Remote Controller

© 2016 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 31

Phantom 4 User Manual

Charger

Power Outlet

Power Button

Controlling the Camera

Shoot videos/pictures, view recorded images, and adjust camera settings via the Shutter Button, Camera 

Settings Dial, Playback Button, and Video Recording Button on the remote controller.

[1] Camera Settings Dial

Turn the dial to adjust camera settings such as ISO, shutter speed, and aperture without letting go of 

the remote controller. Press down on the dial to toggle between these settings.

[2] Shutter Button

Press to take a photo. If burst mode is activated, multiple photos will be taken with a single press.

[3] Video Recoding Button

Press once to start recording video, then press again to stop recording. 

[4] Gimbal Dial

Use this dial to control the tilt of the gimbal. 

Controlling Aircraft 

This section explains how to control the orientation of the aircraft through the remote controller. The 

Remote Control is set to Mode 2 by default. 

Stick Neutral/Mid-Point: Control sticks are in the center position. 

Moving the Control Stick: The control stick is pushed away from the center position.

[1]

[2]

[3]

[4]
Remote Controller

32 © 2016 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 

Phantom 4 User Manual

Remote Controller

(Mode 2)

Aircraft 

( Indicates Nose Direction) Remarks 

Moving the left stick up and down changes the 

aircraft’s elevation.

Push the stick up to ascend and down to descend. 

When both sticks are centered, the Phantom 4 will 

hover in place.

The more the stick is pushed away from the center 

position, the faster the Phantom 4 will change 

elevation. Always push the stick gently to prevent 

sudden and unexpected elevation changes.

Moving the left stick to the left or right controls the 

rudder and rotation of the aircraft.

Push the sick left to rotate the aircraft counterclockwise, push the stick right to rotate the aircraft 

clockwise. If the stick is centered, the Phantom 4 

will maintain its current orientation.

The more the stick is pushed away from the center 

position, the faster the Phantom 4 will rotate.

Moving the right stick up and down changes the 

aircraft’s forward and backward pitch. 

Push the stick up to fly forward and down to fly 

backward. Phantom 4 will hover in place if the stick 

is centered.

Push the stick further away from the center position for 

a larger pitch angle (maximum 30 ̊) and faster flight.

Moving the right stick control left and right changes 

the aircraft’s left and right pitch. 

Push left to fly left and right to fly right. The 

Phantom 4 will hover in place if the stick is 

centered. 

Press the Intellighent Flight Pause button once to 

exit from the ActiveTrack, TapFly and Intelligent 

Navigation flight mode. The aircraft will hover at 

the current position.
Remote Controller

© 2016 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 33

Phantom 4 User Manual

Position Figure Flight Mode

Position 1 P-mode

Position 2 S-mode 

Position 3 A-mode

Flight Mode Switch

Toggle the switch to select the desired flight mode. 

You may choose between; P-mode, S-mode and Amode. Position 1 

Position 2 

Position 3 

P-mode (Positioning):P-mode works best when the GPS signal is strong. The aircraft utilizes the GPS 

and Obstacle Sensing System to automatically stabilize itself, navigate between 

obstacles or track a moving object. Advanced features such as TapFly and 

ActiveTrack are enabled in this mode.

S-mode (Sport):	 The handling gain values of the aircraft are adjusted in order to enhance the 

maneuverability of the aircraft in S-mode. The maximum flight speed of the 

aircraft is increased to 20 m /s in this mode. Note that Obstacle Sensing 

system is disabled in this mode.

A-mode (Attitude):	 When neither the GPS nor the Obstacle Sensing System is available, the aircraft 

will only use its barometer for positioning to control the altitude.

RTH Button 

Press and hold the RTH button to start the Return-to-Home (RTH) procedure. The LED ring around the RTH 

Button will blink white to indicate that the aircraft is entering RTH mode. The aircraft will then return to the 

last recorded Home Point. Press this button again to cancel the RTH procedure and regain control of the 

aircraft.

Adjusting Controller Sticks

Hold and twist the controller sticks clockwise or counter clockwise to adjust 

the length of the controller sticks. A proper length of controller sticks can 

improve the controlling accuracy.
Remote Controller

34 © 2016 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 

Phantom 4 User Manual

Connecting Your Mobile Device

Tilt the mobile device holder to the desired position. Press the button on the side of the mobile device holder 

to release the clamp, and then place your mobile device into the cradle. Adjust the clamp down to secure the 

mobile device. To connect your mobile device to the remote controller using a USB cable, plug one end of 

the cable into your mobile device and the other end into the USB port on the back of the remote controller.

Optimal Transmission Range

The transmission signal between the aircraft and the remote controller is most reliable within the area that 

is depicted in the image below:

Optimal Transmission Range

Ensure that the aircraft is flying within the optimal transmission zone. To achieve the best transmission 

performance, maintain the appropriate relationship between the operator and the aircraft.

Remote Controller Status LED

The Status LED reflects the strength of the connection between the remote controller and the aircraft. The 

RTH LED indicates the Return-to-Home status of the aircraft. The table below contains more information 

about these indicators.

RTH LED

Status LED

strong weak
Remote Controller

© 2016 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 35

Phantom 4 User Manual

Status LED Alarm Remote Controller Status 

— Solid Red Chime The remote controller is disconnected from the aircraft. 

— Solid Green Chime The remote controller is connected to the aircraft. 

 Slow Blinking Red D-D-D...... Remote controller error. 

