©2012 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 1 | 

Zenmuse Z15

User Manual

V1.9

2012.11.19 Revision

www.dji-innovations.com
©2012 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 2

Warning & Disclaimer

No adjusting or amending is allowed to Z15.

Z15 is specialized for Camera and Lens before it leaves the factory. Please mount your camera to Z15 when 

get it. No adjusting or amending is allowed to Z15. Do not modify or add any other component/device (such 

as filter, lens hood, etc.) to the camera; make sure to use the original battery; otherwise it may ends up with 

worse performance or even internal malfunction.

Z15 can only work with Autopilot system specified by DJI Innovations (Ace One/ Ace WayPoint/ WooKong 

M), so as to ensure the highest stability and precision.Please download the corresponding assistant software 

and upgrade the autopilot system MC firmware, otherwise may lead the Z15 work abnormally.

Make sure the Autopilot system operates in the safest manner when the main power battery is connected. We 

strongly recommend customers to remove all propellers, use power supply from R/C system or flight pack 

battery, and keep children away during gimbal calibration and parameter setup. Please strictly follow these 

steps to mount and connect gimbal on your aircraft, as well as to install the assistant software on your 

computer. Please respect the AMA’s National Model Aircraft Safety Code.

As DJI Innovations has no control over use, setup, final assembly, modification (including use of non-specified 

DJI parts i.e. motors, ESCs, propellers, etc.) or misuse, no liability shall be assumed nor accepted for any 

resulting damage or injury. By the act of use, setup or assembly, the user accepts all resulting liability. DJI

assumes no liability for damage(s) or injuries incurred directly or indirectly from the use of this product.

DJI and Zenmuse is 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.

Note1: Upgrade WooKong M firmware to V5.08 or above, ACE ONE firmware to V4.02 or above, or ACE WayPoint firmware 

to V4.02 or above.

Note2: Specified Camera and Lens Type list for Z15-N and Z15-G.

(Items in gray italics font are not yet supported at present.)

Z15 Type

Camera Type

Lens Type

Z15-N Z15-G

SONY Panasonic

NEX-5N NEX-7 GH2

Supported

E 16mm f/2.8(SEL16F28)

Lumix G14 mm/F2.5

Lumix G20 mm/F1.7

Not yet supported Sonnar T*E 24mm F1.8 ZA Lumix G 1:2.5 / 14 ASPH

Note3: All diagrams in the manual are for SONY NEX-5N with SEL16F28 unless stated, since different 

camera or lens should use special component.
©2012 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 3

Product Profile

Z15 is an excellent gimbal designed for AP. The gimbal has built-in slip ring in the mechanical structure, 

preventing wire rod from winding up. It also has built-in independent IMU module, special servos drive 

module, HDMI- AV module, etc. Excellent job can be done by Z15 in any working mode, including 

Orientation-locked control, Non orientation-locked control and FPV Mode (Reset).

Z15 Working Mode

Orientation-locked Mode

Non orientation-locked

Mode

FPV Mode

(Reset)

Gimbal Pointing

Gimbal pointing moves 

with aircraft nose direction

Gimbal pointing stays 

unchanged when aircraft 

nose moves.

Gimbal pointing stays

the same as aircraft 

nose direction when 

power up

Gimbal and 

Aircraft Nose

Relative Angle

Gimbal pointing keeps the 

same relative angle with 

aircraft nose direction

Relative angle between 

gimbal pointing and aircraft 

nose direction may change

Zero relative angle 

between gimbal pointing 

and aircraft nose 

TX Control Controlled Controlled Not controlled

Attitude stability YES YES YES

Vibration

Reduction

YES YES YES

Stick Meaning

ROLL is locked level in 

0~2/3 command stick and 

rotate in 2/3 ~endpoint; 

command stick stands for

rotation angle limited to 

-

+

45oin PAN; command 

stick stands for gimbal 

rotation velocity in TILT.

Command stick stands for 

gimbal rotation velocity,Stick 

center position is for 0,its 

endpoint is maximum 

velocity.

——

Command 

Linearity

YES YES ——

Note1: Gimbal pointing means gimbal PAN rotation direction.

Note2: Attitude stability means that gimbal’s ROLL/TILT will not follows the aircraft’s ROLL/PITCH.

Note3: Gimbal rotating maximum velocity is corresponding to TX 100%end-point.
©2012 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 4

In Box

Gimbal ×1

In the mechanical structure, the gimbal has built-in slip rings, 

preventing wire rod from winding up, which also enables free rotations 

for the 3 axes rotating rods.

The gimbal has built-in Z15 gimbal special servos drive module, 

independent IMU module and HDMI-AV module.

Gimbal Controller Unit (GCU)×1

Connect the gimbal controller to the autopilot system by CAN bus. 

The GCU will control the gimbal’s pan, roll and tilt axes rotation.

Lens Retaining Ring×1, L-Connector ×1(Z15-N)

For fixing the camera lens.

