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Hand Controller Video and Data Display 5

5.2.1 Telemetry and airframe data display 

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng

Date and 

time 

Aircraft 

Battery Status

Ground 

Station Battery 

Number of 

GPS satellites 

acquired

Recording 

Activated 

system 

functions

AirRobot

Status

GPS 

coordinates

Distance to 

Home Point

Altitude

Payload 

used

Ground Speed 

(not Airspeed)

Elapsed 

Flight Time

Heading 
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Activated airframe functions

Recording

(–) (blinking) = Recorder initialized, preparing recording

– = Recorder ready

R = Recording on USB

(R) (blinking) = Video file is being saved

(H) (blinking) = Home on lost link engaged

– = Home on lost link disengaged

G = GPS auto positioning and assisted tele op activated

O = OPS auto positioning activated

– = No GPS or OPS assistance system activated

B = Geo fence activated

– = Geo fence deactivated

Shows the status of the digital media recorder in the ground 

station. The recorder is activated with powering on the 

ground station. When a USB stick is connected to the ground 

station it is ready to record the video displayed coming from 

the payloads. (→ „Start video recording (on USB stick)“, P 49).

Provides information about activated functions of 

the airframe

Hand Controller Video and Data Display

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AirRobot Status

O = OPS-system within working range

– = OPS-system out of working range

Displays status of aircraft functions based on 

feedback from the aircraft

G = Airframe flies in auto home mode

H = Automated Flight to „Home Position‘ is executed

W =

Waypoint mission plan is executed

or

Fly to last mission position is executed

– = No GPS availability

R = Remote uplink is up

H = Auto home on lost link is being executed

L = Emergency landing is in progress

– = Remote uplink is lost

Hand Controller Video and Data Display

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GPS Reception

Date and Time

GPS Position Coordinates

Displays date and time. Time and date are generated 

from GPS satellite data and updated. If there is a lack 

of GPS link or lost video data downlink date and time 

are buffered in the ground station. Available display 

formats are (Settings: → „5.2.3 Menu video/data 

display“, P 60) :

• dd.mm.yy hh:mm

• mm-dd-yy hh:mm

• DTG (Example on the left)

Displays GPS coordinates of the flight platform.

Selectable display formats (Settings: → „5.2.3 Menu video/

data display“, P 60) 

• Longitude - Latitude

• MGRS-Format with 10m Grid

Day

Month

Time zone Year

Time

Shows number of satellites acquired. For sufficient GPS lock 

(displayed with a „G“ in the AirRobot Status bar) and effective 

use of GPS auto positioning and navigation a minimum of 

6 satellites is required.

Format DTG

Hand Controller Video and Data Display
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Hand Controller Video and Data Display

Ground Station Battery Status

Flight Platform Battery Status

Displays the remaining capacity of the aircraft battery. 

5 bars indicate full capacity. With one bar left the flight time 

is between 3 to 8 minutes.

Distance to Home Point

Distance to Home Point

Displays the distance of the aircraft to the set “home point”. 

Home point should be set prior to starting the mission. 

(→ „Auto navigation controls“, P 39). 

Selectable units are meter and feet. 

(→ „Settings“, P 18)

Note:

The remaining battery capacity is only be displayed on the video and data display. There are 

no acoustical warnings alerting the operator of 

depleted batteries. The system should always be 

flown through the video in the first person shooter 

perspective and not line of site to the aircraft. This 

ensures that status of flight battery, ground station battery and GPS availability always remain in 

plain sight to the operator. 

Displays the remaining capacity of the ground station battery

Note:

When the last bar is blinking flight time will be 

less then 2 minutes and emergency landing will 

be initiated within this time. When blinking look for 

suitable unobstructed landing place. Emergency 

landing on depleted battery can only safely performed from altitudes < 60 ft. REDUCE ALTITUDE 

WHEN BATTERY IS LOW
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Flight Direction (Heading by way of compass)

Elapsed Flight Time

Displays elapsed flight time in minutes.

Flight Speed

Displays the ground speed of the aircraft. (not the airspeed)

Selectable units are Kilometer/Stunde (kmh) or Miles/hour 

(mph) (Settings: → „5.2.3 Menu video/data display“, P 60) 

Displays the heading by way of compass in degrees.

North heading equals value 0 degrees, increasing angle 

is clockwise:

Hand Controller Video and Data Display
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Hand Controller Video and Data Display

Altitude

Payload

Shows altitude of airframe relative to take off point based on 

barometric sensor. 

Selectable units are m and ft 

Note:

Displays the relative altitude to the take off point 

and NOT the ground clearance. Always keep 

video display in sight and watch for appropriate 

ground clearance independent from reading.

Displays activated payload. Only applies to aircraft with 

multiple payload bays (AR200 and AR180)
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5.2.2 Notifications in Video and Data Display

Warning messages - „threshold altitude exceeded“ and „threshold distance exceeded“

The video/data display can show warning messages when maximum threshold altitude is 

reached (if activated by operator) or when maximum threshold distance from Home Point is 

reached. (if activated by operator). Activation and setting of threshold values is done through 

the menu of the video/data display. (Settings: → „5.2.3 Menu video/data display“, P 62)

Warning message „altitude exceeded“

(Message blinks)

Warning message „distance exceeded“

(Message blinks)

Hand Controller Video and Data Display

Maximum threshold altitude exceeded:

The current altitude exceeds the pre set 

maximum value

Warning Altitude Exceeded (blinking)

Maximum threshold distance exceeded:

The current distance of the flight platform from the 

home point exceeds the pre set maximum value

Warning Altitude Exceeded (blinking)
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Hand Controller Video and Data Display

Warning NO GPS:

If GPS reception (→ „GPS satellite reception“, P 56) is insufficient for stable reliable operation 

under GPS the warning is displayed.