/

Red and Green/ Red and 

Yellow Alternate Blinks 

None HD downlink is disrupted. 

RTH LED Sound Remote Controller Status

— Solid White Chime Aircraft is returning home.

 Blinking White D . . . Sending Return-to-Home command to the aircraft.

 Blinking White DD .. .. .. Return-to-Home procedure in progress.

The Remote Status Indicator will blink red and sound an alert, when the battery level is critically low. 

Linking the Remote Controller

The remote controller is linked to your aircraft before delivery. Linking is only required when using a new 

remote controller for the first time. Follow these steps to link a new remote controller:

1. Turn on the remote controller and connect to the mobile device. Launch the DJI GO app.

2. Turn on the Intelligent Flight Battery.

3. Enter “Camera” and tap on and then tap “Linking RC” button as shown below. 

RC Control Setting

RC Calibration

Stick Mode

Button Customization

C1 Not Defined

C2 Not Defined

Default stick mode is Mode 2, changing stick modes alters the way the aircraft is controlled. 

Do not change unless familiar with your new mode.

You can customize the C1 and C2 buttons on the back of the RC.

Linking RC
Remote Controller

36 © 2016 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 

Phantom 4 User Manual

The remote controller will un-link itself from an aircraft if a new remote controller is linked to the 

same aircraft.

Remote Controller Compliance Version 

The remote controller is compliant with both CE and FCC requirements. 

Link Button

RC Calibration

Stick Mode

Button Customization

C1 Not Defined

C2 Not Defined

Default stick mode is Mode 2, changing stick modes alters the way the aircraft is controlled. 

Do not change unless familiar with your new mode.

You can customize the C1 and C2 buttons on the back of the RC.

RC Control Setting

Linking RC

Searching for aircraft frequency, 

timeout in 54 seconds

Cancel

Press the linking button on the aircraft 

to link this remote controller

5. Locate the linking button on the side of the aircraft, as shown in the figure below. Press the link button 

to start linking. The Remote Controller Status Indicator LED will display a solid green once the remote 

controller is successfully linked to the aircraft.

4. The remote controller is ready to link. The Remote Controller Status Indicator blinks blue and a beep is 

emitted.
© 2016 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 37

Camera and Gimbal 

This section provides the technical 

specifications of the camera and 

explains the gimbal’s operation modes.
Gimbal Camera

38 © 2016 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 

Camera and Gimbal 

Camera Profile

The on-board camera uses the 1/2.3 inch CMOS sensor to capture video (up to 4096x2160p at 24fps or 

4K at up to 30 fps with the Phantom 4 and 12 megapixel stills. You may choose to record the video in 

either MOV or MP4 format. Available picture shooting modes include burst, continuous, and time-lapse 

mode. A live preview of what the camera sees can be monitored on the connected mobile device via the 

DJI GO app. 

Camera Micro-SD Card Slot

To store your photos and videos, insert the Micro-SD card into the slot, as shown below, before 

turning on the Phantom 4. The Phantom 4 comes with a 16 GB Micro-SD card and supports MicroSD cards up to 64 GB. A UHS-1 Micro-SD card is recommended due to their fast read and write 

speeds allowing you to save high-resolution video data.

Do not remove the Micro-SD card from the Phantom 4 when it is turned on.

Camera Data Port

Turn on the Phantom 4 and connect a USB cable to the Camera Data Port to download photos and 

videos to your computer.

The aircraft must be turned on before attempting to access the files on the Micro-SD card.
Gimbal Camera

© 2016 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 39

Phantom 4 User Manual

Camera Operation

Use the Shutter and Video Recording buttons on the remote controller to shoot the images or videos 

through the DJI GO app. For more information about how to use these buttons, refer to “Controlling the 

Camera Page 31”.

Camera LED Indicator

Camera LED Indicator lights up after the flight battery is powered on. It provides information on the 

working status of the camera.

Camera LED Indicator Camera status

 Green Fast Blink (0.2s off, 0.1s on ) System is warming up. 

 Green Blink Once (0.5s off, 0.4s on ) Taking a single picture.

 Green Blink 3 Times (0.3s off, 0.1s on ) Taking 3 or 5 photos per shot. 

 Slow Red Blink (1.6s on, 0.8s off ) Recording.

 Fast Red Blink (0.5s off, 0.2s on ) SD card error.

 Double Red Blink (0.1s on, 0.1s off, 0.1s on, 0.1s off) Overheated Camera

Solid Red System error. 

Green and Red Blink (0.8s green on, 0.8s red on) Firmware Upgrading

Gimbal

Gimbal Profile

The 3-axis gimbal provides a steady platform for the attached camera, allowing you to capture clear, 

stable images and video. The gimbal can tilt the camera within a 120 ̊ range.

Use the gimbal dial on the remote controller to control the tilt movement of the camera. 

-90°

0°

30°
Gimbal Camera

40 © 2016 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 

Phantom 4 User Manual

Gimbal Operation Modes

Two gimbal operation modes are available. Switch between the different operation modes on the 

camera settings page of the DJI GO app. Note that your mobile device must be connected to the remote 

controller for changes to take effect. Refer to the table below for details:

Follow Mode The angle between gimbal’s orientation and aircraft’s nose remains 

constant at all times.

FPV Mode The gimbal will synchronize with the movement of the aircraft to provide a 

first-person perspective flying experience. 

