July 6, 2015 

Docket Operations, M-30 

U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) 

Docket Management System 

1200 New Jersey Ave., SE 

Room W12-140, West Building Ground Floor 

Washington, DC 20590-0001 

Dear Sir or Madam: 

Page 11 

Attached please find Photographic Solutions, Inc. (Photographic Solutions) request, as a member 

of the Professional Aerial Photographers Association, International (PAP A), for an exemption 

from the listed Federal Aviation Regulations to allow commercial operation of its Small 

Unmanned Aircraft Systems ("sUAS") for aerial imaging to include video and still photography. 

This exemption request is initially for the use of the Phantom II sUAS manufactured by DJI, an 

established sUAS company and in accordance with the sUAS training and certification program 

as administered by PAP A 

Also attached to this letter is the equipment "Photographic Solutions Flight Manual" (Manual), 

which outlines the operating requirements, limitations, and technical specifications for the DJI 

System as used by Photographic Solutions. Photographic Solutions has reviewed this Manual 

and has found it to be acceptable for sUAS operations. Applicant submits this manual as a 

Confidential document under 14 CFR 11.35 (b) as the entire Manual contains proprietary 

information that the applicant has not and will not share with others. The Manual contains 

operating conditions and procedures that are not available to the public and are protected from 

release under the Freedom of Information Act 5 USC 552 et. seq. 

Thank you for your time and consideration, and please let me know if you have any questions. 

Stan Macbean 

Allen Macbean 

Photographic Solutions 

Corporate Officers 

Professional Aerial Photographers Association-International Section 333 Doc 15-001 
July 6, 2015 

Docket Operations, M-30 

U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) 

Docket Management System 

1200 New Jersey Ave., SE 

Room W12-140, West Building Ground Floor 

Washington, DC 20590-0001 

Pagel2 

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

Regulations from 14 CFR 61.113 (a) & (b); 91.103(b); 91.119;91.121; 9.151(a); 91.405 (a) (1); 

91.409 (a) (2); 91.417 (a) & (b). 

Dear Sir or Madam: 

Pursuant to Section 333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of2012 (the Reform Act) 

and 14 C.F .R. Part 11, Photographic Solutions Inc. (Photographic Solutions), an aerial 

photography and digital imaging company, on behalf of itself and its related affiliates under 

common ownership and control, hereby applies for an exemption from the listed Federal 

Aviation Regulations ("FARs") to allow commercial operation of its Small Unmanned Aircraft 

Systems ("sUAS") for aerial imaging for video and still photography, so long as such operations 

are conducted within and under the conditions outlined herein or as may be established by the 

FAA as required by Section 333. 

As detailed in this document and the attached Fli~ht Manual, the requested exemption would 

pennit the operation of sUAS under controlled conditions in airspace that is 1) limited 2) 

predetermined 3) controlled as to access and 4) would provide safety enhancements to the 

already best practices safety protocols followed by Photographic Solutions during aerial 

photography operations in accordance with the training and certification provided by the 

Professional Aerial Photographers Association, International (PAP A). Photographic Solutions is 

a member of the Professional Aerial Photographers Association-International (PAPA) and has a 

demonstrated record of safe operations in the National Airspace System (NAS). Principal 

employees have received ground school training and have logged well over 25 hours of sUAS 

flight operations. The Pilot/s In Command (PIC) proposed by Photographic Solutions are both 

FAA licensed pilots with years of safe and successful aerial photography operations. Approval 

of this exemption would thereby enhance safety and fultill the Secretary of Transportation's (the 

FAA Administrator's) responsibilities to " ... establish requirements for the safe operation of such 

aircraft systems in the National Airspace System." Section 333( c) of the Reform Act. 

Professional Aerial Photographers Association-International Section 333 Doc 15-001 
The name and address of the applicant is: 

Photographic Solutions, Inc. 

1347 N. State Street 

Orem, UT 84057 

PIC-Stan Macbean, FAA Licensed Pilot (Commercial) 

PIC-Allen Macbean, FAA Licensed Pilot (Commercial) 

PH: 801-224-6446 

Email: info@utahbyair. com 

Regulations from which the exemption is requested: 

14 C.P.R. Part 21 . . .. ' 

14 C.P.R. 45.23(b) 

14 C.P.R. 61.113 (a) & (b) 

14 C.P.R. 91.7 (a) 

14 C.P.R. 91.9 (b) (2) 

14 C.P.R. 91.103 

14 C.P.R. 109 

14 C.P.R. 119 

14 C.P.R. 121 

14 C.P.R. 91.151 (a) 

14 C.P.R. 91.203 (a) & (b) 

14 C.P.R. 91.405 (a) 

14 C.P.R. 407 (a) (1) 

14 C.P.R. 409 (a) (2) 

14 C.P.R. 417 (a) & (b) 

L STATUTORY AUTHORITY FOR EXEMPTIONS 

Page 13 

The Federal Aviation Act expressly grants the FAA authority to issue exemptions. This statutory 

authority includes exempting civil aircraft, as the term is defined under §40 101 of the Act, 

including sUASs, from the requirement that all civil aircraft must have a current airworthiness 

certificate. 

The Administrator may grant an exemption from a requirement of a regulation prescribed under 

subsection (a) or (b) of this section or any sections 44702-44716 ofthis title if the Administrator 

finds the exemption in the public interest. 49 U.S.C. §44701(f) See also 49 US.C §44711(a); 49 

USC §44704; [4 CFR §91.203(a) (1). 

Section 333(b) of the Reform Act assists the Secretary in determining whether sUAS may 

operate in the National Airspace System (NAS) without creating a hazard to the user, the public, 

or a threat to national security. In making this determination, the Secretary must consider: 

• The sUAS's size, weight, speed, and operational capability; 

Professional Aerial Photographers Association-International Section 333 Doc 15-001 
Page 14 

• Whether the sUAS operates within the visual line of sight of the operator 

• Whether the sUAS operates outside of highly populated areas and away from 

close proximity to airports 

Reform Act §333(a). If the Secretary determines that a sUAS "may operate safely in the national 

airspace system, the Secretary shall establish requirements for the safe operation of such aircraft 

in the national airspace system." I d. §333( c) 

Photographic Solutions' sUAS are multirotor vehicles, weighing 20 or fewer lbs. including 

payload. They operate under normal conditions at a speed of no more than 70 knots and have the 

capability to hover, and move in the vertical and horizontal plane simultaneously. The sUAS will 

operate only in the Pilot's visual line of sight at all times and will operate only within the 

controlled "Area of Operations" described in the Confidential Photographic Solutions Flight 

Manual (Manual), attached as Exhibit 1 (hereinafter "Manual"). Such operations will ensure that 

the sUAS will "not create a hazard to users of the National Airspace System or the public." 

Reform Act Section 333 (b). 

Given the small size of the sUAS involved and the restricted and controlled environment within 

which they will operate, our application falls squarely within the zone of safety (an equivalent 

level of safety) in which Congress envisioned that the FAA must, by exemption, allow 

commercial operations of sUAS to commence immediately. Also, due to the small size of the 

sUAS, altitudes, and controlled areas in which the sUAS will operate, approval of the application 

presents no national security issue. 

Given the clear direction in Section 333 of the Reform Act, the authority contained in the Federal 

Aviation Act, as amended; the strong equivalent level of safety surrounding the proposed 

operations, and the significant public benefit, including enhanced safety, the grant of the 

requested exemptions is in the public interest. Accordingly, Photographic Solutions respectfully 

requests that the FAA grant the requested exemption without delay. 

II. PUBLIC INTEREST 

This exemption application is expressly submitted to fulfill Congress' goal in passing Section 

333(a) through (c) of the Reform Act. This law directs the Secretary of Transportation to 

consider whether certain unmanned aircraft systems may operate safely in the NAS before 

completion of the rulemaking required under Section 332 of the Reform Act. By granting an 

exemption the FAA will fulfill Congress's intent of allowing UAS to operate with significant 

safety precautions in low risk environments. 

The use. of sUAS on aerial photography operations can significantly reduce the risk to 

photographers and participants. sUAS can inspect, photograph, and collect data on hard to get to 

areas that otherwise would require direct access or manned aircraft. 

Additionally, sUAS could replace the use of helicopters and small aircraft to produce imagery 

for various purposes. The sUAS we propose to fly in this application are less than 20 pounds, 

Professional Aerial Photographers Association-International Section 333 Doc 15-001 
PagelS 

and carry no combustible material on board, as opposed to the much larger conventionally 

powered small aircraft. Shifting to sUAS from manned aircraft presents a marked safety increase 

for our workers and the public. 

Lastly, sUAS reduce the environmental impact by dramatically decreasing the energy used for 

aerial imaging and data collection. The sUAS used by Photographic Solutions use rechargeable 

lithium ion batteries, as opposed to fossil fuels burned in operation of small aircraft that are 

many hundreds of times heavier. 

lll. EQUIVALENT LEVEL OF SAFETY AND SECURITY 

Photographic Solutions proposes that the exemption requested herein apply to sUAS that have 

the characteristics and that operate with the limitations listed herein. These limitations provide 

for at least an equivalent or even higher level of safety to operations under the current regulatory 

structure because the proposed operations represent a safety enhancement to the already safe 

protocols followed on imaging and photography operations conducted with conventional aircraft. 

Photographic Solutions will be bound by the following limitations when conducting its sUAS 

operations under an FAA issued exemption: 

1. The sUAS will be less than 20 pounds. 

2. Flights will be operated within visual line of sight of a pilot. 

3. Maximum total fli~ht time for each operational fli~ht will he 20 minutes. The operator 

calculates battery reserve, and will return the sUAS to the "Designated Safety Zone" with at 

least 20% battery power reserve should that occur prior to the 20 minute limit. 

4. Flights will normally be operated at an altitude of not more than 400 feet AGL, but never in 

controlled airspace without prior coordination and approval of ATC. 

5. Flights will not be conducted within the surface area of controlled airport airspace without 

prior coordination and approval of ATC. 

6. Flights will not be conducted within 5 miles of any uncontrolled airport without prior 

coordination and approval of the airport authority. 

7. Crew for each operation will consist of the sUAS Operator who will keep the sUAS within 

his visual line of sight at all times and a qualified Observer. 

8. The sUAS operator will be trained in flight, operations, and safety procedures as detailed in 

the Flight Manual. 

9. The sUAS will only operate within a confined "Area of Operations" as defined in the Manual, 

including but not limited to evaluation of the airspace by reference to a current 1:500,000 

scale FAA Sectional Aeronautical Chart. The Manual also requires the establishment of a 

"Designated Safety Zone" for the flight operations area. 

10. A briefing will be conducted regarding the planned sUAS operations prior to each day's 

production activities. It will be mandatory that all personnel who will be performing duties 

within the boundaries of the Designated Safety Zone be present for this briefing. 

11. All onsite personnel will consent to the UAS flyover on site by waiver, and the Operator will 

obtain additional verbal or written consent of all persons who will be allowed within 100 feet 

of the flight operation. 

Professional Aerial Photographers Association-International Section 333 Doc 15-001 
Page 16 

12. Operator will have been trained in operation ofUAS generally and will have received up-todate information on the particular sUAS to be operated as required by the Photographic 

Solutions Manual. 

13. Necessary written and/or oral permission from the relevant property holders will be obtained. 

14. All required permissions and permits will be obtained from territorial, state, country, or city 

jurisdictions, including local law enforcement, fire, or other appropriate government agencies. 

15. If the sUAS loses communications or loses its GPS signal, it will have the capability to enter 

"loiter mode'' and hover, reestablish satellite connection, and return to a predetermined 

location within the "Designated Safety Zone" and land. 

16. Photographic Solutions personnel will be easily identified by law enforcement personnel and 

the Public through wearing a green fluorescent or blaze orange vest with Section 333 Grant 

and PAP A credentials prominently displayed within a weatherproof container on the persons 

back. 

IV. DESCRIPTION OF SPECIFIC REGULATIONS 

14 CFR 61.113 (a) & (b): Private pilot privileges and limitations: Pilot in command 

Sections 61.113 (a) & (b) limit private pilots to non-commercial operations. Because the sUAS 

will not carry a pilot or passengers, the proposed operations can achieve the equivalent level of 

safety of current operations by requiring the Operator operating the aircraft to have completed a 

sUAS flight training course of 25 hours before flying a sUAS (See the Photographic Solutions 

Manual for details) or meeting any FAA pilot licensing requirement. Unlike a conventional 

aircraft that carries the pilot and passengers, the sUAS is remotely controlled with no living thing 

or cargo on board. Tli'e area of operation is controlled and restricted per prior planning and 

necessary coordination with the local FSDO if applicable, and all flights are planned and 

coordinated in advance as set forth in the Photographic Solutions Manual. 

The sUAS to be operated hereunder is less than 20 lbs. fully loaded, carries neither a pilot nor 

passenger, carries no explosive materials or flammable liquid fuels, and operates exclusively 

within a controlled Area of Operation as set out in the Photographic Solutions Manual. Like 

other civil aircraft, operations under this exemption will be tightly controlled and monitored by 

the Operator, pursuant to the Photographic Solutions Manual requirements, and under the 

requirements and in compliance with local public safety requirements, to provide security for the 

Area of Operation as is currently done on aerial photography operations. The FAA will have 

advance notice of all operations as required. 

The risks associated with the operation of the sUAS are therefore diminished from the level of 

risk associated with commercial operations contemplated by Part 61 when drafted, and allowing 

operations of the sUAS as requested, with an operator who has met the minimum requirements 

stated in the Photographic Solutions Manual, achieves the level of safety contemplated by 14 

C.F.R. §61.113 (a) & (b). 

Professional Aerial Photographers Association-International Section 333 Doc 15-001 
Pagel7 

14 C.F.R. 91.103: Preflight Action 

This regulation requires that each Operator in Command take certain actions before flight to 

ensure the safety of flight. An exemption is needed from this requirement as the Pilot will take 

separate preflight actions, including checking for weather conditions, checking flight battery 

requirements, checking takeoff and landing distances, and all other actions in the Preflight 

Checklist in the Photographic Solutions Manual. These actions will provide an equivalent level 

of safety. 

14 C.F. R. 91.119: Minimum/ Maximum Safe Altitudes 

Section 91.119 establishes safe altitudes for operation of civil aircraft. Section 91.119 (d) allows 

helicopters to be operated at less than the minimums prescribed, provided the person operating 

the helicopter complies with any route or altitudes prescribed for helicopters by the FAA. This 

exemption is for a multirotor craft that flies similarly to a helicopter, with vertical takeoff and 

vertical landing, which will typically operate at altitudes of less than 400 AGL, so an exemption 

may be needed to allow such operations. The sUAS will never operate at altitudes higher than 

the base of controlled airspace without prior approval and coordination with ATC and will be in 

a Controlled Area with a "Designated Safety Zone", where buildings and people will not be 

exposed to operations without the specified pre-obtained consent. (See Photographic Solutions 

Manual for detailed procedures.) 

