August 28, 2015 

U. S. Department of Transportation Docket Management System 

1200 New Jersey Ave., 

Washington, DC 20590 

RE: Exemption Request Section 333 of the FAA Reform Act and Part 11 of the Federal Aviation 

Regulations 

Dear Sir or Madam: 

Pursuant to the Section 333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (the "Reform 

Act"), Andy Zilker (the "applicant"), operator of an Unmanned Aircraft Systems ("UAS") seeks an 

exemption from the Federal Aviation Regulations ("FARs") to allow for 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: 

14 CFR Part 21 subpart H 

14 CFR 45.23 (b) 

14 CFR 91.7 (a) 

14 CFR 91.9 (b) (2) 

14CFR 91.103 

14CFR 91.109 

14 CFR 91.119 (c) 

14 CFR 91.121 

14 CFR 91.203 (a) and (b) 

14 CFR 91.405 (a) 

14 CFR 91.407 (a) (1) 

14 CFR 91.409 (a) (2) 

14 CFR 91.417 (a) and (b) 
Extent of 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 

or flammable 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 under the 

conditions proposed operation will be at least as safe, or safer, than a conventional aircraft 

operating with an airworthiness certificate without said restrictions. 

14 CFR 45.23 (b) 

Due to the size of this UAS it does not have a cockpit, cabin, or pilot station on which to market 

certain words or phrases. Lettering would be very difficult to place on such a small aircraft and 

dimensions would need to be smaller than required minimum. Understanding the importance of 

lettering I will mark my UAS with the largest letters by placing the word "Experimental" or 

assigned number or name, based on request/ruling of FAA, on UAS frame. The equivalent level 

of safety will 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 exist for determining airworthiness. Given the size of the aircraft for 

maintenance and use of safety check list prior to each flight an equivalent level of safety will be 

provided. 

14 CFR 91.9 (b) (2) 

Because of the size and configuration, the UAS has no ability to carry a flight 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 a flight manual and log at ground control 

point where the pilot will have immediate access to it. 

14 CFR 91.103 

As FAA approved flight manuals will not be provided for the 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 "OJ I Pilot 

Training". An equivalent level of safety 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 aircraft via radio 

communications. The equivalent level of safety is provided because neither a pilot nor 

passenger will be carried in the aircraft, and by the speed and size of the aircraft. 

14 CFR 91.113 (a) and (b) 

I can 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 aircraft flight, 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 of safety is achieved by the operator 

receiving live flight data monitoring and confirming current altitude along with altitude of launch 

site shown on GPS altitude indicator. 

14 CFR 91.203 (a) and (b) 

Similar to, 14 CFR 91.9 {b) {2), given the size and configuration, the UAS has no ability to 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 of safety will be achieved by 

keeping these documents, to the extent they are applicable to the UAS, at the ground control 

point where pilot has immediate access to them. 

14 CFR 91.405 (a), 14 CFR 91.407 (a) (1), 14 CFR 91.409 (a) (2), 14 CFR 91.417 (a) and (b) 

Given these sections only apply to aircraft with an airworthiness certificate, theses sections do 

not apply to this applicant. As a safety precaution, operator will perform preflight inspections and 

ensure UAS is in working condition before initiating each flight. Andy Zilker is seeking relief from 

all FARs above preventing applicant from conducting aerial photography and video of real 

estate taken at levels less than 400ft, at a speed less than 30 mph, and with a maximum flight 

time of 18 minutes. The UAS to be used are a OJI S900 6 rotor with DropSafe system. Total 

takeoff at 12 pounds of weight, and thus meet the definition of "small unmanned aircraft" found 

in section 331 "The Reform Act". In order to obtain high quality photography and video the UAS 

will be used at speeds much less than their top speed of 30 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 be terminated with 25% battery life remaining. Given the size, 

weight, speed, and limited operating area associated with the aircraft to be utilized I find this 

exception to be reasonable with an equivalent, or greater, level of safety to be reached by the 

operator. 

Important Safety Precautions 

*Please see attachment "OJ I Pilot Training" and "pre-flighf' documents for safety precautions I 

use for every flight. Further, I have radio controlled and UAS experience of 20 years with 

approximately 1200 hours of PIC time. 

Additionally: 

• I always obtain all necessary permissions prior to operation. 

• I conduct extensive pre-flight inspections and protocol, during which safety carries primary 

importance. 