General Error Messages:

Before a take off and after each engine start the system performs an internal pre flight check. 

If malfunctions are detected an error message will be displayed on screen. In addition the 

airframe will not take off.

→ „8.2 Error Codes“, P 98
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5.2.3 Menu video/data display

The home menu for the video and data display can 

be called up with the »Enter«-Button» in the button field »Menu Navigation» (→ „Menu navigation“, 

P 45)

A slight movement of Joystick 2 will close all menus 

immediate. Settings not stored prior to closing the 

menu will not be saved and applied.

Menu displays on the video and data display are 

only shown on screen and not recorded in the video 

file which is saved on the USB stick. 

The arrow buttons are used to navigate in the menu. 

Menu items are selected using the »Enter».

Main menu of the video/data display

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng

Hand Controller Video and Data Display

Menu structure and settings accessible through the video/data display of the hancontroller

max Altitude

ein ↔ aus

max Altitude

0...65536m

max Distance

ein ↔ aus

max Distance

0...65536m

Back

Main menu

„AirRobot BKS3“

Time/Date

dd.mm.yy ↔ mm-dd-yy ↔ DTG

Coordinates

lat / lon ↔ MGRS

Units

Meter ↔ Feet

Submenu

„Messages“

Back

Back Submenu

„System Information“

Back

Language

German ↔ English

Submenu

„Dateneinschreibung“

Drone ID

AR0...AR65536

Channel

0...15 (customer specific)

Protocol

binary ↔ ascii

Back

Submenu „Connections“
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AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng

Hand Controller Video and Data Display

Menu navigation

»Menu-Navigation«-

Button field

• Move cursor up

• Press once - Change value up by 1 unit

• Press consistently - Running number value 

change up 

• Display menu

• Open or confirm selected menu item

• Store changed value

• Move cursor down

• Press once = Change value down by 1 unit

• Press consistently = Running number value 

change down

Note:

Before the first flight mission make yourself 

sufficiently familiar with the different menus and 

functions accessible. Always consider that when 

menus are displayed, the live video feed from 

the airframe is not displayed resulting in limited 

situational awareness for the operator.

The three buttons of the menu navigation field are used to 

navigate in between menu lines and to select and confirm 

menu items to change settings or store position data.
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Hand Controller Video and Data Display

Submenu connections

Submenu „Link“

Submenu “Connections protocol”: Determines 

the communication protocol between the 

ground control station and the flight platform:

• binary (Default)

• ascii

Important:

Changes of the communication settings (Protocol, Drone ID, Channel) on the 

ground station will result in an immediate loss of communication between ground 

station and airframe. 

DO NOT MAKE CHANGES while airframe is in flight. Only make changes when 

airframe is on the ground and engines are off!

Drone ID (only available if connection protocol 

is set to „binary“): To enable secure point to 

point connection in between flight platform and 

ground control station, both components need 

to be set to identical drone IDs. 

The drone ID of the flight platform is pre programmed by the manufacturer and by default 

is the serial number of the aircraft. 

To pair different airframes with a ground station 

the drone ID in the ground station has to be set 

to the drone ID of the flight platform.

Channel: Flight platform and ground control station 

must be set to the same radio communication 

channel. 

By default there are 16 channel combinations 

pre programmed into the flight platform and 

ground control station. 

The corresponding up and downlink frequency 

combinations are displayed in the video and 

data display.
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Hand Controller Video and Data Display

Channel selection on video/data display Channel Selection in the ground station 

and on the flight platform. 

(black area = switch ON)

To set the flight platform and the ground control station to the same channel proceed 

as follows:

► Turn off flight platform and remove flight battery

► Select the desired channel in the video and data display of the hand controller.

► Select channel on flight platform: Adjust DIP switch according to the schematics displayed 

on the video and data display (see example)

► Insert flight battery, power on flight platform

Example: The following images show examples for various channel settings in the ground 

control station and the corresponding DIP configurations on the flight platform. 

(DIP switch number 1 is not relevant for channel switching):
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Submenu Data Embedding

Submenu „Data embedding“

Date/Time: Determines the format in which date 

and time are displayed. (→ „Date and Time“, 

P 56) The format can be changed using the 

Enter Button of the menu navigation button field.

Coordinates: Sets the format of the coordinates 

displayed embedded in the video screen. 

(→ „GPS position coordinates“, P 56) 

The format can be changed using the Enter 

Button of the menu navigation button field.

Units: Sets the measurement units in which the distance and the ground speed are displayed.The 

format can be changed using the Enter Button of 

the menu navigation button field.

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng

Hand Controller Video and Data Display

Submenu „Messages“

Submenu Warning Messages 

and Settings

Maximum threshold altitude ON/OFF : Activates 

and deactivates the warning messages when 

maximum threshold altitude from home point 

is reached. By default this warning message is 

activated.

