### August 28, 2015

U. S. DepartmentofTransportation Docket ManagementSystem 1200 NewJerseyAve., Washington, DC 20590



### RE: Exemption Request Section 333 ofthe FAA Reform Act and Part 11 ofthe FederalAviation Regulations 

### Dear Sir or Madam:

Pursuantto the Section 333 ofthe FAA Modernization and Reform Act of2012 (the "Reform Act"), AndyZilker (the "applicant"), operator of an UnmannedAircraft Systems ("UAS") seeks an exemption from the FederalAviation Regulations ("FARs") to allowfor commercial operation for aerial imaging and video production, for use in the real estate industry. 

### Applicant: Andy Zilker 2539 Wilcox Circle Denver, NC 28037 

### Attachments: Pilot Operating Handbook

- "POH-S900.pdf' Applicant Driver License 

### Regulations from which the exemption Is requested:

14CFR Part 21 subpart H 14CFR 45.23 (b) 14CFR 91.7 (a) 14CFR 91.9 (b) (2) 14CFR 91.103 14CFR 91.109 14CFR 91.119 (c) 14CFR 91.121 14CFR 91.203 (a) and (b) 14 CFR 91.405 (a) 14CFR 91.407 (a) (1) 14 CFR 91.409 (a) (2) 14CFR 91.417 (a) and (b)Extentof relief I seek, and 

### why 14 CFR Part 21 subpart H 

### The UAS to be operated carries neither pilot nor passenger and carries no explosive materials orflammable liquids. Given the size, weight, speed, and limited operating area associated with the aircraft to be utilized, I request exception. In the restricted environment and underthe conditions proposed operation will be 

### at least as safe, or safer, than aconventional aircraft operating with an airworthiness certificate without said restrictions.

14 CFR 45.23 (b) 

### Due to the size ofthis UAS itdoes not have a cockpit, cabin, or pilot station on which to market certain words or phrases. Lettering would be very difficultto place on such a small aircraft and dimensions would need to be smallerthan required minimum. Understanding the importance of lettering Iwill mark my UAS with the largest letters by placing the word "Experimental" or assigned numberor name, based on request/ruling of FAA, on UAS frame. The equivalent level of safetywill be provided by having the UAS marked on its frame as required.

14 CFR 91.7 (a) 

### As there will be no airworthiness certificate for the aircraft, should this exemption be granted, no FAA regulatory standard will existfor determining airworthiness. Given the size ofthe aircraft for maintenance and use of safety check list priorto each flight an equivalent level of safety will be provided.

14 CFR 91.9 (b) (2) 

### Because ofthe size and configuration, the UAS has no ability to carry aflight manual on the aircraft. There is no room, capacity, or pilot on board to adequately carry flight manual. A equivalent level of safety will be maintained by keeping aflight manual and log at ground control point where the pilot will have immediate access to it.

14CFR 91.103 

### As FAAapproved flight manuals will not be provided forthe aircraft an exemption will be needed. Normal procedures including but not limited to; reviewing weather, flight battery requirement, landing and takeoff distances, along will all of those found in attachment "OJI Pilot Training". An equivalent level ofsafety will be provided by preflight protocol to properly match the UAS.

14 CFR 91.109 

### UAS and remotely piloted aircraft do not have fully functional dual controls. Flight control is achieved through the use of a control box that communicates with the aircraftvia radio communications. The equivalent level of safety is provided because neither a pilot nor passengerwill be carried in the aircraft, and bythe speed and size ofthe aircraft.

14 CFR 91.113 (a) and (b) 

### Ican achieve an equivalent level of safety as achieved by current regulations because my UAS does not carry pilot nor passenger. While helpful, a pilots' license will not ensure remote control piloting skills. My 20 years of experience in radio controlled hobby aircraftflight, using the same controls as the UAS greatly enhances safe flight.14 CFR 91.121 The UAS may not have a barometric altimeter, but instead does have a GPS altitude read out. I believe an exemption may be needed. An equivalent level ofsafety isachieved bythe operator receiving live flight data monitoring and confirming current altitude along with altitude of launch site shown on GPS altitude indicator.

14CFR 91.203 (a) and (b) Similarto, 14CFR 91.9 {b) {2), given the size and configuration, the UAS has no abilityto carry certificate and registration documents on the aircraft. There is no room, capacity, or pilot on board to adequately manage such documents. An equivalent level ofsafety will be achieved by keeping these documents, to the extentthey are applicable to the UAS, atthe ground control pointwhere pilot has immediate access to them.

14 CFR 91.405 (a), 14 CFR 91.407 (a) (1), 14 CFR 91.409 (a) (2), 14CFR 91.417 (a) and (b) Given these sections only applyto aircraft with an airworthiness certificate, theses sections do not applyto this applicant. As a safety precaution, operatorwill perform preflight inspections and ensure UAS is in working condition before initiating each flight. AndyZilker isseeking relief from all FARs above preventing applicantfrom conducting aerial photography and video of real estate taken at levels lessthan 400ft, at a speed less than 30 mph, and with a maximum flight time of 18 minutes. The UASto be used are a OJI S900 6 rotor with DropSafe system. Total takeoff at 12 poundsofweight, and thus meetthe definition of "small unmanned aircraft" found in section 331 "The Reform Act". In orderto obtain high quality photography and video the UAS will be used at speeds much lessthan theirtop speed of30 mph. Due to the UAS being battery powered there are no combustible fuels onboard. Maximum flight time for these particular UASs is 18 minutes battery life, flights to beterminated with 25% battery life remaining. Given the size, weight, speed, and limited operating area associated with the aircraftto be utilized I find this exception to be reasonable with an equivalent, orgreater, level ofsafetyto be reached bythe operator. Important Safety Precautions *Please see attachment "OJI PilotTraining" and "pre-flighf' documentsfor safety precautions I use for everyflight. Further, I have radio controlled and UAS experience of20 years with approximately 1200 hours of PIC time. Additionally:

• I always obtain all necessary permissions priorto operation. • I conduct extensive pre-flight inspections and protocol, during which safety carries primary

importance. • My UASfeatures the DropSafe system deploying parachutefor safe landing in thecase

system failure occurs

. • My UAS uses GPS and a flight safetyfeature whereby it returns to a preprogrammed position

and then slowly lands if communication with the remote control pilot is lostor potential danger occurs. • I use OJI Ground Station software to prepare every flight. • I do notoperate within 6 miles of an airport unless prior contactto AirTraffic Control orthe

airport manager has been made. • I land my UAS priorto manufacturer recommended minimum level of battery power. • I pilot my UAS through remote control by line ofsight.

