Cobblestone Realty, Bloomington, IN - Section 333 Exemption Petition

January 29, 2015

U. S. Department of Transportation

Docket Management System

1200 New Jersey Ave, SE 

Washington, DC 20590

Electronically Submitted via www.regulations.gov

Re: Exemption Request Section 333 of the FAA Reform Act of the Federal Aviation

Regulations from 14 C.F.R. 45.23(b); 14 C.F.R. Part 21; 14 C.F.R. 61.113(a)&(b);

91.7(a); 91.9(b) (2); 91.103(b); 91.109; 119.121; 91.151(a); 91.203(a)&(b); 91.405(a);

91.407(a) (1); 91.409(a) (2); 91.417(a)&(b)

Dear Sir or Madam,

Cobblestone Realty LLC (Cobblestone Realty) seeks exemption pursuant to the FAA

Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 and the procedures contained within 14

C.F.R. 11, from the Federal Aviation Regulations (“FARs”) listed below so that

Cobblestone Realty, may operate their small ultra-light weight unmanned aircraft system 

(“UAS”) commercially in airspace regulated by the Federal Aviation Administration

(“FAA”).

This petition is, in most regards, similar to granted exemption No. 11138 both in 

operational approach (closer than 500’) and equipment being utilized (DJI Phantom 2).

As described herein Cobblestone Realty real estate broker licensed within the State of 

Indiana. Cobblestone Realty has added a hobby grade quad-copter

1 UAS to their

inventory equipped with a GoPro Hero 4 long range V2.0 camera with intent for aerial

videography/cinematography to enhance community awareness for those

individuals and companies unfamiliar with the geographical layout

of real estate listings in the state of Indiana, and augment real estate listing videos; 

following exemption and approval by the FAA.

Cobblestone Realty’s exemption request would permit operation of ultra-light weight,

unmanned (piloted by remote control) and comparatively inexpensive UAS in tightly 

controlled and limited airspace. Predetermined in areas away from general public,

airports, heliports and vehicular traffic for community videos, and within property

boundaries for individual homeowner real estate listing videos/photos. Cobblestone 

Realty has instilled safety protocols and controls2 to avoid and prevent public hazard,

as well as manned aircraft hazards/catastrophe. This will act to further safety protocols

exclusive to lightweight UAS's specific to real estate video and photography usage

as Cobblestone Realty records flight data and other information gained through

permitted flight operations to share with the FAA through any required FAA reports to

assist with future protocol and safety regulation.

 1 Appendix A – DJI Phantom 2 FPV quad-copter Operator Manual 2 Appendix B - Personal Protocols and Controls
Cobblestone Realty, Bloomington, IN - Section 333 Exemption Petition

Granting Cobblestone Realty’s request comports with the Secretary of Transportation’s (FAA

Administrator’s) responsibilities and authority to not only integrate UAS's into the national

airspace system, but to “...establish requirements for the safe operation of such aircraft 

systems [UAS's] in the national airspace system” under Section 333(c) of the Reform

Act specific to the use of UAS's for real estate/Realtor purposes. Further Cobblestone 

Realty will conduct their operations in compliance with the protocols described herein or as

otherwise established by the FAA.

For the reasons stated below Cobblestone Realty respectfully requests the grant of an 

exemption allowing operation of ultra-light weight, remote controlled UAS’s for community

awareness to benefit/stimulate attraction to the Indiana real estate market and to enhance

real estate listing videos for homeowners who cannot afford expensive manned aircraft for

the same purpose. Both of which will promote local economic growth through increased

employment and increased tax base. Both with public safety in mind by keeping heavier

manned aircraft containing combustible fuel that that poses potential public hazard.

I. Contact Information:

Julie Booze, Owner/Broker

Cobblestone Realty

7970 N. Thames Drive

Bloomington, IN 47408

Mobile: (812) 322-3139

Fax: (812) 935-8833

Email: julie.booze@homefinder.org

II. The Specific sections of Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations from

which Cobblestone Realty requests exemption:

14 CFR 21;

14 C.F.R. 45.23(b);

14 CFR 61.113 (a) & (b);

14 C.F.R. 91, et seq.;

14 CFR 407 (a) (1);

14 CFR 409 (a) (2); and,

14 CFR 417 (a) & (b).

III. The extent of relief Cobblestone Realty seeks and the reason they seek such

relief:

Cobblestone Realty submits this application in accordance with the Reform Act, 112 P.L.

95 §§ 331-334, seeking relief from any currently applicable FARs operating to prevent 

commercial cinematic and other flight operations within the national airspace system. The

Reform Act in Section 332 provides for such integration of civil unmanned aircraft systems

into our national airspace system as it is in the public’s interest to do so. Cobblestone 

Realty’s, ultra-light weight UAS meets the definition of “small unmanned aircraft” as 

defined in Section 331 and therefore the integration of their ultra-light weight UAS is
Cobblestone Realty, Bloomington, IN - Section 333 Exemption Petition

expressly contemplated by the Reform Act. Cobblestone Realty would like to operate their

ultra-light weight UAS prior to the time period by which the Reform Act requires the FAA to

promulgate rules governing such craft. The Reform Act guides the Secretary in determining

the types of UAS's that may operate safely in our national airspace system.

Considerations include: The weight, size, speed and overall capabilities of the UAS's; 

whether the UAS will be operated near airports or heavily populated areas; and, Whether

the UAS will be operated by line of sight. 112 P.L. 95 § 333 (a). Each of these items are in 

favor of an exemption for Cobblestone Realty. Their UAS utilizes four (4) counter-rotating

propellers for balance, control and stability. Their UAS is equipped with GPS and auto return

safety technology. Weighing less than ten (10) pounds (far below the maximum 55 pound

limit); including camera.

Cobblestone Realty, considers safety as foremost with each flight. Their small unmanned 

aircraft is designed to hover in place via GPS and operate in less than a 24 knot (15 mph)

wind. For safety, stability and fear of financial loss they will not fly in winds exceeding16 kph

(10 mph). Built in safety systems include a GPS mode that allows their UAS to hover in

place when radio controls are released. When pilot communication is lost UAS is designed

slowly descend to point of takeoff. Cobblestone Realty will not operate their UAS near 

airports, Hospitals nor Police heliports, and will not operate near areas where general

public is within fifty to one hundred (50-100) yards depending on location, conditions and 

weather. Cobblestone Realty will be prepared to land/abort immediately to the nearest and

safest ground point should a manned aircraft approach their location or should 

they suspect manned aircraft may approach near their location. Cobblestone Realty will 

utilize an operator with a private pilot’s license who has the ability to monitor air and 

ground communications. Their UAS is capable of vertical and horizontal operations, and

will only be flown within line of sight of the operator. Utilizing battery power rather than 

combustible fuels, flights generally last between ten (10) to fifteen (15) minutes, with an

altitude under four hundred (400) feet. Cobblestone Realty will utilize a fresh fully charged

battery with each flight as a safety precaution; full flight time limit for each battery is

twenty-five (25) minutes. Cobblestone Realty will not operate their UAS at or below

manufacture recommend minimum charge levels for operation; preferring to remain well

within a safe operating range to insure adequate communication between radio control and

UAS to eliminate potential for crash, loss of control or hazard. Reserve batteries will be at

hand with each exercise to insure replacement for sufficient safe level of operation. 

Cobblestone Realty will exercise extremely caution when operating of their UAS/ultra-light

weight unmanned aircraft and will not “create a hazard to users of the national airspace 

system or the public.” 112 P.L. 95 § 333 (b). Given the small size and weight of their UAS it

falls well within Congress’s contemplated safety zone when it promulgated the Reform Act 

and the corresponding directive to integrate UAS's into the national airspace system.

Cobblestone Realty’s UAS, used in hobby flight, has a demonstrable safety record and

does not pose any threat to the general public or national security.

IV. How Cobblestone Realty’s request will benefit the public as a whole:

Aerial videography for geographical awareness and for real estate marketing has been 

around for a long time through manned fixed wing aircraft and helicopters. For small 

budget real estate companies and average homeowners the expense of such aerial 
Cobblestone Realty, Bloomington, IN - Section 333 Exemption Petition

videography is cost prohibitive. Only large companies and high end Realtors or luxury 

homeowners can afford to absorb such expense, depriving non-luxury homeowners and 

lower budget Realtors from a valuable marketing tool..

Congress has already proclaimed that it is in the public’s interest to integrate commercially

flown UAS's into the national airspace system, hence the passing of the Reform Act.

