VERTX – EXEMPTION RULEMAKING Page 1 of 3

October 14, 2014

U.S. Dept. of Transportation, Docket Operations

West Building Ground Floor, Room w12-140

1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE.,

Washington, DC 20590

Submitted Electronically via the Federal Docket Management System (FDMS) 

Re: Exemption Request under Section 333 of the FAA Reform Act and Part 11 of the Federal

Aviation Regulations

Dear Sir or Madam:

Pursuant to Section 333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (the “Reform Act”) and 14 

C.F.R. Part 11, Vertical Information Services, Inc., (VERTX) seeks an exemption from Federal Aviation 

Regulations (“FARs”) detailed below for the following described Unmanned Aerial System called in this 

application the VERTX System, which includes an Unmanned Aircraft (UA) and ground station-based 

equipment and crew:

THE UNMANNED AIRCRAFT (UA):

 A DJI Phantom Vision 2 lightweight (under 3 lb. gross weight), battery operated 4-motor quad 

copter that takes off and lands vertically 

 An on-board flight computer with GPS navigation and location ability that receives signals for 

flight controls from a ground-based transmitter/controller;

 An on-board camera capable of capturing imagery in the form of full color, high definition still 

photos and video

 A Rotor Pixel 2 Axis Gimbal to for independent camera orientation and stabilization 

 An on-board telemetry system that delivers flight data from the on-board flight computer to the 

on-board radio transmitter including altitude AGL, horizontal and vertical speed, compass 

direction of flight and direction back to its launch site

 A 5.8GHz on-board radio transmitter that transmits live video from the on-board camera plus all 

the flight data from the telemetry system described above

 A Flytrex, flight data logging system which records; telemetry, speed and operating temperature 

THE GROUND STATION-BASED PART OF THE SYSTEM:

 A Pilot in Command (PIC) in operational control of a flight operation from beginning to end and 

who controls the UA while in the air

 A 2.4GHz radio transmitter/controller operated by the PIC to control the UA while in flight 

 Ground Station DJI Vision App (Android Based) which receives and displays video and system 

telemetry real time from the UA

 A Visual Observer (VO) is a person who provides a second pair of eyes to visually track the UA 

while in flight.

The requested exemption would support an application for a commercial Certificate of Authorization to 

use the above described VERTX System to support aerial photography for aerial mapping 
VERTX – EXEMPTION RULEMAKING Page 2 of 3

(photogrammetry) and video documentation for the public good. Typical applications would include: 

new and existing construction, transportation and utilities, land development, environmental mitigation 

projects and so forth. 

The UA, powered by batteries, is smaller, lighter and more maneuverable than larger aircraft running on 

combustible fuel; it operates at lower altitudes (under 400’) with no people on board thereby reducing 

current risk levels and enhancing public safety. With a small payload and maximum flight time of only 22

minutes, this is offers little or no risk to national security. In addition the UA has its own built in flight 

restrictions in special areas ie: airports, which limit flight in these areas. More information can be found 

on page 38 of the UA’s User’s Manual. 

Low level oblique photos and video from several angles are far more effective than ground- based 

imagery for displaying the characteristics of large, complex properties with several buildings and large 

trees. The applicants in the past have chartered 2-seat full-sized helicopters for this purpose, which has 

proven more costly than many potential clients have been able to afford. The benefits of reduced cost 

and improved quality of presentation from the UA will be valuable to and benefit many buyers and 

sellers of real property.

Additionally, we request that we be allowed to use our system to benefit first responders nearby who 

might require assistance, including fire fighters, the police, the sheriff, et al., while remaining subject to 

all limitations cited in this application as we do so

The VERTX System will be operated in the field with both a PIC and a VO in accordance with FAA Policy N 

8900.227 Section 14 "Operational Requirements for UAS" and with the following Restrictions:

a) No flight will be made with a UA Gross weight exceeding 55 pounds;

b) All operations must occur in FAA Class G airspace at no more than 400 ft AGL, at an airspeed of 

no more than 25 knots and no further than 3/4 NM from the PIC;

c) All operations must utilize a visual observer (VO). The VO and PIC must be able to communicate 

by voice at all times during a flight operation;

d) The PIC must have accumulated and logged, in a manner consistent with 14 CFR §

e) 61.51 (b), 10 hours of total time as a UA rotorcraft pilot and at least 5 hours logged as a UA pilot 

with a similar UA type;

f) All required permits will be obtained from state and local government prior to operation; 

g) The VERTX System will not be operated over densely populated areas;

h) The VERTX System will not be operated at air shows;

i) The VERTX System will not be operated over any open-air assembly of people; 

j) The VERTX System will not be operated over heavily trafficked roads;

k) The VERTX System will not be operated within 5 NM of an airport or heliport;

l) The VERTX System will not be operated over properties smaller than two acres in size; 

m) Operations will be restricted to day only and weather conditions equivalent to VFR; (m) The PIC 

will brief the VO and property owner about the operation and risk before the first flight at each 

new location;

n) No flight may be made without a Pre-Flight Inspection by the PIC before each operation to 

ascertain that the UA is in a condition safe for flight (see Appendix A)

The PIC and VO will meet the requirements outlined in FAA Policy N 8900.227 Section 16 personnel 

Qualifications. Additionally, the PIC and VO will perform maintenance on the system and will complete a 

course of maintenance instruction as part of their initial training.
VERTX – EXEMPTION RULEMAKING Page 3 of 3

We submit that the combination of the UA's light weight, flight performance and ability, fully qualified 

flight crew and strict operation under the guidelines established in 8900.227, and under all of the 

Restrictions (a) through (n) listed above, the FAA can have full confidence that the operation will have an 

equivalent or greater level of safety than manned aircraft performing the same mission.

The name and contact information of the applicant is: 

Vertical Information Services, Inc. 

Attn: Eric Andelin

Ph: 813.992.6612

Email: info@vertisx.com

The regulations from which the exemption is requested are listed below. Beside each regulation number 

is the page of the attached Addendum upon which each may be found together with our proposed 

equivalent level of safety for each regulation:

- 14 CFR Part 21 Addendum Page 1

- 14 CFR 91.203 Addendum Page 1

- 14 CFR 45.23, 45.29 Addendum Page 2

- 14 CFR 91.9 Addendum Page 2

- 14 CFR 61.113, 61.133 Addendum Page 2

- 14 CFR 91.109, 91.119, 91.121 Addendum Page 3

- 14 CFR 91.151 Addendum Page 4

- 14 CFR Subpart E (91.401 - 91.417) Addendum Page 4

- FAA Policy 8900.227 Paragraph 16(c)(4) and Paragraph 16(e)(1) Addendum Page 4

I am prepared to modify or amend any part of this request to satisfy the need for an equivalent level 

of safety. Please contact us at any time if you require additional information or clarification. I look 

forward to working with your office.

Sincerely,

Eric Andelin, MBA, CP

Vertical Information Services, Inc. 

Phone: 813.992.6612

Addendum containing Exemption Requests and Equivalent Level of Safety

Appendix A – Flight Manual

Appendix B – User’s Manual for UA (DJI Phantom 2 Vision)
VERTX - ADDENDUM - EXEMPTION REQUESTS AND EQUIVALENT LEVEL OF SAFETY Page 1 of 4

ADDENDUM

EXEMPTION REQUESTS AND EQUIVALENT LEVEL OF SAFETY

Vertical Information Services, Inc., requests an exemption from the following regulations as well as 

any additional regulations that may technically apply to the operation of the VERTX System:

14 CFR Part 21, Subpart H: Airworthiness Certificates

This part establishes the procedures for the issuance of an airworthiness certificate. While the

FAA continues to work to develop airworthiness standards for Unmanned Aerial Systems, I request an

experimental certificate be issued for the VERTX System under either or both of the following

provisions:

21.191 Experimental certificates.

Experimental certificates are issued for the following purposes:

(a) Research and development. Testing new aircraft design concepts, new aircraft equipment, 

new aircraft installations, new aircraft operating techniques, or new uses for aircraft.

(b) Showing compliance with regulations. Conducting flight tests and other operations to show 

compliance with the airworthiness regulations including flights to show compliance for issuance 

of type and supplemental type certificates, flights to substantiate major design changes, and 

flights to show compliance with the function and reliability requirements of the regulations.

Since the experimental certificate can be used for commercial purposes such as market surveys, sales 

demonstrations, and customer crew training, we would expect that an experimental certificate would 

permit our commercial purpose as well.

The aircraft will not carry persons or property, will not carry fuel, and will only fly under strict 

operational requirements. Combined with the UA’s light weight, being constructed primarily of carbon

fiber and plastic, I propose that the UA will be at least as safe, if not safer, than a conventionally

certificated aircraft performing the same mission.

If an experimental airworthiness certificate is not appropriate for this application, then I request an

exemption of 14 CFR Part 21, Subpart H, and the requirement for airworthiness certificate in general, 

citing the equivalent level of safety outlined in the previous paragraph.

14 CFR 91.203(a) & (b) Civil aircraft: Certifications required.

The regulation provides that an airworthiness certificate, with the registration number assigned to the

aircraft and a registration certificate must be aboard the aircraft. Additionally, subparagraph (b)

provides that the airworthiness certificate be "displayed at the cabin or cockpit entrance so that it is 

legible to passengers or crew."

At a maximum gross weight of 3 lbs., the UA is too small to carry documentation, does not have an

entrance, and is not capable of carrying passengers or crew. To obtain an equivalent

level of safety and meet the intent of 91.203, I propose that documents deemed appropriate for this 

aircraft by the FAA will be co-located with the crew at the ground control station and available for 

inspection upon request. In order to identify the aircraft, I propose that the information found on 

airworthiness and registration certificates be permanently affixed to the aircraft via placard containing

the following information plus the word “EXPERIMENTAL” to
VERTX - ADDENDUM - EXEMPTION REQUESTS AND EQUIVALENT LEVEL OF SAFETY Page 2 of 4

satisfy the requirement of 14 CFR 45.23, which follows immediately after the proposed placard 

description below:

EXPERIMENTAL

Manufacturer: DJI North America 

94403, 2655 Campus Dr, 

San Mateo, CA 94403

Model: Phantom 2 Vision 

If found please contact: 813.992.6612

14 CFR 45.23 Display of marks; general and 45.29 Size of marks.

These regulations provide that each aircraft must display "N" and the aircraft's registration

number in letters at least 3 inches high. Additionally, the aircraft must display the word 

"EXPERIMENTAL" in letters at least 2 inches high near the entrance to the cabin, cockpit, or pilot 

station. The UA does not have an entrance in which the word "EXPERIMENTAL" can be placed, and 

may not have a registration number assigned to it by the FAA.

I propose to achieve an equivalent level of safety by including the word "EXPERIMENTAL" in the 

placard on the top of the aircraft, as shown above, where the PIC, VO and others in the vicinity of the

aircraft while it is preparing for launch will be able to see the designation. Additionally, I feel that the 

permanent placard discussed in the previous paragraph will provide the aircraft's registration 

information at the ground station. Finally, I will display at the ground station a high contrast flag or 

banner that contains the words "Unmanned Aircraft Ground Station" in letters 3 inches high or

greater. Since the aircraft will operate within 3/4 NM of the ground station, the banner should be

visible to anyone that observes the aircraft and chooses to investigate its point of origin.

14 CFR 91.9 Civil aircraft flight manual, marking, and placard requirements.

This regulation provides that no person may operate an aircraft unless a current, approved flight

manual is in the aircraft. I assume that the intent of this requirement is to ensure that flight manual 

information is available to the aircrew while operating the aircraft. I request an exemption to this 

requirement since the aircraft is not only too small to carry documentation; the documentation 

would not be available to the crew during flight operations.

To obtain an equivalent level of safety and meet the intent of 91.9, I propose that a current, approved 

UA Flight Manual (Appendix A) must be available to the crew at the ground station anytime the aircraft 

is in, or preparing for, flight.

14 CFR 61.113 Private pilot privileges and limitations: Pilot in Command and 61.133

Commercial pilot privileges and limitations.

The regulation provides that no person that holds a private pilot certificate may act as pilot in

command of an aircraft for compensation or hire. Subparagraph (b) allows a private pilot to act as pilot

in command of an aircraft in connection with any business or employment if: (1) The flight is only

incidental to that business or employment; and (2) The aircraft does not carry passengers or property

for compensation or hire.
VERTX - ADDENDUM - EXEMPTION REQUESTS AND EQUIVALENT LEVEL OF SAFETY Page 3 of 4

Our proposed operations require that the PIC must either

1. Hold a Private Pilot Certificate issued by the FAA, and have logged 10 hours of flight 

experience in this type of UA. 

