USER GUIDE

TRIMBLE UX5 AERIAL

IMAGING SOLUTION

1

Version 2.0

Revision A

January 2015
Legal Information

Trimble Navigation Limited

935 Stewart Drive

Sunnyvale, California 94085

U.S.A.

www.trimble.com

Copyright and Trademarks

© 2013–2015, Trimble Navigation Limited. Allrights reserved.

Trimble and the Globe and Triangle logo are trademarks of Trimble

Navigation Limited,registered in the United States and in other

countries. Access is a trademark of Trimble Navigation Limited.

Microsoft and Windows are eitherregistered trademarks ortrademarks

of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.

All othertrademarks are the property of theirrespective owners.

COCOM Limits

The U.S. Department of Commerce requires that all exportable GPS

products contain performance limitations so thatthey cannot be used in

a mannerthat could threaten the security of the United States. The

following limitations are implemented on this product:

– Immediate access to satellite measurements and navigation results is

disabled when the receiver velocity is computed to be greaterthan

1,000 knots, orits altitude is computed to be above 18,000 meters. The

receiverGPS subsystem resets until the COCOM situation clears. As a

result, all logging and stream configurations stop until the GPS

subsystem is cleared.

Notices

United States

Certification number: FCC ID HSW-DNT2400P.

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for

a Class A digital device, pursuantto part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits

are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful

interference when the equipmentis operated in a commercial

environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio

frequency energy and, if notinstalled and used in accordance with the

instruction manual,may cause harmful interference to radio

communications. Operation of this equipmentin a residential area is

likely to cause harmful interference in which case the user will be

required to correctthe interference at his own expense.

Changes and modifications not expressly approved by the manufacturer

orregistrant of this equipment can void your authority to operate this

equipment under Federal Communications Commission rules.

Canada

UnderIndustry Canada regulations,this radio transmittermay only

operate using an antenna of a type and maximum (orlesser) gain

approved forthe transmitter by Industry Canada.

To reduce potentialradio interference to other users,the antenna type

and its gain should be so chosen thatthe equivalentisotropically

radiated power(e.i.r.p.) is not more than that necessary forsuccessful

communication.

This device complies with Industry Canada license-exempt RSS standard

(s). Operation is subjectto the following two conditions:

(1) this device may not cause interference, and

(2) this device must accept any interference, including interference that

may cause undesired operation of the device.

This Class A digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.

Certification numberIC: 4492A-DNT2400P.

This apparatus complies with Canadian RSS-210.

Conformément à la réglementation d'Industrie Canada, le présent

émetteurradio peutfonctionner avec une antenne d'un type et d'un

gain maximal (ou inférieur) approuvé pourl'émetteur parIndustrie

Canada.

Dans le but de réduire les risques de brouillage radioélectrique à

l'intention des autres utilisateurs, il faut choisirle type d'antenne etson

gain de sorte que la puissance isotrope rayonnée équivalente (p.i.r.e.)

ne dépasse pas l'intensité nécessaire à l'établissement d'une

communication satisfaisante.

Le présent appareil est conforme aux CNR d'Industrie Canada applicables

aux appareils radioexempts de licence. L'exploitation est autorisée aux

deux conditions suivantes:

(1) l'appareil ne doit pas produire de brouillage, et

(2) l'utilisateur de l'appareil doit acceptertout brouillage radioélectrique

subi,même si le brouillage estsusceptible d'en compromettre le

fonctionnement.

Cet appareil numérique de la classe A est conforme à la norme NMB-003

du Canada.

Numérique de certification IC: 4492A-DNT2400P.

Cet appareil est conforme à la norme CNR-210 du Canada.

Europe

The product covered by this guide are intended to be used in all EU

member countries,Norway, and Switzerland.

This equipmentis classified as Group 1, Class A equipment according to

EN55011. Group 1 is applicable for all equipment within the scope of EN

55011 thatis not classified as Group 2 equipment, which contains all ISM

RF equipment. Class A equipmentis equipmentsuitable for use in all

establishments otherthan domestic. Using Class A equipmentin

domestic environments may cause difficulties ensuring electromagnetic

compatibility.

CE Declaration of Conformity

Hereby, Trimble Navigation, declares thatthis productis

in compliance with the essentialrequirements and other

relevant provisions of:

– EMC Directive (2014/30/EU)

– Radio Equipment Directive (2014/53/EU)

– RoHS Directive (2011/65/EU)

– Machine Directive (2006/42/EC)

Note– Deviation from Machine directive 2006/42/EC: The CE

marking for the UX5 systemis placed on the Trimble UX5 eBox and is

only visible when the eBox isremoved fromthe Trimble UX5 wing.

Japan

Certification numbers forthe DNT2400P RFM radio module:

007WWCUL0739 and 003UVA110681

Brazil

Este produto está homologado pela Anatel, de acordo com os

procedimentos regulamentados pela Resolução no. 242/2000 e atende

aos requisitos técnicos aplicados, incluindo os limites de exposição da

Taxa de Absorção Específica referente a campos elétricos,magnéticos e

eletromagnéticos de radiofrequência de acordo com as Resoluções no.

303/2002 e 533/2009.

Manter distância mínima de 2,5 cm do corpo humano.

Para maiores informações, consulte o site da ANATEL

www.anatel.gov.br.

Australia and New Zealand

This product conforms with the regulatory requirements of

the Australian Communications and Media Authority

(ACMA) EMC framework,thus satisfying the requirements

for C-Tick Marking and sale within Australia and New

Zealand.

Taiwan – Battery Recycling Requirements

The product contains a removable Lithium polymer battery. Taiwanese

regulations require that waste batteries are recycled.

廢電池請回收

Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE)

For productrecycling instructions and more information,

please go to

www.trimble.com/Corporate/Environmental_

Compliance.aspx.

Recycling in Europe: To recycle Trimble WEEE (Waste

Electrical and Electronic Equipment, products thatrun on electrical

power), call +31 497 53 24 30, and ask forthe “WEEE Associate”. Or,

mail a requestforrecycling instructions to:

Trimble Europe BV

c/o Menlo Worldwide Logistics

Meerheide 45

5521 DZ Eersel,NL

Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging Solution User Guide 2
FCC Declaration of Conformity

We, TrimbleNavigation Limited.

935 Stewart Drive

PO Box 3642

Sunnyvale, CA 94088-3642

United States

+1-408-481-8000

Declare under sole responsibility that DoC products comply

with Part 15 of FCC Rules.

Operation issubject to the following two conditions:

(1) This devicemay not cause harmful interference, and

(2) This devicemust accept any interference received,

including interference that may cause undesired operation.

Environmental hazards

The product complies with international RoHS regulations.

Toxic and hazardous substances and elements

Part name Lead

(Pb)

Mercury

(Hg)

Cadmium

(Cd)

Hexavalent

Chromium

(Cr6+)

Poly-brominated

biphenyls

(PBB)

Poly-brominated

diphenyl ethers

(PBDE)

Lithium polymer

rechargeable battery

X O O O O O

Power supply X O O O O O

Printed circuit board

assembly

X O O O O O

Radio module X O O O O O

Chassis O O O O O O

Plastic enclosure O O O O O O

Paper manual O O O O O O

Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging Solution User Guide 3
Contents

Environmental hazards 3

1 Introduction 6

The UX5 aerial imaging rover 7

Parts of the UX5 aerial imaging rover 8

Solution components 10

Flight case contents 11

Inserting the eBox and camera 12

Installing the Aerial Imaging software 14

Projects, missions, blocks, and flights 16

Project phases 17

Software overview 17

Changing the system settings 21

Performing maintenance 22

2 Planning a Project 24

Creating a project 25

Preparing the project map 25

Defining the blocks 30

Obstacle clearances 33

Defining the flights 37

Exporting the project 43

Checking flight permissions and conditions 43

3 Preparing Equipment 48

Checking the launcher 49

Checking the UX5 aerial imaging rover 49

Charging the UX5 batteries 52

Charging the Tablet batteries 55

Charging the camera batteries 55

Checking the camera 55

Pairing the transmitter with the tracking receiver 60

Locating your equipment 60

4 Completing a Flight 62

Importing the project 63

Validating the blocks 63

Validating the flights 63

Dealing with sudden weather changes 64

Completing the flight checklist 65

Monitoring the flight 78

Landing the UX5 87

Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging Solution User Guide 4
Contents

Completing the post-flight checklist 89

Disassembling the launcher 90

5 Analysis and Export 92

Transferring the images 93

Returning the project to the Aerial Imaging Desktop software 93

Exporting flight data for processing 94

6 Troubleshooting 96

Errors and warnings 97

Landing issues 102

Aerial Imaging software issues 103

eBox LED status 104

Technicalsupport 104

7 Specifications and Settings 105

UX5 specifications 106

Camera specifications 107

Camera settings 108

Battery charger settings 119

UX5 battery safety 119

A Country-Specific Regulatory Information 129

FAA conditions and limitations of operation 130

French airspace requirements 135

Glossary 136

Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging Solution User Guide 5
Introduction

n The UX5 aerial imaging rover 

n Parts of the UX5 aerial imaging rover 

n Solution components

n Flight case contents

n Inserting the eBox and camera

n Installing the Aerial Imaging software

n Projects, missions, blocks, and flights

n Project phases

n Software overview

The Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging Solution User

Guide provides detailed information about

operating the components of the Trimble®

UX5 aerial imaging solution.

Even if you have used other unmanned aviation

systems before, please read this user guide

carefully to familiarize yourself with the

UX5 aerial imaging solution.

Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging Solution User Guide 6

CHAPTER 1
1   Introduction

The UX5 aerial imaging rover 

The Trimble UX5 aerial imaging rover is an unmanned aircraft (UA). An unmanned aircraft is a generic

term, and refers to an aircraft that is operated with no pilot on board. Such an aircraft is commonly

also referred to as a remotely-piloted aircraft (RPA). The UX5 aerial imaging rover follows a

pre-programmed path where takeoff, flight, and landing require minimal human intervention. If

required, the crew operating the aircraft from the ground can intervene to change the flight path or

to land. In some cases, such as communications failure or loss of GPS signal, a pre-programmed

intervention is automatically activated to re-establish signal loss or to terminate the flight early and

complete a safe landing.

The UX5 aerial imaging rover holds a camera that takes aerial images over the defined area. During

the flight, all pictures are acquired at a specified height, along parallel lines with specified overlap

between the image exposures. At the same time, position information of the pictures is recorded for

further processing in image processing software such as Trimble Business Centersoftware.

Typical applications

Image acquisition can be used for:

l Orthophoto creation

l Digital Elevation Model (DEM) or Digital Surface Model (DSM)

l Photogrammetry

The resulting data is useful for a range of applications, including:

l Topographicalsurveying, particularly in remote or difficult to access areas, typical in the mining

and dredging industries

l Vegetation monitoring

l Infrastructure mapping

ISA conditions

All operating specifications provided in this guide for the UX5 aerial imaging rover are determined

using International Standard Atmosphere (ISA) conditions. The ISA conditions used to determine

the specifications for the UX5 aerial imaging rover are:

Specification Value

Humidity 0 %

Air pressure 1013.25 hPa (760 mm Hg)

Temperature 15 °C (59 °F)

Air density 1.225 kg/m3 (0.076 lb/ft3)

Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging Solution User Guide 7
1   Introduction

Parts of the UX5 aerial imaging rover 

The main parts of the UX5 aerial imaging rover are shown below.

Top view

❶ Aircraft body ❻ eBox ❿ Download cable connector

❷ Leading edge ❼ Pitot tube ⓫ Elevon servos

❸ Payload bay ❽ GPS antenna ⓬ Inboard elevon

❹ Battery ❾ Mode button ⓭ Outboard elevon

❺ Camera

Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging Solution User Guide 8
1   Introduction

Bottom view

❶ Camera lens hole ❸ Motor ❺ Propeller

❷ Launcher slat ❹ Propeller nut ❻ Winglet

Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging Solution User Guide 9
1   Introduction

Solution components

The UX5 aerial imaging solution comprises the following components:

l UX5 aerial imaging rover

l Camera

l Ground controlstation

l Launcher

l Tracker (optional)

UX5 aerial imaging rover

The UX5 aerial imaging rover consists of the wing kit (or body) and the eBox. The eBox is a

removable box containing the computer that controls the UX5. The eBox is connected to a GPS

antenna and a radio antenna so that the ground controlstation can communicate with the UX5

while it is in the air.

Camera

The camera captures images during the flight. The camera has a large 24.3 megapixel (Sony a5100) or

16.1 megapixel (Sony NEX-5) APS-C sensor that provides sharp, detailed images. The standard RGB

solution includes a UV HAZE 1 filter. The optional NIR (near infrared)solution is for use in specialized

applications such as agriculture.

Ground control station

The ground controlstation (GCS) is used to control the UX5 aerial imaging rover from the ground. It

comprises the Trimble Tablet running the Trimble AccessTM Aerial Imaging software. The Trimble UX5

modem is connected to the Tablet to enable radio communication to the unmanned aircraft.

Launcher

The launcher is a mechanical device that provides a safe way to launch the UX5 aerial imaging

rover in the direction of takeoff.

Tracker

The tracker consists of a transmitter inserted in the body of the UX5 aerial imaging rover and a

receiver. Ifrequired, the receiver is used to track the transmitter signalso the UX5 can be located

once it has landed. The exact type of tracker used depends on the country where the system is

being used. Check with your Trimble distributor what is available for your location.

Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging Solution User Guide 10
1   Introduction

Flight case contents

When you receive your solution components, unpack them and store them in the dedicated

cavities in the flight case.

Check off the components against the illustration below to ensure that you have all of the

components you need for a successful flight:

❾ ❿

❶❷ ❷ ❸

❹ ❺

❻ ❼

❽ ⓫

❶ Tablet, Tablet charger, modem and RF

antenna, download cable

❼ UX5 battery charger and charge cable

❷ UX5 battery ❽ Spare camera battery and camera

battery charger

❸ Tracker transmitter and receiver ❾ Lens cleaning paper

❹ Power strip and power cable ❿ Pre-moistened lens cloth

❺ UX5 body, with camera, eBox and top cover ⓫ Pitot cover, tools and optionalspare

parts

❻ Extra parts such as winglets, propellers

Note – Some components are small partsthat are easily lost. To avoid this, assoon as you unpack them:

— insert the camera battery and SD card into the camera.

— attach the GPS and RF antennasto the eBox. See Inserting the eBox and camera, page 12.

Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging Solution User Guide 11
1   Introduction

Note – According to ICAO/IATA regulations, Lithium polymer batteries must be carried in hand luggage

when transporting the system by air.

Note – The following parts of the Trimble UX5 aerial imaging solution are considered dual-use: the eBox,

Trimble Tablet and launcher. Dual-use goods are products and technologies normally used for civilian

purposes but which may have military applications. Under EU regulations, controlled items may not leave

the EU customsterritory without an export authorization. Additional restrictions are also in place

concerning the provision of brokering services with regard to dual-use items and concerning the transit of

such itemsthrough the EU. The same istrue when exporting goodsfrom any country outside the EU to

any other country outside the EU.

Inserting the eBox and camera

The eBox and camera are stored inside the UX5 body in the flight case.

1. Unpack the UX5 body, the eBox, GPS antenna, RF antenna, and camera.

2. Attach the RF antenna to the underside of the eBox.

3. Attach the GPS antenna to the top side of the eBox.

4. Insert the eBox into the eBox cavity of the UX5 body, sliding the bottom end into the cavity and

then pressing down so that the connector on the rear plugs into the connector in the UX5

body.

Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging Solution User Guide 12
1   Introduction

WARNING – Always disconnect the battery from the aircraft before inserting or removing the eBox from

the UX5 body. If the battery is still connected, you risk damaging the electronics inside the UX5 body. For

information on disconnecting the battery, see Removing the battery, page 52.

5. Insert the screw into the hole of the eBox and screw the eBox into place using a T10 Torx

screwdriver.

6. If you are using the:

Sony a5100 camera

a. Insert the adapter piece into the camera cavity of the payload bay of the UX5 body.

b. Use the USB cable to connect the camera to the connector from the eBox.

c. Insert the camera into the camera cavity of the payload bay and secure it using the Velcro

strap.

Sony NEX5 camera

a. Insert the two adapter pieces into the camera cavity of the payload bay of the UX5 body.

b. Connect the IR LED cable to the connector from the eBox.

c. Insert the camera into the camera cavity of the payload bay and secure it using the Velcro

Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging Solution User Guide 13
1   Introduction

strap.

Note – After inserting and securing the camera, check the shutter speed asthe settings control might

have spun and changed the setting.

Installing the Aerial Imaging software

Use the Aerial Imaging software to plan, manage, and monitor your flights.

The Aerial Imaging Desktop software is installed on an office computer. The field version of the Aerial

Imaging software is installed on the Tablet. The field software provides all of the functionality

included in the office software. In addition, you can use the field software to monitor the aircraft

during flight.

Aerial Imaging Desktop installation

1. To install the Aerial Imaging Desktop software, use the Trimble Access Installation Manager. If

you have:

l not installed the Trimble Access Installation Manager before, go to www.trimble.com/taim

for installation information. Make sure you download and install the TAIM Online version.

l previously installed the Trimble Access Installation Manager, you do not need to reinstall it

because it updates itself automatically.

2. Make sure you do not have a Tablet or other Trimble controller connected to the office

computer.

3. Select Start / All Programs / Trimble Access Installation Manager to start the Installation

Manager.

4. Select the Trialsoftware tab.

5. Select the Aerial Imaging Desktop check box.

Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging Solution User Guide 14
1   Introduction

6. Click Create license.

7. The Trimble Access Installation Managerswitches to the Licensed applications tab and shows

the now licensed Aerial Imaging Desktop software.

8. Click Install.

For further information on updating the software, refer to the Help file in the Trimble Access

Installation Manager. To view the Help file, select the Trimble icon in the top left, and then select

Help.

Aerial Imaging Tablet installation

When you first turn on the Tablet, you must install the Windows® 7 operating system. To do this

you must set a user name and password for the Tablet. The installation of Windows 7 takes about 5

minutes.

1. To install the Aerial Imaging software on the Tablet, use the Trimble Access Installation

Manager. If you have:

l not installed the Trimble Access Installation Manager before, go to www.trimble.com/taim

for installation information.

l previously installed the Trimble Access Installation Manager, you do not need to reinstall it

because it updates itself automatically.

2. Select Start / All Programs / Trimble Access Installation Manager to start the Installation

Manager.

3. Make sure Aerial Imaging is selected in the product bar.

4. In the Licensed applications tab, select the Aerial Imaging check box and then click Install.

For further information on how to install or update your software and license file, refer to the Help

file in the Trimble Access Installation Manager. To view the Help file, select the Trimble icon in the

top left, and then select Help.

Software notifications

The software notification service is installed on your office computer or Trimble Tablet along with

the TAIM software. The service uses the Windows notification area, which appears at the far right of

the Windows taskbar.

The service notifies you when newer versions of the Aerial Imaging software are available.

Notifications occur once a week until you have updated your system.

To run TAIM and install updates, click the notification message. Alternatively, click the Show Hidden

Icons arrow in the Windows taskbar and then double-click the Trimble Access Installation Manager

icon.

To manually check for updates, click the Show Hidden Icons arrow in the Windows taskbar and then

right-click the Trimble Access Installation Manager icon and select Check for updates.

Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging Solution User Guide 15
1   Introduction

Updating the eBox firmware

The Aerial Imaging software automatically checks that the eBox firmware is up to date when the

connection between the GCS and the UX5 is established during the flight checklist procedure. If

firmware updates are available you are prompted to perform an update. It takes about 30 minutes

to update the eBox firmware.

To manually initiate a firmware update, tap Checking the firmware version in the Maintenance

screen. If the firmware version is out of date, tap Update.

1. When the Update firmware checklist appears, do one of the following:

l To dismiss the update checklist, tap No.

l To start the firmware update, tap Yes. The update checklist appears.

2. When prompted, attach the modem. Tap Next to update the modem firmware.

3. When prompted, connect the download cable. Tap Next to update the eBox firmware.

4. The eBox firmware update consists ofseveral automatic steps. When the firmware has finished

updating, disconnect the download cable from the eBox and the modem.

Depending on whether the Update firmware checklist was started automatically or manually,

either the start of the flight checklist or the Maintenance screen appears.

Projects, missions, blocks, and flights

A project consists of one or more missions. Missions represent the areas to be aerially

photographed. A mission area consists of one or more blocks within the mission area. By default

there is one block per mission area, but if the estimated flight time for a block exceeds 50 minutes

then the mission area must be divided into smaller blocks. Blocks provide flexibility so that the

mission areas in a project can be covered in the smallest number of flights, because a flight can

cover one or more blocks, as long as the total flight time for the blocks is less than 50 minutes.

For example, a farmer wants to aerially photograph his potato fields. The farmer has two potato

fields, located 500 m apart from each other. In his project, he creates a mission area for each field.

By default, each mission area consists of one block. One field can be mapped in an estimated flight

time of 20 minutes. But one field is so large the estimated flight time is 70 minutes. It cannot be

mapped in one flight. Therefore, the farmersplits the mission area into two blocks. He could split

the mission area into two equal blocks of 35 minutes, but then that would result in three separate

blocks that have to be flown as three separate flights. Instead, the farmersplits the large mission

area into one 45 minute block and one 25 minute block. Then the farmer adds the new 25 minute

block to the flight for the existing 20 minute block. The farmer can now map both mission areas in

two flights, each of 45 minutes duration.

Projects, blocks, and flights can be copied so it is easy to set up similar projects or flights. Copy

blocks to easily repeat flights at different heights. Or copy flights to redo a flight regularly, for

example to track changes or progress over the mission area.

Note – Project planning is usually done in the office. Block and flight planning can be prepared in the

office but must be validated in the field after checking actual conditions.

Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging Solution User Guide 16
1   Introduction

Project phases

The typical phases of a project are:

l Project definition: In the office you can define one or more missions, adding details such as

background maps, avoidance zones, and text fields ifrequired. The area, ground sample

distance (GSD), and the amount of image overlap are defined for each mission.

l Block definition: Depending on the size and nature of a mission area, you can split a mission

area into one or more blocks. In the office you can specify the wind and flight line direction. For

each block you can customize the GSD, height, and image overlap. In the field, you must

validate the block properties to take into account the actual wind direction and environment.

l Flight definition: In the office you can prepare one or more flights to cover the block(s) and

suggest the takeoff and landing locations. In the field you must validate the flight properties,

including the selected takeoff and landing locations. The flight checklist is completed to ensure

that the system is ready for the flight.

l Flight scheduling: Flight scheduling is completed outside of the Aerial Imaging software.

Checks for flight permissions, weather, and site suitability are completed and the flight is

scheduled. Before heading to the site, all equipment is checked for any damage from previous

flights and all batteries are fully charged.

l Flight operation: After launching the UX5 aerial imaging rover, the flight is monitored using the

ground controlstation. After the UX5 lands, the post-flight checklist is completed to transfer

the flight data to the Tablet.

l Analysis and export: The flight and captured images are analyzed to make sure they are

synchronized and the data is exported in the appropriate file format for image processing.

l Image processing: The data collected during the flight is processed using image processing

software such as Trimble Business Centersoftware.