• My UAS features the DropSafe system deploying parachute for safe landing in the case 

system failure occurs . 

• My UAS uses GPS and a flight safety feature whereby it returns to a preprogrammed position 

and then slowly lands if communication with the remote control pilot is lost or potential danger 

occurs. 

• I use OJI Ground Station software to prepare every flight. 

• I do not operate within 6 miles of an airport unless prior contact to Air Traffic Control or the 

airport manager has been made. 

• I land my UAS prior to manufacturer recommended minimum level of battery power. 

• I pilot my UAS through remote control by line of sight. 
• I actively 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 a seller a higher 

level of property information is achieved, appealing to more buyers, resulting in a faster sale of 

their property. Home sales helps accelerate the economy as a whole. Buyers experience the 

benefit of encompassing a whole 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 for the general public when compared to 

larger manned aircraft. 

Thank you for your consideration. 
PILOT OPERATION HANDBOOK DJI S-900/Zenmuse 

Use this every time 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 vs time 

Print out and make readily available the error message legend of various flashing lights. Know 

what to do without hesitation should you observe warnings. 

DJI 8900 KEY PARAMETERS 

Max Takeoff Weight: 18 lbs. 

Cameras: Panasonic GH4 

MAX 17.681bs = S900 with GH3/GH4 and TBM 21000 16.481bs = S900 with GH3/GH4 and TBM 

Flight Times using 90% of battery: 

15,000 mah battery with 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 for flight time 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 not twist 

o Center of gravity is correct 

o Warning lights set for low battery if used 

o Batteries charged. Replace any battery which 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 INVENTORY CHECKLIST o Load Flight plan 

oAircraft 

o Camera with 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 Battery Y-harness 

00 DJI S-900 PREFLIGHT CHECKLIST o Position:GCS,S900 

o EmergencylZ o Wind 

o Areasecure 

oAntennas 

oGCS 

o Lenscap 

o CameraOn 

o SDcard 

o Flightbattery:voltage-instaii-CG 

o C2 Tx: 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 CHECKLIST o Timer 

o GPS mode (Course lock?) o Motor startup/checks 

o Takeoff 

o Landing Gear 

00 LANDING CHECKLIST o lZ clear 

o Landing Gear 

o Land 

o Flight Time 

o Copter/Camera Power down o Adjust Params 

o Power Down __ batteries o Motor Temps 

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 or cracks 

00 Motor mount 

00 Main frame 

00 Booms 

00 Loose Bolts causing flexing or misalignment 

00 Props 

IR] Mounts 

00 Props out of balance 

00 Props misaligned 

00 Excessive wind speeds or gusts 

00 Excessive Gains 

00 Excessive motor power. Max motor power must a little more than typical ascent 

power. 

o Red Flashes (1, 2 or 3 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: Supplements 
SECTION 1 GENERAL 

NOTE: In an effort to minimize costs and maximize spare parts availability, many COTS 

(commercial off the shelf) components have been utilized. Some may have slight modifications 

to better suit this application. Most COTS products have separate data sheets, assembly 

manuals and instruction manuals. They are reference in this document, with key factors being 

emphasized. 

As with all high technology products utilizing constantly evolving software, it is important to 

periodically check for online upgrades to the COTS components, including hardware, firmware 

and software. 

WARNING: Great care must be taken with the batteries. Much of this manual and supplemental 

information is devoted to the use and care of the batteries, especially the flight batteries. They 

are less volatile than gasoline, though they should be treated with the same respect. Become 

very familiar with proper techniques of their use. 

lRJ GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS 

o Primarily for ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance) o Economical due to 

extensive use of COTS products 

o Low Visual Signature 

o Low Aural Signature 

o Quick Launch and Recovery 

o Short Training 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 max takeoff weight 

o Operating Temp Range: -5°C to +60°C 

o Flight Modes: Manual and GPS aided waypoint navigation 

o Maximum Operating Altitude: 1000 meters 

o Maximum Operation Wind Conditions: 10 m/s 

o Propulsion System: LiPoly batteries 

o Takeoff: Manual or Automatic 

o Landing: Manual or Automatic 

o Takeoff/Recovery Area: 5m square 

lRJ IMPORTANT DIMENSIONS 

o Distance rotor to rotor across the center: 35" o Height with GPS/Compass folded down: 21" o 

Height with 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/GH4 and TBM 21000 o 16.481bs = S900 with GH3/GH4 and TBM 

