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

Document conventions ...................................................................................2

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

1 CropCam Basics 3

About the CropCam ........................................................................................3

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

Crop Cam parts.......................................................................................4

Required equipment................................................................................4

Tools .......................................................................................................5

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

Centre of Gravity .....................................................................................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 HORIZONmp ................................................................................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

i
CropCam 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 battery 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 Type ...............................................................................60

Wing Replacement........................................................................................66

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

Motor Replacement.......................................................................................67

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

Returning parts .............................................................................................68

Speed Controller (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

ii 30-October-12
Preface

D Tips 79

Failsafe receiver setup for use with autopilot......................................... 80

Cold weather flying................................................................................82

E Modifications - Caution 83

Index 85

iii
CropCam User’s Guide

iv 30-October-12
Preface

This user guide describes how to assemble, operate, and maintain the 

CropCam. It 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 the first flight with a new .fly

file or waypoint configuration. 

What this guide contains

The Preface describes how the information in this manual is arranged. It 

lists 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 provide, including the minimum computer 

requirements to run the software included with the CropCam. 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 procedures, 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 explains how to prepare for a flight, start 

the engine, perform the pre-flight checks, and launch the CropCam. The 

last section in the chapter explains 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 outlines the routine maintenance 

schedule for the CropCam and explains 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.

1
CropCam User’s Guide

Chapter 7 CropCam Care/Maintenance describes periodic maintenance 

recommended to ensure safe, reliable operation 

Appendix A lists Recommended Operator and Training requirements

for the CropCam

Appendix B is a log book for the CropCam in which you should record 

all flights 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 come across.

Appendix E contains some cautions about modifying your CropCam

Document conventions

Throughout this guide we’ve used the following document conventions 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: support@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 CropCam. 

Software such as the datalog viewer and fly files can be accessed through 

this site.

2 30-October-12
1 CropCam Basics

In this chapter, you learn more about the CropCam and its features. The 

topics in this chapter include

• A description of the CropCam

• Lists of the parts included with the CropCam, the equipment you have 

to provide, and the tools you will need

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

switches

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

About the CropCam

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

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

pre-programmed to fly a set pattern over a one quarter section, taking 

overlapping photos and land autonomously at the end of the flight.

Using the software included with the CropCam, 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 lbs.

Motor Axi 2820/10 brushless

Power 4-2200 m.a. Li-Poly 3 cell batteries

Max duration (approx.) 55 minutes1

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 several factors, including battery type and condition, temperature and 

throttle usage, which depends on wind and flight altitude\climb duration.

3

 
CropCam User’s Guide

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

• Carbon fibre, electric powered aeroplane with the MicroPilot MP2028g

autopilot

• Six #64 rubber bands

• HORIZONmp ground control software

• * MP CropCam image software * currently under re-development

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

cable

• Autopilot serial cable

• CropCam CD which includes a datalog viewer, sample .fly files

(may include Beta CropCam image software when available)

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

• Four 2100 mAh or 2200mAh 3-cell Li-Poly battery packs

Required equipment You will 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. Most RC radio systems 

(including Futaba, Airtronics or JR) will work, but the 2.4 G Spektrum 

radio will not. Other 2.4GHz systems may interfere with the 2.4GHz 

modem on board.

• Laptop computer

The minimum requirements to run both HORIZONmp and the MP 

CropCam image software on the same computer are a Pentium 4, 3

GHz supporting Hyper-Threading Technology with 1GB of RAM,

Windows 2000, XP, Vista or Windows 7, and an RS232 serial port (or 

USB port used with USB to serial adapter).

You have the option of running HORIZONmp on a laptop and the MP 

CropCam image software on a more powerful desktop system. In that 

case the desktop must meet the minimum processor requirements 

listed above and the laptop can be a Pentium IV, 700 MHz with 512

MB of RAM, Windows XP (Windows 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 does 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.

4 30-October-12
Chapter 2: CropCam Basics

• 12 volt battery

The battery can be used to power the charger. Any 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-2100mAh or 

2200 mAh. 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 cameras 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 driver

• 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 Familiarisation

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 generates lift in the same way.

Centre of Gravity Aeroplanes are balanced through their centre of gravity (or C of G). An 

aeroplane moves about on three axes, all of which run through the centre 

of gravity. 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.

5
CropCam User’s Guide

Longitudinal axis

The longitudinal axis runs from the nose to the tail. The airplane rolls to 

the left or right along this axis.