(With jackscrew ×2)

Lens Retaining Ring Shim×1(Z15-N)

For fastening the camera lens.

Mounting Bracket ×4

For gimbal and bi-pod connection.

Camera Mount Screw×1

For camera mount.

Lens Retaining Ring Screw×1(Z15-N)

For fixing the lens retaining ring to the gimbal.

Hot Shoe ×1(Z15-G)

For fastening the camera to gimbal.
©2012 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 5

Quick Twist Screw for Hot Shoe ×1(Z15-G)

For fixing the hot shoe to camera.

Quick Twist Screw for Camera ×1(Z15-G)

For fixing the camera to gimbal.

Screw×10(Z15-N) or Screw×8(Z15-G)

For mounting gimbal to aircraft (2.5*8 Head-cup screw×8).

(OnlyZ15-N needs)For fixing the lens retaining ring (M2.5*5 Screw×2).

Gimbal Video Power Cable×1

For gimbal controller and Wireless Video Transmission Unit 

connecting, transmitting AV signal.

Micro-USB Cable×1

For adjusting parameter and upgrading firmware via PC.

CAN-Bus Cable×1

Use CAN-Bus to power and communicate with the autopilot

system.

DJ

D

I

JI

Spare Package×1

Damping units, Spare Screw, and Mounting Bracket.

Note: there are different between Z15-N and Z15-G.
©2012 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 6

Contents

WARNING & DISCLAIMER...............................................................................................2

PRODUCT PROFILE..........................................................................................................3

IN BOX............................................................................................................................4

CONTENTS......................................................................................................................6

MATTERS NEED ATTENTION............................................................................................7

GIMBAL DESCRIPTION ....................................................................................................8

CAMERA SETUP ............................................................................................................10

MOUNT ........................................................................................................................12

CAMERA WIRING/SHUTTER CONTROL .........................................................................15

VIDEO SIGNAL TRANSMISSION.....................................................................................17

GIMBAL CONTROLLER WIRING .....................................................................................18

WORKING MODES/HDMI/AUX2/AUX3 SWITCH SETUP......................................................20

ASSISTANT....................................................................................................................22

TEST .............................................................................................................................25

APPENDIX.....................................................................................................................27

1-PILOT SOLUTION ..............................................................................................................27

2-PILOT SOLUTION ..............................................................................................................28

PORT DESCRIPTION..............................................................................................................29

GIMBAL LED INDICATOR.......................................................................................................30

GIMBAL LABEL DESCRIPTION .................................................................................................30

TROUBLE SHOOTING ............................................................................................................31

SPECIFICATIONS...................................................................................................................32
©2012 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 7

Matters Need Attention

For safety reasons, please pay serious attention to all following items:

 Ensure nothing blocks the servo driver module rotation, to avoid motor damage.

 Camera’s HDMI resolution should be set to 1080i.

 Ensure to mount the side of servo driver module1 without ports to the aircraft nose 

direction.

 The gimbal center of gravity has been set, whose position directly determine gimbal 

performance. Please do not adjust the gimbal center of gravity by yourself.

 The gimbal is a high-precision control device. Do not remove any other screws in the 

gimbal, which may result in bad performance or even damage.

 Do not unplug any cable attaching to the gimbal ports, or even change the mechanical 

structure.

 Make sure all wiring is correct, otherwise may lead to gimbal abnormal work or even 

out of control.

 Make sure to connect Video Transmission Unit to gimbal controller before power on 

the system.

 The standard gimbal video power cable is recommended. 

 Make sure you solder the gimbal video power cable to the wireless video transmission

unit correctly, to avoid the 12V power burn the gimbal or your own device. And 

ensure the cables are insulated, to prevent from short circuit.

 Ensure the 12V power is safe for you own device when other power cable is used.

 Make sure the wireless video transmission module current consumption does not 

exceed 1A, to prevent GCU from damage.

 Pay attention to that S800 power supply voltage is within the defined limits (6S), when 

using one battery for both S800 and Gimbal power supply.

 Different camera or lens should use special component.

 Prevent the Gimbal from the power cable; otherwise it may lead to the short circuit of 

the Gimbal.
©2012 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 8

Gimbal Description

Notices:

 Ensure nothing blocks the servo driver module rotation, to avoid motor damage.

 Clear obstacle at once if the rotating gimbal is blocked. 

Tips:

 Servo driver module is with two motor command input ports and one encoder private port.

 HDMI-AV module converts HDMI video signal to AV video signal with a cable connecting to camera 

HDMI port; also transforms TX signal into shutter control signal with a shutter control module.

 (Z15-N)Shutter control module is for camera shutter control using an infrared signal emission head.

 Please read the related content according to your product (Z15-N or Z15-G).

