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Freefly ALTA8 Flight Manual

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AIRCRAFT FLIGHT MANUAL
770- 000 48 | R E V I S I O N B | 01.1 6.20 17

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Summary of Contents for Freefly ALTA8

  • Page 1 AIRCRAFT FLIGHT MANUAL 770- 000 48 | R E V I S I O N B | 01.1 6.20 17...

  • Page 2: Revision History

    REVISION HISTORY REVISION DATE DESCRIPTION March 2016 Initial Release January 2017 Added discussion of features available in SYNAPSE version 4.0.4. Added Kinematic Position Mode. Added Orbit Mode. Updated Alarm Light scenarios. Added procedure to disable ceiling and range limits. Updated Autoland descent rate.

  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    CONTENTS Revision History Table of Contents ALTA 8 OVERVIEW Disclaimer and Warning Limitation of Liability Introduction Symbols, Abbreviations, and Terminology Dimensions Included Items Specifications Limitations System Diagrams ALTA Mobile App Additional Required Components (not included) SETTING UP ALTA 8 Unfolding/Folding ALTA 8 Radio Installation Radio Channel Mapping Configuring for MōVI...
  • Page 4 Orbit Switch Disarm Safety Switch Status Light Orientation Lights Alarms ALTA App Monitor Data Logging NORMAL PROCEDURES Unpacking and Setup Before Starting Before Takeoff After Every Flight After Last Flight EMERGENCY PROCEDURES Emergency Guidance Alarm Indication (Flashing or Solid Red Light) Pilot Loss of ALTA 8 Orientation Unexpected Flight Controller Behavior Battery Exhaustion...
  • Page 5 TROUBLESHOOTING APPENDIX Appendix A. Default Tuning Values Appendix B. Data Logging Fields | A I R C R A F T F L I G H T M A N U A L...

  • Page 6: Alta 8 Overview

    ALTA 8 OVERVIEW | A I R C R A F T F L I G H T M A N U A L...

  • Page 7: Disclaimer And Warning

    » Always keep children and animals a safe distance away from ALTA 8 when in use and when changing configurations. » Only use propellers supplied by Freefly Systems that are designed for use on ALTA 8. » Always remove the propellers or power ALTA 8 using a low power source when making a change to the configuration of ALTA 8 to prevent propeller strikes in the event of unintentional motor starts.
  • Page 8 » It is your responsibility to perform a full system check of ALTA 8 prior to every flight. » It is your responsibility to learn how to safely operate ALTA 8 and to adhere to all applicable rules and regulations. »...

  • Page 9: Limitation Of Liability

    LIMITATIONS SHALL APPLY NOTWITHSTANDING ANY FAILURE OF ESSENTIAL PURPOSE OF ANY LIMITED REMEDY. Freefly shall not be liable for damages or injuries incurred directly or indirectly from the use of ALTA 8 including, but not limited to, the following situations: »...

  • Page 10: Introduction

    INTRODUCTION ALTA 8 is a professional multi-rotor aircraft designed for demanding cinematic, television, and photographic applications. Within five minutes, ALTA 8 can unfold from its carrying case to flying some of the most capable cinema cameras on either the top or bottom of the aircraft.

  • Page 11: Symbols, Abbreviations, And Terminology

    SYMBOLS, ABBREVIATIONS, AND TERMINOLOGY WARNINGS, CAUTIONS AND NOTES Throughout the manual, warnings, cautions and notes are used to highlight various important procedures. These are defined as follows: WARNING CAUTION NOTE Warnings are used to highlight proce- Cautions are used to highlight proce- Notes are used to highlight specific dures which, if not strictly observed, dures which, if not strictly observed,...
  • Page 12 Pressure Altitude Altitude measured from standard sea level pressure (1013.2 mbar, 29.92 in. Hg) by a pressure or barometric altimeter It is the indicated pressure altitude corrected for position and instrument error. In this Manual, altimeter instrument errors are assumed to be zero POWER TERMINOLOGY Maximum Continuous The maximum typical power output of a...
  • Page 13 WEIGHT AND BALANCE Maximum Takeoff Maximum allowable weight at liftoff Weight (MTOW) Standard Empty Weight Weight of a standard aircraft Basic Empty Weight Standard empty weight plus optional equipment Useful Load Difference between take off weight and basic empty weight Payload Useful load less battery weight GENERAL TERMINOLOGY...

  • Page 14: Dimensions

    DIMENSIONS (18.0) (8.6) 1325 (52.1) (18.0) U N FO L D E D P L A N V I E W W I T H B O O M N U M B E R I N G S C H E M E M M ( I N C H ) (8.6) (14.1)
  • Page 15 (25.9) (24.2) (9.8) FO L D E D S I D E V I E W M M ( I N C H ) (24.2) (10.2) (25.9) (9.8) FO L D E D P L A N V I E W M M ( I N C H ) (10.2) (24.2)

  • Page 16: Included Items

    INCLUDED ITEMS 1. Case 10. FP V Cables 2. ALTA 8 a. Skyzone/BOSCAM 3. Case Lid Foam b. BOSCAM, small connector 4. Isolator Cartridges c. ImmersionRC/Fat Shark a. (6) Teal (Installed) d. Ready Made RC b. (6) Black 11. (2) M3 × 6 Flat Head for Accessory Mount c.