2. Meet the requirements of 8900.227 para 16(c)(2)(c) "Operations without a pilot certificate" 

in which the PIC is required to complete "FAA private pilot ground instruction" and pass "the

FAA Private Pilot written examination." Since there are currently no means available for the 

pilot of a UAS to gain the experience in an equivalent category and class in order to apply for 

a commercial pilot's license, I propose to generate an equivalent level of safety by requiring

our pilots to complete, at a minimum, FAA commercial pilot ground instruction and pass the

FAA Commercial Pilot written examination in addition to completing the private pilot

requirements. Since the aircraft cannot carry passengers or property, I feel that we meet the

intent of 61.113 Subparagraph (b) even though the intent of this application is to conduct a 

business.

14 CFR 91.109 Flight Instruction; Simulated instrument flight and certain flight tests 

The regulation states that "No person may operate a civil aircraft that is being used for flight 

instruction unless that aircraft has fully functioning dual controls."

The VERTX System ground-based control station consists of a small hand-held radio transmitter and 

while it does not offer a second set of "controls", both the student and instructor can, and will, operate 

the single set of controls simultaneously. With both student and instructor having "hands-on" the

controls during flight, I feel that this technique meets the intent 91.109 and provides an equivalent 

level of safety.

14 CFR 91.119 Minimum safe altitudes: General.

The regulation states that over sparsely populated areas the aircraft cannot be operated closer

than 500 feet to any person, vessel, vehicle, or structure. Since the aircraft will be operating at a 

maximum of 400 feet AGL, I cannot comply with this requirement.

In order to provide an equivalent level of safety The UA will not be operated over congested areas or

over any open air assembly of persons. Any property owner affected will be briefed on the expected 

route of flight and the associated risks to persons and property on the ground. The aircraft will be

operated at a low altitude allowing, if a power unit fails, an emergency landing without undue hazard

to persons or property on the surface. Therefore I maintain that due to the small size of the UA, the 

hazard to persons, vehicles and structures is minimal compared to manned aircraft, which should be

considered in granting the exemption.

14 CFR 91.121 Altimeter settings.

The regulation requires that aircraft shall maintain cruising altitudes by reference to an altimeter

setting available within 100 NM of the aircraft.

The UA will always fly below 400 feet AGL and will not need to maintain cruising altitudes in order to 

prevent conflict with other aircraft. An Above Ground Level altimeter measurement above the takeoff 

point is transmitted via radio from the UA on-board computer to the display screen held by the PIC,

providing a constantly updated AGL readout.
VERTX - ADDENDUM - EXEMPTION REQUESTS AND EQUIVALENT LEVEL OF SAFETY Page 4 of 4

14 CFR 91.151 Fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions.

The regulation provides that no person may begin a flight in an airplane under day-VFR conditions 

unless there is enough fuel to fly to the first point of intended landing and to fly after that for at least 

30 minutes.

I feel the intention of this paragraph is to provide an energy reserve as a safety buffer for delays to 

landing. The UA is battery operated and the maximum duration of flight from a single battery charge is

18 minutes with a 20% reserve. Since the aircraft will never fly more than 3/4NM from the point of 

intended landing, a full battery charge at launch will ensure that we meet the reserve energy

requirement of this paragraph. We request an exemption to the word "fuel" and ask for an equivalent

interpretation with the word "energy".

14 CFR Subpart E (91.401 - 91.417) - Maintenance, Preventive Maintenance, Alterations 

The regulation provides that the operator is primarily responsible for maintaining the aircraft in an 

airworthy condition, including compliance with part 39 and 43. Paragraphs 91.407 and

91.409 require that the aircraft be "approved for return to service by a person authorized under

43.7" after maintenance and inspection.

It is my intention that the PIC perform maintenance and inspection of the aircraft and "be authorized 

to approve the aircraft for return to service." As provided in the Pre-Flight Checklist in Appendix A, the 

PIC will ensure that the aircraft is in an airworthy condition prior to every flight and in addition conduct 

detailed inspections after every two hours of flight. Maintenance performed by the PIC is limited to 

repairing small cracks, replacing a propeller, checking electrical connections and updating software and 

firmware for the on-board computer. All other maintenance will be performed by the manufacturer or

their designated repair facility. The PIC will document work performed in accordance with 91.417. I

feel that due to the size, construction, and simplicity of the aircraft, the PIC can ensure an equivalent 

level of safety.

8900.227 Paragraph 16(c)(4) PIC Medical. and Paragraph 16(e)(1) Observer Medical. 

This policy provides that both the PIC and VO must have a valid FAA second-class medical certificate 

issued under part 67 in order to perform as a pilot or observer.

The UA maximum gross weight is 3 lbs., it is constructed of plastic and the PIC is not on board. Both the

PIC and the VO are required to be in VLOS. Given the unlikely event that both the PIC and VO become 

medically incapacitated while the aircraft is in flight, the UA will return autonomously to the site of 

launching and land without crew intervention. Therefore, requiring the PIC and VO to meet the same 

medical requirements as commercial pilot carrying passengers in a large aircraft is an unnecessary

burden.

We propose that the minimum medical requirements for the PIC and VO be vision corrected to

20/20 and a valid, state issued driver's license. The 20/20 vision requirement will ensure that the PIC

and VO n see and avoid air traffic; a licensed driver is medically qualified to operate a much larger 

vehicle.
VERTX - APPENDIX A - FLIGHT OPERATIONS/PROCEDURES Page 1 of 2

APPENDIX A – FLIGHT OPERATIONS/PROCEDURES

FLIGHT RESTRICTIONS

(a) No flight will be made with a UA Gross weight exceeding 55 pounds;

(b) All operations must occur in FAA Class G airspace at no more than 400' AGL, at an airspeed of no 

more than 25 knots and no further than 3/4 NM from the PIC;

(c) All operations must utilize a visual observer (VO). The VO and PIC must be able to communicate 

verbally at all times during a flight operation;

(d) In the event of operations over private property, every effort will be made to notify and gain 

permission of the property owner;

(e) The PIC must have accumulated and logged, in a manner consistent with 14 CFR § 61.51 (b), a

minimum of 100 flight cycles and 25 hours of total time as a UA rotorcraft pilot and at least ten 

hours logged as a UA pilot with a similar UA type;

(f) All required permits will be obtained from state and local government prior to operation; (g)

(g) The VERTX System will not be operated over densely populated areas;

(h) The VERTX System will not be operated at air shows;

(i) The VERTX System will not be operated over any open-air assembly of people 

(j) The VERTX System will not be operated over heavily trafficked roads;

(k) The VERTX System will not be operated within 5 NM of an airport or heliport;

(l) The VERTX System will be restricted to day only operations and weather conditions equivalent to 

VFR; (n) The PIC will brief the VO and property owner about the operation anrisk before the first 

flight at each new location;

(m) No flight may be made without a successful Pre-Flight Inspection by the PIC before each operation 

to ascertain that the UA is in a condition safe for flight.

PRE-FLIGHT CHECKLIST

1. Remote Controller, smart battery, Range Extender and smartphone are fully charged.

2. Propellers are mounted correctly.

3. Damping absorbers are in good condition, not broken or worn.

4. Camera lens cap has been removed.

5. Micro-SD card has been inserted if necessary.

6. Gimbal is functioning as normal.

7. Motors can start and are functioning as normal.

8. DJI VISION App can connect to the camera.

TAKE OFF/LANDING PROCEDURES 

Place the PHANTOM 2 VISION on ground with the battery level indicator facing you.

1. Power on the remote controller.

2. Power on the range extender.

3. Switch the camera to the “WIFI ON” position.

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

5. Connect the mobile device to the PHANTOM 2 VISION, run the DJI VISION App to enter the 

camera preview page.

6. Wait until the LED flight indicator starts to slowly blink green/yellow. This means the aircraft is 

initializing and entering the “Ready to Fly”/“Ready to Fly (non-GPS).” state. Then proceed to 
VERTX - APPENDIX A - FLIGHT OPERATIONS/PROCEDURES Page 2 of 2

execute the CSC command to start motors.

7. Push the throttle stick up slowly to lift the aircraft off the ground. 

8. When landing, be sure to be hovering over a level surface. Pull down on the throttle stick 

gently to descend and land.

9. After landing the aircraft on the ground, keep the throttle stick at its lowest position for 

about 3 to 5 seconds which will automatically stop the motors.

FAILSAFE FUNCTION

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

control system will automatically control the aircraft to return to home and land to reduce injuries or 

damage. The following situations would make the aircraft fail to receive a signal from the remote 

controller and enter Failsafe mode:

1. The remote controller is powered off.

2. The aircraft has flown out of the effective communication range of the remote controller.

3. There is an obstacle obstructing the signal between the remote controller and the aircraft, 

essentially reducing the distance the signal can travel.

4. There is interference causing a signal problem with the remote controller.

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

whether it is in the Ready to Fly or Ready to Fly (non-GPS) mode.

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

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

aircraft may be drifting during descent and landing process.

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

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

land.
VERTX – APPENDIX B - OWNERS MANUAL

APPENDIX B – USER’S MANUAL FOR UA (DJI Phantom 2 Vision)

This page intentionally left blank
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.

PHANTOM 2 VISION 

 

User Manual V1.8 

January, 2015 Revision

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

fully use and understand the product.

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

updated on a regular basis. This will provide services such as product information, technical updates and manual 

corrections. Due to any unforeseen changes or product upgrades, the information contained within this manual is 

subject to change without notice.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding your product, please contact your dealer or DJI Customer Service.
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.

Index 

INDEX ........................................................................................................................................................................................................ 2

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

SYMBOL LEGEND ................................................................................................................................................................................ 4

WATCH THE QUICK START VIDEOS .............................................................................................................................................. 5

DOWNLOADING THE DJI VISION APP ......................................................................................................................................... 5

1 ATTACHING THE PROPELLERS ....................................................................................................................................................6

1.1 INTRODUCTION.............................................................................................................................................................................................. 6

1.2 ASSEMBLY...................................................................................................................................................................................................... 6

1.3 REMOVING THE PROPELLERS..................................................................................................................................................................... 6

1.4 NOTES ............................................................................................................................................................................................................ 6

2 INSTALLING THE RANGE EXTENDER AND MOBILE DEVICE HOLDER .......................................................................... 7

2.1 INSTALLING THE RANGE EXTENDER ......................................................................................................................................................... 7

2.2 INSTALLING THE MOBILE DEVICE HOLDER............................................................................................................................................ 7

3 PREPARING THE REMOTE CONTROLLER ............................................................................................................................... 8

3.1 THE REMOTE CONTROLLER....................................................................................................................................................................... 8

3.2 POWER ON THE REMOTE CONTROLLER ................................................................................................................................................ 8

3.3 REMOTE CONTROLLER POWER INDICATOR STATUS INFORMATION ............................................................................................... 9

3.4 ANTENNA ORIENTATION......................................................................................................................................................................... 10

3.5 REMOTE CONTROLLER OPERATION..................................................................................................................................................... 10

3.6 LINK BETWEEN THE REMOTE CONTROLLER AND RECEIVER..............................................................................................................11

Link Procedures .........................................................................................................................................................................................12

Link Indicator..............................................................................................................................................................................................12

3.7 COMPLIANCE VERSION CONFIGURATION............................................................................................................................................12

4 PREPARING THE RANGE EXTENDER ....................................................................................................................................... 14

4.1 THE RANGE EXTENDER..............................................................................................................................................................................14

4.2 FUNCTION DESCRIPTION..........................................................................................................................................................................14

4.3 POWERING ON THE RANGE EXTENDER.................................................................................................................................................15

4.4 HOW TO BIND THE CAMERA & RANGE EXTENDER ............................................................................................................................15

5 PREPARING THE CAMERA ........................................................................................................................................................... 18

5.1 THE BUILT-IN CAMERA ................................................................................................................................................................................18

5.2 MAIN FUNCTIONS ......................................................................................................................................................................................18

5.3 UPGRADING THE FIRMWARE OF CAMERA........................................................................................................................................... 20

6 DOWNLOADING AND INSTALLING THE DJI VISION APP ................................................................................................ 21

6.1 DOWNLOAD AND INSTALL.........................................................................................................................................................................21

6.2 REGISTER & LOGIN ....................................................................................................................................................................................21

7 PREPARING THE FLIGHT BATTERY ......................................................................................................................................... 23

7.1 INTELLIGENT BATTERY AND CHARGER INSTRUCTIONS ......................................................................................................................23

7.2 CHARGING PROCEDURES ........................................................................................................................................................................23

7.3 INSTALL THE BATTERY..............................................................................................................................................................................24

