## 1

Drone/UAS Practice Group 35 E Wacker Drive Suite 1875 Chicago, IL 60601 Tel. 312.201.8310 Jeffrey@Antonelli

- Law.com U.S. Department of Transportation July 20, 2015 Docket Management System 1200 New Jersey Ave S.E. Washington, D.C. 20590 Re: Request for Exemption under Section 333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2 012 and Part 11 of the Federal Aviation Regulations from Certain Provisions of 14 C.F.R. Angle of Attack Photography, LLC Dear Sir or Madam: Pursuant to Section 333 of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012 (the Reform Act) and 14 C.F.R. Part 11, A ntonelli Law files this petition for exemption on behalf of Angle of Attack Photography , LLC (“A A P ”) , an operator of Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (“UAs ”) for the purpose of (1) real estate and (2) small event photography

. Specifically, petitioner seeks an exemption from the Federal Aviation Regulations (“FARs”) listed in Appendix A to allow commercial operation of its UAs, so long as such operations are conducted within and under the conditions outlined herein or as may be established by the FAA in a gra nt of this petition. This request is substantially similar to other data collection petitions previously approved, and should be considered under the expedited summary grant procedure. Approval of the exemption for petitioner will allow commercial operati on of the 3DR Solo in Class G airspace nationwide unless otherwise prescribed by an Air Traffic Organization (ATO) issued COA. This UA has been previously approved for commercial operations in Exemption No. 11335 A, 11778A, 11832, 11908, 11935, 11954 and 11 961

. The UA covered by this petition is a small battery

- powered craft, weighing approximately 3.3 lb. (1.5 kg.) , inclusive of battery and payload. Operation of the UA under the strict conditions proposed below will provide an equivalent level of safety, as Congress intended, while still allowing commercial operations. Operations using these UAs are far safer than conventional operations conducted with helicopters and fixed

- wing aircraft that weigh thousands of pounds, carry highly flammable fuel, and operat e in close proximity to the ground, trees, infrastructure, and people. Congress directed the FAA to consider seven factors in deciding whether to approve Section 333 exemption petitions

- size, weight, speed, operational capability, proximity to airports , proximity to populated areas, and operation within visual line of sight. In this case, each factor supports the exemption request. In particular, the UA is small, and will operate at slow speeds and close to the ground. It will be able to more safely and efficiently conduct operations that would otherwise involve risk of injury or death. The substantial increase of safety and

## 3 Table of Contents I. Publishable Summary

................................ ................................ ................................ .............. 5 II. Petitioner’s Contact Information

................................ ................................ ............................. 5 III. Proposed Operations

................................ ................................ ................................ ................ 6 A. The UA

................................ ................................ ................................ ........................... 6 B. The Crew

................................ ................................ ................................ ........................ 6 C. Flight Conditions

................................ ................................ ................................ ............ 7 D. Flight Operations

................................ ................................ ................................ ............ 7 IV. Aircraft and Equivalent Level of Safety

................................ ................................ .................. 7 V. Proposed Conditions of the Exemption

................................ ................................ ................... 8 VI. Privacy

................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ... 11 VII. Public Interest and Safety

................................ ................................ ................................ ...... 11 VIII. Regulations f

rom Which Exemption is Requested

................................ .............................. 13 Appendix A: FARs as to which AAP wishes the same determination to be made as has been made previously.

................................ ................................ ................................ .......... 13

## 4 Exhibit List Exhibit 1: Angle of Attac k Photography LLC ’s Pre flight Checklist

................................ ................

................................ ................................ ................................ . Submitted confidentially to the FAA Exhibit 2: 3DR Solo Overview

................................ ................................ ................................ ..... 16 Exhibit 3: 3 DR Solo Controller

................................ ................................ ................................ .... 22 Exhibit 4 : 3DR Solo Setup Guide

................................ ................................ ................................ 27 Exhibit 5 : 3DR User Manual

................................ ................................ ................................ ....... 29 Exhibit 6: 3DR Pixhawk User Manual

................................ ................................ ......................... 86 Exhibit 1 has been submitted confidentially to the FAA and is not available to the public.

## 5

I. Publishable Summary Pursuant to 14 C.F.R. §11, the following summary is provided fo r publication in the Federal Register, should it be determined that publication is needed: Petitioner seeks an exemption from the following rules: 14 C.F.R 21(h); 14 C.F.R. 43.7; 14 C.F.R. 43.11; 14 C.F.R. 45.11; 14 C.F.R. 45.27; 14 C.F.R. 45.29; 14 C.F .R. 91.7(a); 14 C.F.R. 91.9(b)(2); 14 C.F.R. 91.9(c); 14 C.F.R. 91.103(b)(2); 14 C.F.R. 91.105; 14 C.F.R. 91.109; 14 C.F.R. 91.113(b); 14 C.F.R. 91.119 (c); 14 C.F.R. 91.121; 14 C.F.R. 91.151(a); 14 C.F.R. 91.203(a) and (b); 14 C.F.R. 215; 14 C.F.R. 91.403 ; 14 C.F.R. 91.405(a); 14 C.F.R. 91.407(a)(1); 14 C.F.R. 409(a)(1) and (2); and 14 C.F.R. 91.417(a) and (b) to operate commercially small unmanned aircraft systems (UAs) ( 3.3 lb. or less)

. Approval of the exemption requested by petitioner will allow comm ercial operation of the 3DR Solo for the purpose of (1) real estate and (2) small event photography in Class G airspace nationwide, unless otherwise prescribed by an ATO

- issued COA. The requested exemption should be granted because operation of a small UA weighing approximately 3.3 lb. ( 1. 5 kg.), inclusive of battery and payload , conducted in the strict conditions outlined below, will provide an equivalent level of safety, while still allowing commercial operations. The lightweight aircraft covered by the e xemption are far safer than conventional operations conducted with helicopters and fixed

- wing aircraft weighing thousands of pounds and carrying highly flammable fuel, and operating in close proximity to the ground and people. The seven factors Congress di rected the FAA to consider when approving Section 333 exemption petitions

- size, weight, speed, operational capability, proximity to airports, proximity to populated areas, and operation within visual line of sight

– each support the request. In particula r, the aircraft are small, and will operate at slow speeds, and close to the ground. The substantial increase of safety and decrease of risk to human life, coupled with the low risk use of UAs to conduct these operations, weigh heavily in favor of granting the exemption. II. Petitioner’s Contact Information Scott Coleman Angle of Attack Photography , LLC 1244 South Westfield Road Toquerville, UT 84774 Counsel for Petitioner: Antonelli Law 35 E Wacker Drive Suite 1875 Chicago, IL 60601 Tel: 312

- 201

- 8310 Email : jeffrey@antonelli

- law.com

## 6

III. Proposed Operations A. The UA The requested exemption will permit petitioner to operate the 3DR Solo . The UA has been previously a pproved for commercial operations in Exemption No s . 11335A, 11778A, 11832, 11908, 11935, 11954 and 11961

. This p etition, along with Exhibits 1

- 6 are hereinafter referred to as the “operating documents. ” The specific conditions of the proposed exemption that relate to the characteristics of the UA are n umbe rs 1, 5, and 16

- 20 in Section V below . Each has been adopted or imposed by the FAA in numerous previous grants of Section 333 exemption petitions. The 3DR Solo has the ability to hover and move in the vertical and horizontal planes simultaneously. Th e UA has the following specifications or equivalent: Airframe: 3DR Solo Control system: 3DR Pixhawk 2 autopilot system , which contains the gyroscope, accelerometer/magnetometer, and barometer. Maximum speed: 48 knots Weight, inclusive of battery and techn ical payload : 3.3 lbs. (1.5 kg) Transmitter (Tx): 2.4 Ghz 3DR Solo Controller Receiver (Rx): internal to the flight control system Motors : 880 KV motors Propeller s : 10 in. x 4.5 in. Combined data and video link: 3DR Link secure Wi

- Fi Gimbal: 3

- axis Solo B atteries : Lithium polymer, 5200 mAh, 14.8 Vdc Telemetry display: 3DR Solo App using the APM: Copter flight control software Automatic return to home procedure: If the signal between the UA and the controller is lost during flight, the Solo will : (1) rise t o 98 ft. AGL (30 m) or maintain current altitude if above 98 feet; (2) travel horizontally t o the launch point and hover for 5 seconds; and (3) land

. Please refer to the Exhibits 2

- 6 for more information regarding this UA and its flight control system. B. T he Crew The crew will consist of a pilot in command (PIC) and a visual observer (VO). The PIC and VO will have been trained in the operation of UAs generally and will have received up

- to

date information on the UA to be operated pursuant to this grant. T he PIC will have, at minimum, a sport pilot license and ei t her a U.S. driver’s license or a third

- class medical certificate

. Additionally, the PIC will have , at minimum , 25 hours of flight time on UAs generally and 10 hours of flight time on the Solo prior to commercial operations. The specific conditions of the proposed exemption that relate to the training and characteristics of the crew are numbers 3 and 6

- 9 in Section V below. E ach has been adopted or imposed by the FAA in numerous previous grants of Section 333 exemption petitions.

## 7

C. Flight Conditions The UA will be used for real estate and small event photography in Class G airspace (unless otherwise prescribed by an ATO

- issued COA) under 4 00 feet above ground level (“AGL”) and under controlled condi tions over restricted property. Petitioner will work with the local FSDO when planning operations. Petitioner will only operate its UA in visual meteorological conditions (VMC). The UA will at all times be no less than 500 feet below and no less than 2,000 feet horizontally from a cloud, and petitioner will not conduct operations unless visibility is at least 3 statute miles from the PIC. The flight crew will always make a safety assessment of the risk of every operation, and will only operate when it is de termined that no hazards are present. The specific conditions of the proposed exemption that relate to the flight conditions in which the UA will be operated are numbers 2, 4, 16, and 28

- 29 in Section V below . Each has been adopted or imposed by the FAA in numerous previous grants of Section 333 exemption petitions. D. Flight Operations The purpose of the UA flights for which exemption is requested will be for real estate and small event photography . Every UA flight will use at minimum a two person flight crew: a PIC and a VO. Petitioner will fly the UA no higher than 400 feet above ground level (AGL). Please refer to the following exhibits for more information regarding flight operations: Exhibit 1: AAP’s Pre flight Checklist Exhibit 4 : 3DR Solo Setup Gu ide Exhibit 5: 3DR Solo User Manual S ection 1.4: Operating Parameters Section 2: Setup Section 3.4: Flight School Section 3.7: Home Position Section 3 .9 : Emergency Procedures Section 4 .1 : Preflight Section 4: Landing Section 9: Maintenance The spe cific conditions of the proposed exemption that relate to flight operations are numbers 11

- 12, 17

- 25, and 32

- 35 in Section V below. Each has been accepted or imposed by the FAA in numerous previous grants of Section 333 exemption petitions. IV. Aircraft and E quivalent Level of Safety Petitioner proposes that the exemption apply to UAs that have the characteristics and that operate with the limitations proposed herein. These limitations provide for a level of safety at least equivalent to or higher than manned aircraft operations under the current regulatory structure. Section V below identifies the limitations and conditions to which petitioner agrees to be bound when conducting commercial operations under a grant of this petition. Appendix A contains a matri x connecting (i) the specific proposed condition with (ii) the FAR provision for which it provides an equivalent level of safety and (iii) one or more recent Section 333

## 8

exemption grants in which the FAA recognized this equivalent level of safety. Approva l of the commercial operations outlined in this petition presents no national security issue. The PIC will possess, at minimum, a sport pilot’s certificate . Therefore, he or she will have been subject to security screenings by the Department of Homeland S ecurity. V. Proposed Conditions of the Exemption 1. The UAs, including battery and technical payload will weigh no more than approximately 3.3 lb. ( 1. 5 kg.)

. 2. UA operations under this exemption will be limited to conducting operations for the purpose of real estate and small event photography and videography in Class G airspace nationwide, unless otherwise prescribed by an ATO issued COA. 3. Flights will be operated within line of sight of the PIC and VO. 4. Flights will be operated at an altitude of no more tha n 400 feet AGL, as indicated by the procedures specified in the operating documents. All altitudes reported to ATC must be in feet AGL. 5. The UA will not be flown at an indicated airspeed exceeding 48 knots. 6. Minimum flight crew for each operation will con sist of the UA PIC and a VO. 7. The PIC will have at minimum a sport pilot license and either a U.S. driver’s license or a third class medical certificate. 8. The petitioner will not permit any PIC to operate unless the PIC meets its qualification criteria and demonstrates the ability to safely operate the UA in a manner consistent with how the UA 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 will be logged in a manner consistent with 14 CFR §61.51(b). A record of the PIC training will be documented and made available upon request by the Administrator. Training operations will only be conducted durin g dedicated training sessions. During training, proficiency, and experience

- building flights, all persons not essential for flight operations will be considered nonparticipants, and the PIC will operate the UA with appropriate distance from nonparticipants in accordance with 14 CFR § 91.119. 9. The VO will not perform any other duties beyond assisting the PIC with seeing and avoiding other air traffic and other ground based obstacles/obstructions, and will not be permitted to operate the camera or other inst ruments. 10. The PIC will be designated before the flight and will not be allowed to transfer his or her designation for the duration of the flight. The PIC will ensure that the VO can perform the functions prescribed in these conditions and the operating doc uments. 11. A briefing will be conducted in regard to the planned UA operations prior to each day’s

## 9

activities. It will be mandatory that all personnel who will be performing duties in connection with the operations be present for this briefing. 12. Prior to ea ch flight, the PIC will inspect the UA, including the Ground Control Station, to ensure it is in a condition for safe flight. If the inspection reveals a condition that affects the safe operation of the UA, the PIC will not operate the UA until the necessa ry maintenance has been performed and the UA is found to be in a condition for safe flight. All maintenance and alterations will be properly documented in the aircraft records. 13. Petitioner will conduct a functional flight test on any UA that has undergone maintenance or alterations that affect the UA operation or flight characteristics, e.g. replacement of a flight critical component. The PIC who conducts the functional test flight will make an entry in the aircraft records. 14. The petitioner will carry out its maintenance, inspections, and record keeping requirements, in accordance with the UA manufacturer’s aircraft/component, maintenance, overhaul, replacement, inspection, and life limit requirements set forth in the operating documents. Maintenance, insp ection, alterations, and status of replacement/overhaul component parts will be noted in the aircraft records, including total time in service, description of work accomplished, and the signature of the authorized person returning the UA to service. The au thorized person will make an entry in the aircraft record of the corrective action taken against discrepancies discovered between inspections. 15. The UA will be operated within visual line of sight (VLOS) of the PIC and VO at all times. This requires the PIC to be able to use human vision unaided by any device other than corrective lenses. PIC and VO will at all times be able to communicate verbally. They will not be permitted to use electronic messaging or texting to communicate during flight operations. 16. T he PIC will not begin a flight unless (considering wind and forecast weather conditions) there is enough power to fly at normal cruising speed to the intended landing point and prepare to land with at least 25% battery power remaining. 17. Actual total flight time for each operational flight will result in no less than a 25% battery reserve. 18. The UA will have the capability to abort a flight in case of unexpected obstacles or emergencies. 19. The UA will be programmed so that if it loses communications or loses its GPS signal, it will return to a pre

- determined location within the planned operating area and land or be recovered in accordance with the operating documents. 20. If the UA and its radio control link disconnect during flight, the system’s failsafe protect ion will be triggered and the multirotor will return to home and land automatically, rather than flying off uncontrollably or landing at an unknown location. 21. The operating documents required under 14 CFR §§ 91.9 and 91.203 will be maintained and availabl e to the PIC at the Ground Control Station of the UA any time the UA is operating.

## 10

These documents will be made available to the Administrator or any law enforcement official upon request. If a discrepancy exists between the conditions and limitations in t he exemption grant and the procedures outlined in the operating documents, the grant conditions and limitations will take precedence and will be followed. Otherwise, the petitioner will follow the procedures outlined in its operating documents. If it updat es or revises its operating documents, it will present updated and revised documents to the Administrator upon request. If the petitioner determines that any update or revision would affect the basis upon which the FAA granted the exemption, then the Petit ioner will petition for an amendment to the grant of exemption. 22. Petitioner will obtain written and/or oral permission from the landowners/authorized agents of the landowners over which flights will be conducted. 23. Petitioner will obtain all required permi ssions and permits from territorial, state, county or city jurisdictions, including local law enforcement, fire, or other appropriate governmental agencies. 24. UA operations will not be conducted during night, as defined in 14 CFR § 1.1. All operations will be conducted under visual meteorological conditions (VMC). Flights will not be conducted under special visual flight rules (SVFR). 25. The petitioner will obtain an Air Traffic Organization (ATO) issued Certificate of Waiver or Authorization (COA) prior to conducting any operations under the grant of exemption. Petitioner will request a Notice to Airman (NOTAM) not more than 72 hours in advance, but not less than 48 hours prior to the operation. All operations will be conducted in accordance with airspace r equirements in the ATO issued COA, including class of airspace, altitude level and potential transponder requirements. 26. The UA will not be operated within 5 nautical miles of an airport reference point as denoted on a current FAA

- published aeronautical c hart unless a letter of agreement with that airport’s management has been obtained, and the operation is conducted in accordance with a NOTAM as required by the operator’s COA. Any letter of agreement with the airport management will be made available to t he Administrator upon request. 27. The UA will 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. 28. All operations shall be conducted in Class G airspace or as otherwise prescribed in an ATO issued COA. 29. All aircraft operated in accordance with this exemption will be identified by serial number, registered in accordance with 14 CFR part 47, and have identification (N

- Number) markings in accordance with 1 4 CFR part 45, Subpart C. Markings will be as large as practicable. 30. Before conducting operations, petitioner will ensure that the radio frequency spectrum used for operation and control of the UA complies with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) or other appropriate government oversight agency requirements. 31. The UA will remain clear and yield the right of way to all manned aviation operations and

## 11

activities at all times. 32. The UA will not be operated by the PIC from any moving device or vehicle

. 33. Petitioner will conduct all flight operations at least 500 feet from all nonparticipating persons, vessels, vehicles, and structures unless one of the following three conditions is met:

a. Barriers or structures are present that sufficiently protect non participating persons from the UA and/or debris in the event of an accident. The petitioner will ensure that nonparticipating persons remain under such protection. If a situation arises where nonparticipating persons leave such protection and are within 50 0 feet of the UA, the PIC will ensure that flight operations cease immediately. b. The aircraft is operated near vessels, vehicles or structures where the owner/controller of such vessels, vehicles or structures has granted permission and the PIC has made a safety assessment of the risk of operating closer to those objects and determined that it does not present undue hazard.

c. Operations nearer to the PIC, VO, operator trainees or essential persons do not present an undue hazard to those persons per § 91.119( a). 34. Petitioner will report any incident, accident, or flight operation that transgresses the lateral or vertical boundaries of the operational area as defined by the applicable COA to the FAA's UAS Integration Office (AFS

- 80) within 24 hours. Petitioner w ill report accidents to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) per instructions contained on the NTSB Web site: www.ntsb.gov. VI. Privacy There is little concern that the proposed flights will cause invasions of privacy. All flights will occur over either (a) public rights of way where there is no expectation of privacy; or (b) over private property with permission of the landowner/authorized agent and consent of participating individuals. VII. Public Interest and Safety The planned UA use will increa se ground safety fo r (1) real estate and (2) small event photography

. The enhanced safety and reduced environmental impact achieved using a UA 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 UA operation enabled by this exemption is in the public interest. Satisfaction of the criteria provided in Section 333 of the Reform Act of 2012

– size, weight, speed, operatin g capabilities, proximity to airports and populated areas and operation within visual line of sight and national security

– provide more than adequate justification for the grant of the requested exemption , allowing commercial operation of petitioner’s UA for real estate and small event photography and videography

.