  • Page 17: Specifications

    Motor Max Instantaneous 950 W Peak Power Output Maximum RPM (flat rated) 6300 RPM Equivalent Kv Electronic Speed Controller Freefly Silent-Drive Sine Wave ESC PROPELLERS Make and Model Freefly ALTA Propeller Material Carbon fiber with balsa core Propeller Orientation (4) CW and (4) CCW Props Propeller Type 18 ×...
  • Page 18 WEIGHTS Maximum Gross for Takeoff 18.1 kg (40.0 lbs) Maximum Useful Load 12.0 kg (26.4 lbs) Maximum Payload 9.1 kg (20.0 lbs) Typical Standard Empty Weight: 6.2 kg (13.6 lbs) WA R N I N G Always refer to the following aircraft limitations section for complete information on allowable maximum gross weights at different altitudes and temperatures before any flight.
  • Page 19 FLIGHT CONTROLLER Model Name Freefly SYNAPSE flight controller Flight Modes Manual, Height Mode, Position Mode (Classic, Kinematic), Return-to-Home (RTH), Autoland, Orbit Mode Supported Inputs: DSMX, DSM2, S.Bus, S.Bus2, PPM, FPV SD Supported Radios Futaba S.Bus & S.Bus2, DSMX, DSM2 (Spektrum/JR), PPM,...
  • Page 20 PAYLOAD MOUNTING Mounting Locations Bottom and Top Mount Mounting System Freefly Toad In The Hole (TITH) Quick Release FPV Camera Mount Between Booms 8 & 1 FPV Transmitter Mount Boom 2 | A I R C R A F T F L I G H T M A N U A L...

  • Page 21: Limitations

    LIMITATIONS N OT E These limitations are advisory in nature and do not extend or restrict limitations provided by Governing Aviation Authorities. POWERPLANT LIMITATIONS Maximum RPM 6300 RPM Maximum Battery Voltage 25.2 Volts Minimum Average Battery Voltage 19.2 Volts ENVIRONMENTAL LIMITATIONS Do not fly ALTA 8 in temperatures exceeding 45ºC (113ºF) or below -20ºC(-4ºF).

  • Page 22: Weight Limits

    WEIGHT LIMITS Maximum Payload 9.1 kg (20.0 lbs) Maximum Takeoff Weight See following table | A I R C R A F T F L I G H T M A N U A L...

  • Page 23: System Diagrams

    SYSTEM DIAGRAMS sUAS OVERVIEW GPS Satellite HD Video Link, ALTA App Preview Monitor* FPV Rx, Preview Monitor* Radio Controller* *NOT INCLUDED 2.4GHz MōVI Controller* | A I R C R A F T F L I G H T M A N U A L...
  • Page 24 FLIGHT CONTROL A. Spektrum Receiver SYNAPSE Flight DSMX, DSM 2 Controller B. Futaba Receiver or Generic Receiver S.BUS, S.BUS 2 or PPM Status Light 8 Position Lights | A I R C R A F T F L I G H T M A N U A L...
  • Page 25 POWER SYSTEM Motor Motor Lights 1 Lights 8 SYNAPSE Flight Motor Motor Controller Lights 2 Lights 7 F U S E Motor F U S E Motor Lights 3 Lights 6 R E G U L A T O R S EC5 Connector Motor Motor...
  • Page 26 FPV EQUIPMENT F P V Camera (optional) FP V Camera Cable FPV Tx (optional) FPV Camera Lead Pre-installed FPV Tx Cable SYNAPSE Flight Boscam/Skyzone or Fat Shark/ImmersionRC Controller FPV Tx Lead Pre-installed | A I R C R A F T F L I G H T M A N U A L...

  • Page 27: Alta Mobile App

    ALTA 8’s status during flight. To download the ALTA App, search for “Freefly ALTA” in the App Store or on Google Play™. Parameters may only be adjusted while ALTA 8 is on the ground and disarmed. In addition, radio mapping parameters can only be adjusted when the Configuration Jumper is removed.

  • Page 28: Additional Required Components (Not Included)

    ADDITIONAL REQUIRED COMPONENTS (NOT INCLUDED) RADIO CONTROLLER ALTA 8 supports a variety of radio controllers as outlined in the Flight Controller Specifications. A minimum of five (5) channels are required, with four (4) used for flight control, and the remaining one (1) used for mode selection. However, a radio controller with at least 10 channels is highly recommended to make use of Velocity and Climb Rate Clamps, Return-to-Home (RTH), Disarm Safety, and Orbit Mode functions.

  • Page 29: Setting Up Alta 8

    SETTING UP ALTA 8 | A I R C R A F T F L I G H T M A N U A L...
  • Page 30 UNFOLDING ALTA 8 ALTA 8 features swan-neck booms that fold into a compact size for travel. They are secured in an open position for flight using over- center latches. TO UNFOLD ALTA 8 Remove ALTA 8 from case Fold down all eight boom retention clips Open ALTA 8 booms.
  • Page 31 Snap shut all eight boom latches until they click and latch Visually confirm all latches are seated properly Remove prop protectors | A I R C R A F T F L I G H T M A N U A L...
  • Page 32 TO FOLD ALTA 8 Secure props with prop protectors Unlatch all eight booms Close ALTA 8 booms in opposing pairs to keep balance Fold up all eight boom retention clips to secure booms | A I R C R A F T F L I G H T M A N U A L...

