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Freefly Alta 8 Pro Manual

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ALTA 8 Pro
Overview
Introduction
ALTA Pro is a professional multi-rotor aircraft designed for demanding cinematic,
professional, and industrial, applications. In under five minutes, ALTA Pro can unfold from its
carrying case to flying some of the most capable cinema cameras and industrial payloads on
either the top or bottom of the aircraft. ALTA Pro runs the PX4 stack and has been
customized for both cinema and commercial use, yielding precise yet smooth control.

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  • Page 1 ALTA 8 Pro Overview Introduction ALTA Pro is a professional multi-rotor aircraft designed for demanding cinematic, professional, and industrial, applications. In under five minutes, ALTA Pro can unfold from its carrying case to flying some of the most capable cinema cameras and industrial payloads on either the top or bottom of the aircraft.
  • Page 2 This Aircraft Flight Manual describes the complete operation of airframe and flight control systems, and the normal maintenance of those items. Do not operate ALTA Pro without reading and understanding this manual. This manual is not a substitute for adequate flight training. Training requirements can vary when operating in different countries or under different flight conditions.

  • Page 3: Specifications

    Notes are used to highlight specific operating conditions, usability tips and tricks or steps of a procedure. Specifications Included Items Case...
  • Page 4 ALTA Pro Long Range Radio Modem a. Aerial portion mounted to ALTA Isolator Cartridges a. (6) Teal (Installed) b. (6) Black c. (6) Red Inverted Landing Gear Quick Release Battery Tray ALTA Product Spares USB-Futaba Power Cable FPV Cables a. Skyzone/BOSCAM b.

  • Page 5: Additional Required Components

    Hex Drivers (1.5mm, 2.0mm, 2.5mm) Electronic Luggage Scale Documentation Additional Required Components (Not Included in Base Package) Radio Controller ALTA Pro 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.
  • Page 6 The use of flight packs which do not meet the voltage and discharge rating above (22.2V nominal, 250a continuous discharge, and 500a peak discharge) can cause damage to the ALTA and the batteries. Dimensions Item Dimension Unfolded Diameter 1325 mm - ALTA Pro (does not include Props) Folded Diameter 660 mm - ALTA Pro...
  • Page 10 Motor Max Continuous Power Output 350 W Motor Max Instantaneous Peak Power Output 950 W Maximum RPM (flat rated) 6300 RPM Equivalent Kv Electronic Speed Controller Freefly Silent-Drive Sine Wave ESC Propellers Item Spec Make and Model Freefly ALTA Propeller Material...

  • Page 11: Specific Loadings

    Item Spec Battery Connectors 2× EC5 (Parallel) Required Minimum Battery Discharge Rating (Per Pack) 250A / 500A Peak Weight Item Spec Maximum Gross for Takeoff 18.1 kg (40.0 lbs) - ALTA Pro 8 Maximum Useful Load 12.0 kg (26.4 lbs) - ALTA Pro 8 Maximum Payload 9.1 kg (20.0 lbs) - ALTA Pro 8 Typical Standard Empty Weight 6.2 kg (13.6 lbs) - ALTA Pro 8...
  • Page 12 Item Spec Supported GNSS GPS, GLONASS, Galileo Supported Satellite-based QZSS, WAAS, EGNOS, MSAS Augmentation System First-Person View System Video NTSC, PAL Formats Supported First-Person View Skyzone, BOSCAM, ImmersionRC, Fat Shark Transmitters Ready Made RC Supported First-Person View RMRC-700XVN (Recommended), Runcam Eagle 2 Pro, Cameras or similar First-Person View OSD Telemetry User Configurable...
  • Page 13 Spec FPV Transmitter Mount Mounting Locations GPS Mount Telemetry Radio Mount Freefly Toad In The Hole (TITH) Quick Release Mounting System Dimensions / Drawing FPV Camera Mount Between Booms 1 & 8 - ALTA Pro 8 FPV Transmitter Mount Boom 2 - ALTA Pro 8...
  • Page 14 UART Port Pin Signal Voltage (V) TX (Out) +3.3V RX (In) +3.3V CTS (In) +3.3V RTS (Out) +3.3V GPS2 Port Pin Signal Voltage (V) TX (Out) +3.3V RX (In) +3.3V I2C1 SCL +3.3V I2C1 SDA +3.3V...