Granting Cobblestone Realty’s, exemption request furthers the public interest through visual

awareness of the geographical benefits in Indiana. Their ultra-light weight UAS is battery

powered and creates no emissions that can harm the environment. The consequence of

their ultra-light weight UAS crashing is far less than a full size helicopter or fixed wing

aircraft; which are heavy, contain combustible fuel and can cause catastrophic devastation

to the public. The public’s interest is furthered by minimizing ecological and crash threat by

permitting aerial video/photo capture through their battery operated ultra-light weight UAS's. 

Permitting Cobblestone Realty to immediately fly within national air space furthers economic

growth. Granting their exemption request substantially furthers the economic impact for the

Bloomington, IN community for companies looking to relocate or build in the area as well as

individuals looking to relocate, both of which serve as a stimulus to the community.

V. Reasons why Cobblestone Realty’s exemption will not adversely affect safety or 

how the exemption will provide a level of safety at least equal to existing rule:

Cobblestone Realty’s exemption will not adversely affect safety. The following represents

enhancements to current aerial videography and photography for real estate:

Their UAS weighs less than 10 pounds complete with a small ultra-light weight

high quality GoPro Hero 4 Long Range V2.0 camera;

• They will only operate their UAS below 400 feet (within the 400 foot

permissible ceiling set by the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012);

• Their UAS only operates for 10-15 minutes per flight;

• They will land their UAS prior to manufacturer recommended minimum

level of battery power;

• They will pilot their UAS through remote control only by line of sight;

• Cobblestone Realty will utilize a private pilot with experience in manned and 

radio controlled aircraft operation;

• Their UAS has GPS a flight safety feature whereby it hovers and then slowly

lands if communication with the remote control pilot is lost;

• Their pilot will actively analyze flight data and other sources of information 

to constantly update and enhance safety protocols;

• They will only operate in reasonably safe environment, away from power

lines, elevated lights, airports and actively populated areas;

• They will conduct extensive pre-flight inspections and protocol, during 

which safety carries primary importance;

• They will obtain all necessary permissions prior to operation; and,

• They will have procedures in place to abort flights in the event of safety

breaches or potential danger.

Cobblestone Realty safety protocols provide a level of safety equal to or exceeding existing

rules. The potential loss of life is diminished because UAS's carry no people on board and 
Cobblestone Realty, Bloomington, IN - Section 333 Exemption Petition

only operates in specific areas away from mass populations. there is No fuel on board a UAS

and thus the potential for fire or explosions is greatly diminished. The small size and 

extreme maneuverability of the UAS allows for it to be remotely piloted away from and 

avoid hazards quickly and safely.

VI. A summary the FAA may publish in the Federal Register:

A. 14 C.F.R. 21 and 14 C.F.R. 91: Airworthiness Certificates, Manuals and the Like.

14 C.F.R. 21, Subpart H, entitled Airworthiness Certificates, sets forth requirements for 

procurement of necessary airworthiness certificates in relation to FAR §

91.203(a)(1). The size and weight of Cobblestone Realty’s UAS permits exemption

from Part 21 because their UAS meets (and exceeds) an equivalent level of safety

pursuant to Section 333 of the Reform Act. The FAA is authorized to exempt aircraft

from the airworthiness certificate requirement under both the Act (49 U.S.C. § 44701 (f))

and Section 333 of the Reform Act. Both pieces of legislation permit the FAA to exempt

UAS's from the airworthiness certificate requirement in consideration of the weight, size,

speed, maneuverability and proximity to areas such as airports and dense populations.

Cobblestone Realty’s, UAS meets or exceed each of the elements.

14 C.F.R. 91.7(a) prohibits the operation of an aircraft without an airworthiness certificate.

As no such certificate will be applicable in the form contemplated by the FARs, this

Regulation is inapplicable.

14 C.F.R. § 91.9 (b) (2) requires an aircraft flight manual in the aircraft. As there are no

on board pilots or passengers, and given the size of the UAS's, this Regulation is 

inapplicable. An equivalent level of safety will be achieved by maintaining a

safety/flight manual delineating areas of where safety can be defined.

3 The FAA

has previously issued exemptions to this regulation in Exemption Nos. 8607, 8737,

8738, 9299, 9299A, 9565, 9565B, 10167, 10167A, 10602, 10700 and 32827.

14 C.F.R. § 91.121 regarding altimeter settings is inapplicable insofar as the UAS

utilizes electronic global positioning systems with a barometric sensor.

14 C.F.R. § 91.203 (a) and (b) provides for the carrying of civil aircraft certifications

and registrations. They are inapplicable for the same reasons described above. The

equivalent level of safety will be achieved by maintaining any such required certifications

and registrations by Cobblestone Realty.

3 Appendix C - Safety/Flight Manual
Cobblestone Realty, Bloomington, IN - Section 333 Exemption Petition

B. 14 C.F.R. § 45.23: Marking of the Aircraft.

Applicable Codes of Federal Regulation require aircraft to be marked according to

certain specifications. UAS are, by definition, unmanned. They therefore do not 

have a cabin, cockpit or pilot station on which to mark certain words or phrases. Further, 

two-inch lettering is difficult to place on such small aircraft with dimensions smaller that 

minimal lettering requirement. Regardless, Cobblestone Realty will mark its UASs in

the largest possible lettering by placing the word “EXPERIMENTAL” on its fuselage as

required by 14 C.F.R. §45.29 (f) so that the pilot, or anyone assisting the pilot as a

spotter with the UAV will see the markings. The FAA has previously issued exemptions

to this regulation through Exemptions Nos. 8738, 10167, 10167A and 10700.

C. 14 C.F.R. § 61.113: Private Pilot Privileges and Limitations: PIC.

Pursuant to 14 C.F.R. §§ 61.113 (a) & (b), private pilots are limited to non-commercial 

operations. Cobblestone Realty, can achieve an equivalent level of safety as achieved by 

current Regulations because their UAS does not carry any pilots or passengers. 

Further, Cobblestone Realty will utilize a private pilot with experience in manned and 

radio controlled aircraft. The risks attended to the operation of the UAS are far less

than the risk levels inherent in the commercial activities outlined in 14 C.F.R. § 61, et

seq. Thus, allowing Cobblestone Realty and their pilot, to operate their UAS and meet

and exceed current safety levels in relation to 14 C.F.R. §61.113 (a) & (b).

D. 14 C.F.R. 91.119: Minimum Safe Altitudes.

14 C.F.R. § 91.119 prescribes safe altitudes for the operation of civil aircraft. It allows 

helicopters to be operated at lower altitudes in certain conditions. Their UAS will

never operate at an altitude greater than 400 AGL; in accordance with the standard of

400 AGL. Cobblestone Realty will operate their UAS in safe areas away from public

and traffic, providing a level of safety at least equivalent to or below those in relation to 

minimum safe altitudes. Given the size, weight, maneuverability and speed of the UAS, 

an equivalent or higher level of safety will be achieved.

E. 14 C.F.R. 91.405 (a); 407 (a) (1); 409 (a) (2); 417(a) & (b): Maintenance Inspections.

The above-cited Regulations require, amongst other things, aircraft owners and 

operators to “have [the] aircraft inspected as prescribed in subpart E of this part and 

shall between required inspections, except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section, 

have discrepancies repaired as prescribed in part 43 of this chapter. . . .”

These Regulations only apply to aircraft with an airworthiness certificate. They will not, 

therefore, apply to Cobblestone Realty's, UAS. However, as a safety precaution Cobblestone 

Realty’s pilot will inspect their UAS before and after each flight.

A Summary the FAA may Publish in the Federal Register: A. 14 C.F.R. 21 and 14

C.F.R. 91: Airworthiness Certificates, Manuals and the Like. 14 C.F.R. 21, Subpart H, 

entitled Airworthiness Certificates, sets forth requirements for procurement of necessary

airworthiness certificates in relation to FAR § 91.203(a)(1). The size and weight of

Cobblestone Realty’s UAS permits exemption from Part 21 because Cobblestone Realty’s, UAS

meets an equivalent level of safety pursuant to Section 333 of the Reform Act. The FAA is

Cobblestone Realty, Bloomington, IN - Section 333 Exemption Petition

Appendix A

DJI Phantom 2 FPV

Quad Copter

Operator Manual
©2013-2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved.1 | 

PHANTOM 2 User Manual V1.2 

For PHANTOM 2 Flight Controller Firmware version V3.08

& PHANTOM 2 Assistant version V3.4

& PHANTOM RC Assistant version V1.1

2014.10

Congratulations on purchasing your new DJI product. Please thoroughly read the entire contents of this manual to 

fully use and understand the product.

It is advised that you regularly check the PHANTOM 2’s product page at www.dji.com which is updated on a 

regular basis. This will provide services such as product information, technical updates and manual corrections. Due 

to any unforeseen changes or product upgrades, the information contained within this manual is subject to change 

without notice.

