Trimble® ZX5 

Operations Manual for 

unmanned aerial vehicle

Trimble® ZX5

Version 1.0.0 

Revision A

August 2015
Legal information 

Trimble Navigation Limited 

 935 Stewart Drive 

 Sunnyvale, California 94085 

 U.S.A. 

 www.trimble.com 

Copyright and trademarks 

© 2015, Trimble Navigation Limited. All rights reserved. 

Trimble and the Globe and Triangle logo are trademarks of 

Trimble Navigation Limited, registered in the United States and in 

other countries. 

All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. 

For a complete list of all relevant legal notices, refer to the 

Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging Solution User Guide.
Contents

Preface .......................................................................................................................................... 5 

1 Safety ....................................................................................................................................... 6

2 System features ........................................................................................................................ 8

3 General view ............................................................................................................................ 9

4 UAV ........................................................................................................................................ 10

4.1 Orientation ............................................................................................................................ 10 

4.2 Propellers .............................................................................................................................. 10 

4.2.1 Foldable propellers .................................................................................................. 11 

4.2.2 Alternative Propellers: Rigid propellers ................................................................... 12 

4.3 Power supply (LiPo battery pack) .......................................................................................... 13 

4.4 Dome ..................................................................................................................................... 15 

4.5 Circuit points ......................................................................................................................... 15 

4.5.1 Servo connectors ..................................................................................................... 16 

4.5.2 Firmware update (MCU1, MCU2) ............................................................................ 16 

4.5.3 Mission Upload Cable Port ....................................................................................... 17 

4.6 Remote control receiver with antenna ................................................................................. 18 

4.7 Video transmitter with antenna (Full Business Upgrade) ..................................................... 18 

4.8 Flight recorder ....................................................................................................................... 19 

4.9 Acoustical signals................................................................................................................... 20 

5 Camera gimbal ....................................................................................................................... 21

6 Base Station ........................................................................................................................... 22

7 Remote control for the pilot (Pilot) ........................................................................................ 23

7.1 Manual operation .................................................................................................................. 23 

7.1.1 Main functions ......................................................................................................... 24 

7.1.2 Camera features ....................................................................................................... 25 

7.1.3 Additional functions ................................................................................................. 26 

7.1.4 Flying functions (flight mode) .................................................................................. 26 

7.1.5 Other flying functions .............................................................................................. 29 

7.1.6 Multi-menu .............................................................................................................. 31 

7.2 Charging device ..................................................................................................................... 38 

7.3 Announcement ...................................................................................................................... 39 

8 Video receiver (Full business upgrade) ................................................................................... 40

9 Emergency functions .............................................................................................................. 41

9.1 RC-loss (Remote control loses contact) ................................................................................ 41 

9.1.1 RC-loss in manual flight mode with GPS reception.................................................. 41 

9.1.2 RC-loss in manual flight mode without GPS reception ............................................ 41 

9.1.3 RC-loss in GPS flight mode ....................................................................................... 41 

9.1.4 RC-loss in WP flight mode ........................................................................................ 41 

9.2 Battery low Voltage ............................................................................................................... 41 

10 Flight time .............................................................................................................................. 42

11 Charging ................................................................................................................................. 43

12 Daily handling ......................................................................................................................... 47
 ZX5 Operations Manual 4 

12.1 Putting the UAV into service ............................................................................................... 47 

12.2 Putting the UAV out of service ............................................................................................ 48 

12.3 Transportation ..................................................................................................................... 48 

13 Tutorials ................................................................................................................................. 50

13.1 Safety precautions ............................................................................................................... 50 

13.2 Position Hold, flying in the GPS mode ................................................................................. 51 

13.3 Start, hover and land manual .............................................................................................. 53 

13.4 Auto start Assistant ............................................................................................................. 54 

13.5 Auto landing Assistant ......................................................................................................... 55 

13.6 Coming Home ...................................................................................................................... 56 

13.7 Easy Move ........................................................................................................................... 57 

13.8 POI-Mode (Full Business upgrade) ...................................................................................... 59 

13.9 Flying without compass (only possible with RC DC16) ....................................................... 60 

13.10 Flying without height control (only possible with RC DC16) ............................................. 60 

13.11 Calibrating the compass .................................................................................................... 61 

13.11.1 Testing the calibration of the compass ................................................................ 61 

13.11.2 Calibrating the compass ....................................................................................... 61 

 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 5 

Preface 

Congratulations to this very flexible UAV with numerous possibilities. You have bought a high-techproduct „Made in Germany“, that will bring you lots of pleasure and professional work results for a long 

time. 

Please study this manual attentive and learn all the features before use. 

We wish you lots of success! 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 6 

1 Safety 

WARNING – The Trimble ZX5 flying robot is not a toy! This is a precision machine that is 

vulnerable to misuse and may harm people when not operated in a secure manner. 

THIS DRONE MUST ONLY BE OPERATED BY TRAINED PERSONNEL. TRAINING IS AVAILABLE 

AT CERTIFIED TRAINING ORGANIZATIONS OR DIRECTLY AT THE MANUFACTURER. 

OPERATING THE DRONE WITHOUT PROPPER OPERATIONAL TRAINING MAY RESULT IN 

SERIOUS INJURIES UP TO LOSS OF LIFE 

CAUTION – Read this documentation carefully and completely. It is very important to obey 

all instructions. Check all components regularly to ensure a long life. 

 

WARNING – IF MISUSED THIS AIRCRAFT IS CAPABLE OF CAUSING SERIOUS BODILY HARM TO 

THE OPERATOR AND SPECTATORS AS WELL AS PROPERTY DAMAGE. ANY DAMAGE OR 

INJURY OCCURRING DUE TO MISUSE OF THIS PRODUCT IS SOLELY THE OPERATOR’S 

RESPONSIBILITY 

If you lose control of the flight robot you will lose visual sight to the copter. The copter will 

continue flying away and will land somewhere unpredictable for example: 

• on water 

• on a building 

• on a street 

• on a car 

• on a person 

• on a power line 

IN THIS CASE THE COPTER JEOPARDISES OTHER PERSONS AND PRIVATE OR PUBLIC 

PROPERTY AND THE ENVIRONMENT! 

AN OUT OF CONTROL COPTER CAN RESULT IN SERIOUS ACCIDENTS WITH INJURED AND 

DEAD PERSONS ( e.g. TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS etc.)! 

To provide optimum performance, your Trimble ZX5 is powered by a Lithium Polymer (LiPo) battery 

pack. The same properties that make these batteries extremely powerful and lightweight also make 

them dangerous if handled incorrectly. 

CAUTION – Read and understand all information regarding to battery usage and charging 

before first use. 

Refer also to document „Trimble ZX5 Lithium Polymer Batteries Precautions” 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 7 

 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 8 

2 System features 

The Trimble ZX5 is a radio controlled, electric powered aeronautical vehicle capable of vertical starts and 

landings. Thanks to the latest electronic sensors and GPS-receiver it is self-stabilising in every direction. 

Thus the Trimble ZX5 is able it to fly to pre-set waypoints by itself and also hold its position under windy 

conditions. 

The Copter has the ability to transport and position different payloads. Therefor it is for example 

possible to realise stunning video recordings and pictures from completely new angles. The highperformance control unit in the copter provides an unprecedented accuracy. The Copter can be 

controlled by a modern radio control unit or an Apple iPad. To assist with repeated air activity the copter 

is able to learn waypoints and fly them semiautomatically. 

In the maximum stage of extension, complex missions can be planned on the computer which then will 

be performed automatically by the copter. With this feature, huge areas can be surveyed for example in

order to create three-dimensional maps with extreme precision. 

Optional the copter and the transport load can be controlled independently from two different control 

units. The pilot can concentrate on flying while the cameraman takes care of the ideal camera view and

provides the best pictures. 