15000 o ~-- BMPCC Gimbal 

o 17 .3lbs = S900 and TBM 21000 

o 16.11bs = S900 and TBM 15000 

00 MOTORS 

o Manufacturer: DJI-Innovations 

o Number of motors: 6 

o Motor type: 41mm x 14mm 

o Motor Model Number: 4114-11 

o Motor KVIRPM: 400 

o Motor max @ 25.2V: 1 0,000 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 Draw Typical Average: 55 amps 

00 PROPELLERS 

o Manufacturer: DJI-Innovations 

o Material: Composite 

o Number of propellers: 6 

o Propeller model number: DJI 15 x 5.2 o Number of 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 of speed controls: 6 

o Speed control model number: DJI 40A Opto o Rating in amps: 40 Amps 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, Data Transceiver, GCS Software o Power Consumption: 5W 

o Operating Temp Range: -5°C to +60°C 

o Software Compatible: Windows XP sp3 I Windows 7 

o Hovering Accuracy: 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 DIGITAL WIRELESS 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 or greater depending on max gross weight o Battery cell 

count required: 6S (6 cells in series) 

o Battery Voltage: 21 V 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 Rest Time between discharging and charging: 0-30 minutes 

o Batteries used simultaneously: typically 1 

o Recommended Battery Discharge Amount: 80-90% 

00 FLIGHT PARAMETERS 

o Flight Time: 20+ minutes typical 

o Payload Max: 9.5 lbs for battery, sensor and gimbal 

[!] WARNINGS 

o Never power a video transmitter or receiver without an antenna connected or overload failure 

will occur. 

o Read all information regarding batteries contained in this manual and supplements. 

o Batteries are highly flammable 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 charge just before use. 

o Fully charged batteries which are not to be used within 24 hours should be discharged to 20% 

-50% charged state. 

o Discharging UPoly batteries in excess of 80% of their rated capacity can cause harm to the 

batteries. 

o Using more than one battery at a time requires the proper wiring harness so that the voltage is 

no more than 25.2V. Over voltage will cause serious damage to 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 low strength 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/so Va- Typical Maneuvering Speed- 5 m/s 

00 POWER & POWER PLANT LIMITATIONS o 40 Amps max per motor 

o 40 Amps max per speed control 

o 320 Amps max total 

o Do not exceed 80-90% discharge of rated battery capacity 

o Do not charge batteries which are warmer than air temperature 

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 if any change in equipment is made 

00 CENTER OF GRAVITY LIMITS 

o 3mm from the center of any of the three pairs of arms 

00 Must be checked before every flight to ensure batteries were installed in the proper location. 

00 Check all 6 pairs of arms before flight 

00 MANEUVER LIMITS 

o This aircraft is intended for non-aerobatic operations o G-loading maximum: 2G 

00 TEMPERATURE LIMITS 

o Operating Temp 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 not fly with any frost or ice on the propellers 

o In warm temperatures 

00 Batteries heat up when discharged 

00 The higher the discharge rate the higher the temperature increase during use 

00 At temperatures above 45°C, use of 2 or more batteries is required to lower the load 

on any one battery pack to keep it cooler. 
li] WEA THEA LIMITS 

o Light dust and light rain require the use of a shield for the electronics in the center section. 

Light dust and 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 power to 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 at the start of a mission and downwind at the end to avoid 

depleting the 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 of sight) in most conditions li] Wireless links are 

always susceptible to shorter ranges due to 

li] Atmospheric conditions 

1i] Other transmission devices in the area 

li] Jamming 

1i] Antennas not aligned properly 

li] Improper voltage 

00 Antenna blockage from AV in certain positions 

00 Multipath - reflection off buildings or ground which cause multiple signals to 

arrive at different times 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 by the flight 

controller to overcome the loss 

li] In cases where the airframe is highly loaded the maximum rating of 40 amps may be 

exceeded by these two motors/ESCs 

00 Operation should be terminated as soon as possible to reduce the possibility of damage to 

the remaining motors 

COMMUNICATION FAILURE o Video link failure 

00 5.8 Ghz being the shortest wavelength in general AV use has the least ability to penetrate. 

This link should be the first to be lost. 
00 It is best to lose video first! It is the least likely to cause a crash when it fails. 

00 5.8 Ghz can lose link with little warning. 

