SUBMITTED ELECTRONICALLY 

11 November 2015 

U.S. Department of Transportation 

Docket Management System ENGINEERING AND SCIENCE 

1200 New Jersey Avenue SE 

Washington, DC 20590 

www.earthres.com 800-264-4553 

RE: Addendum to Exemption No. 12692, Regulatory Docket No. FAA-2015-1461 

Dear Sir or Madam: 

Previously approved Exemption No. 12692 to Earth Res, Inc. authorized the commercial use of and Aero-M 

unmanned aircraft system (UAS). At this time, Earth Res is requesting that addition aircraft, without further 

modifications to conditions or limitations, be added to Exemption 12692. Specifically, Earth Res requests the 3D 

Robotics X8+ and DJI S1000 be added and permitted for use under the aforementioned exemption. All other 

exemption limitations and conditions shall remain intact. This request for addendum is pursuant to Section 333 

of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 and 14 CFR Part 11. 

Exemption Addendum Petitioner: 

EarthRes, Inc. 

Attn: Mr. Nathan Progar 

6912 Old Easton Rd., Pipersville, PA 19044 

215.766.1211 

Separately submitted documents: 

1) 3D Robotics X8+ manual, version C 

2) 3DRobotics X8+ checklist, version B 

3) 3DRobotics Pixhawk manual, revision 7 

4) Pixhawk Schematic, 2.4.3 

5) FAA Exemption 12692, dated September 1, 2015 

6) DJI S1000 User Manual, version 1.10 

. ....J 

,, ' 

...... 

7) DJI S1000 Release Notes (:::) 

N 

( 

All of us at Earth Res appreciate and thank you for your time and attention reviewing our petition addendum. We 

look forward to working with the FAA UAS integration office to further enhance our position in the aerial market 

and continue to utilize our nation's airspace safely. 

Respectfully, 

Nathan Progar 

UAS Advisor/Assistant Project Manager 

nprogar@earthres.com 

Pipersville, PA · Morgantown, WV 

www .earthres.com 

800.264.4553 Toll-Free 

215.766.1222 PA Office 

304.212.6866 WV Office 

Meetthexa+ 

Thank you for purchasing an XS•! The X8 is a powerful octocopter platform for aerial video. 

Review this manual in its entirety before your first 

Additional instructions can be found in the X8 information 

portal at 3DR.com/XB/info. 

Happy flying! 
Contents 

Parts 2 Flight 24 

Takeoff 24 

Setup 4 Landing 26 

Assembly 4 Monitoring 27 

Ground Station 5 

Missions 28 

Power Management 7 Planning 29 

Charging 8 Saving 30 

Safety 8 Initiating 31 

Controller Battery 9 Ending 31 

Powering the X8 10 

Connecting to a Ground Station 11 Appendix 32 

Troubleshooting 32 

Flight Basics 12 Maintenance 32 

Safety 12 Specs 33 

Operating Umits 13 Resources 34 Controls 14 

Modes 17 

Return to Launch 19 Failsafes 20 

Status Indicators 22 
Parts 

RC Controller Propellers Battery Kit 

SF propellers (4) --

Flight battery 

SFP propellers (4) Ill 

Charger and accessories 

Guard bag 

Ground Station Radio 

Radio 

-

CCt 

USB adapter 

Android ~ adapter 

Tool Kit 

1[=---., 

Propeller wrench 

I 

Pixhawk micro-SO card 

adapter 

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Setup: Assembly 

The X8 arrives in travel configuration. Complete 

these steps to prepare the X8 for flight 

1 Unfold Arms 

Remove the bolts and thumbnuts near the two folded black arms (1). Unfold the black arms, re-insert the bolts, and secure with the thumbnuts (2). 

2 

XB Assembly: Unfold Arms 
2 Unfold Legs 

Remove the bolts and nuts to the inside of the folded legs (1 ), 

unfold the legs, re-insert the bolts, and secure with the nuts (2). 

2 

X8 Assembly: Unfold Legs 

3 Attach Propellers 

The X8 uses SF and SFP propellers. Labels are found on the 

propeller packages and on the propellers themselves. The di

below shows which motors require SF or SFP propellers. Acc

assembly of SF and SFP propellers is critical for the X8 to fly 

To attach each propeller, remove the nut and washer from the 

and add the correct type of propeller with the writing on the prop

the sky. (This is a tight fit; apply pressure and twist the propell

motor.) Replace the washer over the propeller, and use the p

wrench to tighten the nut on top. 

top motor: SFP i .i top motor: SF 

bottom motor: SF ,·~rv·, bottom motor: SFP 

top motor: SF i ~ .i top motor: SFP 

bottom motor: SFP ' • ' bottom motor: SF 

~-0 

X8 Propeller Order 

c ~TC>. A. 

ry 

X8 Propeller Assembly 
Ground Station 

A ground station is a laptop or tablet running an ArduPilot-compatible mission control application. 

In the field, a ground station helps you monitor the XS during flight, plan missions, and troubleshoot issues. We recommend using a ground station at all times with the XS. 

To set up a ground station, choose a platform below and visit 3DR.comldownload_software to install 

the application. 

DroidPianner 

e 

2 Mission 

II 

Planner APM = Planner 

Android Windows osx 

Important Note About Vehicle Setup in Mission Planner and APM Planner: 

Your X8 has been pre-configured at the factory and is ready to fly. Re-performing the 

calibrations on the Initial Setup screen, including the mandatory hardware configurations 

and setup wizard, can adversely affect the performance of your aircraft. 

iOS? There are currently no ground station applications available for iOS. 
Power 

The X8 is powered by a rechargeable lithium polymer (LiPo) battery. When fully 

charged, the battery provides up to 15 minutes of flight time depending on payload, 

environmental conditions, and flying style. Flying with a gimbal, GoPro, and FPV 

system can reduce flight time by up to 5 minutes. Flying aggressively or in high winds 

can affect power consumption and reduce flight time. Monitor power consumption 

using the flight data display on the controller (press and hold the ON button). 

When the battery reaches the low voltage limit, the X8 initiates a low battery failsafe 

and lands automatically at the current pcsition. (See page 20 for more information 

about failsafes.) To avoid a low battery failsafe, regularly check the controller's flight 

data display to monitor battery voltage, and end your flight before the battery reaches 

the low voltage limit. 

flight battery level 

Full battery: 

Low battery limit: 

16.8 v 

14 v 

Press and hold the ON 

button to view flight data. 

A End your flight at 14.1 V. 

flight battery mAh consumed since armed 

Controller 

Controller Flight Data Display: Screen 1 

Another way to monitor power consumption is by using milliamp-hours (mAh). 

Monitor the mAh on the controller, and ensure that consumption does not 

exceed 8,000 mAh (80% of the battery's available capacity). Exceeding 8,000 

mAh can render the battery permanently unusable. 

A Do not exceed 8,000 mAh for a fully charged X8+ battery. 
Charge the battery before your first flight! 

Connect the charger to the power adapter cable 

and plug the adapter cable into a wall outlet. 

Connect the red cable to the + port and the black 

cable to the - port. 

..... I{IJIW,II :::::=-

--- 0 

Charger with power cable and 

split-wire charging cable 

3 

Connect the battery's white connector to the 

charger's 4S port, and join the two yellow 

connectors together. 

.... 

'...._ lllltll _, 

4S 

+--

Flight battery charging wiring 

2 

Set the charger to LiPo and 3A. 

LiPo 3A 

Charger settings 

4 

Secure the battery inside the guard bag, 

and charge until the status indicator 

displays green. 

• Charging 

._. 

Complete 

Charging in process 

Safety 

jA 

Flying with a low battery is 

risk and can render the bat

permanently unusable. Alw

with a fully charged battery 

Charge the battery using a 

LiPo balance charger only. 

monitor the battery while ch

Protect the battery from ex

heat, extreme cold, punctu

flammable surfaces. Always 

charge, and store the batte

guard bag. 

Inspect the battery for dam

and after flying. If you obse

swelling of the package or 

ceases to function, do not 

battery. Do not dispose of 

in the trash; dispose of the 

local battery recycling cent

US and Canada, visit call2

to find a location. 

-- 
Controller Battery 

The controller is powered by 8 AA batteries (included). The controller's 

flight data display allows you to monitor the voltage of the controller. 

When fully charged, the controller displays 12 V; when completely out 

of charge, the controller displays 9 V. Replace the batteries when the 

controller displays 9.1 V. 

. .. controller battery level (9-12 V) 

Press and hold the ON 

button to view fliaht data. 

Controller Flight Data Display: Screen 1 A Replace controller batteries at 9.1 V. 

Controller 
10 

Powerin~ the X8 

Follow these steps to power the X8. 

Turn on the controller. Ensure that the switches 

are set to CH 7 OFF, SID, and RTL OFF. 

RC controller CH 7 switch 

2 

Mode switch RTlswitch 

To power on the X8, join the yellow connector on the battery with 

the yellow connector on the X8. Keep the X8 still and level while 

it powers on and initializes the sensors. When the status LED 

displays blinking blue, the sensors have completed initialization and 

you can move the X8. 

Status LED indicators: 

e e e e Initializing, keep still and level 

0 e 0 e Initializing complete 

X8: Connect battery. keep level while initializing 

3 

When the initialization process is complete, turn over 

the X8 and secure the battery to the underside of the 

vehicle using the velcro straps. 

xa: Secure battery 

A 

It is important to establish 

communication before powering 

on the X8. Always turn on the 

controller before connecting the 

battery. When powering off the 

XB. disconnect the battery before 

turning off the controller. 
Connectin~ to a Ground Station 

To connect the XS to a ground station, connect the ground station radio to 

your laptop or tablet and power the XS. 

Laptop (Mission Planner/APM Planner) 

2 

Connect the ground station radio to your 

laptop using the USB adapter. Open 

Mission Planner or APM Planner. 

Select AUTO and 57600, then select CONNECT. 

(When connecting directly to Pixhawk's 

micro-USB port, set the rate to 115200.) 

Ground station laptop with radio connected 

3 

Select Right Data to view live data from the XS. 

Mission Planner Connect tool (top-right carne!) 

• Mission Planner FlightData tab: connected to aircraft 

• 

Tablet (DroidPianner) 

Connect the blue end of the Android adapter 

to your device and the black end to the radio. 

Ground station tablet with radio connected 

2 

Select Connect. 

DroidPianner: Connect icon 

11 
Basics: Safety 

To ensure safe and successful flying, always fly in accordance 

with your location regulations and these best operating practices. 

Before you fiy, determine the boundaries of your safe flying area. 

If the XB moves outside the designated area or exhibits instability 

in flight, switch to standard mode and land the XB manually. 

The XB cannot avoid obstacles on its own, including during 

missions. As the operator, it's your responsibility to recognize and 

avoid obstructions while flying. Always be ready to regain manual 

control of the XS in the event of an unsafe situation. 

Location 

* 

f .... · \lisuaiHne of sight • 0 400ft (120m) 

Always fly below 400 ft {120 m) and within your 

visual line of sight. Don't let the XB get too far 

away from you; make sure you can always see its 

orientation. Don't fly in low light, high winds, rain, or 

other conditions that might impede visibility. 

0 

lOO!Om) (ii}iiilll 

Always fly at least 1 00 

away from people, veh

buildings. Make the sa

and property your first 

0 

Propellers 

q) 

•••• 

n Always fly at least 5 mi

away from airports and 

where pilots operate m

Spinning propellers can cause serious injury

button indicates the status of the motors to 

prevent hazardous contact with the XB's hig

propellers. 

• When the XB is powered on, the safety 

button blinks red, indicating that the 

motors are inactive and the propellers 

safe to handle. 

• When you're ready to fly, press and ho

safety button until it shows solid red. T

indicates that the motors are active an

propellers can spin if armed. To make 

propellers safe to handle again, press 

hold the safety button until it blinks red
Limits 

Always fly within the X8's operating limits. 

X8+ Operating Limits 

100m (328ft) 

fi "'*"' ... 

Range* 300 m (984 It) from launch point 

Maximum estimated flight time lSmin 

[ Payload capacity $" " 800 g <1.7 lbs) ' :, J 

*While geofence enabled (default) 
14 

Controls 

Maneuver the X8 in flight using the 

controller's two joysticks. 

Throttle 

Move the left stick vertically to control altitude. 

To take off and to 

gain altitude, push the 

throttle stick slightly 

above center position. 

Set the throttle stick 

to center to maintain 

the current altitude. 

Move the throttle 

stick below center to 

decrease altitude. 

Set the throttle stick 

fully down to land 

once the X8 is a few 

inches above the 

ground. 

left stick 

left stick: 

throttle 

&yaw 

right stick: 

pitch 

&roll 
Yaw 

Move the left stick horizontally to rotate the X8 and change orientation. 

For a slow rotation, move the stick slightly away from the center 

in either direction. Moving the stick farther from the center creates 

a faster rotation. 

Move the stick to 

the left to rotate 

counterclockwise. 

Move the stick 

to the right to 

rotate clockwise. 

Release the stick to 

stop rotating and 

maintain the current 

orientation. 

Flight Tip 

left stick 

0 

0 

When adjusting orientation, move the left stick horizontally without changing its 

vertical position. 

15 
16 

Pitch and Roll 

The right stick allows you to control the X8's position in the air. Move the right stick to tell the 

X8 to move in that direction: forward (toward the blue arms}, back (toward the black arms), 

left (toward the left arms}, or right (towards the right arms). How far you move the stick from 

the center before releasing it tells the X8 how fast to move. 

Move the right 

stick forward 

to fly forward. 0 

Move 

stick back 

the right 

to fly 

0 

backward. 

Move the right 

stick left to fly 

left. 

Move the right 

stick right to fly 

right. 

Flight Tip 

0 

right stick 

The X8 moves according to its orientation. The blue arms face forward, and the black 

arms face backward. Before using the right stick, use yaw to keep the X8 facing in 

outward orientation so that the black arms face towards you and the blue arms and face 

away from you. 
Modes 

The XB includes three flight modes: manual flight 

(STD-altitude hold), hover mode (LTR-Ioiter), and 

mission flight (AUTO). Use the switch on the 

right side of the controller to select a flight mode. 

