO FREEFLY FOR PRODUCT IN THE LAST TWELVE (12) MONTHS. IN NO EVENT WILL FREEFLY BE LIABLE FOR COSTS OF PROCUREMENT OR SUBSTITUTE GOODS BY BUYER. THE LIMITATIONS SET FORTH HEREIN SHALL APPLY TO ALL LIABILITIES THAT MAY ARISE OUT OF THIRD-PARTY CLAIMS AGAINST BUYER. THESE LIMITATIONS SHALL APPLY NOTWITHSTANDING ANY FAILURE OF ESSENTIAL PURPOSE OF ANY LIMITED REMEDY. Freefly shall not be liable for damages or injuries incurred directly or indirectly from the use of ALTA 8 including, but not limited to, the following situations:

» Failure of operator to follow proper instructions and safety warnings found at www.freeflysystems.com.

» Failure of the operator to understand and operate the aircraft within the operating limitations described in this manual.

» Failure of the operator to follow onboard safety warnings while using ALTA 8.

» Failure of the operator to follow and comply with local rules and regulations.

» Failure of the operator to inspect ALTA 8 and its components prior to operation.

» Failure of the operator to properly maintain and/or service ALTA 8 through an authorized Freefly Service Center with genuine ALTA 8 parts.

» Use of third-party products on ALTA 8.

» Use of ALTA 8 in a physically or mentally impaired capacity.

» Use of ALTA 8 without sufficient training.

» Use of ALTA 8 in unsafe conditions, including but not limited to, bad or severe weather, such as rain, wind, snow, lightning, dust storms, etc., or in areas of magnetic or radio interference, such as power stations, broadcasting and cell phone towers, government prohibited airspace, etc.

» Improper operation, misjudgment or risky behavior while using ALTA 8.10 » Infringement of third party data, audio or video rights recorded when using ALTA 8.11 

# INTRODUCTION
ALTA 8 is a professional multi-rotor aircraft designed for demanding cinematic, television, and photographic applications. Within five minutes, ALTA 8 can unfold from its carrying case to flying some of the most capable cinema cameras on either the top or bottom of the aircraft. The SYNAPSE flight controller is purpose-built for cinema use, yielding precise yet smooth control. This Aircraft Flight Manual has been prepared to describe the complete operation of airframe and flight control systems, and the normal maintenance of those items. Do not operate ALTA 8 without reading and understanding this manual. This manual is not a substitute for adequate flight training. Training requirements can vary when operating in different countries or under different flight conditions. Always consult local regulations before flying ALTA 8. In areas where there are no flight training requirements, it is the sole determination of the pilot-in-command as to whether he or she has the appropriate level of training or experience for a given flight. Always set and adhere to personal minimums and fly within your own capabilities.12 

# SYMBOLS, ABBREVIATIONS AND TERMINOLOGY
WARNINGS, CAUTIONS AND NOTES Throughout the manual, warnings, cautions and notes are used to highlight various important procedures. These are defined as follows:



### WARNING Warnings are used to highlight proce

dures which, if not strictly observed, may result in personal injury or loss of life. 

### CAUTION Cautions are used to highlight proce

dures which, if not strictly observed, may cause damage to equipment. 

### NOTE Notes are used to highlight specific operating conditions or steps of a procedure.



# METEOROLOGICAL TERMINOLOGY

ISA International Standard Atmosphere in which: The air is a dry, perfect gas; The temperature at sea level is 15° Celsius (59° Fahrenheit); The pressure at sea level is 1013.2 mbar (29.92 inches Hg); The temperature gradient from sea level to the altitude at which the temperature is -56.5°C (-69.7°F) is -0.00198°C (-0.003564°F) per foot and zero above that altitude MSL Mean Sea Level is the average height above the surface of the sea for all stages of tide AGL Above Ground Level is the height of the aircraft above the ground OAT Outside Air Temperature is the free air static temperature surrounding the aircraft13 Pressure Altitude Altitude measured from standard sea level pressure (1013.2 mbar, 29.92 in. Hg) by a pressure or barometric altimeter It is the indicated pressure altitude corrected for position and instrument error. In this Manual, altimeter instrument errors are assumed to be zero 