00 Ensure that the GCS station antennas are perpendicular to the AV. Do not point the 

antenna at the AV. 

00 Yaw the AV to change the antenna position 

00 Other links should still be good. Return back to the GCS until link is restored. 

00 Transmitters produce heat when in operation. When overheated they may have 

thermal protection which interrupts use temporarily. Use of a heat sink or fan may be 

required especially with high ambient temperatures. 

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 

determines the best signal, and uses that. 

00 5.8 Ghz even at high wattages theoretically has less range than lower frequencies. 

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 of the AV (aerial vehicle). 

00 Ensure that the antenna is vertical. Do not point the antenna at the AV. 

00 The failsafes on the RC link should be set so that the AV 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. Yaw the AV so that the antennas point 

towards the 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 of the 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 different freq. or remain closer to 

theAV 

o LOW BATTERY POWER 

00 Fail-safes can be set such that in the event of low battery power, either due to a failure 

or too long of a flight, the warning light on the AV will constantly flash amber. This is 

the first level of warning. 

00 The second warning level is red flashing lights 

00 Auto landing will occur when battery power is low. It may land in a tree or a 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 is desirable. Batteries should be drawn 

down equally when in use if they are both charged equally and both in relatively the same 

condition/age. 

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

00 Over discharging a battery below 19.8V can permanently damage the battery. 

o GCS FAILURE 
00 Takeover by the external pilot should happen ASAP using the RC link. 

00 Most often happens due to a low battery. 

00 Keep a spare 3 cell LiPoly battery with the appropriate plug to plug into the charge 

jack for emergency use. Most chargers are 19V output which is roughly equivalent to a 4-cell 

battery. 3-cell batteries may work. 

o COMPASS CALIBRATION ERROR 

00 If the compass is out of calibration the warning light will flash red. This is the same 

signal as low voltage. If the voltage is correct, there is a calibration error. 

00 Recalibrate the compass following the instruction manual 

oFIRE 

00 Fires can occur due to a short circuit or battery failure. 

00 Disconnect the battery ASAP unless there is danger in doing so if there is any 

electrical issue. 

00 It is not possible to put out a battery fire. 

00 Do not attempt to put out a battery fire. Use a fire extinguisher to put out fires 

surrounding the battery. A C02 fire extinguisher is better than the powder or chemical type. C02 

does not leave a residue. Water can be used though it may cause other electrical component 

failures. 

o FORCED LANDINGS 

00 If alternate emergency landing zones should be chosen ahead of time. 

00 Be sure that the 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 necessary to alert people of the 

incoming AV. 

00 ZENMUSE COMMAND AND CONTROL 

o Dual rate switch for gimbal operation. 

00 High rate - used to initialize the gimbal. The gimbal may not engage unless it sees full 

motion. However, these may be too high for shooting video smoothly. This is best for still 

photography so as to put the camera on target quickly. On high rate it is helpful to utilize fairly 

high exponential to make the stick feel soft around center. Adjust to your preference. 

00 Low rate - used for videography. Set the end point adjustments such that full stick deflection 

offers the maximum speed required for videography. If conditions require higher gimbal speeds, 

switch to high rate. On low rate it is also helpful to utilize a small amount of exponential to make 

the stick feel soft around center. Adjust to your preference. 

00 TIMERS 

o Use of the countdown timer is a good backup method to ensure landing with battery power. 

00 Set the timer for 20 minutes (or what you deem appropriate) and have it start when the 

throttle is over 114. Then adjust the timer upwards until the amount of battery used is about 

80-90% of the total available. If using 20,000 mah batteries, a total of 17,000 mah would be the 

target. Set the timer such that you have a minute or so to land after 
00 the alarm sounds so that you have adequate time to return to base. Adjust to your 

preference. 

