1 © 2014 Troy Built Models, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

PILOT OPERATING HANDBOOK

DJI Inspire 1

Author: Gene Payson Revised: 21 Dec 2014 http://www.troybuiltmodels.com
2 © 2014 Troy Built Models, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

PILOT OPERATION HANDBOOK

DJI Inspire 1

This book is offered in a format so that pilots can customize the checklists to their exact needs. Pleaseprint out this

handbook, make notes while watching the video regarding the checklist, then change the wording and order to suit 

your needs. Then print out the revised form and laminate it in plastic. Use it every timeyou operate your aircraft. 

Keep the log books regarding thefollowing:

1) Pilot flight time

2) Aircraft flight time

3) Aircraft maintenance and updates

4) Battery usage, date put into service, voltage, mah vs time

Print out and make readily available the error message legend of various flashing lights. Know what todo without 

hesitation should you observewarnings.

Insurance is a must! Not only will it be expensive to repair your aircraft in the event of an incident, ifyou injure 

bystanders or damage other people’s property you are liable for damages which could run into the millions of dollars. 

One insurance company which currently writes policies on sUAS is www.Transportrisk.com

Errors & Omissions should be sent to customerservice@troybuiltmodels.com. We will promptly update the POH for 

everyone to have the latest updates available.
3 © 2014 Troy Built Models, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

 Aircraft

Model: 

T600

Weight (Battery Included): 

2935 g (6.4lbs)

Hovering Accuracy (GPS Mode): 

Vertical: 0.5 m (1.6ft), Horizontal: 2.5 m (8.2ft)

Max Angular Velocity:

Pitch: 300°/s

Yaw: 150°/s

Max Tilt Angle:

35°

Max Ascent Speed:

5 m/s (9.7 kts)

Max Descent Speed:

4 m/s

4 m/s (7.7 kts)

Max Speed:

22 m/s (42.8kts) (ATTI mode, no wind)

Max Flight Altitude:

4500 m (2.4 NM)

Max Wind Speed Resistance:

10 m/s (19.4 kts)

Max Flight Time:

Approximately 18 minutes

Motor Model:

DJI 3510

Propeller Model:

DJI 1345

Indoor Hovering

Indoor Hovering:

Enabled by default

Operating Temperature Range:

-10° to 40° C (14° to 104° F)

Diagonal Distance:

Diagonal Distance

559 to 581 mm (22 to 22.8 inches)

Dimensions:
4 © 2014 Troy Built Models, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

438x451x301 mm

438x451x301 mm (17.2x17.8x11.9 inches)

 Gimbal

Model:

ZENMUSE X3

Output Power (With Camera)):

Static: 9 W

In Motion: 11 W

Operating Current:

Station: 750 mA

Motion: 900 mA

Angular Vibration Range:

±0.03°

Mounting:

Detachable

Controllable Range:

Pitch: -90° to +30°

Pan: ±320°

Mechanical Range:

Pitch: -125° to +45°

Pan: ±330°

Max Controllable Speed:

Pitch: 120°/s

Pan: 180°/s

 Camera

Name:

X3

Model:

FC350

Total Pixels:

12.76M

Effective Pixels:

12.4M

Image Max Size:

4000x3000

ISO Range:

100~3200
5 © 2014 Troy Built Models, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

FOV (Field Of View):

94°

CMOS:

Sony EXMOR 1/2.3”

Lens:

f/2.8 (20 mm equivalent)

9 Elements in 9 groups

Aspherical lens element

Anti-distortion filter

UV filter

Still Photography Modes:

Single shoot

Burst shooting (BURST: 3/5/7 frames, AEB: 3 or 5 bracketed frames at 0.7EV Bias)

Time lapse

HD Video Recording Modes:

UHD (4K): 4096x2160p24/25,3840x2160p24/25/30

FHD: 1920x1080p24/25/30/48/50/60

HD: 1280x720p24/25/30/48/50/60

Max Bitrate of Video Storage:

60 Mbps

Supported File Formats:

FAT32/exFAT

Photo: JPEG,DNG

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

Supported SD Card Types:

SD/SDHC/SDXC Micro SD

Max capacity: 64 GB. Speed: Class 10 or higher

Operating Temperature Range:

0° to 40° C

 Remote Controller

Name:

C1

Operating Frequency:

922.7~927.7 MHz (Japan Only)

5.728~5.850 GHz

2.400~2.483 GHz

Transmitting Distance (Outdoor and Unobstructed)):

2 km (1.1 NM)
6 © 2014 Troy Built Models, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

2 km

EIRP:

10dBm@900m,13dBm@5.8G,20dBm@2.4G

Video Output Port:

USB, mini-HDMI

Power Supply:

Built-in battery

Charging:

DJI charger

Dual User Capability:

Host-and-Slave connection

Mobile Device Holder:

Tablet or Phone

Max Mobile Device Width:

170mm

Output Power:

9 W

Operating Temperature Range:

-10° to 40° C (14° to 104° F)

Storage Temperature Range:

Less than 3 months: -20° to 45° C (-4° to 113° F)

More than 3 months: 22° to 28° C (72° to 82° F)

Charging Temperature Range:

0-40° C

0-40° C (32° to 104° F)

Battery:

6000 mAh LiPo 2S

 Charger

Model:

A14-100P1A

Voltage:

26.3 V

Rated Power:

100 W
7 © 2014 Troy Built Models, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

 Battery (Standard)

Name:

Intelligent Flight Battery

Model:

TB47

Capacity:

4500 mah

Voltage:

22.2 V

Battery Type:

LiPo 6S High voltage battery

Energy:

99.9 Wh

Net Weight:

570 g

Operating Temperature Range:

-10° to 40° C (14° to 104° F)

Storage Temperature Range:

Less than 3 months: -20° to 45° C (-4° to 113° F)

More than 3 months: 22° C to 28° C (72° to 82° F)

Charging Temperature Range:

0° to 40° C (32° to 104° F)

Max Charging Power:

180 W

 Battery (Optional)

Name:

Intelligent Flight Battery

Model:

TB48

Capacity:

5700 mAh

Voltage:

22.8 V

Battery Type:

LiPo 6S
8 © 2014 Troy Built Models, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

These times are averages in our tests. Individual flight times may differ based on flying style.

Energy:

129.96 Wh

Net Weight:

670 g (1.5lbs)

Operating Temperature Range:

-10° to 40° C (32° to 104° F)

Storage Temperature Range:

Less than 3 months: -20 to 45° C (-4° to 113° F)

More than 3 months: 22° to 28° C (72° to 82° F)

Charging Temperature Range:

0° to 40° C (32° to 104° F)

Max Charging Power:

180 W

 Vision Positioning

Velocity Range:

Below 8 m/s (15.6 kts) (2 m or 6.6 ft above ground)

Altitude Range:

5-500 cm (.16-16.4 ft)

Operating Environment:

Brightly lit (lux > 15) patterned surfaces

Operating Range:

0-250 cm (0-8.2 ft)

 DJI Pilot App

Mobile Device System Requirements:

iOS version 7.1 or later

Android version 4.1.2 or later

Supported Mobile Devices:

* iPhone 6 Plus, iPhone 6, iPhone 5S, iPad Air 2, iPad Mini 3, iPad Air, iPad Mini 2, iPad 4

* Samsung Note 4、Samsung Note 3、Samsung S5、Sony Z3 EXPERIA

* Note: It is recommended that you use a tablet for the best experience

*Support for additional Android devices available as testing and development continues
9 © 2014 Troy Built Models, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

DJI Inspire 1 CHECKLISTS

 DJI INSPIRE 1 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 Battery is secure

o Antenna is 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 to include:

 Flight Battery

 C2 Tx Battery

 Payload Tx Battery

 Smart phone or tablet battery is full

 DJI INSPIRE 1 INVENTORY CHECKLIST

o Aircraft

o SD card for camera

o Spare parts/tools

o Spare batteries

o One or two RC transmitters (depending on personal set up)

o Battery Charger

o Flight Controller Cables

o Video monitor, battery

 DJI INSPIRE 1 PREFLIGHT CHECKLIST

o Position: GCS, INSPIRE 1

o Emergency LZ

o Wind

o Area secure

o Antennas

o GCS

o Lens cap

o Camera On

o SD card

o Flight battery: voltage – install - CG

o C2 Tx: Switches – On 

o Photo Tx – Switches – On

o Copter On

o Calibrate? - Cycle

o Copter Voltage on GCS

o GPS Mode – Double Purple/Single Purple

o Course Lock Mode - Green

o Camera/Gimbal tests
10 © 2014 Troy Built Models, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

o Zero altitude

 TAKEOFF CHECKLIST

o Timer

o GPS mode (Course lock/Home lock?)