Z15-N

(To GCU G6) Damping Unit (To GCU G8)

Servo Driver Module Port

Encoder Private Port Motor Command Input Port

Pan ±360° continuous rotation

Servo Driver Module 3 Cameral Mount Position

Camera Mount Screw-hole

HDMI-AV Port

IMU Module HDMI-AV Module

Tilt ±360° continuous rotation

±40° (±360° mechanic continuous rotation)

Roll

Servo Driver Module 2

Shutter Control Module

Servo Driver Module 1 Mounting Bracket Motor Command Input Port Port of 8-Pin Cable

Gimbal LED Indicator

Lens Retaining Ring Lens Retaining Ring Shim
©2012 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 9

Z15-G

(To GCU G6) Damping Unit (To GCU G8)

Servo Driver Module Port

Encoder Private Port Motor Command Input Port

Pan ±360° continuous rotation

Servo Driver Module 3

Cameral Mount Position

Camera Mount Screw-hole

HDMI-AV Port

IMU Module HDMI-AV Module

Tilt ±360° continuous rotation

±40° (±360° mechanic continuous rotation)

Roll

Servo Driver Module 2

Shutter Control Cable

Servo Driver Module 1 Mounting Bracket Motor Command Input Port Port of 8-Pin Cable

Gimbal LED Indicator

Hot Shoe
©2012 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 10

Camera Setup

Configure your camera by following the settings, meeting the requirements of Z15. Please read the related 

content according to your product (Z15-N or Z15-G).

Sony NEX-5N /7

Menu

Shot Mode Camera Image Size

Brightness/ Color Playback Setup

Shot Mode

Manual Exposure Camera

Drive Mode Remote Cdr. AF/MF Select MF

Brightness/Color

ISO

White Balance

Not use Auto Setup

Lens Comp: Shading Off

Off

Off

HDMI Resolution 1080i

Lens Comp: Chro.Aber Lens Comp: Distortion 1/60 F3.5 M Shutter Aperture Not use Auto  Please set Shot Mode as Manual Exposure M.

 Shutter: Value 1/15~1/80 is recommended, do not set it bellow 1/80(like 1/120).

 Aperture: According to exposure degree.

 Drive Mode: Set as Remote Cdr., so that camera shutter can be controlled by TX.

 AF/MF Select: Select MF, otherwise output image would be flashing.

 ISO: Please fix a certain value instead of automatically.

 White Balance: Please do not set it to auto white balance mode. 

 Lens Comp: Set Shading/Chro.Aber/Distortion Off.

 HDMI Resolution: Should be set to 1080i.

Panasonic GH2

C

C

3

2

C1

M

S

A

P

SC

M

N

Ai

MF AFCAFS

 Please set Shot Mode as Manual Exposure M.

 MF/AFC/AFS Select: Select MF。

 Using the MOTION PICTURE Mode Menu, set the REC MODE as AVCHD(1080i)。
©2012 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 11

Tips:

In the Menu settings, the mandatory values are in red italic font while recommended values in blue.

Notices:

Flashing image output may occur if not follow the recommended settings.
©2012 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 12

Mount

Mount Lens(Z15-N)/ Mount Hot Shoe(Z15-G)

Please read the related content according to your product (Z15-N or Z15-G). For Z15-N, please read Mount 

Lens, otherwise read Mount Hot Shoe for Z15-G.

Mount Lens (Z15-N)

Step1 Step2 Step3

align

align

Camera Retaining Ring

Lens

L-Connector Screw

Jackscrew

Mark

Shim Step1: Put retaining ring through lens before mounting onto camera, accurate the alignment by 

matching the mark.

Step2: Slip the shim between lens and retaining ring, fix in (but not tighten) screws (M2.5*5 Screw×2).

Step3: The L-Connector is active.

Mount Hot Shoe (Z15-G)

Step1 Step2 Step3

Camera

Hot Shoe Quick Twist Screw for Hot Shoe

Step1: Insert the hot shoe into the camera.

Step2: Adjust the hot shoe and fix the quick twist screw.

Step3: Finished.
©2012 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 13

Mount Camera into Gimbal

Please read the related content according to your product (Z15-N or Z15-G).

Z15-N

Retaining Ring Screw

Camera Mounting Screw

Jackscrews and Other Screws

Step4: Mount the camera into the gimbal and tighten the camera mounting screw.

Step5: Adjust the L-Connector, and fix the retaining ring screw.

Step6: Tighten the jackscrews and other screws.

Z15-G:

Camera Mounting Screw

Quick Twist Screw for Camera

Step4: Mount the camera into the gimbal.

Step5: Adjust the camera and tighten the camera mounting screw.

Step6: Tighten the quick twist screw for camera.
©2012 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 14

Mount Gimbal to Bi-pod

Following diagram shows mounting gimbal to DJI Innovations S800 bi-pod. You may mount the gimbal to a 

bi-pod prepared by you referring to the following diagram.

Camera Gimbal

DJI S800 Bi-pod

Mounting Bracket

Aircraft Nose Parallel

X

Y Z

Screws

Lens

Step7: Install gimbal to a bi-pod with mounting bracket; tighten up screws (2.5*8 Head-cup screw×8)

with appropriate screw glue.