### • Iactively analyze flight data and other sources of information to constantly update and enhance safety protocols. 

### Public Interest The use of an UAS for artistic and commercial photography, and in the real estate industry, provides both buyers and sellers a higher level of service and information. For aseller a higher level of property information is achieved, appealing to more buyers, resulting in afaster sale of their property. Home sales helps accelerate the economy as awhole. Buyers experience the benefit of encompassing awhole property with photos and video. There are noticeable benefits to the general public as well. We can now provide every advantage a plane or helicopter provides while being conservative with fuel, time, emissions, noise, and other resources. Considering size, weight, speed, and absence of combustible fuels, my UAS will possess much less of a safety concern forthe general public when compared to larger manned aircraft.

Thank you for your consideration.

## PILOT OPERATION HANDBOOK DJI S-900/Zenmuse

Use this everytime you operate your aircraft. Keep the log books regarding the following: 1 ) Pilot flight time 2) Aircraft flight time 3) Aircraft maintenance and updates 4) Battery usage, date put into service, voltage, mah vstime

Printout and make readily availablethe error message legend ofvarious flashing lights. Know whatto dowithout hesitation should you observe warnings.

DJI 8900 KEY PARAMETERS MaxTakeoff Weight: 18 lbs. Cameras: Panasonic GH4

MAX 17.681bs

# =S900 with GH3/GH4 and TBM 21000 16.481bs

# =S900 with GH3/GH4 and TBM FlightTimes using 90% of battery: 15,000 mah batterywith gimbal and camera: 15+ min 21,000 mah battery with gimbal and camera: 20+ min 

## DJI S-900/Zenmuse CHECKLISTS [iJ OJI S-900 BENCH SET UP 

### & TESTS o All screws/bolts are tight o Timer alarm forflighttime to not exceed 80% battery capacity set properly o Batteries are secure o Antennas are secure o Props balanced o Props aligned o Props not chipped o Checkblades,arms,etc.forcracks/damage o Wiring Tight o No excessive flexing of motors or booms o Booms/motors will nottwist o Center of gravity is correct o Warning lights setfor low battery if used o Batteries charged. Replace any batterywhich cycles below 80% of rated capacity 

### [iJ Laptop Battery 

### [iJ Flight Battery 

### [iJ Handheld Ax Battery 

### [iJ RC Tx Battery 

### [iJ Video Ax Battery 

### [iJ Spare Laptop Battery

## 1RJ DJI S-900 INVENTORYCHECKLISTo Load Flight plan oAircraft o Camerawith SO card o Spare parts/tools o Spare batteries o Two RC transmitters o Laptop o Battery Charger o Flight Controller Cable o Video monitor, stand, battery, antennas o Goggles o Datalink 

### & cable o BatteryY-harness



## 00 DJI S-900 PREFLIGHTCHECKLISTo Position:GCS,S900 o EmergencylZo Wind o Areasecure oAntennas oGCS o Lenscap o CameraOn o SDcard o Flightbattery:voltage-instaii-CG o C2Tx: Switches- On

- Model Selection

- 5.4V+ o PhotoTx-Switches-On-ModeiSelection-5.4V+o CopterOn o Calibrate?

- Cycle o Copter V oltage on GCS o GPSMode-DoublePurple/SinglePurple o CourseLockMode-Green o Camera/Gimbaltests o Uploadmission o Zero altitude 

## 1RJ TAKEOFF CHECKLISTo Timer o GPS mode (Course lock?) o Motor startup/checks o Takeoff o Landing Gear



## 00 LANDING CHECKLISTo lZclear o Landing Gear o Land o FlightTime o Copter/Camera Power down o Adjust Params o Power Down

__batteries o MotorTemps o Logbooks

## 00 ERROR MESSAGES o White flashes 

## 00 IMU malfunction. land and determine cause. Possibilities: 

## 00 GPS/Compass not pointing forward 

## 00 IMU not pointing forward 

## 00 Set up of X, Y, Z for location of IMU and Compass is incorrect o Excessive rocking/instability possible causes: 

## 00 Weak motor 

## 00 Structure flexing from fatigue orcracks 

## 00 Motor mount 

## 00 Main frame 

## 00 Booms 

## 00 Loose Bolts causing flexing or misalignment 

## 00 Props 

### IR] Mounts 

## 00 Props outof balance 

## 00 Props misaligned 

## 00 Excessive wind speeds orgusts 

## 00 Excessive Gains 

## 00 Excessive motor power. Max motor power must a little more than typical ascent power. o Red Flashes (1, 2 or3 flashes with pauses)- GPS loss (3 is more serious). Land if loss lasts for more than 30 seconds. Possible causes: 