o Motor startup/checks

o Takeoff

o Landing Gear Up

 LANDING CHECKLIST

o LZ clear

o Landing Gear

o Land

o Flight Time

o Copter/Camera Power down

o Adjust Parameters

o Power Down battery

o Motor Temps

o Logbooks
11 © 2014 Troy Built Models, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

 ERROR MESSAGES

o Excessive rocking/instability possible causes:

 Weak motor

 Structure flexing from fatigue or cracks

 Motor mount

 Main frame

 Booms

 Loose Bolts causing flexing or misalignment

 Props

 Mounts

 Props out of balance

 Props misaligned

 Excessive wind speeds or gusts

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

o GPS You should have a minimum of 7 satellites - Land if loss of satelliteslasts for more than 30 

seconds. Possible causes:

 Clouds

 Structures

 GPS mal-function

 GPS too close to electrical components

 GPS vibration
12 © 2014 Troy Built Models, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 Section 1: General

 Section 2: Limitations

 Section 3: Emergency Procedures

 Section 4: Normal Procedures

 Section 5: Performance

 Section 6: Weight and Balance/Equipment List

 Section 7: Air Vehicle and Systems Description

 Section 8: Handling, Service and Maintenance
13 © 2014 Troy Built Models, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

SECTION 1

GENERAL

NOTE: This is a Ready-to-Fly (RTF) system. Modifications outside of what the manufacturer suggests should not be 

attempted. Any modifications done may result in undesirable flight characteristics. 

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

online upgrades to your RTF system such as firmware and software.

WARNING: Great care must be taken with the batteries. Much of this manual and supplementalinformation 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 Primarily for ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance)

o Low Visual Signature

o Low Aural Signature

o Quick Launch and Recovery

o Short Training Period

o Simple Operation

o Waypoint Navigation (Not currently supported)

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 6.8 lb max takeoff weight

o Operating Temp Range: -5°C to +40°C

o Flight Modes: Manual (GPS to come in the future)

o Maximum Operating Altitude: 4500 meters (2.4 NM)

o Maximum Operation Wind Conditions: 10 m/s (19.4 kts)

o Propulsion System: LiPo batteries

o Takeoff: Manual or Automatic

o Landing: Manual or Automatic

o Takeoff/Recovery Area: 5m square
14 © 2014 Troy Built Models, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

 IMPORTANT DIMENSIONS

o Distance rotor to rotor across the center: 35” 

o Height with GPS/Compass folded down: 21” 

o Height with GPS/Compass up: 25”

o Length of landing gear skids: 17”

o Distance between landing gear skids: 18”

o Collapsed size: 22” x 19”

 MOTORS

o Manufacturer: DJI-Innovations

o Number of motors: 4

o Motor Model Number: 3510

 PROPELLERS

o Manufacturer: DJI-Innovations

o Material: Composite

o Number of propellers: 4

o Propeller model number: DJI 1345

 AUTOPILOT

o Manufacturer: DJI-Innovations

o Autopilot Model Number: DJI A2

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

Transceiver, GCS Software

o Power Consumption: 5W

o Operating Temp Range: -5° C to +60° C (23° to 140° F)

o Software Compatible: Windows XP sp3 / Windows 7

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

 DIGITAL WIRELESS LINKS (Lightbridge)

o Distributor: DJI-Innovations

o Frequencies:

 2.4 Ghz/5.8Ghz (C2 & 

Video) 

o Power Consumption: <1 watt 

o Usable Range: <2 km (1.1 NM)

 FLIGHT BATTERY

o Manufacturers: DJI-Innovations

o Battery Capacity: 4,500 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

o Recommended Battery Discharge Amount: 80-90%
15 © 2014 Troy Built Models, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

 FLIGHT PARAMETERS

o Flight Time: 15+ minutes typical

o Payload Max: No additional payload recommended as this is a RTF system.