# POWER TERMINOLOGY

Maximum Continuous Power Output The maximum typical power output of a motor averaged over the entire flight Maximum Instantaneous Peak Power Output The maximum power output of a motor during any phase of flight, such as when maneuvering 

# FLIGHT AND POWERPLANT CONTROL Throttle Stick The radio controller stick responsible for throttle control. For Mode 2 controllers, this is the vertical movement of the left control stick. For Mode 1 controllers, this is the vertical movement of the right control stick Yaw Stick The radio controller stick responsible for yaw (also called pan) control For Mode 2 and Mode 1 controllers, this is the lateral movement of the left control stick Pitch Stick The radio controller stick responsible for pitch control. For Mode 2 controllers, this is the vertical movement of the right stick For Mode 1 controllers, this is the vertical movement of the left stick Roll Stick The radio controller stick responsible for roll control. For Mode 2 and Mode 1 controllers, this is the lateral movement of the right control stick Pitch/Roll Stick or Cyclic Stick The radio control stick responsible for both pitch and roll control For Mode 2 controllers, this is the right stick14 

# WEIGHT AND BALANCE

Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW) Maximum allowable weight at liftoff Standard Empty Weight Weight of a standard aircraft Basic Empty Weight Standard empty weight plus optional equipment Useful Load Difference between take off weight and basic empty weight Payload Useful load less battery weight 

# GENERAL TERMINOLOGY sUAS Small Unmanned Aircraft System includes all components of the system required for the flight of an unmanned aircraft, including the radio controller, data link and other related support equipment15 

# DIMENSIONS

457 (18.0)

220 (8.6)
1325 (52.1)

220 (8.6) 360 (14.1) 1

2

3

4 5 6 7 8 1325 (52.1) 1720 (67.7)

UNFOLDED PLAN VIEW WITH BOOM NUMBERING SCHEME MM (INCH) 457 (18.0)

220 (8.6)
1325 (52.1)

220 (8.6) 360 (14.1) 1

2

3

4 5 6 7 8 1325 (52.1) 1720 (67.7)

UNFOLDED SIDE VIEW WITH LANDING GEAR MM (INCH) 457 (18.0)

220 (8.6)
1325 (52.1)

220 (8.6) 360 (14.1) 1

2

3

4 5 6 7 8 1325 (52.1) 1720 (67.7)

UNFOLDED FRONT VIEW WITHOUT LANDING GEAR MM (INCH)16 660 (25.9)

615 (24.2)

250 (9.8)

260 (10.2) FOLDED SIDE VIEW MM (INCH)

660 (25.9)

615 (24.2)

250 (9.8)

260 (10.2) FOLDED PLAN VIEW MM (INCH) 660 (25.9)

615 (24.2)

250 (9.8)

260 (10.2)

FOLDED FRONT VIEW MM (INCH)17 

# INCLUDED ITEMS

1. Case 2. ALTA 8 3. Case Lid Foam 4. Isolator Cartridges
a. (6) Teal (Installed) b. (6) Black
c. (6) Red 5. Documentation 6. Electronic Luggage Scale 7. USB-Futaba Power Cable 8. Inverted Landing Gear 9. Antenna Tubes 10. FPV Cables
a. Skyzone/BOSCAM b. BOSCAM, small connector
c. ImmersionRC/Fat Shark d. Ready Made RC 11. (2) M3 × 6 Flat Head for Accessory Mount 12. Quick Release Battery Tray 13. 5.5mm Wrench 14. Hex Drivers (1.5mm, 2.0mm, 2.5mm) 15. Accessory Mount 16. Double-Sided Tape **16**18 

# SPECIFICATIONS

DIMENSIONS Unfolded Diameter (does not include Props) 1325 mm
Folded Diameter (does not include Props) 660 mm Height to base of Toad In The Hole (TITH) 263 mm 

# POWERPLANT

Number of Motors 8 Motor Type Direct Drive 3-Phase PMAC Outrunner Motor Make and Model Freefly F45 Motor Max Continuous Power Output 350 W Motor Max Instantaneous Peak Power Output 950 W Maximum RPM (flat rated) 6300 RPM Equivalent Kv 384 Electronic Speed Controller Freefly Silent-Drive Sine Wave ESC 