## 00 Clouds 

## 00 Structures 

## 00 GPS mal-function 

## 00 GPS too close to electrical components 

## 00 GPS vibration

TABLE OF CONTENTS 

## 00 Section 1:General 

## 00 Section 2: limitations 

## 00 Section 3: Emergency Procedures 

## 00 Section 4: Normal Procedures 

## 00 Section 5: Performance 

## 00 Section 6: Weight and Balance/Equipment list 

### IR) Section 7: Air Vehicle and Systems Description 

## 00 Section 8: Handling, Service and Maintenance 

### [!) Section 9: SupplementsSECTION 1 GENERAL NOTE: In an effortto minimize costs and maximize spare parts availability, manyCOTS (commercial offthe shelf) components have been utilized. Some may have slight modifications to better suitthis application. Most COTS products have separate datasheets, assembly manuals and instruction manuals. They are reference in this document, with keyfactors being emphasized. As with all high technology products utilizing constantly evolving software, it is importantto periodically checkfor online upgrades

### to the COTS components, including hardware, firmware and software. WARNING: Greatcare must be taken with the batteries. Much ofthis manual and supplemental information is devoted to the use and care ofthe batteries, especiallythe flight batteries. They are lessvolatile than gasoline, though they should be treated with the same respect. Become very familiar with propertechniques oftheir use. 

## lRJ GENERALCHARACTERISTICS o Primarilyfor ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance) o Economical due to extensive use of COTS products o Low Visual Signature o LowAural Signature o Quick Launch and Recovery o ShortTraining Period o Simple Operation o Waypoint Navigation o Backpackable oVTOL o Quick Repairs o Redundant Flight Systems o Safety Return to Home during lost link or low battery o High Degree of Mission Success o GPS navigation aid o Various sensors o 18 lb maxtakeoffweight o Operating Temp Range: -5°C to +60°C o Flight Modes: Manual and GPS aided waypoint navigation o Maximum OperatingAltitude: 1000 meters o Maximum Operation Wind Conditions: 10 m/s o Propulsion System: LiPoly batteries o Takeoff: Manual orAutomatic o Landing: Manual orAutomatic o Takeoff/RecoveryArea: 5m square 

## lRJ IMPORTANT DIMENSIONS o Distance rotor to rotor across the center: 35" o Heightwith GPS/Compassfolded down: 21" o Heightwith GPS/Compass up: 25" o Length of landing gear skids: 17" o Distance between landing gear skids: 18" o Collapsed size: 22" x 19"

### 1RJ IMPORTANT WEIGHTS o**~~-** No Gimbal o 13.51bs

# = S900 NO Gimbal and TBM 21000 o 12.31bs

# = S900 NO Gimbal and TBM 15000 o

--- Nex-7 Gimbal o 17.21bs

### = S900 with Nex-7 and TBM 21000 o 161bs 

### = S900 with Nex-7 and TBM 15000 o**--~** GH3/GH4 Gimbal o 17.681bs

# = S900 with GH3/GH4and TBM 21000 o 16.481bs

# = S900with GH3/GH4 and TBM 15000 o**~--** BMPCC Gimbal o 17.3lbs

# = S900 and TBM 21000 o 16.11bs

# = S900 andTBM 15000 

## 00 MOTORS o Manufacturer: DJI-Innovations o Number of motors: 6 o Motortype: 41mm x 14mm o Motor Model Number: 4114-11 o Motor KVIRPM: 400 o Motor max @ 25.2V: 10,000 rpm o Motor Max Power: 500 Watts o Power rating: 3000 Watts maximum power consumption for all6 motors o Current Max: 100 amps o Amp DrawTypical Average: 55 amps 

## 00 PROPELLERS o Manufacturer: DJI-Innovations o Material: Composite o Numberof propellers: 6 o Propeller model number: DJI 15x 5.2 o Numberof blades: 2 - folding o Propeller Diameter: 15" o Propeller Pitch (fixed): 5.2" o Max rpm: 10,000 rpm 

## 00 ELECTRONIC SPEED CONTROLS o Manufacturer: DJI-Innovations o Number ofspeed controls: 6 o Speed control model number: DJI 40AOpto o Rating in amps: 40Amps continuous o Signal Frequency: 30

- 450 Hz o Drive PWM Frequency: 8 KHz 

## 00 AUTOPILOT

o Manufacturer: DJI-Innovations o Autopilot Model Number: DJI A2 o Components: GPS/Compass, IMU, Master Controller, Power Distribution System, LED Indicator Lighting System, DataTransceiver, GCS Software o Power Consumption: 5W o Operating Temp Range: -5°C to +60°C o Software Compatible: Windows XP sp3 

### IWindows 7 o HoveringAccuracy: Vertical : ± O.Sm; Horizontal:±2m 

## 00 ANALOG WIRELESS LINKS o Distributor: DJI-Innovations o Frequencies:

## 00 2.4 Ghz datalink with WiFi 

### [!] 2.4 Ghz Command 

### & Control 

### [!] 5.8 Ghz Video o Power Consumption: <1 watt o Usable Range: 

### <2 km. 

## 00 DIGITALWIRELESS LINKS (Lightbridge) o Distributor: DJI-Innovations o Frequencies: 

### [!] 2.4 Ghz (C2 

### & Video) o Power Consumption: <1 watt o Usable Range: 

### <2 km. 

### [!] FLIGHT BATTERY o Manufacturers: Various COTS suppliers o Battery chemistry recommended: Lithium Polymer o Battery Capacity: up to 21 ,000 mah orgreater depending on max gross weight o Batterycell count required: 6S (6 cells in series) o Battery Voltage: 21V minimum during hover, 22.2V nominal, 25.2V maximum o Battery Minimum Rated Discharge Rate: 20C minimum o Battery Minimum Charge Rate: 1C (3C preferable) o Battery RestTime between discharging and charging: 0-30 minutes o Batteries used simultaneously: typically 1 o Recommended Battery DischargeAmount: 80-90%