DJI and PHANTOM 2 are registered trademarks of DJI. Names of product, brand, etc., appearing in this manual are 

trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owner companies. This product and manual are copy 

righted by DJI with all rights reserved.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding your product, please contact your dealer or DJI Customer Service.
©2013-2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 2 |

Content 

CONTENT........................................................................................................................2

IN THE BOX.....................................................................................................................4

LEGEND ..........................................................................................................................4

1. PHANTOM 2 AIRCRAFT ...............................................................................................5

1.1 BUILT-IN FLIGHT CONTROL SYSTEM INSTRUCTIONS..................................................................5

1.2 CONNECTIONS WITH OTHER DJI PRODUCTS...........................................................................5

Important Notes of Using with Other DJI Products........................................................6

Connections with Other DJI Products.............................................................................7

1.3 LED FLIGHT INDICATORS DESCRIPTION ...............................................................................11

1.4 NOTES FOR PHANTOM 2 USING WITH OTHER DJI PRODUCTS ................................................12

2 PROPELLERS...............................................................................................................13

2.1 ASSEMBLY.....................................................................................................................13

2.2 DISASSEMBLY ................................................................................................................13

2.3 NOTES .........................................................................................................................13

3 REMOTE CONTROL ....................................................................................................14

3.1 POWER ON THE REMOTE CONTROL....................................................................................14

3.2 REMOTE CONTROL LED INDICATOR STATUS .........................................................................15

3.2.1 Remote Control Power LED Indicator Status .......................................................15

3.2.2 Remote Control Battery Level Indicator Status....................................................15

3.3 ANTENNA ORIENTATION ..................................................................................................16

3.4 REMOTE CONTROL OPERATION.........................................................................................16

3.5 LINKING THE REMOTE CONTROL & BUILT-IN RECEIVER...........................................................18

4 INTELLIGENT BATTERY ...............................................................................................19

4.1 CHARGING PROCEDURES..................................................................................................19

4.2 INSTALL THE BATTERY ......................................................................................................20

4.3 BATTERY USAGE.............................................................................................................20

4.4 DESCRIPTION OF THE BATTERY LEVEL INDICATOR...................................................................21

4.5 CORRECT BATTERY USAGE NOTES ......................................................................................22

5 CALIBRATING THE COMPASS......................................................................................23
©2013-2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved.3 | 

5.1 CALIBRATION WARNINGS .................................................................................................23

5.2 CALIBRATION PROCEDURES ..............................................................................................23

5.3 WHEN RECALIBRATION IS REQUIRED...................................................................................23

6 FLIGHT .......................................................................................................................24

6.1 FLYING ENVIRONMENT REQUIREMENTS ..............................................................................24

6.2 STARTING THE MOTORS...................................................................................................24

6.3 TAKEOFF/LANDING PROCEDURES.......................................................................................24

6.4 FAILSAFE FUNCTION........................................................................................................25

6.5 LOW BATTERY CAPACITY WARNING FUNCTION.....................................................................27

6.6 FLIGHT LIMITS FUNCTION.................................................................................................27

Max Height & Radius Limits.........................................................................................27

6.7 FLIGHT LIMITS OF SPECIAL AREAS ......................................................................................28

6.8 CONDITIONS OF FLIGHT LIMITS .........................................................................................30

Disclaimer.....................................................................................................................30

7 ASSISTANT INSTALLATION AND CONFIGURATION ......................................................31

7.1 INSTALLING DRIVER AND PHANTOM 2 ASSISTANT...............................................................31

7.2 USING THE PHANTOM 2 ASSISTANT ON A PC....................................................................32

7.3 FIRMWARE UPGRADE OF PHANTOM 2 .............................................................................33

7.4 PHANTOM RC ASSISTANT DESCRIPTION...........................................................................33

8 APPENDIX..................................................................................................................35

8.1 SPECIFICATIONS..............................................................................................................35

8.2 LED FLIGHT INDICATORS DESCRIPTION ...............................................................................35

 
©2013-2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved.4 | 

In the Box 

PHANTOM 2 Remote Control-2.4GHz Propeller Pair

Intelligent Battery Charger Plug Set

Screwdriver Assistant Wrench Cables

Micro-USB Cable Screws Accessories Box

 

Legend

Forbidden(Important) Caution Tip Reference
©2013-2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved.5 | 

1. PHANTOM 2 Aircraft

[1]

[2]

[3]

[4]

[5]

[6]

[7]

[8]

[10]

[11]

[9]

Figure 1-1 Figure 1-2

[1]Propeller [2]Motor [3]Front Side [4]Front LEDs [5]Micro-USB Port [6]Landing Gear [7]Receiver 

Antenna [8]CAN-Bus Connector [9]LED Flight Indicators [10]DJI Intelligent Battery [11]Compass

1.1 Built-in Flight Control System Instructions

The built-in flight control system is used to control the entire aircraft’s functions in flight such as Pitch (forwards 

and backwards), Roll (left and right), Elevator (up and down) and Yaw (turn left or right). The flight controller 

contains the MC (Main Controller), IMU, GPS, compass, receiver.

The IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) has a built-in inertial sensor and a barometric altimeter that measures both 

attitude and altitude. The compass reads geomagnetic information which assists the GPS (Global Position System) 

to accurately calculate the aircrafts position and height in order to lock the aircraft in a stable hover. The receiver is 

used to communicate with the remote control and the MC acts as the brains of the complete flight control system 

connecting and controlling all the modules together.

The PHANTOM 2 can be configured in the Assistant, by choosing Naza-M mode or Phantom 2 mode. 

This manual is for Phantom 2 mode. Please refer to the Naza-M V2 Quick Start Manual for more 

information.

1.2 Connections with Other DJI Products

PHANTOM 2 is compatible with other DJI products, including ZENMUSE H3-2D and H3-3D gimbal,iOSD mini,

iOSD Mark II. Below are connections for these products and wireless video transmission module.

Compass Gimbal Mounting Position Mount the H3-2D/H3-3D gimbal using 4 screws.

CAN-Bus Connector

Video Cable To the iOSD module or wireless video transmission module. 8-Pin Cable To the G8 port on the H3-2D/H3-3D gimbal.

5-Pin Cable To the compass.

Figure 1-3
©2013-2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved.6 | 

Important Notes of Using with Other DJI Products 

(1) The video cable can provide power for the wireless video transmission module with a battery voltage 

(11.1V~12.6V) and a maximum current 2A.

(2) Make sure the working current of the wireless video transmission module you connect can work with an 

operational voltage between 11.1V~12.6V and the total working current of the iOSD and wireless video 

transmission module is under 2A, as an overcurrent will damage the central board’s components. If the 

total current exceeds 2A, please be sure to provide power supplied from a separate power source for the 

wireless video transmission module.

(3) PHANTOM 2 uses a 2.4GHz RC system. To avoid communication interference, it’s not recommended to 

use other 2.4GHz devices (including 2.4G Wi-Fi or 2.4G wireless video transmission module) except the

2.4G Bluetooth and 2.4G Datalink.

(4) Be sure to keep the wireless video transmission module and other communicating devices away from the 

compass during installation and connection to avoid interference.

(5) To improve the compatibility with ZENMUSE gimbals, the latest factory deliveries of PHANTOM 2 has 

updated to the Version 2 shown below. H3-2D/H3-3D gimbal can be directly installed for the Version 2 

while for Version 1, a H3-3D adapter kit (coming soon) is required to install the H3-3D gimbal.

Version 1 Gimbal Mounting Position

Version 2 Gimbal Mounting Position

Figure 1-4

(6) When using the H3-3D gimbal, please connect the 8-Pin cable of PHANTOM 2 to the G8 port of H3-3D 

shown below.

Figure 1-5
©2013-2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved.7 | 

Connections with Other DJI Products 

(1) Connecting the H3-2D and H3-3D gimbal and wireless video transmission module, the figure below uses 

H3-2D as an example.

ZENMUSE H3-2D

Compass

VIDEO VIDEO GND

Batt+ Wireless Batt- video transmission module Transmitter

Description of the Video Cable (sequence by color) VIDEO GND VBat+

VIDEO

GND

Figure 1-6

(2) Connecting the H3-2D and H3-3D gimbal, iOSD mini and wireless video transmission module, the figure 

below uses H3-2D as an example.

ZENMUSE H3-2D

Compass CAN-Bus Connector

VIDEO GND VBat+ GND VIDEO GND VIDEO

Batt+ Batt- VIDEO

DJI

Description of the Video Cable (sequence by color) Wireless video transmission module Transmitter

Figure 1-7
©2013-2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved.8 | 

(3) Connecting the H3-2D and H3-3D gimbal, iOSD mini and DJI specified wireless video transmission module 

AVL58, the figure below uses H3-2D as an example.