# PROPELLERS

Make and Model Freefly ALTA Propeller Material Carbon fiber with balsa core Propeller Orientation (4) CW and (4) CCW Props Propeller Type 18 × 6 Folding 

# BATTERY

Nominal Battery Voltage 6S / 22.2V Maximum Battery Size 240 × 180 × 80 mm Maximum Battery Quantity 2 Battery Packs (Parallel) Minimum Battery Quantity 2 Battery Packs (Parallel) Battery Connectors 2 × EC5 (Parallel) Required Minimum Battery Discharge Rating (Per Pack) 250A / 500A Peak19 

# WEIGHTS

Maximum Gross for Takeoff 1 18.1 kg (40.0 lbs) Maximum Useful Load 2 12.0 kg (26.4 lbs) Maximum Payload 3 9.1 kg (20.0 lbs) Typical Standard Empty Weight: 6.2 kg (13.6 lbs)


### WARNING Always refer to the following aircraft limitations section for complete information on allowable maximum gross weights at different altitudes and temperatures before any flight.



# SPECIFIC LOADINGS Typical Specific Power 4 145 W/kg Thrust Ratio at MTOW 1 1.85 : 1

1 At sea level, ISA. Refer to the Weight Limitations section for complete loading information.

2 Top and bottom mount. Includes batteries.

3 Payload weight top or bottom mount. Battery weight not included and mounted on opposite side from payload.

4 At MTOW, sea level, ISA.20 

# FLIGHT CONTROLLER

Model Name Freefly SYNAPSE flight controller Flight Modes Manual, Height Mode, Position Mode, Return-To-Home, Autoland Supported Inputs: DSMX, DSM2, S.Bus, S.Bus2, PPM, FPV SD Supported Radios Futaba S.Bus & S.Bus2, DSMX, DSM2 (Spektrum/JR), PPM, PPM Invert, PPM Graupner Supported Radio Controller Telemetry Systems Futaba w/ built-in voltage sense port
Minimum Radio Controller Channels Required ›5 Supported GNSS GPS, GLONASS, Galileo Supported SBAS QZSS, WAAS, EGNOS, MSAS First-Person View System Video Formats NTSC, PAL Supported First-Person View Transmitters Skyzone, BOSCAM, ImmersionRC, Fat Shark Supported First-Person View Cameras Ready Made RC First-Person View OSD Telemetry User Configurable Installed Transceivers Wi-Fi Data Logging Rate 25 Hz 

# LIGHTING AND INDICATION Status Light 1 Watt Red, 1 Watt White LED Orientation Lights 3-Watt RGB LED Orientation Light Color Options Red, Yellow, Blue, Green, White 

# ISOLATION SYSTEM Vibration Isolation System Silicone O-Rings Option 1: Soft / Light Payloads Red O-Rings Option 2: Medium / Medium Payloads Teal O-Rings Option 3: Stiff / Heavy Payloads Black O-Rings21 

# PAYLOAD MOUNTING

Mounting Locations Bottom and Top Mount Mounting System Freefly Toad In The Hole (TITH) Quick Release FPV Camera Mount Between Booms 8 & 1 FPV Transmitter Mount Boom 222 

# LIMITATIONS

NOTE These limitations are advisory in nature and do not extend or restrict limitations provided by Governing Aviation Authorities.


# POWERPLANT LIMITATIONS

Maximum RPM 6300 RPM Maximum Battery Voltage 25.2 Volts Minimum Average Battery Voltage 19.2 Volts 