## 12

The FAA has previously approved the 3DR Solo in Exemption Nos. 11335A, 11778A, 11832, 11935. The FAA has previously approved the 3DR Solo specifically for real estate photography and videograp hy in Exempti on No s . 11908 , 11954 and 11961

. T h e FAA has also previously approved a variety of other UAs for real estate in Exemption Nos.: 11138 ( R eal estate photography ) ; 11271 ( R eal estate ) ; 11295 ( R eal estate photograph y ) ; 11298 ( Aerial real estate pho tography ) ; 11300 ( Real estate ) ; 11318A ( R eal estate photography ) ; and 11342 ( R eal estate photogra phy )

. Additionally, t he FAA has previously approved a variety of other UAs for event photography in Exemption Nos.: 11195 ( S pecial events); 11445 ( S mall event photography) ; 11606 ( A erial filming and photography for coverage of events) ; 11639 ( evaluation of private events ) ; 11648 ( A erial video and photography services for special events) ; 11700 ( Aerial videography and photography of special events) ; 11752 ( E ven t photography ) ; 11757 ( A erial video and photography of special events ) ; 11792 ( A erial videography and or photography for special events ) ; and 11974 ( Aerial photography and videography of special events, spo rting event)

.

## 13

VIII. Regulations from Whic h Exemption is Requested Appendix A: FARs as to which AAP wishes the same determination to be made as has been made previously. FAR Provision Applicable condition(s) in

Section 5 of petition FAA Exemption Decision 21(h) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 16, 25, 28, 29 Nos . 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11111, 11110, 11114, 11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11157, 11166, 11167, 11170, 11171, 11172, 11174, 11176, 11177, 11178, 11184, 11185, 11188, 11189, 11191, 11192, 11193, 11195 43.7 13, 14 No. 11208 43.11 12 No. 11208 45.11 29 No. 11208 45.27 29 No. 11188 45.29 29 Nos. 11136, 11157, 11170, 11185, 11193 91.7(a) 12 Nos. 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11157, 11158, 11160, 111 61, 11166, 11167, 11170, 11171, 11172, 11174, 11177, 11178, 11184, 11185, 11188, 11189, 11191, 11192, 11193, 11195, 11204 91.9(b)(2) 22 Nos. 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11111, 11112, 11114, 11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 1 1156, 11157, 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11111, 11112, 11114, 11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11157, 11174, 11177, 11178, 11184, 11185, 11189, 11192, 11193, 11195 91.9(c) 30 Nos. 11136, 11170, 11171, 11174, 11185 91 .103(b)(2) 3, 9, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20 Nos. 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11158, 11160, 11161, 11166, 11167, 11171, 11172, 11176, 11177, 11178, 11184, 11185, 11188, 11188, 11189, 11191, 11192, 11193, 1 1195, 11204 91.105 6 No. 11185 91.109 7, 8 Nos. 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11112, 11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11157, 11166, 11167, 11170, 11171, 11174, 11177, 11184, 11185, 11189, 11191, 11192, 11193, 11194, 11 195, 11206, 11208 91.113(b) 3, 31 No. 11238

## 14

FAR Provision Applicable condition(s) in

Section 5 of petition FAA Exemption Decision 91.119(c ) 4, 33 Nos. 11162, 11163, 11164, 11165, 11166, 111080, 111109, 11110, 11111, 11112, 11114, 11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11160 11161, 11166, 11167, 11170, 11171, 11172, 11174, 11176, 11178, 1118 5, 11188, 11189, 11190, 11193 91.121 4 Nos. 11162, 11163, 11164, 11165, 11166, 111080, 111109, 11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11160 11161, 11166, 11167, 11170, 11171, 11174, 11176, 11178, 11185, 11188, 11189, 11190, 11193 91.151(a) 16, 17 Nos. 11110, 11153, 11156, 11161; 111109, 11110, 11112, 11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11160 11161, 11166, 11167, 11170, 11171, 11172, 11174, 11176, 11178, 11185, 11188, 11189, 11190, 11193 91.203 (a) and (b) 22 Nos. 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 1108 0, 11109, 11110, 11111, 11112, 11114, 11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11157, 11170, 11171, 11172, 11174, 11176, 11177, 11178, 11184, 11185, 11188, 11188, 11189, 11191, 11192, 11193, 11195 91.215 25, 26 No. 11185, 11195 91.403 12, 13, 14 No. 11185 91. 405(a) 12, 13, 14 Nos. 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11111, 11112, 11114, 11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11157, 11158, 11160, 11161, 11166, 11167, 11170, 11171, 11172, 11174, 11176, 11177, 11178, 11184, 11185, 11188, 11 188, 11189, 11191, 11192, 11193, 11195, 11204 91.407(a)(1) 14 Nos. 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11111, 11112, 11114, 11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11157, 11158, 11160, 11161, 11166, 11167, 11170, 11171, 11172, 11174, 11176, 11177, 11178, 11184, 11185, 11188, 11188, 11189, 11191, 11192, 11193, 11195, 11204 91.409(a)(1) 12, 13, 14 Nos. 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11111, 11112, 11114, 11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11157, 11158, 11 160, 11161, 11166, 11167, 11170, 11171, 11172, 11174, 11176, 11177, 11178, 11184, 11185, 11188, 11188, 11189, 11191, 11192, 11193, 11195, 11204

## 15

FAR Provision Applicable condition(s) in

Section 5 of petition FAA Exemption Decision 91.409(a)(2) 12, 13, 14 Nos. 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11111, 11112, 11114 , 11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11157, 11158, 11160, 11161, 11166, 11167, 11170, 11171, 11172, 11174, 11176, 11177, 11178, 11184, 11185, 11188, 11188, 11189, 11191, 11192, 11193, 11195, 11204 91.417(a) 12, 13, 14 Nos. 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 1106 6, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11111, 11112, 11114, 11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11157, 11158, 11160, 11161, 11166, 11167, 11170, 11171, 11172, 11174, 11176, 11177, 11178, 11184, 11185, 11188, 11188, 11189, 11191, 11192, 11193, 11195, 11204 91.417(b ) 12, 13, 14 Nos. 11062, 11063, 11064, 11065, 11066, 11067, 11080, 11109, 11110, 11111, 11112, 11114, 11136, 11138, 11150, 11153, 11156, 11157, 11158, 11160, 11161, 11166, 11167, 11170, 11171, 11172, 11174, 11176, 11177, 11178, 11184, 11185, 11188, 11188, 11189, 11191, 11192, 11193, 11195, 11204

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# The Solo Controller: A controller that’s smarter than most drones
| by Roger | Life After Gravity , News | 0 comments:



## There’s probably no better visual representation of the progression of drone technology over the last three years than this side-by-side comparison of controllers.

One is visibly hard to use, with a complicated arrangement of mysterious sticks and switches in a schematic best describable as “porcupine slapdash.” The other is substantially simpler, cleaner and smoother. And the purpose is more clear, too: This button turns it on; this button makes it fly; this button brings it home; this button pauses it. And of course, the most obvious physical difference: the controller on the right has a phone clipped to it. Plus, what you can’t see, it’s got a 1 GHz Linux computer inside. So: What’s happened and why? When we set out to deliver the best imaginable aerial photography experience, we understood that the drone itself was only one part of that experience. The controller in your hands is your connection, both virtual and physical, to everything that happens in the sky, so it’s critical that it conveys that experience to you clearly and enjoyably. To that end, we approached designing the controller as an equal part of Solo, not a companion to it. 1. Jun



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## First we tackled the unfamiliarity problem, which is essentially a design problem. The Solo controller boasts an ergonomic design inspired by video game controllers, so it feels natural even to new users from the moment they pick it up. Then we plucked the porcupine and made all of the functions simple and clear: There are the traditional directional sticks; there’s power, fly, return home and pause. We had a good start. But Solo isn’t just an RC helicopter. Solo does stuff . Cool, sophisticated and extremely useful stuff. Solo’s controller had to be able not only to execute those commands, but make them all clear, accessible and efficient for the user. Again we took a cue from gamers and assigned all the camera and gimbal controls to paddles on each shoulder of the controller. On the left shoulder is a paddle for fine grain manual gimbal tilt control; on the right shoulder are two buttons for presetting gimbal tilt positions and a knob to adjust the speed of the gimbal’s automated sweep between those presets. Clicking the tilt paddle (left) starts or stops recording on the GoPro® and pressing both presets at the same time (right) snaps a photo.

While this new level of gimbal control makes smooth and clean gimbal moves automatic and easy, it also presents a whole new set of information for users to manage. We had to find a way to convey this information without cluttering up the FPV feed or confusing users, so we built a color LED display right into the controller. This display has multiple screens—pre-flight; in-flight; and camera angle feedback—with clear graphics, so you always have contextual information about what’s going on in flight. This eliminates the need to interpret blinking lights on the copter to get vital flight information, and it’s even all supplemented with haptic feedback—a gentle vibration that alerts you about critical things like a low battery and confirms all “long-press” actions (takeoff, land, set a gimbal preset, etc.). What you can’t tell about the controller just by looking is that it has its own 1 GHz computer inside. The computer powers a strong and secure WiFi network (3DR Link), which communicates with Solo and delivers HD video wirelessly to your mobile device with only 180 ms latency. The computer also powers a built-in HDMI port, making live broadcast to nearly any type of screen as simple as plugging in an HDMI cable. Additionally, the computer allows the controller to record 500 parameters of flight data to its internal memory as you fly, 10 times every second. This last bit is important, because it means the

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## DD18: DRONE VS. ENRIQUE IGLESIAS; GOOGLE DRONE CRASHES AND NO ONE NOTICES; GOPRO MAKES ITS PLANS « THIS WEEK: DRONES, A.I. AND EX MACHINA; DRONES HELP SAVE LIVES IN TEXAS FLOODS; 4-HOUR HYDROGEN- controller also doubles as Solo’s “black box”—so even if you were to lose the copter in a volcano, you’d still have all the flight data in your hands. Submit the data to our customer service department wirelessly via the Solo app , and we’ll be able to go over your flight with you. If you lost anything due to system error—be it the copter, the gimbal or the GoPro—we’ll replace it for free. This is smart. This is Solo.

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## GENERAL
About Careers Community Terms



## CONTACT US
Press Center Resellers Aviators Education



## SUPPORT Register Support Home Contact Us Account



## FIND A RESELLER KNOWN; BUT MOTH SEX LEADS TO BETTER FLIGHT PLANS » POWERED QUADCOPTER FLIGHT; WHY THE MEGA-RICH LOVE AND HATE DRONES

### © 2015 // Drone & UAV Technology 

#     

# ATTACH PROPELLERS

Settings

Airplane Mode
WI-FI
Bluetooth
Cellular Solo_Link-####
On

Notifications
Control Center
Do Not Disturb 7:34 PM LTE

General
Sounds Wallpapers & Brightness Privacy 

# ATTACH YOUR GOPRO ® 

# IN THE BOX

GET “3DR SOLO” APP 

# 2 1

3

Connect to Solo with your phone for streaming video.

Connect to Wi-Fi: sololink_#### Default password: sololink 

# CONNECT WI-FI TO SOLO LINK 

# 4 1
2 3 - Learn to fly in 3DR Flight School - Create and share professional aerial videos - Use automated shot modes - Stream HD video - Get software updates and support 

### Visit 3dr.com/soloapp or download from the App Store or Google Play Store. remove remove



### Hold to power on the controller. Solo’s controller creates a secure Wi-Fi link. Hold to power on Solo. Solo automatically links to the controller. Set the GoPro ® 

### to inverted orientation: (Be sure your GoPro ® 

### is up to date.)

For best results, set the GoPro ® 

### to medium field of view. Mount your GoPro ® 

### upside down. Connect the HDMI cable. Make sure that the Wi-Fi on your GoPro ® 

### is turned OFF . It interferes with Solo’s communication signals. < Featured 7:34 PM LTE

3DR Solo

INSTALL (123) 

### GoPro ® 

### HERO4:

ORIENTATION SETUP OFF

:OFF :UP :VIDEO ORIENTATION OFF

:OFF :AUTO :VIDEO EXIT

EXIT RESET CAM


### GoPro ® 

### HERO3: ORIENTATION SETUP OFF

:OFF :UP :VIDEO ORIENTATION OFF

:OFF :AUTO :VIDEO EXIT

EXIT RESET CAM GoPro ® The Frame TM mount

Launch Solo App + Fly Solo Video upside down? Repeat step 2. 

### Solo, the controller and the GoPro ® 

### must be powered on to view video. 

# VIEW HD VIDEO FROM YOUR GOPRO ® 

# 5 6

Take Solo outside! Never fly indoors. Your walls will thank you. 

# LEARN TO FLY SOLO Go to Flight School and learn the basics. Rusty Mitchell Support

FLIGHT SCHOOL FLY SOLO Rusty Mitchell Support

FLIGHT SCHOOL FLY SOLO 400 ft 

## SETUP GUIDE 

# SOLO40 ft 400 ft

400 ft 400 ft 

# CHARGE BATTERIES



# SOLO

FLY SAFE Battery Power button

Back LEDs (red) 

### Solo battery Approximately 25 minutes flight time (may vary) 1.5 hours to charge Controller Approximately 6 hours of use 3 hours to charge

DON’T FLY within 5 miles of airports DON’T FLY over people, houses or vehicles DON’T FLY in rain, high winds or fog And DON’T TOUCH moving propellers! DON’T FLY near stadiums Batteries ship with approximately 50% charge. Charge fully before your first flight.



### For more information visit 3dr.com/solo Solo Get Started Guide vA DCT0075 © 2015 3D Robotics Inc. GoPro ® camera not included. 

# * Fixed mount for GoPro ®

400 ft 400 ft Solo Gimbal camera tilt

Options Hold to power Solo Gimbal auto-tilt presets 1, 2

Hold to start motors Hold to takeoff or land Press for standard flight Return home + land Pause Solo LEFT RIGHT UP

DOWN ROTATE LEFT ROTATE RIGHT FORWARD

BACK Solo Gimbal auto-tilt speed 

# CONTROLLER

HDMI cable Silver-top propeller Black-top propeller Silver-top propeller

Front LEDs (white) Black-top propeller



### Always fly under 400 ft.

GOPRO, HERO, the GOPRO logo, and the GoPro Be a HERO logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of GoPro, Inc. 

### Support line hours: Mon-Fri 8 am to 5 pm PST Sat 9 am to 3 pm PST online: 3dr.com/support email: help@3dr.com call: +1 (858) 225-1414 (direct) +1 (855) 982-2898 (toll free) 

# WE’RE HERE TO HELP

# User Manual 

# TM

# 3DR Support
Contact 3DR Support for questions and technical help. online: 3dr.com/support email: support@3dr.com call: +1 (858) 225-1414 (direct) +1 (855) 982-2898 (toll free in the US and Canada) Support line hours: Mon-Fri 8 am to 5 pm PST

3D Robotics (3DR) 1608 4th Street, Suite 410 Berkeley, CA 94710 Tel. +1 (858) 225-1414

3dr.com

Solo User Manual v1 © 2015 3D Robotics Inc. Solo is a trademark of 3D Robotics, Inc.
GoPro, HERO, the GoPro logo, and the GoPro Be a HERO logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of GoPro, Inc.

# Contents

1 Introduction 1 1.1 System Overview 1 1.2 Aircraft Overview 2 1.3 Controller Overview 3 1.4 Operating Parameters 4 1.5 Autopilot 5 1.6 Propulsion 5 1.7 LED Meanings 5 2 Setup 6 2.1 In the Box 6 2.2 Battery 6 2.3 Controller 8 2.4 Propellers 9 2.5 Camera 9 2.6 Mobile App 11 3 Safety 15 3.1 Location 15 3.2 Environmental Awareness 15 3.3 Visual Line of Sight 15 3.4 Flight School 15 3.5 Propellers 16 3.6 GPS 16 3.7 Home Position 16 3.8 Altitude Limit 16 3.9 Emergency Procedures 17 3.10 Flight Battery 18 3.11 Controller 18 3.12 Antenna Configuration 18 4 First Flight 19 4.1 Preflight Checklist 19 4.2 Takeoff 19 4.3 Landing 20 4.4 Return Home 21 4.5 In-Flight Data 21 4.6 Joystick Control 22 4.7 App Interface Overview 25 5 Smart Shots 26 5.1 Selfie 26 5.2 Cable Cam 27 5.3 Orbit 29 5.4 Follow 30 6 Alerts 32 6.1 Preflight Errors 32 6.2 In-Flight Errors 33 7 Advanced Settings 36 7.1 Advanced Flight Modes 36 7.2 Enabling Advanced Flight Modes 37 7.3 Accessing Advanced Flight Modes 37 7.4 Home Position Safety 37 7.5 Performance Adjustment 38 7.6 Units 38 7.7 Maximum Altitude Adjustment 388 Support 39 9 Maintenance 39 9.1 Controller Battery Replacement 39 9.2 Calibrations 40 9.3 Pairing 41 9.4 Legs 42 9.5 Battery Tray 45 9.6 Motors 46 9.7 Factory Reset 48 10 Appendix 49 10.1 Specifications 49 10.2 Warranty 50 10.3 Regulatory Compliance 50