ZENMUSE H3-2D

Compass

DJI

DJI specified wireless video transmission module AVL58 Transmitter

CAN-Bus connector

VIDEO GND VBat+ GND

VIDEO Description of the Video Cable (sequence by color)

 

Figure 1-8

We recommend connecting the VBat+ port of the video cable to the two BATT+ ports of the AVL58 

simultaneously. The same is true of the GND port of the video cable and two BATT- ports.

 

(4) Connecting the H3-2D and H3-3D gimbal, iOSD Mark II and wireless video transmission module, the figure 

below uses H3-2D as an example.
©2013-2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved.9 | 

ZENMUSE H3-2D

VBat+ GND

VIDEO

DJI

VIDEO GND Wireless video transmission module Transmitter specified by DJI(AVL58) OR Other wireless video transmission module Transmitter

CAN-Bus Connector Compass

Description of the Video Cable (sequence by color)

Figure 1-9

The diagram below illustrates the conneciton between the iOSD Mark II and the wireless video transmission module.

iOSD Mark II Other wireless video transmission module Transmitter VIDEO GND VIDEO

BATT- Batt- BATT- BATT+ BATT+ UART UART AV-OUT AV-GND

Batt- Batt+ Batt+

Wireless video transmission module AVL58 Transmitter specified by DJI iOSD Mark II

AV-OUT AV-GND

BATT- BATT- BATT+ BATT+ UART UART

Use the 8-Pin cable in the iOSD Mark II package when connecting to the DJI specified wireless video 

transmission module AVL58.

 

(5) Using the iPad Ground Station 
©2013-2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved.10 | 

iPad Ground Station iPad Ground Station

+ -

3S-6S Battery 3S-6S Battery

Air End Ground End

Figure 1-10

Connect the Air End of 2.4G Bluetooth Datalink to a spared CAN-Bus port of iOSD if an iOSD is used.

(6) Using the PC Ground Station 

Air End Ground End

PC Ground Station

Figure 1-11
©2013-2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved.11 | 

1.3 LED Flight Indicators Description

1. LED flight indicators are used to show the aircraft’s current status. Once powered on, the indicators will light 

up. 

LED flight indicators

Aircraft in Normal status Descriptions 

Power On Self-Test

Warming Up & Aircraft cannot take off during warming up

Ready to Fly

Ready to Fly (non-GPS)

Aircraft in abnormal status Warnings and errors

Remote Control Signal Lost

1

st Level Low Battery Capacity Warning

2

nd Level Low Battery Capacity Warning

Not Stationary or Sensor Bias is too big

Errors & Aircraft cannot fly.

Compass data abnormal because of ferro-magnetic interference or 

the compass needs calibration. 

(1) The LED indicators diagram above are for Phantom 2 mode. In Naza-M mode, LED indicators 

will work according to the Naza-M flight control system.

(2) Connect to the PHANTOM 2 Assistant for detailed information about warnings and errors.

2. The front LEDs are for indicating where the nose of the aircraft is. They light up solid red only after the motors 

have spooled up.

The front LEDs
©2013-2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved.12 | 

1.4 Notes for PHANTOM 2 using with other DJI products

Before using PHANTOM 2 with other DJI products, users should connecting the products correctly and upgrade 

the firmware as requirements below .

Items to upgrade Firmware versions required Assistant for upgrading Assistant version 

P330CB (built-in 

central board)

V1.0.1.19 or above PHANTOM 2 V1.08 or above

Zenmuse H3-2D CMU V1.0,IMU V1.6 or above PHANTOM 2 V1.08 or above

iOSD Mark II V3.01 or above iOSD V4.0 or above

iOSD mini V1.06 or above iOSD V4.0 or above

*The iOSD Assistant is applied to both iOSD Mark II and iOSD mini.
©2013-2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved.13 | 

2 Propellers 

PHANTOM 2 uses the original 9-inch propellers which are classified by the color of each central nut. Damaged 

propellers should be replaced by purchasing new ones if necessary.

Propellers Grey Nut (9450) Black Nut (9450 R)

Diagram

Assembly Location

Attach to the motor thread that does 

not have a black dot.

Attach to the motor thread that has a

black dot.

Fastening/Un-fastening 

Instructions

Lock: Tighten the propeller in this direction.

Unlock: Remove the propeller in this direction.

2.1 Assembly 

1. (Figure 2-1)Remove the four warning cards from the motors after you’ve read them.

2. (Figure 2-2)Prepare the two grey nut propellers and two black nut propellers. Make sure to match the 

black nut propellers with the correctly marked black dot motors. Tighten the propellers according to the 

fastening instructions.

 

Figure 2-1 Figure 2-2 Figure2-3

2.2 Disassembly 

(Figure 2-3)Keep the motor deadlocked in place with the assistant wrench (or one hand) and remove the 

propeller according to the un-fastening instructions.

2.3 Notes

1. Propellers are self tightening during flight. DO NOT use any thread locker on the threads.

2. Make sure to match the propeller nut colors with the corresponding motors.

3. It is advised to wear protective gloves during propeller assembly and removal.

4. Check that the propellers and motors are installed correctly and firmly before every flight.

5. Check that all propellers are in good condition before flight. DO NOT use any ageing, chipped, or broken 

propellers.

6. To avoid injury, STAND CLEAR of and DO NOT touch the propellers or motors when they are spinning.

7. ONLY use original DJI propellers for a better and safer flight experience.
©2013-2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved.14 | 

3 Remote Control

The PHANTOM 2 remote control can be configured in the PHANTOM RC Assistant. The sticks mode is Mode 2 on 

delivery.

For upgraded remote control (models: NDJ6 or NRC900), select “Upgrade Version” in Phantom Assistant. 

For basic remote control (models: DJ6 or RC900), select “Basic Version” in Phantom Assistant.

[1]

[2]

[5] [4]

[9]

[10]

J2

J1

J3

J4 [7]

[8]

[6]

[3]

[11]

[12]

[13]

[14]

Figure 3-1 Figure 3-2 

[1]Antenna [2]Carrying Handle [3]Left Dial [4]3-Position Switch S1 [5]3-Position Switch S2 [6]Joystick1(J1;J2)

[7]Joystick2(J3;J4) [8]Neck Strap Attachment [9]Power Switch [10]Power Indicator

[11]Battery Level Indicators LED1/LED2/LED3/LED4 (from left to right) [12]Trainer Port

[13]Battery Charge & RC Assistant Port (micro-USB port) [14] Potentiometer

3.1 Power on the Remote Control

1. Set the S1 and S2 switches to the upper most position and ensure both joysticks are at 

the mid-point position. Then toggle on the power switch.

2. Push the power switch to the right to power on the remote control. If the power LED 

indicator is solid on, the remote control is functioning normally. The battery level 

indicators display the current battery level.

1. Please make sure the battery level of remote control is enough. If the low voltage warning alert 

sounds (refer to <Remote Control Power LED Indicator Status>), please recharge the battery as soon as 

possible.

2. Charge the remote control’s battery by using the included micro-USB cable. Using the incorrect 

type of charging cable may cause damage.

3. Turn off the remote control before charging. The power LED indicator will display solid red when 

charging is in progress. The LED indicators will display solid green when the battery is fully charged.
©2013-2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved.15 | 

3.2 Remote Control LED Indicator Status 

3.2.1 Remote Control Power LED Indicator Status 

Power LED Indicator Sound Remote Control Status 

 None Functioning normally. 

 None Charging( remote control is powered off)

 None Remote control joysticks calibration error, need to be re-calibrate.

 BB---BB---BB Low voltage (from 3.5V-3.53V), recharge the remote control.

 B-B-B...... 

Critical low voltage (from 3.45V-3.5V). Recharge the remote control

immediately.

 B--B--B...... 

Alert will sound after 15 minutes of inactivity. It will stop once you 

start using the remote control. 

The remote control will power off automatically when battery voltage drops below 3.45V. Land and 

recharge the battery as soon as possible when the low voltage alert occurs to avoid loss of control 

during flight.

3.2.2 Remote Control Battery Level Indicator Status 

The battery level indicators will show the current battery level during both the discharging process. The following is 

a description of the indicators.

: The LED is solid on : The LED will blink regularly

: The LED is light off

Discharging process 

LED1 LED2 LED3 LED4 Current battery level 

75%~100%

50%~75%

25%~50%

12.5%~25%

0%~12.5%

<0%
©2013-2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved.16 | 

3.3 Antenna Orientation

The remote control’s antenna should point skywards without obstructions for maximum communication range 

during flight.