# ENVIRONMENTAL LIMITATIONS

Do not fly ALTA 8 in temperatures exceeding 45oC (113oF) or below -20oC(-4oF). 5 

# FLIGHT CONTROLLER LIMITS

Maximum Pitch/Roll Angle 45° Maximum Yaw Rate 150° / second

5 Must additionally observe battery temperature ratings.23 

# WEIGHT LIMITS

Maximum Payload 9.1 kg (20.0 lbs) Maximum Takeoff Weight See following tablePress Alt FtMaximumGross Weight(lb)40.040.039.237.836.435.133.832.631.330.229.018.118.117.817.216.515.915.314.814.213.713.240.039.337.836.535.233.932.631.430.229.128.018.117.839.337.917.216.515.915.414.814.213.713.212.736.635.234.032.731.530.329.228.127.017.817.216.616.015.414.814.313.813.212.712.338.036.735.434.132.831.630.529.328.227.226.117.216.616.015.514.914.313.813.312.812.311.936.835.534.233.031.830.629.528.427.326.325.316.716.115.515.014.413.913.412.912.411.911.5MaximumGross Weight(kg)MaximumGross Weight(lb)MaximumGross Weight(kg)MaximumGross Weight(lb)MaximumGross Weight(kg)MaximumGross Weight(lb)MaximumGross Weight(kg)MaximumGross Weight(lb)MaximumGross Weight(kg)S.L.100020003000400050006000700080009000100000oC10oC20oC30oC40oCALTA 8 ALLOWABLE GROSS WEIGHTAs altitude and temperature increase, the density of the air decreases. Consequently, ALTA 8’s thrust will decrease. Thefollowing table describes maximum gross weight limits with respect to altitude and temperature.24 

# SYSTEM DIAGRAMS

s UAS OVERVIEW

ALTA App

FPV Rx, Preview Monitor*

*NOT INCLUDED Radio Controller* GPS Satellite

2.4GHz M ō VI Controller* HD Video Link, Preview Monitor*25 

## FLIGHT CONTROL

C A N P W M

Status Light ESC ESC

ESC

ESC

ESC ESC 8 Position Lights A.

B. B. Futaba Receiver or Generic Receiver S.BUS, S.BUS 2 or PPM A. Spektrum Receiver

DSMX, DSM 2 SYNAPSE

Flight Controller26 

## POWER SYSTEM

EC5 Connector

Flight Battery Flight Battery SYNAPSE

Flight Controller Futaba Tel. Motor Lights Motor Lights

Motor Lights

Motor Lights

Motor Lights Motor Lights Motor Lights Motor Lights

FUSE F P V C A M F P V TxRECIEVER

FUSERECIEVER

REGULATORS 12v 5v 5v27 

## FPV EQUIPMENT

FPV Camera Lead Pre-installed FPV Camera (not included)

FPV Camera Cable

FPV Tx Lead Pre-installed FPV Tx Cable Boscam/Skyzone or Fat Shark/ImmersionRC

FPV Tx (not included)

SYNAPSE

Flight Controller28 

# ALTA MOBILE APP

The ALTA App is used to configure ALTA 8 parameters, update ALTA 8 firmware, and to monitor ALTA 8’s status during flight. To download the ALTA App, search for “Freefly ALTA” in the App Store or on Google PlayTM. Parameters may only be adjusted while ALTA 8 is on the ground and disarmed. In addition, radio mapping parameters can only be adjusted when the Configuration Jumper is removed. For more information on radio mapping, see the Radio Mapping section of this manual. The ALTA App will be actively maintained, and additional functionality may be added over time. For information on individual app updates, refer to the App release notes.


### NOTE When making configuration changes with the ALTA App, wait three seconds for the app to automatically save changes to ALTA 8 before shutting off the app or the mobile device. 

# ADDITIONAL REQUIRED COMPONENTS (NOT INCLUDED)

RADIO CONTROLLER ALTA 8 supports a variety of radio controllers as outlined in the Flight Controller Specifications. A minimum of five (5) channels are required, with four (4) used for flight control, and the remaining one (1) used for mode selection. However, a radio controller with at least 9 channels is highly recommended to make use of Velocity and Climb Rate Clamps, Return-To-Home, and Disarm Safety functions. It is recommended to use a radio controller with a three way switch for the Mode and Home functions, a two way switch for the disarm safety function, and a knob or slider input for both the Velocity and Climb Rate Clamp functions. 

# FLIGHT BATTERY ALTA 8 can accommodate a variety of Lithium Polymer (LiPo) flight battery packs. Battery packs must be 6S, having a nominal voltage of 22.2 V. Only run ALTA 8 using two packs at a time. Each pack must have a continuous discharge rating of 250 amps or greater, and a peak discharge rating of 500 amps or greater. For additional information on expected flight durations, refer to the Performance Section of this manual.29 

# SETTING UP ALTA 830 

# UNFOLDING ALTA 8
ALTA 8 features swan-neck booms that fold into a compact size fortravel. They are secured in an open position for flight using overcenter latches. 