Maximum threshold altitude (Altitude Value): 

Sets the value of the maximum threshold 

altitude. If this value is exceeded during flight 

a warning message will be displayed on the 

video and data display. The value can be set 

between 0 and 65535 m. By default this value 

is set to 150 ft.

Maximum threshold distance ON/OFF: Activates 

and deactivates the warning messages when 

maximum threshold distance from home point 

is reached. By default this warning message is 

activated.

Maximum threshold distance (Distance Value): 

Sets the value of the maximum threshold 

distance If this value is exceeded during flight a 

warning message will be displayed on the video 

and data display. The value can be set between 

0 and 65535 m. By default this value is set to 

1050m
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Hand Controller Video and Data Display

Submenu system information

Submenu System Information

Version: Version of the ground control station 

software

Language Settings

Under the menu item language the language in which the menu items and the warning 

messages are displayed can be selected. Languages are selected using the enter button of 

the menu navigation button field. The following languages are selectable:

• German 

• English

Temperature: Inside temperature of the BKS Box 

of the ground control station

RX Packets: Number of received data packets 

from downlink since the ground control station 

was turned on

RX Faults: Number of faulty received data packets 

from downlink since the ground control station 

was turned on
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6

6.1 Connectors

6 Ground Control Station Box (BKS)

Ground Control Box (BKS)

1 BKS power supply cable

(Batt) 5 Connector video goggles(V-Brille) 8

Connector video/data 

rec antenna

(VIDEO-ANT-RX)

2

Plug for 12/24V adapter 

power supply cable

(12/24V)

6 USB connector for CPU

(PC) 9 Connector fiber optic link(LWL)

3 Analog video out

(V-OUT) 7

Connector for hand 

controller

(HBT)

10

Connector CC uplink 

antenna

(COMMAND-ANT-TX)

4

USB connector for 

recording

(MEMO)

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng

Connectors

6 7

8 9 10

1 2 3 4 5
1 3 2

1

2

Vehicle adapter cable

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Ground Control Box (BKS) Connectors 6

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng

BKS power supply cable

To power the BKS box connect the power cable (1)

with the ground station battery (2):

→ „6.2.2 GCS power supply with battery“, P 77 

Note:

To avoid accidental disconnection of 

the power cable it should be secured 

with the attached Velcro tape (3)

BKS 12/24V adapter cable

To power the BKS box using a 12V or 24 V DC 

power source with a cigarette lighter connection 

use the vehicle adapter cable 

→ „6.2.1 GCS power supply with 12/24 Vvehicle adapter cable“, P 76 
3

4

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6 Ground Control Box (BKS)

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng

This connector is used to plug in a video stick to 

record the video sent from the airframe. 

(→ „start video recording to USB stick“, P 51). 

It is recommended to use the short USB stick, 

which is part of the delivery. 

USB plug for memory stick

Note:

It is recommended to use short USB 

sticks to avoid mechanical damage due 

to accidental breaking off the stick. Use 

only high quality USB sticks with fast 

write times. The USB stick should be 

plugged into the ground station before 

the ground station is turned on to ensure readiness for recording. Videos 

are saved in H.264 format and can be 

played with any suitable media player.

USB-stick

The analog video output can be used to connect 

external monitors or recording devices.

Analog video out 

The adapter cable has 3 RCA plugs in two different 

colors, red and yellow:

• Yellow - video display without data written in

• Red - video display with embedded data in video 

(→ „5.2 Video and data display“, P 52) 

Video adapter cable

Connectors
5

6

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Ground Control Box (BKS) Connectors 6

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng

The connector for the video goggles allows for 

access to the video stream without data written in.

Connector video goggles

USB connector for computer

The USB connection on the ground station box 

allows for accessing the video as a digital MPEG2 

video stream. It can be displayed or recorded on 

a computer. (→ „USB-connection to PC (PC)“, 

P 69) In addition telemetry and payload data 

can be accessed and displayed with the 

appropriate software. 

The USB connector is also used to connect to the 

optional AirRobot Mission Manager software to 

sent waypoint missions to the airframe and interface with the software’s video and telemetry disUSB-cabel play.

Video goggles
7

8

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6

Connecting the hand controller

The hand controller is connected to the BKS box 

using the cable attached to it.

Ground Control Box (BKS)

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng

Connectors

AConnecting the video/data downlink receiving antenna

The antenna is connected to the rectangular plug 

marked (VI- DEO-ANT-RX) on the BKS ground 

station box:

→ „Connect/Disconnect video/data downlink 

receiving antenna“, P 75 

Hand controller

Video/data 

downlink receiving 

antenna

Extension cord and 

base for video/data 

downlink receiving 

antenna
10

9

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6

Connector fiber optic link

The fiber optic connector is used with the optional 

AirRobot fiber optic link. The fiber optic link allows 

for radio silent operation of the system. 

All video and data signals are transmitted through 

the fiber optic and the radio transmitters are 

deactivated.

In case the fiber optic link is interrupted, the 

system reverts back to radio link within 2 seconds.

Ground Control Box (BKS) Connectors

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng

Connector CC uplink antenna

The CC uplink antenna is either mounted to the 

connector marked Connector CC uplink antenna 

marked (COMMAND ANT TX) or using the 

extension cord:

→ „connecting the CC uplink antenna “, P 75 

Optional base and 

extension for CC 

uplink antenna

CC uplink 

antenna
1 2

3

4

5

74

6

6.2 Assembly

Attention:

To ensure solid radio communication antennas should be off the ground in an 

elevated positions and unobstructed by objects or people.