Lateral axis

The lateral axis runs from one wing tip to the other. The airplane pitches 

up and down on this axis.

Vertical axis

The vertical axis runs vertically 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 surfaces to control movement on each axis.

Elevator

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

Ailerons Elevator

Flaps Rudder

Longitudinal 

axis

Vertical 

axis

Lateral 

axis

Centre of 

gravity

6 30-October-12
Chapter 2: CropCam Basics

controls pitch or rotation on the lateral axis. When the trailing edge of the 

elevator is down, the nose of the CropCam pitches 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 are 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 wing tips. They control 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 counteract 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

Pressing 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 plane on top of the 

CropCam’s centre 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, always disconnect the 

Power switch

Takeoff switch

7
CropCam 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 is moving, the pressure transducer senses the 

increased air pressure through the pitot tube. The autopilot uses the data 

from the pressure transducer to calculate the airspeed.

8 30-October-12
2 Safety & Operational 

Guidelines

Read this chapter carefully. It contains safety procedures that you must

follow to prevent injury. 

It also describes the site requirements and other conditions needed before

flying the CropCam.

Safety procedures

Be very careful working around and operating the CropCam. The 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 into 

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 pockets so that they cannot fall into the 

propeller.

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

rotating 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 least 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.

9
CropCam User’s Guide

Site requirements

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 that 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 wind 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 which will disable the airspeed sensor. 

10 30-October-12
Chapter 2: Safety & Operational Guidelines

11

3 Assembly

In this chapter you will learn how to 

• Check connectors after shipping

• Assemble the CropCam

• Disassemble the CropCam for transportation and storage

• Set up and test the base station modem

Post-Shipping Connector 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 easily 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 all 

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.

Figure 3.1 - P2 connector viewed from Front

Check Fully 

Seated

13
CropCam User’s Guide

Figure 3.2 - P2 connector viewed from Rear

Caution – the P2 connector requires a firm push to seat it fully; if you 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 smear 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-October-12
Chapter 3: Assembly

Figure 3.4 - Servo board connectors

Also see 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

• Centre wing

• Fuselage

• 2 outer wings and winglets (left and right)

• Elevator

• Four #64 elastic bands

 To attach the camera to the centre 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 lens lines up with the hole 

on top of the housing.

15
CropCam User’s Guide

4. Turn the centre 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 centre wing to the fuselage

1. Turn the centre wing over so that it is right side up and the two servo

harnesses from the fuselage will reach the servo connectors on the

bottom of the wing.

2. Match the colour codes and connect the servo harnesses to the wing 

connectors.

3. Position the centre 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 

centre wing to the fuselage.

5. Attach the wing centre 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 

centre 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 centre wing on the mounting dowels. 

Gently push the wiring back into the outer wing as you push the outer 

wing onto the centre wing.

3. Place a piece of duct tape on the seam between the centre wing and the 

outer wing.

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

5. Position the elevator right side up and attach 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-October-12
Chapter 3: Assembly

Check Connections

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

connections.

Camera 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, see the Pentax Operating Manual for detailed 

information on charging the camera 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 camera 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 For Windows to recognise 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 images 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, your 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 must 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. If no pictures are taken 

within three minutes the camera will shut down and retract the 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. 

17
CropCam 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 found 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 and apply power to the 

modem.

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

initialize.

5. Start HORIZONmp.

See About HORIZONmp on page 21 for a description of the 

HORIZONmp window.

6. In the HORIZONmp window, select UAV-01 and click Connect.

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

the LINK indicator on the HORIZONmp 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 HORIZONmp window (See 

About HORIZONmp on page 21.) displays the RC status. 

The RC setup is straight forward. The 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 the 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-October-12
Chapter 3: Assembly

(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 receiver 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 approximate 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 chapter 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 turned 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-drive wires disconnected and apply 

power to the CropCam; wait a few minutes for it to initialise.

2. Apply power to the base station modem.

3. Start HORIZONmp and click Connect to connect to the CropCam.

In the HORIZONmp status bar, the LINK indicator should be green

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.

The RC status indicator should show RC-PIC without flickering 

between modes; The CropCam servos should respond to pilot control 

of the transmitter sticks.

5. Switch to CIC mode. The CropCam should go into CIC mode and the 

19
CropCam User’s Guide

RC status panel should stay on RCON without flickering between 

modes. Servos should respond to pitching and rolling the CropCam.

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 wihout flickering between 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 batteries 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. Remove the elevator. 