 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 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 Batteries must not be stored above 60% charged state.

o Store batteries between 20% - 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 20%

- 50% charged state.

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

o GPS/Compass must be facing forward.

o Do not use GPS Mode without GPS lock.

o Wireless Video and Data ranges vary considerably on many factors including weather, 

equipment, and obstructions. Be prepared for com failures.
16 © 2014 Troy Built Models, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

SECTION 2

LIMITATIONS

 AIRSPEED LIMITATIONS

o Vne – Velocity to Never Exceed: 22 m/s (ATTI mode, no wind)

o Va – Typical Maneuvering Speed – 5 m/s

 POWER & POWERPLANT LIMITATIONS

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

 WEIGHT LIMITS

o Takeoff Weight Max: 6.6 lbs.

 CENTER OF GRAVITY LIMITS

o Already calibrated, not recommended to alter weight or configuration

 MANEUVER LIMITS

o This aircraft is intended for non-aerobatic operations

o G-loading maximum: 2G

 TEMPERATURE LIMITS

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

o In cold temperatures

 Keep IMU at room temperature if possible before the flight

 Keep Batteries above 5°C before flight

 Do not fly with any frost or ice on the propellers

o In warm temperatures

 Batteries heat up when discharged

 The higher the discharge rate the higher the temperature increase during use

 WEATHER LIMITS

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

o Light dust and light rain are acceptable for the unshielded motor and ESC.
17 © 2014 Troy Built Models, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

 RANGE LIMITS

o FUEL

 Fuel capacity is a primary limiting factor.

 Flying into the wind will use more battery power to travel the same ground distance. Higher 

air speeds will be required to penetrate the wind which used 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

 Wireless links will be stable in LOS (line of sight) in most conditions

 Wireless links are always susceptible to shorter ranges due to

 Atmospheric conditions

 Other transmission devices in the area

 Jamming

 Antennas not aligned properly

 Improper voltage

 Antenna blockage from AV in certain positions

 Multipath – reflection off buildings or ground which cause multiple signals to arrive 

at different times and/or phase.
18 © 2014 Troy Built Models, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

SECTION 3 EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

 MOTOR FAILURE

o Operation is not possible with one motor/ESC/propeller failure

 COMMUNICATION FAILURE

o Video/data link failure

 5.8 Ghz being the shortest wavelength in general AV use has the least ability to 

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

 It is best to lose video first! It is the least likely to cause a crash when itfails.

 5.8 Ghz can lose link with little warning.

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

antenna at the AV.

 Yaw the AV to change the antenna position

 Other links should still be good. Return back to the GCS until link isrestored.

 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.

 5.8 Ghz even at high wattages theoretically has less range than lower frequencies. 

o RC link failure

 2.4 Ghz antennas can lose link with little warning.

 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 aerial vehicle 

(AV).

 Ensure that the antenna is vertical. Do not point the antenna at the AV.

 The failsafe 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.

o LOW BATTERY POWER

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

long of a flight. Thisis the first level of warning.

 The tablet GCS will calculate the amount of charge left and warn you when it is time 

to return to home. Do not let this be your only warning, monitor you usage and know 

when you need to return home.

 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 3,600 mah used 

and 400 mah remaining of a 4,000 mah battery is desirable. 

o GCS FAILURE

 Takeover by the external pilot should happen GPS failure occur ASAP using the RC 

link.

 Most often happens due to a low battery.

 Keep a spare 3 cell LiPo battery with the appropriate plug to plug into the charge jack for 

emergency use. Most chargers are 19V output which is roughly equivalent to a 4-cell battery. 

3-cell batteries may work.
19 © 2014 Troy Built Models, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

o COMPASS CALIBRATION ERROR

 If you need to recalibrate the compass, follow manufacture instructions.

o FIRE

 Fires can occur due to a short circuit or battery failure.

 Disconnect the battery ASAP unless there is danger in doing so if there is any 

electrical issue.

 It is not possible to put out a battery fire.

 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.

 Be sure that the LZ is clear of people to avoid any injuries to bystanders or incidents.

 Land in the nearest LZ which is clear of people.

