# Electric Version
User’s Guide

Oct 30, 2012

© 2005

- 2012 CropCam (a division of MicroPilot Inc.), 72067 Road 8E, Sturgeon Rd. Stony Mountain, MB R0C 3A0

# Contents

Preface 1

What this guide contains

................................ ................................ ................. 1
Docu ment conventions

................................ ................................ ................... 2 Contacting CropCam

................................ ................................ ...................... 2

1 CropCam Basics 3

About the CropCam

................................ ................................ ........................ 3 CropCam specifications

................................ ................................ .......... 3 Crop Cam parts

................................ ................................ ....................... 4 Require d equipment

................................ ................................ ................ 4
Tools

................................ ................................ ................................ ....... 5 CropCam Familiarisation

................................ ................................ ................. 5
Centre of Gravit y

................................ ................................ ..................... 5

2 Safety & Operational Guidelines 9

Safety procedures

................................ ................................ ........................... 9
Site requirements

................................ ................................ .......................... 10

3 Assembly 13

Post

- Shipping Connector Checks !

................................ ................................ 13 Assembling the CropCam

................................ ................................ ............. 15 Camera battery

................................ ................................ ..................... 17 Camera settings

................................ ................................ .................... 17
Camera driver

................................ ................................ ....................... 17 Camera coverage

................................ ................................ .................. 17 Lens protection

................................ ................................ ...................... 17 Checking communication

................................ ................................ .............. 18
Radio modems

................................ ................................ ...................... 18
RC receiver

................................ ................................ ........................... 18
Channel 5

................................ ................................ .............................. 19 Disassembling the CropCam

................................ ................................ ........ 20

4 Preparing for Flight 21

About HORIZ ON mp

................................ ................................ ................ 21 Installing the licence key

................................ ................................ ............... 22 Preparing CropCam for flight

................................ ................................ ........ 26 Charging the batteries

................................ ................................ ........... 26 Installing the Batteries

................................ ................................ ........... 27 Choosing a .fly file

................................ ................................ ................. 28 Initialising the CropCam

................................ ................................ ........ 30

5 Operating CropCam 33

iCropCam User’s Guide

Operating the CropCam

................................ ................................ ........ 33 Flying the CropCam

................................ ................................ ...................... 33 To fly or not to fly

................................ ................................ ................... 33
Pre

- flight checks

................................ ................................ .................... 34 Flying

................................ ................................ ................................ .... 36 Working with images

................................ ................................ ..................... 37 Copying images

................................ ................................ .................... 37 Transferring the datalog

................................ ................................ ........ 38 About MP CropCam image software

................................ ..................... 39

6 Problem solving 45

7 CropCam Care/Maintenance 48

Periodic maintenance

................................ ................................ ................... 48 Every Flight

................................ ................................ ........................... 48 Every month or 25 flights

................................ ................................ ....... 48 To inspect the wing and airframe

................................ ........................... 48 To perform a ba ttery charge test

................................ ........................... 49 To inspect the CropCam connectors and wiring

................................ .... 49 To inspect the propeller and spinner screws

................................ ......... 49 Every 50 hours

................................ ................................ ...................... 50 Every 100 hours

................................ ................................ .................... 50 Every 2 years

................................ ................................ ........................ 50 Repairs

................................ ................................ ................................ ......... 50 Repairing the fuselage

................................ ................................ .......... 50 Replacing the propeller

................................ ................................ ......... 50 Propeller Blades

................................ ................................ .................... 50 Elevator Servo Replacement

................................ ................................ ........ 51 Elevator Servo Type

................................ ................................ .............. 51 To Replace the Elevator Servo

................................ .............................. 51 Rudder Servo Replacement

................................ ................................ .......... 60 Rudder Servo Typ e

................................ ................................ ............... 60 Wing Replacement

................................ ................................ ........................ 66 To Replace the Rear Wing Mount

................................ ......................... 66
Motor Replacement

................................ ................................ ....................... 67 Motor Type

................................ ................................ ............................ 67 Returning parts

................................ ................................ ............................. 68 Speed Controlle r (ESC) Settings

................................ ................................ ... 68 CropCam Wiring Diagram

................................ ................................ ............. 68

A Recommended Operator and Training requirements for the CropCam. 71

Operator Requirements

................................ ................................ ................. 71 RC Safety Pilot

................................ ................................ ............................. 71 Training

................................ ................................ ................................ ......... 71 Single Operator

................................ ................................ ............................. 72

B Flight log sheet 73

C Pre

- flight checklist 75

Pre

- flight checks

................................ ................................ .................... 75

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D Tips 79

Failsafe receiver setup for use with autopilot

................................ ......... 80 Cold weather flying

................................ ................................ ................ 82

E Modifications

- Caution 83

Index 85

iiiCropCam User’s Guide

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# Preface

This user guide describes how to assemble, operate

, and maintain the CropCam. I t will be helpful if you are familiar with global positioning systems (GPS)

, and Microsoft Windows. Radio Control experience is

crucial to the operation of the CropCam. If you do not have Radio Control experience we strongly recommend you acquire these skills to ensure

success. Also it is recommended that you have a radio control pilot as a safety pilot for CropCam flights , especially th e first flight with a new .fly file or waypoint configuration

.



## What this guide contains

The Preface describes how the informat ion in this manual is arranged

. It

list s the document conventions used and explains how to contact CropCam for technical support.

Chapter 1 CropCam basics describes the CropCam ’s features, lists the parts and software included with the CropCam and the additional equipment that you need to provid e, including the minimum computer requirements to run th e software included with the CropC a m . It explains the parts of the CropCam and how to install the software license key.

Chapter 2 Safety & Operational Guidelines describes the aircraft safety and handling procedure s, how to choose appropriate flying and landing areas, and explains the environmental limitations of the CropCam.

Chapter 3 Assembly explains how to assemble the CropCam and verify modem operation. It also explains how to disassemble the CropCam for storage and transport.

Chapter 4 Preparing for Flight explain s how to prepare for a f l ight, start the engine, perform the pre

- flight checks

, and launch the CropCam. The

last sect ion in the chapter explain s how to copy the datalog from the CropCam, download images from the camera, and use the MP CropCam image software to create a mosaic of the flight area with the images from the CropCam camera

. Chapter 5 Operating CropCam outline s the routine maint enance schedule for the CropCam and explain s how to change props and glow plugs . It also explains how to return parts to CropCam for repair or replacement.

Chapter 6 Problem solving explains how to fix common problems such as the GPS not locking, radio modems not connecting, the engine not starting, and image problems.

1CropCam User’s Guide

Chapter 7 CropCam Care/Maintenance describes p eriodic maintenance recommended to ensure safe, reliable operation

Appendix A lists R ecommended Operator and Training requirements

for the C rop C am

Appendix B is a log book for the CropCam in which you should record all fligh ts and their duration.

Appendix C is a short form of the pre

- flight checklist, suitable for printing or copying.

Appendix D contains tips on using your CropCam and some possible problems you may co me across.

Appendix E contains some cautions about modifying your CropCam



## Document conventions

Throughout this guide we’ve used the following document conv entions to help you identify and interpret information.

Convention Meaning

Bold Indicates the name of a user interface object, such as a field, option, dialog box, etc.

Italic Indicates the name of a chapter or section in this user guide, or the name of an external reference.

Blue Indicates a hypertext jump to another section of the users guide.

 Identifies a procedure.

Identifies caution information.

Identifies additional supporting information.



## Contacting CropCam

If you can’t find the information you need in this manual, contact CropCam technical support for assistance

.

Phone : +1 204 344

- 5617

Fax : +1 204 344

- 5706

Email : suppor t@micropilot.com

Software downloads Software downloads are available at Micropilot.com by using the password that is assigned to you after your purchase of the Crop C am. Software such as the datalog viewer and fly files can be accessed through

this site.

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# 1 CropCam B asics

In this chapter, you learn more about the CropCam and its feature s

. The topics in this chapter include

• A description of the CropCam

• List s of the parts included with the CropCam , the equipment you have to provide, and the tools you wil l need

• An explanation of the operation of the CropCam control surfaces and

switches

• A demonstration of how to install and tr ansfer the software license key



## About the CropCam

The CropCam is a miniature agriculture plane that takes digital images of

field s, pastures

, and other parts of an agricultural operation. The airplane is

pre

- programmed to fly a set pattern over a one quarter sec tion, taking overlapping photos and land autonomously at the end of the flight.

Using the software included with the CropCa m, you can arrange the individual images in the approximate position of where they were taken to create a single of image of the area.

CropCam specifications Length 4 feet

Wing span 8 feet

Weight 6 l bs.

Motor Axi 2820/10 brushless

Power 4

- 2 2 00 m.a. Li

- Poly 3 cell batteries

Max duration (approx.) 55 minutes 1

Max Altitude 2100 feet

Flight time required

– to cover 160 acres 20 minutes approx..

# of images/160 acres 12 Camera memory 256MB required

1 Max duration/flight time is dependent on s everal factors, including battery type and condition, temperature and throttle usage, which depends on wind and flight altitude \ climb duration.

3CropCam User’s Guide

Crop Cam parts The following parts and software are included with the CropCam:

• Carbon fibr e
, electric power ed a eroplane with the MicroPilot MP2028 g autopilot

• Six #64 rubber bands

• HORIZON mp ground control sof tware

• * MP CropCam image software * currently under re

- development

• Base station modem , including 9 V AC adapter, antenna, and serial

cable

• Autopilot serial cable

• CropCam CD which includes a datalog viewer, sample .fly files (may include Beta CropCam image s oftware when available)

• InfraRed trigger LED/cable (plugged into servo board inside fuselage)

• Four 2100 mAh or 2200mAh 3

- cell L i

- Poly battery packs

Required equipment You wil l need to provide the following equipment.

• RC transmitter and receiver

The minimum requirements needed for flying the CropCam in PIC

mode is a five channel transmitter/receiver. A 6 or more channel model will also work but is not required. M ost RC radio systems (including F utaba, Airtronics or JR ) will work, but the 2.4 G Spek trum
radio will not . Other 2.4GHz systems may interfere with the 2.4GHz

modem on board.

• Laptop computer

The m inimum requirements to run both HORIZON mp and the MP CropCa m image software on the same computer are a Pentium 4

, 3

G Hz supporting Hyper

- Threading Technology with 1G B of RAM,

Windows 2000

, XP , Vista or Windows 7

, and a n RS232 serial port (or USB port used with USB to serial adapter).

You have the option of running HORIZON mp on a laptop and the MP CropCam image software on a more power ful desktop system. In that case the desktop must meet the minimum processor requirements listed above and the laptop can be a Pentium I V

, 7 00 MHz with 512 MB of RAM, Windows XP ( Windo ws Vista and Windows 7 are no problem but require at least 4GB RAM and a new core type

processor ), and a RS232 serial port (or USB port used with USB to serial adapter).

• USB to serial converter (optional)

If your laptop doe s not have a serial port, you will need a USB to serial converter to connect the computer to the CropCam and base

station modem

.

• DC to AC converter

This is to provide power from your vehicle battery for the laptop and

base station modem.

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• 12 volt battery

T he battery can be used to power the charger

. A ny motorcycle, snowmobile, or car battery will be okay. If practical, you can use the battery from your vehicle.

• LiPo Balancing charger

The balancing charger is for charging the CropCam battery packs.

• You may want to purchase spare battery packs; four

- 2 100mAh or

2 2 00 m Ah . 3 cell LI

- Poly Battery packs (pack dimensions must be no larger than the packs supplied

• Pentax s5i, s6, a10, a20, a30

, a40, p80 or S1 digital camera s fit the

camera box

. Suitable cameras should be mountable inside the camera box and must be compatible with the infra red trigger LED. (w90 requires modifying the camera box.) (see http://www.gentles.ltd.uk/gentled/compatability.htm for a list of cameras which are compatible with the trigger LED.)

Tools You’ll need these tools to assemble and maintain the CropCam.

• Flat head screw dr iver

• Phillips screw driver (No. 1 )

• Phillips screw driver (No. 0 )

• Allen key (1.5 mm)

• Small crescent wrench (optional)

The crescent wrench is used to remove and tighten the propeller nut

• Duct or masking tape for assembly of the wings



## CropCam F amiliaris ati on

The basic principles of flight apply to model airplanes in the same way as they apply to full sized airplanes. The CropCam has the same control surfaces as any other airplane and generate s lift in the same way.

Centre of Gravity A e r o planes are balanced through their centre of gravity (or C of G)

. An

a ero plane moves about on three axes, all of which run through the centre of gra vity. The C of G must be correct for every flight; details of how to

check the C of G are given in Appendix C Pre

- flight checklist

.

5CropCam User’s Guide

Longitudinal axis

The lon gitudinal axis runs from the nose to the tail. The airplane rolls to the left or right along this axis.

Lateral axis

The l ateral axis runs from one wing tip to the other. The airplane pitches up and down on this axis.

Vertical axis

The vertical axis runs v ertically through the centre of the airplane. The airplane twists to the left or right on this axis. This twisting motion is called yaw.