 

A gimbal motor error may occur in these situations: (1) the aircraft is placed on uneven ground 

or the gimbal’s motion is obstructed (2) the gimbal has been subjected to an excessive 

external force, such as a collision. Please take off from flat, open ground and protect the gimbal 

at all times. 

Flying in heavy fog or clouds may make the gimbal wet, leading to temporary failure. The 

gimbal will recover full functionality after it dries.

 
© 2016 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 41

DJI GO app 

This section introduces the four main 

functions of the DJI GO app.
DJI GO App 

42 © 2016 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 

DJI GO app

The DJI GO app is a mobile application designed specifically for DJI equipments. Use this app to control 

the gimbal, camera, and other aircraft functions. The app features Equipment, Library, Discovery and Me 

sections, which are used for configuring your aircraft , editing and sharing your photos and videos with 

others. It is recommended that you use a tablet for the best experience.

Camera

The Camera page contains a live HD video feed from the Phantom 4’s camera. You can also configure 

various camera parameters from the Camera page. 

Connect your Aircraft, Take to the Skies

iPad

Equipment Library Discorvery Me

Learn More>

Use AEB shoot to get more dynanic image

Enter Camera View

80%

PHANTOM 4

Safe to Fly (GPS)

ISO 100 1/320 EV 0 4821 JPEG

OPTI

H: D:

V.S

M/S M/S

H.S

2.3 4.2

39M 210M

232M

MENU

[14]

[15]

[13]

[10]

[9]

[1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] [7] [8]

[18]

[17]

[16]

[12] [11]
DJI GO App 

© 2016 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 43

Phantom 4 User Manual

[1] Flight Mode

: The text next to this icon indicates the current flight mode. 

Tap to configure the MC (Main Controller) Settings. These settings allow you to modify flight limits and 

set the gain values. 

The aircraft is set to “Beginner Mode” by default. The aircraft cannot fly 30 meters (98 feet) higher 

and beyond the recorded Home Point under beginner mode. Disable this mode in the MODE 

setting page. 

[2] GPS Signal Strength

 : This icon shows the current strength of GPS signals. Green bars indicate adequate GPS 

strength. 

[3] Obstacle Sensing Status

: Tap into this button to enable or disable features provided by the Obstacle Sensing System. 

[4] System Status 

 : This icon indicates the current aircraft system status and GPS signal strength.

[5] Battery Level Indicator 

 : The battery level indicator provides a dynamic display of the battery level. The colored 

zones on the battery level indicator represent the power levels needed to carry out different functions.

[6] Remote Controller Signal 

 : This icon shows the strength of remote controller’s signal.

[7] HD Video Link Signal Strength 

 : This icon shows the strength of the HD video downlink connection between the aircraft and 

the remote controller.

[8] Battery Level

: This icon shows the current battery level.

Tap to view the battery information menu, set the various battery warning thresholds, and view the 

battery warning history.

[9] General Settings

: Tap this icon to view the General Settings page. From this page, you can set flight parameters, 

reset the camera, enable the quick view feature, adjust the gimbal roll value, and toggle the flight 

route display.

[10] Camera Operation Bar

 Shutter and Recording Settings

MENU : Tap to enter various camera value settings, including color space for the recording, resolution of the videos, image size and so on. 
DJI GO App 

44 © 2016 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 

Phantom 4 User Manual

 Shutter

 : Tap this button to take a single photo. Press and hold this button to select single shot, triple shot 

or time-lapsed shooting modes.

Record

 : Tap once to start recording video, then tap again to stop recording. You can also press the 

Video Recording Button on the remote controller, which has the same functionality.

Playback

: Tap to enter the playback page. You can preview photos and videos as soon as they are 

captured.

Camera Settings

: Tap to set ISO, shutter and auto exposure values of the camera.

[11] Map

Display the flight path of the current flight. Tap to switch from the Camera GUI to the Map GUI.

[12] Vision Positioning

 : The distance of the aircraft from the Home Point. When the aircraft is near the ground, this icon 

will change to to display the height the Vision Position System’s sensors from the ground.

[13] Flight Telemetry

The Vision Positioning Status icon is highlighted when the Vision Positioning is in operation.

Flight attitude is indicated by the flight attitude icon. 

(1) The red arrow shows which direction the aircraft is facing.

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

(3) The angle of the boundary between the light blue and dark blue areas indicates the roll angle.

[14] Obstacle Sensing Button 

 : Tap this button to switch TapFly, ActiveTrack, Normal and Intelligent Flight modes. 

H: D:

V.S

M/S M/S

H.S

2.3 4.2

39M 210M
DJI GO App 

© 2016 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 45

Phantom 4 User Manual

[15] Return to Home (RTH)

 : Initiate RTH home procedure. Tap to have the aircraft return to the last recorded home point.

[16] Auto Takeoff/Landing 

 / : Tap to initiate auto takeoff or landing.

[17] Livestream 

 : Livestream icon indicates the current video feed is broadcasting live on YouTube. Be sure the 

mobile data service is available on the mobile device. 

[18] Back

 : Tap to return to the main GUI.

Library 

Tap into library to use automatic video editor that built into the DJI GO app.. You can then select a template and a specified number of clips, which are automatically combined to create a short film that can 

be shared immediately to the online video host.

Discovery

Sync pictures and videos to your mobile device, view flight logs, and check your DJI account status in 

"Discovery". Use your registered DJI account to login to "Discovery".