BATTERIES 

o Replace the transmitter standard battery with a Lipoly battery to extend use times to 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 Set a perimeter of 1 00 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 that the total flight time is under 1 0 minutes to avoid low battery o Clean lens 

00 Remove lens cap 

o Ensure camera has SO card installed 

00 Many flights have been wasted due to this! o Install batteries 

00 Ensure that the straps are tight and the Velcro keeps the batteries from moving which will 

avoid a shift in the CG (Center of Gravity - or that it balances evenly) 

o Check CG (Center of Gravity) 

00 Lift the copter on each of the 3 pairs of arms. The copter should balance properly. If 

not, do not fly. Rearrange the equipment such that the CG is o IMU pointing forward 

[!:) The Inertial Measurement Unit is set so that it must face forward o GPS/Compass installed, 

limited free play, pointing forward 

[!:) This device must be installed with a screw to hold it in place. It cannot vibrate easily. If it 

does not point forward, the corrections in A TTl and GPS mode will be incorrect and it will 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 

not turn on 

00 Keep in mind the best angle for pointing the landing gear in the direction that will keep the 

landing gear out of the shot when flying. 

o Turn on Pilot Tx 

o If using the rate gyro, set it at the correct position. This is usually a slider switch. Gains 

should have the range set from 200 - 350. Use the highest gain possible which does not cause 

oscillation. 

o Check Model Selection on Tx to be S900 

o Throttle on Tx Down 

o Return to Home switch Off 

o Adjust gain to correct position (if required) 

o Manual Flight Mode Switch to manual (not A TTl or GPS mode) o Flight Path Switch Off- Not 

Course or Home or POl 

o Check Tx battery voltage (above 7.5v) 
I!] These settings above are required to initialize the copter properly. If the switches are in the 

incorrect position, it will not initialize properly which may cause some of the functions like course 

lock or GPS mode to not operate properly. 

I!] If the copter does not function properly after takeoff, land immediately and disconnect the 

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. 

o Turn on Photography Tx 

o Check Model Selection on Tx - should read Zenmuse o Check Tx battery voltage (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. If the switches are in 

the incorrect position, it will not initialize properly which may cause some of the functions like 

live video or gimbal operation to not operate properly. 

I!] If the camera or gimbal do not function properly, disconnect the 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. Typically the battery packs use red T-style connectors in a parallel 

wire harness. This Y-harness has a yellow 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 by the ESCs. 

I!] Hearing less than 6 chirps indicates fewer cell battery packs are being recognized which is 

incorrect. Check for improper or damaged batteries. 

move or vibrate the Squadcopter until 30 seconds after full GPS Lock 

Initial 3 red blinks is normal meaning no GPS lock. No red flashes indicates full GPS lock. 

Continue with checklist as you are waiting for full GPS lock, but do not move the copter. 

If the 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. If the voltage is below 4.4v or above 6v do not fly. There may be power 

regulation issues. The receivers cannot work outside this voltage consistently. Also there is 

some issue if the voltage is outside that range which should be resolved before flying. 

o Engage Attitude Mode - Must achieve double amber flash 

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 until just 

prior to takeoff, after takeoff at any time, or do not use. 

o Do not engage motors. Set throttle to center position. Must achieve single purple flash when 

inGPSmode. 

1iJ To verify that the sticks are all centered properly: 
(!) With throttle in the center position, use the trim buttons on the transmitter to check that the 

sticks are centered. Trim the roll (the stick located on the right side of the transmitter when 

moved to the right and left) to the right, counting the number of clicks until a double flash occurs. 

Then center the trim. Then move the trim to the left, counting the number of clicks until a double 

flash occurs. An equal number of clicks should be counted each side of center. 

(!) Do this check for the 3 stick movements other than throttle. 

(!) Center the trim such that when the stick is in the neutral position that there are equal 

numbers of clicks in each direction. This ensures that when the sticks are neutralized 

that the flight controller will recognize this signal and engage GPS mode. 

o Calibrate GPS/Compass before the first flight each day or if receiving continuous red blinks 

or continuous white blinks. 

(!)Flip the GPS mode switch 7 times very quickly from manual to GPS. End with the 

switch in the manual position. The indicator light will be blue. Rotate the copter about 1.5 turns 

in a horizontal position. A green flashing light indicates that this is complete. Then hold the 

copter vertically and rotate about 1.5 turns. A white flashing light indicates that this is complete. 

Repeat if necessary until this is completed. 

o After calibration, reset the copter by cycling battery with copter pointed in the correct heading 

for course lock. 

o Engage Camera o HOM I switch On 

(!) This will stop video from playing on the back of the camera and will send the video signal to 

the video transmitter via the HOM I connection. 

o Freestyle switch On (FPV Off) 

(!) This allows the camera to be operated freely through the transmitter 

o Verify camera operation 

(!) Operate the shutter 

(!) Set the focus to auto or manual. Manual setting is usually set to infinity to stop constant 

focusing of the camera. 

o Verify data link if installed 

(!) Roll the copter about 45 degrees on its side by lifting one side of the copter and resting 

one side of the landing gear on the ground 

(!) A corresponding roll should be seen on the gauge. 