The CropCam uses control surface s to control movement on each ax is.

Elevator

The elevator is the hinged horizontal surface at the top of the tail. It El evator Ailerons

Flaps Rudder Longitudinal

axis Vertical

axis Lateral
axis Centre of gravity

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controls pitch or rotation on the lateral axis. When the trailing edge of the elevator is down, the nose of the CropCam p itches down

.

Rudder
The rudder is the hinged vertical surface on the tail. It controls yaw or

rotation in the vertical axis. When the trailing edge of the rudder is to the right, the nose of the CropCam moves to the right.

There a re many forces in an airplane that rotate it on the vertical axis. The rudder is used to counteract these forces and keep the nose of the plane pointing forward.

Ailerons
Ailerons are the hinged surfaces on the w ing tips. They c ontrol roll or

rotation in the longitudinal axis. The ailerons move in opposite directions. When the right aileron is up and the left is down, the CropCam will roll to the right.

Ailerons are used to turn the airplane.

Flaps
Flaps are the hinged surfaces on the wings closest to the fuselage. They move down together, changing the airflow over and under the wing. The change in airflow lowers the stall speed of the airplane (the speed at which the wing can’t produce enough lift to coun teract the weight of the airplane)

. When landing, the CropCam deploys the flaps so that it can make a slower and steeper approach.

Power switch
The power switch applies power to the autopilot, radio modem, servos, etc.

Takeoff switch

P ressing the takeoff switch for greater than 5 seconds then releasing it tells the autopilot to prepare for takeoff and advance the throttle to full. CropCam must be launched within 10 seconds.

GPS antenna
The GPS antenna is mounted on a copper ground pla ne on top of the CropCam’s cent r e wing. The antenna wire runs through the wing to

underside. It is just long enough to reach the connector on the side of the fuselage. To prevent damage to the antenna wire, a lways disconnect the Power switch

Takeoff switch

7CropCam User’s Guide

GPS antenna before removing the wing.

Pitot tube
The pitot tube is mounted on the underside of the right wing and is connected to a pressure transducer on the autopilot.

When the CropCam i s moving, the pressure transducer senses the increased air pressure through the pitot tube. The autopilot uses th e data from the pressure transducer to calculate the airspeed.

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# 2 Safety & O perational

G uidelines

Read this chapter carefully. It cont ains safe ty procedures that you must

follow to prevent injury.

It also describes the site require ments and other conditions needed be for e flying the CropCam.



## Safety procedures

Be very careful working around and operating the CropCam. T he spinning propeller and motor can be very dangerous. Always follow the safety procedures in this chapter and the warnings and cautions throughout this

manual

.

• Wear eye protection when the CropCam motor is running.

The propeller can toss gravel and sand into the air and the motor can shed a blade if the propeller is improperly set up or damaged.

• Do not run the motor in an area where there is loose gravel or sand.

The backwash from the propeller may toss loose gravel and sand in to your face and eyes.

• Do not run the CropCam if the propeller is damaged in any way.

A damaged propeller may break up when spinning at high speeds.

• Do not touch or allow any object to touch a moving propeller.

• Avoid bending over the CropCam when it is running. Don’t wear loose clothing that could come in contact with the propeller. Remove loose items from your pock e ts so that they cannot fall into the propeller.

• Do not tape the propeller to the fuselage or stop the motor from

ro tating in any way! The motor is very powerful and can burn out in seconds if it starts up while prevented from turning.

• Do not fly in dim light.

You must be able to see the CropCam at all times during the flight. Fly only during daylight hours, at leas t one hour after sunrise and one hour

before sunset.

• Check your RC equipment is configured properly. See Setting up the

RC transmitter on page 79 and Failsafe receiver setup for use with autopilot on page 80

.

9CropCam User’s Guide



## Site r equirements

Before operating the CropCam, make sure that the site and other

conditions are suitable.

Location
Avoid populated areas and other air traffic when flying the CropCam. Do not fly the CropCam if your planned flight is within

• 2 kms of an airport

• 5 kms of a town

• 2 km of a paved road

Take off and landing area
The CropCam will land at the same location from which it took off and needs a landing area of about 100 by 1000 to 1500 feet. Make sure that the area is relatively smooth. Avoid large clods of soil and fields with swaths

in them.

Make sure th at the area is clear of tall obstructions such as trees and hydro lines. If you have RC control for your CropCam, you can fly in these areas, but you must land using RC control. Make sure there are no obstructions within a 45 degree arc on either side of the takeoff path to avoid possible collisions. This includes hills which can cause turbulence or downdrafts if they are large or close by.

The CropCam is very light so you can land on some mature crops. Avoid tall crops such as corn and sunflowers. The CropCam can be hard to find in these crops.

Weather
Do not fly if the wind speed is gusting higher than 30 km/h. The CropCam can’t fly in winds more than half of its cruise speed and win d speed increases with altitude. The picture quality will also be better in light

winds.

Do not fly in the rain or fog. The camera isn’t waterproof and the poor visibility in rain will reduce the quality of the images.

Rain may also plug the pitot tube whi ch will disable the airspeed sensor.

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11

# 3 Assembly

In this chapter you will learn how to

• Check connectors after shipping

• A ssemble the CropCam

• D isassemble the CropCam for transportation and storage

• Set up and test the base station modem



## Post

- S hipping C onnector Checks !

Upon receiving your CropCam after initial shipping from the factory, it is

MOST IMPORTANT to inspect the main autopilot connectors to confirm they are still securely seated after the shipping process. The autopilot

connectors are not ea sily visible

, as other connectors are, and if they should have come loose during shipping then you could lose all power to the autopilot during flight (and therefore all control).

It is also good practice to inspect these connectors and the condition of al l other connectors after any other shipping process takes place.

Check the P2 connector first; this is under the forward wing seat (rear of the canopy opening). See Figure 3

. 1 and Figure 3

. 2

.

Figur e 3

. 1

- P2 connector viewed from Front Check Fully
Seated

13CropCam User’s Guide

Figure 3

. 2

- P2 connector viewed from Rear

Caution

– the P2 connector requires a firm push to seat it fully; if yo u need to reseat the P2 connector, be careful not to stress the autopilot board and do not move its position. The autopilot has been adjusted to be level inside the fuselage and is held in position by a hook & loop pad ; if it is moved out of position you may have to re

- adjust the position to obtain correct level flight attitude and climb attitude.

Next, check the P1 connector at rear of the autopilot, and the servo board connectors. The connectors should be fully seated and stuck together with

a thin sme ar of sealant. See Figure 3

. 3 and Figure 3

. 4

.

Figure 3

. 3

- P1 and servo board connectors Check Fully
Seated

Check Fully
Seated Check Fully

Seated &

Stuck

14 30

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Figure 3

. 4

- Servo board connectors

Also s ee To inspect the CropCam connectors and wiring on page 49 , for periodic inspection information.



## Assembling the CropCam

The CropCam is designed to be assembled as needed and disassembled for transport and storage. You will need the following tools and parts to put together the CropCam

.

Tools

• Phillips screw driver

• Flat head screw driver

CropCam parts

• Camera

• Camera enclosure

• Centr e wing

• Fuselage

• 2 outer wings and winglets (left and right)

• Elevator

• Four #64 elastic bands

 To at tach the camera to the centr e wing

1. Thread the infrared switch through the small hole on the side of the camera housing.

2. Mount the switch on the camera so that it is in

- line with the camera’s

infrared sensor.

3. Slip the camera into the housing so that the l ens lines up with the hole on top of the housing.

15CropCam User’s Guide

4. Turn the centr e wing upside down.

5. Place the camera and housing on the foam mount so that the lens is closest to the trailing edge of the wing.

6. Secure the camera to the wing by attaching a #64 elastic band to the mounting hook, wrapping it over the housing pegs, and hooking it onto the hook on the opposite side. Repeat for the other side of the housing.

 To attach the cent r e wing to the fuselage

1. Turn the centr e wing over so that it is right side up and the two serv o harnesses from the fuselage will reach the servo connectors on the

bottom of the wing.

2. Match the colour codes and c onnect the servo harnesses to the wing

connectors.

3. Position the cent r e wing so that it lines up with the screw holes on the fuselage.

4. Tuck in all wiring so that nothing will be pinched when you fasten the

ce ntr e wing to the fuselage.

5. Attach the wing centr e to the fuselage with the two Phillips head screws. The longer screw goes at the front of the wing.

6. Turn the fuselage/wing assembly over and connect the GPS antenna and pitot tube.

 To attach the outer wings and elevator

1. Connect the outer wing servo connector to the connector on end of the

centr e wing.

If necessary, you can pull the connectors out of the outer wing and center wing to make the connection easier.

2. Attach the outer wing to the centr e wing on the mounting dowels. Gently push the wiring back into the outer wing as you push the outer wing onto the centr e wing

.

3. Place a piece of duct tape on the seam betwe en the cent r e wing and the outer wing.

4. Repeat steps 1 to 3 for the other outer wing.

5. P osition the elevator right side up and attac h it to the top of the vertical

stabilizer with the flat head screw.

6. Place the blue hatch cover and connect batteries and hold it in place

with two #64 elastic bands.

Check C of G

Install the four LiPo battery packs and check the C of G (See Appendix C

Pre

- flight checklist to check C of G.)

16 30

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Check Connections

See Figure 7.32 CropCam Wiring Diagram on page 69 to help check

connections.

C amera battery Charge the battery before using the camera for the first time.

Under normal conditions, you will have to charge the battery every three or four flights. Check the battery level indicator on the camera before each flight. If it is yellow or low , charge the battery.

For Pentax cameras, s ee the Pentax Operating Manual for detailed information on charging the ca mera battery.

Camera settings The CropCam camera settings vary depending on the mission parameters, but in general they can be set to the recommended user settings as outlined

at the end of the manual.

Don’t turn the camer a off with the LCD display turned on. The next time you use the camera, the display will be on by default which will drain the battery very quickly.

Camera driver F or Windows to recognis e the camera as a removable drive, you will have

to install the driver from the CD included with the camera. (See Copying images on page 37 for more information on copying ima ges to the computer.)

Camera coverage If you decide to use a different camera, remember that you must determine the field of view ratio. On the Pentax Optio s5i, a10, and a20 it is 1

- 1: This means that when you take a picture from 400 feet away, you r image will cover 400 feet in width. The height of the picture will always be 75 percent of width. The Camera you decide to use must also have a similar field of view ratio, or the pictures will not overlap properly during a survey flight.

The camera m ust also have:

- Adequate memory for a survey flight of pictures

- An infrared sensor to allow the autopilot to trigger the shutter

Lens protection The camera box for the CropCam is mounted under the wing and is susceptible to contamination by debris upon landing. To prevent this, a sheet of clear Mylar can be taped onto the camera box lens opening, or the auto power shutdown can be set for three minutes. I f no pictures are taken

within three minutes the camera will shut down and retract th e lens. The lens is the most vulnerable item to contamination, and closing it prevents it from becoming unusable if the conditions are bad enough.

To keep the camera from shutting down prematurely, the fly file must be set up to take pictures before the three minute window expires. Another option is to manually take a picture before this can happen.

17CropCam User’s Guide

 To install the camera driver

1. Connect the camera to a USB port on the computer and turn the

camera on.

Windows will display a message that it has foun d new hardware and display the Found New Hardware dialog box.

2. Insert the camera CD follow the installation instructions.



## Checking communication

Radio modems The CropCam communicates with the laptop computer using radio modems. There is a remote modem installed in the CropCam and a base station modem that you need to set up when you use the CropCam.

 To set up the base station modem

1. Attach the antenna to the modem.

Make sure that the modem is in an open area and not shielded by vehicles, trees, buildings, etc.

2. Connect the modem to the serial port on the laptop computer using the serial cable packed with the modem.

3. Connect the modem to an AC power source a nd apply power to the

m odem.

4. Apply power to the CropCam and wait a few minutes for it to

initialize

.

5. Start HORIZON mp

.

See About HORIZON mp on page 21 for a description of the

HORIZON mp window.

6. In the HORIZON mp window, select UAV

- 01 and click Connect

.

The P ower and CD lights on the base station modem should be lit and

the LINK indicator on the HORIZON mp status bar should be green.

RC receiver Your CropCam may also have RC receiver installed. If not, refer to page 11 of your autopilot manual for hooking up the RC receiver. The RC components are required equipment for safety and functionality.

The CropCam’s autopilot responds to channel 5 on your RC transmitter to switch between CIC (computer in control) and PIC (pilot in control)

modes. The status bar at the bottom of the HORIZON mp window ( S ee About HORIZON mp o n page 21 .) displays the RC status.

T he RC setup is straight forward. T he receiver gets plugged into the appropriate channel labeled leads that are in a long bundle from the wiring

harness. The unlabeled lead (yellow) goes to t he flap or gear channel and is used for switching between PIC and CIC. This channel must be set up so that it produces the correct pulse width in each position of the switch.

18 30

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( See Channel 5

, below .)