The equivalent level of safety will be achieved ~iven the size, wei~ht, speed of the sUAS as well 

as the location where it is operated. No flight will be taken without the required permission of the 

property owner or local officials. Because of the advance notice to the property owner and any 

onsite personnel, as outlined in the Photographic Solutions Manual, all affected individuals will 

be aware of the planned flight operations. Unlike flight operations with aircraft or rotorcraft 

weighing far more than the maximum 20 lbs. proposed herein, our sUAS will not carry 

flammable fuel. In addition, the low-altitude operations of the sUAS will ensure separation 

between sUAS operations and the operations of conventional aircraft that must comply with 

Section 91.119. 

14 C.F.R. 91.121: Altimeter Settings 

This regulation requires each person operating an aircraft to maintain cruising altitude by 

reference to an altimeter that is set 11 ••• to the elevation of the departure airport or an appropriate 

altimeter setting available before departure. 11 As the sUAS may not have a barometric altimeter, 

but instead a GPS altitude read out, an exemption may be needed. An equivalent level of safety 

will be achieved by the operator, pursuant to the Photographic Solutions Manual and Safety 

Check list, confirming the altitude of the launch site shown on the GPS altitude indicator before 

flight. 

14 CFR 91.151 (a): Fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions 

Section 91.151 (a) outlines fuel requirements for beginning a flight in VFR conditions. Our 

sUAS is limited to operations in controlled environments as outlined in the Photographic 

Professional Aerial Photographers Association-International Section 333 Doc 15-001 
Page IS 

Solutions Manual, and has a limited range and flight time which require an exemption from 14 

CFR 91.151 (a) 

The battery powering the sUAS provides approximately 20 minutes of powered flight. To meet 

the 30 minute reserve requirement in 14 CFR §91.151, sUAS flights would necessarily be 

impossible to conduct. Given the limitations on the sUAS's proposed flight area and the location 

of its proposed operations within a predetermined area, a shorter time frame (less than 30 

minutes) for flight in daylight or night VFR conditions is reasonable. 

Photographic Solutions believes that an exemption from 14 CFR §91.151 (a) falls within the 

scope of prior exemptions. See Exemption 10673 (allowing Lockheed Martin Corporation to 

operate without compliance with FAR 91.151(a)). Operating the small sUAS, in a controlled area 

where only people and property owners or official representatives who have signed waivers will 

be allowed, with less than 30 minutes of reserve fuel, does not engender the type of risks that 

Section 91.151(a) was intended to alleviate given the size and speed of the small UAS. 

An equivalent level of safety can be achieved by limiting flights to 20 minutes, or enough battery 

reserve to ensure that the sUAS lands at the ground station with at least 20% of battery power (as 

determined by the onboard monitorin~ system and the operator), whichever happens first. This 

restriction would be more than adequate to return the sUAS to its planned landing zone from 

anywhere in its limited operating area. 

Similar exemptions have been granted to other operations, including Exemptions 2689F, 5745, 

10673, and 10808. 

14 CFR 91.405 (a); 407 (a)(1); 409 (a)(2); 417 (a) & (b): Maintenance inspections 

These regulations require that an aircraft operator or owner "shall have that aircraft inspected as 

prescribed in the subpart E of this part and shall between required inspections, except as 

provided in paragraph (c) of this section, have discrepancies repaired as prescribed in part 43 of 

this chapter...," and others shall inspect or maintain the aircraft in compliance with Part 43. 

Given that these sections and Part 43 apply only to aircraft with an airworthiness certificate, 

these sections will not apply to Photographic Solutions. Maintenance will be accomplished by 

the operator and pursuant to the flight manual and operating handbook as referenced in the 

Photographic Solutions Manual. An equivalent level of safety will be achieved because these 

small sUAS are very limited in size and will carry a small payload and operate only in controlled 

areas for limited periods oftime. If mechanical issues arise, the sUAS can land immediately even 

if operating at a maximum of 1200 feet AGL. As provided in the Photographic Solutions Manual, 

the operator will ensure that the sUAS is in working order prior to initiating flight, perform 

required maintenance, and keep a log of any maintenance performed. Moreover, the operator is 

the person most familiar with the aircraft and best suited to maintain the aircraft in an airworthy 

condition to provide the equivalent level of safety. 

Pursuant to C.P.R. Part 11, the following summary is provided for publication in the Federal 

Register, should it be determined that publication is needed: 

Professional Aerial Photographers Association-International Section 333 Doc 15-001 
Page 19 

Applicant seeks an exemption from the following rules: 14 C.F.R. § 21, subpart H; 14 C.F.R. 

45.23(b); 14 C.F.R. §§ 61.113(a) & (b); 91.7 

(a); 91.9 (b) (2); 91.103(b); 91.109; 91.119; 91.121; 91.151(a); 91.203(a) and (b); 91.405 (a); 

91.407 (a) (I); 91.409 (a) (2) and 91.417 (a) & (b) to operate commercially a small unmanned 

vehicle (55lbs or less) in aerial photography operations. 

Approval of exemptions allowing commercial operations of sUAS in the aerial photography 

industry enhances safety while reducing risk. Manned aircraft still photography and video may 

create a greater risk because the craft are much larger, have combustible fuel, and carry an 

onboard human pilot. In contrast, a sUAS weighing fewer than 20 lbs. and powered by batteries 

eliminates virtually all of that risk given the reduced mass and lack of combustible fuel carried 

on board. The sUAS will carry no passengers or crew and, therefore, will not expose them to the 

risks associated with manned aircraft flights. 

The operation of small sUAS, weighing less than 20 lbs., conducted in the strict conditions 

outlined above, will provide an equivalent level of safety supporting the grant of the exemptions 

requested herein, including exempting the applicant from the requirements of Part 21 and 

allowing commercial operations. These lightweight aircraft operate at slow speeds, close to the 

ground, and in a controlled environment and, as a result, are far safer than conventional 

operations conducted with manned aircraft operating in close proximity to the ground and people. 

Privacy 

All Flights will occur over private or public property with the property owner's prior consent and 

knowledge. Images taken will be of individuals who have also consented to being filmed or 

otherwise having agreed to be in the area where aerial photography will take place. 

Satisfaction of the criteria provided in Section 333 of the Reform Act of 2012--size, weight, 

speed, operating capabilities, proximity to airports and populated areas and operation within 

visual line of sight and national security - provide more than adequate justification for the grant 

of the requested exemptions allowing commercial operation of applicant's sUAS in the aerial 

photography industry pursuant to the Manual appended hereto. 

StanMacbea 

Allen Macbean 

Photographic Solutions, Inc. 

Corporate Officers 

Professional Aerial Photographer-s Association-International Section 333 Doc 15-001 
www.utahbyair.com 

sUAS Operations Manual 

Photographic Solutions, Inc. 

06 July 2015 

This manual contains standard operating procedures and guidelines for UAS operations. 
Photographic Solutions, Inc. 

sUAS Operations Manual 

Table of Contents 

Purpose, Scope, and Mission Statement ································~····························5 

Definitions .......................................................................................................... 6 

Personnel Responsibilities .................................................................................. 8 

Visual Observer .................................................................................................... 8 

PIC ....................................................................................................................... 8 

Flight Team Composition ..................................................................................... 8 

Qualification Requirements ................................................................................. 8 

Operating Limitations and Conditions ................................................................. 9 

'Maintenance Procedures .................................................................................. 10 

Routine Maintenance ........................................................................................ 10 

Full Flight Test .................................................................................................... 11 

Software Firmware Update Policy ...................................................................... 11 

Logs and Records .............................................................................................. 12 

Pilot and Aircraft Hours ...................................................................................... 12 

Battery Logbook ................................................................................................. 12 

Flight Planning .................................................................................................. 13 

Weather ............................................................................................................. 13 

Site Permissions ................................................................................................. 13 

Pre-Flight Inspections and Checks ...................................................................... 13 

Documentation .................................................................................................. 14 

Pre-Flight Area and Personnel Checks ................................................................ 14 

Closed Set Operations ........................................................................................ 15 

2 
On-Site Procedures ............................................................................................ 16 

Site Survey .................................................................................................. 16 

Selection of Operating Areas and Alternatives ............................................ 16 

Boundaries .................................................................................................. 17 

Anemometer Weather Check ..................................................................... 18 

Crew Briefing ..... ~ ........................................................................................ 18 

Communications ......................................................................................... 19 

Frequency Scans ......................................................................................... 19 

Recharging and Battery Use (Fuel Management) ........................................ 19 

Load-outs and Equipment ........................................................................... 19 

Flight Procedures .............................................................................................. 21 

Motor Start ........................................................................................................ 21 

Take-Off ............................................................................................................. 21 

ln-Fiight .............................................................................................................. 22 

Let Down/Landing .............................................................................................. 23 

Shutdown .......................................................................................................... 23 

Emergency Procedures ...................................................................................... 24 

Motor Thrust Loss .............................................................................................. 24 

Battery Failure ................................................................................................... 24 

Battery Failure Failsafe ............................................................................... 25 

Transmitter/Controller Battery Failure ....................................................... 26 

Controller Battery Failsafe .......................................................................... 26 

Loss of Control Frequency .................................................................................. 26 

Loss of Frequent Failsafe .................................................................................... 26 

Malicious or Accidental Interference with Control Frequency ........................... 27 

Pilot Incapacitation ..................................................................................... 27 

3 
Aircraft Incursion ........................................................................................ 27 

Fly Away Procedure .......................................................................................... 28 

Crash & Incident Response ................................................................................ 28 

Appendix A- Checklists ..................................................................................... 29 

Pre-Flight Start-Up Checklist .............................................................................. 30 

Pre-Flight Inspection Checklist ........................................................................... 32 

ln-Fiight .............................................................................................................. 33 

landing Checklist ............................................................................................... 34 

Appendix B ....................................................................................................... 35 

Maintenance logbook ....................................................................................... 36 

Appendix C ....................................................................................................... 37 

Incident/Accident logbook ................................................................................ 38 

Appendix D ....................................................................................................... 39 

Flight Record logbook ....................................................................................... 40 

Appendix E ........................................................................................................ 41 

Phantom II User Manual .................................................................................... 41 

4 
PURPOSE, SCOPE, AND MISSION STATEMENT 

Photographic Solutions, Inc. (Photographic SolutionsL a member of the 

Professional Aerial Photographers Association, International (PAPA} intends as the 

Operator to promote safe operation of sUAS in the National Airspace System 

(NAS) in a manner that is consistent with a long history of safe and professional 

flight operations in close cooperation with the Federal Aviation Administration 

(FAA). The Operators are experienced licensed pilots. The sUAS Pilots In 

Command (PIC) that will operate systems according to the approach outlined in 

this Manual of Procedures (Manual) are trained in accordance with this Manual 

and FAA regulations and have decades of successful experience on Aerial 

Photographic flight missions. 

The intent of the Manual is to provide the outline of a system to conduct safe and 

successful sUAS operations in accordance with the applicable FAA regulations and 

consistent with the section 333 waiver that this Manual is based upon. It is 

expected that the Operator will continue to apply the skills and experience they 

have employed in manned aircraft operations under FAA regulations. This 

combination of prior successful flight experience and sound sUAS flight 

operational procedures is intended to promote the highest levels of 

professionalism in safe aerial photographic flight missions. 

5 
DEFINITIONS 

The following definitions of words and terms apply to the information contained 

in this Manual and are specific to procedures and operations that are outlined 

herein. In the case of a conflict with an official FAA definition, the FAA definition 

will be the rule. 

Anemometer- An instrument to measure the velocity of the wind in the Area of 

Operations. 

Area of Operations- Defined as the area where sUAS operations will be carried 

out for a specific flight or series of flights on a given mission. 

Checklists- Procedural checklists used by the PIC to verify proper and safe 

procedures during all phases of sUAS operations. 

Designated Safety Zone- Defined and marked area of ground operations used for 

safe takeoffs and landings of the sUAS at a given Area of Operations. 

Flight Control Systems- The combination of telemetry, PIC operated controls, 

and onboard control mechanisms that are employed to control the flight of the 

sUAS. 

Frequency Analyzer- A device used to scan the Area of Operations for possible 

interference from radio waves. 

GPS- Global Positioning System. 

Handheld Radio- A radio transceiver capable of communication with other Pilots 

or FAA personnel in the Area of Operations. 

Loiter Mode- A default recovery mode the sUAS goes into when communications 

are lost from the PIC. 

Maintenance Recommendations- Periodic maintenance recommendations for 

each of the sUAS components that have a usable life. 

6 
Manual- This flight manual that combines the Operator specific procedures with 

the sUAS manufacturers' manual. 

Manufacturers Recommendations - Written recommendations provided by the 

manufacturers of the various components of the sUAS. 

NAS- National Airspace System. 

Non Participants- Persons who have not agreed to participate in sUAS 

operations. 

Operator- The entity submitting as the applicant on this waiver request to the 

FAA who will be responsible for all sUAS operations and procedures. 

PAPA- Professional Aerial Photographers Association, International. 

Participants- Persons who have agreed to participate in sUAS operations. 

Pilot In Command - Person who will fly the UA during sUAS operations and who is 

responsible for all safety related or operational decisions under the direction of 

the Operator in accordance with this Manual and FAA requirements. 

SOP- Standard Operating Procedures. 

sUAS- Small Unmanned Aerial Systems as contemplated under the FAA 

guidelines, not to exceed 55 pounds in weight or 100 miles per hour in speed. 

Telemetry- Electronically transmitted data that provides control and information 

transmissions to and from the PIC and the sUAS. 

UA- Unmanned Aircraft. 

Visual Observer- An individual who is designated to observe flight operations and 

to maintain visual contact with the UA during flight operations while maintaining 

communications and coordination with the PIC. 

7 
PERSONNEL RESPONSIBILITIES 

VISUAL OBSERVER 

All operations will utilize a Visual Observer. The main responsibilities of the Visual 

Observer will be to ensure that the UA is operated within the visual line of sight of 

both the PIC and Visual Observer at all times. The Visual Observer will maintain 

verbal communication with the PIC at all times. Prior to flight, the PIC will ensure 

that the Visual Observer understands and can perform all the duties required of 

the Visual Observer. 

PIC 

Pilot in Command is responsible for the safe operation of the sUAS at all times in 

accordance with this Manual and the applicable FAA regulations. 

Pilot in Command will be responsible for: 

• All support personnel. 

• Performing all pre-flight, flight phase, and post flight inspections, air 

worthiness, diagnostics, and testing. 

• Manufacturer recommended maintenance operations. 

• Weather condition assessments and forecast reviews. 

FLIGHT TEAM COMPOSITION 

The onsite flight team is composed of a Pilot in Command (PIC} and a Visual 

Observer (VO). The PIC is responsible for all flight operations and decisions to 

proceed. The VO is responsible to maintain visual contact with the UA and to 

provide constant communication with the PIC regarding aircraft status and 

surrounding conditions within the Area of Operations. 

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS 

The PIC must be an FAA-licensed pilot and must have completed the PAPA 

sponsored ground school with at least 25 hours of sUAS flight time. The VO must 

have completed sUAS ground school training and must demonstrate experience 

with FAA procedures and the standard procedures of this Manual. 

8 
OPERATING LIMITATIONS AND CONDITIONS 

Operational Ceiling- Maximum 1,200 ft AGL, typical 400ft AGL. 

Operational Endurance- 15 minutes. 