7.4 BATTERY USAGE........................................................................................................................................................................................24

Description of the Battery Level Indicator......................................................................................................................................24

7.5 CORRECT BATTERY USAGE NOTES.......................................................................................................................................................25

8 PHANTOM 2 AIRCRAFT ............................................................................................................................................................... 26

8.1 THE AIRCRAFT ............................................................................................................................................................................................26

8.2 BUILT-IN FLIGHT CONTROL SYSTEM INSTRUCTIONS .........................................................................................................................26
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 3 | 

8.3 LED FLIGHT INDICATORS DESCRIPTION..............................................................................................................................................26

9 CONNECTING TO THE CAMERA ............................................................................................................................................. 28

9.1 CAMERA CONNECTION PROCEDURES..................................................................................................................................................28

10 CALIBRATING THE COMPASS ................................................................................................................................................. 30

10.1 CALIBRATION WARNINGS ..................................................................................................................................................................... 30

10.2 CALIBRATION PROCEDURES ................................................................................................................................................................ 30

10.3 WHEN RECALIBRATION IS REQUIRED ................................................................................................................................................ 30

11 FLIGHT ................................................................................................................................................................................................ 31

11.1 FLYING ENVIRONMENT REQUIREMENTS ................................................................................................................................................31

11.2 STARTING/STOPPING THE MOTORS......................................................................................................................................................31

11.3 TAKEOFF/LANDING PROCEDURES.........................................................................................................................................................31

11.4 FAILSAFE FUNCTION................................................................................................................................................................................32

Home Point.................................................................................................................................................................................................33

Dynamic Home Point...............................................................................................................................................................................33

Go Home Procedures .............................................................................................................................................................................33

Regaining Control During Failsafe Procedure ..............................................................................................................................34

Failsafe on the DJI VISION App.........................................................................................................................................................34

11.5 LOW BATTERY LEVEL WARNING FUNCTION ......................................................................................................................................34

Low Battery Level Warning on the DJI VISION App .................................................................................................................36

11.6 FLIGHT LIMITS............................................................................................................................................................................................36

11.6.1 Max Height & Radius Limits.......................................................................................................................................................37

11.6.2 Flight Limits of Special Areas...................................................................................................................................................38

11.6.3 Conditions of Flight Limits .......................................................................................................................................................40

11.6.4 Disclaimer.........................................................................................................................................................................................41

12 USING DJI VISION APP ............................................................................................................................................................... 42

12.1 DJI VISION APP MAIN MENU ..............................................................................................................................................................42

12.2 CAMERA PAGE .........................................................................................................................................................................................42

Basic Use......................................................................................................................................................................................................42

Camera Settings ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 46

12.3 ALBUM PAGE ........................................................................................................................................................................................... 49

Camera SD CARD Album..................................................................................................................................................................... 49

Mobile Device Album............................................................................................................................................................................. 50

12.4 NEWS PAGE...............................................................................................................................................................................................51

12.5 SETTINGS PAGE........................................................................................................................................................................................52

12.6 GROUND STATION...................................................................................................................................................................................55

12.6.1 Ground Station GUI .....................................................................................................................................................................56

12.6.2 Using Ground Station.................................................................................................................................................................58

13 ASSISTANT INSTALLATION AND CONFIGURATION ......................................................................................................... 61

13.1 INSTALLING DRIVER AND PHANTOM 2 VISION ASSISTANT.........................................................................................................61

13.2 USING THE PHANTOM 2 VISION ASSISTANT ON A PC...............................................................................................................62

13.3 FIRMWARE UPGRADE OF THE PHANTOM 2 VISION ...................................................................................................................63

13.4 PHANTOM RC ASSISTANT DESCRIPTION ...................................................................................................................................... 64

14 TROUBLESHOOTING (FAQ) ...................................................................................................................................................... 66

15 APPENDIX ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 69

LED FLIGHT INDICATOR STATUS ..................................................................................................................................................................69

SPECIFICATIONS .............................................................................................................................................................................................. 70
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 4 | 

In the Box

PHANTOM 2 VISION X1 5.8GHz Remote Controller X1 Range Extender X1

Propeller Pair X4 Mobile Device Holder X1 Micro-SD Card X1

Intelligent Battery X1 Charger X1 Cables X1

Plug Set X1 Screw X12 Screwdriver X 1

Assistant Wrench X1 Accessories Box X1

Symbol Legend

Forbidden(Important) Caution Tip Reference
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 5 | 

Watch the Quick Start Videos

This user manual details installation and usage procedures of the product. In addition, we provide a range of quick 

start videos. It is advised that you watch them fully before attempting to use the product.

 

Approach 1 Direct link. www.dji.com/phantom-2-vision/training

Approach 2 Scan the QR code to get the 

quick start video link.

Preparing for flight.

How to connect to the DJI VISION App.

The basics of flying, recording and sharing.

Downloading the DJI VISION App

Before attempting to use the product, please download and install the DJI VISION App. Get the DJI VISION App 

according to the following methods.

Approach 1 

Download from the App store

or Google Play.

iOS user Search “DJI VISION” from App Store.

Android user Search “DJI VISION” from Google Play.

Approach 2 Scan the QR code to get the 

download link.

Scan and download.
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 6 | 

1 Attaching the Propellers

Please use the original 9-inch propellers which are classified by the color of each central nut. Damaged propellers 

can be replaced by purchasing new ones if necessary.

1.1 Introduction 

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

Diagram

Assembly Location

Attach to the motor thread that does 

not have a black dot.

Attach to the motor thread that has a

black dot.

Fastening/Un-fastening 

Instructions

Lock: Tighten the propeller in this direction.

Unlock: Remove the propeller in this direction.

1.2 Assembly 

1.

2.

(Fig.1) Remove the four warning cards from the motors after you read them.

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

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

instructions.

 

Fig.1 Fig.2 Fig.3

1.3 Removing the Propellers 

(Fig.3) Keep the motor deadlocked in place with the assistant wrench (or one hand) and remove the propeller 

according to the un-fastening instructions.

1.4 Notes 

(1)

(2)

(3)

(4)

(5)

(6)

(7)

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

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

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

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

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

or broken propellers.

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

spinning.

ONLY use original DJI propellers for a better and safer flight experience.
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 7 | 

2 Installing the Range Extender and Mobile Device Holder

2.1 Installing the Range Extender 

1.

2.

Adjust the range extender to align with the mounting bracket installed on the carrying handle.

Tighten the lock-screw to affix the range extender on the right side of the carrying handle.

(1)

(2)

Make sure the assembly orientation is correct with the LED side facing you. 

To obtain better communication, try to keep the range extender facing the aircraft during flight.

Lock Screw

2.2 Installing the Mobile Device Holder 

1.

2.

Tighten the Philips screws as shown to correctly attach the mobile device holder on the left side of the 

carrying handle.

Affix the mobile device sideways within the holder.

(1)

(2)

Make sure the assembly orientation is correct. The mobile device should be facing you when 

mounted.

It is recommended not to use oversized mobile devices (e.g. iPad), which cannot be placed into 

the Mobile Device Holder.

 
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 8 | 

3 Preparing the Remote Controller

The PHANTOM 2 VISION remote controller is a wireless communication device that uses the 5.8GHz frequency 

band. It is compliant with CE and FCC (see the FCC ID) regulations and is set to Mode 2 before delivery. The 

compliance version can be configured by twisting the potentiometer knob on the back of the remote controller. 

The stick configuration can also be reset in the PHANTOM RC Assistant. Refer to the PHANTOM RC Assistant 

and the Compliance Version Configuration (Page 12) for details.

(1)

(2)

(3)

CE compliant devices have an effective communication range of 300 meters in open spaces due 

to power limitations. Be sure to watch your fight distance as the PHANTOM 2 VISION will enter 

Failsafe mode (auto-landing or go home and land) if it flies beyond this range. 

FCC compliant devices have an effective range of 500 meters in open spaces. Be sure to watch 

your fight distance as the PHANTOM 2 VISION will enter Failsafe mode (auto-landing or go 

home and land) if it flies beyond this range.

Pay attention to and follow local laws and regulations.

3.1 The Remote Controller 

[1]

[2]

[4] [3]

[8]

[9] [10]

J2

J1

J3

J4 [6]

[7]

[5]

[1]

[2]

[3]

[4]

[5]

[6]

[7]

[8]

[9]

[10]

Antenna

Carrying Handle

Switch S1

Switch S2 (Reserved)

Joystick(J1: Roll [left & right], J2: Pitch [front & back])

Joystick(J3: Throttle [up & down], J4: Yaw [rotation])

Neck Strap Attachment

Power Switch

Power Indicator

Battery Compartment (On the back)

3.2 Power on the Remote Controller 

1.

2.

3.

Install the four AA Batteries (not included) into the battery compartment on the back of the remote 

controller according to the negative and positive poles.

Set the S1 and S2 switches to the upper most position (position-1, refer to the Remote Controller Operation 

(Page 10) for details) and ensure both joysticks are at the mid-point position. Then toggle on the power switch.

There will be a power on indicator beep. If the remote controller is set to be CE compliant, then there will 

be one beep, while the FCC compliant version will emit two beeps. The power indicator blinks green
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 9 | 

quickly indicating the remote controller and receiver is linking. Once fully linked, the power indicator will 

change to a solid green.

(1)

(2)

(3)

(4)

If the low voltage warning alert sounds (refer to the Remote Controller Power Indicator Status 

Information (Page 9)), please replace batteries as soon as possible.

Using the incorrect type of battery may prevent a risk of damage.

Remove the batteries after use and dispose of them safely.

For long term storage, be sure to remove the batteries from the remote controller.

3.3 Remote Controller Power Indicator Status Information 

Power indicator Sound Remote Controller State 

 None Functioning normally.

 None Establishing a link between the remote controller and the receiver.

 B-B-B...... Low voltage (at 3.9V-4.5V), should replace the batteries immediately.

 BBBB 

Low voltage (lower than 3.9V). The remote controller will automatically 

power off. Batteries should be replaced immediately.

 B-B-B...... 

The remote controller will display a blinking green light and sound an 

alarm after 15 minutes without operator input. The alarm status will 

disappear once you start operation of the remote controller.

The remote controller will blink the LED and sound an alert when the voltage drops below 3.9V and 

automatically power off after 3 seconds. This process will repeat even if you power cycle the remote 

controller. If this low voltage warning occurs during flight, the remote controller will automatically 

power off causing the aircraft to enter Failsafe mode, which cannot be interrupted (refer to the

Failsafe Function (Page 32) for details). It is strongly recommended to replace batteries if the 

3.9V-4.5V low voltage warning occurs.
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 10 | 

3.4 Antenna Orientation 

Try to keep the antenna pointing skyward, perpendicular to the ground, in order to achieve the maximum

communication range during flight.

3.5 Remote Controller Operation 

Definitions 

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

the central position. 

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

Remote Controller 

(Mode 2) 

Aircraft 

( nose direction)

Operation details 

The throttle stick controls aircraft altitude/elevation. 

Push the stick up and the aircraft will rise.

Pull the stick down and the aircraft will descend.

The aircraft will automatically hover and hold its height 

if the sticks are centered. 

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

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

suggest that you push the throttle stick slowly to 

prevent the aircraft from sudden and unexpected

elevation changes.

OFF CAM ON WIFI ON

MICRO SD

The remote controller’s antenna should be 

pointing skyward with no obstacles in the way. 

Otherwise, the Failsafe function may initialize 

prematurely during flight. 

The Mobile Device and Range Extender should 

not block the antenna.
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 11 | 

The yaw stick controls the aircraft rudder.

Push the stick left and the aircraft will rotate counter 

clock-wise. 

Push the stick right and the aircraft will rotate 

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

remain facing the same direction.

The yaw stick controls the rotating angular velocity of 

the aircraft. Pushing the stick further away from center 

results in a faster aircraft rotation velocity. 

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

Push the stick up and the aircraft will tilt and fly 

forward. 

Pull the stick down and the aircraft will tilt and fly 

backward. The aircraft will keep level and straight if the 

stick is centered. 

Pushing or pulling the stick further away from center 

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

faster flight velocity. 

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

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

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

The aircraft will keep level and straight if the stick is 

centered. 

Pushing the stick further away from center will result in 

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

velocity. 

 

Position-1 Position-2 Position-3

S1 is for compass calibration. Toggle the S1 from 

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

6-10 times, which will force the aircraft to enter into

compass calibration mode.

(1)

(2)

For ‘Ready to Fly’ the aircraft will hover (hold a stable horizontal position) when all sticks are 

released.