Figure 3-3

3.4 Remote Control Operation

The operations of remote control are based on mode 2 stick configuration.

Definitions 

The ‘stick neutral’ positions and ‘stick released’ mean the control sticks of the remote control are placed at

the central position. 

To ‘move the stick’ means that the stick of remote control is pushed away from the central position.

Slide Lever is used for the pitch control of the H3-2D and H3-3D gimbal. 

Remote 

Control 

(Mode 2)

Aircraft 

( nose direction)

Operation details 

The throttle stick controls aircraft altitude/elevation. 

Push the stick up and the aircraft will rise.

Pull the stick down and the aircraft will descend.

The aircraft will automatically hover and hold its 

altitude if the sticks are centered. 

Push the throttle stick above the centered (mid-point) 

position to make the aircraft take off. When flying, we 

suggest that you push the throttle stick slowly to 

prevent the aircraft from sudden and unexpected 

elevation changes.
©2013-2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved.17 | 

The yaw stick controls the aircraft rudder.

Push the stick left and the aircraft will rotate counter 

clock-wise. 

Push the stick right and the aircraft will rotate 

clock-wise. If the stick is centered, the aircraft will 

remain facing the same direction.

The yaw stick controls the rotating angular velocity of 

the aircraft. Pushing the stick further away from center 

results in a faster aircraft rotation velocity. 

The pitch stick controls the aircraft’s front & back tilt.

Push the stick up and the aircraft will tilt and fly 

forward. 

Pull the stick down and the aircraft will tilt and fly 

backward. The aircraft will keep level and straight if the 

stick is centered. 

Pushing or pulling the stick further away from center 

will result in a larger tilt angle (maximum of is 35 ̊) and 

faster flight velocity. 

The roll stick controls the aircraft’s left & right tilt.

Push the stick left and the aircraft will tilt and fly left. 

Push the stick right and the aircraft will tilt and fly right. 

The aircraft will keep level and straight if the stick is 

centered. 

Pushing the stick further away from center will result in 

a larger tilt angle (maximum of 35 ̊) and faster flight 

velocity. 

 

Position-1 Position-2 Position-3

S1 is for compass calibration. Toggle the S1 switch from 

position-1 to position-3 and back to position-1 at least 5 

times, which will force the aircraft to enter into

compass calibration mode.

Users can configure position 3(bottom position) of the 

S1 switch to trigger the Failsafe in the Assistant.

 

OFF Course Lock Home 

point Lock

S2 is the IOC mode switch. IOC (Intelligent 

Orientation Control) function can be enabled in the 

Assistant when in Naza-M mode. Only use the IOC 

function after you are familiar with flying. 
©2013-2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved.18 | 

The left dial controls the pitch of the H3-2D and H3-3D

gimbal. The position of left dial determines the pitch 

angle relative to the horizontal level.

Turn the left dial to the right to make the gimbal pitch 

up. 

Turn the left dial to the left to make the gimbal pitch 

down.

The gimbal will keep its current position if the dial is 

static.

(1) For ‘Ready to Fly’ the aircraft will hover when all sticks are released.

(2) For ‘Ready to Fly (non-GPS)’ the aircraft will only keep the altitude when all sticks are released.

3.5 Linking the Remote Control & Built-in Receiver

PHANTOM 2 has a built-in receiver, the link button and indicator located on the bottom of the aircraft as illustrated 

in the Figure 3-4.

The link between the remote control and aircraft is already established for you so you can initially skip this 

procedure. If you ever replace the remote control, re-establishing the link is required.

Link button & Link indicator

Figure 3-4

Linking procedures 

1. Power on the PHANTOM 2.

2. Turn on the remote control and place it 0.5m~1m away from the aircraft.

3. Push the link button with a thin object and hold it until the Link indicator blinks red, then release it.

4. When the Link indicator turns solid green, the link between the remote control and the built-in receiver has 

been successfully established.

Link Indicator Status 

 

The remote control is turned off and there is no 2.4GHz signal around, please turn on 

the remote control. 

 The receiver is ready for linking. 

 There is 2.4GHz signal around but the remote control is not linked with the receiver, 
©2013-2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved.19 | 

please carry out the linking procedures. 

 The remote control is linked with the receiver successfully.

4 Intelligent Battery

The intelligent battery is specially designed for the PHANTOM 2, with a battery capacity of 5200mAh, voltage of 

11.1V and charge-discharge management functionality. The battery should only be charged with the DJI charger.

 

Intelligent Battery Charger 

DJI Intelligent Battery Functions 

(1) Balance Charging Automatically balance the voltage of each battery cell during charging.

(2) Capacity Display Display the current battery level.

(3) Communicating 

The main controller communicates with the battery via communication ports 

for battery voltage, capacity, current and other information.

(4) Overcharging Protection 

Charging stops automatically when the battery voltage reaches 12.8V to 

prevent overcharging damage.

(5) Over Discharging

Protection 

Discharging stops automatically when the battery voltage reaches 8.4V to 

prevent over discharging damage.

(6) Short Circuit Protection Automatically cuts off the power supply when a short circuit is detected.

(7) Sleep Protection

The battery will enter sleep mode after 10 minutes of inactivity to save 

power. The static current is 10nA in sleep mode when the battery is 

powered on without connecting to other devices.

(8) Charging Temperature 

Detection

The battery will charge only when its temperature is within 0°C~55°C. If the 

battery temperature is out of this range, the battery will stop charging.

(1) Before use, please read and follow the user manual, disclaimer, and the warnings on the battery. 

Users take full responsibility for all operations and usage.

(2) The battery should only be charged with the charger provided by DJI. DJI does not take any 

responsibility for operation of any charger from a third party.

4.1 Charging Procedures

1. Connect the charger to a wall socket (Use the plug set if necessary).

2. Connect the battery to the charger. If the current capacity of the battery is over 75%, you should power on 

the battery to begin charging.

3. The Battery Level indicators display current capacity level as the battery charges. Please refer to battery 
©2013-2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved.20 | 

level indicator description for details.

4. The battery is fully charged when the Battery Level indicator lights are off. Please disconnect the charger 

and battery when the charging is completed.

Wall Socket

4.2 Install the Battery

Push the battery into the battery compartment correctly as the following diagram shows. Make sure to push the 

battery into the compartment until you hear a ‘click’ sound.

Figure 4-1

An incorrectly inserted battery may cause one of the following to occur: (1) Bad contact. (2) Unavailable

battery information. (3) Unsafe for flight. (4) Unable to take off.

4.3 Battery Usage

Figure 4-2

(1) Checking the battery level: When the battery is powered off; pressing the battery power button once will 

indicate the current battery level. Refer to < Battery Level Indicator Description> for details.

(2) Powering on: When the battery is powered off; press the battery power button once and then press and hold for 

2 seconds to turn on the intelligent battery.

(3) Powering off: When the battery is powered on; press the battery power button once and then press and hold for 

2 seconds to turn off the intelligent battery.

LED3

LED4

Battery Power Button

(Built-in Battery Power Indicator)

LED2

LED1

Battery Level Indicator
©2013-2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved.21 | 

(4) Checking the battery life: When the battery is powered off; press and hold the battery power button for 5 

seconds to check the battery life. The battery level indicators will show the life and the battery power indicator 

will blink for 10 seconds, then all LEDs will light out and the intelligent battery will turn off. Refer to < Battery 

Level Indicator Description> for details.

More battery information is available in the battery tab of the PHANTOM 2 Assistant.

4.4 Description of the Battery Level Indicator 

The battery level indicators will show the current battery level during both the charging and discharging process as 

well as battery life. The following is a description of the indicators.

: The LED is solid on : The LED will blink regularly

: The LED is light off

Charging process 

LED1 LED2 LED3 LED4 Current battery level 

0%~25%

25%~50%

50%~75%

75%~100%

Full charged

Discharging process 

LED1 LED2 LED3 LED4 Current battery level 

87.5%~100%

75%~87.5%

62.5%~75%

50%~62.5%

37.5%~50%

25%~37.5%

12.5%~25%

0%~12.5%

<0%

Battery life 

LED1 LED2 LED3 LED4 Current battery life 

90%~100%
©2013-2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved.22 | 

80%~90%

70%~80%

60%~70%

50%~60%

40%~50%

30%~40%

20%~30%

Less than 20%

4.5 Correct Battery Usage Notes

1. Never plug or unplug the battery into the aircraft when it is powered on.

2. The battery should be charged in an environment that is between 0°C to 40°C, and be discharged in an

environment that is between -20°C to 50°C. Both charging and discharging should be in an environment

where the relative humidity is lower than 80%.