Maximum Speed- 100 MPH 

Maximum Operating Temperature - 110 degrees F 

Minimum Operating Temperature - 0 degrees F 

Maximum Operational Wind Speed -15 MPH (gusts to 20 MPH) 

9 
MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES 

Only Photographic Solutions personnel or an appointed service technician may 

carry out maintenance on the sUAS aircraft systems described in this operations 

manual. In all cases a Maintenance Logbook (see Appendix B) is completed to 

reflect any work undertaken and a flight test, testing all functions (including the 

return-to-home failsafe facility), is subsequently carried out by the PIC. 

ROUTINE MAINTENANCE 

The Pre-Flight and Post-Flight checklists shown in Appendix A are completed by 

the PIC every time a Photographic Solutions sUAS aircraft is operated. Every six 

months (or fifty hours of flight time - whichever comes first) the following 

inspection is carried out by the PIC. The inspection is recorded in the 

Maintenance Logbook along with any findings. Any issues identified are remedied 

and the aircraft undergoes a full flight-test before the aircraft is returned to 

Operational Status: 

• Inspection of the airframe for any damage, unusual marks and tightness of 

fixings; 

• Inspection of the motor mountings for correct tension; 

• Inspection of the propellers for condition, unusual marks, chips, cracks and 

tightness of fasteners; 

• Inspection of electrical wiring for condition, unusual marks or discoloration; 

• Inspection of electrical terminal fittings and plugs for secure attachment 

and general condition; 

• Inspection of the attachment of all fittings such as flight controller, GPS 

antennas etc. for secure attachment; 

• Inspection of payload attachment points for condition and security of 

payload; 

• Inspection of the condition and function of all ancillary equipment such as 

transmitter etc. 

• Testing of all system battery packs for charge status and general condition. 

If any issues or problems are identified then the aircraft is not allowed to fly until 

the issue has been remedied. If minor problems (such as damaged propellers, 

faulty battery packs etc.} are identified and remedied, and the PIC believes the 

aircraft is suitable to return to Operational Status then the work completed is 

noted in the Maintenance Logbook. If major issues are identified (such as an 

10 
unserviceable motor, damaged airframe etc.), then the aircraft undergoes a full 

flight test regime (as described below), once the identified fault has been 

remedied. 

FULL FLIGHT TEST 

The system has all functions tested with a minimum of five minutes flight time by 

a qualified PIC recording any abnormalities in the Flight Record Logbook 

(Appendix D). If the PIC deems the aircraft to be safe then he must sign the Flight 

Record Logbook as fit for Operational use. Systems with identified issues relating 

to firmware or software (see below) are grounded by Photographic Solutions until 

any problems are rectified. 

SOFTWARE AND FIRMWARE UPDATE POLICY 

All new software and firmware are thoroughly assessed before installation. 

Particular attention is focused on relevance to operations, reason for release and 

any known issues. Multi-rotor and sUAS forums are consulted regularly for any 

reported issues with the release and only when the validity of the upgrade has 

been confirmed is the upgrade considered. 

In all circumstances the upgrade is performed by qualified Photographic Solutions 

personnel or appointed service providers. All upgrade information such as 

version numbers and new functions are recorded in the Maintenance Logbook. 

All Photographic Solutions PIC are made aware that the firmware or software has 

been upgraded before any flight operations are undertaken. 

Any upgraded system has all functions thoroughly tested with a minimum of five 

minutes flight time by a qualified Photographic Solutions PIC who records any 

abnormalities in the Flight Record Logbook. If the PIC deems the aircraft to be 

safe then the PIC signs the Flight Record Logbook as fit for Operational use. If any 

doubts exist as to the new upgrade the aircraft is downgraded to the previous 

firmware and the flight test procedure is repeated. Systems with identified issues 

relating to firmware or software are grounded until the problem can be rectified. 

11 
LOGS AND RECORDS 

PILOT AND AIRCRAFT HOURS 

Photographic Solutions PIC are required to keep a log of pilot and aircraft hours. 

To meet this requirement, Photographic Solutions holds and updates a 

spreadsheet-based Personal Flying log Book for Aircraft Operating Crew. This log 

book is a separate document which can be viewed on request (see sample page at 

Appendix D). 

BATTERY LOGBOOK 

Photographic Solutions Personal Flying log Book (Appendix D) additionally 

records information about battery condition (charge) before and after each flight. 

The Battery logbook is accompanied by - and supported with - Photographic 

Solutions Incident logbook (Appendix C) and Maintenance logbook (Appendix B). 

12 
FLIGHT PLANNING 

WEATHER 

Operator will require PIC to obtain all necessary weather information in order to 

plan and conduct safe flight operations according to and as referenced by any 

applicable UA Operator Manuals. If operating near an operating Automatic 

Terminal Information Service (ATIS}, the ATIS broadcast system will be consulted. 

If ATIS is not available, PIC will consult-alternative sources for a current weather 

forecast. 

The operating envelope for the Phantom 2 has been referred to earlier. It is 

emphasized that the PIC is to ensure the operating envelope environment meets 

or exceeds all safe and legal visibility, precipitation, humidity, and wind limitations 

for safe operation. 

SITE PERMISSIONS 

• Secure permissions from property owner if required. 

• Secure permissions from participants. 

• Coordinate with local law enforcement if required. 

• Prior to operations, Operator receives permission for take-off and landing 

from the relevant land-owner. In most cases permission attainment is 

unproblematic as the landowner and the client are the same individual (or 

entity}. In the case of local authority owned land, the relevant authority is 

contacted in advance to secure permission for take-off and landing, and to 

find out about any operating restrictions or specific insurance requirements 

that might apply. 

PRE-FLIGHT INSPECTIONS AND CHECKS 

Prior to each flight, the PIC will conduct a pre-flight inspection and determine if 

the sUA$ is in a condition for safe flight, and to account for all possible 

discrepancies or inoperable equipment. If the inspection reveals any condition 

that will affect the safe operation of the sUAS, the aircraft will be prohibited from 

operating until the necessary maintenance can be performed and the sUAS can be 

returned to safe flight. The preflight inspections will include the following 

components according to the recommended checklists in the DJI Phantom 2 

operator manual, and in the Photographic Solutions checklist: 

13 
D Airframe 

D Battery 

D Transmitters 

D Camera and Gimbal 

D Propulsion system including propellers 

In addition, with the battery attached and turned on in the sUAS, the PIC will 

oversee and monitor the series of diagnostic tests to determine and verify proper 

voltage levels, control function, communication, and GPS satellite connectivity 

acquisition. PIC will utilize the DJI Phantom 2 LED indicators as well as telemetry 

data to determine if the proper preflight diagnostics have been completed. The 

PIC will also perform and log a pre-flight compass calibration each time the sUAS 

is flown from a new location. 

DOCUMENTATION 

PIC will ensure that all documents used by Photographic Solutions to ensure safe 

flight operations and any document required under 14 CFR 91.9 and 91.203 must 

be available at the Ground Control Station on site at any time the sUAS is 

operating, and ready to be made available to any law enforcement official upon 

request. If possible, these documents will be on the PIC's person at all times 

during flight operations, and accessible to law enforcement without interrupting 

the PIC while conducting flight operations (possibly in a pouch on the back of the 

vest). 

PRE-FLIGHT AREA AND PERSONNEL CHECKS 

• Survey flight operations area for safety concerns and to verify conditions. 

• Examine all components of the sUAS to verify proper function in 

accordance with the applicable manuals and manufacturer's instructions. 

• Verify notification to all personnel on site. 

• Establish Designated Safety Zone and verify safe clearances. 

• PIC should wear the specified safety vest. 

• The ultimate responsibility for aircraft airworthiness and operational safety 

rests with the UAV pilot-in-command. For this, the PIC- as an aid- uses a 

Pre-Flight Checklist (see Appendix A). In summary, the Pre-Flight Checklist 

prompts examination of the following: 

D The airframe (for condition and lack of damage); 

0 The battery (for level-of-charge and security of attachment); 

14 
D The transmitter (for level-of-charge and to check that switches 

are in the 'home' position); 

D The camera (secured, on and operating). 

0 Propulsion system 

• In addition, when the flight battery is connected to the sUAS, the flight 

controller undertakes a series of diagnostic tests (while simultaneously 

locating the position of GPS satellites). 

CLOSED SET OPERATIONS 

If this exemption permits operations for the purpose of closed-set motion picture 

and television filming and production, the following additional conditions and 

limitations apply: 

• The operator must have a Motion Picture and Television Operations 

Manual (MPTOM) as documented in this grant of exemption. 

• At least 3 days before aerial filming, the operator of the UAS affected by 

this exemption must submit a written Plan of Activities to the local Flight 

Standards District Office (FSDO) with jurisdiction over the area of proposed 

filming. The 3~day notification may be waived with the concurrence of the 

FSDO. The plan of activities must include at least the following: 

o Dates and times for all flights; 

o Name and phone number of the operator for the sUAS aerial 

filming conducted.under this grant of exemption; 

o Name and phone number of the person responsible for the onscene operation of the sUAS; 

o Make, model, and serial or N-Number of sUAS to be used; 

o Name and certificate number of sUAS PICs involved in the 

aerial filming; 

o A statement that the operator has obtained permission from 

property owners and/or local officials to conduct the filming 

production event; the list of those who gave permission must 

be made available to the inspector upon request; 

o Signature of exemption holder or representative; and 

o A description of the flight activity, including maps or diagrams 

of any area, city, town, county, and/or state over which filming 

will be conducted and the altitudes essential to accomplish the 

operation. 

15 
• Flight operations may be conducted closer than 500 feet from participating 

persons consenting to be involved and necessary for the filming production, 

as specified in the exemption holder's MPTOM. 

ON-SITE PROCEDURES 

The on-site procedures undertaken by Photographic Solutions are conducted in 

accordance with and controlled through an extensive use of checklists. For this 

reasonJ the following sections repeatedly refer to various checklists found in 

Appendix A of this Manual. 

• Site Survey- In advance of operations, a survey is undertaken to review the 

site, its terrain, structures and surroundings- to check any assumptions 

made about the location prior to arrival and to adjust the operations plan 

accordingly. For this, an On-Site Survey Checklist is used (see Appendix A, 

page 25). The primary purpose of the site survey is to make a visua;l check 

of the operating area with the objective of identifying any potential 

hazards. 

• Selection of Operating Areas and Alternatives - In advance of the pre-flight 

On-Site Survey, Google maps will be consulted and- if possible- the local 

site will be visited beforehand. The site will be specifically checked in terms 

of: 

o Proximity to Airport Reference Points (ARP) as denoted in the 

Airport Facility Directory (AFD). Must operate outside 5 miles 

of ARP, unless otherwise agreed upon by virtue of written 

letter of agreement with the airport's management or 

otherwise permitted by the COA issued to Photographic 

Solutions 

o Ability of PIC and VO to operate the sUAS clear of, and give 

way to, all manned aviation operations and activities at all 

times. 

o 500ft. clearance of all non-participating persons, vessels, 

vehicles, and structures unless; A. sufficiently protected in the 

event of an accident, and the nonparticipating persons remain 

protected at all times during operations of the sUAS, and B. 

The owners and controllers of any vessels, vehicles, or 

structures has granted permission for the operating closer to 

16 
those objects and the PIC has made a safety assessment of the 

risk of operating closer to those objects and determined that it 

does not present an undue hazard. 

o Ability of Photographic Solutions to conduct operations over 

private or controlled access property with permission from the 

owner/controller or representative of such, and said 

permissions are granted. 

o Proximity to radio interferences 

o Prevailing weather conditions have been adequately assessed, 

including; high winds, convection, visibility, minimum cloud 

clearance (500ft below, and 2,000 ft horizontal clearance}, or 

when visibility is less than 3 miles from the PIC. 

The primary site for take-off and landing will be assessed (size, shape, surface, 

slope and surroundings} and an alternative site will be identified should the 

primary site become unavailable or unsuitable. 

• Boundaries - Photographic Solutions requires that proper identifiers and 

signage will be in place in the operating area to alert people to the fact that 

aerial work is being conducted. The PIC will be responsible for cordoning to 

ensure safe distances from operations are observed. Cordoning procedures 

to be practiced include: 

o Take-off and Landing safety Area: PIC will determine the safe 

distances of all people from the take-off and landing operation 

of the UAS. The PIC will also establish a cordoned area with 

clearly marked delineation the take-off and landing operations. 

o Signage and Identifying Clothing: The PIC will place signage at 

each entry point within the operations area alerting people to 

the following: 

A. Low altitude aerial work is being conducted 

B. Use of any actual sensing equipment being used 

C. A request asking people to not enter the area without 

first notifying the PIC or Photographic Solutions 

designated on-site flight operations personnel 

D. PIC and VO will put on outerwear that will identify them 

in their respective roles. Signage will be attached on 

their person that will instruct law-enforcement, 

17 
observers, or any other people present that they are not 

to be interrupted un-necessarily while conducting flight 

operations. 

• Anemometer Weather Check- Beyond pre-site planning weather forecast 

checks, Photographic Solutions requires that the PIC conduct specific onsite weather checks. The PIC will utilize a hand-held or portable 

Anemometer to determine wind speed, direction, temperature, and 

humidity. Aerial operations will only be conducted within the specific 

recommended wind and humidity limitations of the sUAS manufacturer's 

operating manuals, or if not identified therein, only in conditions where 

wind speed is less than lSmph, gusting up to 20m ph. 

• Crew Briefing - Photographic Solutions flight operations personnel will 

typically include the PIC, VO, and other possible ground crew. The 

operations personnel, in addition to any other parties that may be present, 

will be briefed prior to the start of operations. The briefing will include: 

o Introduction to the equipment being used including the sUAS 

and the ground station functions, with particular emphasis on 

moving parts including weight of the sUAS, and the harm or 

damage that could possibly be inflicted by coming into contact 

with those components (particularly the propellers, and hot 

surfaces} 

o Familiarization with the failsafe return-to-home systems and 

instruction on how to activate those systems if the PIC is 

unable to activate those systems 

o Expected flight plan, holding positions, flight duration, and 

overall flight boundaries. 

o Expected responsibilities and authority of each flight 

operations personnel 

o Identification and familiarization with the take-off and landing 

designated areas, and the requirements for remaining clear of 

those areas at all times. 

o The need for all present to alert the PIC of any encroachments 

of people or objects into the airspace and ground boundaries 

o Importance of mitigating any possible distractions or unnecessary communication with the PIC during operations 

18 
o Careful review of Lost Link and emergency procedures 

• Communications Photographic Solutions uses channel-hopping 

technology on 2.4GHz to maintain communications with the UAV for the 

purposes of platform control. There is no communication rdownlink') from 

the UAV to the ground station. In the event of loss of or interference with 

the control frequency, the UAV is programmed to return to its take-off 

position and land autonomously ('return-to-home'). This failsafe procedure 

is described further under Emergency Procedures. 

• Frequency Scans - Photographic Solutions will perform frequency scans to 

help identify possible conflict with radio communications. This will be 

performed via a hand-held or portable radio spectrum scanner by the PIC. 

These scans will include a full spectrum scan of the applicable frequency 

range of the sUAS. Possible sources of radio interference or conflict will be 

identified and evaluated to determine if flight operations can be safely 

continued. 

