PHANTOM 3

ADVANCED

User Manual V1.0

2015.05
Using this manual

Legends

Warning Important Hints and Tips Reference

Read Before the First Flight

Read the following documents before using the Phantom 3 Advanced:

1. In the Box 

2. Phantom 3 Advanced User Manual 

3. Phantom 3 Advanced Quick Start Guide 

4. Phantom 3 Professional / Advanced Safety Guidelines and Disclaimer 

5. Phantom 3 Professional / Advanced Intelligent Flight Battery Safety Guidelines 

We recommend that you watch all tutorial videos on the official DJI website and read the Disclaimer 

before you fly. Prepare for your first flight by reviewing the Phantom 3 Advanced Quick Start Guide 

and refer to the User Manual for more detailed information.

Video Tutorials

Please watch the tutorial videos at the link below, which demonstrates how to use Phantom 3 

Professional safely:

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

Download the DJI Pilot app

Download and install the DJI Pilot app before using the aircraft. Scan the QR code to the right

to download the latest version.

The Android version of the DJI Pilot app is compatible with Android 4.1.2 or 

later. The iOS version of the DJI Pilot app is compatible with iOS 8.0 or later.

2 © 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.
Contents

Using this manual

Legends 2

Read Before the First Flight 2

Video Tutorials 2

Download the DJI Pilot app 2

Product Profile

Introduction 6

Feature Highlights 6

Preparing the Aircraft 7

Aircraft Diagram 8

Remote Controller Diagram 8

Aircraft

Flight Controller 11

Flight Mode 11

Flight Status Indicator 11

Return-to-Home (RTH) 12

Smart RTH 12

Low Battery RTH 13

Failsafe RTH 14

Vision Positioning System 14

Flight Recorder 16

Attaching and Detaching the Propellers 16

DJI Intelligent Flight Battery 17

Remote Controller

Remote Controller Profile 23

Using the Remote Controller 23

Remote Controller Status LED 27

Linking the Remote Controller 28

Remote Controller Compliance Version 29

© 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 3
Camera and Gimbal

Camera Profile 31

Gimbal 32

DJI Pilot App

Camera 35

Director 38

Store 38

Discovery 38

Flight

Flight Environment Requirements 40

Flight Limits and No-Fly Zones 40

Preflight Checklist 44

Calibrating the Compass 44

Auto Takeoff and Auto Landing 45

Flight Test 46

Starting/Stopping the Motors 46

Troubleshooting (FAQ)

Appendix

Specifications 53

Intelligent Orientation Control (IOC) 55

FCC Compliance 56

4 © 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.
Product Profile

This section introduces the Phantom 3 

Advanced and lists the components of 

the aircraft and remote controller.

© 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 5
Product Profile

Product Profile

Introduction

The Phantom 3 Advanced represents the next generation of DJI quadcopters. It is capable of 

capturing 1080p video and transmitting an HD video signal out of the box. The built-in camera has an 

integrated gimbal to maximize stability while minimizing both weight and size. Even when no GPS 

signal is available, the Vision Positioning System allows the aircraft to hover accurately in place.

Feature Highlights

Camera and Gimbal: Phantom 3 Advanced has a fully integrated camera that shoots 1080p video at 

up to 60 frames per second and captures 12 megapixel photos. An enhanced sensor gives you 

greater clarity, lower noise, and better pictures than any previous flying camera.

HD Video Downlink: The low-latency HD downlink is powered by an enhanced version of DJI Lightbridge.

DJI Intelligent Flight Battery: The 4480 mAh DJI Intelligent Flight Battery features upgraded battery 

cells and an advanced power management system.

Flight Controller: The next-generation flight controller has been updated to provide a safer, more 

reliable flight experience. A newly implemented flight recorder stores critical data from each flight and 

the Vision Positioning System enhances hovering precision when flying indoors or in environments 

where GPS is unavailable.

6 © 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.
Phantom 3 Advanced User Manual

Preparing the Aircraft

Removing Gimbal Clamp

Remove the gimbal clamp by sliding it to the right (when facing the nose of the aircraft), as shown below.

Attaching the Propellers:

Mount the propellers with black nuts on to motors with black axes and spin counter-clockwise to 

secure. Mount the propellers with grey nuts on to motors with gray axes and spin clockwise to 

secure. Be sure all propellers are securely in place.

Place all propellers onto the correct motors and tighten by hand to lock them in position.

Preparing the Remote Controller:

Tilt the mobile device holder to the desired position, then adjust the antennas so they are facing outward.

1. Press the button on the top right side of the mobile device holder to release the clamp, then adjust 

the clamp to fit the size of your mobile device. 

2. Secure your mobile device in the clamp by pressing down, and connect your mobile device to the 

remote controller using a USB cable. 

3. Plug one end of the cable into the mobile device, and the other end into the USB port on the back 

of the remote controller. 

2

1 

 3

© 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 7

Product Profile
Phantom 3 Advanced User Manual

Product Profile

Aircraft Diagram

[1]

[2]

[3] [1] GPS

[7]

[4]

[2] Propeller

[6] [5]

[3] Motor

[4] Front LED Indicator

[5] Landing gear

[8] [6] Gimbal and Camera

[9] [7] Aircraft Micro-USB Port

[10]

[8] Aircraft Status Indicator

[11]

[9] Intelligent Flight Battery

[10] Vision Positioning Sensors

[11] Antennas

[12] [12] Camera Micro-SD Card Slot

4K

[13] Camera Micro-USB Port

[14] Link Button

[14] [13]

Remote Controller Diagram

[1] Antennas

Relays aircraft control and

[1] video signal.

[2] [2] Mobile Device Holder

Securely mounts your mobile

device to the remote controller.

[8]

[3] [3] Control Stick

[4] [7] Controls the orientation and

[6] [5] movement of the aircraft.

[4] Return Home (RTH) Button

Press and hold the button to

initiate Return to Home (RTH).

8 © 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.
Phantom 3 Advanced User Manual

[5] Battery Level LEDs

Displays the battery level of the remote 

controller.

[6] Status LED

Displays the remote controller's system status.

[7] Power Button

Used to turn the remote controller on and off.

[8] RTH LED

Circular LED around the RTH button 

displays RTH status.

[9] Camera Settings Dial

Turn the dial to adjust camera settings. 

(Only functions when the remote controller 

is connected to a mobile device running the 

DJI Pilot app. )

[10] Playback Button

Playback the captured images or videos. 

(Only functions when the remote controller 

is connected to a mobile device running the 

DJI Pilot app.)

[11] Shutter Button

Press to take a photo. If burst mode is 

selected, the set number of photos will be 

taken with one press.