## 00 FLIGHT PARAMETERS o FlightTime: 20+ minutes typical o Payload Max: 9.5 lbsfor battery, sensor and gimbal 

### [!] WARNINGS o Never power a video transmitter or receiver without an antenna connected oroverload failure will occur. o Read all information regarding batteries contained in this manual and supplements. o Batteries are highlyflammable and can explode, especially when fully charged. Improper charging, vibration, impact, high discharge, etc. can lead to explosion and fire. Batteries must be charged under constant supervision and using proper precautions. o Batteries fully charged must be handled with extreme care. o Batteries must not be stored above 60% charged state. o Store batteries between 20%

- 60% charged state. Fully chargejust before use. o Fully charged batteries which are notto be used within 24 hours should be discharged to 20% -50% charged state. o Discharging UPoly batteries in excess of80% oftheir rated capacity can cause harm to the batteries. o Using more than one batteryat a time requires the proper wiring harness so thatthe voltage is no more than 25.2V. Overvoltage will cause serious damageto electrical equipment. o Using more than one battery at a time requires weight and balance checks. Proper CG is critical to performance. Airframe must not be overloaded. o GPS/Compass must be facing forward. o Do not use GPS Mode without GPS lock. o Use lowstrength thread locking compound on all screws. o Wireless Video and Data ranges vary considerably on many factors including weather, equipment, and obstructions. Be prepared for com failures.SECTION 2 LIMITATIONS 

## 00 AIRSPEED LIMITATIONS o Vne- Velocity to Never Exceed: 15m/soVa- Typical Maneuvering Speed- 5 m/s



## 00 POWER 

### & POWERPLANT LIMITATIONS o 40 Amps max per motor o 40Amps max per speed control o 320Amps max total o Do not exceed 80-90% discharge of rated battery capacity o Do not charge batteries which are warmerthan airtemperature o Allow batteries to cool after use before charging o Leave an air gap between batteries when multiple batteries are used simultaneously



## 00 WEIGHT LIMITS o Takeoff Weight Max: 18 lbs 

## 00 Must be checked prior to takeoff ifany change in equipment is made



## 00 CENTER OF GRAVITY LIMITS o 3mm from the center of anyofthe three pairs ofarms 

## 00 Must be checked before everyflight to ensure batteries were installed in the proper location.



## 00 Check all 6 pairs ofarms before flight



## 00 MANEUVER LIMITS o This aircraft is intended for non-aerobaticoperations o G-loading maximum: 2G



## 00 TEMPERATURE LIMITS o OperatingTemp Range: -10°C to +40°C o In cold temperatures 

## 00 Keep IMU at room temperature if possible before the flight

## 00 Keep Batteries above

# soc before flight 

## 00 Do notfly with any frost or ice on the propellers o In warm temperatures 

## 00 Batteries heat up when discharged 

## 00 The higherthe discharge rate the higherthe temperature increase during use 

## 00 Attemperatures above 45°C, use of2 or more batteries is required to lowerthe load on anyone battery packto keep it cooler.

### li] WEATHEA LIMITS o Light dustand light rain require the use of a shield for the electronics in the center section. Light dustand light rain are acceptable for the unshielded motor and ESC. 

### li] RANGE LIMITS o BATT 

### li] Battery capacity is a primary limiting factor. 

### li] Flying into the wind will use more battery powerto travel the same ground distance. Higher air speeds will be required to penetrate the wind which used more battery power. Take this into account when flying a mission.



### li] Where possible, fly upwind atthe start of a mission and downwind atthe end to avoid depletingthe battery before returning to base. Have alternative landing sites available in case of emergency landing. o WIRELESS LINK 

### li] Wireless links will be stable in LOS (line ofsight) in most conditions 

### li] Wireless links are always susceptible to shorter ranges due to 

### li] Atmospheric conditions 

### 1i] Othertransmission devices in the area 

### li] Jamming 

### 1i] Antennas notaligned properly 

### li] Impropervoltage 

# 00 Antenna blockagefrom AV in certain positions 

# 00 Multipath

- reflection off buildings or ground which cause multiple signals to arrive at differenttimes and/or phase.

SECTION 3 EMERGENCY PROCEDURES MOTOR FAILURE o Operation is possible with one motor/ESC/propeller failure 

## 00 The two adjacent motors/ESCs will be increased in thrust automatically bythe flight controllerto overcome the loss 

### li] In cases where the airframe is highly loaded the maximum rating of40 amps may be exceeded bythese two motors/ESCs 

## 00 Operation should 

### be terminated as soon as possible to reduce the possibility ofdamageto the remaining motors COMMUNICATION FAILURE o Video linkfailure



## 00 5.8 Ghz being the shortest wavelength in generalAV use hasthe least abilityto penetrate. This link should be the firstto be lost.

## 00 It is bestto losevideo first! It isthe least likelyto cause a crash when itfails. 

## 00 5.8 Ghz can lose linkwith little warning. 

## 00 Ensure thatthe GCS station antennas are perpendicularto theAV. Do not pointthe antenna attheAV. 

## 00 Yaw theAV to change the antenna position 

## 00 Other links should still be good. Return backto the GCS until link is restored. 

## 00 Transmitters produce heatwhen in operation. When overheated they may have thermal protection which interrupts use temporarily. Use ofa heat sink orfan may be required especiallywith high ambienttemperatures. 

## 00 Higher gain antennas may be used, but do so with caution. High gain antennas are directional. 

## 00 Multiple antennas using "diversity'' can be used. Diversity is a device which determinesthe best signal, and usesthat. 

## 00 5.8 Ghz even at high wattages theoretically has less range than lowerfrequencies. Changing to 1.3 Ghz is an option, though there are other issues to be considered. o RC link failure 

## 00 2.4 Ghz antennas can lose link with little warning. 

## 00 Anything in between the two antennas can cause temporary signal loss especially a person. 

## 00 Hold the transmitter up in the air and walk in the general direction oftheAV (aerial vehicle). 

## 00 Ensure thatthe antenna is vertical. Do not pointthe antenna attheAV. 

## 00 The failsafes on the RC link should be set so thattheAV returns to home. Should this require a heading change, the antenna may move into a more desirable position and link will be restored. 