  • Page 15: Powerplant Limitations

    Pin Signal Voltage (V) CAN Ports Pin Signal Voltage (V) CAN_H +5V CAN_L +5V I2C Port Pin Signal Voltage (V) I2C1 SCL +3.3V (1.5K pull-up) I2C1 SDA +3.3V (1.5K pull-up) Limitations Limitations These limitations are advisory in nature and do not extend or restrict limitations provided by governing aviation authorities.

  • Page 16: Environmental Limitations

    Flight Controller Limits Item Spec Maximum Pitch/Roll Angle 45° Maximum Yaw Rate 150° / second Weight Limits Item Spec Maximum Payload 9.1 kg (20.0 lbs)- ALTA Pro 8 Maximum Takeoff Weight See following tables ALTA 8 Pro Max Allowable Gross Weight...

  • Page 17: Abbreviations And Terminology

    Abbreviations and Terminology Meteorological Terminology Term Definition...

  • Page 18: Power Terminology

    International Standard Atmosphere in which: The air is a dry, perfect gas; The temperature at sea level is 15° Celsius (59° Fahrenheit); The pressure at sea level is 1013.2 mbar (29.92 inches Hg); The temperature gradient from sea level to the altitude at which the temperature is -56.5°C (-69.7°F) is -0.00198°C (-0.003564°F) per foot and zero above that altitude Mean Sea Level is the average height above the surface of the sea for all...

  • Page 19: Weight And Balance

    Flight and Powerplant Control Term Definition The radio controller stick responsible for throttle control. For Mode 2 Throttle Stick controllers, this is the vertical movement of the left control stick. For Mode 1 controllers, this is the vertical movement of the right control stick The radio controller stick responsible for yaw (also called pan) control Yaw Stick For Mode 2 and Mode 1 controllers, this is the lateral movement of the...

  • Page 20: General Terminology

    Term Definition Payload Useful load less battery weight General Terminology Term Definition Loss of Signal Return-to-Land Small Unmanned Aircraft System includes all components of the system required sUAS for the flight of an unmanned aircraft, including the radio controller, data link and other related support equipment Systems Diagrams Overview...

  • Page 22: Flight Control

    Flight Control ****...

  • Page 24: Power System

    Power System ****...
  • Page 26 FPV Equipment ****...

  • Page 28: Mobile App

    ALTA 8 Pro Ground Control Desktop and Mobile App Getting QGroundControl up and running is quick and easy! Use the ALTA Pro QGroundControl program to change ALTA Pro’s parameters, monitor statuses, and set up waypoint missions. 1. Download and install the application.

  • Page 29: New Features

    New Features QGroundControl...
  • Page 30 The implementation of QGroundControl into the ALTA Pro system results in new features. 1. By harnessing the full power of the PX4 autopilot controller architecture, ALTA Pro has all the features of a modern drone: waypoints, autonomy, telemetry/C2, autoland, etc. 2.
  • Page 31 If you are currently operating with an ALTA (Autopilot) version, there is no need to upgrade if you’re happy with the current feature set. The Autopilot- controlled ALTA has an excellent track record for reliability and smooth flight characteristics. Currently, the Alta Autopilot version offers Orbit mode functionality and the Velocity clamp feature.
  • Page 32 All 900/868MHz radio’s are set to default signal strength when they leave our facility. Users are responsible for making sure they are operating within the bounds of the radio communication regulations in their area. The radio strength settings can be updated with the RFDTools program.
  • Page 33 Symbol Name Function Plan Create autonomous missions. Monitor you vehicle(s) while flying, including streaming video. Download logs, geotag images from a survey mission, Analyze access the MAVLink console Click to show a dropdown of messages from the vehicle. Vehicle Messages This will change to a Yield sign if there are critical messages.

  • Page 34: First Time Setup

    These parameters are accessible through the ‘Tuning’ tab in the Vehicle Setup Menu. ALTA Pro Parameters Access to boom LEDs and OSD parameters are also located in the Vehicle Setup Menu, under the Parameters tab and in the ALTA grouping. Setting up ALTA 8 Pro First Time Setup...