  • Page 33: Radio Installation

    RADIO INSTALLATION RADIO CONTROLLER RECEIVER ALTA 8 requires the installation of a radio control system. S.Bus, S.Bus2, DSM2, DSMX, and PPM (including inverted PPM and Graupner) receiver types are supported. Some of ALTA 8 emergency control modes (Return-to-Home and Autoland) may vary depending on the type of radio. Refer to the Flight Controller Modes section of this manual for additional detail.
  • Page 34 Plug signal wire into receiver If using telemetry, plug the telemetry wire located in the closeout between booms 2 & 3 into the primary receiver (refer to the Voltage Telemetry section) Feed receiver antenna into lower antenna tube Secure receiver using the provided double sided tape to inside of receiver housing Reattach closeout panel | A I R C R A F T F L I G H T M A N U A L...
  • Page 35 Route antenna wires into the two antenna tubes below ALTA 8 chassis Repeat installation process for dual receivers (if applicable) FOR SPEKTRUM/JR: Locate the noted closeout panels used for Spektrum/JR receiver installation (between booms 3 & 4 and 7 & 8) Remove side closeout panel using a 2.0mm hex driver Feed signal cable through panel grommet | A I R C R A F T F L I G H T M A N U A L...
  • Page 36 Reattach closeout panel Plug in receiver/satellite into signal cable Attach receiver/satellite to exterior using double sided tape Repeat steps 1-6 for dual receivers (if applicable) | A I R C R A F T F L I G H T M A N U A L...
  • Page 37 VOLTAGE TELEMETRY ALTA 8 supports battery voltage telemetry on Futaba radios using a receiver that supports an external voltage sensor, such as the R7008SB. Installing the telemetry wire is easiest when initially installing the receiver. To set up ALTA 8 with voltage telemetry for Futaba radios: Remove the closeout panel between booms 2 and 3 with a 2.0mm hex driver and locate the radio receiver wire bundle...

  • Page 38: Radio Channel Mapping

    This section describes the steps required to complete radio channel mapping. If you are uncertain about your radio channel mapping, obtain assistance from an experienced pilot or from Freefly Customer Support. CONFIGURATION JUMPER A small jumper is used to prevent motor operation while configuring radio channel mapping parameters.
  • Page 39 Remove or replace the jumper as needed Reattach the closeout panel MAPPING RADIO CHANNELS USING ALTA APP Radio channel mapping is accomplished with the ALTA App. Prior to mapping channels, ensure your radio controller and receivers are properly installed. Refer to the Radio Installation section of this manual and your radio controller’s documentation.
  • Page 40 ONCE CHANNELS ARE MAPPED Remove the battery or USB-Futaba cable from ALTA 8 Replace the Configuration Jumper FUNCTION DESCRIPTIONS The following functions can be mapped to radio controller channels. These are found in the Radio section of the Configurations menu in the ALTA App. Each function is also represented by a chart that responds to control input allowing for quick verification of mapping settings.
  • Page 41 DISARM SAFETY The Disarm Safety Switch aids in preventing accidental motor disarming while the ALTA is in flight and in manual mode. It may be mapped to either a two-position or three-position switch. To set up the Disarm Safety Switch, refer to the Mapping Channels section of the ALTA Aircraft Flight Manual.
  • Page 42 On - Disarming Not Possible Disarm Safety Middle & Off - Disarming Possible Bottom Orbit On Orbit Middle Orbit Off Bottom Set Orbit Center Point | A I R C R A F T F L I G H T M A N U A L...
  • Page 43 TYPICAL CHANNEL MAPPINGS The following radio channel mapping configurations are recommendations only and can be set in the ALTA App. Depending on exact radio models, these may help as an initial configuration. However, it is up to the pilot setting up ALTA 8 for flight to determine if these settings are appropriate.

  • Page 44: Configuring For Mōvi

    CONFIGURING FOR MōVI A MōVI can be attached to either the top or bottom of ALTA 8 via the Freefly Toad In The Hole (TITH) quick release. ALTA 8 comes pre-configured for GroundView mounting a MōVI. GROUNDVIEW Prepare your MōVI for GroundView flight (see MōVI manual) Attach landing gear Install TITH receiver on MōVI...
  • Page 45 Connect and secure the supplied inverted landing gear to the bottom Toad Remove Battery Mount Quick Release Connect MōVI to top Toad | A I R C R A F T F L I G H T M A N U A L...

  • Page 46: Isolator Cartridges

    ISOLATOR CARTRIDGES Different Isolator Cartridges can be used to fine tune vibration damping performance for different payload weights or ambient temperatures. Three isolation cartridge styles are provided with ALTA 8. The cartridges have o-rings colored red for light payloads or cold ambient temperature, teal for medium payloads or typical ambient temperature, and black for heavy payloads or hot ambient temperature.