All other channels are set up for the normal 100%. Any trim changes that are needed in PIC are to be done on the RC transmitter just like a normal RC airplane. Make sure you have selected the proper modulation for the

RC r eceiver used in your transmitter menu.

Channel 5 You must adjust the pulse width range of your transmitter channel 5 to change autopilot modes reliably. The ideal pulse width for CIC mode is

1.25 ms and the best width for PIC mode is 1.75 ms.

As an appr oximate guide, the channel 5 end point/travel adjustment should

be about + 50% and

– 50% on the Futaba RC transmitter and 75% for

JR

. You can set the pulse widths accurately by consulting the MicroPilot AutoPilot Installation & Operation manual; see cha pter 4: CH5 Setup

– CIC/PIC for an easy way to monitor the pulse widths as you make the adjustments.

Once your transmitter channel 5 is set up you should see these indications

in Horizon’s status bar RC Panel:

• RCOFF indicates that the transmitter is tu rned off (or the RC signal is not being received).

• RCON indicates that transmitter is on and the autopilot is in CIC

mode

• RCPIC indicates that the autopilot is in PIC mode

Failsafe

If your RC receiver has a failsafe mode in it, you MUST configure this correctly to prevent losing control! See Failsafe receiver setup for use with autopilot on page 80

.

 To check RC communication

1. Leave the three, thick motor

- dr ive wires disconnected and a pply power to the CropCam ; wait a few minutes for it to initialis e.

2. Apply power to the base station modem.

3. Start HORIZON mp and click C onnect to connect to the CropCam.

In the HORIZON mp status bar, the LINK indicator should be gr een most of the time.

Wait for the GPS to lock

- the GPS panel should be green.

4. Turn your transmitter on. Using channel 5 on your RC transmitter, switch to PIC mode.

T he RC status indicator should s how RC

- PIC without flickering

between modes ; The CropCam servos should respond to pilot control

of the transmitter sticks.

5. Swit ch to CIC mode. T he CropCam should go into C IC mode and the

19CropCam User’s Guide

RC status panel should stay on RCON without flickering between

modes

. Servos should respond to pitching and rolling the CropC am.

6. Switch back to PIC mode and turn the RC transmitter off.

NOTE: To prevent accidental motor running only do this with the

motor disconnected.

With your RC transmitter turned off the RC indicator in Horizon must display RCOFF wi hout flickering betwee n modes

.



## Disassembling the CropCam

The CropCam is an awkward shape and size to transport and store. The following procedure describes how to completely disassemble the CropCam.

 To disassemble CropCam for transport and storage

Disconnect all batteries

. The battery packs will drain even if the switch is turned off because the speed controller uses some power just by being connected. If Li

- Poly batter ies are allowed to fully discharge the pack will be damaged beyond repair.

There isn’t any slack in the GPS antenna wire so it is possible to damage the antenna wire if you remove the wing before disconnecting

the antenna.

1. Disconnect the GPS antenna.

2. R emove the elevator.

3. Remove the outer wings and disconnect the servo connectors

.

4. R emove the camera from its mount and the infrared switch from the

camera s

.

5. Disconnect the pitot tube.

6. Remove the screws attaching the centr e wing t o the fuselage and tip

the c ent r e wing back.

7. Disconnect the servo connectors

.

20 30

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# 4 Preparing for Flight

In this chapter you will learn what you need to know to prepare the CropCam and your computer for flight operations . The chapter explains

how to

• Prepare HORIZON mp for use and beco me familiar with it

• Choose a n appropriate location to fly the CropCam

• Select a .fly file based on the location and wind

• Use HORIZON mp to copy the .fly file to the CropCam

• Perform the pre

- flight checks

• Compile the images from the CropCam into a single imag e

• Export the compiled CropCa m image to an other application

About HORIZON mp

HORIZON mp ground control software is included with the CropCam and

has two functions.

It is the visual link to the CropCam. In the HORIZON mp window, you can

21CropCam User’s Guide

track the aircraft’s flight path and monitor its condition.

HORIZON mp is also the computer interface to the autopilot that controls the CropCam. You will use HORIZON mp to select and transfer the .fly file to the CropCam. Full instructions for in stalling and operating

HORIZON mp are contained in the Horizon Users Guide ; the following is a summary to get you started after installation.



## Installing the licence key

To enable all the features in HORIZON mp and MP CropCam image software, you must inst all a licence key.

You must install the CropCam image software folder files into the Horizon directory for the software to work.

 To install the licence key

1. On the Windows taskbar, click Sta rt , point to MicroPilot Horizon

3.4 , and click MicroPilot Licence Manager

. If you are installing the licence key on a computer that just has the MP CropCam image software installed, the licence installer program will be in the MP CropCam group.

The MicroPi lot Licen c e Manager dialog box appears.

2. Email the Computer Site Key along with the serial number of your CropCam and the name of your company to CropCam at

license@ MicroPilot .co m

. To prevent transcription errors, we recommend that you copy the site

k ey from the MicroPilot Licenc e Manager dialog box and paste it directly into the email message. If you are requesting two licence keys, please identify which site key is associated with which software. Be careful not to get the site keys and licence keys mixed up.

3. When you receive the licence key from CropCam, run MicroPilot

Licen c e Manager again.

4. Copy and paste the licence key from the email you received from CropCam and click OK

. Computer Site Key

22 30

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Before you get your licence key from CropCam, you can create a demo

licence to enable HORIZON mp and MP CropCam image software.

Click Create Demo Licen c e to install a temporary licence that is effective for 30 days. . If you do create Demo licence, make sure to do this

BEFOR E you run the Licence Manager again and send your site key for a licence key.

CropCam software is licenced for only one computer but you can transfer an existing licence from one computer to another.

• Once you start to transfer a licence key you must complete the entire process. If you prepare a folder to transfer the licence to and then delete it or forget about it, the Licence Manager will not let you create

another.

• If you use a USB fl ash memory to transfer the key, make sure that you shut down the device properly before unplugging it from the computer. You will lose your license key if you unplug the device while it is still running.

 To transfer a licence to another computer

1. Insta ll the CropCam software on the new computer and run

MicroPilot Licen c e Manager

.

The MicroPilot Licen c e Manager dialog box appears.

2. Click Transfer License In

.

Licen c e Manager opens the Browse for Folder dialog box.

3. Select a disk that does not have a Mic roPilot application installed on it and click OK. A floppy disk, USB flash memory, or something similar

is the best choice.

Licen c e Manager prepares a space on the disk to receive the license. A floppy disk or other

removable disk is the

best choice.

23CropCam User’s Guide

4. Transfer the floppy disk or flash memory to the original comp uter and

run MicroPilot Licen c e Manager

.

HORIZON mp displays a message saying the there is already a valid

license installed.

5. Click OK to dismiss the message.

The MicroPilot Licen c e Manager dialog box appears.

6. Click Transfer Licen c e Out

.

Licen c e Manager ope ns the Browse for Folder dialog box.

7. Select the disk you specified in step 3 and click OK

Licen c e Manager transfers the licence to the removable disk.

8. Transfer the floppy disk or flash memory to the new computer, run

MicroPil ot Licenc e Manager , and cl ick Transfer Licen c e In

.

Licen c e Manager transfers the licence to the new computer.

You can also use the procedure for transferring a licence to another computer to transfer a licence to an upgraded version of HORIZON mp or the MP CropCam image software.

Status bar Transmit waypoints button

Instrument panel Flight files Connect

button

Payload

buttons

24 30

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- 12Chapter 4 : Preparing for Flight

Autopilot Control

• Connect button

Click to connect HORIZON mp to the CropCam.

Flight Files

The list co ntains the .fly files that direct the CropCam. The Transmit Waypoints button (to the right of the list) allows you to transmit the

selected .fly file to the autopilot.

See Choosing a .fly file on page 28 for a description of the CropCam flight patterns, and instructions on how to select an appropriate file and copy it to the CropCam.

Payloads

This area contains buttons for various act ions, such as manually take a picture, circle position, return home, emergency engine shutdown, and emergency landing.

Instrument Panel
The main instruments on the panel are the airspeed indica tor, attitude indicator, and altimeter.

Directly below the main instruments is an error message line that displays errors received from the CropCam’s autopilot.

At the bottom of the instrument panel are three gauges that monitor throttle, main battery (M PBat), and servo battery (SVBat).

Status bar
The status bar runs along the bottom of the window. It displays the status of the communications links to the CropCam, the CropCam’s location and condition, and the elapsed time of the flight.

Before you launch the CropCam, the GPS, LINK, and READY indicators must be green.

During the flight keep a close watch on the Elapsed Time field. The CropCam can carry only enough charge for a 55 minute flight. If you get

cl ose to the maximum flight time, you will have to make a landing to prevent damaging the batteries and/or running out of power.

Note the duration will be shorter when you climb to higher altitudes and when cruise speed is higher (more power will be used). We recommend that when you plan a flight you make a rough estimate of the time it will take and make sure it is within the time you can safely fly, allowing for the entire flight and leaving some power for landing, overshoots etc

NOTE: The main battery voltage shown in HORIZON mp instruments will report approximately 0.75V lower than the actual LiPo battery voltage due to the design of the wiring harness. Bear this in mind when assessing the main battery v oltage (MPBat).

25CropCam User’s Guide



## Preparing CropCam for flight

Before you fly

, review Site requirements on page 10 and make sure that

the area and other conditions are suitable.

• Is the site far enough away from airports and populated areas?

• Is the landing area large enough and smooth enough?

• Is there enough light to see the CropCam during the flight and take good quality images?

• Is the wind less than 30 km/hr ?

• Is it raining or foggy?

• Is it very cold? If so, you should “cold

- soak” your CropCam for about 15 minutes before turning power on, to allow sensors to acclimatise to the temperature.

Charging the batteries The CropCam has four Li

- Poly battery packs. The packs power all systems including the Axi Brushless motor. They allow an average of 45 to 50

minutes flying time between charges (maximum of 55 has been achieved)

. To charge the bat teries you will need a 12 V DC quick charger designed for Lithium Polymer batteries . The batteries can be charged separately, or you can charge them in groups as long as you know the packs have a matching state of discharge.

We recommend using a balancing c harger for Lithium Polymer battery packs to ensure the cells of the packs remain very closely balanced in voltage. Unbalanced cells can create an overcharge condition on one or more cells and this can cause the cells to expand or ‘puff up’, reducing

their life and creating the risk of a fire starting while charging.

 To charge the batteries

1. Remove the blue hatch cover in front of the wing.

2. Inside the CropCam, remove the battery packs.

3. Connect the battery packs to the charger until complete ly charged.



## CA UTION! Always use the correct voltage detecting type battery 

### Main battery voltage

26 30

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- 12Chapter 4 : Preparing for Flight

charger specifically made for charging Li

- Poly cells. Overcharging these cells may result in bursting and a severe fire hazard.

Installing the Batteries 

### The aircraft accepts all 4 Lithium Po lymer packs, as supplied with your CropCam or MP Vision; they are a tight fit but they do go in!

• The first pack slides into the nose with cables to the rear and the thick power cables to the top; you then push it to the left (port side) so that it sits ju st in front of the radio modem connector

.

• Holding pack #1 to the left and as far back as possible, almost against the modem connector, you can slide pack #2 into the nose alongside pack #1, again with the power cables to the rear and on

top

.

• Push both of the front packs together as far forward as you can; they will be firmly held in the nose but do not exert excess pressure.

• Pack #3 lays flat behind packs #1 & #2, just to the right of the radio

modem

-- cables coming forwards ; be careful not to cut the powe r cables on the edge of the fuselage

– they have soft flexible insulation!

• Pack #4 lays flat on top of Pack #3 ; you may find the cables of the rear packs lay easier if you have those of pack #4 on the opposite

side to those of Pack #3.

• To connect packs to th e Power Distribution board, notice each battery pack cable is now a different length due to the way they sit in the fuselage

- so plug the packs into the distribution board so that the shortest cable plugs into the connector at the nearest end of the

distr ibution board. The other plugs follow, in sequence of shortest to longest.

• Finally, the spe ed controller should sit on top at the front of the

canopy area so that it is in the airflow of the aperture in the canopy;

the motor cables fold underneath it and t he distribution board cables

fold behind it so that both components and cables fold nicely on top of the battery packs. The canopy is then placed on and held in place

with one rubber band at the rear and one at the front of the canopy.

‘Double’ the rubber bands (i.e. fold each one over on itself) to increase their strength.

27CropCam User’s Guide

Choosing a **.fly** file Included in your Cropcam CD are sample .fly files to use with the CropCam. Each .fly file directs the CropCam to fly the same set pattern at

shown in Figure 4.1 CropCam flight pattern

. The pattern is a pass of the field in the form of long legs flown 600 feet apart followed by a se cond pass with the legs off set by 300 feet. In the example in Figure 4.1 , the first leg is to the north and the first pass moves east. The second pass overlaps the first and moves west.