Even though the system is very complex we made sure to keep the handling as simple as possible. 

In the following we want to explain the system with all its features. 

 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 9 

3 General view

The following image shows the components that will be explained in detail in this manual: 

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 Base station (radio control for pilot with video receiver) 

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Figure 1: General view of the components 

 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 10 

4 UAV 

4.1 Orientation 

The copter is build symmetrically. The front is between the two extension arms with orange brackets. 

4.2 Propellers 

The copter is delivered with one of the following propeller options: 

• rigid propellers or 

• foldable propellers 

There are two different rotation directions for the propellers: counter-clockwise and clockwise. Make 

sure to install the clockwise rotating propellers on the clockwise rotating motors and the counterclockwise rotating propellers on the counter-clockwise rotating motors 

CAUTION – Uncontrolled copter - Risk of damages! 

Only if all propellers are mounted correctly the copter can fly! If one or more propellers 

mounted on a motor with another rotation direction, then the copter cannot be controlled 

by the pilot, flips upside down and will be damaged! 

The propellers are very light, but also frail in case of false handling. Avoid contact to other objects during 

transportation and flight. 

WARNING – Uncontrolled copter 

Risk of injury if control of the copter will be lost! Never fly with a damaged propeller. 

Always replace it with a new one before the next flight. 

CAUTION – Uncontrolled copter 

Risk of damages! 

The propellers have to be properly balanced at all time to avoid vibrations. They can cause 

blurred and out of focus pictures and have a bad influence on the flight characteristics (in 

the worst case they can cause loss of control). Additionally the copter, its frame and the 

motors can be damaged. Pay attention to vibrations and if needed, clean the propellers. 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 11 

CAUTION – Uncontrolled copter - Risk of damages! 

Do not mix your copter with rigid and foldable propellers. Only use one kind of propellers. 

Otherwise the copter can get uncontrollable! 

4.2.1 Foldable propellers 

The foldable propellers are pre-installed by the manufacturer. For inspection and maintenance please 

refer to the “Maintenance Manual”. 

CAUTION – Unstable flying behaviour 

Each foldable propeller is a unit made of 2 blades and a centre piece. The propeller unit is 

balanced by the manufacturer to operate at 8.000 rpms. 

You must not exchange single blades between propeller units! 

 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 12 

4.2.2 Alternative Propellers: Rigid propellers 

Prior using alternative propellers the system MUST be aligned to a new set of parameters for engine 

control. The new set of parameters can be uploaded by the manufacturer only. 

If alternative propellers are being used without this new set of parameters the system WILL NOT 

FUNCTION PROPERLY AND MAY BE OF RISK TO PEOPLE AND PROPERTY. 

Figure 2: Propeller counter-clockwise rotating 

The propeller has to be assembled with the appropriate motor so that the copter can fly. The clockwise

rotating propellers have be installed on the clockwise rotating motors and the counter-clockwise 

rotating propellers on the counter-clockwise rotating motors. 

Figure 3: Assembly of propeller 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 13 

4.3 Power supply (LiPo battery pack) 

The Lithium Polymer battery is characterized by its low weight, high capacity and high power output. 

The copter is operated by two high-power batteries connected in parallel. To get the best performance 

and lifetime, the two batteries should always be used together. The pair of batteries is only as good as 

the bad battery. The batteries are fixed with the hook-and-loop tape to the copter and are then 

connected with the plug. 

Figure 4: Battery packs 

The correct handling of the batteries is essential to delay the inevitable aging of the battery cells. With 

time and use the voltage level of the cell is reduced and the inner resistance is increased: The batteries 

deliver less of current. In order to delay the aging process the LiPo batteries should be used regularly, 

approx. 1x per month. 

WARNING – Burning battery 

Risk of fire and hazardous vapours! First read the document „Trimble ZX5 Lithium Polymer 

Batteries Precautions”. 

CAUTION – Uncontrolled copter 

Risk of damage! Do not separate a battery pack! Always use a battery pack all the lifetime 

together! Otherwise you will damage the batteries. 

 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 14 

CAUTION – Burning battery 

Risk of fire and hazardous vapours! Make sure to follow these advice. 

Life expectancy 

• The voltage in the individual cells should always be between 3.2 V and 4.2 V. Excess or 

low voltage causes damages beyond repair. 

• Charge the LiPos shortly before use (max. 1 - 2 days before). 

• Do not recharge LiPos if they are still full. 

• Do not fly with a used battery, always recharge used batteries beforehand. 

• Avoid transport or storage below 10 degrees Celsius (50 degrees Fahrenheit) (during 

flight the battery stays in temperature due to the current flow). 

Storage 

• Store the LiPos with a rest capacity of 20 - 30 % (if the batteries are full and you don’t 

need to use them for an unknown count of days, it is better to discharge them to the 

storage capacity level). 

• Store the LiPos at about 15 – 20 degrees Celsius (59 – 68 degrees Fahrenheit). 

Charging/Discharging 

• Supervise the charging and discharging at any time (misuse or malfunction of the 

charger and connectors can cause fire). 

• Charge always with connected balancer cable. 

• Use only faultless charging cables. 

• In low outdoor temperature (< 10 degrees Celsius, < 50 degrees Fahrenheit) the 

battery capacity reduces itself down to about 50 %.

General 

• Never short-circuit a LiPo battery. 

• Do not discharge below 3.2 V per cell. 

• Do not recharge directly after use. Let them cool down first. 

• Make sure that the charging device is well ventilated. 

• In case of a fire do not extinct with water, use sand. 

• Do not use deformed or damaged batteries. 

• Read the document „MULTIROTOR Lithium Polymer Batteries Precautions” 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 15 

The next figures show how to mount the battery pack: 

Figure 5: Mounting the battery pack 

4.4 Dome 

The dome protects the electronic components from humidity, dirt and contact. Always unplug the 

battery before removing the dome. 

You have to remove the dome to: 

• Update the firmware. 

• To plug in the cables of the servos. 

• To plug in the cable of the camera trigger. 

To disassemble rotate the cap counter-clockwise and lift it up. 

4.5 Circuit points 

The Copter has numerous connector pins: 

• 6x 3-pin connector for up to 4 servo motors and one camera trigger . 

• Socket for video access. 

• Socket for firmware update. 

• Socket for mission upload cable 

 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 16 

4.5.1 Servo connectors 

The connectors for the camera mount servos (if the mount has servos and not brushless motors) are 

located under the dome. The links are consecutively numbered from left to right as displayed: 

1. Roll compensation 

2. Pitch compensation 

3. Trigger for camera 

4. without function 

5. without function 

6. without function 

 Figure 6: Servo connectors 

Note: Disconnect the power supply before plug-in/-out the servo cables. Otherwise the electronic 

could be damaged! 

4.5.2 Firmware update (MCU1, MCU2) 

To update the firmware connect the mainboard with a computer by using a special cable. There are two 

processors on the mainboard. Depending on which should be updated the cable has to be plugged in 

directly or 180° turned. Only in the correct position the respective update is possible. 

Make sure to keep the firmware of the copter up to date. We are always trying to improve the software 

and features. On our internet site you can inform yourself of all new updates in your own account. There 

you can also find the instruction on how to update correctly. 

Note: Avoid contact with the electronic devices and the conducting paths on the board. Otherwise the 

electronic could be damaged!

 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 17 

Figure 7: Plug for firmware update 

4.5.3 Mission Upload Cable Port 

The Mission Upload Cable Port is for connecting the Mission Upload Cable to upload self defined 

missions created with the software “Groundstation”.

Figure 8: Mission Upload Cable Port 

Before uploading the mission connect the Mission Upload Cable to the port shown in figure Figure 8: 

Mission Upload Cable Port and to the USB port of the computer where you planned the mission. 

