# Trimble® ZX5



# Operations Manual for unmanned aerial vehicle 

# Trimble® ZX5

Version 1.0.0 Revision A August 2015Legal 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 rese rved. Trimble and the Globe and Triangle logo are tradema rks of Trimble Navigation Limited, registered in the Unite d States and in other countries. All other trademarks are the property of their resp ective 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 U pgrade) ........................................... .......... 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 recept ion................................................ .. 41 9.1.2 RC-loss in manual flight mode without GPS rec eption ............................................ 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 ....................................

................................................... .................................. 47ZX5 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 ...................

................................................... ................. 61ZX5 Operations Manual 5



# Preface

Congratulations to this very flexible UAV with nume rous possibilities. You have bought a high-techproduct „Made in Germany“, that will bring you lots of pleasure and professional work results for a lo ng time. Please study this manual attentive and learn all th e 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 o perated in a secure manner. THIS DRONE MUST ONLY BE OPERATED BY TRAINED PERSONN EL. TRAINING IS AVAILABLE AT CERTIFIED TRAINING ORGANIZATIONS OR DIRECTLY AT THE MANUFACTURER. OPERATING THE DRONE WITHOUT PROPPER OPERATIONAL TRA INING 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 SER IOUS BODILY HARM TO THE OPERATOR AND SPECTATORS AS WELL AS PROPERTY DAM AGE. ANY DAMAGE OR INJURY OCCURRING DUE TO MISUSE OF THIS PRODUCT IS S OLELY THE OPERATOR’S RESPONSIBILITY If you lose control of the flight robot you will lo se visual sight to the copter. The copter will continue flying away and will land somewhere unpred ictable 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 ACCI DENTS 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 b attery usage and charging before first use. Refer also to document „Trimble ZX5 Lithium Polymer Batteries Precautions”ZX5 Operations Manual 7ZX5 Operations Manual 8 

# 2 System features

The Trimble ZX5 is a radio controlled, electric pow ered aeronautical vehicle capable of vertical start s and landings. Thanks to the latest electronic sensors a nd GPS-receiver it is self-stabilising in every dir ection. Thus the Trimble ZX5 is able it to fly to pre-set w aypoints by itself and also hold its position under windy conditions. The Copter has the ability to transport and positio n different payloads. Therefor it is for example possible to realise stunning video recordings and p ictures 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 App le iPad. To assist with repeated air activity the c opter is able to learn waypoints and fly them semiautomat ically. 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 c ontrolled independently from two different control units. The pilot can concentrate on flying while th e 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 re ceiver)
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Figure 1: General view of the componentsZX5 Operations Manual 10 

# 4 UAV

4.1 Orientation

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

# 4.2 Propellers

The copter is delivered with one of the following p ropeller 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 o n the clockwise rotating motors and the counterclockwise rotating propellers on the counter-clockw ise rotating motors

CAUTION – Uncontrolled copter - Risk of damages! Only if all propellers are mounted correctly the co pter 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 ca se of false handling. Avoid contact to other object s during transportation and flight.

WARNING –

Uncontrolled copter Risk of injury if control of the copter will be los t! Never fly with a damaged propeller. Always replace it with a new one before the next fl ight.

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 in fluence on the flight characteristics (in the worst case they can cause loss of control). Add itionally 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 prop ellers. 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 ma nufacturer. 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 rp ms. You must not exchange single blades between propell er 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 th is 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 appropri ate motor so that the copter can fly. The clockwise rotating propellers have be installed on the clockw ise rotating motors and the counter-clockwise rotating propellers on the counter-clockwise rotati ng motors.

Figure 3: Assembly of propellerZX5 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 us ed together. The pair of batteries is only as good as the bad battery. The batteries are fixed with the h ook-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 reduc ed and the inner resistance is increased: The batte ries deliver less of current. In order to delay the agin g process the LiPo batteries should be used regular ly, approx. 1x per month.