Ground Control Box (BKS) Assembly and Set Up

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng

Ground Control Station (GCS) completely set up and assembled

Below image of ground station completely set up with all essential connections in place

BKS power supply cable connected to battery (4) Connector for hand controller (3) connected 

to BKS Box (5) Connector video/data RX antenna (1) connected to BKS Box antenna 

connector Connector CC uplink TX antenna (2) connected to BKS Box antenna connector 

Always connect antennas first!

Never power up the ground control station when the antennas are not connected. 

This can cause damage to the transmitters due to transmitter burn.
1

2

3

4 5

5

2

75

6

► Plug the video/data downlink receiving antenna 

into the base socket with the extension cord (1). 

The clamps of the connector (2) lock solid into 

the slots (3) onto the socket. To remove the 

antenna, press the clamps (2) towards each 

other and pull the plug out of the socket (3). 

► Note: the receiving antenna is a directional 

antenna and has a front and a backside. 

The front always has to face into the direction 

of the flight operation to ensure optimal 

signal reception. 

Connect and disconnect the video/data downlink receiving antenna

► Connect the plug of the antenna extension cord 

(4) to socket on the BKS box (5).

► The clamps of the connector (2) lock solid into 

the slots on the socket (5). To remove the 

antenna, press the clamps (2) towards each 

other and pull the plug out of the socket (5).

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Assembly and Set Up Ground Control Box (BKS)
8

7

10 9

12 11

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6

Connecting the hand controller

► Connect the plug of the antenna extension 

to the socket on the BKS box marked (COMMAND-ANT-TX). As with the antenna the plug 

should solidly screwed into the socket.

► Screw the CC uplink transmitting antenna onto 

the connector on the base with the antenna 

extension cord.

► The hand controller is connected via a mil spec 

connector (11). Line up the connector (12) with 

the socket using the markings on the outside of 

the connector and socket. Push the connector 

into the socket and turn the outside ring 

45 degrees till it locks in.

Connecting the CC uplink transmitting antenna

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Ground Control Box (BKS) Assembly and Set Up
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2

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AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng

Ground Control Box (BKS) Power Supply

6.3 Power supply BKS ground station box

The power to the BKS ground station can be supplied using the ground station battery or a 

12/24V adapter cable.

BKS battery 12/24V vehicle adapter cable

6.3.1 Power supplied through vehicle adapter cable

► Connect the adapter cable (2) to the plug on the 

BKS box (1) and the plug for the cigarette lighter 

to the 12/24 V power outlet of the vehicle.

Always connect antennas first!

Never power up the ground control station when the antennas are not connected. This can 

cause damage to the transmitters due to transmitter burn.
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6 Ground Control Box (BKS) Power Supply

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng

6.3.2 Power supplied through the ground station battery

► To power the BKS box connect the power cable 

(1) with the ground station battery (2)

Hinweis:

To avoid accidental disconnection of 

the power cable it can be secured with 

the attached Velcro tape (3)
1 2

3

3

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Ground Control Box (BKS) Power Supply 6

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng

6.3.3 Charging the ground station battery

Status-LED Bedeutung

Green (continuous) Battery is fully charged

Yellow (slow blinking) Charger in stand by mode

Yellow (fast blinking) Battery is precharging

Yellow (continuous) Battery is charging

Red (continuous) Error, Battery is not charging

The ground station battery is charged with the battery charger. Charging can take up to 

6 hours. Charging level of the battery is displayed on top of the battery with a bar gauge.

0 Bars = Battery depleted; 5 Bars = Battery fully charged

► Connect the charger to a power outlet und plug 

the connector (1) of the charger onto the battery(2).

The charger has LEDs as status display (3):

After the plug sits correctly in place the status LED 

(3) shows the status of the charging.
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77 Operating the System System Check

7 Operation

7.1 Pre flight check

Before and after each operation the system should be completely checked to ensure safe 

and reliable operation:

► Check all components of the system for possible damages or damages:

• Airframe – all locks of the engine arms

• Airframe - battery properly in place and cable solidly attached

• Airframe – engines, rotate by hand, no friction or scrabbing noise should be present

• Airframe – rotor safety clips

• Airframe – RX and TX antennas in place an properly mounted

• Airframe – payload attachment

• BKS ground station – antennas in place and properly connected

• BKS ground station – battery cable in place and secured

• BKS ground station – battery fully charged

Attention:

The system is not flight ready when

Rotors are damaged. Even small damage results in an imbalance, which can have 

an effect on the attitude and flight stabilization sensors

Engines are damaged and have dented engine housings. The engines should turn 

freely and not create and scrubbing noise.

Damage to the outer structure or the engine arms of the system are visible.

Antennas are bend or snapped off

Water has penetrated the housing

Batteries are undercooled or not fully charged.

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Operating the System Flight Preparations 77

7.2 Flight preparation set up

a) Airframe

► Unfold the airframe and mount rotors, rotor clips 

and antennas:

→ „4.1 Handling“, P 12 

► Insert the flight battery:

→ „4.2 Power Supply“, P 27 

► Attach the payload:

→ „4.1.6 Payload“, P 22 

Note:

Always ensure that the flight battery is fully charged.

