CAMERA COPTERS INC.

DJI S1000+ FOPM

Operations and Procedures

This document is a brief summary of the equipment used and the operations and flight procedures associated with Camera 

Copters INC use of the DJI S1000 UAS for Aerial Cinematography.
DJI S1000 Standard Operating Procedures

 The following narrative is an inclusive summary of Camera Copters INC. Standard Operating Procedures, this 

will include our standard operation limitations and how to prepare and execute a flight with the Camera Copters 

Inc. UAS safely. 

 The first step in preparing for a flight for aerial videography or photography is location. For the location you 

will need to make sure that all local personnel are notified of what will be taking place, make sure the proper 

permits are pulled for filming in that area. All required permissions and permits will be obtained from territorial, 

state, county, or city jurisdictions, including local law enforcement, fire, or other appropriate governmental 

agencies. Written and/or oral permission will be obtained from the relevant property holders of the filming 

location. Inspect the area for any buildings or obstructions that must be avoided and designate two safe zones 

for take offs and landings, as well as a designated emergency landing location. The emergency landing location 

should be located further away from persons than standard, and should be placed in close proximity to where 

you will be operating to be able to make a quick and safe emergency landing. Each of these locations shall be a 

minimum of 100ft away from all non-essential persons. The operator will obtain consent of all persons involved 

in the filming and ensure that only consenting persons will be allowed within 100 feet of the flight operation.

This radius may be reduced to 30 feet based upon an equivalent level of safety determination. With the 

advanced permission of the FSDO, operations at closer range can be approved. The operator will file a FAA Form 

7711-1, or its equivalent, as modified in light of the requested exemption, with the appropriate Flight Standards 

District Office (”FSDO”). The operator will submit a written Plan of Activities to the FSDO three days before the 

proposed shoot as required. It is the responsibility of the flight crew to determine if and when a NOTAM is 

required, and should be filed 24hrs in advanced.

The next step will include operational information about Camera Copters Inc. personnel as well as operational 

limitations for the aircraft. Minimum crew for each operation will consist of the UAS Pilot, the Visual Observer,

and the Camera Operator. A UAS pilot will be an FAA licensed airman with at least a private pilot’s certificate 

and third class medical. A UAS Pilot will be Pilot in Command (PIC). If a pilot certificate holder other than the

UAS Pilot, who possesses the necessary PIC qualifications, is also present on set (i.e. the Aerial Coordinator), that 

person can also be designated as PIC. A briefing will be conducted for planned UAS operations prior to each 

day’s flight. All personnel performing duties within the boundaries of the safety perimeter are required to 

attend. The Pilot and observer must be trained in UAS operations and have received current information on the 

particular UAS to be operated. The Observer and pilot will at all times be able to communicate by voice and/or 

text. The following will be a brief summary of the operation limitations of the UAS, a more detailed list of all 

specifications of the UAS including its limitations, weights, and performance specs can be found in this manual. 

All flights of the Camera Copters Inc. UAS will be operated within visual line of sight of the PIC or the Observer at 

all times. Maximum flight time for each operational flight will be 30 minutes. Flights will be terminated at 25% 

battery power reserve should that occur prior to the 30 minute limit. The PIC is responsible for maintaining 

situational awareness at all times, and should periodically check telemetry for battery status. Flights will be 

operated at an altitude of no more than 400 feet AGL, and not more than 200 feet above an elevated platform 

from which filming is planned. The aircraft is outfitted with a GPS unit to obtain an accurate AGL altitude 

reading, the PIC should periodically check the telemetry for AGL readings to maintain flight under 400ft AGL. 

There is a preprogrammed flight parameter that will not allow the UAS to break the 400ft AGL, however caution 

should always be taken and rely on this safety feature. It is also the responsibility of the flight crew to ensure the 

UAS has been well maintained and is airworthy. A preflight check list can be found in this manual and should be 

followed at all times. The UAS Pilot and Observer will be in constant communication, and should always give the 

right of way to manned aircraft. The UAS Observer is responsible to call out loudly and clearly any sightings of 

manned aircraft, and should maintain visual line of sight of the UAS and assist the UAS Pilot in avoiding any and 

all obstacles. 
DJI S1000 Standard Procedures Quick Check List

1) Environmental and Location

o All required Permits filed with local Jurisdictions including: Territory, State, City, County, and or Fire 

Department and local law enforcement as required.

o Notify all local personnel of Planned Activities.

o Obtain written and or Oral permission from all property holders of the filming location.

o Inspect the area for any and all building or obstructions that must be avoided.

o Designate two safe zones for Landings and Takeoffs at least 100ft away from non-essential persons.

o Designate an Emergency Landing site at least 250ft away from non-essential persons, and close to the 

area of flight.

o Obtain consent of all persons involved in filming, and insure that only consenting persons are allowed 

within 100ft of all flight operations.

o File FAA form 7711-1 with the appropriate FSDO.

o A written Plan of Activities submitted to the appropriate FSDO 3days in advance. 

o File NOTAM as required at least 24hrs in advance.