WARNING –

Burning battery Risk of fire and hazardous vapours! First read the document „Trimble ZX5 Lithium Polym er Batteries Precautions”.

CAUTION – Uncontrolled copter Risk of damage! Do not separate a battery pack! Alw ays 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 fo llow these advice.
Life expectancy

• The voltage in the individual cells should always b e 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 day s before).

• Do not recharge LiPos if they are still full.

• Do not fly with a used battery, always recharge use d 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 i s better to discharge them to the storage capacity level).

• Store the LiPos at about 15 – 20 degrees Celsius (5 9 – 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 d own first.

• Make sure that the charging device is well ventilat ed.

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

• Do not use deformed or damaged batteries.

• Read the document „MULTIROTOR Lithium Polymer Batte ries 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 hu midity, 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 cableZX5 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 con nectors 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 sho uld be updated the cable has to be plugged in directly or 180° turned. Only in the correct positi on 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 y ourself of all new updates in your own account. The re 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 Up load Cable to the port shown in figure Figure 8: Mission Upload Cable Port and to the USB port of th e 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 shou ld be aligned in a straight line and in a 90° angle to each other. Otherwise the range of the rem ote control is not as expected. 

# 4.7 Video transmitter with antenna (Full Business U pgrade)

The video transmitter is installed into the camera gimbal. It works in a frequency range of 5.8 GHz. I t 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 exte rnal 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 us es the micro SD card to memorise all system and sensor data during the flight. If you should have problem s 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 y ou 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 soft ware. Never process any activity (e.g. copy data, format etc.). The required material will be d estroyed and is not usable for the UAV anymore. The copter can only be started with plugged micro S D 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 manu facturer first.
Note: In case of a crash do not power on the copter afte rwards. 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 transmitt er that gives acoustical signals to report differen t conditions. Furthermore, every motor gives a buzz a fter 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 rece ive remote control signal
__ _ _ _ _ Copter doesn’t stand straight
__ __ _ _ _ Malfunction: Motor switch is activ ated 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 to o low

In addition there are more signals that indicate ma lfunction. Contact the manufacturer if you hear unusual signals. As a precaution in this case do no t perform any flights furthermore.
Note: If there is an acoustic signal for low battery volt age during the flight, you cannot start the motors again after landing until you have disconnec ted the battery.

* 1 If the copter is not registered, it is possible to perform 10 demonstration flights. After that the c opter is disabled. To unlock the copter contact the manuf acturer.ZX5 Operations Manual 21 

# 5 Camera gimbal

The camera mount is adequate to transport the camer as. 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 c amera 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 swit ch. It is located at the side of the gimbal. Beside the power switch there is a small push button for c alibration. 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 vid eo receiver. The pilot operates the copter with the re mote control (RC). It is linked to the copter with a 2.4 GHz radio contact. It receives and shows the teleme try data of the copter (downlink). The remote control analyses the received telemetry data and se nds acoustical messages to the pilot about the stat e of the copter components (e.g. battery and GPS stat e, flight mode, etc.). In addition it can send data and orders (e.g. geogr aphical coordinates and waypoints) to the copter (uplink). The copter can be ordered with two kind of remote c ontrol: Jeti DC16 or Jeti DS14. On the monitor the pilot can see the live view of t he transported camera. The monitor (with the video receiver) has an own power supply (LiPo battery).