• Recharging and Battery Use (Fuel Management) - The DJI Phantom 2 

utilizes a 5,200mah 11.1 V LiPo (/intelligent" battery. Batteries are charged 

at base prior to flight operations. The number of batteries that will be 

transported to the flight operations area will be based on the specific needs 

of the flight operations or mission. The battery capacity will be tested 

utilizing the internal proprietary tester on the battery, and will also be 

checked utilizing the proprietary DJI software, as well as any internally 

sensed telemetry software and hardware attached to the sUAS. A battery 

charge log will be kept via the proprietary DJI Phantom 2 software and will 

be completed prior to every flight. Any battery found to be less than fullycharged, damaged, displays insufficient voltage, or otherwise defective will 

not be used. 

• Load-outs and Equipment - The Phantom 2 is a simple quad-copter UAS 

with limited capability for loads and equipment. Removable equipment 

includes the battery, gimbal, camera, telemetry hardware, antenna, and 

imaging transmitter. The battery is held in place via proprietary fittings. 

The gimbal is attached via screws into the airframe. The camera is attached 

to the gimbal using screws and a proprietary harness. All other equipment 

is attached using nylon fittings, Velcro, or adhesives. Total takeoff weight 

19 
with these components will not exceed the maximum recommended takeoff weight identified in the Phantom 2 Users/operators Manual of 1300 

grams, with a total payload weight not to exceed 300 grams. Payload 

security is tested prior to any operations both visually and by vigorous 

tactile testing. All attachment points will be inspected and tested weekly. 

20 
FLIGHT PROCEDURES 

Photographic Solutions will utilize checklists to direct the flight operations 

personnel in flight procedures. The following section will continually refer to the 

several checklists presented in the Appendix. 

• Motor Start- All of the various preflight checks will have been performed 

prior to motor start and will include: 

o PIC and VO will put on identifying outerwear. 

o Pre-flight compass calibration, GPS verification, and voltage 

diagnostics completed. 

o Take-off position and location is checked to ensure it is clear of 

obstacles, debris, potential hazards, and people. 

o Transmitter switches are placed in the proper configuration, 

including the home switch and GPS mode switch. 

o Transmitter is on and properly charged with voltage confirmed. 

o Battery is secured, on, and properly seated. 

o Camera and gimbal is armed, responding to commands, and 

stabilized. 

o sUAS is placed in the proper takeoff position. 

o LED flight mode indicator, and telemetry-read-out shows adequate 

GPS connectivity according to the DJI Phantom 2 User/operators 

Manual. 

o LED flight mode indicators and telemetry read-outs show the proper 

flight mode is selected DJI Phantom 2 User/operators Manual. 

o Camera is switched on. 

o All flight operations personnel are in their proper position and at the 

ready. 

o Start motors, and establish functional pre-take-off power setting. 

• Take-Off - Once motors have been started, the PIC will verify that the pretake-off checklist has been completed. Once this has been verified, the PIC 

will follow the following take-off procedure: 

1. Apply power for a controlled ascent to a safe low-level test altitude 

over the take-off area, and then hold. 

2. After in hold, PIC performs check of all control stick response 

including rudder, aileron, elevator, and throttle to ensure proper 

21 
response to commands. 

3. PIC confirms with VO that the flight operations area is free of 

obstructions or other manned or unmanned air traffic. 

4. PIC confirms with all flight operations personnel that they are ready 

to proceed with flight operations as planned. 

• In-Flight - Photographic Solutions requires that the PIC is free to 

concentrate on positioning, scanning, and monitoring systems and the 

flight operations area without un-necessary distraction, and to ensure the 

flight is compliant with remaining 500 ft clear of all non-participating 

persons, vessels, vehicles, or structures unless proper permissions have 

been obtained as described in the previous section addressing the selection 

of sites. Throughout the flight, PIC will take particular care to remain within 

the established operating permissions and envelope by executing the 

following practices: 

o Verify through verbal communication with the VO that they are 

alerted to any manned or unmanned aircraft within the flight area. 

o Verify through verbal communication with the VO that obstacles are 

being identified and avoided. 

o Interval monitoring of voltage and communication with sUAS to 

ensure adequate voltage according to the DJI Phantom 2 

User/operating Manual for safe return and landing. 

o Monitor time since motors were started to ensure a minimum of 3 

minutes of battery fuel is available for return and landing of sUAS. 

o A safety margin of a minimum of 3 minutes of battery life is 

maintained at all times. 

o Maintain visual contact with flight systems/mode and battery LED 

light indicators at all times. 

o Maintain situational awareness of changes in weather, visibility, or 

cloud avoidance at all times. 

o Maintain operation speeds less than lOOmph. 

o Maintain visual contact with sUAS at all times. 

o Ensure VO has visual contact with the sUAS in flight at all times. 

Establish a position hold until VO re-establishes visual contact with 

the sUAS if contact is lost. 

22 
• Let-Down/Landing - To execute a safe recovery and landing of the sUAS, 

the PIC will ensure that the following practices are followed: 

o Establish and guide the sUAS through a safe route to directly above 

the cordoned take-off and landing area. 

o Maintain a safe descent rate and follows all procedures and 

techniques to avoid vortex state or settling with power. 

o Verify that a minimum of 3 minutes of battery life is available, as 

mentioned above, to ensure a holding position if the landing area is 

not cleared. 

o Verify that the landing area is clear of debris, obstacles, people, or 

hazards that would preclude a safe landing. 

• Shutdown - Upon landing, the throttle is returned to the home position 

causing the rotors to stop spinning. Operations then proceed as follows: 

1. The sUAS battery is switched off or disconnected. 

2. The camera is stopped and is then switched off. 

3. The sUAS is removed from the landing area and is checked for 

any abnormalities or damage. 

4. The transmitter is switched off. 

5. The sUAS battery is removed, tested, and then the battery is 

safely secured and stored. 

23 
EMERGENCY PROCEDURES 

The emergency procedures described below address the following, safety-critical 

question: In the event of a malfunction, failure or other in-flight emergency, how 

is the sUAS going to safely land without creating a hazard to other airspace users 

or persons or property on the ground? 

MOTOR THRUST LOSS 

As a quad copter, The Phantom 2 has no 'rotor redundancy'. Loss of power to a 

motor on a quad copter will result in a crash. For this reason, Photographic 

Solutions takes specific preventative steps to ensure that loss of power to a motor 

will not occur: 

• Wiring integrity is checked visually prior to any flight operations. 

• A pre-flight battery check is undertaken to test the charge of the cells. 

• Upon take-off, the sUAS is lifted into a temporary, low-altitude holding 

position and the throttle/ rudder and aileron/elevator control sticks are 

moved to check that sUAS is responding as expected. 

If there is a loss of thrust to a motor, any residual control left available to the PIC 

will be used to guide the sUAS away from people and objects to avoid injury or 

damage to property and people. Every effort will be made to restrict the crash 

site to the safest possible position. 

sUAS BATTERY FAILURE 

As has been addressed in above previous sections, Photographic Solutions has 

procedures and practices in place designed to prevent sUAS batter failure or 

malfunction, and they include: 

• The batteries are physically inspected and tested through all phases of preflight and post flight for damage or swelling 

• The Battery performance and condition is tested prior to each flight to 

ensure they are fully charged, and the proprietary DJI Phantom 2 software 

charge track/log is checked to ensure the battery meets the minimum safe 

requirements as specified by DJI in operating manual and firmware specs. 

• Throughout all phases of flight, the battery voltage, percentage of charge 

remaining, and time in operation is constantly monitored via the telemetry 

transmission to the ground station to ensure there is the proper minimum 

voltage and time to return and land is achieved and maintained. 

24 
• The PIC will immediately land the UAV in the nearest possible landing area 

if telemetry indicates the minimum voltage, time in operation, or 

percentage of charge are not met. 

BATTERY FAILURE FAILSAFE 

As a preventative measure to keep the sUAS from a forced landing or crash due to 

battery failure, the DJI Phantom 2 flight controller has several levels of low 

voltage protections incorporated as specified in the attached User/Operator's 

Manual, triggering an automated Failsafe Return to Home and Landing command 

as follows: 

• The low battery capacity warning alerts users when the battery is close to 

depletion during flight. When it appears, users should promptly fly back 

and land to avoid accidental damage. The Phantom 2 has two levels of low 

battery capacity warning. The first appears when the battery has less than 

30% power and the second appears when it has less than 15% power. The 

following list details the battery power warnings: .. 

o When battery power drops below 30% the LED indicator will 

blink red slowly. 

o At lower than 15%, the LED indicator will blink red rapidly. The 

Phantom 2 will also begin to descend and land automatically. 

After it has landed, keep the throttle stick at its lowest point or 

execute the combination stick command (CSC) to shut off 

motors. 

o There is a hidden third low battery threshold in addition to the 

1st and 2nd level warnings. This uses 10.65V as its threshold. 

Both this voltage threshold and the 2nd Level Low Battery 

Warning will trigger auto-landing. 

• Altitude can be maintained if necessary by pushing up on the Throttle stick. 

[• .... 

l -----------

•••••• 

11 st Level Low Battery Capa_c_ity_W __ a_rn_in_g ________ ~ 

2nd Level Low Battery Capacity Warning 1 

••• Not Stationary or Sensor Bias is too big 

j Errors &Aircraft cannot fly.* ~ 

I 

Compass data abnormal because of ferro-magneticj J 

interference or the compass needs calibration. 

----------------~----

25 
TRANSMITTER/CONTROLLER BATTERY FAILURE 

As has been mentioned previously, through the extensive use of checklist 

procedures, Photographic Solutions requires that the PIC ensure the DJI Phantom 

2 controller (ground station} will be fully charged prior to any aerial operation. 

Any monitors being used to display telemetry will also be fully charged. 

CONTROLLER BATTERY FAILSAFE 

Photographic Solutions will use The DJI Phantom 2 flight control system that 

incorporates an automated failsafe system which commands the sUAS to return 

to home and land if there is a loss of frequency due to battery failure. The PIC will 

reference the below LED lighting system to monitor the controller charge; 

Remote Controller Power LED Indicator Status 

Power LED Sound Remote Controller Status 

None Normal 

•••••• 8-8-8 ...... Low voltage (at 4V-4.3V). Replace the batteries immediately --

•••• 8-8--8 ...... Alert will sound after 15 minutes of inactivity. It will stop 

once you start using the remote controller. 

The remote controller will power off automatically when battery voltage drops below 4V. Land and 

A, change batteties as soon as possible when the low voltage alert occurs to avoid loss of control during 

flight. 

LOSS OF CONTROL FREQUENCY (and/or Ground Station Failure) 

To help prevent a loss of control frequency, Photographic Solutions requires that 

the PIC ensure flight operations only occur within un-aided visual line of site VLOS 

at all times. Doing so will keep the sUAS well within the required minimum range 

of the DJI Phantom 2 controller/transmitter. 

LOSS OF CONTROL FREQUENCY FAILSAFE 

If the control frequency signal is lost for more than 3 seconds (sUAS out of range, 

ground station failure etc.} the DJI Phantom 2 Flight Controller has been 

programmed to switch the UAS into failsafe mode and it will 1

return to· home' 

(RTH} and also land: 

• If the failsafe occurs while in GPS mode according to the parameters of 

the DJI Phantom 2 User/Operator Manual, the sUAS will return to the 

26 
take-off and landing area and auto-land. 

• If the fail location occurs while in ATTI mode according to the parameters 

of the DJI Phantom 2 User/Operator Manual, the sUAS will auto-land. 

• The RTH failsafe mechanism works by the sUAS Flight Controller saving 

the home (take-off} point automatically when the throttle stick is moved 

for the first time (after 6 or more GPS satellites have been acquireddenoted by a single red pulse from the LED or a series of continuous 

green pulses). 

The RTH failsafe function on the sUAS is tested on a weekly basis by Photographic 

Solutions by switching the transmitter off during a test flight session. 

MALICIOUS OR ACCIDENTAL INTERFERENCE WITH CONTROL FREQUENCY 

As was mentioned in previous sections, through the extensive use of checklists, 

Photographic Solutions requires that the PIC utilize a Spectrum Scanner to ensure 

there is no accidental or malicious radio interference. In the unlikely event that 

this should occur, the PIC will initiate the failsafe procedure mentioned in the 

previous section 

• Pilot Incapacitation - If the pilot-in-command becomes incapacitated to 

the extent that control of the sUAS becomes unviable, the sUAS will hover 

in a stationery position until the battery's second level low-voltage 

protection is triggered. At this point, the sUAS will descend and land in a 

steady, controlled manner. If an observer is present, they will have been 

briefed on the sUAS's failsafe (return-to-home) mode and its activation 

(see Section on "Crew Briefing"). 

• Aircraft Incursion - If another aircraft should enter or appears to be 

entering the Visual Line of Sight Operating Envelope VLOS, PIC will 

operate the sUAS to immediately maintain safe visual separation, and give 

way to any manned flight operation. 

27 
FLY AWAY PROCEDURE 

A "fly away" is defined as the loss of control transmission link where the PIC no 

longer has control or the ability to command the sUAS to remain within the 

bounds of the intended operation area. In the unlikely event that this should 

occur, the PIC will observe and record the direction of flight heading, speed, and 

altitude of the sUAS, and then follow the Incident Response Procedure as outlined 

below: 

• Crash & Incident Response While Photographic Solutions takes extreme 

caution in its flight procedures to prevent a loss of control or crash, any 

incident, accident, or operation that transgresses the lateral or vertical 

boundaries as defined by the applicable COA issued must be reported to 

the FAA UAS Integration Office (AFS 80} within 24 hours. The following 

procedures will also be ensured by the PIC: 

o PIC will have on their person a copy of the local emergency 

response contact information, including fire, law 

enforcement, medical response, and the UAS Integration 

Office contact information 

28 
www.utahbyair.com 

Appendix A 

Checklists 

29 

PRE-FLIGHT START -UP CHECKUST: 

o Verify all transmitter, on-board aircraft and camera batteries are fully 

charged (confirm voltages}. 

o Ensure no frequency conflicts with video and transmitter I receiver. 

o Check all control surfaces for signs of damage, loose hinges, and overall 

condition. Inspect the wings I rotors to ensure they are in good structural 

condition and properly secured. 

o Check motor I engine and mounting attachments to the airframe. 

o Inspect propeHers I mounting hardware (tight} I rotor blades for chips and 

deformation. 

o Check the landing gear for damage and function. 

o Test electrical connections (plugged in and secure}. 

o Ensure photo I video equipment mounting system is secure and 

operational. 

o Check location of GPS equipment controlling the autopilot. 

o Check the IMU movements in the ground control software. 

o UAV in stabilization mode, ensure control response move toward the 

correct positions. 

o UAV I Drone is in a level location safe for takeoff. 

o FPV I Power up ground station. 

o FPV I Power up Video receiver. 

o If using Video recorder, turn on camera system. 

o Camera settings are correct (still images, video, frame rate}. 

o SD camera memory clear and inserted into the camera. 

o Action I Start filming. 

o All transmitter controls move freely in all directions. 

o All transmitter trims in neutral position. 

o All transmitter switches in correct position (typically away}. 

o Transmitter throttle to zero. 

o Radio transmitter on. 

o Connect I power on battery to airframe. 

o Ensure led indicators and audible tones are correct. 

o Timer on (if applicable}. 

o FPV, confirm video is in monitor I goggles. 

o Scan for nearby cars I people I animals. 

o Say {(CLEAR!". 

o Arm flight controller. 