For ‘Ready to Fly (non-GPS)’ the aircraft will keep the aircraft level without horizontal 

positioning when all sticks are released.

3.6 Link between the Remote Controller and Receiver 

There is a 5.8G receiver in the PHANTOM 2 VISION, with the link button and indicator located on the bottom of 

the aircraft as illustrated in the following diagram.

OFF CAM ON WIFI ON

MICRO SD
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 12 | 

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

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

 

Link Procedures 

1.

2.

3.

Power off the remote controller, power on the aircraft. You will see the link indicator blinking red.

Press the link button with a thin object and hold until the link indicator blinks yellow. Release the link

button.

Power on the remote controller and the link indicator should switch off. This indicates that the link has 

been successfully established.

 

Link Indicator 

Link Indicator Description Operation 

No signal received. Switch on the remote controller or perform a link procedure.

 In link status. Switch on the remote controller.

3.7 Compliance Version Configuration 

The compliance version can be reconfigured by twisting the potentiometer knob (See the following diagram) on the 

back of the remote controller using a flathead screwdriver. For CE compliance, set the remote controller to CE 

compliance by carefully turning the potentiometer knob to the full counter clock-wise position. For FCC compliance, 

set the remote controller to FCC compliance by carefully turning the potentiometer knob to the full clock-wise 

position. Users should follow their local regulations accordingly.

接收机对频按键

&对频指示灯

Link Button & 

Link Indicator
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 13 | 

When adjusting the potentiometer knob to its limit position, be very careful to prevent damaging the

potentiometer knob. Do not apply too much force during this adjustment. Also be sure to use the 

correct sized screwdriver.

(1)

(2)

(3)

It is recommended to use a flathead screwdriver of Φ 2.4mm for adjustment.

You can use the DJI screwdriver with the flathead for adjustment.

There is another potentiometer reserved.
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 14 | 

4 Preparing the Range Extender

The PHANTOM 2 VISION range extender is a wireless communication device that operates within the 2.4 GHz 

frequency band and is used for extending the effective range of communication between a mobile device 

(Smartphone) and the PHANTOM 2 VISION. In an open unobstructed area, the transmission distance can reach 

up to 300 meters, but is usually affected by the surrounding environment, such as trees, buildings and other 

sources of the same frequency. Before every flight, it is suggested that you ensure the range extender functions 

properly. Otherwise you may experience a communication issue with the mobile device and the PHANTOM 2

VISION.

Each range extender has a unique MAC address and network name (SSID), details of which are printed on the 

back label as ‘Phantom_xxxxxx’. The ‘xxxxxx’ represents the last six letters or numbers of the MAC address 

for the range extender.

4.1 The Range Extender 

 

[1]

[2]

[3]

[7]

[6]

[5]

[4]

 Front View Right View 

[1]

[2]

[3]

[4]

[5]

[6]

[7]

Wi-Fi Signal Indicator

Power Indicator

Lock-screw

Reset Button

Power Switch

Micro-USB

Mounting Bracket

4.2 Function Description 

[1] Wi-Fi Signal Indicator (SYSTEM) 

Tells you the system status of the range extender. 

Wi-Fi Signal Indicator Description 

The range extender system is working normally.

Off The range extender system is working abnormally.

 

[2] Power Indicator (POWER) 

Tells you the power status of the range extender.

Power Indicator Description 

The range extender is working normally or completely charged.

Low voltage alert, a re-charge is required.

The range extender is charging (allow for 3~4 hours, depending on USB power output).
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 15 | 

(1)

(2)

(3)

(4)

(5)

Make sure to charge the range extender completely before using it for the first time.

If the power indicator is a solid red light, the ranger extender may stop working at any moment.

Recharge it as soon as possible.

It is recommended to charge the range extender completely before each use.

Turn off the range extender after every use.

Keep the range extender facing the aircraft during flight for the best communication link.

 

[3] Lock-screw 

 For attaching the range extender on the right side of the remote controller’s carrying handle.

 

[4] Reset Button:

Press to link the range extender and the camera.

 

[5] Power Switch: 

ON – Power on.

OFF – Power off.

 

[6] Micro-USB

Used to charge the range extender.

 

[7] Mounting Bracket 

 It has been pre-installed on the remote controller’s handle. It is used to attach the range extender.

4.3 Powering on the Range Extender 

1.

2.

Toggle the power switch of range extender to ON position. 

Wait for approximately 30 seconds. The Wi-Fi signal indicator should blink green indicating the range 

extender is communicating properly.

It is advised that you power off the range extender after every flight to avoid discharging the battery.

4.4 How to Bind the Camera & Range Extender 

If the camera and range extender connection is lost, or one of them needs to be repaired or replaced, a camera and 

range extender binding will need to be performed via the DJI VISION App.
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 16 | 

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Power on the camera and range extender. Note: (Place the camera power switch to the ‘WIFI ON’

position).

Approximately 30 seconds later, press the reset button on the range extender with a thin object until the 

Wi-Fi signal indicator turns off. The range extender will then restart automatically.

Approximately 30 seconds later, the Wi-Fi signal indicator should start to blink green, which indicates the 

range extender is now ready to be bound.

Find and select the Phantom_xxxxxx via the Wi-Fi list on the mobile device to connect the range extender.

(Fig.1) Run the DJI VISION App->Settings->General->Binding. (Fig.2) Select ‘Scan the QR Code’ to scan 

the camera QR code on the product packaging. (Fig.3) Get the camera SSID (E.g. FC200_0xxxxx) and the 

MAC address, select the tick on the top right corner. The range extender should automatically

restart. The binding procedure is now complete.

 

 Fig.1 Fig.2(QR code is only for example.)

Reset Button
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 17 | 

Fig.3

(1)

(2)

(3)

If both the camera and range extender are powered on and working normally, you will be able to

find the SSID on the Wi-Fi list of the mobile device.

DO NOT push the reset button of the range extender unless you are ready to rebind the range 

extender and the camera! This will unbind your camera and you must follow the steps above to 

rebind.

The QR code is located on the packaging of the PHANTOM 2 VISION. If you cannot find the QR 

code, please contact DJI customer service to receive the QR code related to your camera’s

serial number.
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 18 | 

5 Preparing the Camera

5.1 The built-in camera 

[1]

[2]

[3]

[6] OFF CAM ON WIFI ON

MICRO SD

[4]

[5]

[1]

[2]

[3]

[4]

[5]

[6]

Lens

Camera Power Switch

Micro-SD Card Slot

Camera Status Indicator

Camera Cable

Capture/Record Button

Camera Features Specifications 

Resolution 14 Megapixels

FOV 120°/ 110° / 85°

Sensor size 1/2.3”

Functions

Supports multi-capture, continuous capture and timed capture

Supports HD Recording (1080p30/1080i60)

Supports both RAW and JPEG photo formats

5.2 Main Functions 

[1] Lens 

For viewing and photographing, with main parameters of f/2.8,FOV 120°.

Please remove the lens cover when the camera is in use and replace the cover for storage.

[2] Camera Power Switch (on the back of the camera)

Used to power the camera on and off.

 OFF – Powered off.

 CAM ON – Power on, Wi-Fi off.

WIFI ON – Power and Wi-Fi are both on. Make sure to switch to ‘WIFI ON’ and the range extender is powered

on if using the DJI VISION App.
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 19 | 

[3] Micro-SD Card Slot (on the back of the camera)

Make sure that the Micro-SD card is inserted before you take any photos or record any videos.

(1)

(2)

(3)

Maximum supported Micro-SD card capacity is 32GB.

The DJI VISION App may not be able to read the Micro-SD card prepared by the user. It is 

suggested that you use the DJI VISION App to format the Micro-SD card when first used in the 

camera.

Refer to the Camera Settings (Page 46) for Micro-SD card formatting details.

 

[4] Camera Indicator (on the back of the camera)

 The Camera Indicator is used to inform the user of the working status of the camera.

Camera indicator Wi-Fi Camera status 

Solid OFF Power On; Idle State

Slow Blink (0.2s on, 1.8s off) ON Idle State

Fast Blink (0.1s on, 0.3s off) ON Synchronizing photos and videos 

Solid OFF Recording

Blink Once (0.2s on, 0.3s off) ON/OFF Taking a single capture

Blink 3 Times(0.1s on, 0.1s off) ON/OFF Taking 3 or 5 photos per shot

Fast Blink (0.1s on, 0.3s off) ON/OFF Firmware Upgrading

(0.2s green, 1.8s orange) ON Recording

Solid ON/OFF Critical error

Slow Blink (0.2s on, 1.8s off) ON/OFF CMOS sensor error

Blink Once (0.2s on, 0.3s off) ON/OFF Operation failed

Blink 3 Times(0.1s on, 0.1s off) ON/OFF Micro-SD Card error

Fast Blink (0.1s on, 0.3s off) ON/OFF Upgrade error

(0.5s green, 0.5s orange, 0.5s red, 0.5s Off) ON/OFF Camera has overheated

 

When camera temperature rises above 80°C, the LED indicator will blink . The camera will 

automatically power off if the temperature rises above 85°C.

 

[5] Camera Cable (on the back of the camera) 

 Make sure that the camera cable is firmly attached to the camera before powering the camera on. 

[6] Capture/Record Button (on the bottom of the camera)

 Capture function: Press the button once (less than 2 seconds) to take a single capture.

Record function: Press the button once (greater than 2 seconds) to begin recording. Press once again to stop.
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 20 | 

5.3 Upgrading the Firmware of Camera 

Follow the below instructions to update your firmware.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Download the latest firmware of camera from DJI website.

Copy the “firmware.bin” file to the root folder of your Micro-SD card.

Insert the SD card into the camera before turning it on.

Turn on the camera.

The firmware update will begin automatically. A yellow flashing LED indicates that the camera is updating.

When the yellow flashing disappears, the firmware has been updated. After a successful update, the 

“firmware.bin” file’s name will change to “firmware.bin.bak00”. This file can now be deleted.

(1)

(2)

(3)

During the update, do not turn off the camera or take out the Micro-SD card. This may prevent 

your camera from switching on and will need a factory reset. 

A fast red flashing LED after the update means the update has failed. Please try again.

For the v1.1.8 version of the PHANTOM 2 VISION Camera, PAL support has been added to the 

camera including 1080p25 and 960p25.
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 21 | 

6 Downloading and Installing the DJI VISION App

6.1 Download and Install 

Download and install approaches

Approach 1 

Scan the QR code to read the download link. Download and install the DJI VISION App on your 

mobile device. You can find the QR code on the ‘Quick Start Guide’ as well as on the packaging of 

the PHANTOM 2 VISION.

Approach 2

iOS user Search “DJI VISION” from App Store, download and install on your mobile device.

Android user Search “DJI VISION” from Google Play, download and install on your mobile device.

Supported mobile devices 

iOS (iOS6 or above)

Recommended: iPhone4s, iPhone5, iPhone5s, iPhone5C, iPhone6, iPhone6 Plus, iPod 

Touch4, iPod Touch5; Available but not recommended: iPad3, iPad4, iPad mini.

Android (System 4.0 or above) Samsung Galaxy S3, S4, Note2, Note3 or mobile devices of similar configuration.

DJI continues to support many mobile devices and any information from users are welcome. Please 

send any questions or queries to the following mailbox: phantom2vision@dji.com.

Be aware that the DJI website regularly updates so make sure you visit often as well as the App Store

or Google Play in order to download the latest version of the DJI VISION App.

6.2 Register & Login 

Access the Internet to register and login.

The App Welcome Page Registration Page Login Page

 

[1]

[2]
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 22 | 

[1] Register 

Select ‘Register’ to enter the registration page. Fill in your Email and Password information and then select

to create a new account.

[2] Login 

Select ‘Login’ to enter the login page. Fill in your registered Email and Password and then select to login.

(1)

(2)

You should login to your account the first time you use the DJI VISION App.

If you do have an account, but forgot the password, select the “Forgot password” to retrieve it.

 

[3] Usage tips 

Useful tips will display when you enter the welcome page. Tap the screen to display the next useful tip. 

 

 

[3]
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 23 | 

7 Preparing the Flight Battery

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

Users take full responsibility for all operations and usage.

7.1 Intelligent Battery and Charger Instructions 

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

voltage of 11.1v and charge-discharge management functionality. The battery should only be charged with the 

charger provided by DJI. DJI does not take any responsibility for operation of any charger from a third party. 

There are many features provided by the DJI charger:

 Balance charge protection

 Full charge protection

 Short circuit protection

 Output protection

 Sleep protection

 Overheating protection

 

Intelligent Battery Charger

7.2 Charging Procedures 

1.

2.

3.

Connect the battery to the charger while the power is OFF.