The .fly files differ in their o rientation and start point. Which .fly file you choose depends on which quarter section you plan to survey, your launch location, and the wind direction. Table 4.1 provides a quick reference for selecting an appropriat e file.

Figure 4

. 1 CropCam flight pat tern

Selecting for the wind

Choose a .fly file with legs running with and into the wind.

If the wind i s from the north or south, choose a .fly file that flies north

s outh legs. If the wind is from the east or west, choose a .fly file that flies

east

- west legs.

Selecting for the start location

Choose a .fly file with passes that will cover the quarter sect ion you are surveying.

If your launch site is at the northwest corner of a ny quarter section (site s #1 , 2, and 4 i n the following diagram ) , choose a .fly file with a northwest

start location

. Second pass

to the west

Start

End First leg to the north, first pass

to the east

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- 12Chapter 4 : Preparing for Flight

Figure 4

. 2 CropCam launch sites

Knowing which quarter you want to survey, the wind direction, and your

launch site (from Figure 4.2 ) use the following table to choose an appropriate .fly file

.

Table 4

. 1 .fly file selection

Launch
site Quarter to

survey Wind direction **.fly** file

1 NW north/south Survey NS _north

- west_start

east/west Survey EW _north

- west_start

2 NW north/south Survey NS _north

- east_start

east/west Survey EW _n orth

- east_start

NE north/south Survey NS _north

- west_start

east/west SurveyEW_north

- west_start

3 NE north/south Survey NS _north

- east_start

east/west Survey EW _north

- east_start

4 NW north/south SurveyNS_south

- west_start

east/west SurveyEW_south

- wes t_start

SW north/south Survey NS _north

- west_start

east/west SurveyEW_north

- west_start

5 NE north/south SurveyNS_south

- east_start

east/west Survey EW _south

- east_start

SE north/south Survey NS _north

- east_start

east/west Survey EW _north

- east_start

6 SW north/south SurveyNS_south

- west_start

east/west SurveyEW_south

- west_start

7 SW north/south SurveyNS_south

- east_start Possible

launch sites

Section roads

29CropCam User’s Guide

Launch
site Quarter to

survey Wind direction **.fly** file

east/west Survey EW _south

- east_start

SE north/south SurveyNS_south

- west_start

east/west SurveyEW_south

- west_start

8 SE nor th/south SurveyNS_south

- east_start

east/west Survey EW _south

- east_start

If the wind is calm (less than 1 0 km/h) you don’t have to choose the .fly file based on the wind. You can use any file that will give you the correct

coverage for the quarter.

Initialis ing the CropCam The CropCam includes an autopilot equipped with a GPS. When you apply power to the autopilot, it performs a self test and verifies that its systems and sensors are working properly.

As p art of the initiali s ation the GPS locks an d determin es its position

. Always initialis e the CropCam at the takeoff location and in the direction

of takeoff. Otherwise the GPS will interpret the location incorrectly and the CropCam will not fly the pattern as you would expect

.

If you take your CropCam from a building or vehicle to the outside where the temperature is quite different, you should leave your CropCam for about 15 minutes before turning power on, to allow sensors to acclimatise to the temperature. Such temperature differences are mo re likely to happen when outside temperatures are very cold but could also occur when moving from Air

- conditioned space to a hot outside.

 To initialis e the CropCam and copy the **.fly** file

1. Carry the CropCam to the takeoff location and position it facing in to

the wind.

2. Check that the GPS antenna is connected.

3. Turn on the power to the CropCam.

Make sure the CropCa m is still while it is initialis ing. If it is wi ndy, you may have to hold it steady.

The autopilot can take a minute or more to initiali s e. The flaps drop when the autopilot is ready. If you haven’t initiali s ed the CropCam in several weeks, it ma y take up to 15 minutes for the GPS to lock and

the initia li s ation to complete.

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- 12Chapter 4 : Preparing for Flight

4. Start HORIZON mp

.

5. Apply power to the base station modem.

The Power and the CD lights indicate when the modem is ready.

6. From the HORIZON mp Flight File list, select the .fly file you want to

use.

7. Click the Transmit Waypoints button nex t to the Flight Files list.

HORIZON mp displays the Transmit Waypoints dialog box.

8. Click Transmit

.

HORIZON mp copies the .fly file to the CropCam.

31

# 5 Operating CropCam

In this chapter you will learn what you need to know to fly the CropCam

and work w ith the images taken during the flight. The chapter explains

how to:

• Perform the pre

- flight checks including checking C of G (See Appendix C Pre

- flight checklist )

• Comp ile the images from the CropCam into a single image

• Export the compiled CropCam image to another application

Operating the CropCam There are several procedures that you will have to perform each time you fly the CropCam.

The CropCam batteries ho ld on ly enough charge for one 55 minute flight. You will need to recharge before each flight.

• Charging the batteries

The batteries hold enough charge for one flight. See Charging the

batteries on page 26 for instructions.

Have an assistant hold the CropCam so that it doesn’t move when the

motor run s.

The CropCam’s speed controller requires that the RC throttle travel be set correctly for it to arm. The normal + and

– 100% settings (on JR rad ios) are appropriate.

The RC transmitter should be on when the CropCam gets a gps lock. At

this time a 4 tone arming sound of the speed controller should be heard.



## Flying the CropCam

Before flying, always check that all equipment is working properl y and that weather conditions are within the limits of the CropCam.

To fly or not to fly Do not fly if any of the following conditions exist.

• The wind speed is greater than 30 km/hr ( 16 knots )

.

• The CropCam did not pass all of the pre

- flight checks listed in the next

33CropCam User’s Guide

section.

Pre

- flight checks The purpose of the pre

- flight checklist it to make sure that the CropCam and the autopilot are operating correctly. If any check fails, do not fly the CropCam until you’ve resolved it.

CropCam inspection

At the start of each day inspect the CropCam for damage and loose

connections.

• Check that connectors are securely fastened.

Inspect the servo harnesses where they connect to the centr e win g and outer wings and any harnesses under the hatch cover.

• Inspect the airframe for cracks and failed glue joints.

Make sure that there are no stress or fatigue points developing.

• Ensure that all the bolts and screws hold ing the CropCam together are

secure

.

• Check the two screws holding the centr e wing to the fuselage and the screw holding the elevator to the tail.

• Ensure that the propeller is secure.

If you take your CropCam from a building or vehicle to the outside where the temperature is quite differe nt, you should leave your CropCam for about 15 minutes before turning power on, to allow sensors to acclimatise to the temperature. Such temperature differences are more likely to happen when outside temperatures are very cold but could also occur when

mo ving from Air

- conditioned space to a hot outside.

S tart

- up checks

Perform these checks a fter initialis ing the CropCam autopilot and connecting to HORIZON mp . (See To initialise the CropCam and copy the .fly file on page 30 .)

• Make sure that the GPS antenna is connected securely.

• Check that the camera memory is clear and that the battery leve l is

green.

• Check that control surfaces are free and move in the correct direction.

• In CIC, check that the ailerons are centred when the wing is level. If not, the autopilot board will need to be leveled in the fuselage. Tilt the board sideways in the fu selage until the ailerons are correct when the wing is level.

• Rotate the CropCam about its pitch, roll, and vertical (yaw) axes. Check that the elevator, ailerons, and rudder move to compensate for

these movements. If the servos stick or do not move in a smooth, continuous manner then they will need to be replaced before flying.

− When the CropCam is pitched down, the trailing edge of the

34 30

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- 12Chapter 5 : Operating CropCam

elevator should move up.

− When the CropCam is rolled, the trailing edge of the aileron on the lower wing should move do wn and the aileron on the upper wing should move up.

− As the CropCam yaws, the trailing edge of the rudder should move in the opposite direction of the nose

.

• Verify that t he main and servo battery voltages are OK.

Check the batter y voltage gauges on the HORIZON mp instrument panel. The MPBat gauge should show a charge of 11.5

- 12 volts with

fresh batteries and the SVBat gauge should be at a regulated value of 5

volts.

• Check that the airspeed indicator is working

– Press your finger on the pitot tube on the leading edge of the right wing and check that the HORIZON mp airspeed gauge shows an

increase.

• Check that the propeller is not damaged in any way.

Inspect the propeller for cracks, splits, nicks, etc.

If you are using RC equipment:

• E nsure the transmitter throttle stick is all the way down and Horizon’s throttle gauge shows close to zero % throttle (just a few % is normal).

• Check that the CropCam is in CIC mode when the CH5 switch is at

CIC. Horizon should show RCON and s ervos should respond to pitching and rolling the aircraft.

• Now check that you can switch to PIC mode using channel 5 on your

RC transmitter. Horizon should indicate RCPIC

• Check that the control surfaces respond with the correct direction and

travel in PIC mode.

• Turn the transmitter off. Check that Horizon shows RCOFF and the CropCam returns to CIC mode

– servos should respond to pitching and rolling the aircraft. If you do not see RCOFF the autopilot will not be able to activate the rcFailed pattern and also may be unable to return to CIC mode to take control of the CropCam!

• With the transmitter set to RCPIC, verify the RC range with the

transmitter antenna down (or with 2.4GHz RC use the low power test setting)

. The range should be at least 75 feet or t he distance specified by the manufacturer of the radio equipment, whichever is greater.

• Verify that t he motor runs smoo thly with no vibration and has full

power

.

• P erform a vibration test while in PIC mode to see that t he CropCam

does not vibrate too much at full throttle.

Advance the throttle through its full range, holding it for a few seconds

35CropCam User’s Guide

in all positions. Watch the attitude indicator in the HORIZ ON mp window. If there is more than 10 degrees of movement in pitch or roll, do not fly the CropCam until you have solved the vibration problem.

Acceptable vibration Too much vibration

See There is too much vibratio n on page 45 for advice on identifying and fixing vibration problems.

• Check that t he control surfaces are in the neutral position in CIC

mode.

• See that the HORIZON mp GPS, LINK, and RE ADY status indicators are green and that t here are no error messages.

The communication status indicators are in the status bar at the bottom

of the HORIZON mp window. The error message field is just above the battery voltage gauges on the HORIZON mp instrument panel.

Flying After you have select ed a

. fly file, copied it to the CropCam, and successfully performed the pre

- flight checks, you are ready to fly.

The CropCam uses an automatic launch sequence that starts when you

release the takeoff switch. As a fail

- safe, if the CropCam autopilot does

n ot sense airspeed in 10 seconds, it aborts the takeoff and returns the

throttle to zero

. Make sure that your site requirements are fulfilled (see page 10).

 To launch the CropCam

1. C lick Connect in the HORIZON mp Autopilot Control group and c heck that the GPS, LINK, and READY in the status bar are green.

2. Turn the camera on. Do not turn the Cropcam upside down to do this, the gyros on the autopilot will be caused to topple and this wil l cause a crash immediately after launch.

3. Press and hold the takeoff switch on the right side of the CropCam for

5 to 6 seconds.

When you release t he switch, the motor will rev up . If you do not launch the CropCam in 10 seconds , the motor will turn off.

4. While holding the CropCam level, run for a few seconds and toss it briskly into the wind.

Running for a few seconds gives the GPS time to sense the t akeoff

36 30

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- 12Chapter 5 : Operating CropCam

heading and adds some critical airspeed to the toss. Don’t stop running until after the CropCam has left your hand . The CropCam autopilot must sense that it is moving or it will abort the takeoff , and the extra airspeed will help prevent a stall of the wing.

In the first few seconds of flight, the Cropcam flies with locked pitch and roll. When the Cropcam goes into the second phase of the flight (waitclimb) it will now sense airspeed and GPS speed . It w ill then

make corrections to it s pitch to mat ch t he target climb speed set in it s VRS. This may cause the nose to dip to gain airspeed if it flying too

slow ly , so operators should be aware this is a normal response.

The CropCam will fly the pattern you selected earlier. It will take 15 to 20

minut es to complete a normal pattern. During the flight, watch the battery and elapsed time indicators and be ready to make an emergency landing if battery levels get too low or the time exceeds 55 minutes

. At the end of the flight, the CropCam returns to the l aunch point and lands autonomously. If your CropCam is equipped with an RC receiver, you can override the autopilot and land manually. Be sure to consider your surroundings when landing autonomously. The CropCam descends at a rate of 20:1 and approaches from 1000 ft by default. The area behind the landing point must be clear from any obstructions that could block the path of the CropCam during its descent.

• Do not start another flight until the datalog is downloaded and a new

GPS lock is obtained.

• Do no t turn the transmitter off before turning off the CropCam.

After the flight

, turn the CropCam off and disconnect the GPS antenna. This will ensure that the datalog is not accid entally over written if the CropCam is turned back on.

Copy the datalog to your computer as soon as possible. See Transferring the datalog on page 38 for more information.



## Working with images

Copying images During each CropCam flight, the camera takes 90 to 110 images

. Copy the images to your computer and clear the camera memory after each flight so

that images from each flight are stored in a separate folder and you don’t

run out of camera memory during a flight.

 To copy the images to your computer

1. Plug the camera into a USB port on the computer and turn it on.

Windows rec ognizes the camera as a removable drive and gives you a number of choices for working with the images.