Figure 13: Base StationZX5 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 DC16ZX5 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 th e motor switch to the top. Attention: This is a safety-lock-switch: pull the s witch up to move. Motor stop Pull the throttle stick completely back and push th e motor switch down. Attention: This is a safety-lock-switch: pull the s witch 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 adv anced 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 th e motor switch to the top. Attention: This is a safety-lock-switch: pull the s witch up to move. Motor stop Pull the throttle stick completely back and push th e motor switch down. Attention: This is a safety-lock-switch: pull the s witch 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 adv anced 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 st icks: 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 v ideo.
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 contro l, you can select if the pilot (switch up) or the cameraman (switch down) ha s 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. I t is possible to fly it completely manual or fully automatic. We will now introduce the different poss ibilities. Some functions will be explained in deta il in the chapter „Tutorials”.
Note: There are different GPS-functions available for yo ur copter, which can be bought and activated. This means, that if applicable not all described fu nctions can be used with your copter. Look in your contract of purchase, to know which GPS-functions y ou 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 a ctual 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 ac tivated in multiple levels with the switch sh and s i. A higher level needs the activation of the levels b elow (e.g. GPS only works if the compass works, the compass only works if the altitude control works, e tc.).ZX5 Operations Manual 27 Figure 16: Flight mode switches The following listing starts with the lowest automa tic level:
Manual control Manual flight control In this mode all the dynamic flight characteristics of the copter can be fully demonstrated. The contr ol 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 los t! This flight mode „Manual control” is only suitable for model flight experts! Otherwise you lo se rapidly the control of the copter and the copter will crash! Persons and objects around w ill 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 direct ion. 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 los t! This flight mode „Height control” is only suitable for advanced pilots! In windy situations t he 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 (Compa ss) 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 automati cally. 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 los t! This flight mode „Mag control” is only suitable for advanced pilots! In windy situations t he 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 los t! This flight mode „Manual flight” is only suitable for advanced pilots! In windy situations t he 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 controll ed 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 compensa tes wind automaticly. Activation: Put the switch sh in the middle position (switch si forward ) Performance: The copter maintains the position and direction ev en 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 tak es the shortest and direct way back to its starting point. The pilot ha s 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 th e 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 los t! The copter switches off the GPS-functions automatic ally, if the satellite receiving power drops below 6 satellites or the position accuracy r ises above 8 m. In this case the pilot has to resume the manual steering. Possible causes: sat ellite problems, atmospheric disturbance, signal influence by other radio source s, etc.


## 7.1.5 Other flying functions There are further flight functions that you can app ly in different situation that help you master your tasks.
Note: There are different GPS-functions available for yo ur copter, which can be bought and activated. This means, that if applicable, not all described f unctions can be used with your copter. Look in your contract of purchase, to know which GPS-functions y ou have bought. The manufacturer will inform you about the current available functions packet. Y ou 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 motor s 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 sh uts down. Attention: Push the throttle stick into minimum immediately a fter 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 doi ng any sideway movements otherwise he can overturn. To eliminate this use the GPS-position-ho ld mode or keep the copter in position manually. If the copter is still over 10 m high it will desce nd faster, below 10 m the descending rate slows dow n. 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 ch osen 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, wh ich 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 does n’t remember or can’t see in which direction the co pter is aligned. It turns the copter once-only so that h e has the starting point behind him. This means tha t the right-stick-steering conforms to the resulting move ment 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 copt er more easily. To keep the steering more intuitive ly, the alignment of the copter is not considered anymo re during conversion of the steering commands. This means that the copter always flies in the dire ction in which the right stick is shifted regardles s of where the copter is located. The imaginary line bet ween 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 pos ition 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 s traight towards the starting point. Example 3: Right stick to the right: the copter flies spirall y 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 o f 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 flie s towards the NW. After passing the 20 m radius it carries on flying in this direction, because it beh aves 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 fli es towards the SE (225°/-135°). After passing the 2 0 m radius it changes direction and flies backwards t owards 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 radiu s 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 currentZX5 Operations Manual 31

Go Ahead orientation is fixed set. That has the positive res ult 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, t he front is at the end of an imaginary line from the starting poin t to the copter. If applicable the copter will chan ge direction. You will find an exercise in the tutorial in this d ocument.