# Figures

Figure 1.1.3.1: Solo System Context Diagram 1 Figure 1.2.4.1: Solo Overview 2 Figure 1.3.10.1: Controller Overview 4 Figure 1.4.10.1: Solo Operating Parameters 4 Figure 1.6.10.1: Solo Motor Order 5 Figure 2.1.10.1: Solo Parts 6 Figure 2.2.1.1: Solo Battery Charging 7 Figure 2.2.2.1: Powering Solo 7 Figure 2.3.1.1: Controller Charging 8 Figure 2.3.2.1: Power On Controller 8 Figure 2.4.1.1: Attach Propellers 9 Figure 2.5.1.1: Attach Camera 10 Figure 2.5.2.1: Camera Configuration Process 10 Figure 2.6.2.1: Connect to Solo Link 11 Figure 2.6.3.1: App - Settings Menu 11 Figure 2.6.3.2: App - Wi-Fi Settings 12 Figure 2.6.4.1: Controller Preflight Update Prompt 12 Figure 2.6.4.2: App - Software Update 12 Figure 2.6.4.3: App - Download Update 12 Figure 2.6.4.4: App - Update Download in Progress 13 Figure 2.6.4.5: App - Reconnect to Solo Wi-Fi 13 Figure 2.6.4.6: App - Start Update 13 Figure 2.6.4.7: Controller - Updating 13 Figure 2.6.4.8: App - Update Disconnection Confirmation 13 Figure 2.6.4.9: Controller Update Complete Displays 14 Figure 2.6.4.10: Controller - Waiting for Solo 14 Figure 2.6.4.11: App - Update Success 14 Figure 2.6.5.1: App - Viewing Video 14 Figure 3.4.5.1: App Flight School 15 Figure 3.9.5.1: Controller - Motor Shutoff 17 Figure 3.11.5.1: Controller Antenna Orientation 18 Figure 4.2.1.1: Controller - Start Motors Prompt 19 Figure 4.2.2.1: Controller - Takeoff Prompts 20 Figure 4.3.2.1: Controller - User-Initiated Landing 20 Figure 4.4.2.1: Return Home Behavior 21 Figure 4.5.2.1: Controller - In-Flight Data 21 Figure 4.6.2.1: Controller Left Joystick 22 Figure 4.6.2.2: Throttle Joystick Behaviors 22 Figure 4.6.2.3: Yaw Joystick Behavior 23 Figure 4.6.2.4: Controller Right Joystick Controls 23 Figure 4.6.2.5: Pitch Joystick Controls 24 Figure 4.6.2.6: Roll Joystick Controls 24 Figure 4.7.2.1: App - Main Interface 25 Figure 4.7.2.1: App - Shot List 25 Figure 5.1.2.1: Selfie Path and Settings 26 Figure 5.1.1.1: App - Selfie Activation 26 Figure 5.1.2.1: App - Selfie Control 27 Figure 5.1.2.2: Controller - Selfie Control 27 Figure 5.1.3.1: App - Selfie Settings 27 Figure 5.2.1.1: App - Cable Cam Setup 28 Figure 5.2.2.1: App - Cable Cam Controls 28 Figure 5.2.2.2: Controller - Cable Cam Controls 28 Figure 5.2.3.1: App - Cable Cam Settings 28 Figure 5.3.1.1: App - Orbit Setup 29 Figure 5.3.2.1: App - Orbit Controls 29 Figure 5.3.2.2: Orbit Controls 30 Figure 5.3.3.1: App - Orbit Settings 30 Figure 5.4.1.1: App - Follow Setup 30 Figure 5.4.2.1: Follow Controls 31 Figure 5.4.3.1: App - Follow Settings 31 Figure 6.1.1.1: Controller - Calibration in Progress Alerts 32 Figure 6.1.1.2: Controller - Uneven Surface Alert 32 Figure 6.1.1.3: Controller - Re-Calibration Required Alerts 32 Figure 6.1.1.4: Controller - Calibration Error Alert 33 Figure 6.1.2.1: Controller - Service Alerts 33 Figure 6.2.1.1: Controller - Altitude Limit Alert 33 Figure 6.2.2.1: Controller - App Connection Alerts 34 Figure 6.2.3.1: Controller - Controller Disconnected Alert 34 Figure 6.2.3.2: Controller - Controller Signal Alerts 34 Figure 6.2.4.1: Controller - GPS Signal Alerts 35 Figure 6.2.5.1: Controller - Low Battery Alerts 35 Figure 6.2.5.2: Controller - Critical Battery Alert 35 Figure 6.2.6.1: Controller - Controller Battery Alerts 35 Figure 7.2.5.1: App - Advanced Settings 37 Figure 7.3.5.1: App - A and B Presets 37 Figure 7.5.5.1: App - Performance Sliders 38 Figure 7.6.5.1: App - Change Units 38 Figure 7.7.5.1: App - Altitude Limit 38 Figure 8.7.5.1: App - Submit Trouble Ticket 39 Figure 9.1.5.1: Controller Battery Installation 39 Figure 9.2.1.1: App - Compass Calibration Setup 40 Figure 9.2.1.2: App - Compass Calibration Procedure 40 Figure 9.2.2.1: App - Level Calibration 40 Figure 9.3.2.1: Solo Pair Button 41 Figure 9.3.2.2: Controller Pairing Procedure 41 Figure 9.4.2.1: Leg Types 42 Figure 9.4.1.1: Standard Leg Replacement Process 42 Figure 9.4.2.1: Detaching the Antenna from the Leg 43 Figure 9.4.2.2: Attaching a New Leg with an Existing Antenna 43 Figure 9.4.2.3: Attaching an Existing Antenna to a New Leg 43 Figure 9.4.3.1: Compass Connector on Mainboard 44 Figure 9.4.3.2: Insert New Leg with Compass 44 Figure 9.5.1.1: GPS Cover Removal 45 Figure 9.5.2.1: Battery Tray Removal 45 Figure 9.5.2.2: Battery Tray Detachment 45 Figure 9.6.2.1: LED Cover Removal 46 Figure 9.6.2.2: Motor Pod Removal 46 Figure 9.6.2.3: Motor Pod Disconnection 47 Figure 9.6.2.4: Motor Pod Connection 47 Figure 9.6.2.5: Motor Pod and LED Cover Attachment 471 

# 1 Introduction We designed Solo to be the perfect aerial-video tool. It’s powerful, simple and reliable with intuitive Smart Shots inspired by our favorite cinema pilots. With Solo, you don’t need a professional camera crew, you can get the perfect shot every time. We’re excited to share our passion with you and help you see your world from a new perspective. Join us in capturing the next evolution of creative videography. 

# 1.1 System Overview The Solo system includes Solo, the controller, the “3DR Solo” app, and you. As the operator, you interact with the controller and app on the ground, and the controller communicates with Solo during flight.

1.1.1 Solo Solo is a small unmanned aerial vehicle powered by four motors and four propellers. Solo’s onboard computers control navigation, attitude, and communications in flight while sending real-time telemetry and video output and receiving control inputs over the 3DR Link secure Wi-Fi network. Solo is optimized for capturing aerial video using a GoPro ® HERO camera.

1.1.2 ControllerThe controller provides control mechanisms and displays in-flight data on a full-color screen. Using twin longrange antennas, the controller acts as the central hub for all communication on the 3DR Link network, receiving all communications from Solo and the app, forwarding telemetry outputs to the app, and managing the transmission of all control inputs to Solo.

1.1.3 App The “3DR Solo” app outputs a live video stream from an onboard GoPro® camera to an Android or iOS device. The app allows you to view the live video with overlaid telemetry and access a simplified graphic interface for controlling Solo’s advanced functions. The app also connects to the 3DR Link network to receive video and telemetry outputs and send control inputs.

Figure 1.1.3.1 : Solo System Context Diagram Video output Telemetry output Control input

Operator 3DR Solo Controller 3DR Solo
3DR Solo

App Air Ground

3DR Link Secure WiFi

Network2 

# 1.2 Aircraft Overview

1.2.1 Smart Battery The battery connects to Solo’s battery bay. Solo’s power button is located on the battery; Solo can only be powered when the battery is connected.

1.2.2 Motors and Propellers Solo’s arms are labeled one through four on the ends of the arms. Motors on arms #1 and #2 spin counterclockwise and use clockwise-tightening propellers with silver tops. Motors on arms #3 and #4 spin clockwise and use counterclockwise-tightening propellers with black tops.

1.2.3 Orientation LEDs Each arm contains an LED for ground-to-air directional awareness; the two front arms (#1 and #3) display white, and the two rear arms (#2 and #4) display red. This LED scheme mimics the headlight and taillight style of a car.

1.2.4 Fixed Camera Mount and HDMI Cable Solo includes a GoPro ® The Frame fixed mount to mount a GoPro ® HERO camera. The HDMI cable connects to the GoPro ® to output video during flight.

Figure 1.2.4.1 : Solo Overview Silver-top propeller
Power button Battery Rear orientation LEDs Black-top propeller
Motor Arm numbering
Front orientation LEDs

Fixed camera mount HDMI cable Height: 10.2” Motor-to-motor: 18.1” Weight (no camera): 3.3 lbs.3 

# 1.3 Controller Overview

1.3.1 Mobile-Device Holder Mount an Android or iOS device to run the Solo app and effortlessly integrate the app into the controller’s operational flow. A user-supplied smartphone or tablet is required to initialize Solo and use Smart Shots.

1.3.2 Joysticks The controller’s left and right joysticks provide direct manual control of Solo and physical control mechanisms for using Smart Shots.

1.3.3 Screen The controller’s full-color screen provides live in-flight data and prompts for correct operation of Solo.

1.3.4 Power Button Press the power button once to check the controller’s battery level. Hold the power button until you see the controller startup screen to power on the controller.

1.3.5 Fly Button The Fly button lets you control Solo’s main flight functions: starting motors, takeoff, land, and activating standard flight.

1.3.6 Return Home The Return Home button allows you to end your flight automatically at any point by returning Solo to its original launch point and landing.

1.3.7 Pause Button The Pause button is Solo’s emergency air brake. Press Pause to stop Solo and hover in place at any time.

1.3.8 Option Buttons The A and B buttons change functionality based on where you are in the operational flow. The screen will show the currently assigned functions of A and B at all times. You can program A and B to specific functions using the app. By default, the A button is assigned to Cable Cam and the B button is assigned to Orbit.

1.3.9 Antennas The controller’s long-range dipole antennas communicate with Solo during flight. See Section 3.12 for proper antenna configuration.

1.3.10 Gimbal Controls The paddle, buttons, and dial on the top of the controller are used to control the Solo Gimbal. They can also be used in some Smart Shots.4 Figure 1.3.10.1 : Controller Overview 

# 1.4 Operating Parameters The following operating parameters apply to Solo. Always operate Solo within these parameters. Solo’s performance and behaviors are not guaranteed when conditions violate the parameters listed below. Figure 1.4.10.1 : Solo Operating Parameters

*Flight time varies with payload, wind conditions, elevation, temperature, humidity, flying style, and pilot skill. Listed flight time applies to elevations less than 2,000 ft above sea level. **See Section 7.7 to adjust maximum altitude. ***Depending on environmental conditions ****This top speed corresponds to Solo when operating in Fly mode. Maximum speeds for advanced modes may vary, see Section 7.1 for more information. Estimated flight time up to 25 minutes* Default maximum altitude 150 ft. (46 m) above ground level** Range .5 miles*** (.8 km) Payload capacity 1 lb. (450 g) Cruise speed 18 mph (8 m/s) Maximum speed 33 mph (15 m/s)  Wind speed limitation 25 mph (11 m/s) Operating temperature 32° F - 113° F (0° C to 45° C) Antennas

Mobile-device holder

Gimbal controls
Joysticks

Screen

Pause Return home Fly Power Options5 

# 1.5 Autopilot Solo uses a Pixhawk 2 autopilot running ArduPilot Copter software. ArduPilot is open-source flight control based on the MAVlink communication protocol. Pixhawk 2 runs an ARM Cortex-M4 STM32F427 processor with 2 MB of flash memory and 256 KB of RAM. Combined with an array of CAN, I2C, SPI, PWM, and UART interfaces, Pixhawk 2 uses a suite of onboard sensors to calculate Solo’s orientation and motion in flight. This data is input into ArduPilot’s inertial navigation and position estimation algorithms and combined with control inputs to send commands to Solo’s propulsion system. 

# 1.6 Propulsion
Solo uses four brushless 880 K v motors and four self-tightening propellers for propulsion. For control and aerodynamic efficiency, two motors spin clockwise and two motors spin counterclockwise. Navigation in the air is achieved by mixing propulsion of the four motors to actuate flight control along the roll, pitch, and yaw axes. Each of the four motors is numbered by the marking on the arm. These numbers correspond to the autopilot calculations for these commands and are used for indicating motor replacement procedures. Each motor is controlled by an ESC (Electronic Speed Controller) that regulates the rotation of the motors to achieve the speed commanded by the autopilot.

Figure 1.6.10.1 : Solo Motor Order 

# 1.7 LED Meanings Solo’s four LEDs indicate its status during startup and in flight.

• Solid white (front) and red (back): Ready to fly, standard flight configuration

• Pulsing white (front) and red (back): Solo is flying under autopilot control

• Flashing red alternating front and back: Controller signal lost

• Flashing rainbow: Update in progress

• Solid green, then turning off one-by-one: Startup successful

• Solid green without turning off automatically: Startup unsuccessful, please restart Solo 03 01

02 046 

# 2 Setup This sections covers everything you need to set up Solo out of the box. 

# 2.1 In the Box Solo includes the drone, controller, propellers (four plus two spares), Solo charger, and controller charger.

Figure 2.1.10.1 : Solo Parts 

# 2.2 Battery Solo is powered by the rechargeable Solo Smart Battery that provides up to 25 minutes of flight time per full charge. (Keep in mind that flight time depends on payload, wind conditions, elevation, temperature, humidity, flying style and pilot skill, so the actual flight time may vary.) As a lithium polymer battery, the Solo Smart Battery requires specific handling practices to ensure safe operation and prevent accidents. For more information about battery safety, see Section 3.10.

2.2.1 Charging The level of the battery is indicated by the lights below the power button. Press the power button once to display the current power level. The Solo battery ships with approximately 50% charge, so charge fully before your first flight for maximum flight time. Remove the battery from Solo before charging by holding the release button and sliding the battery towards the back of Solo. Charge the battery using the designated Solo charger only; using a different charger can damage the battery or cause a fire. To charge the battery, connect the Solo charger to the battery and a wall outlet. While charging, the indicator lights pulse at the current level. There is an additional indicator on the battery charger that turns from red to green when the battery is fully charged. The battery takes approximately 1.5 hours to charge to 100%. Solo Three silver-top props & three black-top props

Controller

Solo charger Controller charger7 Figure 2.2.1.1 : Solo Battery Charging

2.2.2 Powering To power Solo, insert the battery into Solo’s battery bay and slide the battery forward until it clicks into place. Press and hold the battery power button to turn on Solo. When Solo powers on, the battery will display an LED animation and you will hear the startup tone. Only power Solo using the designated 3DR Solo Smart Battery; using a different battery can permanently damage Solo.

Figure 2.2.2.1 : Powering Solo Charge indicator

Charge indicator

Make sure Solo is level before powering on and keep Solo still during startup and while the sensors initialize. Moving Solo during this process causes the sensors to calibrate incorrectly and can create a preflight error or affect in-flight performance.



### 1 Slide to connect 2 Hold to power8 

# 2.3 Controller The Solo controller includes a pre-installed rechargeable lithium ion (Li-ion) battery.

2.3.1 Charging Charge the controller using the designated controller charger only; using a different charger can damage the controller or cause a fire. To charge the controller, connect the controller charger to the barrel jack on the side of the controller and to a wall outlet. To check the battery level of the controller, press the power button. A fully charged controller lasts for approximately 6 hours. Always check the controller’s battery level before you fly, and recharge when prompted by the controller. The controller takes approximately 3 hours to charge to 100%.

Figure 2.3.1.1 : Controller Charging

2.3.2 Powering To power on the controller, press and hold the controller power button until you see the startup screen.

Figure 2.3.2.1 : Power On Controller9 

# 2.4 Propellers Solo uses two types of self-tightening propellers, indicated by the color of the circle at the center of the propeller.

2.4.1 Attaching Attach the propellers with silver tops to the motors with a silver dot on the top of the motor shaft, and attach the black-top propellers to the motors with black dots. Make sure to remove the paper labels from the motors before attaching the propellers. Silver-top propellers tighten clockwise; black-top propellers tighten counterclockwise. Check the lock and unlock icons on each propeller to see the correct directions for tightening and removing.

Figure 2.4.1.1 : Attach Propellers 

# 2.5 Camera Solo includes a fixed GoPro® The FrameTM mount for your GoPro® HERO 3, 3+ or 4.

2.5.1 Attaching To attach the camera to the GoPro® The FrameTM fixed mount, insert your GoPro® upside down and connect the Solo HDMI cable to the camera. remove motor labels remove motor labels10 Figure 2.5.1.1 : Attach Camera

2.5.2 Settings For best results, adjust the camera settings for inverted orientation and medium field of view. (Setting the field of view to medium ensures that you won’t see the propellers in the frame.)

Figure 2.5.2.1 : Camera Configuration Process

Make sure that the Wi-Fi on your GoPro ® is turned OFF. It can interfere with Solo’s communication signals and cause unexpected behavior. GoPro ® The Frame TM Your GoPro ® HERO 3, 3+ or 4 Mount your GoPro ® upside down. Connect the HDMI cable.

Set the GoPro ® HERO3 to inverted orientation:

Enable GoPro ® HERO4 auto-orientation:

Set the GoPro ® to medium field of view: GoPro ® Settings Camera Orientation

GoPro ® Settings ORIENTATION

SETUP OFF

:OFF :UP :VIDEO ORIENTATION OFF

:OFF :AUTO :VIDEO EXIT

EXIT RESET CAM

ORIENTATION SETUP OFF

:OFF :UP :VIDEO ORIENTATION OFF

:OFF :AUTO :VIDEO EXIT

EXIT RESET CAM11 

# 2.6 Mobile App “3DR Solo” provides a streaming video link to a mobile device and a simple graphic interface for interacting with Smart Shots and other advanced Solo features.

2.6.1 Install Visit 3dr.com/soloapp or download “3DR Solo” from the App Store or Google Play Store. 3DR Solo works with iOS 8.0 or later and Android 4.3 or later. For Android, you must also install the “3DR Services” app to your device.

2.6.2 Connect to Solo To connect the app to Solo’s 3DR Link Wi-Fi network, access the Wi-Fi settings on the mobile device and select Solo_Link-####. Enter the temporary password “sololink”. Once connected, return to the app to continue. Both Solo and the controller must be powered on to connect to the app.

Figure 2.6.2.1 : Connect to Solo Link

2.6.3 Change SoloLink Password Once connected to Solo Wi-Fi, change your password to secure your SoloLink network. Select the Settings menu from the top-left drop-down, and choose Solo to access the options for your drone.

Figure 2.6.3.1 : App - Settings Menu In the Solo menu, select Wi-Fi Settings, and set a new password. The password should be between 8 and 32 characters with no spaces. Select Apply to enable your changes. If you forget your SoloLink password, perform the factory reset procedure in Section 9.7 to reset the password to the temporary password (sololink). Settings

Airplane Mode
WI-FI
Bluetooth
Cellular Solo_Link-####
On

Notifications
Control Center
Do Not Disturb 7:34 PM LTE

General
Sounds Wallpapers & Brightness Privacy12 Figure 2.6.3.2 : App - Wi-Fi Settings

2.6.4 Update Before your first flight, use the app to perform the required first-flight update. The controller will prompt you for the update with the preflight update alert. Ensure that both the controller and Solo are powered, the controller has at least 50% battery remaining, and the app is connected to Solo Wi-Fi. The total update process can take up to 10 minutes.

Figure 2.6.4.1 : Controller Preflight Update Prompt To start the update, open the Settings menu in the app, and select Software Update.

Figure 2.6.4.2 : App - Software Update Before starting the update, you’ll need to connect your device to the Internet and download the update. Select Download Update to start the process, then exit the app and connect to the Internet.

Figure 2.6.4.3 : App - Download Update The app will show the following display while the update is downloading. ** ARTOO UPDATE SCREEN FEEDBACK V10C**

Update Requirement Screen



### Controller updated Controller update in progress screen Is displayed after user initiates update in app. Persists until controller update is successful.

Update complete feedback. Tells the user that controller update was successful. HAPTIC: Three 20 millisecond pulses, to communicate update completion. A-Press required to dimiss (same as current implementation) 

### Controllerupdating Update will take about 5 minutes Please ensure charger is connected Controller may go dark while updating

Please reconnect to Sololink wifi
**Press to continue**

Returns user to hold-Fly-button screen Green Solo LEDs (showing update complete) change to standard red and white when this screen is displayed 

### preflight update Required before first flight! Use 3DR Solo App to update 

### update error Solo and Controller have different software versions Use 3DR Solo app to update the system

Waiting for Solo Persists until Solo reconnects

or Artoo auto-shutdown Solo-Artoo version mismatch If Solo and Artoo have a mismatched version on startup this message is displayed in the update ow in place of the “preight update” screen.

**Press when LEDs are green**

Update complete (Connects to matching version Solo)

Prompt stays on screen until update is successful. Post Unlock Behavior After system is unlocked, user should be able to y using Artoo / Solo versions that were last successfully installed. (Even if they have failed in their most recent update attempt.) Update unsuccessful (Artoo and Solo version mismatch) Update Timeout If update does not complete in X minutes Update-unsuccessful screen is displayed Update Timeout If update does not complete in X minutes “update-unsuccessful” screen is displayed
Update failure If update fails, display “update unsuccessful” screen



### update unsuccessful

Please use 3DR Solo app to try the update again 

### waiting for Solo

**Cable Cam Orbit**  FLY 12

**FLY**

Hold to start motors13 Figure 2.6.4.4 : App - Update Download in Progress When the download is complete, the app will prompt you to re-connect to Solo Wi-Fi in your device’s Wi-Fi settings.

Figure 2.6.4.5 : App - Reconnect to Solo Wi-Fi When the app detects an active connection with the controller, it will prompt you to begin the update. (Solo and the controller must be powered on to connect to Solo Wi-Fi.) Select Begin to start the update.

Figure 2.6.4.6 : App - Start Update While the update is in progress, the controller will show the controller updating display. The controller will complete a full restart as part of the update process, which can take up to 5 minutes.