  • Page 35: Radio Installation

    If ALTA Pro is purchased as a bundle with a transmitter or FPV kit, these will be factory installed and ALTA Pro will be ready to fly out of the box! For customers installing their own receivers or FPV systems, please follow the instructions below. The guide details the first time setup process for ALTA Pro 8.
  • Page 36 2. Remove side closeout panel with radio wires using a 2.0mm hex driver. 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.
  • Page 37 6. Secure receiver using the provided double-sided tape to inside of receiver housing. 7. Reattach closeout panel.
  • Page 38 8. Route antenna wires into the two antenna tubes below ALTA Pro chassis. 9. Repeat installation process for dual receivers (if applicable). Spektrum Radio for ALTA Pro 8 1. Locate the noted closeout panels used for Spektrum receiver installation (between booms 3 &...
  • Page 39 2. Remove side closeout panel using a 2.0mm hex driver. 3. Feed signal cable through panel grommet. 4. Reattach closeout panel.
  • Page 40 5. Plug in receiver/satellite into signal cable. 6. Attach receiver/satellite to exterior using double-sided tape. 7. Repeat steps 1-6 for dual receivers (if applicable).
  • Page 41 Voltage Telemetry ALTA Pro supports battery voltage telemetry on Futaba radios when 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 Pro with voltage telemetry for Futaba radios: Installing Voltage Telemetry for ALTA Pro 8 1.

  • Page 42: First Person View (Fpv)

    This wire is already connected to an in-line fuse. Soldering a fuse into this wire is not required. 3. Connect the cable to the voltage sense port on the primary Futaba receiver. 4. Reattach the closeout panel. First Person View (FPV)
  • Page 43 ALTA Pro 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 Pro during flight.
  • Page 44 Do not short the pins of the FPV transmitter connector located on the pre- installed FPV transmitter lead in the ALTA Pro. Doing so could damage the on- screen display circuit. If using a multimeter to check the pins, first connect one of the provided transmitter cables, then take voltage readings from the transmitter cable.
  • Page 45 5. Mount FPV camera on the FPV mount on the front ALTA Pro using the provided hardware. FPV Transmitter ALTA Pro 8 1. Mount FPV transmitter on the provided carbon fiber accessory mount plate 2. Attach accessory mount to boom 2 with M3x6 flathead bolts.
  • Page 46 Locate the appropriate FPV transmitter cable. The following cables are included: a. ImmersionRC/Fat Shark (cable with two connectors) b. BOSCAM/SkyZone (cable with one large connector) c. Compact BOSCAM (cable with one small connector) 4. Use a pair of dykes to cut the zip tie holding the braided transmitter cable to the corrugated tube on boom 2...

  • Page 47: Fpv On Screen Display Setup

    5. Pass transmitter cable through the underside of the hinge, connect to the correct FPV transmitter cable, and plug into the FPV transmitter. 6. Zip tie the FPV transmitter lead to the boom 1 cable bundle and the FPV Transmitter mount for strain relief.
  • Page 48 Name Options Description OSD_ENABLE Enabled/Disabled Turns OSD on or off Indicates the FPV video camera OSD_PAL_NTSC PAL / NTSC format to PX4 OSD_UNITS Metric / Imperial Changes the displayed units Centers the OSD components OSD_HOR_OS Min: 1 horizontally Centers the OSD components OSD_VER_OS Min: 1 vertically...
  • Page 49 Name Options Description Creates an on screen warning when Min: 1.000 OSD_MAX_VELOCITY exceeding the set max velocity (meters Default: 20.000 per second) Increases of decreases the brightness OSD_GND_BRIGHT 0 - 16 of the ground Increased and decreases the OSD_SKY_BRIGHT 0 - 16 brightness of the sky Text Components The following components are displayed as text items, and can be configured to display as...
  • Page 50 Name Description Displays the GPS derived latitude and longitude OSD_SHOW_LATLON coordinates of ALTA Pro Adds indicators to the artificial horizon that indicate OSD_ROLL_MARKER changes in roll OSD_SHOW_ATT Adds an attitude indicator on screen OSD_SHOW_BATTERY Adds a battery voltage indicator on screen 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.
  • Page 51 Name Description Displays an arrow that points in the direction of the OSD_HOMEARROW initialization point Displays a bar on the right of the screen that scales with OSD_VARIOGFX vertical speed. The bar will increase in length up to indicate a climb, or down to indicate a descent Displays a bar on the left of the screen that scales with the forward/rearward velocity component...
  • Page 52 3. Open ALTA Pro booms. ALTA Pro can become unbalanced and tip over while unfolding booms individually, so unfold opposite boom pairs simultaneously to keep balance. 4. Snap shut all eight boom latches until they click and latch.
  • Page 53 5. Visually confirm all latches are seated properly 6. Remove prop protectors.
  • Page 54 Fold ALTA Pro Secure props with prop protectors. 2. Unlatch all eight booms.
  • Page 55 3. Close ALTA Pro booms in opposing pairs to keep balance. 4. Fold up all eight boom retention clips to secure booms.
  • Page 56 ALTA Pro QGroundControl program or app. If you are uncertain about your radio channel mapping, obtain assistance from an experienced pilot or from Freefly Customer Support. Calibrating Radios Using ALTA Pro QGroundControl App Calibrating any compatible radio is done using the ALTA Pro QGroundControl app. This only needs to be done when using a new radio with the ALTA Pro;...
  • Page 57 Make sure to reset all trims and subtrims to zero before continuing with calibrating and mapping your radio. Set the transmitter mode radio button that matches your radio configuration (this ensures that QGroundControl displays the correct stick positions for you to follow during calibration).