## 00 The onboard equipment may block the signal. YawtheAV so thatthe antennas point towardsthe GCS. 

## 00 A LAS (long range system) can be used as a permanent solution. This is higher in wattage and usually on 433 Mhz. o Data Link Failure 

## 00 900 Mhz do not Jose link without some warning. When drop outs are noticed to increase in frequency that is the limit ofthe range. 

## 00 If using 900 Mhz, this is on cell phone frequency. If a cell tower is nearby it can swamp the signal. 900 Mhz may not be usable in that area. Change to a differentfreq. or remain closerto theAV o LOW BATTERY POWER 

## 00 Fail-safes can be setsuch that in the eventof low battery power, either dueto a failure ortoo long ofa flight, the warning light on theAV will constantlyflash amber. This is the first level ofwarning. 

## 00 The second warning level is red flashing lights 

## 00 Auto landing will occurwhen battery power is low. It may land in a tree ora lake, so this is not desirable. 

## 00 Landing with 80-90% of battery depleted is best. Therefore landing with 17,000 mah used and 3,000 mah remaining of a 20,000 mah battery isdesirable. Batteries should be drawn down equally when in use ifthey are both charged equally and both in relativelythe same condition/age. 

## liD Do not mix partially charged batteries. Only use completely charged batteries. 

## 00 Over discharging a battery below 19.8Vcan permanently damagethe battery. o GCS FAILURE

## 00 Takeover bythe external pilotshould happenASAP using the RC link. 

## 00 Mostoften happens dueto a low battery. 

## 00 Keep a spare 3 cell LiPoly battery with the appropriate plug to plug into the charge jackfor emergency use. Mostchargers are 19Voutputwhich is roughly equivalentto a 4-cell battery. 3-cell batteries maywork. o COMPASS CALIBRATION ERROR 

## 00 Ifthe compass is out of calibration the warning light will flash red. This isthe same signal as lowvoltage. Ifthe voltage iscorrect, there is a calibration error. 

## 00 Recalibrate the compassfollowing the instruction manual oFIRE 

## 00 Fires can occurdueto a short circuit or batteryfailure. 

## 00 Disconnectthe batteryASAP unlessthere is danger in doing so ifthere is any electrical issue. 

## 00 It is not possible to putouta batteryfire. 

## 00 Do notattemptto putout a batteryfire. Use a fire extinguisherto putoutfires surrounding the battery. A C02fire extinguisher is betterthanthe powderorchemical type. C02 does not leave a residue. Water can be usedthough it may cause otherelectrical component failures. o FORCED LANDINGS 

## 00 If alternate emergency landing zones should be chosen ahead oftime. 

## 00 Be sure thatthe LZ is clear of people to avoid any incidents. 

## 00 Land in the nearest LZ which is clear of people. 

## 00 Announce your intentions of landing as loud as necessaryto alert people ofthe incomingAV.



## 00 ZENMUSE COMMANDAND CONTROL o Dual rate switch for gimbal operation. 

## 00 High rate

- used to initializethe gimbal. The gimbal may not engage unless it seesfull motion. However, these may be too high for shooting video smoothly. This is bestfor still photography so asto putthe camera on target quickly. On high rate it is helpful to utilize fairly high exponential to makethe stickfeel soft around center. Adjustto your preference.



## 00 Low rate

- used forvideography. Setthe end point adjustments such thatfull stick deflection offersthe maximum speed required for videography. Ifconditions require highergimbal speeds, switch to high rate. On low rate it is also helpful to utilize a small amountofexponential to make the stickfeel soft around center. Adjustto your preference.



## 00 TIMERS o Use ofthe countdown timer isa good backup method to ensure landing with battery power. 

## 00 Setthe timerfor 20 minutes (orwhatyou deem appropriate) and have it startwhen the throttle is over 114. Then adjustthe timer upwards until the amount ofbattery used is about 80-90% ofthe total available. If using 20,000 mah batteries, a total of 17,000 mah would be the target. Setthe timer such thatyou have a minute orso to land after

## 00 the alarm sounds so thatyou have adequate time to return to base. Adjustto your preference. BATTERIES o Replace the transmitter standard battery with a Lipoly batteryto extend use timesto 8 hours. Supplied batteries often last about 2 hours.



## NORMAL PROCEDURES PREFLIGHT CHECKLIST o Confirm all communication radios are operational 

## 00 Radio with ATC 

## 00 Radios with others in the group o Seta perimeter of 100 meters 

## 00 Area must be clear of people to avoid collision o Check for overhead power lines and other obstacles to avoid o Check structural integrity 

## 00 In event of prior crash, inspect all booms, props and motor mounts for excessive flex indicating structural fatigue/failure o Have a manual flight plan avoiding obstacles. o Load auto flight plan if using one 

## 00 Be sure thatthe total flight time is under 10 minutes to avoid low battery o Clean lens 

## 00 Remove lens cap o Ensure camera has SO card installed 

## 00 Manyflights have been wasted dueto this! o Install batteries 

## 00 Ensure thatthe straps are tight and the Velcro keeps the batteriesfrom moving which will avoid a shift in the CG (Center of Gravity

- orthat it balances evenly) o Check CG (Center ofGravity) 

## 00 Liftthe copter on each ofthe 3 pairs ofarms. The copter should balance properly. If not, do notfly. Rearrange the equipment such thatthe CG is o IMU pointing forward 

### [!:) The Inertial Measurement Unit is set so that it mustface forward o GPS/Compass installed, limited free play, pointing forward 

### [!:) This device must be installed with a screwto hold it in place. It cannotvibrate easily. If it does not pointforward, the corrections in A TTl and GPS mode will be incorrect and itwill crash. The FC will provide a warning with constant flashing white lights. o Level copter using a bubble level with front pointing in correct direction for course lock

- do notturn on 

## 00 Keep in mind the best angle for pointing the landing gear in the direction thatwill keepthe landing gear outofthe shot when flying. o Turn on PilotTx o If using the rate gyro, set itatthe correct position. This is usually a slider switch. Gains should havethe range setfrom 200

- 350. Usethe highest gain possible which does notcause oscillation. o Check Model Selection on Txto be S900 o Throttle onTx Down o Return to Home switch Off o Adjust gain to correct position (if required) o Manual Flight Mode Switch to manual (notA TTl orGPS mode) o Flight Path Switch 

### Off- Not Course or Home or POl o CheckTx battery voltage (above 7.5v)

### I!]These settings above are required to initialize the copter properly. Ifthe switches are in the incorrect position, itwill not initialize properly which may cause some of the functions like course lock or GPS mode to not operate properly. 

