Black	Hills	Aerial	Media

6050	Magic	Canyon	Rd

Rapid	City,	SD			57702

605-431-3975

July 7, 2015

U.S. Dept. of Transportation, Docket Operations

West Building Ground Floor, Room w12-140

1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., VIA FEDERAL EXPRESS

Washington, DC 20590 VIA FEDERAL DOCUMENT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

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

Regulations

Dear Sir or Madam: 

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

C.F.R. Part 11, Black Hills Aerial Media, LLC (CAV) seeks an exemption from Federal Aviation 

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

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

equipment and crew: 

THE UNMANNED AIRCRAFT (UA): 

• A lightweight (Maximum gross weight of 24.2lb with all on-board equipment), battery operated 

8-motor rotorcraft in the form of an octocopter that takes off and lands vertically, manufactured 

by DJI, Model S1000, modified by the applicant to carry the following equipment in flight; 

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

flight controls from a ground-based transmitter/controller; 

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

photos and video; 

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

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

direction of flight and direction back to its launch site; 

• A 600mW, 5.8GHz on-board radio transmitter that transmits live video to the PIC and camera 

operator from the on-board camera plus all the flight data from the telemetry system described 

above; 

THE GROUND STATION-BASED PART OF THE SYSTEM: 

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

and who controls the UA while in the air;

• A camera operator in operational control of the camera gimbal onboard the UA;

• 2 100mW, 2.4GHz radio transmitters/controllers operated by the PIC and camera operator to 

control the UA and camera gimbal while in flight;

• A radio receiver receiving live video and flight data from the on-board camera and computer 

projects it all together onto a screen for the PIC and camera operator to view during flight; 

• A Visual Observer (VO) is a person who provides a third set of eyes to visually track the UA 

while in flight.

The requested exemption would support an application for a commercial Certificate of
Authorization to use the above described CAV System to support aerial photography and video primarily 

of real property, specifically individual properties of at least two acres in size (equivalent to a square 295 

feet/side).

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

combustible fuel, it operates at lower altitudes with no people on board and will thereby reduce current 

risk levels and thereby enhance safety and diminish the likelihood of death or serious bodily injury. With 

a small payload and maximum flight time of only 20 minutes, this is offers little or no risk to national 

security. 

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

for displaying the characteristics of large, complex properties with several buildings and large trees. The 

applicants in the past have chartered 2-seat full-sized helicopters for this purpose, which has proven more 

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

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

property. 

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

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

all limitations cited in this application as we do so. 

The CAV System will be operated in the field with a PIC, camera operator and a VO in accordance with 

FAA Policy N 8900.227 Section 14 "Operational Requirements for UAS" and with the following 

Restrictions: 

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

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

no more than 40 knots and no further than 3/4 NM from the PIC; 

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

by voice at all times during a flight operation; 

. (d) Operations will be restricted to flights over private property with the permission of the property 

owner; 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

. (n) The PIC will brief the camera operator, VO and property owner about the operation and risk before 

the first flight at each new location; 

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

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

Page 2 of 3
The PIC and VO will meet the requirements outlined in FAA Policy N 8900.227 Section 16 personnel 

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

a course of maintenance instruction as part of their initial training.

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

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

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

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

The name and contact information of the applicant are:

Black Hills Aerial Media, LLC

Attn: Nate Haggerty

Ph: 605-431-3975

Email: nate@blackhillsaerialmedia.com

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

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

level of safety for each regulation: 

- 14 CFR Part 21.................................Addendum Page 1 

- 14 CFR 91.203.................................Addendum Page 1 

- 14 CFR 45.23, 45.29..........................Addendum Page 2 

- 14 CFR 91.9....................................Addendum Page 2 

- 14 CFR 61.113, 61.133.......................Addendum Page 2 

- 14 CFR 91.109, 91.119, 91.121..............Addendum Page 3 

- 14 CFR 91.151.................................Addendum Page 4 

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

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

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

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

forward to working with your office. 