Connect the charger to a wall socket. The charger indicator light will turn a solid red when it is charging.

Wait until the charger indicator turns solid green to which indicates that the battery is completely charged.

Wall socket 

Charger Indicator

Charger indicator Status of charge 

Charging.

Completely charged.
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 24 | 

7.3 Install the Battery 

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

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

An incorrectly inserted battery may cause one of the following to occur:

(1)

(2)

(3)

(4)

Bad contact.

Unavailable battery information.

Unsafe for flight.

Unable to take off.

7.4 Battery Usage 

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

indicate the current battery level. Refer to Description of the Battery Level Indicator (Page 24) for details.

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

2 seconds to turn on the intelligent battery.

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

2 seconds to turn off the intelligent battery.

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

Description of the Battery Level Indicator 

The current battery level is shown during both the charging and discharging process. Refer to the following table 

for details:

The indicators are defined below: LED is on. LED blinks. LED is off.

Battery level indicator Current battery level 

LED3

LED4

Battery Power Button

(Built-in Battery Power Indicator)

LED2

LED1

Battery Level Indicator
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 25 | 

LED1 LED2 LED3 LED4 

87.5%~100%

75%~87.5%

62.5%~75%

50%~62.5%

37.5%~50%

25%~37.5%

12.5%~25%

0%~12.5%

<0%

7.5 Correct Battery Usage Notes 

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

times.

 It’s recommended to charge and discharge the battery thoroughly once every 20 charge/discharge 

cycles. Users should discharge the battery until there is less than 8% power left or until the battery can 

no longer be turned on. Refer to the DJI VISION App for an exact readout of the battery percentage 

level. You should then fully recharge the battery to maximum capacity. This power cycling procedure will 

ensure the battery is working at its optimal level.

 Turn the power OFF when you have finished flying and remove the battery from its compartment.

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

 Take the battery out of the aircraft after every flight and store the battery in a safe and secure place. For 

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

We recommend discharging and charging the battery completely once every 3 months to keep it in good 

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

 Adhere to the notes for the battery in the disclaimer and regard safety as your first priority.

 The battery should be charged in an environment that is between 10°C to 40°C, and be discharged in an

environment that is between -20°C to 60°C. Both charging and discharging should be in an environment

that the relative humidity is lower than 80%.

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

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

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

concrete and never near any flammable materials.
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 26 | 

8 PHANTOM 2 Aircraft

8.1 The Aircraft 

[1]

[2]

[7]

[3]

[4]

[5]

[6]

OFF CAM ON WIFI ON

MICRO SD

[8]

[9]

[11]

[12]

[11]

[10]

[1]

[2]

[3]

[4]

[5]

[6]

[7]

[8]

[9]

[10]

[11]

[12]

Propeller

Motor

Front Side

Front LEDs

Micro-USB

Vibration Absorber

Compass

LED Flight Indicators

DJI Intelligent Battery

Servo

Receiver Antenna

Landing Gear

8.2 Built-in Flight Control System Instructions 

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

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

contains the MC (Main Controller), IMU, GPS, compass, receiver and LED indicators. The IMU (Inertial 

Measurement Unit) has a built-in inertial sensor and a barometric altimeter that measures both attitude and 

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

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

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

system connecting and controlling all the modules together.

8.3 LED Flight Indicators Description 

After powering on the intelligent battery, the LED flight indicators light up to show the aircraft’s current status.

OFF CAM ON WIFI ON

MICRO SD

LED Flight Indicators Battery Power Indicator Front LEDs

Front LEDs 

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

started spinning.
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 27 | 

LED Flight Indicators Description 

Normal status LED flight indicators Notes 

Power On Self-Test ----

Warming Up Aircraft cannot take off.

Ready to Fly Slow blinking green.

Ready to Fly (non-GPS) Slow blinking yellow.

Abnormal status LED flight indicators

Remote Controller Signal Lost

Fast blinking yellow. Refer to the 

Failsafe Function (Page 32).

Low Battery Capacity Warning Slow blinking red.

Critical Low Battery Capacity Warning Fast blinking red.

Not Stationary or Sensor Bias is too big

Keep aircraft stationary or perform

IMU calibration.

Error* Cannot fly.

Compass Needs Calibration

Refer to the Calibrating the 

Compass (Page 30).

 

(1) The aircraft should be kept stationary on level ground before takeoff.

(2) Make sure the aircraft’s status is in Ready to Fly or Ready to Fly (non-GPS) mode before takeoff.

(3) If an error occurs (LED is solid red), please connect to the PHANTOM 2 VISION Assistant for more 

detailed information.

NO. Errors Operation 

1 IMU calibration is required. Calibrate within the Assistant.

2 IMU is abnormal. Should be repaired.

3 Compass is abnormal. Should be repaired.

4

Remote Controller’s mid-point is set 

abnormally.

Refer to the How to solve large margin(s) 

mid-point error? (Page 66) for details.
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 28 | 

9 Connecting to the Camera

9.1 Camera Connection Procedures 

Please carry out the following procedures to connect a mobile device to the PHANTOM 2 VISION.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Power on the remote controller and the range extender.

Make sure the switch on the back of the camera is set to “WIFI ON” and then power on the PHANTOM 2 

VISION.

(Fig.1)Enable the Wi-Fi on your mobile device; wait for about 30 seconds, and then select the 

Phantom_xxxxxx from theWi-Fi network list.

(Fig.2)Run the DJI VISION App on your mobile device which will indicate the current Wi-Fi connection 

status on the main menu. The Wi-Fi connection indicator will turn solid green which means the connection 

is good.

Tap the “CAMERA” icon and the DJI VISION App will establish a live camera preview (Fig.3). This means 

everything is now functioning.

 

 Fig.1 Fig.2

Fig.3 

Wi-Fi Connection

Indicator

Enable the Wi-Fi

Select Phantom_xxxxxx
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 29 | 

Wi-Fi Connection Indicator Description 

Icon Description 

Solid green Wi-Fi is now connected to the PHANTOM 2 VISION.

 Solid blue Wi-Fi is connected to another Wi-Fi network and NOT to the PHANTOM 2 VISION.

 Off No Wi-Fi connection.

(1)

(2)

The first time you launch the DJI VISION App, Internet access is required to finish the login 

process or new account creation.

The SSID is unique for each PHANTOM 2 VISION which should appear in your Wi-Fi list as 

Phantom_xxxxxx. Always connect to the SSID starting with Phantom_xxxxxx. FC200_0xxxxx is the 

SSID of the camera and should not be connected to. If the SSID FC200_0xxxxx is connected to, 

then the connection signal range will be extremely shortened.
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 30 | 

10 Calibrating the Compass

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

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

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

perform at its optimal level.

10.1 Calibration Warnings 

(1)

(2)

(3)

DO NOT calibrate your compass where there is a possibility for the existence of strong magnetic 

interference such as magnetite, parking structures, and steel reinforcement underground.

DO NOT carry ferromagnetic materials with you during calibration such as keys or cellular phones.

Compass Calibration is very important; otherwise the flight control system will not work properly.

10.2 Calibration Procedures 

Choose an open space to carry out the following procedures. Please watch the quick start video of the PHANTOM

2 VISION for more compass calibration details.

Normal LED

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

Rotate the aircraft vertically (Nose downward) Position-1

Start horizontal calibration Start vertical calibration Succeed Fail

Position-1->Position-3->Position-1 Flip 6~10 times or Tap “Compass Calibration”in DJI VISION APP Start cali

LED Flight Indicator

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

OFF CAM ON WIFI ON

MICRO SD

Position-3

LED Flight Indicator LED Flight Indicator

Re-calibrate Position-1 Position-3 10.3 When Recalibration Is Required 

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

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

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

(4) Evident drifting occurs in flight, i.e. the aircraft doesn’t fly in straight lines.
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 31 | 

11 Flight

11.1 Flying Environment Requirements 

(1)

(2)

(3)

(4)

(5)

(6)

(7)

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

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

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

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

within buildings may interfere with the compass.

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

Try to avoid interference between the remote controller and other wireless equipment. (No base 

stations or cell towers around)

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

All parts must be kept out of the reach of children to avoid CHOKING HAZARDS; if a child has 

accidentally swallowed any part, you should seek immediate medical assistance.

11.2 Starting/Stopping the Motors 

A Combination Stick Command (CSC) is used to start the motors instead of simply pushing the throttle stick up.

This is a safety precaution to prevent the motors from accidentally spinning up. Push both sticks to their bottom 

corners as indicated in the diagram below to start the motors. Once the motors have spun up, release both sticks 

simultaneously. The same combination stick command (CSC) is used to stop the motors.

11.3 Takeoff/Landing Procedures 

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Start by placing the PHANTON 2 VISION on the ground with the battery level indicator facing you.

Power on the remote controller.

Power on the range extender.

Switch the camera to the “WIFI ON” position.

Power on the aircraft by turning on the intelligent battery, refer to the Battery Usage (Page 24) for details.

Connect the mobile device to the PHANTOM 2 VISION and then run the DJI VISION App to enter the 

camera preview page.
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 32 | 

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.

Wait until the LED flight indicator starts to slowly blink green/yellow. This means the aircraft is initializing

and entering the “Ready to Fly”/“Ready to Fly (non-GPS)” state. Then proceed to execute the CSC

command to start motors.

Push the throttle stick up slowly to lift the aircraft off the ground. Refer to the Remote Controller

Operation (Page 10) for more details.

Enjoy your flight while capturing and recording with the DJI VISION App. Refer to the Using DJI VISION 

App (Page 42) for more details.

Pull down the throttle stick to descend. The stick will lock into place and the aircraft will descend steadily.

After landing the aircraft on the ground, keep the throttle stick at its lowest position for about 3 to 5 

seconds which will automatically stop the motors.

 

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

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

(1)

(2)

(3)

(4)

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

Failsafe mode, refer to the Failsafe Function (Page 32) for details.

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

rapidly during flight. Refer to the Low Battery Level Warning Function (Page 34) for details.

Watch the quick start video about flight for more flight information.

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

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

battery and aircraft performance may be reduced.

11.4 Failsafe Function 

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

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

following situations would make the aircraft fail to receive a signal from the remote controller and enter Failsafe

mode:

(1) The remote controller is powered off.

(2) The aircraft has flown out of the effective communication range of the remote controller.

(3) There is an obstacle obstructing the signal between the remote controller and the aircraft, essentially 

reducing the distance the signal can travel.

(4) There is interference causing a signal problem with the remote controller.

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

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

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

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

be drifting during descent and landing process.
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 33 | 

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

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

Home Point 

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

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

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

Dynamic Home Point 

The Home point will be reset to position of the mobile device at specific time intervals. 

(1) Enable dynamic home point in DJI Vision app or Phantom 2 Assistant.

(2) Dynamic home point is only available to the GPS-enabled mobile device. Turn on GPS and data service to obtain 

higher accuracy of the mobile device position.

point is useful in situations when you are in motion and require a Home point that is different 

from the takeoff point.

Go Home Procedures 

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

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

LED Flight Indicator  LED Flight Indicator LED Flight Indicator

LED Flight Indicator LED Flight Indicator LED Flight Indicator

Height over home point<=2 0m

Height over home point>2 0m

20m

Elevate to 2 0m

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

descend automatically.

(2) When the aircraft is landing automatically, users can control the aircraft’s position and altitude if the 

remote controller signal is recovered.

(3) Aircraft cannot navigate around vertical obstacles on its return home course during Failsafe. However, 

you can set return home altitude value in Phantom Assistant to avoid hitting vertical obstacles 

through DJI Phantom Assistant.

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

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

remote controller from upper most to lower most positions 5 times or more will reset the current aircraft 

position as a new home point of PHANTOM 2 VISION. When successfully reset, you will see a series of 

rapid green blinks on the LED Flight Indicator. The definition of “home point” is: i) The home point is the 
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 34 | 

place PHANTOM 2 VISION returns to when the control signal is lost, which is recorded last time. ii) The 

home point is used to calculate the horizontal distance between you and the aircraft, the distance will be 

displayed on the DJI VISION App.

Regaining Control During Failsafe Procedure 

Position of Switch S1 

 

Position-1 Position-2 Position-3 

How to regain control

When the S1 switch is switched to Position-1, 

toggle the S1 switch to any other position once to 

regain control. If remote controller’s signal is

recovered, control is returned back to the pilot.

Regain control as soon as signal 

is recovered.

Failsafe on the DJI VISION App 

The DJI VISION App will provide information during Failsafe.

Control Signal Lost Indicator Going Home Indicator

Refer to the Using DJI VISION App (Page 42) for details.