30 
o Increase throttle slightly listening for any abnormalities. 

o Short 20-30 second hover at 3-5 feet (listen for vibrations I loose items). 

o Confirm Voltage levels are correct. 

31 
PRE;.FUGHT INSPECTION CHECKLIST: 

D Perform initial walk-around. 

D Inspect UAV for cracks in joints and structural members. 

D Inspect UAV for loose or damaged screws, ties, fasteners, straps. 

D Inspect UAV for loose or damaged wiring. 

D Inspect UAV for loose or damaged connections (solder, plugs, etc.). 

D Inspect prop mounts and screws and apply slight counter pressure on arms 

to check for loosened components. 

D Ensure antennas and masts are secure. 

D Inspect I clean FPV Camera and Lens and insure it is secured and 

connections are firmly attached. 

D Ensure camera settings are correct (still images, video, frame rate}. 

D Ensure FPV Transmitters are secure and operational. 

D Ensure batteries are fully charged, properly seated and secured. 

D Ensure the following fail-safe equipment is functioning: 

D RTH (return to home}. 

0 Recovery Command Response (toggle test}. 

0 Firmware Airport Proximity Detection. 

D Ensure props are smooth and free of damage I defect (check blade, surface 

and hub}. 

D Ensure prop adapters are tight I secure. 

D Ensure voltage alarm is connected. 

D Ensure arming I idle timeout is properly configured. 

D Ensure correct model is selected in transmitter (if applicable}. 

D Check RC transmitter for the correct range and centering for all sticks. 

D Perform range test. 

32 

IN-FLIGHT CHECKLIST: 

0 Basics: If flying manually, always keep your fingers on the 

controller/transmitter. 

0 Never let the UAV out of your sight even for a second. 

0 Climb to a safe altitude away from potential hazards and to reduce noise 

pollution. 

0 Keep aircraft at a safe operating distance from people, electric utility lines 

and buildings. 

0 If the UAV must be flown over buildings or people, use a lightweight UAV 

and maintain a safe altitude for recovery and make every effort to minimize 

exposure. 

0 Spotter: Use a spotter whenever possible and appropriate, especially when 

flying by First Person View (FPV}. 

0 Do not fly UAVs within distance defined by local laws of any 

private/commercial airport/helipad. 

0 Do not fly around a pre-existing UAV flying site without a frequencymanagement agreement. 

0 Do not interfere with operations and traffic patterns at any airport. 

33 

LANDING CHECKLIST: 

D Regardless of whether of a manual or automated UAV landing, scan landing 

area for potential obstruction hazards. 

D Announce out loud {(Preparing to Land". 

D Use a safe descent rate and follow correct procedures to avoid a vortex 

state or settling. 

D Carefully land the aircraft away from obstructions and people. 

D Turn the power off to the aircraft and/or disconnect the batteries. 

D Turn off the transmitter. 

D Turn the power off to the photo equipment. 

D Visually check aircraft for signs of damage and/or excessive wear. 

D Remove the unused fuel if applicable. Secure the aircraft. 

D Check pictures: Verify that the UAV camera actually took the pictures. 

D LOG FLIGHT. 

34 

www.utahbyair.com 

Appendix B 

Maintenance Logbook 

35 

MAINTENANCE LOGBOOK 

Date Component Maintenance Maintenance Comments 

Activity Time 

36 

www.utahbyair.com 

Appendix C 

·incident/ Accident Logbook 

37 

INCIDENT/ ACCIDENT LOGBOOK 

Date of Time of Name of Injured Incident/ Accident Action Taken Notes 

Incident/ Incident/ Details 

Accident Accident 

38 
www.utahbyair.com 

Appendix D 

Flight Record Logbook 

39 
FLIGHT RECORD LOGBOOK (Sample Page) 

Date Location Activity Flying Time Battery Battery Comments 

Before After 

40 

www.utahbyair.com 

Appendix E 

Phantom II User Manual 

41 

Congratulations on purchasing yournewDJI product Pleasethoroughlyreadthe entire contents ofthis manual to 

fully use and understand the product 

It is advised that you regularly check the PHANTOM 2's product page at www.dji.com which is updated on a 

regular basis. This will provide services such as product information, technical updates and manual corrections. Due 

to any unforeseen changesorproductupgrades, the information containedwithinthis manual issubjectto change 

without notice. 

OJI and PHANTOM 2 are registered trademarks ofDJI. Names of product, brand, etc., appearing in this manual are 

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

righted by OJ I with all rights reserved. 

lfyou have any questionsorconcems regarding your product, please contactyourdealerorDJ I CustomerService. 

21 
Content 

CONTENT .............................................................................................................•.......... 2 

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

REQUIRED ITEMS ............................................•............................................................... 4 

SYMBOLLEGEND ............................................................................................................ 4 

1. PHANTOM 2 AIRCRAFT ............................................................................................. 5 

1.1 BUILT-IN FLIGHT CONTROL SYSTEM INSTRUCTIONS ............................................................... S 

1.2 CONNECTIONS WITH OTHER DJI PRODUCTS ........................................................................ 5 

Important Notes of Using with Other OJ/ Products ........................................................ 6 

Connections with Other OJ/ Products ............................................................................. 7 

1.3 LED FLIGHT INDICATORS DESCRIPTION ............................................................................. 10 

1.4 NOTES FOR PHANTOM 2 USING WITH OTHER DJI PRODUCTS .............................................. 11 

2 PROPELLERS ............................................................................................................ 12 

2.1 AssEMBLY ........................................................................................................................ 12 

2.2 DISASSEMBLY .............................................................................................................. 12 

2.3 NOTES ....................................................................................................................... 12 

3 REMOTE CONTROLLER ............................................................................................. 13 

3.1 POWER ON THE REMOTE CONTROLLER ............................................................................. 13 

3.2 REMOTE CONTROLLER POWER LED INDICATOR5TATUS .............................................................. 13 

3.3 ANTENNA ORIENTATION .................................................................................................... 14 

3.4 REMOTE CONTROLLER OPERATION .................................................................................. 14 

3.5 LINKING THE REMOTE CONTROLLER& BUILT-IN RECEIVER ...................................................... 16 

4 INTELLIGENT BATTERY .................................................................................................. 17 

4.1 CHARGING PROCEDURES ............................................................................................... 17 

4.2 INSTALL THE BATTERY ........................................................................................................ 18 

4.3 BATTERY USAGE ........................................................................................................... 18 

4.4 DESCRIPTION OF THE BATTERY LEVEL INDICATOR ................................................................... 19 

4.5 CORRECT BATTERY USAGE NOTES ................................................................................... 20 

5 CALIBRATING THE COMPASS ................................................................................... 21 

5.1 CALIBRATION WARNINGS .............................................................................................. 21 

©2013 OJ! Innovations. All Rights ReseNed. 2( 
5.2 CALIBRATION PROCEDURES ..•.............•.•...•.••..•..•.•...•.....••.•...•...•..•......•.......••••.••......••..•.. 21 

5.3 WHEN RECALIBRATION IS REQUIRED .••••.•.....••..••.....•....•••••••.••••.•.•••••..•......••......•••..•..•.....• 21 

6 FLIGHT ..................................................................................................................... 22 

6.1 FLYING ENVIRONMENT REQUIREMENTS .•..••...•.••.•••.•.....•.•......•..•..•..•••....••.....••..••.•..•.•....... 22 

6.2 STARTING THE MOTORS····································································································· 22 

6.3 TAKEOFF/lANDING PROCEDURES .••.••..•....••.•..••..•.••..•.....••••....•....•.•..........•••..•.••••.•.••....•... 22 

6.4 FAILSAFE FUNCTION .•••••.....•.......•.........•...............•...•.•••.••.••••.•.......••..••..•......•..........••.. 23 

6.5 LOW BATTERY CAPACITY WARNING FUNCTION •••.•.......•...•..•..•.••.•.•.....•.••.•......•..••....•...•.•.... 24 

6.6 FLIGHT LIMITS FUNCTION .................•..•••.•••.........•.....•.....•.•..••••..•.••.•.••.•.•••..•.••.......••....• 25 

Max Height & Radius Limits ......................................................................................... 25 

6.7 FLIGHT LIMITS OF SPECIALAREAS .................................................................................... 26 

6.8 CONDITIONS OF FLIGHT LIMITS ....................................................................................... 27 

Disclaimer .................................................................................................................... 28 

7 ASSISTANT SOFTWARE INSTAllATION AND CONFIGURATION ................................. 29 

7.11NSTALLING DRIVER AND PHANTOM 2 ASSISTANT SOFTWARE ............................................ 29 

7.2 USING THE PHANTOM 2 ASSISTANT SOFTWARE ON APC .................................................. 30 

7.3 FIRMWARE UPGRADE OF PHANTOM 2 ........................................................................... 31 

7.4 PHANTOM RC ASSISTANT SOFTWARE DESCRIPTION ......................................................... 32 

8 APPENDIX ................................................................................................................ 33 

8.1 SPECIFICATIONS ........................................................................................................... 33 

8.2 LED FLIGHT INDICATORS DESCRIPTION ............................................................................. 33 
In the Box ·-··-----~----·---·--- ---·-------- -----

PHANTOM 2 2.4GHz Remote Controller Propeller Pair ·--- ---·-,----·----------------------------·-

1 '; r [ 

I ::::~:- I 

. -· 

Intelligent Battery Charger 

~a 

' 

Screwdriver Assistant Wrench 

/ 

Micro-USB Cable Screws 

~~g~i.r~~:H!~m~- ___ _ ' AA Battery X4 ~-~----

0 

Symbol Legend 

0 Forbidden(lmportant) Caution 

©2013-2014 OJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 3 I 

' 

Cables 

Accessories Box 

Tip €4 Reference 
1. PHANTOM 2 Aircraft 

[1] ' 

[2~ .. [3) 

[4] 

[5] 

[9]· , ... , ' ,,..._,. 

[10] 

[6}'···· ~········•·c. 

m· 

[8]'''. ·•···. [11] 

Figure 1-1 Figure 1-2 

[1]Propeller [2]Motor [3]Front Side [4]Front LEOs [5]Micro-USB Port [6]Landing Gear [?]Receiver 

Antenna [8]CAN-Bus Connector [9]LED Flight Indicators [1 O]DJI Intelligent Battery [11]Compass 

1.1 Built-in Flight Control System Instructions 

The built-in flight control system is used to control the entire aircraft's functions in flight such as Pitch (forwards 

and backwards), Roll (left and right), Elevator (up and down) and Yaw (tum left or right). The flight controller 

contains the MC (Main Controller), IMU, GPS, compass, receiver. 

The IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) has a built-in inertial sensor and a barometric altimeter that measures both 

attitude and altitude. The compass reads geomagnetic information which assists the GPS (Global Position System) 

to accurately calculate the aircrafts position and height in orderto lock the aircraft in a stable hover. The receiver is 

used to communicate with the remote controller and the MC acts as the brains of the complete flight control 

system connecting and controlling all the modules together. 

The PHANTOM 2 can be configured in the Assistant Software, by choosing Naza-M mode or Phantom ! 

2 mode. This manual is for Phantom 2 mode. Please refer to the Naza-M V2 Quick Start Manual for I more information. . ___ ! 

1.2 Connections with Other DJIProducts 

PHANTOM 2 is compatible with other DJI products, including ZEN MUSE H3-2D and H3-3D gimbal , iOSD mini , 

iOSD Mark II. Below are connections for these products and wireless video transmission module. 

.!"""''; ~ 

it r 1 

U

· .... ·_l 

~:m~a~~u:: :s:o~ ]Mount the H3-2D/H3-3D 

lgimbal using 4 screws. I 

L ________ t 

Figure 1-3 

©2013-2014 OJ! Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 3 I 

r------1 

1 I .-~--~ I 

I 

I 

I 

~i~b~----1 

(5-PrnC .. bie- -~ 

~ the compass. I 

---~~~~~~ I 

·1~·~. ~------1 ----, 

I Compass 1 

: Ulll I 

I 

I. I 

L---"' 
Important Notes ofUsingwith Other DJI Products 

( 1 ) The video cable can provide power for the wireless video transmission module with a battery voltage 

(11.1V-12.6V) and a maximum current 2A 

( 2 ) Make sure the working current of the wireless video transmission module you connect can work with an 

operational voltage between 11.1 V-12. 6V and the total working current ofthe iOSD and wireless video 

transmission module is under 2A, as an overcurrent will damage the central board's components. If the 

total current exceeds 2A, please be sure to provide power supplied from a separate power source for the 

wireless video transmission module. 

( 3) PHANTOM 2 uses a 2.4GHz RC system. To avoid communication interference, it's not recommended to 

use other 2.4GHz devices (including 2.4G wifi or 2.4G wireless video transmission module) except the 

2.4G Bluetooth and 2.4G Data link. 

( 4 ) Besureto keepthewirelessvideotransmission module and other communicating devices awayfromthe 

compass during installation and connection to avoid interference. 

( 5 ) To improve the compatibility with ZENMUSE gimbals, the latest factory deliveries of PHANTOM 2 has 

updated to the Version 2 shown below. H3-2D/H3-3D gimbal can be directly installed for the Version 2 

whileforVersion 1, a H3-3D adapter kit( coming soon) is requiredto installtheH3-3Dgimbal. 

Figure 1·4 

( 6) When using the H3-3D gimbal, please connect the 8-Pin cable of PHANTOM 2tothe G8 portofH3-3D 

shown below. 

Figure 1·5 

©2013-2014 DJIInnovations.AII Rights Reserved. 31 
Connections with OtherDJI Products 

( 1 ) Connecting the H3-2D and H3-3D gimbalandwirelessvideotransmission module, thefigurebelowuses 

H3-2D as an example. 

i -wireless- - Battl video Batt+ 

transmission 

I module VIDEO GND 

!Transmitter VIDEOL 

'------·---·-·j 

r D.;,;;ripfu,~it"he"Vid: i;bl.; - - -, I (sequence by color) I 

I VIDEO I 

I - VIDEO GND I 

r---11 --v.,., I 

1..----G~-------- _. 

- ZENri'lliSE ,, 

H3.-:10 

I 

i 

I 

I I L _______ l 

·~ ~ ~\\\\ 

Q: ~;.,..------!, -l-- CO;;p;l-;: 

I Jllll I 

I o, .~ I 

._ I o ______ o _, I 

Figure 1-6 

( 2) ConnectingtheH3-2Dand H3-3Dgimbal, iOSDminiandwirelessvideotransmission module, thefigure 

below uses H3-2D a san example. 

l D 

L----...1 

Figure 1-7 

©2013-2014 OJ! Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 3 I 

- o;;.;;j,tj;;n 71 the Vid;; Cab!.;' - - ~ 

(sequence by color) 

VIDEO -VIDEOGND f-----t - v .. ~ I 

._-=;-_G,!M> ___ --.----

. _,.,..----

[:·~,--------~1 - i -- c;,,;.;: 

I lUll I 

I o o I 

I ; ,, I '-------~ 
( 3 ) Connecting the H3-20 and H3-30 gimbal, iOSD mini and DJI specified wireless video transmission module 

AVL58, the figure below uses H3-20 as an example. 