Me

View flight history, access to the DJI store, watch and learn vairous tutorials from this section. 
46 © 2016 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 

Flight

This section describes safe flight 

practices and flight restrictions.
Flight

© 2016 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 47

Flight

Once pre-flight preparation is complete, it is recommended that you use the flight simulator in the DJI GO 

app to hone your flight skills and practice flying safely. Ensure that all flights are carried out in an open 

area.

Flight Environment Requirements

1. Do not use the aircraft in severe weather conditions. These include wind speeds exceeding 10 m/s , 

snow, rain and fog.

2. Only fly in open areas. Tall structures and large metal structures may affect the accuracy of the onboard compass and GPS system.

3. Avoid obstacles, crowds, high voltage power lines, trees, and bodies of water.

4. Minimize interference by avoiding areas with high levels of electromagnetism, including base stations 

and radio transmission towers. 

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

Be very careful when flying at altitudes greater than 19, 685 feet (6000 meters) above sea level, as the 

performance of the battery and aircraft may be affected.

6. The Phantom 4 cannot operate within the polar areas.

Flight Limits and No-Fly Zones

All unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) operators should abide by all regulations set forth by government and 

regulatory agencies including the ICAO and the FAA. For safety reasons, flights are limited by default, 

which helps users operate this product safely and legally. Flight limitations include height limits, distance 

limits, and No-Fly Zones.

When operating in P-mode, height limits, distance limits, and No-Fly Zones function concurrently to 

manage flight safety. In A-mode, only height limits are in effect, which by default prevent the aircraft 

altitude from exceeding 1640 feet (500 m) .

Maximum flight altitude & Radius Limits

Maximum flight altitude and radius limits may be changed in the DJI GO app. Be aware that the maximum 

flight altitude cannot exceed 1640 feet (500 meters). In accordance with these settings, your Phantom 4 

will fly in a restricted cylinder, as shown below: 

Maximum Flight Altitude Max Radius

Home Point

Height of aircraft 

when turned on
Flight

48 © 2016 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 

Phantom 4 User Manual

GPS Signal Weak Blinking Yellow

Flight Limits DJI GO app Aircraft Status Indicator 

Maximum 

Flight 

Altitude

Height is restricted to 400 

feet. (120m) and under.

Warning: Height limit 

reached. None.

Max Radius No limits

 If you fly out of the limit, you can still control the aircraft, but cannot fly it any father. If the 

aircraft flies out of the max radius in Ready to Fly (non-GPS) mode, it will fly back within range 

automatically.

 If the aircraft flies out of the max radius in Ready to Fly (non-GPS) mode, it will fly back within 

range automatically. 

No-Fly Zones 

All No-Fly Zones are listed on the DJI official website at http://www.dji.com/flysafe/no-fly. No-Fly 

Zones are divided into Airports and Restricted Areas. Airports include major airports and flying 

fields where manned aircraft operate at low altitudes. Restricted Areas include border lines between 

countries or sensitive institute. The details of the No-Fly Zones are explained as follow:

Airport

(1) Airport No-Fly Zone are comprised of Take-off Restricted zones and Restricted Altitude Zones. Each 

zone features circles of various sizes. 

(2) R1 miles (value of the R1 depends on the size and shape of the airport) around the airport is a Takeoff restricted zone, inside of which take off is prevented. 

(3) From R1 mile to R1 + 1 mile around the airport the flight altitude is limited to a 15 degree inclination.

Starting at 65 feet (20 meters) from the edge of airport and radiating outward. The flight altitude is 

limited to 1640 feet (500 meters) at R1+1 mile

(4) When the aircraft enters within 320 feet (100 meters) of No-Fly Zones, a warning message will appear 

on the DJI GO app. 

GPS Signal Strong Blinking Green 

Flight Limits DJI GO app Aircraft Status Indicator 

Maximum Flight 

Altitude

Aircraft's altitude cannot 

exceed the specified value.

Warning: Height 

limit reached. None.

Max Radius Flight distance must be within 

the max radius.

Warning: Distance 

limit reached.

Rapid red flashing 

 when close to the 

max radius limit.
Flight

© 2016 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 49

Phantom 4 User Manual

Restricted Area

(1) Restricted Areas does not have flight altitude restrictions. 

(2) R miles around the designated restriction area is a Take-off Restricted area. Aircraft cannot take off 

within this zone. The value of R varies based on the definition of the restricted areas. 

(3) A “warning zone” has been set around the Restricted Area. When the aircraft approaches within 0.062 

miles (100 m) of this zone, a warning message will appear on the DJI GO app. 

R1

66 feet

1 mile

320 feet R2

1640 

feet

100m R

R1

66 feet

1 mile

320 feet R2

1640 

feet

100 m R
Flight

50 © 2016 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 

Phantom 4 User Manual

GPS Signal Strong Blinking Green 

Zone Restriction DJI GO app Prompt 

Aircraft 

Status 

Indicator

 No-fly Zone

Motors will not start. Warning: You are in a No-fly 

zone. Take off prohibited.

Red flashing

If the aircraft enters the 

restricted area in A-mode, but is 

switched to P-mode, the aircraft 

will automatically descend, land, 

and stop its motors. 

Warning: You are in a no-fly zone. 

Automatic landing has begun. 

Restrictedaltitude flight 

zone

If the aircraft enters the restricted 

area in A-mode, but is switched 

to P-mode, it will descend to an 

appropriate altitude and hover 

15 feet below the altitude limit.