3. Remove the outer wings and disconnect the servo connectors.

4. Remove the camera from its mount and the infrared switch from the 

cameras.

5. Disconnect the pitot tube.

6. Remove the screws attaching the centre wing to the fuselage and tip 

the centre wing back.

7. Disconnect the servo connectors.

20 30-October-12
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 HORIZONmp for use and become familiar with it

• Choose an appropriate location to fly the CropCam

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

• Use HORIZONmp to copy the .fly file to the CropCam

• Perform the pre-flight checks 

• Compile the images from the CropCam into a single image

• Export the compiled CropCam image to another application

About HORIZONmp

HORIZONmp ground control software is included with the CropCam and 

has two functions. 

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

21
CropCam User’s Guide

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

HORIZONmp is also the computer interface to the autopilot that controls 

the CropCam. You will use HORIZONmp to select and transfer the .fly file 

to the CropCam. Full instructions for installing and operating 

HORIZONmp 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 HORIZONmp and MP CropCam image 

software, you must install 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 Start, 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 MicroPilot Licence 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.com. 

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

key from the MicroPilot Licence 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 

Licence Manager again.

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

CropCam and click OK.

Computer Site Key

22 30-October-12
Chapter 4: Preparing for Flight

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

licence to enable HORIZONmp and MP CropCam image software.

Click Create Demo Licence to install a temporary licence that is effective 

for 30 days. . If you do create Demo licence, make sure to do this 

BEFORE 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 flash 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. Install the CropCam software on the new computer and run 

MicroPilot Licence Manager.

The MicroPilot Licence Manager dialog box appears.

2. Click Transfer License In.

Licence Manager opens the Browse for Folder dialog box.

3. Select a disk that does not have a MicroPilot application installed on it 

and click OK. A floppy disk, USB flash memory, or something similar 

is the best choice.

Licence Manager prepares a space on the disk to receive the license.

A floppy disk or other 

removable disk is the 

best choice.

23
CropCam User’s Guide

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

run MicroPilot Licence Manager.

HORIZONmp displays a message saying the there is already a valid 

license installed.

5. Click OK to dismiss the message.

The MicroPilot Licence Manager dialog box appears.

6. Click Transfer Licence Out.

Licence Manager opens the Browse for Folder dialog box.

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

Licence Manager transfers the licence to the removable disk.

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

MicroPilot Licence Manager, and click Transfer Licence In.

Licence 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 HORIZONmp or 

the MP CropCam image software.

Status bar

Transmit 

waypoints button

Instrument 

panel

Flight files Connect 

button

Payload 

buttons

24 30-October-12
Chapter 4: Preparing for Flight

Autopilot Control

• Connect button

Click to connect HORIZONmp to the CropCam. 

Flight Files 

The list contains 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 actions, 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 indicator, 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 (MPBat), 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 

close 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 HORIZONmp 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 voltage (MPBat).

25
CropCam 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 batteries you will need a 12 VDC 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 charger 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 completely charged.

CAUTION! Always use the correct voltage detecting type battery 

Main battery voltage

26 30-October-12
Chapter 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 Polymer 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 just 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 power 

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 the 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 

distribution board. The other plugs follow, in sequence of shortest to 

longest.

• Finally, the speed 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 the 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.

27
CropCam 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 second pass with the legs offset 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 orientation 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 appropriate file.

Figure 4.1 CropCam flight pattern

Selecting for the wind

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

If the wind is from the north or south, choose a .fly file that flies northsouth 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 section you are 

surveying. 

If your launch site is at the northwest corner of any quarter section (sites

#1, 2, and 4 in 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

28 30-October-12
Chapter 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 SurveyNS_north-west_start

east/west SurveyEW_north-west_start

2

NW

north/south SurveyNS_north-east_start

east/west SurveyEW_north-east_start

NE

north/south SurveyNS_north-west_start

east/west SurveyEW_north-west_start

3 NE

north/south SurveyNS_north-east_start

east/west SurveyEW_north-east_start

4

NW

north/south SurveyNS_south-west_start

east/west SurveyEW_south-west_start

SW

north/south SurveyNS_north-west_start

east/west SurveyEW_north-west_start

5

NE

north/south SurveyNS_south-east_start

east/west SurveyEW_south-east_start

SE

north/south SurveyNS_north-east_start

east/west SurveyEW_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

29
CropCam User’s Guide

Launch 

site

Quarter to 

survey

Wind direction .fly file

east/west SurveyEW_south-east_start

SE

north/south SurveyNS_south-west_start

east/west SurveyEW_south-west_start

8 SE

north/south SurveyNS_south-east_start

east/west SurveyEW_south-east_start

If the wind is calm (less than 10 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.