Software overview

l The Home screen

l The Projects screen

l Software tabs

l Title bar buttons

l Status icons

Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging Solution User Guide 17
1   Introduction

The Home screen

When you open the Aerial Imaging software, the Home screen appears.

The Home screen is shown below:

From this screen you can:

l Create a new project or import a project. Alternatively, browse to the Projects screen to view

available projects. See The Projects screen, page 19.

l Change system settings. See Changing the system settings, page 21.

l Access the Maintenance screen. SeePerforming maintenance, page 22

To return to the current job, click .

Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging Solution User Guide 18
1   Introduction

The Projects screen

To view the Projects screen, click in the Home screen. Existing projects are displayed in the

thumbnail carousel on the left and in the list to the right.

To search for a project, enter the project name in the search bar above the list, or browse the

project thumbnails.

To view project details, click beside a project name in the list.

You must select a project before any of the following buttons except and are enabled:

Click... To... For more information, see...

Create a new project. Creating a project, page 25

Import a project .gwt file.

Note – Import is not backwards compatible

with previous versions of the Aerial Imaging

software.

Importing the project, page 63

Export the project .gwt file Exporting the project, page 43

Export project data as .jxl or .csv/.txt files for

processing.

Note – Export to .jxl or .csv/.txt is backwards

compatible with previous versions of the Aerial

Imaging software.

Exporting flight data for

processing, page 94

Copy the contents of the project. By default,

the check box to copy flights and flight data is

selected, but if you do not want to copy the

project contents, clear the check box.

Open the project. The Map layers screen

appears.

Creating the mission, page 27

Delete the project and associated flight data,

including images.

Note – This behavior differsfrom previous

versions of Aerial Imaging, where deleting a

project did not delete the images associated

with a project.

Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging Solution User Guide 19
1   Introduction

Software tabs

The Aerial Imaging software provides a tabular workflow. The tabs allow you to easily move between

the different levels of project information and phases of a project.

Most screens in the software provide access to the following tabs:

Tab icon Tab name Function

Map layers tab Add a map, and create a mission.

Blocks tab Add blocks to the mission, and set block

properties, such as the GSD and height

for the block.

Flights tab Add flights, and define flight properties,

such as the takeoff and landing

locations.

Flight checklist tab Complete the flight checklist.

Dashboard tab Monitor the UX5 during flight.

Post-flight checklist tab Transfer the flight data from the UX5 to

the Tablet.

Title bar buttons

The title bar of the software includes the following buttons:

Click... To...

Save the project.

View the Aerial Imaging Help and the software About dialog.

Close the software.

Return to the Projects screen.

Return to the Home screen.

Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging Solution User Guide 20
1   Introduction

Status icons

At the bottom of each screen, the footershows the following information:

Icon Accompanying information Notes

GPS coordinates of the location of the

cursor on the map.

GPS coordinates of the location of the

GCS.

If the GCS has no GPS connection, this

icon is red and the text "not available" is

displayed.

GPS coordinates of the location of the

UX5.

If the UX5 has no GPS connection, this

icon is not displayed.

The battery level of the Tablet. If you are using the Aerial Imaging

Desktop software, this icon is not

displayed.

During flight, the following information is shown:

Icon Accompanying information

Ground speed.

Distance between the GCS and the aircraft.

Number of flight lines flown versus total number of flight lines.

Changing the system settings

To change settings for the Aerial Imaging software, click the Settings button in the Home screen.

After configuring the settings, do one of the following:

l Click to accept the settings and then click to return to the Home screen.

l Click to discard the changes you have made to the settings and return to the Home screen.

General settings

Use the settings in the General group to specify:

l The language used for the Aerial Imaging software and help file.

l The source for online maps.

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1   Introduction

Note – Trimble does not guarantee the accuracy of any mapping data source. It is your responsibility

to double-check the precision of the coordinates.

l Preferred units for speed, distance, altitude, and area.

l Automatic generation of one flight.

Select the check box to enable "fast track", where a small mission area that can be covered by

one block will automatically create one flight to cover the block. Fast track enables you to

rapidly browse through the tabs. Experienced users may prefer to clear this check box and

create their own flights.

l Automatic disabling of WiFi and Bluetooth during flight.

By default this check box is selected to ensure optimal RF communication between the ground

controlstation and the aircraft.

Network settings

Use the settings in the Network group to specify the proxy settings for the Internet connection.

Select the check box to enable proxy settings for the Internet connection and then enter the

settings to use. If you change these settings, you are prompted to restart the Aerial Imaging

software.

Note – You may need to configure the Internet proxy settings before you can view online maps. For the

correct settingsto use, consult your network administrator.

Autopilot settings

Use the settings in the Autopilot group to specify the communication timeout settings.

Enter a value between 20 seconds and 1800 seconds (30 minutes). The default value is 120 seconds

(2 minutes).

Note – The country you are operating in may have regulations prescribing the minimum communication

timeout setting that you must use. Make sure you are aware of these and that you use the regulated

minimum setting for your location.

Performing maintenance

To perform maintenance on the body of the UX5 or on the launcher, click in the Home screen to

view maintenance procedures. Alternatively, refer to the Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging Solution

Maintenance Guide.

The following maintenance procedures are available:

l Replacing the drive unit

l Replacing a servo

l Replacing a propeller blade

l Replacing the camera filter

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1   Introduction

l Replacing a winglet or winglet screw

l Checking the pitot tube

l Replacing the launcher cord

l Replacing the wheels of the launcher dock

Check the UX5 and the launcher after each flight to ensure the equipment is in good working order.

For more information, see Preparing Equipment, page 48.

Perform any maintenance required using the procedures above. If you note any issues not covered

by these procedures, contact your Trimble distributor.

In addition, the Maintenance screen allows you to check the firmware version of the eBox, and if

necessary update the firmware. For more information, see Updating the eBox firmware, page 16.

To exit the Maintenance screen and return to the Home screen, click in the title bar.

Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging Solution User Guide 23
Planning a Project

n Creating a project

n Preparing the project map

n Defining the blocks

n Obstacle clearances

n Defining the flights

n Exporting the project

n Checking flight permissions and

conditions

This chapter describes how to plan a project.

Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging Solution User Guide 24

CHAPTER 2
2   Planning a Project

Creating a project

To create a new project, do one of the following:

l in the Home screen, click and enter the name of the new project in the pop-up field. The

Map layers screen for the new project appears.

l In the Projects screen, click and enter the name of the new project in the pop-up field. The

new project appears in the Projects list. Click to open the project. The Map layers screen

appears.

Note – Names of projects, mission areas, blocks, and flights can contain the following characters: A-Z, a-z,

0-9, dash (-),space ( ), and underscore (_).

Preparing the project map

A project must have at least one geo-referenced background map and one mission. Objects within a

geo-referenced map are associated with a unique geographical location.

To prepare the project map, select the Map layers tab. See:

l Adding a background map, page 25

l Creating the mission, page 27

l Adding information to the map, page 29

Adding a background map

You can use an online map, an offline map, or you can add your own geo-referenced map.

l To use an online map:

a. Make sure you have Internet access.

b. Click on the map and then enter the location of interest. The map shows the area

around the location using your preferred online map provider (see Changing the system

settings, page 21).

c. Zoom in or out, or pan until you view the preferred map area.

Note – The online map is always available as a layer and cannot be deleted. You can have only one

online map layer per project.

l To use an offline map, click and then click . Use the toolbar that appears on top of the

map to select the satellite map or road map for download. The current view of the online map,

including two extra zoom levels, is downloaded as an offline map. The largest area you can

download has zoom level 10, which corresponds to approximately 95 m per pixel (0.06 miles per

pixel).

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2   Planning a Project

The offline map layer ensures you will be able to view the map background during the flight, if

you do not have an Internet connection in the field.

You can have multiple offline map layers in a project.

l To use your own map, add a GeoTiff file that you have prepared earlier using software such as

Trimble Business Centersoftware.

The GeoTiff file must be georeferenced in the WGS84 UTM datum and be less than 120 MB in

size. It must use no compression or LWZ file compression only.

To generate a background map using the Trimble Business Center AP module, create an

orthomosaic selecting "Low" resolution and "TIFF" for the file format.

To add the GeoTiff file in Aerial Imaging, click . Navigate to the location of the file, select it,

and then click Open. The map shows the contents of the file you selected.

You can have multiple GeoTiff map layers in a project.

For more information on map layers, see Managing map layers, page 26.

Managing map layers

Click to toggle between the map view and the satellite view of the online map.

The "Online map" is the map's default layer. The online map is always the bottom layer and cannot

be moved up.

An offline or GeoTiff layersits above the online map and below any other layer, such as mission,

avoidance zone, and KML file.

New layers appear above a selected layer. If nothing is selected, it becomes the top layer. Layers at

the top of the list appear as the top-most layers on the map.

To change the order of the layers, use the icon next to the layer name.

To hide a layer, click next to the layer name.

To show a hidden layer, click next to the layer name.

To disable any manipulation of a layer, click next to the layer name.

To remove a layer that is no longer required, select the layer in the list and then click below the

list. You cannot delete the online map layer.

To rename a layer, select the layer in the list and then click the layer's name. You can now edit the

name. The online map cannot be renamed.

Use the and buttons to zoom in and zoom out of the map.

Click to display the map grid lines.

Use the button, to zoom the map and all of its layers to the best view.

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If you are viewing the map on the Tablet and it has a GPS connection, the button is available. If

you pan around the map, click to center the map on the current GPS location.

During flight, the button is available. Click to center the map on the current UX5 location.

Creating the mission

A mission is the area to be flown over at a specified ground sample distance (GSD) and image

overlap.

1. To create the mission area:

a. Click and then click . A toolbar appears on top of the map, allowing you to add a

polygonal or rectangular area.

b. Click the appropriate shape on the toolbar and then draw the shape of the mission area on

the map:

l For a polygon, click the mouse at each boundary point.

l For a rectangle, click the mouse on the map. A standard-sized shape appears. The

location of the mouse click is the center of the shape.

To stop drawing and confirm the shape, click . The mission layer appears in the map

layers list to the right.

To clear the shape, click .

c. To edit the mission area, select the area on the map or in the map layers list and then click

.

l To resize or reshape the area, click and move the boundary points on the map.

l To reposition the area, click and move it on the map .

l To add or delete boundary points or to rotate the shape, use the toolbar that appears

on the map. To confirm your changes, click , or click to undo your changes.

Note – It is not possible to add or remove boundary pointsfor a rectangular area.

d. Repeat the steps above to add as many mission areas as required.

2. To edit the mission properties, click next to the mission name in the map layers list and then

do the following:

a. Select the type ofsensor that you will use to map the mission: Sony a5100 or Sony NEX-5

b. Set the ground sample distance (GSD). The default value is the GSD value obtained by

flying at a height of 100 m (328 ft). For more information, see GSD and height, page 28.

c. Enter the image forward ( ) and side overlap ( ). The default value is 80%. For more

information, see Image forward and side overlap, page 28.

The mission properties also show the size of the mission area.

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Note – It is not possible to change the mission properties when a mission islocked.

Tip – To disable editing of the mission area or mission properties, click next to the mission

name.

GSD and height

The GSD (ground sample distance) field specifies the distance on the ground represented by each

pixel. The default resolution is 2.6 cm (1.0 ") when using the Sony a5100 sensor and 3.2 cm (1.3 ")

when using the Sony NEX-5 sensor.

The smaller the value in the GSD field, the more detailed the images. You should always specify a

value equal to or smaller than the resolution required in the final orthophotos, after the images are

processed. If the value in the GSD field is larger than the final resolution required, then the images

acquired during the flight will not be detailed enough and the image processing software will need to

interpolate additional pixels. This will result in images that do not have the expected resolution.

The GSD field and the height at which the UX5 aerial imaging rover flies are linked. The higher the

unmanned aircraft flies, the larger the distance on the ground represented by each pixel in the

images acquired during the flight:

Height GSD (Sony a5100) GSD (Sony NEX-5)

Minimum: 75 m (246 ft) 2.0 cm (0.8 ") 2.4 cm (0.9 ")

100 m (328 ft) 2.6 cm (1.0 ") 3.2 cm (1.3 ")

150 m (492 ft) 3.9 cm (1.5 ") 4.8 cm (1.9 ")

Maximum: 750 m (2460 ft) 19.6 cm (7.7 ") 23.9 cm (9.4 ")

You will first specify the GSD value for the mission when you create the mission area. This

determines the default height used for all blocks in that mission. For example, if you enter 4.8 cm in

the GSD field when using the Sony NEX-5 sensor, the unmanned aircraft will fly at 150 m (492 ft).

During block definition you can adjust the height for each block, taking into account the specific

obstacles in the block.

Image forward and side overlap

The default value of the overlap between images is 80%. Image overlap can range from 60% to 90%.

Note – Trimble does not recommend using an overlap of lessthan 80%, asit may prevent (large) parts of

the dataset being adjustable in the Trimble Business Center software due to the lack of tie points,

especially where the flight height waslow or where the area containstrees or other tall objects, or areas

that lack texture.

By default the forward ( ) and side overlap ( ) values are linked, so that when one value

changes, the other value changes accordingly. To "break" the link so that the overlap values can be

set independently, click . To re-establish the link, click .

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A higher overlap results in:

l better accuracy

l a higher density of flight lines on the area

l a higher number of images to process

l longer processing times for images

l longer flight duration for the same area

Select the overlap value for your mission based on the accuracy, flight duration, and the number of

images you require.

Adding information to the map

You can add the following types of information to the map:

l avoidance zones

l KML files containing lines, points, images, and polygons

l .csv files containing ground control points (GCPs)

1. To create an avoidance zone:

a. Click and then . A toolbar appears on top of the map, allowing you to add a

polygonal, rectangular, or ellipsoidal area.

b. Click the appropriate shape on the toolbar and then draw the shape of the avoidance zone

on the map:

l For a polygon, click the mouse at each boundary point.

l For a rectangle or ellipse, click the mouse on the map. A standard-sized shape

appears. The location of the mouse click is the center of the shape.

To stop drawing and confirm the shape, click . The avoidance zone appears in the list

to the right.

To clear the shape, click .

c. To edit the avoidance zone, select the zone on the map or in the map layers list and then

click .

l To resize or reshape the avoidance zone, click and move the boundary points on the

map.

l To reposition the avoidance zone, click and move it on the map.

l To add or delete the boundary points or to rotate the shape, use the toolbar that

appears on the map. To confirm your changes, click . To undo your changes, click

.

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2   Planning a Project

Note – It is not possible to add or remove boundary pointsfor a rectangular or ellipsoidal

zone.

Tip – To disable editing of the avoidance zone, click next to the avoidance zone name.

d. Repeat the steps above to add as many avoidance zones as required.

Note – The mission area and the +/- 200 m (+/- 656 ft) required for turnsshould not overlap any

avoidance zone on the map. If the mission area is orange, you must move the area out of the

avoidance zone.

2. Click to add the following types of files as layers:

l A KML file that you have previously downloaded from Google Maps.

l Ground control points (GCPs) contained in a .csv file.

The format for the .csv file is: Identifier, Latitude, Longitude, Altitude. The coordinates

must be in the WGS84 coordinate system and the altitude in meters. There should be no

header.

Defining the blocks

To define blocks, select the Blocks tab.

Note – You must validate in the field any blocks you have defined in the office.

Each mission area defined for a project is automatically covered by one block. The block appears in

the list to the right and as a yellow shape on the map. The map does not contain any blocks if you

have not yet defined a mission area in the Map layers tab.

When you select the block, the blue flight lines that appear over the block indicate the direction the

UX5 will fly across the block. The unmanned aircraft should always fly perpendicular to the prevailing

wind direction and all turns should be made into the wind. By default, the prevailing wind direction

is a northerly wind. North is located at the top of the map.

Define more blocks as required to:

l Cover the entire mission area. You will need to add more blocks if the estimated time for a

block exceeds 50 minutes. The flight time can be viewed in the block properties.

l Cover different parts of the mission at different heights to deal with differences in terrain.

l Easily repeat flights at different heights to obtain different results.

You can combine and split blocks as required to fly the mission area in the most efficient number of

flights.

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The Blocks tab, for an example mission and block, is shown below:

To edit blocks:

1. To update the prevailing wind direction to match the expected conditions in the field:

a. Tap the wind direction arrow in the top right corner of the map and drag it so that it

indicates the direction of the wind at the site. The flight lines rotate accordingly.

Note – To ensure smooth turns and limited headwind and tailwind during flight, it isimportant

to correctly indicate the prevailing wind direction. However, to disable the control of the flight

lines by wind direction, click next to the block name in the list. To manually adjust the

direction of the flight lines, tap the flight linesin the map and rotate asrequired. Thisis useful

when the mission/block area is a narrow rectangle, in which case you should always put the

flight lines along the longest side of the rectangle, independent from the wind direction.

b. If the flight lines change to red, this indicates that one or more flight lines (including the

additional +/- 200 m (+/- 656 ft) required for turns) overlaps an avoidance zone. For more

information, see Creating the mission, page 27. Once you have edited the mission area,

the block and flight lines update automatically.

2. To view the properties of a block, click next to the block name. By default the block inherits

the properties of the mission. Ifrequired, edit the height (or GSD) and image overlap values for

the block, taking into account specific obstacles in the block. Images are not acquired until the

unmanned aircraft climbs to the specified height.

The software estimates the total flight time needed to cover the block. The estimated flight

time does not include the time to get to and from the takeoff and landing locations.

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2   Planning a Project

The block properties also show the size of the block area and the mission to which the block

belongs.

3. If the estimated flight duration exceeds 50 minutes, a warning indication appears next to

the block name in the list. If the warning appears then you must split the block:

a. Select the block and then click . A toolbar appears on top of the map that allows you to

split the block.

b. Click . By default the block is divided through the center of the rectangular boundary

box surrounding the block area, perpendicular to the wind direction.

c. To change the cut, manipulate the boundary points of the dividing line.

d. Click to confirm splitting the block. The original block is divided in two and both blocks

appear in the list.

Note – Splitting blocks can cause existing blocksto be renumbered.

e. Repeat the steps above until the flight duration of all blocks is less than 50 minutes,

because you need to also consider the takeoff and landing time.

f. To undo a split, select one of the blocks that you want to combine and click . From the

toolbar that appears on the map, click and then select the other block to merge. You

can only merge adjacent blocks. Click to confirm the merge. The properties of the first

selected block are used for the merged block.

4. To use a left turn or a right turn to enter the block during flight, click or . This setting also

defines the first waypoint that the UX5 will fly to.

Managing blocks

To change the order of blocks, click next to the block name. Blocks at the top of the list appear as

the top-most blocks on the map. To manipulate a block, move it up so that it can be selected on the

map.

To hide a block, click next to the block name.

To show a hidden block, click next to the block name.

To copy the properties of a block to a new block, select the block with the required properties in the

list or on the map and then click below the list. Copying a block is useful if you need to scan the

same mission area using different GSD and overlap values.

Note – When copying a block that isthe result of a split action, the new block will have the size of the

original block (that is, it coversthe entire mission area).

To remove a block that is no longer required, select the block and then click . If the block was

created by splitting a block, all other blocks that were part of the splitting action are also removed. If

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2   Planning a Project

those blocks were the only blocks that covered the mission area, the software automatically creates

a new block, which has the size and properties of the mission.

To rename a block, select the block in the list and then click on the block's name. You can now edit

the name.

Obstacle clearances

When defining a flight, you must ensure that the selected takeoff and landing locations are clear of

obstacles. Obstacle clearances for each stage of the flight are shown below.

When you arrive at the site, visually check the takeoff and landing locations to ensure that the

selected locations are free of obstacles.

Obstacle clearances for takeoff

From 0 m (takeoff location) to 50 m: Within the first 50 m (164 ft), there must be a clear area free

of obstacles within 30° to the left and right of the launch direction.

From 50 m to 280 m: From the first 50 m (164 ft) and within 280 m (919 ft), obstacles must not

appear above the safety line determined by a 15° safety angle and within 25 m (82 ft) to the left and

right of the launch direction.

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Obstacle clearances for cruise flight

During cruise flight, no obstacles must appear between the cruise flight height and 25 m (82 ft)

below it:

Obstacle clearances for descent

When entering the landing orbit, no obstacles must appear with a 300 m (984 ft) radius of the center

of the orbit. Once the UX5 has descended 25 m from the cruise flight height, the required obstaclefree area has a radius of 150 m (462 ft).

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2   Planning a Project

Obstacle clearances for landing

Once you confirm the landing, the UX5 starts the final leg of the landing.

Along the final leg of the landing, there must be a clear area free of obstacles within 15 m to the left

and right of the landing direction.

In the final leg of the landing, no obstacles must appear in the yellow zone shown in the vertical

cross section of the landing. In addition, the landing location must be free of obstacles and meet the

minimum size indicated:

l Linear landing

l Curved landing

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During the final leg of the landing it is possible to click the Abort button (see Handling emergencies

during flight, page 81). To successfully abort the flight, extra clearances should be taken into

account:

l Linear landing abort clearance

l Curved landing abort clearance

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Defining the flights

To define flights, select the Flights tab.

Note – You must validate in the field any flights you have defined in the office.

The Flights tab, for an example flight where takeoff and landing are planned but not fixed, is shown

below:

If the auto-generate flight setting is enabled in the Settings screen, the software automatically

generates a flight including block 1 (the top-most block). A flight can cover more than one block, and

blocks can be linked to more than one flight. Depending on the number and size of the blocks you

have defined in the Blocks tab, you may need several flights to cover all the blocks defined for the

mission area(s). To add a flight, click . A new entry appears in the list.

To copy a flight, select the flight in the list or on the map and then click below the list. Copying a

flight is useful if you want to repeat a flight and keep the data of both flights.

To remove a flight that is no longer required, select the flight and then click below the list.

Note – Thisremovesthe flight data stored on the Tablet for thisflight.

To rename a flight, select the flight in the list and then click the flight name. You can now edit the

name.

To define a flight, see:

l Setting the takeoff parameters, page 38

l Setting the landing properties, page 39

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2   Planning a Project

l Adding blocks to the flight, page 40

l Managing the sequence that blocks are flown over, page 41

l Simulating the flight, page 42

Setting the takeoff parameters

1. To set the takeoff parameters, in the Flight tab click beside the flight and then click

beside Takeoff. A toolbar appears on top of the map.

2. To set the takeoff location, do one of the following:

a. To add a new location without GPS: In the Aerial Imaging Desktop or Tablet software,

click and then click on the map to set the location. The takeoff pin appears on the map

with an arrow indicating the takeoff heading and shows the "Planned and not active"

status icon .

You can add as many takeoff locations as you want. Click to confirm the added

locations.

b. To add a new location using GPS: In the Aerial Imaging Tablet software, physically go to

the takeoff location and then click . If the location you want to fix lies within 10 m of a

planned pin, the planned pin is fixed. Otherwise, a new pin with the fixed status is added to

the map. The takeoff pin appears on the map with an arrow indicating the takeoff heading

and shows the "Fixed and not active" status icon .