R1: Warning: You are in a 

restricted zone. Descending to 

safe altitude. 

R2: Warning: You are in a 

restricted zone. Maximum flight 

altitude is restricted to between 

20m and 500m. Fly cautiously.

Warning zone No flight restriction applies, but 

there will be a warning .

Warning: You are approaching a 

restricted zone, Fly cautiously.

Free zone

No restrictions. None. None.

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

during the descent and landing process. Motors will stop automatically after landing. 

 When flying in a safety zone, the aircraft's status indicator will blink red rapidly and continue 

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

point it will switch back to blinking red.

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

city centers, or other sensitive areas. Fly the aircraft only within your line of sight. 
Flight

© 2016 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 51

Phantom 4 User Manual

Preflight Checklist

1. Remote controller, Intelligent Flight Battery, and mobile device are fully charged.

2. Propellers are mounted correctly and firmly.

3. Micro-SD card has been inserted, if necessary.

4. Gimbal is functioning normally.

5. Motors can start and are functioning normally.

6. The DJI GO app is successfully connected to the aircraft.

Calibrating the Compass

IMPORTANT: Always calibrate the compass in every new flight location. The compass is very sensitive 

to electromagnetic interference, which can produce abnormal compass data and lead to poor flight 

performance or flight failure. Regular calibration is required for optimal performance.

 Do not calibrate your compass where there is any possibility of strong magnetic interference. 

Sources of potential interference include magnetite, parking structures, and subterranean 

metal structures

 Do not carry ferromagnetic materials with you during calibration such as keys or cellular 

phones.

 Do not calibrate in direct proximity to large metal objects. 

 DO NOT calibrate indoors.

Calibration Procedures

Choose an open area to carry out the following procedures. 

1. Ensure that the compass is calibrated. If you did not calibrate the compass as part of your pre-flight 

preparations, or if you have moved to a new location since the last calibration, tap the Aircraft Status 

Bar in the app and select “Calibrate”, then follow the on-screen instructions.

2. Hold the aircraft horizontally and rotate 360 degrees. The Aircraft Status Indicators will display a solid 

green light.
Flight

52 © 2016 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 

Phantom 4 User Manual

3. Hold the aircraft vertically, with nose pointing downward, and rotate it 360 degrees around the center 

axis. Recalibrate the compass if the Aircraft Status Indicator glows solid red.

If the Aircraft Status Indicator blinks red and yellow after the calibration procedure, move your 

aircraft to a different location and try again.

Calibrate the compass before each flight. Launch the DJI GO app and follow the on-screen 

instructions to calibrate the compass. DO NOT calibrate the compass near metal objects such 

as a metal bridge, cars, scaffolding.

When to Recalibrate

1.When compass data is abnormal and the Aircraft Status Indicator is blinking green and yellow.

2.When flying in a new location or in a location that is different from the most recent flight.

3.When the mechanical or physical structure of the Phantom 4 has been changed.

4.When severe drifting occurs in flight, i.e. Phantom 4 does not fly in straight line.

Auto Takeoff and Auto Landing

Auto Takeoff

Use auto takeoff only if the Aircraft Status Indicators are blinking green. Follow the steps below to use the 

auto takeoff feature:

1. Launch the DJI GO app, and enter “Camera” page. 

2. Ensure the aircraft is in P- mode.

3. Complete all steps on the pre-flight checklist.

4. Tap“ ”, and confirm that conditions are safe for flight. Slide the icon to confirm and takeoff.

5. Aircraft takes off and hovers at (1.2 meters) above ground. 

Aircraft Status Indicator blinks rapidly when it is using the Vision Position System for stabilization. 

The aircraft will automatically hover below 3 meters. It is recommended to wait until there is 

sufficient GPS lock before using the Auto Take-off feature. 
Flight

© 2016 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 53

Phantom 4 User Manual

Flight Test 

Takeoff/Landing Procedures

1. Place the aircraft in an open, flat area with the battery level indicators facing towards you.

2. Turn on the remote controller and your mobile device, then turn on the Intelligent Flight Battery.

3. Launch the DJI GO app and enter the Camera page.

4. Wait until the Aircraft Indicators blink green. This means the Home Point is recorded and it is now safe 

to fly. If they flash yellow, the Home Point has not been recorded.

5. Push the throttle up slowly to take off or use Auto Takeoff.

6. Shoot photos and videos using the DJI GO app.

7. To land, hover over a level surface and gently pull down on the throttle to descend.

8. After landing, execute the CSC command or hold the throttle at its lowest position until the motors stop.

9. Turn off the Intelligent Flight Battery first, then the Remote Controller. 

Stopping the Motors

There are two methods to stop the motors.

Method 1: When Phantom 4 has landed, push the throttle down , then conduct the same CSC that was 

used to start the motors, as described above . Motors will stop immediately. Release both sticks once 

motors stop.

Method 2: When the aircraft has landed, push and hold the throttle down. The motors will stop after three 

seconds.

Auto-Landing 

Use auto-landing only if the Aircraft Status Indicators are blinking green. Follow the steps below to use the 

auto-landing feature:

1. Ensure the aircraft is in P- mode.

2. Check the landing area condition before tapping “ ”, to begin landing. Then follow the on-screen 

instructions. 

Starting/Stopping the Motors

Starting the Motors

A Combination Stick Command (CSC) is used to start the motors. Push both sticks to the bottom 

inner or outer corners to start the motors. Once the motors have started spinning, release both sticks 

simultaneously.