11.5 Low Battery Level Warning Function 

If the DJI intelligent battery is depleted to a point that may affect the safe return of the aircraft, the low battery 

level warning notifies users to take action. Users are advised to land the aircraft immediately when they observe 

these warnings. The thresholds for these warnings are automatically determined based on the current aircraft 

altitude and its distance from the Home point. Details of the battery level warning are listed below:
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 35 | 

Battery Level 

Warning 

Remark 

Rear LED Flight 

Indicator 

DJI VISION App Flight Instructions 

Sufficient 

battery level 

 

Sufficient

battery 

level.

 

Green LED blinks

slowly.

No message prompts.

Operating normally, no specific 

action needed.

Low battery 

level warning 

 

The battery 

power is 

low. Please 

land the 

aircraft.

Red LED blinks

slowly.

When “Go-Home” is

selected in the Phantom 

Assistant, this message

will appear:

Tap “Go-home Now” to 

have the aircraft return to 

the Home point and land 

automatically, or “Cancel” to 

resume normal flight. If no 

action is taken, the aircraft 

will automatically go home 

and land after 10 seconds. 

Fly the Phantom 2 Vision+

back and land it as soon as 

possible, then stop the motors 

and replace the battery. 

Critical Low 

battery level 

warning 

 

The aircraft 

must land 

immediately.

Red LED blinks

quickly.

The DJI Vision App screen 

will flash red and aircraft 

starts to descend.

The Phantom 2 Vision+ will 

begin to descend and land 

automatically.

Estimated 

remaining 

flight time 

 

Estimated 

remaining 

flight based 

on current 

battery 

level.

N/A N/A N/A

1. Color zones on the battery level indicator reflect estimated 

remaining flight time and are adjusted automatically, according to the aircraft’s current status.

2. When the critical battery level warning activates and the aircraft is descending to land

automatically, you may push the throttle upward to hover the aircraft and navigate it to a more 

appropriate location for landing.
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 36 | 

When these warnings are triggered, please bring the aircraft back to the Home point or land to avoid 

losing power during flight. 

Low Battery Level Warning on the DJI VISION App 

Battery level warnings will show on the camera page of the DJI VISION App when the battery level is low.

(1) A red light will flash along the edges of the app screen.

(2) An audible alarm will sound. Make sure sound is turned on and volume is turned up on your mobile device.

(3) The aircraft battery icon will turn red.

Low Battery Capacity Warning

Refer to the Using DJI VISION App (Page 42) for details.

 

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

(2) The PHANTOM 2 VISION is "Ready To Fly," "Ready to Capture" and "Ready to Share" but it is still 

an aircraft. Keeping the battery contact needles and pads clean is very important. Any dirt and dust 

may cause a communication failure.

11.6 Flight Limits 

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

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

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

height, distance limits.

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

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

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

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

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

PHANTOM 2 VISION.

(2) Users in Mainland China can refer to 民用航空使用空域办法.
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 37 | 

11.6.1 Max Height & Radius Limits 

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

VISION Assistant. Once complete, your aircraft will fly in a restricted cylinder. 

Max Height Max Radius

Home Point The height of aircraft when it is powered on

Ready to Fly 

 Limits Rear LED flight indicator 

Max Height 

The flight height is restricted to fly under the max 

height. 

None.

Max Radius 

The flight distance is restricted to fly within the max 

radius. 

Rapid red flashings when 

close to the Max radius limit. 

Ready to Fly(non-GPS) 

 Flight Limits Rear LED flight indicator 

Max Height 

The flight height is restricted to fly under the minor 

height between the Max height and 120m. 

None.

Max Radius Not limited and no LED indicators. 

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

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

within the limits range automatically if 6 or more GPS satellites have been found. 
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 38 | 

11.6.2 Flight Limits of Special Areas 

Restricted areas include airports worldwide. All restricted areas are listed on the DJI official website at 

http://www.dji.com/fly-safe/category-mc. Restricted areas are divided into category A and category B. Category A 

areas cover major international airport such as LAX and Heathrow, while category B areas includes smaller airports.

Category A Safety Zone 

 The category A “safety zone” is comprised of a small “no-fly zone” and a range of “restricted-altitude zones”. 

Flight is prevented in the “no-fly zone” but can continue with height restrictions in the restricted-altitude zone.

 1.5 miles (2.4 km) around a designated safety zone is a no-fly zone, inside which takeoff is prevented. 

 1.5 miles (2.4 km) to 5 miles (8 km) around restricted areas are altitude restricted, with maximum altitude going 

from 35 feet (10.5 m) at 1.5 miles (2.4 km) to 400 feet (120 m) at 5 miles (8 km).

 A “warning zone” has been set around the safety zone. When you fly within 320 feet (100m) of the safety zone, a 

warning message will appear on the DJI Vision app.

 Category A 

Category B Safety Zone 

 Category B “safety zone” is comprised of a “no-fly zone” and a “warning zone”.

 0.6 miles (1 km) around the safety zone is a designated “no-fly zone”.

 A “warning zone” has been set around the safety zone. When you fly within 0.6 miles (1Km) of this zone, a warning 

will appear on the DJI Vision app.
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 39 | 

Category B 

Ready to Fly mode 

Zone Restriction DJI VISION App Notification 

Rear LED Flight 

Indicator 

No-fly Zone

 

Motors will not start.

Warning: You are in a No-fly zone. 

Take off prohibited.

If the Phantom enters the 

restricted area in Ready to Fly 

(non-GPS) mode but Ready to 

Fly mode activates, the Phantom

will automatically descend to

land then stop its motors after 

landing. 

Warning: You are in a No-fly zone, 

automatic landing has begun. (If you 

are within 1.5 mile radius)

Restricted-altitude 

flight zone

If the Phantom enters a restricted 

area in Ready to Fly (non-GPS) 

mode and Ready to Fly mode 

activates, it will descend to a safe 

altitude and hover 15 feet below 

the safe altitude.

Warning: You are in a restricted 

zone. Descending to safe altitude. (If 

you are between the range of 1.5 

mile and 5 mile radius)
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 40 | 

Warning: You are in a restricted 

zone. Max flight height restricted to 

between 10.5m and 120m. Fly 

Cautiously.

Warning zone

 

No flight restriction applies, but 

there will be warning message.

Warning: You are approaching a 

restricted zone, Fly Cautiously.

Free zone

 

No restrictions. None. None. 

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

the descent and landing process. Motors will stop automatically after landing. Users will regain control 

once the motors have stopped. There is no need to toggle the S1 switch.

(1) When flying in the safety zone, LED flight indicators will blink red quickly 

and continue for 3 seconds, then switch to indicate current flying status and continue for 5 

seconds at which point it will switch back to red blinking.

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

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

11.6.3 Conditions of Flight Limits 

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

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

All flights are restricted by height, distance and special areas simultaneously.

Phantom mode 

Flight Status Limits of Special Area Max Height Max Radius 

Ready to Fly √ √ √

Ready to Fly (non-GPS) × √ ×
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 41 | 

Naza-M mode 

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

GPS 

≥6 √ √ √

<6 × √ ×

ATTI.

≥6 √ √ ×

<6 × √ ×

Manual

≥6 × × ×

<6 × × ×

11.6.4 Disclaimer 

Please ensure that you are up to date with international and domestic airspace rules and regulations before using 

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

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

indirect consequences caused by not following this manual, violating or disregarding other applicable local laws, 

administrative rules and social habits thereof.

 
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 42 | 

12 Using DJI VISION App 

The DJI VISION App controls the PHANTOM 2 VISION camera including capture and recording, settings, pitch 

angle adjustments, and displays essential status including flight parameters and battery life.

12.1 DJI VISION App Main Menu 

After login you will come to the main page. This shows the current Wi-Fi connection and four app function icons.

Icons Description 

 Camera Tap to enter the Camera view screen

 Album Tap to enter your Album of photos and videos

 News Tap to read the latest DJI News

 Settings Tap to change and view app Settings

Checklist Tap to enter the preflight checklist

Manuals Tap to view and download manuals

(1) Connect your mobile device to the PHANTOM 2 VISION Wi-Fi network to use the camera and onboard album. 

(2) Connect your mobile device to the internet (mobile or Wi-Fi) to share photos, videos and read DJI news.

(3) If you receive a phone call during flight, the live camera preview screen may be interrupted. It's 

recommended to ignore the call and pay full attention to your flight.

12.2 Camera Page 

Basic Use 

[1]

[2]

[3]

[4]

[5]

[6] [7]

[8]

[9]

[10]

[12]

[13]

[14]

[11]
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 43 | 

[1] Return

- Return to the preview page

[2] Camera Tilt Control 

 - Tilt Control Mode. Tap and hold to enter the Accelerometer Sensor Mode. Release to return to normal mode. 

Normal Mode

Tap up arrow ( ) to pitch camera upwards and down arrow ( ) to pitch downwards. Green slider indicates 

current camera pitch.

Normal Mode pitch control Pitch movement

 

 Accelerometer Sensor Mode 

Tap and Hold to switch on Accelerometer Sensor Mode to control camera pitch and rotation by moving your 

mobile device.

Tilt device forward to pitch camera downward and backward to pitch upward. Lean it left to rotate left( ) and 

right to rotate right( ).

Accelerometer Sensor Mode Pitch Control Pitch Movement

 

Accelerometer Sensor Mode Yaw Control Yaw Movement

 

 

In Accelerometer Sensor Mode, the pitch angle indicator will show a grey area. When the green pitch 

indicator is inside the grey area, the camera will move according to pitch gestures. When the indicator 

reaches the boundary of the grey area, pitch gestures will control the camera’s pitch speed at 

a constant rate.

 
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 44 | 

[3] Flight Attitude and Radar Function

Flight attitude is indicated by the flight attitude icon. 

(1) The red arrow shows which direction the PHANTOM 2 VISION is facing.

(2) Light blue and dark blue areas indicate pitch.

(3) Pitching of the boundary between light blue and dark blue area shows roll angle.

(4) An orange circle around the radar indicates that the dynamic home point is not available. 

A green circle around the radar indicates that the dynamic home point is available and a new home point has been set.

 

Tap the flight attitude icon to turn on the radar function. Home is located in the center of the radar and the red 

icon indicates the PHANTOM 2 VISION’s current heading, direction, and approximate distance from home.

The current longitude and latitude of the aircraft is displayed on the bottom of the radar. Tap the flight attitude 

icon again to disable the radar.

 

(1)

(2)

By default, the center of the radar indicates the home point that has been recorded by the 

PHANTOM 2 VISION. Tap the center of the radar to switch the center to your mobile device's 

current location.

If your mobile device contains a compass, the top portion of the Radar is the direction you are 

pointing. If not, the radar will be oriented due north.

 

[4] Flight Parameters 

Tap to set return home (RTH) altitude.

Distance: Horizontal distance from home point.

Altitude: Vertical distance from home point.

Speed: Horizontal flying speed.

Distance will appear as N/A if the PHANTOM 2 VISION is not Ready to Fly. 

 

[5] Wi-Fi Signal Strength 

Indicates camera is connected to your mobile device and Wi-Fi is working normally.

PHANTOM 2 VISION

Mobile Device Location

Distance

Home Point

Longitude & Latitude
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 45 | 

The connection between the camera and mobile device may fail if Wi-Fi signal strength is low. Refer to the 

PHANTOM 2 VISION CONNECTION BROKEN on the camera page.

[6] Flight Battery Level

(1) When available power is more than 30%, the battery icon is blue (e.g. ). This battery level is appropriate 

for flight.

(2) When below 30%, the battery icon will turn red (e.g. ) and the LED flight indicator will slowly blink red. 

This battery level is low for flight. It is recommended that you fly your PHANTOM 2 VISION home and land 

it as soon as possible. 

(3) After available power drops below 15% (e.g. ), there is no longer enough power for flight. The LED flight 

indicator will begin to flash red rapidly and the PHANTOM 2 VISION will begin an automatic descent and 

land.

The available power thresholds mentioned above can be adjusted in the PHANTOM 2 VISION 

Assistant.

[7] Aircraft GPS Status

Displays GPS status and the number of available satellites. The icon is highlighted when more than 6 satellites 

are found, enabling Ready to Fly mode.

[8] Micro-SD Card Status

Displays Micro-SD Card Status. The icon is highlighted when a valid Micro-SD card is inserted. If there is no 

Micro-SD card present, it is grayed out.

[9] Remaining Shots

Displays estimated shots remaining, based on the current Photo Size setting of camera and the storage capacity 

of the Micro-SD card. This shows ‘0’ if:

(1) Micro-SD card is not inserted.

(2) Micro-SD card is full.

(3) Micro-SD card is damaged.