2) Aircraft and Personnel

o Daily briefing cover POA and mission plan, all flight crew members must attend; Pilot, Camera 

Operator, and Observer.

o Make clear to all persons planned flight path and emergency procedures.

o The UAS pilot will perform a daily Pre Flight inspection of the aircraft, and make certain all 

components are in good working order. This is in include the UAS, the Flight Controller, GPS sensor, 

and telemetry unit.

o The UAS pilot and Camera Operator will insure the Camera and Camera Gimbal to be in good working 

order and safely secured to the UAS. As well as check that no debris may fall off the UAS at any time.

o The UAS Pilot and Camera Operator are responsible for the safety of their equipment and periodic 

checks must be performed.

o Ensure all batteries are fully charged prior to flight, this is to include; The UAS Main Flight Packs, UAS 

controller Battery, Telemetry LCD, Camera Battery, and Camera Gimbal Battery.

o Inspect each battery before change out for any signs of damage such as loose and/or broken wires, 

dented or crunched corners as they may lead to battery failure. 

o The UAS Pilot is responsible for the Maintenance of the UAS, it is imperative that daily checks be 

carried out.

o The Pre Flight checklist found in this manual should be followed at all times. What follows is a brief 

summary of that check list.

 Inspect aircraft for air worthiness

 Inspect and determine charge status of all batteries

 Remove or secure any and all loose items on board the UAS

 Inspect Propellers for damage and insure they are secure.

 The landing site should be clear of trees and have a clear view of the sky to insure the GPS on 

the flight controller may obtain good satellite lock.

 Before powering on the UAS insure the UAS Controller, telemetry LCD, Camera, and Camera 

Gimbal are all powered on first and ready for flight.

 When powering on the UAS insure the Rotors are clear of all debris and that all non-flight 

crew are outside the designated landing site.

 Plug both flight packs in simultaneously and then step back from the UAS to allow for 

initialization. 
 Insure the Flight Controller initializes properly, and until it has fully initialized it should 

maintain perfectly level and not be moved.

 Once the Flight Controller has been initialized it will emit 6 rapid green flashes of the status 

LED, indicating it is ready for flight.

 If any Red flashes are present, this means that not all GPS satellites have been found. The UAS 

Pilot should delay take off until all red flashes have stopped.

 Prior to motor start up the UAS Pilot should clear the area of all persons and announce loudly 

“Clear Prop”, once the rotors are spinning and before takeoff another announcement should 

be made loudly “Taking Off”

 Once the UAS is airborne, insure that GPS hold is functioning properly and maintain proper 

heading, altitude, and attitude.

 Double check the telemetry unit is functioning properly showing the correct altitude and 

location.

 The Camera Operator at this time should also insure the Camera and Gimbal are still 

functioning properly.

 Once all pre and post flight checks are completed you may proceed with the planned flight.

 

3) Post Flight

o After landing from each flight, all systems must be powered off including the UAS, unless another 

flight is to take place shortly.

o If on the ground for more than 10minutes all systems should be powered off to save battery.

o While on a temporary stop, if the UAS Flight Packs have reached below 40% capacity, a battery swap 

is needed. This is to maintain a safety and insure there is adequate power in reserve for the next 

planned flight.

o On a full stop landing, all systems should be powered off before attempting to move or disassemble 

the UAS or Camera.

o A post flight inspection of the UAS is mandatory, to insure all systems and moving parts did not incur 

any damage during the days flights.

o Flight Data collected from the telemetry unit should be reviewed to insure there were no issues or 

irregularities during flight.

o And it is the responsibility of the UAS Pilot to fill out a flight log, this is to include number of flights, 

date and time of flights, location, and report any irregularities during flights.

o During the breakdown and packing of Camera Copters INC equipment, it is the responsibility of the 

flight crew to insure all equipment is accounted for and handled safely.