You can fix as many takeoff locations as you want. Click to confirm the fixed locations.

c. Click the takeoff pin on the map or use the drop-down menu in the Takeoff properties to

select any defined location. The takeoff pin status changes to "Active" or .

Note – Each takeoff location comes with default parameters(for example, the heading isset

into the wind direction). If you change the heading, the takeoff location is updated accordingly.

If you use thislocation in another flight, the heading isset to the value of the latest change in all

flights where the location is used.

3. To set the takeoff heading, click the arrow next to the takeoff pin and rotate to change the

takeoff direction and avoid any obstacles. For more information, see Obstacle clearances for

takeoff, page 33. By default, the takeoff heading is set into the wind direction set in the Blocks

tab. Alternatively, you can enter the heading for the selected pin in the Heading field.

Note – Alwaystry to takeoff into the wind. This prevents a higher launch speed and a higher risk of

launch failures.

4. When the flight has a block linked to it or when the landing has been defined, the takeoffroute

is displayed. To edit the takeoffroute, click and drag the waypoints on the map.

Tip – To use a left turn or a right turn to enter the block, click or in the block properties in the

Blocks tab. This setting also defines the first waypoint that the UX5 will fly to. The takeoff route is updated

to match the type of turn selected.

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5. To delete a takeoff location, click in the toolbar on top of the map and then from the map

select the takeoff pin that you want to remove.

You can delete as many takeoff locations as you want. Click to confirm the deleted

locations.

Setting the landing properties

For additionalsafety, the Aerial Imaging software enables you to set alternative landing

parameters. These alternative landing locations are useful if:

l The preferred landing location is suddenly unavailable due to a sudden obstacle in the landing

clearance zone.

l The wind direction changes during the flight and the alternative landing location is better suited

to the new conditions.

To set landing properties:

1. In the Flight tab click beside the flight and then click beside Landing. A toolbar appears

on top of the map.

2. To set the landing location, do one of the following:

a. To add a new location without GPS: In the Aerial Imaging Desktop or Tablet software,

click and then click on the map to set the location. The landing pin appears on the map

with an arrow indicating the landing heading and shows the "Planned and not active"

status icon .

You can add as many landing locations as you want. Click to confirm the added

locations.

b. To add a new location using GPS: In the Aerial Imaging Tablet software, physically go to

the landing location and then click . If the location you want to fix lies within 10 m of a

planned pin, the planned pin is fixed. Otherwise, a new pin with the fixed status is added to

the map. A landing pin with fixed status has an arrow indicating the landing heading and

shows the "Fixed and not active" status icon .

You can fix as many landing locations as you want. Click to confirm the fixed locations.

c. Click the landing pin on the map or use the drop-down menu in the Landing properties to

select any defined location. The landing pin status changes to "Active" or .

Note – Each landing location comes with default parameters(for example, the heading isset

into the wind direction). If you change the heading, the landing location is updated accordingly.

If you use thislocation in another flight, the heading isset to the value of the latest change in all

flights where the location is used.

3. To set the landing heading, tap the arrow next to the landing pin and rotate to change the

landing direction and avoid any obstacles. For more information, see Obstacle clearances for

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landing, page 35.

Alternatively, you can enter the heading for the selected pin in the Landing heading field.

By default, the landing heading is set into the wind direction set in the Blocks tab. To help you

define the landing heading in the field, zoom in on the map to the most detailed zoom level and

then walk into the heading with the GCS for about 20 to 30 meters. You willsee the GCS

location move on the screen. Now rotate the arrow and position the final leg of the landing

circuit over the center of the GCS icon on the map.

Note – Alwaystry to land into the wind. This prevents a higher landing speed and a higher risk of

damage to the UX5.

4. Set the landing type to use a linear or curved landing, depending on the landing surface and

available clearances.

l The linear landing type requires less clearance and lands the UX5 on the ground more

quickly, but has a larger impact on the aircraft.

l The curved landing type requires larger clearances but reduces the impact on the aircraft

when it lands, and is especially suited for hard landing surfaces.

For more information, see Obstacle clearances for landing, page 35.

5. When the flight has a block linked to it, the landing route is displayed:

a. Set the landing entry to use a left or right turn, depending on which turning direction

provides better visibility and is furthest away from any obstacles (see Obstacle clearances

for landing, page 35).

b. To edit the landing route, click and drag the waypoints on the map.

6. To delete a landing location, click in the toolbar on top of the map and then from the map

select the landing pin that you want to remove.

You can delete as many landing locations as you want. Click to confirm the deleted

locations.

7. To set alternative landing parameters, repeat the steps above.

Note – To use a specific landing for the flight, make sure that the landing isselected in the dropdown menu.

Adding blocks to the flight

1. To add blocks, in the Flight tab click beside the flight and then click beside Select blocks.

All blocks defined in the project appear on the map and in the list to the right. Only the blocks

that if added will keep the flight time less than 50 minutes can be selected. For each block the

status is indicated:

l No icon: Not scheduled

l Scheduled

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l Flown

l Flown and log files downloaded

2. From the map or the list, select one or more blocks to link to the flight.

The selected blocks are highlighted, and the flight lines and connection routes appear on the

map.

Tip – To remove blocks from a flight, unselect the block in the list or the map.

3. Click to confirm the selection.

The selected blocks appear in the list to the right between Takeoff and Landing, together with

the default connection types.

Note – A block can be linked to more than one flight.

Managing the sequence that blocks are flown over

If a flight will cover more than one block, the software automatically connects the last waypoint of

one block with the first waypoint of the next block. By default the connection is a straight line and is

displayed between the blocks in the flight properties in the Flights tab.

To change the order of the blocks within a flight, select a block and then click to move the block

up or down in the list to the right. The connection between sequential blocks updates accordingly.

To change the connection type between blocks, click to the right of the connection type list entry

and then:

Click... For the UX5 to...

Fly straight to the first waypoint of the following block. If it did not yet reach the

height of this waypoint, it orbits up in 200 m diameter circles until it reaches the

height.

Orbit up in 200 m diameter circles until it reaches the height of the following block and

then fly straight to the first waypoint of the following block. This works if the height of

the next block is higher than the previous block.

Fly to the following block keeping the same height of the last waypoint of the previous

block and then orbit up in 200 m diameter circles until it reaches the first waypoint of

the block. This works if the height of the next block is higher than the previous block.

Fly straight to the first waypoint of the following block. If it did not yet reach the

height of this waypoint, it orbits down in 200 m diameter circles until it reaches the

height.

Fly to the following block keeping the same height of the last waypoint of the previous

Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging Solution User Guide 41
2   Planning a Project

Click... For the UX5 to...

block and then orbit down in 200 m diameter circles until it reaches the first waypoint

of that block. This works if the height of the next block is lower than the previous

block.

Orbit down in 200 m diameter circles until it reaches the height of the next block and

then fly straight to the first waypoint of that block. This works if the height of the next

block is lower than the previous block.

To edit the straight line between blocks, click and drag the waypoints on the map.

Note – The connection type cannot be changed if sequential blocks have the same height.

Simulating the flight

After creating a flight, click to simulate the flight to check the following items:

l The UX5 uses the correct takeoff direction.

l The flight height, route, and turns used are all correct.

l The UX5 does not enter any avoidance zones.

l The UX5 uses the correct landing circuit.

Note – Be aware that the simulation is an estimate of the flight path. Thisis because the simulation

cannot take into account the environmental factors,such as wind, during the actual flight.

Tip – The button is not available until you have exited the flight properties. To do this, click the arrow to

collapse the flight.

Exporting to KML

The flight simulation can be exported to a KML file and viewed in software such as Google Earth.

1. In the Flights screen, select the flight for which you want to export the simulation.

2. Click .

A message shows that the KML file is being generated. When the process is complete, the

Export wizard appears.

3. Navigate to the folder where you want to save the flight simulation, enter the file name and

then click Save.

You can now open the KML file in software such as Google Earth to view the flight simulation in

3D.

Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging Solution User Guide 42
2   Planning a Project

Exporting the project

Note – Thisstep isrequired if you did the project planning in the Aerial Imaging Desktop software. You

must complete thisstep so that you can import the project into the Aerial Imaging software on the Tablet.

1. In the Projects screen, select the project to export.

2. Click . The Export wizard appears.

3. Select the GWT output format. Click Next.

4. Navigate to the folder where you want to save the project, enter the file name and then click

Save.

The exported project is saved as a .gwt file in the folder you selected.

5. Click Finish to close the Export wizard.

6. If the folder you exported the mission to is not a network folder that the Tablet can access,

transfer the exported mission to a USB stick and then transfer it to the Tablet.

7. To import the mission to the Aerial Imaging software on the Tablet, see Importing the project,

page 63.

Checking flight permissions and conditions

In the days before the flight, complete the following checks to make sure the flight can proceed.

Note – The use of unmanned aircraft in any national airspace system isregulated by the applicable

National Aviation Authority. The regulationsfor flying unmanned aircraft are subject to change,

sometimes without warning. It isthe user’sresponsibility to know and adhere to the current lawsfor

operating in the national airspace system. Trimble is not obliged to inform users of changesto unmanned

aircraft laws.

Trimble and Authorized Distribution Partners provide comprehensive training for the unmanned

aircraft system which includes recommended procedures to ensure the safety for the remote crew

members as well as the surrounding environment. It is the user’s responsibility to ensure safe

operations and adhere to safety and security measures required by the National Aviation

Authority. Trimble is not responsible for ensuring safe and secure operation of unmanned aircraft

by the user.

Checking flight permission

l Check if you need a permit to operate an unmanned aircraft in the airspace above the site.

l Make sure you understand the legal context for safe operation of an unmanned aircraft.

l Check for existing rules and standards with your local Civil Aviation Authorities (CAA).

l Make sure you have permission from the landowner.

Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging Solution User Guide 43
2   Planning a Project

l Make sure you have all other relevant permissions required for photography flights using

unmanned aircraft. In some countries you need permission from defense organizations, the

police, or a national geography institute to take pictures.

Checking weather

l In the days before the flight, check the TV weather broadcast or weather websites. This gives

you a good general idea of the weather for the next three to four days.

l For more accurate weather forecasts, consult and interpret aviation weather data through

various weather websites. You can also contact the national meteorological office or a local

meteorology office at an airport nearby.

l On the day of the flight, consult the Terminal Aerodrome Forecast (TAF) and METAR reports.

These are meteorological reports used in aviation.

l Make sure the weather conditions are within the operating and image acquisition limitations.

See Operation limitations, page 45 and Image acquisition limitations, page 45.

The table below shows the wind speed expressed in different units:

Bft km/h m/s kn SM

1 1-5 0.3-1.5 1-3 1-3

2 6-11 1.6-3.3 4-6 4-7

3 12-19 3.4-5.4 7-10 8-12

4 20-28 5.5-7.9 11-16 13-18

5 29-38 8.0-10.7 17-21 19-24

6 39-49 10.8-13.8 22-27 25-31

7 50-61 13.9-17.1 28-33 32-38

Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging Solution User Guide 44
2   Planning a Project

Operation limitations

The UX5 aerial imaging rover cannot safely fly in all weather conditions. The following table shows

the acceptable range for different conditions.

Note – Your country of operation may have different or additional operational requirements. Make sure

you are familiar with the appropriate regulationsfor the country you are operating in. If you are flying in

the United Statessee also FAA conditions and limitations of operation, page 130. If you are flying in

France,see also French airspace requirements, page 135.

CAUTION – If any condition does not meet the acceptable range stated, the pilot should abort the mission. Flying

outside the acceptable range of conditions will void your Trimble warranty.

Condition Acceptable range

Time Between sunrise and sunset

Distance from clouds Clear of clouds and always within line ofsight

Flight visibility 5000 m (16,400 ft)

Operator-UAS visibility Visual line ofsight

Weather limitations Light rain is acceptable. Avoid hail, snow, and heavy

showers

Head wind Maximum 65 kph (40 mph)

Cross wind Maximum 65 kph (40 mph)

Gusts Maximum 15 kph (9 mph)

Turbulence Avoid turbulence at all times

Temperature -25 °C to +55 °C (-13 °F to 131 °F) (excluding launcher)

Maximum launch altitude (AMSL) 4250 m (13,493 ft)

Maximum operational ceiling (AMSL) Tested at 5000 m (16,400 ft)

Endurance 50 mins

Image acquisition limitations

Although the UX5 aerial imaging rover itself can cope with heavy weather conditions, the main issue

besides safety is the quality of the pictures acquired during the flight. The following table shows the

maximum values for different weather conditions.

CAUTION – If any condition does not meet the acceptable maximum value stated, the pilot should abort the

mission. Trimble does not guarantee good picture quality when flying in conditions beyond these limits.

Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging Solution User Guide 45
2   Planning a Project

Condition Acceptable maximum

Precipitation Light rain

Wind 50 kph (31 mph)

Checking the site

Note – When checking the site you should refer to the relevant AIP and NOTAM documentsfor your

region.

l Identify the airspace and geographic environment of the site.

l Check the relevant aviation charts and make sure the flight area is not near any of the following

areas:

l Forbidden airspace

l Airports, airfields (except with prior permission)

l Power plants (except with prior permission)

l Check the relevant aviation charts and take special care around:

l Parachute and parasailing jumping areas

l Winch areas

l High-pressure gas-releasing units (documented in AIPs or NOTAMs)

l Congested areas (for example, towns)

l Check if there are other aerial or ground activities planned, for example major public events.

Checking the pilot

l Make sure the pilot is certified to operate the UX5.

l Check if the pilot needs any additional permits, such as a remote pilot license, a radio certificate

for use of the 2-way radio for communication with air traffic control, and so on.

l Be aware that the pilot has final responsibility for the operation of the UX5 and its components.

l Make sure the pilot is in good condition, both physical and mental.

l Keep log files of the pilot hours and equipment used for each flight.

Know your safe operating envelope

l Trimble recommends having a crew of two people that will control the UX5: the pilot and the

observer. They must be able to communicate at all times. Check your CAA regulations to see if a

two-person crew is mandatory.

l Make sure the crew understands the purpose and the phases of this particular mission.

Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging Solution User Guide 46
2   Planning a Project

l Make sure the crew understands all aspects ofsafe operation of the UX5. This includes:

l Understanding allsafety precautions described in the Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging Rover

Safety Guide.

l Understanding how to handle emergencies during flight. See Handling emergencies during

flight, page 81.

l Understanding the particular requirements of the project and site, including avoidance

zones.

Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging Solution User Guide 47
Preparing Equipment

n Checking the launcher

n Checking the UX5 aerial imaging rover

n Charging the UX5 batteries

n Charging the Tablet batteries

n Charging the camera batteries

n Checking the camera

n Pairing the transmitter with the

tracking receiver

n Locating your equipment

As part of your flight preparation, make sure all

equipment is in good condition and

well-prepared.

Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging Solution User Guide 48

CHAPTER 3
3   Preparing Equipment

Checking the launcher

1. Make sure the launch slider is in good condition, and the launch dock moves freely along the

slider. If the slider is damaged, contact your Trimble distributor.

2. Check the launcher cord is not worn, and make sure there is enough elastic in the cord when it

is stretched tight. If the cord must be replaced, click in the Home screen, select Launcher in

the list to the right and then select Replacing the launcher cord or refer to the Trimble UX5

Aerial Imaging Solution Maintenance Guide.

3. Make sure the launch dock is in good condition. If it is damaged, contact your Trimble

distributor.

4. Make sure the launch dock wheels are in good condition and move freely. If they are worn and

must be replaced, click in the Home screen, select Launcher in the list to the right and then

select Replacing the wheels of the launcher dock or refer to the Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging

Solution Maintenance Guide.

Checking the UX5 aerial imaging rover

Thoroughly check the UX5 before each flight to make sure that it is undamaged from any previous

flight. Refer to the following sections:

l Check the body, page 49

l Check the pitot tube, page 50

l Check the winglets, page 51

l Check the propellers, page 51

l Check the drive unit, page 51

l Check the servos, page 51

Check the body

The body of the UX5 must be clean for flight. Dirt and gravel on the body decreases the lift and

increases the drag during flight.

1. Clean the body with a damp cloth.

CAUTION – Do not use high water pressure or a steel brush to clean the body of the rover. This can damage

the surface of the UX5 and affect the aerodynamics of the aircraft. Avoid the use of solvents to clean the

surface of the UX5 as they can negatively affect the materials. Always use lukewarm water and a soft

brush.

2. Check the body for cracks. If the body requires repair, contact your Trimble distributor.

Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging Solution User Guide 49
3   Preparing Equipment

3. Make sure there are no scratches on the camera filter. If the camera filter is damaged, click

in the Home screen, select UX5 in the list and then select Replacing the camera filter or refer to

the Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging Solution Maintenance Guide.

4. Make sure that the camera filter is tightly screwed into the body. If not, gently tighten it, taking

care not to over-tighten it.

5. Using first the wet camera wipes and then the dry camera wipes, thoroughly clean the camera

filter. Make sure there are no specks of moisture or dust, as these will affect the image quality.

Note – Only use wipesthat are specifically intended for cleaning camera lenses.

Check the pitot tube

The pitot tube must be in perfect condition as it is used to measure the total air pressure during

flight.

1. Remove the pitot tube from the eBox.

2. Make sure the tube is not bent or broken.

3. Blow into the tube to make sure nothing is blocking it.

CAUTION – Only blow into the pitot tube after you have removed it from the eBox. Do not blow into the

pitot tube when it is connected to the eBox because this will damage the barometric sensors.

4. If the pitot tube is blocked or damaged, click in the Home screen, select UX5 in the list to

the right and then select Checking the pitot tube or refer to the Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging

Solution Maintenance Guide. When in doubt, contact your Trimble distributor.

Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging Solution User Guide 50
3   Preparing Equipment

Check the winglets

To prevent rollstability issues, the winglets must be firmly attached to the UX5 body.

1. Make sure the winglets are intact.

2. Make sure each winglet is firmly attached with two screws.

3. If the winglets are damaged or not firmly attached, click in the Home screen, select UX5 in

the list to the right and then select Replacing a winglet or refer to the Trimble UX5 Aerial

Imaging Solution Maintenance Guide. When in doubt, contact your Trimble distributor.

Check the propellers

1. Make sure the propeller blades are intact.

2. Make sure the propeller blades are well-positioned.

3. Make sure each propeller blade is firmly attached.

4. If a propeller blade is damaged or not well-positioned, click in the Home screen, select UX5

in the list to the right and then select Replacing a propeller blade or refer to the Trimble UX5

Aerial Imaging Solution Maintenance Guide. When in doubt, contact your Trimble distributor.

Check the drive unit

Make sure the drive unit is:

l intact

l firmly attached

If the drive unit is damaged or not firmly attached, click in the Home screen, select UX5 in the list

to the right and then select Replacing the drive unit or refer to the Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging

Solution Maintenance Guide. When in doubt, contact your Trimble distributor.

Check the servos

The servos must be in perfect condition as they steer the UAS. When checking the servos, make

sure that the servos:

l respond as expected

l are intact

l are firmly attached and flush with the surface of the wing

If a servo is damaged, click in the Home screen, select UX5 in the list to the right and then select

Replacing a servo or refer to the Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging Solution Maintenance Guide. When in

doubt, contact your Trimble distributor.

Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging Solution User Guide 51
3   Preparing Equipment

Charging the UX5 batteries

WARNING – Lithium polymer batteries are volatile. Failure to read and follow these instructions may result in

fire, personal injury, and damage to property if charged or used incorrectly.

To prevent injury or damage:

– Use only the charger specified to charge the battery.

– If at any time you witness a battery starting to balloon or swell up, discontinue the charging process

immediately. Disconnect the battery and place it in a safe observation area for approximately 15 minutes.

Continuing to charge a battery that has begun to swell will result in fire.

– Charge in an isolated area, away from flammable materials.

– Never leave charging batteries unattended. When charging the batteries you should always remain in constant

observation to monitor the charging process and react to potential problems that may occur.

WARNING – Always check that the settings on the charger are correct before charging the battery. Incorrect

charger settings may result in damage to the battery, severe burning, and fire hazards.

Note – Before using the charger for the first time, carefully read the user documentation for the battery

charger and read all of the information provided in the Battery safety section of this user guide (see UX5

battery safety, page 119).

Removing the battery

1. Remove the top cover from the UX5 body.

2. Disconnect the main power connector of the battery from the aircraft:

3. Loosen the Velcro straps and remove the battery from the battery compartment of the UX5.

Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging Solution User Guide 52
3   Preparing Equipment

Connecting and charging the battery

1. Connect the Graupner Ultramat 14 plus charger to one of the following:

l 12 V vehicle battery

l 100–240 VAC power supply

The charger powers on and displays the following parameters for the UX5 battery:

l LiPo manual

l C:5.0A 6000mAh

Note – If the charger does not display the default parameters, you must change the settings. For

more information,see Battery charger settings, page 119.

WARNING – The maximum charging current for the UX5 battery is limited to 5 A. This value must be lower

than the maximum permissible current (6 A) for the battery. Incorrect battery charging parameters can

destroy your battery and cause it to catch fire or explode.

2. Connect the charge cable to the charger:

Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging Solution User Guide 53
3   Preparing Equipment

3. Connect the balancer connector of the battery to the charger. Align the connector to the right

of the socket:

4. Connect the charger cable of the charger to the power connector on the battery:

5. On the charger, press and hold the Enter/Start key for two seconds. The battery starts

charging.

When a battery is fully charged, the charger produces an audible signal and stops charging

automatically. The charger displays "END". At typical room temperature it takes approximately

2 hours to charge a fully depleted battery. Charging time will vary depending on remaining

battery life and ambient temperature.

Note – Make sure you charge both UX5 batteries before leaving the office for a flight. Trimble

recommends always having a spare, fully-charged battery on hand.

Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging Solution User Guide 54
3   Preparing Equipment

Disconnecting the battery

1. On the charger, press the Enter/Start key to put the charger in standby mode.

2. Disconnect the charger cable of the charger from the power connector on the battery.

3. Disconnect the balancer connector of the battery from the charger.

Charging the Tablet batteries

Install the Tablet battery packs and charge the batteries according to the instructions provided in

the Trimble Tablet Rugged PC User's Manual.

Note – Make sure you fully charge the Tablet batteries before leaving the office for a flight.

Charging the camera batteries

Install the camera battery and charge the batteries according to the instructions provided in the

user documentation for the camera.

Note – Make sure you charge both camera batteries before leaving the office for a flight. Trimble

recommends always having a spare, fully-charged battery on hand.

Checking the camera

1. Make sure there are no scratches on the camera lens. If the camera lens is damaged, contact

your Trimble distributor.

2. Your camera arrives with the appropriate settings required to obtain good aerial images set by

Trimble. However, before each flight, check the camera screen to make sure it displays the

following icons.

For more information, refer to the section for your camera below:

l Sony a5100, page 56

l Sony NEX-5, page 58

Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging Solution User Guide 55
3   Preparing Equipment

Sony a5100

Note – The following image showsthe main iconsto check on the camera screen to ensure that your

camera settings are correct and you will successfully capture images during the flight. If any of these icons

are not shown, or if you believe other camera settings have been changed, adjust the settings back to the

settingsrecommended by Trimble. For a list of all applicable camera settings,see Camera settings, page

108.