[12] Flight Mode Switch

Switch between P-mode, A-mode, and Fmode.

[13] Video Recording Button

Press to start recording video. Press again 

to stop recording.

[15] [16] 

[14]

[9] 

[13] [10]

[12] [11]

[14] Gimbal Dial

Use this dial to control the tilt of the gimbal.

[15] Mircro-USB Port

Connect to a SD card reader to upgrade the 

firmware.

[16] USB Port

Connect to mobile device or to a USB port 

for firmware upgrade.

Product Profile

[17] C1 Button

Customizable through the DJI Pilot app.

[18] C2 Button

Customizable through the DJI Pilot app.

[19] Power Port

Connect to a power source to charge the 

battery of the remote controller.

[18] [17]

[19]

© 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 9
Aircraft

This section introduces the features of 

the Flight Controller, Vision Positioning 

System, and the Intelligent Flight Battery

10 © 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.
Aircraft

Flight Controller

The Phantom 3 Advanced’s flight controller features several important upgrades, including a new 

flight mode. Safety modes include Failsafe and Return-to-Home. These features ensure the safe 

return of your aircraft if the control signal is lost. The flight controller can also save critical flight data 

from each flight to the on-board storage device.

Flight Mode

Three flight modes are available. The details of each flight mode are found below:

P-mode (Positioning) : P-mode works best when GPS signal is strong. There are three different 

states of P-mode, which will be automatically selected by the Phantom 3 Advanced depending on 

signal strength of GPS and Vision Positioning sensors :

P-GPS: GPS and Vision Positioning both are available. The aircraft is using GPS for positioning.

P-OPTI: Vision Positioning is available but the GPS signal strength is not sufficient. The aircraft is 

using only the Vision Positioning System for positioning.

P-ATTI: Neither GPS nor Vision Positioning is available. The aircraft is using only its barometer 

for positioning, so only altitude can be stabilized.

A-mode (Attitude): GPS and Vision Positioning System are not used for stabilization. The aircraft 

only uses its barometer. The aircraft can still automatically return to the home point if the control 

signal is lost and the Home Point was recorded successfully.

F-mode (Function): Intelligent Orientation Control (IOC) is activated in this mode. For more 

information about IOC, refer to the IOC section in the Appendix.

Use the Flight Controller mode switch to change the flight mode of the aircraft, refer to the 

“Flight Mode Switch” on P26 for more information.

Aircraft

Flight Status Indicator

The Phantom 3 Advanced has Front LEDs and Aircraft Status Indicators. The positions of these 

LEDs are shown in the figure below:

Aircraft Status Indicator

Front LED

The Front LEDs show the orientation of the aircraft. The Front LEDs glow solid red when the aircraft is turned 

on to indicate the front (or nose) of the aircraft. The Aircraft Status Indicators communicate the system status 

of the flight controller. Refer to the table below for more information about the Aircraft Status

Indicators:

© 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 11
Phantom 3 Advanced User Manual

Aircraft Status Indicator Description

Aircraft

Normal

Red, Green and Yellow Flash

Alternatively

Green and Yellow Flash Alternatively

Green Flashes Slowly

X2 Green Flashes Twice

Yellow Flashes Slowly

Warning

Fast Yellow Flashing

Slow Red Flashing

Fast Red Flashing

Red Flashing Alternatively

— Solid Red

Red and Yellow Flash Alternatively

Turning On and Self-Checking

Aircraft Warming Up

Safe to Fly (P-mode with GPS and 

Vision Positioning)

Safe to Fly (P-mode with Vision Positioning 

but without GPS)

Safe to Fly (A-mode but No GPS and 

Vision Positioning)

Remote Controller Signal Lost

Low Battery Warning

Critical Battery Warning

IMU Error

Critical Error

Compass Calibration Required

Return-to-Home (RTH)

The Return-to-Home (RTH) function brings the aircraft back to the last recorded Home Point. There 

are three types of RTH procedure: Smart RTH, Low Battery RTH, and Failsafe RTH. This section 

describes these three scenarios in detail.

GPS Description

If a strong GPS signal was acquired before takeoff, the Home Point

Home Point is the location from which the aircraft was launched. The GPS signal

strength is indicated by the GPS icon ( ). The aircraft status

indicator will blink rapidly when the home point is recorded.

Smart RTH

Use the RTH button on the remote controller (refer to “RTH button” on page 26 for more information) 

or tap the RTH button in the DJI Pilot app when GPS is available to initiate Smart RTH. The aircraft 

will then automatically return to the last recorded Home Point. You may use the remote controller’s 

control sticks to control the aircraft’s position to avoid a collision during the Smart RTH process. 

Press and hold the Smart RTH button once to start the process, and press the Smart RTH button 

again to terminate the procedure and regain full control of the aircraft.

12 © 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.
Phantom 3 Advanced User Manual

Low Battery RTH

The low battery level failsafe is triggered when the DJI Intelligent Flight Battery is depleted to a point 

that may affect the safe return of the aircraft. Users are advised to return home or land the aircraft 

immediately when prompted. The DJI Pilot app will display a notice when a low battery warning is 

triggered. The aircraft will automatically return to the Home Point if no action is taken after a tensecond countdown. The user can cancel the RTH procedure by pressing the RTH button on the 

remote controller. The thresholds for these warnings are automatically determined based on the 

aircraft’s current altitude and distance from the Home Point.

The aircraft will land automatically if the current battery level can only support the aircraft long 

enough to descend from its current altitude. The user can still use the remote controller to alter the 

aircraft’s orientation during the landing process.

The Battery Level Indicator is displayed in the DJI Pilot app, and is described below:

Critical Low battery level Sufficient battery

warning(Red) level(Green)

Low battery

level warning(Yellow) Remaining flight time

Power requires 

to return home

Battery level Indicator

Aircraft

Battery Level

Remark

Aircraft Status

Warning Indicator

Low battery The battery Aircraft status

level warning power is low. indicator blinks

Please land the RED slowly.

aircraft.

Critical Low The aircraft Aircraft status

battery level must land indicator blinks

warning immediately. RED quickly.

Estimated Estimated

remaining flight remaining N/A based on current

flight time battery level.

DJI Pilot app

Tap “Go-home” to have the 

aircraft return to the Home 

point and land automatically, or 

“Cancel” to resume normal 

flight. If no action is taken, the 

aircraft will automatically go 

home and land after 10 

seconds. Remote controller will 

sound an alarm.

The DJI Pilot app display will 

flash red and the aircraft will 

start to descend. The remote 

controller will sound an alarm.

N/A

Flight Instructions

Fly the aircraft 

back and land it 

as soon as 

possible, then 

stop the motors 

and replace the 

battery.