 Announce your intentions of landing as loud as necessary to alert people of the 

incoming AV.
20 © 2014 Troy Built Models, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

SECTION 4

SET UP SUGGESTIONS

 ELECTRONICS BURN IN

o We recommend that you put weights onto the landing skids to keep the copter on the ground and run 

the copter at about 70% throttle for about 2 hours to burn in the electronics. Most electronic failures 

occur in the first 2 hours of operation.

 RADIO SET UP

o Follow the instructions in the manual

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

liking

 TIMERS

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

Set the timer for 15 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 4,000 mah batteries, a total of 3,600 mah would be the target. Set the timer such 

that you have two minutes or so to land after the alarm sounds so that you have adequate time to 

return to base. Adjust to your preference.
21 © 2014 Troy Built Models, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

NORMAL PROCEDURES

 PREFLIGHT CHECKLIST

o Confirm all communication radios are operational

 Radio with ATC and phone number back up available

 Radios with others in the group

o Set a perimeter of 100 meters

 Area must be clear of people to avoid collision

o Check for overhead power lines and other obstacles to avoid

o Check structural integrity

 In event of prior crash, inspect all booms, props and motor mounts for excessive flex 

indicating structural fatigue/failure

o Have a manual flight plan avoiding obstacles.

o Load auto flight plan if using one (when function available)

 Be sure that the total flight time is under 10 minutes to avoid low battery

o Clean lens

 Remove lens cap

o Ensure camera has SD card installed

 Many flights have been wasted due to this!

o Install battery

 Ensure that the battery is securely in place

o Check Center of Gravity (CG)

 Lift the copter on each of the 3 pairs of arms. The copter should balance properly. If not, do 

not fly. Make adjustments as needed

o Level copter using a bubble level with front pointing in correct direction for course lock – do not turn 

on

 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 Throttle on Tx Down

o Return to Home switch Off

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

o Flight Path Switch Off – Not Course or Home 

o Check Tx battery voltage (above 7.5v)

 These settings above are required to initialize the copter properly. If the switches are 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 correctly. 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 Tx battery voltage 

 If the camera or gimbal does 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 Do not move or vibrate the quadcopter until 30 seconds after 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 
22 © 2014 Troy Built Models, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

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 openarea where it can 

more easily see the satellites.

o Engage Attitude Mode – Verify tablet reflects ATTI mode

o Engage GPS Mode – Verify tablet reflects GPS mode

o Engage course cock mode – Verify tablet reflects course lock mode

o Do not engage motors. Set throttle to center position. 

o Calibrate GPS/Compass before the first flight each day or if receiving calibration errors.

 Flip the GPS mode switch 7 times very quickly from manual to GPS. End with the 

switch in the manual position. The indicator light will flash. Rotate the copter about 1.5 turns 

in a horizontal position. A green flashing light indicates that this is complete. Then hold the 

copter vertically and rotate about 1.5 turns. A green flashing light indicates that this is 

complete. Repeat if necessary until this is completed.

o After calibration, reset the copter by cycling battery with copter pointed in the correct heading for 

course lock.

o Verify camera operation

 Operate the shutter

 Check the focus.

o Verify data link 

 Roll the copter about 45 degrees on its side by lifting one side of the copter andresting one 

side of the landing gear on the ground

 A corresponding roll should be seen on the gauge.

 If the copter is rolled to the right, it will appear on the gauge that the horizon rollsto the left 

– not the right because the view from inside the copter is that the horizon rolls the opposite 

direction of the copter.

o Verify altitude is about 0 via gauge on computer

 If it is not about 0, the altitude settings for the waypoints will be off by this amount. This 

could cause the copter to fly at 10 meters or 30 meters if the waypoint is set for 20 meters 

and the altitude is off by 10 meters one way or another. If the copter thinks it is at 10 meters 

when it is on the ground, then it will only rise 10 meters above the ground to achieve what it 

believes it to be 20 meters above the ground.

 The altitude can be reset using the ground control software by going to altitude offset.

o Alternate Emergency Landing Sites Established

 NORMAL TAKEOFF

o Confirm clear for takeoff with ATC

 Necessary if within 5 miles of an airport

 ATC clearance is required days or weeks before flying.

o Engage GPS mode – Verify on tablet.

o Switch to Course Lock flight mode if required. Verify on tablet.