  • Page 58: Function Descriptions

    Function Descriptions The following functions can be mapped to radio controller channels. These are found in the Radio section of the Configurations menu in ALTA QGroundControl. Each function is also represented by a chart that responds to control input allowing for quick verification of mapping settings.
  • Page 59 Typical Channel Mappings The following radio channel mapping configurations are recommendations only and can be set in ALTA QGroundControl. Depending on exact radio models, these may help as an initial configuration. However, it is up to the pilot setting up ALTA Pro for flight to determine if these settings are appropriate.
  • Page 60 Spektrum DX18 Function Channel Number Direction Pitch Reverse Roll Reverse Reverse Throttle Normal Mode Switch 6 Reverse Home Switch 7 Normal...
  • Page 61 Configuring for MōVI MōVI can be attached to either the top or bottom of ALTA Pro via the Freefly Toad In The Hole (TITH) quick release. ALTA Pro comes pre-configured for GroundView mounting of MōVI. Groundview Prepare your MōVI for GroundView flight (see MōVI manual) Attach landing gear Install TITH receiver on MōVI...
  • Page 62 Connect and secure the supplied inverted landing gear to the bottom Toad. Top mounting is not supported by the MōVI M10 without the keyed pan tube upgrade kit. If you are unsure whether your M10 has the upgrade kit, contact Freefly Customer Support for additional info.
  • Page 63 Remove Battery Mount Quick Release. **** Connect MōVI to top Toad.

  • Page 64: Isolator Cartridges

    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 Pro. The cartridges have colored o-rings: 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 65 To install, place the cartridges between the top chassis plate and the battery plate. Ensure they are engaged in the track features and are parallel with the chassis and battery plate. Push inwards fully until they click, indicating the cartridges are locked in place. Pull outwards on the cartridge to ensure it is locked.

  • Page 66: Battery Installation

    To remove, pinch the cartridge latch to unlock it from the battery and chassis plate, and slide it outwards to disengage. Simultaneously pull the battery and chassis plate apart while pulling the cartridge outward. Battery Installation Battery Installation Batteries may be installed on either the top or bottom of an ALTA Pro and are always mounted opposite of the payload location.
  • Page 67 Always secure battery packs with both battery retention straps. Ensure both battery packs are at a similar state of charge (a full pack voltage difference less than 0.5V) prior to connecting them to ALTA Pro. Plugging in two dissimilarly charged packs could cause one pack to rapidly discharge into the other and damage the batteries or cause a battery fire.
  • Page 68 3. Attach the single-hole end of the battery retention straps to the studs. 4. Place battery packs on the battery tray.
  • Page 69 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. 5. Tension and secure battery retention straps. Skyview **** Always completely secure the inverted landing gear by closing the TITH quick release lever.
  • Page 70 2. Attach the single-hole ends of the battery retention straps to the studs on the battery tray. 3. Place battery packs onto battery tray. 4. Tension and secure battery retention straps. 5. Slide tray with battery packs back into landing gear until the tray latches in place.