Sincerely, 

Nate Haggerty, Owner

Black Hills Aerial Media, LLC

Addendum containing Exemption Requests and Equivalent Level of Safety

Appendix A – Flight Manual

Appendix B – Owner’s Manual for UA

Page 3 of 3
ADDENDUM

EXEMPTION REQUESTS AND EQUIVALENT LEVEL OF SAFETY

Black Hills Aerial Media, LLC, requests an exemption from the following regulations as well as any 

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

14 CFR Part 21, Subpart H: Airworthiness Certificates 

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

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

experimental certificate be issued for the CAV System under either or both of the following provisions: 

21.191 Experimental certificates.

Experimental certificates are issued for the following purposes:

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

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

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

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

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

compliance with the function and reliability requirements of the regulations.

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

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

permit our commercial purpose as well.

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

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

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

certificated aircraft performing the same mission.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

passengers or crew."

At a maximum gross weight of 24.2 pounds, the UA is too small to carry documentation, does not have 

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

meet the intent of 91.203, we propose that documents deemed appropriate for this aircraft by the FAA 

will be co-located with the crew at the ground control station and available for inspection upon request. In 

order to identify the aircraft, we propose that the information found on airworthiness and registration 

certificates be permanently affixed to the aircraft via placard containing the following information plus 

the word “EXPERIMENTAL” to 

Addendum Page 1 of 4
satisfy the requirement of 14 CFR 45.23, which follows immediately after the proposed placard 

description below: 

EXPERIMENTAL

Manufacturer: DJI Innovations, Inc.

950 E Baseline Ave. Ste. 210

Apache Junction AZ 85119

Model: S1000, Serial Number: 02Q0023722

If found please contact: (605) 431-3975 

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

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

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

letters at least 2 inches high near the entrance to the cabin, cockpit, or pilot station. The UA does not have 

an entrance in which the word "EXPERIMENTAL" can be placed, and may not have a registration 

number assigned to it by the FAA. 

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

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

vicinity of the aircraft while it is preparing for launch will be able to see the designation. Additionally, we 

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

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

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

Since the aircraft will operate within 3/4 NM of the ground station, the banner should be visible to anyone 

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

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

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

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

available to the aircrew while operating the aircraft. We request an exemption to this requirement since 

the aircraft is not only too small to carry documentation, the documentation would not be available to the 

crew during flight operations. 

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

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

is in, or preparing for, flight. 

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

pilot privileges and limitations.

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

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

an aircraft in connection with any business or employment if: (1) The flight is only incidental to that 

business or employment; and (2) The aircraft does not carry passengers or property for compensation or 

hire.

Addendum Page 2 of 4
Our proposed operations require that the PIC must either 

1. Hold a Commercial Pilot Certificate issued by the FAA, and have logged 25 hours of flight experience 

in this type of UA, or 

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

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

Pilot written examination." Since there are currently no means available for the pilot of a UAS to 

gain the experience in an equivalent category and class in order to apply for a commercial pilot's 

license, we propose to generate an equivalent level of safety by requiring our pilots to complete, 

at a minimum, FAA commercial pilot ground instruction and pass the FAA Commercial Pilot 

written examination in addition to completing the private pilot requirements. Since the aircraft 

cannot carry passengers or property, we feel we meet the intent of 61.113 Subparagraph (b) even 

though the intent of this application is to conduct a business.

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

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

unless that aircraft has fully functioning dual controls." 

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

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

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

flight, we feel that this technique meets the intent 91.109 and provides an equivalent level of safety. 

14 CFR 91.119 Minimum safe altitudes: General. 

The regulation states that over sparsely populated areas the aircraft cannot be operated closer than 500 

feet to any person, vessel, vehicle, or structure. Since the aircraft will be operating at a maximum of 400 

feet AGL, we cannot comply with this requirement. 

In order to provide an equivalent level of safety we will only fly over private property with a size of at 

least two acres with the permission of the owner of the property flown over. The aircraft will not be 

operated over congested areas or over any open air assembly of persons. The property owner will be 

briefed on the expected route of flight and the associated risks to persons and property on the ground. The 

aircraft will be operated at a low altitude allowing, if a power unit fails, an emergency landing without 

undue hazard to persons or property on the surface. Therefore we maintain that due to the small size of 

the UA, the hazard to persons, vehicles and structures is minimal compared to manned aircraft, which 

should be considered in granting the exemption. 