Icon Description

and Shoot mode is set to shutter priority.

SD card is inserted.

Aspect ratio is set to 3:2; image size is set to 24M; image

quality is set to Fine (all are default settings).

Recording mode of movies is set to 50i FH.

Steady shot is set to Off.

Battery icon shows 100%.

Drive mode is set to Single Shooting.

Metering mode is set to Multi (the default).

Focus area is set to Center.

Focus mode is set to Manual.

Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging Solution User Guide 56
3   Preparing Equipment

Icon Description

Face detection is set to Off.

White balance is set to AWB (the default).

For the NIR camera, use custom brightness/color

settings. See Setting brightness/colorsettings for the

NIR camera , page 57.

Soft skin detection is set to Off (the default).

Brightness correction is set to automatic (the default).

Creative style is set to Standard (the default).

Picture effect is set to Off (the default).

Shutterspeed is set to 1/1000 or above.

± 0.0

When using the NIR camera, exposure compensation is

set to:

+ 1.0 for the UV HAZE (orange) filter

+ 2.0 for the NIR (black) filter

ISO is set to Auto (the default).

Setting brightness/color settings for the NIR camera

To obtain best results from the camera and selected filter, Trimble recommends setting the

brightness/colorsettings as follows:

1. On the camera, select Menu / / 5 / White Balance. Press the central button of the control

wheel and then select Custom Setup. Press the central button of the control wheel to confirm.

2. Outdoors, in normal daylight conditions, hold the filter you will use in front of the lens, while

aiming the central circle of the lens at a (nearly) white surface, such as a wall or blank piece of

paper.

3. Press the central button of the control wheel.

4. The color infra-red (CIR) display on the camera appears. When using the:

l UV haze (orange) filter: vegetation appears blue and the sky appears brown.

l NIR-only (black) filter: vegetation appears white or slightly blue-grey and everything else

appears grey to black.

Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging Solution User Guide 57
3   Preparing Equipment

Sony NEX-5

Note – The following image showsthe main iconsto check on the camera screen to ensure that your

camera settings are correct and you will successfully capture images during the flight. If any of these icons

are not shown, or if you believe other camera settings have been changed, adjust the settings back to the

settingsrecommended by Trimble. For a list of all applicable camera settings,see Camera settings, page

108.

Icon Description

and Shoot mode is set to shutter priority.

SD card is inserted.

Aspect ratio is set to 3:2; image size is set to 16M; image

quality is set to Fine (all are default settings).

Recording mode of movies is set to 25p 17m FH.

Steady shot is set to Off.

Battery icon shows 100%.

Touch operation is set to Off.

Drive mode icon is shown. The drive mode is set to use

the Wireless Remote Commander.

Metering mode is set to Multi (the default).

Focus mode is set to Manual.

Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging Solution User Guide 58
3   Preparing Equipment

Icon Description

Face detection is set to Off.

White balance is set to AWB (the default).

For the NIR camera, use custom brightness/color

settings. See Setting brightness/colorsettings for the

NIR camera , page 57.

Soft skin detection is set to Off (the default).

Brightness correction is set to automatic (the default).

Creative style is set to Standard (the default).

Auto portrait framing is set to Off.

Smile detection is set to Off (the default).

Picture effect is set to Off (the default).

Shutterspeed is set to 1/1000 or above.

± 0.0

When using the NIR camera, exposure compensation is

set to:

+ 1.0 for the UV HAZE (orange) filter

+ 2.0 for the NIR (black) filter

ISO is set to Auto (the default).

Setting brightness/color settings for the NIR camera

To obtain best results from the camera and selected filter, Trimble recommends setting the

brightness/colorsettings as follows:

1. On the camera, select Menu / Brightness/Color / White Balance and then select Custom Setup.

Press the central button to confirm.

2. Outdoors, in normal daylight conditions, hold the filter you will use in front of the lens, while

aiming the central circle of the lens at a (nearly) white surface, such as a wall or blank piece of

paper.

3. Press the shutter button.

4. The color infra-red (CIR) display on the camera appears. When using the:

Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging Solution User Guide 59
3   Preparing Equipment

l UV haze (orange) filter: vegetation appears blue and the sky appears brown.

l NIR-only (black) filter: vegetation appears white or slightly blue-grey and everything else

appears grey to black.

Pairing the transmitter with the tracking receiver

Note – You must complete thisstep only once, before using the UX5 aerial imaging rover for the first

time.

To track down the UX5 aerial imaging rover fitted with a transmitter, the transmitter ID must first be

stored in the memory of the receiver.

1. Press and hold the Power key for three seconds to turn on the receiver.

2. Press the MENU/OK key to enter the menu.

3. Use the navigation keys to select TRANSMITTER. Press the MENU/OK key to confirm.

4. Use the navigation keys to select ADD. Press the MENU/OK key to confirm.

5. Use the navigation keys to enter the missing digits of the frequency of the transmitter. Confirm

each digit using the MENU/OK key.

6. Follow the steps on the screen of the receiver to calibrate the transmitter.

7. Once the calibration is done, you are prompted to enter a name for the transmitter.

8. Use the navigation keys to enter the name you want to use for the transmitter. Confirm each

letter using the MENU/OK key.

The receiver is now able to communicate with the transmitter.

Locating your equipment

Before you head out to the field:

1. Make sure the flight case contains all of the required items. For more information, see Flight

case contents, page 11.

2. If you will be doing several flights before returning to the office, make sure you have one of the

following:

l an externalstorage device such as a laptop for transferring images to after each flight

l a USB to SD card reader for transferring images to the Tablet after each flight

l an SD card for each flight

Note – Trimble recommends using a San Disk Extreme SDHC UHS-I card with a write speed of

45 MB/s and a minimum capacity of 16 GB.

Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging Solution User Guide 60
3   Preparing Equipment

3. Make sure the launcher bag contains the

following items:

l safety pin

l launch dock with lock pin

l V-support

l crank

l launch slide with elastics

l Trimble UX5 Launcher Quick Start

Guide

Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging Solution User Guide 61
Completing a Flight

n Importing the project

n Validating the blocks

n Validating the flights

n Dealing with sudden weather changes

n Completing the flight checklist

n Monitoring the flight

n Landing the UX5 

n Completing the post-flight checklist

n Disassembling the launcher

This chapter describes the tasks required in the

field to complete a successful flight with good

image data.

Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging Solution User Guide 62

CHAPTER 4
4   Completing a Flight

Importing the project

Note – Thisstep isrequired if you did the project planning in the Aerial Imaging Desktop software and

then exported the project so that you can view it on the Tablet.

1. In the Home screen or the Projects screen, tap .

2. Navigate to the location of the .gwt file you exported from the Aerial Imaging Desktop software

(see Exporting the project, page 43), select it and then tap Open.

The project you imported is listed in the Projects screen and the project thumbnail appears.

3. Select the project and then click to open the project and view the Map layers screen.

Validating the blocks

Tap the Blocks tab and make any changes to the blocks, ifrequired. Pay special attention to the

actual wind direction, which will influence the wind direction you have set in the software and

possibly the flight time. For more information, see Defining the blocks, page 30.

Note – To change the mission area, tap the Map layerstab and edit the appropriate area. For more

information,see Creating the mission, page 27. When you edit the mission area, the block(s)

automatically adjust to the new area shape.

Validating the flights

1. When you arrive on-site, examine the flight area to:

l Check for obstacles in the flight area. Obstacles are objects such as trees, buildings,

antennas, power lines, and water that the UX5 could fly into or land on.

l Make sure you will be able to maintain a visual line ofsight to the UX5 throughout the

flight.

l Identify a good takeoff and landing location.

l Check the landing surface and obstacle clearances to make sure the most suitable landing

type is selected.

For more information, see Obstacle clearances, page 33.

Repeat for each location that you consider as an alternative landing location.

Note – If you choose to check alternative landing locations during flight, be aware that thistakes

more time and keeps your attention from the flight.

2. Tap the Flight tab and make any changes to the flights, ifrequired. For more information, see

Defining the flights, page 37.

3. Make sure that the selected takeoff and landing locations are fixed to GPS. To fix the location,

physically go to the location, tap beside Takeoff or Landing and then click in the toolbar.

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Repeat for each landing location that you consider as an alternative location.

Note – If you choose to check alternative landing locations during flight, be aware that thistakes

more time and keeps your attention from the flight.

4. In the Flights screen, select the flight you will complete and then tap the Flight checklist tab.

Dealing with sudden weather changes

On the day of the flight, check that the current weather conditions are suitable for flight. Pay

particular attention to the prevailing wind direction and speed.

If there are sudden weather changes before or during the flight, you must act quickly. Different

weather changes and the recommended action are described below.

Weather change Action

The wind direction changes before the flight. If possible, change the wind direction in the

Blocks tab to align the flight lines perpendicular

to the wind direction.

Reposition the launcher and then update the

takeoff and landing heading in the flight plan.

The wind direction changes during the flight. Change the landing heading in flight or select an

alternative landing location, if it is more suited.

See Changing the landing parameters during

flight, page 80.

One of the following weather phenomena

occurs before or during the flight:

l Strong wind

l Heavy rain, hail

l Hurricane, tornado, or any kind of

whirlwind

l Thunder and lightening

l Snow

Cancel the flight. If the UX5 is in the air, land as

quickly as possible.

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Completing the flight checklist

The flight checklist starts with an overview of the flight that you have selected and will execute.

Use each step of the flight checklist to prepare the equipment for flight. The flight checklist guides

you through each step.

Note – More information about the stepsthat require special care is given in the following sections. Read

these sections carefully until you are familiar with all of the tasksrequired to perform these steps.

l Connecting the GCS, page 65

l Connecting the battery, page 66

l Preparing the camera, page 66

l Inserting the tracker transmitter, page 68

l Attaching the top cover, page 68

l Covering the pitot tube, page 68

l Checking the elevon trim, page 69

l Checking the elevon response, page 69

l Assembling the launcher

l Placing the UX5 onto the launcher, page 73

l Transmitting the flight plan, page 73

l Initializing, page 74

l Removing the pitot cover, page 74

l Checking the airspeed response, page 74

l Positioning the propellers, page 74

l Tightening the launcher cord elastics, page 74

l Verifying the position of the aircraft on the launcher

l Removing the safety pin

l Arming the system, page 76

l Launching the UX5, page 77

Connecting the GCS

If you have not yet connected the GCS:

1. Attach the antenna to the modem.

2. Attach the modem and antenna to the back of the Tablet, under the handstrap.

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3. Insert the modem cable into the USB port on the Tablet.

4. Tap to prompt the software to check if the modem is connected.

When the connection to the modem is established, the software automatically moves to the next

step in the flight checklist.

Connecting the battery

If you have not yet connected the battery:

1. Insert a fully charged battery into the battery compartment of the unmanned aircraft. Secure

the battery using the Velcro straps.

2. Connect the main power connector on the battery to the power connector in the aircraft. Once

the battery is connected, the eBox goes from Off mode to On mode (see eBox LED status, page

104).

When the eBox starts booting up, the button is enabled.

Note – If after thisstep you are prompted to update the eBox firmware,see Updating the eBox

firmware, page 16.

Preparing the camera

1. Using first the wet camera wipes and then the dry camera wipes, thoroughly clean the camera

lens. Make sure there are no specks of moisture or dust, as these will affect the image quality.

Note – Only use wipesthat are specifically intended for cleaning camera lenses.

2. Make sure the camera filter in the UX5 body is also clean and that the camera filter is tightly

screwed into the body. If not, gently tighten it, taking care not to over-tighten it.

3. Insert an empty SD card into the camera.

4. Turn on the camera and check the camera screen to make sure it displays the icons described in

Checking the camera, page 55.

5. Make sure the lens settings are appropriate for the weather conditions:

Weather

ISO Auto Auto Auto

Aperture

ring

f/4.5 f/4.5 f/4.5

Shutter

speed

1/2000 to 1/4000 1/1000 to 1/2000 1/1600 to 1/2000

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Weather

Focus ring The focus ring should always be set to 3+ m.

This is set and calibrated by the manufacturer and must not change. For your

reference, this position corresponds with the white dot appearing below the

right edge of the red 0 in the 10 ft mark.

Note – Alwaystake a picture before the flight to ensure that the picture is not over- or

underexposed. If the picture does not look right, adjust the shutter speed first and then the aperture

setting.

6. If you are using the:

Sony a5100 camera

a. Insert the adapter piece into the camera cavity of the payload bay of the UX5 body.

b. Use the USB cable to connect the camera to the connector from the eBox.

c. Insert the camera into the camera cavity of the payload bay and secure it using the Velcro

strap.

Sony NEX5 camera

a. Insert the two adapter pieces into the camera cavity of the payload bay of the UX5 body.

b. Connect the IR LED cable to the connector from the eBox.

c. Insert the camera into the camera cavity of the payload bay and secure it using the Velcro

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strap.

Note – After inserting and securing the camera, check the shutter speed asthe settings control

might have spun and changed the setting.

7. In the Aerial Imaging software, tap . Make sure that you hear the trigger sound from the

camera.

When the test picture is taken, the button is enabled.

Inserting the tracker transmitter

1. Turn on the tracker transmitter.

2. Make sure that you can hear the transmitter using the tracker receiver.

3. Insert the tracker transmitter into the body of the unmanned aircraft.

Attaching the top cover

Attach the top cover to the unmanned aircraft and make sure it is secure.

Covering the pitot tube

Put the pitot tube cover on the pitot tube. Check the value in the black arrow at the left of the

artificial horizon in the status panel of the Aerial Imaging software and make sure the current

airspeed is below 20 kph (12.4 mph).

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Checking the elevon trim

Make sure that the outboard elevons are leveled with the inboard elevons (the inboard elevons are

fixed). The accuracy should be about 1 mm.

WARNING – When handling the UX5, make sure that the elevons can move freely and are not obstructed in any

way. Impaired movement of the elevons can cause the servo motor to burn up.

Checking the elevon response

Tap the Move/Stop elevon button in the Aerial Imaging software and watch the elevons on the

unmanned aircraft. Make sure the elevons move in response to the button commands.

WARNING – When handling the UX5, make sure that the elevons can move freely and are not obstructed in any

way. Impaired movement of the elevons can cause the servo motor to burn up.

When the elevon response is checked, the button is enabled.

Assembling the launcher

1. Unfold the launch slide.

CAUTION – Take care when unfolding the launch slide as there are sharp edges that can cause finger cuts.

2. Secure each section of the launch slide by lifting the appropriate handle and hooking it into the

next section of the launch slide. Close the handles.

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3. Unfold and secure the V-support with the lock pin.

To attach the V-support to the launch slide, make sure the knob is pointing to the left and then

insert the V-support pins in the reserved holes, situated approximately 2/3 of the length of the

launch slide. Turn the knob to the right to tighten.

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4. Pull the ends of the launcher cord out of the launch slide so that the cord lies on top of the

launch slide.

Note – If the launcher cord is blocked while the elastics are not tightened, pull the release handles

upward to unblock them.

CAUTION – Never push the release handles when there is tension on the launcher cord. You will damage

the elastics. If there is tension on the cord, insert the crank onto the nut located toward the front end of the

launcher and use the crank to very gently release the force. At the same time, pull the release handles

gently upward. This is safest done with two people, with one person carefully winding the crank counterclockwise to counteract the force on the elastics.

5. Position the launch dock on the end of the launch slide with the tabs on the launch dock

pointing toward the direction of launch.

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6. Slide the launch dock over the ends of the launcher cord.

7. To attach the ends of the launcher cord to the launch dock, remove the lock pin from the

launch dock and then slide the lock pin through the holes in the launch dock, attaching the

ends of the launch cord as you do so. Secure the lock pin.

8. Slide the launch dock over the launch hook at the beginning of the launch slide, making sure

the launch dock clicks into position. Make sure the trigger is not blocked.

9. Insert the safety pin into the launch dock.

WARNING – Always keep the safety pin inserted in the launch dock. Remove the safety pin only just before

launch. Early removal of the launch pin can result in accidental release of the launcher, causing serious

personal injury and damage to the UX5 or launcher.

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CAUTION – Never launch without the UX5 sitting on the dock as it will damage the launch dock. The design

of the launcher takes into account the weight of the UX5 sitting on the launch dock.

10. Position the launcher at the planned takeoff location, with the launch direction pointing into

the takeoff direction you have indicated in the software.

11. Make sure the takeoff location is free of obstacles. For more information, see Obstacle

clearances, page 33.

Placing the UX5 onto the launcher

1. Position the UX5 at the front of the launch dock and use your finger tips to guide the launcher

slats on the underside of the UX5 onto the lips of the launch dock.

2. Use the artificial horizon indicator in the Aerial Imaging software to check the pitch and roll of

the UX5 on the launch dock. The pitch angle should be between 20° and 30° and the roll angle

should be between -5° and 5°. The horizon should be positioned parallel to the UX5 on the

artificial horizon indicator. If you need to adjust the horizon, reposition the launcher.

Transmitting the flight plan

This step appears only if the software is still transmitting the flight plan to the eBox. If transmission

of the flight plan is already complete, this step does not appear. The button is available once flight

plan transmission is complete.

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Initializing

At this step in the flight checklist, the eBox initializes. It must acquire lock on at least 4 usable GPS

satellites. The GPS receiver in the eBox determines the usability of the satellites, based on the

characteristics of each satellite.

Removing the pitot cover

Remove the cover from the pitot tube.

Checking the airspeed response

Press and hold the pitot tube for no more than 5 seconds. Make sure that the value in the black

arrow at the left of the artificial horizon in the status panel of the Aerial Imaging software changes.

Positioning the propellers

1. Check the position of the propellers on the unmanned aircraft and make sure they are pointing

backward as shown in the Aerial Imaging software.

2. If the propellers are not positioned correctly, carefully adjust them.

WARNING – Always take care when touching the propeller blades. If the unmanned aircraft receives a sudden

shock while armed, the motor can unexpectedly start causing the propeller blades to move. Contact with moving

propeller blades can result in serious personal injury.

Tightening the launcher cord elastics

1. Insert the crank onto the nut located toward the front end of the launch slide.

2. Stretch the launcher cord using the crank. In normal circumstances, the node between the cord

and elastic should be in the middle of the hole numbered "4" on the launcher.

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CAUTION – The launcher cord stretches with every launch. When you can easily reach the last hole when

tightening the cord, replace the launcher cord to prevent unsuccessful launches and damage to the launcher

or the UX5. For more information, click in the Home screen, select Launcher in the list to the right and

then select Replacing the launcher cord or refer to the Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging Solution Maintenance

Guide.

3. Remove the crank.

Verifying the position of the aircraft on the launcher

WARNING – Take care to ensure the UX5 is correctly positioned on the launch dock. An incorrect position can

result in launch failure, causing serious personal injury and damage to the rover or launcher.

Removing the safety pin

To remove the safety pin, position yourself behind the launcher, reach carefully under the UX5 and

then pull out the safety pin.

WARNING – Always take care to avoid contact with the propeller blades. If the UX5 receives a sudden shock

while armed, the motor can unexpectedly start causing the propeller blades to move. Contact with moving

propeller blades can result in serious personal injury.

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Arming the system

This step of the flight checklist shows a summary of the system status. If there is an issue with any of

the launch values, then the value is shown in red.

To arm the system, tap Arm.

A warning message appears if:

l the UX5 battery life is less than 75%. If the battery level is low, the battery level line is red.

l the Tablet battery life is less than 90 minutes.

l the number ofsatellites is between 4 and 8.

The system will not allow you to launch the UX5 if the following errors are reported:

l The eBox is not in the correct state.

l GPS signal is not OK.

l Takeoffsensor is not OK (this means that the yaw, pitch, and roll values are not yet stabilized).

l Datalogging has not started.

l The GCS has no GPS connection.

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Launching the UX5

Once you have armed the system, the software prompts you to launch the aircraft.

1. Just before launch, perform the following safety checks:

a. Make sure there are no aerial objects inside the zone of operation.

b. Make sure you have a clear line ofsight to the UX5.

c. Make sure there are no obstacles or people near the front of the launcher.

WARNING – Make sure you complete each of the safety checks listed at this step. Failure to do so could

result in serious personal injury and damage to the UX5 or launcher.

2. When you have made sure that everything is clear in front of, above, and behind the launcher,

stand behind the launcher and press the launch handle to launch the UX5.

CAUTION – Never launch without the UX5 sitting on the dock as it will damage the launch dock. The design

of the launcher takes into account the weight of the UX5 sitting on the launch dock.

3. If an obstacle such as a person or animal suddenly appears in the obstacle clearance zone

during takeoff, tap in the Aerial Imaging software. The UX5 immediately powers down and

returns to the ground. For more information, see Emergency software commands, page 83.

After launch, the UX5 flies to the first waypoint, which is highlighted on the map in the

Dashboard tab. If the UX5 is not yet at the flight height when it reaches this point, it climbs in

circles of 100 m radius until it reaches the desired height.

4. After launch, release the tension on the launcher cord elastics. Leaving tension on the launcher

cord elastics for extended periods can damage the elastics.

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To release the tension, release the force with the crank very gently while pulling the release

handles in the front of the launcher upward. This is safest done with two people, with one

person carefully winding the crank counter-clockwise to counteract the force on the elastics.

Monitoring the flight

CAUTION – It is your responsibility to take action during flight when the safety of the UX5 aerial imaging rover or

its surroundings is compromised. To do this you must:

– Have visual contact with the unmanned aircraft at all times.

– Observe the zone of operation for the unmanned aircraft and look out for other aerial objects.

– Ensure obstacle clearance.

– Keep an eye on changing weather conditions.

– Locate the unmanned aircraft on the Tablet screen.

– Monitor the flight telemetry on the Tablet screen.

For information on the appropriate action to take if you see an oncoming aerial object at any point

during the flight, see Handling emergencies during flight, page 81.

After takeoff, the UX5 aerial imaging rover climbs to the specified cruise height.

Once the unmanned aircraft has passed its first waypoint, the second waypoint is initiated. From

this point, the unmanned aircraft follows the preprogrammed flight path.

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The Dashboard tab with an example flight is shown below:

You must use the Aerial Imaging software on the Tablet to monitor the unmanned aircraft during

the entire flight:

l The trajectory of the unmanned aircraft on the map must be close to the programmed flight

path.

l Monitor the strength of the communication link .

l Monitor the number of usable satellites .

l No signal: No GPS lock (0–3 satellites)

l 1 signal line: 4–6 satellites

l 2 signal lines: 7 or more satellites

l Monitor the level of power in the UX5 battery. In the battery status bar , the value is

expressed as a percentage and as time remaining in minutes.

l Compare the actual flight height with the desired flight height set during mission and flight

planning.

l Compare the actual airspeed with the desired airspeed, which is 80 kph (49 mph) during cruise

flight. The actual airspeed can be higher than the desired speed when the UX5 is coping with a

high head wind. The maximum airspeed is 90 kph (56 mph).

l Monitor the throttle. The throttle should be around 30% during cruise flight in normal

conditions.