Standard {altitude hold mode) 

STD 

fly manually 

Start your flight in standard to select altitude hold mode, 

and fly manually using the controller. 

Loiter mode 

LTR 

hover 

Select loiter to hover in place automatically. Use the controller 

to adjust the X8's position then release the sticks to hold 

that position. loiter is a great way for beginners to learn how to fly! 

If you're new to flying, start your first flight in loiter instead of standard. 

A To avoid sudden changes in altitude, set the throttle 

stick to center position before switching modes, 

including in the event of a GPS failsafe. See page 20 

for more information about failsafes. I -- _____ J 

17 
18 

Auto mode 

AUTO 

fly a mission 

Select auto mode to fly an autonomous mission. The X8 

automatically flies the series of waypoints saved to the autopilot. 

See the Missions section on page 28 for instructions on planning and flying missions. 

L

! A Do not activate auto mode unless you have saved 

.

...... a mission to the X8 using a ground station application. 

-------~~-· ---------~-~~~-~--~------------

Gimbal control 

TILT 

tilt the camera up and down 

Connect a Tarot Gimbal (sold separately), and use the TILT knob to control the 

angle of the camera in flight. Visit 3DR.com/X8/info for instructions. 

Land 

CH 7 

land at the current position 

Set the CH 7 switch to ON to end your flight and land at the current position. 

Once you activate land, set the throttle stick fully down, and the X8 

automatically disarms after landing. The X8 does not disarm automatically 

unless the throttle stick is set fully down. 

Reposition during landing: During landing, use the right 

stick on the controller to adjust the X8's position. 0 0 
Return to Launch 

land at the launch point 

Set the RTL switch to ON to end your flight and return the XS to 

the launch point automatically. Once you activate RTL, set the 

throttle stick fully down, and the XS automatically disarms after 

landing. The XS does not disarm automatically unless the throttle 

stick is set fully down. 

When commanded to RTL, the XS: 

Achieves minimum altitude of 15 m (50ft) or maintains current altitude 

if above 15 m. 

2 Moves to launch point and loiters for 5 seconds. 

3 Lands at launch point. Wait for a few seconds until the XB disarms 

automatically. 

15 meters 2 hover 5 seconds * .............................................................. ~ * .... 3c: > 

launch point 

Reposition during landing: During landing, use the right o ,Q_ o 

stick on the controller to adjust the XS's position. ~ 

A RTL returns the X8 to the location where it was armed. 

Always arm the X8 at a safe, unobstructed launch point. 

19 
20 

Failsafes 

The XS is programmed with a set of failsafe behaviors to prevent a crash in 

the event of a loss of one of the data or communication channels required for 

flight. Although certain failsafes have assigned LED indicators and tones, it is 

unlikely that you will be able to see these at a distance. Monitor the ground 

station for failsafe indications. If a failsafe is triggered, the assigned behavior 

activates. To override the failsafe behavior, use the controller to switch to 

standard mode and regain manual control. 

RC Controller Signal Failsafe 

Physical obstructions and interference from nearby wireless signals can affect 

the XS's connection with the controller. 

If the X8 loses contact with the controller. it returns to the launch point and lands 

automatically, indicated by a blinking yellow status LED. 

t it''"* 

.J.. 

0000 

Low Battery Failsafe 

Environmental conditions, payload, and flying style can affect power 

consumption. Use the controller's flight data display to monitor the 

voltage of the battery during flight. 

If the battery reaches 14 V, the X8 lands automatically at the current 

position, indicated by a blinking yellow status LED and a quick 

repeating tone. 
GPS Failsafe 

The X8 requires GPS lock before takeoff. Enclosed areas, physical 

obstructions, and lack of available satellites can affect GPS strength. If 

the X8 loses GPS lock in flight, it triggers a GPS failsafe-indicated by 

a blinking blue and yellow LED with a high-high-high-low tone-and 

automatically switch to manual control (standard - altitude hold mode). 

Always be prepared to regain manual control at any time while flying and 

choose an unobstructed flying area to improve GPS signal strength. When 

flying a mission, we recommended changing the GPS failsafe behavior to 

land. (Visit 3DR.com/X8/info for more information about configuring the 

GPS failsafe.) 

h ·//""'* 

manuat 

control 

AHitude Failsafe 

The XB has a 1 00 m (328 ft) altitude geofence enabled by default. If the 

geofence is breached, the X8 automatically switches to RTL. 

100m 

(328ft) 

Range Failsafe 

The XS has a 300 m (984 ft) horizontal geofence enabled by 

default. If the XS travels farther than 300 m from the launch point, 

it automatically returns to the launch point and lands. If you plan to 

fly a mission that exceeds this range, you will need to disable the 

horizontal geofence. (Visit 3DR.com/X8/info for instructions.) The 

range failsafe is disabled in the event of a GPS failsafe. 

21 
22 

Status Indicators 

LED 

The Pixhawk LED indicates the status of the X8. During flight, the LED won't 

be visible; instead, use a ground station to view the status of the X8. Visit 

3DR.com/X8/info to listen to Pixhawk's status tones. 

X8 Status LED 

•••• 

oeoe 

oeoe 

•••• 

0000 

0000))) 

eo eo))) 

0000 

Status LED 

lnitializjng, hold the XB still and level 

Acquiring GPS, please wait 

Autopilot ready, GPS locked 

Armed 

Loss of RC signal, automatic landing 

Low battery, automatic landing 

Loss of GPS signal, switch to standard mode (altitude hold) 

Pre-arm safety check failure-connect to a ground station 

and see the troubleshooting section 
Safety Button 

The safety button indicates the status of the motors 

to allow you to arm and disarm the XB safely. 

X8 Safety Button 

eo eo 

•••• 

Motors inactive, safe to handle 

Motors active, deactivate before handling 

23 
24 

Fli~ht Procedures: Takeoff 

Follow these steps to take off. 

Checklist 

» Propellers are attached tightly to the motors in the correct order and 

the GPS mast is oriented vertically. 

» The X8 is powered with the battery secured to the underside of the 

vehicle. (Remember to hold the X8 still and level while the sensors 

initialize.) 

» The controller is set to CH 7 OFF, standard (STD) mode (loiter mode for 

beginners), and RTL OFF. 

» The status LED displays blinking green. indicating that the X8 has 

acquired GPS lock. This can take a few minutes depending on your 

flying location. 

» The X8 is situated at a safe. unobstructed launch point, facing away 

from you. 
Arm 

After completing the checklist. you're ready to fly! Arming and disarming are 

important steps that must be completed before takeoff and after landing. 

Use the safety button and the controller to arm the X8. 

Press and hold the safety button until it 

displays solid red. This indicates that the 

X8 is now active. Stand back! 

e O e O Motors inactive, safe to handle 

e • e e Motors active, deactivate before 

handling 

Safety button indicators 

2 

To arm the motors, hold the left stick 

down/right until the motors spin. 

~0 Controller left stick: arming position 

A The arming and disarming procedures ensure that you can safety start and 

stop motors without risk of injury. The XS's motors will spin when armed! Make 

sure the propellers are clear of any obstructions, including your hands, before 

arming. Do not handle the propellers or pick up the X8 while the safety button 

is active (solid red). 

25 
If you end your flight using the Ch 7 land command or RTL, the XB disarms 

automatically; wait for the motors to stop, and proceed to powering off. 

Att,mntin.-. to disarm the X8 in either land mode or RTL mode can cause 

copter to 

Disarm 

For manual landing in standard or loiter mode: 

1 

Press and hold the safety button until it 

blinks red. The motors are now inactive, 

and the XB is safe to handle. 

eo eo 

•••• 

Motors inactive, safe to handle 

Motors active, deactivate before 

handling 

Safety bulton Indicators 

2 

To disarm the motors, hold the left stick down/left 

until the motors stop. 

@>O 

Controller left stick: disarming position 

A Do not handle the propellers or pick up the copter while the safety button is active (solid red). Remember to disconnect the battery before turninq off the 

controller when powering off. 

·----
Monitor the X8 in flight using the controller's flight data screens. 

Press and hold the DN button to access the flight data screens. 

Press DN again to toggle between screens. 

Controller 

GPS status -4 6 

connection strength 

altitude in meters 4-----c 

speed in m/s 4-----c 

meters from launch point 4-----c 

flight time 4------a 

current latitude <1-----o 

current longitude 4------a 

altitude in meters 

Controller Flight Data Display: Screen 2 

c------1> current flight mode c------1> GPS signal strength in # of satellites c------1> flight battery level (14-16.8 V) 

flight battery mAh 

consumed since armed 

End your flight at 14.1 V. 

Do not exceed 8000 mAh for a 

fully charged X8+ battery (80% of 

available capacity). 

controller battery level (9-12 V) 
Missions 

The X8's Pixhawk autopilot is capable of flying an autonomous mission 

without operator input. Ensure that you feel comfortable operating the XB 

manually before attempting an autonomous mission. 

Environmental Awareness 

Before you fly, assess the features of your flying area. Determine the boundaries of the safe flying area, and be prepared to recover the copter manually 

if it goes outside this area. Be aware of any risks at your location, including 

bodies of water, structures, trees, etc. Designate a few areas as safety zones 

where you can safely land the copter in case of an unsafe situation. 

Radio Signal Conditions 

behind solid objects, like buildings and trees, blocks radio signals. 

Always maintain visual contact with the copter to ensure that the radio signal 

is unobstructed. Radio towers. cell phone towers, and nearby WiFi signals 

can also cause interlerenoe with the radio system and decrease its range. 

Avoid flvino in populated areas to avoid sources of interference. 

Altitude 

Select an appropriate altitude for your flying location and local regulations. 

Remember the X8 cannot avoid obstacles during a mission; it completes the 

mission as planned. Select altitudes that avoid any obstacles, such as trees, 

and comply with the safety information in this manual. 

Speed 

By default, the XB travels at 6.5 m/s (14.5 mph) during a mission. 

Power 

As the operator, it is your responsibility to ensure that all missio

with the XB's operating limits, including flight time. Don't forget 

account the effect of current wind conditions on power consum

Regaining Manual Control 

During a mission, keep the controller easily accessible, and be 

regain manual control at any time. To regain manual control du

mission, switch to standard mode using the controller. If you o

instability in the XB's flight behavior or if the copter moves outs

designated safe flying area, switch to RTL. Turning off the cont

automatically triggers an RTL and can be used in an emergenc

as a hard recall command. 

Failsafes 

The XB's default failsafe behaviors are optimized for manual flig

autonomous missions, we recommend re-configuring the fails

for your flying location. For instructions, visit 3DR.com!XB/info. 
To plan a mission, power the X8 and connect to your ground station. Ground 

station applications require an Internet connection to access maps. 

Tablet (DroidPianner) 

Select the DroidPianner icon, select Editor. Tap to add 

waypoints, or select the brush tool and draw a path 

for the X8 to follow. 

,-.---·-. 

FllghtData 

n Edit0 

(9 Locator 

IT. Settings 

DroidPianner: Edit waypoints 

Takeoff and Landing 

Both ground station applications provide the option to configure automatic 

takeoff and landing into the mission. Missions without automatic takeoff and 

landing must be initiated and ended in flight. 

Laptop (Mission Planner, APM Planner) 

Select Flight Plan, and click to add waypoints. Select the green 

the bottom of the screen to configure altitude and change wayp

Mission Planner: Flight Plan 
After planning the mission, save the mission to the X8. The Pixhawk autopilot 

can store one mission at a time. When you initiate the mission, the X8 starts 

the mission stored to the autopilot at the time. 

Tablet (DroidPianner) 

Select the option menu in the top-right corner, and 

select Send Mission. This command saves the mission 

to the X8. 

DroidPianner: Send Mission (option menu) 

Laptop (Mission Planner, APM Planner) 

On the Flight Plan screen, select Write WPs to save the miss

Select Save WP File to save the mission to your computer f

r · 1 II 

Mission Planner: Flight Plan 
Appendix: 

Pre-Arm Safety Check Failure 

0000 

If the status LED displays blinking yellow, the X8 is failing one of the pre-arm safety checks. To determine the specific failure, check the 

heads-up display on the ground station for the error message specifying the failed check. 

Radio Calibration Failure: 

Accelerometer Calibration Failure: 

Compass Calibration Failure: 

GPS Failure: 

Perform radio calibration or RC controller re-binding Perform aocelerometer calibration Perform compass calibration 

Wait for improved GPS signal or move to a more open area (most common failure) 

Video tutorials for performing calibrations are available at 3DR.com/X8/info. 

Maintenance 

Replacement parts for the X8 are available for purchase at store.3DR.com. 

Instructions for replacing the wiring, plates, motors, and legs of the X8 are 

available at 3DR.com/X8/info. 
Specs 

Battery: 

Battery Dimensions: Battery Weight: 

Autopilot Hardware: 

Autopilot Firmware: 

GPS: 

Ground Station Radio: 

Motors: 

Frame Type: 

Propellers: 

Vehicle Dimensions: 

Payload Capacity: 

Vehicle Weight with Battery: 

Maximum Altitude*: Range*: 

Maximum Estimated Flight Time: 

*While geofence enabled 

4S 14.8V 10,000 mAh 10C 

6.6 in x 2.6 in x 1.4 in (16.7 em x 6.5 em x 3.5 em} 803 g 

Pixhawk v2.4.5 

ArduCopter 3.2 

3DR u-blox GPS with Compass (LEA-6H module, 5 Hz update) 3DR Radio v2 (915 MHz or 433 MHz) 

SunnySky V2216-12 KVBOO II 

X 

APC Propeller 11x4.7 SF (4) 

APC Propeller 11 x4. 7 SFP (4) 

13.7 in x 20.1 in x 11.8 in (35 em x 51 em x 20 em) 

800 g (1.7 lbs) 

2.56 kg (5.61bs) 

100m 

300 m from launch point (1 km when geofenee disabled) 

15 min 
Resources 

Thank you for being a responsible drone operator. For more information about the X8, 

visit the pages below. 