# TO UNFOLD ALTA 8
1. Remove ALTA 8 from case 2. Fold down all eight boom retention clips

3. Open ALTA 8 booms31 4. Snap shut all eight boom latches until they “click”

5. Visually confirm all latches are seated properly

6. Remove prop protectors32 

# TO FOLD ALTA 8 1. Secure props with prop protectors

2. Unlatch all eight booms

3. Close ALTA 8 booms

4. Fold up all eight boom retention clips to secure booms33 

# RADIO INSTALLATION

RADIO CONTROLLER RECEIVER ALTA 8 requires the installation of a radio control system. S.Bus, S.Bus2, DSM2, DSMX, and PPM (including inverted PPM and Graupner) receiver types are supported. Additionally, ALTA 8 supports radio receiver diversity using S.Bus, S.Bus2, DSM2 and DSMX receivers. This means two receivers may be installed, and the SYNAPSE flight controller will automatically use the receiver with the best signal quality. Using two receivers requires the radio controller to be bound to both receivers. Refer to the instructions provided with your radio controller to complete the binding process. For Spektrum/JR radios, a receiver is required to bind the satellites to a radio controller.
FOR FUTABA AND PPM RECEIVERS 1. Locate the noted closeout panels used for receiver installation (between booms 2 & 3 and 6 & 7). PPM and Graupner receivers can only use the position between booms 2 & 3.

2. Remove side closeout panel with radio wires using a 2.0mm hex driver34 3. Plug signal wire into receiver

4. If using telemetry, plug in telemetry wire (refer to the Voltage Temeletry section)

5. Feed receiver antenna into lower antenna tube

6. Secure receiver using the provided double sided tape to inside of receiver housing

7. Reattach closeout panel35 8. Route antenna wires into the two antenna tubes below ALTA 8 chassis

9. Repeat steps 1-8 for dual receivers (only applies to Futaba receivers) FOR SPEKTRUM/JR: 1. Locate the noted closeout panels used for Spektrum/JR receiver installation (between booms 3 & 4 and 7 & 8)

2. Remove side closeout panel using a 2.0mm hex driver

3. Feed signal cable through panel grommet36 4. Reattach closeout panel

5. Plug in receiver/satellite into signal cable

6. Attach receiver/satellite to exterior using double sided tape

7. Repeat steps 1-6 for dual receivers37 

# VOLTAGE TELEMETRY ALTA 8 supports battery voltage telemetry on Futaba radios using a receiver that supports an external voltage sensor, such as the R7008SB. Installing the telemetry wire is easiest when initially installing the receiver. To set up ALTA 8 with voltage telemetry for Futaba radios: 1. Remove the closeout panel between booms 2 and 3 with a 2.0mm hex driver and locate the radio receiver wire bundle

2. Identify the voltage sense wire and connector in the bundle. It is the small, 2-pin connector attached to a black and red wire pair 

### NOTE This wire is already connected to an in-line fuse. Soldering a fuse into this wire is not required.
3. Connect the cable to the external voltage sense port on the Futaba receiver

4. Reattach the closeout panel38 

# RADIO MAPPING

ALTA 8 can be used with a variety of radio controllers. Different radio controllers can map functions to different channels, so properly mapping controller channels to ALTA 8 functions is an important step before flying. Radio mapping is performed using the ALTA App. This section describes the steps required to complete radio mapping. If you are uncertain about your channel mapping, obtain assistance from an experienced pilot or from Freefly Customer Support. 

# CONFIGURATION JUMPER A small jumper is used to prevent motor operation while configuring radio mapping parameters. With the jumper in place, the motors may operate, but channel mapping is prevented. With the jumper removed, channel mapping may take place, but motor operation will be prevented. To remove or replace the Configuration Jumper: 1. Locate the closeout panel between booms 5 and 6 where the jumper is installed

2. Remove the closeout panel using a 2.0mm hex driver39 3. Remove or replace the jumper as needed

4. Reattach the closeout panel 

# MAPPING RADIO CHANNELS USING ALTA APP Channel mapping is accomplished with the ALTA App. Prior to mapping channels, ensure your radio controller and receivers are properly installed. Refer to the Radio Installation section of this manual and your radio controller’s documentation. 1. Remove the Configuration Jumper


### WARNING Always ensure the Configuration Jumper is removed prior to adjusting radio settings to prevent unintentional motor starts.