Notices:

 Ensure to mount the side of servo driver module1 without ports to the aircraft nose direction.

 Make sure the top and bottom plates of damping unit stay parallel when mounting, preventing the 

damping units from stretched and distorted.

 Keep overall balance when mounting, in order to make the center of gravity on the red line (Z axis).

 The gimbal center of gravity has been set, whose position directly determine gimbal performance. 

Please do not adjust the gimbal center of gravity by yourself.

 The gimbal is high-precision controlled. Do not remove any other screws in the gimbal, which may 

result in bad performance or even damage.

 Do not unplug any cable attaching to the gimbal ports, or even change the mechanical structure.

 Make sure the wiring is correct, otherwise may lead to gimbal abnormal work or even out of control.
©2012 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 15

Camera Wiring/Shutter Control

Camera Wiring

Connect the camera correctly, since the gimbal works with a HDMI-AV module for converting video signal 

format and transforming TX signal into shutter control signal. Please read the related content according to 

your product (Z15-N or Z15-G).

Ensure camera is setup first, and then follow the procedures to connect camera and gimbal.

Z15-N

HDMI-AV Interface

Camera HDMI Port

Infrared Signal Emission Unit

Camera

Shutter Control Module Shutter

Camera Lens Remote Sensor

Gimbal LED Indicator

HDMI-AV Module IMU

Z15-G

HDMI-AV Interface

Camera HDMI Port Camera

Shutter

Camera Lens Camera Shutter Control Cable

Gimbal LED Indicator

HDMI-AV Module IMU

Step1: Connect the gimbal HDMI-AV module to camera HDMI port with a HDMI-AV connection cable.

Step2: For Z15-N, make sure the infrared signal emission unit is aligned to the remote sensor.

 For Z15-G, connect the camera shutter control cable to the camera.

Notices:
©2012 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 16

 When disconnect the cable between HDMI-AV module and camera, dismount the camera, and 

unplug the HDMI-AV interface. 

 (Z15-N) Make sure the infrared signal emission unit is aligned to the remote sensor.

Shutter Control

Z15 enables transforming TX command into shutter control signal, please set one 2-position switch/channel

for remote shutter control. 

For Z15-N, set the Drive Mode as Remote Cdr. in Camera Menu, and make sure the shutter control module 

is correctly mounted and wired.

For Z15-G, make sure camera shutter control cable is correctly wired.

Whichever 2-position switch on your transmitter selected, wire the right channel of receiver to SHUT port.

One switch toggle is for one shooting.

For example, toggle twice will achieve two shootings.

Position-1 Position -2:First shooting

Position -2Position -1:Second shooting

Notices:

 Set the camera of Z15-G to “Manual Video”, the shutter can be used to record video. One toggle is 

for start/stop recording.

 The video recording of Z15-N is available by setting the AUX3 channel of the GCU. Please refer to 

the AUX3 Switch Setup for details.

Tips:

 Following diagram shows how the shutter control works.

 If the shutter control works abnormally, please check each step.

TX

2-Position Switch RC Receiver 2-Position Switch Channel TX Command GCU

SHUT Gimbal HDMI-AV Module Wireless Internal Cable Camera Shutter Control Module Infrared Unit Shutter Control Signal 2-Pins Cable Camera

Shutter

TX Command TX Command

Wireless

Shutter Control Signal

3-Pins Cable

Z15-N

Z15-G Camera Shutter Control Cable

Tx

1 2-Positon

Switch 2
©2012 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 17

Video Signal Transmission

A wireless video transmission module is necessary for video signal accessing remotely.

Wireless Video Transmission Module Air End Power(Red:1A@12V) Video Signal(Yellow:AV) GND(Black: )

Power Video Signal

GND

Gimbal Video Power Cable Video Signal Port

Step1: Respectively solder the Power/Video Signal/GND cables to wireless video transmission module

(Air End).

Step2: Plug the gimbal video power cable head into the GCU Video Signal Port.

Notices:

 Make sure to connect Wireless Video Transmission Unit to GCU first, then power on.

 Set HDMI Resolution as 1080i for Z15-N; set the REC MODE as AVCHD (1080i) using Z15-G;

otherwise the wireless video transmission module will work abnormally.

 The standard gimbal video power cable is recommended. 

 Make sure you solder the gimbal video power cable to the wireless video transmission unit correctly, 

to avoid the 12V power burn the gimbal or your own device. And ensure the cables are insulated, to 

prevent from short circuit.

Power Cable(1A @12V)

Video Signal Cable(AV)

GND Cable

 Ensure the 12V power is safe for you own device when using other power cable.

 Make sure the wireless video transmission module current consumption does not exceed 1A, to 

prevent GCU from damage.

Tips:

 Following diagram shows how video signal transit when gimbal working.