Figure 2.6.4.7 : Controller - Updating Because the controller must restart as part of the update process, your device will lose its connection to Solo Wi-Fi. When you see the display below, select Next to continue.

Figure 2.6.4.8 : App - Update Disconnection Confirmation **ARTOO UPDATE SCREEN FEEDBACK V10C**

Update Requirement Screen



### Controller updated Controller update in progress screen Is displayed after user initiates update in app. Persists until controller update is successful.

Update complete feedback. Tells the user that controller update was successful. HAPTIC: Three 20 millisecond pulses, to communicate update completion. A-Press required to dimiss (same as current implementation) 

### Controllerupdating Update will take about 5 minutes Please ensure charger is connected Controller may go dark while updating

Please reconnect to Sololink wifi
**Press to continue**

Returns user to hold-Fly-button screen Green Solo LEDs (showing update complete) change to standard red and white when this screen is displayed 

### preflight update Required before first flight! Use 3DR Solo App to update 

### update error Solo and Controller have different software versions Use 3DR Solo app to update the system

Waiting for Solo Persists until Solo reconnects

or Artoo auto-shutdown Solo-Artoo version mismatch If Solo and Artoo have a mismatched version on startup this message is displayed in the update ow in place of the “preight update” screen.

**Press when LEDs are green**

Update complete (Connects to matching version Solo)

Prompt stays on screen until update is successful. Post Unlock Behavior After system is unlocked, user should be able to y using Artoo / Solo versions that were last successfully installed. (Even if they have failed in their most recent update attempt.) Update unsuccessful (Artoo and Solo version mismatch) Update Timeout If update does not complete in X minutes Update-unsuccessful screen is displayed Update Timeout If update does not complete in X minutes “update-unsuccessful” screen is displayed
Update failure If update fails, display “update unsuccessful” screen



### update unsuccessful

Please use 3DR Solo app to try the update again 

### waiting for Solo

**Cable Cam Orbit**  FLY 12

**FLY**

Hold to start motors14 The controller will restart and display a green checkmark to indicate that the controller was updated successfully. When you see the green checkmark on the controller, re-connect to Solo Wi-Fi in the app and press A on the controller to continue the update.

Figure 2.6.4.9 : Controller Update Complete Displays After pressing A, Solo will restart to complete the update. The controller will display waiting for Solo while Solo restarts.

Figure 2.6.4.10 : Controller - Waiting for Solo When the update is complete, Solo’s LEDs will turn green, the controller will return to the standard takeoff screen, and the app will show that the software is up to date. After displaying green, Solo’s LEDs will return to the standard white-and-red pattern. If you do not see white-and-red LEDs after a few minutes following the update, restart Solo.

Figure 2.6.4.11 : App - Update Success

2.6.5 View Video After the update is complete, select Fly Solo to view video in the app. Solo, the controller, and the GoPro® must be powered to view video. Verify that you can view video before your first flight. If the video is inverted, see section 2.5.2.

Figure 2.6.5.1 : App - Viewing Video **ARTOO UPDATE SCREEN FEEDBACK V10C**

Update Requirement Screen



### Controller updated Controller update in progress screen Is displayed after user initiates update in app. Persists until controller update is successful.

Update complete feedback. Tells the user that controller update was successful. HAPTIC: Three 20 millisecond pulses, to communicate update completion. A-Press required to dimiss (same as current implementation) 

### Controllerupdating Update will take about 5 minutes Please ensure charger is connected Controller may go dark while updating

Please reconnect to Sololink wifi
**Press to continue**

Returns user to hold-Fly-button screen Green Solo LEDs (showing update complete) change to standard red and white when this screen is displayed 

### preflight update Required before first flight! Use 3DR Solo App to update 

### update error Solo and Controller have different software versions Use 3DR Solo app to update the system

Waiting for Solo Persists until Solo reconnects

or Artoo auto-shutdown Solo-Artoo version mismatch If Solo and Artoo have a mismatched version on startup this message is displayed in the update ow in place of the “preight update” screen.

**Press when LEDs are green**

Update complete (Connects to matching version Solo)

Prompt stays on screen until update is successful. Post Unlock Behavior After system is unlocked, user should be able to y using Artoo / Solo versions that were last successfully installed. (Even if they have failed in their most recent update attempt.) Update unsuccessful (Artoo and Solo version mismatch) Update Timeout If update does not complete in X minutes Update-unsuccessful screen is displayed Update Timeout If update does not complete in X minutes “update-unsuccessful” screen is displayed
Update failure If update fails, display “update unsuccessful” screen



### update unsuccessful

Please use 3DR Solo app to try the update again 

### waiting for Solo

**Cable Cam Orbit**  FLY 12

**FLY**

Hold to start motors **ARTOO UPDATE SCREEN FEEDBACK V10C**

Update Requirement Screen



### Controller updated Controller update in progress screen Is displayed after user initiates update in app. Persists until controller update is successful.

Update complete feedback. Tells the user that controller update was successful. HAPTIC: Three 20 millisecond pulses, to communicate update completion. A-Press required to dimiss (same as current implementation) 

### Controllerupdating Update will take about 5 minutes Please ensure charger is connected Controller may go dark while updating

Please reconnect to Sololink wifi
**Press to continue**

Returns user to hold-Fly-button screen Green Solo LEDs (showing update complete) change to standard red and white when this screen is displayed 

### preflight update Required before first flight! Use 3DR Solo App to update 

### update error Solo and Controller have different software versions Use 3DR Solo app to update the system

Waiting for Solo Persists until Solo reconnects

or Artoo auto-shutdown Solo-Artoo version mismatch If Solo and Artoo have a mismatched version on startup this message is displayed in the update ow in place of the “preight update” screen.

**Press when LEDs are green**

Update complete (Connects to matching version Solo)

Prompt stays on screen until update is successful. Post Unlock Behavior After system is unlocked, user should be able to y using Artoo / Solo versions that were last successfully installed. (Even if they have failed in their most recent update attempt.) Update unsuccessful (Artoo and Solo version mismatch) Update Timeout If update does not complete in X minutes Update-unsuccessful screen is displayed Update Timeout If update does not complete in X minutes “update-unsuccessful” screen is displayed
Update failure If update fails, display “update unsuccessful” screen



### update unsuccessful

Please use 3DR Solo app to try the update again 

### waiting for Solo

**Cable Cam Orbit**  FLY 12

**FLY**

Hold to start motors15 

# 3 Safety The following best practices will help ensure safe, successful flights and help reduce the risk of accident and serious injury. Always fly under adult supervision and with your full attention at all times. Do not fly under the influence of drugs or alcohol or when your ability to operate Solo safely is impaired. Use your common sense to avoid unsafe situations and always operate Solo responsibly.



# 3.1 Location Don’t fly Solo indoors. Always fly outside in clear, open areas at a safe distance from yourself, other people, power lines, animals, vehicles, trees, and buildings. When flying in areas with potential hazards, maintain 100 feet (30 m) from any people, vehicles, or structures. As the operator, you are responsible for navigating Solo to avoid obstacles, including during Smart Shots. Don’t fly within 5 miles of an airport or within any airspace restricted by your local, state, or national airspace authority. As the operator, you are responsible for knowing and understanding the regulations that govern small unmanned aircraft like Solo in your jurisdiction. 

# 3.2 Environmental Awareness Don’t fly Solo in extreme weather conditions such as rain, high winds, snow, or fog. Extreme weather conditions can permanently damage Solo or cause instability in flight. Before flying, determine the boundaries of the safe flying area at your location. Be aware of any risks, including bodies of water, structures, trees, power lines, etc, and designate a few areas where you can land Solo in case of an unsafe situation. Throughout your flight, be prepared to recover Solo manually or use an emergency procedure if Solo flies outside the safe flying area. 

# 3.3 Visual Line of Sight Always fly Solo within your visual line of sight. Don’t let Solo get so far away from you that you cannot see its orientation or so that any physical obstructions block your view of Solo.



# 3.4 Flight School If you’re new to flying, review the video tutorials in the Flight School area of the app before your first flight. Flight School provides useful tips for learning to operate Solo safely and correctly.

Figure 3.4.5.1 : App Flight School Physical obstructions can also block communication signals with the controller, causing Solo to attempt to Return Home along an obstructed path Read and understand these important safety instructions before your first flight to help reduce the risk of accident and serious injury.16 

# 3.5 Propellers

To avoid hazardous contact with Solo’s high-speed propellers, always power off Solo before handling Solo or the propellers. When prompted to start motors before takeoff, always ensure that the propellers are clear of any obstructions and at least 20 feet away from any people, animals, or property before activating. Do not touch moving propellers or approach Solo while the propellers are spinning. After landing or returning home, Solo will automatically detect the landing and stop the motors. Do not approach Solo until the propellers stop spinning, and always power off Solo before picking it up. 

# 3.6 GPS Solo requires an active GPS signal for flight. After powering on, Solo can take up to 5 minutes to acquire a strong GPS lock. Always choose a flying location with a clear view of the sky to improve GPS signal strength. The following requirements define a GPS lock:

• Reported horizontal position accuracy < 16 ft. (5 m)
• Reported speed accuracy < 2 mph (1 m/s)
• Number of satellites ≥ 6
• Difference between GPS and inertial navigation vertical velocity < 2 mph (1 m/s) 

# 3.7 Home Position Solo’s home position is the latitude and longitude coordinates of the launch point used by the autopilot as the end point of a return-home command. The autopilot saves the home position at the location where the motors are started only after achieving GPS lock . The location of the home position depends on GPS signal strength and is usually within 1 to 2 meters of accuracy. Always take off from an open location with a clear path for Solo to return home safely. For home position safety in advanced mode, see Section 7.4. 

# 3.8 Altitude Limit Always fly at appropriate altitudes for your flying location and local regulations. Solo cannot avoid obstacles on its own, so always select altitudes that avoid any obstacles, such as trees, buildings, and power lines. Solo includes a safety fence enabled by default at 150 ft. (46 m). If Solo reaches the altitude limit, Solo will stop ascending and limit throttle input to stay below the altitude limit. FAA regulations mandate a maximum altitude of 400 ft. to avoid potential conflicts with manned aircraft and represents a safe line-of-sight altitude. Spinning propellers can cause serious injury. Never touch moving propellers or place any objects in the way of the propeller arcs while Solo is powered. 400 ft 400 ft17 

# 3.9 Emergency Procedures If you experience a problem in flight, use one of the following emergency procedures to stop Solo, end your flight, or shut off the motors.

3.9.1 Pause The controller’s Pause button allows you to stop Solo mid-air. Solo will hover at the paused location until given another command. Use the Pause button to stop Solo from hitting an obstacle or to re-orient Solo for navigation. Press Pause during Return Home or Land to pause Solo and stop the landing. Pause is available only with GPS lock.

3.9.2 Regain Manual Control Keep the controller easily accessible at all times during flight, including during Smart Shots, and be prepared to regain manual control at any time. To return to standard flight during Smart Shots, Return Home, or Land, press the Fly button.

3.9.3 Return Home If Solo acquired GPS lock prior to takeoff, press the controller’s Home button to return Solo to the launch point and land. Use return home after receiving a low battery notification or to end your flight easily. Solo will not avoid obstacles while returning home; always verify that the return path is clear before activating Return Home.

3.9.4 Land To land Solo at its current position, press and hold the Fly button. If Solo does not have GPS lock, there will be no automatic positioning as Solo descends, and drifting may occur depending on environmental conditions.

3.9.5 Motor Shutoff In the event that Solo’s motors do not stop after landing or for an emergency in-flight kill switch, Solo includes an emergency motor shutoff procedure. To shut off the motors at any time, either in flight or on the ground, hold the A, B, and Pause buttons at the same time. An initial screen will appear on the controller to confirm the shutoff command; continue to hold A, B, and Pause buttons to activate motor shutoff. Use the emergency motor shutoff only as a last resort.

Figure 3.9.5.1 : Controller - Motor Shutoff **KILL SWITCH UI - EMERGENCY MOTOR SHUTOFF**

Progress bar completes After 3000 millisecond hold

Shuto Banner Banner shows shuto taking place PERSISTENT: banner persists until user: -rearms with Fly button -restarts vehicle Kill Switch Feedback If users holds AB + Pause in ight notication is displayed User holds AB + Pause to shut o motors

**Spot lock Hold +**  **to shut off motors** FLY 12

**Spot lock Hold +**  **to shut off motors** FLY 12

Cable Cam Orbit 

# 5 **FT** 

# 0 **FT** HOME 

# 30
**%** FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE LAND 12

**MOTOR SHUTOFF ACTIVATED KILL SWITCH UI - EMERGENCY MOTOR SHUTOFF** 

Progress bar completes After 3000 millisecond hold

Shuto Banner Banner shows shuto taking place PERSISTENT: banner persists until user: -rearms with Fly button -restarts vehicle Kill Switch Feedback If users holds AB + Pause in ight notication is displayed User holds AB + Pause to shut o motors

**Spot lock Hold +**  **to shut off motors** FLY 12

**Spot lock Hold +**  **to shut off motors** FLY 12

Cable Cam Orbit 

# 5 **FT** 

# 0 **FT** HOME 

# 30
**%** FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE LAND 12

**MOTOR SHUTOFF ACTIVATED**18 

# 3.10 Flight Battery Use caution when handling the Solo Smart Battery; lithium polymer batteries can cause a fire if handled incorrectly. Never alter, puncture, throw, bend, or impact the battery. Keep the battery away from liquids, fire, microwaves, and other hazardous or combustible materials. Don’t expose the battery to extreme temperatures. If the battery is hot to the touch, wait for it to cool before using or charging. Inspect the battery before and after each flight. It is possible for the battery to be damaged in shipping, use or charging. If you notice any abnormal features such as damage to the exterior shell, swelling, deformation of the battery, abnormal smell, leakage, or other unexpected behavior, do not use the battery! These can be signs of serious damage that can cause the battery to catch fire. To prevent a hazard in case of fire or explosion, disconnect the battery, and place the battery in a safe area outside of any buildings or vehicles and away from flammable materials. Do not dispose of the battery in the trash; dispose of the battery at local battery recycling center as soon as possible. In the US and Canada, visit call2recycle.org to find a location. For long term storage, store the battery in an 64° F to 82° F environment, between 45-85% relative humidity and with 50% charge. Always make sure to store the battery in a place where it won’t be exposed to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight. 

# 3.11 Controller The controller’s rechargeable lithium ion (Li-ion) battery is housed inside the controller, accessible by the battery door on the back of the controller. The controller battery is pre-attached to the controller, and shouldn’t be disconnected unless:
• You plan to store the controller for over three months without using it. In this case, disconnect the battery from the controller and leave the battery inside the controller to store it.
• You need to replace or upgrade the controller battery. Upgraded controller batteries with double the capacity are available from store.3dr.com or an authorized retailer. In the case where you need to store the extra controller battery, store it in location where it will not come into contact with metal objects or other batteries. If the battery’s connector comes into contact with a metal object, it can short circuit the battery and cause a fire. Keep the controller away from liquids, fire, microwaves, and other hazardous or combustible materials. Don’t expose the controller to extreme temperatures. If the controller is hot to the touch, wait for it to cool before using or charging. Perform periodic visual inspections of the controller battery to check for any damage, and handle the controller battery using the same safety precautions as the flight battery. 

# 3.12 Antenna Configuration For the strongest connection to Solo, position the antennas down and away from the controller so they are approximately perpendicular with Solo in flight, and tilt each antenna out and away from one another at a 20° angle.

Figure 3.12.5.1 : Controller Antenna Orientation 

### 20°19 

# 4 First Flight This section covers basic Solo flight procedures, including takeoff, landing, and manual control. 

# 4.1 Preflight Checklist Before flying, check the following conditions.

4.1.1 Location

» Your current location and environmental conditions are suitable for flight. (Section 3.1)

» Solo is on a level surface at a clear launch point a sufficient distance from yourself and others. (Section 3.1)

4.1.2 Components

» The propellers are correctly attached. (Section 2.4)

» The propellers can spin smoothly and without obstruction when turned.
» No components on Solo appear loose or damaged.

»

4.1.3 Power

» The controller is powered on with at least 50% charge. (Section 2.3)

» Solo is powered on with a fully charged battery. (Section 2.2)

4.1.4 Video (Optional)

» The Solo app is connected to Solo and streaming video. (Section 2.6)

» The GoPro® is recording. 

# 4.2 Takeoff The takeoff process has two steps: start motors then take off. Always place Solo at a clear launch point for takeoff, at least 20 feet away from you, other people, and structures.

4.2.1 Activating Motors When Solo is ready to fly, the controller will prompt you to hold the Fly button to start Solo’s motors. Hold Fly until the propellers spin. Solo is now active, ready for takeoff, and needs to be treated with appropriate caution to avoid safety hazards. Press the Pause button anytime Solo is on the ground with the motors spinning to stop the motors.

Figure 4.2.1.1 : Controller - Start Motors Prompt **MOTOR START & TAKEOFF V4**

Fly button safety sequence Progress bar feedback while user holds down “Fly” button.

Takeo prompt When motor-on progress bar is lled, motor-on text switches to takeo prompt. Haptic: press and hold feedback is given. Motors o Landing screen after startup, before motors are turned on.

**Cable Cam Orbit**  FLY 12

**FLY**

Hold to start motors

Cable Cam Orbit FLY 12

**FLY**

Hold to start motors

Cable Cam Orbit FLY 12

**FLY**

Hold to start motors Flying close to obstacles like buildings and trees can reduce GPS accuracy and may result in unexpected flight behavior.20 4.2.2 Initiating Takeoff Hold Fly again to initiate takeoff. Solo will rise to 10 feet (3 m) and hover until receiving further control inputs.

Figure 4.2.2.1 : Controller - Takeoff Prompts



# 4.3 Landing Hold the Fly button to land Solo at its current location.

Figure 4.3.2.1 : Controller - User-Initiated Landing

After landing, the propellers will stop spinning automatically; wait until the propellers stop spinning before approaching Solo. If the propellers do not stop, press the controller’s Pause button or use the emergency shutoff option described in Section 3.9.5. When commanded to land, Solo will land at the current location, wherever it is. Always make sure there is a clear path to a safe landing point directly below Solo before landing.

Never approach Solo while the propellers are spinning. After an auto-landing or return-to-home, always wait until the propellers stop before approaching or touching Solo. **TAKEOFF PART 2**

Auto-takeo User holds “Fly” to initiate auto-takeo. “Fly” button LED blinks on Artoo when motors are on. LED becomes solid white when takeo begins.

Telemetry Back on telemetry screen after auto-takeo. Auto-takeo message During auto-takeo, target altitude message is displayed. Message times out after 3000 milliseconds. Auto-takeo User holds “Fly” to initiate auto-takeo. “Fly” button LED blinks on Artoo when motors are on. LED becomes solid white when takeo begins. Haptic: press and hold feedback is given. Auto-takeo Green bar returns to zero progress position on transition. User holds “Fly” to initiate auto-takeo. “Fly” button LED blinks on Artoo when motors are on. LED becomes solid white when takeo begins.

**Cable Cam Orbit**  FLY 12

**FLY** Hold to take off

**Cable Cam Orbit**  FLY 12

**Cable Cam Orbit**  FLY 12

Cable Cam Orbit 

# 9999 **FT** 

# 700 **FT** HOME 

# 100
**%** FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE FLY 12

**GOING TO 5 FT ALTITUDE**

Cable Cam Orbit 

# 9999 **FT** 

# 700 **FT** HOME 

# 100
**%** FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE FLY 12 **FLY** Hold to take off

**FLY** Hold to take off **TAKEOFF PART 2**

Auto-takeo User holds “Fly” to initiate auto-takeo. “Fly” button LED blinks on Artoo when motors are on. LED becomes solid white when takeo begins.