 
DJI S1000 Operations and Procedures Manual

CHECKLISTS

DJI S-1000 BENCH SET UP & TESTS

o All screws/bolts are tight

o Timer alarm for flight time to not exceed 80% battery capacity set properly

o Batteries are secure

o Antennas are secure

o Props balanced

o Props aligned

o Props not chipped

o Check blades, arms, etc. for cracks/damage

o Wiring Tight

o No excessive flexing of motors or booms

o Booms/motors will not twist

o Center of gravity is correct

o Warning lights set for low battery if used

o Batteries charged. Replace any battery which cycles below 80% of rated capacity

DJI S-1000 INVENTORY CHECKLIST

o Aircraft

o Camera with SD card

o Spare parts/tools

o Spare batteries

o Two RC transmitters
o Laptop

o Battery Charger

o Flight Controller Cable

o Video monitor, stand, battery, antennas

o Goggles

o Datalink & cable

o Battery Y-harness

DJI S-1000 PREFLIGHT CHECKLIST

o Check area to fly on Google maps

o Inform ATC of your flight plan if required

o Determine emergency flight plan and alternate landing zones avoiding power lines and obstacles

o Check wind direction

o Set a perimeter of 50-100 meters – area must be clear of people

o Remove lens cap / Clean lens

o Camera On

o Ensure camera has SD card installed.

o Check battery voltage

o Install battery on copter.

o On Copter TX - Set switches - Throttle Down, Return to Home switch Off, Manual Flight Mode

Switch On, Flight Path Switch Off – Not Course or Home Lock

o Copter Transmitter On

o Check Model Selection on Tx

o Check Tx battery voltage (above 7.4v)

o Photography Transmitter On

o Calibrate GPS/Compass if necessary

o If calibrated, cycle battery with correct heading for course lock.

o Do not touch the Copter until 30 seconds after full GPS Lock. Initial 3 red blinks is normal meaning

no GPS lock. Wait until no flashes. Continue with checklist.

o Check Copter Voltage from GCS

o Engage Attitude Mode – Must Achieve Double Amber Flash
o Engage GPS Mode – Must Achieve Double Purple Flash

o Verify camera operation (If problems, check Drive Mode – Remote Cmdr must be “on”, manual focus,

intelligent auto)

o Verify data link if installed – rolling copter manually should change gauges

o Timers set properly

TAKEOFF CHECKLIST

o Engage GPS mode – Double purple flash

o Announce loudly: “CLEAR PROP”

o Position the sticks in the lower left hand corners, then immediately raise the throttle 2 clicks,

and center the right stick.

o Advance throttle to 1⁄4 power for 5 seconds. Assure all motors are operating.

o Verify data and video links are still operational

o Announce loudly: “TAKING OFF”

o Advance throttle to full. Copter must jump off of the ground.

o Ascend to 3 meters. Center throttle stick. Should be single green flash. Verify wireless link,

GPS hold, camera operation, gauges, etc. are working properly.

o Verify copter stability. If unstable, land and reset gains, recalibrate, or retest as necessary.

o Raise landing gear

o Proceed with manual mission

o Manual pilot/observer must monitor the informational LED and be ready to take over in manual mode when necessary.

o Manual pilot to request copter flight battery voltage readout from camera operator periodically.

QUICK PREFLIGHT CHECKLIST

o Landing zone clear

o Level copter with correct heading

o Both TX – all switches down

o Both TX on

o Copter on

o Check GPS and Course lock checks

o Video check
o Timers ready

o Takeoff

o Raise Landing Gear

o Unplug 6 batteries upon landing

ERROR MESSAGES

o White flashes

o Excessive rocking/instability possible causes:

rops misaligned

 Excessive motor power. Max motor power must a little more than typical ascent power.

o Red Flashes (1, 2 or 3 flashes with pauses) – GPS loss (3 is more serious). Land if loss lasts for more than 30 seconds. 

Possible causes:

-function
LANDING CHECKLIST

o Landing area clear

o Lower landing gear

o Note obstacles in flightpath

o Announce loudly: “LANDING”

o First cut power to the aircraft

o Note elapsed time of flight

o Adjust any parameters (camera servo speed, exponential, etc)

o Complete flight log

TABLE OF CONTENTS

cription
SECTION 1

GENERAL

NOTE: In an effort to minimize costs and maximize spare parts availability, many COTS (commercial off the shelf) 

components have been utilized. Some may have slight modifications to better suit this application. Most COTS products 

have separate data sheets, assembly manuals and instruction manuals. They are reference in this document, with key 

factors being emphasized.