Allow the aircraft to 

descend and land 

automatically.

N/A

© 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 13
Phantom 3 Advanced User Manual

Aircraft

When the Critical battery level warning is triggered and the aircraft begins to land 

automatically, you may push the throttle upward to make the aircraft hover at its current 

altitude, giving you an opportunity to navigate to a more appropriate landing location.

The colored zones and markers on the battery level indicator bar reflect the estimated 

remaining flight time. They are automatically adjusted according to the aircraft’s current 

location and status.

Failsafe RTH

If the Home Point was successfully recorded and the compass is functioning normally, Failsafe RTH 

will be automatically activated if the remote controller signal is lost for more than three seconds. The 

Return-to-Home process may be interrupted and the operator may regain control of the aircraft if the 

remote controller signal connection is re-established.

Failsafe Illustration

1 Record Home Point 2 Confirming Home Point 3 Remote Controller Signal Lost

×

Blinking Green Blinking Green Fast Blinking Yellow

4 Signal Lost Lasts (afer 3 sec.) 5 RTH (adjustable altitude) 6 Landing (after hovering for 5 secs)

>3S

×

Height over HP>20m

× ×

Elevate to 20m 20m

Height over HP<=20m

Fast Blinking Yellow Fast Blinking Yellow Fast Blinking Yellow

The aircraft cannot avoid obstruction during the Failsafe RTH, therefore, it is important to 

set an suitable Failsafe altitude before each flight. Launch the DJI Pilot app and enter 

“Camera” and select “MODE” to set the Failsafe altitude.

The aircraft will stop its ascent and return to the Home Point immediately if the throttle stick 

is moved during the Failsafe RTH procedure.

Vision Positioning System

The DJI Vision Positioning System uses ultrasound and image data to help the aircraft maintain its current 

position. With the help of Vision Positioning, your Phantom 3 Advanced can hover in place more precisely 

and fly indoors or in other environments where a GPS signal is not available. The main components of the 

Vision Positioning System are located on the bottom of your Phantom 3 Advanced; they include two 

ultrasonic sensors and one monocular camera.

[1]

[2]

14 © 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.
Phantom 3 Advanced User Manual

Using Vision Positioning

Vision Positioning is activated automatically when the Phantom 3 Advanced is turned on. No further 

action is required. Vision Positioning is typically used in indoor environments, where GPS is 

unavailable. Using the sensors that are built into the Vision Positioning system, the Phantom 3 

Professional can hover precisely even without GPS.

Aircraft

Follow the steps below to use Vision Positioning:

1. Toggle the flight mode switch to P-mode. 

2. Place the aircraft on a flat surface. Note that the Vision Positioning system cannot 

work properly on surfaces without clear pattern variations. 

3. Turn on the aircraft. The aircraft status indicator will flash green two times, which indicates the Vision 

Positioning system is ready. Gently push the throttle up to lift off and the aircraft will hover in place. 

The performance of your Vision Positioning System is affected by the surface over which it is 

flying. The ultrasonic sensors may not be able to accurately measure distances when 

operating above sound-absorbing materials. In addition, the camera may not function 

correctly in suboptimal environments. The aircraft will switch from P-mode to A-mode 

automatically if neither GPS nor Vision Positioning System are available. Operate the aircraft 

with great caution in the following situations:

Flying over monochrome surfaces (e.g. pure black, pure white, pure red, pure green).

Flying over a highly reflective surfaces.

Flying at high speeds(over 8 m/s at 2 meters or over 4 m/s at 1 meter).

Flying over water or transparent surfaces.

Flying over moving surfaces or objects.

Flying in an area where the lighting changes frequently or drastically.

Flying over extremely dark (lux < 10) or bright (lux > 100,000) surfaces.

Flying over surfaces that can absorb sound waves (e.g. thick carpet).

Flying over surfaces without clear patterns or texture.

Flying over surfaces with identical repeating patterns or textures (e.g. tiles with same design). 

Flying over inclined surfaces that will deflect sound waves away from the aircraft.

Keep the sensors clean at all times. Dirt or other debris may adversely affect the 

effectiveness of the sensors.

Vision Positioning is only effective when the aircraft is at altitudes of 0 to 3 meters.

The Vision Positioning System may not function properly when the aircraft is flying over water.

The Vision Positioning System may not be able to recognize pattern on the ground in low

light conditions (less than 100 lux).

Do not use other ultrasonic devices with frequency of 40 KHz when Vision Positioning 

system is in operation.

Vision Positioning System may not be able to stabilize the aircraft when flying close to the 

ground (below 0.5 meters) in fast speed.

© 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 15
Phantom 3 Advanced User Manual

Aircraft

Keep the animals away from the aircraft when Vision Positioning system is activated. The 

sonar sensor emits high frequency sound that is only audible to some animals.

Flight Recorder

Flight data is automatically recorded to the internal storage of the aircraft. This includes flight 

telemetry, aircraft status information, and other parameters. Access these data from the DJI Pilot app 

through the Micro-USB Port on the aircraft.

Attaching and Detaching the Propellers

Use only DJI approved propellers with your Phantom 3 Advanced. The grey and black nuts on the 

propeller indicate where they should be attached and in which direction whey should spin. To attach 

the propellers properly, match the nut color with the motor axis color.

Propellers Grey Nut Black Nut

Figure

Attach On Motors with a grey axes Motors with a black axes

Legends

Lock : Turn the propellers in the indicated direction to mount and tighten.

Unlock : Turn the propellers in the indicated direction to loosen and remove.

Attaching the Propellers

1. Attach the propellers with grey nuts onto the motors with grey axes and spin the propellers 

clockwise to secure them in place. Attach the propellers with black nuts onto the motors with 

black axes and spin the propellers counter-clockwise to secure them in place. Be sure to tighten 

each propeller by hand before flight.

16 © 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.
Phantom 3 Advanced User Manual

Ensure propellers are attached to its corresponding motors, otherwise the aircraft cannot take off.

Wear gloves when handling propellers.

Hand tighten each of the propellers on the corresponding motors to ensure it is attached firmly.

Detaching the Propellers

Hold the motor in place with one hand, then spin the propeller in the indicated unlock direction.

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

Ensure that all propellers are in good condition before each flight. DO NOT use aged, 

chipped, or broken propellers.

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

ONLY use original DJI propellers for a better and safer flight experience.

DJI Intelligent Flight Battery

The DJI Intelligent Flight Battery has a capacity of 4480 mAh, a voltage of 15.2 V, and a smart 

charge/ discharge functionality. It should only be charged using an appropriate charger that has 

been approved by DJI.