Online information portal: 

Terms and Conditions: 

3DR.com/X8/info 

3DR.com/terms 

Contact 3DR Support at help@3DR.com or call our support line at 

+1 (858) 225-1414 Monday through Friday, from Bam to 5 pm PST. 

Happy flying! 
Go outside to 

an open area! 1 Power on controller; 

set to STD and RTL OFF. 

See the Operation 

Manual lor complete 

instructions, 

3 Place the X8 at 4 Press and hold safety 

launch point. button until solid red. 

!choose a clear launch Jl •••• 

:point, and face the X8 I 

:away from you. I i 

I 

I 

! 

' I 

The motors are 

now active. 

Stand back1 

LEO 

•••• Initializing, hold the X8 level 0000 

Flh~ht Checklist 

5 Check LED. 

I 

oeoe 

2 Connect 

charged battery. 

1f Hold the X8 still 1 

j i and level. while II powenng on. 

' 

,:~ 

6 Arm 

motors. 

... 

Hold left stick downright until motors spin. 

Loss of RC signal, automatic landing 

oeoe Acquiring GPS, please wait 0000))) Low battery, automatic landing 

oeoe Autopilot ready, GPS locked 

•••• Armed 

Safety Button 

oeoe 

FliQht Modes 

f ........... . 

Motors inactive, safe to 

handle 

Land 

CH7 

land at the current position 

eo eo))) Loss of GPS signal, switch to manual 

0000 

•••• 

Pre-arm safety check failure 

Motors active, deactivate before 

handling (see reverse) 

Return to launch 

RTL 

land at the launch point 

Control gimbal 

TILT 

tilt the camera down and up 

.<.2014 3D Robotics. vB DCTOOOS All rights reserved 
....... , ........................................................................................................... , ................................................................................................. ,. .. ,,,.,., ....................................... . 

Controller Flight Data 

Press and hold the DN button to access the flight data screens. 

Press DN again to toggle between screens. 

GPS status .:1--------.~ 

connection strength 4-----a 

altitude in meters 4-----a 

speed in m/s 4-----a 

meters from launch point 4-----a 

flight time 4-----a 

current latitude 4-----a 

current longitude 4------c 

altitude in meters 4------c 

current flight mode 

GPS signal strength in #of 

satellites 

flight battery level (14-16.8 V) 

o-----1:> flight battery mAh 

consumed since armed 

J.\ End your flight at 14.1 V. 

~ Do not exceed 8,000 mAh for 

a fully charged xs· battery 

(80% of available capacity). 

~ controller battery level (9-12 V) 

Flight 1. '. 

Postflight 

·®o::®o'€1o 

Raise left stick above Set left stick to center Move left stick left 

center to take off and to maintain altitude. and right to rotate. 

gain altitude. 

~------------~~--------------,r---~--------~~-------------·~ 

Use right stick to fly forward, 

backward, left, and right 

1 Disarm 

motors. 2 Press safety 

button. 

eo eo 

Hold left stick down- Press and hold until 

'I 

,. 

·~ i~o ·~0'\wO, 

Lower left stick below Set left stick fully down to 

center to descend. land when near the ground. 

3 Disconnect 

battery. 4 Poweroff 

controller. 

left until motors stop. blinking red to deactivate. 
j-:Jixlu---z.wk 

AUTOPILOT 

QUICK START GUIDE 

Jiitlobotics 
PARTS 

'"' 3, •• 5 i ~ 'l 

·g 9~ 10~ ~ 1 1 Pixhawk 

2 Buzzer 

3 Safety switch 

4 Micro-SO card and adapter 

5 Micro-USB cable 

6 Six-wire cable x2 

GETTING STARTED 

With the help of APM firmware, Pixhawk turns any 

RC plane, copter, or rover into a full-featured personal 

drone. Once you have a fully-assembled frame, follow 

this guide to install Pixhawk. 

G) MOUNT 

7 Power module 

8 1

1C splitter module 

9 Four-position I'C splitter cable 

10 Three-wire servo cable 

11 Mounting foam 

1 Mount 

2 Connect 

3 Load firmware 

4 Calibrate 

Use the provided foam to mount Pixhawk as close as possible to your vehicle's center of gravity. 

Make sure to orient the board with the arrow pointing forward. 

Attach the foam squares to the 

corners of the board. 

<1!------oo 

Vehicle front 
@CONNECT 

(Optional) Connect a 3DR 

Radio t<) Pix hawk's Telem 

port using the 6-wire cable 

provided with your 3DR Radio 

Kit to receive data and 

communicate with 

the autopilot in flight. 

(Required) Connect the 3DR 

Power Module to the Power port 

using the 6-wire cable to direct 

power from your lithium polymer 

(liPo) battery to the autopilot. 

(Required) Connect the buzzer 

and safety switch. 

(GPS or GPS+Compass required) 

Connect a 3DR GPS+Compass to 

provide the autopilot with positioning 

data during flight. This kit includes a 

6-wire cable to connect the GPS ports. 

Connect the MAG to the 1

1C port using 

the 4-wire cable provided with the 3DR 

GPS+Compass. 

(Optional) The I'C splitter expands the I'C port to allow up 

to four additional peripherals to connect to Pixhawk. Use the 

4-wire cable to connect the 1

2

C splitter and add a compass 

module, external LED, digital airspeed sensor, or other 

peripherals to your vehicle. 
LOAD SD CARD INTO PIXHAWK 

If the SD card is not preloaded into Pixhawk, insert the micro-SD card into the slot at the 

bottom end of the board. 

CONNECT RADIO CONTROL 

FOR PPM RC RECEIVERS AND FUTABA S.BUS RECEIVERS 

~~876543210DDDDD 

0 ............. - • • • • • • ~ 4 ~ ~ • • ' • • 

. . . . . . . . . l 

-~~~___/_~-' -·-~~.·-~-~~~·--- Connect the ground (-), power (+),and signal (5) wires to the RC 

pins using the provided 3-wire servo cable. 

FOR SPEKTRUM SATELLITE RECEIVERS 

For a Spektrum DSM, DSM2, or DSM-X Satellite RC receiver, connect to 

the SPKT/DSM port. 

For a complete list of RC systems compatible with Pix hawk. vjsit the APM wiki page here. 

FOR PWM RECEIVERS 

Purchase a PPM Encoder module to connect a PWM 

RC receiver to Pixhawk at store.3drcom. 
CONNECT OUTPUTS 

~ ~e:l87654321mBIBDDD 

.,. .. ~ ................ ~··"'-· 

• .. .. • - .. .. • ~ " ,. • • ,. • • + 

··~······$ ~ . 

® LOAD FIRMWARE 

FOR COPTERS 

Connect each signal wire from the PDB to 

the main output signal (5) pins by motor 

number. Connect one wire for each motor 

to the corresponding pin. 

Pin 1 Motor 1 Pin 5 =Motor 5 

Pin 2 =Motor 2 

Pin 3 = Motor 3 

Pin 4 Motor 4 

FOR PLANES 

Pin 6 = Motor 6 

Pin 7 Motor7 

Pin 8 = Motor 8 

For planes, connect the control channel 

wires to the main output signal pins. 

Pin 1 = Aileron 

Pin 2 = Elevator 

Pin 3 Throttle 

Pin 4 Rudder 

FOR ROVERS 

For rovers, connecnhe throttle and steering 

wires to the main output signal pins. 

Pin 3 Throttle 

Pin 4 = Steering 

AP,'.,-1 firmware is the brains of your autopilot operation and must be installed before using Pixhawk. 

To load firmware onto Pixhawk, install a mission planner application on your ground station computer. Choose 

either Mission Planner (Windows) or APM Planner for (Windows, OS X, and Unux). 

Both applications are available for free download from ardupilot.com. 

Mission planner 
Download Mission Planner (Windows) 

Ardupilot.com __.,.Downloads __.,.Mission Planner 

Mission Planner 

Sort by: Title I Hits I 1m 

• MissionPianner- Installer 

«Downloads 

..................................... ~ Select the installer 

package to download. 

Download APM Planner (Windows, OS X. and Linux) 

Ardupilot.com __.,. Downloads __.,. APM Planner 2.0 

APM Planner 2.0 

Sort by: Title I Hits I 1m 

• APM Planner 2.0 Mac 

• APM Planner 2.0 Windows 

• APM Planner 2.0 Linux 

INSTALL PLANNER 

"Downloads 

.......................................... ~ Select your platform to 

download. 

After selecting the correct file. read the safety information and select Download. 

Open the file to run the setup wizard. Proceed through any security warnings, and install all 

suggested drivers. When the installation is complete. open the application. and connect Pixhawk to your 

computer using the micro-USB cable. 

Your computer will automatically install the correct drivers. Do not select Connect at this time; Pixhawk can only 

load firmware while unconnected to Mavlink. 
Select Initial Setup, Install firmware. and select your vehicle. 

When prompted. foilow the directions to load the firmware. Once the status bar shows that the download is 

complete, power cycle the board by disconnecting and reconnecting the USR 

If you hear a musical tone. your firmware installation is complete. If you hear a series of tones followed by three 

beeps, disconnect the USB and reconnect while holding down the safety button. Upon restart, listen for a series 

of tones followed by two beeps indicating that your firmware has loaded successlully. 

Everything is OK: / 

musical tone V 

Pixhawk needs your attention: 

beep BEEP beep ... BEEP BEEP BEEP 

L_-~-~ ... -~---~~· 

@CALIBRATE 

.... . 

.. 