  • Page 47: Battery Installation

    BATTERY INSTALLATION Batteries may be installed on either the top or bottom of an ALTA 8 and are always mounted opposite of the payload location. In both locations, battery packs are secured with silicone straps tensioned across the packs. The straps are secured using studs located on either side of the packs.
  • Page 48 GROUNDVIEW Place battery retention strap studs at the appropriate height to hold the battery packs firmly in position Adjust battery stops to fit battery packs Attach the single-hole end of the battery retention straps to the studs | A I R C R A F T F L I G H T M A N U A L...
  • Page 49 Place battery packs on the battery tray CA U T I O N Do not install batteries directly on the lower battery tray if a Toad adapter is also installed. Either remove the Toad adapter or use the Quick Release Battery Tray. Tension and secure battery retention straps | A I R C R A F T F L I G H T M A N U A L...
  • Page 50 SKYVIEW CA U T I O N Always completely secure the inverted landing gear by closing the TITH quick release lever. Inverted landing gear that are not completely attached can rotate and unplug battery leads. Pinch the battery tray handles and slide to remove it from landing gear Attach the single-hole ends of the battery retention straps to the studs on the battery tray Place battery packs onto battery tray...
  • Page 51 Tension and secure battery retention straps Slide tray with battery packs back into landing gear until the tray latches in place Ensure tray and battery packs are secure | A I R C R A F T F L I G H T M A N U A L...

  • Page 52: Compass Calibration

    COMPASS CALIBRATION ALTA 8 features a highly sensitive 3-axis magnetometer that measures the earth’s magnetic field to infer heading. Occasionally, the compass will require calibration, especially when traveling between different geographic locations. For best results, it is recommended to perform manual compass calibrations away from ferrous objects, buildings and vehicles.
  • Page 53 TO PERFORM A COMPASS CALIBRATION: Secure a battery onto ALTA 8 Plug in the battery Open the ALTA App Select Configurations > More > Compass RO LL +36 0º R OLL+ 18 0º RO L L+3 60º Under Calibration, select Start Manual YAW +90 º...
  • Page 54 AUTOMATIC COMPASS CALIBRATION Automatic Compass Calibration will use compass readings over time to resolve an accurate compass calibration. Manual calibration is recommended when moving to a new location and an accurate compass calibration is needed immediately for using Position Mode. In the ALTA App, select Configurations >...

  • Page 55: Propellers

    CA U T I O N Only use propellers supplied by Freefly on ALTA 8. Use of third-party propellers can cause motor instability, overheating, and failure. | A I R C R A F T F L I G H T M A N U A L...
  • Page 56 CHECKING PROPELLER BOLT TIGHTNESS Over time, the bolts that hold the propeller blades to the propeller hub can loosen due to vibration. To check propeller bolt tightness, twist the propeller about its length. If there is free play, the propeller bolt is too loose. Use the provided 2.5mm hex driver and wrench to tighten the bolt and nut that secure the propeller blade just enough to remove the play.

  • Page 57: First Person View (Fpv)

    FIRST PERSON VIEW (FPV) ALTA 8 and SYNAPSE can power a variety of first person view (FPV) cameras and transmitters, as well as add informational on-screen display (OSD) elements to aid in FPV flying. Using an FPV ground station display can be a useful method of monitoring status, performance, and flight parameters of the ALTA 8 during flight.
  • Page 58 FPV SYSTEM INSTALLATION CAMERA Remove the front closeout panel with a 2.0mm hex driver Locate the FPV camera cable included in the ALTA 8 package Pass the FPV cable through the closeout panel grommet and connect to the mating FPV camera lead inside ALTA 8. Connect the other end directly to the camera Replace front closeout panel.
  • Page 59 Mount FPV camera on the FPV mount on the front ALTA 8 using the provided hardware TRANSMITTER Mount FPV transmitter on the provided carbon fiber accessory mount plate Attach accessory mount to boom 2 with M3x6 flathead bolts Locate the appropriate FPV transmitter cable. The following cables are included: ImmersionRC/Fat Shark (cable with two connectors) BOSCAM/SkyZone (cable with one large connector) Compact BOSCAM (cable with one small connector)
  • Page 60 Remove the side closeout panel with the FPV transmitter lead between booms 1 & 2 using the 2.0mm hex driver Pass transmitter cable through the underside of the hinge, and connect to the FPV transmitter lead Replace side closeout panel Zip tie the FPV transmitter lead to the boom cable bundle for strain relief | A I R C R A F T F L I G H T M A N U A L...
  • Page 61 FPV ON SCREEN DISPLAY SETUP A number of properties and components can be adjusted or added to the FPV On Screen Display (OSD) using the ALTA App. PROPERTIES N A M E O P T I O N S D E S C R I P T I O N Indicates to the SYNAPSE the Video Mode PAL / NTSC...
  • Page 62 ARTIFICIAL HORIZON COMPONENTS The artificial horizon displays pitch and roll information in the center of the FPV display in the form of a horizon line and accompanying elements. N A M E O P T I O N S D E S C R I P T I O N Turns off all artificial horizon components Adds a horizon line that moves up and down as Artificial...
  • Page 63 Displays a bar on the bottom of the screen that scales with the side-to-side velocity component Sideslip The bar will extend left to indicate leftward velocity, or right to indicate rightward velocity | A I R C R A F T F L I G H T M A N U A L...