(!) If the copter is rolled to the right, it will appear on the gauge that the horizon rolls to 

the left - not the right because the view from inside the copter is that the horizon rolls 

the opposite direction of the copter. 

o Verify altitude is about 0 via gauge on computer 

IRJ If it is not about 0, the altitude settings for the waypoints will be off by this amount. This 

could cause the copter to fly at 1 0 meters or 30 meters if the waypoint is set for 20 meters and 

the altitude is off by 1 0 meters one way or another. If the copter thinks 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 it 
to be 20 meters above the ground. 

(!) The altitude can be reset using the ground control software by going to altitude offset. 

o Alternate Emergency Landing Sites Established 

NORMAL TAKEOFF 

o Confirm clear for takeoff with ATC 

(!) Necessary if within 5 miles of an airport 

(!) ATC clearance is required days or weeks before flying. 

o Engage GPS mode- Double purple flash when the throttle is down. 

o Switch to Course Lock flight 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 of the sticks to the bottom left comers to engage the motors. Within 1 second 

move the throttle up 1/8 - 1/4. The copter should not lift off until about 112 stick is reached. o 

Verify data and video links before lifting off. If anything is not working properly, move the 

throttle stick to low to disengage the motors and determine a solution. 

o If all flight checks are passed, announce loudly: "TAKING OFP' 

o Advance throttle to about 3/4. Copter must jump off of the ground to avoid one skid 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 that the copter is holding position within .5m in all directions. 

o Verify camera operation 

o Verify course lock is operational 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 1 0 meters 

(!) Command AVO to proceed with mission. 

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

(!) Response from AVO "I have if' 

o Manual pilot/observer must monitor the informational LED and be ready to take over in 

manual mode when necessary. 

(!) White flashes indicates flight controller issue 

(!) Amber flashes 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 pilot to request copter flight battery voltage readout from AVO periodically. 

(iJ Reset the first and second indicator lights as required for your set up. 
(!] When recharging the batteries, the goal is to put 4,000 mah into a 5,000 mah battery 

pack. Adjust the voltage warnings to your style of flying. 

(!] Also use the countdown timer on the transmitter. This gives a good indication of 

battery level because the current used is fairly constant from flight to flight. 

POST LANDING 

o Note flight time from transmitter. Write this down in the log book. 

o Note battery power used during the flight. Write this down in the log book. 

o ALWAYS disconnect the main power to the AV first, then turn off the transmitter. 

(!] 

o Check motor temperatures by touching them with your fingers. Any motors which are 

excessively hot should be further inspected and possibly replaced. 

o Check battery temperatures by touching them with your fingers. Battery temperatures should 

not be hot to the touch. Battery temperatures should be slightly above ambient. 

o Inspect all components especially the propellers for wear. 

o Note in logbook which batteries were used to calculate life cycle. 

AIRCRAFT FLIGHT LOG BOOK -Keep a log of all flights. 

(!]Date 

(!] Time of Day 

(!] Time in Operation (in hours) 

(!] Battery serial numbers 

(!] Mah used in flight 

(!]Location 

(!] Pilot, Observer, Sensor Operator Names 

(!] Flight Objective 

(!]Remarks 

AIRCRAFT MAINTENANCE LOG BOOK (Can be purchased inexpensively) 

o Keep a log of significant 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 of all 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 

FLIGHT TIMES 

o The AV is designed to hover at high efficiency. Hovering is much less efficient than flying on 

a wing, thus flight times are low compared to fixed wing aircraft. 

o All the weight of the AVis supported by power from the batteries. As the batteries are used in 

a flight, the amount of power 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 the AV may have enough power to lift off initially on a full charge, the 
power reserve at partial charge may be too low to allow for maneuvering and will result in a 

crash. 

o High lateral speeds will add lift to slightly improve efficiency. The rotors act similar to fixed 

wings at higher speeds. This increase in efficiency may be negated by the increased power 

consumption of forward flight. 

o High winds or gusts decrease efficiency/flight time. The motors work harder to hold position. o 

As weight increases flight times decrease. 

WIRELESS TRANSMISSION 

[i) 

000 

Refer to the specific manuals for performance ratings. 

Wireless communications utilized provide acceptable communication for LOS. 