 If video signal access fails, please check each step.

Camera

HDMI Gimbal HDMI-AV module HDMI signal GCUG8 AV signal

Wireless video transmission module

Air end

HDMI-AV cable 8-Pins cable Gimbal Video Power Cable Wireless video transmission module

Ground end

Wireless signal Monitor

AV input 5.8G/2.4G/1.2G Self-prepared by user

AV signal

AV signal
©2012 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 18

Gimbal Controller Wiring

GCU Wiring

Gimbal Controller (GCU)

RC Receiver · These are example connections. Prepare 2 TXs, one is for gimbal control, the other one for aircraft control, refer to 2-Pilots Solution for more detail in Appendix. · If one receiver is used for aircraft and gimbal control at the same time, refer to 1-Pilot Solution for detail in Appendix. · Setup Aileron, Elevator, Rudder channels on gimbal control TX. Command stick stands for gimbal rotation velocity, center position is for 0,endpoint for maximum velocity(both clockwise and counter clockwise directions). (End Point is 100%) · Choose one 3-position switch/channel as Z15 working modes switch.(MODE) · Choose one 2- position switch/channel As camera shutter control switch(SHUT), one for HDMI switch(AUX1), one for camera lens orientation switch in Reset Mode (AUX2), and also one for Z15-N video control switch(AUX3). · Please refer to WKM/ACE ONE/ACE Waypoint User Manual for aircraft control setting. · Connect the receiver to GCU correctly.

Battery · Connect the XT60 to the GIMBAL on the center frame if DJI S800 used. · Attention that S800 power supply voltage should be within the defined limits (6S), when using one battery for both S800 and Gimbal power supply. · Please refer to S800 User Manual for details.

Battery (4S~12S)

· M ake sure ports are accessible when installing MC so as to facilitate wiring and software configuration. · In 3-pin ports, pins near the nicks are signal pins. · 6-pin cable for G6, 8-pin cable for G8. · DO NOT cover the heat sinks, keep them unobstructed. · The IMU module is NOT water-proof or oil-proof.

Wireless Video Transition Module Air End

WKM/ACE ONE/ACE Waypoint Please refer to WKM/ACE ONE/ ACE Waypoint User Manual for all connection and configuration details.

WKM/ ACE ONE/ ACE Waypoint Any spare CAN port on DJI autopilot system RC Receiver (Aircraft control)

G8 G6

Or

RC Receiver (Futaba / Hitec) 7

1

2

4

RC Receiver (JR) AUX2 RUDD ELEV AILE

2-Position Switch 2-Position Switch

2-Position Switch 2-Position Switch

8-Channel 8-Channel

USB Port PC connection for configuration and firmware upgrades with an USB cable.

Heat Sinks

Ensure the side with copper contacts is facing upward towards the heat sinks.

G8

G6

G6

2-Position Switch

2-Position Switch

S-Bus Receiver (Futaba) S-Bus Or

PPM Receiver PPM

Or

Turn to next page to obtain the correspondence between t h e GCU channels and S-Bus/PPM channels.
©2012 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 19

GCU Ports Indication

Following table shows the GCU channels and TX channels connection.

TX Channels GCU

Channels

Indications

JR Futaba/Hitec

AILE 1 ROLL For roll axis control (left/right). Velocity is zero if disconnection.

ELEV 2 TILT For tilt axis control. Velocity is zero if disconnection.

RUDD 4 PAN For pan axis control. Velocity is zero if disconnection.

AUX2 7 MODE For Working Mode switch.

2-position switch channel SHUT

For camera shutter control. Off when non-connection and

disconnection.

2-position switch channel AUX1

For HDMI-AV conversion switch. Conversion function is on 

while non-connection or disconnection.

2-position switch channel

Or Futaba S-Bus channel

AUX2

When AUX2 is connected to a 2-position switch channel, it is 

used as camera orientation (down or forward) switch in FPV 

Mode (Reset). The camera orientation is forward while 

non-connection or disconnection.

If S-Bus receiver is used, it should be connected to AUX2 port.

2-position switch channel

Or PPM channel

AUX3

When AUX3 is connected to a 2-position switch channel, it is 

used for Z15-N video recording control.

If PPM receiver is used, it should be connected to AUX3 port.

Following table shows the corresponding relationship between the GCU and the S-Bus/PPM channels.

S-Bus/PPM Channels GCU Channel

1 ROLL

2 TILT

4 PAN

7 MODE

5 SHUT

8 AUX1

9 AUX2

6 AUX3
©2012 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 20

Working Modes/HDMI/AUX2/AUX3 Switch Setup

Gimbal Working Mode Switch Set

Whichever 3-position switch selected as working mode switch, wire the right channel of receiver to MODE

port. At each switch position, use end-point fine tuning, set the channel AUX2(JR) /7(Futaba/Hitec) for the 

three Working modes.