Figure 1·8 

"\11• ' 

'l , , , -We r~ommend ~onnecti-ng-th_e_V_Ba-t+_p_o_rt_o_f.the video cable. to the two BATT+ ports of the AVLsal 

_ ~ simultaneously, The same is true of the GND port of the video cable and two BATT- ports. ____ j 

( 4 ) Connecting the H3-2Dand H3-3D gimbal, iOSD Mark II andWirelessvideotransmission module, the figure 

below uses H3-2D as an example. 

r-~-------"" I Wireless video transmission t 

module Transm!ttet sJJecified by ; 

J OJI(AVLSB) · t 

l OR !~------~~ 

I DeS'cri'Ptimi ci'fthe'Vide;"cabJe" - - , 1 (sequence by color} I 

VIDEO I 

I - VIDEOGND I t----1 - Vs.u 

I L -=:_G!:!D I i Other wireless video transmission 

~o~uJ:_T'!ns~it~r ___ _ I 

r - ~1"'' - zENMUsE' 

I .. .... '·. H3-2D I I .,._. :,~ I 

.1 I 

I 

I . . . I 

) . L __ ·.:_ ____ l 

.~ ~ 

[t~i--.-. ____ _.1 -r --c;,,;;;;.;;;: 

I Jllll I 

I·-. I 

I ,,: c I l..-------

©2013-2014 DJIInnovations.AII Rights Reserved. 31 
l 

I 

Figure 1-9 

The diagram below illustrates the conneciton between the iOSD Mark II and the wireless video transmission module. 

r----... ----...... -.._ ................... , ,.. .............. ---------------------..... -, ! BATT- r-!Batt- ~ 

l

i BATT- j i Batt- Other wireless video ! BATT+ Batt+ transmission module ~ 

I BATT+~Batt+ • ! IOSD Mark II UART ! ! Transmitter ! f UART I l ',· I AV-GND l------JVJDEOGND ' 

L~---.......... --.. --~~~-~!J L~~~-.. -------~------------........ i 

Use the 8-Pin cable in the iOSD Markk II package when connecting to the DJI specified wireless video 

transmission module AVL58. 

( 5) UsingtheiPadGroundStation 

L 

·-........ (_£;,_ 

AirEild 

Ground End 

Figure1-10 

i ITU 

i_.;-J 

~ 

©2013-2014 OJ! Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 3 I 

iPad Ground 

Station 
Connect the Air End of 2.4G Bluetooth Data link to a spared CAN-Bus port of iOSD if an 

©2013-2014 OJ I Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 3 I 
( 6) UsingthePCGroundStation 

.. L 

-!'"·~: •j 

L ..• ·---~-~~,~--~:!1 

Air End 

Ground End 

Figure 1·11 

1.3 LED Flight Indicators Description 

1. LED ftigr>t indicators are used to show the aircraft's current status. Once powered on, the indicators will light 

up. 

\ II; I • /. 

~---- ___ .. / 

Warnings and errors ·········--······-········-···········--···------·-·······' 

Remote Controller Signal Lost .................... 

••••• 151 Level Low Battery Capacity Warning 

©2013-2014 OJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 3 I 
~--~--- ~,. -~"~-·"-~·-~~---------- -- ···- ~----------------· ____ ., -- '-~-~- ---u- ••• ~ "" ' e e e e e e 2nd Level Low Battery Capacity Warning t·-----·--·-· ---···············~- -~- ··---·. ·-· ..... _._ .. """--+ ·----·-----.--"'''''"""' ___ .. ______________ ---.. ~- ............................ ----·--- ···-·-------·-···1 

i ••• i NotStationaryorSensorBiasistoobig , ·---.~-~--·--~<U-·~~-,~·~-·~-" o'#O~oXo~---~<OO ~~~---"·~--~~~-~-·-·~-----~~" i,M" 0 ~-~·-·-r-~~~~·=~ -~ ''~"~~-- ~"~-~-> --~-~----"'~--T~-~-~-""~~ ~h"'-""'~~-~- ·-------~~-~-·~-·---~-- -~- ··- 0>''~ 

, i Errors&Aircraftcannotfly. i ~--·-'"··----------------------··--·· "''"'''"'~'"''""'""-""''t'""'''''----~----------·~------.. ~----------------------- -------------------~- "'"""""'"'""'"'"""' I. i . . i Compass data abnormal because of ferro-magnetic interference or i 

I i 

[____ _ _________ -------------------···-··· J ... ~-~~~.£::':.~~: .. ~:-~al~~r~~-~: ... -------·--···· .. ___ _ -· .. _____ -~ ( 1 ) The LED indicators diagram above are for Phantom 2 mode. In Naza-M mode, LED indicators 

will work according to the Naza-M flight control system. 

( 2 ) Connect to the PHANTOM 2 Assistant Software for detailed information about warnings and 

errors. 

2. ThefrontlEDs are for indicating where the nose ofthe aircraft is. They light up solid red only after the motors 

have spooled up. 

The fronS:~-:;,~~,--- LEDs . 

1.4 Notes for PHANTOM 2 using with other OJI products 

Before using PHANTOM 2 with other DJI products, users should connecting the products correctly and upgrade 

the firmware as requirements below. 

Items to upgrade Firmware versions required 

P330CB (built-in V1.0.1.19 or above 

iOSD Mark II 

•• C ........... +-·····-·--·· .. -

iQSD mini 

*The iOSD Assistant Software is applied to both iOSD Mark II and iOSD mini. 

©2013-2014 OJ! Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 3 I 
2 Propellers 

PHANTOM 2 uses the original9-inch propellers which are classified by the color of each central nut. Damaged 

propellers should be replaced by purchasing new ones if necessary. 

Attach to the motor thread that has a 

black dot. 

Lock: Tighten the propeller in this direction. 

• Unlock: Remove the propeller in this direction. 

2.1 Assembly 

1. ( Figure 2-1 ) Remove the four warning cards from the motors after you've read them. 

2. ( Figure 2-2 ) Prepare the two grey nut propellers and two black nut propellers. Make sure to match the 

black nut propellers with the correctly marked black dot motors. Tighten the propellers according to the 

fastening instructions. 

Figure 2·1 Figure 2-2 Figure2-3 

2.2 Disassembly 

( Figure 2-3 ) Keep the motor deadlocked in place with the assistant wrench (or one hand) and remove the 

propeller acoording to the un-fastening instructions. 

2.3 Notes 

1. Propellers are self tightening during flight. DO NOT use any thread locker on the threads. 

2. Make sure to match the propeller nut colors with the corresponding motors. 

3. It is advised to wear protective gloves during propeller assembly and removal. 

4. Check that the propellers and motors are installed correctly and firmly before every flight. 

5. Check that all propellers are in good condition before flight. DO NOT use any ageing, chipped, or broken 

propellers. 

6. To avoid injury, STAND CLEAR of and DO NOT touch the propellers or motors when they are spinning. 

7. ONLY use original DJI propellers for a better and safer flight experience. 

©2013-2014 DJIInnovations. All Rights Reserved. 3 I 
3 Remote Controller 

The PHANTOM2 remote controller can be configured in the PHANTOM RCAssistantSoftware. The sticks mode is 

Mode 2 on delivery. 

[10] 

[11] ... 

Figure 3-1 

.. " 

Figure 3-2 

[12] 

~[13] 

[1]Antenna [2]Carrying Handle [3]3-Position Switch S1 [4]3-Position Switch S2 [5]Joystick1(J1;J2) 

[6]Joystick2(J3;J4) [7]Neck Strap Attachment [8]Power Switch [9]Power Indicator [10]Battery Compartment 

[11]Micro-USB Port [12]Siide Lever [13]Potentiometer 

3.1 Power on the Remote Controller 

1. Install the four AA Batteries (not included) into the battery compartment on the back of 

the remote controller according to the negative and positive poles. 

2. Set the 81 and 82 switches to the upper most position and all sticks are at mid-point 

before switching on the power switch. 

3. Push the power switch to the right to power on the remote controller. If the power LED 

indicator is solid on, the remote controller is functioning normally. 

( 1 ) Please make sure the batteries have enough capacity before use. If the low voltage warning 

alert sounds (refer to the <Remote Controller Power Indicator Status Information>), please 

replace batteries as soon as possible. 

( 2 ) Using the correct type of battery will prevent risk of damage or malfunction. 

( 3 ) For long term storage, be sure to remove the batteries from the remote controller. 

3.2 Remote controller Power LED Indicator Status 

Sound Remote Controller Status 

None 

B-8-B ...... 

B-8-B ...... 

©2013-2014 DJIInnovations.AII Rights Reserved. 31 
The remote controller will power off automatically when battery voltage drops below 4V. land and 

,A change batteries as soon as possible when the low voltage alert occurs to avoid loss of control during 

Hight 

3.3 Antenna Orientation 

The remote controller's antenna should point skywards without obstructions for maximum communication range 

during flight. 

Figure 3-3 

3.4 Remote Controller Operation 

The operations of remote controller are based on mode 2 stick oontiguration. 

Definitions 

The "stick neutral' positions and "stick released' mean the control sticks of the remote oontroller are placed at 

the central position. 

To "move the stick' means that the stick of remote controller is pushed away from the central position. 

Slide lever is used for the pitch control of the H3-2D and H3-3D gimbal. 

Aircraft 

( • 81 nose direction ) 

Push the stick up and the aircraft will rise. 

Pull the stick down and the aircraft will descend. 

The aircraft will automatically hover and hold its 

altitude if the sticks are centered. 

Pushing the throttle stick above the centered 

(neutral) position will result in the aircraft taking 

i off. We suggest that you push the throttle stick 

slowly to prevent the aircraft from sudden and 

- ~--· ---· -· ~ ... ___ } ~::~n!]<J?~~e~.?t:!l.~.!:. ..•.. 

©2013-2014 OJ! Innovations. All Rights ReseNed. 3 I 
. ~ . t ~ ~- ,_~-:::::.::=: -·---.. ") 

!i 

~~-]~ :® ,-, 

:~ d ,1~ I 

~-~-- .• __ t£?~ \ I \ I '" ,_, ... _ ... " --~ 

; ;~~f! ~, (~t; I 

Position-1 Position-2 Position-3 

~-~ \ / "' ~ 

r:?i~~J1 

'W; ~~ ~~ l~(i~;\; I I ' - \ I \ I \ I ' ... __ .. ,_, ,_ ... " 

i.~ OFF Course lock Home point Lock I ' "'=::::_ ... / 

©2013-2014 DJIInnovations.AII Rights Reserved. 31 

The yawstickcontrols the aircraft rudder. 

Push the stick left and the aircraft will 

counterclock-wise. 

Push the stick right and the aircraft will rotate 

clock-wise. If the stick is centered, the aircraft 

will always fly in the same direction. 

The command stick controls the rotating angular 

velocity ofthe aircraft. Increasing movement of 

the command stick results in faster aircraft 

The pitch stick controls the aircraft's front & 

back tilt. 

Push the stick up and the aircraft will tilt and fly 

forward. 

Pull the stick down and the aircraft will tilt and 

fly backward. The aircraft will keep level and 

straightifthe stick is centered. 

Increasing movement of the command stick will 

result in a largertiltangle (maximum is 35") and 

The roll stick controls the aircraft left & right tilt. 

Push the stick left and the aircraft will tilt and fly 

left. Push the stick right and the aircraft will tilt 

and fly right. The aircraft will keep level and 

straight ifthestick is centered. 

Increasing movement of the command stick will 

result in a larger tilt angle (maximum is 35°) and 

switch from position-1 to position-3 and back to 

position-1, 5 times ormoreto enter into compass 

calibration mode. 

Users can configure position 3(bottom position) 

of the 81 switch to trigger the Failsafe in the 

Assistant Software. 

82 is the IOC mode switch. IOC (Intelligent 

Orientation Control) function can be enabled in 

the Assistant Software when in Naza-M mode. 

Only use the IOC function after you are familiar 

with flying. 

"-~~<···~-~---·- -----------
Slide Lever controls the pitch of the H3-2D and 

H3-3D gimbal. The position of slide lever 

determines the pitch angle relative to the 

horizontallevel. 

Slide the lever left to make the gimbal pitch 

down up to a -90° position. 

Slide the lever right to pitch up to +0° position 

resulting in gimbal being at a horizontally level 

orientation. 

( 1) For ·Ready to Fly' the aircraft will hover when all sticks are released. 

( 2 ) For •Ready to Fly (non-GPS)' the aircraft will only keep the altitude when all sticks are released. 

3.5 Linking the remote controller& built-in receiver 

PHANTOM 2 has a built-in receiver, the link button and indicator located on the bottom of the aircraft as illustrated 

in the Figure 3-4. 

The link between the remote controller and aircraft is already established for you so you can initially skip this 

procedure.lfyou everreplacethe remote controller, re-establishing the link is required. 

' / 

Linking procedures 

\. 

Figure3-4 

/ 

link button& 

Unk indicator 

1. Power on the PHANTOM 2. 

2. Turn on the remote controller and place it 0.5m-1m away from the aircraft. 

3. Push the link button with a thin object and hold it until the Link indicator blinks red, then release it 

4. When the Link indicator turns solid green, the link between the remote controller and the built-in receiver 

has been successfully established. 

Link Indicator Status 

The remote controller is linked with the receiver successfully. ~·····~--~-~-·-··-·-~··~--~······~···~·~·~-~~-~~-~·····~ 

The remote controlleristumed off and there is no2.4GHzsignal around, please turn 

©2013-2014 OJ! Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 31 
please carry out the linking procedures. 4 Intelligent Batiery~,"~~,,~-,,~,-~~"'m~.o~·~···-···········,~·,··· .. ~------·-··········· 

The intelligent battery is specially designed for the PHANTOM 2, with a battery capacity of 5200mAh, voltage of 

11.1Vand charge-discharge management functionality. The battery should only be charged with the OJI charger. 

Intelligent Battery Charger 

DJIJntelligent Battery Functions 

( 1 ) Balance Charging 

( 2 ) Capacity Display 

( 3 ) Communicating 

( 4 ) Overcharging Protection 

( 5 ) Over Discharging 

Protection 

( 6 ) Short Circuit Protection 

( 7 ) Sleep Protection 

( 8 ) Charging Temperature 

Detection 

Automatically balance the voltage of each battery cell during charging. 

Displaythe current battery level. 

The main controller communicates with the battery via communication ports 

forbatteryvoltage, capacity, current and other information. 

Charging stops automatically when the battery voltage reaches 12.8V to 

prevent overcharging damage. 

Discharging stops automatically when the battery voltage reaches 8.4V to 

prevent over discharging damage. 

Automatically cuts off the powersupplywhen a short circuit is detected. 

The batterywill enter sleep mode after 10 minutes ofinactivityto save 

power. The static current is 1 OnA in sleep mode when the battery is 

powered on without connecting to other devices. 

The battery will charge only when its temperature is within ooc -55°C. If the 

1 batterytemperature isoutofthis range, the battery will stop charging. 

( 1 ) Before use, please read and follow the user manual, disclaimer, and the warnings on the battery. 

Users take full responsibility for all operations and usage. 

( 2 ) The battery should only be charged wilih the charger provided by DJI. DJI does not take any 

responsibility for operation of any charger from a third party. 