-· I ... , BEEP"""'··· / I 

BEEPBEEP V 

~~~--~~·-·--·----·· 

With Pixhawk connected to your computer. select the communication option from the drop-down menu lor 

PX4 FMU, set the rate to 115200, and select the Connect icon. Select Initial Setup and Mandatory Hardware to 

access the calibration wizards. 

INITIAL SETUP 

(J~ 
SELECT FRAME TYPE (COPTERS ONLY) 

For copter, select your frame orientation. 

CALIBRATE COMPASS 

Select the options to enable the compass; to allow automatic declination 

calculation; and to specify Pixhawk. Select live Calibration to launch the wizard, 

and follow the prompts. 

Me 

demonstrating live calibration techniques at 3dr.com/learn. 
CALIBRATE ACCELEROMETER 

Install f ltmware Accelerome;er Calibration 

>> Mandntmy 11ant.> 

fl,tfllt•lypl' 

Compass t'JA< '" 

Acvol Cahbrat10. l\ Uu\ .,.,..., ' 1 !• 

R:ad11lCill1bralto• 

Select Accel Calibration, check the box for AC 3.0+, select Calibrate, and 

follow the prompts to calibrate Pixhawk's accelerometer. Make sure to wait a 

couple of seconds before and alter changing the positions of the vehicle. 

RC CALIBRATION 

Select Radio Calibration to teach Pixhawk to work with your RC 

transmitter Turn on your transmitter, select Calibrate Radio, and move 

all sticks and switches to their extreme positions. Select Click when Done 

once the red bars are set lor all available channels. 

SELECT FLIGHT MODES 

Move each switch on your transmitter to its available positions. The mission 

planner will indicate the currently selected position with green highlighting. Select 

a mode for each switch position, and select Save Modes to assign. 

left stick 

right stick 
LED MEANINGS 

•••• 

0000 

oeoe 

oeoe 

•••• 

0000 

~ 0000 

. ~ eo eo 

Flashing red and blue: initializing. Please wait. 

Double flashing yellow: error. System refuses to arm. 

Flashing blue: disarmed, searching for GPS. Autonomous, loiter, and return-to-launch 

modes require GPS lock. 

Flashing green: disarmed, GPS lock acquired. Ready to arm. Quick double tone when 

disarming from the armed state . 

Solid green plus single long tone: armed and ready to fly' 

Flashing yellow: RC failsafe activated. 

Flashing yellow plus quick repeating lone: battery failsafe activated. 

Flashing yellow and blue plus high-high-high-low tone: GPS glitch or GPS failsafe 

activated. 

SAFETY SWITCH MEANINGS 

••o• Quick, constant blinking: performing system check. Please wait. 

oeoe Intermittent blinking: system ready. Press the safety button to activate . 

•••• Solid: ready to arm. Proceed to the arming procedure. 

Learn more 

about lED meanings and buzzer tones at 3dr.com/learn. 
1. lnpu.t/output reset button 

2 SD card 

3 Flight management reset button 

4 Micro-USB port 

ground 

power 

signal 

1 Radio control receiver input 

2 S. Bus output 

3 Main outputs 

4 Auxiliary outputs 

2 3 4 

• • 

II . ~ . .. . " " .. " . - ~ 

-;-;;--.. --~ .. -~.--.~-;--;--; + ; 

-.-.-.--.-,-.-.-.-.-. s 

5 4 3 2 1 

- "' 
DISCLAIMER 

THE LIMITED WARRANTIES APPLICABLE TO 3D ROBOTICS-BRANDED HARDWARE CAN BE FOUND AT 

WWW.3DROBOTICS.COM/TERMS/ AND CAN BE REFERENCED IN FULL AT THAT URL 3D ROBOTICS 

RESERVES THE RIGHT TO UPDATE THE WARRANTIES AT ANY TIME WITHOUT EXPRESS NOTICE. 3D 

ROBOTICS MAKES NO OTHER WARRANTIES FOR 3D ROBOTICS-BRANDED PRODUCTS, AND MAKES 

NO WARRANTIES WHATSOEVER FOR SERVICE, SOFTWARE, MAINTENANCE OR SUPPORT FOR NON-3D 

ROBOTICS-BRANDED PRODUCTS. SUCH PRODUCTS, SOFTWARE, SERVICES, MAINTENANCE OR SUPPORT 

IS PROVIDED BY 3D ROBOTICS "AS IS" AND ANY THIRD-PARTY WARRANTIES, PRODUCTS. SOFTWARE, 

SERVICES, MAINTENANCE OR SUPPORT ARE PROVIDED BY THE ORIGINAL MANUFACTURER OR 

SUPPLIER, NOT BY 3D ROBOTICS. 3D ROBOTICS MAKES NO EXPRESS WARRANTIES EXCEPT THOSE STATED 

IN 3D ROBOTICS' APPLICABLE WARRANTY IN EFFECT ON THE DATE OF THE INVOICE, PACKING SLIP OR 

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT. 

3D ROBOTICS OFFERS THE HARDWARE AS-IS AND MAKES NO REPRESENTATIONS OR WARRANTIES OF 

ANY KIND CONCERNING THE HARDWARE, EXPRESS, IMPLIED, STATUTORY OR OTHERWISE, 

INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, WARRANTIES OF TITLE, MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A 

PARTICULAR PURPOSE, NON-INFRINGEMENT, OR THE ABSENCE OF LATENT OR OTHER DEFECTS, 

ACCURACY, OR THE PRESENCE OF ABSENCE OF ERRORS, WHETHER OR NOT DISCOVERABLE. SOME 

JURISDICTIONS DO NOT ALLOW THE EXCLUSION OF IMPLIED WARRANTIES, SO SUCH EXCLUSION MAY 

NOT APPLY TO YOU. 

EXCEPT TO THE EXTENT REQUIRED BY APPLICABLE LAW, IN NO EVENT WILL 3D ROBOTICS BE LIABLE TO 

YOU ON ANY LEGAL THEORY FOR ANY SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL. PUNITIVE OR 

EXEMPLARY DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF THE USE OF THE HARDWARE. 

3D ROBOTICS ACCEPTS NO LIABILITY FOR DAMAGE($) OR INJURIES INCURRED DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY 

FROM THE USE OF THIS PRODUCT. 

SOFTWARE IS SUBJECT TO THE SEPARATE SOFTWARE LICENSE AGREEMENT ACCOMPANYING OR MADE 

AVAILABLE TO YOU IN CONNECTION WITH THE SOFTWARE. A PORTION OF THE SOFTWARE MAY 

CONTAIN OR CONSIST OF OPEN-SOURCE SOFTWARE, WHICH YOU MAY USE UNDER THE TERMS AND 

CONDITIONS OF THE SPECIFIC LICENSE UNDER WHICH THE OPEN-SOURCE SOFTWARE IS DISTRIBUTED. 

YOU AGREE THAT YOU WILL BE BOUND BY ANY AND ALL SUCH LICENSE AGREEMENTS, AND THAT YOUR 

USAGE OF THIS PRODUCT INDICATES YOUR ACCEPTANCE OF THOSE AGREEMENTS. TITLE TO SOFTWARE 

REMAINS WITH THE APPLICABLE LICENSOR(S). IN NO EVENT WILL 3D ROBOTICS BE LIABLE TO YOU FOR 

DAMAGES, INCLUDING ANY GENERAL, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES ARISING 

OUT OF THE USE OR INABiLITY TO USE THE SOFTWARE. 

Pixhawk Kit User Guicle VB© 30 Robotics, Inc. 20 March 2014 
A 

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Spreading Wings SlOOO 

User Manual 

v 1.10 

2014.11 

©2014 DJL All Rights Reserved. 

www.dji.com 
Disclaimer 

Thank you for purchasing this OJ! product. Please visit the SlOOO page on www.dji.com regularly to keep up with 

product information, technical updates and manual corrections. Information in this manual is subject to change 

without notice in line with product upgrades and updates. 

In using this product, you hereby agree to this disclaimer and signify that you have understood all points completely. 

When assembling this product, follow all instructions carefully. The manufacturer and seller assume no liability for 

any damage or injury arising from the use of this product. 

DJI is a registered trademark of DJI Innovations. Names of product, brand, etc., appearing in this manual are 

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

by DJI Innovations with all rights reserved. No part of this product or manual shall be reproduced in any form 

without the prior written consent or authorization of OJI Innovations. No patent liability is assumed with respect to 

the use of the product or information contained herein. 

©2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 2 
About 

The SlOOO is designed for professional aerial photography and cinematography. It is user friendly, safe, stabilized 

and easy to fly while its integrated design makes assembly and configuration simple and fast. Retractable landing 

gear, vibration dampers, small frame arm incline and minimalized gimbal mount allows for a clear 360 degree view 

from the camera. An integrated power hub with patented coaxial connectors, built-in high-speed ESCs and motors 

with high efficiency propellers ensure dynamic stability and maximized power efficiency. Used with a professional 

DJI multi-rotor autopilot system, the SlOOO can hover and fly reliably making it ideal for photography and 

cinematography. 

©2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 3 
Contents 

Disclaimer ................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 2 

Abou\.. ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 3 

Contents .................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 4 

Caution .................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 5 

In The Box ............................................................................................................................................................................................................... 6 

Tools Required ...................................................................................................................................................................................................... 6 

Mounting Landing Gear .................................................................................................................................................................................... 7 

Mounting Frame Arms ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 8 

Mounting Electronics and Wiring .................................................................................................................................................................. 11 

Connecting XT60 Ports on Center Frame ................................................................................................................................................ 17 

Installing Battery ................................................................................................................................................................................................. 17 

Setting Landing Gear ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 19 

Mounting the Gimbal ......................................................................................................................................................................................... 21 

Appendix ............................................................................................................................................................................................................... 23 

ESC Sound .................................................................................................................................................................................................. 23 

ESC LED ...................................................................................................................................................................................................... 23 

Specifications ............................................................................................................................................................................................. 23 

Gain Value Settings (with the A2 flight control) ........................................................................................................................... 24 

FAQ ......................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 25 

Soldering the ESC ................................................................................................................................................................................... .25 

Remounting the Propeller ..................................................................................................................................................................... 25 

Propeller Precautions ............................................................................................................................................................................. 25 

Using Propeller Holder ..................................................................................... , ..................................................................................... 26 

Assembling Motor Vibration Absorbers .......................................................................................................................................... 26 

Remounting Landing Gear Servo ....................................................................................................................................................... 27 

Recalibrating Servo T ravel .................................................................................................................................................................... 27 

Part List .................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 29 

©2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 4 
Caution 

When flying, fast rotating propellers may cause serious damage and injury. Please fly safe at all times. 

~ssembly_ Cau.;;_ti..:..o_ns"---~----- ~---~-------- --------1 

0) Mount the GPS module with a bracket, to avoid interference with the power board on the center frame. 

(2) Ensure the IMU is mounted with the arrow pointing toward the front. 

(3) If using a receiver, attach it under the bottom board of the center frame with the end of the antenna 

facing downwards away from obstruction$ to avoid loss of control due to signal loss. 

(4) Ensure frame arms are mounted correctly. 

a) Motor mounts with CCW marks should be mounted to the corresponding center frame positions 

with the following marks: Ml, M3, M5, and M7. 

b) Motor mounts with CW marks should be mounted to the corresponding center frame positions with 

the following marks: M2, M4, M6, and MB. 

(5) Do not remove any glued-in screws. 

(6) Tighten screws appropriately. Screws marked with blue glue can be used without thread locker once. On 

other occasions, apply appropriate thread locker. 

(7) SlOOO should be raised above the ground when testing landing gear or recalibrating servo travel. 

(8) Notice that matching the indicators is very important. Please pay attention to them. 

r-B!ght Cautions ------------------------------1 

{1) ESCs are not water-proof, do not fly in rain or snow. 

(2) Ensure all soft dampers and vibration absorbers are in good condition before every flight. If not, replace 

immediately. Otherwise, the flight performance of your aircraft will be adversely affected. 

(3) Ensure all parts are in good condition before each flight. Do not fly with worn or broken parts. 

(4) Ensure propellers and motors are installed correctly and propellers are unfolded before flying. 

(5) Ensure ESC signal connectors and power cable connectors are tight and reliable before every flight. 

(6) When flying. stay away a safe distance from people, buildings, high-voltage lines, tall trees, water and 

other hazards. 

(7) Use only 6S LiPo batteries for the power supply. 

(8) Ensure all output signals from Ml to MB are in proper working order when using the DJI A2 flight control 

system to avoid damase or injury. 

(9) Do not overload the system. 

{10) Do not get clos.e to or touch motors or propellers when they are spinning as this can cause serious injury. 

{11) Disconnect battery and remove camera during breaks and transportation to avoid damage or injury. 

{12) We strongly recommend using as many DJI parts as possible. 

Others 

·--~-.. ------~------------- --~--·-----------1 

(1) If you have any problem you cannot resolve. contact your dealer or DJI customer service. 

©2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 5 
In The Box 

Center Frame><] Frame Armx8 

Landing Gear Leg><2 

Landing Skid Tubex2 

(with Silicone Rubber Damper) 

. i GPS Collapsible Mountxl Springx2 

Connector Set><l 3-PIN Servo Cable><] 

Screw Packagexl Accessories package" 1 

For frame arms mount: M4x35 

Heat-shrinkable tube (diameter of IOmm) 

For landing gear mount: M3x8, M2.5x6.7 

Tools Required 

-· 

Tools Usage .. 

2.0mm Hex Wrench, 2.5mm Hex Wrench Mounting screws . 

Thread Locker .Fastening screws. 

Nylon Cable Tie 

~!=tSsors · Binding devices and wires. 

Cutting Pliers/Dykes 

Foam Double Sided.Adhesive .Tape.-· Mounting receiver, controller and other modules. 

Hot AirGun Fixing power cable connectors. 

©2014 OJI. All Rights Reserved. 6 
Mounting Frame Arms 

Instructions 

1. Check arms. 

(1) Check propellers for cracks. then install and screw propeller cover on tightly. 

(2) Ensure motors are mounted firmly and rotate freely. 

(3) Mount arms with red propeller covers to Ml and M2 to indicate the nose of the SlOOO. 