## 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 adj ustments to it. The telemetry data are shown on the first three pag es, 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 bu ttons:
Menu button 1

- 5 With these buttons you can navigate through the men u. Menu changeover switch With this button you can change between „telemetry d ata“ 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° = NZX5 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 copterZX5 Operations Manual 33



## 7.1.6.4 Telemetry data page 4 On page 4 you have access to the integrated „Jetibo x“. 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 ne ed to change these parameters. In the Jetibox you will find the extended menu of the copter. In the following chapter is describedhow to open th is 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 menuZX5 Operations Manual 35ZX5 Operations Manual 36

Top menu item Sub

- menu item Significance Comment

Functions POI

- Coordinates Here you can define the GPS

coordinates 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 (thecorrection 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 GP S functions does not work proper. The copter cannot fly correctly! T he pilot loses the control. The copter and around person and objects can get damage d!

CAUTION – Uncontrolled copter Risk of damage! If the „gyro offset” is calibrated wrong, the copt er 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 copte r 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 can not 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 menu

point „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.
Sof tware 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 serv ice 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 ge ts 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 c ontrol provides for this a 3.5 mm connection bush. After connecting the copter batteries, all motor co ntrol units give an acoustic signal (peep), followe d by the announcement of the current flight mode. During the following flight status further announcements are made according to the events:

Announce ment Significance
GPS OK The GPS satellite reception is very good. The GPS f unctions can be used.
GPS control T he 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 alig nment 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 its elf.
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 att ention 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 vid eo signal direct from the copter. It reproduces the pi cture on the monitor. The complete package (receive r, monitor, battery) can be either fixed to the remote control or onto a tripod. To display the picture y ou have to attach the battery and switch on the monito r. If the battery capacity gets too low a red LED will illuminate. This is located on the bottom left cor ner 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 e xpectancy.

Figure 18: Video receiver front view/back viewZX5 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 recept ion The copter goes automatically into „GPS position ho ld”, 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 rec eption The copter automatically conducts an emergency land ing. 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 em ergency 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 s witch off the motors manually.
Note: Even when the emergency mode is active the drone c an be steered at all times. It then always has the tendency to land. As soon as the RC picks up a signal again, the proc edure is cancelled. The copter can be operated as usual. 

# 9.2 Battery low Voltage

If the battery voltage drops to „very low” the copt er 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 

# 10 Flight time

The flight time depends on the used battery capacit y, the weight of the battery, the weight of the loa d and the outside temperature. It can vary between so me minutes up to an hour. You can ascertain the flight time for your copter w ith 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 

# 11 Charging

This chapter describes in detail the steps to charg e 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 uni t:

CAUTION – Burning battery Risk of fire and hazardous vapours! Never connect the battery power adapter cable to t he LiPo battery while the adapter cable is not connect ed to the charger! Otherwise there is a risk of a short circuit!

Figure 19: Charger componentsZX5 Operations Manual 44 Figure 20: NEVER connect only the power adapter cab le to the battery!



# 1. First connect the battery power adapter cable (plu s and minus) with the charger: Put the red connector into the red socket and the black connect or into the black socket.

Figure 21: Power cable adapter 

# NEVER!ZX5 Operations Manual 45



# 2. The second step is to connect the balancer cable a dapter with the charger:

Figure 22: Balancer cable adapter 

# 3. The next step is to connect the LiPo battery

Figure 23: LiPo battery connectionZX5 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. Th is 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 – t he 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 burn ing battery use a fireproof base under the LiPo battery and remove highly combustible materials around the battery. Do not charge the LiP o battery unattended or overnight.ZX5 Operations Manual 47 

# 12 Daily handling
12.1 Putting the UAV into service

Pre flight check

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

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

• Check the propellers: Is the rotation direction cor rectly?

• Check if the locking mechanism of the arms are fixe d.

• Check if all parts are tight.

• Check that the copter is well balanced in every dir ection.

• 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 grou nd.

• Switch on the remote control.

• Plug in the flight batteries (make sure to plug the m 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 i n 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 fun ctions 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 statio n and the gimbal into the transportation box. Secur e the equipment well in the vehicle. Watch out especi ally for the propellers. They shouldn’t have any contact with other objects. Check the equipment aga in after transport.