  • Page 64: Tuning Alta 8

    TUNING ALTA 8 ALTA 8 comes pre-tuned for a wide variety of payloads and flying conditions. Generally, additional tuning is not required to fly ALTA 8, and additional tuning will only need to take place if more customization of control feel is desired. Default tuning values are included in Appendix A, Default Tuning Values.
  • Page 65 ATTITUDE TUNING Attitude tuning adjusts how ALTA 8 responds to control inputs and disturbances. Attitude directly controls responsiveness and changes ALTA 8’s fundamental flying behaviors. Attitude must be tuned acceptably before tuning height or position parameters. When tuning attitude, the primary parameter to change is Stiffness followed by Strength.
  • Page 66 HEIGHT TUNING Tuning height parameters will adjust the control feel of ALTA 8’s height control while in Height and Position modes (for additional information on flight modes, see the Flight Controller Modes section of this manual). Tune height parameters only after satisfactorily tuning attitude parameters.
  • Page 67 HOLD STRENGTH This adjusts how much ALTA 8 will attempt to maintain its place over a target position. A higher value will result in position being held more precisely. If too high, positional instability can result, causing ALTA 8 to fly past a target position. KINEMATIC MODE When selected, Kinematic mode affects the control feel of the ALTA 8 in Position Mode only.

  • Page 68: Alta 8 Flight Parameters

    ALTA 8 FLIGHT PARAMETERS Flight Parameters are different from tuning parameters in that the flight characteristics of ALTA 8 will not change with their modification. However, they can be used to select neutral points using trim, or to set maximum or minimum values. ATTITUDE PITCH AND ROLL TRIM Use Pitch and Roll trim settings to correct for tendencies of the ALTA 8 to pitch or...
  • Page 69 Alternatively, if ALTA 8 climbs when switching from Manual to Height mode, increase hover throttle since a climb indicates a stick position that is higher than neutral in Manual Mode. If ALTA 8 descends, decrease hover throttle since a descent indicates a stick position that is lower than neutral in Manual mode.
  • Page 70 SAFETY ALARM VOLTAGE This adjusts the per-cell voltage warning level. Below this value, the Status Light will illuminate red and Orientation Lights will flash, indicating the flight packs are at a low state of charge. LAND VOLTAGE This adjusts the per-cell voltage limit below which ALTA 8 will begin to Autoland while flying in Height or Position Mode.
  • Page 71 MOTION BOOTING Motion Booting can be used when powering up ALTA 8 from a moving platform such as a boat. Motion Booting bypasses sensor checks during boot, so it should remain off whenever possible. CEILING This adjusts the highest altitude the ALTA 8 is allowed to climb from its starting point while in Height or Position modes.

  • Page 72: Resetting Alta 8 Wifi Password

    RESETTING ALTA 8 WIFI PASSWORD How to Reset WiFi Password On Your Freefly Device If you forget your WiFi password and are locked out, you can reset it with the steps below. It will also reset your SSID (if you have renamed your device).

  • Page 73: Operating Alta 8

    OPERATING ALTA 8 | A I R C R A F T F L I G H T M A N U A L...

  • Page 74: Flight Controller Modes

    FLIGHT CONTROLLER MODES OPERATING ALTA 8 ALTA 8 has three primary flight control modes which are selected using the Mode Switch: Manual Mode, Height Mode, and Position Mode. Position Mode includes two control styles that can be selected in the ALTA App per user preference (Classic and Kinematic).
  • Page 75 HEIGHT MODE Height Mode changes the throttle stick behavior to command climb and descent rates. The higher the throttle stick position, the faster ALTA 8 will climb. Conversely, the lower the throttle stick position, the faster ALTA 8 will descend. When the throttle stick is centered, ALTA 8 will enter Height Hold.
  • Page 76 WA R N I N G Flight using Position Mode in areas of degraded GPS signal, such as near buildings or under dense tree cover, is not recommended. The automatic reversion to Manual Mode can cause unexpected, abrupt changes in flight behavior. WA R N I N G Flight using Position Mode with Compass enabled in areas near large ferrous objects or high magnetic flux is not recommended.
  • Page 77 N OT E Full functionality of the SYNAPSE LOS features is only available on an S.Bus/S.Bus2 or DSM2/DSMX receiver. PPM receivers must be programmed with failsafe actions manually before flight. When initiated manually using the Home Switch, ALTA 8 will fly back to the Home Point, and the pilot will maintain control of ALTA 8’s altitude the entire time.
  • Page 78 AUTOLAND The Autoland function will command ALTA 8 to hover for 10 seconds and will then land in place. The vertical speed at which the ALTA will descend during an Autoland varies as the ALTA approaches the ground. Higher above the elevation of the home point, ALTA 8 descends at faster rate and gradually slows to the user-defined Autoland Descent Rate before landing.

  • Page 79: Home Switch

    HOME SWITCH The home switch has three settings: Set Home, RTH Off and RTH On. SET HOME Set Home sets a new home point at ALTA 8’s current position. This could be useful for setting a point away from the initialization point, such as if the ALTA 8 was started underneath an overhang or a tree.

  • Page 80: Orbit Switch

    ORBIT SWITCH The Orbit switch has three settings: Set Orbit Center Point, Orbit Off, and Orbit On. SET ORBIT CENTER POINT Set the center point around which the ALTA 8 will orbit. After obtaining position lock and entering position mode, momentarily toggle the Orbit switch from Off to Set Orbit Center Point and back to Off.

  • Page 81: Disarm Safety Switch

    DISARM SAFETY SWITCH The Disarm Safety Switch aids in preventing accidental motor disarming while ALTA 8 is in flight and in manual mode. It may be mapped to a two or three-position switch. To set up the Disarm Safety Switch, refer to the Radio Mapping section of this manual. 3 P O S I T I O N S W I TC H F U N CT I O N On - Disarming is not possible.