(4) Distinguish marks CW and CCW on the arms. Mount the arms with mark CCW to the Ml, M3, MS, and M7 

positions of the center frame. The arms marked CW should be mounted to the M2, M4, M6, and M8 

positions of the center frame. 

(5) Check power cable connector. Diagram A shows normal and B shows abnormal. The correct connection 

method is detailed below. 

i. Remove shrapnel from the damaged connector as demonstrated by diagram A using tweezers or a knife. 

ii. Replace the power cable connector if the shrapnel damage is too great (e.g. connector is broken or bent) 

and cannot be pulled out or plugged in. 

•LED is on after motor $tarted. 

2. Insert frame arm vertically into the mounting area on the center frame. 

3. Adjust screw mounts of frame arm and center frame. 

4. Insert the M4x35 screw from the right of the frame arm as the thread is located on the left of the screw 

mount. Tighten screw appropriately. Over tightening may lead to connector abrasion. 

©2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 8 
5. Gently lift frame arm. 

6. Twist knob to Jock in place. Be sure there is an audible click sound to ensure a proper Jock. Check the 

arm for movement. To store, untwist the knob and lower frame arm. 

7. Plug ESC signal cable into center frame. 

I 

i 

i 

j 

8. Plug power cable into center frame. Heat-shrinkable tubes can be used to stop the connector from 

coming off. 

@2014 DJL All Rights Reserved. 9 
9. Ensure all ESC signal cables (red) and power cables (blue) are connected to the center frame correctly. 

Power cables can be fixed to center frame pillars to tidy them away. Make sure to use heat-shrinkable 

tubes correctly (orange). 

10. Double check all frame arms. Arms Ml and M2 are the forward facing (nose), arms MS and M6 are the tail. 

Seen from the top, motors on arms Ml, M3, MS and M7 rotate counter clockwise while those on arms M2, 

M4, M6 and M8 rotate clockwise. 

©2014 OJI. All Rights Reserved, 1 

0 
Mounting Electronics and Wiring 

Eight positions are reserved for mounting a flight control system, wireless video transmission module, receiver, and 

other items. The DJI A2 flight control system has been used .here as an example. If using an A2, follow mounting and 

wiring instructions found in the A2 flight control system user manual. If using the DJI WK-M flight control system, 

please refer to the WK-M user manual for connections. Also be sure ~our firmware on your DJI flight controller has 

been updated to the latest version. 

Instructions 

1. Attach IMU module to the IMU area of the center frame. Ensure that it points toward the nose and does 

not touch any other components as vibration can cause it to malfunction. 

2. Attach the PMU module to the center frame. 

3. Mount the main controller in the reserved position near the PMU module. 

©2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 1 

1 
4. Attach the GPS collapsible mount to the center frame using M2.5x6.7 screws. Washer for GPS 

collapsible mount is pre-installed on the center frame. To install GPS collapsible mount, remove the screw 

from the washer then follow the below instructions: 

(1) Remove screw (j) from the center frame. 

(2) Position GPS collapsible mount then return the screw to its original position and tighten. 

(3) Remove remaining screw ® from center frame. 

(4) Position GPS collapsible mount then return screw to its original position and tighten. 

5. Mount a GPS module to the GPS mount with a bracket. Ensure the arrow points toward the nose and 

avoid catching fingers in the bracket when folding for transportation. 

©2014 OJI. All Rights Reserved. 1 

2 
6. The other reserved positions are indicated in the diagram below and can be used for mounting a receiver, 

LED flight indicator, iOSD module and wireless video transmission module. 

7. Check that every anti-drop system has been firmly installed in the reserved positions. Thread locker is 

recommended. 

(I) Remove anti·drop to add appropriate thread locker. 

(2) Replace and tighten. 

©2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 1 

3 
Notes 

(1) Only mount the IMU in the IMU position of the center frame. 

(2) Mount the GPS with a bracket to avoid interference from the center frame power board. 

(3) Use glue to install the GPS bracket. Ensure it is firm and reliable before every flight. 

(4) Always test motors using the Assistant Software after installation. Refer to the "Flight control system user 

manual" for details. 

Connecting main controller to center frame 

1. Finish flight control system connection according to the A2 flight control system user manual. 

2. Link connector set (blue) to ESC signal outlet on the center frame then link connector set (blue) to main 

controller as shown below. 

(1) Yellow 4-pin cables are for Ml· M4 connections. Yellow cable should be connected to Ml. 

(2) Brown 4-pin cables are for M5- MB connections. Brown cable should be connected to M5. 

(3) Black 4-pin cables are for four continuous ground pins connections. Ml-M4 are connected as the 

following diagram shows. 

@2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 1 

4 
• liNl< 

A2 

LED • (/1 ~.­

~u F3-

F•-

~·­ X•-

X>- X•-

DJI WK-M flight controller, you must use the wires that came with the WK ·M. Ml through 

rr"''"'<nr,nrl to each motor number. M7 corresponds to Fl and M8 corresponds to F2 on the WK-M. 

Connecting main controller and landing gear 

l. Connect left servo cable near M4 to the "RLG" port near M4 on the center frame, then ensure the "RLG" 

port near M3 is connected to the "L" port of the landing gear control board. 

2. Connect right servo cable near M7 to the "R" port of the landing gear control board using a servo cable. 

3. For the A2 flight control system, connect the Fl port of the main controller to "IN" port of the landing gear 

control board. Other flight control systems connect a 2-position channel receiver to the "IN" port. 

©2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 1 

5 
If right and left servo cables are reversed, landing gear will not be function. 

Wire neatly to avoid cables being damaged by frame edges. 

©2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 1 

6 
Connecting XT60 Ports on Center Frame 

The bottom board is a power distribution board with three XT60 connectors for battery power. 

Instructions 

1. Connect PMU power cable to XT60 connector on top ofthe bottom board. 

2. Connect landing gear control board cable to XT60 connector on the bottom of the bottom board. 

3. Other connectors can supply power for other DJI devices if required. 

I 

I 

' 

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I , 

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0 

Installing Battery 

Soldering battery connectors 

~= . '-..a•-J 

ASlSO anti spark connectors are used. They must be soldered to battery power cables. 

l Remove original battery connector. Avoid cutting power and ground cables at the same time as this can 

cause a short circuit. We recommend wrapping unsoldered cable with insulating tape to prevent 

accidental connection. 

2 Pass the black ground wire through the black housing. After passing the wire through, solder the female 

bullet connector to the ground wire. Wait for the soldered connection to cool, then pull the housing back 

over the bullet connector. 

3. Screw and pass the red power wire through the red housing. After passing the wire through, solder the 

male bullet connector to the power wire. Wait for the soldered connection to cool, and then screw and 

pull the housing back over the bullet connector. 

Connectors soldering diagram 

©2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 17 
----·-------~---·'"··-~~~~---~--~----~-----··~·--·--------·~"""'"' ........................ ...._ ...... __________ ...... , ............ ,,.,.. ........... 1!............ ___ ........... _ ... _IIIJ __ .,.. .. __ E! .... --=-.... 

/ 

Connectors are soldered 

Installing and connecting battery 

1. Attach battery to battery tray. Do not use an oversized battery. Maximum installation dimension is 80mm 

X 120mm X 200mm. 

2. Insert black connector@ then red connector@ to power on. Pull out red connector@ then black 

connector@ to power off. 

©2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 18 
Setting Landing Gear 

Using a 2-position R/C transmitter switch, landing gear retraction can be carried out remotely. 

Setting up the transmitter 

Select a 2-position switch (default setting is OK) as the control input for the landing gear. Ensure the 

corresponding receiver port is connected to the "IN" port on control board. For the A2 flight control system, 

.:® Raise: Toggle the switch to this position to raise the landing gear. 

I~ ~ '--

1 

Lower: Toggle the switch to this position to lower the landing gear. 

Notes: 

(1) If the transmitter switch has a FailSafe function. set the FailSafe value to the [Lower] position. This 

ensures that landing gear will lower automatically when the receiver enters FailSafe mode. 

To avoid accidental switch triggering. slide levers or other controls can be used for landing gear controL 

·-·----~· 

Usage procedures 

1. Ensure transmitter and receiver batteries are fully charged. 

2. Toggle switch to [Lower) position, and then turn on transmitter. 

3. Ensure [R], [L] and [IN] connections are correct. 

4. Ensure landing gear is in the [Lower] position then power on the system. If the green LED on the landing 

gear control board is solid, everything is normal. If it flashes green slowly, re·calibrate the system according 

to instructions in "Recalibrating Servo Travel". 

5. Toggle switch to [Raise] position ONLY AFTER takeoff. 

6. Toggle switch to [Lower] position for landing. 

r·rips 

l(l) 

L.~-

Servo power will shut off within 3 seconds after the landing gear has reached its target position. 

@2014 OJ!. All Rights Reserved. 19 
on the system, if the transmitter switch is in the [Raise] position, the LED will 

warning. Toggle the switch to the [Lower] position to continue. 

(3) If there is an abnormal signal or no signal input into the [IN] port, the LED will slowly flash red. Check 

receiver and connections for problems. 

(4) If servo power consumption is too high, the LED will light up red. If this lasts more than 4 seconds, 

landing gear will lower and the LED will flash green slowly. Re-calibration is needed before flying. 

(5) A2 flight control system users can use the A2 Assistant Software to set intelligent gear on the 

"Advanced" page. Refer to the "A2 flight control system user manual" for details. ~------~---~ 

LED Control Board Indicator 

System normal 

Calibration required •••••••••••••••••••• 

Recalibration required • • • • • • • 

Calibration failed 

Enter calibration mode \l)(j)(j)(j).(j)(i).(j)(j)(j)(j)(j)(i)(i)(j)!j)(j)(j)(j) 

System calibrating @ (j) (j) \9 @ (j) (j) 

Motor stalled 

Unsafe startup alert •••••••••••••••••••• 

Input signal abnormal • • • • • • • 

Specifications . - . 

Parameter Range Parameter Range 

Working Voltage 3S·6S (LiPo) Input Signal PWM (High-Pulse Width 800us-2200us) 

Working Current MaxlA@6S Output Signal PWM(Mid Position is 1520us) in 90Hz 

Working Temperature -2o-7o•c Output Voltage 6V 

Total Weight 875g Servo Travel 150° (Minimuml20") 

©2014 DJL All Rights Reserved. 20 
Mounting the Gimbal 

Before assembling the gimbal, install GCU as shown below. Be sure to install on the side as shown below. A DJI 

Zl5-5D gimbal has been used as an example in the following diagrams. 

The connectors on gimbal should be removed for better performance, then the gimbal can be mounted to the lower 

connection points. A DJI Zl5-5D gimbal has been used as an example in the following diagrams. 

©2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 21 
Check that the system's center of gravity is at the blue line <:IS shown in the below diagram. 

©2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved, 22 
Appendix 

ESC Sound -~ -· -· - ESC State Sound -

Ready /1234567--8··8 

Throttle stick is not at bottom BBBBBB ... 

Input signal abnormal B-------·8--------8 ... 

Input voltage abnormal 88---88---88---BB ... 

ESC LED --

ESC State LED 

Standby Off 

Motor rotating Solid Red or Green On 

Motor rotating at full throttle position Solid Yellow On 

Tips: 

DJI ESCs are specially designed for multi-rotors. When used with DJI autopilot systems parameters and travel 

ranges do not have to be calibrated. 

S ecifications 

Frame 

Diagonal Wheelbase 

Frame Arm Length 

Frame Arm Weight 

(with Motor, ESC, Propeller ) 

Center Frame Diameter 

Center Frame Weight (with Landing Gear 

Mounting Base, Servos) 

Landing Gear Size 

1045mm 

386mm 

325g 

337.5mm 

1330g 

460mm(Length)• 511 mm(Width)• 305mm(Height) 

(Top width, 155 mm) 

Mo.tor ________________________ ~--------1 

Stator Size 

kV 

Max Power 

Weight (with Cooling Fan) 

©2014 OJL All Rights Reserved. 

41•14mm 

400rpm/V 

500W 

158g 

23 
.-ESC - ··-- - --· --

Working Current 40A 

Working Voltage 65 LiPo 

Signal Frequency 30Hz-450Hz 

Drive PWM Frequency 8KHz 

Weight (with Radiators) 35g 

Foldal;>le Propeller 0552/1552R) 

Material High strength performance engineered plastics 

Size 15•5.2inch 

Weight 13g 

r--fligllt Parame1ers 

Takeoff Weight 6.0Kg - ll.OKg 

-- Total Weight 4.2Kg 

Power Battery LiPo (65, 10000mAh-20000mAh, 15C(Min)) 

Max Power Consumption 4000W 

Hovering Power Consumption 1500W (@9 .5Kg Takeoff Weight) 

Hovering Time 15min (@l5000mAh& 9.5Kg Takeoff Weight) 

Working Environment Temperature -1a ·c- •40 •c 

G am · VI aue S ett1ngs ( Wit · h t e h A2 fl. igl h t contro I) 

Basic -- Attitude 

Pitch Roll Yaw Pitch Roll Yaw 

120% 120% 120% 170% 170% 120% 

©2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 24 
FAQ 

Soldering the ESC 

Be sure to solder the thick wires and fine wires correctly when soldering an ESC to the frame arm. 

Clockwise (CW) and counter clockwise (CCW) motors should be soldered to the ESC in order of color. 

CWarms 

Remounting the Propeller 

Instructions 

1. Use two M3x8 screws and four washers to remount propeller. 

2. Apply thread locker to the thread of the propeller mount first. 

3. Affix screws with 4Kg.cm (0.4N.m) torque .. 

Tips: Refer to original screw tensions if unfamiliar with torque measurements. Applying thread locker to the 

propeller mount first avoids getting thread locker into the holes of the plastic propeller. 

Notes: Loose screws cannot be securely locked with thread locker. 

Propeller Precautions 

Torque markers on the screws and propeller covers will give you a visual cue to check whether the propellers are 

loose. Check the torque markers before every flight. 

©2014 OJI. All Rights Reserved. 25 
Using Propeller Holder 

Instructions 

1. Insert blades to propeller holder. 

2. Attach propeller holder to frame arm. 

Assembling Motor Vibration Absorbers 

A soft gasket is part of the vibration absorber. Assembly of the soft gasket must be carried out as per the diagram 

below. Assembly is the same for CCW and CW propellers. 

c 

1 Notes 

1 Ensure all soft dampers and vibration absorbers are in good condition before every flight. If not, replace j bediat~:_ ()~~erwis~~ ~ight _P~fo~~anc: of ~our _a!rcr:ft will be a_cJ~e~se~Y_:rfect""~ __ --~-~ 

©2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 26 

- ----~-- ---~~~~~~~~~~~~ 
Remounting Landing Gear Servo 

Remounting servos is not recommended as they come pre-installed. 

Instructions 

1. Connect left servo cable near M4 to the "RLG" port near M4 on the center frame, then connect the 

"RLG" port near M3 to the "l" port of the landing gear control board using a servo cable. 

2. Connect the right servo cable near M7 to the "R" port of the landing gear control board using a servo 

cable. 

3. Pressing the SET button using a pin then power on. You will see a yellow LED beside the SET button 

flashes quickly. Wait as servos complete position initialization. 

4. Make sure the arm connecting to the servo is parallel to the link. (Shown in the following Fig). 

5. Assemble the left and right servos to the left and the right parts of the landing gear. Power off. 