Note Troubleshooting:

When ground station components and airframes are interchanged, Drone ID 

settings and Communication channel settings have to be checked and matched. 

In case settings of the airframe do not match up with the ground station the 

airframe will no link up or respond to the ground station and no video signal will 

be displayed:

To check these settings refer to „Submenu Connections“

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7

1

7 Flight Preparations

► Set up the ground control station 

(→ „6.2 Assembly“, P 74) 

► Turn the video/data antenna with the front 

towards the flight direction (1)

b) Ground control station

Operating the System

Attention:

To ensure solid radio communication antennas should be off the ground in an 

elevated positions and unobstructed by objects or people.

Important Note!

The radio signal should not be obstructed or masked by buildings, 

trees or structures:

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7.3 Take off

► Bring the flight platform to the take off spot. 

Bear in mind the flight direction of the airframe.

Operating the System Take Off

Flight direction of airframe (red arrow)

Attention:

When positioning the airframe for take off take off the flight direction of the aircraft 

and the wind regime has to be taken into consideration.

A minimum distance of 60 feet around the airframe is required for all persons.

Note:

NOTE: This chapter does not constitute a flight-training manual. It does not 

replace flight training. Only qualified and trained operators should pilot the 

aerial system.

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2

1

7

► Press the on/off button (1) for 3 seconds till you 

hear a beep.

Beep signal Meaning

No beep The flight platform has a remote uplink connection, GPS reception and 

is flight ready

Delayed inconsistent 

cheep

No GPS signal or CC remote uplink signal. Check channel and Drone 

ID settings

Consistent fast beep Battery is depleted

Power on the ground station: 

► Press the on off button (2) for 3 seconds 

With the ground station powered on video 

transmission will start and the status display for 

the remote uplink should show the letter R

(→ „5.2 Video and data display“, P 52).

The beeping signals of the flight platform can vary depending on system status:

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Operating the System Take Off
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7

3

7

To start the engines:

► Pull down Joystick 1 all the way (3). Hold – 

engines will start slowly. After approximately 

5 seconds the flight platform will cheep once. 

This is an indication that the pre flight check 

has been completed. 

The flight platform is now ready for take off!

Attention:

Be aware that the airframe will take of even if the Joystick 1 is released only 

up to its center position!

Attention:

Perform a short test flight first. 

Take off to a low altitude (30 – 50 ft). During initial phase climb swiftly, do not 

loiter too close to ground

At low altitude check response to Joystick commands for yaw, forward and 

sideways flight

With the Joystick 1 in neutral position check that the system maintains its 

altitude

Touch down again

The preflight has been completed and the system is ready for a mission flight.

Note:

If the Joystick is pulled up before the cheep confirming the completion of the pre 

flight check is heard the engines will shut down and the system will not take off.

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng

Operating the System Take Off
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7.4 Controlling the airframe

The flight platform should always be flown through 

the video in the first person shooter perspective 

and not line of site to the aircraft. (except otherwise required by regulations) This way 

operation is similar to driving a car. There are no 

reversals of directions; each stick input translates 

into the exact movement on the screen regardless 

of the position of the airframe in relation to the 

operator. Control of the airframe can be achieved 

intuitively almost like a video game.

In addition this operation mode ensures that 

status of flight battery, ground station battery and 

GPS availability always remains in plain sight to 

the operator.

Operating the System Control

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Landing in line of sight of the operator:

► Bring the airframe close to the landing area

► Turn the airframe so that the back is facing towards you; this way Joystick input 

will be proportional to observed aircraft movement. As an example, pushing 

Joystick 2 to the left results in movement of the aircraft to the left from the 

perspective of the operator looking at it.

► Decent slowly by pulling down Joystick 1. Ensure that the pull is straight down to 

avoid turn of the aircraft.

► When the airframe has reached the ground, pull the Joystick all the way down 

(as for engine start on take off)

► The airframe will remain on the ground.

7.5 Landing

Operating the System Landing

Landing through camera view:

► Bring the airframe close to the landing area

► Tilt the camera down (70 to 80 degrees) so that you can see the ground towards 

the direction of the landing area.

► Fly slowly towards the landing area while descending. Use features on the ground 

as reference points. 

► When the flight platform is close to ground stop forward flight and descent slowly 

till the airframe is on the ground.

► When the airframe has reached the ground, pull the Joystick all the way down 

(as for engine start on take off) The airframe will remain on the ground. 

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7

3

4

1

7 Operating the System Landing

► Remove the flight battery and charge for 

subsequent missions or storage:

→ „4.2.1 Insert and removal of the flight 

battery“, P 28. 

→ „4.2.2 Charging the flight battery“, P 31.

Powering off the airframe:

► Press the ON/OFF button (5) for 3 seconds.

Disarm engines after landing:

► Hold down Joystick 1 (3) all the way as during 

final stage of landing. While holding down the 

Joystick simultaneously press the engine off 

button (4) on the hand controller for 2 seconds. 

The engines will stop. Release the Joystick 1 

into the middle position after the engines have 

stopped.

Note:

Restart of the engines can only be performed after the Joystick 1 has been in the 

middle/neutral position once.

Note:

Always store and transport batteries in climate-controlled environment. 