Aircraft

Intelligent Flight Battery

Charger

The Intelligent Flight Battery must be fully charged before using it for the first time. Refer to 

"Charging the Intelligent Flight Battery" for more information.

Be aware that the output power of the supplied Phantom 3 Advanced charger is 57 W.

DJI Intelligent Flight Battery Functions

1. Battery Level Display: the LED indicators display the current battery level. 

2. Battery Life Display: the LEDs display the current battery power cycle. 

3. Auto-Discharging Function: To prevent swelling, the battery automatically discharges to below 

65% of total power when it is idle for more than ten days. It takes around two days to discharge 

the battery to 65%. It is normal to feel moderate heat being emitted from the battery during the 

discharge process. Discharge thresholds can be set in the DJI Pilot app. 

4. Balanced Charging: Automatically balances the voltage of each battery cell when charging. 

5. Overcharge Protection: Charging automatically stops when the battery is fully charged. 

6. Temperature Detection: The battery will only charge when the temperature is between 0°C (32°F) 

and 40°C (104°F). 

7. Over Current Protection: The battery stops charging when high amperage (more than 8 A) is detected. 

8. Over Discharge Protection: To prevent over-discharge damage, discharging automatically stops 

when the battery voltage reaches 12 V. 

9. Short Circuit Protection: Automatically cuts the power supply when a short circuit is detected. 

© 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 17
Aircraft

Phantom 3 Advanced User Manual

10. Battery Cell Damage Protection: DJI Pilot app displays a warning message when a damaged 

battery cell is detected. 

11.Battery Error History: Browse the battery error history in the DJI Pilot app. 

12.Sleep mode: To save power, the battery enters sleep mode after 20 minutes of inactivity. 

13. Communication: Information pertaining to the battery’s voltage, capacity, current, etc. is 

transmitted to the aircraft’s main controller. 

Refer to Phantom 3 Professional / Advanced Intelligent Flight Battery Safety Guidelines

before use. Users take full responsibility for all operations and usage.

Using the Battery

LED1

LED2

LED3

LED4

Power Button (Bulit-in LED)

 Battery Level Indicators

Turning ON/OFF

Turning On: Press the Power Button once, then press again and hold for 2 seconds to turn on. The Power

LED will turn red and the Battery Level Indicators will display the current battery level. 

Turning Off: Press the Power Button once, then press again and hold for 2 seconds to turn off.

Low Temperature Notice:

1. Battery capacity is significantly reduced when flying in low temperature (< 0°C) environments. 

2. It is not recommended that the battery be used in extremely low temperature (< -10°C) 

environments. Battery voltage should reach the appropriate level when operating environment 

with temperatures between -10°C and 5°C. 

3. End the flight as soon as the DJI Pilot app displays the “Low Battery Level Warning” in low 

temperature environments. 

4. Keep the battery indoors to warm it before flying in low temperature environments. 

5. To ensure optimal performance of the battery, keep the battery temperature above 20°C. 

6. The charger will stop charging the battery if the battery cell’s temperature is not within the 

operating range (0°C ~ 40°C ). 

In cold environments, insert the battery into the battery compartment and allow the aircraft 

for approximately 1-2 minutes to warm up before taking off.

Checking the Battery Level

The Battery Level Indicators display how much power remains. When the battery is turned off, press 

the Power Button once. The Battery Level Indicators will light up to display the current battery level. 

See below for details.

18 © 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.
Phantom 3 Advanced User Manual

The Battery Level Indicators will also show the current battery level during charging and 

discharging. The indicators are defined below.

: LED is on. : LED is flashing.

: LED is off.

Battery Level

LED1 LED2 LED3 LED4 Battery Level

87.5%~100%

75%~87.5%

62.5%~75%

50%~62.5%

37.5%~50%

25%~37.5%

12.5%~25%

0%~12.5%

=0%

Battery life

Battery life refers to how many more times the battery can be discharged and recharged before it must be 

replaced. When the battery is turned off, press and hold the Power Button for 5 seconds to check the 

battery life. The Battery Level Indicators will light up and/or blink for two seconds, as shown below:

Battery Life

LED1 LED2 LED3 LED4 Battery Life

90%~100%

80%~90%

70%~80%

60%~70%

50%~60%

40%~50%

30%~40%

20%~30%

below 20%

When battery life reaches 0%, it can no longer be used.

For more information about the battery, launch the DJI Pilot app and check the information 

that is listed under the battery tab.

Aircraft

© 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 19
Aircraft

Phantom 3 Advanced User Manual

Charging the Intelligent Flight Battery

1. Connect the Battery Charger to a power source (100-240 V 50/60 Hz). 

2. Open the Protection Cap and connect the Intelligent Flight Battery to the Battery Charger. If the 

battery level is above 95%, turn on the battery before charging. 

3. The Battery Level Indicator will display the current battery level as it is charging. 

4. The Intelligent Flight Battery is fully charged when the Battery Level Indicators are all off. 

5. Air-cool the Intelligent Flight Battery after each flight. Allow its temperature to drop to room 

temperature before storing it for an extended period. 

Do not charge the Intelligent Flight Battery and remote controller with standard charger at 

the same time, otherwise the charger may overheat.

Always turn off the battery before inserting it or removing it from the Phantom 3 

Advanced. Never insert or remove a battery when it is turned on.

Power Outlet

Intelligent Flight Battery Charger

Battery Level Indicators While Charging

LED1 LED2 LED3 LED4 Battery Level

0%~25%

25%~50%

50%~75%

75%~100%

Fully Charged

Battery Protection LED Display

The table below shows battery protection mechanisms and corresponding LED patterns.

Battery Level Indicators while Charging

LED1 LED2 LED3 LED4 Blinking Pattern Battery Protection Item

LED2 blinks twice per second Over current detected

LED2 blinks three times per second Short circuit detected

LED3 blinks twice per second Over charge detected

LED3 blinks three times per second Over-voltage charger detected

LED4 blinks twice per second Charging temperature is too low

LED4 blinks three times per second Charging temperature is too high

20 © 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.
Phantom 3 Advanced User Manual

After these issues are resolved, press the Power Button to turn off the Battery Level Indicator. 

Unplug the Intelligent Flight Battery from the charger and plug it back in to resume charging. Note 

that you do not need to unplug and plug in the charger in the event of a room temperature error; the 

charger will resume charging when the temperature is within the allowable range.

DJI does not take any responsibility for damage caused by third-party chargers.

How to discharge your Intelligent Flight Battery:

Slow : Place the Intelligent Flight Battery into the Phantom 3 Advanced’s Battery 

Compartment and turn it on. Leave it on until there is less than 8% of power left, or until the 

battery can no longer be turned on. Launch the DJI Pilot app to check battery levels.