11~ -.11-LG"~-·o;, r:;~;s· 

~--~T~...:;~-~~{:-e~:~~-;;~~~~) 

:(To Fl port if use A2) i ·-- ..... ,_. ___ ' .. / r.::-;·----~-

,~~~Button 

Recalibrating Servo Travel 

Servo rd.• " 

Connecting1Z-t-..~ / ... arm . 1 __ \\"-' /1 

l<nk j'_;~'V i / 

/ 

I

./ 

/ 

l 

landing gear travel has been pre-calibrated. Mechanical adjustment of gear travel is not recommended. 

Instructions 

1. Keep hands away from all mechanisms. 

2. Ensure [R]. [l] and [IN] connections are correct. 

3. Keep the whole aircraft off the ground during calibration as landing gear will move. 

4. Press and hold the SET button using a pin while powering on, then release. An LED will flash yellow 

quickly. Press the SET button again. Auto calibration will begin and the LED will flash yellow slowly. DO 

NOT obstruct any moving parts during auto calibration. 

5. During calibration, the left landing gear will raise and lower, follow by the right landing gear. 

6. After calibration, both left and right landing gears will be lowered and the LED will be a solid green. This 

©2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 27 
indicates that the landing gear is working properly. 

Notes 

(1) If the LED is solid yellow after calibration, a problem has occurred. Carry out Remounting Landing Gear 

Servo then try again. 

(2) Avoid obstructions during calibration. If the landing gear was obstructed, recalibration is required using 

the above steps. 

(3) If [RJ and [LJ servo cables are reversed, travel will not be measured correctly. Connect correctly and 

recalibrate the landing gear using the above steps. 

©2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 28 
Part List 

Locate the part that you wish to replace in the following figures, and then order the package that comes with the 

specified part. The numbering of the part is defined as follow: 

__§102Q1Q1CCW CWasclockw;se; CCWascounterclock 

SJOOO __::r T T T .,;,e; Bas Back ; R as Red ; Gas Green 

01-Frame Arm ; 02·Center Frame; ___J Pa::kage Part No. 

03-Landilg Skid Package No. 

Frame Arm 

.,., - ~ $101210281 

M3x12.3 -----------~ S1012202R 

s;;;;;-----~- ...... ---------$1012503 S10125o1ccwr--" 

S1012502CW 

$101210181 

~ 

~ 

~ 

~ 

~ 

S1012201R 

s1o1 oao1 -------------'lf.v.. t!'------ M3~1o.3 

~ $1012302/ $10110011------------·~ $1012402 

$1012901/ 

$10130011----------"" 

$10131011 

$1013201 

S1012301RI 

$1012401 G 

S1010401CCWB/ 

S 1010501 CCWRI 

S1010601CWBI n S1010701CWR 

IJ!.---M3•12.3 

Package No. It Name :1 Part No. 

4 SIOOO-Premium Frame Arm CCW • Black S1010401CCWB , S1010402 , M3xl2.3 

5 SlOOO-Premium Frame Arm CCW • Red S1010501CCWR, S1010502, M3x12.3 

6 SlOOO-Premium Frame Arm CW Black S1010601CWB, S1010602, M3x12.3 

7 SlOOO-Premium Frame Arm CW- Red S1010701CWR, $1010702, M3xl2.3 

8 SlOOO-Premium Motor Damping Unit S1010801 , M3x 10.3 

10 S1000-Premium Motor Mount Carbon S1011001 , M3x10.3 

Board 

21 SlOOO-Premium 4114 Motor with black Prop S10121018, S1012102B , M3x4.5 

cover 

22 S1000-Premium 4114 Motor with red Prop S1012201R , S1012202R , M3x4.5 

cover 

23 SlOOO-Premium ESC with Red LED S1012301R, S1012302, M3xl2.3 

©2014 DJI. All Rights ReseJVed. 

_ _] 

29 
24 

25 

Central Board 

S1000-Premium ESC with Green LED S1012401G, S1012402, M3x12.3 

SlOOO-Premium Propeller Pack (8) S1012501CCW , S1012502CW , S1012503 , 

M3x12.3 

$1020301------~ &t:J 

GJ 

M3X4.5 --------

81021501------·~~~Js• 

S1 021502------------::~,..--, 

$1020901--------] ~ ~ [ 

M3x8.0 

- V, 1:'i ~ -----S1020302R 

$1020902 -------;-~ p 7~! y& Ii i i"---M3x8.0 

J (self-tapping) 

S1021201L~~~~~ ~ b-S1021202R 

$1021101-------~~~ 

$1021401 ~ 

- ------' ~--;:?' $1021301 ~ 

M3x4.5 ----------,~ ~ ~---- M3x8.0 

l Package No. Jl Name ][ Part No. 

3 S1000-Premium Lock Knob 

9 S1000-Premium Center Frame Support Pillar 

12 S1000-Premium Arm Mounting Bracket 

14 S1000-Premium Center Frame Bottom Board 

15 S1000-Premium Center Frame Top Board 

©2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 

S1020301 , S1020302 , M3x8.0 (self-tapping) 

S1020901 , S1020902 , M3x4.5 , M3x8.0 

S1021201L , S1021202R , M3x4.5 , M3x8.0 , 

Package 11 

S1021401 , M3x4.5 , M3x8.0 

S1021501 , S1021502 , M3x4.5 , M3x8.0 

30 
11 

Landing Gear 

Sl031901 

S1033:P4 

51031814 

S10333QI 

51033305 

Mlldl.O 

S1031604 

S!lll160S 

51031902 

M2,Sxl3 

51031602 

Sl033:ll7 

51033308 

51033303 

U03160Z 

51031601 

Sl0318ll 

M2.SxS 

51032601 

M2.SxS 

51032602 

$1032604 

M2.Sw8 

MJX22 

51032001 

16 

17 

S1000-Premium Frame Arm Mounting Steel S1021101 

Shaft 

•' 

51031810 

S1031&09 

51031808 

( 1) 

M3x4.5 

51031812 

51031813 

S!llll712 

51031904 

SI031701 

51031903 

SUB330S 

51033301 

$1030201 

51033302 

51031801 

Ml.S 

510318<11 

51031803 

51031804 

S10l1807 

51031805 

51031806 

51032002 

Caution : (1) Parts within the dot area are mirrored against each other. Apart 

from 51031813 and $1031814, they are unique to packaqe 18. 

S1000·Premium Gimbal Damping Bracket S1031601 • S1031602 • S1031603 ' S1031604 ' 

S1031605 , M2.5 

SlOOO-Premium Retractable Module (Right) S1031701 , S1031702 , S1031703 , S1031704 , 

51031705 ' S1031706 • S1031707 • S1031708 ' 

51031709 ,S1031710 ,S1031711 ,S1031712 ,M3x4.5 

©2014 DJL All Rights Reserved. 31 
18 

19 

20 

26 

2 

33 

Miscellaneous 

13 

29 

30 

31 

32 

27 

28 

S1000·Premium Retractable Module (left) 51031801 ' 51031802 ' 51031803 ' 51031804 ' 

51031805 ' 51031806 ' 51031807 • 51031808 ' 

51031809 • 51031810 ' 51031811 ' 51031812 ' 

51031813 , 51031814 , M3x4.5 

51000-Premium Gimbal Damping 51031901 , 51031902 , 51031903 , 51031904 , 

Connecting Brackets M2.5 , M3x8.0 

S1000·Premium landing Skid 51032001 • 51032002 

51000-Premium landing Skid Leg S1032601 , S1032602 , S1032603 , S1032604 , 

M25x8, M2.5xL3, M3x22 

S1000-Premium Battery Tray S1030201 

51000-Premium Gimbal Mounting S1033301 • S1033302 • Sl033303 • 51033304 • 

Accessories S1033305 ' S1033306 ' S1033307 • S1033308 

y.------- 51032701 

51020201 51020202 

51000-Premium Center Frame 

SlOOO-Premium Complete Arm 

(CW-RED] 

SlOOO-Premium Complete Arm 

(CW-Green] 

S1000-Premium Complete Arm 

(CCW-RED] 

51000-Premium Complete Arm 

(CCW-Green] 

S1000-Premium GPS Holder 

S1000-Premium Screw Pack 

S1000-Premium Power Cord Plug 

=·~ 

~7 51020203 

Package 3 , 9 , 11 , 12 , 14 , 15 , 51021301 

Package 7 , 8 , 10 , 11 , 22 , 23 , 25 , S1012901 

Package 6 , 8 , 10 , 11 , 21 , 24 , 25 , S1013001 

Package 5 , 8 , 10 , 11 , 22 , 23 , 25 , S1013101 

Package 4 , 8 , 10 , 11 , 21 , 24 , 25 , S1013201 

S1032701 • S1032702 

Assorted screws 

S1020201 , S1020202 , S1020203 , 51020204 

©2014 DJI. All Rights Reserved. 32 
US Department 

of Transportation 

Federal Aviation 

Administration 

September I, 2015 

Mr. Nathan Progar 

EarthRes, Inc. 

6912 Old Easton Road 

Pipersville, PA 19044 

Dear Mr. Progar: 

Exemption No. 12692 

800 Independence Ave . SW 

Washington. D.C. 20591 

Regulatory Docket No. FAA-2015-1461 

This Jetter is to inform you that we have granted your request for exemption. It transmits our 

decision, explains its basis, and gives you the conditions and limitations ofthe exemption, 

including the date it ends. 

By letter posted to the public docket on May 6 and June 15,2015, you petitioned the Federal 

Aviation Administration (FAA) on behalf ofEarthRes, Inc. (hereinafter petitioner or operator) 

for an exemption. The petitioner requested to operate an unmanned aircraft system (UAS) to 

conduct aerial photography and surveys. 

See Appendix A for the petition submitted to the FAA describing the proposed operations and 

the regulations that the petitioner seeks an exemption. 

The FAA has determined that good cause exists for not publishing a summary of the petition 

in the Federal Register because the requested exemption would not set a precedent, and any 

delay in acting on this petition would be detrimental to the petitioner. 

Airworthiness Certification 

The UAS proposed by the petitioner is a 3D Robotics Aero-M. 

In accordance with the statutory criteria provided in Section 333 ofPublic Law 112-95 in 

reference to 49 U.S.C. § 44704, and in consideration of the size, weight, speed, and limited 

operating area associated with the aircraft and its operation, the Secretary ofTransportation 

has determined that this aircraft meets the conditions of Section 333. Therefore, the FAA 
finds that relief from 14 CFR part 21, Certification procedures for products and parts, 

Subpart H-Airworthiness Certificates, and any associated noise certification and testing 

requirements of part 36, is not necessary. 

The Basis for Our Decision 

2 

You have requested to use a UAS for aerial data collection 1

• The FAA has issued grants of 

exemption in circumstances similar in all material respects to those presented in your petition. 

In Grants ofExemption Nos. 11062 to Astraeus Aerial (see Docket No. FAA-2014-0352), 

Ill 09 to Clayco, Inc. (see Docket No. FAA-2014-0507), 11112 to VDOS Global, LLC (see 

Docket No. FAA-2014-0382), and 11213 to Aeryon Labs, Inc. (see Docket No. 

FAA-2014-0642), the FAA found that the enhanced safety achieved using an unmanned 

aircraft (UA) with the specifications described by the petitioner and carrying no passengers or 

crew, rather than a manned aircraft of significantly greater proportions, carrying crew in 

addition to flammable fuel, gives the FAA good cause to find that the UAS operation enabled 

by this exemption is in the public interest. 

Having reviewed your reasons for requesting an exemption, I find that-

• They are similar in all material respects to relief previously requested in Grant of 

Exemption Nos. 11062, 11109, 11112, and 11213; 

• The reasons stated by the FAA for granting Exemption Nos. 11062, Ill 09, 11112, and 

11213 also apply to the situation you present; and 

• A grant of exemption is in the public interest. 

Our Decision 

In consideration of the foregoing, I find that a grant of exemption is in the public interest. 

Therefore, pursuant to the authority contained in 49 U.S.C. 106(f), 40113, and 44701, 

delegated to me by the Administrator, EarthRes, Inc. is granted an exemption from 14 CFR 

§§ 61.23(a) and (c), 61.10l(e)(4) and (5), 61.113(a), 61.315(a), 91.7(a), 91.119(c), 91.121, 

91.151(a)(l), 91.405(a), 91.407(a)(l), 91.409(a)(l) and (2), and 91.417(a) and (b), to the 

extent necessary to allow the petitioner to operate a UAS to perform aerial data collection. 

This exemption is subject to the conditions and limitations listed below. 

Conditions and Limitations 

In this grant of exemption, EarthRes, Inc. is hereafter referred to as the operator. 

1 Aerial data collection includes any remote sensing and measuring by an instrument(s) aboard the UA. 

Examples include imagery (photography, video, infrared, etc.), electronic measurement (precision surveying, RF 

analysis, etc.), chemical measurement (particulate measurement, etc.), or any other gathering of data by 

instruments aboard the UA. 

L ------------
3 

Failure to comply with any of the conditions and limitations of this grant of exemption will be 

grounds for the immediate suspension or rescission of this exemption. 

I. Operations authorized by this grant of exemption are limited to the 3D Robotics 

Aero-M when weighing less than 55 pounds including payload. Proposed operations 

of any other aircraft will require a new petition or a petition to amend this exemption. 

2. Operations for the purpose of closed-set motion picture and television filming are 

not permitted. 

3. The UA may not be operated at a speed exceeding 87 knots (I 00 miles per hour). The 

exemption holder may use either groundspeed or calibrated airspeed to determine 

compliance with the 87 knot speed restriction. In no case will the UA be operated at 

airspeeds greater than the maximum UA operating airspeed recommended by the 

aircraft manufacturer. 

4. The UA must be operated at an altitude of no more than 400 feet above ground level 

(AGL). Altitude must be reported in feet AGL. 

5. The UA must be operated within visual line of sight (VLOS) of the PIC at all times. 

This requires the PIC to be able to use human vision unaided by any device other than 

corrective lenses, as specified on the PIC's FAA-issued airman medical certificate or 

U.S. driver's license. 

6. All operations must utilize a visual observer (VO). The UA must be operated within 

the visual line of sight (VLOS) ofthe PIC and VO at all times. The VO may be used 

to satisfy the VLOS requirement as long as the PIC always maintains VLOS 

capability. The VO and PIC must be able to communicate verbally at all times; 

electronic messaging or texting is not permitted during flight operations. The PIC 

must be designated before the flight and cannot transfer his or her designation for the 

duration of the flight. The PIC must ensure that the VO can perform the duties 

required ofthe VO. 

7. This exemption and all documents needed to operate the UAS and conduct its 

operations in accordance with the conditions and limitations stated in this grant of 

exemption, are hereinafter referred to as the operating documents. The operating 

documents must be accessible during UAS operations and made available to the 

Administrator upon request. If a discrepancy exists between the conditions and 

limitations in this exemption and the procedures outlined in the operating documents, 

the conditions and limitations herein take precedence and must be followed. 

Otherwise, the operator must follow the procedures as outlined in its operating 

documents. The operator may update or revise its operating documents. It is the 

operator's responsibility to track such revisions and present updated and revised 

documents to the Administrator or any law enforcement official upon request. The 
operator must also present updated and revised documents if it petitions for extension 

or amendment to this grant of exemption. If the operator determines that any update 

or revision would affect the basis upon which the FAA granted this exemption, then 

the operator must petition for an amendment to its grant of exemption. The FAA's 

UAS Integration Office (AFS-80) may be contacted if questions arise regarding 

updates or revisions to the operating documents. 

4 

8. Any UAS that has undergone maintenance or alterations that affect the UAS operation 

or flight characteristics, e.g., replacement of a flight critical component, must undergo 

a functional test flight prior to conducting further operations under this exemption. 

Functional test flights may only be conducted by a PIC with a VO and must remain at 

least 500 feet from other people. The functional test flight must be conducted in such 

a manner so as to not pose an undue hazard to persons and property. 

9. The operator is responsible for maintaining and inspecting the UAS to ensure that it is 

in a condition for safe operation. 

I 0. Prior to each flight, the PIC must conduct a pre-flight inspection and determine the 

UAS is in a condition for safe flight. The pre-flight inspection must account for all 

potential discrepancies, e.g., inoperable components, items, or equipment. If the 

inspection reveals a condition that affects the safe operation of the UAS, the aircraft is 

prohibited from operating until the necessary maintenance has been performed and the 

UAS is found to be in a condition for safe flight. 

11. The operator must follow the UAS manufacturer's maintenance, overhaul, 

replacement, inspection, and life limit requirements for the aircraft and 

aircraft components. 

12. Each UAS operated under this exemption must comply with all manufacturer 

safety bulletins. 

13. Under this grant of exemption, a PIC must hold either an airline transport, 

commercial, private, recreational, or sport pilot certificate. The PIC must also hold a 

current FAA airman medical certificate or a valid U.S. driver's license issued by a 

state, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, a territory, a possession, or the Federal 