 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 18 

4.6 Remote control receiver with antenna 

The remote control receiver works in a range of 2.4 GHz via a dipole-antenna to keep interference as 

low as possible. The yellow antennas are secured by a flexible hose. 

Figure 9: RC-Antenna 

Note: Pay attention to never bend the antennas. They should be aligned in a straight line and in a 90° 

angle to each other. Otherwise the range of the remote control is not as expected. 

4.7 Video transmitter with antenna (Full Business Upgrade) 

The video transmitter is installed into the camera gimbal. It works in a frequency range of 5.8 GHz. It is 

connected with a special video antenna you can see on the picture. The antenna can be adjusted by 

turning it at the plug. Find the ideal position for reception by trying. This also depends on the external 

conditions and the camera in use (shadowing effects). 

 

Figure 10: Video transmitter antenna 

Note: Avoid obstacles or barriers between the copter and the video receiver. They can evoke image 

interference. 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 19 

4.8 Flight recorder 

On the flight-control-panel under the dome there is a slot for a micro SD card. The flight recorder uses 

the micro SD card to memorise all system and sensor data during the flight. If you should have problems 

with the UAV you can import the flight data on the SD-card on your computer, save them and send them 

to the manufacturer for analysis. Special software is necessary to read out the micro SD card. It is 

provided by the manufacturer. To get to the board you have to remove the dome. Press onto the card to 

release it. 

Figure 11: Flight recorder/micro SD card slot 

Note: The data format is only readable with special software. Never process any activity (e.g. copy 

data, format etc.). The required material will be destroyed and is not usable for the UAV anymore. 

The copter can only be started with plugged micro SD card. If you lost or destroyed your card contact 

the manufacturer to get a new one. 

If you have problems it is best to contact the manufacturer first. 

Note: In case of a crash do not power on the copter afterwards. It can cause the overwriting of the last 

flight data and the reason of the problem cannot be analysed. 

 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 20 

4.9 Acoustical signals 

On the frame of the UAV there is a signal transmitter that gives acoustical signals to report different 

conditions. Furthermore, every motor gives a buzz after powering up the copter. 

Legend: _ means a short beep, __ means a long beep 

Acoustic signals after power up 

_ __ _ _ everything OK 

_________ Warning: SD-card or GPS not connected 

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ etc. Warning: can’t receive remote control signal 

__ _ _ _ _ Copter doesn’t stand straight 

__ __ _ _ _ Malfunction: Motor switch is activated without minimum 

 throttle or Coming Home is still active 

__ __ _ _ _ Copter is disabled: register with the manufacturer *1

Acoustic signals during flight: 

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ etc. Alarm: Battery voltage too low 

In addition there are more signals that indicate malfunction. Contact the manufacturer if you hear 

unusual signals. As a precaution in this case do not perform any flights furthermore. 

Note: If there is an acoustic signal for low battery voltage during the flight, you cannot start the 

motors again after landing until you have disconnected the battery. 

*

1

 If the copter is not registered, it is possible to perform 10 demonstration flights. After that the copter 

is disabled. To unlock the copter contact the manufacturer. 

 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 21 

5 Camera gimbal 

The camera mount is adequate to transport the cameras. It provides a straight and stable picture even if 

the copter flies askew to move or has to go against the wind. The roll and yaw axis are controlled by 

brushless motors and an own stabilising unit. The camera can be adjusted manually to define the 

needed pitch to focus the desired object. 

Figure 12: Camera gimbal 

The gimbal has to be powered with an own power switch. It is located at the side of the gimbal. Beside

the power switch there is a small push button for calibration. See maintenance manual to learn the 

functionality of the button. 

 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 22 

6 Base Station 

The base station is the main control for the pilot. It consist a remote control and a monitor with video 

receiver. The pilot operates the copter with the remote control (RC). It is linked to the copter with a 2.4 

GHz radio contact. It receives and shows the telemetry data of the copter (downlink). The remote 

control analyses the received telemetry data and sends acoustical messages to the pilot about the state 

of the copter components (e.g. battery and GPS state, flight mode, etc.). 

In addition it can send data and orders (e.g. geographical coordinates and waypoints) to the copter 

(uplink). 

The copter can be ordered with two kind of remote control: Jeti DC16 or Jeti DS14. 

On the monitor the pilot can see the live view of the transported camera. The monitor (with the video 

receiver) has an own power supply (LiPo battery). 

Figure 13: Base Station 

 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 23 

7 Remote control for the pilot (Pilot) 

7.1 Manual operation 

Remote control DC16 (Full Business Upgrade) 

 

Figure 14: Pilot remote control DC16 

 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 24 

Remote control DS14 

Figure 15: Pilot remote control DS14 

7.1.1 Main functions 

Main Functions

RC Power Power on/power off of the RC 

Press the power button and confirm it with „Yes“ on the menu bar. 

Motors Motor start

Pull the throttle stick completely back and push the motor switch to the top. 

Attention: This is a safety-lock-switch: pull the switch up to move. 

Motor stop 

Pull the throttle stick completely back and push the motor switch down. 

Attention: This is a safety-lock-switch: pull the switch up to move. 

Throttle

(left stick) 

Copter ascent/descent

Height control active 

The Copter keeps the flying height autonomously, if the throttle stick is in the 

middle position. When the throttle stick is pushed forward the copter raises, 

when it is pulled to the back the copter descends. 

Without height control 

You have to control the height by yourself (for advanced pilots only). 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 25 

Main Functions

RC Power Power on/power off of the RC 

Press the power button and confirm it with „Yes“ on the menu bar. 

Motors Motor start

Pull the throttle stick completely back and push the motor switch to the top. 

Attention: This is a safety-lock-switch: pull the switch up to move. 

Motor stop 

Pull the throttle stick completely back and push the motor switch down. 

Attention: This is a safety-lock-switch: pull the switch up to move. 

Throttle

(left stick) 

Copter ascent/descent

Height control active 

The Copter keeps the flying height autonomously, if the throttle stick is in the 

middle position. When the throttle stick is pushed forward the copter raises, 

when it is pulled to the back the copter descends. 

Without height control 

You have to control the height by yourself (for advanced pilots only). 

7.1.2 Camera features 

Main Functins

Cam pitch Camera mount pitches (Full Business Upgrade)

2. Level To activate the 2. function of the sticks 

Pull the stick and keep hold. Now move the other sticks: 

Left Stick left/right: Camera mount rolls 

Right Stick forward/backward: Camera mount pitches 

Trigger Camera trigger

Pull the switch to take a photo or start/stop the video. 

Zoom Camera Zoom

Change the zoom of the lens 

Cam Modus Camera start/stop for different cameras

If you have several different camera integrations, this switch is used for 

starting/stopping the second or third camera. 

Camera

control 

Selector switch for camera control by the pilot or the cameraman

If you are using a separate cameraman remote control, you can select if the 

pilot (switch up) or the cameraman (switch down) has control of the camera 

features. 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 26 

7.1.3 Additional functions 

Additional functions

Voice Reads out the telemetry data shown on the display

Volume For changing the volume of the voice output

7.1.4 Flying functions (flight mode) 

The copter comes with different flying functions. It is possible to fly it completely manual or fully 

automatic. We will now introduce the different possibilities. Some functions will be explained in detail in 

the chapter „Tutorials”. 

Note: There are different GPS-functions available for your copter, which can be bought and activated. 

This means, that if applicable not all described functions can be used with your copter. Look in your 

contract of purchase, to know which GPS-functions you have bought. The manufacturer will inform 

you about the current available functions packet. 