2. Select Copy i mages to a f older on m y c omputer and copy the images to a folder of your choice. Or select Open folder to view files and drag and drop the i mages from the camera to your computer.

37CropCam User’s Guide

Transferring the datalog Each time the CropCam initializes and the GPS locks , the autopilot automatically starts recording a datalog. Among other things , the datalog records the position of the CropCam throughout the flight. The CropCam software matches the images from the camera to the location of the CropCam when they were taken.

To connect your computer to the autopilot, you will need either a free

se rial port on your computer or a USB to serial adapter, and the serial

cable that came with the CropCam

.

38 30

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 To copy the datalog to your computer

1. Connect the 9

- pin c onnector of the autopilot serial cable to communications port on the computer.

2. Remove the blue hatch cover on the CropCam and connect the 3

- pin connector of the autopilot serial cable to the COM connector on the autopilot.

3. Close HORIZON mp if it is running.

4. Check that the GPS antenna is disconnected.

5. Open the L o gviewer program, either by selecting Start>All Programs> MicroPilot Horizon 3.4>Autopilot Utilities > Autopilot Datalog Viewer, or by u sing Windows Explorer, go to the C: \ Program

Files \ MicroPilot \ Horiz on3. 4 folder and double

- click on Logviewer.exe

. The Logviewer opens

.

6. In the File menu, click Read Log File from Autopilot. The Download options dialog box opens. If you only want to download the datalog, just click OK. If you are assisting CropC am/MicroPilot Support with troubleshooting, it can be useful to keep a record of the matching VRS and FLY files for a datalog, so in

this case select ’Download VRS File’ and ‘Download FLY File’.

7. Click OK

.

8. In the ‘Select UAV’ dialog that appears, select UAV 1 and then click

Select . Immediately turn on the CropCam power switch.

9. Follow any instructions hsown by the Logviewer. The Logviewer will communicate with your CropCam and begin downloading blocks of data.

10. When the download is finished you wil see the me ssage on the progress dialog ‘Finished’.

The datalog is saved in the Horizon 3. 4 /logs folder. The file name format

is logyyyymmdd_tttttt.txt where yyyymmdd is the date you copied the datalog and tttttt is the time you started. For example, log20050217_1316 27.txt was copied on February 17, 2005 at 1:16 p.m.

If you are using a USB

- to

- serial converter with an FTDI chip, you can also download the datalog using the download application in the logviewer. To do this open the viewer, select: file/read logviewer fr om autopilot, and

then follow the on

- screen prompts.

About MP CropCam image software Note: The CropCam Image software is currently withdrawn for re

development. It will be re

- introduced once te s t s have been completed. (July 201 1 )

MP CropCam image software arrange s the images from the camera on a grid in the approximate location from which they were taken. You can view the entire map or sections of the grid. The softwar e allows you to export images in TIFF format with associated World files ( .tfw ) for use

with G IS software.

39CropCam User’s Guide

The minimum requirements to run MP CropCam image software are

• Pentium 3

, 1 GHz, supporting Hyper

- Threading Technology

• 512 MB RAM

(Windows vista and 7 require at least 2GB RAM)

• Windows 2000

, XP , Vista or Windows 7

New
Click to clear the current map and build a new one.

Close
Click to close the current map.

Build Map
Click to create a new map. The Build Map tool is only

available whe n a map is not already displayed.

Export
Click to open the Export Images dialog box. See To export a map or image on page 42

.

Zoom In
Click to zoom in on the map or segment

. The MP CropC am image software displays the zoom level in the status bar.

Zoom Out
Click to zoom out on the map or segment

.

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Zoom Full
Click to zoom out all the way so the entire image is visible in

the window.

View list

Select a segment of the map or the ent ire map to display

. The map is divided into 9 segments

— 3 horizon t al and 3 vertical. The outside segments are named for their compass position.

 To create a map

1. Click the Build Map tool.

The MP CropCam image software opens the Create Map dialog box.

2. In the Data Log File Name field, enter the name of the datalog file for the images you want to view.

You can also click to browse for the file.

3. In the Picture File Name field, enter the folder where you saved the images.

4. Click OK

.

The MP CropCam image software rotates each image so that the top of the image is north and saves the rotated images in a sub

- folder called

Rotated

. It arranges the rotat ed images on the map grid in the approximate position of where they were taken.

When you create a map using images that have been rotated previously, MP CropCam image software asks you if you want to use the rotated images. Select Yes . Displaying the map will be much quicker.

41CropCam User’s Guide

 To export a map or image

1. Click the Export tool.

The MP CropCam image software opens the Export d ialog box.

2. From the Export T ype group , select the type of image you want to

export.

− Click Image to export a single image.

− Click Grid to export a grid section of the map

.

− Click Map to export the entire map.

3. If you chose Image or Grid, select the image fi le or the grid section that you want to export.

4. In the Save Image As field enter the folder, file name

, and extension

of the exported file.

You can click to browse to a folder and select a file type.

5. From the Image Size list, select the size, in pixels, for the export file.

6. Click Export

.

The MP CropCam image software creates and saves the image in the format you selected . It also creates a world file ( .tfw ). World files are used by GIS applica ti ons to place the image in the correct location in a UTC gri d.

Selecting the Default image size creates an image the size of the original. When you are export ing multiple images, like a grid section or the entire map, the size of the exported image will be the total of the images the make up the selection . The resolution of the exported image will be as good as the original

, but it will take much longer to process and the file size will be very large

.

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43

# 6 Problem solving

The GPS won’t lock

If you ha ven’t used the CropCam in several weeks or you’ve moved it a long distance since the last time it was used, the GPS is probably performing a cold start. Cold starts can take up to 15 minutes. Once GPS locks, subsequent initializations will take much less t ime.

Other possible causes are

• Contaminants on the antenna

Wipe the antenna off with a dry cloth.

• The antenna is obscured by trees, vehicles, buildings, etc.

Move the CropCam to an open area.

The radio modems won’t connect

• The base station antenna is obscured by trees, vehicles, buildings, etc.

Make sure that the there is a clear line of site between the base station modem and the CropCam.

There is too much vibration.

There are three places in the CropCam that could be the source of excess

vibration.

• The motor

Check that the motor is mounted securely and that the bolts are tight.

• The prop

If the prop is loose or out of balanc e it can cause vibration.

Check that the prop nut is tight. Inspect the prop for damage that might

cause it to be unbalanced.

• The autopilot board

If another component is in contact with the autopilot board and vibrating against it, the autopilot could se nse vibration even though the CropCam is not vibrating.

Make sure that switches, the modem card, servo board, etc. are not touching the autopilot. Also, check that the wing isn’t putting too much pressure on the board.

45CropCam User’s Guide

The motor won’t run

The packs may be discharged or the connections faulty.

Charge the packs or inspect the pack connectors for proper contact.

The motor does not develop full power

1. The motor connections are poor, the packs low on charge, or the throttle end points are out of adjustment.

As above, charge the packs a nd check connections. If you suspect the throttle is out of adjustment, refer to the manufactures instructions regarding setup.

You have a fatal error

– this will restrict throttle to 50%. Check the display in Horizon for the cause.

There are problems using a USB to serial converter with the CropCam.

• The modem link from the CropCam to HORIZON mp works for a while but eventually drops and is difficult to re

- establish.

Some USB to serial converters work better than others. Make sure that you have the most recent drivers for your device or try a converter from a different manufacturer. (CropCam uses the FTDI USB to serial converter during in

- house testing.)

My motor quit in the middle of a flight.

• Make sure that the batteries you are using are fully charged before you fly.

• Try discharging/charging your batteries using your LiPoly charger to

check their capacity and ensure your batteries are making their rated

amount.

• Make sure that your electronic speed control is properly positioned in the vent hole of the canopy cover. If not this may cause the speed controller to overheat and automatically shut down. If you plan to fly your Cropcam in very hot ambient temperatures, it is recommended you mount the speed controller on the outside of the canopy for maximum cooling. The speed controller also supplies power to the

servo board. This contributes to t he overall heat buildup. Do not let the Cropcam sit idle with the power on for long periods to prevent this buildup. Covering the Cropcam with a white sheet will also help prevent heat buildup on sunny days.

My CropCam won’t turn on.

• Make sure that they aileron and flap connection on the wing are properly connected to fuselage.

• Make sure that the connections the aileron and flap wires are free of

defects.

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My camera did not take any photographs during flight.

Some things to consider if your camera did not take any photographs during flight are:

• Make sure all settings are those listed on page 15 of this manual.

• Make sure that the lens does not get stuck on the camera box. This might cause the camera to look as though it is on but in fact it just can

not retract its lens.

• Ensure that the battery is properly charged.

My images are blurry.

You wil l need a high enough shutter speed to prevent motion blur especially in the turbulent conditions usually associated with lower altitudes. You can accomplish this a few different ways.

• Use the sports setting on the camera. This will bias the camera to use a high shutter speed.

• Set the iso to 400. This will result in faster shutter speeds, but will result in a slightly “grainy” image.

• Set the camera on shutter priority and use a fast shutter speed. A speed of 1/1000 of a second or faster will help reduce or eliminate

motion blur.

These settings can be tried separately or in combination depending on the camera you use. It is best to experiment with these settings on test flights to see which work best for you.

I have lost my CropCam.

If you were using the modem link from the CropCam to HORIZON mp the last know location of your CropCam will be logged in your HORIZON directory. ( C: \ Program Files \ MicroPilot \ Horizon3. 4 \ logs ).

U se the most recent file location (UAV

- 1

- stdtlm) and load to a hand held GPS to find your CropCam.

NOTE: Some handheld (and map) gps datums will cause them not to match the position readout obtained by the gps system on the Cropcam. It is highly recommend that you check to see if your positions match between the two systems on the ground after you have obtained a gps lock. Matching co

- ordinates are essential if you expect to find a lost Cropcam with your handheld gps or map. This should be

checked before any fly files with absolute co

- ordinates are flown.

47CropCam User’s Guide



# 7 CropCam Care /Maintenance

This chapter describes the maintenance tasks and common repairs that you will have to perform to keep the CropCam running properly. This information applies to the MP

- Vision as well. In this chapter, you will

learn how to :

• Inspect and repair the wing and airframe

• Perform a battery discharge test

• Inspect the CropCam’s wiring

• Inspect and r eplace the propeller

• Schedule periodic maintenance

• Perform some repairs or replace compone nts

• Return parts to CropCam for repair

These inspection items should also be done upon receiving the CropCam to ensure that nothing was damaged or knocked loose during shipping.



## Periodic m aintenance

Every Flight To keep your CropCam operating efficiently and safely, you should perform the following regular maintenance tasks every flight.

• Inspect the wing and airframe

• Check all connectors inside the canopy area for security of the connector housings and the wires.

Every month or 25 flights The following maintenance items should be performed every 25 flights or once a month, whichever is sooner. These items should also be done upon receiving the aircraft from shipment and before the first flight.

• Battery discharge test

• Conne ctor and wiring inspection

• Inspect propeller and spinner screws

 To inspect the wing and airframe

1. Thoroughly inspect the fuselage for small fractures that could have

formed fro m a hard landing.

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Pay close attention to the sides directly below the wing.

2. Inspect the wing for any cracking.

It is possible for cracks to form beneath the surface of the wing and still not be easily visible through the wing coating.

 To perform a battery charge test

1. With the battery pack ‘ fully discharged ’ , (nominal 9v for a fully discharged 3

- cell pack) charge the pack and read the reported capacity the charger has given you. It should be within 10% of the rated capacity.

2. During a flight of the CropCam, time how long it takes for the batteries to show the lowest allowable voltage of 9v under cruise flight

conditions.

The CropCam should be able to run for 45 to 50 minutes be fore this happens with its 4

- 2200 mAh 3

- cell Li

- Poly packs.

3. If one of the flight packs still shows a full charge after a flight, that connector on the power distribution board is not working properly. The most likely cause are the spring tabs used to ma intain tension for a proper connection. They usually have flattened out and must be reshaped to restore proper tension and functioning.

 To inspect the CropCam connectors and wiring

1. Remov e the front hatch cover and inspect the wiring, including the battery charge jacks.

Every connector should be inspected. Make sure that nothing is frayed

or loose.

Remove the centr e wing and inspect the wiring to the autopilot in the fuselage. See Figure 7.32 CropCam Wiring Diagram on page 69

. Pay particular attention to the servo harnesses that connect to the wing and the camera infrared switch. It is possible to pinch these harness es when assembling the wing.

Make sure that the wiring harnesses connected to the autopilot are seated firmly. See Post

- Shipping Connector Checks! on page 13

.

2. Examine all connectors and wiring on the centr e wing, including the GPS antenna connector and the servo connectors to the outer wings.

3. Check the servo connectors and wiring on both outer wings.

 To i nspect the propeller and spinner screws

1. Loosen the two Allen screws that hold the spinner to the spinner back plate and pull the spinner off.

2. Check the prop nut and prop screws to ensure they are tight

49CropCam User’s Guide

3. Inspect the propeller for any damage such as chips or deep scratches.

A damaged propeller could cause vibration or break apart while spinning at high speed.