14 CFR 91.121 Altimeter settings. 

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

available within 100 NM of the aircraft. 

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

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

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

camera operator, providing a constantly updated AGL readout. 

Addendum Page 3 of 4
14 CFR 91.151 Fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions. 

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

there is enough fuel to fly to the first point of intended landing and to fly after that for at least 30 minutes.

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

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

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

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

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

with the word "energy".

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

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

airworthy condition, including compliance with part 39 and 43. Paragraphs 91.407 and 91.409 require that 

the aircraft be "approved for return to service by a person authorized under 43.7" after maintenance and 

inspection.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

of safety. 

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

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

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

The UA maximum gross weight is 24.2 pounds, it is constructed of carbon fiber and plastic and the PIC is 

not on board. Both the PIC and the VO are required to be in VLOS. Given the unlikely event that both the 

PIC and VO become medically incapacitated while the aircraft is in flight, the UA will return 

autonomously to the site of launching and land without crew intervention. Therefore, requiring the PIC 

and VO to meet the same medical requirements as a commercial pilot carrying passengers in a large 

aircraft is an unnecessary burden. 

We propose that the minimum medical requirements for the PIC and VO be vision corrected to 20/20 and 

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

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

Addendum Page 4 of 4
APPENDIX A – FLIGHT MANUAL

FLIGHT RESTRICTIONS 

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

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

more than 40 knots and no further than 3/4 NM from the PIC; 

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

verbally at all times during a flight operation; 

. (d) Operations will be restricted to flights over private property with the permission of the property 

owner; 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

. (n) The PIC will brief the camera operator, VO and property owner about the operation and risk before 

the first flight at each new location; 

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

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

PRE-FLIGHT CHECKLIST 

(1) Use voltmeter to determine that UA battery is fully charged in order to prevent unexpected premature 

descent; 

(2) Check all wiring connections are tight;

(3) Check all propellers are undamaged and no cracks exist in any structural members of the UA;

(5) Turn on radio controller, check for adequate voltage, set it to connect to the UA, move all control 

switches to forward or down position and throttle control stick full back position;

(6) Connect UA main battery, check for radio contact with UA’s radio receiver;

(7) At a location different from previous flight, re-set GPS and compass to current location;

(8) Turn on transmitter, gimbal and camera. 

 

TO REGAIN CONTROL AFTER LOST RADIO CONTACT 

1. Failsafe = ON

2. Throttle = 50%

3. Mode = ATTI 

4. Failsafe = OFF

5. Mode = GPS 

Appendix A - Page 1 of 2
Appendix A - Page 2 of 2
©2014 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 1

Spreading Wings S1000 

User Manual

V 1.00 

2014.2.24 

www.dji.com 
©2014 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 2

Disclaimer

Thank you for purchasing this DJI product. Please visit the S1000 page on www.dji.com regularly to keep up with 

product information, technical updates and manual corrections. Information in this manual is subject to change 

without notice in line with product upgrades and updates. 

In using this product, you hereby agree to this disclaimer and signify that you have understood all points completely.

When assembling this product, follow all instructions carefully. The manufacturer and seller assume no liability for 

any damage or injury arising from the use of this product.

DJI is a registered trademark of DJI Innovations. Names of product, brand, etc., appearing in this manual are 

trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owner companies. This product and manual are copyrighted 

by DJI Innovations with all rights reserved. No part of this product or manual shall be reproduced in any form 

without the prior written consent or authorization of DJI Innovations. No patent liability is assumed with respect to 

the use of the product or information contained herein.
©2014 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 3

About

The S1000 is designed for professional aerial photography and cinematography. It is user friendly, safe, stabilized

and easy to fly while its integrated design makes assembly and configuration simple and fast. Retractable landing 

gear, vibration dampers, small frame arm incline and minimalized gimbal mount allows for a clear 360 degree view 

from the camera. An integrated power hub with patented coaxial connectors, built-in high-speed ESCs and motors

with high efficiency propellers ensure dynamic stability and maximized power efficiency. Used with a professional 

DJI multi-rotor autopilot system, the S1000 can hover and fly reliably making it ideal for photography and 

cinematography.
©2014 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 4

Contents

Disclaimer................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 2