Undercooled batteries loose capacity and do not perform well. Once the battery is 

inserted into the flight platform and the flight is in progress the batteries warm up 

and the outside temperature does not have the same effect.

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77

7.6 Fail safe functions

Operating the System

The approach position function of the hand controller allows to command the airframe to return to the home position automatically:

→ „Approach position“, P 45

The “home position” is by default the coordinate on which the system first received GPS after 

been powered on. For safety reasons the home position should be manually changed by the 

operator.

When the auto home function is active, in lost link the airframe flies a straight path towards 

the home point. While it is in flight, heading and altitude can be changed using Joystick 1 (altitude and heading control) without canceling the automated flight path. Any movement of 

Joystick 2 (position control) will immediately cancel the automated flight. The airframe goes 

into auto hover or can manually be controlled.

It is imperative that even during automated flight the operator at all times pays close attention 

to the video display to avoid obstacles and watch for any hazards.

7.6.1 Auto home operator initiated

7.6.2 Finding a lost airframe

► Turn off engines (→ „Turn off engines“, P 48)

► Turn on GPS (→ „GPS Activation/Deactivation)“, P 37).

► Press button “approach position” and hold down

The flight platform will now make a cheeping noise.

Fail Safe Functions

After landing in an area with low visibility an acoustical signal can be used to locate 

the airframe:

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng

Attention:

The auto home function initiated through the approach position menu and button 

should not be mistaken for the auto home on lost link!
90

7

1

2

7 Operating the System

During a regular landing the engine speed is reduced to idle speed when the aircraft 

sets down on the ground. At this point the operator can disarm the engines.

In case of a crash landing or a collision the system is not aware of it’s flight status. In 

this case the engines can be turned off by the operator if the system is at an attitude 

exceeding 60 degrees:

7.6.3 Emergency engine shut down / flight termination

Fail Safe Functions

► Hold down Joystick 1 (1) all the way as 

during final stage of landing. While holding 

down the Joystick simultaneously press the 

engine off button (2) on the hand controller 

for 2 seconds. The engines will stop. 

Release the Joystick 1 into the middle 

position after the engines have stopped.

If the system for any reason exceeds an attitude of 160 degrees the engines will 

automatically shut down and if the system is in flight the flight will be terminated 

immediately. This avoids any uncontrolled spinning of the aircraft in case a rotor or 

engine is lost in midair.

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7

Lost Link

no

no

yes

yes

Wait 15 sec 

Home on lost

 Link Engaged? 

GPS

 available 

Emergency

Landing 

Automated fly 

to home

position 

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7

7.7 Loss of CC uplink

Fault tree for lost link

When command control radio communication is lost the system responds as follows:

Operating the System Loss of CC uplink

Note:

The waiting time of 15 seconds is default factory setting and can only be changed 

by the manufacturer.

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77 Operating the System Loss of CC uplink

7.7.1 Home on lost link

The function “Auto Home on Lost Link” initiates an automated flight to the home position 

when command control uplink is lost.

The function is activated with the Auto Home on Lost Link button on the hand controller 

(→ Auto-Home on Lost Link“ (On/Off)“, P 46).

A blinking H in the video/data display indicates the function is being executed.

The sequenze under GPS when CC link is lost is as follows:

1–Wait for 15 seconds in auto positioning mode

2–Climb to highest altitude reached during flight

3–Head towards home point

4–Fly straight path towards home point

5–When home point is reached auto land

Important:

Safe use of this feature requires that a straight flight path back to the home point 

from any position during the mission can be flown without colliding with obstacles. 

The system will not backtrack the previous flight path. As a result there is a risk of 

collision with structures during the straight return to home flight. There might be 

obstructions in this flight path of which the operator is unaware.

As a countermeasure the airframe in lost link mode will climb to the highest altitude it has reached during the mission flight to this point. If the mission requires 

low flying or flying around obstacles (buildings, trees or powerlines) rather then 

overflying them it is advisable to climb at least once during the mission to a high 

altitude, which is in excess of all obstacles in the mission area. As a result in the 

event of lost link the airframe will climb to this altitude and maintain it on the way 

to the home point.

The function should NOT be used when flights underneath structures or obstacles 

are part of the mission. During these mission parts the function should be deactivated to avoid the airframe from climbing into an obstacle.

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Loss of CC uplink 77

7.7.2 Auto Landing in lost link mode

If GPS signal is available auto landing will be initiated 15 seconds after the airframe 

has reached the home position. The descent rate is electronically set to 0.5 m/s.

When CC uplink is lost and no GPS signal is available, the airframe initiates auto 

landing immediately to avoid drift away. The descent rate is electronically set to 

0.5 m/s.

In addition to lost link mode auto landing is performed when the battery of the aircraft 

is depleted. 

Operating the System

Attention:

Auto landing on depleted battery can only safely be performed from flight altitudes 

lower then 60 ft above ground. 

Always monitor the battery indicator. When the last bar is blinking adjust altitude to 

below 60 feet to ensure safe landing.

After auto landing there is a likelihood of a restart of the engines. Keep a distance 

of at least 60 feet from the airframe till all engines have completely stopped.