OR

Method 1

OR

Method 2

Do not perform a CSC when the aircraft is in midair, otherwise the motors will suddenly stop. 
Flight

54 © 2016 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 

Phantom 4 User Manual

When the Aircraft Status Indicators blink yellow rapidly during flight, the aircraft has entered Failsafe 

mode.

A low battery level warning is indicated by the Aircraft Status Indicators blinking red slowly or 

rapidly during flight.

Watch our video tutorials for more flight information.

Video Suggestions and Tips

1. Go through the full pre-flight checklist before each flight.

2. Select the desired gimbal operation mode in the DJI GO app.

3. Only shoot video when flying in P-mode.

4. Always fly in good weather and avoid flying in rain or heavy wind.

5. Choose the camera settings that suit your needs. Settings include photo format and exposure compensation.

6. Perform flight tests to establish flight routes and preview scenes.

7. Push the control sticks gently to keep the aircraft’s movement smooth and stable.
© 2016 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 55

FAQ
FAQ

56 © 2016 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 

FAQ

What is ActiveTrack?

ActiveTrack allows an aircraft to track a moving subject without a separate GPS tracker. Simply tap on the 

mobile device screen inside the DJI GO app to select the subject to be tracked. The aircraft will lock on the 

subject and start tracking it automatically from a safe distance.

What is TapFly?

TapFly means you can fly in any direction with a tap of the finger, without a remote controller. With Obstacle 

Avoidance turned on, the aircraft will automatically avoid obstacles, slow down or hover when required, 

provided that the scene is bright enough ( < 300 lux) or too bright ( > 10,000 lux).

What is the Phantom 4 Obstacle Sensing System?

The Phantom 4 is equipped with an Obstacle Sensing System that constantly scans for obstacles in front of 

it, allowing it to avoid collisions by going around, over or hovering.

Why does the Phantom 4 have a magnesium core?

The revolutionary magnesium core embedded into the aircraft greatly increases rigidity, minimizing 

unwanted vibrations. This ensures the precision and performance of the inertial measurement unit (IMU).

The weight of the aircraft is also reduced through this magnesium core.

What changes were made to the Phantom 4 remote?

The Phantom 4 introduces a Sport mode, accessible through a new trio of modes, P, S and A.

P (Position) mode is the standard mode, giving access to normal flight as well as Intelligent Flight Modes, 

ActiveTrack and TapFly.

S (Sport) Mode unlocks maximum flight speeds of up to 44mph (72kmh)

A (Attitude) Mode remains the same and removes satellite stabilization in flight. It allows the Phantom to 

move more smoothly and naturally.

The ‘Playback’ button on the top right of the remote controller has been changed into a ‘Pause’ button that 

lets you put the Phantom into hover during any Intelligent Flight Mode, ActiveTrack or TapFly with a tap.

What improvements have been made to the Phantom 4 Vision Positioning Unit?

The Vision Positioning System now uses four sensors to increase hovering accuracy and reliability, creating 

a more controlled flying experience. Its sonar system has been improved and now functions from up to 10 

meters off the ground. In ideal situations, these combine to give the Phantom 4 Vision Positioning System a 

vertical hover accuracy of +/- 0.1 m and a horizontal hover accuracy of +/- 0.3 m.

What is the effective range of the Obstacle Sensing System on Phantom 4?

The effective range of the Obstacle Sensing System is 0.7 to 15 meters. Although the DJI GO app will indicate 

when there are obstacles present, pilots should always be paying attention to the aircraft during flight.
FAQ

© 2016 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 57

Phantom 4 User Manual

Does Obstacle Sensing System work in all modes?

The Obstacle Sensing System can be enabled in ActiveTrack, TapFly, Normal mode and all Intelligent 

Navigation functions.

What are the major improvements in the Phantom 4 propulsion system?

The motor on the Phantom 4 is designed to work with the latest Push-and-Release Propellers. With this 

locking mechanism, propellers can withstand drastic changes of motor speed, allowing the aircraft to be 

more agile and more responsive to the pilot command.

How many minutes of flight time can Phantom 4 achieve with the new Intelligent Flight Battery?

At sea level in calm environments when flying in ATTI mode, the Phantom 4 can achieve 28 minute flight 

times. This will vary due to different flight patterns, weather conditions and altitudes.

What are the major differences between the Phantom 4 propellers and the Phantom 3 ones?

The new Push-and-Release propellers are faster to install and more secure than the Self Tightening 

propellers used previously. This security allows them to handle faster acceleration and harder braking.

What makes the Phantom 4 gimbal better?

The gimbal and camera system is integrated into the body, bringing it closer to the aircraft’s center of 

gravity. It is also made of a rigid and strong composite material

What makes the Phantom 4 camera better?

The Phantom 4 camera has been improved in terms of image quality. Chromatic aberration has been 

reduced by 56% and lens distortion had been reduced by 36% compared to Phantom 3 Professional. 

In addition to lens improvements, camera firmware has been tweaked to enable the camera to capture 

120fps video in full 1080p FHD (the camera’s field of view will be reconfigured to 47° when recording in 

this mode) for smooth slow motion.

Why add a redundant IMU and compass to the Phantom 4?

A redundant IMU and compass enhances system reliability. The Phantom 4 can constantly compare data 

received from both IMUs and then navigate itself using the most accurate data. The same is true of the 

redundant compasses.

What are the highlights of the Phantom 4 remote control and live feed?