  • Page 82: Status Light

    STATUS LIGHT The rear-facing Status Light shows the status of ALTA 8 as it boots, arms, and flies. The following table shows the different meanings of the light in the various flight phases. F L I G H T P H A S E L I G H T CO LO R M E A N I N G Flashing Red...
  • Page 83 Nominal flight status No errors Outside user-defined range, Solid White height, or speed limits Flight - Manual Mode Flight critical alarm or battery alarm Solid Red voltage - Land immediately! Battery land voltage - Land Flashing Red immediately! Nominal flight status Height hold inactive Flight - Height Slow Flashing...

  • Page 84: Orientation Lights

    ORIENTATION LIGHTS BOT TOM VIEW The boom-end mounted Orientation Lights indicate both the orientation of ALTA 8 in flight and the status of the individual motor Electronic Speed Controllers (ESCs) during other operational phases. The following table shows the different meanings of the light colors in the various operational phases.

  • Page 85: Alarms

    ALARMS ALTA 8 will notify the pilot of critical alarms using the Status Light. These alarms indicate a serious issue has been observed in the behavior of the ALTA 8 that, if not acted upon immediately, can cause loss of control. Never continue a flight when ALTA 8 indicates an alarm.

  • Page 86: Alta App Monitor

    ALTA APP MONITOR The ALTA App includes a flight status monitor that displays information about the health of the ALTA 8 and the various controls that can be selected. Boot indicates if the SYNAPSE booting process has completed successfully. Any issues that prevented a normal boot are indicated here.

  • Page 87: Data Logging

    DATA LOGGING ALTA 8 automatically logs flight and control data when ALTA 8 is armed for flight. Data is recorded as a .csv file at a rate of 25 Hz on a microSD card installed on the top of the GPS/Compass module. A table of recorded data is included in Appendix B. Summarized flight data from an individual flight can also be viewed immediately after landing in the ALTA App’s Monitor >...

  • Page 88: Normal Procedures

    NORMAL PROCEDURES | A I R C R A F T F L I G H T M A N U A L...

  • Page 89: Unpacking And Setup

    UNPACKING AND SETUP Aircraft REMOVE from case Prop protectors REMOVE Boom retention clips STOW Booms UNFOLD Boom latches LOCK Receivers and wiring CHECK Isolator cartridges SELECT and INSTALL as necessary Payload mounting location CONFIGURE as necessary AMPLIFICATION To set up ALTA 8 for flight, remove it from the case, and remove the prop protectors. Stow the boom retention clips by folding them down.

  • Page 90: Before Starting

    BEFORE STARTING Payload SECURED Isolator Cartridges VERIFY SECURE microSD Card VERIFY INSTALLED Propellers CHECK CONDITION, VERIFY TIGHT Propeller Hubs VERIFY SECURE Motors CHECK CONDITION Radio Controller ON, VERIFY TX BATTERY Radio Controller Model SELECT Aircraft Placement AWAY from people and obstacles Battery Pack Voltage VERIFY ABOVE 24V Battery Packs...
  • Page 91 Motors should spin freely, and there should be no grinding or scraping sound from the motor. The inside of the motor should be free of debris. Always turn on the radio controller before powering ALTA 8. Follow the battery installation guidance in the Battery Installation section of this manual for battery installation instructions.

  • Page 92: Before Takeoff

    BEFORE TAKEOFF Prop Area CLEAR Mode Switch MANUAL Home Switch CENTER POSITION Radio Controller VERIFY CORRECT MODEL Orbit Switch CENTER POSITION Telemetry (if equipped) CHECK OPERATION ALTA 8 Status Light VERIFY OFF Orientation Lights VERIFY USER-DEFINED COLOR Motors START and VERIFY OPERATION Flight Controls VERIFY CORRECT Throttle...
  • Page 93 To start the motors, hold full low throttle and full right yaw. Ensure that all the motors are spinning. Keep the throttle in the lowest position and move the pitch, roll, and yaw controls slightly. ALTA 8 should pitch, roll, and yaw as commanded due to isolator cartridge flex.

  • Page 94: After Every Flight

    AFTER EVERY FLIGHT Mode Switch MANUAL Home Switch Orbit Switch Disarm Safety Switch ALTA 8 LAND Motors DISARM and STOP Orientation Lights VERIFY FLASHING GREEN Status LED VERIFY SLOW FLASHING WHITE ALTA App CHECK for warnings Batteries DISCONNECT and REMOVE Radio Controller Power AS REQUIRED Aircraft Condition...
  • Page 95 The downwash from the propellers can disturb debris. This debris can be ingested by the propellers or motors and cause damage. After the flight, ensure there is no damage to the propeller blades and that the motors still spin freely and quietly. Take extra care when operating in areas with large amounts of debris, such as in sand, dirt, or gravel.

  • Page 96: After Last Flight

    AFTER LAST FLIGHT Propellers FOLD and PLACE inline with booms Prop Protectors INSTALL Boom Latches UNLOCK Booms FOLD Boom Retention Clips EXTEND Payload REMOVE ALTA 8 INSERT into case AMPLIFICATION Fold propeller blades and install foam prop proptectors to decrease the risk of damaging the propellers while packing ALTA 8.

  • Page 97: Emergency Procedures

    EMERGENCY PROCEDURES | A I R C R A F T F L I G H T M A N U A L...