About........................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 3

Contents..................................................................................................................................................................................................................4

Caution .................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 5

In The Box............................................................................................................................................................................................................... 6

Tools Required...................................................................................................................................................................................................... 6

Mounting Landing Gear .................................................................................................................................................................................... 7

Mounting Frame Arms ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 8

Mounting Electronics and Wiring ..................................................................................................................................................................11

Connecting XT60 Ports on Center Frame................................................................................................................................................16

Installing Battery .................................................................................................................................................................................................16

Setting Landing Gear........................................................................................................................................................................................18

Mounting the Gimbal....................................................................................................................................................................................... 20

Appendix...............................................................................................................................................................................................................22

ESC Sound..................................................................................................................................................................................................22

ESC LED......................................................................................................................................................................................................22

Specifications.............................................................................................................................................................................................23

FAQ.........................................................................................................................................................................................................................24

Soldering the ESC....................................................................................................................................................................................24

Remounting the Propeller.....................................................................................................................................................................24

Propeller Precautions .............................................................................................................................................................................24

Using Propeller Holder...........................................................................................................................................................................25

Assembling Motor Vibration Absorbers ..........................................................................................................................................25

Remounting Landing Gear Servo.......................................................................................................................................................25

Recalibrating Servo Travel....................................................................................................................................................................26
©2014 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 5

Caution 

When flying, fast rotating propellers may cause serious damage and injury. Please fly safe at all times. 

Assembly Cautions

(1) Mount the GPS module with a bracket, to avoid interference with the power board on the center frame. 

(2) Ensure the IMU is mounted with the arrow pointing toward the front. 

(3) If using a receiver, attach it under the bottom board of the center frame with the end of the antenna 

facing downwards away from obstructions to avoid loss of control due to signal loss. 

(4) Ensure frame arms are mounted correctly. 

a) Motor mounts with CCW marks should be mounted to the corresponding center frame positions 

with the following marks: M1, M3, M5, and M7.

b) Motor mounts with CW marks should be mounted to the corresponding center frame positions with 

the following marks: M2, M4, M6, and M8. 

(5) Do not remove any glued-in screws. 

(6) Tighten screws appropriately. Screws marked with blue glue can be used without thread locker once. On 

other occasions, apply appropriate thread locker.

(7) S1000 should be raised above the ground when testing landing gear or recalibrating servo travel. 

(8) Notice that matching the indicators is very important. Please pay attention to them. 

Flight Cautions

(1) ESCs are not water-proof, do not fly in rain or snow.

(2) Ensure all parts are in good condition before each flight. Do not fly with worn or broken parts. 

(3) Ensure propellers and motors are installed correctly and propellers are unfolded before flying. 

(4) Ensure ESC signal connectors and power cable connectors are tight and reliable before every flight.

(5) When flying, stay away a safe distance from people, buildings, high-voltage lines, tall trees, water and 

other hazards. 

(6) Use only 6S LiPo batteries for the power supply. 

(7) Ensure all output signals from M1 to M8 are in proper working order when using the DJI A2 flight control 

system to avoid damage or injury. 

(8) Do not overload the system. 

(9) Do not get close to or touch motors or propellers when they are spinning as this can cause serious injury. 

(10) Disconnect battery and remove camera during breaks and transportation to avoid damage or injury.

(11) We strongly recommend using as many DJI parts as possible. 

Others 

(1) If you have any problem you cannot resolve, contact your dealer or DJI customer service. 
©2014 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 6

In The Box 

Center Frame×1 Frame Arm×8

Landing Skid Tube×2 

(with Silicone Rubber Damper) Landing Gear Leg×2 

GPS Collapsible Mount×1 Spring×2 

 

Connector Set×1 3-PIN Servo Cable×1

Screw Package×1 Accessories package×1 

For frame arms mount: M4x35

For landing gear mount: M3x8, M2.5x6.7

Heat-shrinkable tube (diameter of 10mm)

Tools Required 

Tools Usage 

2.0mm Hex Wrench, 2.5mm Hex Wrench Mounting screws.

Thread Locker Fastening screws.

