# 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 v3 Published 06/24/15 © 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 472 

# 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 charger10 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 CAM15 

# 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.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°24 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.

T

ake-off + Lif t Raise just slightly for take of f

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.

T

ake-off + Lif t Raise just slightly for take of f

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.

T

ake-off + Lif t Raise just slightly for take of f

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.

T

ake-off + Lif t Raise just slightly for take of f

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.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.32 

# 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



### Sensor error 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) 

### Calibrat ing 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) 

### Calibrat ing 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



### Sensor error 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



### Sensor error 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) 

### Calibrat ing 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 support36 

# 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 Limit40 

# 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 Calibration42 

# 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.46 

# 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
Contact customer support before performing a Factory Reset. This procedure can cause irreparable damage to Solo. 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 see the internal LED adjescent to the Pair button start rapidly flashing orange. This signals the factory reset procedure is now 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.

# GRIFFIN COMMUNICATIO NS 

# 3DR Solo

Maintenance Procedures

7/2/2015

### Griffin Communications 3DR Solo Maintenance Manual Page 1 

# 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 re tailer. 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.


# 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 of the user manual for information on safely storing spare controller batteries.

Controller Battery Installation


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

### Griffin Communications 3DR Solo Maintenance Manual Page 2 

## 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 tha t you are away from metal buildings, reinforced concrete, or other metal structures before starting calibration.

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.

App

- Compass Calibration Procedure 

## Level Calibration A level calibration zeroes Solo’s accelerometers to recognize static states. To perform a level ca libration, 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 pres s Next.

### Griffin Communications 3DR Solo Maintenance Manual Page 3 App

- Level Calibration 

# 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.

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.

### Griffin Communications 3DR Solo Maintenance Manual Page 4 Controller Pairing Procedure



# 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.

Leg Types 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.

### Griffin Communications 3DR Solo Maintenance Manual Page 5 Standard Leg Replacement Process

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 t he cable (2). Follow the standard leg replacement procedure to detach the old leg (3).

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).

### Griffin Communications 3DR Solo Maintenance Manual Page 6 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 a nd 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).

Attaching an Existing Antenna to a New Leg 

## 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 remov e the battery tray from Solo. With the battery tray removed, locate the compass connector in the corner of the board closest to the leg being replaced. Disconnect the

### Griffin Communications 3DR Solo Maintenance Manual Page 7 

## 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.

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.

Insert New Leg with Compass

### Griffin Communications 3DR Solo Maintenance Manual Page 8 

## Secure the new leg in place and repla ce the battery tray.



# 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. 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.

G PS Cover Removal

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.

Battery Tray Removal

### Griffin Communications 3DR Solo Maintenance Manual Page 9 

## 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.

Battery Tray Detachment 

# 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.

LED Cover Removal


## Use a #2 Phillips screwdriver to remove the four screws securing the pod to the arm.

### Griffin Communications 3DR Solo Maintenance Manual Page 10 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 pu ll on the wires! The connector can break easily if force is used to remove it.

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.

### Griffin Communications 3DR Solo Maintenance Manual Page 11 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.

Motor Pod and LED Cover Attachment

### Griffin Communications 3DR Solo Maintenance Manual Page 12 

# Factory Reset
Contact customer support before performing a Factory Reset. This procedure can cause irreparable damage to Solo. 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.

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. The controller will restart, taking up to 5 minutes, then display the green checkmark and pr ompt you to press A to continue . When the reset procedures is complete, the controller will display the preflight

- update display. Complete the update process described in Section 2.6.4 of the user manual to prepare Solo for flight. 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 while powering on Solo. Release the pair button after you see the internal LED adjescent to the Pair button start rapidly flashing orange. This signals the factory reset procedure is now underway. After a few minutes, Solo’s main LEDs will st art 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 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 pairin g instructions.

### Griffin Communications 3DR Solo Maintenance Manual Page 13 

# Specifications

x Solo is a quad

- rotor aerial vehicle powered by the 3DR Pixhawk 2 autopilot sy stem and APM:Copter flight control software. Solo communicates with the controller and Solo app over the 3DR Link secure Wi

- Fi connection.
x Autopilot: 3DR Pixhawk 2

x Flight code: ArduPilot Copter

x Control: 3DR Solo Controller

x Wireless communication: 3DR Link 1.0
x Frequency: 2.4 GHz
x Height: 10 in. (25 cm)

x Motor

- to

- motor dimension: 18 in. (26 cm)

x Propulsion: 880 KV motors, two clockwise rotating motors and

x two counterclockwise rotating motors

x Propeller: 10 in. x 4.5 in. (25 cm x 11.4 cm)

x Weight with battery: 3.3 lbs. (1.5 kg)

x Controller battery life: 3 hours

x Extended controller battery life: 6 hours

x Controller battery: Li

- ion 2600 mAh 7.2 Vdc (5200 mAh for extended battery)

x Power: Electric (rechargeable lithium polymer battery)

x Battery: Lithium polymer, 5200 mAh , 14.8 Vdc

x Battery weight: 1 lb. (.5 kg)

x Estimated flight time: 25 minutes*

x Maximum altitude: 328 ft. (100 m)

x Range: .5 miles** (.8 km)

x Payload capacity: 1.1 lbs. (500 g)

x Cruise speed: 5.7 mph (2.5 m/s)

x Maximum speed: 55 mph (25.5 m/s)

x Maximum climb rate: 11 mph (5.0 m/s)

x Maximum descent rate: 5.5 mph (2.5 m/s)

x Headwind limitation: 25 mph (11 m/s)

x Crosswind limitation: 25 mph (11 m/s)

x Camera: Streaming video compatible with GoPro® HERO 3, 3+ or 4

x Full compatibility with GoPro® HERO 3+ or 4

x Solo app compati bility: iOS 8.0 or later / Android 4.3 or later

x Operating temperature: 32° F

- 113° F (0° C

- 45° C)

x Operating relative humidity: 0

- 85% RH
x *Flight time varies with payload, wind conditions, elevation, temperature, humidity, flying style,

### Griffin Communications 3DR Solo Maintenance Manual Page 14 

## x and pilot skill. Listed flight time applies to elevations less than 2,000 ft above sea level.

x **Range varies with location, antenna orientation, background noise and multi

path.