  • Page 71: Sensor Calibration

    6. Ensure tray and battery packs are secure. Sensor Calibration ALTA Pro features a highly sensitive 3-axis magnetometer, gyroscope, and accelerometer that measure specific force, angular rate, and earth’s magnetic field to infer heading and maintain stability. Occasionally, the sensors will require recalibration. ALTA Pro’s compass should be regularly calibrated, especially when traveling between different geographic locations.
  • Page 72 Perform calibration without a payload attached and all motor booms extended and latched. Folded booms will cause an inaccurate calibration. It is recommended to use two people to perform the compass calibration as it requires handling and rotating ALTA Pro. To perform sensor calibrations on ALTA Pro: 1.

  • Page 74: Compass Calibration

    Compass Calibration Follow the instructions below to perform a compass calibration on ALTA Pro. Compass calibrations should be done when flying in a new location or when ALTA Pro QGroundControl prompts a calibration. 1. Click the Compass sensor button. 2. Click OK to start the calibration. 3.

  • Page 75: Accelerometer Calibration

    Accelerometer Calibration Follow the instructions below to perform an accelerometer calibration on ALTA Pro. Accelerometer calibrations should only be done when prompted by ALTA Pro QGroundControl. 1. Click the Accelerometer sensor button. 2. Click OK to start the calibration. 3. Position the vehicle as guided by the images on the screen. This is very similar to compass calibration.
  • Page 76 Level Horizon Calibration Follow the instructions below to perform a level horizon calibration on ALTA Pro. Horizon calibrations should only be done if the horizon (as shown in the HUD) is not level after completing Accelerometer calibration. 1. Click the Level Horizon sensor button. 2.
  • Page 77 For information on propeller installation and maintenance, refer to the Maintenance section of this manual. Only use propellers supplied by Freefly on ALTA Pro. Use of third-party propellers can cause motor instability, overheating, and failure. In rare cases propellers can experience icing, this occurs when ice begins to form on the tips and underside of the blades due to temperature and humidity.
  • Page 78 Checking Propeller Bolt Tightness ****...
  • Page 79 **** 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 80 DO NOT CHANGE FLIGHT CONTROLLER TUNING VALUES WITHOUT A FULL UNDERSTANDING OF THE TUNING PROCESS. A poorly tuned sUAV is dangerous and can result in property damage, injury, and death. Parameters fall into three categories: Rate, Attitude, and Position. Typically, tuning should take place in that order, ensuring Rate parameters are set first, then moving to Attitude parameters, and finally Position parameters.

  • Page 81: Additional Parameters

    Tuning can change the fundamental flying characteristics of ALTA Pro. It is possible for ALTA Pro to become unstable or even uncontrollable if values are set too high or too low. Only change tuning parameters in small increments and with caution. Always test new tuning configurations in open areas away from people or obstacles.

  • Page 82: Safety Parameters

    ALTA Pro’s flight performance. The Hover Throttle settings can be found under the ALTA Configuration Setup tab or in the Parameters tab. If you are unsure of what characteristics a parameter effects please reach out to Freefly’s Customer Support Team for clarification.
  • Page 83 This parameter determines the flight mode ALTA Pro will enter if it detects a Loss-of-Signal (LOS). Selecting ‘Land at Current Position’ will cause ALTA Pro to Autoland in place when the LOS is detected. Selecting ‘Return to Land’ will cause ALTA Pro to Return-to-Land and then Autoland when the LOS is detected.

  • Page 84: Saving Parameters

    Saving Parameters Saving parameters can be done in the Parameters tab of the Vehicle Setup menu. Navigate to the ‘Tools’ menu in the top right hand corner of the window and select ‘Save to file…’ from the dropdown. Then select a file name and folder to save to. Loading Parameters Loading parameters is also done from the Parameters tab of the Vehicle Setup menu.
  • Page 85 Selecting the ‘Reset all to defaults’ option in the Tools menu will reset all parameters to the QGroundControl defaults. These are not the same as the ALTA Pro default parameters. To reset to ALTA Pro defaults load the ALTA PRO Default Parameters to the aircraft. Updating your Wifi Password and SSID Enabling and Updating Your Wifi Password and SSID 1.
  • Page 86 Once you have enabled ALTA Pro’s WiFi, change the password and SSID from their defaults! 1. Connect to ALTA Pro’s WiFi using the initial password listed below 1. SSID: [off] AltaPro-<serial number>; eg. [off] AltaPro-781880 2. Password: altaalta 2. Open your prefered web browser and go to 192.168.4.1 3.