Rapid : Fly the Phantom 3 Advanced outdoors until there is less than 8% of power left, or 

until the battery can no longer be turned on.

Aircraft

© 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 21
Remote Controller

This section describes the features of 

the remote controller and includes 

instructions for controlling the aircraft 

and the camera.

22 © 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.
Remote Controller

Remote Controller Profile

The Phantom 3 Advanced remote controller is a multi-function wireless communication device that 

integrates the video downlink system and aircraft remote control system. The video downlink and 

aircraft remote control system operate at 2.4 GHz. The remote controller features a number of 

camera control functions, such as taking and previewing photos and videos, as well as controlling 

gimbal motion. The remote controller is powered by a 2S rechargeable battery. The battery level is 

displayed via LED indicators on the front panel of the remote controller.

Compliance Version: The remote controller is compliant with both CE and FCC regulations.

Operating Mode: Control can be set to Mode 1 or Mode 2, or to a custom mode.

Mode 1: The right stick serves as the throttle. 

Mode 2: The left stick serves as the throttle.

To prevent transmission interference, do not operate more than three aircrafts in the same area.

Using the Remote Controller

Turning the Remote Controller On and Off

The Phantom 3 Advanced remote controller is powered by a 2S rechargeable battery that has a 

capacity of 6000 mAh. The battery level is indicated via the Battery Level LEDs on the front panel. 

Follow the steps below to turn on your remote controller:

1. When the remote controller is turned off, press the Power Button once. The Battery Level LEDs 

will display the current battery level.

2. Press and hold the Power Button to turn on the remote controller.

3. The remote controller will beep when it is turned on. The Status LED will rapidly blink green, 

indicating that the remote controller is linking to the aircraft. The Status LEDs will glow solid green 

when linking is complete.

4. Repeat Step 2 to turn off the remote controller.

Charging the Remote Controller

Charge the remote controller using the included charger. Refer to the figure below for more details.

Remote Controller

© 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 23
Phantom 3 Advanced User Manual

Remote Controller

Power Outlet

Charger 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.

[5] [1]

[4] [2]

[3]

[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. Move the dial to left or right to scroll through pictures and videos in 

playback mode.

[2] Playback Button

Press to view images and videos that have already been captured.

[3] Shutter Button

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

[4] Video Recoding Button

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

[5] 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.

24 © 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.
Phantom 3 Advanced User Manual

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.

Remote Controller Aircraft

Remarks (Mode 2) ( Indicates Nose Direction)

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 3 Advanced will hover in place.

The more the stick is pushed away from the 

center position, the faster the Phantom 3 

Advanced 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 3 

Advanced will maintain its current orientation.

The more the stick is pushed away from the 

center position, the faster the Phantom 3 

Advanced 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 3 Advanced 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 3 Advanced will hover in place if the 

stick is centered.

Gimbal Dial: Turn the dial to the right, and the 

camera will shift to point upwards. Turn the dial 

to the left, and the camera will shift to point 

downwards. The camera will remain in its 

current position when dial is static.

Remote Controller

© 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 25
Remote Controller

Phantom 3 Advanced User Manual

Flight Mode Switch

Toggle the switch to select the desired flight mode.

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

Position Figure Flight Mode

Position 1 F-mode Position 2

Position 2 A-mode

Position 3 P-mode Position 3

P-mode (Positioning): P-mode works best when the GPS signal is strong. There are three different 

versions of P-mode, which will be automatically selected by the Phantom 3 Advanced depending on 

GPS signal strength and the Vision Positioning sensors:

P-GPS: GPS and Vision Positioning both are available; the aircraft is using GPS for positioning.

P-OPTI: Vision Positioning is available but a sufficient GPS signal is not available. Aircraft is 

using only Vision Positioning for position holding.

P-ATTI: Neither GPS nor Vision Positioning is available, the aircraft is using only its 

barometer for positioning, so only altitude is maintained.

A-mode (Attitude): GPS and Vision Positioning System are not used for stabilization. The aircraft 

uses only its barometer to stabilize. The aircraft can automatically return to the Home Point if remote 

controller signal is lost and the Home Point was recorded successfully.

F-mode (Function): Intelligent Orientation Control (IOC) is activated in this mode. For more 

information about IOC, refer to the IOC section in the Appendix.

By default, the Flight Mode Switch is locked to P-mode. To unlock other flight modes, launch the DJI 

Pilot app, enter the “Camera” page, and tap “Mode”, then activate “Multiple Flight Mode”.

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.

26 © 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.
Phantom 3 Advanced 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.

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

strong weak

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

© 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 27
Phantom 3 Advanced User Manual

Remote

Status LED Alarm

— Solid Red Chime

— Solid Green Chime

Slow Blinking Red

......

D-D-D

/

Red and Green/ Red and None

Yellow Alternate Blinks

RTH LED Sound

— Solid White Chime

Blinking White D . . .

Blinking White DD .. .. ..

Remote Controller Status

The remote controller is disconnected from the 

aircraft. The remote controller is connected to the 

aircraft. Remote controller error.

HD downlink is disrupted.

Remote Controller Status

Aircraft is returning home.

Sending Return-to-Home command to the aircraft.

Return-to-Home procedure in progress.

Controller

The Remote Status Indicator will blink red, 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 DJI Pilot 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

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.

C1 Not Defined C2 Not Defined

You can customize the C1 and C2 buttons on the back 

of the RC.

Linking RC

28 © 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.
Phantom 3 Advanced User Manual

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

beep is emitted. 

RC Control Setting

RC Calibration

Stick Mode

Default stick mode is 

Do not change unless

Searching for aircraft frequency,

timeout in 54 seconds the aircraft is controlled.

Press the linking button on the aircraft to 

link this remote controller

C1 Not

Cancel

Defined Remote

You can customize the C1 and C2 buttons on the back 

of the RC.

Linking RC

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

linking button to start linking. The Remote Controller Status Indicator will display solid green once 

the remote controller is successfully linked to the aircraft. 

Link Button

Controller

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.

© 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 29
Camera and Gimbal

This section provides the technical 

specifications of the camera and 

explains the gimbal’s operation modes.

30 © 2015 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 to1080p at 60 frames per 

second with the Phantom 3 Advanced) and 12 megapixel stills. You may export 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 Pilot 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 3 Advanced. The Phantom 3 Advanced comes with a 16 GB Micro-SD card 

and supports Micro-SD cards up to 64 GB. A UHS-1 Micro-SD card is recommended due to their fast 

read and write time, which will allow you to save high-resolution video data.

Gimbal Camera

Do not remove the Micro-SD card from the Phantom 3 Advanced when it is turned on.