Initialising 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 part of the initialisation the GPS locks and determines its position. 

Always initialise 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 more likely to 

happen when outside temperatures are very cold but could also occur when 

moving from Air-conditioned space to a hot outside.

 To initialise 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 CropCam is still while it is initialising. If it is windy, 

you may have to hold it steady.

The autopilot can take a minute or more to initialise. The flaps drop 

when the autopilot is ready. If you haven’t initialised the CropCam in 

several weeks, it may take up to 15 minutes for the GPS to lock and 

the initialisation to complete.

30 30-October-12
Chapter 4: Preparing for Flight

4. Start HORIZONmp.

5. Apply power to the base station modem.

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

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

use.

7. Click the Transmit Waypoints button next to the Flight Files list.

HORIZONmp displays the Transmit Waypoints dialog box.

8. Click Transmit.

HORIZONmp 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 with 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 )

• Compile 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 hold only 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 runs.

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 radios) 

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 properly 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 

33
CropCam 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 centre wing 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 holding the CropCam together are 

secure.

• Check the two screws holding the centre 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 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 temperatures are very cold but could also occur when 

moving from Air-conditioned space to a hot outside.

Start-up checks

Perform these checks after initialising the CropCam autopilot and 

connecting to HORIZONmp. (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 level 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 fuselage 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-October-12
Chapter 5: Operating CropCam

elevator should move up.

− When the CropCam is rolled, the trailing edge of the aileron on the 

lower wing should move down 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 the main and servo battery voltages are OK.

Check the battery voltage gauges on the HORIZONmp 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 HORIZONmp 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:

• Ensure 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 servos 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 the distance specified by the 

manufacturer of the radio equipment, whichever is greater.

• Verify that the motor runs smoothly with no vibration and has full 

power. 

• Perform a vibration test while in PIC mode to see that the CropCam 

does not vibrate too much at full throttle.

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

35
CropCam User’s Guide

in all positions. Watch the attitude indicator in the HORIZONmp

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 vibration on page 45 for advice on identifying 

and fixing vibration problems.

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

mode.

• See that the HORIZONmp GPS, LINK, and READY status indicators 

are green and that there are no error messages.

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

of the HORIZONmp window. The error message field is just above the 

battery voltage gauges on the HORIZONmp instrument panel.

Flying After you have selected 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 

not 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. Click Connect in the HORIZONmp Autopilot Control group and check 

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 will 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 the 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 takeoff 

36 30-October-12
Chapter 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 will then 

make corrections to its pitch to match the target climb speed set in its 

VRS. This may cause the nose to dip to gain airspeed if it flying too 

slowly, 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 

minutes 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 launch 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 not 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 accidentally 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 recognizes the camera as a removable drive and gives you a 

number of choices for working with the images.

2. Select Copy images to a folder on my computer and copy the 

images to a folder of your choice. Or select Open folder to view files

and drag and drop the images from the camera to your computer.

37
CropCam 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 

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

cable that came with the CropCam.

38 30-October-12
Chapter 5: Operating CropCam

 To copy the datalog to your computer 

1. Connect the 9-pin connector 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 HORIZONmp if it is running.

4. Check that the GPS antenna is disconnected.

5. Open the Logviewer program, either by selecting Start>All Programs> 

MicroPilot Horizon 3.4>Autopilot Utilities> Autopilot Datalog 

Viewer, or by using Windows Explorer, go to the C:\Program 

Files\MicroPilot\Horizon3.4 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 

CropCam/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 message 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_131627.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 from autopilot, and 

then follow the on-screen prompts.

About MP CropCam 

image software

Note: The CropCam Image software is currently withdrawn for redevelopment. It will be re-introduced once tests have been completed.

(July 2011)

MP CropCam image software arranges 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 software allows you to 

export images in TIFF format with associated World files (.tfw) for use 

with GIS software.

39
CropCam 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 when 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 CropCam 

image software displays the zoom level in the status bar. 

Zoom Out

Click to zoom out on the map or segment.

40 30-October-12
Chapter 5: Operating CropCam

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 entire map to display.

The map is divided into 9 segments—3 horizontal 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 rotated 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.