  • Page 88: Flight Controller Modes

    We suggest not selecting ‘Connect Automatically’ when using WiFi to connect to ALTA Pro and clearly labeling each 900/868MHz RX/TX pair. 4. Once the password and SSID have been updated, hit the save button at the bottom of the menu. 5.

  • Page 89: Manual Mode

    Always center the control input sticks on the radio controller when switching between control modes to prevent unexpected movement of the ALTA Pro. Manual Mode In Manual Mode, ALTA Pro will only stabilize its attitude. At neutral control input (middle pitch and roll stick position), ALTA Pro will attempt to remain level.

  • Page 90: Waypoints Mode

    With pitch and roll controls centered, ALTA Pro will enter Position Hold. In Position Hold, ALTA Pro will maintain its position over a given point on the ground and correct for disturbances. Position Mode requires a strong GPS signal and communication with a minimum of 6 satellites.
  • Page 91 ALTA Pro must have a GPS lock on its home position in order to start a waypoints mission. Return-to-Land Return-to-Land Mode will command ALTA Pro to fly back to the defined Home Point. When ALTA Pro first acquires a GPS position, it sets this as the Home Point of the flight. See the Radio Channel Mapping section in this manual for more information on setting up the Return-to-Land Switch.
  • Page 92 Autoland and Return-to-Land will only occur if these settings are turned on in the aircraft parameters. Geofences Geofences Geofences are currently not supported by Freefly. We recommend that you do not use this feature. If this feature is used, set the Geofence breach action to Warning; Hold, RTL, and...

  • Page 93: Home Switch

    Terminate should not be used as they may result in crash or an ALTA Pro that cannot return to its home position. Home Switch The home switch has three positions, however only the top toggle position will turn RTL on. RTL Off (Bottom/Middle Toggle Position) This is the normal switch position and does not initiate an RTL command.
  • Page 94 The rear-facing Status Light shows the status of ALTA Pro as it boots, arms, and flies. The following table shows the different meanings of the light in the various flight phases. Flight Phase Light Color Meaning Flashing Red + Booting Flight controller is booting White Standby...

  • Page 95: Orientation Lights

    Flight Phase Light Color Meaning Nominal flight status Flight - Manual Mode No errors Outside user-defined range, height, or speed Solid White limits Flight critical alarm or battery alarm Solid Red voltage—land immediately! Flashing Red Battery land voltage—land immediately! Nominal flight status Flight - Height Hold Off Height hold inactive Slow Flashing White Height hold active...
  • Page 96 The boom-end mounted Orientation Lights indicate both the orientation of ALTA Pro 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. Flight Phase Light Color Meaning...
  • Page 97 ALTA Pro will notify the pilot of critical alarms through QGroundControl. These alarms indicate a serious issue has been observed in the behavior of the ALTA Pro that, if not acted upon immediately, can cause loss of control. Never continue a flight when ALTA Pro indicates an alarm! Aircraft Monitor ALTA Pro QGroundControl includes a flight status monitor that displays information about...

  • Page 98: Data Logging

    Icon Name Description Attitude Displays the current attitude control mode. Displays the status of the compass and if the Autopilot believes the compass readings are good or bad. If Bad, the compass may Compass require recalibration (see the Compass Calibration section in this manual).

  • Page 99: Unpacking And Setup

    Summarized flight data from an individual flight can also be viewed immediately after landing by placing a downloaded log file into PixHawk Flight Review. Full details about the review process can be found in the Flight Reporting section of the Pixhawk User Manual. A native data analyzer is being developed and will be available on the ALTA Pro Support page.