Telemetry Back on telemetry screen after auto-takeo. Auto-takeo message During auto-takeo, target altitude message is displayed. Message times out after 3000 milliseconds. Auto-takeo User holds “Fly” to initiate auto-takeo. “Fly” button LED blinks on Artoo when motors are on. LED becomes solid white when takeo begins. Haptic: press and hold feedback is given. Auto-takeo Green bar returns to zero progress position on transition. User holds “Fly” to initiate auto-takeo. “Fly” button LED blinks on Artoo when motors are on. LED becomes solid white when takeo begins.

**Cable Cam Orbit**  FLY 12

**FLY** Hold to take off

**Cable Cam Orbit**  FLY 12

**Cable Cam Orbit**  FLY 12

Cable Cam Orbit 

# 9999 **FT** 

# 700 **FT** HOME 

# 100
**%** FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE FLY 12

**GOING TO 5 FT ALTITUDE**

Cable Cam Orbit 

# 9999 **FT** 

# 700 **FT** HOME 

# 100
**%** FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE FLY 12 **FLY** Hold to take off

**FLY** Hold to take off

**AUTO-LAND**

Auto-land User holds “Fly” to initiate auto-land. Haptic: press and hold feedback is given.

Auto-landing message During auto-land, landing status is messaged. Messgae stays on screen until copter has landed. **Spot lock Rewind**  555656

Auto-landing complete Auto-land complete screen shown when copter has touched down. (In case user is not able to see copter.) Message times out after 5000 milliseconds. Auto-land prompt If user presses “Fly” in ight, the auto-land prompt appears. User holds “Fly” to initiate auto-land.

**Spot lock Rewind** 

Telemetry Back on telemetry screen after auto-landing, prior to auto or user initiated disarming. FLY 12

FLY 12

Cable Cam Orbit 

## 5 **FT** 

## 0 **FT** HOME 

# 30
**%** FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE FLY 12

Cable Cam Orbit 

## 9999 **FT** 

## 700 **FT** HOME 

# 100
**%** FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE LAND 12

**LANDING IN PROGRESS**

Cable Cam Orbit 

## 5 **FT** 

## 0 **FT** HOME 

# 30
**%** FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE LAND 12

**LANDING COMPLETE FLY**  Hold to land

**FLY** Hold to land **AUTO-LAND**

Auto-land User holds “Fly” to initiate auto-land. Haptic: press and hold feedback is given.

Auto-landing message During auto-land, landing status is messaged. Messgae stays on screen until copter has landed. **Spot lock Rewind**  555656

Auto-landing complete Auto-land complete screen shown when copter has touched down. (In case user is not able to see copter.) Message times out after 5000 milliseconds. Auto-land prompt If user presses “Fly” in ight, the auto-land prompt appears. User holds “Fly” to initiate auto-land.

**Spot lock Rewind** 

Telemetry Back on telemetry screen after auto-landing, prior to auto or user initiated disarming. FLY 12

FLY 12

Cable Cam Orbit 

## 5 **FT** 

## 0 **FT** HOME 

# 30
**%** FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE FLY 12

Cable Cam Orbit 

## 9999 **FT** 

## 700 **FT** HOME 

# 100
**%** FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE LAND 12

**LANDING IN PROGRESS**

Cable Cam Orbit 

## 5 **FT** 

## 0 **FT** HOME 

# 30
**%** FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE LAND 12

**LANDING COMPLETE FLY**  Hold to land

**FLY** Hold to land Be aware of Solo’s orientation before takeoff so you can safely navigate Solo up and away from you once it’s in the air. If Solo is facing towards you at takeoff, move the right stick back; if Solo is facing away from you, move the right stick forward. Spinning propellers can cause serious injury! Always make sure Solo is clear of any obstructions and all people and animals are away from Solo before spinning the props. 400 ft 400 ft21 

# 4.4 Return Home The Home button ends your flight automatically by returning Solo to the home position (launch point) and landing. When commanded to Return Home, Solo: 1 Achieves a minimum altitude of 98 feet (30 m) or maintains current altitude if above 98 feet. 2 Moves to launch point and hovers for 5 seconds. 3 Lands at the home point.

Figure 4.4.2.1 : Return Home Behavior



# 4.5 In-Flight Data Use the controller’s main data display to monitor Solo’s status in flight.

Figure 4.5.2.1 : Controller - In-Flight Data

1 Flight battery percentage remaining 2 GPS signal strength and number of active satellites 3 Active mode or Smart Shot (“Fly” indicates standard flight.) 4 Controller battery level 5 Solo Wi-Fi signal strength 6 Horizontal distance from the home position (launch point) 7 Current altitude 8 Currently assigned functions of controller A and B buttons home 49 feet hover 5 seconds

2 3 4 5
6
7

8 1 Always verify that there is a clear path to the home point before activating Return Home.22 

# 4.6 Joystick Control The controller’s two joysticks allow you to navigate Solo in flight. The left stick controls Solo’s altitude and rotation.

Figure 4.6.2.1 : Controller Left Joystick
Move the left stick vertically to control Solo’s altitude and acceleration.

Figure 4.6.2.2 : Throttle Joystick Behaviors

UP

DOWN ROTATE LEFT ROTATE RIGHT

Left Stick Move the left stick back from center to decrease altitude. Set the left stick to center to maintain the current altitude. Left Stick

Set the left stick fully back to land once Solo is a few inches above the ground. Left Stick To take off and to gain altitude, move the left stick slightly past the center position. Left Stick23 Move the left stick horizontally to rotate Solo and control orientation.

Figure 4.6.2.3 : Yaw Joystick Behavior

Use the right stick to fly Solo forward, back, left, and right. These movements are relative to Solo’s current orientation, so always maintain awareness of Solo’s forward-facing direction before using right-stick controls.

Figure 4.6.2.4 : Controller Right Joystick Controls 

## Activate Hold until propellers start spinning.

Take-off + Lift Raise just slightly for take off

Hover + Land Lower just slightly to hover

Left Ya w Left Back Forward

Right

Right Ya w

Deactivate Hold until propellers stop spinning Activate Hold until propellers start spinning.

Take-off + Lift Raise just slightly for take off

Hover + Land Lower just slightly to hover

Left Ya w Left Back Forward

Right

Right Ya w

Deactivate Hold until propellers stop spinning Move the stick to the left to rotate counterclockwise.

Move the stick to the right to rotate clockwise. Left Stick

Release the stick to stop rotating the maintain the current orientation

LEFT RIGHT FORWARD

BACK24 Move the right stick vertically to control pitch.

Figure 4.6.2.5 : Pitch Joystick Controls
Move the right stick horizontally to control roll.

Figure 4.6.2.6 : Roll Joystick Controls 

## Activate Hold until propellers start spinning.

Take-off + Lift Raise just slightly for take off

Hover + Land Lower just slightly to hover

Left Ya w Left Back Forward

Right

Right Ya w

Deactivate Hold until propellers stop spinning Activate Hold until propellers start spinning.

Take-off + Lift Raise just slightly for take off

Hover + Land Lower just slightly to hover

Left Ya w Left Back Forward

Right

Right Ya w

Deactivate Hold until propellers stop spinning Move the right stick forward to fly forward.

Move the right stick back to fly backward. 

## Activate Hold until propellers start spinning.

Take-off + Lift Raise just slightly for take off

Hover + Land Lower just slightly to hover

Left Ya w Left Back Forward

Right

Right Ya w

Deactivate Hold until propellers stop spinning Activate Hold until propellers start spinning.

Take-off + Lift Raise just slightly for take off

Hover + Land Lower just slightly to hover

Left Ya w Left Back Forward

Right

Right Ya w

Deactivate Hold until propellers stop spinning Move the right stick left to fly left.

Move the right stick right to fly right.

If you’re new to drones, take some time to learn the basics before your first flight. Visit 3dr.com/solo/info or check out Flight School in the Solo app to learn about flight controls and best practices.25 

# 4.7 App Interface Overview The Solo app provides a simplified interface for viewing Solo’s video feed and managing Smart Shots.

Figure 4.7.2.1 : App - Main Interface 1 Live video feed 2 Main menu 3 Horizontal distance from home 4 Altitude 5 Shot List 6 Flight battery percentage remaining 7 Controller signal strength 8 Hide telemetry bar 9 Map view 10 Start/stop recording to mobile device 11 Alerts and instructions

4.7.1 Map View To access the small map view, swipe left from the right edge of the app. Swipe left again to full-screen the map, and tap the video display to hide the map. The map view is available only with GPS lock and on devices with cellular Internet.

4.7.2 Shot List To access the Shot List, select the active mode or shot from the title bar. Choose from Selfie, Cable Cam, Orbit, and Follow to start a shot, or select Fly for standard flight.

Figure 4.7.2.1 : App - Shot List 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

1

9 10

1126 

# 5 Smart Shots Solo’s Smart Shots automate video capturing to make it easy to get stunning aerial video. Cable Cam and Orbit are automatically assigned to the controller’s A and B buttons. Use the app to access Selfie or Follow. Smart Shots are available only with the Solo app. When using Smart Shots without a Solo Gimbal, Solo cannot ensure that the subject is in the frame at all times. When attempting Smart Shots without a Solo Gimbal, adjust the camera mount so the camera is fixed at an appropriate angle to improve the chances of keeping the subject in the frame. 

# 5.1 Selfie In Selfie, Solo flies a smooth up-and-back path to capture a subject in a cinematic establishing shot. Before starting a selfie, always ensure that there is a clear path 200 feet (61 m) behind and above Solo. Once Selfie is activated, Solo will fly up and away from the subject to a point 164 feet (50 m) from the subject at 82 feet (25 m) altitude.

Figure 5.1.2.1 : Selfie Path and Settings 1 Distance out (default 164 ft.) 2 Altitude up (default 82 ft.) 3 Flight path

5.1.1 Selfie Setup To start Selfie, fly Solo to a starting point, facing the subject from approximately 10 feet away, and select Selfie from the Shot List. The app will prompt you to press the right arrow to start the selfie.

Figure 5.1.1.1 : App - Selfie Activation

5.1.2 Selfie Operation Tap the forward and back arrows in the app to fly Solo along the Selfie path. The default cruise speed when using the app to control Solo in Selfie is set to 9 mph (4 m/s). 2
1 3

Always ensure that there is a clear path 200 feet (30 m) behind and above Solo before starting Selfie. Press Pause at any time during Selfie to stop Solo. Press Fly at any time to switch to manual control.27 Figure 5.1.2.1 : App - Selfie Control To control Selfie using the controller, use the right stick to move Solo forward and back along the Selfie path. Press Pause at any time to stop Solo; press Fly to exit to standard flight.

Figure 5.1.2.2 : Controller - Selfie Control

5.1.3 SettingsTo access the settings from the in-flight Selfie interface, select the option icon with the three dots in the bottomright. Use the sliders to adjust distance out, altitude up, and cruise speed. Select Selfie How-To for instructions and tips.

Figure 5.1.3.1 : App - Selfie Settings 

# 5.2 Cable Cam Cable Cam creates a smooth shot by flying Solo along an invisible cable between any two preset points.

5.2.1 Starting Cable Cam Press A on the controller, or select Cable Cam from the Shot List on the app. Both devices will prompt you to fly Solo to your first point and press A to save it as the first Cable Cam point. Then fly to your second point and press B to save the second point. Try adding a difference in altitude or orientation between the two points for an impressive cinematic effect. Move along flight path28 Figure 5.2.1.1 : App - Cable Cam Setup

5.2.2 Cable Cam Operation To control Cable Cam through the app, tap the right arrow to move towards point A and tap the left arrow to move towards point B. Cable Cam’s default cruise speed is set to 9 mph (4 m/s).

Figure 5.2.2.1 : App - Cable Cam Controls To operate Cable Cam using the controller, move the right stick to the left to fly towards point A and to the right to fly towards point B. Release the right stick to pause along the cable. Use the left stick to temporarily override the camera and look left and right. Press Pause at any time to stop Solo; press Fly to exit to standard flight.

Figure 5.2.2.2 : Controller - Cable Cam Controls

5.2.3 Cable Cam Settings To adjust Cable Cam’s options, select the settings menu in the bottom-right corner. Automatic view lock prevents left-stick camera control during Cable Cam. Choose Fly Counterclockwise and Fly Clockwise to customize the direction Solo rotates between your A and B points. Select Cable Cam How-To for instructions and tips.

Figure 5.2.3.1 : App - Cable Cam Settings Camera Cable Always ensure that there is a clear path between points A and B before starting Cable Cam.29 

# 5.3 Orbit Use Orbit to fly Solo along a preset circle while fixing the camera on a central target.

5.3.1 Starting Orbit Select Orbit from the Shot List. The app will display the currently set radius of the orbit and show the location of the subject on the map. Fly Solo to correct the subject’s position on the map if necessary then press A on the controller to lock onto the subject. The app will display a Subject Locked confirmation once the orbit subject is set. To adjust the position of the subject during Orbit, move the center point on the map.

Figure 5.3.1.1 : App - Orbit Setup

5.3.2 Orbit Operation Tap the left and right arrows to fly Solo along the Orbit path. The default cruise speed for Orbit is 2.2 mph (1 m/s).

Figure 5.3.2.1 : App - Orbit Controls To control Orbit using the controller, move the right stick left and right to fly Solo along the Orbit path. Move the right stick up to reduce the radius of the orbit and move Solo closer to the subject; move the right stick down to increase the radius and move Solo away from the subject. Move the left stick left and right to temporarily override the camera’s lock on the subject and look left and right. Move the left stick up and down to adjust Solo’s altitude. Use the paddle on the top of the controller to raise and lower the altitude of the target. Press Pause at any time to stop Solo; press Fly to exit to standard flight. Solo will orbit at a constant altitude relative to its launch point, not taking into account changes in ground level. Be aware of any elevations changes at your location that would affect Solo. Always ensure there is a clear path for Solo before starting Orbit.30 Figure 5.3.2.2 : Orbit Controls

5.3.3 Orbit Settings Select the Orbit Settings Menu to adjust Solo’s default cruise speed in Orbit.

Figure 5.3.3.1 : App - Orbit Settings 

# 5.4 Follow Follow creates a virtual tether between Solo and your mobile device, allowing Solo to track you as you move. If the Follow subject is engaged in an activity that prevents them from using the controller, you are required to use a safety pilot during Follow. The subject will carry the mobile device and be followed by Solo, and the safety pilot will hold the controller and be ready to regain manual control at any time. Don’t allow more than 500 feet of distance between the controller and the mobile device; however, specific range limits depend on the device being used. If too much distance is allowed between the controller and the mobile device, the device could lose connection with the controller.

5.4.1 Follow Setup To start Follow, select Follow from the Shot List in the app and navigate Solo to face the subject. Tap the instructional bar to begin following.

Figure 5.4.1.1 : App - Follow Setup Always ensure that there is a clear path for Solo during Follow. It will not avoid obstacles that come into the flight path as a result of following the subject. Orbit Adjust radius Altitude
Camera Subject altitude31 5.4.2 Follow Operation Once activated, Solo will automatically follow the mobile device wherever the subject carries it. In the app, the subject can press the left and right arrows to orbit Solo around them. On the controller, move the right stick up and down to adjust the following distance, and move the right stick left and right to orbit around the subject. Use the left stick to adjust Solo’s altitude during Follow and to override the camera tracking and temporarily pan the camera left and right. At any time during Follow, press Pause to stop Solo and the camera will continue to track the subject. Press Fly to return to standard flight.

Figure 5.4.2.1 : Follow Controls

5.4.3 Follow Settings Select the Settings menu to adjust the default cruise speed during Follow. Follow’s default cruise speed is set to 2.2 mph (1 m/s).

Figure 5.4.3.1 : App - Follow Settings Orbit Adjust following

distance Altitude
Camera32 

# 6 Alerts The following alerts will appear on the controller in the event of a preflight or in flight error. Always monitor the controller for alerts and perform the recommended actions. 

# 6.1 Preflight Errors Before starting the motors, Solo runs a series of automatic checks to ensure that the system is ready for flight.

6.1.1 Calibration The following errors indicate that a preflight check is in progress: altitude calibrating, calibrating solo, and calibrating compass. Please wait for the error to clear before continuing.

Figure 6.1.1.1 : Controller - Calibration in Progress Alerts If Solo is not placed on a level surface, you will receive the following alert to move Solo to a level surface for takeoff.

Figure 6.1.1.2 : Controller - Uneven Surface Alert If Solo requires manual calibration, the following alert messages show the displays for compass and level calibrations. Refer to Section 9.2 for compass and level calibration instructions.

Figure 6.1.1.3 : Controller - Re-Calibration Required Alerts In the case of a calibration or sensor error during startup, restart Solo to clear the following alerts. **PREARM SENSOR ERRORS**

Altitude calibration System self-calibrates altitude after altitude disparity Alert persists until: System self-calibrates (sys then continues sensor check) Timeout: after 1 minute (?) (results in “sensor error” screen) 

### Altitude calibrating Please wait

Compass error User asked to use Solo app to calibrate.
Alert persists until: User completes calibration using the app (sys then continues sensor check) Powers off controller, or Solo Controller auto-shutdown Note: Artoo will not assume the same error is present on restart, and will run a fresh check when connected to Solo. 

### Compass error Please calibrate compass using the 3DR Solo app

Level error User is asked to use Solo app to calibrate Alert persists until: User complete calibration using the app (sys then continues sensor check) Powers off controller, or Solo Controller auto-shutdown Note: Artoo will not assume the same error is present on restart, and will run a fresh check when connected to Solo. 

### Level error Please calibrate level using the 3DR Solo app

Sensor error screen For sensor errors requiring user-initiated restart



### Sensorerror Please try and restart Solo

Battery unknown Displayed if Artoo is powered on with a battery has an ID resistor unknown to Artoo. (Not logged in current software version’s index.) HAPTIC: Strong feedback, 40 millisecond pulse After Solo is disconnected, Artoo should display “waiting for Solo” 

### Unknown battery

Battery % not be accurate ?

**Dismiss** Control sticl error

Persists until: Controller starts with stick values in range. 

### Control stick error Contact 3DR customer support **ARMING ALERTS**

Altitude calibration System self-calibrates altitude after altitude disparity Alert persists until: System self-calibrates (sys then continues sensor check) Timeout: after 1 minute (?) (results in “sensor error” screen) 

### Calibration error Please restart Solo

Compass error User is asked to use Solo app to calibrate.
Alert persists until: User completes calibration using the app (system then continues sensor check) User powers off controller, or Solo Controller auto-shutdown Note: Artoo will not assume the same error is present on restart, and will run a fresh check when connected to Solo. 

### Calibrating compass Please wait

Level error User is asked to use Solo app to calibrate Alert persists until: User complete calibration using the app (sys then continues sensor check) Powers off controller, or Solo Controller auto-shutdown Note: Artoo will not assume the same error is present on restart, and will run a fresh check when connected to Solo. 

### Uneven surface Move Solo to a level surface Altitude calibration System self-calibrates altitude after altitude disparity Alert persists until: System self-calibrates (sys then continues sensor check) Timeout: after 1 minute (?) (results in “sensor error” screen) 

### Calibrating Solo Please wait

Compass error User asked to use Solo app to calibrate.
Alert persists until: User completes calibration using the app (sys then continues sensor check) Powers off controller, or Solo Controller auto-shutdown Note: Artoo will not assume the same error is present on restart, and will run a fresh check when connected to Solo. 

### Throttle too high This flight mode requires low throttle before starting motors

Catch-All Remaining rare but problematic APM errors will be captured under a catch-all for logging trouble tickets 

### Service required Use 3DR Solo app to log a trouble

ticket with customer support **ARMING ALERTS**

Altitude calibration System self-calibrates altitude after altitude disparity Alert persists until: System self-calibrates (sys then continues sensor check) Timeout: after 1 minute (?) (results in “sensor error” screen) 

### Calibration error Please restart Solo

Compass error User is asked to use Solo app to calibrate.
Alert persists until: User completes calibration using the app (system then continues sensor check) User powers off controller, or Solo Controller auto-shutdown Note: Artoo will not assume the same error is present on restart, and will run a fresh check when connected to Solo. 