ATTENTION – Some GPS-functions refer to the „starting point”. This means the point where 

the copter can primarily identify its GPS-position, after attaching the batteries (also known 

as the First-fix-position). Generally that is the actual start position. 

ATTENTION – If you start the copter and take off before he has time to define its position, it 

will assign a position in flight. This will then be the „starting position”. 

Additional functions at DC16 (Full Business upgrade) 

The supporting automatic flight functions can be activated in multiple levels with the switch sh and si. 

A higher level needs the activation of the levels below (e.g. GPS only works if the compass works, the

compass only works if the altitude control works, etc.). 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 27 

Figure 16: Flight mode switches 

The following listing starts with the lowest automatic level: 

Manual control

Manual flight control

In this mode all the dynamic flight characteristics of the copter can be fully demonstrated. The control is 

very difficult. 

Activation: pull the switch si backward (switch sh arbitrarily) 

Performance: All flight stabilizing functions are deactivated. The pilot has to steer height, position and 

direction completely manual. 

DANGER – Uncontrolled copter 

Risk of injury if control of the copter will be lost! This flight mode „Manual control” is only 

suitable for model flight experts! Otherwise you lose rapidly the control of the copter and 

the copter will crash! Persons and objects around will be damaged! 

Height control

Automatic height control

In this mode the dynamic flight characteristics of the copter can be fully demonstrated. The altitude is 

kept automatically. The control is medium difficult. 

Activation: Put the switch si in middle position (switch sh arbitrarily) 

Performance: The pilot has to steer the position and the direction. The altitude is kept automatically, 

when the left stick is positioned in the middle. 

DANGER – Uncontrolled copter 

Risk of injury if control of the copter will be lost! This flight mode „Height control” is only 

suitable for advanced pilots! In windy situations the copter will be pushed away and will be 

rotated, if the pilot doesn’t navigate against it! 

Mag control

Automatic direction by magnetic field sensor (Compass)

In this mode the dynamic flight characteristics of the copter can be fully demonstrated. The altitude and 

direction are kept automatically. 

Activation: Push the switch si forward (switch sh backward) 

Performance: The copter keeps the direction and height automatically. The pilot has to steer the 

position manual. 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 28 

DANGER – Uncontrolled copter 

Risk of injury if control of the copter will be lost! This flight mode „Mag control” is only 

suitable for advanced pilots! In windy situations the copter will be pushed away, if the pilot 

doesn’t navigate against it! 

Manual Flight

Flying without GPS-functions

In this mode the dynamic flight characteristics of the copter can be fully demonstrated. The altitude and 

direction are kept automatically. 

Activation: Push the switch sh backward (switch si forward) 

Performance: In this mode all GPS-functions are deactivated. 

This mode is identical to the mode „Mag control“. 

DANGER – Uncontrolled copter 

Risk of injury if control of the copter will be lost! This flight mode „Manual flight” is only 

suitable for advanced pilots! In windy situations the copter will be pushed away, if the pilot 

doesn’t navigate against it! 

GPS Position Hold

Automatic position stabilisation by GPS

In this mode the movement of the copter is controlled by GPS. The speed is limited. Acceleration and 

deceleration are carried out damped. If hovering in one position, it will be held automatic. In flight the 

flight direction is maintained. The copter compensates wind automaticly. 

Activation: Put the switch sh in the middle position (switch si forward) 

Performance: The copter maintains the position and direction even in windy situations. 

GPS Coming Home

Automatic return flight to the starting position

This mode is useful in case of loss of orientation by the pilot or if the mission is completed and the

copter should come back to the starting position to land. 

Activation: Push the switch sh to the top (switch si to the top) 

Performance: The copter flies back to the starting position 

Cancelation: This function can be cancelled by slightly moving either the left or the right stick. The 

copter changes into the „Position-Hold“ mode. 

CAUTION – Crash against barriers 

Risk of damage! In flight mode „Coming Home” the copter always takes the shortest and 

direct way back to its starting point. The pilot has to make sure it flies in an altitude with 

no barriers. 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 29 

Note: If a problem should occur during the flight, like e.g. a propeller is damaged, it is possible that the 

copter can‘t hold its GPS-Position anymore. Then it is useful to deactivate the GPS-function and 

activate the mode „Manual flight”. Then the copter can be landed controlled by the pilot. 

DANGER – Unreliable GPS signal 

Risk of injury if control of the copter will be lost! 

The copter switches off the GPS-functions automatically, if the satellite receiving power 

drops below 6 satellites or the position accuracy rises above 8 m. In this case the pilot has 

to resume the manual steering. Possible causes: satellite problems, atmospheric 

disturbance, signal influence by other radio sources, etc. 

7.1.5 Other flying functions 

There are further flight functions that you can apply in different situation that help you master your

tasks. 

Note: There are different GPS-functions available for your copter, which can be bought and activated. 

This means, that if applicable, not all described functions can be used with your copter. Look in your

contract of purchase, to know which GPS-functions you have bought. The manufacturer will inform 

you about the current available functions packet. You can look up the released functions for your 

copter under the menu point „Features” 

Auto start

Automatic start function

Function to facilitate the start 

Requirement: The copter is standing on the ground and the motors are running in idle. 

Activation: Push the switch sc forward 

Performance: The copter starts and rises up to approx. 2 m. 

Auto landing

Automatic landing function 

Function to facilitate the landing 

Requirement: The copter is flying 

Activation: Pull the switch sc backwards 

Performance: The copter lands automatically, the motor speed shuts down. 

Attention: Push the throttle stick into minimum immediately after landing. Under certain circumstances 

the motor speed can be increased again after 2 sec for safety reason! 

Note: Once the copter touches ground, it shouldn’t be doing any sideway movements otherwise he can 

overturn. To eliminate this use the GPS-position-hold mode or keep the copter in position manually. 

If the copter is still over 10 m high it will descend faster, below 10 m the descending rate slows down. 

Cancelation: This function can be cancelled by slightly moving the left stick. 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 30 

CAUTION – Risk of damage! Flight mode „Auto landing”: On hilly ground the chosen landing 

place can be 10 m higher than the starting position. It is possible that the copter descends 

too fast and touches ground with too much speed, which can cause damage. In this case it 

is better to land manually. 

Go Ahead

Automatic alignment function

This function is a fast help in case the pilot doesn’t remember or can’t see in which direction the copter 

is aligned. It turns the copter once-only so that he has the starting point behind him. This means that the 

right-stick-steering conforms to the resulting movement of the copter. 

Requirement: The copter is flying and a minimum of 20 m away of the starting point. 

Activation: Pull the switch sb backward 

Performance: The copter turns in flight on the spot so that the starting point is behind him. 

Easy Move

Extended automatic alignment function

This function helps the pilot to manoeuvre the copter more easily. To keep the steering more intuitively, 

the alignment of the copter is not considered anymore during conversion of the steering commands. 

This means that the copter always flies in the direction in which the right stick is shifted regardless of 

where the copter is located. The imaginary line between the starting point and the copter equals the 

stick axis (forward – backward) of the right stick. 

Requirement: The copter is flying and a minimum of 20 m away of the starting point. 

Activation: Push the switch sb forward 

Behaviour outside the 20 m radius: From the view of the pilot the copter always moves analog to the 

movement of the right stick regardless in which position the copter is directed. 

Example 1: Right stick to the front: the copter always flies straight away from the starting point. 

Example 2: Right stick to the back: the copter always flies straight towards the starting point. 

Example 3: Right stick to the right: the copter flies spirally around the starting point. 

Behaviour inside the 20 m radius: Inside the 20 m radius the copter behaves slightly different to avoid 

the problems of the GPS inaccuracy. The directing of the copter stays the same as it was on the point of 

activation. 