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng

Note:

Lost link sequence is cancelled by the airframe if signal is reestablished for 10% 

of the waiting time. With the factory default settings of 15 seconds the lost link 

sequence will be cancelled if signal is present for 1.5 seconds.
94

8 Operating the System Troubleshooting

Some mechanical damage can be repaired by replacing parts. Certain parts like rotors, landing gear and similar are user replaceable. In case other parts show damage or malfunction 

factory maintenance will be required.

8.1 Malfunctions of airframe, ground control station and payload

8.1.1 Malfunctions of the airframe

8 Troubleshooting

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng

Malfunction Possible reason

Airframe does not respond 

to CC input

CC uplink receiving antenna on airframe not working, not present or 

not properly installed.

► Check antenna and when necessary replace antenna.

CC uplink transmitting antenna on the ground station not working, 

not present or not properly installed.

► Check antenna and when necessary replace antenna.

CC uplink radio communication range exceeded.

► If in flight, move closer to flight platform.

► If in flight, wait till lost link mode is initiated and airframe returns 

to home.

Radio interference due to other radio emitters in the vicinity.

► Change channel of the airframe and ground station 

(→ „ submenu connections“, P 62).

The radio channels of the airframe and the ground station 

are different.

► Check channel settings of airframe and ground station and when 

necessary change settings (→ „ submenu connections“, P 62).

Drone ID of airframe and ground station are not a match.

► Match up drone ID of the ground station and airframe. When 

necessary change settings (→ „ submenu connections“, P 62).

The communication protocol in the ground station has 

been changed.

► Change setting of the protocol on the ground station 

(→ „ submenu connections“, S. 62).
95

Operating the System Troubleshooting 8

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng

Malfunction Possible reason

The airframe spins when GPS 

is activated and does not hold 

steady position

Parameters of the magnetometer are faulty.

► Deactivate GPS and land immediately FACTORY 

MAINTENANCE REQUIRED

No GPS

The flight platform is in an unsuited location with no unobstructed 

view of the sky or buildings or structures mask the GPS signal.

► Move the airframe to a different take off location

Engine start is aborted by 

the airframe

Flight platform stands inclined. 

► Place flight platform on a horizontal landing spot.

Joystick 1 was not pulled down long enough.

► Repeat engine start and hold Joystick 1 all the way down 

till beep

Malfunction of the internal sensors.

► FACTORY MAINTENANCE REQUIRED
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Troubleshooting

8.1.2 Malfunctions of the ground control station

Malfunction Possible reason

No video transmission

The airframe is not powered on.

► Power on airframe.

Malfunction of the video/data receiving antenna on the ground 

control station.

► Check antenna and when necessary replace antenna.

Malfunction of the video/data transmitting antenna on the airframe.

► Check antenna and when necessary replace antenna.

The antenna plugs on the ground station are defective.

►Check the connections for proper seating, bends or damages to 

the cables.

The set video norm does not match the signal from the camera.

►Check video norm settings and when necessary change setting 

using DIP switch on the airframe.

DThe video antenna on the ground station faces into the 

wrong direction.

► Check orientation (always towards flight direction) and correct.
97

Troubleshooting 8

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng

8.1.3 Malfunctions of the payload

Malfunction Possible reason

No Video Image

The flight platform is powered off.

► Power on flight platform.

Fehler an der Videoempfangsantenne der Bodenkontrollstation.

► Prüfen und ersetzen Sie ggf. die Videoempfangsantenne der 

Bodenkontrollstation.

Is payload properly seated and bayonet connector fully turned in?

Payload does not receive power.

► Try to tilt payload remote controlled, if not possible check power 

supply to payload.

Contact pins of payload connector are soiled.

► Carefully clean contacts.

Damage to cables or connectors of the payload.

► Check cable and plugs for damages or exposed wires.

No remote controlled tilt 

of payload

Contact pins of payload connector are soiled.

► Carefully clean contacts.

Servomotors are defective.

► Check servos and transmission belts.

Operating the System
98

8 Malfunctions Error Codes

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng

With each engine start the systems performs a full check of engines and flight management. 

In case malfunctions are detected the hand controller will display the following error messages and codes:

8.2 Error codes airframe

Displayed Error Codes

Malfunction Possible reason

0x11 (Acceleration sensor)

0x12 (Acceleration sensor)

0x13 (Gyro)

0x14 (Gyro)

Movements of the airframe caused by external forces affect the 

sensors during start up and system check.

► Ensure that the airframe stands on solid ground and is not 

expose to high winds while on the ground. Restart engines again

If the error code persists, there might be a decalibration or defect of 

the sensors FACTORY MAINTENANCE REQUIRED.

0x15 (Barometric Sensor)

0x16 (Magnetometer)

Barometric sensor or magnetometer did not initialize during start up

► Power airframe of and on. Retry.

If the error code persists, there might be malfunction of the 

magnetometer or barometric sensor FACTORY MAINTENANCE 

REQUIRED.

0x21 (Throttle)

Joystick 1 was not fully pulled down to end position during take off

► Restart engines and retry pulling joystick 1 down to end position 

till beep can be heard.

If the error code persists, check for quality of CC uplink radio 

communication or interference.

0x22 (Sensors)

Movements of the airframe caused by external forces affect the 

sensors during start up and system check.

► Ensure that the airframe stands on solid ground and is not 

expose to high winds while on the ground. Restart engines again.