### Calibrating compass Please wait

Level error User is asked to use Solo app to calibrate Alert persists until: User complete calibration using the app (sys then continues sensor check) Powers off controller, or Solo Controller auto-shutdown Note: Artoo will not assume the same error is present on restart, and will run a fresh check when connected to Solo. 

### Uneven surface Move Solo to a level surface Altitude calibration System self-calibrates altitude after altitude disparity Alert persists until: System self-calibrates (sys then continues sensor check) Timeout: after 1 minute (?) (results in “sensor error” screen) 

### Calibrating Solo Please wait

Compass error User asked to use Solo app to calibrate.
Alert persists until: User completes calibration using the app (sys then continues sensor check) Powers off controller, or Solo Controller auto-shutdown Note: Artoo will not assume the same error is present on restart, and will run a fresh check when connected to Solo. 

### Throttle too high This flight mode requires low throttle before starting motors

Catch-All Remaining rare but problematic APM errors will be captured under a catch-all for logging trouble tickets 

### Service required Use 3DR Solo app to log a trouble

ticket with customer support **PREARM SENSOR ERRORS**

Altitude calibration System self-calibrates altitude after altitude disparity Alert persists until: System self-calibrates (sys then continues sensor check) Timeout: after 1 minute (?) (results in “sensor error” screen) 

### Altitude calibrating Please wait

Compass error User asked to use Solo app to calibrate.
Alert persists until: User completes calibration using the app (sys then continues sensor check) Powers off controller, or Solo Controller auto-shutdown Note: Artoo will not assume the same error is present on restart, and will run a fresh check when connected to Solo. 

### Compass error Please calibrate compass using the 3DR Solo app

Level error User is asked to use Solo app to calibrate Alert persists until: User complete calibration using the app (sys then continues sensor check) Powers off controller, or Solo Controller auto-shutdown Note: Artoo will not assume the same error is present on restart, and will run a fresh check when connected to Solo. 

### Level error Please calibrate level using the 3DR Solo app

Sensor error screen For sensor errors requiring user-initiated restart



### Sensorerror Please try and restart Solo

Battery unknown Displayed if Artoo is powered on with a battery has an ID resistor unknown to Artoo. (Not logged in current software version’s index.) HAPTIC: Strong feedback, 40 millisecond pulse After Solo is disconnected, Artoo should display “waiting for Solo” 

### Unknown battery

Battery % not be accurate ?

**Dismiss** Control sticl error

Persists until: Controller starts with stick values in range. 

### Control stick error Contact 3DR customer support **PREARM SENSOR ERRORS**

Altitude calibration System self-calibrates altitude after altitude disparity Alert persists until: System self-calibrates (sys then continues sensor check) Timeout: after 1 minute (?) (results in “sensor error” screen) 

### Altitude calibrating Please wait

Compass error User asked to use Solo app to calibrate.
Alert persists until: User completes calibration using the app (sys then continues sensor check) Powers off controller, or Solo Controller auto-shutdown Note: Artoo will not assume the same error is present on restart, and will run a fresh check when connected to Solo. 

### Compass error Please calibrate compass using the 3DR Solo app

Level error User is asked to use Solo app to calibrate Alert persists until: User complete calibration using the app (sys then continues sensor check) Powers off controller, or Solo Controller auto-shutdown Note: Artoo will not assume the same error is present on restart, and will run a fresh check when connected to Solo. 

### Level error Please calibrate level using the 3DR Solo app

Sensor error screen For sensor errors requiring user-initiated restart



### Sensorerror Please try and restart Solo

Battery unknown Displayed if Artoo is powered on with a battery has an ID resistor unknown to Artoo. (Not logged in current software version’s index.) HAPTIC: Strong feedback, 40 millisecond pulse After Solo is disconnected, Artoo should display “waiting for Solo” 

### Unknown battery

Battery % not be accurate ?

**Dismiss** Control sticl error

Persists until: Controller starts with stick values in range. 

### Control stick error Contact 3DR customer support **ARMING ALERTS**

Altitude calibration System self-calibrates altitude after altitude disparity Alert persists until: System self-calibrates (sys then continues sensor check) Timeout: after 1 minute (?) (results in “sensor error” screen) 

### Calibration error Please restart Solo

Compass error User is asked to use Solo app to calibrate.
Alert persists until: User completes calibration using the app (system then continues sensor check) User powers off controller, or Solo Controller auto-shutdown Note: Artoo will not assume the same error is present on restart, and will run a fresh check when connected to Solo. 

### Calibrating compass Please wait

Level error User is asked to use Solo app to calibrate Alert persists until: User complete calibration using the app (sys then continues sensor check) Powers off controller, or Solo Controller auto-shutdown Note: Artoo will not assume the same error is present on restart, and will run a fresh check when connected to Solo. 

### Uneven surface Move Solo to a level surface Altitude calibration System self-calibrates altitude after altitude disparity Alert persists until: System self-calibrates (sys then continues sensor check) Timeout: after 1 minute (?) (results in “sensor error” screen) 

### Calibrating Solo Please wait

Compass error User asked to use Solo app to calibrate.
Alert persists until: User completes calibration using the app (sys then continues sensor check) Powers off controller, or Solo Controller auto-shutdown Note: Artoo will not assume the same error is present on restart, and will run a fresh check when connected to Solo. 

### Throttle too high This flight mode requires low throttle before starting motors

Catch-All Remaining rare but problematic APM errors will be captured under a catch-all for logging trouble tickets 

### Service required Use 3DR Solo app to log a trouble

ticket with customer support33 Figure 6.1.1.4 : Controller - Calibration Error Alert

6.1.2 Service Alerts The following alerts indicate a system error that requires service. Use the app to submit a trouble ticket with 3DR Support or contact an authorized Solo Service Center to service Solo and clear the alert. A control stick error can occur either in flight or before takeoff. If the control stick error is received in flight, Solo will return home and land.

Figure 6.1.2.1 : Controller - Service Alerts 

# 6.2 In-Flight Errors During flight, the controller monitors Solo’s GPS signal, controller signal, flight battery level, and controller battery level.

6.2.1 Altitude Limit If Solo reaches the altitude limit during flight, it will maintain and not exceed that altitude and the controller will display the following alert.

Figure 6.2.1.1 : Controller - Altitude Limit Alert

6.2.2 App Connection The controller will display the following banner-style alerts in the event that the Solo app is connected to or disconnected from Solo. We recommend having an active connection to the Solo app at all times during flight. Refer to Section 2.6 for connecting to Solo Wi-Fi with the app. Solo will not return home if the connection to the app in lost during flight. **ARMING ALERTS**

Altitude calibration System self-calibrates altitude after altitude disparity Alert persists until: System self-calibrates (sys then continues sensor check) Timeout: after 1 minute (?) (results in “sensor error” screen) 

### Calibration error Please restart Solo

Compass error User is asked to use Solo app to calibrate.
Alert persists until: User completes calibration using the app (system then continues sensor check) User powers off controller, or Solo Controller auto-shutdown Note: Artoo will not assume the same error is present on restart, and will run a fresh check when connected to Solo. 

### Calibrating compass Please wait

Level error User is asked to use Solo app to calibrate Alert persists until: User complete calibration using the app (sys then continues sensor check) Powers off controller, or Solo Controller auto-shutdown Note: Artoo will not assume the same error is present on restart, and will run a fresh check when connected to Solo. 

### Uneven surface Move Solo to a level surface Altitude calibration System self-calibrates altitude after altitude disparity Alert persists until: System self-calibrates (sys then continues sensor check) Timeout: after 1 minute (?) (results in “sensor error” screen) 

### Calibrating Solo Please wait

Compass error User asked to use Solo app to calibrate.
Alert persists until: User completes calibration using the app (sys then continues sensor check) Powers off controller, or Solo Controller auto-shutdown Note: Artoo will not assume the same error is present on restart, and will run a fresh check when connected to Solo. 

### Throttle too high This flight mode requires low throttle before starting motors

Catch-All Remaining rare but problematic APM errors will be captured under a catch-all for logging trouble tickets 

### Service required Use 3DR Solo app to log a trouble

ticket with customer support **PREARM SENSOR ERRORS**

Altitude calibration System self-calibrates altitude after altitude disparity Alert persists until: System self-calibrates (sys then continues sensor check) Timeout: after 1 minute (?) (results in “sensor error” screen) 

### Altitude calibrating Please wait

Compass error User asked to use Solo app to calibrate.
Alert persists until: User completes calibration using the app (sys then continues sensor check) Powers off controller, or Solo Controller auto-shutdown Note: Artoo will not assume the same error is present on restart, and will run a fresh check when connected to Solo. 

### Compass error Please calibrate compass using the 3DR Solo app

Level error User is asked to use Solo app to calibrate Alert persists until: User complete calibration using the app (sys then continues sensor check) Powers off controller, or Solo Controller auto-shutdown Note: Artoo will not assume the same error is present on restart, and will run a fresh check when connected to Solo. 

### Level error Please calibrate level using the 3DR Solo app

Sensor error screen For sensor errors requiring user-initiated restart



### Sensorerror Please try and restart Solo

Battery unknown Displayed if Artoo is powered on with a battery has an ID resistor unknown to Artoo. (Not logged in current software version’s index.) HAPTIC: Strong feedback, 40 millisecond pulse After Solo is disconnected, Artoo should display “waiting for Solo” 

### Unknown battery

Battery % not be accurate ?

**Dismiss** Control sticl error

Persists until: Controller starts with stick values in range. 

### Control stick error Contact 3DR customer support **IN-FLIGHT ALERTS: CONTROLLER RELATED**

RC Failsafe Controller signal lost, RTH screen Alert persists until: TIMEOUT: 5000 milliseconds 

### Controller signal lost Solo will return home

RC Signal Recovered User can press Fly to recover Alert persists until: User presses Fly and enters Fly mode HAPTIC: 40millisecond so user is aware that they can take control

RC Failsafe (No GPS) Controller signal lost, emergency land screen Alert persists until: TIMEOUT: 5000 milliseconds Controller Value out of Range User is asked to contact customer support Alert persists until: TIMEOUT: 5000 milliseconds go to persistent hint-box message (persistent until reboot) 

### Control stick error Solo will return home



### Signal recovered

Controller signal lost Emergency landing started 

## 324 **FT** 

## 84 **FT** HOME 

# 48
**%** FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE Return Home 12

Control stick error

Contact 3DR Support after landing

Camera paddle and dial failure Alert triggered on input error on the paddle or tilt speed dial potentiometers TIMEOUT: 5000 milliseconds 

### Control stick error Solo will return home



## 324 **FT** 

## 84 **FT** HOME 

# 48
**%** FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE FLY 12

Manual camera controls error **IN-FLIGHT ALERTS**

Maximum Altitude User is told that maximum altitude has been reached Vehicle is not able to go higher than max altitude Alert appears once per flight and is triggered at 100 FT by default. Alert persists until: TIMEOUT: 5000 milliseconds HAPTIC: Double buzz 40-40 millisecond 

### Maximum altitude

Preset max altitude reached

Crash Detected User can use app to log a support ticket Alert persists until: User presses A HAPTIC: Quad buzz: 40-40-40-40 Solo SFX: Start lost call ping if more than 10 m away 

### Crash detected

GPS signal lost (Switches to FLY: Manual)
Alert persists until: TIMEOUT: 3000 milliseconds HAPTIC: Triple buzz twice: 30-30-30, 30-30-30 

### GPS lost Switching to manual control

GPS signal recovered (User who has either advanced mode enabled, or manual set to A or B) (When home is already set) Switches to FLY form Fly:Manual when user presses Fly Alert persists until: TIMEOUT: 3000 milliseconds 

### GPS ready Press to dismiss

**FLY** Press for GPS control GPS signal recovered (No advanced mode, Manual mode not set to A or B) Switches to FLY when GPS is recovered Alert persists until: TIMEOUT: 3000 milliseconds HAPTIC: 40 millisecond buzz for awareness 

### GPS ready

GPS signal established (User took off without GPS, no home position, regardless of advanced modes)
Alert persists until user sets home HAPTIC: 20 milliseconds every 3 seconds until press 

### GPS found

**FLY** Press to set home

Switching to FLY **ARMING ALERTS**

Altitude calibration System self-calibrates altitude after altitude disparity Alert persists until: System self-calibrates (sys then continues sensor check) Timeout: after 1 minute (?) (results in “sensor error” screen) 

### Calibration error Please restart Solo

Compass error User is asked to use Solo app to calibrate.
Alert persists until: User completes calibration using the app (system then continues sensor check) User powers off controller, or Solo Controller auto-shutdown Note: Artoo will not assume the same error is present on restart, and will run a fresh check when connected to Solo. 

### Calibrating compass Please wait

Level error User is asked to use Solo app to calibrate Alert persists until: User complete calibration using the app (sys then continues sensor check) Powers off controller, or Solo Controller auto-shutdown Note: Artoo will not assume the same error is present on restart, and will run a fresh check when connected to Solo. 

### Uneven surface Move Solo to a level surface Altitude calibration System self-calibrates altitude after altitude disparity Alert persists until: System self-calibrates (sys then continues sensor check) Timeout: after 1 minute (?) (results in “sensor error” screen) 

### Calibrating Solo Please wait

Compass error User asked to use Solo app to calibrate.
Alert persists until: User completes calibration using the app (sys then continues sensor check) Powers off controller, or Solo Controller auto-shutdown Note: Artoo will not assume the same error is present on restart, and will run a fresh check when connected to Solo. 

### Throttle too high This flight mode requires low throttle before starting motors

Catch-All Remaining rare but problematic APM errors will be captured under a catch-all for logging trouble tickets 

### Service required Use 3DR Solo app to log a trouble

ticket with customer support **PREARM SENSOR ERRORS**

Altitude calibration System self-calibrates altitude after altitude disparity Alert persists until: System self-calibrates (sys then continues sensor check) Timeout: after 1 minute (?) (results in “sensor error” screen) 

### Altitude calibrating Please wait

Compass error User asked to use Solo app to calibrate.
Alert persists until: User completes calibration using the app (sys then continues sensor check) Powers off controller, or Solo Controller auto-shutdown Note: Artoo will not assume the same error is present on restart, and will run a fresh check when connected to Solo. 

### Compass error Please calibrate compass using the 3DR Solo app

Level error User is asked to use Solo app to calibrate Alert persists until: User complete calibration using the app (sys then continues sensor check) Powers off controller, or Solo Controller auto-shutdown Note: Artoo will not assume the same error is present on restart, and will run a fresh check when connected to Solo. 

### Level error Please calibrate level using the 3DR Solo app

Sensor error screen For sensor errors requiring user-initiated restart



### Sensorerror Please try and restart Solo

Battery unknown Displayed if Artoo is powered on with a battery has an ID resistor unknown to Artoo. (Not logged in current software version’s index.) HAPTIC: Strong feedback, 40 millisecond pulse After Solo is disconnected, Artoo should display “waiting for Solo” 

### Unknown battery

Battery % not be accurate ?

**Dismiss** Control sticl error

Persists until: Controller starts with stick values in range. 

### Control stick error Contact 3DR customer support34 Figure 6.2.2.1 : Controller - App Connection Alerts

6.2.3 Controller Signal Alerts Flying behind solid objects, like buildings and trees, blocks communication signals between Solo and the controller. Always maintain visual contact with Solo to ensure that the signal is unobstructed. Cell phone towers and nearby Wi-Fi signals can cause interference with the communication system and decrease its range. Avoid flying in populated areas to avoid sources of interference. If the controller becomes unpaired from Solo during flight, the controller will display the following alert and Solo will Return Home. See Section 9.3 for pairing instructions.

Figure 6.2.3.1 : Controller - Controller Disconnected Alert If the signal between Solo and the controller is lost during flight, the controller will display the controller signal lost alert and Solo will Return Home. If signal is recovered while returning home, the controller will display the signal recovered alert and provide the option to regain manual control by pressing the Fly button.

Figure 6.2.3.2 : Controller - Controller Signal Alerts

6.2.4 GPS Signal Alerts If GPS is lost during flight, Solo will switch into Fly:Manual. In the event of a loss of GPS, we recommend landing Solo and waiting to acquire GPS lock before taking off again. In Fly:Manual, Solo uses the same joystick controls as in standard flight (displayed as “Fly”), but it does not include any GPS positioning. Therefore, in Fly:Manual, Solo will not hold its position when the right stick is released, and you must maintain close control over roll, pitch, and yaw. Without GPS, Pause, Return Home, and Smart Shots are not available. During Land, Solo will not be able to maintain position due to the lack of GPS positioning and will drift according to wind and other environmental conditions. If another alert occurs while Solo is in Fly:Manual, Solo will not be able to Return Home and will instead initiate a non-positioned landing at the current location. If GPS is recovered in flight, Solo will switch from Fly:Manual to standard flight (Fly), and GPS positioning will activate. The following displays show (from left to right) the GPS lost alert, Solo in Fly:Manual, and GPS recovered alert. Always choose a location with a clear view of the sky to improve GPS signal strength. **IN-FLIGHT BANNER ALERTS**

Solo app connected (Banner) System self-calibrates altitude after altitude disparity Alert persists until: System self-calibrates (sys then continues sensor check) Timeout: after 1 minute (?) (results in “sensor error” screen)

Solo app disconnected (Banner) System self-calibrates altitude after altitude disparity Alert persists until: System self-calibrates (sys then continues sensor check) Timeout: after 1 minute (?) (results in “sensor error” screen)

Landing Complete Screen showing automatic landing is complete Alert persists until: TIMEOUT: 3000 milliseconds

Controller connection poor (Banner) Appears once connection strength is below average performance for X time. TIMEOUT: After 3000 milliseconds 

# 324 **FT** 

# 84 **FT** HOME 

# 48
**%** FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE FLY 12

3DR Solo app connected



# 324 **FT** 

# 84 **FT** HOME 

# 48
**%** FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE FLY 12

3DR Solo app disconnected



# 324 **FT** 

# 84 **FT** HOME 

# 48
**%** FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE FLY 12

Landing complete



# 324 **FT** 

# 84 **FT** HOME 

# 48
**%** FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE Disconnected 12

Disconnected from Solo **IN-FLIGHT BANNER ALERTS**

Solo app connected (Banner) System self-calibrates altitude after altitude disparity Alert persists until: System self-calibrates (sys then continues sensor check) Timeout: after 1 minute (?) (results in “sensor error” screen)

Solo app disconnected (Banner) System self-calibrates altitude after altitude disparity Alert persists until: System self-calibrates (sys then continues sensor check) Timeout: after 1 minute (?) (results in “sensor error” screen)

Landing Complete Screen showing automatic landing is complete Alert persists until: TIMEOUT: 3000 milliseconds

Controller connection poor (Banner) Appears once connection strength is below average performance for X time. TIMEOUT: After 3000 milliseconds 

# 324 **FT** 

# 84 **FT** HOME 

# 48
**%** FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE FLY 12

3DR Solo app connected



# 324 **FT** 

# 84 **FT** HOME 

# 48
**%** FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE FLY 12

3DR Solo app disconnected



# 324 **FT** 

# 84 **FT** HOME 

# 48
**%** FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE FLY 12

Landing complete



# 324 **FT** 

# 84 **FT** HOME 

# 48
**%** FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE Disconnected 12

Disconnected from Solo **IN-FLIGHT BANNER ALERTS**

Solo app connected (Banner) System self-calibrates altitude after altitude disparity Alert persists until: System self-calibrates (sys then continues sensor check) Timeout: after 1 minute (?) (results in “sensor error” screen)