Flying in course lock is not required, but helpful in many instances.

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 isreached.

o Verify data and video links before lifting off. If anything is not working properly, movethe 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 (9 feet). Then decrease throttle to 1⁄2 to engage the GPS hold.
23 © 2014 Troy Built Models, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

o Verify links, GPS, Attitude, etc. Verify on tablet.

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

o Verify camera operation

o Verify course lock is operational by rotating 90 degrees and pushing forward onstick.

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

o Proceed with manual mission if desired

o For autopilot operation (when available)

 Ascend to 10 meters

 Command AVO to proceed with mission.

 Pilot should say “It’s yours”

 Response from AVO “I have it”

o Manual pilot/observer must monitor the informational on the tablet and be prepared to take 

over manual control as necessary. 

 POST LANDING

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.

o Note in logbook which batteries were used to calculate life cycle.

 AIRCRAFT FLIGHT LOG BOOK (Can be purchased inexpensively)

o Keep a log of all flights.

 Date

 Time of Day

 Time in Operation (in hours)

 Battery serial numbers

 Mah used in flight

 Location

 Pilot, Observer, Sensor Operator Names

 Flight Objective

 Remarks

 AIRCRAFT MAINTENANCE LOG BOOK (Can be purchased inexpensively)

o Keep a log of significant inspections, tests, repairs, equipment changes.

 Date maintenance is performed

 Accumulated hours of operation

 Remarks

 PILOT LOG BOOK (Can be purchased inexpensively)

o Keep a log of all flights. Include the following:

 Aircraft flown

 Aircraft serial number

 Date

 Time of Day

 Time in Operation (in hours)
24 © 2014 Troy Built Models, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

 Location

 Flight Objective

 Remarks
25 © 2014 Troy Built Models, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

SECTION 5

PERFORMANCE

 FLIGHT TIMES

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 isconstantly 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.

 WIRELESS TRANSMISSION

o Refer to the specific manuals for performance ratings.

o Wireless communications utilized provide acceptable communication for LOS.

o In general:

 LOS is required

 The higher the GCS antennas, the better the range

 Any freq. 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.
26 © 2014 Troy Built Models, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

 CG

SECTION 6

WEIGHT AND BALANCE EQUIPMENT LIST

o CG is critical to the efficient operation of any 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 both pairs 

of arms. The CG should be no more than 2mm off in any of the 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.
27 © 2014 Troy Built Models, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

SECTION 7

AIR VEHICLE AND SYSTEMS DESCRIPTION

 FLIGHT BATTERY REQUIRED

o Manufacturers: DJI-Innovations

o Battery chemistry recommended: Lithium Polymer

o Battery Capacity: 4,500 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: typically 1

o Recommended Battery Discharge Amount: 80-90%

 WERELESS COMMUNICATIONS

o Refer to the specific manuals for performance ratings.

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

occur.

o Wireless communications utilized provide acceptable communication for LOS.

o In general:

 LOS is required.

 Lower frequencies penetrate objects such as trees better than higher freqs.

 Lower freqs have longer range than high freqs

 Higher freqs can transfer more data than lower freqs

 The higher the GCS antennas, the better the range and reception

 Any freq may have severe degradation due to location or to other transmitters such as cell

towers

 Range must be constantly monitored.

 Alternate freqs may be utilized to improve link/range.
28 © 2014 Troy Built Models, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

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.

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 it 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 (3° F) warmer than ambient, especially if the 

temperature is above 20°C (68° F). 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 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 (77° F) 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.
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 PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE

o ANNUAL INSPECTION (SUGGESTED)

 If the airframe has in excess of 300 hours in a one calendar year period, an annual

inspection must be completed by an approved technician.

 Test all batteries for capacity.

 Upgrade firmware and software to latest revisions

o 500 HOUR PM (SUGGESTED)

 An approved technician should disassemble the AV and inspect all components for wear 

and replace any components as required.

 Replace all motors.

 Test all batteries for capacity.

 Upgrade firmware and software to latest revisions.
30 © 2014 Troy Built Models, Inc. All Rights Reserved.