  • Page 100: Before Starting

    Item Action 3. Boom retention clips STOW 4. Booms UNFOLD 5. Boom latches LOCK 6. Receivers and wiring CHECK 7. Isolator cartridges SELECT and INSTALL as necessary 8. Payload mounting location CONFIGURE as necessary To set up ALTA Pro for flight, remove it from the case, and remove the prop protectors. Stow the boom retention clips by folding them down.
  • Page 101 Item Action 6. Radio Controller ON, VERIFY TX BATTERY 7. Radio Controller Model SELECT 8. Aircraft Placement AWAY from people and obstacles 9. Battery Pack Voltage VERIFY ABOVE 24V 10. Battery Packs SECURE 11. Battery Leads CHECK CONDITION and CONNECT 12.

  • Page 102: Before Takeoff

    installation instructions. While the Autopilot initializes, keep ALTA Pro as stable as possible. Wedging a foam prop protector between the stationary gimbal or landing gear and the frame can be used to stabilize ALTA Pro from spinning during this process. If ALTA Pro moves during initialization, it may not boot properly and will fail to start or not maintain heading.
  • Page 103 Item Action 12. Throttle ADVANCE directly to hover Prior to start, check the surrounding area to ensure people and objects are clear of ALTA Pro and its props. Also ensure that there are no people or objects between the ALTA Pro’s takeoff location and its intended flight path.

  • Page 104: After Every Flight

    Only take off in Manual Mode or let the ALTA Pro take off autonomously when doing a waypoints mission. Attempting to take off in Altitude or Position Modes may cause ALTA Pro to tip over. Altitude Mode and Position Mode are assistive only and are not a replacement for pilot skill and ability.

  • Page 105: After Last Flight

    Users may land in Manual Mode, Altitude Mode, or letting the ALTA Pro land autonomously when doing a waypoints mission. Quickly reverting to manual mode when landing in Altitude mode will prevent ALTA Pro unwanted movements . Upon landing, disarm the motors by holding minimum throttle and full left yaw. This is typically done on the left radio control stick by moving it to the bottom left corner with mode 2 controllers.
  • Page 106 Item Action 6. Payload REMOVE 7. ALTA Pro INSERT into case Fold propeller blades and install foam Prop Protectors to decrease the risk of damaging the propellers while packing ALTA Pro. Keeping ALTA Pro on the payload or landing gear easily facilitates the folding process as ALTA Pro may be turned on the Toad In The Hole adapter while folding the propellers and booms.

  • Page 107: Alarm Indication

    1. Maintain aircraft control—Small emergencies can quickly escalate if the pilot is distracted attempting to troubleshoot the problem. Always maintain visual contact with the aircraft during an emergency to reduce the likelihood of losing orientation. 2. Analyze the situation—Once the aircraft is stabilized, begin to assess the cause of the emergency if practical.

  • Page 108: Unexpected Flight Controller Behavior

    Item Action 3. Yaw NOSE AWAY 4. Roll VERIFY DIRECTION Regaining spatial orientation as quickly as possible is most important. If the pilot loses orientation of ALTA Pro, control inputs will not give the expected result, so neutralize controls by centering the throttle/yaw and pitch/roll sticks to stabilize motion. If a good GPS signal is available, enable Position Mode so ALTA Pro will stay in one place.

  • Page 109: Battery Exhaustion

    Battery Exhaustion If battery cell voltage is below Alarm Voltage (all flight modes) 1. Status Light ILLUMINATES RED (solid or blinking) 2. ALTA Pro LAND as soon as possible If battery cell voltage is below Land Voltage while flying in Manual Mode 1.

  • Page 110: Radio Loss Of Signal

    Radio Loss of Signal Radio Loss of Signal (LOS) Item Action 1. Controller Battery CHECK 2. Controller Antenna REPOSITION 3. Mode Switch POSITION 4. Home Switch Return-to-Land Loss of Signal (LOS) can occur if the radio controller stops transmitting a signal, or if ALTA Pro is too far away to receive it.