As with all high technology products utilizing constantly evolving software, it is important to periodically check for online 

upgrades to the COTS components, including hardware, firmware and software.

WARNING: Great care must be taken with the batteries. Much of this manual and supplemental information is devoted to 

the use and care of the batteries, especially the flight batteries. They are less volatile than gasoline, though they should be 

treated with the same respect. Become very familiar with proper techniques of their use.

GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS

o Low Visual Signature

o Low Aural Signature

o Quick Launch and Recovery

o Short Training Period

o Simple Operation

o VTOL

o Quick Repairs

o Redundant Flight Systems

o Safety Return to Home during lost link or low battery

o High Degree of Mission Success

o GPS navigation aid

o Various sensors

o 24 lb max takeoff weight
o Operating Temp Range: -5°C to +60°C

o Maximum Operating Altitude: 500 ft AGL

o Propulsion System: LiPoly batteries

o Takeoff: Manual or Automatic

o Landing: Manual or Automatic

o Takeoff/Recovery Area: 5m square

IMPORTANT DIMENSIONS

o Distance rotor to rotor across the center: 41” 

o Height with GPS/Compass folded down: 21”

o Height with GPS/Compass up: 25”

o Length of landing gear skids: 18”

o Distance between landing gear skids: 21”

IMPORTANT WEIGHTS

o Maximum Takeoff Weight: 24 lbs

o Aircraft Dry Weight: 10lbs

MOTORS

o Manufacturer: DJI-Innovations

o Number of motors: 8

o Motor type: 41mm x 14mm

o Motor Model Number: 4114-11

o Motor KV/RPM: 400

o Motor max @ 25.2V: 10,000 rpm

o Motor Max Power: 500 Watts

o Power rating: 4000 Watts maximum power consumption for all 8 motors

o Current Max: 100 amps

o Amp Draw Typical Average: 65 amps
PROPELLERS

o Manufacturer: DJI-Innovations

o Material: Composite

o Number of propellers: 8

o Propeller model number: DJI 15 x 5.2

o Number of blades: 2 - folding

o Propeller Diameter: 15”

o Propeller Pitch (fixed): 5.2”

o Max rpm: 10,000 rpm

ELECTRONIC SPEED CONTROLS

o Manufacturer: DJI-Innovations 

o Number of speed controls: 8

o Speed control model number: DJI 40A Opto

o Rating in amps: 40 Amps continuous

o Signal Frequency: 30 - 450 Hz

o Drive PWM Frequency: 8 KHz

AUTOPILOT

o Manufacturer: DJI-Innovations

o Autopilot Model Number: DJI A2

o Components: GPS/Compass, IMU, Master Controller, Power Distribution System, LED

Indicator Lighting System, Data Transceiver, GCS Software

o Power Consumption: 5W

o Operating Temp Range: -5°C to +60°C

o Software Compatible: Windows XP sp3 / Windows 7

o Hovering Accuracy: Vertical : ± 0.5m; Horizontal: ± 2m

 FUEL/FLIGHT BATTERY

o Manufacturers: Various COTS suppliers
o Battery chemistry recommended: Lithium Polymer

o Battery Capacity: 16,000 - 42,000 mah

o Battery cell count required: 6S (6 cells in series)

o Battery Voltage: 21V minimum during hover, 22.2V nominal, 25.2V maximum

o Battery Minimum Rated Discharge Rate: 20C minimum

o Battery Minimum Charge Rate: 1C (3C preferable)

o Battery Rest Time between discharging and charging: 0-30 minutes

o Batteries used simultaneously: 1-4

o Recommended Battery Discharge Amount: 80-90%

FLIGHT PARAMETERS

o Flight Time: up to 30 minutes

o Payload Max: 14 lbs

o Power Consumption in a Hover at 21 lb takeoff weight: 1500 Watts, 65 amps

WARNINGS

o Never power a video transmitter or receiver without an antenna connected or overload failure will occur.

o Read all information regarding batteries contained in this manual and supplements.

o Discharging LiPoly batteries in excess of 80% of their rated capacity can cause harm to the batteries.

o Using more than one battery at a time requires the proper wiring harness so that the voltage is no more than 25.2V. 