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l Monitor the software for in-flight warnings and errors such as loss of GPS lock and loss of

communication link. For more information on these warnings and the appropriate action to

take, see Failsafes during flight, page 80 and Errors and warnings, page 97.

l Monitor the number of flight lines flown against the total number of flight lines (displayed in

the status line below the map).

The Dashboard tab with an example flight is shown below:

Changing the landing parameters during flight

If conditions change during the flight, it may be advisable to alter the landing parameters set in the

flight plan while the UX5 is still in flight.

Note – Once you confirm the landing, you cannot change the landing parameters.

To change the landing parameters:

1. Select the Flights tab. The Flights tab appears to the left of the Dashboard tab.

2. Tap beside Landing.

3. Depending on the situation, do one of the following:

l If the wind direction has changed and the landing clearances are not jeopardized, rotate

the landing heading of the current landing accordingly.

l If there is a sudden obstacle in the clearance zone of the current landing and you have

defined an alternative landing location that is clear from obstacles, tap the landing pin

on the map or use the drop-down menu in the Landing properties to select this location.

Adapt the landing heading according to the actual wind direction.

Note – For the current and any alternative landing setup, it is possible to change any other

parameters. However, thisrequires more effort and time which you may not have. Make sure that if

you change the landing location, the location is GPS fixed.

For more information, see Setting the landing properties, page 39.

Failsafes during flight

The following failsafe mechanisms activate when a technical issue occurs that reduces the safe

behavior of the unmanned aircraft:

l Loss of GPS lock during flight

l Loss of communication link during flight

l Overspeed protection

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Loss of GPS lock during flight

If the unmanned aircraft does not receive GPS communications for a period of 4 seconds, then a

notification appears on the Tablet, and the following automatic failsafe mechanism is activated:

1. The unmanned aircraft banks at an angle of 25° while orbiting at its current location for 20

seconds. If the unmanned aircraft successfully reacquires GPS lock, then it flies to the specified

landing location and begins a normal landing sequence.

2. If the unmanned aircraft is unable to reacquire GPS lock, then it activates the Flight Termination

System (FTS). During FTS:

a. The motor powers down and the speed lowers to 70 kph (43 mph).

b. The unmanned aircraft orbits down in 200 m (656 ft) diameter circles until it reaches a

height of 7 m (23 ft).

Note – During FTS without GPS lock, the unmanned aircraft attemptsto circle but the outcome

is elliptical circles asthe unmanned aircraft issubject to wind drift.

c. The unmanned aircraft levels its wings, slows, and glides to the ground.

Loss of communication link during flight

If the unmanned aircraft does not receive a communication packet for the time specified in the

Communication timeout field in the Autopilot settings group of the Settings screen, or if the

communication link is poor and communication packets are being received intermittently, then a

notification appears on the Tablet and the unmanned aircraft flies to the specified landing location

and begins a normal landing sequence.

Unlike a normal landing, you are not prompted to confirm landing before the final leg of the landing.

An audible sound indicates that the UX5 is about to land.

If communication resumes during this automatic failsafe mechanism, the unmanned aircraft

continues the landing sequence.

Overspeed protection

If the unmanned aircraft detects a steep and fast decline, it will maximize drag to minimize the

impact on the ground. The aircraft will descend in a "flat-spin"-like flight trajectory.

Handling emergencies during flight

This topic describes typical emergency scenarios that may occur when the UX5 is in flight. For all

scenarios, you must assess the situation before taking action. Take into account your location (that

is, the location of the GCS) and the current location, course, and speed of the UX5.

Note – If the situation istoo critical (for example, fast moving aircraft) tap and when prompted

confirm Flight Termination System (FTS) activation to immediately abort the flight and put the UX5 in

an orbit toward the ground.

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An approaching aircraft

The most common emergencies involve another aircraft entering the vicinity at approximately the

same height as the UX5.

Scenario Action When the other aircraft

has left the vicinity...

The approaching aircraft

will not cross the flight

path of the UX5.

1. Assess the situation.

2. Tap , , , or to move the

UX5 to a safe position.

Tap in the message

box on the map to cancel

the pattern and continue

mapping.

The flight path of the

approaching aircraft and

the UX5 are converging.

1. Assess the situation.

2. Tap to move the UX5 to a safe

position.

Tap in the message

box on the map to cancel

the pattern and continue

mapping.

The flight path of the

approaching aircraft is

diverging from the flight

path of the UX5.

1. Assess the situation.

2. Tap , , or to move the UX5

to a safe position.

Tap in the message

box on the map to cancel

the pattern and continue

mapping.

The flight path of the

approaching aircraft is

intercepting the flight

path of the UX5.

1. Assess the situation.

2. Tap to move the UX5 to a safe

position. (An aircraft intending to

overtake an aircraft in front of them

overtakes that plane on the right

side.)

Tap in the message

box on the map to cancel

the pattern and continue

mapping.

The approaching aircraft

is approaching the UX5

head-on.

1. Assess the situation.

2. Tap to move the UX5 to a safe

position.

Tap in the message

box on the map to cancel

the pattern and continue

mapping.

The approaching aircraft

intends to land.

A landing aircraft has priority over an UX5

at all times. Never assume that the

aircraft has noticed the UX5. Take the

necessary safety measures depending on

the situation.

Tap in the message

box on the map to cancel

the pattern and continue

mapping.

Occasionally other objects such as birds enter the zone of operation. Assess the situation and try to

avoid collisions using the methods described above. If a collision does occur, immediately tap in

the Aerial Imaging software and if prompted, confirm FTS activation to abort the flight. Once the

UX5 has landed, carefully check equipment for damage.

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Other types of emergency

In case of other types of emergency, take the recommended action.

Scenario Action

Engine failure is rare but may occur.

The following parameters in the Aerial

Imaging software indicate engine

failure:

l Altimeter decreases

l Battery voltage increases

l Throttle percentage increases

until 100%

1. Assess the situation.

2. Tap to immediately terminate the flight.

If no button is tapped, the UX5 glides downward,

following the flight plan.

Aerial Imaging software freezes or

crashes on the GCS when the UX5 is in

the air.

Immediately restart the software. If you are unable to

restart the software, restart the GCS and then restart the

Aerial Imaging software.

After restarting the software:

1. Go to the Projects screen and open the project for

the flight in progress.

2. In the Flights tab, select the flight in progress.

3. Select the Flight checklist tab.

When connecting to the autopilot, a messages asks if

the aircraft is already in the air.

4. Tap to confirm.

The Aerial Imaging software downloads the existing

flight plan from the eBox and enables you to

continue the flight.

Emergency software commands

The Dashboard tab of the Aerial Imaging software provides several buttons that enable you to

manually interrupt the pre-programmed flight plan while the unmanned aircraft is in the air. Use

these commands to take evasive action ifrequired.

Note – Tapping any button in thisscreen overrides any previous command.

Note – The only button available when the UX5 is below 50 m (164 ft) during takeoff is .

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Land

Use the button when the flight must be terminated and there is time and space for a

pre-planned landing.

When you tap , the unmanned aircraft immediately terminates its flight plan and initiates a

normal landing sequence. It flies at the current flight height to the entry point which is located 300

m (984 ft) from the landing location. It starts circling downward in 200 m (656 ft) diameter circles

until it reaches a height of 75 m (246 ft).

To release the Land command, tap in the message box on the map. The unmanned aircraft

returns to the start of the flight line it was on when the flight plan was interrupted, and resumes

mapping when it reaches the point that mapping paused.

To complete the landing, tap in the message box on the map. The unmanned aircraft finishes its

current circle until it reaches the point where it first started circling and then it starts the final leg of

the landing.

Fly to

Use the button to move the unmanned aircraft from its current position to a location you

choose.

To enable the button, tap the location on the map that you want the unmanned aircraft to

move to. When you tap , the unmanned aircraft flies to the specified location and then orbits

there at the cruise flight height in 200 m (656 ft) diameter circles. Mapping is paused.

When in the Fly to pattern, you can adjust the unmanned aircraft's height by 10 m (32 ft) up or

down, ifrequired. The software does not allow the height to be set lower than 75 m (246 ft) or higher

than 750 m (2460 ft).

To release the Fly to command, tap in the message box on the map. The unmanned aircraft

returns to the height it was at before the Fly to pattern began. It flies to the previous waypoint and

resumes mapping when it reaches the point that mapping paused.

Note – If you tap the map again while the unmanned aircraft isin the Fly to pattern, tap in the

message box on the map to fly to the new location on the map.

Hold

Use the button when another aircraft in the vicinity is observed.

When you tap , the unmanned aircraft begins orbiting its current location at the current flight

height in 200 m (656 ft) diameter circles. Mapping is paused.

When in the Hold pattern, you can adjust the unmanned aircraft's height by 10 m (32 ft) up or

down, ifrequired. The software does not allow the height to be set lower than 75 m (246 ft) or higher

than 750 m (2460 ft).

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To release the Hold command, tap in the message box on the map. The unmanned aircraft

returns to the height it was at before the Hold pattern began. It flies to the previous waypoint and

resumes mapping when it reaches the point that mapping paused.

Here

Use the button when the unmanned aircraft must be removed from the general area of

mapping and you want to have it within close sight.

When you tap , the unmanned aircraft immediately flies to the location of the ground control

station (GCS) or the last known location and orbits there at the cruise flight height in 200 m (656 ft)

diameter circles. Mapping is paused.

When in the Here pattern, you can adjust the unmanned aircraft's height by 10 m (32 ft) up or

down, ifrequired. The software does not allow the height to be set lower than 75 m (246 ft) or higher

than 750 m (2460 ft).

To release the Here command, tap in the message box on the map. The unmanned aircraft

returns to the height it was at before the Here pattern began. It flies to the previous waypoint and

resumes mapping when it reaches the point that mapping paused.

Right

Use the button when you want to move the unmanned aircraft away from its current position

but have it close to its current location.

When you tap , the unmanned aircraft flies 300 m (984 ft) to the right of the current heading and

then orbits there at the cruise flight height in 200 m (656 ft) diameter circles. Mapping is paused.

When in the Right pattern, you can adjust the unmanned aircraft's height by 10 m (32 ft) up or

down, ifrequired. The software does not allow the height to be set lower than 75 m (246 ft) or higher

than 750 m (2460 ft).

To release the Right command, tap in the message box on the map. The unmanned aircraft

returns to the height it was at before the Right pattern began. It flies to the previous waypoint and

resumes mapping when it reaches the point that mapping paused.

FTS

Activate the Flight Termination System (FTS) when the UX5 must be removed from the air as quickly

as possible. The button can be used during takeoff, cruise flight, and landing.

To activate the FTS, tap and if prompted, confirm FTS activation in the message box on the map.

Note – If you do not tap in the message box, the UX5 continuesthe flight.

Note – Confirmation is alwaysrequired, except during takeoff when the UX5 isstill below 25 m (82 ft).

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4   Completing a Flight

The unmanned aircraft immediately aborts the flight. During cruise flight, this involves:

1. The motor powers down and the speed lowers to 70 kph (43 mph).

2. The unmanned aircraft orbits down in 200 m (656 ft) diameter circles until it reaches a height of

10 m (33 ft).

3. The unmanned aircraft levels its wings, slows, and glides to the ground.

If you activate FTS when the unmanned aircraft is at a height of less than 25 m (82 ft) – that is, during

takeoff or landing – then the unmanned aircraft slows to 60 kph (37 mph) and flies downward in a

straight line at the current heading until it glides to the ground.

Abort

Note – The button is available only during the final leg of the landing when the aircraft is more than

15 m (49 ft) above ground. Make sure you consider the obstacle clearancesfor the Abort manoeuvre

before you tap . For more information,see Obstacle clearances for landing, page 35.

Use the button to abort the landing.

When you tap , the unmanned aircraft climbs to 75 m (246 ft) in the direction of the landing

heading and then turns to the landing entry point to start the landing circuit again.

To land you must tap in the message box on the map again.

Dealing with a crash

A crash is an accident associated with the operation of an aircraft in which:

l a person is fatally or seriously injured

l the aircraft sustains damage or structural failure

l the aircraft is missing or completely inaccessible

Note – A landing on the intended landing site that causes damage to the aircraft due to the landing

surface cannot be seen as a crash.

1. If a crash occurs which causes injuries or death, you must:

a. Contact the emergency services.

b. Help where necessary, without risking your own life.

c. Make a perimeter around the accident. Make sure no evidence disappears.

d. Notify your civil aviation authority (CAA).

2. If a crash occurs which causes damage to another object:

a. Contact the emergency services when necessary (for example, if gas, electricity, or water

supplies are affected).

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4   Completing a Flight

b. Contact the owners of the object that is hit.

c. Notify your civil aviation authority.

3. Take pictures of the crash site. Download the data files from the GCS and send all data and

pictures to your Trimble distributor.

Landing the UX5 

CAUTION – It is your responsibility to ensure the safety of the unmanned aircraft during landing. To do this you

must:

– Have visual contact with the unmanned aircraft at all times.

– Observe the zone of operation for the unmanned aircraft and look out for other aerial objects.

– Ensure obstacle clearance.

– Locate the unmanned aircraft on the Tablet screen.

WARNING – Make sure there are no people or obstacles near the landing zone. Failure to do so could result in

serious personal injury and damage to the rover.

After passing the last waypoint on the scan lines, the UX5 terminates its flight plan and initiates a

normal landing sequence. It flies at cruise height to the entry point which is located 300 m (984 ft)

from the landing location. It starts circling downward in 200 m (656 ft) diameter circles until it

reaches a height of 75 m (246 ft). It keeps circling in left or right circles, depending on the direction

specified in the Aerial Imaging software, until you tap in the message box on the map.

To complete the landing, tap in the message box on the map. The UX5 finishes its current circle

until it reaches the intersection with the landing direction and then it starts the final leg of the

landing.

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4   Completing a Flight

The image below shows the linear landing circuit using a landing orientation set to right turns.

Locating the UX5 after landing

If the UX5 has landed somewhere in the field and you are not able to visually locate it, you can track

it using the tracking system receiver.

1. On the receiver, press and hold the On/Off key for three seconds to power on the receiver.

2. Press the Menu/OK key to enter the menu.

3. Select the transmitter you want to track down using the Scan key and then press the Menu/OK

key to confirm.

4. Fold out the four antennas on the receiver and then place the receiver on the palm of your

hand, taking care not to touch any of the antennas.

5. Increase the gain as much as possible using the Increase key.

6. To pick up the first signal pulses, hold the receiver in front of you at high level and slowly turn

360°, scanning the horizon with the antenna.

Tip – Make sure the internal antenna is selected. The range of the receiver is wider if you track from an

elevation. Always hold the receiver in front of you so that the receiver can distinguish between incoming

signals from the front and the back.

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4   Completing a Flight

Each received signal pulse and its strength are shown on the transmitter bar/received signal

strength indicator and indicated with an audible signal.

7. Scan the area to determine the direction with the highest signalstrength. If the signalstrength

is the same in all directions, reduce the gain using the Decrease key until the received signal

strength is half the transmitter bar and then repeat the scan.

8. Follow the determined direction. Repeat the scan at intervals to verify the direction you need

to head in to locate the UX5.

Note – If you experience difficultiesfinding the rover following one direction, try doing the scan from

a different location and locating the cross-section between the new and previously found direction.

For more information on using the tracker system, refer to the user documentation for the

tracker transmitter and receiver.

Completing the post-flight checklist

1. After the UX5 has successfully landed, tap .

2. A message warns that the UX5 should be on the ground. Do one of the following:

l If the UX5 is not on the ground, tap . You will return to the flight monitoring screen.

l If the UX5 is on the ground, tap . The UX5 goes into standby mode and the post-flight

checklist appears.

3. Remove the download port cap from the eBox and then attach the download cable to the eBox

and the modem.

4. Click .

The software detects the cable connection and automatically starts downloading the log files

from the eBox to the Tablet.

Note – If there is an issue with the cable connection, the post-flight checklist returnsto the previous

screen. Detach and then reattach the cable and then click .

5. When prompted, disconnect the download cable and then reattach the download port cap to

the eBox.

6. When prompted, remove the camera from the unmanned aircraft. Trimble recommends

deleting the test images taken on the ground from the SD card. Verify that the number of

images taken during the flight are equal to the amount ofshutter commands recorded in the

flight log.

If you have not deleted the test images from the SD card, there will be a mismatch between the

number of images and the number ofshutter commands and you will need to correct this. For

more information, see Exporting flight data for processing, page 94.

Note – If you have imagesfrom more than one flight on the camera, you may need to remove the SD

card from the camera, insert it into the Tablet, and then use Windows Explorer to navigate to the

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4   Completing a Flight

correct folder on the SD card to view the number of imagestaken for the flight. To do this you will

need a USB to SD card reader or an external storage device. For more information,see Locating

your equipment, page 60.

7. Tap Finish to close the post-flight checklist and return to the Mission Planning screen.

Disassembling the launcher

For safe disassembly of the launcher, refer to the Trimble UX5 Launcher Quick Start Guide.

1. If you have not yet released the tension on the launcher cord, then do so now.

To release the tension, release the force with the crank very gently while pulling the release

handles in the front of the launcher upward. This is safest done with two people, with one

person carefully winding the crank counter-clockwise to counteract the force on the elastics.

2. Remove the lock pin on the launch dock and detach the launcher cord.

3. Using the crank, tighten the launcher cord so that most of the cord is in the launch slide but the

end remains out. Remove the crank.

4. Slide the launch dock off the front of the launch slide.

5. To detach the V-support, turn the knob upward and then slide the pins out of the holes in the

launch slide. Remove the lock pin on the V-support to fold the legs and then reinsert the lock

pin.

CAUTION – Take care when folding the V-support legs not to jam or cut fingers.

6. Open the handle fixes on the launch slide and fold the launch slide.

7. Return the following items to the launcher bag:

l safety pin

l launch dock with lock pin

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4   Completing a Flight

l V-support

l crank

l launch slide with elastics

For more information, see Locating your equipment, page 60.

Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging Solution User Guide 91
Analysis and Export

n Transferring the images

n Returning the project to the Aerial

Imaging Desktop software

n Exporting flight data for processing

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CHAPTER 5
5   Analysis and Export

Transferring the images

Note – If you already transferred the imagesfrom the camera to an external storage device in the field,

then transfer the imagesfrom that device to a location on the computer running the Aerial Imaging

Desktop software, or to a network location.

If you have not already transferred the images from the camera:

1. When you return to the office, remove the SD card from the camera.

2. Insert the SD card into an office computer and then transfer the images from the SD card to a

location on the computer or a network location.

3. Delete the images from the SD card.

4. Replace the SD card in the camera.

Note – Because the camera has no electronic communication with the external lens, the image

properties(exif data) show a 0 value for the propertieslinked to the lens. These properties are: F-stop,

focal length and max. aperture.

Returning the project to the Aerial Imaging Desktop

software

Although you can use the Aerial Imaging software on the Trimble Tablet to analyze and export the

flight data for processing, it will typically be done in the office using the Aerial Imaging Desktop

software. To be able to do this you must export the project from the Aerial Imaging software on the

Tablet and import it to the Aerial Imaging Desktop software.

To export the project from the Aerial Imaging software on the Tablet:

1. In the Projects screen, select the project to export.

2. Click . The Export wizard appears.

3. Select the GWT format. Click Next.

4. Navigate to the folder where you want to save the project. If the Tablet cannot access a

network folder, then insert a USB stick and then navigate to a folder on the USB stick.

5. Enter the file name and then click Save.

The exported project is saved as a .gwt file in the folder you selected.

6. Click Finish to close the Export wizard.

To import the project to the Aerial Imaging Desktop software:

1. Start the Aerial Imaging Desktop software.

2. In the Aerial Imaging Home screen or Projects screen, tap .

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5   Analysis and Export

3. Navigate to the location of the .gwt file, select it and then tap Open.

The project you imported is listed in the Projects screen and the project thumbnail appears.

Exporting flight data for processing

Note – You can export flight data from the Aerial Imaging Desktop software, or from the Aerial Imaging

software on the Trimble Tablet, if you have copied the imagesto the Tablet.

1. In the Projects screen, select the project to export flight data from.

2. Click . The Export wizard appears.

3. Select the format to export to:

l To process the flight data using Trimble Business Centersoftware, select the .jxl option.

l To process the flight data using other processing software, select the .csv/.txt option.

4. Click Next.

5. Select the flight to export and then select the folder where you have stored the images for that

flight.

The summary at the bottom of the window shows you the number of camera triggers in the

flight log file and the number of images in the selected image folder.

If these numbers do not correspond, you have the option to correct it using the Aerial Imaging

software. For each scan line the software matches the shutter commands with the number of

images.

Note – The files must be corrected before exporting to Trimble Business Center.

Note – If there are more than three images missing or more than three additional images(excluding

test images or imagesfrom another flight), Trimble recommends performing the flight again.

If there are:

l Too many images, the automatic correction will delete test images or images from a

previous flight. In any other case where scan lines have more images than shutter

commands, the extra images are dropped at the end of the scan line, regardless of where

in the scan line the extra images occurred.

l Not enough images, where scan lines have more shutter commands than images, the

extra shutter commands are dropped at the end of the scan line, regardless of where in

the scan line the extra shutter commands occurred.

Note – If the missing images are not due to obviousreasonssuch as a depleted camera battery

during flight, an SD card with incorrect specifications(see Locating your equipment, page 60),

or incorrect camera settings, contact your Trimble distributor.

A message appears, showing the correction results.

6. Click Next.

7. Enter a file name for the exported flight data and then click Save.

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5   Analysis and Export

By default the exported file is stored in the same folder as the images for the flight. This is

required for processing .jxl files using Trimble Business Center.

8. Click Finish to close the Export wizard.

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Troubleshooting

n Errors and warnings

n Landing issues

n Aerial Imaging software issues

n eBox LED status

n Technicalsupport

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CHAPTER 6
6   Troubleshooting

Errors and warnings

This topic describes error messages or warnings that may appear. If the problem persists, contact

your Trimble distributor.

Low battery level

If the message appears Then...

Pre-flight, before ARM Replace the battery with a fully charged battery and then redo the

flight checklist.

Pre-flight, after ARM 1. Disarm the UX5 via software. If that does not work, disarm the

UX5 by pressing the Mode button once (one flash) taking care

to avoid the propellers.

2. Replace the battery with a fully charged battery and then redo

the flight checklist.

In-flight If the landing location is not too far from the location of the UX5 and

the battery level is not too low, tap the button. Otherwise, tap

the button.

Loss of GPS lock

If the message appears Then...

Pre-flight, before ARM You will not be able to ARM the UX5.

1. Press the Mode button once (one flash) to restart the eBox.

2. Redo the checklist.

Pre-flight, after ARM 1. Disarm the UX5 via software. If that does not work, disarm the

UX5 by pressing the Mode button once (one flash) taking care

to avoid the propellers.

2. Press the Mode button once (one flash) to restart the eBox.

3. Redo the checklist.

In-flight The automatic failsafe mechanism is activated. See Failsafes during

flight, page 80.

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Communication loss

If the message appears Then...

Pre-flight, before ARM You will not be able to ARM the UX5.