2. Power ALTA 8 using a battery pack or by plugging in the included USB-Futaba cable into an available port on a Futaba receiver 3. Open the ALTA App and connect to ALTA 8 4. Open Configurations > Radio 5. Open each ALTA 8 function and adjust the channel to the desired channel number, and use the toggle to invert the orientation of a control 6. Ensure proper channel selection by moving the control input on the radio controller and verifying the displayed graph in the ALTA App responds correctly


### WARNING Ensure proper channel mapping prior to flight. Incorrect mapping can lead to immediate loss of control.40 ONCE CHANNELS ARE MAPPED 7. Remove the battery or USB-Futaba cable from ALTA 8 8. Replace the Configuration Jumper 

# FUNCTION DESCRIPTIONS The following functions can be mapped to radio controller channels. These are found in the Radio section of the Configurations menu in the ALTA App. Each function is also represented by a chart that responds to control input allowing for quick verification of mapping settings.
CONTROLLER Use this to select the appropriate receiver. The following guide is compiled for convenience. For complete specifications and which mode will work with your receiver, refer to your radio controller or receiver manuals.

» DSM2/DSMX are typically used by Spektrum and some JR controllers.

» SBUS is typically used by Futaba controllers.

» PPM is a generic standard used by many controllers and receivers.

» PPM Invert is the same as PPM except channel inputs are reversed.

» PPM Graupner interprets Graupner radio PPM inputs. PITCH/ROLL/YAW/THROTTLE The Pitch, Roll, Yaw and Throttle controls are the basic flight controls and are mapped to the two radio controller sticks.
MODE The required Mode Switch selects between the three different flight modes: Manual, Height and Position. A three-position switch is recommended to select the three different modes. However, a two-position switch may be used, but will only allow for selecting between Manual Mode and (depending on radio controller mixes) either Position Mode or Height Mode
HOME SWITCH The optional Home Switch selects between the different Return-To-Home (RTH) functions. A three-position switch is required for the Home Switch functions to select between the Set New Home Position, RTH Off, and initiate RTH functions.
VELOCITY AND CLIMB RATE CLAMP Velocity and Climb Rate Clamps set the maximum ground speed or vertical speed available in Height Mode and Position Mode. The clamps can be adjusted mid-flight. An analog dial or slider is recommended for the Velocity and Climb Rate Clamp Functions.41 DISARM SAFETY The Disarm Safety Switch aids in preventing accidental motor disarming while the ALTA is in flight and in manual mode. It may be mapped to either a two-position or three-position switch. To set up the Lockout Switch, refer to the Mapping Channels section or the ALTA Aircraft Flight Manual.
ALL FUNCTIONS The meaning of the direction or position of the indicator is described in the following table for all mappable parameters. The top and right positions on the radio mapping indicators represent 2000μs, and the bottom and left positions represent 1000μs, and the middle position represents 1500μs.

FUNCTION IN-APP INDICATOR POSITION INDICATES

Pitch Top Nose Up Bottom Nose Down
Roll Left Roll Left Right Roll Right
Yaw Left Nose Left Right Nose Right
Throttle Top High Throttle Bottom Low Throttle

Mode Top Position Middle Height Bottom Manual

Home Top Set New Home Position Middle RTH Off Bottom Initiate RTH Velocity Clamp Top Fast Bottom Slow Climb Rate Clamp Top Fast Bottom Slow Disarm Safety Top On - Disarming Not Possible Middle & Bottom Off - Disarming Possible



# TYPICAL CHANNEL MAPPINGS42 The following are channel mapping configurations as set in the ALTA App. These are recommendations only. Depending on exact radio models, these may help as an initial configuration. However, it is up to the pilot setting up ALTA 8 for flight to determine if these settings are appropriate. FUTABA 14SG/8FG FUNCTION CHANNEL NUMBER DIRECTION Pitch 2 Normal Roll 1 Normal Yaw 4 Normal Throttle 3 Reverse Mode 5 Normal Home Switch 6 Reverse Disarm Safety 9 Reverse Velocity Clamp 8 Reverse Climb Rate Clamp 7 Reverse
SPEKTRUM DX18