Over voltage will cause serious damage to electrical equipment.

o Using more than one battery at a time requires weight and balance checks. Proper CG is critical to performance. 

Airframe must not be overloaded.

o GPS/Compass must be facing forward.

o Do not use GPS Mode without GPS lock.

o Use low strength thread locking compound on all screws
SECTION 2

LIMITATIONS

o Vne – Velocity to Never Exceed: 15 m/s

o Va – Typical Maneuvering Speed – 5 m/s

o 40 Amps max per motor

o 40 Amps max per speed control

o 320 Amps max total

o Do not exceed 80-90% discharge of rated battery capacity

o Do not charge batteries which are warmer than air temperature

o Allow batteries to cool after use before charging

o Leave an air gap between batteries when multiple batteries are used simultaneously

o Takeoff Weight Max: 24 lbs

change in equipment is made

o 3mm from the center of any of the three pairs of arms

location.

ight
o This aircraft is intended for non-aerobatic operations

o G-loading maximum: 2G

o Operating Temp Range: -10°C to +40°C

o In cold temperatures

ith any frost or ice on the propellers

o In warm temperatures

o Light dust and light rain require the use of a shield for the electronics in the center section.

o Light dust and light rain are acceptable for the unshielded motor and ESC.

o FUEL

travel the same ground distance.

Higher air speeds will be required to penetrate the wind which uses more battery power. Take this into account when 

flying a mission.

Where possible, fly upwind at the start of a mission and downwind at the end to avoid depleting the battery before 

returning to base. Have alternative landing sites available in case of emergency landing.

o WIRELESS LINK

o shorter ranges due to
Multipath – reflection off buildings or ground which cause multiple signals to arrive at different times and/or phase.

SECTION 3

EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

o Operation is possible with one motor/ESC/propeller failure

automatically by the flight

controller to overcome the loss

 In cases where the airframe is highly loaded the maximum rating of 40 amps may be exceeded by these two 

motors/ESCs

 Operation should be terminated as soon as possible to reduce the possibility of damage to the remaining motors

o Video link failure

penetrate. This link should be the first to be lost.

deo first! It is the least likely to cause a crash when it fails.

 Ensure that the GCS station antennas are perpendicular to the AV. Do not point the antenna at the AV.

na position

 Transmitters produce heat when in operation. When overheated they may have thermal protection which interrupts 

use temporarily. Use of a heat sink or fan may be required especially with high ambient temperatures.

 Higher gain antennas may be used, but do so with caution. High gain antennas are directional.

 Multiple antennas using “diversity” can be used. Diversity is a device which determines the best signal, and uses that.
5.8 Ghz even at high wattages theoretically has less range than lower frequencies.

o RC link failure

 Anything in between the two antennas can cause temporary signal loss especially a person.

 Hold the transmitter up in the air and walk in the general direction of the AV (aerial vehicle).

 The failsafes on the RC link should be set so that the AV returns to home. Should this require a heading change, the 

antenna may move into a more desirable position and link will be restored.

 The onboard equipment may block the signal. Yaw the AV so that the antennas point towards the GCS.

 A LRS (long range system) can be used as a permanent solution. This is higher in wattage and usually on 433 Mhz.

o LOW BATTERY POWER

-safes can be set such that in the event of low battery power, either due to a failure

or too long of a flight, the warning light on the AV will constantly flash amber. This is the first level of warning.

 Auto landing will occur when battery power is low. It may land in a tree or a lake, so this is not desirable.

 Landing with 80-90% of battery depleted is best. Therefore landing with 17,000 mah used and 3,000 mah remaining of 

a 20,000 mah battery is desirable. Batteries should be drawn down equally when in use if they are both charged equally 

and both in relatively the same condition/age.

o COMPASS CALIBRATION ERROR

is out of calibration the warning light will flash red. This is the same

signal as low voltage. If the voltage is correct, there is a calibration error.

o FIRE

ort circuit or battery failure.

 Disconnect the battery ASAP unless there is danger in doing so if there is any electrical issue.
 Do not attempt to put out a battery fire. Use a fire extinguisher to put out fires surrounding the battery. A CO2 fire 

extinguisher is better than the powder or chemical type. CO2 does not leave a residue. Water can be used though it may 

cause other electrical component failures.

o FORCED LANDINGS

Alternate emergency landing zones should be chosen ahead of time.