Orientation-locked Mode MODE channel end-point 60%~90%

FPV Mode (Reset) back to center

Non orientation-locked Mode MODE channel end-point 60%~90%

Notices:

 The gimbal will work in Orientation-locked Mode, if not connect to MODE.

 Gimbal default works in FPV Mode after power on.

 The gimbal will maintain the Working Mode from last moment, if the cable between MODE and RC 

receiver is disconnecting while working.

Tips:

 For 3-position switch, you may assign: 

Position-1 to Non orientation-locked

Position-2 to FPV Mode (Reset)

Position-3 to Orientation-locked

Position-1 and Position-3 can be reverse assigned.

 One 2-position switch can be assigned for any two of the working modes as you like.

HDMI Switch Set

HDMI-AV module can be set on/off by TX. Please ensure camera HDMI port is connected to gimbal correctly.

Whichever 2-position switch selected as HDMI switch, wire the right channel of receiver to AUX1 port. 

You may assign: Position-1 to ON; Position-2 to OFF; or reverse the assignment.

Notices:

The camera HDIM will be on if AUX1 and RC receiver is disconnected.

Tx

1 2-position

switch 2

Tx

1 2 3

3-Position

Switch
©2012 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 21

AUX2 Switch Set

Z15 supports to control the camera lens down or forward in Reset Mode. Please wire the right channel of 

receiver to AUX2 port. You may assign: Position-1 to DOWN; Position-2 to FORWARD; or reverse the 

assignment.

Notices:

 This function can only work in FPV Mode (Reset).

 When this function is on, if the working mode switch from other modes to FPV Mode (Reset), the 

gimbal will force the camera lens to face forward or down depending on AUX2 Switch.

 The camera orientation is forward while non-connection or disconnection.

Tips:

When AUX2 is connected to Futaba S-Bus channel it is used as the S-Bus channel input.

AUX3 Switch Set

Z15-N supports camera video recording. Please wire the right channel of receiver to AUX3 port. Every toggle 

is for start/stop recording.

Notices:

 Only Z15-N gimbal needs to set the AUX3 channel when using the camera for video recording.

 Z15-G gimbal controls the camera to record video by setting the camera to“Manual Video”.

Tx

1 2-position

switch 2
©2012 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 22

Assistant

Install Driver and Software

STEP1: Make sure driver is installed correctly, which has been installed before you use WKM,ACE 

ONE or ACE WAYPOINT.

STEP2: Please download assistant software ZenmuseInstaller.exe from DJI Innovations website.

STEP3: Double click ZenmuseInstaller.exe file and follow the steps to finish installation.

STEP4: Run DJI Zenmuse Assistant.

GUI

Connect GCU and PC via USB cable, power on GCU.

1

2

4

3

5

1 DJI · Tools: Upgrade. For upgrading the gimbal firmware · Language: 中文or English · Help: About. For version and SN access 2 Gimbal · Basic: For Roll/Tilt/Pan/Mode observation · Function: For Shutter/HDMI/AUX2 observation

Communication indicator · Blue LED On: Without communication · Green LED Blink: Communicating with PC 4

· Blue LED On: Disconnected with PC · Green LED On: Connected with PC 3

5 Text Description

Connection indicator

· Mouse over each item will display the corresponding content
©2012 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 23

Firmware Upgrade

Please strictly follow the operation procedures for firmware upgrade, otherwise Z15 might not work properly:

Step1: Make sure your computer is connected to the Internet.

Step2: Please close all the other applications during firmware upgrade, including anti-virus software and 

firewall.

Step3: Make sure the power supply is securely connected. DO NOT un-plug the power supply until 

firmware upgrade has finished.

Step4: Connect GCU to PC with a Micro-USB cable, DO NOT break connection until firmware upgrade 

has finished.

Step5: Run Software and wait for connection.

Step6: Select DJITools Upgrade.

Step7: DJI Innovations server will check current firmware version, and get the latest firmware prepared 

for the unit.

Step8: If there is a firmware version more up-to-date than your current version, you will be able to click 

the Upgrade button.

Step9: Wait until Assistant software finishes reading gimbal and GCU.

Step10: Click OK and power cycle the unit after at least 5 seconds.

Notices:

 After firmware upgrade, please re-recognize setup using Assistant software.

 If abnormally read or write, close software and power off, and then restart software and power up.

 If it is notified that the network or DJI Innovations server is busy, please try again later with above 

procedures.

 If firmware upgrade failed, please try again with the above procedures.

Product Information

You can check the product version via Help  About. This includes Hardware ID,IMU,GCU,Software. 

SN is a 32 digits authorization code for unit function activations. We had already filled in the authorization 

code for your unit after manufacture. You might be asking to fill in the new SN in the future if you brought new 

function upgrades. Fill in the SN and then click Write button. If you filled in an invalid SN over 30 times, your 

product will be locked and you have to contact our customer support.
©2012 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 24

Basic 

Make sure your setups according to Basic.