If the error code persists, there might be a decalibration or defect of 

the sensors FACTORY MAINTENANCE REQUIRED.
99

Error Codes Malfunctions 8

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng

Malfunction Possible reason

0x23 (Engines)

Communication to engines is disrupted.

► Power off airframe and power on again. Retry.

If the error code persists, there is a defect on one or more engines. 

FACTORY MAINTENANCE REQUIRED.

0x24 (Engine launch failure)

0x25 (Engine launch failure)

0x26 (Engine launch failure)

Engine launch failure

Engine speed to low at start up, possible cause high gusty winds 

effecting props

► Reposition airframe to wind protected take off area.

If the error code persists, there is a defect on one or more engines. 

FACTORY MAINTENANCE REQUIRED

0x31 (Flight termination)

Airframe has collided or crashed.

Airframe is flipped, engines are shut down and power cut off for 

safety reasons.
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9

9.1 Batteries

9 Appendix

Appendix Battery Handling

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng

Achtung:

The flight batteries contain lithium ion cells. Because of the high energy density 

these cells have a risk to inflame or explode:

When extremely overcharged

When overloaded

When deep discharge occurs

When overheating occurs

As a result for mechanical damage, piercing

As a result of a short circuit

Countermeasures in case of battery fire

• Always extinguish a burning battery with suitable extinguishing agent. 

• If there is no suitable extinguishing agent let the battery burn out

• Do not breath in any vapors resulting from a burning battery

• NEVER EXTINGUISH A BURNING BATTERY WITH WATER, DANGER 

OF EXPLOSION!
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Appendix Battery Handling 9

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng

General instructions for handling the battery

• The AR180 is solely for use with the AR180 airframe, it may not be used with 

any other device.

• The BKS battery is solely for use with the ground station.

• Always fully charge batteries prior to use. ONLY use dedicated AirRobot AR180 

charger!

• No fire or open flames close to batteries.

• Avoid contact of the batteries with any liquids.

• Never disassemble a battery. Do not modify or make any changes to the 

battery. Disassembling a battery can cause short circuits with discharge of gases, 

fire, explosions and the discharge of harmful liquids.

• Do not drop battery. Avoid any kind of mechanical damage to the battery. Do not 

use a battery that shows signs of mechanical damage. 

• In case a battery becomes damage due to airframe crash or drop, store battery 

in a non-flammable and non conductive container on non-flammable ground. 

Monitor battery for at least 30 minutes after damage occurred. There is still a risk 

of ignition during this time period. 

• Electrolytes used in the battery are harmful. Avoid contact with skin and eyes.

• If skin comes into contact with electrolytes wash with plenty of water and consult 

a physician.

• If skin comes into contact with electrolytes wash with plenty of water and consult 

a physician.

• Gases and vapors discharged by defective batteries are harmful. Do not 

breathe in.

• Do not use batteries with a surface temperature of < 50 or > 140. Do not 

store batteries in vehicles or in direct sunlight.

• Avoid short circuit of the contacts with metal objects like keys or knifes.

• Check the battery after each flight for mechanical damage, bloating, corrosion, 

smell and extensive heat. Do not use the battery if you find any of the 

above listed.

• The batteries are rechargeable, but still have a limited life span. Replace 

batteries when their performance starts to degrade.
102

9 Appendix

Battery use for flight operations:

• Use only fully charged batteries with sufficient capacity for the flight mission. 

• Never use a battery if the charger or the battery tester displayed “error” when 

connecting the battery

• The optimal operating temperature is within the range of 68 to 104 degrees. 

Batteries which are cold (< 37) degrees have higher inner resistance and lower 

capacity. 

• After flight the battery temperature should not exceed 140 degrees. Allow the 

battery to cool down to room temperature before charging. Do not store 

discharged batteries.

• Never use a battery which shows signs of damage, bloating, corrosion, smell 

and extensive heat. Do not use the battery if you find any of the above listed.

• In case a battery becomes damage due to airframe crash or drop, store 

battery in a non-flammable and non conductive container on nonflammable ground. Monitor battery for at least 30 minutes after damage 

occurred. There is still a risk of ignition during this time period. 

Battery Handling

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng

Note:

To get optimal results from the batteries they should be used on a regular basis. 

Record all flights with a battery including flight time for a better assessment of the 

condition of the battery.
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Appendix Battery Handling 9

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng

Charging batteries:

• Only use dedicated AirRobot battery chargers.

• Never use a battery if the charger or the battery tester displayed “error” when 

connecting the battery

• Never charge batteries unattended

• Always put batteries on non flammable and non conductive surfaces

• Do not charge batteries in areas with the presence of flammable objects, heat 

sources or in a car exposed to sunlight.

• Do not charge batteries in car while driving.

• Do not charge batteries in areas with strong electro static fields or strong electro 

magnetic emitters like remote controls, cellular phones, electrical motors.

• The battery should not heat up during charging. If the battery heats up while 

charging is in progress, disconnect immediately.

Storage and transport of batteries:

• When storing the battery for extended period of time charge only to 70% 

charging level. Fully charged batteries age faster when stored. Do not store 

discharged batteries, this will significantly shorten the lifetime of the battery.

• Optimal storage temperature is 59 to 68 degrees.

• Store batteries on non flammable and non conductive surfaces.

• Store the battery in dry area.

• Remove all connections to the airframe or ground station from the batteries.

• Always transport in the appropriate transport case.
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Notes