4. Replace the spinner.

Every 50 hours We recommend that you replace all servos in the airframe after 50 hours of flight. Servos take a lot of punishment while moving rapidly during flight conditions. It is safer to replace them at this interval than risk a servo failure in flight.

Every 100 hours We recommend you replace the CropCam airframe after 100 hours of flight. Airframes do not last forever

– they a re under stress particularly at touch down when landing.

Every 2 years We recommend that you send your autopilot to MicroPilot for re

calibration every 2 years. The onboard s ensors can change slightly over such a period of time and it is better to have th em re

- calibrated to ensure your autopilot is performing as accurately as possible.



## Repairs

Repairing the fuselage Small cracks can be repaired using fiberglass sheets and medium CA glue.

 To repair a crack

1. Clean the area with rubbing alcohol or a similar contact cleaner.

2. Place a thin piece of fiberglass sheet o ver the crack and cover with a layer of medium Pro CA glue.

3. Large cracks and breaks may not be easily repair able. In this case a replacement airframe may be a better solution.

Replacing the propeller If there is any sign of damage r eplace the propeller with a similar unit

.

Propeller Blades 

### Use Graupner CAM prop 10 x 8 blades Cam# 7234/32

 To replace the propeller

1. Loosen the two Allen

- head screws that hold the spinner to the spinner back plate and pull the spinner off.

2. Remove the prop nut, was her, and prop.

3. Place the new prop, washer, and prop nut on the prop shaft.

4. Tighten the prop nut finger tight and align the prop perpendicular to

the screw holes in the drive hub.

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5. Test that the prop is aligned correctly by placing the spinner over the

pr op.

6. Tighten the prop nut as tight as possible.

7. Replace the spinner.



## Elevator Servo Replac ement

El evator Servo Type The elevator uses a Hitec HS

- 82MG servo.

If the elevator servo has failed, or is operating incorrectly , you must replace the servo. If the CropCam has been operated for 50 hours or more, it is recommended to repl ace the servo for reliability. Before removing any parts, take note of how the CropCam is assembled

– it is a good idea to take photographs of each step as the disassembly becomes more involved; this way, you can ensure that your reassembly

steps are as ac curate as possible.

To Replace the Elevator
Servo

1. Remove elev ator from elevator pivot table by removing the single Philips screw on the top

.

Figure 7

. 1

- Elevator Screw

2. Disconnect the linkage from the pushrod to the rudder control horn. This ensures that the rudder can move freely back and forth. The rudder hinges are inserted into a length of balsa wood. This rudder post will need to be removed to gain access to the elevator servo.

51CropCam User’s Guide

Figure 7

. 2

- Pushrod Clevis

Figure 7

. 3

- Push out Brass Pin

3. Being very careful not to damage the tail of the fuselage, insert a hobby knife from the rear into t he glued join between the edges of the balsa rudder post and the fiberglass fin, to cut away at the epoxy that is holding the rudder post into the fin. Once you have cut all the way around, the rudder post can be extracted from the tail section.

Fig ure 7

. 4

- Cut Rudder Post Free Disconnect th e pushrod clevis from

the rudder control

horn

This brass pin pushes out to disconnect linkage

The red line

shows where

to cut away at the epoxy along the rudder post You must

cut both sides, the top

and the

bottom free

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Figure 7

. 5

- Rudder & Post Removed

4. Look into the fuselage through the fin section where the rudder post

has been removed a nd you will see the elevator servo. Disconnect the clevis from the elevator pivot table.

Figure 7

. 6

- Disconnect Clevis This is the rudder post and rudde r already removed.

Clevis halves can be spread apart to

re move from elevator pivot table

53CropCam User’s Guide

Figure 7

. 7

- Clevis Separated from Elevator Table

5. The servo is screwed to a plywood mount. This assembly will need to be removed as a whole unit. Do not simply unscrew the damaged servo and screw in the replacement; the result may not be strong enough. Use a large pair of pliers to gently wiggle the servo and mount, using a twisting motion, until it comes free. Take extra caution not to damage the fuselage.

Figure 7

. 8

- Remove the Mount & Servo Pushrod clevis is

now disconnected

and the servo is ready to be

removed

The servo and plywood mount

will need to be

removed as one

unit

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Figure 7

. 9

- Remove Pushrod from Servo

6. Now the servo and mount are detached from the fuselage, you must disconnect the wiring. Follow the wires from the servo and you will see some heat shrink tubing where the servo l ead is soldered to the extension cable. If the extension cable does not pull back enough you will have to unplug the connector from the servo board. Note exactly which connector the elevator servo plugs onto; it is labelled S2 on the

servo board.

Carefull y remove the tubing and unsolder the three wires of the servo. **Note: before you unsolder the connections, write down or photograph the colours of the wires so you will be able to re

- solder the new wires correctly. Slide some new heat

- shrink tubing over each of the three extension wires, ready for step 7.

Figure 7

. 10

- Disconnect Wires Once the servo is free, you can remove the pushrod by working the ‘z’

bend out of the

servo arm

Remove this heat shrink tubing and

disconnect all three

wires. Take note of

the wire colours

.

55CropCam User’s Guide

7. Cut the connector off the replacement servo and re

- solder the wires onto the extension wires that you de

- soldered in step 6. Ensure the

correct wires/ colours are connected together. Once the servo wires are connected, slide the heat

- shrink tubing over the three joints and plug the servo into a receiver with battery and check the servo operates correctly. If it is g ood, unplug the servo and shrink the tubing over the joints to ensure safe, insulated connections.

8. It is critical that the replacement servo is ‘centred’ before installing the control arm. To do this, plug the servo into the CropCam servo

board

– on the s ame output connector the old servo was plugged into. Power on the CropCam, s tart HORIZON mp and open up your CropCam’s VRS file from the HORIZON mp ‘VRS file list’. (Note: if you have not already retrieved a backup copy of your CropCam VRS

into HORIZON mp , w e strongly recommend that you do so now before making any changes. See Working with .vrs files in chapter 3 of the MicroPilot Autopilot Installation & Operation Manual for details of backing up your vrs.

9. Once you have your VRS retrieved into a file in H ORIZON mp , open this in the VRS Editor by double

- clicking on the filename in the vrs

file list.

10. Click on the ‘servos’ tab and select ‘echo zeros’ from the ‘echo servo adjustments’ drop down menu. Use the zero slider to set the servo position so that the p ulse width displayed next to the slider reads 1.5ms; this is the ideal zero position. Once the servo is centred, power down the CropCam and install the servo control arm at 90° to the servo casing; hold the servo in the same orientation as the original

th at was removed, to ensure the new servo arm is installed in the same position. *Note: Make sure you take note or a photograph of the orientation of the servo arm on the damaged servo before you

remove it.

Figure 7

. 11

- Servos Tab of VRS Editor

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11. Once the replacement servo has been centred and the arm attached correctly, screw the plywood mount from the damaged servo onto the replacement servo. If the servo mount happens to be damaged, use it as a templa te and cut out a new mount.

12. Attach the pushrod to the servo arm

, in the same hole it was originally, and then reposition the servo/mount assembly back into

the fin in the same orientation that it was removed. The servo arm

side of the servo should be fa cing towards you as you look into the fin and the tip of the arm will be just clear of the inside surface of the fin (only just). The arm should be pointing directly out to the side. Then attach the top clevis of the pushrod to the elevator pivot

- table.

Figure 7

. 12

- Ensure No Binding

Figure 7

. 13

- Servo Arm Positioning

13. Note that the rudder post will recess into the fin, so the servo/mount

assembl y must be positioned forward enough to remain clear of the rudder post. When the servo is placed in the fin , it will be very close to

the inside of the fuselage wh ere the

red line indicates.

Make sure that the

arm does not touch the fuselage. If it does, it will need to

be trimmed

Make sure that the

servo arm is pointing horizontally

, straight out to the right hand side

when the fin is

viewed from

behind

57CropCam User’s Guide

Figure 7

. 14

- Ensure Clearance from Rudder Post

14. The elevator pivot

- table must also be in the neutral position

– the

centre of it s travel

– so it will allow equal forward and backward tilt when in service. To do this, mount the elevator to the pivot table and

rotate the elevator along the length of the tail boom

. The tip of the

elevator should be 8.5 inches above the tail boom when t he servo is zeroed correctly

.

Figure 7

. 15

- Rotate Elevator

Figure 7

. 16

- Set Elevator Height Make sure that the servo is set deep enough into the tail

to clear the rudder post once it is

installed

Rotate the elevator so

that it is in line with the fuselage

When the elevator

is in neutral position there will be a space of 8.5”

between the fuselage and the

elevator

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15. Once you are certain the servo is in the correct loc ation, far enough forward to clear the rudder post, its arm is still centred and pointing directly to the side and the elevator pivot

- table is still in the centre of its travel, epoxy the servo mount in place.

16. Once the epoxy has cured, test the elevator operation. To ensure stable and predictable flight, verify that the servo deflection in both directions does not cause binding of the linkage, servo arm or elevator pivot table. Max travel is simply the maximum you can get

without the elevator mount brac ket binding on the fin or rudder.

17. You may now re

- attach the rudder and rudder post to the CropCa m by

m ix ing 5

- 6 minute e poxy and have 2 clamps and 2 clamp braces ready. Apply a thin film of epoxy to the inside edge of the fin and

around the balsa rudder post with a rod

– you need enough to glue all around but do not apply to much inside the fin otherwise it may squeeze out and foul the elevator servo. I nsert the rudder post so that

it doesn’t protrude anywhere, but is flush with the fin trailing edge.

Figure 7

. 17

- Apply Epoxy

Use clamps and pieces of wood to form a solid surface arou nd the curves and to ensure the fin edges bond tightly to the rudder post along their entire edges. The wood should be stiff enough to hold the fin edges in contact with the rudder post all along its edges. If the wood bows out in the middle, add another clamp there. Spread the epoxy thinly on the inside edge of the tail

section as indicated by the red line, and

around the rudder

post, then place the rudder post into position

59CropCam User’s Guide

Figure 7

. 18

- Clamp Rudder Post

18. Once the epoxy has cured, re

- attach the rudder pushrod to the rudder control arm that you disconnected in step 2. Finally, use the VRS

Editor and echo servo zero to check and adjust the zero/neutral position and echo Max to set full travel.



## Rudder Servo Replacement

Rudder Servo Type The rudder uses a Hitec HS

- 82MG servo.

If the rudder servo has f ailed, is operating incorrectly or the CropCam has been operated for 50 hours or more, it will be necessary to replace the servo. Before replacement, take note or even photographs of how the CropCam is assembled before removing any parts. It is also a good idea to take photographs of each step as the disassembly becomes more involved. This way, you can ensure that your reassembly steps are as accurate as possible

To replace the rudder

Servo 1. Disconnect the rudder linkage from the rudder control horn. Remove the wing from the fuselage by removing the two screws on the top of the wing. Look into the fuselage towards the tail and you will see the rudder servo. It is screwed to a plywood mount. This assembly will

need to be removed as a whole unit

Use two pieces of scrap wood on either side to protect f in then place clamps on t he top and bottom and allow the epoxy to

cure

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Figure 7

. 19

- Rudder Linkage

Figure 7

. 20

- Wing Screws

Figure 7

. 21

- Rudder Servo

- mount Ep oxy 

### Disconnect this linkage by pushing the brass pin up and out of the clasp

Left side of fuselage

Remove these two screws on top of the wing to separate wing from fuselage

Rudder

servo This is the epoxy bead you will

have to break or remove using a rotary tool

61CropCam User’s Guide

2. Use a large pair of pliers to gently wiggle the servo and mount free using a twisting motion. Take extra caution not to damage the fuselage. *Note: If the servo and mount do not break free of the fuselage using pliers, it may be necessary to use a la rge flat screwdriver and ‘pry’ at the servo arm to break the epoxy bond. Take extra care to protect the fuselage by placing a scrap piece of wood across the opening and use that to pry against.

DO NOT pry against the fuselage itself or damage may occur. I f you feel that the servo will not break free of the epoxy without damaging the fuselage, you can take a fine sanding bit on a rotary tool and remove the bead of epoxy holding it in place

Figure 7

. 22

- Servo & Mount to Remove

3. Once the servo is free, pull enough of the linkage out into the opening of the fuselage to allow you to work the z bend out of the control arm, then unplug the servo from the power distribution board, taking note of where it was p lugged in and in which direction (observe the colors of the wires. Again, this would be useful to take a picture before you unplug the servo or you could label the board with a piece of masking tape)

. Remove the screw holding the control arm onto the serv o and remove the control arm for reinstallation on the replacement servo

Figure 7

. 23

- Rudder Servo Pushrod Remove servo and plywood

mount as a

whole unit

Pull pushrod out into the fuselage opening for better

access

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Figure 7

. 24

- Remove S3 Plug

4. It is cri tical that the replacement servo is ‘centred’ before installing the control arm. To do this, power on the CropCam, Start

HORIZON mp and open up your CropCam’s VRS file in the

HORIZON mp VRS Editor

. (Note: if you have not already retrieved a backup copy of your CropCam VRS into HORIZONmp, we strongly recommend that you do so now before making any changes. See Working with .vrs files in chapter 3 of the MicroPilot Autopilot Installation & Operation

Manual for details of backing up your vrs. Once you have yo ur VRS

retrieved into a file in HORIZON mp , open this in the VRS Editor by

double

- clicking on the filename in the vrs file list.