3. It’s recommended to charge and discharge the battery thoroughly once every 20 charge/discharge cycles. 

Users should discharge the battery until there is less than 8% power left or until the battery can no longer 

be turned on. Users should then fully recharge the battery to maximum capacity. This power cycling 

procedure will ensure the battery is working at its optimal level.

4. For long term storage please place the battery with only a 40~50% capacity in a strong battery box 

securely. We recommend discharging and charging the battery completely once every 3 months to keep it 

in good condition. The capacity should be varied in such a cycle (40%~50%)—0%—100%—(40%~50%).

5. It’s suggested you purchase a new battery after you have discharged your current battery over 300 times.

Please completely discharge a battery prior to disposal. 

6. It’s suggested that you purchase a new battery if the current battery is swollen or damaged in any way.

7. Never try to recharge or fly with a battery that is swollen or damaged in any way.

8. Never charge the battery unattended. Always charge the battery on a non-flammable surface such as 

concrete and never near any flammable materials.

9. Safety is extremely important and users can get more information in the DISCLAIMER.
©2013-2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved.23 | 

5 Calibrating the Compass

IMPORTANT: Make sure to perform the Compass Calibration procedures prior to the first flight.

The compass is very sensitive to electromagnetic interference which causes abnormal compass data and leads to 

poor flight performance or even flight failure. Regular calibration of the compass enables the compass to perform at 

its optimal level.

5.1 Calibration Warnings

 

(1) DO NOT calibrate your compass where there is a possibility for the existence of strong 

magnetic interference such as magnetite, parking structures, and steel reinforcement 

underground.

(2) DO NOT carry ferromagnetic materials with you during calibration such as keys or cellular

phones.

(3) Compass Calibration is very important; otherwise the flight control system will work abnormally.

5.2 Calibration Procedures

Please carry out the calibrating procedures in the flight field before flight. Please watch the quick start video of the 

PHANTOM 2 for more compass calibration details.

Normal LED

Quickly flip the switch S1 360o Rotate the aircraft horizontally 360o

Rotate the aircraft vertically (Nose downward) Position-1

Start horizontal calibration Start vertical calibration Succeed Fail

Position-1->Position-3->Position-1 Flip no less than 5 times Start cali

LED Flight Indicator

Position-1->Position-3->Position-1 Flip once

Position-3

LED Flight Indicator LED Flight Indicator

Re-calibrate Position-1 Position-3 5.3 When Recalibration is required

(1) When Compass Data is abnormal, the LED flight indicator will blink alternating between red and yellow.

(2) Last compass calibration was performed at a completely different flying field/location.

(3) The mechanical structure of the aircraft has changed, i.e. changed mounting position of the compass.

(4) Evident drifting occurs in flight, i.e. the aircraft doesn’t fly in straight lines.
©2013-2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved.24 | 

6 Flight 

6.1 Flying Environment Requirements

 

(1) Before your first flight, please allow yourself some flight training (Using a flight simulator to 

practice flying, getting instruction from an experienced person, etc.).

(2) DO NOT fly in bad weather, such as rain or wind (more than moderate breeze) or fog.

(3) The flying field should be open and void of tall buildings or other obstacles; the steel structure 

within buildings may interfere with the compass.

(4) Keep the aircraft away from obstacles, crowds, power lines, trees, lakes and rivers etc.

(5) Try to avoid interference between the remote control and other wireless equipment (No base 

stations or cell towers around).

(6) The flight control system will not work properly at the South Pole or North Pole.

(7) Never use the aircraft in a manner that infringes upon or contravenes international or domestic 

lays and regulations.

6.2 Starting the Motors

A Combination Stick Command (CSC) is used to start the motors. Push the sticks according to one of the options 

below to start motors. Once the motors have started, release both sticks simultaneously. The same CSC is used to 

stop the motors.

A B C D

Figure 6-1

6.3 Takeoff/Landing Procedures

1. Start by placing the PHANTOM 2 on the ground with the battery level indicators facing you.

2. Turn on the remote control.

3. Power on the aircraft by turning on the intelligent battery.

4. When LED flight indicator blinks green/yellow, the PHANTOM 2 is entering Ready to Fly/Ready to Fly 

(non-GPS) mode. Start the motors with the CSC command.

5. Push the throttle stick up slowly to lift the aircraft off the ground. Refer to <Remote Control Operation> for 

more details.

6. Be sure you are hovering over a level surface. Pull down the throttle stick to descend. The stick will lock into 
©2013-2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved.25 | 

place and the aircraft will descend steadily.

7. After landing, leave the throttle stick down for 3 to 5 seconds to stop the motors. Return throttle stick to 

middle position after the motors have stopped.

 

You SHOULD NOT execute the CSC during normal flight! This will stop the motors and cause the 

aircraft to descend rapidly and drop without any type of control.

 

(1) When the LED flight indicator blinks yellow rapidly during flight, the aircraft has entered into

Failsafe mode, refer to <Failsafe Function> for details.

(2) A low battery capacity warning is indicated by the LED flight indicator blinking red slowly or 

rapidly during flight. Refer to the <Low Battery Capacity Warning Function> for details.

(3) Watch the quick start video about flight for more flight information.

(4) Aircraft and battery performance is subject to environmental factors such as air density and 

temperature. Be very careful when flying 3000 meters (9800 feet) or more above sea level, as 

battery and aircraft performance may be reduced.

(5) When used with a H3-3D gimbal, a GoPro camera, and the iOSD mini, your Phantom 2 will be very 

close to its maximum takeoff weight. It is not recommended that you attach the Phantom 2 

propeller guards at this weight. Otherwise, the aircraft will be unable to fly normally.

6.4 Failsafe Function

The aircraft will enter Failsafe mode when the connection from the remote control is lost. The flight control system 

will automatically control the aircraft to return to home and land to reduce injuries or damage. The following 

situations would make the aircraft fail to receive a signal from the remote control and enter Failsafe mode:

(1) The remote control is powered off.

(2) The remote control is powered on but the S1 is toggled in the position triggering the Failsafe (this must have 

been configured in the PHANTOM 2 Assistant).

(3) The aircraft has flown out of the effective communication range of the remote control.

(4) There is an obstacle obstructing the signal between the remote control and the aircraft, essentially reducing 

the distance the signal can travel.

(5) There is interference causing a signal problem with the remote control.

Failsafe works differently depending on the mode the aircraft is in when Failsafe mode is initiated whether it is in 

the Ready to Fly or Ready to Fly (non-GPS) mode.

Ready to Fly (non-GPS) ---- Automatic landing

The flight control system will try to keep the aircraft level during descent and landing. Note that the aircraft may 

be drifting during the descent and landing process.

 

Ready to Fly ---- Automatic go home and land 

The flight control system will automatically control the aircraft to fly back to the home point and land.

 
©2013-2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved.26 | 

Home Point 

When the aircraft is initializing the Ready to Fly status, the aircraft will record the current GPS coordinates as 

the home point. It is recommended to lift off only after Ready to Fly status is confirmed for the safety of being 

able to fly back to home point successfully in case the Failsafe mode is initiated.

Go Home Procedures 

1 Record Home Point. 2 Flying. 3 Remote controller signal lost.

4 Signal lost lasts 3s, begin to go home. 5 Fly back to home point. 6 Landing after hovering 15s.

LED Flight Indicator  LED Flight Indicator LED Flight Indicator

LED Flight Indicator LED Flight Indicator LED Flight Indicator

Height over home point<=2 0m

Height over home point>2 0m

20m

Elevate to 2 0m

Figure 6-2

 

(1) In a Failsafe situation, if less than 6 GPS satellites are found for more than 20 seconds, the aircraft 

will descend automatically.

 

In Phantom 2 mode, users can set a new home point manually when the aircraft is in “Ready to fly” status 

as long as a home point has been recorded automatically. Quickly flipping the S2 switch of the remote 

control from upper most to lower most positions 5 times or more will reset the current aircraft position as 

a new home point of PHANTOM 2. When successfully reset, you will see a series of rapid green blinks on 

the LED Flight Indicator. The definition of “home point” is:

(1) The home point is the place PHANTOM 2 returns to when the control signal is lost, which is 

recorded last time.

(2) The home point is used to calculate the horizontal distance between you and the aircraft, the 

distance will be displayed as 

D

if using iOSD module.

 

Regaining Control during Failsafe Procedure 

Position of 

Switch S1 

 

Position-1 Position-2 

Position-3 

(No triggering the Failsafe) 

How to regain 

control

When the S1 switch is switched to Position-1, 

toggle the S1 switch to any other position once to 

regain control. If remote control’s signal is

recovered, control is returned back to the pilot.