Example 4: The function is activated inside the 20 m radius, while the copter is directed to the NW 

(45°). Right stick pushed forward: the copter flies towards the NW. After passing the 20 m radius it 

carries on flying in this direction, because it behaves like it is described in example 1. 

Example 5: The function is activated inside the 20 m radius, while the copter is directed to the NW 

(45°). Right stick pulled backward: the copter flies towards the SE (225°/-135°). After passing the 20 

m radius it changes direction and flies backwards towards the starting point like it is described in 

example 2. 

Example 6: The function is activated inside the 20 m radius, while the copter is directed to the NW 

(45°). Right stick to the right: the copter flies towards the SW (135°). After passing the 20 m radius 

it changes direction and flies spirally around the starting point like it is described in example 3. 

Behaviour while entering the 20 m radius: When the copter is flying into the 20 m radius, the current 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 31 

Go Ahead

orientation is fixed set. That has the positive result that the copter doesn’t change direction while 

entering (if the right stick is held continuously).

Behaviour while exiting the 20 m radius: When the copter is flying out of the 20 m radius, the front is at 

the end of an imaginary line from the starting point to the copter. If applicable the copter will change 

direction. 

You will find an exercise in the tutorial in this document. 

7.1.6 Multi-menu 

The multi menu shows the current telemetry data of the copter. In the Extended Menu it also enables 

you to send instructions to the copter and make adjustments to it. 

The telemetry data are shown on the first three pages, which you can page through with the menu 

buttons 2 and 3. On page 4 you can reach the Extended Menu via the Jetibox. This offers you the 

following possibilities: 

• Activate extended functions 

• Set the parameters 

• Calibrating the sensors 

• Checking the problem report 

• Indicate the general copter parameter 

To operate the multi-menu you need the following buttons: 

Menu button 1 - 5

With these buttons you can navigate through the menu.

Menu changeover switch

With this button you can change between „telemetry data“ and „Jetibox“. 

Attention: The changeover only works on page 4. 

7.1.6.1 Telemetry data page 1 

Voltage Voltage value of the copter batteries 

If the voltage drops below 14.5 V you 

will hear a warning in frequent 

intervals: „Warning, low battery” 

Capacity Spent battery capacity of the copter 

batteries 

Compass Alignment of the copter: 

 0° = N 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 32 

 90° = O 

180° = S 

 -90° = W 

Altitude Height related to the starting point 

Distance Horizontal distance 

Flight Time Flight time since motor start 

<hh:mm:ss> 

7.1.6.2 Telemetry data page 2 

Latitude Geographical latitude of the current 

GPS-position 

Longitude Geographical longitude of the current 

GPS-position 

Satellites Number of the current receiving 

satellites (the more satellites, the 

better the accuracy of the position) 

GPS Fix Quality of the specified position: 

0D – no satellites, 

1D – up to 4 satellites, 

3D – 5 or more satellites 

Note: The copter requires a minimum 

of 3D Fix, to use the GPS-mode. 

Position Acc Accuracy of position (the lower it is, 

the more accurate are the GPS 

functions) 

Speed Acc Accuracy of speed (the lower it is, the 

more accurate are the GPS functions) 

7.1.6.3 Telemetry data page 3 

Speed Current flying speed 

Current Power consumption of the copter 

Temperature Surrounding temperature in the copter 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 33 

7.1.6.4 Telemetry data page 4 

On page 4 you have access to the integrated „Jetibox“. 

With this you can modify the parameters of the Jeti-receiver 

(radio receiver). The operation is described in the manual 

of the Jeti remote control. Normally there is no need to 

change these parameters. 

In the Jetibox you will find the extended menu of the copter. 

In the following chapter is describedhow to open this menu. 

7.1.6.5 Extended menu 

Follow these steps to select the extended menu: 

• Go to the telemetry data page 4 

 Telemetry menu activated 

• Press the button „menu-change-over“ 

(ESC-button) to reach the „Jetibox” 

(this is indicated by the different functions 

of the menu buttons). 

 Jetibox menu activated 

• Turn to the page „MX” with the menu button 2. 

When you press menu button 3 now, you will 

reach the extended menu (see next page). 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 34 

 Entry into the extended menu 

 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 35 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 36 

Top menu 

item 

Sub-menu item Significance Comment

Functions POI-Coordinates Here you can define the GPScoordinates and the height 

above starting point for a POI 

(Point of interest). The copter 

will aim for it after the 

activation of the POI function. 

In the chapter „Tutorials“ in this 

manual, it is described in detail how 

to use this function correctly. 

POI-Mode Here you can activate and 

deactivate the POI function. 

Settings Select Config It is possible to appoint up to 4 

various configurations, to select 

different flight performances. At 

present only configuration1 is 

defined. 

At present only use configuration 1.

Magnetic 

declination 

The actual value for the 

magnetic declination (the 

correction value for the up-todate interpretation of the 

magnetic field). Visit the 

website to calculate the value 

for your scheduled location: 

www.ngdc.noaa.gov/geomagweb/#declination 

Inquire about the correct declination 

value of your location and enter it 

here. 

Calibration Gyro offset Calibration of the gyro compass 

sensors 

Note: For this procedure the 

copter has to stand absolutely 

still. 

The copter is calibrated on delivery.

Do not change any settings without 

consulting the manufacturer. 

Acc offset Calibration of the acceleration The copter is calibrated on delivery. 

CAUTION – Uncontrolled copter 

Risk of damage! If the „magnetic declination” is set wrong, the GPS functions does 

not work proper. The copter cannot fly correctly! The pilot loses the control. The 

copter and around person and objects can get damaged! 

CAUTION – Uncontrolled copter 

Risk of damage! If the „gyro offset” is calibrated wrong, the copter cannot fly 

correctly! The pilot loses the control. The copter and around person and objects can 

get damaged! 

CAUTION – Uncontrolled copter 

Risk of damage! If the „acc offset” is calibrated wrong, the copter cannot fly 

correctly! The pilot loses the control. The copter and around person and objects can 

get damaged! 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 37 

Top menu 

item 

Sub-menu item Significance Comment

sensors 

Note: For this procedure the 

copter has to stand absolutely 

straight. 

Do not change any settings without 

consulting the manufacturer. 

Note: If the copter is calibrated 

wrong, it cannot fly correct! 

Compass Calibration of the compass 

This procedure is explained in 

the chapter „Tutorials“. 

The copter is calibrated on delivery.

Do not change any settings without 

consulting the manufacturer. 

Infos-Errors

(Numbers 

of incidents)

Battery low The battery voltage dropped 

below 13.9 V during the last 

flight. 

The battery was flown to long or 

strained too much. If this error 

occurs too often, you should land 

earlier or consider a new battery. 

Radio control The radio contact was 

temporarily lost during the last 

flight. 

This can happen sometimes if the 

copter is being shadowed by e.g. an 

obstacle. 

I2C0 Internal error This error is not allowed to occur. *1

GPS time out The GPS receiver delivers no 

data. 

This error is not allowed to occur. *1

Magnetometer The magnetometer sends 

incorrect data. 

This error is not allowed to occur. *1

ADC The analog-digital-converter 

sends incorrect data. 

This error is not allowed to occur. *1

Main overrun Internal error This error is not allowed to occur. *1

SPI1 overrun Internal error This error is not allowed to occur. *1

Spurious ISR Internal error This error is not allowed to occur. *1

Stack overflow Internal error This error is not allowed to occur. *1

CAUTION – Uncontrolled copter 

Risk of damage! If the compass is calibrated wrong, the copter cannot fly correctly! 

The pilot loses the control. The copter and around person and objects can get 

damaged! 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 38 

Top menu 

item 

Sub-menu item Significance Comment

Infos-Dr

one 

Config page Current configuration set. Can be defined under the menupoint „Settings – Select Config“ 

Model number Model number of the copter Static

Serial number Serial number of the copter Static

Motor position Set option of the possible motor 

configuration. 