Nylon Cable Tie

Scissors Binding devices and wires.

Cutting Pliers/Dykes

Foam Double Sided Adhesive Tape Mounting receiver, controller and other modules.

Hot Air Gun Fixing power cable connectors.
©2014 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 7

Mounting Landing Gear 

Instructions 

1. Slide landing gear leg into landing skid tube then affix the joints with M2.5x6.7 screws. Ensure silicone 

rubber dampers are attached.

2. Insert the landing gear leg into connection point on the center frame. Affix in place with M3x8 screws.

3. Connect springs to both parts to ensure safety. 

4. Complete. Spring length is 58.5mm unstretched and 70mm stretched.

70mm
©2014 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 8

Mounting Frame Arms 

Instructions 

1. Check arms.

(1) Check propellers for cracks, then install and screw propeller cover on tightly.

(2) Ensure motors are mounted firmly and rotate freely.

(3) Mount arms with red propeller covers to M1 and M2 to indicate the nose of the S1000.

(4) Distinguish marks CW and CCW on the arms. Mount the arms with mark CCW to the M1, M3, M5, and M7

positions of the center frame. The arms marked CW should be mounted to the M2, M4, M6, and M8

positions of the center frame.

Cover

LED*

Screw Mount

CW or CCW Mark

*LED is on after motor started.

ESC Signal Cable

Power Cable

Motor

ESC

Screw

Propeller

2. Insert frame arm vertically into the mounting area on the center frame. 

3. Adjust screw mounts of frame arm and center frame.

4. Insert the M4x35 screw from the right of the frame arm as the thread is located on the left of the screw 

mount. Tighten screw appropriately. Over tightening may lead to connector abrasion.
©2014 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 9

5. Gently lift frame arm.

6. Twist knob to lock in place. Be sure there is an audible click sound to ensure a proper lock. Check the 

arm for movement. To store, untwist the knob and lower frame arm. 

7. Plug ESC signal cable into center frame.

8. Plug power cable into center frame. Heat-shrinkable tubes can be used to stop the connector from 

coming off.
©2014 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 10

9. Ensure all ESC signal cables (red) and power cables (blue) are connected to the center frame correctly.

Power cables can be fixed to center frame pillars to tidy them away. Make sure to use heat-shrinkable 

tubes correctly (orange).

 

10. Double check all frame arms. Arms M1 and M2 are the forward facing (nose), arms M5 and M6 are the tail. 

Seen from the top, motors on arms M1, M3, M5 and M7 rotate counter clockwise while those on arms M2, 

M4, M6 and M8 rotate clockwise.

M1

M3

M5

M7

M2

M4

M6

M8
©2014 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 11

Mounting Electronics and Wiring

Eight positions are reserved for mounting a flight control system, wireless video transmission module, receiver, and 

other items. The DJI A2 flight control system has been used here as an example. If using an A2, follow mounting and 

wiring instructions found in the A2 flight control system user manual. If using the DJI WK-M flight control system, 

please refer to the WK-M user manual for connections. Also be sure your firmware on your DJI flight controller has 

been updated to the latest version.

Instructions 

1. Attach IMU module to the IMU area of the center frame. Ensure that it points toward the nose and does 

not touch any other components as vibration can cause it to malfunction.

2. Attach the PMU module to the center frame.

Reserved

position

Reserved

position

M

M

1

2

M3

M4

M5

6 M

M7

M8

3. Mount the main controller in the reserved position near the PMU module.

Reserved

Position
©2014 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 12

4. Attach the GPS collapsible mount to the center frame using M2.5x6.7 screws. Washer for GPS 

collapsible mount is pre-installed on the center frame. To install GPS collapsible mount, remove the screw 

from the washer then follow the below instructions:

(1) Remove screw 1 from the center frame. 

(2) Position GPS collapsible mount then return the screw to its original position and tighten.

(3) Remove remaining screw 2 from center frame.

(4) Position GPS collapsible mount then return screw to its original position and tighten. 

5. Mount a GPS module to the GPS mount with a bracket. Ensure the arrow points toward the nose and 

avoid catching fingers in the bracket when folding for transportation.