  • Page 98: Emergency Guidance

    EMERGENCY GUIDANCE The emergency procedures listed in this section are the recommended practices for handling the aircraft in the event of an aircraft emergency. This guidance should be considered and applied as necessary. The risk of an emergency occurring can be reduced substantially through proper aircraft maintenance, by performing thorough inspections before and after all flights, and with careful pre-flight planning.

  • Page 99: Alarm Indication (Flashing Or Solid Red Light)

    ALARM INDICATION (FLASHING OR SOLID RED LIGHT) Mode Switch MANUAL ALTA 8 LAND as soon as possible ALTA App OPEN MONITOR AMPLIFICATION Alarms are displayed if the flight controller determines there is a condition present that can adversely affect the safety of the flight. Alarms are indicated by the Status Light turning or flashing Red (depending on the flight mode) and the Orientation Lights flashing.

  • Page 100: Pilot Loss Of Alta 8 Orientation

    PILOT LOSS OF ALTA 8 ORIENTATION Control Inputs NEUTRALIZE Mode Switch POSITION NOSE AWAY Roll VERIFY DIRECTION AMPLIFICATION Regaining spatial orientation as quickly as possible is most important. If the pilot loses orientation of ALTA 8, control inputs will not give the expected result, so neutralize controls by centering the throttle/yaw and pitch/roll sticks to stabilize motion.

  • Page 101: Unexpected Flight Controller Behavior

    UNEXPECTED FLIGHT CONTROLLER BEHAVIOR Control Inputs NEUTRALIZE Mode Switch MANUAL If the problem persists ALTA 8 LAND as soon as possible AMPLIFICATION If the ALTA 8 behaves unexpectedly, neutralize controls by centering the throttle/ yaw and pitch/roll sticks and observe ALTA 8. If it is still flying in an uncommanded manner in either Height or Position Mode, switch to Manual Mode.

  • Page 102: Battery Exhaustion

    BATTERY EXHAUSTION If battery cell voltage is below Alarm Voltage (all flight modes) Status Light ILLUMINATES RED (solid or blinking) Orientation Lights FLASH ALTA 8 LAND as soon as possible If battery cell voltage is below Land Voltage while flying in Manual Mode Status Light FLASH RED Orientation Lights...

  • Page 103: Radio Loss Of Signal (Los)

    RADIO LOSS OF SIGNAL (LOS) Controller Battery CHECK Controller Antenna REPOSITION Mode Switch POSITION Home Switch RETURN-TO-HOME AMPLIFICATION Loss of Signal (LOS) can occur if the radio controller stops transmitting a signal, or if ALTA 8 is too far away to receive it. In the event ALTA 8 detects a LOS, it will automatically execute a Return-to-Home or Autoland as configured in the App if using an S.Bus/S.Bus2 or DSM2/DSMX radio type.

  • Page 104: Loss Of Fpv Signal

    LOSS OF FPV SIGNAL Control Inputs AS REQUIRED Visual Contact MAINTAIN ALTA 8 POSITION for optimal signal reception If visual contact or FPV signal is not maintained Mode Switch POSITION Home Switch RETURN TO HOME Throttle AS REQUIRED AMPLIFICATION An FPV Loss of Signal (LOS) can occur if the aircraft flies out of range or if it flies behind an object that interrupts the signal.

  • Page 105: Performance

    PERFORMANCE | A I R C R A F T F L I G H T M A N U A L...

  • Page 106: Weight / Endurance Performance Data

    WEIGHT / ENDURANCE PERFORMANCE DATA Conditions: Altitude Sea Level, ISA Winds Zero | A I R C R A F T F L I G H T M A N U A L...
  • Page 107 ALLOWABLE GROSS WEIGHT | A I R C R A F T F L I G H T M A N U A L...

  • Page 108: Maintaining Alta 8

    MAINTAINING ALTA 8 | A I R C R A F T F L I G H T M A N U A L...

  • Page 109: General Information And Techniques

    (such as Loctite Purple 222) is used on structural fasteners. FASTENER INSTALLATION The Freefly hex drivers included with ALTA 8 are designed to limit the torque that can be applied to each bolt or screw and help prevent stripping the fastener head.

  • Page 110: Maintenance Items

    CA U T I O N Only use propellers supplied by Freefly on ALTA 8. Use of third-party propellers can cause motor instability, overheating, and failure. | A I R C R A F T F L I G H T M A N U A L...
  • Page 111 The folding propellers are installed on the motors with four M3×8 socket head bolts. CA U T I O N Always use a threadlocking compound on the bolt threads that attach the propeller hub to the motor. Odd numbered booms (1, 3, 5 and 7) use clockwise rotating propellers when looking from the top down, and even numbered booms (2, 4, 6 and 8) use counterclockwise rotating propellers.
  • Page 112 To reassemble, follow the part layout in the figure above. Note that there are two different types of washers, one made of nylon and the other made of PTFE. The nylon washer is smaller in width and thicker and is installed between the nut or bolt head and the two prop adapters.
  • Page 113 EVERY 15 FLIGHTS ALTA 8 is designed to be as low-maintenance as possible. It is recommended to check ALTA 8’s fasteners regularly. This check should occur roughly after every 15 flights, dependent upon the level of vibration ALTA 8 experiences in flight or during handling. To check ALTA 8’s fasteners, apply a tightening torque to each fastener on the chassis using the supplied hex drivers.