Regain control as soon as signal is 

recovered.
©2013-2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved.27 | 

6.5 Low Battery Capacity Warning Function

The low battery capacity warning alerts users when the battery is close to depletion during flight. When it appears, 

users should promptly fly back and land to avoid accidental damage. The PHANTOM 2 has two levels of low battery 

capacity warning. The first appears when the battery has less than 30% power and the second appears when it has 

less than 15% power.

(1) When battery power drops below 30% and LED indicator will blink red slowly.

(2) At lower than 15% the LED indicator will blink red rapidly, the PHANTOM 2 will also begin to descend and 

land automatically. After it has landed, keep the throttle stick at its lowest point or execute CSC.

(3) There is a hidden third low battery threshold in addition to the 1st and 2nd level warnings. This uses 10.65V 

as its threshold. Both this voltage threshold and the 2nd Level Low Battery Warning will trigger auto-landing. 

Altitude can be maintained if necessary by pushing up on the throttle stick.

 

(1) Remember to fly your PHANTOM 2 back as soon as you see a low battery capacity warning.

(2) Keeping the battery contact needles and pads clean is very important. Any dirt and dust may 

cause a communication failure.

6.6 Flight Limits Function

All UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle) operators should abide by all regulations from such organizations at ICAO 

(International Civil Aviation Organization) and per country airspace regulations. For safety reasons, the flight limits 

function is enabled by default to help users use this product safely and legally. The flight limits function includes 

height, distance limits.

In Ready to Fly status, height, distance limits works together to restrict the flight. In Ready to Fly (non-GPS) status, 

only height limit works and the flying height restricted to be not over 120m.

(1) The default parameters in the Assistant is compliant within the definitions of class G ruled by 

ICAO. (Refer to Airspace Classification to get more details). As each country has its own rules, 

make sure to configure the parameters to comply with these rules too, before using the 

PHANTOM 2.

(2) Users in Mainland China can refer to 民用航空空域使用办法.

Max Height & Radius Limits 

The Max Height & Radius restricts the flying height and distance. Configuration can be done in the PHANTOM 2

Assistant. Once complete, your aircraft will fly in a restricted cylinder. 
©2013-2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved.28 | 

Max Height Max Radius

Home Point The height of aircraft when it is powered on Figure 6-3 Figure 6-4

Ready to Fly 

 Limits Ground Station Rear LED flight indicator 

Max Height 

The flight height is restricted to fly 

under the max height. 

Warning: Height limit 

reached. 

None.

Max Radius 

The flight distance is restricted to fly 

within the max radius. 

Warning: Distance limit 

reached.

Rapid red flashings 

when close to the Max radius limit. 

Ready to Fly(non-GPS) 

 Flight Limits Ground Station Rear LED flight indicator 

Max Height 

The flight height is restricted to fly 

under the minor height between the 

Max height and 120m. 

Warning: Height limit reached. 

None.

Max Radius Not limited, no warnings or LED indicators. 

(1) If the aircraft flies out of the limits, you can still control your aircraft except to fly it further away.

(2) If the aircraft is flying out of the max radius in Ready to Fly (non-GPS) status, it will fly back 

within the limits range automatically if 6 or more GPS satellites have been found. 

6.7 Flight Limits of Special Areas 

Special areas include airports worldwide. All special areas are listed on the DJI official website. Please refer to 

http://www.dji.com/fly-safe/category-mc for details. These areas have been divided into category A and category B. 
©2013-2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved.29 | 

 Category A Category B

Ready to Fly 

Airspace Limits 

Rear LED 

Flight Indicator 

A 

Orange 

Motors will not start.

If the Phantom flies into a special area in Ready to Fly 

(non-GPS) mode and Ready to Fly mode activates, it will 

automatically descend and land then stop its motors. 

B 

Yellow 

If the Phantom flies into a special area in Ready to Fly 

(non-GPS) mode and Ready to Fly mode activates, it will 

descend to airspace C and hover 5 meters below edge d. 

C 

Green 

No restrictions of flight, but the Phantom will not enter 

Category A, the aircraft can fly free, but it will not enter 

Airspace B through Boundary b & d.

Around Category B sites, the phantom can fly freely, but it will 

not enter into Airspace A through Boundary a.

D 

Blue 

No restrictions. None. 

10.5m

2400m

Center of Special Area 8000m

120m A B C

8100m

D

b

d

c b a a c

d

a

b

c

Airspace: A,B,C,D Boundary: a, b, c, d

1000m

A C D c a a c

a 2000m c Center of Special Area

Airspace: A,C,D Boundary: a, c,
©2013-2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved.30 | 

Semi-automatic descent: All stick commands are available except the throttle stick command during 

the descent and landing process. Motors will stop automatically after landing. Users must toggle the S1 

switch to regain control. This is the same as regaining control during Failsafe. Please refer to Regaining 

Control During Failsafe Procedure (Page23). 

(1) When flying in the airspace (A/B/C) of restricted special area, LED flight indicators will blink red 

quickly and continue for 3 seconds, then switch to indicate current flying 

status and continue for 5 seconds at which point it will switch back to red blinking.

(2) For safety reasons, please do not fly close to airports, highways, railway stations, railway lines, 

city centers and other special areas. Try to ensure the aircraft is visible. 

6.8 Conditions of Flight Limits 

In different working modes and flight modes, flight limits will differ according to number of GPS satellites found. 

The following table demonstrates all the cases(√: available; ×:unavailable).

All flights are restricted by height, distance and special areas simultaneously. The Failsafe and Ground Station 

operations are not restricted to flight limits, but if Ground Station function is used, the flight will be restricted the 

special area limits built in to Ground Station. Refer to the Ground Station manual for details.

Phantom mode 

Flight Status Limits of Special Area Max Height Max Radius 

Ready to Fly √ √ √

Ready to Fly (non-GPS) × √ ×

Naza-M mode 

Control Mode number of GPS found Limits of Special Area Max Height Max Radius 

GPS 

≥6 √ √ √

<6 × √ ×

ATTI.

≥6 √ √ ×

<6 × √ ×

Manual

≥6 × × ×

<6 × × ×

Disclaimer 

Please ensure that you are kept up to date with International and Domestic airspace rules and regulations before 

using this product. By using this product, you hereby agree to this disclaimer and signify that you have read this fully. 

You agree that you are responsible for your own conduct and content while using this product, and for any direct or 

indirect consequences caused by not following this manual, violate or disregard any other applicable local laws, 

administrative rules and social habits thereof.
©2013-2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved.31 | 

7 Assistant Installation and Configuration

7.1 Installing Driver and PHANTOM 2 Assistant

Installing and running on Windows 

1. Download driver installer and Assistant installer in EXE format from the download page of PHANTOM 2 

on the DJI website.

2. Connect the PHANTOM 2 to a PC via a Micro-USB cable. 

3. Run the driver installer and follow the prompts to finish installation.

4. Next, run the Assistant installer and follow the prompts to finish installation.

5. Double click the PHANTOM 2 icon on your Windows desktop to launch the software.

The installer in EXE format only supports Windows operating systems (Win XP, Win7, Win8 (32 or 64 

bit)).

Installing and running on Mac OS X

1. Download the Assistant installer in DMG format from the download page of PHANTOM 2 on the DJI 

website.

2. Run the installer and follow the prompts to finish installation.

3. When launching for the first time if use Launchpad to run the PHANTOM 2 Assistant, Launchpad won’t 

allow access because the software has not been reviewed by Mac App Store. 

4. Locate the PHANTOM 2 icon in the Finder, press the Control key and then click the PHANTOM 2 icon 

(or right-click the PHANTOM 2 icon using a mouse). Choose Open from the shortcut menu, click open in 

the prompt dialog box and then software will launch.

5. After the first successful launch, directly launching of the software can be achieved by double-clicking 

the PHANTOM 2 icon in the Finder or using Launchpad.
©2013-2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved.32 | 

Installer in DMG format supports only Mac OS X 10.6 or above.

Usage of PHANTOM 2 Assistant on Mac OS X and Windows are exactly the same. The Assistant pages 

appear in other places of this manual are on the Windows for example. 

7.2 Using the PHANTOM 2 Assistant on a PC

1. Start up the PC, power on the PHANTOM 2, then connect the PHANTOM 2 to the PC with a Micro-USB 

cable. DO NOT disconnect until configuration is finished.

2. Run the PHANTOM 2 Assistant and wait for the PHANTOM 2 to connect to the Assistant. Observe the 

indicators on the bottom of the screen. When connected successfully, the connection indicator is

and communication indicator is blinking .

3. Choose [Basic] or [Advanced] configuration pages.

4. View and check the current configuration in the [View] page.

Language swap View configurations

Connection indicator Communication indicator

RC, Gain Gimbal, Battery IMU calibration Firmware upgrade Account, software version

*This image is for reference only. Please refer to the actual user interface.