Camera Data Port

Turn on the Phantom 3 Advanced and connect a USB cable to the Camera Data Port to download 

photos and videos to your computer.

Turn on the aircraft before attempting to access the files on the Micro-SD card.

© 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 31
Gimbal Camera

Phantom 3 Advanced User Manual

Camera Operation

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

videos through the DJI Pilot app. For more information about how to use these buttons, refer to 

“Controlling the Camera P24”.

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.

30°

0°

-90°

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

Gimbal Operation Modes

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

camera settings page of the DJI Pilot 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.

32 © 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.
Phantom 3 Advanced User Manual

Anti-Drop Kit

The anti-drop kit helps keep the gimbal and camera connected to the aircraft. Two pins have been 

mounted prior to shipping. If new or additional pins are required, see the diagram below. Press Part 

1 through the hole of the vibration absorber and into the center hole of Part 2 , then lock them 

together as shown 3 . Mounting the anti-drop kit pins diagonally from each other is recommended.

1

3

2

Gimbal Camera

© 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 33
DJI Pilot App

This section introduces the four main 

functions of the DJI Pilot app.

34 © 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.
DJI Pilot App

The DJI Pilot app is a mobile application designed specifically for the Phantom 3 Advanced. Use this app to 

control the gimbal, camera, and other aircraft functions. The app also features Map, Academy, and

User Center, which are used for configuring your aircraft and sharing your photos and videos with others.

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

United States

Mountain View

CAMERA DIRECTOR STORE DISCOVERY

DJI Pilot App

Camera

The Camera page contains a live HD video feed from the Phantom 3 Advanced’s camera. You can 

also configure various camera parameters from the Camera page.

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

[17] MODE P-GPS CL Safe to Fly (GPS) [9]

[16] ISO 1001/320 EV 0 4821 JPEG

[15]

[14]

[10]

[13]

H: 39MD: 1039MV.S: 8.3M/SH.S: 24.2M/S 1.2M

[12] [11] 

© 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 35
DJI Pilot App

Phantom 3 Advanced 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, perform compass calibration, and set the gain values.

[2] GPS Signal Strength

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

strength.

[3] IOC Settings

CL : This icon displays the IOC setting when the aircraft has entered F-mode. Tap to view the 

IOC settings menu and select the desired IOC setting.

[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 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

: Tap to enter various camera value settings, that including color space for the recording, 

size of the video files, image size and so on.

Shutter

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

triple shot or time-lapsed shooting mode.

36 © 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.
Phantom 3 Advanced User Manual

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 function.

Playback

: Tap to enter 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] Vision Positioning

: This ic on shows the distance between the surface and the Vision Positioning System’s sensors.

[12] Flight Telemetry

H: 39MD: 1039MV.S: 8.3M/SH.S: 24.2M/S 1.2M

Vision Positioning Status icon is highlighted when 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.

[13] Map

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

[14] Return to Home (RTH)

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

[15] Auto Takeoff/Landing

/ : Tap to initiate auto takeoff or landing.

DJI Pilot App

© 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 37
DJI Pilot App

Phantom 3 Advanced User Manual

[16] 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.

[17] Back

: Tap to return to the main GUI.

Director

Director is an automatic video editor built into the DJI Pilot app. After recording several video clips, simply tap 

“Director” from the app’s home screen. 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.

Store

Tap “Store” to visit the official DJI Online Store to see the latest information about DJI products and 

easily buy new products.

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".

38 © 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.
Flight

This section describes safe flight 

practices and flight restrictions.

© 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 39
Flight

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

Pilot 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 speed exceeding 10 

m/s ,

snow, rain and smog.

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

Flig

ht

level, as the performance of the battery and aircraft may be affected.

6. The Phantom 3 Advanced 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 Pilot app. Be aware that the 

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

your Phantom 3 Advanced will fly in a restricted cylinder, as shown below:

Maximum Flight Altitude Max Radius

Home Point

Height of aircraft 

when turned on

40 © 2015 DJIAll Rights Reserved
Phantom 3 Advanced User Manual

GPS Signal Strong Blinking Green

Flight Limits DJI Pilot app Aircraft Status Indicator

Maximum Flight Aircraft's altitude cannot Warning: Height

None.

Altitude exceed the specified value. limit reached.

Max Radius Flight distance must be within Warning: Distance Rapid red flashingwhen close to the

the max radius. limit reached. max radius limit.

GPS Signal Weak Blinking Yellow

Flight Limits DJI Pilot app Aircraft Status Indicator

Maximum Height is restricted to 400 Warning: Height limit Flight None.

feet. (120m) and under. reached.

Altitude

Max Radius No limits

Flight

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

If the Inspire 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://flysafe.dji. com/no-fly. No-Fly Zones are 

divided into Airports and Restricted Areas. Airports include major airports and flying field 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 Zone. 

Each zone features circles of various size. 

(2) R1 miles (value of the R1 depends on the size and shape of the airport) around the airport is 

Take-off 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 on a 15 degree inclines. 

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

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

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

will prompt from the DJI Pilot app. 

© 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 41
Phantom 3 Advanced User Manual

16

40

feet

66 feet

1 mile R1

320 feet

R2

Restricted Area

(1) Restricted Area does not have flight altitude restriction.

(2) R miles around the designated restriction area is a Take-off Restricted area. Ai

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

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

miles (1 km) of this zone, a warning message will prompt from the DJI Pilot 

100m R 
42 © 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.
Phantom 3 Advanced User Manual

GPS Signal Strong Blinking Green

Zone Restriction DJI Pilot App Prompt

Aircraft

Status

Indicator

Motors will not start.

Warning: You are in a No-fly

zone. Take off prohibited.

No-fly Zone If the aircraft enters the

restricted area in A-mode,

but is switched to P-mode, Warning: You are in a no-fly zone.

the aircraft will automatically Automatic landing has begun.

descend, land, and stop its

motors.

R1: Warning: You are in a

If the aircraft enters the restricted zone. Descending to Red flashing

Restricted- restricted area in A-mode, but safe altitude.

altitude flight is switched to P-mode, it will R2: Warning: You are in a

zone descend to an appropriate restricted zone. Maximum flight

altitude and hover 15 feet altitude is restricted to between

below the altitude limit. 20m and 500m. Fly cautiously.

Warning zone No flight restriction applies, but Warning: You are approaching a

there will be a warning . restricted zone, Fly Cautiously.

Free zone

No restrictions. None. None.

Flight

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 the safety zone, aircraft status indicator will blink red quickly and continue for 

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

point it will switch back to red blinking.

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.