Static

Features Released functionalities For the copter there are different 

GPS-functions available, which can 

be bought in various function 

packages. The manufacturer will 

inform you about the current 

available packages. 

GPS Rx version Software-version of the GPS 

receiver 

Flight counter Number of flights of this copter

Flight time Overall flight time of this copter

Software MCU1 Software-version of the 

processor „MCU1“ 

You can update the software of your 

copter via the website of the 

manufacturer. 

Software MCU2 Software-version of the 

processor „MCU2“ 

You can update the software of your 

copter via the website of the 

manufacturer. 

Table 1: Extended menu 

*

1

 If this error occurs please contact a Trimble service station. 

7.2 Charging device 

In the top right corner of the display you can see the charge state of the radio control. The capacity is 

sufficient for many hours. When the charge state gets to low you can recharge it with the provided 

charging device. Please see the manual of the radio control for detailed instructions. 

 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 39 

7.3 Announcement 

Some conditions and events are announced via voice output. If there is a lot of noise around you, you 

can use earphones to understand better. The radio control provides for this a 3.5 mm connection bush. 

After connecting the copter batteries, all motor control units give an acoustic signal (peep), followed by 

the announcement of the current flight mode. During the following flight status further announcements 

are made according to the events: 

Announcement Significance

GPS OK The GPS satellite reception is very good. The GPS functions can be used.

GPS control The flight mode „Position-Hold“ is set. The copter keeps its position 

automatically. 

Height control The flight mode „Height Control“, which holds the height of the copter 

automatically, is set. 

Mag control The flight mode „Mag Control“, which holds the alignment of the copter, is 

set. 

Coming home The „Coming-Home“ function is activated. The copter flies back to the 

starting point. 

Easy Move Mode The „Easy Move Mode“ is activated.

Set rear orientation The „Go-Ahead“ function is activated. The copter aligns itself.

POI Mode The „POI” mode is activated.

Waypoint The „Waypoint” mode is activated.

Auto start The copter starts automatically.

Auto landing The copter lands automatically.

Attention: Emergency 

landing 

The copter conducts an emergency landing. The pilot can still readjust the 

position and the height. 

Warning: No flight 

recorder 

There is no SD-card in the flight recorder.

Warning: No GPS The reception of the GPS-satellites is very bad. The GPS functions are 

deactivated. 

Note: The copter is flying in manual mode, the pilot has to hold the 

position. 

Warning: Low battery The battery voltage is reaching minimum level. Pay attention to the voltage 

and make sure to land the copter before it reaches a voltage of 3,5V per 

cell (that equals 14.0 V for a 4S battery). 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 40 

8 Video receiver (Full business upgrade) 

The video receiver works self-sufficient. It has a separate electric power supply and receives the video 

signal direct from the copter. It reproduces the picture on the monitor. The complete package (receiver, 

monitor, battery) can be either fixed to the remote control or onto a tripod. To display the picture you 

have to attach the battery and switch on the monitor. 

If the battery capacity gets too low a red LED will illuminate. This is located on the bottom left corner of 

the monitor front side. 

Note: The battery type is LiPo battery. Make sure not to discharge the battery below 3.2 V per cell 

(equals 9.6 V for the 3S battery). Please consider the general advice for all LiPos as described in 

chapter 4.3 of this manual, to ensure a long life expectancy. 

Figure 18: Video receiver front view/back view 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 41 

9 Emergency functions 

The equipment possesses various emergency functions. 

9.1 RC-loss (Remote control loses contact) 

9.1.1 RC-loss in manual flight mode with GPS reception 

The copter goes automatically into „GPS position hold”, waits 20 seconds and then conducts an 

emergency landing. When it touches ground you have to switch off the motors manually. 

9.1.2 RC-loss in manual flight mode without GPS reception 

The copter automatically conducts an emergency landing. When it touches ground you have to switch 

off the motors manually. 

9.1.3 RC-loss in GPS flight mode 

The copter waits 20 seconds and then conducts an emergency landing. When it touches ground you 

have to switch off the motors manually. 

9.1.4 RC-loss in WP flight mode 

The copter waits 20 seconds and then flies directly to the starting point (coming home). Then it lands

automatically. When it touches ground you have to switch off the motors manually. 

Note: Even when the emergency mode is active the drone can be steered at all times. It then always 

has the tendency to land. 

As soon as the RC picks up a signal again, the procedure is cancelled. The copter can be operated as 

usual. 

9.2 Battery low Voltage 

If the battery voltage drops to „very low” the copter automatically activates the „position-hold” mode

and then conducts an emergency landing. The copter is still controllable. When it touches ground you 

have to switch off the motors manually. 

The very low voltage limit is 3.3 V per cell. That equals 13.2 V for a 4S battery. 

 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 42 

10Flight time 

The flight time depends on the used battery capacity, the weight of the battery, the weight of the load 

and the outside temperature. It can vary between some minutes up to an hour. 

You can ascertain the flight time for your copter with camera by e.g. letting it hover on the spot in 5 m 

altitude until the battery voltage drops to 14.0V. That is your maximum flight time which is reduced 

depending on the flight dynamic and the age of the battery. 

 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 43 

11Charging 

This chapter describes in detail the steps to charge the LiPo battery pack. The charging of the LiPo 

batteries has to be done carefully. Please respect the hazard warnings. 

Here you can see all components of the charging unit: 

CAUTION – Burning battery 

Risk of fire and hazardous vapours! Never connect the battery power adapter cable to the 

LiPo battery while the adapter cable is not connected to the charger! Otherwise there is a 

risk of a short circuit! 

Figure 19: Charger components 

 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 44 

Figure 20: NEVER connect only the power adapter cable to the battery! 

1. First connect the battery power adapter cable (plus and minus) with the charger: Put the red 

connector into the red socket and the black connector into the black socket. 

 

Figure 21: Power cable adapter 

NEVER!
 ZX5 Operations Manual 45 

2. The second step is to connect the balancer cable adapter with the charger: 

 

 Figure 22: Balancer cable adapter 

3. The next step is to connect the LiPo battery 

Figure 23: LiPo battery connection 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 46 

CAUTION – Burning battery 

Risk of fire and hazardous vapours! Always connect the balancer cable during battery 

charging! Otherwise the cells can be overloaded. This will damage the battery! First read 

the document ”MULTIROTOR Lithium Polymer Batteries Precautions” 

4. Set the correct switch positions: 

Figure 24: Charger switch positions 

5. At last plug in the power cable to the AC plug – the charging will start: 

Figure 25: AC power cable 

CAUTION – Burning battery 

Risk of fire and hazardous vapours! Never leave the charger unattended! Otherwise you 

cannot recognize malfunctions! 

6. If the green LED lights up the battery is full. 

7. First disconnect the AC power cable. 

8. After that disconnect the battery power cable. 

9. Then disconnect the battery balancer cable. 

10. Now charge the second LiPo battery of the battery pack (continue with step 3). 

CAUTION – Burning battery 

Risk of fire and hazardous vapours! To inhibit a fast fire spreading in case of a burning 

battery use a fireproof base under the LiPo battery and remove highly combustible 

materials around the battery. Do not charge the LiPo battery unattended or overnight. 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 47 

12Daily handling 

12.1 Putting the UAV into service 

Pre flight check 

• Check whether all batteries are charged (LiPo's, remote control, camera, video receiver). 

• Check the propellers: They have to be clean, free of damages and screwed tightly. 

• Check the propellers: Is the rotation direction correctly? 

• Check if the locking mechanism of the arms are fixed. 

• Check if all parts are tight. 

• Check that the copter is well balanced in every direction. 

• Position the copter on even ground and orientate it correct (orange arms to the front). 