5. Click on the Servos tab and select Echo zeros from the Echo servo adjustments drop down menu. Use the zero slider to set the servo position so that the pulse width displayed next to the slider reads 1.5ms; this is the ideal zero position.

Figure 7

. 25

- Select Echo Zeros

6. Once the servo is centred, power down the CropCam and install the servo control arm at 90° to the servo casing; hold the servo in the same orientation as the original that was removed, to ensure the new servo arm is installed in the same position 

### Rudder

servo plugs

into S3

on the

servo board

63CropCam User’s Guide

Figure 7

. 26

- Set Arm at 90° to Servo Body

7. Once the replacement servo has been centred and the arm attached correctly, install the plywood mount from the damaged servo onto the replacement. If the servo mount happens to be damag ed, use it as a template and cut out a new mount.

8. The rudder control linkage runs through the tail boom of the CropCam. You will need to attach it to the servo arm first. To do this, pull enough of the linkage out into the opening of the fuselage to

allo w you to work the z bend into the control arm. Then position the servo and mount roughly in the same place it was removed. Move to the back of the CropCam and reattach the linkage to the rudder

control horn , using the same hole it was in before (2 nd hole o ut from rudder). Make sure you have not trapped any wires around the pushrod, at the front or rear, or around the servo and mount.

9. It is critical that the servo be mounted in such a way that when the

servo is centred

, the rudder control surface is also d ead

- centr e

. To do this, tape a couple of flat wooden sticks ( l olly or ‘p opsicle ’ sticks will work) to the tail section that will extend over the rudder control

surface on both sides. This will ensure that the rudder cannot move. ( S ee Figure 7

. 27 )

Figure 7

. 27

- Lock Rudder in Neutral Position Make sure the servo arm is

i nstalled at 90 degrees to the servo casing

90 degrees

Tape flat sticks to the side of the fuselage, extending over the

rudder surface to ‘lock’ the rudder in place

64 30

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- 12Chapter 7 : CropCam Care/Maintenance

Figure 7

. 28

- Ensure Rudder Held in Centre

10. Now you can make su re that the servo is seated into fuselage in the correct location, making sure that the arm will not bind on the side of the fuselage when the arm moves in both directions.

Figure 7

. 29

- Check Servo i n Correct Location

11. Once you are sure the servo is in the correct location, its arm is centred and pointing straight up, it cannot bind on the fuselage or trap any wires and the rudder is centred, epoxy the servo mount into place.

12. Finally, use the VRS E ditor and echo servo zero to set the zero/neutral position and echo Max to set full travel. Repeat on the

other side Ensure that

the rudder is

centred &

cannot move

Make sure the

servo arm do es not rub against the

inside of the fuselage

65CropCam User’s Guide



## Wing Replacement

In some cases it m ay not be possible to repair the wing. If the wing has been extensively damaged or if the wing has been repaired several times before, it is strongly recommended to replace the wing. The wings are manufactured together with a fuselage, so i f the mounting holes on a replacement wing do not line up with the mounting holes on the C rop C am fuselage

, it will be necessary to replace /refit the REAR wing mount.

To R eplace the R ear W ing M ount 1. Remove the existing rear wing mount from fuselage. You will see a
piece of plywood epoxied into the fuselage with a blind nut attached.
Using gentle pressure, being cautious not to damage the fuselage,
break the plywood wing mount free. Use this existing wing mount as
a template and cut a new wing mount out of plywood. *DO NOT
install the blind nut at this stage.

2. Prep are the fuselage by using coarse sandpaper to remove any excess
epoxy left behind by the old wing mount.

3. Measure from the centre of the front mounting hole to the centre of
the rear mounting hole on the repl acement wing. Using this figure,
measure back from the centre of the FRONT wing mount hole on the
fuselage to determine where to mount the plywood for the new rear
wing mount. Then epoxy the plywood in place.

4. Once the epoxy has cured, mount the replacemen t wing to the
fuselage using the front wing mount bolt. To ensure predictable and
stable flight, the CropCam wing needs to be perpendicular to the
fuselage. Measure from the centre of the elevator retaining screw to the tip of the wing then repeat for the other side and reposition the
wing if necessary to ensure that the measurements on either side of

the CropCam are the same. This will ensure that the wing is
perpendicular to the fuselage.

5. Carefully and without moving the wing, use a marker through the re ar wing mount bolt hole and mark a dot on the plywood. Remove the
wing and drill out the appropriate sized hole for the blind nut.

6. Reinstall the wing using both the front and rear wing mount bolts and
once again measure from the centre of the elevator re tainer screw and
the tip of the wing on both sides to ensure the wing is perpendicular
to the fuselage. Then remove the wing and reinforce the rear wing
mount plywood to the fuselage using epoxy

.

66 30

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- 12Chapter 7 : CropCam Care/Maintenance



## Motor Replacement

Motor Type The CropCam & MP

- Vision use an AXI out

- runner brushless motor

– type AXi Goldline 2820/10 (KV1200 )

. A radial mounting set is used althou gh the motor is mounted to the CropCam firewall without the Axi mount.

If the motor on your CropCam fails or is no long able to provide sufficient thrust, it will be necessary to replace it. Before you begin removing any

parts , take note of how the CropCam is assembled. It is a good idea to take photographs before and at each step as the disassembly progresses

. This way, you can ensure that your reassembly steps are as accurate as possible.

To replace the motor:

1. Loosen the two a llen

- head screws that hold the spinner to the back plate and pull the spinner off. Then loosen the propeller nut and remove the propeller

- nut, washer and propeller.

2. Unplug the motor wires from the ESC taking note of the colours. On the E Flight 60A cont roller, red connects to red, black connects to

black and blue wire from ESC connects to white wire of the motor. Then remove the ESC from the fuselage. *Note: Do not unplug or

disconnect the ESC, simply lift the ESC out of the fuselage, leaving it

connect ed. This is to gain access to the back of the motor.

3. After the motor has been disconnect ed from the ESC, gently pull the

three motor wires through and out of the slit on top of the nose

, being

cautious not to dam age the insulation on the wires

.

4. U sing a precision Philips screwdriver, reach into the nose cone and remove the four screws holding the motor to the firewall. These will be tight so take care not to slip and dam a ge the screw heads

5. New Axi motors may not have the connectors soldered on, so you may have to install these connectors before installing the motor.

6. Reassemble using the new motor.

*Note: It is recommended to use blue thread

- lock compound on two diagonally

- opposite screws that hold the motor to the firewall. This

will ensure that vibr ations will not cause the motor to come loose.

67CropCam User’s Guide



## Returning parts

The CropCam comes with a 60 day manufacturer’s warranty and one year of technical support. The terms and conditions of sale and obligatio ns are defined in the warranty section of the purchase agreement.

Before returning your CropCam or any CropCam part for repair or replacement contact CropCam at +1 204 344

- 5617 to get a RMA number

and form.

Complete the form in full, including a detailed description of the problem. Follow the shipping instructions on the form carefully to avoid any unnecessary customs or tax charges. CropCam reserves the right to charge a service fee for incomplete or incorrect return documentation, or shipping procedures.



## Speed Controller (ESC) Settings

The CropCam uses an E

- Flight Pro S8 60Amp ESC (Electronic Speed Controller). The ESC Hard Brake setting should be turned ON.



## CropCam Wiring Diagram

Figure 7.31 ESC Throttle Connection illustrates the wiring from the E

Flight ESC (Electronic Speed Controller) to the CropCam Servo board, using the MP modified throttle ext ension cable.

See Figure 7.32 CropCam Wiring Diagram for help in checking connectors and wiring.

Figure 7

. 30 Figure 7

. 31 ESC Throttle Connection

68 30

- October

- 12Figure 7

. 32 CropCam Wiring Diagram

69

# A R ecommended O perator and

T raining requirements for the
C rop C am.

Operator Requirements

• 20 hours flying time total and 5 hours within the previous 90 days or a proficient RC safety pilot must be present.

• 50 hours flight simulator time

• Private Pilot’ s Licence Ground School

• Annual Review of operator ’ s safety plan

• Annual Review of the Crop Cam Manual

• Class II medical or a second operator must be present

• Emergency communications (cell phone or satellite phone )



## RC Safety Pilot

• Minimum 200 hours in the last 5 years RC experience

• Minimum 20 hours per year in each of the previous 3 years

• 10 hours in the previous 90 days



## Train ing

• Attended CropCam training at MicroPilot’s facility OR has received at least a one week training course by a MicroPilot

certified trainer

• Annual Review of the Crop Cam Manual

• Flown at least 100 flights of at least 15 minutes duration in the past three years

• Flown at least 10 flights in the past 90 days

• Completed PPL ground school and passed the written test

• Flown from a minimum of 5 different locations

• Flown in the following weather conditions :

o Wind greater than 20 kmph

o Tempe rature above 30C

o Temperature below 10C (unless these weather conditions are unlikely)

o Calm wind

71CropCam User’s Guide



## Single Operator

• Cell phone or Sat ellite phone to call for assistance in case of

emergency

• Private Pilots Licen c e medical or equivalent



### .

72 30

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- 12Flight log sheet



# B Flight log sheet

Keep a log of all your CropCam’s flights using the log sheet on the following page.

Use the information you record in the log to help schedule maintenance for your Crop Cam

. Flight log information is helpful to C ropCam technical

support when solv ing problems.

If you have more than one CropCam, keep a separate log for each unit.

73CropCam User’s GuideDurationPrevious total flight timeNotesTotal flight timePilot**.fly**flieWind speed& directionLocationDateCropCam serial #

74 30

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- 12

# C Pre

- flight checklist

The foll owing pre

- flight checklist is a condensed version of the checklist that begins on page 34

. This list is provided for experienced CropCam users who no longer need detailed checklist instructions. If you are new to using the CropCam,

continue to follow the detailed pre

- flight checkli st until you have more experience.

Pre

- flight checks The purpose of the pre

- flight checklist it to make sure that the CropCam and the autopilot are operating correctly. If any check fails, do not fly the CropCa m until you’ve resolved it.

CropCam inspection

At the start of each day inspect the CropCam for damage and loose

connections.

• Check that connectors are securely fastened.

• Inspect the airframe for cracks and failed glue joints.

• Ensure that all the bolts and screws holding the CropCam together are

secure.

• Ensure that the propeller is secure.

• Check the C of G.

C of G Check

You must have all four batteries installed to check the C of G correctly. They do not have to be plugged in.

The C of G must be 75 to 80mm back from the leading edge of the wing,

so t he CropCam should balance when you suspend it at the C of G points

. These points should be marked underneath the win gs close to the fuselage

– i f you cannot see the m then measure back from the leading edge of the wing, close to the fuselage, and mark the 75 mm and 80 mm points.

Suspend the CropCam on two small points at the C of G location on each wing (pencils with rubbe r tips will work, or you can use your finger tips for a quick check); the CropCam should balance nicely somewhere

between the two distances without tipping nose

- down or nose

- up.

75CropCam User’s Guide

Pre

- start checks

If you take your CropCam from a building or vehicle to the outside where the temperature is quite different, you should leave your CropCam for about 15 minutes before turning power on, to allow sensors to acclimatise to the temperature. Such temperature differences are more likely to happen when outside tempe ratures are very cold but could also occur when moving from Air

- conditioned space to a hot outside.

Perform these checks after initialising the CropCam autopilot and connecting to HORIZON mp

.

• Make sure that the GPS antenna is connected securely.

• Check t hat the camera memory is clear and that the battery level is

green.

• Check that control surfaces are free and move in the correct direction.

As you rotate the CropCam about its pitch, roll, and vertical (yaw) axes check that the elevator, ailerons, and rudd er move to compensate
for these movements.

• Verify that the battery voltages are OK.

• Check that the airspeed indicator is working.

Press your finger on the pitot tube on the leading edge of the right wing and check that the HORIZON mp airspeed gauge show s an increase.

• Check that battery packs are charged.

• Check that the propeller is not damaged in any way.

• Check that you can switch to PIC mode using channel 5 on your RC

transmitter.

• Disconnect the motor leads before this test. Turn your transmitter o ff; c heck that the CropCam returns to CIC

mode and Horizon must show RCOFF

. If you do not see RCOFF the CropCam will not be able to activate the rcFailed pattern!

• If your CropCam includes an RC receiver, verify the RC range with

the transmitter antenna d own. The range should be at least 75 feet or the distance specified by the manufacturer of the radio equipment, whichever is greater.