© 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 43
Phantom 3 Advanced User Manual

Flight

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 Pilot app is successfully connected to the aircraft.

Calibrating the Compass

IMPORTANT: Always to 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 preflight preparations, or if you have moved to a new location since the last calibration, tap “Mode” in 

the app and select “Compass Calibration”, 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.

44 © 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.
Phantom 3 Advanced 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.

Flight

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 DJI Pilot app and follow the on-screen 

instructions to calibrate the compass.

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 3 Advanced has been changed.

4.When severe drifting occurs in flight, i.e. Phantom 3 Advanced 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 Pilot 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 (1.5 meters) above ground. 

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

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.

© 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 45
Phantom 3 Advanced User Manual

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. 

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 outter corners to start the motors. Once the motors have started spinning, release both 

sticks simultaneously.

OR

Flight

Stopping the Motors

There are two methods to stop the motors.

Method 1: When Phantom 3 Advanced 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.

OR

Method 1 Method 2

Do not perform CSC when aircraft is in midair, otherwise the motors will be stopped.

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 the Intelligent Flight Battery. 

3. Launch the DJI Pilot 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 Pilot app. 

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

46 © 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.
Phantom 3 Advanced 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 Pilot 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 stable and smooth.

Flight

© 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 47
FAQ

48 © 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.
Troubleshooting (FAQ)

What is the difference between the Phantom 3 Professional and the Phantom 3 Advanced?

The biggest difference between the Phantom 3 Professional and the Phantom 3 Advanced is in the camera. 

The Phantom 3 Professional is capable of shooting spectacular 4K video at up to 30 frames per second, 

and the Phantom 3 Advanced is capable of shooting at resolutions up to 1080p60. Both models shoot 12 

megapixel photos.

The other main difference is the Intelligent Flight Battery charger. The Phantom 3 Advanced comes with a 

57-watt charging unit and the Phantom 3 Professional comes with a 100-watt charger, the latter of which 

allows for shorter charging times.

Can I remove the camera and attach my own?

No. The cameras that come with both models are permanently attached. Attempting to remove, replace, or 

modify the camera may damage the product and will void your warranty.

Can I charge my Remote Controller and Intelligent Flight Battery at the same time?

While the Remote Controller charger and Intelligent Flight Battery charger have been integrated into one 

unit for your convenience, it is recommended that you only charge one item at a time. We recommend that 

you never charge both items using the same charger at the same time.

What are the buttons on the back of my Remote Controller for?

The two buttons on the back of the Remote Controller can be customized and assigned to function as you 

choose through the DJI Pilot app. Refer to the manual for more information.

How far can I fly my Phantom 3?

The signal transmission distance will vary depending on environmental conditions, but the Phantom 3 series 

can reach distances of up to 1.2 miles (2 kilometers) away from the pilot.

What app should I use with my Phantom 3?

The Phantom 3 is compatible with the DJI Pilot app for iOS and Android, which is already used with the DJI 

Inspire 1. The app will detect which aircraft is connected and automatically adjust accordingly.

Which mobile devices are compatible with the app?

The DJI Pilot app is only compatible with devices running iOS 8.0 or later or Android v4.1.2 or later. 

The following devices are recommended:

iOS: iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus, iPad Air, iPad Air Wi-Fi + Cellular, iPad mini 2, iPad mini 2 Wi-Fi + 

Cellular, iPad Air 2, iPad Air 2 Wi-Fi + Cellular, iPad mini 3, and iPad mini 3 Wi-Fi + Cellular. This app is 

optimized for iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, and iPhone 6 Plus

Android: Samsung S5, Note 3, Sony Z3 EXPERIA, Google Nexus 7 II, Google Nexus 9, Mi 3, Nubia Z7 

mini Support for additional Android devices will become available as testing and development continues.

FA

Q

© 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 49
FA

Q

Phantom 3 Advanced User Manual

How do I use the Director automatic video editor?

Director is an automatic video editor built into the DJI Pilot app. After recording several video clips, simply 

tap “Director” from the app’s home screen. 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.

How do I change the control mode of my Phantom 3?

By default, the Remote Controller is set to Mode 2. This means that the right control stick controls the 

movement of the aircraft and the left control stick controls the throttle and orientation of the aircraft. These 

controls can be changed to Mode 1 or set to a customized configuration in the DJI Pilot app. This is only 

recommended for advanced users.

Can I use a Phantom 2 Remote Controller with the Phantom 3?

No. The Phantom 2 Remote Controller operates on a different frequency. The Phantom 2 Remote 

Controller operates at 5.8 GHz and the new Phantom 3 Remote Controller operates at 2.4 GHz.

Can I use a Phantom 2 Intelligent Flight Battery with the Phantom 3?

No. The Phantom 3 uses a newly designed Intelligent Flight Battery with greater power. The Phantom 3 has 

a 4 cell battery with a capacity of 4480 mAh and a voltage of 15.2 V.

My Phantom 3 does not turn off right away, is something wrong?

This is normal. After you attempt to power off the Intelligent Flight Battery, it may remain on for a few 

seconds as any video data is saved to the Micro SD card. This helps prevent your data from being lost or 

corrupted.

Do I have to buy the Remote Controller separately?

No, there is no need to buy a separate Remote Controller. Your Phantom 3 comes with a Remote Controller 

that is already linked to the aircraft.

Does my Phantom 3 support dual Remote Controllers?

No. The included Remote Controller can be used to control both the aircraft and the gimbal tilt at the same 

time.

What does the “P, A, F” switch on the Remote Controller do?

This switch, called the Flight Mode Switch, allows you to toggle different flight modes:

P-mode, or Positioning mode, indicates that both GPS and the Vision Positioning System are active and 

your Phantom 3 will attempt to stabilize using both.

In A-mode, or Attitude mode, the aircraft does not use GPS or the Vision Positioning System. Only the 

barometer is used for stabilization. The aircraft can still return to the Home Point as long as a sufficient GPS 

signal is available.

F-mode, or Function mode, activates Intelligent Orientation Control (IOC) functionality. Refer to the IOC 

section in the Appendix of the User Manual.

By default, only P-mode may be used. Refer to your user manual for instructions on unlocking the other 

modes.

50 © 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.
Phantom 3 Advanced User Manual

What is the Phantom 3 flight time?

Flight times will vary depending on environmental conditions and usage patterns, but the Intelligent Flight

Battery is designed to provide up to 23 minutes of uninterrupted flight time when fully charged.

How can I restore a video file if the power is turned off during recording?

Do not remove the Micro-SD card from the camera. If it has been removed, place it back in the camera.

Turn the Phantom 3 on and wait approximately 30 seconds as the video file is restored.