government. The PIC must also meet the flight review requirements specified in 

14 CFR § 61.56 in an aircraft in which the PIC is rated on his or her pilot certificate. 

14. The operator may not permit any PIC to operate unless the PIC demonstrates the 

ability to safely operate the UAS in a manner consistent with how the UAS will be 

operated under this exemption, including evasive and emergency maneuvers and 

maintaining appropriate distances from persons, vessels, vehicles and structures. PIC 

qualification flight hours and currency must be logged in a manner consistent with 

14 CFR § 61.51 (b). Flights for the purposes of training the operator's PICs and VOs 
5 

(training, proficiency, and experience-building) and determining the PIC's ability to 

safely operate the UAS in a manner consistent with how the UAS will be operated 

under this exemption are permitted under the terms of this exemption. However, 

training operations may only be conducted during dedicated training sessions. During 

training, proficiency, and experience-building flights, ail persons not essential for 

flight operations are considered nonparticipants, and the PIC must operate the UA 

with appropriate distance from nonparticipants in accordance with 14 CFR § 91.119. 

15. UAS operations may not be conducted during night, as defined in 14 CFR § 1.1. All 

operations must be conducted under visual meteorological conditions (VMC). Flights 

under special visual flight rules (SVFR) are not authorized. 

16. The UA may not operate within 5 nautical miles of an airport reference point (ARP) as 

denoted in the current FAA Airport/Facility Directory (AFD) or for airports not 

denoted with an ARP, the center of the airport symbol as denoted on the current 

FAA-published aeronautical chart, unless a letter of agreement with that airport's 

management is obtained or otherwise permitted by a COA issued to the exemption 

holder. The letter of agreement with the airport management must be made available 

to the Administrator or any law enforcement official upon request. 

17. The UA may not be operated less than 500 feet below or less than 2,000 feet 

horizontally from a cloud or when visibility is less than 3 statute miles from the PIC. 

18. If the UAS loses communications or loses its GPS signal, the UA must return to a 

pre-determined location within the private or controlled-access property. 

19. The PIC must abort the flight in the event ofunpredicted obstacles or emergencies. 

20. The PIC is prohibited from beginning a flight unless (considering wind and forecast 

weather conditions) there is enough available power for the UA to conduct the 

intended operation and to operate after that for at least five minutes or with the reserve 

power recommended by the manufacturer if greater. 

21. Air Traffic Organization (ATO) Certificate ofWaiver or Authorization (COA). All 

operations shall be conducted in accordance with an A TO-issued COA. The 

exemption holder may apply for a new or amended COA if it intends to conduct 

operations that cannot be conducted under the terms of the attached COA. 

22. All aircraft operated in accordance with this exemption must be identified by serial 

number, registered in accordance with 14 CFR part 47, and have identification 

(N-Number) markings in accordance with 14 CFR part 45, Subpart C. Markings must 

be as large as practicable. 
6 

23. Documents used by the operator to ensure the safe operation and flight of the UAS and 

any documents required under 14 CFR §§ 91.9 and 91.203 must be available to the 

PIC at the Ground Control Station of the UAS any time the aircraft is operating. 

These documents must be made available to the Administrator or any Jaw enforcement 

official upon request. 

24. The UA must remain clear and give way to all manned aviation operations and 

activities at all times. 

25. The UAS may not be operated by the PIC from any moving device or vehicle. 

26. All Flight operations must be conducted at least 500 feet from all nonparticipating 

persons, vessels, vehicles, and structures unless: 

a. Barriers or structures are present that sufficiently protect nonparticipating persons 

from the UA and/or debris in the event of an accident. The operator must ensure 

that nonparticipating persons remain under such protection. If a situation arises 

where nonparticipating persons leave such protection and are within 500 feet of 

the UA, flight operations must cease immediately in a manner ensuring the safety 

of nonparticipating persons; and 

b. The owner/controller of any vessels, vehicles or structures has granted permission 

for operating closer to 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. 

The PIC, YO, operator trainees or essential persons are not considered 

nonparticipating persons under this exemption. 

27. All operations shall be conducted over private or controlled-access property with 

permission from the property owner/controller or authorized representative. 

Permission from property owner/controller or authorized representative will be 

obtained for each flight to be conducted. 

28. Any incident, accident, or flight operation that transgresses the lateral or vertical 

boundaries of the operational area as defined by the applicable COA must be reported 

to the FAA's UAS Integration Office (AFS-80) within 24 hours. Accidents must be 

reported to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) per instructions 

contained on the NTSB Web site: www.ntsb.gov. 

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. 

29. The operator must have a motion picture and television operations manual (MPTOM) 

as documented in this grant of exemption. 
7 

30. 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: 

a. Dates and times for all flights; 

b. Name and phone number of the operator for the UAS aerial filming conducted 

under this grant of exemption; 

c. Name and phone number of the person responsible for the on-scene operation of 

the UAS; 

d. Make, model, and serial or N-Number ofUAS to be used; 

e. Name and certificate number ofUAS PICs involved in the aerial filming; 

f. 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; 

g. Signature of exemption holder or representative; and 

h. 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. 

31. 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. 

Unless otherwise specified in this grant of exemption, the UAS, the UAS PIC, and the UAS 

operations must comply with all applicable parts of 14 CFR including, but not limited to, 

parts 45, 47, 61, and 91. 

This exemption terminates on September 30, 2017, unless sooner superseded or rescinded. 

Sincerely, 

Is/ 

John S. Duncan 

Director, Flight Standards Service 

Enclosures 

L--------------------------------------------------------------------·------
517/2015 Regulations.gov- Other Document 

EarthRes, Inc. - Exemption/Rulemaking 

This Other document was issued by the Federal Aviation 

Administration (FAA) 

For related information, Open Docket Folder 00 

Content 

SUBMITIED ELECTRONICALLY 

01 April 2015 

U.S. Department of Transportation 

Docket Management System 

1200 New Jersey Avenue SE 

Washington, DC 20590 

RE: Petition for Exemption from 14 CFR Parts 61.113 (a), 

91.119 (c), 91.121, 91.151 (a) (1), 91.405 (a) and (b), 91.407 (a) 

(1), 91.409(a) (1) and (2), 91.417 (a) and (b) according to Section 

333 of the FAA Reform Act of 2012 

Dear Sir or Madam: 

Pursuant to Section 333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform 

Act of 2012 and 14 CFR Part 11, EarthRes, Inc. is applying for 

an exemption from regulations detailed below in order to conduct 

aerial photography and surveys with a small unmanned aircraft 

system, the model Aero-M manufactured by 3DRobotics. The 

manufacturer states that it has developed the fixed-wing Aero-M 

specifically for high resolution visual spectrum aerial maps. 

Exemption Petitioner: 

EarthRes, Inc. 

Attn: Mr. Nathan Progar 

6912 Old Easton Rd., Pipersville, PA 19044 

215.766.1211 

Separately submitted as confidential documents under 14 CFR 

Section 11.35 (b) are: 

1) 3DRobotics Aero-M Operation Manual v3 

2) EarthRes Flight Operations Manual v1 (FOM) 

3) EarthRes Flight Checklist v1 

These documents contain proprietary information that is not 

available to the public and are protected from release under the 

Freedom of Information Act 5 USC 552 et.seq. 

All of us at EarthRes appreciate and thank you for your time and 

attention reviewing our petition. We look forward to working with 

the FAA to enter the emerging UAS market in the safest manner 

possible. 

http:Jiwww.regulations.gov/#!documentDetaii;D= FAA-2015-1461-0001 

L------------------------------

Comment Now! 

------~--------------, 

ID: FAA-2015-1461-0001 ~ ;..--·------------ -----------~---------·--

Document Information 

Date Posted: 

May 6, 2015 

Show More Details 19 

Submitter Information 

Submitter Name: 

Nathan Progar 

Mailing Address: 

6912 Old Easton Road 

City: 

Pipersville 

Country: 

United States 

State or Province: 

PA 

ZIP/Postal Code: 

18947 

Organization Name: 

EarthRes, Inc. 

Comments 

0 

Comments Received* 

1--·----·----------~ 

! Docket Information I 

I This document is contained in I 

I

, FAA-2015-1461 ! 

. Related Dockets: I 

112 
517/2015 

Respectfully, 

Nathan Progar 

UAS Advisor/Assistant Project Manager 

Regulations.gov- Other Document 

nprogar@earthres.com 800.264.4553 Toll-Free 

Pipersville, PA Morgantown, WV 215.766.1222 PA Office 

www.earthres.com 304.212.6866 WV Office 

http:Jfwww.regulations.gov/#ldocumentDetaii;D= F AA-2015-1461-!1001 

None 

Related RINs: 

None 

Related Documents: 

None 

* This count refers to the total 

commenUsubmissions received on 

this document, as of 11 :59 PM 

yesterday. Note: Agencies review 

all submissions, however some 

agencies may choose to redact, or 

withhold, certain submissions (or 

portions thereof) such as those 

containing private or proprietary 

information, inappropriate 

language, or duplicate/near 

duplicate examples of a mass-mail 

campaign. This can result in 

discrepancies between this count 

and those displayed when 

conducting searches on the Public 

Submission document type. For 

specific information about an 

agency's public submission policy, 

refer to its website or the Federal 

Register document. 

212 
SUBMITTED ELECTRONICALLY 

01 April 2015 

U.S. Department of Transportation 

Docket Management System 

1200 New Jersey Avenue SE 

Washington, DC 20590 

ar Res 

ENGINEERING AND SC ENCE 

w\vw.carthrcs.com 

RE: Petition for Exemption from 14 CFR Parts 61.113 (a), 91.119 (c), 91.121, 91.151 (a) (1), 91.405 (a) and (b), 

91.407 (a) (1), 91.409(a) (1) and (2), 91.417 (a) and (b) according to Section 333 of the FAA Reform Act of 2012 

Dear Sir or Madam: 

Pursuant to Section 333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 and 14 CFR Part 11, Earth Res, Inc. is 

applying for an exemption from regulations detailed below in order to conduct aerial photography and surveys 

with a small unmanned aircraft system, the model Aero-M manufactured by 3DRobotics. The manufacturer 

states that it has developed the fixed-wing Aero-M specifically for high resolution visual spectrum aerial maps. 

Exemption Petitioner: 

EarthRes, Inc. 

Attn: Mr. Nathan Progar 

6912 Old Easton Rd., Pipersville, PA 19044 

215.766.1211 

Separately submitted as confidential documents under 14 CFR Section 11.35 (b) are: 

1) 3DRobotics Aero-M Operation Manual v3 

2) EarthRes Flight Operations Manual v1 (FOM) 

3) EarthRes Flight Checklist v1 

These documents contain proprietary information that is not available to the public and are protected from 

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

All of us at Earth Res appreciate and thank you for your time and attention reviewing our petition. We look 

forward to working with the FAA to enter the emerging UAS market in the safest manner possible. 

Respectfully, 

Nathan Progar 

UAS Advisor/Assistant Project Manager 

nprogar@earthres.com 

Pipersville, PA · Morgantown, WV 

www.earthres.com 

800.264.4553 Toll-Free 

215.766.1222 PA Office 

304.212.6866 WV Office 
Contents 

Description of Petitioner ........................................................................................................................................... .3 

Description of UAS ...................................................................................................................................................... 3 

Exemptions Requested ............................................................................................................................................... 3 

14 CFR 61.113 (a) Private pilot privileges and limitations: Pilot in command ........................................................ 3 

14 CFR 91.119 (c) Minimum safe altitudes: Over other than congested areas .................................................... ..4 

14 CFR 91.121 Altimeter settings ........................................................................................................................... 4 

14 CFR 91.151 (a) (1) Fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions .................................................................... 4 

14 CFR 91.405 (a) and (b), 91.407 (a) (1), 91.409 (a) (1) and (2) Maintenance and Inspections ......................... ..4 

14 CFR 91.417 (a) and (b) Maintenance Records ................................................................................................... 5 

Pilot in Command ....................................................................................................................................................... 5 

Visual Observers ........................................................................................................................................................ .5 

UAS Operations .......................................................................................................................................................... 5 

Benefits to the Public ................................................................................................................................................. 6 

Safety Summary .......................................................................................................................................................... 6 

Page 2 of7 ENGINEERING M'lD SCIENCE 
Description of Petitioner 

The mission of EarthRes is to provide our clients with superior services by partnering with them to develop 

sensible solutions. The EarthRes team consists of hardworking, passionate engineers and scientists who develop 

successful solutions for our clients' technical and operational challenges. Our dedicated staff works together to 

promote success, encourage team growth, and make Earth Res a fun, and rewarding firm to work for and with. 

EarthRes maintains a staff of professional engineers, scientists, geologists, and consultants with experience from 

around the globe. We actively maintain professional, governmental, and industry certifications and support 

membership in those organizations to help our team members stay current in their fields and our clients' 

markets. 

EarthRes wishes to conduct aerial photography and surveys of restricted access quarries, landfills, and similar 

properties by small unmanned aircraft. In preparation to do so, Earth Res has prepared a Flight Operations 

Manual {FOM) and supporting checklists which promote safe flying, ensure the safety of people and property, 

protect privacy, and comply with applicable FAA requirements. 

Description of UAS 

3D Robotics Aero-M is a purpose built fixed-wing aircraft designed to conduct aerial photography and surveying. 

Thrust is provided by a Tiger electric motor powered by a lithium polymer battery. 3DRobotics on-board 

PixHawk controller provides autopilot mission abilities and manual control of the aircraft while monitoring GPS, 