41
CropCam User’s Guide

 To export a map or image

1. Click the Export tool.

The MP CropCam image software opens the Export dialog box.

2. From the Export Type 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 file 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 applications to place the image in the correct location in a 

UTC grid.

Selecting the Default image size creates an image the size of the original. 

When you are exporting 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.

42 30-October-12
Chapter 5: Operating CropCam

43

6 Problem solving

The GPS won’t lock

If you haven’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 time.

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 balance 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 sense 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.

45
CropCam 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 and 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 HORIZONmp 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 the 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.

46 30-October-12
Chapter 6: Problem solving

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 will 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 HORIZONmp

the last know location of your CropCam will be logged in your 

HORIZON directory. (C:\Program Files\MicroPilot\Horizon3.4\logs). 

Use 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. 

47
CropCam 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 replace the propeller

• Schedule periodic maintenance

• Perform some repairs or replace components

• 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 maintenance

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 

• Connector 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 from a hard landing.

48 30-October-12
Chapter 7: CropCam Care/Maintenance

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 before 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 maintain 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. Remove 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 centre 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 harnesses 

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 centre 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 inspect 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

49
CropCam 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 are under stress particularly at 

touch down when landing.

Every 2 years We recommend that you send your autopilot to MicroPilot for recalibration every 2 years. The onboard sensors can change slightly over 

such a period of time and it is better to have them 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 over the crack and cover with a 

layer of medium Pro CA glue.

3. Large cracks and breaks may not be easily repairable. In this case a 

replacement airframe may be a better solution.

Replacing the propeller If there is any sign of damage replace 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, washer, 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.

50 30-October-12
Chapter 7: CropCam Care/Maintenance

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

prop.

6. Tighten the prop nut as tight as possible.

7. Replace the spinner.

Elevator Servo Replacement

Elevator 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 replace 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 accurate as possible.

To Replace the Elevator 

Servo

1. Remove elevator 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. 

51
CropCam 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 the 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.

Figure 7.4 - Cut Rudder Post Free

Disconnect the 

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

52 30-October-12
Chapter 7: CropCam Care/Maintenance

Figure 7.5 - Rudder & Post Removed

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

has been removed and 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 rudder 

already removed.

Clevis halves can be spread apart to 

remove from elevator pivot table

53
CropCam 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

54 30-October-12
Chapter 7: CropCam Care/Maintenance

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 lead 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.

Carefully 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.

55
CropCam 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 good, 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 same output connector the old servo was plugged into. 

Power on the CropCam, start HORIZONmp and open up your 

CropCam’s VRS file from the HORIZONmp ‘VRS file list’. (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.

9. Once you have your VRS retrieved into a file in HORIZONmp, 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 pulse 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 

that 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

56 30-October-12
Chapter 7: CropCam Care/Maintenance

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 template 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 facing 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 

assembly 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 where 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

57
CropCam 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 its 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 the 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

58 30-October-12
Chapter 7: CropCam Care/Maintenance

15. Once you are certain the servo is in the correct location, 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 bracket binding on the fin or rudder.

17. You may now re-attach the rudder and rudder post to the CropCam by 

mixing 5-6 minute epoxy 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. Insert 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 around 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

59
CropCam 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 failed, 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 fin then 

place clamps on the 

top and bottom and 

allow the epoxy to 

cure

60 30-October-12
Chapter 7: CropCam Care/Maintenance

Figure 7.19 - Rudder Linkage

Figure 7.20 - Wing Screws

Figure 7.21 - Rudder Servo-mount Epoxy

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

61
CropCam 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 large 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. If 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 plugged 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 servo 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

62 30-October-12
Chapter 7: CropCam Care/Maintenance

Figure 7.24 - Remove S3 Plug

4. It is critical that the replacement servo is ‘centred’ before installing 

the control arm. To do this, power on the CropCam, Start 

HORIZONmp and open up your CropCam’s VRS file in the 

HORIZONmp 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 your VRS 

retrieved into a file in HORIZONmp, 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

63
CropCam 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 damaged, 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 

allow 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 (2nd hole out 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 dead-centre. To do 

this, tape a couple of flat wooden sticks (lolly or ‘popsicle’ 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. 