1. Press the Mode button once (one flash) to restart the eBox.

2. Redo the checklist.

Pre-flight, after ARM 1. Disarm the UX5 via software. If that does not work, disarm the

UX5 by pressing the Mode button once (one flash) taking care

to avoid the propellers.

2. Press the Mode button once (one flash) to restart the eBox.

3. Redo the checklist.

In-flight The automatic failsafe mechanism is activated. See Failsafes during

flight, page 80.

Camera errors

Issue Solution

The camera is taking a

picture every 20 to 25

seconds.

1. Abort the checklist.

2. Disconnect the UX5 battery.

3. Restart the checklist.

eBox errors

There are two types of eBox errors that can occur:

l Autopilot errors

l Miscellaneous eBox errors

The appropriate action to take depends on the stage of the flight that the error occurs. For more

information, see:

l Taking action when an Autopilot error occurs, page 102

l Taking action when an eBox error occurs, page 102

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Autopilot error message types

The table below explains the types of autopilot error that can occur.

Code Description

2 There is an airspeed sensor hardware problem.

3 There is an autopilot configuration problem.

4 There is an autopilot configuration problem.

9 There is a pitch gyro sensor hardware problem.

11 There is a roll gyro sensor hardware problem.

13 There is a yaw gyro sensor hardware problem.

16 There is an autopilot configuration problem.

17 There is an invalid command in the flight plan.

18 There is an autopilot configuration problem.

19 There is an autopilot configuration problem.

20 There is an autopilot configuration problem.

21 There is an autopilot configuration problem.

22 There is a gyro sensor hardware problem.

23 There is an accelerometersensor hardware problem.

25 The aircraft has flown past the 300 km limit.

26 The flight plan contains a waypoint that is outside of the geofence; or the aircraft has

flown outside of the geofence.

35 There is an autopilot configuration problem.

36 There is a gyro sensor hardware problem.

37 There is an autopilot configuration problem.

38 There is an autopilot configuration problem.

39 There is an autopilot configuration problem.

40 There is an autopilot configuration problem.

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6   Troubleshooting

Code Description

41 There is an autopilot configuration problem.

42 There is an autopilot configuration problem.

43 There is an autopilot configuration problem.

44 There is an autopilot configuration problem.

45 There is an autopilot configuration problem.

46 The flight plan contains a waypoint that exceeds the maximum allowed distance from

the takeoff location.

47 The aircraft is close to the 300 km limit.

49 There is an autopilot configuration problem.

50 There is an autopilot configuration problem.

51 There is an autopilot configuration problem.

52 There is a GPS receiver hardware problem.

53 There is an autopilot configuration problem.

55 There is an autopilot configuration problem.

56 There is an autopilot hardware problem.

57 There is an autopilot hardware problem.

58 There is an accelerometersensor hardware problem.

59 There is a GPS receiver hardware problem.

60 There is an autopilot configuration problem.

61 There is an airspeed sensor hardware problem.

63 There is an autopilot configuration problem.

64 There is an autopilot configuration problem.

65 There is an autopilot configuration problem.

66 There is an autopilot configuration problem.

67 There is an autopilot configuration problem.

68 There is an autopilot configuration problem.

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Code Description

69 There is an autopilot hardware problem.

71 There is an accelerometersensor hardware problem.

72 There are multiple errors.

73 There is an autopilot configuration problem.

74 There is an autopilot configuration problem.

77 There is an autopilot configuration problem.

78 There is an autopilot configuration problem.

79 There is an autopilot configuration problem.

80 There is an accelerometersensor hardware problem.

81 There is an invalid command in the flight plan.

84 There is an autopilot configuration problem.

85 There is an autopilot configuration problem.

86 The aircraft is above the maximum altitude limit.

87 There is an autopilot configuration problem.

88 The flight plan contains a waypoint that is above the maximum allowed altitude from

the takeoff location.

89 The flight plan contains a waypoint that is outside of the geofence.

90 There is a pitch gyro sensor hardware problem.

91 There is a roll gyro sensor hardware problem.

92 There is a yaw gyro sensor hardware problem.

93 There is an accelerometersensor hardware problem.

94 There is an accelerometersensor hardware problem.

95 There is an accelerometersensor hardware problem.

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Taking action when an Autopilot error occurs

If the message appears Then...

Pre-flight, before ARM You will not be able to ARM the UX5.

1. Press the Mode button once (one flash) to restart the eBox.

2. Redo the checklist.

Pre-flight, after ARM 1. Disarm the UX5 via software. If that does not work, disarm the

UX5 by pressing the Mode button once (one flash) taking care

to avoid the propellers.

2. Press the Mode button once (one flash) to restart the eBox.

3. Redo the checklist.

In-flight If the landing location is not too far from the location of the UX5 and

the battery level is not too low, , tap the button. Otherwise, tap

the button.

Taking action when an eBox error occurs

Miscellaneous eBox errors include eBox altitude pressure sensor errors.

If the message appears Then...

Pre-flight, before ARM You will not be able to ARM the UX5.

1. Press the Mode button once (one flash) to restart the eBox.

2. Redo the checklist.

Pre-flight, after ARM 1. Disarm the UX5 via software. If that does not work, disarm the

UX5 by pressing the Mode button once (one flash) taking care

to avoid the propellers.

2. Disconnect and then reconnect the battery to restart the eBox.

3. Redo the checklist.

In-flight Always use .

Landing issues

If the unmanned aircraft does not automatically power off the motor after landing, Trimble

recommends manually powering off the motor as soon as possible to avoid motor damage. To

manually power off the UX5, tap the

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6   Troubleshooting

button in the Aerial Imaging software. If that does not work, press and hold the Mode button

on the eBox until the LED flashes three times.

WARNING – Always take care to avoid contact with the propeller blades. Contact with moving propeller blades

can result in serious personal injury.

Aerial Imaging software issues

If the Aerial Imaging software on the GCS freezes or crashes when the UX5 is in the air, see Aerial

Imaging software freezes or crashes, page 1.

If the software crashes, a crash dump file is automatically created. You are prompted to select the

crash dump location and you can then send the file to Trimble Technical Support.

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6   Troubleshooting

eBox LED status

The diagram below shows the status of the LEDs on the eBox.

Technical support

If you have an issue and cannot find the information you need in the product documentation,

contact your Trimble distributor.

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Specifications and Settings

n UX5 specifications

n Camera specifications

n Camera settings

n Battery charger settings

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CHAPTER 7
7   Specifications and Settings

UX5 specifications

The UX5 aerial imaging rover has the following specifications:

Power/battery

Feature Specification

Battery type Lithium polymer

Nominal energy capacity 6000 mAh

Nominal voltage 14.8 V

Battery charger settings for

charging:

– Maximum current

– Voltage

6 A

16.8 V +/- 0.03 V

Battery charger settings for

discharging:

– Maximum current

– Cut-off voltage

40 A

9 V

Battery charging time Maximum 2 hours if fully

discharged.

Height

Feature Specification

Minimum flight height 75 m (246 ft)

Maximum flight height 750 m (2460 ft)

Maximum operational ceiling

(recommended)

5000 m (16,400 ft)

Note – UX5 not tested above 2500 m

(8202 ft).

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7   Specifications and Settings

Dimensions

Feature Specification

Maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) 2.5 kg (5.5 lbs)

Wing span 100 cm (39.3 ")

Length 65 cm (25.6 ")

Height 10.5 cm (4.1 ")

CAUTION – Any deviation leading to a different maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) must be approved by Trimble.

Camera specifications

The camera has the following specifications:

Feature Specification (Sony a5100) Specification (Sony NEX-5)

Effective pixels 23.4 megapixels 16.1 megapixels

Image sensor APS-C 23.5 x 15.6 mm (0.93 x

0.61") CMOS

APS-C 23.5 x 15.6 mm (0.93 x

0.61") CMOS

Focal length 15 mm (0.6") 15 mm (0.6")

F-aperture 4.5 - 22 4.5 - 22

Shutterspeed 1/4000 – 60 1/4000 – 30

ISO sensitivity ISO 100 – 25600 equivalent ISO 100 – 25600 equivalent

Display 7.5 cm (3") 7.5 cm (3")

Dimensions

(width x height x depth)

109.6 x 62.8 x 35.7 mm

(4.31 x 2.47 x 1.41 ")

110.8 x 58.8 x 32.5 mm

(4.36 x 2.31 x 1.28 ")

Weight 224 g (0.49 lb) body only 218 g (0.48 lb) body only

Battery charging time Approximately 310 minutes

when fully discharged

Approximately 280 minutes

when fully discharged

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7   Specifications and Settings

Camera settings

The camera arrives with the appropriate settings required to obtain good aerial images set by

Trimble. These settings are listed below.

Note the following:

l Settings that are greyed out in the camera menus cannot be selected and so are not listed here.

l A value of "–" in the tables below indicates that the value for that setting is not set and is not

required.

Sony a5100 camera

Menu settings

Camera settings

Setting Value

1 Shoot Mode Shutter Priority

Image Size L:24M

Aspect Ratio 3:2

Quality Fine

2 Movie File Format AVCHD

Movie Record Settings 50i 17M (FH)

Dual Video REC Off

Drive Mode Single Shooting

Flash Mode Fill-flash

3 Flash Comp. ± 0.0

Red Eye Reduction Off

Focus Area Center

AF Illuminator Off

4 Exposure Comp. ± 0.0

ISO ISO AUTO

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7   Specifications and Settings

Setting Value

5 Metering Mode Multi

White Balance Auto

DRO/Auto-HDR D-Range Opt. - AUTO

Creative Style Standard

Picture Effect Off

6 Focus Magnifier –

High ISO NR Normal

Smile/Face Detect. Off

7 Soft Skin Effect Off

Color Space sRGB

8 Video Auto Slow Shutter Off

Audio Recording Off

Wind Noise Reduct. Off

Shooting Tip List –

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7   Specifications and Settings

Custom settings

Setting Value

1 Zebra Off

MF Assist Off

Focus Magnif. Time No limit

Grid Line Diag + square grid

Movie Marker Display Off

Movie Marker Settings

Center

Aspect

Safety zone

Guide frame

Off

Off

Off

Off

2 Auto Review Off

DISP Button Display all info

Peaking Level High

Peaking Color Red

Exposure Set. Guide Off

3 Live View Display Setting effect ON

Disp. Cont. AF Area Off

Zoom Setting Opticalzoom only

Release w/o lens Enable

AEL w/ shutter Off

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7   Specifications and Settings

Setting Value

4 Self portrait/ -timer Off

Exp. Comp. Set. Ambient only

Face Registration –

AF Micro Adj.

AF Adjustment Set.

Clear

Off

–

5 Lens Comp.

Shading Comp.

Chro. Aber. Comp.

Distortion Comp.

Off

Off

Off

Custom Key Settings

Center Button

Change all items to "Not set" EXCEPT Focus Magnifier

MOVIE Button Movie mode only

Wireless

Setting Value

Airplane Mode On

Application

There are no relevant settings set in the Application menu.

Playback

Setting Value

Display Rotation Off

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7   Specifications and Settings

Setup

Setting Value

1 Monitor Brightness Manual

Audio Signals Off

Tile Menu Off

Delete Confirm. "Cancel" first

2 Power Save Start Time 30 mins

PAS/NTSC Selector –

Touch Operation Off

HDMI Settings

HDMI Resolution

HDMI Info. Display

CTRL FOR HDMI

Auto

Off

Off

3 USB Connection Auto

USB LUN Setting Multi

Language English

Date/Time Setup Set the correct date and time for your location and the

format used by your organization.

Area Setting Set the correct area for your location.

4 Format –

File Number Series

Folder name Date form

5 Version –

Setting Reset –

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7   Specifications and Settings

Sony NEX-5 camera

Lens settings

Setting Value

Aperture ring f/4.5

Focus ring 3+ m

Note – Thisisset and calibrated by the manufacturer and must

not change. For your reference, this position corresponds with the

white dot appearing below the right edge of the red 0 in the 10 ft

mark.

Menu settings

Shoot Mode

Setting Value

Shoot Mode S (Shutter priority)

1/1000 or above

Camera

Setting Value

Drive Mode Remote Cdr.

Flash Mode –

AF/MF Select –

Autofocus Area –

Autofocus Mode –

Touch Shutter –

Object Tracking /

Tracking Focus

–

Zoom –

Face Detection Off

Face Registration –

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7   Specifications and Settings

Setting Value

Smile Shutter Off

Auto Port Framing Off

Soft Skin Effect Off

Shooting Tip List –

LCD Display Display All Info

DISP Button Enable the following:

l Display All Info

l Big Font Size Disp

l Histogram

Image Size

Setting Value

Image Size L:16M

Aspect Ratio 3:2

Quality Fine

Movie File Format NEX 5R: N/A

NEX 5T: AVCHD

Movie Record Setting NEX 5R: N/A

NEX 5T: 25p 17M (FH)

Brightness/Color

Setting Value

Exposure Compensation ± 0.0

For the NIR camera:

+ 1.0 with the UV HAZE (orange) filter

+ 2.0 with the NIR (black) filter

ISO Auto

White Balance Auto WB

For the NIR camera, use custom brightness/colorsettings. See

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7   Specifications and Settings

Setting Value

Setting brightness/colorsettings for the NIR camera , page 57

Metering Mode Multi

DRO/Auto HDR D-Range Optimizer

Picture Effect Off

Creative Style Standard

Playback

There are no relevant settings set in the Playback menu.

Application

There are no relevant settings set in the Application menu.

Setup

Shooting settings

Setting Value

AEL with shutter On

AF Illuminator Off

Live View Display Setting Effect On

Auto Review Off

Grid Line Off

Peaking Level Mid

Peaking Color Red

Clear Image Zoom Off

Digital Zoom Off

Self-portrait Self-timer Off

MF Assist On

MF Assist Time 2 Sec

Color Space sRGB

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7   Specifications and Settings

Setting Value

Release without Lens Enable

Front Curtain Shutter Off

Long Exposure NR Off

High ISO NR Normal

Lens Comp.:Shading Auto

Lens Comp.: Chromatic Aberation Auto

Lens Comp.: Distortion Auto

Auto Slow Shutter Off

Movie Audio Rec. On

Wind Noise Reduction On

AF Micro Adjustment –

Main settings

Setting Value

Menu Start NEX 5R: Top

NEX 5T: Previous

Function Menu Settings –

MOVIE Button Off

Custom Key Settings –

Touch Operation Off

Beep Off

Language English

Date/Time Setup Set the correct date and time for your location and

the format used by your organization.

Area Setting Set the correct area for your location.

Help Guide Display Off

Power Save Standard

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7   Specifications and Settings

Setting Value

Power Saving Start Time 30 min

LCD Brightness Manual

Display Color White

Wide Image Normal

Playback Display Manual Rotate

HDMI Resolution Auto

CTRL for HDMI On

USB Connection Auto

Cleaning Mode –

(Click to clean the sensor.)

Version –

(Click to see the camera and lens version.)

Initialize –

(Click to reset settings.)

Memory card tool

Setting Value

Format –

(Click to format a card.)

File Number Series

Folder Name Date Form

New Folder –

(Click to create a folder.)

Recover Image DB –

(Click to recover the image database.)

Display Card Space –

Click to view card space usage.)

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7   Specifications and Settings

Network settings

Setting Value

Access Point Settings –

Edit Device Name –

Display MAC Address –

(Click to view the MAC address.)

Reset View on Smartphone / SSID/PW

Reset

–

NEX 5R: (Click to reset the remote view.)

NEX 5T: (Click to execute smartphone connection

SSID and password reset.)

Reset Network Settings –

(Click to reset the network settings.)

Airplane Mode (NEX 5T only) On

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Battery charger settings

When the charger power on, it displays the following parameters for the battery:

l LiPo manual

l C:5.0A 6000mAh

WARNING – Always check that the settings on the charger are correct before charging the battery. Incorrect

charger settings may result in damage to the battery, severe burning and fire hazards.

If the settings are incorrect, correct them using the steps below:

1. To change the battery type, press and hold the Prog/Mode key for two seconds. Repeat the

button press until the charger screen shows “LiPo manual” or “LiIo manual” or “LiFe manual”.

2. Briefly press the Prog/Mode key (for less than two seconds).

3. To change the lithium type, press the DEC or INC key until the lithium type is set to “LiPo”.

4. To change the voltage per cell, press the Enter/Start key and then press the DEC or INC key

until the voltage is set to “4.20V/C”.

5. Briefly press the Prog/Mode key (for less than two seconds).

6. In the main screen, the “C:x.xA” entry is blinking. Press the DEC or INC key until it shows "5.0".

7. To change the battery capacity, press the Enter/Start key and then press the DEC or INC key

until the battery capacity is set to "6000mAh".

Your charger is now set and should show:

l LiPo manual

l C:5.0A 6000mAh

UX5 battery safety

The following information has been provided by the manufacturer of the UX5 battery. You should

familiarize yourself with the information in this section so that you know how to look after the

battery and can take fast, appropriate safety action ifrequired.

This section contains the following:

l Hazards identification, page 120

l First aid measures, page 122

l Fire fighting measures, page 122

l Accidental release measures, page 123

l Handling and storage, page 123

l Exposure controls and personal protection, page 125

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7   Specifications and Settings

l Physical and chemical properties, page 125

l Stability and reactivity, page 125

l Toxicological information, page 126

l Disposal considerations, page 126

l Transportation information, page 126

Hazards identification

Emergency overview

l Do not open or disassemble.

l Do not expose to fire or open flame.

l Do not mix with batteries of varying sizes, chemistries or types.

l Do not puncture, deform incinerate or heat above 85 °C (185 °F).

Potential health effects

The materials contained in this battery may only represent a hazard if the integrity of the battery is

compromised or if the battery is physically or electrically abused.

(1) Physical:

The Lithium ion polymer rechargeable batteries described in this Material Safety Data Sheet are

sealed units which are not hazardous when used according to the recommendations of the

Manufacturer.

Under normal conditions of use, the solid electrode materials and liquid electrolyte they contain are

non-reactive provided the battery integrity is maintained and seals remain intact.

Risk of exposure is only in case of abuse (mechanical, thermal, electrical) leading to the activation of

safety valves and/or the rupture of the battery containers. Electrolyte leakage, electrode materials

reaction with moisture/water or battery vent/explosion/fire may follow, depending upon the

circumstances.

(2) Chemical:

Classification of dangerous substances contained into the product as per directive 67/548/EEC:

Substance Melting point Boiling

point

Classification

CAS no. Chemical

symbol

Exposure

limit

Indication

of danger

Special

risk (1)

Safety

advice (2)

473894-38-1

182442-95-1

LiCoO2

LiMnNiCoO2

>1000 °C N/A 0.1mg/m3

as Co

1.0mg/m3

as Ni

R22

R43

S2 S22

S24 S26

S36

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OSHA

EC: 96-49-1

EMC:

623-53-0

Organic

solvents (EC–

EMC)

EC: 38 °C (100 °F)

EMC: 4 °C (39 °F)

EC: 243 °C

(469 °F)

EMC:

90 °C (194

°F)

None

established

OSHA

Flammable R21

R22

R41

R42/43

S2 S24

S26 S35

S37 S45

21324-40-3 LiPF6 N/A (decomposes at

160 °C (320 °F))

N/A None

established

OSHA

Irritant

Corrosive

R14

R21

R22

R41

R43

S2 S8 S22

S24 S26

S36 S37

S45

(1) – Nature ofspecial risks:

R14 Reacts with water

R21 Harmful in contact with skin

R22 Harmful ifswallowed

R41 Risk ofserious damage to the eye

R42/43 May cause sensitization by inhalation and skin contact

R43 May cause sensitization by skin contact

(2) – Safety advice:

S2 Keep out ofreach from children

S8 Keep away from moisture

S22 Do not breathe dust

S24 Avoid contact with skin

S26 In case of contact with eyes, rinse immediately with plenty of water and seek medical

Protective clothing

S36 Wear suitable protective clothing

S37 Wear suitable gloves

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First aid measures

In case of battery rupture or explosion, evacuate personnel from contaminated area and provide

maximum ventilation to clear out fumes/gases.

In all cases where first aid is applied, seek medical attention.

Eye contact

l Flush with plenty of water (eyelids held open) for at least 15 minutes.

Skin contact

l Remove all contaminated clothing and flush affected areas with plenty of water and soap for at

least 15 minutes.

l Do not apply greases or ointments.

Ingestion

l Dilute by giving plenty of water and get immediate medical attention.

l Make sure that the victim does not aspirate vomited material by use of positional drainage.

l Make sure that mucus does not obstruct the airway.

l Do not give anything by mouth to an unconscious person.

Inhalation

l Remove to fresh air and ventilate the contaminated area.

l Give oxygen or artificial respiration if needed.

Fire fighting measures

Fire and explosion hazard

The battery can leak and/orspout vaporized or decomposed and combustible electrolyte fumes in

case of exposure above 70 °C (158 °F)resulting from inappropriate use or the environment.

Cells or batteries may flame or leak potentially hazardous organic vapors if exposed to excessive

heat or fire. Fire, excessive heat, or over voltage conditions may produce hazardous decomposition

products.

Damaged or opened cells or batteries can result in rapid heating and the release of flammable

vapors.

Vapors may be heavier than air and may travel along the ground or be moved by ventilation to an

ignition source and flash back

Fire, excessive heat, or over voltage conditions may produce hazardous decomposition products.

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7   Specifications and Settings

Use a positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus if batteries are involved in a fire. Full

protective clothing is necessary. During water application, caution is advised as burning pieces of

flammable particles may be ejected from the fire.

Extinguishing media

Suitable: CO2

Dry chemical or foam extinguishers

Not to be used: Type D extinguishers

Special exposure hazards

Following cell overheating due to externalsource or due to improper use, electrolyte leakage or

battery container rupture may occur and release inner component/material in the environment.

Eye

contact:

The electrolyte solution contained in the battery is irritant to ocular tissues.

Skin

contact:

The electrolyte solution contained in the battery causes skin irritation.

Ingestion: The ingestion of electrolyte solution causes tissue damage to throat and

gastro/respiratory tract.

Inhalation: Contents of a leaking or ruptured battery can cause respiratory tract, mucus,

membrane irritation and edema.

Special protective equipment

Use self-contained breathing apparatus to avoid breathing irritant fumes.

Wear protective clothing and avoid body contact with electrolyte solution.

Accidental release measures

The material contained within the batteries would only be expelled under abusive conditions.

Using shovel or broom, cover battery or spilled substances with dry sand or vermiculite, place in

approved container (after cooling if necessary) and dispose in accordance with local regulations.

Handling and storage

The batteries should not be opened, destroyed or incinerated since they may leak or rupture and

release in the environment the ingredients they contain.

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Handling

Batteries are designed to be recharged. However, improperly charging a cell or battery may cause

the cell or battery to flame.

Use only approved chargers and procedures.

Never disassemble a battery or bypass any safety device.

Do not crush, pierce, short (+) and (-) battery terminals with conductive (i.e. metal) goods.

Do not directly heat or solder.

Do not throw into fire.

Do not mix batteries of different types and brands.

Do not mix new and used batteries.

Keep batteries in non conductive (i.e. plastic) trays.

Storage

Do not store batteries above 60 °C (140 °F) or below -20 °C (-4 °F).