 Announce your intentions of landing as loud as necessary to alert people of the incoming AV.
SECTION 4

SET UP SUGGESTIONS

o We found that the higher the mast, the better the GPS reception

o Follow the instructions in the manual

o We prefer the switch assignment as shown in the checklists above though feel free to modify

to your liking

o We recommend the use of a dual rate switch for main copter operation.

– used to initialize the motors. The flight controller will not engage unless it sees full down throttle, full left 

rudder, full left cyclic and full back cyclic. However, these may be too high for normal flying. On high rate it is helpful to 

utilize fairly high exponential to make the stick feel soft around center. Adjust to your preference.

 Low rate – used for typical flying. Set the end point adjustments such that full stick deflection offers the maximum 

speed required in normal flying. If conditions require higher flight speeds, switch to high rate. On low rate it is also helpful 

to utilize a small amount of exponential to make the stick feel soft around center. Adjust to your preference.

o Use of the countdown timer is a good backup method to ensure landing with battery power.

 Set the timer for 20 minutes (or what you deem appropriate) and have it start when the throttle is over 1⁄4. Then adjust 

the timer upwards until the amount of battery used is about 80-90% of the total available. If using 20,000 mah batteries, a 

total of 17,000 mah would be the target. Set the timer such that you have a minute or so to land after the alarm sounds so 

that you have adequate time to return to base. Adjust to your preference.
NORMAL PROCEDURES

o Confirm all communication radios are operational

o Set a perimeter of 100 meters

o Check for overhead power lines and other obstacles to avoid

o Check structural integrity

s for excessive flex

indicating structural fatigue/failure

o Have a manual flight plan avoiding obstacles.

o Install batteries

lcro keeps the batteries from moving which

will avoid a shift in the CG (Center of Gravity – or that it balances evenly)

o Check CG (Center of Gravity)

the arms. The copter should balance properly. If

not, do not fly. Rearrange the equipment such that the CG is balanced.

o IMU pointing forward

o GPS/Compass installed, limited free play, pointing forward

ld it in place. It cannot vibrate easily.

If it does not point forward, the corrections in ATTI and GPS mode will be incorrect and it will crash. The FC will provide a

warning with constant flashing white lights.

 Keep in mind the best angle for pointing the landing gear in the direction that will keep the landing gear out of the shot 

when flying.

o Turn on Pilot Tx

o Check Model Selection on Tx 
o Throttle on Tx Down

o Return to Home switch Off

o Adjust gain to correct position (if required)

o Manual Flight Mode Switch to manual (not ATTI or GPS mode)

o Flight Path Switch Off – Not Course or Home or POI

o Check Tx battery voltage (above 7.5v)

in the incorrect position, it will 

not initialize properly which may cause some of the functions like course lock or GPS mode to not operate properly.

 If the copter does not function properly after takeoff, land immediately and disconnect the copter power. Then put all 

the switches in the proper position for initialization and turn the power back on to the copter.

o Count down timer should be set to 20 minutes. This can be adjusted to your flying style. The timer should engage at 1⁄4 

throttle and trigger an alarm at the proper time. This is a backup alarm in case the indicator lights on the copter are not 

visible.

o Turn on Photography Tx

o Check Model Selection on Tx 

o Check Tx battery voltage (above 7.5v)

 If the camera or gimbal do not function properly, disconnect the copter power. Then put all the switches in the proper 

position for initialization and turn the power back on to the copter.

o Engage power to copter

main flight pack. 

are recognized by the ESCs.

 Hearing less than 6 chirps indicates fewer cell battery packs are being recognized which is incorrect. Check for improper 

or damaged batteries.

o Do not move or vibrate the quadcopter until 30 seconds after full GPS Lock

 Initial 3 red blinks is normal meaning no GPS lock. No red flashes indicates full GPS lock.

 Continue with checklist as you are waiting for full GPS lock, but do not move the copter.