  • Page 114: Firmware Update Process

    FIRMWARE UPDATE PROCESS N OT E Carefully follow in-app instructions for saving and restoring ALTA 8 configuration settings during the firmware update process. WA R N I N G Test radio channels, arming, and disarming behavior after firmware updates to ensure radio mapping has been preserved. Incorrect radio mapping can lead to loss of control.

  • Page 115: Motor Alignment

    ALTA Flight Data Viewer, available at www.freeflysystems.com. To perform a realignment, Freefly recommends using a small digital angle gauge with a flat surface so it can rest on the bottom of the motor mount (for example, the Wixey WR300 angle gauge).
  • Page 116 If the gauge reads a value outside the range 2.5°±0.1°, loosen the motor mount clamping bolts. While placing slight inward pressure on the motor, rotate the motor until the angle gauge indicates 2.5°±0.1°. When viewed from the end of the boom: Motors 1, 3, 5 and 7 should be rotated clockwise.
  • Page 117 Retrieve the microSD card from the GPS module and open it with a computer. Open the ALTA Flight Data Viewer. Drag and drop the latest .csv data log file of the test flight from the microSD card on to the ALTA Flight Data Viewer window. Under the Data Seeker section, select Hover from the Seek Event drop down box.

  • Page 118: Guidelines Following An Accident

    Extra precautions should be taken following an accident, including a crash, tip over, propeller strikes with solid bodies, or other abnormally stressing events. Contact Freefly Customer Support immediately after an accident for guidance as field inspections are no substitute for consultation and direct inspection and repair of damage by Freefly.
  • Page 119 TROUBLESHOOTING | A I R C R A F T F L I G H T M A N U A L...
  • Page 120 Accelerometer Hard landing Reboot ALTA 8 Warning Contact Freefly Customer ESC or Motor Motor Warning Support immediately. Do not failure or error continue flying ALTA 8. | A I R C R A F T F L I G H T M A N U A L...
  • Page 121 FLIGHT CONTROLLER SY M P TO M P OT E N T I A L CA U S E P OT E N T I A L S O LU T I O N Home Switch Move Home Switch to Off not Off Mode Switch Move Mode Switch to manual...
  • Page 122 Propeller blades are balanced unbalanced and matched at the factory. Thoroughly inspect ALTA 8 following Hinge or motor any accident. Contact Freefly for misalignment further inspection and assessment. Check tuning in ALTA 8 and Tuning too low adjust as required...
  • Page 123 Perform a manual compass calibration. ALTA 8 does not Compass Disable compass assist in the ALTA track straight in calibration invalid App if location has high magnetic Position Mode flux or large ferrous objects Monitor the ALTA App to ensure Position Lock position lock has been achieved ALTA 8 does not...
  • Page 124 APPENDIX | A I R C R A F T F L I G H T M A N U A L...
  • Page 125 APPENDIX A. DEFAULT TUNING VALUES The following default tuning values only apply to ALTA 8. For ALTA 6 tuning values, refer to the ALTA 6 Aircraft Flight Manual. PA R A M E T E R PA R A M E T E R D E FA U LT VA LU E G R O U P Pitch/Roll Stiffness...
  • Page 126 APPENDIX B. DATA LOGGING FIELDS F I E L D U N I T S D E S C R I P T I O N An indexed identifier Reading unitless assigned to data points The number of seconds IMU Time seconds from arming ALTA The date of the reading in Universal...
  • Page 127 GPS Acceleration The GPS derived upward acceleration, meters / second^2 without gravitational acceleration IMU Position The IMU derived dead-reckoned meters distance ALTA has traveled northward North The IMU derived dead-reckoned IMU Position East meters distance ALTA has traveled eastward The IMU derived dead-reckoned IMU Position Up meters distance ALTA has traveled upward...
  • Page 128 The IMU derived body acceleration IMU Acceleration where positive values are in a forwards direction The IMU derived body acceleration IMU Acceleration where positive values are in a rightwards direction The IMU derived body acceleration IMU Acceleration where positive values are in an upwards direction and excludes gravity A component of a unit magnetic vector Compass X...
  • Page 129 The roll control loop set point where Roll Command degrees increasing values are roll right The pitch control loop set point where Pitch Command degrees increasing values are pitch up The yaw control loop set point where Yaw Command degrees positive values are for an Easterly heading and negative for Westerly The roll rate control loop set...
  • Page 130 RC pulse width 1000-2000µs Radio Climb microseconds (µs) where increasing values are for Rate Clamp increased allowable climb rate RC pulse width 1000-2000µs where values near: 1000µs = Off - Disarming possible microseconds (µs) Safety Disarm 1500µs = Off - Disarming possible 2000µs = On - Disarming not possible RC pulse width 1000-2000µs where values near:...
  • Page 131 Horizontal position accuracy GPS Hacc meters reported by GPS Horizontal speed accuracy GPS Sacc meters / second reported by GPS Indicator of GPS signal jamming GPS Jamming activity with 0 = no jamming unitless Indicator and 255 = strong jamming Main battery voltage measured Voltage Volts...
  • Page 132 Radio Loss Indicates complete radio boolean of Signal controller loss of signal Radio A Loss Indicates accumulated loss number of Signal of signal from radio A Radio B Loss Indicates accumulated loss number of Signal of signal from radio B Magnetometer Alarm indicating compass boolean...
  • Page 133 Parameter used for monitoring Z Vibration the health and control of ALTA Parameter recorded to detect Checksum number errors in data recording | A I R C R A F T F L I G H T M A N U A L...

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