The Phantom 4’s remote control and live feed is based on DJI Lightbridge technology, providing effective 

control range of up to 3.1mi (5km) in unobstructed areas that are free from interference. Its HD live feed 

gives you an exact view of your flight, perfect for composing shots.

Does the Phantom 4 have Return-to-Home?

Yes. It also has Smart Return Home which engages the Obstacle Sensing System during return to home 

flight. If the aircraft sees an obstacle on its way back, it will intelligently avoid it as it comes home.
FAQ

58 © 2016 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 

Phantom 4 User Manual

What’s the purpose of the Sport Mode?

Giving a top speed of 44.7mph (72Kph), Sport mode can be used for fun, letting you fly faster than ever, or 

to get to your shoot location while the light is perfect.

What’s the horizontal speed of Phantom 4 in ATTI Mode?

The horizontal speed of the Phantom 4 in ATTI mode is 44.7mph (72kph).

What is the difference between Sport Mode and ATTI Mode?

Though Phantom 4 can fly up to 44.7mph in both Sport Mode and ATTI Mode, Phantom 4 will use GPS/

Glonass and its Vision Positioning System to achieve precision while hovering. In ATTI Mode, GPS and 

Vision Positioning System will not function to aid the aircraft in terms of hovering or navigation.

In ActiveTrack, how do you untrack the subject? What happens to the aircraft after you stop 

tracking?

Tap the Stop button on the left of the screen or pull the pitch stick backward for 3 seconds to exit 

ActiveTrack. After exiting, the aircraft will hover in place. At this point you may choose to start a new 

mission or bring the aircraft back to the Home Point.

How small an object can the Obstacle Sensing System see?

The minimum pixel size that the Obstacle Sensing system can see is 500 pixels.

What is ActiveTrack’s minimum altitude?

ActiveTrack will work down to 9ft (3m) above the ground.
© 2016 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 59

Appendix
Appendix

60 © 2016 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 

Appendix

Specifications

Aircraft

Weight (Battery & Propellers 

Included) 1380 g

Max Ascent Speed 6 m/s ( Sport mode )

Max Descent Speed 4 m/s ( Sport mode )

Max Speed 20 m/s ( Sport mode )

Max Service Ceiling Above Sea Level 19685 feet ( 6000 m ) 

( Software altitude limit: 400 feet above takeoff point ) 

Max Flight Time Approx. 28 minutes

Operating Temperature Range 32° to 104° F ( 0° to 40° C )

Satellite Systems GPS/GLONASS

Gimbal 

Controllable Range Pitch: - 90° to + 30°

Obstacle Sensing System

Obstacle Sensory Range 2 - 49 feet ( 0.7 - 15 m )

Operating Environment Surface with clear pattern and adequate lighting ( lux > 15 )

Vision Positioning System

Velocity Range ≤10 m/s ( 2 m above ground )

Altitude Range 0 - 33 feet ( 0 - 10 m )

Operating Range 0 - 33 feet ( 0 - 10 m )

Operating Environment Surfaces with a clear pattern and adequate lighting ( lux > 15 )

Camera

Sensor 1/2.3” Effective pixels:12 M

Lens FOV ( Field Of View ) 94° 20 mm ( 35 mm format equivalent ) 

f/2.8 focus at ∞

ISO Range 100-3200(video) 100-1600(photo)

Electronic Shutter Speed 8 s to 1/8000 s

Max Image Size 4000 x 3000

Still Photography Modes

Single shot

Burst shooting: 3/5/7 frames

Auto Exposure Bracketing (AEB): 

3/5 Bracketed frames at 0.7EV Bias

Time-lapse

HDR

Video Recording Modes

UHD: 4096×2160 (4K) 24 / 25p

 3840×2160 (4K) 24 / 25 / 30p

 2704×1520 (2.7K) 24 / 25 / 30p

FHD: 1920×1080 24 / 25 / 30 / 48 / 50 / 60 / 120p

HD: 1280×720 24 / 25 / 30 / 48 / 50 / 60p

Max. Bitrate Of Video Storage 60 Mbps
Appendix

© 2016 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 61

Phantom 4 User Manual

Remote Controller 

Operating Frequency 2.400 GHz to 2.483 GHz

Max Transmission Distance FCC Compliant: 3.1 mi ( 5 km ); CE Compliant: 2.2 mi ( 3.5 km ) 

( Unobstructed, free of interference )

Operating Temperature 32° to 104° F ( 0° to 40° C )

Battery 6000 mAh LiPo 2S

Mobile Device Holder Tablets and smartphones 

Transmitter Power ( EIRP ) FCC: 23 dBm; CE: 17 dBm

Operating Voltage 7.4V @ 1.2A

Charger

Voltage 17.4 V

Rated Power 100 W 

Intelligent Flight Battery ( PH4 - 5350 mAh -15.2 V )

Capacity 5350 mAh

Voltage 15.2 V

Battery Type LiPo 4S

Energy 81.3 Wh

Net Weight 462 g

Operating Temperature 14° to 104° F ( -10° to 40° C )

Max. Charging Power 100 W

Aircraft Status Indicator Description

Normal

 Red, Green and Yellow Flash 

Alternatively Turning on and Self-Diagnostics

 Green and Yellow Flash Alternatively Aircraft Warming Up

 Green Flashes Slowly Safe to Fly (P-mode with GPS and Vision Positioning)

X2 Green Flashes Twice Safe to Fly (P-mode with Vision Positioning but without GPS)