4.1 Charging Procedures 

1. Connect the charger to a wall socket (Use the plug set if necessary). 

2 Connect the battery to the charger. If the current capacity oft he battery is over 75%, you should power on 

the battery to begin charging. 

3. The Battery Level indicators display current capacity level as the battery charges. Please refer to battery 

level indicator description for details. 

©2013-2014 OJ! Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 31 
4. The battery is fully charged when the Battery Level indicator lights are off. Please disconnect the charger 

and battery when the charging is completed. 

[Jbrn I [!:::==11 Jl =====1oJ]:: ,G r WaiiSocket 

4.2 Install the Battery 

Push the battery into the battery compartment correctly as the following diagram shows. Make sure to push the 

battery into the compartment until you hear a ·click' sound. 

Figure 4-1 

An incorrectly inserted battery may cause one of the following to occur: (1) Bad contact. (2) Unavailable 

battery information. (3) Unsafe for flight. (4) Unable to take off. 

4.3 Battery Usage 

LED2 

LEDl 

Battery Level Indicator 

Figure 4-2 

• 

H·LED3 

LED4 

" ·"Battery Power Button 

(Built-in Battery Power Indicator) 

(1) Checking the battery level: When the battery is powered off; pressing the battery power button once will 

indicate the current battery level. Refer to< Battery Level Indicator Description> for details. 

(2) Powering on: When the battery is powered off; press the battery power button once and then press and hold for 

2 seconds to turn on the intelligent battery. 

(3) Powering off: When the battery is powered on; press the battery power button once and then press and hold for 

2 seconds to turn off the intelligent battery. 

(4) Checking the battery life: When the battery is powered off; press and hold the battery power button for 5 

seconds to check the battery life. The battery level indicators will show the life and the battery power indicator 

©2013-2014 DJIInnovations. All Rights Reserved. 3 I 
will blink for 10 seconds, then all LEOs will light out and the intelligent battery will tum off. Refer to < Battery 

Level Indicator Description> for details. 

e. More battery information is available in the battery tab of the PHANTOM 2 Assistant Software. 

4.4 Description of the Battery Level Indicator 

The battery level indicators will showthe current battery level during both the charging and discharging process as 

well as battery life. The following is a description ofthe indicators . 

• :TheLEDissolidon • :TheLEDwillblinkregularly 

:The LED is 

0%-25% 

25%-50% 

50%-75% 

75%-100% 

Full charged 

62.5%-75% 

50%-62.5% 

37.5%-50% 

25%-37.5% 

90%-100% 

80%-90% 

• • 70%-80% 

• • 60%-70% 

• • 50%-60% 

©2013-2014 OJ I Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 3 I 
4.5 Correct Battery Usage Notes 

1. Never plug or unplug the battery into the aircraft when it is powered on. 

2. The battery should be charged in an environment that is between o·c to 40"C, and be discharged in an 

environment that is between -20"C to 5o•c. Both charging and discharging should be in an environment 

where the relative humidity is lowerthan 80%. 

3. It's recommended to charge and discharge the battery thoroughly once every 20 charge/discharge cycles. 

Users should discharge the battery until there is less than 8% power left or until the battery can no longer 

be tumed on. Users should then fully recharge the battery to maximum capacity. This power cycling 

procedure will ensure the battery is working at its optimal level. 

4. For long term storage please place the battery with only a 40-50% capacity in a strong battery box 

securely. We recommend discharging and charging the battery completely onceevery3 months to keep it 

in good condition. The capacity should be varied in such a cycle (40%-50%)-0%-1 00%-(40%-50%). 

5. It's suggested you purchase a new battery after you have discharged your current battery over 300 times. 

Please completely discharge a battery prior to disposal. 

6. It's suggested that you purchase a new battery ifthe current battery is swollen or damaged in any way. 

7. Never try to recharge or fly with a battery that is swollen or damaged in any way. 

B. Never charge the battery unattended. Always charge the battery on a non-flammable surface such as 

concrete and never near any flammable materials. 

9. Safety is extremely important and users can get more information in the DISCLAIMER. 

©2013-2014 DJIInnovations. All Rights Reserved. 3 I 
5 Calibrating the Compass 

IMPORTANT: Make sure to perform the Compass Calibration procedures priortothe first flight. 

The compass is very sensitive to electromagnetic interference which causes abnormal compass data and leads to 

poorflight performance or even flight failure. Regular calibration ofthe compass enables the compass to perform at 

its optimal level. 

5.1 Calibration Warnings 

( 1) DO NOT calibrate your compass where there is a possibility for the existence of strong 

magnetic interference such as magnetite, parking structures, and steel reinforcement 

underground. 0 { 2) DO NOT carry ferromagnetic materials with you during calibration such as keys or cellular 

phones. 

( 3) Compass Calibration is very important; otherwise the flight control system will work abnormally. 

5.2 Calibration Procedures 

Please carry out the calibrating procedures in the flight field before flight. Please watch the quick start video ofthe 

PHANTOM 2 for more compass calibration details. 

Start 

cali 

Quickly flip the switch St 

Position-1 :,~) '\-~ .. ~-

l.t--;"", 

Position-3 •J.!lb 

........... 

Position-1->Position-3->Position-t 

Flip no less than 5 times 

LED Flight Indicator 

Start horizontal calibration 

360° Rotate the aircraft 

horizontally 

LED Flight Indicator 

Start vertical calibration 

Position-1 :,iiiP,) ... \.Y: 

Position-3{(~ Position-t->Positi~~-~Position-1 Flip once 

5.3 When Recalibration is Required 

360°Rotate the aircraft 

vertically(Nose downward) 

t 

I 

LED Flight 

Indicator 

Normal LED • • 

Succeed Fail 

Re-calibrate 

( 1 ) When Compass Data is abnormal, the LED flight indicatorwill blinkalternating between red and yellow. 

( 2 ) Last compass calibrationwas performed at a completely differentflying field/location. 

( 3 ) The mechanical structure of the aircraft has changed, i.e. changed mounting position of the compass. 

( 4 ) Evident drifting occurs in flight, i.e. the aircraft doesn't fly in straight lines. 

©2013-2014 DJilnnovations.AII Rights Reserved. 31 
6 Flight 

6.1 Flying Environment Requirements 

( 1 ) Before your first flight, please allow yourself some flight training (Using a flight simulator to 

practice flying, getting instruction from an experienced person, etc.). 

( 2 ) DO NOT fly in bad weather, such as rain or wind (more than moderate breeze) or fog. 

( 3 ) The flying field should be open and void of tall buildings or other obstacles; the steel structure 

within buildings may interfere with the compass. 

A ( 4 ) Keep the aircraft away from obstacles, crowds, power lines, trees, lakes and rivers etc. 

( 5 ) Try to avoid interference between the remote controller and other wireless equipment. (No base 

stations or cell towers around) 

( 6 ) The flight control system will not work properly at the South Pole or North Pole. 

( 7 ) Never use the aircraft in a manner that infringes upon or contravenes international or domestic 

lays and regulations. 

6.2 Starting the Motors 

A Combination Stick Command (CSC) is neededtostartthe motors. Push the sticks according to one ofthe options 

below to start motors. Once the motors have spun up, release both sticks simultaneously. The same command is 

used to stop the motors. 

··~ . . --.. ' . • 

A B c D 

Figure 6-1 

6.3 Takeoff/Landing Procedures 

1. Start by placing the PHANTOM 2 on the ground with the battery level indicators facing you. 

2. Turn on the remote controller. 

3. Power on the aircraft by turning on the intelligent battery. 

4. When LED flight indicator blinks green/yellow, the PHANTOM 2 is entering Ready to Fly/Ready to Fly 

(non-GPS) mode. Start the motors with the esc command. 

5. Push the throttle stick up slowly to lift the aircraft off the ground. Refer to <Remote Controller Operation> 

for more details. 

6. Be sure you are hovering over a level surface. Pull down on the throttle stick gently to descend and land. 

©2013-2014 DJIInnovations. All Rights Reserved. 3 I 
7. After landing the aircraft on the ground, keep the throttle stick at its lowest position for about 3 to 5 

seconds which will automatically stop the motors. 

0 You SHOULD NOT execute the esc during normal flight! This will stop the motors and cause the 

aircraft to descend rapidlyand drop without any type of control. 

( 1 ) When the LED flight indicator blinks yellow rapidly during flight, the aircraft has entered into 

Failsafe mode, refer to <Failsafe Function> for details. 

,6, ( 2 ) A low battery capacity warning is indicated by the LED flight indicator blinking red slowly or 

rapidly during flight. R efertoth e <Low Battery CapacityWarn in g Function> for deta i Is. 

( 3 ) Watch the quickstartvideo aboutflightformore flight information. 

6.4 Failsafe Function 

The aircraft will enter Failsafe mode when the connection from the remote controller is lost. The flight control 

system will automatically control the aircraftto return to home and land to reduce injuries or damage. The following 

situationswould maketheaircraftfailto receive a signal from the remote controllerand enter Failsafe mode: 

( 1 } The remote controller is powered off. 

( 2 ) The remote controller is powered on but the 81 is toggled in the position triggering the Failsafe (this must 

have been configured in the PHANTOM 2 Assistant Software). 

( 3 ) The aircraft has flown out ofthe effective communication range of the remote controller. 

( 4 ) There is an obstacle obstructing the signal between the remote controller and the aircraft, essentially 

reducing the distance the signal can travel. 

( 5 ) There is interference causing a signal problemwiththe remote controller. 

Failsafe works differently depending on the mode the aircraft is in when Failsafe mode is initiated whether it is in 

the Ready to Fly or Ready to Fly (non-GPS) mode. 

Ready to Fly (non-GPS) -Automatic landing 

The ftight control system will try to keep the aircraft level during descent and landing. Note that the aircraft may 

be drifting during the descent and landing process. 

Readyto Fly --Automatic go horne and land 

The ftight control system will automatically control the aircraft to fty back to the home point and land. 

Home Point 

When the aircraft is initializing the Ready to Fly status, the aircraft will record the current GPS coordinates as 

the home point. It is recommended to lift off only after Ready to Fly status is confirmed for the safety of being 

able to fty back to home point successfully in case the Failsafe mode is initiated. 

©2013-2014 OJIInnovations.AII Rights Reserved. 31 
j 

I 

Go Home Procedures 

1 Record Home Point. 2 Flying. 3 Remote controller signal lost . 

. 

*-~ ·---~ ... >• 

-- ;,_.,; 

,. 