### I!] Ifthe copter does not function properly aftertakeoff, land immediately and disconnectthe copter power. Then put all the switches in the proper position for initialization and turn the power back on to the copter. o Count down timer should be set correctly depending on battery capacity. This can be adjusted to your flying style. The timer should engage at 

### V4 throttle and trigger an alarm at the proper time. This is a backup alarm in case the indicator lights on the copter are not visible. oTurn on PhotographyTx o Check Model Selection on Tx

- should read Zenmuse o CheckTx batteryvoltage (above 5.4v for Futaba 14ch) o HDMI switch Off o Freestyle switch Off (FPV On) o 

### I!] These settings above are required to initialize the Zenmuse properly. Ifthe switches are in the incorrect position, itwill not initialize properly which may cause some ofthe functions like live video or gimbal operation to not operate properly. 

### I!] Ifthe camera or gimbal do notfunction properly, disconnectthe copter power. Then put all the switches in the proper position for initialization and turn the power back on to the copter. o Engage power to copter Plug in the 2 battery packs. Typicallythe battery packs use red T-style connectors in a parallel wire harness. This Y-harness has ayellow connector. It is preferable to connect the batteries to theY-harness first, then plug in the yellow connector. This reduces (but does not eliminate) electrical arcing. 6 quick chirps should be heard confirming 6S LiPoly batteries are recognized bythe ESCs. 

### I!] Hearing less than 6 chirps indicates fewer cell battery packs are being recognized which is incorrect. Checkfor improper or damaged batteries. move or vibrate the Squadcopter until 30 seconds afterfull GPS Lock Initial 3 red blinks is normal meaning no GPS lock. No red flashes indicatesfull GPS lock. Continue with checklist as you are waiting for full GPS lock, but do not move the copter. Ifthe GPS takes more than 5 minutes to lock, there is a problem with the area. It is not receiving the proper signals from the satellites. GPS signals are weak, so trees, people, buildings, terrain, weather, have an effect. Move the copter into a more open area where it can more easily see the satellites.

o Check Copter Voltage from both Tx's (transmitters) 

### I!]The transmitters receive a signal from the corresponding receivers. The voltages are regulated to about Sv. Ifthe voltage is below 4.4v or above 6v do notfly. There may be power regulation issues. The receivers cannot work outside this voltage consistently. Also there is some issue ifthe voltage is outside that range which should be resolved before flying. o Engage Attitude Mode

- Must achieve double amberflash o Engage GPS Mode- Must achieve double purple flash o Engage course cock mode

- Must achieve double green flash o Disengage course lock mode. Must achieve double purple flash. Stay in this mode untiljust priorto takeoff, aftertakeoff at anytime, or do not use. o Do not engage motors. Set throttle to center position. Must achieve single purple flash when inGPSmode. 

## 1iJ To verify thatthe sticks are all centered properly:(!) With throttle in the center position, use thetrim buttons on the transmitterto checkthatthe sticks are centered. Trim the roll (the stick located on the right sideofthe transmitter when moved to the right and left) to the right, counting the numberofclicks until a double flash occurs. Then centerthe trim. Then move the trim to the left, counting the numberofclicks until a double flash occurs. An equal number ofclicks should be counted each side of center. (!) Do this check for the 3 stick movements other than throttle. (!) Centerthe trim such thatwhen the stick is in the neutral position thatthere are equal numbersofclicks in each direction. This ensuresthat when the sticks are neutralized thatthe flight controller will recognize this signal and engage GPS mode.

o Calibrate GPS/Compass before thefirst flight each dayor if receiving continuous red blinks orcontinuous white blinks. (!)Flipthe GPS mode switch 7 timesvery quicklyfrom manual to GPS. End with the switch in the manual position. The indicator lightwill be blue. Rotate the copter about 1.5turns in a horizontal position. A green flashing light indicatesthatthis is complete. Then hold the copter vertically and rotate about 1.5turns. A white flashing light indicates thatthis is complete. Repeat if necessary until this is completed. oAfter calibration, reset the copter by cycling battery with copter pointed in the correct heading for course lock. o Engage Camera o 

### HOMI switch On (!)This will stop video from playing on the back ofthe camera and will send the video signal to the video transmitterviathe 

### HOMI connection. o Freestyle switch On (FPV Off) (!)This allowsthe camerato be operated freely through thetransmitter o Verify camera operation (!) Operate the shutter (!) Setthe focus to auto or manual. Manual setting is usually setto infinityto stop constant focusing ofthe camera.

o Verify data link if installed (!) Roll the copter about45 degrees on its side by lifting one side ofthe copter and resting one side ofthe landing gear on the ground (!) Acorresponding roll should be seen onthe gauge. (!) Ifthe copter is rolled to the right, it will appear on the gauge thatthe horizon rolls to the left

- notthe right because the view from inside the copter is thatthe horizon rolls the opposite direction ofthe copter.

o Verify altitude is about 0 via gauge on computer 

## IRJ If it is not about 0, the altitude settingsfor the waypoints will be off bythis amount. This could cause the coptertofly at 1 0 meters or30 meters ifthe waypoint is setfor 20 meters and the altitude is off by 1 0 meters one wayoranother. Ifthe copterthinks it is at 1 0 meters when it is on the ground, then it will only rise 10 meters above the ground to achieve what it believes itto be 20 meters above the ground.