  • Page 111: Loss Of Fpv Signal

    If efforts to regain control signal are unsuccessful, ALTA Pro will begin either the Return-to-Land and Autoland sequence as configured in ALTA Pro QGroundControl. Refer to the Flight Controller Modes section of this manual for additional information regarding functionality available with specific radio types.
  • Page 112 If FPV signal or visual contact cannot be maintained, setting the Mode switch to Position Mode and enabling Return-to-Land can be used to bring the aircraft back to signal reception range. It is the responsibility of the pilot to see and avoid other aircraft, people, or obstacles.
  • Page 113 Allowable Gross Weight As altitude and temperature increase, the density of the air decreases. Consequently, ALTA Pro’s thrust will decrease. The following table describes maximum gross weight limits with respect to altitude and temperature.
  • Page 114 Maintaining ALTA 8 Pro General Information and Techniques General Information and Techniques Chassis ALTA Pro ships from the factory with motors precisely aligned to minimize the difference in motor speed between clockwise turning and counterclockwise turning motors while in flight.

  • Page 115: Fastener Installation

    (such as Loctite Purple 222) is used on structural fasteners. Fastener Installation The Freefly hex drivers included with ALTA Pro are designed to limit the torque that can be applied to each bolt or screw and help prevent stripping the fastener head.
  • Page 116 If the blade composite structure becomes delaminated, the propeller should be replaced. Freefly makes folding propeller assemblies available that include the blades and propeller hub fully assembled and factory balanced. They are available in clockwise and counterclockwise orientations.
  • Page 117 Always use a thread locking 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. Always check to ensure the correct propeller rotation direction and correct propeller prior to flight.
  • Page 118 To reassemble, follow the parts 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 119 after every 15 flights, depending 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. The fasteners should not slip. If a fastener does slip, tighten it using the methods described in the Fastener Installation section.

  • Page 120: Firmware Update Process

    5. Enter the new folder now available in your file explorer. You should see a folder named FF-ALTA PRO. 6. Replace the ‘Freefly’ folder in the folder called FF-ALTA PRO with the new one downloaded from the Freeflysystems.com website. 7. Unplug ALTA Pro from the USB and then apply battery power while holding down the Boot button on the expansion board.

  • Page 121: Motor Alignment

    Pixhawk Flight Review software. 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 122 3. Zero the angle gauge. 4. Starting at motor 1, place the digital angle gauge on the flat surface of the motor mount with the gauge facing outwards. 4. If the gauge reads a value outside the range 2.5°±0.1°, loosen the motor mount clamping bolts.
  • Page 123 When rotating the motor, do not pull outwards on it. 6. Apply threadlock as required (Loctite 222 recommended), and tighten the motor mount bolts to 0.8 N-m (7 in-lbs). Do not over-torque the bolts. 7. Repeat steps 2 through 6 for the additional motors. 8.

  • Page 124: Guidelines Following An Accident

    Support immediately after an accident for guidance as field inspections are no substitute for consultation and direct inspection and repair of damage by Freefly. Freefly Customer Support can be reached at support@freeflysystems.com or by phone at +1 (425) 485-5500. ALTA Pro is a precisely tuned flying machine with sensitive electronics and may become damaged or adversely affected by crashes, tip overs, propeller strikes with solid bodies, or other abnormally stressing events.

  • Page 125: Troubleshooting

    Check the GPS/Compass unit GPS Warning disconnected wiring for damage Accelerometer Hard landing Reboot ALTA Pro Warning Contact Freefly Customer Motor Warning ESC or Motor failure or error Support immediately. Do not continue flying ALTA Pro. Flight Controller Symptom Potential Cause...
  • Page 126 Symptom Potential Cause Potential Solution Check radio mapping charts for correct behavior. Radio not mapped Adjust mapping as necessary in ALTA Pro properly QGroundControl Power cycle ALTA Pro. Ensure it does not move during boot Flight Controller boot not successful If ALTA Pro must move during boot (such as on a moving platform), use Motion Booting A low battery error latches and does not allow...
  • Page 127 Thoroughly inspect ALTA Pro following any Hinge or motor accident. Contact Freefly for further misalignment inspection and assessment. Ice build-up is causing vibrations due to Ice on Propellers unbalanced propellers. Remove ice from propellers before further flights.

  • Page 128: Default Tuning Values

    Symptom Potential Cause Potential Solution ALTA Pro circles a point Compass calibration Calibrate the compass in Position Mode is invalid Position tuning values Reduce Position tuning values very slightly too high following the PX4 tuning guide. Perform a manual compass calibration. ALTA Pro does not Compass calibration Disable compass assist in the ALTA App if...

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