ROLL/PAN/ TILT: Push the joystick on TX to obtain the stick direction and the gimbal rotation direction.

If you use the DJI iOSD, you may obtain the gimbal attitude information (PAN/ TILT/ ROLL) on the bottom 

right corner of the display screen.

The following diagram shows the gimbal rotation direction and the cursor slide direction on assistant. 

 

Cursor slide right PAN axis rotation

TILT axis rotation ROLL axis rotation

Cursor slide left

Cursor slide right Cursor slide left Cursor slide right Cursor slide left MODE: Toggle the 3-position switch, the corresponding slider of cursor will turn red .

Function

SHUT/AUX1/AUX2/AUX3:Toggle the 2-position switch, the corresponding slider of cursor will turn 

red .
©2012 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 25

Test

Check Before Flight

Notices:

 Gimbal is installed firmly to bi-pod, and camera mounted correctly and stably.

 All cables are in correct connection, without anyone in backwards. 

 Gimbal video power cable is in good soldered condition if wireless video transmission module used.

 Correct TX settings. 

 Camera shutter control module is correctly mounted.

 Correct camera setups.

 Correct connection between GCU and RC receiver.

 Normal connection between GCU and autopilot system.

 Upgrade Autopilot System MC Firmware.

Tips:

 Gimbal LED flashing red quickly when camera and gimbal connection fails.

 Gimbal LED stays solid green when camera and gimbal is successful connection.

 Please turn to Trouble Shooting in Appendix if abnormal situation occurs.

Test

Step1: Ensure batteries are fully charged for transmitter, GCU and all the other devices on your aircraft.

Step2: Make sure all connections and wirings are in good condition.

Step3: Switch on the TX.

Step4: Power on gimbal and wait for self-testing, whose three axes will rotate quickly at the same time.

Step5: After self-testing, camera lens will point to aircraft nose direction, that is, the three axes of gimbal 

should be in the condition as the following diagram shows.

Step6: Gimbal goes into initialization, at this time the three axes will rotate very slowly.

Step7: Gimbal is at a standstill after initialization, and ready for usage.

Step8: Toggle the Working Modes switch on your transmitter, and make sure it is working properly.

Step9: Switch the Working Modes to Non orientation-locked, FPV Mode (Reset), Orientation-locked 

respectively, and then try to push your sticks lightly in Roll, Tilt and Pan to feel if your gimbal 

moves to the corresponding direction. If not, go back to Gimbal Working mode Switch Set to 

correct your settings.
©2012 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 26

Notices:

If the gimbal is abnormal (unlike the diagram shows) after initializing, please turn to Trouble Shooting in 

Appendix.
©2012 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 27

Appendix

1-Pilot Solution

RC Receiver (Futaba)

3-Position Switch 3-Position Switch 3-Position Switch 3-Position Switch 2-Position Switch 2-Position Switch Gimbal Control Aircraft Control Tx

14-Channel

7

1

2

4

3

5

6

(AILE) (ELEV) (THRO) (RUDD) (GEAR) (Collective Pitch) (Control Mode Switch)

2-Position Switch

or

· This is example connection. Prepare one 14-channel TX/RC receiver for aircraft and gimbal control.

· Setup Aileron, Elevator, Throttle,Rudder channels on TX for aircraft roll, elevator, throttle, rudder control, 

and TX AUX2 for aircraft control modes(Please refer to Autopilot System User Manual).

· Choose three 3-position switches for ROLL, TILT, and PAN rotation control. Switch center position is 0 

velocity and end positions are maximum velocity.

· Choose one 3-position switch/channel as Z15 Working Modes switch (MODE).

· Choose one 2-position switch/channel as camera shutter control switch (SHUT), and one as HDMI 

switch (AUX1). 

· Connect the receiver to GCU and Autopilot System MC correctly.
©2012 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 28

2-Pilot Solution

Or RC Receiver 7 (Futaba / Hitec) 1

2

4

RC Receiver (JR) AUX2 RUDD ELEV AILE

2-Position Switch 2-Position Switch

2-Position Switch 2-Position Switch

8-Channel 8-Channel

RC Receiver (JR) AUX2

RUDD

THRO AILE ELEV

AUX2

RC Receiver (Futaba / Hitec)

1

2

3

4

7 Futaba S-Bus

S-Bus

Or

Or

Tx1

Tx2

Rx1

Rx2

Gimbal Control

Aircraft Control

WKM ACE ONE RC Receiver (JR) AUX2

RUDD

THRO AILE ELEV

AUX2

RC Receiver (Futaba / Hitec)

5

4

3

2

1

Or

Rx2

7

6

Or GEAR AUX1

8-Channel

8-Channel

8-Channel

8-Channel

2-Position Switch

2-Position Switch

or

ACE Waypoint

S-Bus Receiver (Futaba) S-Bus

PPM Receiver PPM Or

Or

Prepare 2 TXs and 2 RXs.

TX1 and RX1 are for gimbal control.