### (!) The altitude can be reset using the ground control software bygoingto altitude offset.

o Alternate Emergency Landing Sites Established NORMALTAKEOFF o Confirm clear for takeoffwith ATC 

### (!) Necessary ifwithin 5 miles ofan airport 

### (!) ATC clearance is required days orweeks before flying. o Engage GPS mode- Double purpleflash when the throttle isdown. o Switch to Course Lockflight mode if required. Purple flashes are replaced with green flashes. Flying in course lock is not required, but helpful in many instances. o Announce loudly: "CLEAR PROP" o Move both ofthe sticks to the bottom left comersto engage the motors. Within 1 second move the throttle up 1/8

- 1/4. The copter should not liftoff until about 112 stick is reached. o Verify data and video links before lifting off. If anything is notworking properly, move the throttle stick to lowto disengagethe motors and determine a solution. o If all flight checks are passed, announce loudly: "TAKING OFP' o Advance throttle to about 3/4. Copter mustjump off ofthe groundto avoid oneskid coming up before the other skid, and the skid on the ground getting caught and flipping the copter over sideways. o Ascend to 3 meters. Then decrease throttle to 112 to engage the GPS hold. o Verify links, GPS, Attitude, etc. Should be single purple flash. o Verify thatthe copter is holding position within .5m in all directions. o Verify camera operation o Verify course lock isoperational by rotating 90 degrees and pushing forward on stick. o Verify copter stability. If unstable, land and reset gains, recalibrate, or retest as necessary. o Proceed with manual mission or o For autopilot operation 

### (!)Ascend to 10 meters 

### (!) CommandAVO to proceed with mission. 

### (!) Pilot should say "It's yours" 

### (!) Response from AVO "I have if' o Manual pilot/observer must monitorthe informational LED and be ready to take over in manual mode when necessary. 

### (!) White flashes indicatesflight controller issue 

### (!)Amberflashes indicates low battery 

### (!) Red flashes indicate loss of GPS or severe battery condition 

### (!) Quick decisions are required when red flashes are indicated 

### (!) 10 seconds or more of loss of GPS signal will stop waypoint guidance and any GPS hold and put into manual mode. 

### (!) Red indicator light battery warning requires immediate landing o Manual pilotto request copterflight batteryvoltage readout from AVO periodically. 

### (iJ Reset the first and second indicator lights as required for your set up.(!] When recharging the batteries, the goal isto put 4,000 mah into a 5,000 mah battery pack. Adjustthe voltage warningsto your style offlying. (!] Also use the countdown timer onthetransmitter. This gives a good indication of battery level becausethe current used isfairly constantfrom flight to flight. POST LANDING o Note flight time from transmitter. Write this down in the log book. o Note battery power used during theflight. Write this down in the log book. o ALWAYS disconnectthe main powerto the AV first, then turn offthe transmitter. (!] o Check motortemperatures bytouching them with yourfingers. Any motors which are excessively hot should befurther inspected and possibly replaced. o Check batterytemperatures bytouching them with yourfingers. Batterytemperatures should not

### be hotto the touch. Batterytemperatures should be slightly above ambient. o Inspect all components especiallythe propellersfor wear. o Note in logbook which batteries were used to calculate life cycle. AIRCRAFT FLIGHT LOG BOOK -Keep a log ofall flights. (!]Date (!] Time of Day (!] Time in Operation (in hours) (!] Battery serial numbers (!] Mah used in flight (!]Location (!] Pilot, Observer, SensorOperator Names (!] Flight Objective (!]Remarks AIRCRAFT MAINTENANCE LOG BOOK (Can be purchased inexpensively) o Keep a log ofsignificant inspections, tests, repairs, alterations, equipment changes. (!] Date maintenance is performed (!]Accumulated hours of operation (!] Remarks PILOT LOG BOOK (Can be purchased inexpensively) o Keep a log ofall flights. Include the following: (!]Aircraft flown (!]Aircraft serial number (!]Date (!]Time of Day (!]Time in Operation (in hours) (!] Location (!] Flight Objective (!]Remarks (!] SECTION 5 PERFORMANCE FLIGHTTIMES o TheAV is designed to hover at high efficiency. Hovering is much less efficientthan flying on a wing, thusflighttimes are low compared to fixed wing aircraft. o All the weight oftheAVis supported by powerfrom the batteries. As the batteries are used in a flight, the amount ofpower available decreases. Therefore the power reserve is constantly decreasing as the battery is being used. Thus loading a rotorcraft above its limit is not recommended. While theAV may have enough powerto lift off initially on a full charge, thepower reserve at partial charge may be too lowto allowfor maneuvering and will result in a crash. o High lateral speeds will add liftto slightly improve efficiency. The rotors act similarto fixed wings at higher speeds. This increase in efficiency may be negated bythe increased power consumption offorward flight. o High winds or gusts decrease efficiency/flighttime. The motors work harderto hold position. o As weight increasesflight times decrease. WIRELESS TRANSMISSION 

### [i) 000 Referto the specific manualsfor performance ratings. Wireless communications utilized provide acceptable communication for LOS. In general: 

### [i) LOS is required 

### [i) The higherthe GCS antennas, the betterthe range 

### [i) Anyfreq. at may have severe degradation dueto location to other admitters such as cell towers 

### [i) RSSI (Received Signal Strength Indication) should be monitored for indication of communication drop out.

SECTION6 WEIGHTAND BALANCE EQUIPMENT LIST 

### [i) CG o CG is critical to the efficient operation of anyAV o When components are shifted, the CG will be altered. o The main components which are moved on a regular basis are the sensors and the batteries. o The sensors are typically in the front oftheAV, and the batteries are located in the correct position to offset all the components on theAV. o The CG must be tested after any change to the components ortheir placement. o The CG should be tested by lifting the UVwith fingers on the bottom ofthe arms. Check all 3 pairs ofarms. The CG should be no more than 2mm off in anyon the 