 If the GPS takes more than 5 minutes to lock, there is a problem with the area. It is not receiving the proper signals 

from the satellites. GPS signals are weak, so trees, people, buildings, terrain, weather, have an effect. Move the copter into 

a more open area where it can more easily see the satellites.

o Check Copter Voltage from both Tx’s (transmitters)
regulated to about 5v. If the voltage is below 4.4v or above 6v do not fly. There may be power regulation issues. The 

receivers cannot work outside this voltage consistently. Also there is some issue if the voltage is outside that range which 

should be resolved before flying.

o Engage Attitude Mode – Must achieve double amber flash

o Engage GPS Mode – Must achieve double purple flash

o Engage course cock mode – Must achieve double green flash

o Disengage course lock mode. Must achieve double purple flash. Stay in this mode until just

prior to takeoff, after takeoff at any time, or do not use.

o Do not engage motors. Set throttle to center position. Must achieve single purple flash when in GPS mode.

o Engage Camera

signal to the video transmitter via the HDMI connection.

o Verify camera operation

 Set the focus to auto or manual. Manual setting is usually set to infinity to stop constant focusing of the camera.

o Verify data link if installed

o Verify altitude is about 0 via gauge on computer

o Alternate Emergency Landing Sites Established

o Confirm clear for takeoff 

o Engage GPS mode – Double purple flash when the throttle is down.

o Announce loudly: “CLEAR PROP”

o Move both of the sticks to the bottom left corners to engage the motors. Within 1 second

move the throttle up 1/8 – 1/4. The copter should not lift off until about 1⁄2 stick is reached.

o Verify data and video links before lifting off. If anything is not working properly, move the throttle stick to low to 

disengage the motors and determine a solution.

o If all flight checks are passed, announce loudly: “TAKING OFF”

o Advance throttle to about 3/4. Copter must jump off of the ground to avoid one skid coming

up before the other skid, and the skid on the ground getting caught and flipping the copter

over sideways.
o Ascend to 3 meters. Then decrease throttle to 1⁄2 to engage the GPS hold.

o Verify links, GPS, Attitude, etc. Should be single purple flash.

o Verify that the copter is holding position within .5m in all directions.

o Verify camera operation

o Verify copter stability. If unstable, land and reset gains, recalibrate, or retest as necessary.

o Note flight time from transmitter. Write this down in the log book.

o Note battery power used during the flight. Write this down in the log book.

o ALWAYS disconnect the main power to the AV first, then turn off the transmitter.

o Check motor temperatures by touching them with your fingers. Any motors which are excessively hot should be further 

inspected and possibly replaced.

o Check battery temperatures by touching them with your fingers. Battery temperatures should not be hot to the touch. 

Battery temperatures should be slightly above ambient.

o Inspect all components especially the propellers for wear.

SECTION 5

PERFORMANCE

o The AV is designed to hover at high efficiency. Hovering is much less efficient than flying on a wing, thus flight times are 

low compared to fixed wing aircraft.

o All the weight of the AV is supported by power from the batteries. As the batteries are used in a flight, the amount of 

power available decreases. Therefore the power reserve is constantly decreasing as the battery is being used. Thus loading 

a rotorcraft above its limit is not recommended. While the AV may have enough power to lift off initially on a full charge, 

the power reserve at partial charge may be too low to allow for maneuvering and will result in a crash.

o High lateral speeds will add lift to slightly improve efficiency. The rotors act similar to fixed wings at higher speeds. This 

increase in efficiency may be negated by the increased power consumption of forward flight.

o High winds or gusts decrease efficiency/flight time. The motors work harder to hold position.
o As weight increases flight times decrease.

o Refer to the specific manuals for performance ratings.

o Wireless communications utilized provide acceptable communication for LOS.

o In general:

 Any freq. at may have severe degradation due to location to other admitters such as cell towers

 RSSI (Received Signal Strength Indication) should be monitored for indication of communication drop out.

SECTION 6

WEIGHT AND BALANCE EQUIPMENT LIST

Center Of Gravity

o CG is critical to the efficient operation of any AV

o When components are shifted, the CG will be altered.

o The main components which are moved on a regular basis are the sensors and the batteries.

o The sensors are typically in the front of the AV, and the batteries are located in the correct

position to offset all the components on the AV.

o The CG must be tested after any change to the components or their placement.

o The CG should be tested by lifting the UV with fingers on the bottom of the arms. Check all 3

pairs of arms. The CG should be no more than 2mm off in any on the 3 checks. The closer the

CG is to the centerlines of the arms the more efficient and the more stable the AV will be. 

• WEIGHT

o Weight is critical to the operation of any aircraft

o Weight is especially critical to a rotor wing aircraft. At full throttle the motors have a finite

amount of thrust. All the weight is lifted by the battery power, there is no wing to assist in
providing lift.

o As the batteries are operated, they lose power. At full charge they have about 25v. At 20% remaining capacity they have 

about 21v. This is a loss of 8% of the power available which is significant.

o Do not overload the aircraft or there will not be sufficient reserve power to maneuver at low battery levels.