In general: 

[i) LOS is required 

[i) The higher the GCS antennas, the better the range 

[i) Any freq. at may have severe degradation due to location to other admitters such as 

cell towers 

[i) RSSI (Received Signal Strength Indication) should be monitored for indication of 

communication drop out. 

SECTION6 

WEIGHT AND BALANCE EQUIPMENT LIST 

[i) CG 

o CG is critical to the efficient operation of any AV 

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 of the AV, and the batteries are located in the correct 

position to offset all the components on the AV. 

o The CG must be tested after any change to the components or their placement. 

o The CG should be tested by lifting the UV with fingers on the bottom of the arms. Check all 3 

pairs of arms. The CG should be no more than 2mm off in any on the 3 checks. The closer the 

CG is to the centerlines of the arms the more efficient and the more stable the AV will be. 00 

WEIGHT 

o Weight is critical to the operation of any aircraft 

o Weight is especially critical to a rotor wing aircraft. At full throttle the motors have a finite 

amount of thrust. All the weight is lifted by the 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. At 20% 

remaining capacity they have about 21 v. This is a loss of 8% of the power available which is 

significant. 

o Do not overload the aircraft or there will not be sufficient reserve power to maneuver at low 

battery levels. 

[i) 

SECTION 7 

AIR VEHICLE AND SYSTEMS DESCRIPTION 

FLIGHT BATTERY REQUIRED 

o Manufacturers: Various COTS suppliers 
o Battery chemistry recommended: Lithium Polymer 

o Battery Capacity: up to 21 ,000 mah or greater depending on max gross weight o Battery cell 

count required: 6S (6 cells in series) 

o Battery Voltage: 21 V 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 Rest Time between discharging and charging: 0-30 minutes 

o Batteries used simultaneously: typically 1 

o Recommended Battery Discharge Amount: 80-90% 

WERELESS COMMUNICATIONS 

o Refer to the specific manuals for performance ratings. 

o Never power a video transmitter or receiver without an antenna connected or overload failure 

will occur. 

o Wireless communications utilized provide acceptable communication for LOS. 

o In general: 

o LOS is required. 

o Lower frequencies penetrate objects such as trees better than higher freqs. 

o Lower freqs have longer range than high freqs 

o Higher freqs can transfer more data than lower freqs 

o Higher freqs use smaller/shorter antennas 

o The higher the GCS antennas, the better the range and reception 

o Any freq at may have severe degradation due to location to other admitters such as cell 

towers o Range must be constantly monitored. 

o Alternate antenna types 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, SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE 

PROPELLER CARE 

o Propellers must be checked each flight for nicks or cracks 

o Propellers are designed to last indefinitely if they do not impact dust, dirt or more. 

BATIERY CARE AND USE 

o Refer to instruction sheet included from the battery manufacturer. Typical information 

follows. 

o Batteries are highly flammable 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 Any battery which puffs up is considered damaged and must not be used. It is in a dangerous 

state. Never charge a puffed up battery. 

o Any battery which holds less than 80% of its rated capacity should be discarded. 

o Cycle test each battery after every 50 cycles or if a battery is suspected to have lost as 

significant amount of its capacity to determine the current capacity. 

o Properly dispose of batteries. First discharge the battery fully 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: 1 C 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 per the manufacturer will provide 300+ cycles. 

Use the lowest charge rate which is practical. 

o Battery Rest Time between discharging and charging: 30 minutes minimum, 1 hour 

maximum. 

o Do not charge if the battery is more than 2°C warmer than ambient, especially if the 

temperature is above 20°C. The outer surface is cooler than the inner core after use. Damage 

will occur when charging a warm battery. 

o Recommended Battery Discharge Amount: 80%. Using more of the capacity of the battery 

will decrease the life cycles 

o As battery temperature approaches freezing the capacity of Lithium Polymer batteries 

decrease. Keep warmer than 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 greater than 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 charge just before use. 

o Fully charged batteries which are not to 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. Over voltage will cause serious damage to electrical equipment. 

00 

PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE 

o ANNUAL INSPECTION (SUGGESTED) 

00 If the 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 disassemble the AV and inspect all components for wear 

and replace any components as required. 

00 Test all batteries for capacity. 

00 Upgrade firmware and software to latest revisions 

o 500 HOUR PM (SUGGESTED) 

00 An approved technician should disassemble the AV 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.