 

1 2

 

1 2

 

 

M1

M2

6. The other reserved positions are indicated in the diagram below and can be used for mounting a receiver, 

LED flight indicator, iOSD module and wireless video transmission module.
©2014 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 13

7. Check that every anti-drop system has been firmly installed in the reserved positions. Thread locker is 

recommended.

(1) Remove anti-drop to add appropriate thread locker.

(2) Replace and tighten.

Notes 

(1) Only mount the IMU in the IMU position of the center frame.

(2) Mount the GPS with a bracket to avoid interference from the center frame power board.

(3) Use glue to install the GPS bracket. Ensure it is firm and reliable before every flight.

(4) Always test motors using the Assistant Software after installation. Refer to the “Flight control system user 

manual” for details.
©2014 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 14

Connecting main controller to center frame 

1. Finish flight control system connection according to the A2 flight control system user manual.

2. Link connector set (blue) to ESC signal outlet on the center frame then link connector set (blue) to main 

controller as shown below.

(1) Yellow 4-pin cables are for M1~ M4 connections. Yellow cable should be connected to M1.

(2) Brown 4-pin cables are for M5~ M8 connections. Brown cable should be connected to M5.

(3) Black 4-pin cables are for four continuous ground pins connections. M1~M4 are connected as the 

following diagram shows.

M1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

M

M

M

M

M

M

M

M1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

M

M

M

M

M

M

M

Notes 

If using a DJI WK-M flight controller, you must use the wires that came with the WK-M. M1 through M6 

correspond to each motor number. M7 corresponds to F1 and M8 corresponds to F2 on the WK-M. 

M1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

M

M

M

M

M

M

M

M1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

M

M

M

M

M

M

M
©2014 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 15

Connecting main controller and landing gear 

1. Connect left servo cable near M4 to the “RLG” port near M4 on the center frame, then ensure the “RLG”

port near M3 is connected to the “L” port of the landing gear control board.

2. Connect right servo cable near M7 to the “R” port of the landing gear control board using a servo cable.

3. For the A2 flight control system, connect the F1 port of the main controller to “IN” port of the landing gear 

control board. Other flight control systems connect a 2-position channel receiver to the “IN” port.

M1

M2

M3

M4

M5

M6

M7

M8

RLG GLR

M1

M2

M3

M5

M6

M7

M8

Cable of

left servo

 

M4

Cable of

right servo

 

Notes 

(1) If right and left servo cables are reversed, landing gear will not be function.

(2) Wire neatly to avoid cables being damaged by frame edges. 
©2014 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 16

Connecting XT60 Ports on Center Frame

The bottom board is a power distribution board with three XT60 connectors for battery power.

Instructions 

1. Connect PMU power cable to XT60 connector on top of the bottom board.

2. Connect landing gear control board cable to XT60 connector on the bottom of the bottom board.

3. Other connectors can supply power for other DJI devices if required. 

Installing Battery

Soldering battery connectors 

AS150 anti spark connectors are used. They must be soldered to battery power cables.

1. Remove original battery connector. Avoid cutting power and ground cables at the same time as this can 

cause a short circuit. We recommend wrapping unsoldered cable with insulating tape to prevent 

accidental connection. 

2. Pass the black ground wire through the black housing. After passing the wire through, solder the female 

bullet connector to the ground wire. Wait for the soldered connection to cool, then pull the housing back 

over the bullet connector.

3. Screw and pass the red power wire through the red housing. After passing the wire through, solder the 

male bullet connector to the power wire. Wait for the soldered connection to cool, and then screw and

pull the housing back over the bullet connector. 

Connectors soldering diagram
©2014 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 17

Connectors are soldered

Installing and connecting battery 

1. Attach battery to battery tray. Do not use an oversized battery. Maximum installation dimension is 80mm

X 120mm X 200mm.

2. Insert black connector1 then red connector2 to power on. Pull out red connector2 then black 

connector1 to power off.

1

1 2

2
©2014 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 18

Setting Landing Gear

Using a 2-position R/C transmitter switch, landing gear retraction can be carried out remotely.