(4) Connection between the DJI VISION App and camera is broken.

[10] Shutter Button 

Tap to take photos.

Single capture: press once for a single capture.

Continuous capture: press once for 3 or 5 captures.

Timed capture: press once to begin a timed capture, press again to stop.

(1)

(2)

Shutter button is disabled during video recording.

Capture modes can be reconfigured in camera settings; refer to the Camera Settings (Page 46).

 
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 46 | 

[11] Video Recording Button 

Start and Stop video recording. Tap once to start recording. A red dot will blink to indicate recording is in 

progress and a time elapsed counter will appear in the top right corner of the preview screen. Press again to 

stop recording.

[12] Camera Settings 

Tap to open the camera settings menu, refer to Camera Settings (Page 46).

[13] Hide or Show Flight Parameters 

Tap to hide the flight parameters. Tap again to show.

[14] LED Flight Indicator Status 

Displays the aircraft’s current flight status. Tap for details.

Camera Settings 

 

 

[1] Capture Mode

 

Single capture.

3 captures.

5 captures.

 Timed capture. Also selectable: 

a) Intervals between two shots (3~60 s)

b) Number of shots (2~254, or infinite shots 

until Micro-SD card is filled)

Capture Button will change according to the selected capture mode. ( , , , .)

 

[1] 

[2]

[3]

[4]

[5]

[6]

[7]

[8] 

[9]

[10]

[11] 

[12]
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 47 | 

[2] Photo Size

 

Large: 4384 x 3288, 4:3, 14.4MP

Medium: 4384 x 2922, 3:2, 12.8MP

Small: 4384 x 2466, 16:9, 10.8MP 

 

[3] Video Resolution

 

1920 x 1080 60i, 16:9

1920 x 1080 30p, 16:9

1920 x 1080 25p, 16:9

1280 x 960 30p, 4:3

1280 x 960 25p, 4:3

1280 x 720 60p, 16:9

1280 x 720 30p, 16:9

640 x 480 30p, 4:3(VGA)

Three Field of View (FOV) options are supported when shooting in 1920x1080 60i, 1920x1080 30p and 

1920x1080 25p: Wide (120°), Medium (110°) and Narrow (85°).

 

[4] Photo Format

 

JPEG

RAW

The PHANTOM 2 VISION camera shoots in JPEG and RAW file 

formats simultaneously when this option is selected. See the following 

table for detailed specifications.

JPEG photo size 4384 X 3288 4384 X 2922 4384 X 2466

RAW photo size 4384 X 3288 4384 X 2920 4384 X 2464

RAW is not supported in continuous capture mode or timed capture mode. JPEG photos will be created 

automatically.

RAW format support will be coming soon with DJI Conversion Software to convert PHANTOM 2 VISION’s 

Camera RAW files to Adobe DNG.

 

[5] Selectable ISO

 

AUTO

100

200

400
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 48 | 

 

[6] White Balance

 

AWB (auto)

Sunny

Cloudy

Indoor

 

[7] Exposure Metering

 

Center

Average

Spot

 

[8] Exposure Compensation

 

-2.0(EV) 2.0(EV)

-1.7(EV) 1.7(EV)

-1.3(EV) 1.3(EV)

-1.0(EV) 1.0(EV)

-0.7(EV) 0.7(EV)

-0.3(EV) 0.3(EV)

0(EV)

 

[9] Sharpness

 

Standard

Hard

Soft

 

[10] Anti-flicker

 

Auto

50Hz

60Hz

 

[11] Restore Default Settings 

Restores all camera default settings. Camera reboot is needed to allow restoration to take effect.

 
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 49 | 

[12] Format SD Card 

Format the Micro-SD card. All data stored in the Micro-SD card will be lost after formatting. Remember to 

backup before formatting.

12.3 Album Page 

Camera SD CARD Album 

Browse thumbnails of photos and videos stored on the Micro-SD card. Tap to view photo or watch video.

[1] [4]

[3]

[2]

[1] Photos and Videos are listed and grouped by date.

[2] All photos and videos that have already been synced to your mobile device are identified with the icon.

[3] Tap any thumbnail for single view mode. Tap a Photo thumbnail that hasn’t been synchronized to the mobile 

device to view the photo. Swipe left or right to view the previous or next photo item. Tap on a video thumbnail 

to play it and view the video’s length. A progress bar will also appear at the bottom of the screen. Tap to 

enter single synchronization mode to synchronize a single photo or video, or to synchronize and play a video at 

the same time.

 

[4] Tap the button to enter multiple synchronization mode (as shown in the following diagram). Tap thumbnails 

to select photos or videos to synchronize to your mobile device (The thumbnails identified by the check mark
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 50 | 

are successfully selected.). Or you can select one or more groups to be synchronized by checking the box 

before the group, and then tap to start synchronizing. During the synchronization process, users can tap

to cancel the synchronization. Photos and videos that have been synchronized to the mobile device will 

remain.

Some mobile devices may fail to support synchronization of 1080i60 video files.

Select a group

Select a single photo or video

[5]

 

[5] Tap “Cancel” or “Finished” to exit the multiple synchronization mode and return to the SD CARD page.

Mobile Device Album 

[1] [2]

[3]

[4]

[1] You can browse all photos and videos in the album which have been synchronized to the mobile device, view a 

selected photo or play a selected video.

[2] Photos and videos are listed in thumbnail style and sorted by capture time.
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 51 | 

[3] Pictures and videos are sorted by captured/recorded Geo-tagged locations.

Access to the Internet is required to load a map.

[4] Tap any thumbnail for single view; you can slide left or right to view the previous or next photo. Tap a video 

thumbnail to play a single video.

 

 

[5] Tap to share your photos and videos to social network sites.

Access to the Internet is required to share your photos and videos.

12.4 News Page 

View the latest DJI news. (Internet access is required.)

[5]

(2

)

Geo-tagged locations

(2)
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 52 | 

 

News List News Details

12.5 Settings Page 

[1]

[2]

[3]

[4]

[5]

[6]

[7]

[8]

[9]

[10]

[11]

[12]

[13]

[14]

[15]

[16]

[17]

[18]

[19]

[20]

[21]

[22]

[23]

[24]

[1] Toolbar Auto Hide 

Slide the switch from left to right to enable this function. The toolbar will auto hide on the camera page.

 

Toolbar Auto Hide Disabled Toolbar Auto Hide Enabled
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 53 | 

[2] When Connection Breaks 

Stop Recording:

Enabled: Stop recording when the Wi-Fi connection between the mobile device and the camera breaks while 

the camera is recording.

Disabled: Keep recording when the Wi-Fi connection between the mobile device and the camera breaks while 

the camera is recording.

Start Recording / Start Continuous Capture / Stay in Idle: Select the state the camera will enter in the event of a 

Wi-Fi Connection break between the mobile device and the camera. Use this function to ensure your recording 

is uninterrupted during the flight.

[3] Camera Settings Display

For iOS users, an enabled item will display in the camera settings toolbar, while a disabled item will be hidden.

This feature is not available on Android.

 

[4] Preview Quality 

 
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 54 | 

High: 640480@30fps

Medium: 640480@15fps 

Medium: 320240@30fps 

Low: 320240@15fps (Recommended when there is a lot of interference.)

[5] Parameter Unit 

Select imperial or metric units of measurement.

[6] Ground Station 

Slide to the right to enable ground station feature.

[7] Compass Calibration 

Tap to calibrate the compass. Do not calibrate the compass during flight.

[8] Low Battery Auto Go Home 

Enable or disable auto go home feature when battery is low.

[9] Dynamic Home Point 

When activated, the Home point will be reset to your current position at specific time intervals. The aircraft will 

return to the latest Home point as required.

[10] Current RTH Altitude 

Default RTH altitude set to 20m. Raising the RTH altitude above 120m is not recommended.

[11] Battery History Info 

Show the battery history warning records.

[12] GPS Signal Notice 

If enabled, the DJI VISION App will display a pop-up tip when attempting to takeoff without a sufficient GPS signal.

[13] FPV Mode 

Switched on, the gimbal will work in FPV mode.

Switched off, the gimbal will work in Stabilize mode.

[14] Rotation Lock 

The user interface of the DJI VISION App will rotate if rotation lock is enabled (for iOS device only).

[15] Low Battery Warning 

If enabled, an alarm will sound when the battery level is too low. Be sure sound is enabled on the mobile device 

and try to adjust the volume to the highest level.

[16] Tutorial 

Hints and Tips

[17] Clear News Cache 

Tap to flush news cache.

[18] Binding 

In the event the camera and range extender bind is lost or one of them requires repair or replacement, camera 
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 55 | 

and range extender binding should be performed via the DJI VISION App. Refer to the How to Bind the Camera 

& Range Extender (Page 15) for details. 

[19] Rename Range Extender SSID 

Tap to rename the SSID of the Range Extender. Follow the instructions on the App GUI.

[20] Upgrade Range Extender 

When upgraded, it is possible to use a mobile device’s data network to access internet functions while 

connected to the Phantom.

This feature is not available on Android.

[21] Find My PHANTOM 2 VISION 

My location PHANTOM 2 VISION’

Satellite Mode Standard Mode

My location

S location PHANTOM 2 VISION’S location

[22] Account 

Tap to see user account information.

[23] Rate 

For iOS users, tap to rate the DJI VISION App. Internet access is required.

Android App does not include rating.

[24] About 

Tap to see the current version of the DJI VISION App and contact information.

12.6 Ground Station 

The DJI Vision app features an integrated ground station function. Using it you can create flight missions by placing

waypoints and setting waypoint altitude and overall speed. When flight plan has been created, simply tap “GO” and 

your aircraft will execute the flight mission automatically. You may also abort the flight mission and return home by 

tapping “GoHome” button. 

Upgrade Phantom firmware to the latest version to enable ground station feature. Refer to the 

Firmware Upgrade of the PHANTOM 2 VISION (Page 63) for more information about how to 

upgrade the firmware.
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 56 | 

12.6.1 Ground Station GUI 

[1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6]

[7] [8]

[9]

[10]

[11]

[13]

[14]

[16]

[15]

[12]

[17]

 

[1] MODE 

Modes include

Hover:Hovering

Waypoint:Mission in progress

GoHome:Returning to home point

Take off:Taking off

Landing:Landing

GPS: GPS flight

Atti.:Atti. flight

Manual:Manual flight

[2] Approximated Flight Mission Distance

Planned mission distance. To achieve optimum battery performance, max mission distance is restricted to 

5km (3miles).

[3] Speed 

For flight safety concern, only three gears of flight speed are available. Choose from Fast (8m/s), Mid(4m/s) 

and Slow (2m/s) for flight speeds. Estimated 10 minutes flight is achievable when the aircraft travels in “Fast” 

gear. 

[4] Wi-Fi Signal Strength 

Wi-Fi signal strength display. Refer to the Basic Use [5] (Page 44) in Camera Page for details
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 57 | 

[5] Battery Level 

Battery level display. Refer to the Basic Use [6] (Page 45) in Camera Page for details

[6] GPS 

Number of satellites connected. Refer to the Basic Use [7] (Page 45) in Camera Page for details 

[7] Flight Attitude and Radar 

Attitude and Radar display. Refer to the Basic Use [3] (Page 44) in Camera Page for details

[8] Flight Parameters 

Flight information display. Refer to the Basic Use [4] (Page 44) in Camera Page for details

[9] Back 

Return to camera GUI.

[10] Home Point Locator 

Locate your Home point. 

[11] Orientation Lock 

Unlock to sync map orientation with aircraft movement

[12] Map View 

Select map view from standard, hybrid or satellite. 

[13] Waypoint 

Tap each waypoint to set altitude

[14] Delete 

Delete current waypoint.

[15] Go Home 

Abort mission, return home and land

[16] Done 

Hit “Done” then tap “GO” to begin mission.

[17] Flight Area

The aircraft can fly in this area and return to the home point with the current battery level. This area is 

dependent on the current state of the aircraft and will be refreshed at specific time intervals.
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 58 | 

12.6.2 Using Ground Station 

Step 1 Launching Ground Station: 

Enable ground station feature from DJI Vision app Settings and a disclaimer for ground station prompts. Read the 

disclaimer thoroughly before starting to use ground station. 

 

Ensure your mobile device has access to the Internet. Due to the map data required, Wi-Fi connection is 

recommended. Internet access is required to cache the ground station map, if Wi-Fi is unavailable, mobile data 

service is required. Open the DJI Vision app camera GUI and swipe left to launch ground station. DJI Vision app 

cannot connect to your aircraft while it is accessing the Internet. Hence, you may prompt with the warning message 

such as “Connection to Phantom Failed”. This message will not appear when your aircraft is re-connected to DJI 

Vision app. Map data of your current location will load. You can then drag the map to cache nearby areas for future 

use. 