### 3 checks. The closerthe CG is to the centerlines ofthe arms the more efficient and the more stable theAV will be. 

## 00 WEIGHT o Weight is critical to the operation ofany aircraft o Weight is especially critical to a rotor wing aircraft. Atfull throttle the motors have a finite amountofthrust. All the weight is lifted bythe battery power, there is no wing to assist in providing lift. o As the batteries are operated, they lose power. At full charge they have about 25v. At20% remaining capacitythey have about 21v. This is a loss of

### 8% ofthe power available which is significant. o Do notoverload the aircraft orthere will not be sufficient reserve powerto maneuver at low battery levels. 

### [i) SECTION 7 AIR VEHICLEAND SYSTEMS DESCRIPTION FLIGHT BATTERY REQUIRED o Manufacturers: Various COTS supplierso Batterychemistry recommended: Lithium Polymer o BatteryCapacity: up to 21 ,000 mah orgreaterdepending on max gross weight o Batterycell count required: 6S (6 cells in series) o Battery Voltage: 21V minimum during hover, 22.2V nominal, 25.2V maximum o Battery Minimum Rated Discharge Rate: 20C minimum o Battery Minimum Charge Rate: 1C (3C preferable) o Battery RestTime between discharging and charging: 0-30 minutes o Batteries used simultaneously: typically 1 o Recommended Battery DischargeAmount: 80-90% WERELESS COMMUNICATIONS o Referto the specific manualsfor performance ratings. o Never power a video transmitter or receiver without an antenna connected oroverload failure will occur. o Wireless communications utilized provide acceptable communication for LOS. o In general: o LOS is required. o Lowerfrequencies penetrate objects such astrees betterthan higherfreqs. o Lowerfreqs have longer range than high freqs o Higherfreqs can transfer more datathan lower freqs o Higherfreqs use smaller/shorter antennas o The higherthe GCS antennas, the betterthe range and reception o Anyfreq at may have severe degradation dueto location to other admitters such as cell towers o Range must be constantly monitored. o Alternate antennatypes may be utilized to improve link/range. Patch, helical, omni, etc. can be substituted. They must be verified before use. o Alternate freqs may be utilized to improve link/range.

SECTIONS HANDLING, SERVICEAND MAINTENANCE PROPELLER CARE o Propellers must be checked each flightfor nicks orcracks o Propellers are designed to last indefinitely iftheydo not impactdust, dirtor more. BATIERYCAREAND USE o Referto instruction sheet included from the battery manufacturer. Typical information follows. o Batteries are highlyflammable and can explode, especiallywhen fully charged. Improper charging, vibration, impact, high discharge, etc. can lead to explosion and fire. Batteries must be charged underconstant supervision and using proper precautions. o Batteriesfully charged must be handled with extreme care. o Any batterywhich puffs up is considered damaged and must not be used. It is in a dangerous state. Never charge a puffed up battery. o Any batterywhich holds less than 80% of its rated capacity should be discarded. o Cycle testeach battery after every 50 cycles or if a battery is suspected to have lost as significant amount of its capacity to determinethe current capacity. o Properly dispose of batteries. Firstdischargethe batteryfully using a battery cycler. Bring to a recycler such as a home improvement store. o Always charge flight batteries under "balance" mode.o Flight Battery Recommended Charge Rate: 1C which takes approximately 1 hour to charge o Flight Battery Maximum Charge Rate: May exceed 5C. Charge rates higher than 1C will decrease life cycles. Maximum charge rating perthe manufacturer will provide 300+ cycles. Use the lowest charge rate which is practical. o Battery RestTime between discharging and charging: 30 minutes minimum, 1 hour maximum. o Do not charge ifthe battery is morethan 2°C warmerthan ambient, especially if the temperature is above 20°C. The outer surface is coolerthan the inner core after use. Damage will occur when charging a warm battery. o Recommended Battery DischargeAmount: 80%. Using more ofthe capacity ofthe battery will decrease the life cycles o As batterytemperature approaches freezing the capacity of Lithium Polymer batteries decrease. Keep warmerthan

# soc before installing into the UV (unmanned vehicle). o Battery capacity decreases at higher discharge rates. Using more batteries decreases the discharge rate of each battery thereby extending individual battery capacity slightly. o Lower discharge rates improve the life cycles. o Batteries are rated at greaterthan 300 life cycles. 1,000+ life cycles are possible. o Batteries must not be stored above 60% charged state for extended periods. o Batteries should be stored below 25°C for extended periods o Store batteries between 40%- 60% charged state. Fully chargejust before use. o Fully charged batteries which are notto be used within 24 hours should be discharged to 40%

- 60% charged state using the battery discharger. o Using more than one battery at a time requires the proper wiring harness so that the voltage is no more than 25.2V. Overvoltage will cause serious damage to electrical equipment.



## 00 PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE o ANNUAL INSPECTION (SUGGESTED) 

## 00 Ifthe airframe has in excess of 300 hours in a one year period, an annual inspection must be completed by an approved technician. 

## 00 An approved technician should disassembletheAV and inspect all components for wear and replace any components as required. 

## 00 Test all batteriesfor capacity. 

## 00 Upgrade firmware and software to latest revisions o 500 HOUR PM (SUGGESTED) 

## 00 An approved technician should disassembletheAV and inspect all components for wear and replace any components as required. 

## 00 Replace all motors. 

## 00 Test all batteries for capacity. 

## 00 Upgrade firmware and software to latest revisions.