Store batteries in a cool (below 30 °C/86 °F)), dry area that is subject to little temperature change.

Elevated temperatures can result in reduced battery service life.

Battery exposure to temperatures in excess of 130 °C (266 °F) will result in the battery venting

flammable liquid and gases.

Batteries should be separated from other materials and stored in a noncombustible, well ventilated,

sprinkler-protected structure with sufficient clearance between walls and battery stacks.

Do not store batteries in a manner that allows terminals to short circuit.

Extended short-circuiting creates high temperatures in the cell. High temperatures can cause burns

in skin or cause the cell to flame.

Avoid reversing battery polarity within the battery assembly. To do so may cause cell to flame or to

leak.

Do not place batteries near heating equipment, nor expose to direct sunlight for long periods.

Other

Follow manufacturers recommendations regarding maximum recommended currents and

operating temperature range. Applying pressure on deforming the battery may lead to disassembly

followed by eye, skin and throat irritation.

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Exposure controls and personal protection

No engineering controls are required for handing batteries that have not been damaged.

Respiratory

protection:

Not necessary under normal use.

In case of battery rupture, use self contained full-face respiratory

equipment.

Hand protection: Not necessary under normal use.

Use gloves if handling a leaking or ruptured battery.

Eye protection: Not necessary under normal use.

Wear safety goggles or glasses with side shields if handling a leaking or

ruptured battery.

Skin protection: Not necessary under normal use.

Use rubber protective working in case of handling of a ruptured battery.

Physical and chemical properties

Temperature range:

Continuous Occasional

In storage +30 °C (86 °F) max. -20 to +60 °C (-4 to +140 °F)

During discharge -20 to +60 °C (-4 to +140 °F) -20 to +60 °C (-4 to +140 °F)

During charge 0 to +45 °C (+32 to 113 °F) 0 to +45 °C (+32 to 113 °F)

Stability and reactivity

Conditions to avoid

Heat above 60 °C (140 °F) or incineration.

Deform, mutilate, crush, pierce, disassemble

Short circuit

Prolonged exposure to humid conditions.

Materials to avoid

N/A

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7   Specifications and Settings

Hazardous decomposition products

Fire, excessive heat, or over voltage conditions may produce hazardous decomposition products.

Toxicological information

1. Irritancy: The electrolytes contained in this battery can irritate eyes with any contact.

Prolonged contact with the skin or mucous membranes may cause irritation.

2. Sensitization: No information is available at this time.

3. Carcinogenicity: No information is available at this time.

4. Reproductive toxicity: No information is available at this time.

5. Teratogenicity: No information is available at this time.

6. Mutagenicity: No information is available at this time.

Disposal considerations

Dispose in accordance with applicable regulations which vary from country to country.

(In most countries, the trashing of used batteries is forbidden and the end-users are invited to

dispose them properly, eventually through not-for-profit profit organizations, mandated by local

government or organized on a voluntary basis by professionals).

Batteries should be completely discharged prior to disposal and / or the terminals taped or capped

to prevent short circuit.

When completely discharged it is not considered hazardous.

This product does not contain any materials listed by the United Stated EPA as requiring specific

waste disposal requirements.

These are exempted from the hazardous waste disposalstandards under Universal Waste

Regulations. Disposal of large quantities of Lithium-lon batteries or cells may be subject to Federal,

State, or Local regulations.

Consult your local, state and provincial regulations regarding disposal of these batteries.

Transportation information

United Nations

UN No.: 3480

Classification: No

Individual Lithium-polymer cells and battery packs with respectively not more than 20Wh (Cell) and

100Wh (Battery) of watt-hours are not restricted for transport.

(5.0 Ah of Nominal Capacity: 5.0Ah x 3.7V = 18.5Wh)

Packing

Packing Instructions 965 for Air Transport

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7   Specifications and Settings

IMDG for Sea Transport

International conventions

Air IATA Yes

Sea IMDG Yes

Land ADR (road) Yes

RID (Rail) Yes

Other

In the USA Code of Federal Regulations (49 CFR Ch. 1 § 173-185)

Special packaging information

Cells and batteries must be packed in inner packaging that completely encloses the cell or battery.

Cells and batteries must be protected to avoid short circuits.

Each package must be capable of withstanding a 1.2 m (4 ft) drop test in any orientation without:

1. Damage to cells or batteries contained within the packaging;

2. Shifting of the contents allowing battery to battery contact; and

3. Release of contents.

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7   Specifications and Settings

Special shipping information

This battery has been tested to Section 38.3 of ‘UN Manual of Tests and Criteria’. The amount of

Lithium contained in these batteries is below the limits set by the DOT in Section 49CFR173 and

IATA. These can be shipped with the following label:

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APPENDIX A

Country-Specific Regulatory Information

n FAA conditions and limitations of

operation

n French airspace requirements
A   Country-Specific Regulatory Information

FAA conditions and limitations of operation

The United States of America Department of Transportation Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) has

granted Exemption No. 11110 for operation of Trimble unmanned aviation systems for the purpose

of precision aerialsurveys in the United States.

Failure to comply with any of the conditions and limitations of this grant of exemption will be

grounds for the immediate suspension or rescission of this exemption.

The conditions and limitations of this grant of exemption are as follows:

1. Operations authorized by this grant of exemption are limited to the following aircraft described

in the operator’s manual which is a fixed-wing aircraft weighing less than 6 pounds: Trimble

Navigation Limited UX5 UAS. Proposed operations of any other aircraft will require a new

petition or a petition to amend this grant.

2. The UA may not be flown at an indicated airspeed exceeding 74.5 knots.

3. The UA must be operated at an altitude of no more than 400 feet above ground level (AGL), as

indicated by the procedures specified in the operator’s manual. All altitudes reported to ATC

must be in feet AGL.

4. The UA must be operated within visual line ofsight (VLOS) of the PIC at all times. This requires

the PIC to be able to use human vision unaided by any device other than corrective lenses, as

specified on the PIC’s FAA-issued airman medical certificate.

5. All operations must utilize a visual observer (VO). The VO may be used to satisfy the VLOS

requirement as long as the PIC always maintains VLOS capability. The VO and PIC must be able

to communicate verbally at all times. The PIC must be designated before the flight and cannot

transfer his or her designation for the duration of the flight. The PIC must ensure that the VO

can perform the functions prescribed in the operator’s manual.

6. Provided the additional requirements identified in these conditions and limitations are added

or amended, the operator’s manual is considered acceptable to the FAA. The operator’s

manual and this grant of exemption must be maintained and made available to the

Administrator upon request. If a discrepancy exists between the conditions and limitations in

this exemption and the procedures outlined in the operator’s manual, the conditions and

limitations herein take precedence and must be followed. Otherwise, the operator must follow

the procedures as outlined in its operator’s manual.

The operator may update or revise its operator’s manual. It is the operator’s responsibility to

track such revisions and present updated and revised documents to the Administrator upon

request. The operator must also present updated and revised documents if it petitions for an

extension or amendment of this exemption. If the operator determines that any update or

revision would affect the basis upon which the FAA granted this exemption, then the operator

must petition for amendment to its exemption. The FAA’s UAS Integration Office (AFS-80) may

be contacted if questions arise regarding updates or revisions to the operator’s manual.

7. Prior to each flight the PIC must inspect the UAS to ensure it is in a condition for safe flight. If

the inspection reveals a condition that affects the safe operation of the UAS, the aircraft is

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A   Country-Specific Regulatory Information

prohibited from operating until the necessary maintenance has been performed and the UAS is

found to be in a condition for safe flight. The Ground Control Station must be included in the

preflight inspection. All maintenance and alterations must be properly documented in the

aircraft records.

8. Any UAS that has undergone maintenance or alterations that affect the UAS operation or flight

characteristics, e.g. replacement of a flight critical component, must undergo a functional test

flight in accordance with the operator’s manual. The PIC who conducts the functional test flight

must make an entry in the UAS aircraft records of the flight. The requirements and procedures

for a functional test flight and aircraft record entry must be added to the operator’s manual.

9. The preflight inspection section in the operator’s manual must be amended to include the

following requirement: The preflight inspection must account for all discrepancies, i.e.

inoperable components, items, or equipment, not covered in the relevant preflight inspection

sections of the operator’s manual.

10. The operator must follow the manufacturer’s UAS aircraft/component, maintenance, overhaul,

replacement, inspection, and life limit requirements, with particular attention to flight critical

components that may not be addressed in the manufacturer’s manuals.

11. Trimble must carry out its maintenance, inspections, and record keeping requirements in

accordance with the operator’s manual. Maintenance, inspection, and alterations must be

noted in the aircraft logbook, including total flight hours, description of work accomplished,

and the signature of the authorized UX5 technician returning the UX5 to service.

12. UX5 technicians must receive and document training referenced in the operator’s manual.

13. Each UAS operated under this exemption must comply with all manufacturer System and

Safety Bulletins.

14. Trimble UX5 maintenance personnel must make a record entry in the UAS logbook or

equivalent document of the corrective action taken against discrepancies discovered between

inspections.

15. The PIC must possess at least a private pilot certificate and a third-class airman medical

certificate. The PIC must also meet the flight review requirements specified in 14 CFR 61.56 in an

aircraft in which the PIC is rated on his or her pilot certificate.

16. Prior to operating for hire, the PIC must have completed Trimble’s five-day UX5 Training

Syllabus as outlined in the Safety Checklist. The Training Manual must also be updated to

reflect the specific five day Training Syllabus presented by Trimble. The Training Manual

specifies the minimum flight and skill requirements for the Remote Pilot, Instructor Pilot and

Examiner. Those Manuals and records of those requirements must be documented and made

available upon request by the Administrator. Those minimum flight requirements are repeated

here as conditions and limitations:

Remote pilot [PIC]

l Minimum 2 flights on the UX5 as a remote pilot during the Type Rating module

l Minimum 2 flights on the UX5 as visual observer during the Type Rating module

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l When failed:Minimum 4 flights on the UX5 for the failed part

Instructor pilot

l A minimum of 25 flights and 4 hours where:

l The flights occurred on 4 different calendar days.

l Two long endurance flights that last near the maximum permissible endurance (40

min for operations conducted under this exemption) or have a minimum duration of

45 min for previously logged flights or flights not conducted under this exemption (per

the Trimble operation’s manual).

l One flight with a minimum measured wind speed of 30 kph (18.64mph). If the wind

speed cannot be measured, you can provide proof from METAR as close as 25km

from the weatherstation.

l One flight with a minimum programmed leg distance of 1 km (if possible by CAA

regulations, otherwise as long as possible.)

l 11 flights with a different selected height where:

l 2 flights are at the minimum height

l 2 flights are at the maximum allowable height

Examiner

l 100 flights and 20 hours (regardless of aircraft type) or as approved by a team of

examiners.

Prior documented flight experience that was obtained in compliance with applicable regulations

may satisfy this requirement. Training, proficiency, and experience-building flights can also be

conducted under this grant of exemption to accomplish the required flights and flight time.

17. If the UAS loses communications or loses its GPS signal, the UA must return to a predetermined location within the private or controlled-access property and land or be recovered

in accordance with the operator’s manual.

18. The PIC must abort the flight in the event of unpredicted obstacles or emergencies in

accordance with the operator’s manual.

19. The PIC is prohibited from beginning a UX5 flight unless (considering wind and forecast weather

conditions) there is enough power to fly to the first point of intended landing and, assuming

normal cruising speed, to fly after that for at least 10 minutes.

20. The operator must obtain an Air Traffic Organization (ATO) issued Certificate of Waiver or

Authorization (COA) prior to conducting any operations under this grant of exemption. This

COA will also require the operator to request a Notice to Airman (NOTAM) not more than 72

hours in advance, but not less than 48 hours prior to the operation.

21. All aircraft operated in accordance with this exemption must be identified by serial number,

registered in accordance with 14 CFR part 47, and have identification (N-Number) markings in

accordance with 14 CFR part 45, Subpart C. Markings must be as large as practicable.

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22. Before conducting operations, the radio frequency spectrum used for operation and control of

the UA must comply with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) or other appropriate

government oversight agency requirements.

23. The documents required under 14 CFR 91.9 and 91.203 must be available to the PIC at the

Ground Control Station of the UAS any time the aircraft is operating. These documents must be

made available to the Administrator or any law enforcement official upon request.

24. The UA must remain clear and yield the right of way to all other manned operations and

activities at all times (including, but not limited to, ultralight vehicles, parachute activities,

parasailing activities, hang gliders, etc.).

25. The UAS may not be operated by the PIC from any moving device or vehicle.

26. UAS operations may not be conducted during night, as defined in 14 CFR 1.1.

27. All operations shall be conducted in Class G airspace.

28. All operations must be conducted under visual meteorological conditions (VMC). The UA may

not be operated less than 500 feet below or less than 2,000 feet horizontally from a cloud or

when visibility is less than 3 statute miles from the PIC.

29. During operations in Class G airspace, the UA may not operate within 5 nautical miles of the

geographic center of an airport as denoted on a current FAA-published aeronautical chart

unless a letter of agreement with that airport’s management is obtained, and the operation is

conducted in accordance with a NOTAM as required by the operator’s COA. The letter of

agreement with the airport management must be made available to the Administrator upon

request.

30. The UA may not be operated over congested or densely populated areas. These areas include

but are not limited to the yellow areas depicted on World Aeronautical Charts (WAC), Sectional

Aeronautical Charts (Sectionals), or Terminal Area Charts (TAC). However, aeronautical charts

may not reflect pertinent local information. Ultimately, it is the PIC’s responsibility to maintain

the minimum safe altitudes required by § 91.119.

31. Operation of the UA must be conducted at least 500 feet from all nonparticipating persons,

vessels, vehicles, and structures.

32. Operations of the UA may be conducted at distances less than 500 feet from participating

persons, vessels, vehicles or structures that perform an essential function in connection with

these special purpose operations. Operations closer than 500 feet from the PIC, VO, operator

trainees and essential persons, are permitted when operationally necessary; but neverso close

as to present an undue hazard, per § 91.119(a).

33. Operations of the UA may be conducted at distances less than 500 feet from unoccupied

vessels, vehicles or structures owned by the land owner/controller when the land

owner/controller grants such permission and the PIC makes a safety assessment of the risk

from operations closer to these objects.

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34. All operations shall be conducted over private or controlled-access property with permission

from the land owner/controller or authorized representative. Permission from land

owner/controller or authorized representative will be obtained for each flight to be conducted.

35. Any incident, accident, or flight operation that transgresses the lateral or vertical boundaries of

the operational area as defined by the applicable COA must be reported to the FAA’s UAS

Integration Office (AFS-80) within 24 hours. Accidents must be reported to the National

Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) per instructions contained on the NTSB Web site:

www.ntsb.gov.

Unless otherwise specified in the list of conditions and limitations above, the unmanned aircraft

system (UAS), pilot in command (PIC), and operator must comply with all applicable parts of Title 14,

Code of Regulations (14 CFR) including, but not limited to, parts 45, 47, 61, and 91.

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A   Country-Specific Regulatory Information

French airspace requirements

For operations in French airspace according to S2+, Trimble recommends a protection zone

additional to the Trimble UX5 operation zone within any radius, regardless of the wind direction and

wind speed.

For the following diagram:

x = cruise height

y = radius of operation zone (maximum 1000 m)

z = width of protection zone

Cruise height (AGL) Width of protection zone (minimum)

100 m (328 ft) 200 m (656 ft)

150 m (492 ft) 250 m (820 ft)

200 m (656 ft) 300 m (984 ft)

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  Glossary

Glossary

aerial imaging

rover

The UX5 aerial imaging rover is a type of unmanned aircraft specifically

designed for aerial photogrammetry.

aerial photo

station

An aerial photo station is created each time an aerial photo is taken

during a flight. It defines a point and includes raw sensor values

(orientation and tilt), coordinate data, and an image.

aeronautical

information

publication

A manual containing thorough details ofregulations, procedures and

other information pertinent to flying aircraft in the particular country to

which it relates. It is usually issued by or on behalf of the respective civil

aviation administration.

AIP See aeronautical information publication.

avoidance zone Avoidance zones are used in the mission map to indicate areas that the

unmanned aircraft must not fly over, such as airports and forbidden

airspace.

block Contained within a mission, a block is intended to cover a single polygonal

area on the earth's surface. A mission contains one or more blocks. A

block is defined by a flight plan.

CAA Civil Aviation Authority.

cross wind A wind that blows from a sideways direction.

elevon The movable flap on the back edge of each wing. The elevons move up

and down to create uneven lift, which controls the aircraft's rolling and

banking movement.

flight The motion of the aircraft through the earth's atmosphere. The main part

of the flight records aerial photo station images of one or more blocks.

One flight can stretch over multiple blocks, depending on the area

parameters.

flight plan A set of parameters that defines the proper flight path the unmanned

aircraft must follow during a single flight. Parameters include the desired

altitude of the side image overlap. A mission can include one or more

blocks, each of which is defined by a flight plan.

flight strategy Pre-defined sequence of flight lines that can be set per block.

GCP See ground control point.

GCS See ground controlstation.

Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging Solution User Guide 136
  Glossary

georeference The act of positioning an object at its true location (using two or more

coordinates) in 2D or 3D space. Georeferencing is used, for example, to

position an aerial photograph accurately in relation to other objects in a

project.

georeferenced

image

A photo taken from a ground- or aerial-based station that includes

overlaid point coordinate data. See also georeference.

ground control

point

An accurately surveyed coordinate location for a physical feature that can

be identified on the ground and is used to georeference images.

ground control

station

The ground controlstation (GCS) is used to control the unmanned aircraft

from the ground. It comprises the Trimble Tablet running the Trimble

Aerial Imaging software. A modem is connected to the Tablet to enable

radio communication to the aerial imaging rover. Although the

unmanned aircraft flies following a preprogrammed flight plan, you need

the GCS to manage the unmanned aircraft before, during, and after the

flight.

ground sample

distance

In the Aerial Imaging software, the ground sample distance (GSD) is the

distance on the ground represented by each pixel. The GSD and the

height at which the aircraft flies are linked. The higher the unmanned

aircraft flies, the larger the distance on the ground represented by each

pixel in the images acquired during the flight.

GSD See ground sample distance.

head wind A wind that blows from the direction that the aircraft is flying toward.

height The height above the ground that the unmanned aircraft flies. The rover

does not begin taking photographs until it reaches the height specified for

the flight.

IATA International Air Transport Association

ICAO International Civil Aviation Authority

launch The process ofreleasing the rover from the launcher. Launch immediately

preceeds takeoff.

launch dock The platform that rests on the launcher. The unmanned aircraft sits on

the launch dock. The launch dock moves forward along the launcher at

speed when the unmanned aircraft is launched.

launcher The launcher is a mechanical device that provides a safe way to launch the

unmanned aircraft in the direction of takeoff.

METAR A routine aviation weather report issued at hourly or half-hourly intervals.

It is a description of the meteorological elements observed at an airport at

a specific time.

Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging Solution User Guide 137
  Glossary

mission An interconnected series of aerial photo station images recorded with an

unmanned aircraft system (UAS) that are intended to be processed as a

single unit and used for surveying purposes. A mission can include one or

more blocks that cover a single polygonal area to be flown over at a

defined overlap and GSD.

mission area A single polygonal area that defines the geographical area to be

photographed at a defined overlap and GSD during one or more flights.

NOTAM A notice filed with an aviation authority to alert aircraft pilots of potential

hazards along a flight route or at a location that could affect the safety of

the flight. The term NOTAM is commonly used rather than the more

formal term Notice to Airmen.

photogrammetry The use of photography in surveying and mapping to make

measurements between objects.

pitot tube The sensor used by the aircraft to detect airspeed. It must be kept clean

and free of obstructions to operate correctly.

remote pilot

station

The station at which the remote pilot manages the flight of an unmanned

aircraft.

remotely-piloted Control of an aircraft from a pilot station which is not on board the

aircraft.

remotely-piloted

aircraft

An aircraft where the flying pilot is not on board the aircraft. This is a

subcategory of unmanned aircraft.

remotely-piloted

aircraft system

A set of configurable elements consisting of a remotely-piloted aircraft, its

associated remote pilot station(s), the required command and control

links and any other system elements as may be required at any point

during flight operation.

RPA See remotely-piloted aircraft.

RPA observer A remote crew member who, by visual observation of the remotelypiloted aircraft, assists the remote pilot in the safe conduct of the flight.

RPAS See remotely-piloted aircraft system.

scan area A polygonal area on the earth's surface where aerial images are recorded.

segregated

airspace

Airspace ofspecified dimensions allocated for exclusive use to a specific

user(s).

TAF See terminal aerodrome forecast.

tail wind A wind that blows from the opposite direction to the direction that the

aircraft is flying toward.

Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging Solution User Guide 138
  Glossary

takeoff The initial ascent of the unmanned aircraft. Takeoff immediately follows

launch.

terminal

aerodrome

forecast

A terminal aerodrome forecast (TAF) is a concise statement of the

expected meteorological conditions at an airport during a specified period

(usually 24 or 30 hours).

tiepoint A point in a digital image or aerial photograph that represents the same

location in an adjacent image or aerial photograph. Tie points are used to

correctly orient aerial photo stations to each other and reference them to

the ground based on autonomous GNSS positions recorded when the

photo images are taken.

tracker The tracker consists of a transmitter inserted in the body of the

unmanned aircraft and a receiver. Ifrequired, the receiver is used to track

the transmitter signalso the unmanned aircraft can be located once it has

landed.

UA See unmanned aircraft.

UAS See unmanned aircraft system.

unmanned aircraft An aircraft which is intended to operate with no pilot on board. See also

unmanned aircraft system (UAS).

unmanned aircraft

system

An aircraft and its associated elements which are operated with no pilot

on board.

visual line-of-sight

operation

An operation in which the remote crew maintains direct visual contact

with the aircraft to manage its flight.

waypoint A waypoint is a point between major points on a route, as along a track.

In terms of the Aerial Imaging software, a waypoint is located at the

beginning and end of each flight line in the scan area.

winglet The extreme edge of the wing.

Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging Solution User Guide 139
Trimble® ZX5 

Operations Manual for 

unmanned aerial vehicle 

Trimble® ZX5

Version 1.0.0 

Revision A

August 2015
Legal information 

Trimble Navigation Limited 

935 Stewart Drive 

 Sunnyvale, California 94085 

 U.S.A. 

 www.trimble.com 

Copyright and trademarks 

© 2015, Trimble Navigation Limited. All rights reserved. 

Trimble and the Globe and Triangle logo are trademarks of 

Trimble Navigation Limited, registered in the United States and in 

other countries. 

All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. 

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

Trimble UX5 Aerial Imaging Solution User Guide.
Contents

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

13.11.2 Calibrating the compass ....................................................................................... 61 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 5 

Preface 

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

time. 

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

We wish you lots of success! 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 6 

1 Safety 

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

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

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

AT CERTIFIED TRAINING ORGANIZATIONS OR DIRECTLY AT THE MANUFACTURER. 