Figure 27: Transportation of gimbal and base statio nZX5 Operations Manual 49 Figure 1: Transportation of copterZX5 Operations Manual 50 

# 13 Tutorials

These tutorials shall help you to get to know the v arious complex functions of the copter and to learn how to operate them. Before you start, read the safety precautions carfu lly. 

# 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 co pter. 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 los t!

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

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

• Do not fly near high tension lines, electrical subs tations, 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, wi thout endangering others or damaging their properties.

• If you don’t have any experience with model helicop ters 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 spe cial aviation liability insurance! We recommend taking out a comprehensive insurance poli cy. 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 los t! Do always examine the copter closely after a hard landing or a crash. A crooked arm or m otor, for example, can cause bad flight characteristics. If you are unsure contact a Trimbl e service station!



# 13.2 Position Hold, flying in the GPS mode

Purpose: Learning to fly the copter with GPS, compass and al titude 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. circ le, triangle, rectangle, figure of eight. Try a different method: only use the right stick to fly forward and the left stick to steer the direct ion. Turn the copter after a couple of meters flight pat h. 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. Co nsider 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 th e 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 degr ees 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 function s, but with compass and altitude control. You shoul d 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 t he 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 mot ors immediately after touching the ground. Increase the degree of difficulty: a) Perform this exercise in lightly windy condition s. b) Turn the copter occasionally around 90/180/270 d egrees and keep on operating him controlled.
Note: Even if flying with GPS is more easily always prac tice 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 v egetation.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 instal led. 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 s witch sc backward

.

• The copter lands autonomous.
Note: The rate of descent slows automatically in a heigh t 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 sw itch sh forward

.

• The copter flies autonomous back to the starting po int. Note: Make sure there are no obstacles in the copters wa y. If necessary cancel the coming home function by lightly moving one stick or by activati ng 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 shou ld approach from behind, pass the copter and then drive away to the front. The copter should fly slow er than the car, parallel next to the road. The dif ficulty is flying the copter straight on and at the same ti me aligned with the car. That is no problem with th e 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 t o the road.

• Activate Easy Move . Push the switch sb forward , the current direction is now the front, inside th e 20 m radius. Outside the 20 m radius the front is a lways 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 si mple pushing the right stick forward.

• At the same time turn the copter with the left stic k 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 58ZX5 Operations Manual 59



# 13.8 POI-Mode (Full Business upgrade)

Purpose: Learning how to use the POI function. For this we w ill imagine the following situation: You want to fl y around a tower in a defined non-varying distance an d 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, wh ich 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 record ing 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 t he 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 tha t you don’t lose the orientation. 

# 13.10 Flying without height control (only possible w ith 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 c ompass 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 tha t only experts use it.

DANGER – Uncontrolled copter Risk of injury if control of the copter will be los t! 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 s pace over and under the copter, so that you have time to get accustomed to the new sit uation!ZX5 Operations Manual 61



# 13.11 Calibrating the compass

The compass only has to be calibrated new in except ional cases. Generally the calibration in the facto ry is sufficient. If you notice that the copter doesn’t fly direct to a waypoint, but flies circular around it, it can m ean that the compass is not calibrated correctly.

DANGER – Uncontrolled copter Risk of injury if control of the copter will be los t! If the compass is calibrated wrong, the copter cannot fly correctly! The pilot loses the co ntrol. 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 dat a 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. T he display still has to stay about 0°.

• Turn the copter 90° to the right. The display now h as 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 (mor e than +/- 2°), the compass has to be calibrated (s ee 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: „R otate 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 sign al (peep). Now turn the copter around this axis (at le ast 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 displ ay: „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 thi s 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 displ ay: „Again around the Roll-Axis“

• Now the Z-sensor is being calibrated.

• Lift the copter up, hold it just like before and tu rn it again around the roll-axis. You will hear aga in 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 c hapter.

• If the display differs in just one of the four poin ts of the compass, you have to repeat the whole procedure.