LED Flight Indicator 0~ ~t LED Flight Indicator 8 0 e •• LED Flight Indicato_r 

4 Signal lost lasts3s, begin to go home. 5 Fly back to home point 6 Landing after hovering 15s. 

w ' . ..,.,.-

~~~~~~~~t:~~~:: 

~:eight over home point~2om lED Flight Indicator;:;_, (J· ·,(' -:;,;, -~'":· Z' 

Figure 6-2 

( 1 ) In a Failsafe situation, if less than 6 GPS satellites are found for more than 20 seconds, the aircraft 

will descend automatically. 

In Phantom 2 mode, users can set a new home point manually when the aircraft is in "Ready to fly" status 

as long as a home point has been recorded automatically. Quickly flipping the S2 switch of the remote 

controller from upper most to lower most positions 5 times or more will reset the current aircraft position 

as a new home point of PHANTOM 2. When successfully reset, you will see a series of rapid green blinks 

on the LED Flight Indicator. The definition of "home point" is: 

( 1 ) The home point is the place PHANTOM 2 returns to when the control signal is lost, which is 

recorded last time. 

( 2 ) The home point is used to calculate the horizontal distance between you and the aircraft, the 

distance will be displayed as 12.. if using iOSD module. 

Regaining Control during Failsafe Procedure ~----m---~-~~--~~,l~~.~.-~"~·~-~~-~~~·-~~~~--·~""~~;;?·:.:'~-~¥~'"-~·-···~~~--·~~~-~--r-·~-;;=·~~~;~··--N-~~"·~-~-~;7:=-~~---~~---~~~l 

' I {~ I ·<¥. I ·~ ; ! Position ( \,~.... i l.. ....... / t '.._.. ( 

i · I l ! Position-3 , 

t-::=~~~~t~J:':~::'~~;5;::~:-r:;::,::::~~=:~~~·~J -i 

' control I regain control. If remote controller's signal is I recovered. 

'------ -----------~~£overed, ~-~~.l~!:.':~ur __ ~':~-~-ac_l< ~o~~~-Pi~o~ ___ !__ ···--------------------------------- . 

6.5 Low Battery Capacity Warning Function 

The low battery capacity warning alerts users when the battery is close to depletion during flight. When it appears, 

users should promptly fly back and land to avoid accidental dama_ge. The PHANTOM 2 hal? two levels of low battery 

capacitywarning. Thefirstappearswhenthe battery has less than 30% power and the second appears when it has 

©2013-2014 DJIInnovations. All Rights Reserved. 3 I 
lessthan 15% power. 

( 1 ) When battery power drops below30%and LED indicatorwill blink red slowly. 

( 2) At lower than 15%the LED indicator will blink red rapidly, the PHANTOM 2 will also begin to descend and 

land automatically. After it has landed, keep the throttle stick at its lowest point or execute esc. 

( 3 ) There is a hidden third low battery threshold in addition to the 1 stand 2nd level warnings. This uses 10.65V 

as its threshold. Both this voltage threshold and the 2nd Level Low Battery Warning will trigger auto-landing. 

Altitude can be maintained if necessary by pushing up on the throttle stick. 

( 1 ) Remember to fly your PHANTOM 2 back as soon as you see a low battery capacity warning. 

( 2 ) Keeping the battery contact needles and pads clean is very important. Any dirt and dust may 

cause a communication failure. 

6.6 Flight Limits Function 

All UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle) operators should abide by all regulations from such organizations at ICAO 

(International Civil Aviation Organization) and per country airspace regulations. For safety reasons, the flight limits 

function is enabled by default to help users use this product safely and legally. The flight limits function includes 

height, distance limits. 

In Ready to Fly status, heigh~ distance limits works together to restrict the flight. In Ready to Fly (non-GPS) status, 

only height limit works and the flying height restricted to be not over 120m. 

(1) The default parameters in the Assistant Software is compliant within the definitions of class G 

ruled by ICAO. (Refer to Airspace Classification to get more details). As each country has its 

~ own rules, make sure to configure the parameters to comply with these rules too, before using 

the PHANTOM 2. 

(2) Users in Mainland China can refer to ~ffl&t~l!itMif.}$. 

Max Height & Radius Limits 

The Max Height & Radius restricts the flying height and distance. Configuration can be done in the PHANTOM 2 

Assistant. Once complete, youraircraftwillflyin a restricted cylinder. 

~l'<H}•Cl ,._ ~ 't: 

[\~ :&~; 

0 A 

is powered on 

Figure 6-3 Figure6-4 

©2013-2014 DJIInnovations.AII Rights ReseNed. 31 
Ground Station 

flight height is restricted to fly Warning: Height limit 

reached. 

Warning: Distance limit 

reached. 

Ground Station 

Rear LED flight indicator 

None. 

close to the Max radius limit 

Rear LED flight indicator 

Warning: Height limit reached. 

None. 

Not limited, no warnings or LED indicators. 

'···-·----------~---------------------·--··-·- ---··---·---·-···--·-... --------·---·--

(1) If the aircraft flies out of the limits, you can still control your aircraft except to fly it further away. 

(2) If the aircraft is flying out of the max radius in Ready to Fly (non-GPS) status, it will fly back 

within the limits range automatically if 6 or more GPS satellites have been found. 

6. 7 Flight Limits of Special Areas 

Special areas include airports worldwide. All special areas are listed on the OJI official website. Please refer to 

htto:/lwww.dji.comlfly-safe/category-mc for details. These areas have been divided into category A and category B. 

8100m 

10.5m 

Category A 

©2013-2014 OJ! Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 3 I 

Category B 

Center of 

Special 

Area 

Airspace: A,C,D 

Boundary: ~ g,. 

Q 
Limits 

Motors will not start. 

A If the Phantom flies into a special area in Ready to Fly 

(non-GPS) mode and Ready to Fly mode activates, it will 

automatically descend and land then stop its motors. 

lfthe Phantom flies into a special area in Readyto Fly 

(non-GPS)modeand Ready to Fly mode activates, itwill 

descend to airspaceC and hover5 meters below edge fl.. ····- ____ ,_,_, ___ .... ,, 

No restrictions of flight, but the Phantom will not enter 

Category A, the aircraft can fly free, but it will not enter 

Airspace Bthrough Boundary b &d. 

Around Category B sites, the phantom can fly freely, but it will 

notenterintoAirspaceAthrough Boundary§.. 

No restrictions. 

...... 

None. 

Semi-automatic descent: All stick commands are available except the throttle stick command during 

the descentand landing process. Motors will stopautomaticallyafterlanding. Users musttoggletheS1 

switch to regain control. This is the same as regaining control during Failsafe. Please referto Regaining 

Control During Failsafe Procedure (Page23). 

(1) When flying in the airspace (AlB/C) of restricted special area, LED flight indicators will blink red 

...... quickly and continue for 3 seconds, then switch to indicate current flying 

status and continue for5 seconds at which point it will switch back to red blinking. 

(2) For safety reasons, please do not fly close to airports, highways, railway stations, railway lines, 

city centers and other special areas. Tryto ensurethe aircraftisvisible. 

6.8 Conditions of Flight Limits 

In different working modes and flight modes, flight limits will differ according to number of GPS satellites found. 

The following table demonstrates all the cases(·V: available; x:unavailable ). 

All flights are restricted by height, distance and special areas simultaneously. The Failsafe and Ground Station 

operations are not restricted to flight limits, but if Ground Station function is used, the flight will be restricted the 

special area limits builtin to Ground Station. Refertothe Ground Station manual fordetails. 

©2013-2014 DJIInnovations. All Rights Reserved. 3 I 
! Phantom mode 

I Flight Status Limits of Special Area Max Height Max Radius i r--------· 

Ready to Fly v v v 

Ready to Fly (non-GPS) X ..J X 

! Naza-M mode 

Control Mode number of GPS found Limits of Special Area Max Height Max Radius 

)!6 v v " GPS 

i <6 X v X 

I )!6 v v X 

A TTl. ······-

<6 X " X 

.... 

.l··-

<!6 X X X 

Manual 

<6 X X X I -··-

Disclaimer 

Please ensure that you are keptupto pate:vv!th lnter,nation~L<j~dD,otl1e~~i9}W-:iPace rules and regulations before 

using this product. By usingthfspr9.(jlict.y,ptLherE!byagre~tothis ciisclal~~r~n.:clsignifythat you have read this fully. 

You agree that you are responsli:>l¢fory~~rown'·~~l)~~ct and contentwhileus[ngthis product, and for any direct or 

indirect consequences causedby~dtfolloWingthis tft~n~af,viei(.lte or disregard any other applicable local laws, . ·. _,·· :. ' - . 

administrative rules and social. habits thereof. 

©2013-2014 OJ! Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 3 I 
7 Assistant Software Installation and Configuration 

7.1 Installing Driver and PHANTOM 2 Assistant Software r-----·---~-~-------~---~--"~'""--"-~----·-.......-----~-~-··----------·n .. -------~--A0~»·-··-~--~-----··---.. ··~----~'-·-·-"'"-1 

i Installing and running on Windows 

1. Download driver installer and Assistant Software installer in EXE format from the download page of 

PHANTOM 2 on the DJI website. 

2. Connect the PHANTOM 2 to a PC via a Micro-USB cable. 

3. Run the driver installer and follow the prompts to finish installation. 

4. Next, run the Assistant Software installer and follow the prompts to finish installation. 

5. Double click the PHANTOM 2 icon on your Windows desktop to launch the software. 

A!~" The installer in EXE format only supports Windows operating systems (Win XP, Win7, WinS (32 or 64 

bit)). 

lnstallin g and running on Mac OS X 

1. Download the Assistant Software installer in DMG format from the download page of PHANTOM 2 on 

the DJI website. 

2. Run the installer and follow the prompts to finish installation. 

3. When launching for the firs.ttime if use Launchpad to run the PHANTOM 2Assistant Software, 

Launchpad won' tallow access because the software has not been reviewed by Mac App Store. 

? 

~aAtom" can~ be opened beu:use It Is 

ftotn an unidenllfted de-veto-per. 

4. Locate the PHANTOM 2 icon in the Finder, press the Control key and then click the PHANTOM 2 icon 

(or right-click the PHANTOM 2 icon using a mouse). Choose Open from the shortcut menu, click open in 

the prompt dialog box and then software will launch. 

5. Afterthe first successful launch, directly launching ofthe software can be achieved by double-clicking 

the PHANTOM 2 icon in the Finderorusing Launchpad. 

©2013-2014 DJIInnovations.AII Rights Reserved. 31 
M>Wl'lti~ 

t'3PSLoetdiOI\ 

X Dom 

"'"' "'"' 

A•>l!iMI: 

&.h~t~ Tyee Ouad.fOt(Y. X 

Yow 

"'"" 

......................... 1000 ....................... "" 

..... ""'""'"""'"" 1000 -tE!Jit "''"'"''"''"'''i 1000 

... """'"''"""'"i 1000 ._ '""""'"'""'". iooo 

............................. 

~1(1-1 

Mob!' Idle Spaod; RetommendOO 

ru on 1~ lrltettgent 

f,~ 

Fadufot Melt!Ods: Go-f-kxne snd lar!ding 

lO~ 

!ntelig(Jnl Qr;ootaflon Coolrd O~F 

G~Swileh: 

S~I!I"..T\1 

CU!reni'Voltage 

Culuont~y: 

F'wst t.~ Warning: 

S$cond Lave! WartJing 

ON 

12400mV 

""' """ .... 

Usage of PHANTOM 2 Assistant Software on Mac OS X and Windows are exactly the same. The 

Assistant Software pages appear in other places of this manual are on the Windows for example. 

7.2 Using the PHANTOM 2 Assistant Software on a PC 

1. Start up the PC, power on the PHANTOM 2, then connect the PHANTOM 2 to the PC with a Micro-USB 

cable. DO NOT disconnect until configuration is finished. 

2. Run the PHANTOM 2_Assistant. So~t~re and wai~ for the PHANTOM 2 to i::orinect to the Assistant 

Software. Observe the indicatcirs· •• on the oottdm ofthid;creen. When connected successfully, the 

connection indicator is E1> and communication indicator is blinking G 

3. Choose [Basic] or [Advanced] configuration pages. 

4. View and check the current configuration in the [View] page. 

PHANTOM 2 f'tw ::! ~~. r ~ -

Viewconfigurations __ _ c/' !1' ;,; @· L ·-----·---·--·-- .. ~ "~' ~ j ~ .._, ••• 

Function sWitch of Phantom 2 

and Naza-M mode 

~ Language swap 

Account, software 

version 

f",F':j ~~"M::.~ 

RC, Gain •. 

1

_ : 

Gimbal, Batter;~ , .. ·~.~""'~-........ ~,..-~:.J 

· Firmware upgrade 

'·~·····O:::~~i""'·~...,;·"":i~···-··'l,'i;f,,.,;,~,,.. ... -,"""""'':i<~·+ IMU calibration 

Communication 

indicator 

Connection indicator 

). tr;,..; 

Y OWl 

l ~:,. 

:t 

~ ":>,J.:h 

_ ......... . -:.:~·~.~ 

-::.::~:::::.:..:: 

... ~ :.::.::_~ . ..::::._:: "'This image is for reference 

only. Please refer to the f:!.4~.=-.. 

•••••••••••••••••••••••••• actual user interface. 

©2013-2014 OJI Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 3 I 
( 1 ) Users should not enable the Naza-M function before finishing Advanced Flight Maneuvers 

procedure in the " PHANTOM Pilot Training Guide". If the Naza-M mode is enabled, users can 

switch the control mode between ATTI. Mode, GPS Mode or Manual Mode, and access the 

advanced settings (e.g. IOC). In addition, the LED located on the rear frame arms will display 

Naza-M flight status indications instead of the PHANTOM 2's indicators. Do not enable the 

Naza-M mode unless you are an experienced user or guided by a professional. 

( 2 ) You can change to the Phantom 2 mode by clicking the same button used to turn on the Naza-M 

mode. This operation will disable the Naza-M mode and enable Phantom 2 mode. All parameters 

will be returned to factory settings. 

7.3 Firmware upgrade of PHANTOM 2 

Please refer to the PHANTOM 2 Assistant Software to install driver and PHANTOM RC Assistant Software, and 

then follow the procedures below to upgrade the software and firmware; otherwise the PHANTOM 2 might not 

work properly. 

1. An internet connection is required to upgrade PHANTOM 2's firmware. 

2. Click the [Upgrade] icon to check the current firmware version and whether the installed firmware is the 

latest version. If not, click the relative links to upgrade. 

3. Be sure to wait until the Assistant Software shows "finished". Click OK and power cycle the PHANTOM 2 

after 5 seconds. Once completed, the firmware is up to date. 

PHAMTOM2 Pl.e.l;:l!l'1 "'•' b¥ - X 

~~ ./" (f~ ~ i .. ' "· J. ~ dt ~ ' ' j' 

Firmware upgradable items 

Currentfirmw-areversion 

Upgrade link 

"This image is forrelerence 

only. Please refer to the 

•••••••••••••••••••••••• actual user interface. 

(1) DO NOT power off until the upgrade is finished. 

(2) If the firmware upgrade failed, the main controller will enter a waiting for firmware upgrade 

status automatically. If this happens, repeat the above procedures. 

e. 

Firmware upgradable items: (1) Main Controller (2) P330CB(Main Board) (3) Receiver (4) Gimbal 

CMU (5) GimbaiiMU .(6) Battery ·' 

©2013-2014 OJ! Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 31 
7.4 PHANTOM RC Assistant Software Description 

Please follow the procedures to finish the configuration ofthe remote controller. 

1. Turn off the remote controller and find the Micro-USB port on the bottom of it. 

2. Start up the PC, power on the remote controller, and then Connect the remote controller to the PC with a 

Micro-USB cable. DO NOT disconnect until the configuration is finished. 

3. Run the PHANTOM RC Assistant Software and wait for the remote controller to connect to the Assistant 

Software. Observe the indicators •• on the bottom left of the screen. When connected successfully, the 

connection indicator is 0 and communication indicator is blinking 0 . 

4. Finish configuration in the [Main] page. 

5. Finish upgrade in the [Info] page if necessary. 

•• 'I}!J!i < • 

Main page ofthe2.4GHz remote controller 

Main 

Communication indicator 

:; 

i .• ---· .. /ijji~.:fi:i, 

I!!!B 

J'M.Pr•:•f·lilm R:: ~Blf!i)l1($-'oii'..,!,J~t~ 

~sUb ::o~ll~ur• ITill~91"~~ IT.~[;,\ 

Ptl~l'l'.ct-'Remo:M:::~r:r~l~t S..~r. 

50C,H; ~PI!;'.I.(;.-.:1 

~ 

'I 

... ' 

ri·~·iii: '· !liB I 

- '""''1-•~ .. ~-

-~--' 

--~ -"'""'+'----

.._. .. :: . .: ·-·-~-,·--· ,.,., 

--~:'' 

.. ~·n-

-· 

Language swap 

Firmware upgrade 

Account, software 

version 

-=:o:~;;. -a:;:...., .. __ ,_~ 

- .......... ,.......... ' --· ._. --1--"- '" 

- '""""'i""'"'" ' -11-"-----'--'-

-~c.:.:.;:, 

Connection indicate(, ••••••••••••••••••••••••• 

"This image is for 

reference only. Please 

refer to the actual 

user interface. 

©2013-2014 OJ I Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 3 I 
8Appendix 

,8:_1 ~p~_<;!fi_~_!!~_ll_!; ________ .. ---- ------·- ----~---------- ·····-· --- --------------------------- --------------· 

Aircraft 

Operating environmenttemperature 

Power consumption 

Supported Battery 

Weight(includingthe battery) 

Recommend payload 

Maximum payload 

Hovering Accuracy (Ready to Fly) 

Max Yaw Angular Velocity 

Max Tiltable Ar]gle 

MaxAscent/DescentSpeed 

Max Flight Speed 

Wheelbase 

2.4GHz Remote Controller 

Operating Frequency 

Communication Distance (open area) 

Receiver Sensitivity (1 %PER) 

Working Current/Voltage 

Battery 

OJ I Intelligent 

Type 

Capacity 

Charging EnvironmentRange 

Discharging Environment Range 

-1 oac to 50°C 

5.6W 

OJ I Intelligent battery 

1000g 

~1300g 

1350g 

Vertical: 0.8m; Horizontal: 2.5m 

200°/S .. ·.· · 

35" '. 

Ascent 6m/s; Descent: 2m/s 

15m/s(NotRecommended) 

350mm 

2.4GHziSM 

1000m 

-97dBm 

100mA@6V 

3S LiPo Battery 

5200mAh, 11.1V 

0°Cto40"C 

-20"C to 50"C 

Power On 

Warming Up & Aircraftcannottake off during warming up 

Ready to Fly ···-·----------------•- -·-·· ·- -------------------------------· 

Readyto Fly (non-GP S) -·------------------ Aircraft in abnormal status Warnings and errors 

Remote Controller Signal Lost 

©2013-2014 OJ! Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 31 
,-.. ~"'···~· ·-~' ·~~--~"··~ ··-~· ·-

! e e e ee e ! 2"d Level Low Battery Capacity Warning j rT-•.•• ~-·"·~·~-~=~~--~--·-,-~--·--·~-~~--- ••.--~-,-~-,~·-~~J .. ~•~v~•~,~~-~,.~~·-~-~-·~-~=~~-~~·---j~•·~--~·~•--~~-·~-··~"~ •••••-~·~ '"'~'--"~ '''~~~~-~~•-'---"! 

i NotStationaryorSensorBiasistoobig 

' 

i 1 Errors&Aircraftcannotfly* 1 

r-----------------------------------------t-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------~ 

i I Compass data abnormal because of ferro-magnetic interference or i i. . . i : i ! thecompassneedscalibration. 1 . ------------------------------------------ _____ L ------------------------------------------------ --------------------------------------------- ____ J 

i 

*Users can connecttothe PHANTOM 2AssistantSoftwareto get detailed information aboutwarnings and errors. 

©2013-2014 OJ! Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 3 I