First Flight; Preflight Checklist; Takeoff - 3DR Solo User Manual

5

First Flight

This section covers basic Solo flight procedures, including takeoff, landing, and manual control.
5.1

Preflight Checklist

Before flying, check the following conditions:
5.1.1 Location
» Your current location and environmental conditions are suitable for flight. (Section 4.1)
» Solo is on a level surface at a clear launch point a sufficient distance from yourself and others. (Section 4.1)
5.1.2 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.
5.1.3 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)
5.1.4 Video (Optional)
» The Solo app is connected to Solo and streaming video. (Section 2.6)
» The GoPro® is recording. If have the Solo Gimbal and the GoPro HERO4, you can start and stop recording mid-
flight. You can also change camera settings in flight while not recording.
5.2

Takeoff

The takeoff process has two steps: start the 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.
5.2.1 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. To stop the motors, press the Pause button any time Solo is on the ground with the motors spinning.
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.
Flying close to obstacles like buildings and trees can reduce GPS
accuracy and might result in unexpected flight behavior.
MOTOR START & TAKEOFF V4
12
Hold
Cable Cam
Figure 5.2.1.1: Controller - Start Motors Prompt
12
Hold
Cable Cam
12
Motors o
FLY
Landing screen after startup, before motors
are turned on.
to start motors
FLY
Orbit
Fly button safety sequence
FLY
Progress bar feedback while user holds
down "Fly" button.
to start motors
FLY
Orbit
Takeo prompt
FLY
When motor-on progress bar is lled,
motor-on text switches to takeo prompt.
Haptic: press and hold feedback is given.
400 ft 400 ft
30