 Yellow Flashes Slowly Safe to Fly (A-mode but No GPS and Vision Positioning)

Supported File Systems FAT32 ( ≤ 32 GB ); exFAT ( > 32 GB )

Photo JPEG, DNG ( RAW )

Video MP4 / MOV ( MPEG – 4 AVC / H.264 )

Supported SD Cards Micro SD, Max capacity: 64GB. Class 10 or UHS-1 rating required

Operating Temperature 32° to 104° F ( 0° to 40° C )
Appendix

62 © 2016 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 

Phantom 4 User Manual

Firmwares Update

Use Micro SD card to update the aircraft and Intelligent Flight Battery. Connect to the Internet, 

launch the DJI GO app. The DJI GO app will start checking for available firmware updates 

automatically. Follow the on-screen instruction to update the latest firmware for the aircraft, remote 

controller and intelligent flight battery.

Intelligent Flight Mode 

Intelligent Flight mode includes Course Lock, Home Lock, Point of Interest (POI), Follow Me and 

Waypoints features to assist users to create professional shoots during the flight. Course Lock and Home 

Point lock helps to lock the orientation of aircraft so that the user can focus more on other operations. 

Point of Interest, Follow Me and Waypoints mode enable aircraft to fly automatically according to the 

pre-set flight maneuvers.

Course Lock Lock the current nose direction as the aircraft’s forward direction. The aircraft will 

move in the locked directions regardless of its orientation (yaw angle). 

Home Lock Pull the pitch stick backward to move the aircraft toward its recorderd Home Point. 

Point of Interest The aircraft will orbit around the subject automatically to allow the operator can be 

more focus on framing their shoot on the subject in Point of Interest.

Follow Me 

A virtual tether is created between the aircraft and the mobile device so that the 

aircraft can track your movement as you move. Note that Follow Me performance is 

subject to the GPS accuracy on the mobile device. 

Waypoints

Record a flight path, then the aircraft will fly along the same path repeatedly while 

you control the camera and orientation. The flight path can be saved and re-apply 

in the future.

Enable Multiple Flight Mode by launching the DJI GO app > Camera View > > Advanced Settings > 

Mulitple Flight Mode before using the Intelligent Flight Mode for the first time.

Warning

 Fast Yellow Flashing Remote Controller Signal Lost

 Slow Red Flashing Low Battery Warning

 Fast Red Flashing Critical Battery Warning

 Red Flashing Alternatively IMU Error 

— Solid Red Critical Error 

 Red and Yellow Flash Alternatively Compass Calibration Required
Appendix

© 2016 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 63

Phantom 4 User Manual

After-Sales Information

Visit the following pages to learn more about After-sales policy and warranty information:

1. After-sales Policy: http://www.dji.com/service

2. Refund Policy: http://www.dji.com/service/refund-return

3. Paid Repair Service: http://www.dji.com/service/repair-service

4. Warranty Service: http://www.dji.com/service/warranty-service

FCC Compliance

FCC Compliance

This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

(1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and

(2) This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired 

operation.

Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the 

user's authority to operate the equipment.

Compliance Information

FCC Warning Message

Any changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void 

the user’s authority to operate the equipment. 

This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: 

(1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference 

received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

FCC Radiation Exposure Statement: 

This equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment. 

This equipment should be installed and operated with minimum distance 20cm between the radiator& 

your body. This transmitter must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or 

transmitter. 

Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, 

pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against 

harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates uses and can radiate radio 

frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful 

interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in 

a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, 

which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct 

the interference by one or more of the following measures: 

—Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna. 

—Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver. 

—Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected. 

—Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help. 
Appendix

64 © 2016 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 

Phantom 4 User Manual

IC RSS warning

This device complies with Industry Canada licence-exempt RSS standard (s). Operation is subject to 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.

Le présent areil est conforme aux CNR d'Industrie Canada licables aux areils radio exempts de licence.

L'exploitation est autorisée aux deux conditions suivantes:

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

(2) l'utilisateur de l'areil doit accepter tout brouillage radioélectrique subi, même si le brouillage est 

susceptible d'en compromettre le fonctionnement.

IC Radiation Exposure Statement:

This equipment complies with IC RF radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment. 

This transmitter must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter.

This equipment should be installed and operated with minimum distance 20cm between the radiator& 

your body.

Any Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could 

void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

KCC Warning Message

“해당무선설비는 운용 중 전파혼신 가능성이 있으므로 인명안전과 관련된 서비스는 할 수 없습니다 .” 

“해당 무선설비는 운용 중 전파혼신 가능성이 있음”

NCC Warning Message

低功率電波輻射性電機管理辦法

第十二條經型式認證合格之低功率射頻電機,非經許可,公司、商號或使用者均不得擅自變更頻率、加

大功率或變更原設計之特性及功能。

第十四條低功率射頻電機之使用不得影響飛航安全及干擾合法通信;經發現有干擾現象時,應改善至無

干擾時方得繼續使用。前項合法通信,指依電信法規定作業之無線電通信。低功率射頻電機須忍受合法

通信或工業、科學及醫療用電波輻射性電機設備之干擾。
© 2016 DJI. All Rights Reserved.

This content is subject to change.

Download the latest version from

http://www.dji.com/product/phantom-3

If you have any questions about this document, please contact DJI by 

sending a message to DocSupport@dji.com.

DJI Support

http://www.dji.com/support