Solo app disconnected (Banner) System self-calibrates altitude after altitude disparity Alert persists until: System self-calibrates (sys then continues sensor check) Timeout: after 1 minute (?) (results in “sensor error” screen)

Landing Complete Screen showing automatic landing is complete Alert persists until: TIMEOUT: 3000 milliseconds

Controller connection poor (Banner) Appears once connection strength is below average performance for X time. TIMEOUT: After 3000 milliseconds 

# 324 **FT** 

# 84 **FT** HOME 

# 48
**%** FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE FLY 12

3DR Solo app connected



# 324 **FT** 

# 84 **FT** HOME 

# 48
**%** FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE FLY 12

3DR Solo app disconnected



# 324 **FT** 

# 84 **FT** HOME 

# 48
**%** FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE FLY 12

Landing complete



# 324 **FT** 

# 84 **FT** HOME 

# 48
**%** FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE Disconnected 12

Disconnected from Solo **IN-FLIGHT ALERTS: CONTROLLER RELATED**

RC Failsafe Controller signal lost, RTH screen Alert persists until: TIMEOUT: 5000 milliseconds 

### Controller signal lost Solo will return home

RC Signal Recovered User can press Fly to recover Alert persists until: User presses Fly and enters Fly mode HAPTIC: 40millisecond so user is aware that they can take control

RC Failsafe (No GPS) Controller signal lost, emergency land screen Alert persists until: TIMEOUT: 5000 milliseconds Controller Value out of Range User is asked to contact customer support Alert persists until: TIMEOUT: 5000 milliseconds go to persistent hint-box message (persistent until reboot) 

### Control stick error Solo will return home



### Signal recovered

Controller signal lost Emergency landing started 

# 324 **FT** 

# 84 **FT** HOME 

# 48
**%** FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE Return Home 12

Control stick error

Contact 3DR Support after landing

Camera paddle and dial failure Alert triggered on input error on the paddle or tilt speed dial potentiometers TIMEOUT: 5000 milliseconds 

### Control stick error Solo will return home



# 324 **FT** 

# 84 **FT** HOME 

# 48
**%** FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE FLY 12

Manual camera controls error **IN-FLIGHT ALERTS: CONTROLLER RELATED**

RC Failsafe Controller signal lost, RTH screen Alert persists until: TIMEOUT: 5000 milliseconds 

### Controller signal lost Solo will return home

RC Signal Recovered User can press Fly to recover Alert persists until: User presses Fly and enters Fly mode HAPTIC: 40millisecond so user is aware that they can take control

RC Failsafe (No GPS) Controller signal lost, emergency land screen Alert persists until: TIMEOUT: 5000 milliseconds Controller Value out of Range User is asked to contact customer support Alert persists until: TIMEOUT: 5000 milliseconds go to persistent hint-box message (persistent until reboot) 

### Control stick error Solo will return home



### Signal recovered

Controller signal lost Emergency landing started 

# 324 **FT** 

# 84 **FT** HOME 

# 48
**%** FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE Return Home 12

Control stick error

Contact 3DR Support after landing

Camera paddle and dial failure Alert triggered on input error on the paddle or tilt speed dial potentiometers TIMEOUT: 5000 milliseconds 

### Control stick error Solo will return home



# 324 **FT** 

# 84 **FT** HOME 

# 48
**%** FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE FLY 12

Manual camera controls error35 Figure 6.2.4.1 : Controller - GPS Signal Alerts

6.2.5 Flight Battery Alerts The controller monitors the Solo battery during flight and provides alerts when the battery reaches critical levels. At 25% and 10% power remaining, the controller will provide a land-soon alert recommending that you end your flight to prevent an automatic landing.

Figure 6.2.5.1 : Controller - Low Battery Alerts If the battery reaches 5%, Solo will Return Home to prevent a crash. After landing, turn off Solo immediately; if the battery level reaches 0% at any time, irreversible damage will occur and the battery should be recycled.

Figure 6.2.5.2 : Controller - Critical Battery Alert

6.2.6 Controller Battery Alerts When the controller battery reaches 10% of its remaining charge, the controller will display an alert to notify you to charge the controller at your next opportunity. At 5%, the controller will prompt you to end your flight and charge the controller. If the controller battery reaches a critical level in flight, Solo will Return Home. The following displays show (left to right) the 10%, 5%, and 0% alerts

Figure 6.2.6.1 : Controller - Controller Battery Alerts Emergency mode change GPS lock is lost, Solo automatically enters Alt. hold

Fullscreen message Times out after 5000 milliseconds

Modified Telem screen (Version 1) Now shows new mode. A & B functions that require GPS are greyed out. **IN-FLIGHT WARNINGS**
GPS Lost



### GPS lost Switching to manual control Cable Cam Orbit 

# 324 **FT** 

# 84 **FT** HOME 

# 48
**%** FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE FLY 6

Cable Cam Orbit HOME 

# 48
**%** FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE FLY:Manual 6 **IN-FLIGHT ALERTS**

Maximum Altitude User is told that maximum altitude has been reached Vehicle is not able to go higher than max altitude Alert appears once per flight and is triggered at 100 FT by default. Alert persists until: TIMEOUT: 5000 milliseconds HAPTIC: Double buzz 40-40 millisecond 

### Maximum altitude

Preset max altitude reached

Crash Detected User can use app to log a support ticket Alert persists until: User presses A HAPTIC: Quad buzz: 40-40-40-40 Solo SFX: Start lost call ping if more than 10 m away 

### Crash detected

GPS signal lost (Switches to FLY: Manual)
Alert persists until: TIMEOUT: 3000 milliseconds HAPTIC: Triple buzz twice: 30-30-30, 30-30-30 

### GPS lost Switching to manual control

GPS signal recovered (User who has either advanced mode enabled, or manual set to A or B) (When home is already set) Switches to FLY form Fly:Manual when user presses Fly Alert persists until: TIMEOUT: 3000 milliseconds 

### GPS ready Press to dismiss

**FLY** Press for GPS control GPS signal recovered (No advanced mode, Manual mode not set to A or B) Switches to FLY when GPS is recovered Alert persists until: TIMEOUT: 3000 milliseconds HAPTIC: 40 millisecond buzz for awareness 

### GPS ready

GPS signal established (User took off without GPS, no home position, regardless of advanced modes)
Alert persists until user sets home HAPTIC: 20 milliseconds every 3 seconds until press 

### GPS found

**FLY** Press to set home

Switching to FLY

Cable Cam Orbit 

# 324 **FT** 

# 84 **FT** HOME 

# 48
**%** FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE Stabilize 12 **CONTROLLER BATTERY WARNINGS + PROMPTS**

Controller battery low

Please land soon **Between 5% and 10% user is asked to charge soon** Message only appears when Solo is not in flight (pre-flight state, motors not started.) Helps user catch low battery before flight.

Fullscreen prompt at 5% Message timeout after 3000 miliseconds. Go to previous screen + minimized prompt (continuous until landing.)

Slider message persists Battery updates to red fill for 3%-5% (Battery level now known in 3% chunks) Good controller battery state

(If GPS Lock is not present) In-flight: At 0%, auto-land Message present until controller shuts down (If GPS Lock is present) In-flight: At 0%, Solo returns to home location Message present until controller shuts down

Critically low flight battery (Prevented from flying) User is prevented from flying a battery lower than 5%. 

### charge soon Low controllerbattery



### land soon Controller Battery at 5%



### charge controller

Battery too low for flight 

### Returning home

Controller battery at 0%



### Emergency-landing Controller Battery at 0% **Dismiss**

Cable Cam Orbit 

### 324 **FT** 

### 84 **FT** HOME 

# 48
**%** FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE Stabilize 12

Cable Cam Orbit 

# 324 **FT** 

# 84 **FT** HOME 

# 48
**%** FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE Stabilize 12 **CONTROLLER BATTERY WARNINGS + PROMPTS**

Controller battery low

Please land soon **Between 5% and 10% user is asked to charge soon** Message only appears when Solo is not in flight (pre-flight state, motors not started.) Helps user catch low battery before flight.

Fullscreen prompt at 5% Message timeout after 3000 miliseconds. Go to previous screen + minimized prompt (continuous until landing.)

Slider message persists Battery updates to red fill for 3%-5% (Battery level now known in 3% chunks) Good controller battery state

(If GPS Lock is not present) In-flight: At 0%, auto-land Message present until controller shuts down (If GPS Lock is present) In-flight: At 0%, Solo returns to home location Message present until controller shuts down

Critically low flight battery (Prevented from flying) User is prevented from flying a battery lower than 5%. 

### charge soon Low controllerbattery



### land soon Controller Battery at 5%



### charge controller

Battery too low for flight 

### Returning home

Controller battery at 0%



### Emergency-landing Controller Battery at 0% **Dismiss**

Cable Cam Orbit 

### 324 **FT** 

### 84 **FT** HOME 

# 48
**%** FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE Stabilize 12

Cable Cam Orbit 

# 324 **FT** 

# 84 **FT** HOME 

# 48
**%** FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE Stabilize 12 **CONTROLLER BATTERY WARNINGS + PROMPTS**

Controller battery low

Please land soon **Between 5% and 10% user is asked to charge soon** Message only appears when Solo is not in flight (pre-flight state, motors not started.) Helps user catch low battery before flight.

Fullscreen prompt at 5% Message timeout after 3000 miliseconds. Go to previous screen + minimized prompt (continuous until landing.)

Slider message persists Battery updates to red fill for 3%-5% (Battery level now known in 3% chunks) Good controller battery state

(If GPS Lock is not present) In-flight: At 0%, auto-land Message present until controller shuts down (If GPS Lock is present) In-flight: At 0%, Solo returns to home location Message present until controller shuts down

Critically low flight battery (Prevented from flying) User is prevented from flying a battery lower than 5%. 

### charge soon Low controllerbattery



### land soon Controller Battery at 5%



### charge controller

Battery too low for flight 

### Returning home

Controller battery at 0%



### Emergency-landing Controller Battery at 0% **Dismiss**

Cable Cam Orbit 

### 324 **FT** 

### 84 **FT** HOME 

# 48
**%** FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTITUDE Stabilize 1236 

# 7 Advanced Settings This section provides instructions for accessing and using Solo’s advanced features and settings. 

# 7.1 Advanced Flight Modes Are you a quadcopter pro? We designed Solo to be simple and reliable, but also really fun to fly. Solo includes five advanced flight modes: FLY:Manual, stabilize, acro, sport, and drift.

7.1.1 Fly:Manual Fly:Manual mode is a version of standard flight without GPS lock. In Fly:Manual, the throttle stick controls altitude the same way as standard flight (Fly mode). However, Fly:Manual includes no GPS positioning so that, when you release the right stick, Solo will not hold its position; it will drift according to wind conditions and existing momentum. When flying in Fly:Manual, make constant adjustment to the right stick to control Solo’s position and use the left stick to maintain Solo’s orientation.

7.1.2 Stabilize Stabilize mode provides full manual control without autopilot assistance. In stabilize, the autopilot regulates Solo’s roll and pitch angles so that Solo returns to level when you release the right stick. The throttle stick controls power and acceleration directly; it does not correspond to altitude. Stabilize requires fine-tuned control of both the left and right sticks to fly Solo. Stabilize does not require GPS lock.

7.1.3 Drift Drift modes requires GPS lock and provides a plane-like flying experience. Drift is ideal for navigating Solo using the video feed. This is known as first-person view (FPV) and provides an immersive flying experience. In drift, Solo combines roll, pitch, and yaw onto the controller’s right stick. To navigate Solo in drift, move the right stick to initiate a coordinated turn in that direction. Releasing the right stick will cause Solo to drift to a stop over a two-second period. Solo does not automatically control altitude in drift, and will require constant adjustments to the throttle stick when flying in drift.

7.1.4 Acro Acro is the most advanced of Solo’s flight modes. It provides unrestricted control over Solo’s roll and pitch angles. Acro is intended for performing aerial acrobatics, flips, and maneuvers requiring extreme angles. There is no altitude or position assistance in acro, so be prepared to make constant adjustment to both sticks. Acro is a copter-frame oriented mode, meaning that, in acro, Solo will always respond to controls relative to its own orientation. Acro does not require GPS lock. Advanced flight modes are for experienced operators only. Do not attempt to fly in any advanced modes unless you are comfortable flying multicopters without positioning and altitude assistance.

Do not fly in acro unless you are an extremely experienced operator. Without the proper skills, crashes in acro are highly likely.37 7.1.5 Sport Sport mode in a modified version of acro that includes altitude assistance and earth-frame orientation. With altitude assistance, the throttle stick behaves the same in sport as it does in standard flight (Fly mode). Earth-frame orientation differs from copter-frame orientation in that the direction of yaw rotation is in relation to the earth instead of in relation to the copter itself. For example, if Solo is pitched forward in sport mode and left yaw is applied, Solo will maintain the same pitch angle and rotate around the vertical axis. As opposed to in acro’s copter-frame orientation, in which, in the same situation, Solo will perform a cartwheel. Sport does not require GPS lock. 

# 7.2 Enabling Advanced Flight Modes To unlock Solo’s advanced flight modes, use the app to select Advanced Settings from the Settings menu. Toggle the Enable Advanced Flight Modes option to gain access to Solo’s advanced modes.

Figure 7.2.5.1 : App - Advanced Settings 

# 7.3 Accessing Advanced Flight Modes Once enabled, advanced flight modes can be accessed only be assigning them to the controller’s A and B buttons using the app. In the app, select Preset A or Preset B from the Solo menu. (The app must be connected to Solo to apply button assignments.) Once assigned, use the controller to activate advanced modes during flight.

Figure 7.3.5.1 : App - A and B Presets 

# 7.4 Home Position Safety Fly:Manual, stabilize, acro, and sport modes do not require GPS lock. To take off without GPS lock, Solo must be set to one of these modes. Without an active GPS signal, Return Home, Pause, and Smart Shots will be disabled. If you choose to take off without GPS lock, Solo will not save a home position at the launch point. If Solo acquires GPS lock mid-flight, the autopilot will save a home position at that location. To prevent a potentially unsafe situation, do not use Return Home if Solo did not acquire GPS prior to takeoff.
If Solo did not acquire GPS lock prior to takeoff, do not use Return Home.38 

# 7.5 Performance Adjustment The Solo app includes options to adjust Solo’s performance to suit your flying style. To access the performance sliders, select Performance from the Solo menu. The flight slider controls how fast Solo flies and how responsive it is to controls. The camera pan slider regulates the speed that Solo rotates. Move the slider towards the turtle for slower, more cushioned movement, or move the slider towards the rabbit for faster, more responsive movement.

Figure 7.5.5.1 : App - Performance Sliders 

# 7.6 Units To change the units in the Solo app from imperial to metric, select Units from the Settings menu.

Figure 7.6.5.1 : App - Change Units 

# 7.7 Maximum Altitude Adjustment To adjust the altitude limit, select Altitude Limit from the Solo menu. If you choose to select No limit, ensure that you always operate Solo within your visual line of sight and in compliance with local regulations.

Figure 7.7.5.1 : App - Altitude Limit39 

# 8 Support 3DR Support is here to help you get the most out of Solo. If you have any questions, please contact us at support@3dr.com or give us a call at 1 (855) 982-2898 (toll free in the US and Canada) or direct at +1 (858) 225- 1414. To submit a support request through our website, visit 3dr.com/support. Use the Solo app to submit a trouble ticket and your flight logs will automatically be sent to 3DR Support. To submit a support request within the Solo app, select Support from the main menu, and select Log Trouble Ticket.

Figure 8.7.5.1 : App - Submit Trouble Ticket 

# 9 Maintenance This section covers basic operational maintenance procedures for Solo. For repairs not covered in this manual, contact 3DR Support or an authorized Solo Service Center. Solo’s exterior components are designed to absorb impact from hard landings and protect the core electronics. If damage is sustained to Solo’s legs or motors, replace them with official 3DR parts from store.3dr.com or an authorized retailer. 3DR offers an extended controller battery upgrade with double the capacity so you can fly more between charges. Before opening the battery bay or performing any maintenance on Solo, always ensure that Solo is powered off with the battery removed. 

# 9.1 Controller Battery Replacement To replace the controller battery, open the battery door on the back of the controller. Remove the foam block and disconnect the battery from the port in the side of the battery compartment. To install a battery, connect the battery to the controller, and, for standard-size controller batteries, use the foam block to pad the empty space in the compartment. See Section 3.11 for information on safely storing spare controller batteries.

Figure 9.1.5.1 : Controller Battery Installation40 

# 9.2 Calibrations Use the Solo app to perform compass and level calibrations when prompted by the controller. Remove Solo’s propellers before performing calibrations.

9.2.1 Compass Calibration To calibrate Solo’s compass, connect the app to Solo Wi-Fi and select Compass Calibration from the Solo menu. Ensure that Solo and the controller are powered on with the propellers removed. Solo requires an interference-free environment for compass calibration, so ensure that you are away from metal buildings, reinforced concrete, or other metal structures before starting calibration.

Figure 9.2.1.1 : App - Compass Calibration Setup The app will prompt you to rotate Solo end-over-end multiple times until the bar at the top of the screen is completely green. If the calibration fails, move to a different location and try again.

Figure 9.2.1.2 : App - Compass Calibration Procedure

9.2.2 Level Calibration A level calibration zeroes Solo’s accelerometers to recognize static states. To perform a level calibration, remove the propellers from Solo and connect the app to Solo Wi-Fi. Select Level Calibration from the Solo menu, and follow the prompts to place Solo perfectly still on each side in turn. In each step, wait a few seconds after moving Solo to press Next.

Figure 9.2.2.1 : App - Level Calibration41 

# 9.3 Pairing

To pair a controller with Solo, power both the controller and Solo. Power off any other Solos or controllers in the vicinity. Once powered, use a paper clip to press the pair button on the underside of Solo to activate pairing mode.

Figure 9.3.2.1 : Solo Pair Button
The controller will automatically detect Solo and prompt you to pair. This can take up to 3 minutes. Hold the A and B buttons on the controller to start pairing. To cancel pairing, press B.

Figure 9.3.2.2 : Controller Pairing Procedure **SOLO-ARTOO PAIRING V5**
User presses “Pair” on Solo Reaches this screen after pressing “Pair” User available actions: A+B: Pair to Solo B: Cancel pairing Timeout If no action is taken, pairing invitation times out after 30,000 milliseconds. (Feedback is shown)

Display when pairing invitation times out after 30 sec Message timeout after 4000 milliseconds

Display when pairing has failed. Message timeout after 4000 milliseconds detected new Solo

to cancel + Hold to pair

detected new Solo

to cancel + Hold to pair

pairing canceled

Display on B button press. Timeout after 4000 milliseconds User cancels. Timeout after 4000 milliseconds

pairing timed out Press pair button on Solo to try again

pairing failed Press pair button on Solo to try again Display on pairing success. Timeout after 4000 milliseconds

Solo paired pairing in progress

pairing canceled

User cancels with B Haptic: 40 millisecond pulse immediately after A+B press Message is displayed until following states are triggered.42 

# 9.4 Legs Solo uses three unique types of legs: 2 legs with an antenna module (#1 and #2), a leg without any electronic components (leg #3), and a leg with a compass module (leg #4). Replacements for all types of leg can be purchased from store.3dr.com or an authorized retailer.

Figure 9.4.2.1 : Leg Types

9.4.1 Leg #3 To replace a standard leg, use a #2 Phillips screwdriver to remove the two screws, detach the old leg, and attach the new leg using the provided screws.