(See Figure 7.27) 

Figure 7.27 - Lock Rudder in Neutral Position

Make sure the servo arm is 

installed 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-October-12
Chapter 7: CropCam Care/Maintenance

Figure 7.28 - Ensure Rudder Held in Centre

10. Now you can make sure 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 in 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 Editor 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 

does not rub 

against the 

inside of the 

fuselage

65
CropCam User’s Guide

Wing Replacement

In some cases it may 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 if the mounting holes on a

replacement wing do not line up with the mounting holes on the CropCam 

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

To Replace the Rear 

Wing Mount

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. Prepare 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 replacement 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 replacement 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 rear 

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 retainer 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-October-12
Chapter 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 although 

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 allen-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 controller, 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 

connected. This is to gain access to the back of the motor. 

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

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

cautious not to damage the insulation on the wires.

4. Using 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 damage 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 vibrations will not cause the motor to come loose.

67
CropCam 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 obligations 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 EFlight ESC (Electronic Speed Controller) to the CropCam Servo board, 

using the MP modified throttle extension 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-12
Figure 7.32 CropCam Wiring Diagram

69

A Recommended Operator and 

Training requirements for the 

CropCam.

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

Training

• 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 Temperature above 30C

o Temperature below 10C (unless these weather conditions 

are unlikely)

o Calm wind

71
CropCam User’s Guide

Single Operator 

• Cell phone or Satellite phone to call for assistance in case of 

emergency

• Private Pilots Licence medical or equivalent

. 

72 30-October-12
Flight 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 CropCam. Flight log information is helpful to CropCam technical 

support when solving problems.

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

73
CropCam User’s Guide Duration Previous total flight time Notes

Total flight time

Pilot .fly flie Wind speed & direction Location

CropCam serial #

Date

74 30-October-12
C Pre-flight checklist

The following 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 checklist 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 

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 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 the CropCam should balance when you suspend it at the C of G points. 

These points should be marked underneath the wings close to the 

fuselage–if you cannot see them 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 rubber 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. 

75
CropCam 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 temperatures 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 HORIZONmp.

• Make sure that the GPS antenna is connected securely.

• Check that 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 rudder 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 HORIZONmp airspeed gauge shows 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 off; check 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 down.

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 CropCam 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-October-12
Pre-flight checklist

fly the CropCam until you have solved the vibration problem.

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

mode.

• See that the HORIZONmp 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. Disconnect 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 cause 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 set 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 the throttle has been 

known to start up unexpectedly on the ground after initialisation, 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 Power 

2100mAh batteries, which in turn replaced 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.

79
CropCam User’s Guide

4. As a quick guide, if 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 

HORIZONmp 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).

Failsafe receiver setup

for use with 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 while 

flying in PIC; the receiver may simply hold the last known setting and lead 

to a crash. This can happen if the failsafe is programmed to hold the last 

position!

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

for Preset Position failsafe 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 it is NOT safe to use with the Autopilot.

Check your RC system to ensure it has the requirements.

80 30-October-12
Tips

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 in 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 “hold” 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 travel.

The 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 would 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 Sensor 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 displayed 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 autopilot will detect the RC signal has gone.

81
CropCam User’s Guide

Test the new settings:

• When 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 report RCON and control 

surfaces on CropCam should respond 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 control 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 minimum of 15 minutes before flight can take place. 

However, the LiPoly batteries will suffer a performance loss if they are 

not kept warm, and should be put inside the CropCam just before flight to 

minimise their heat loss. Ideally, an auxiliary battery should 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 — see C of G Check on page 75

2. Check all wiring and connections in the CropCam — see Figure 

7.32 CropCam Wiring Diagram on page 69.

3. Perform all Pre-flight checks carefully — see Appendix C Preflight checklist on page 75. Make sure to check RC range.

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

and sensor 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 Horizon will be 

suitable).

6. Make sure Horizon’s payload 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 

altitude 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 take 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 discharge 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, defined, 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 computer, 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 equipment, 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

85
CropCam 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 requirements, 10

G

GPS

not locking, 45

GPS antenna

connecting, 16

described, 7

disconnecting, 20, 37

H

HORIZONmp

Autopilot Control buttons, 25

described, 21

Flight File list, 25

instrument panel, 25

Payload buttons, 25

status bar, 25

I

images

copying to your computer, 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

transferring, 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 setting

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 converter, 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 replacement, 67

rudder servo replacement, 60

replace elevator servo, 51, 60

replace wing, 66

replacing

propeller, 50

replacing motor, 67

86 30-October-12
Index

required equipment, 4

tools, 5

returning parts, 68

RMA, 68

rudder servo replacement, 60

rudder, defined, 7

S

safety procedures, 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

document 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