Setting up the transmitter 

Select a 2-position switch (default setting is OK) as the control input for the landing gear. Ensure the 

corresponding receiver port is connected to the “IN” port on control board. For the A2 flight control system, 

connect the main controller’s F1 port to “IN” port on control board.

 Raise: Toggle the switch to this position to raise the landing gear.

 Lower: Toggle the switch to this position to lower the landing gear.

 

Notes: 

(1) If the transmitter switch has a FailSafe function, set the FailSafe value to the [Lower] position. This 

ensures that landing gear will lower automatically when the receiver enters FailSafe mode.

(2) To avoid accidental switch triggering, slide levers or other controls can be used for landing gear control.

Usage procedures 

1. Ensure transmitter and receiver batteries are fully charged.

2. Toggle switch to [Lower] position, and then turn on transmitter.

3. Ensure [R], [L] and [IN] connections are correct.

4. Ensure landing gear is in the [Lower] position then power on the system. If the green LED on the landing 

gear control board is solid, everything is normal. If it flashes green slowly, re-calibrate the system according 

to instructions in “Recalibrating Servo Travel”.

5. Toggle switch to [Raise] position ONLY AFTER takeoff.

6. Toggle switch to [Lower] position for landing.

Tips 

(1) Servo power will shut off within 3 seconds after the landing gear has reached its target position.
©2014 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 19

(2) When powering on the system, if the transmitter switch is in the [Raise] position, the LED will flash red 

quickly as a warning. Toggle the switch to the [Lower] position to continue.

(3) If there is an abnormal signal or no signal input into the [IN] port, the LED will slowly flash red. Check 

receiver and connections for problems.

(4) If servo power consumption is too high, the LED will light up red. If this lasts more than 4 seconds, 

landing gear will lower and the LED will flash green slowly. Re-calibration is needed before flying.

(5) A2 flight control system users can use the A2 Assistant Software to set intelligent gear on the 

“Advanced” page. Refer to the “A2 flight control system user manual” for details.

LED Control Board Indicator 

System normal

Calibration required

Recalibration required

Calibration failed

Enter calibration mode

System calibrating

Motor stalled

Unsafe startup alert

Input signal abnormal

 

Specifications 

Parameter Range Parameter Range 

Working Voltage 3S~6S (LiPo) Input Signal PWM (High-Pulse Width 800us~2200us)

Working Current Max 1A@6S Output Signal PWM(Mid Position is 1520us) in 90Hz

Working Temperature -20~70oC Output Voltage 6V

Total Weight 875g Servo Travel 150o (Minimum120o)
©2014 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 20

Mounting the Gimbal

Before assembling the gimbal, install GCU as shown below. Be sure to install on the side as shown below. A DJI 

Z15-5D gimbal has been used as an example in the following diagrams.

The connectors on gimbal should be removed for better performance, then the gimbal can be mounted to the lower 

connection points. A DJI Z15-5D gimbal has been used as an example in the following diagrams. 
©2014 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 21

Check that the system’s center of gravity is at the blue line as shown in the below diagram. 
©2014 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 22

Appendix

ESC Sound

ESC State Sound 

Ready ♪1234567--B--B

Throttle stick is not at bottom BBBBBB...

Input signal abnormal B--------B--------B...

Input voltage abnormal BB---BB---BB---BB...

ESC LED

ESC State LED 

Standby Off

Motor rotating Solid Red or Green On

Motor rotating at full throttle position Solid Yellow On

Tips: 

DJI ESCs are specially designed for multi-rotors. When used with DJI autopilot systems parameters and travel 

ranges do not have to be calibrated. 
©2014 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 23

Specifications 

Frame 

Diagonal Wheelbase 1045mm

Frame Arm Length 386mm

Frame Arm Weight 

(with Motor, ESC, Propeller ) 

325g

Center Frame Diameter 332mm

Center Frame Weight (with Landing Gear 

Mounting Base, Servos) 

1330g

Landing Gear Size 

460mm(Length)×511mm(Width)×350mm(Height) 

(Top width: 155 mm)

Motor 

Stator Size 41×14mm

kV 400rpm/V

Max Power 500W

Weight (with Cooling Fan) 158g

ESC 

Working Current 40A

Working Voltage 6S LiPo

Signal Frequency 30Hz ~ 450Hz

Drive PWM Frequency 8KHz

Weight (with Radiators) 35g

Foldable Propeller (1552/1552R) 