TX2 and RX2 are for aircraft control.

Please refer to Gimbal Controller Wiring for more details.
©2012 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 29

Port Description

Gimbal Controller

ROLL For roll axis control 

TITL For tilt axis control 

PAN For pan axis control

MODE For Working Mode switch

SHUT For camera shutter control

AUX1 For HDMI switch

AUX2 For Gimbal orientation (down or forward) switch in FPV Mode S-Bus Receiver

AUX3 For Z15-N video recording control PPM Receiver

To wireless video transmission unit, transmitting AV signal 

XT60 To battery (To GIMBAL if DJI Innovations S800 used)

G6 To Gimbal, transmitting motor command 

G8 To Gimbal, transmitting video signal 

Micro-B USB port: PC connection for configuration and firmware upgrades

CAN-Bus port: Use CAN-Bus to connect GCU to the autopilot system

Gimbal

HDMI-AV Port To Camera HDMI port

Motor Command 

Input Port

To GCU G6

8-Pin Cable Port To GCU G8
©2012 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 30

Gimbal LED Indicator

Description LED Indicator

Camera and gimbal connected

Camera and gimbal disconnected

Gimbal Label Description

Camera Type _ Lens Type NEX5N_16

Camera Type SONY NEX-5N

Lens Type E 16mm f/2.8(SEL16F28)

For example
©2012 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 31

Trouble Shooting

NO. What Why How to

1

Gimbal keeps drifting 

after initialization

(1) TX trims are too much (1) Adjust the TX trims

(2)GCU and autopilot system 

is disconnected

(3)Z15 mounting direction is 

disaccording to aircraft nose

(2)Connect GCU and autopilot 

system

(3)Ensure Z15 mounting direction 

is the same with aircraft nose

2

The gimbal is abnormal 

after initializing

Abnormal calibration after 

manufacture

Please contact local dealer or DJI

Innovations customer service

3

Can’t distinguish gimbal 

pointing when using

BVR flight

Switch to FPV Mode first, then to 

another Working Mode needed

4 Gimbal LED flashing red

(1) The gimbal and camera 

disconnected

(2)Camera is off

(3) Camera setup failure

(1)Make sure cable connected

(2)Please power on camera

(3)Set HDMI resolution as 1080i

5

Gimbal green LED is on 

but without video display

(1) Wireless video 

transmission unit disconnected

(2)Wrong power supply for 

wireless video transmission

unit

(1) Check the wireless video 

transmission unit connection

(2) Ensure the power supply for 

wireless video transmission unit is 

12V
©2012 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 32

Specifications

General

Built-In Functions  Three Working Modes 

 Orientation-locked control 

 Non orientation-locked control

 FPV mode (Reset)

 Built-in independent IMU module 

 DJI gimbal special servos drive module

 HDMI- AV module

 Wireless video transmission support

 Camera shutter control support

 Z15-N video recording control support

 Wide range voltage input support

 S-Bus/PPM Receiver support

Peripheral

Supported Camera  SONY NEX-5N

 SONY NEX-7

 Panasonic GH2

Supported Lens Currently  SONY: E 16mm f/2.8(SEL16F28)

 Panasonic: Lumix G14 mm/F2.5 

Lumix G20 mm/F1.7

GCU Input Power 4S~12S LiPo (Recommend 6S if with S800)

Control Requirement Four spare receiver channels at least

Assistant Software System Requirement Windows XP SP3; Windows 7

Mechanical& Electrical Characteristics 

Working Current  Static current: 200mA (@25V)

 Dynamic current: 400mA (@25V)

 Locked-rotor current: 4A (@25V)

Operating Temperature -10°C ~ 50°C

Weight  Z15-N: 1.25Kg

 Z15-G: 1.3Kg

Dimensions 200mm ×200mm ×230mm

Frame Dimensions For Camera (Inside)  Z15-N: 115mm ×75mm

 Z15-G: 142mm ×76mm
©2012 DJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 33

GCU BEC Output 10A@12V

GCU Wireless Video Transmission Power 1A @12V

GCU Weight 300g

GCU Dimensions 64.2 mm ×34.1mm ×19.5mm

Working Performance

Load Weight (Reference Value) 336g(@Sony NEX-5N with Lens and Battery)

489g(@Panasonic GH2 with Lumix G14 mm/F2.5 and Battery)

534g(@Panasonic GH2 with Lumix G20 mm/F1.7 and Battery)

Controlled Angle Accuracy ±0.05°

Maximum Controlled Rotation Speed Pan axis: ±130°/s

Tilt axis: ±130°/s

Roll axis: ±30°/s

Controlled Rotation Range Pan axis control: ±360° continuous rotation 

Tilt axis control: ±360° continuous rotation

Roll axis control: ±40° (±360° mechanic continuous rotation)

Regulatory Approvals

FCC (USA) Yes

IC (Canada) Yes

ROHS(EU) Yes