FUNCTION CHANNEL NUMBER DIRECTION Pitch 3 Reverse Roll 2 Reverse Yaw 4 Reverse Throttle 1 Normal Mode 6 Reverse Home Switch 7 Reverse Disarm Safety 8 Normal Velocity Clamp 10 Normal Climb Rate Clamp 11 Normal43 

# CONFIGURING FOR M ō VI
A MōVI can be attached to either the top or bottom of ALTA 8 via the Freefly Toad In The Hole (TITH) quick release. ALTA 8 comes pre-configured for GroundView mounting a MōVI. 

# GROUNDVIEW
1. Prepare your MōVI for both GroundView and SKyView flight (see MōVI manual)
a. Attach landing gear b. Install TITH receiver on MōVI 2. Connect MōVI to bottom Toad



# SKYVIEW

CAUTION Top mounting is not supported by the MōVI M10.

1. Prepare your MōVI for SkyView flight
a. Remove landing gear (see MōVI manual) b. Install TITH receiver on MōVI (see MōVI manual)44 2. Connect and secure the supplied inverted landing gear to the bottom Toad

3. Remove Battery Mount Quick Release

4. Connect MōVI to top Toad45 

# ISOLATOR CARTRIDGES
Different Isolator Cartridges can be used to fine tune vibration damping performance for different payload weights. Three isolation cartridge styles are provided with ALTA 8. The cartridges have o-rings colored red for light payloads, teal for medium payloads, and black for heavy payloads. Flight testing may be required to determine the optimal isolator for a given setup.

To install, place the cartridges between the top chassis plate and the battery plate. Ensure they are engaged in the track features and are parallel with the chassis and battery plate. Push inwards fully until they click, indicating the cartridges are locked in place. Pull outwards on the cartridge to ensure it is locked in place.


### CAUTION Always ensure isolator cartridges are locked in place before flying ALTA 8. Isolator cartridges that are not locked can cause the payload to loosen and change ALTA 8’s fundamental flying characteristics.

To remove, pinch the cartridge latch to unlock it from the battery and chassis plate. Simultaneously pull the battery and chassis plate apart while pulling the cartridge outward.46 

# BATTERY INSTALLATION

Batteries may be installed on either the top or bottom of an ALTA 8 and are always mounted opposite of the payload location. In both locations, battery packs are secured with silicone straps tensioned across the packs. The straps are secured using studs located on either side of the packs.



### WARNING Always secure battery packs with both battery retention straps.



### CAUTION Ensure both battery packs are at a similar state of charge (a full pack voltage difference less than 0.5V) prior to connecting them to ALTA 8. Plugging in two dissimilarly charged packs could cause one pack to rapidly discharge into the other and damage the batteries or cause a battery fire.



### CAUTION Only use packs that are identical in their capacity and at a similar condition. Using a pack with another that is larger, or has many more cycles, can damage the battery packs.



### CAUTION Always refer to and follow the battery manufacturer’s instructions, recommendations and guidelines for battery handling.



### CAUTION When plugging in battery packs, ensure the polarity is correct. Positive is indicated by a red power lead, and negative/ground is indicated by a black power lead. Reversing polarity will damage ALTA 8’s electronics.47 

# GROUNDVIEW
1. Place battery retention strap studs at the appropriate height for battery packs

2. Adjust battery stops to fit battery packs

3. Attach the single-hole end of the battery retention straps to the studs48 4. Place battery packs on battery tray



### CAUTION Do not install batteries on a tray with the Toad In The Hole adapter installed. If installing batteries without the Battery Mount Quick Release for GroundView, remove the Toad adapter first.

5. Tension and secure battery retention straps49 

# SKYVIEW

CAUTION Always completely secure the inverted landing gear by closing the TITH quick release lever. Inverted landing gear that are not completely attached can rotate and unplug battery leads.

1. Pinch the battery tray handles and slide to remove it from landing gear

2. Attach the single-hole ends of the battery retention straps to the studs on the battery tray

3. Place battery packs onto battery tray50 4. Tension and secure battery retention straps

5. Slide tray with battery packs back into landing gear

6. Ensure tray and battery packs are secure