• Check that the skids can’t get caught from the ground. 

• Switch on the remote control. 

• Plug in the flight batteries (make sure to plug them in completely). 

• Switch on the camera. 

• Switch on the monitor. 

• Check all camera settings, date and time. 

• Check that the trigger for the camera works. 

• Check if the camera is free to move with the remote control (yaw and pitch). 

• Check that all switches on the remote control are in basic position (height control and compass 

active, GPS as desired on or off). 

• Wait until the GPS reception reaches a precision of less than 4 m if possible. 

• Start the motors. 

• Lift off. 

• If you started without GPS functions, activate them and make sure that the copter holds it position. 

• Be prepared, at all time, to deactivate the GPS functions and fly the copter manual. Always observe 

the alignment and flight direction of the copter. 

 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 48 

12.2 Putting the UAV out of service 

• Land the copter. 

• Switch off the motors. 

• Switch off the camera. 

• Unplug the flight batteries. 

• Switch off the remote control 

• Check the copter for damages. 

12.3 Transportation 

For transportation stow the copter, the base station and the gimbal into the transportation box. Secure 

the equipment well in the vehicle. Watch out especially for the propellers. They shouldn’t have any 

contact with other objects. Check the equipment again after transport. 

Figure 27: Transportation of gimbal and base station 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 49 

Figure 1: Transportation of copter 

 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 50 

13Tutorials 

These tutorials shall help you to get to know the various complex functions of the copter and to learn

how to operate them. Before you start, read the safety precautions carfully.

13.1 Safety precautions 

DANGER – Propellers with cut surface 

Risk of injury! Before starting the motors keep proper distance to the copter of minimum 

3 m. Ensure all other person have a distance to the copter of minimum 3 m. 

DANGER – Propellers with cut surface 

Risk of injury! If the propellers are rotating don’t grab to the copter. Ensure all other 

person do not grab to the copter. Do not leave the copter unattended with battery 

connected to it. Always disconnect the battery when not flying. 

DANGER – Uncontrolled copter 

Risk of injury if control of the copter will be lost! 

• Do not fly near people on the ground or objects in the air. 

• Do not fly outside on rainy or windy days or at night. 

• Do not fly near high tension lines, electrical substations, high structures or 

communication facilities. 

• Never fly this aircraft where damage to property or injury to persons may result if loss 

of control occurs. 

• Do not fly over gathering of people. 

• Always fly in sight with the copter. 

• Avoid flying over traffic on the ground. 

• Always be prepared to make an emergency landing, without endangering others or 

damaging their properties. 

• If you don’t have any experience with model helicopters or model multi-copters, 

practice with a flight simulator on the computer. 

 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 51 

CAUTION – Claims for damages! 

Never fly without an industrial insurance and a special aviation liability insurance! We 

recommend taking out a comprehensive insurance policy. A crash due to a mistake by the 

pilot or technical problems can never be excluded. 

DANGER – Uncontrolled copter 

Risk of injury if control of the copter will be lost! Do always examine the copter closely 

after a hard landing or a crash. A crooked arm or motor, for example, can cause bad flight 

characteristics. If you are unsure contact a Trimble service station! 

13.2 Position Hold, flying in the GPS mode 

Purpose: 

Learning to fly the copter with GPS, compass and altitude control. 

Environmental conditions: 

Little up to no wind, lots of space, no obstacles, even and soft ground with low vegetation. 

Degree of difficulty: 

Simple 

Switch setting for starting: 

Remote control DC16: 

 si: Mag control (forward) 

 sh: GPS-Position-Hold (middle position) 

Remote control DS14: 

 se: GPS-Position-Hold (middle position) 

sc: Neutral (middle position) 

sb: Neutral (middle position) 

Process: 

• Start motors. 

• Start: accelerate, let the copter climb vertical up to about 5 m height (make sure that the skids 

don’t get caught in vegetation. The copter would do a looping into the ground and egt damaged). 

• Practice flying in all directions. 

Observe how the movement of the stick is converted by the copter. Try flying various figures e.g. circle, 

triangle, rectangle, figure of eight. 

Try a different method: only use the right stick to fly forward and the left stick to steer the direction. 

Turn the copter after a couple of meters flight path. You should end up at the starting point. 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 52 

• If you need a short brake or lose the orientation, just let go of the sticks. The copter will 

immediately keep its position and hover even if it is windy. 

• Observe the battery voltage and the flight time. Consider that the landing takes a couple of minutes 

while your first flights and time it accordingly. 

• Landing: reduce the acceleration slowly and attempt to descend vertical. On the last centimetres 

take the throttle away completely and switch off the motors immediately after touching the 

ground. You can also use the auto-landing function (only with integrated camera). 

Increase the degree of difficulty: 

a. Perform this exercise in lightly windy conditions. 

b. Turn the copter occasionally around 90/180/270 degrees and keep on operating him 

controlled. 

 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 53 

13.3 Start, hover and land manual 

Purpose: 

Learning how to fly the copter without GPS functions, but with compass and altitude control. You should 

repeat this exercise until you can start, land and fly confident. 

Environmental conditions: 

Little up to no wind, lots of space, no obstacles, even and soft ground with low vegetation. 

Degree of difficulty: 

Medium 

Switch setting for starting: 

Remote control DC16: 

 si: Mag control (forward) 

 sh: Manual flight (backward) 

Remote control DS14: 

 se: Manual flight (backward) 

sc: Neutral (middle position) 

sb: Neutral (middle position) 

Process: 

• Start motors. 

• Start: accelerate, let the copter climb vertical up to about 5 m height. 

• Practice flying in all directions without turning the copter. 

• If you need a short brake or lose the orientation, activate the GPS position hold function (DC16: 

switch si in the middle position/ DS14: switch se in the middle position). The copter hovers on the 

spot and you can relax. 

• Landing: reduce the throttle slowly and attempt to descend vertical. On the last centimetres take 

the throttle away completely and switch off the motors immediately after touching the ground. 

Increase the degree of difficulty: 

a) Perform this exercise in lightly windy conditions. 

b) Turn the copter occasionally around 90/180/270 degrees and keep on operating him controlled. 

Note: Even if flying with GPS is more easily always practice flying manual as well. There are different 

reasons for the GPS to be interrupted sometimes (e.g. satellite problems, atmospheric disturbances, 

other radio transmitters, etc.). 

 

 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 54 

13.4 Auto start Assistant 

Purpose: 

Learning to use the auto start function. 

Degree of difficulty: 

Simple 

Switch setting for starting: 

Remote control DC16: 

 si: Mag control (forward) 

 sh: GPS-Position-Hold (middle position) 

Remote control DS14: 

 se: GPS-Position-Hold (middle position) 

sc: Neutral (middle position) 

sb: Neutral (middle position) 

Process: 

• Start motors. 

• Start: activate the auto start function by pushing the switch sc forward. 

• The copter starts autonomous and hovers in about 2 m height. 

Note: Make sure that the skids don’t get caught in the vegetation. 

 

 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 55 

13.5 Auto landing Assistant 

Attention: The auto landing should only be activated with an integrated camera, as the centre of 

gravity is different when there is no camera installed. Remain highly concentrated at all times. 

Purpose: 

Learning how to use the auto landing function. 

Degree of difficulty: 

Simple 

Switch setting for starting: 

Remote control DC16: 

 si: Mag control (forward) 

 sh: GPS-Position-Hold (middle position) 

Remote control DS14: 

 se: GPS-Position-Hold (middle position) 

sc: Neutral (middle position) 

sb: Neutral (middle position) 

Process: 

• Start motors. 

• Start: accelerate, let the copter climb vertical up to about 30 m height. 

• Activate the auto landing function by pulling the switch sc backward. 