SECTION 7

AIR VEHICLE AND SYSTEMS DESCRIPTION

FUEL/BATTERY REQUIRED

o Manufacturers: Various COTS suppliers.

o Refer to manufacturer data sheet.

o Battery chemistry required: Lithium Polymer

o Battery Capacity: 16,000 mah (minimum)

o Battery cell count required: 6S (6 cells in series)

o Battery Voltage: 21V minimum at hover, 22.2V nominal, 25.2V maximum

o Battery Minimum Rated Discharge Rate: 20C minimum

o Batteries used simultaneously: 1-4 typical

o Recommended Battery Discharge Amount: 80-90%

SECTION 8

HANDLING, SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE

PROPELLER CARE

o Propellers must be checked each flight for nicks or cracks

o Propellers are designed to last indefinitely if they do not impact dust, dirt or more.

BATTERY CARE AND USE

o Refer to instruction sheet included from the battery manufacturer. Typical information follows.
o Batteries are highly flammable and can explode, especially when fully charged. Improper charging, vibration, impact, 

high discharge, etc. can lead to explosion and fire. Batteries must be charged under constant supervision and using proper 

precautions.

o Batteries fully charged must be handled with extreme care.

o Any battery which puffs up is considered damaged and must not be used. It is in a dangerous

state. Never charge a puffed up battery.

o Any battery which holds less than 80% of its rated capacity should be discarded.

o Cycle test each battery after every 50 cycles or if a battery is suspected to have lost as

significant amount of its capacity to determine the current capacity.

o Properly dispose of batteries. First discharge the battery fully using a battery cycler. Bring to a recycler such as a home

improvement store.

o Always charge flight batteries under “balance” mode.

o Flight Battery Recommended Charge Rate: 1C which takes approximately 1 hour to charge

o Flight Battery Maximum Charge Rate: May exceed 5C. Charge rates higher than 1C will

decrease life cycles. Maximum charge rating per the manufacturer will provide 300+ cycles.

Use the lowest charge rate which is practical.

o Battery Rest Time between discharging and charging: 30 minutes minimum, 1 hour maximum.

o Do not charge if the battery is more than 2°C warmer than ambient, especially if the temperature is above 20°C. The 

outer surface is cooler than the inner core after use. Damage will occur when charging a warm battery.

o Recommended Battery Discharge Amount: 80%. Using more of the capacity of the battery will decrease the life cycles

o As battery temperature approaches freezing the capacity of Lithium Polymer batteries decrease. Keep warmer than 5°C 

before installing into the UV (unmanned vehicle).

o Battery capacity decreases at higher discharge rates. Using more batteries decreases the discharge rate of each battery 

thereby extending individual battery capacity slightly.

o Lower discharge rates improve the life cycles.

o Batteries are rated at greater than 300 life cycles. 1,000+ life cycles are possible.

o Batteries must not be stored above 60% charged state for extended periods.

o Batteries should be stored below 25°C for extended periods

o Store batteries between 40% - 60% charged state. Fully charge just before use.

o Fully charged batteries which are not to be used within 24 hours should be discharged to 40%

- 60% charged state using the battery discharger.
o Using more than one battery at a time requires the proper wiring harness so that the voltage is no more than 25.2V. 

Over voltage will cause serious damage to electrical equipment.

PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE

o ANNUAL INSPECTION 

must be completed.

o 500 HOUR PM 

A technician should disassemble the AV and inspect all components for wear and replace any components as required.

SECTION 9

SUPPLEMENTS

COTS components have been utilized in the construction of this AV. All instruction manuals, operating handbooks, warning 

notices, and more are available as separate documents. Components which may have separate documentation follow. 

Links to these documents are available on the website. Print out the significant documents and keep in a notebook with 

the copter at all times.

AIRFRAME 

AUTOPILOT SYSTEM 

BATTERIES 

BATTERY CHARGER

CAMERA MANUAL 

CAMERA GCS

DATA WIRELESS LINK

GIMBAL CAMERA MOUNT

SERVOS 
MOTORS

ONBOARD REGULATOR 

PROPELLERS

RC/MANUAL COMMAND & CONTROL SYSTEM

SPEED CONTROLS (ESCs)

VIDEO CAPTURE HARDWARE 

VIDEO CAPTURE SOFTWARE 

VIDEO WIRE