Figure 9.4.1.1 : Standard Leg Replacement Process

9.4.2 Legs #1 and #2 with Antennas To replace a leg with an antenna module where the antenna is physically undamaged, you’ll need to remove the antenna from the old leg before replacing it. To detach the antenna, remove the plastic sheet from the leg (1) and detach the antenna from the Velcro by carefully pulling the cable (2). Follow the standard leg replacement procedure to detach the old leg (3). 1
Compass

Antenna Antenna

Standard43 Figure 9.4.2.1 : Detaching the Antenna from the Leg
Attach the new leg by threading the antenna cable through the notch in the top of the leg (1) and securing the leg using the provide screws (2).

Figure 9.4.2.2 : Attaching a New Leg with an Existing Antenna
To secure the antenna to the new leg, use the provided Velcro to attach only the yellow-backed Velcro strip to the Velcro on the antenna. Then remove the backing and attach the Velcro and antenna to the inside of the leg, placing the tip of the antenna 5 mm from the edge of the rubber foot (1) as shown below. Fold the ends of a provided plastic sheet at right angles (2), remove the adhesive backing, and stick the plastic sheet to the leg so it secures the antenna in place (3).

Figure 9.4.2.3 : Attaching an Existing Antenna to a New Leg 3 2 1 1 2
3



### 2 1

5 mm between antenna and foot44 9.4.3 Leg #4 with Compass Solo’s right-rear leg (#4) contains the compass module. Start by detaching the leg from the arm as you would a standard leg, but the leg will not be removable until you disconnect the compass from Solo. To access the compass connector, you’ll need to remove the battery tray from Solo. See Section 9.5 for battery tray removal instructions. With the battery tray removed, locate the compass connector in the corner of the board closest to the leg being replaced. Disconnect the compass connector from the board by holding down the tab on the far side of the connector and lifting up the connector. Since the space between the arm and the connector is limited, it may help to use a screwdriver to press the tab.

Figure 9.4.3.1 : Compass Connector on Mainboard
With the compass disconnected, remove the old leg and cable from Solo. Place the new leg into position and thread the new compass cable through the arm where it can connect to the board. Connect the compass connector in the same place as the old compass.

Figure 9.4.3.2 : Insert New Leg with Compass
Secure the new leg in place and replace the battery tray.45 

# 9.5 Battery Tray The battery tray holds the battery and GPS in place, and allows you to access the main electronics bay. This section covers how to remove to tray to access the interior of Solo.

9.5.1 GPS Cover The GPS cover is the flat, black end cap in front of the battery tray. To remove it, use a small, flat prying tool to loosen the four clips along the back edge of the cover.

Figure 9.5.1.1 : GPS Cover Removal

9.5.2 Battery Tray Removal To detach the battery tray and access Solo’s main electronics bay, use a small Philips screwdriver to remove the 7 screws securing the battery tray to Solo.

Figure 9.5.2.1 : Battery Tray Removal
The battery tray will still be connected to Solo via the GPS cable, so carefully lift out the tray just enough to access the board beneath.

Figure 9.5.2.2 : Battery Tray Detachment GPS connector46 

# 9.6 Motors Replacement motors are available as clockwise and counterclockwise Motor Pods. Use a counterclockwise Motor Pod to replace motors #1 and #2, and use a clockwise Motor Pod to replace motors #3 and #4. Replace motor pods every 150 hours of flight or when they can no longer turn smoothly. To replace a Motor Pod, first, use a small, flat prying tool to remove the LED cover form the underside of the arm.

Figure 9.6.2.1 : LED Cover Removal
Use a #2 Phillips screwdriver to remove the four screws securing the pod to the arm.

Figure 9.6.2.2 : Motor Pod Removal
Disconnect the wide beige connector, the red wire and the black wire to remove the old motor pod. To remove the wide beige connector (DF13), carefully lift the edges of the connector away from the pod until they pop out, then remove the connector. Don’t pull on the wires! The connector can break easily if force is used to remove it.47 Figure 9.6.2.3 : Motor Pod Disconnection
Connect the 3 cables from the arm to the new motor pod. Tuck the cables inside the arm and set the new pod into place.

Figure 9.6.2.4 : Motor Pod Connection
Turn over Solo and secure the new motor pod into place using the 4 provided screws. Do not reuse the screws from the old Motor Pod. Finally, snap the LED cover back into place.

Figure 9.6.2.5 : Motor Pod and LED Cover Attachment 

### 1 248 

# 9.7 Factory Reset Performing a factory reset restores Solo and the controller to their state prior to the first flight update. Use a factory reset if you forget your Solo Wi-Fi password or need to restore Solo’s factory settings.

9.7.1 Controller To reset the controller, start with the controller powered off. Hold the power and Fly buttons simultaneously until you see the controller-updating display (Figure 2.6.4.7). The controller will restart, taking up to 5 minutes, then display the green checkmark and prompt you to press A to continue (Figure 2.6.4.9). When the reset procedures is complete, the controller will display the preflight-update display (Figure 2.6.4.1). Complete the update process described in Section 2.6.4 to prepare Solo for flight.

9.7.2 Solo As part of the reset procedure for Solo, Solo will be un-paired from the controller. Start by powering off Solo. Use a paperclip or similar tool to press and hold Solo’s pair button (Figure 8.3.2.1) while powering on Solo. Release the pair button after you hear Solo’s powering-on tone. The internal LED adjacent to the Pair button will now start rapidly flashing orange to signal the factory reset procedure is underway. After a few minutes, Solo’s main LEDs will start flashing different colors in a rotating pattern as the reset nears completion. Once Solo emits an initialization tone, the factory reset is complete, and Solo is now ready to be paired with the controller; follow the instructions in Section 9.3 to pair Solo with the controller. If the rotating light pattern stops, but Solo doesn’t emit an initialization tone, power off and power on Solo and follow the pairing instructions in Section 9.3.49 

# 10 Appendix 10.1 Specifications Solo is a quad-rotor aerial vehicle powered by the 3DR Pixhawk 2 autopilot system and APM:Copter flight control software. Solo communicates with the controller and Solo app over the 3DR Link secure Wi-Fi connection.
Autopilot: 3DR Pixhawk 2 Flight code: ArduPilot Copter Control: 3DR Solo Controller Wireless communication: 3DR Link 1.0 Frequency: 2.4 GHz Height: 10 in. (25 cm) Motor-to-motor dimension: 18 in. (26 cm) Propulsion: 880 K V motors, two clockwise rotating motors and two counterclockwise rotating motors Propeller: 10 in. x 4.5 in. (25 cm x 11.4 cm) Weight with battery: 3.3 lbs. (1.5 kg) Controller battery life: 3 hours Extended controller battery life: 6 hours Controller battery: Li-ion 2600 mAh 7.2 Vdc (5200 mAh for extended battery) Power: Electric (rechargeable lithium polymer battery) Battery: Lithium polymer, 5200 mAh, 14.8 Vdc Battery weight: 1 lb. (.5 kg) Estimated flight time: 25 minutes* Maximum altitude: 328 ft. (100 m) Range: .5 miles** (.8 km) Payload capacity: 1.1 lbs. (500 g) Cruise speed: 5.7 mph (2.5 m/s) Maximum speed: 55 mph (25.5 m/s) Maximum climb rate: 11 mph (5.0 m/s) Maximum descent rate: 5.5 mph (2.5 m/s) Headwind limitation: 25 mph (11 m/s) Crosswind limitation: 25 mph (11 m/s) Camera: Streaming video compatible with GoPro® HERO 3, 3+ or 4 Full compatibility with GoPro® HERO 3+ or 4 Solo app compatibility: iOS 8.0 or later / Android 4.3 or later Operating temperature: 32° F - 113° F (0° C - 45° C) Operating relative humidity: 0-85% RH

*Flight time varies with payload, wind conditions, elevation, temperature, humidity, flying style, and pilot skill. Listed flight time applies to elevations less than 2,000 ft above sea level. **Range varies with location, antenna orientation, background noise and multi-path.50 

# 10.2 Warranty

3D Robotics warrants to the original retail purchaser of Solo (the “Product”) that at the time of purchase that this product is free from material defect in materials and workmanship. Should this Product fail during normal consumer usage and conditions due to defective material or workmanship within one year from the date of purchase, or such longer period as is required by applicable law (“Warranty Period”), such defect(s) will be repaired or replaced at 3D Robotics’ option, without charge for parts or labor directly related to the defect(s). The complete terms of the limited warranty applicable to Solo can be found at 3dr.com/terms. This Warranty extends only to consumers who purchase the product from a 3D Robotics authorized reseller and is not transferable or assignable. This Warranty does not apply to: (1) Product subjected to abnormal use or conditions, accident (including without limitation, collision, crash or fire), alteration, or improper repair; (2) damage from exposure to moisture or extreme environmental conditions; (3) damage from use with any accessory, software or other product not expressly authorized by 3D Robotics; (4) damage from external causes such as dirt, sand, battery leakage, blown fuse, or improper usage of any electrical source; (5) commercial use; or (6) use in violation of law or ordinances in effect in the jurisdiction in which the Product is used. 3D Robotics assumes no liability for any accident, injury, death, loss, or other claim related to or resulting from the use of this product. 3D Robotics makes no other warranties for Solo, and makes no warranties whatsoever for service, software, maintenance or support for non-3D Robotics branded products. Such products, service, software, 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. 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 contains or consists 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. THE EXTENT OF 3D ROBOTICS’ LIABILITY UNDER THIS WARRANTY IS LIMITED TO THE REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT PROVIDED ABOVE AND, IN NO EVENT, SHALL ITS LIABILITY EXCEED THE PURCHASE PRICE PAID BY PURCHASER FOR THE PRODUCT. 

# 10.3 Regulatory Compliance

10.3.1 U.S. - FCC (Federal Communication Commission) 3DR Solo FCC: 2ADYD-S111A 3DR Solo Controller FCC: 2ADYD-AT11A This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. Changes or modifications not expressly approved by 3D Robotics could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment. Radiation Exposure Statement: The Solo system has been tested to ensure compliance with FCC-mandated limits for general population radio frequency (RF) exposure for an uncontrolled environment. These limits ensure that no harmful effects will result from operating Solo according to the standard operating procedures described in this manual.51 The body’s Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) for the Solo controller is 1.33 watts per kilogram (W/kg) in compliance with the FCC limit of 1.6 W/kg. To reduce exposure to RF energy, hold Solo at least 20 cm away from your body at all times during operation. Do not operate the Solo controller co-located or in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter. This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the condition that this device does not cause harmful interference.

10.3.2 Canada - Industry Canada 3DR Solo IC: 12768A-S114A Model number: S110A 3DR Solo Controller IC: 12768A-AT14A Model number: AT10A This device complies with Industry Canada license-exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device. Le présent appareil est conforme aux CNR d’Industrie Canada applicables aux appareils radio exempts de licence. L’exploitation est autorisée aux deux conditions suivantes : (1) l’appareil ne doit pas produire de brouillage, et (2) l’utilisateur de l’appareil doit accepter tout brouillage radioélectrique subi, même si le brouillage est susceptible d’en compromettre le fonctionnement. IC Radiation Exposure Statement: The Solo system has been tested to ensure compliance with IC-mandated limits for general population radio frequency (RF) exposure for an uncontrolled environment. These limits ensure that no harmful effects will result from operating Solo according to the standard operating procedures described in this manual. To reduce exposure to RF energy, hold Solo at least 20 cm away from your body at all times during operation. Do not operate the Solo controller co-located or in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter. Changes or modifications not expressly approved by 3D Robotics could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

# AUTOPILOT



# QUICK START GUIDE

# PARTS

1 Pixhawk 2 Buzzer 3 Safety switch 4 Micro-SD card and adapter 5 Micro-USB cable 6 Six-wire cable x2 7 Power module 8 I 2 C splitter module 9 Four-position I 2 C splitter cable 10 Three-wire servo cable 11 Mounting foam 1 2 3 4 5 7

8 11



# MOUNT 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.

Vehicle front Attach the foam squares to the corners of the board. 

# 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. 6

9 10



## 1 Mount 

## 2 Connect 

## 3 Load firmware 

## 4 Calibrate 

# 1

# CONNECT

(Required) Connect the buzzer and safety switch.

(Optional) Connect a 3DR Radio to Pixhawk’s Telem port using the 6-wire cable provided with your 3DR Radio Kit to receive data and communicate with the autopilot in flight. (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 I 2 C port using the 4-wire cable provided with the 3DR GPS+Compass. (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.

(Optional) The I 2 C splitter expands the I 2 C port to allow up to four additional peripherals to connect to Pixhawk. Use the 4-wire cable to connect the I 2 C splitter and add a compass module, external LED, digital airspeed sensor, or other peripherals to your vehicle. 

# 2Connect the ground (-), power (+), and signal (S) wires to the RC pins using the provided 3-wire servo cable.

For a Spektrum DSM, DSM2, or DSM-X Satellite RC receiver, connect to the SPKT/DSM port. 

# CONNECT RADIO CONTROL
FOR PPM RC RECEIVERS AND FUTABA S.BUS RECEIVERS

FOR SPEKTRUM SATELLITE RECEIVERS

FOR PWM RECEIVERS

Purchase a PPM Encoder module to connect a PWM RC receiver to Pixhawk at store.3dr.com

. 

### 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.

For a complete list of RC systems compatible with Pixhawk, visit the APM wiki page here

.

# LOAD FIRMWARE
APM 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 Linux). Both applications are available for free download from ardupilot.com

. For rovers, connect the throttle and steering wires to the main output signal pins. Pin 3 = Throttle Pin 4 = Steering

Mission planner f irmware 

### FOR COPTERS

FOR PLANES

FOR ROVERS Connect each signal wire from the PDB to the main output signal (S) 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 6 = Motor 6 Pin 3 = Motor 3 Pin 7 = Motor 7 Pin 4 = Motor 4 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 

# CONNECT OUTPUTS



# 3Download Mission Planner (Windows)



# Mission Planner « Downloads Sort by: Title | Hits | Date

■ MissionPlanner - Installer Select the installer package to download. Ardupilot.com Downloads Mission Planner

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



# APM Planner 2.0 « Downloads Sort by: Title | Hits | Date

■ APM Planner 2.0 Mac

■ APM Planner 2.0 Windows

■ APM Planner 2.0 Linux Select your platform to download. Ardupilot.com Downloads APM Planner 2.0



### INSTALL PLANNERWhen prompted, follow 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 USB. 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 successfully.

beep BEEP beep... BEEP BEEP 

#  Pixhawk needs your attention: beep BEEP beep... BEEP BEEP BEEP Everything is OK: musical tone 

#  Select Initial Setup, Install Firmware , and select your vehicle.



# CALIBRATE

With Pixhawk connected to your computer, select the communication option from the drop-down menu for PX4 FMU , set the rate to 115200 , and select the Connect icon. Select Initial Setup and Mandatory Hardware to access the calibration wizards.



### Remove propellers before performing calibration. 

# ! 

# 4

### SELECT FRAME TYPE (COPTERS ONLY)

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.

Show Me videos demonstrating live calibration techniques at 3dr.com/learn

.

For copter, select your frame orientation.

### CALIBRATE ACCELEROMETER

SELECT FLIGHT MODES 

## 4 5

6 RC CALIBRATION

left stick

right stick 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 after changing the positions of the vehicle.

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 for all available channels.

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.

# LED MEANINGS

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 tone: battery failsafe activated.

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

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

Solid: ready to arm. Proceed to the arming procedure. Intermittent blinking: system ready. Press the safety button to activate. 

# SAFETY SWITCH MEANINGS

Learn more about LED meanings and buzzer tones at 3dr.com/learn

.1

2 3 4 5

6 7 8

9 10 11 12

13 14 15 1 Spektrum DSM receiver 2 Telemetry (radio telemetry) 3 Telemetry (on-screen display) 4 USB 5 SPI (ser i al peripheral interface) bus 6 Power module 7 Safety switch button 8 Buzzer 9 Serial 10 GPS module 11 CAN (controller area network) bus 12 I 2 C splitter or compass module 13 Analog to digital c onverter 6.6 V 14 Analog to digital c onverter 3.3 V 15 LED indicator 

# PORTS

1 2

3 4

1 Input/output reset button 2 SD card 3 Flight management reset button 4 Micro-USB port
1 2

ground power signal

1 Radio control receiver input 2 S.Bus output 3 Main outputs 4 Auxiliary outputs 3 4Processor 32-bit ARM Cortex M4 core with FPU 168 Mhz/256 KB RAM/2 MB Flash 32-bit failsafe co-processor Sensors ST Micro 16-bit gyroscope ST Micro 14-bit accelerometer/magnetometer MEAS barometer MPU6000 accelerometer/magnetometer Power Ideal diode controller with automatic failover Servo rail high-power (7 V) and high-current ready All peripheral outputs over-current protected, all inputs ESC protected Interfaces 5x UART serial ports, 1 high-power capable, 2x with HW flow control Spektrum DSM/DSM2/DSM-X Satellite input Futaba S.BUS input and output PPM sum signal RSSI (PWM or voltage) input I 2 C, SPI, 2x CAN, USB 3.3 and 6.6 ADC inputs Dimensions Weight 38 g (1.3 oz) Width 50 mm (2.0”) Height 15.5 mm (.6”) Length 81.5 mm (3.2”) 

# SPECIFICATIONS IMPORTANT NOTE

SUPPORT For more information about Pixhawk and other documentation, visit 3dr.com/learn

. For more instruction on using APM firmware and planner software, visit ardupilot.com

. For customer support, contact us at help@3dr.com or call our support line at +1 (858) 225-1414 Monday through Friday, 8 am to 5 pm, PST. Please note that these instructions describe basic setup for Pixhawk and do not represent the complete set of configuration procedures required to build a copter, plane, or rover. For more information on ESC calibration, battery monitoring, failsafes, mode descriptions, and more, visit ardupilot.com . Do not operate your vehicle without a complete understanding of the online instructions.Operating a powered vehicle of any kind can be a lot of fun, but it carries certain inherent risks. Regulations governing the use of powered vehicles, including aircraft, vary from locale to locale, even within the same country or district. It is your responsibility to ensure that you understand and comply with all local laws and regulations. Safety basics:

• Never operate the vehicle or software in a way that could be dangerous to you, other people, or property. • Always keep propeller arcs free of objects and body parts while the vehicle is live. • Keep in mind that software and hardware failures happen. Although we design our products to minimize

such issues, you should always operate with the understanding that a failure could occur at any time and without warning. Accordingly, you should take the appropriate precautions to minimize danger in case of product failure. • Never use the software or hardware for manned vehicles. • Always operate within local laws and regulations. • Do not operate the aircraft if you are under the age of 18. Additional safety information:

• Be sure to maintain safe distances between people and your aircraft. • Never operate your aircraft if your ability to do so with the utmost attention to safety is impaired in any

way. Do not operate your aircraft while tired, under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or otherwise unable to operate it with the highest attention to safety. • Environment conditions can change rapidly and can make operation difficult. If this occurs, land your aircraft

and discontinue use immediately. Do not operate your aircraft if operating conditions are not ideal. This includes, but is not limited to, rain, snow or excessive wind. • Always ensure the battery cable is disconnected from the aircraft until you are ready to fly, and ensure that

your batteries are fully charged prior to use. • Always turn on the transmitter and ensure the throttle stick is all the way down before connecting the

battery. • After landing, disarm your vehicle immediately and disconnect the battery cable. • Do not turn off the transmitter until after you have disconnected the battery. • Always remove the propellers while testing the motors. • When the battery is connected, always assume the vehicle is live and the motors are armed. • Do not attempt to fly longer than the battery’s safe capacity. • Do not operate the vehicle with excess weight attached. • Ensure that all vehicle components are well maintained before each flight. Ensure that components are

firmly attached and operating properly. • Replace any worn or damaged components before each flight. Never operate with any damaged or worn

components. • SAFETY IS THE FIRST PRIORITY. Take all precautions necessary to ensure your own safety as well as the

safety of other people and property. 

# SAFETY

# 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(S) 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 Guide V8 © 3D Robotics, Inc. 20 March 2014