 

Step 2 Setting a Waypoint: 

Disconnect from the Internet and connect the DJI Vision app to your aircraft. Check that remote controller S1 

switch is in position (position-1) and the upper left corner in ground station display and wait for the 

aircraft to enter “Ready-to-Fly” mode (LED indicator blinking green) before swiping left into ground station. Tap on 

the map to place a waypoint. You can place up to 16 waypoints including the Home point. Waypoints cannot be 

placed beyond 500m from the Home point or inside No Waypoint Areas. 
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 59 | 

(1)

(2)

A red circle on the map, as shown in the screenshot below, indicates a restricted, No Waypoint 

area. Waypoints cannot be placed in this area. For more information, refer to the Flight Limits of 

Special Areas (Page 38).

To achieve the optimal video transmission quality, the aircraft is set to operate within a 

500m-radius area from Home point.

Tap on a waypoint to open a waypoint properties window. Modify longitude and latitude value from the input box. 

Slide the white dot right to adjust waypoint altitude. The default altitude is set to 98 feet (20 m) and can be 

adjusted from 0 to 650 feet (200 m). Tap “OK” to save waypoint settings. To delete current waypoint, tap . 

Step 3 Preview a Mission: 

Tap “Done” to preview the mission when all waypoints are set. A prompt similar to the one below will appear.
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 60 | 

This prompt lists all waypoints and their altitudes. The aircraft will fly to each waypoint listed. If there is a difference 

in altitude between waypoints, the aircraft will adjust its altitude as it flies between points. When ready, tap “GO” to 

begin mission.

Aircraft reacts differently to the “GO” command:

(1)

(2)

If aircraft is on the ground, the aircraft takes off automatically and ascend 16 feet (5m) then fly to 

the first waypoint.

If aircraft is in the air, the aircraft flies to the first waypoint.

Step 4 Executing Flight Mission 

The aircraft flies to each waypoint in numerical order. As it flies, swipe back into the DJI Vision app camera GUI to 

control camera tilt and capture photos or video. Tap to pause the mission during the flight, and aircraft will 

then start hovering. Tap to resume mission. If you wish to regain control of the aircraft, toggle the S1 switch on 

remote controller from (Position-1) to either (Position-2) or (Position-3) to discontinue the current 

mission. 

Step 5 Landing 

When all waypoints have been visited, the aircraft will return to its Home point and hover. Regain control of the 

aircraft and land it manually. You may also tap button to initiate “Go Home” procedure. Aircraft will abort 

current mission, return to Home point and auto land. When the aircraft is landing automatically, users can control 

the aircraft’s position and altitude. Users can start the motors to take off immediately after the motors have 

stopped following auto landing.
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 61 | 

13 Assistant Installation and Configuration

13.1 Installing Driver and PHANTOM 2 VISION Assistant 

Installing and running on Windows 

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

VISION on the DJI website.

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

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

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

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

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

bit)).

Installing and running on Mac OS X

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

DJI website.

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

3. When launching for the first time if use Launchpad to run the PHANTOM 2 VISION Assistant, Launchpad 

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

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

right-click the icon using a mouse). Choose Open from the shortcut menu, click Open in the prompt 

dialog box and then software will launch.

5. After the first successful launch, direct launching of the software can be achieved by double-clicking the 
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 62 | 

PHANTOM 2 VISION icon in the Finder or using Launchpad.

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

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

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

13.2 Using the PHANTOM 2 VISION Assistant on a PC 

1.

2.

3.

4.

Start up the PC, power on the PHANTOM 2 VISION, then connect the PHANTOM 2 VISION to the PC 

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

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

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

indicator is and communication indicator is blinking .

Choose [Basic] or [Advanced] configuration pages.

View and check the current configuration in the [View] page.
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 63 | 

Language swap View configurations

Connection indicator Communication indicator

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

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

Function switch between PHANTOM 2 VISION and NAZA-M

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

procedure, in accordance with the "Phantom Pilot Training Guide”. If the Naza-M function is 

enabled, users can switch the control mode to either the ATTI. Mode, GPS Mode or Manual Mode, 

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

will display the flight status according to the Naza-M's indicator, instead of the Phantom 2 Vision's 

indicator. Do not enable the Naza-M function unless you are an experienced user or guided by a 

professional.

(2)You can change to the Phantom 2 Vision function by tapping the same button if the Naza-M 

function is enabled. This operation will disable the Naza-M function and enable the Phantom 2 

Vision function. All parameters will be returned to factory settings.

13.3 Firmware Upgrade of the PHANTOM 2 VISION 

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

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

properly.

1.

2.

3.

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

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

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

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

after 5 seconds. Once completed, the firmware is up to date.
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 64 | 

Firmware upgradable items

Current firmware version Upgrade link

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

(1)

(2)

DO NOT power off until the upgrade is finished.

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

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

Firmware upgradable items:

(1)

(2)

(3)

(4)

(5)

Main Controller

GPS

5.8G Receiver

P330CB (Main Board)

Battery

13.4 PHANTOM RC Assistant Description 

Please follow the procedures to finish the configuration of the remote controller.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Turn off the remote controller and find the Micro-USB port on the back of it. (If there is no one, users 

should open the rear cover to find the Micro-USB port on the board inner the remote controller.)

Start up the PC, power on the remote controller, and then Connect the remote controller to the PC with a 

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

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

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

indicator is and communication indicator is blinking .

Finish configuration in the [Main] page.

Finish upgrade in the [Info] page if necessary.
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 65 | 

Language swap Main page

Connection indicator Communication indicator

Firmware upgrade Account, software version

*This image is for reference only. Please refer to the actual user interface.
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 66 | 

14 Troubleshooting (FAQ)

14.1 How to solve large margin(s) mid-point error? 

If the Remote Controller stick(s) mid-point margin of error is too big, the motors will fail to start when you execute 

the Combination Stick Commands (CSC) and the aircraft will not take off. Below are possible situations where the

Remote Controller’s stick(s) mid-point margins of error could be too big: 

(1) One of the Remote Controller’s stick position (except the throttle stick) is not centered when powering on the 

PHANTOM 2 VISION.

Solution: Place all Remote Controller sticks at their mid-point positions and then power cycle the PHANTOM 2 

VISION to re-record the mid-point. If the problem persists, this can be caused by scenario (2).

(2) The Remote Controller sticks have been trimmed which leads to a large deviation of the mid-point position. 

Solution: Use the Assistant to perform a Remote Controller calibration. To do so, carry out the following 

procedures.

(a) Connect to the Assistant, tap Basic-> RC-> Command Sticks Calibration, and push all Remote Controller

sticks through their complete travel range to see if any stick cannot reach its outer most position.

(b) Power cycle the PHANTOM 2 VISION. Note that a power cycle is required.

(c) Redo the Remote Controller calibration according to the Assistant.

If the above solutions do not solve your issue, please send your Remote Controller to DJI Customer service for

repair.

14.2 How to restore a video file if power is turned off during a recording session? 

Solution: Keep or place the Micro-SD card back into the camera. Power cycle the camera and wait about 30 

seconds for the video file to be restored.

14.3 Failure to acquire the SSID. 

Solution: Double check whether both the camera and Range Extender are powered on and the power switch of the 

camera is switched to “WIFI ON”.

14.4 What to do if PHANTOM 2 VISION is out of sight and the Wi-Fi connections is lost? 

Solution: Turn off the Remote Controller to trigger the Failsafe mode and the aircraft will start to fly back, descend, 

and land at the Home point automatically. Please make sure there are no obstacles within the go home route and 

you are familiar with the regaining control procedure.

14.5 Wi-Fi connection fails all the time. 

Solution: Double check the current Wi-Fi connection status of the mobile device. The mobile device may be

connecting to other Wi-Fi networks after a connection breaks with the PHANTOM 2 VISION.
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 67 | 

14.6 Files fail to synchronize. 

Solution: Video files that are too large (file sizes close to 4GB) cannot be synchronized to the mobile device. Some 

mobile devices also fail to support synchronization of the 1080i60 video files.

14.7 Albums fail to synchronize. 

Solution: Reset the settings of your mobile device as illustrated below. Enable the Settings ->Private->Photos->DJI 

VISION. Otherwise the Albums will fail to synchronize with your mobile device.

 

14.8 Failure to share. 

Solution: Please make sure the mobile device has access to the Internet.

14.9 Some mobile Android devices have a problem connecting to the PHANTOM 2 VISION 

Wi-Fi Extender. 

Solution: Some mobile Android devices do not allow for both a Wi-Fi connection and a mobile data connection at 

the same time. When trying to connect to the PHANTOM 2 VISION Wi-Fi network, most devices will check whether 

an Internet connection has a certain Wi-Fi setting enabled, e.g. Auto network switch or Test for Internet connection. 

If no Internet connection is found because the PHANTOM 2 VISION creates a non-routable connection it will drop 

the PHANTOM 2 VISION Wi-Fi network connection and scan for the next available connection. Example: For the 

Samsung Note 3, carry out the following procedures to solve this issue. Tap Settings -> Wi-Fi, and then tap the 

“Menu” button. Select “Advanced” then uncheck the “Auto network switch”. You might see a warning that indicates 

the Internet connection is unstable but just ignore this message.
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 68 | 

14.10 Usage tips for the App used on multiple mobile devices. 

During flight, if you use the App on multiple mobile devices, please turn off the App on the first mobile device, and 

then turn on the App on the second one to ensure the App can work normally on the second mobile device.

14.11 How to land the aircraft smoothly in a better way? 

First pull the throttle stick position down to lower than 5%, then execute the CSC command to stop the motors.

14.12 Why the discharge cycle of a new battery not at zero? 

A battery aging test is performed prior to delivery which affects the discharge time of the new battery. This is why 

the discharge time of a new battery is not zero. The battery is okay to use.

14.13 What if I accidently exit DJI Vision App when aircraft is still operating under ground station 

mode? 

 If DJI Vision App is closed when aircraft is executing flight mission, aircraft continues with the remaining 

flight mission.

 If DJI Vision App is closed and failed to re-connect with aircraft within 1 minute, aircraft returns home point 

automatically.

14.14 Do I need extra equipment to use ground station? 

No extra equipment is required. 

 

14.15 Can I cache map data for future use? 

Yes, user can cache map data in ground station for future use. 
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 69 | 

15 Appendix

LED Flight Indicator Status 

Normal status LED Flight Indicators

Power On Self-Test

Warming Up

Ready to Fly

Ready to Fly (non-GPS)

Warning and Error LED Flight Indicators

Remote Controller Signal Lost

Low Battery Capacity Warning

Critical Low Battery Capacity Warning

Not Stationary or Sensor Bias is too big

Error*

Compass Needs Calibration

*You can figure out the error by connecting the PHANTOM 2 VISION to the PHANTOM 2 VISION’s Assistant.
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 70 | 

Specifications 

Aircraft

Supported Battery DJI 5200mAh Li-Po Battery

PHANTOM 2 VISION Weight 1160g

Recommend payload ≤1300g

Maximum payload 1350g

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

Max Yaw Angular Velocity 200°/s

Max Tilt Angle 35°

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

Max Flight Speed 15m/s (Not Recommended)

Wheelbase 350mm

Tilt Range of the Camera 0° - 60°

Remote Controller

Operating Frequency 5.728 GHz-5.85 GHz

Communication Distance (open area) CE Compliance: 300m; FCC Compliance: 500m

Receiver Sensitivity (1%PER) -93dBm

Transmitting Power (EIRP) CE Compliance: 25mW; FCC Compliance: 125mW

Working Current/Voltage 80mA@6V

Battery 4 AA Batteries

Camera

Resolution 14 Megapixels

FOV 120°/ 110° / 85°

Sensor Size 1/2.3”

Functions 

Supports multi-capture, continuous capture and timed capture

Supports HD Recording (1080p30,1080i60)

Supports both RAW and JPEG photo formats

Range Extender

Operating Frequency 2412MHz - 2462MHz

Communication Distance (open area) 300m

Transmitting Power 17dBm

Power Consumption 1.5W

DJI VISION App

Supported Mobile Devices 

Recommended: iPhone4s, iPhone5, iPhone5s, iPhone5C, iPhone6, 

iPhone6 Plus, iPod Touch4, iPod Touch5; 

Available but not recommended: iPad3, iPad4, iPad mini.
©2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 71 | 

Samsung Galaxy S3, S4, Note2, Note3 or phones of similar configuration.

System Requirement of Mobile Device iOS 6.0 or above; Android system 4.0 or above