Pre

- takeoff checks

• Verify full motor power in PIC

• Verify that the motor runs smoothly at full throttle.

• If your CropC am includes an RC receiver, perform a vibration test to see that the CropCam does not vibrate too much at full throttle.

If there is more than 10 degrees of movement in pitch or roll, do not

76 30

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- 12Pre

- flight checklist

fly the CropCam until you have solved the vibration problem.

• Ch eck that the control surfaces are in the neutral position in CIC

mode.

• See that the HORIZON mp GPS, LINK, and READY status indicators are green and that there are no error messages.

Post

- flight checks

The CropCam must be turned off in this order:

1. Autopilot switch OFF

2. RC transmitter switch OFF

3. D isconnect Batteries

This order is important. If the transmitter is turned off first, the autopilot will automatically go into CIC mode and try to fly to the next waypoint. The motor will power up and cau se damage to the airframe or any person close enough to the moving prop

.



## Camera checklist

(S5I, A10, A20, A30, A40)



### 1. Fully charged battery



## ____

2. Focus set to “Mountain”



## ____

3. White balance set to auto

_____

4. Shutter se t to program or sports

_____

5. Flash off

_____

6. Display off

_____

7. Led sensor on

_____

8. Zoom set to widest

_____

9. Resolution set to highest or second highest according to requirement

_____

10. Instant review set to “off”

_____

77

# D Tips

We recommend you turn your RC transmitter on before turning on the CropCam main switch. In some rare conditions t he throttle has been known to start up unexpectedly on the ground after initiali sation, because

RC receiver does not see a reliable signal and can produce a glitch on the autopilot rudder input which may be interpreted as the takeoff command.

Leave your transmitter on from the time the autopilot is turned on until

launch

.

Camera If the camera continuously takes pictures, the autopilot f8 servo direction needs reversing in the VRS. (Use the Horizon VRS Editor

. )

Batteries 

### It is important to maintain the condition of your LIPO batteries. Label your batteries with numbers when they are brand new, and write down the capacity of each after a couple of cycles. Monitor the capacity by doing a complete discharge/charge cycle after each half a dozen or so uses. This way the faulty battery will show up with a slowly diminishing capacity and it will give you warning in time to replace it before it can surprise you in flight.

Fusion

- Pack 2200mAh batteries replace the Thunder P ower 2100 mAh batteri es , which in turn replace d the Kokam 1500’s that are no longer available.

Setting up the RC

transmitter 

### The RC transmitter must be set up in PIC to match the trim settings the Cropcam has in CIC. The steps are as follows:

3. The RC receiver is installed with the servo leads connected to the channels they are labeled for.

79CropCam User’s Guide



### 4. As a quick guide, i f you are using a JR transmitter, channel five (usually the gear channel) is set with the travel volume at plus and minus 75%. Futaba transmitters should be set at 50%. This will prevent an “RC pulse width out of range” error message on Horizon. A more accurate Ch5 setting may be done by using the

HORIZON mp 

### Sensor Monitor and following the steps in chapter 4 of the MicroPilot AutoPilot Installation & Operation manual. This tool shows you the precise pulse widths of the Ch5 while toy adjust your transmitter.

5. The Cropcam is powered up and allowed to get a GPS lock.

6. The control surface neutral positions are set to match the positions in CIC by going into the RC transmitter menu and changing the setting in the sub

- trim area, with the exception

of the elevator.

Elevator Setting 

### The elevator can be set easily by swinging the elevator 90 degrees, to line up along with the fuselage. This makes the movement much easier to see and allows for accurate changes

.



### Like this, the front edge of the elevator, at true neutral (zero ), should be 8.5 inches above the fuselage boom. True neutral can be seen after the autopilot power is turned on and all the surfaces set to neutral. As soon as the GPS locks the elevator will tip down at the front (take off position). In takeoff position, the elevator will be about 1 inch lower at the leading edge in CIC (more up trim).

F ailsafe receiver setup
for use w ith autopilot When using PCM or 2.4GHz or other RC receivers with failsafe features with the Micropilot autopilot, you MUST set the failsafe correctly otherwise you may be locked out of CIC if the RC signal is lost whil e flying in PIC ; the receiver may simply hold the last known setting and lead to a crash. This can happen if the failsafe is progr ammed to hold the last position!

To prevent this from happening, your RC receiver MUST be programmed

for Preset Position fa ilsafe and the failsafe setting for channel five must

be programmed to produce a pulse width that tells the autopilot the RC is

OFF (less than 1ms or greater than 2ms)

.

If your RC receiver failsafe does not support Preset Position mode for

channel 5 i t is NOT safe to use with the Autopilot

. Check your RC system to ensure it has the requirements.

80 30

- October

- 12Tips

For example, on JR PCM receivers these steps will help to set your failsafe quite close to the ideal settings

.

1. Turn your transmitter on. Make sure it is i n PCM modulation. Set the channel five switch to CIC position. Go to the servo travel

menu. Set it for maximum travel on the CIC side

. 2. Go to the failsafe menu. In the menu, change from the default “last known position” setting for channel five to “hol d” the position of CIC with the travel maximum in that direction. This

will be 125

- 150% depending on the radio.

3. Set the transmitter to memorise the new settings. Go back to the servo travel menu. On channel five, return the travel back to 75%

for CIC tr avel.

T he extreme travel setting on channel five in failsafe mode is to allow the datalog to record the fact that the signal has been lost. If the travel on channel five was set to 75% CIC, the autopilot would go into CIC when the signal was lost, but wo uld not record the event in the datalog

– it would

still show RC ON ( CIC )

. If the failsafe travel position was left at maximum, a channel five pulse width error would be displayed in Horizon.

A more precise method to set channel five is to use the Se nsor Monitor

tool in Horizon. Connect Horizon to your CropCam Autopilot and open the

View menu then select Sensor Monitor RC Fields

.

Figure D

. 1

- Sensor Monitor for CH5

The RC fields di splayed in this view show pulse widths of various RC

fields in milliseconds. The channel 5 pulse width should be 1.25ms in CIC

and 1.75ms in RC

- PIC. In failsafe mode you should set channel 5 to read less than 1ms or greater than 2ms to ensure the autopilo t will detect the RC signal has gone.

81CropCam User’s Guide

Test the new settings:

• W hen you turn the transmitter off, the autopilot should report RCOFF

to Horizon.

• When the transmitter is turned on, with channel 5 switch set to CIC position

, Horizon’s status panel should rep ort RCON and control surfaces on CropCam should respo nd to tilting the aircraft.

• When your transmitter is on and your channel 5 switch is moved to

PIC position you should see RC

- PIC in Horizon and you should have

manual control of servos.

Note servo con trol is only possible after GPS has locked

.

Cold weather flying Special considerations must be taken for cold weather flying. To ensure that the sensors report correctly, the CropCam must be “cold soaked”

outside for a mini mum of 15 minutes before flight can take place. However, the Li P oly batteries will suffer a performance loss if they are not kept warm, and should be put inside the CropCam just before flight to

minimi s e their heat loss. Ideally, an auxiliary battery sh ould be used to get the GPS lock, and then the flight batteries switched in just before the flight. The cooling air vents should also be taped closed in temperatures below

- 5 degrees C. to prevent further heat loss.

82 30

- October

- 12

# E Modifications

- Caution

While we do NOT recommend any modifications be made to your CropCam, there are some important steps you should follow if you do make any modifications.

1. Check the C of G is within limits

— s ee C of G Check on page 75

2. Check all wiring and connections in the CropCam

— s ee Figure 7.32 CropCam Wiring Diagram on page 69

. 3. Perform all Pre

- flight checks carefully

— see Appendix C Pre

flight checklist on page 75

. Make sure to check RC range.

4. Ensure Horizon connects to the autopilot correctly and all attitude

and senso r information looks normal.

5. Load a simple fly file at first with only a few waypoints repeated and one target altitude at a safe height to allow monitoring and recovery from any problem (the default.fly in H orizon will be suitable).

6. Make sure Horizon’s pay load buttons are configured to match the patterns in the fly file.

7. Perform the first takeoff in PIC; be ready for any strange behaviour. Fly at the same cruise altitude as set in the fly file while someone watches Horizon to check attitude, speed and

alti tude readings look normal. After you are satisfied the CropCam is flying normally and Horizon telemetry looks OK, switch to CIC and be ready to take it

back in PIC.

8. If CIC level flight looks OK, then you may land and attempt a CIC

takeoff. Be ready to ta ke over in PIC at any time.

9. If all is well you may proceed to general flight operations.

83

# Index

.

.fly file copying to the CropCam, 30 described, 28 selecting, 28



## A

additional equipment, 4 tools, 5 adjusting channel 5, 18 adjusting the mixture idle air, 46 ailerons, defined, 7 airplane axes, 5 assembling the CropCam, 15
camera, 15 center wing, 16 elevator, 16 outer wings, 16 Autopilot control buttons, 25



## B

base station radio modem, 18

batteries
camera, 17 charging , 26

d ischarge test, 48, 49 Kokam, 79 levels, 35
LIPO, 79



## C

C, 75

camera attaching to CropCam, 15 charging the battery, 17 copying images, 37 installing the Windows driver, 17 settings, 17 center wing, assembling, 16 centre of gravity, 75 centre of gravity, defi ned, 5 channel 5, adjusting, 18 charging camera battery, 17 CropCam batteries , 26 cold weather flying, 82 contacting CropCam, 2 continuous pictures, 79

control surfaces
correct movement, 34 defined, 6 copying .fly file, 30 datalog, 39 images to your comput er, 37 creating an image map, 41 CropCam assembling, 15 camera, 15 center wing, 16 elevator, 16 outer wings, 16 control surfaces, 6 disassembling, 20 flight patterns, 28 initializing, 30 launching, 36 parts list, 4

pre

- flight inspection, 34 required equipm ent, 4 required tools, 5 safety, 9 specifications, 3



## D

datalog copying, 39 disconnecting GPS antenna, 37 load.exe, 39 transferring, 38 demo license, 23 disassembing the CropCam, 20 document conventions, 2



## E

elevator assembling, 16 defined, 6

elevator servo replacement, 51 engine safety, 9 slow acceleration, 46 starting problems, 46

85CropCam User’s Guide

exporting, MP CropCam image software images, 42



## F

f8 servo, 79 failsafe receivers, 80 flaps, defined, 7 Flight Files list, 25 flight patterns, described, 28 flying area requireme nts, 10



## G

GPS not locking, 45

GPS antenna connecting, 16 described, 7 disconnecting, 20, 37



## H

HORIZON mp Autopilot Control buttons, 25 described, 21 Flight File list, 25 instrument panel, 25 Payload buttons, 25 status bar, 25



## I

images copying to your comput er, 37 creating a map, 41 exporting, 42 MP CropCam image software, 39 installing camera driver, 17 license key, 22 instrument panel, 25



## L

landing area requirements, 10 lateral axes, 5 launching the CropCam, 36 license key installing, 22 temporary, 23

trans ferring, 23 load.exe, 39 longitudinal axes, 5



## M

maintenance battery discharge test, 48, 49 elevator servo replacement, 51 motor replacement, 67 propeller, 50 rudder servo replacement, 60 schedule, 48 wing replacement, 66 wiring inspection, 49

mixture setti ng idle air, 46 motor replacement, 67 MP CropCam image software creating a map, 41 described, 39 exporting images, 42



## O

outer wing, assembling, 16



## P

parts list, 4 Payload buttons, 25 pitot tube connecting, 16 described, 8 power switch, 7

pre

- flight checks centre of gravity check, 75 condensed format, 75 inspection, 34

pre

- start, 34

pre

- takeoff, 35

pre

- start checks, 34

pre

- takeoff checks, 35 problem solving engine accelerates slowly, 46 engine starting, 46 GPS locking, 45 radio modems, 45

USB to serial conve rter, 46, 47, 71, 72 vibration, 45 propeller replacing, 50 propeller size, 50, 51, 60, 67



## R

radio modems base station, 18 connecting, 18, 45

RC receiver adjusting channel 5, 18 RC transmitter setup, 79 Repairs elevator servo replacement, 51, 66 motor repla cement, 67 rudder servo replacement, 60 replace elevator servo, 51, 60 replace wing, 66 replacing propeller, 50 replacing motor, 67

86 30

- October

- 12Index

required equipment, 4 tools, 5 returning parts, 68
RMA, 68 rudder servo replacement, 60 rudder, defined, 7



## S

safety procedur es, 9 selecting a .fly file, 28 site requirements, 10, 26 specifications, 3 status bar, 25



## T

takeoff, 36 takeoff switch, 7 technical support, 2 throttle bug, 79 transferring license key, 23 

## U

USB to serial converter, 4, 38, 46, 47, 71, 72 user guide

docume nt conventions, 2 overview, 1



## V

vertical axes, 5

vibration

pre

- flight check, 35 sources, 45



## W

warranty, 68 weather conditions for flying, 10 wind speed, maximum, 10 wing replacement, 66 wiring inspection, 49

87