How can I ensure that my pictures and videos will be synchronized to my iOS album?

You may need to adjust the settings of your mobile device. Open the Settings menu, select the Privacy tab, 

select the Photos tab, and then toggle the switch next to the DJI Pilot app icon. If the Pilot app has not been 

granted access to your albums, the photos and videos cannot be synchronized.

What should I do to land my Phantom 3 smoothly as possible?

Hover the aircraft over a flat, level surface. Slowly pull the throttle stick down until the aircraft touches the 

ground.

Why is the discharge time of the battery not zero, even though I have never used it?

Every battery is tested prior to being packaged and shipped. This affects the discharge time of a new 

battery and is the reason that the discharge time is not zero. The battery is safe to use.

Can the mobile device holder be used on the Phantom 2 series Remote Controller?

No, it cannot.

How to safely operate the aircraft when encountering compass error?

Compass error may occur when the aircraft is flying close to the strong electric magnetic sources (e.g. 

power transmission lines). Aircraft Status Indicators blink red and yellow rapidly when compass error occurs 

and DJI Pilot app will display the one of the following messages:

• Compass error, calibration required 

This warning message indicates the aircraft receives abnormal compass readings. It is power off the 

aircraft and re-calibrate the compass at the different location and resume the flight. 

• Compass error, exit P-GPS Mode 

This warning message indicates that the aircraft is drifting severely. Bring the aircraft to a higher altitude to 

gain enough GPS locks when this warning message is prompted. The flight controller will automatically 

adjust the orientation of the aircraft in the midair to mitigate the drifts. Aircraft will switch back to P-GPS 

mode when the adjustment is done. 

FA

Q

© 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 51
Appendix

52 © 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.
Appendix

Specifications

Aircraft

Weight (Battery &

1280 g

Propellers Included)

Max. Ascent Speed 5 m/s

Max. Descent Speed 3 m/s

Max. Speed 16 m/s (ATTI mode, no wind)

Max. Flight Altitude 6000 m

Max. Flight Time Approximately 23 minutes

Operating Temperature 0°C to 40°C

GPS Mode GPS/GLONASS

Gimbal

Controllable Range Pitch: - 90° to + 30°

Vision Positioning

Velocity Range < 8 m/s (2 m above ground)

Altitude Range 30 cm-300 cm

Operating Range 30 cm-300 cm

Operating Environment Brightly lit (lux > 15) patterned surfaces

Camera

Sensor Sony EXMOR 1/2.3” Effective pixels:12.4 M (total pixels: 12.76 M)

Lens FOV 94° 20mm(35mm format equivalent ) f/2.8

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

Electronic Shutter Speed 8s -1/8000s

Image Max. Size 4000 x 3000

Single shoot

Burst shooting: 3/5/7 frames

Still Photography Modes Auto Exposure Bracketing (AEB): 3/5

bracketed frames at 0.7EV Bias

Time-lapse

Supported SD Card Types

Micro SD

Max. capacity: 64 GB. Class 10 or UHS-1 rating required

Video Recording Modes

FHD:1920x1080p 24/25/30/48/50/60

HD:1280x720p 24/25/30/48/50/60

Max. Bitrate Of Video

60 Mbps

Storage

FAT32/exFAT

Supported File Formats Photo: JPEG, DNG

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

Operating Temperature

0°C to 40°C

Range

Appendix

© 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 53
Appendix

Phantom 3 Advanced User Manual

Remote Controller

Operating Frequency 2.400 GHz-2.483 GHz

Transmitting Distance 2000 m (Outdoor And Unobstructed)

Video Output Port USB

Operating Temperature Range 0°C- 40°C

Battery 6000 mAh LiPo 2S

Mobile Device Holder Tablets and smartphones

Transmitter Power(EIRP) FCC: 20 dbm; CE:16 dbm

Working Voltage 1.2 A @7.4 V

Charger

Voltage 17.4 V

Rated Power 57 W

Intelligent Flight Battery ( PH3-4480 mAh-15.2 V )

Capacity 4480 mAh

Voltage 15.2 V

Battery Type LiPo 4S

Energy 68 Wh

Net Weight 365 g

Operating Temperature -10°C- 40°C

Max. Charging Power 100 W

Aircraft Status Indicator Description

Normal

Red, Green and Yellow Flash

Alternatively

Green and Yellow Flash Alternatively

Green Flashes Slowly

X2 Green Flashes Twice

Yellow Flashes Slowly

Warning

Fast Yellow Flashing

Slow Red Flashing

Fast Red Flashing

Red Flashing Alternatively

— Solid Red

Red and Yellow Flash Alternatively

Turning on and Self-Checking

Aircraft Warming Up

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

to Fly (P-mode with Vision Positioning but without GPS)

Safe to Fly (A-mode but No GPS and Vision 

Posi-tioning)

Remote Controller Signal Lost

Low Battery Warning

Critical Battery Warning

IMU Error

Critical Error

Compass Calibration Required

54 © 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.
Phantom 3 Advanced User Manual

Intelligent Orientation Control (IOC)

IOC allows users to lock the control orientation of aircraft in different modes. There are three working 

modes for IOC that can be selected in the DJI Pilot app. IOC only works when the aircraft is in Fmode, therefore the user must toggle the flight mode switch to activate IOC. Refer to the table below:

Course Lock (CL)

Home Lock (HL)*

Point of Interest (POI)*

The nose direction, at the time that CL is set, will remain the forward 

direction regardless of how the orientation and position of the aircraft 

changes. This will remain fixed until you reset it or exit CL mode.

Record a Home Point (HP) and enter HL mode. The forward and backward 

controls will move the aircraft farther from and closer to the established Home 

Pont, regardless of how the orientation and position of the aircraft changes.

Point of Interest. Record a point of interest (POI). The aircraft can then 

circle around the POI and the nose will always points toward the POI.

*Home Lock and Point of Interest feature are coming soon.

IOC Requirements

IOC is only available under the following conditions:

Modes IOC GPS enabled GPS counts Flight Distance Limits

Course Lock No None None

Home Lock Yes Aircraft ≥10m Home Point

POI Yes Aircraft 5m~500m Point of Interest

Using IOC

Toggle the Flight Mode Switch F-mode and follow the instructions prompted on the DJI Pilot app to 

select the desired IOC mode.

Appendix

© 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 55
Phantom 3 Advanced User Manual

Appendix

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 roved 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 roved 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.

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 

56 © 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.
Phantom 3 Advanced User Manual

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 roved 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。

Appendix

© 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 57
The content is subject to change.

Download the latest version from

http://www.dji.com/phantom3

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

sending a message to DocSupport@dji.com.

© 2015 DJI. All Rights Reserved.