Function switch of Phantom 2 and Naza-M mode
©2013-2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved.33 | 

(1) Users should not enable the Naza-M function before finishing Advanced Flight Maneuvers 

procedure in the " PHANTOM Pilot Training Guide”. If the Naza-M mode is enabled, users can 

switch the control mode between ATTI. Mode, GPS Mode or Manual Mode, and access the 

advanced settings (e.g. IOC). In addition, the LED located on the rear frame arms will display

Naza-M flight status indications instead of the PHANTOM 2's indicators. Do not enable the 

Naza-M mode unless you are an experienced user or guided by a professional.

(2) You can change to the Phantom 2 mode by clicking the same button used to turn on the Naza-M 

mode. This operation will disable the Naza-M mode and enable Phantom 2 mode. All parameters 

will be returned to factory settings.

7.3 Firmware upgrade of PHANTOM 2

Please refer to the PHANTOM 2 Assistant to install driver and PHANTOM RC Assistant, and then follow the 

procedures below to upgrade the software and firmware; otherwise the PHANTOM 2 might not work properly.

1. An internet connection is required to upgrade PHANTOM 2’s firmware.

2. Click the [Upgrade] icon to check the current firmware version and whether the installed firmware is the 

latest version. If not, click the relative links to upgrade.

3. Be sure to wait until the Assistant shows “finished”. Click OK and power cycle the PHANTOM 2 after 5 

seconds. Once completed, the firmware is up to date.

Firmware upgradable items

Current firmware version

Upgrade link

*This image is for reference only. Please refer to the actual user interface.

(1) DO NOT power off until the upgrade is finished.

(2) If the firmware upgrade failed, the main controller will enter a waiting for firmware upgrade 

status automatically. If this happens, repeat the above procedures.

Firmware upgradable items:(1)Main Controller(2)P330CB(Main Board)(3)Receiver(4)Gimbal 

CMU(5)Gimbal IMU(6)Battery 

7.4 PHANTOM RC Assistant Description

Please follow the procedures to finish the configuration of the remote control.
©2013-2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved.34 | 

1. Turn off the remote control and find the Micro-USB port on the bottom of it.

2. Start up the PC, power on the remote control, and then connect the remote control to the PC with a 

Micro-USB cable. DO NOT disconnect until the configuration is finished.

3. Run the PHANTOM RC Assistant and wait for the remote control to connect to the Assistant. Observe the 

indicators on the bottom left of the screen. When connected successfully, the connection indicator is 

and communication indicator is blinking .

4. Finish configuration in the [Main] page.

5. Finish upgrade in the [Info] page if necessary.

DT7调参软件

Main Page of the 2.4GHz Remote Control 

Language swap Main page

Connection indicator Communication indicator

Firmware upgrade Account, software version

*This image is for reference only. Please refer to the actual user interface. 
©2013-2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved.35 | 

8 Appendix

8.1 Specifications

Aircraft

Operating environment temperature -10°C to 50°C

Power consumption 5.6W

Supported Battery DJI Intelligent battery

Weight (including the battery) 1000g

Take-off Weight ≤1300g 

Hovering Accuracy (Ready to Fly) Vertical: 0.8m; Horizontal: 2.5m

Max Yaw Angular Velocity 200°/s

Max Tilt Angle 35°

Max Ascent / Descent Speed Ascent: 6m/s; Descent: 2m/s

Max Flight Speed 15m/s (Not Recommended)

Wheelbase 350mm

2.4GHz Remote Control 

Operating Frequency 2.4GHz ISM

Communication Distance (open area) 1000m

Receiver Sensitivity (1%PER) -97dBm

Working Current/Voltage 120 mA@3.7V

Built-in LiPo Battery Working Current/Capacity 3.7V, 2000mAh

DJI Intelligent Battery

Type 3S LiPo Battery

Capacity 5200mAh, 11.1V

Charging Environment Range 0°C to 40°C

Discharging Environment Range -20°C to 50°C

8.2 LED Flight Indicators Description

Aircraft in Normal status Descriptions 

Power On Self-Test

Warming Up & Aircraft cannot take off during warming up

Ready to Fly

Ready to Fly (non-GPS)

Aircraft in abnormal status Warnings and errors

Remote Control Signal Lost

1

st Level Low Battery Capacity Warning
©2013-2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved.36 | 

2

nd Level Low Battery Capacity Warning

Not Stationary or Sensor Bias is too big

Errors & Aircraft cannot fly.*

Compass data abnormal because of ferro-magnetic interference or 

the compass needs calibration. 

* Users can connect to the PHANTOM 2 Assistant to get detailed information about warnings and errors.
Cobblestone Realty, Bloomington, IN - Section 333 Exemption Petition

Appendix B

Cobblestone 

Realty’s

Personal Protocols and Controls
Page 1

Cobblestone Realty, Bloomington, IN - Section 333 Exemption Petition

Protocols and Controls

Aerial Community and Real Estate Videos

Safety for public on the ground as well as manned aircraft above is an essential and utmost 

consideration for aerial videos and photography. As such, safety protocols and controls must be 

implemented through pre-flight preparation and during flight.

Pre-Flight Protocol:

Check batteries with voltage meter to insure fully charged and ready for use. 

Inspect batteries for damage or leakage that may affect proper operation.

Inspect propellers for cracks, chips or damage that may cause sudden loss of propulsion or 

unmanageable/uncontrolled flight.

Check weather forecasts for wind advisory or other conditions that may impact

flight. Consult five (5) mile radius map for airport vicinity.

o Contact respective airport to advise of estimated flight time, estimated flight duration,

estimated elevation of flight, and any other pertinent information. 

Inspect flight area for

o vicinity of public safety helipads/heliports

o vicinity of medical helipads/heliports

o vicinity of light poles

o vicinity or utility wires

o vicinity of trees

o flocks of birds that may cause interference and potential flight impact

o vicinity of any elevated obstructions that may pose potential flight hazard 

o vicinity of roadways with moderate to heavy traffic that can be distracted 

o public gatherings that may attract viewers

o optional point of control for best visual site of UAS while in flight

Takeoff and landing

o inspect area for best and safest point of takeoff and landing

o if in a subdivision or area that is within 150 feet of a residential street, post warning 

sign(s)/stand(s) "Attention Aerial Photography In Progress - Remain Back 150 Feet "

Flight Protocol:

takeoff and land from same location

remain alert to birds, sound or aircraft, curious public, and approaching vehicles

do not allow anyone to engage in conversation or distract the remote control pilot 

restrict flight to minimal elevation sufficient to acquire desired results

remained prepared for emergency landing at all times

pay attention to flight time

o if possible set a timer as a safety alert

land UAS and shut down propulsion immediately following landing
Page 2

Cobblestone Realty, Bloomington, IN - Section 333 Exemption Petition

Protocols and Controls

Aerial Community and Real Estate Videos

Post flight:

a. disconnect battery to prevent accidental activation of propulsion system 

b. secure UAS in a safe location

c. remove all warning signs from public access areas

Emergency or Suspected Hazard:

Immediate land UAS at safest and closet ground location in the event

o manned aircraft is heard or seen in vicinity of flight

o there is a public gathering within established safety boundary wanting to observe flight

o pilot is being distracted from focusing on flight and safety

o sudden change in weather (wind bursts)

o sudden increase in vehicular traffic in vicinity of flight

o birds enter into proximity of flight

o any sudden unsafe event that can cause collision, distraction or interruption of control
Cobblestone Realty, Bloomington, IN - Section 333 Exemption Petition

Appendix C

Cobblestone 

Realty’s

Safety/Flight Manual
Page 1

Cobblestone Realty, Bloomington, IN - Section 333 Exemption Petition

Safety Flight Manual

Aerial Community and Real Estate Videos

Safety for public on the ground as well as manned aircraft above is an essential and utmost consideration for aerial videos and photography. 

Maintaining a record of safe flight for FAA request and for determining future UAS safety protocols is imperative.

Date: Location:

Pre-flight Inspection: Yes No Comment:

Elements (circle) (circle) Comment

Weather Good Fair

Visibility Good Fair

Wind Speed Low Medium

Proximity to airport: (see attached map pinpointing approximate location of flight) 

Airport notified Yes No Date: Time:

Phone Number: Contact Name:

Nearest major intersection:

Proximity to medium traffic road:

Proximity to heavily traveled roadway road:

Proximity to congested population:

Approx. Takeoff Time

Approx. Landing Time

Estimated Elevation

Safety Concerns:

Additional Comments:

Unedited flight video/photos available for FAA upon written request within 180 days of flight: Yes No