OPERATING THE DRONE WITHOUT PROPPER OPERATIONAL TRAINING MAY RESULT IN 

SERIOUS INJURIES UP TO LOSS OF LIFE 

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

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

 

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

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

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

RESPONSIBILITY 

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

continue flying away and will land somewhere unpredictable for example: 

• on water 

• on a building 

• on a street 

• on a car 

• on a person 

• on a power line 

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

PROPERTY AND THE ENVIRONMENT! 

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

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

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

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

them dangerous if handled incorrectly. 

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

before first use. 

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

 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 8 

2 System features 

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

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

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

conditions. 

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

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

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

is able to learn waypoints and fly them semiautomatically. 

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

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

order to create three-dimensional maps with extreme precision. 

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

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

provides the best pictures. 

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

In the following we want to explain the system with all its features. 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 9 

3 General view 

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

 Error! Reference source not found.

 Base station (radio control for pilot with video receiver) 

 Error! Reference source not found. 

 Error! Reference source not found.

 

Figure 1: General view of the components 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 10 

4 UAV 

4.1 Orientation 

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

4.2 Propellers 

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

• rigid propellers or 

• foldable propellers 

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

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

CAUTION – Uncontrolled copter - Risk of damages! 

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

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

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

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

transportation and flight. 

WARNING – Uncontrolled copter 

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

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

CAUTION – Uncontrolled copter 

Risk of damages! 

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

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

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

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

CAUTION – Uncontrolled copter - Risk of damages! 

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

Otherwise the copter can get uncontrollable! 

4.2.1 Foldable propellers 

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

refer to the “Maintenance Manual”. 

CAUTION – Unstable flying behaviour 

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

balanced by the manufacturer to operate at 8.000 rpms. 

You must not exchange single blades between propeller units! 

 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 12 

4.2.2 Alternative Propellers: Rigid propellers 

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

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

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

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

Figure 2: Propeller counter-clockwise rotating 

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

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

rotating propellers on the counter-clockwise rotating motors. 

Figure 3: Assembly of propeller 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 13 

4.3 Power supply (LiPo battery pack) 

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

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

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

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

connected with the plug. 

Figure 4: Battery packs 

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

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

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

approx. 1x per month. 

WARNING – Burning battery 

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

Batteries Precautions”. 

CAUTION – Uncontrolled copter 

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

together! Otherwise you will damage the batteries. 

 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 14 

CAUTION – Burning battery 

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

Life expectancy 

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

low voltage causes damages beyond repair. 

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

• Do not recharge LiPos if they are still full. 

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

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

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

Storage 

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

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

storage capacity level). 

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

Charging/Discharging 

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

charger and connectors can cause fire). 

• Charge always with connected balancer cable. 

• Use only faultless charging cables. 

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

battery capacity reduces itself down to about 50 %. 

General 

• Never short-circuit a LiPo battery. 

• Do not discharge below 3.2 V per cell. 

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

• Make sure that the charging device is well ventilated. 

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

• Do not use deformed or damaged batteries. 

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

The next figures show how to mount the battery pack: 

Figure 5: Mounting the battery pack 

4.4 Dome 

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

battery before removing the dome. 

You have to remove the dome to: 

• Update the firmware. 

• To plug in the cables of the servos. 

• To plug in the cable of the camera trigger. 

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

4.5 Circuit points 

The Copter has numerous connector pins: 

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

• Socket for video access. 

• Socket for firmware update. 

• Socket for mission upload cable 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 16 

4.5.1 Servo connectors 

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

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

1. Roll compensation 

2. Pitch compensation 

3. Trigger for camera 

4. without function 

5. without function 

6. without function 

 Figure 6: Servo connectors 

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

could be damaged! 

4.5.2 Firmware update (MCU1, MCU2) 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

electronic could be damaged!

 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 17 

Figure 7: Plug for firmware update 

4.5.3 Mission Upload Cable Port 

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

missions created with the software “Groundstation”. 

Figure 8: Mission Upload Cable Port 

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

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

 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 18 

4.6 Remote control receiver with antenna 

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

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

Figure 9: RC-Antenna 

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

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

4.7 Video transmitter with antenna (Full Business Upgrade) 

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

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

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

conditions and the camera in use (shadowing effects). 

 

Figure 10: Video transmitter antenna 

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

interference. 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 19 

4.8 Flight recorder 

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

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

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

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

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

release it. 

Figure 11: Flight recorder/micro SD card slot 

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

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

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

the manufacturer to get a new one. 

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

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

flight data and the reason of the problem cannot be analysed. 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 20 

4.9 Acoustical signals 

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

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

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

Acoustic signals after power up 

_ __ _ _ everything OK 

_________ Warning: SD-card or GPS not connected 

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

__ _ _ _ _ Copter doesn’t stand straight 

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

 throttle or Coming Home is still active 

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

Acoustic signals during flight: 

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

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

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

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

motors again after landing until you have disconnected the battery. 

*

1

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

is disabled. To unlock the copter contact the manufacturer. 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 21 

5 Camera gimbal 

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

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

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

needed pitch to focus the desired object. 

Figure 12: Camera gimbal 

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

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

functionality of the button. 

 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 22 

6 Base Station 

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

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

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

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

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

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

(uplink). 

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

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

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

Figure 13: Base Station 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 23 

7 Remote control for the pilot (Pilot) 

7.1 Manual operation 

Remote control DC16 (Full Business Upgrade) 

 

Figure 14: Pilot remote control DC16 

 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 24 

Remote control DS14 

Figure 15: Pilot remote control DS14 

7.1.1 Main functions 

Main Functions

RC Power Power on/power off of the RC 

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

Motors Motor start

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

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

Motor stop 

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

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

Throttle

(left stick) 

Copter ascent/descent

Height control active 

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

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

when it is pulled to the back the copter descends. 

Without height control 

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

Main Functions

RC Power Power on/power off of the RC 

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

Motors Motor start

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

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

Motor stop 

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

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

Throttle

(left stick) 

Copter ascent/descent

Height control active 

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

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

when it is pulled to the back the copter descends. 

Without height control 

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

7.1.2 Camera features 

Main Functins

Cam pitch Camera mount pitches (Full Business Upgrade)

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

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

Left Stick left/right: Camera mount rolls 

Right Stick forward/backward: Camera mount pitches 

Trigger Camera trigger

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

Zoom Camera Zoom

Change the zoom of the lens 

Cam Modus Camera start/stop for different cameras

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

starting/stopping the second or third camera. 

Camera

control 

Selector switch for camera control by the pilot or the cameraman

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

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

features. 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 26 

7.1.3 Additional functions 

Additional functions

Voice Reads out the telemetry data shown on the display

Volume For changing the volume of the voice output

7.1.4 Flying functions (flight mode) 

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

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

the chapter „Tutorials”. 

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

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

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

you about the current available functions packet. 

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

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

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

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

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

Additional functions at DC16 (Full Business upgrade) 

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

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

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

Figure 16: Flight mode switches 

The following listing starts with the lowest automatic level: 

Manual control

Manual flight control

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

very difficult. 

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

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

direction completely manual. 

DANGER – Uncontrolled copter 

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

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

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

Height control

Automatic height control

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

kept automatically. The control is medium difficult. 

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

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

when the left stick is positioned in the middle. 

DANGER – Uncontrolled copter 

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

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

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

Mag control

Automatic direction by magnetic field sensor (Compass)

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

direction are kept automatically. 

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

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

position manual. 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 28 

DANGER – Uncontrolled copter 

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

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

doesn’t navigate against it! 

Manual Flight

Flying without GPS-functions

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

direction are kept automatically. 

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

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

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

DANGER – Uncontrolled copter 

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

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

doesn’t navigate against it! 

GPS Position Hold

Automatic position stabilisation by GPS

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

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

flight direction is maintained. The copter compensates wind automaticly. 

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

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

GPS Coming Home

Automatic return flight to the starting position

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

copter should come back to the starting position to land. 

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

Performance: The copter flies back to the starting position 

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

copter changes into the „Position-Hold“ mode. 

CAUTION – Crash against barriers 

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

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

no barriers. 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 29 

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

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

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

DANGER – Unreliable GPS signal 

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

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

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

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

disturbance, signal influence by other radio sources, etc. 

7.1.5 Other flying functions 

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

tasks. 

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

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

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

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

copter under the menu point „Features” 

Auto start

Automatic start function

Function to facilitate the start 

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

Activation: Push the switch sc forward 

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

Auto landing

Automatic landing function 

Function to facilitate the landing 

Requirement: The copter is flying 

Activation: Pull the switch sc backwards 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

is better to land manually. 

Go Ahead

Automatic alignment function

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

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

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

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

Activation: Pull the switch sb backward 

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

Easy Move

Extended automatic alignment function

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

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

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

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

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

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

Activation: Push the switch sb forward 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

activation. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

example 2. 

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

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

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

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

Go Ahead

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

entering (if the right stick is held continuously). 

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

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

direction. 

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

7.1.6 Multi-menu 

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

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

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

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

following possibilities: 

• Activate extended functions 

• Set the parameters 

• Calibrating the sensors 

• Checking the problem report 

• Indicate the general copter parameter 

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

Menu button 1 - 5

With these buttons you can navigate through the menu.

Menu changeover switch

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

Attention: The changeover only works on page 4. 

7.1.6.1 Telemetry data page 1 

Voltage Voltage value of the copter batteries 

If the voltage drops below 14.5 V you 

will hear a warning in frequent 

intervals: „Warning, low battery” 

Capacity Spent battery capacity of the copter 

batteries 

Compass Alignment of the copter: 

 0° = N 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 32 

 90° = O 

180° = S 

 -90° = W 

Altitude Height related to the starting point 

Distance Horizontal distance 

Flight Time Flight time since motor start 

<hh:mm:ss> 

7.1.6.2 Telemetry data page 2 

Latitude Geographical latitude of the current 

GPS-position 

Longitude Geographical longitude of the current 

GPS-position 

Satellites Number of the current receiving 

satellites (the more satellites, the 

better the accuracy of the position) 

GPS Fix Quality of the specified position: 

0D – no satellites, 

1D – up to 4 satellites, 

3D – 5 or more satellites 

Note: The copter requires a minimum 

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

Position Acc Accuracy of position (the lower it is, 

the more accurate are the GPS 

functions) 

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

more accurate are the GPS functions) 

7.1.6.3 Telemetry data page 3 

Speed Current flying speed 

Current Power consumption of the copter 

Temperature Surrounding temperature in the copter 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 33 

7.1.6.4 Telemetry data page 4 

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

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

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

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

change these parameters. 

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

In the following chapter is describedhow to open this menu. 

7.1.6.5 Extended menu 

Follow these steps to select the extended menu: 

• Go to the telemetry data page 4 

 Telemetry menu activated 

• Press the button „menu-change-over“ 

(ESC-button) to reach the „Jetibox” 

(this is indicated by the different functions 

of the menu buttons). 

 Jetibox menu activated 

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

When you press menu button 3 now, you will 

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

 Entry into the extended menu 

 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 35 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 36 

Top menu 

item 

Sub-menu item Significance Comment

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

above starting point for a POI 

(Point of interest). The copter 

will aim for it after the 

activation of the POI function. 

In the chapter „Tutorials“ in this 

manual, it is described in detail how 

to use this function correctly. 

POI-Mode Here you can activate and 

deactivate the POI function. 

Settings Select Config It is possible to appoint up to 4 

various configurations, to select 

different flight performances. At 

present only configuration1 is 

defined. 

At present only use configuration 1.

Magnetic 

declination 

The actual value for the 

magnetic declination (the 

correction value for the up-todate interpretation of the 

magnetic field). Visit the 

website to calculate the value 

for your scheduled location: 

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

Inquire about the correct declination 

value of your location and enter it 

here. 

Calibration Gyro offset Calibration of the gyro compass 

sensors 

Note: For this procedure the 

copter has to stand absolutely 

still. 

The copter is calibrated on delivery.

Do not change any settings without 

consulting the manufacturer. 

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

CAUTION – Uncontrolled copter 

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

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

copter and around person and objects can get damaged! 

CAUTION – Uncontrolled copter 

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

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

get damaged! 

CAUTION – Uncontrolled copter 

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

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

get damaged! 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 37 

Top menu 

item 

Sub-menu item Significance Comment

sensors 

Note: For this procedure the 

copter has to stand absolutely 

straight. 

Do not change any settings without 

consulting the manufacturer. 

Note: If the copter is calibrated 

wrong, it cannot fly correct! 

Compass Calibration of the compass 

This procedure is explained in 

the chapter „Tutorials“. 

The copter is calibrated on delivery.

Do not change any settings without 

consulting the manufacturer. 

Infos-Errors

(Numbers 

of incidents)

Battery low The battery voltage dropped 

below 13.9 V during the last 

flight. 

The battery was flown to long or 

strained too much. If this error 

occurs too often, you should land 

earlier or consider a new battery. 

Radio control The radio contact was 

temporarily lost during the last 

flight. 

This can happen sometimes if the 

copter is being shadowed by e.g. an 

obstacle. 

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

GPS time out The GPS receiver delivers no 

data. 

This error is not allowed to occur. *1

Magnetometer The magnetometer sends 

incorrect data. 

This error is not allowed to occur. *1

ADC The analog-digital-converter 

sends incorrect data. 

This error is not allowed to occur. *1

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

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

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

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

CAUTION – Uncontrolled copter 

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

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

damaged! 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 38 

Top menu 

item 

Sub-menu item Significance Comment

Infos-Dr

one 

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

Model number Model number of the copter Static

Serial number Serial number of the copter Static

Motor position Set option of the possible motor 

configuration. 

Static

Features Released functionalities For the copter there are different 

GPS-functions available, which can 

be bought in various function 

packages. The manufacturer will 

inform you about the current 

available packages. 

GPS Rx version Software-version of the GPS 

receiver 

Flight counter Number of flights of this copter

Flight time Overall flight time of this copter

Software MCU1 Software-version of the 

processor „MCU1“ 

You can update the software of your 

copter via the website of the 

manufacturer. 

Software MCU2 Software-version of the 

processor „MCU2“ 

You can update the software of your 

copter via the website of the 

manufacturer. 

Table 1: Extended menu 

*

1

 If this error occurs please contact a Trimble service station. 

7.2 Charging device 

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

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

charging device. Please see the manual of the radio control for detailed instructions. 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 39 

7.3 Announcement 

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

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

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

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

are made according to the events: 

Announcement Significance

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

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

automatically. 

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

automatically, is set. 

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

set. 

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

starting point. 

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

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

POI Mode The „POI” mode is activated.

Waypoint The „Waypoint” mode is activated.

Auto start The copter starts automatically.

Auto landing The copter lands automatically.

Attention: Emergency 

landing 

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

position and the height. 

Warning: No flight 

recorder 

There is no SD-card in the flight recorder.

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

deactivated. 

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

position. 

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

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

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

8 Video receiver (Full business upgrade) 

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

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

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

have to attach the battery and switch on the monitor. 

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

the monitor front side. 

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

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

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

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

9 Emergency functions 

The equipment possesses various emergency functions. 

9.1 RC-loss (Remote control loses contact) 

9.1.1 RC-loss in manual flight mode with GPS reception 

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

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

9.1.2 RC-loss in manual flight mode without GPS reception 

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

off the motors manually. 

9.1.3 RC-loss in GPS flight mode 

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

have to switch off the motors manually. 

9.1.4 RC-loss in WP flight mode 

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

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

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

has the tendency to land. 

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

usual. 

9.2 Battery low Voltage 

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

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

have to switch off the motors manually. 

The very low voltage limit is 3.3 V per cell. That equals 13.2 V for a 4S battery. 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 42 

10Flight time 

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

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

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

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

depending on the flight dynamic and the age of the battery. 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 43 

11Charging 

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

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

Here you can see all components of the charging unit: 

CAUTION – Burning battery 

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

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

risk of a short circuit! 

Figure 19: Charger components 

 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 44 

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

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

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

 

Figure 21: Power cable adapter 

NEVER!
 ZX5 Operations Manual 45 

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

 

 Figure 22: Balancer cable adapter 

3. The next step is to connect the LiPo battery 

Figure 23: LiPo battery connection 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 46 

CAUTION – Burning battery 

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

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

the document ”MULTIROTOR Lithium Polymer Batteries Precautions” 

4. Set the correct switch positions: 

Figure 24: Charger switch positions 

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

Figure 25: AC power cable 

CAUTION – Burning battery 

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

cannot recognize malfunctions! 

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

7. First disconnect the AC power cable. 

8. After that disconnect the battery power cable. 

9. Then disconnect the battery balancer cable. 

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

CAUTION – Burning battery 

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

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

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

12Daily handling 

12.1 Putting the UAV into service 

Pre flight check 

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

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

• Check the propellers: Is the rotation direction correctly? 

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

• Check if all parts are tight. 

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

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

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

• Switch on the remote control. 

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

• Switch on the camera. 

• Switch on the monitor. 

• Check all camera settings, date and time. 

• Check that the trigger for the camera works. 

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

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

active, GPS as desired on or off). 

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

• Start the motors. 

• Lift off. 

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

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

the alignment and flight direction of the copter. 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 48 

12.2 Putting the UAV out of service 

• Land the copter. 

• Switch off the motors. 

• Switch off the camera. 

• Unplug the flight batteries. 

• Switch off the remote control 

• Check the copter for damages. 

12.3 Transportation 

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

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

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

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

Figure 1: Transportation of copter 

 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 50 

13Tutorials 

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

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

13.1 Safety precautions 

DANGER – Propellers with cut surface 

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

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

DANGER – Propellers with cut surface 

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

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

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

DANGER – Uncontrolled copter 

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

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

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

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

communication facilities. 

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

of control occurs. 

• Do not fly over gathering of people. 

• Always fly in sight with the copter. 

• Avoid flying over traffic on the ground. 

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

damaging their properties. 

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

practice with a flight simulator on the computer. 

 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 51 

CAUTION – Claims for damages! 

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

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

pilot or technical problems can never be excluded. 

DANGER – Uncontrolled copter 

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

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

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

13.2 Position Hold, flying in the GPS mode 

Purpose: 

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

Environmental conditions: 

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

Degree of difficulty: 

Simple 

Switch setting for starting: 

Remote control DC16: 

 si: Mag control (forward) 

 sh: GPS-Position-Hold (middle position) 

Remote control DS14: 

 se: GPS-Position-Hold (middle position) 

sc: Neutral (middle position) 

sb: Neutral (middle position) 

Process: 

• Start motors. 

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

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

• Practice flying in all directions. 

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

triangle, rectangle, figure of eight. 

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

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

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

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

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

while your first flights and time it accordingly. 

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

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

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

Increase the degree of difficulty: 

a. Perform this exercise in lightly windy conditions. 

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

controlled. 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 53 

13.3 Start, hover and land manual 

Purpose: 

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

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

Environmental conditions: 

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

Degree of difficulty: 

Medium 

Switch setting for starting: 

Remote control DC16: 

 si: Mag control (forward) 

 sh: Manual flight (backward) 

Remote control DS14: 

 se: Manual flight (backward) 

sc: Neutral (middle position) 

sb: Neutral (middle position) 

Process: 

• Start motors. 

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

• Practice flying in all directions without turning the copter. 

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

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

spot and you can relax. 

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

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

Increase the degree of difficulty: 

a) Perform this exercise in lightly windy conditions. 

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

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

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

other radio transmitters, etc.). 

 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 54 

13.4 Auto start Assistant 

Purpose: 

Learning to use the auto start function. 

Degree of difficulty: 

Simple 

Switch setting for starting: 

Remote control DC16: 

 si: Mag control (forward) 

 sh: GPS-Position-Hold (middle position) 

Remote control DS14: 

 se: GPS-Position-Hold (middle position) 

sc: Neutral (middle position) 

sb: Neutral (middle position) 

Process: 

• Start motors. 

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

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

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

 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 55 

13.5 Auto landing Assistant 

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

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

Purpose: 

Learning how to use the auto landing function. 

Degree of difficulty: 

Simple 

Switch setting for starting: 

Remote control DC16: 

 si: Mag control (forward) 

 sh: GPS-Position-Hold (middle position) 

Remote control DS14: 

 se: GPS-Position-Hold (middle position) 

sc: Neutral (middle position) 

sb: Neutral (middle position) 

Process: 

• Start motors. 

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

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

• The copter lands autonomous. 

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

 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 56 

13.6 Coming Home 

Purpose: 

Learning how to use the coming home function. 

Degree of difficulty: 

Simple 

Switch setting for starting: 

Remote control DC16: 

 si: Mag control (forward) 

 sh: GPS-Position-Hold (middle position) 

Remote control DS14: 

 se: GPS-Position-Hold (middle position) 

sc: Neutral (middle position) 

sb: Neutral (middle position) 

Process: 

• Start motors 

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

• Fly away around 50 m. 

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

• The copter flies autonomous back to the starting point. 

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

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

sh (DC16) / se (DS14). 

 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 57 

13.7 Easy Move 

Purpose:

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

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

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

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

easy move mode. 

Degree of difficulty: 

Simple 

Switch setting for starting: 

Remote control DC16: 

 si: Mag control (forward) 

 sh: GPS-Position-Hold (middle position) 

Remote control DS14: 

 se: GPS-Position-Hold (middle position) 

sc: Neutral (middle position) 

sb: Neutral (middle position) 

Process: 

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

the recording should start. 

• Start the copter (when GPS ok). 

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

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

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

the starting point. 

• Bring the copter into the height you want. 

• Align the copter backwards to the car. 

• Start the recording of the video image. 

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

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

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

using the coming home function. 

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

13.8 POI-Mode (Full Business upgrade) 

Purpose: 

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

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

Degree of difficulty: 

High 

Switch setting for starting: 

Remote control DC16: 

 si: Mag control (forward) 

 sh: GPS-Position-Hold (middle position) 

Remote control DS14: 

 se: GPS-Position-Hold (middle position) 

sc: Neutral (middle position) 

sb: Neutral (middle position) 

Process: 

• Start the copter (when GPS ok). 

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

• Set this position as POI in the extended menu. 

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

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

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

• Start the recording of the video image. 

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

for the whole time). 

• Stop the recording of the video image. 

• Deactivate POI mode (in the extended menu). 

• Land the copter. 

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

batteries you have to set the POI again. 

 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 60 

13.9 Flying without compass (only possible with RC 

DC16) 

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

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

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

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

13.10 Flying without height control (only possible with 

RC DC16) 

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

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

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

only experts use it. 

DANGER – Uncontrolled copter 

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

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

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

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

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

 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 61 

13.11 Calibrating the compass 

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

is sufficient. 

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

the compass is not calibrated correctly. 

DANGER – Uncontrolled copter 

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

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

objects can get damaged! 

13.11.1 Testing the calibration of the compass 

You can test the correct calibration of the compass:

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

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

towards the north. 

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

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

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

very minimal. 

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

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

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

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

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

the next chapter). 

13.11.2 Calibrating the compass 

How to calibrate the compass: 

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

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

• Now the X-sensor is being calibrated. 

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

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

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

degree). 
 ZX5 Operations Manual 62 

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

• Now the Y-sensor is being calibrated. 

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

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

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

(about +/- 10 degree). 

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

• Now the Z-sensor is being calibrated. 

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

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

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

(about +/- 10 degree). 

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

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

• Test the calibration as described in the previous chapter. 

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

procedure.