• The copter lands autonomous. 

Note: The rate of descent slows automatically in a height of 10 m. 

 

 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 56 

13.6 Coming Home 

Purpose: 

Learning how to use the coming home function. 

Degree of difficulty: 

Simple 

Switch setting for starting: 

Remote control DC16: 

 si: Mag control (forward) 

 sh: GPS-Position-Hold (middle position) 

Remote control DS14: 

 se: GPS-Position-Hold (middle position) 

sc: Neutral (middle position) 

sb: Neutral (middle position) 

Process: 

• Start motors 

• Start: accelerate, let the copter climb vertical up to about 5 m height 

• Fly away around 50 m. 

• Activate the coming-home function by pushing the switch sh forward. 

• The copter flies autonomous back to the starting point. 

Note: Make sure there are no obstacles in the copters way. If necessary cancel the coming home 

function by lightly moving one stick or by activating the position hold function with the switch 

sh (DC16) / se (DS14). 

 

 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 57 

13.7 Easy Move 

Purpose:

Learning how to use the easy move mode. For this we will imagine the following situation: You want to 

film a car driving on a straight road. The car should approach from behind, pass the copter and then 

drive away to the front. The copter should fly slower than the car, parallel next to the road. The difficulty 

is flying the copter straight on and at the same time aligned with the car. That is no problem with the 

easy move mode. 

Degree of difficulty: 

Simple 

Switch setting for starting: 

Remote control DC16: 

 si: Mag control (forward) 

 sh: GPS-Position-Hold (middle position) 

Remote control DS14: 

 se: GPS-Position-Hold (middle position) 

sc: Neutral (middle position) 

sb: Neutral (middle position) 

Process: 

• Choose a starting point in the desired distance to the road only about 30 m before the place where 

the recording should start. 

• Start the copter (when GPS ok). 

• Align the copter along an imaginary line parallel to the road. 

• Activate Easy Move. Push the switch sb forward, the current direction is now the front, inside the 

20 m radius. Outside the 20 m radius the front is always on the imaginary line from the copter to 

the starting point. 

• Bring the copter into the height you want. 

• Align the copter backwards to the car. 

• Start the recording of the video image. 

• Fly parallel to the road in the desired speed by simple pushing the right stick forward. 

• At the same time turn the copter with the left stick so that it is always aligned to the car. 

• Latest after 150 m fly the copter back towards you by simply pulling the right stick backward or 

using the coming home function. 

• Land the copter. 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 58 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 59 

13.8 POI-Mode (Full Business upgrade) 

Purpose: 

Learning how to use the POI function. For this we will imagine the following situation: You want to fly 

around a tower in a defined non-varying distance and take pictures of it from all angles. 

Degree of difficulty: 

High 

Switch setting for starting: 

Remote control DC16: 

 si: Mag control (forward) 

 sh: GPS-Position-Hold (middle position) 

Remote control DS14: 

 se: GPS-Position-Hold (middle position) 

sc: Neutral (middle position) 

sb: Neutral (middle position) 

Process: 

• Start the copter (when GPS ok). 

• Fly exactly above the tower top (use the camera, which is directed vertically down, as help). 

• Set this position as POI in the extended menu. 

• For POI height set half of the height of the tower to record the total tower. 

• Fly to the point where you want to start the recording of the video image. 

• Start the POI mode (in the extended menu). 

• Start the recording of the video image. 

• Fly around the tower in your desired speed (simply by pushing the right stick to the left or the right

for the whole time). 

• Stop the recording of the video image. 

• Deactivate POI mode (in the extended menu). 

• Land the copter. 

Note: The POI position only stays memorised as long as the copter has power. If you change the 

batteries you have to set the POI again. 

 

 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 60 

13.9 Flying without compass (only possible with RC 

DC16) 

You can deactivate the automatic alignment function (compass) by putting the switch si in middle 

position (only DC16). If you fly without compass, all GPS functions don’t work. During the flight, it can 

happen that the copter turns itself due to wind or torsional moments. Try to compensate this manually.

Observe closely the direction of the copter, so that you don’t lose the orientation. 

13.10 Flying without height control (only possible with 

RC DC16) 

You can deactivate the automatic height control by pulling the switch si backward (only DC16). If you fly 

without height control, all GPS functions and the compass don’t work. In this mode you have to steer 

the height, direction and position manual. This is the most complex flight mode. It is recommended that 

only experts use it. 

DANGER – Uncontrolled copter 

Risk of injury if control of the copter will be lost! If you switch the height control on or off 

during flight, it can cause an increase or loss of height (depending on the position of the 

throttle stick). You have to regulate the copter by using the throttle stick. 

Change the height control only if you have enough space over and under the copter, so 

that you have time to get accustomed to the new situation! 

 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 61 

13.11 Calibrating the compass 

The compass only has to be calibrated new in exceptional cases. Generally the calibration in the factory 

is sufficient. 

If you notice that the copter doesn’t fly direct to a waypoint, but flies circular around it, it can mean that 

the compass is not calibrated correctly. 

DANGER – Uncontrolled copter 

Risk of injury if control of the copter will be lost! If the compass is calibrated wrong, the 

copter cannot fly correctly! The pilot loses the control. The copter and around person and 

objects can get damaged! 

13.11.1 Testing the calibration of the compass 

You can test the correct calibration of the compass: 

Take the copter outside to a place without metal in a radius of a couple of meters. 

• Put the copter on the ground and adjust it with the help of a commercially available compass 

towards the north. 

• On the display of the remote control, telemetry data page 1, you should see a compass data of 

about 0°. The tolerance is +/-2 degrees. 

• Tilt the copter slightly to the front but keep him facing north. The display is allowed to change only

very minimal. 

• Stand him back straight and tilt him to the left. The display still has to stay about 0°. 

• Turn the copter 90° to the right. The display now has to show about 90°. 

• Turn the copter again 90° to the right. The display now has to show about 180°. 

• Turn the copter again 90° to the right. The display now has to show about -90°. 

If one compass point isn’t displayed correctly (more than +/- 2°), the compass has to be calibrated (see 

the next chapter). 

13.11.2 Calibrating the compass 

How to calibrate the compass: 

• Go into the extended menu and choose: „Calibration - Compass“ 

• Press the menu button 3 (arrow down) to display: „Rotate around the Pitch-Axis“ 

• Now the X-sensor is being calibrated. 

• Lift the copter up, align it towards the north and turn it around its pitch-axis. You will hear a signal 

(peep). Now turn the copter around this axis (at least one complete turn) and keep turning it until 

the signals stop. At the same time move the copter slightly to the left and right (about +/- 10 

degree). 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 62 

• Press the menu button 3 (arrow down) again to display: „Rotate around the Roll-Axis“ 

• Now the Y-sensor is being calibrated. 

• Lift the copter up, align it to the north turned 90° and turn it around the roll-axis. You will hear a

signal again (peep). Now turn the copter around this axis (at least one complete turn) and keep 

turning it until the signals stop. At the same time move the copter slightly to the left and right 

(about +/- 10 degree). 

• Press the menu button 3 (arrow down) again to display: „Again around the Roll-Axis“ 

• Now the Z-sensor is being calibrated. 

• Lift the copter up, hold it just like before and turn it again around the roll-axis. You will hear again a 

signal (peep). Now turn the copter around this axis again (at least one complete turn) and keep 

turning it until the signals stop. At the same time move the copter slightly to the left and right 

(about +/- 10 degree). 

• Press the menu button 3 (arrow down) to display: „Offset (XYZ)“ 

• Press the menu button 3 (arrow down) to display: „Scale (XYZ)“ 

• Test the calibration as described in the previous chapter. 

• If the display differs in just one of the four points of the compass, you have to repeat the whole 

procedure.