compass, and airspeed sensors. Operators use Spektrum's DX7s remote control to manipulate control surfaces 

manually and select between manual and autonomous modes of operation. 

The Aero-M includes emergency fail-safes, pre-programmed behaviors designed to prevent eras hes. If the AeroM loses GPS signal in a flight mode that requires GPS {loiter, auto, return-to-launch, guided), it will land 

autonomously. If contact is lost with the controller, the Aero-M will return to the launch point and circle at 100 

m or approximately 328' AGL If the controller fails to re-connect, the Aero-M will land autonomously. If the 

Aero-M battery reaches 25% charge capacity, it will return to the launch point and land autonomously. 

The aircraft has a 74" wingspan, 51" length, and weighs 6.8 pounds with the standard 6000 mAh battery. No 

flammable fuels are on board. Typical flight speed during survey missions is 33 mph, and maximum speed of the 

aircraft is 60 mph. Maximum flight time on a 6 Ah battery is 40 minutes. 

Exemptions Requested 

14 CFR 61.113 (a) Private pilot privileges and limitations: Pilot i11 comm:md. 

Section 61.113 (a) limits private pilot certificate holders from acting as pilot in command {PIC) offlights carrying 

passengers or property for compensation, unless the flight meets the provisions of section 61.113 {b) through 

{h). It is the intention of Earth Res to conduct surveying flights for compensation without PIC's possessing a 

commercial pilot's license, concurrent to FAA Grant of Exemption No. 11062 to Astraeus Aerial and No. 11192 to 

Viking Unmanned Aerial Systems, Inc. In these exemptions it was the FAA's determination that PIC of UAS 

the characteristics of the Aero-M and 

Page 3 of7 
skills necessary to operate safely with private pilot certification. EarthRes agrees with this determination and is 

requesting exemption with the limitation that PIC's must hold current private pilot certificate and third-class 

airman medical certificate. 

14 CFR 91.119 (c) Minimum safe altitudes: Over otbu tban congested are:.ls. 

Earth Res is proposing to operate at the request of property owners or managers (clients) and flight operations 

will be limited to their property. Proposed property types include quarries, landfills, aggregate and mineral 

stockpiles, etc. where access is limited by fences and gates to ensure public safety from explosives, heavy 

machinery, unstable earth, etc. Regardless of property type, Earth Res and the property owner will ensure that 

only authorized and informed personnel are on the property. Personnel essential to flight .operations include the 

PIC, VO(s), and a client liaison responsible for ensuring ongoing security ofsurvey area. All other personnel will 

be outside of the survey/flight area or inside of buildings or vehicles capable of withstanding the Aero-M's size, 

weight, and speed without damage and fully protecting any personnel inside. 

EarthRes proposes exemption to operate within 500' but no less than 100' of buildings and vehicles described 

above with the owner's informed consent. For vehicles and buildings which consent has not been given and for 

non-essential personnel, flights will not occur within 250', more than twice the manufacture's recommendation. 

14 CFR 91.121 Altimeter settings. 

Manned aircraft commonly have barometric altimeters that must be adjusted during flight for changes in 

atmospheric conditions in order to correctly report the aircraft's altitude, AGL The Aero-M uses GPS, 

established and verified during preflight according to the FOM, to derive altitude. 0' AGL is set upon GPS 

initiation and AGL is reported in reference to the departure point. EarthRes proposes to utilize the GPS reported 

AGL from departure point for the duration of the flight, and maintains that all flights will be conducted below 

400' AGL Safety is ensured by the limited operating area of the UAS and is concurrent to the findings of the FAA 

in Grant of Exception No. 11192. 

14 CFR 91.151 (a) (1) Fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions. 

Section 91.151 ensures, prior to takeoff, that there is enough fuel on board to reach the intended destination 

with sufficient fuel in reserve for unplanned or emergency use. The Aero-M is battery powered and has a 

maximum flight time of 40 minutes, too short of a period to effectively meet existing requirements. Earth Res 

proposes limiting flights to 75% of battery capacity or 30 minutes, whichever comes first, leaving 25% or 

approximately 10 minutes of flight time in reserve. This amount of reserve maintains safe ability, considering the 

limited area of operation, for a safe landing. 

14 CFR 91.405 (a) and (b), 91.407 (a) (1), 91.409 (a) (1) and (2) Maintenance and Inspections. 

Required inspections and discrepancies repaired between required inspections pertains to certificated manned 

aircraft and procedures conducted by licensed maintenance personnel. In the absence of certification 

requirements for sUAS and sUAS maintenance personnel, alternatives must be developed. EarthRes will conduct 

and document inspection, maintenance, and replacement as described in the FOM. Since most parts ofthe 

aircraft are not user serviceable but are user replaceable due to size, expense, and complexity, safety is 

maintained by ensuring that discrepancies are replaced when found and logged as described in the FOM. 

·EarthRes Page 4 of7 Et'·JGH'0EER!NG /r,ND SCIENCE 
14 CFR 91.417 (a) and (b) Maintenance Records. 

Maintenance records will be logged and available to the PIC during flight operations according to procedures in 

the FOM. sUAS maintenance is much simpler than maintenance of manned aircraft and by providing a record of 

deficiencies and mitigating maintenance maintains safety and traceability of maintenance performed. 

Pilot in Command 

The PIC must hold a private pilot certificate and a third-class medical certificate, be current in the aircraft named 

on the certificate, and be in compliance with the training and testing specified in the FOM. PIC must maintain 

visual sight of the aircraft and remain in communication with the visual observer{s). The pilot must be prepared 

to take over manual control of the aircraft during autonomous flight in case of equipment failure, emergency, or 

other aircraft. 

Visual Observers 

At least one visual observer will be used during all flights, training or survey. Observers will be provided with 

sufficient training to communicate clearly to the PIC any turning instructions required to stay clear of conflicting 

traffic. Observers will receive training on rules and responsibilities described in: 

a) 14 CFR 91.111, Operating Near Other Aircraft 

b) 14 CFR 91.13, Right-of-Way Rules, cloud clearance, in-flight visibility 

The PIC will record the observer's name in the flight log. The PIC is responsible for instructing the observer on 

maintaining communications during the flight, either within verbal proximity or through radio communications 

as described in the FOM. 

UAS Operations 

All operations will be according to the FOM, under the operational control of the PIC, and in accordance with 

any FAA conditions and limitations. 

1) The aircraft will be the 3D Robotics Aero-M unless an amendment to this petition or COA is approved by 

the FAA. 

2) UAS operations will be limited to aerial photography and surveying unless an amendment to this 

petition or COA is approved by the FAA. 

3) The UAS will not be flown in excess of 60 mph or exceeding any other Manufacturer limitation. 

4) UAS Manufacturer safety bulletins will be followed and incorporated into operating documents. 

5) UAS flight operations will occur only in Class G airspace less than 400' AGL within line of sight of the PIC 

and VO, unaided by any device other than corrective lenses. 

6) Visibility must be greater than 3 miles from the PIC, and the UAS may not be operated within 500' below 

or 2,000' horizontally from a cloud. 

7) UAS will not be operated in other than VMC during daylight hours, as detailed in 14 CFR § 1.1. 

8) All UAS operated will be registered with the FAA pursuant to 14 CFR § 47, and will display, as large as 

the N number to 14 CFR § 45 subpart C. 

~>EarthRes Page 5 of7 f:!'JGlNEERH'.1G J.\ND SCiENCE 
9) All operations will utilize aVO, who will meet the qualifications, perform the duties, and maintain 

communication with the PIC as described in the Earth Res FOM. VO will not perform other duties or tasks 

during flight. 

10) Prior to flight, the PIC must perform preflight checks, described in the FOM, to ensure the UAS is in a 

condition safe for flight. Any discrepancies must be resolved or the UAS is prohibited from flight 

operations. 

11) Inspections and Maintenance will be performed and documented according to the FOM. 

12) Functional test flights in connection with maintenance requirements will be documented according to 

the FOM. 

13) The PIC will hold at minimum a private pilot certificate and third-class medical certificate. PIC must meet 

the requirements set forth in the FOM and flight review requirements, according to 14 CFR § 61.56, in 

an aircraft which the PIC is rated. 

14) All RF spectrum used (915MHz, 2.4GHz, and 5.8GHz) will be in compliance with FCC and any other 

government agency requirements. 

15) Incidents, accidents, or flight that transgresses the lateral or vertical boundaries of the operation area 

will be reported to the FAA's UAS Integration Office within 24 hours. 

16} UAS accidents will be reported to the NTSB per NTSB instructions. 

Benefits to the Public 

The proposed operation of UAS will allow EarthRes to mitigate safety risks for clients who must conduct 

haphazard bulk material surveys. Unable to perform this type of survey safely from the ground, the UAS will 

replace the need for larger and more costly manned aircraft. The surveys provide detailed information that will 

help clients plan safe use of explosives, additional bulk material transfers, and visually verify the safety of a 

location prior to letting ground personnel enter. The reduction of manned aircraft flights increases available NAS 

and completes the same mission expeditiously with contact on the ground to the client reducing errors and 

omissions in surveys requiring additional manned flights. The overall result ofthe planned operations also 

decreases expensive airframe maintenance and reduces the environmental impact of surveying by eliminating 

the use of fossil fuel in aircraft. Neighbors of surveyed facilities also benefit by eliminating the need for loud, low 

flights from manned aircraft during surveys and replaces the larger aircraft with a small, lightweight, electric 

aircraft. 

Safety Summary 

Pursuant to 14 CFR § 11, the following summary is provided for publication in the Federal Registrar: 

EarthRes requests exemption from 14 CFR Parts 61.113 (a), 91.119 (c), 91.121, 91.151 (a) (1), 91.405 (a) and (b), 

91.407 (a) (1}, 91.409(a) (1) and (2), 91.417 (a) and (b) according to Section 333 of the FAA Reform Act of 2012 

to operate a small unmanned aerial vehicle for the purposes of aerial photography and surveys. 

The proposed survey aircraft does not carry people, cargo, or flammable liquid fuels. The size and weight of the 

Aero-M is a small fraction of traditional manned survey aircraft and flies a slower, safer speeds. There is no risk 

~:cEarthRes Page 6 of? ENG!NEEF~ING /U'-iD SCIENCE 
to the public's privacy considering that all operations will be restricted to property for which the owner or 

manager has granted permission. 

As proposed, the sUAS operations will enhance safety, reduce the risk of entering hazardous areas for our 

client's employees and contractors. Procedures, training, and airmanship of sUAS personnel in the FOM will let 

Earth Res achieve safety levels in the NAS and on ground, which are equivalent to or greater than current 

manned aviation standards. 

Page 7 of7 ENG!~JEEcfl!NG 1'\t~D SCIENCE 
Date: 

S1000 User Manual Version: 

S1000 ESC Firmware Version: 

February 24 2014 S 1 000 Launched 

S 1000 Overview 

1. Safe and stable 

February 24, 2014 

1.00 

3.6 

S 1 000 Product Release Notes 

(1) The S1000 's V type mixer design provides large amounts of propulsion while improving power efficiency. 

Combined with a DJI flight controllers like the A2, it is guaranteed to remain stable even with the loss of a 

rotor. 

(2) Integrated into the center frame is a power distribution system using our patented coaxial cable connector. It 

is more efficient, reliable and easy to install and eliminates the need for soldering. Its main power cord uses an 

AS150 sparkproof plug and an XT150 plug, preventing creators from mixing up polarity when plugging in the 

battery and preventing short circuits. 

(3) All frame arms as well as the retractable landing gear are made from carbon fiber, ensuring light weight and 

high structural stability. 

2. Professional octocopter 

(l) Weighing approximately 4kg with a maximum takeoff weight of about llkg, the S1000 can easily carry 

equipment as heavy as a 50 mark 3. Used with a 6S 15000mAh battery it can fly for up to 15 minutes. 

(2) The gimbal is mounted low on the frame on a specially designed bracket. When combined with our 

retractable landing gear, it offers a clear and wide shooting angle. 

(3) Gimbal and battery are mounted to the same bracket, with dampers placed between the bracket and the 

frame. This significantly reduces high-frequency vibrations and makes shots clearer and sharper. The battery 

tray's position also makes it more stable and convenient for mounting and dismounting. 

(4) Supports all Zenmuse Z15 gimbal systems. 

(5) Optimized for A2 wiring and installation, connecting an A2 flight controller and setting flight parameters is 

easy. The A2's antenna is kept away from any carbon fiber or metal, ensuring a better signal. 

3. Portable and easy to use 

(l) All eight arms can be completely folded down and the 1552 folding propeller can be tucked away, minimizing 

the SlOOO 's size for transportation .. 

(2) To fly, simply lift the frame arms up, lock them in place with the red clips and power up the system. This 

greatly saves on pre-flight prep time. 

(3) On the center frame there are 3 XT60 power sockets and 8 positions reserved for equipment installation, 

making installs easier and tidier. 

4. Easy to control and fly 

(1) Each frame arm is designed with an 8' introversive and a 3" inclination, making the aircraft more stable when 

rolling and pitching and more flexible when rotating. 

(2) Each frame arm has a built-in 40A electronic speed controller (ESC). When combined with its 4114 pro motor 

and high performance 1552 folding propellers. it is capable of a maximum thrust of 2.5Kg. 

New Product Specification 

©2014 OJ I Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 
S 1 000 Product Release Notes 

Frame 

~--~------.~-----------------~~------------~-------·-----------------------~ Diagonal Wheelbase 1045mm 

Frame Arm Length 386mm 

Frame Arm Weight 

(with Motor, ESC, Propeller) 

Center Frame Diameter 

Center Frame Weight (with Landing Gear 

Mounting Base, Servos) 

Landing Gear Size 

Motor 

Stator Size 

kV 

Max Power 

Weight (with Cooling Fan) . - -

ESC 

Working Current 

Working Voltage 

Signal Frequency 

Drive PWM Frequency 

Weight (with Radiators) 

----

Foldable Propeller 0552/1552R) 

Material 

Size 

Weight 

Flight Parameters 

Takeoff Weight 

Total Weight 

Power Battery 

Max Power Consumption 

Hovering Power Consumption 

Hovering Time 

Working Environment Temperature 

©2014 OJ I Innovations. All Rights Reserved. 

325g 

337.5mm 

1330g 

460mm(Length)x51lmm(Width)><305mm(Height) 

(Top width: 155 mm) 

41><14mm 

400rpm/V 

500W 

158g 

40A 

6S LiPo 

30Hz~ 450Hz 

8KHz 

35g 

High strength performance engineered plastics 

15><5.2inch 

13g 

6.0Kg ~ ll.OKg 

4.2Kg 

LiPo (6S, 10000mAh~20000mAh, 15C(Min)) 

4000W 

1500W (@9.5Kg Takeoff Weight) 

15min (@15000mAh& 9.5Kg Takeoff Weight) 

-10 "C- +40 "C 

····-· ....