Material High strength performance engineered plastics

Size 15×5.2inch

Weight 13g

Flight Parameters 

Takeoff Weight 6.0Kg ~ 11.0Kg

Total Weight 4.2Kg

Power Battery LiPo (6S、10000mAh~20000mAh、15C(Min))

Max Power Consumption 4000W

Hovering Power Consumption 1500W (@9.5Kg Takeoff Weight)

Hovering Time 15min (@15000mAh& 9.5Kg Takeoff Weight)

Working Environment Temperature -10 oC ~ +40 oC
©2014 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 24

FAQ

Soldering the ESC 

Be sure to solder the thick wires and fine wires correctly when soldering an ESC to the frame arm.

Clockwise (CW) and counter clockwise (CCW) motors should be soldered to the ESC in order of color.

CCW arms CW arms 

G V G P

G V G P

Fine wire

Thick wire

Blue

Black

Red

Thick wire

Fine wire

Blue

Solder pad

Black

Red

Remounting the Propeller

Instructions 

1. Use two M3x8 screws and four washers to remount propeller.

2. Apply thread locker to the thread of the propeller mount first.

3. Affix screws with 4Kg.cm (0.4N.m) torque..

Tips: Refer to original screw tensions if unfamiliar with torque measurements. Applying thread locker to the 

propeller mount first avoids getting thread locker into the holes of the plastic propeller.

Notes: Loose screws cannot be securely locked with thread locker. 

Propeller Precautions 

Torque markers on the screws and propeller covers will give you a visual cue to check whether the propellers are 

loose. Check the torque markers before every flight.
©2014 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 25

Using Propeller Holder 

Instructions 

1. Insert blades to propeller holder.

2. Attach propeller holder to frame arm.

 

 

 

Assembling Motor Vibration Absorbers 

A soft gasket is part of the vibration absorber. Assembly of the soft gasket must be carried out as per the diagram 

below. Assembly is the same for CCW and CW propellers. 

Remounting Landing Gear Servo

Remounting servos is not recommended as they come pre-installed. 
©2014 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 26

Instructions 

1. Connect left servo cable near M4 to the “RLG” port near M4 on the center frame, then connect the 

“RLG” port near M3 to the “L” port of the landing gear control board using a servo cable.

2. Connect the right servo cable near M7 to the “R” port of the landing gear control board using a servo 

cable.

3. Pressing the SET button using a pin then power on. You will see a yellow LED beside the SET button

flashes quickly. Wait as servos complete position initialization.

4. Make sure the arm connecting to the servo is parallel to the link. (Shown in the following Fig).

5. Assemble the left and right servos to the left and the right parts of the landing gear. Power off.

To right servo 

To RLG of M3 “ ” 

To receiver channel

To F1 port if use A2

 

( )

SET Button

LED

Finished Installation

Servo

Connecting 

arm Link

Recalibrating Servo Travel

Landing gear travel has been pre-calibrated. Mechanical adjustment of gear travel is not recommended. 

Instructions 

1. Keep hands away from all mechanisms.

2. Ensure [R], [L] and [IN] connections are correct.

3. Hang S1000 in the air during calibration as landing gear will move.

4. Press and hold the SET button using a pin while powering on, then release. An LED will flash yellow

quickly. Press the SET button again. Auto calibration will begin and the LED will flash yellow slowly. DO 

NOT obstruct any moving parts during auto calibration.

5. During calibration, the left side landing gear will raise and lower. Afterwards, the right side will do the 

same. 

6. After calibration, both left and right parts will be lowered and the LED will be a solid green. This indicates 

that the landing gear is working properly.
©2014 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 27

Notes 

(1) If the LED is solid yellow after calibration, a problem has occurred. Carry out Remounting Landing Gear 

Servo then try again.

(2) Avoid obstructions during calibration. If the landing gear was obstructed, recalibration is required using 

the above steps.

(3) If [R] and [L] servo cables are reversed, travel will not be measured correctly. Connect correctly and 

recalibrate the landing gear using the above steps.