3DR Solo User Manual

™

User Manual

3DR Support

Contact 3DR Support for questions and technical help.

online: 3dr.com/support email: [e-mail] call: [phone] (direct)

[phone] (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. [phone]dr.com

Solo User Manual V9

© 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.

1	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 - Solo with The Frame	6
2.2	In the Box - Solo with 3-Axis Gimbal	6
2.3	Battery	6
2.4	Controller	8
2.5	Propellers	9
2.6	Camera	10
2.7	Mobile App	11
3	The Solo Gimbal	16
3.1	In the Box	16
3.2	Gimbal Installation	16
3.3	Gimbal Operation	22
4	Safety	25
4.1	Location	25
4.2	Environmental Awareness	25
4.3	Visual Line of Sight	25
4.4	Flight School	26
4.5	Propellers	26
4.6	GPS	26
4.7	Home Position	27
4.8	Altitude Limit	27
4.9	Emergency Procedures	27
4.10	Flight Battery	28
4.11	Controller	28
4.12	Antenna Configuration	29
5	First Flight	30
5.1	Preflight Checklist	30
5.2	Takeoff	30
5.3	Landing	31
5.4	Return Home	32
5.5	In-Flight Data	34
5.6	Joystick Control	35
6	Using the Solo App	38
6.1	App Interface Overview	38
6.2	Smart Shots	47
6.3	Selfie	48
6.4	Cable Cam	50
6.5	Orbit	55
6.6	Follow	57

7	Alerts	60
7.1	Preflight Errors	60
7.2	In-Flight Errors	61
8	Advanced Settings	65
8.1	Advanced Flight Modes	65
8.2	Enabling Advanced Flight Modes	66
8.3	Accessing Advanced Flight Modes	66
8.4	Home Position Safety	66
8.5	Performance Adjustment	66
8.6	Units	67
8.7	Maximum Altitude Adjustment	67
8.8	Map Tile Provider (Android only)	67
9	Support	68
10	Maintenance	69
10.1	Controller Battery Replacement	69
10.2	Calibrations	69
10.3	Pairing the Controller	70
10.4	Legs	71
10.5	Battery Tray	75
10.6	Motor Mods	76
10.7	Factory Reset	78
11	Appendix	80
11.1	Specifications	80
11.2	Warranty	81
11.3	Regulatory Compliance	81

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1.1	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 1.4.1: Solo Operating Parameters		4
Figure 1.6.1: Solo Motor Order		5
Figure 2.1.1: Solo Parts		6
Figure 2.2.1: Solo with 3-Axis Gimbal Parts		6
Figure 2.3.1.1: Charing the Solo Smart Battery		7
Figure 2.3.2.1: Powering Solo		8
Figure 2.4.1.1: Controller Charging		8
Figure 2.4.2.1: Power On Controller		9
Figure 2.5.1.1: Attach Propellers		9
Figure 2.6.1.1: Attach Camera		10
Figure 2.6.2.1: Camera Configuration Process		10
Figure 2.7.3.1: Connect to Solo Link		11
Figure 2.7.4.1: App - Settings Menu		11
Figure 2.7.4.2: App - Wi-Fi Settings		12
Figure 2.7.5.1: Controller Preflight Update Prompt		12
Figure 2.7.5.2: App - Software Update		12
Figure 2.7.5.3: App - Connecting Instructions		12
Figure 2.7.5.4: App - Instructions List		13
Figure 2.7.5.5: App - Download Update		13
Figure 2.7.5.6: App - Start Update		13
Figure 2.7.5.7: Controller - Updating		13
Figure 2.7.5.8: App - Update Disconnection Confirmation		14
Figure 2.7.5.9: Controller Update Complete Displays		14
Figure 2.7.5.10: Controller - Waiting for Solo		14
Figure 2.7.5.11: App - Update Success		14
Figure 2.7.6.1: App - Viewing Video		15
Figure 3.1.1: Solo Gimbal Parts		16
Figure 3.2.1.1: Removing The Frame		17
Figure 3.2.2.1: Connecting cables		17
Figure 3.2.3.1: Positioning the Gimbal Cable		18
Figure 3.2.3.2: Positioning the HDMI Cable		18
Figure 3.2.4.1: Mounting the Gimbal		19
Figure 3.2.5.1: HDMI Plug Positioning		19
Figure 3.2.5.2: Attach GoPro		20
Figure 3.2.5.3: Fasten Camera		20
Figure 3.2.6.1: GoPro Weight Balancing		20
Figure 3.2.7.1: Adding the Sunshade		21
Figure 3.2.9.1: Camera Configuration Process		22
Figure 3.3.1.1: Gimbal Controls		22
Figure 3.3.2.1: LED Gimbal Signal		23
Figure 4.4.1: App Flight School		26
Figure 4.9.5.1: Controller - Motor Shutoff		28
Figure 4.12.1: Controller Antenna Orientation		29
Figure 5.2.1.1: Controller - Start Motors Prompt		30
Figure 5.2.2.1: Controller - Takeoff Prompts		31
Figure 5.3.1: Controller - User-Initiated Landing		31
Figure 5.4.1: Return Home Button		32
Figure 5.4.1.1: The Cone Zone		32
Figure 5.4.2.1: Above Return Home		33
Figure 5.4.2.2: Within the Cone		33
Figure 5.4.2.3: Below Return Home and Outside the Cone		34
Figure 5.5.1: Controller - In-Flight Data		34
Figure 5.6.1: Controller Left Joystick		35
Figure 5.6.2: Throttle Joystick Behaviors		35
Figure 5.6.3: Yaw Joystick Behavior		36

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Figure 5.6.4: Controller Right Joystick Controls	36
Figure 5.6.5: Pitch Joystick Controls	37
Figure 5.6.6: Roll Joystick Controls	37
Figure 6.1.1: Solo App Home Screen	38
Figure 6.1.1.1: App - Plan your flight screen	39
Figure 6.1.1.2: App - Planning map zoomed out	39
Figure 6.1.1.3: App - Proscribed area description	39
Figure 6.1.1.4: App - List of proscribed locations	40
Figure 6.1.1.5: App - Filters	40
Figure 6.1.2.1: App - Main Interface	42
Figure 6.1.2.2: Advanced telemetry data	42
Figure 6.1.3.1: Initial Map Screen	43
Figure 6.1.3.2: Map Screen During Caching	43
Figure 6.1.4.1: Camera button states	44
Figure 6.1.4.2: Tap for Camera Settings	45
Figure 6.1.4.3: In-App Camera Settings	45
Figure 6.1: App - Main Screen	47
Figure 6.2: App - Shot List	47
Figure 6.3.1: Selfie Path and Settings	48
Figure 6.3.1.1: App - Selfie Activation	48
Figure 6.3.2.1: App - Selfie Control	49
Figure 6.3.2.2: Controller - Selfie Control	49
Figure 6.3.3.1: App - Selfie Settings	49
Figure 6.4.1.1: App - Cable Cam Setup	50
Figure 6.4.2.1: App - Cable Cam Controls	51
Figure 6.4.2.2: Controller - Cable Cam Controls	51
Figure 6.4.3.1: App - Cable Cam Settings with Time Lapse off	52
Figure 6.4.3.2: App - Cable Cam Settings with Time Lapse on	52
Figure 6.4.4.1: App - Cable Cam Smart Shots screen	53
Figure 6.4.4.2: App - Cable Cam Smart Shots screen	53
Figure 6.4.5.1: App - Selecting Saved Shots for Deletion	54
Figure 6.4.6.1: App - Prompt to Correct Solo Position	54
Figure 6.4.6.2: App - Prompt to load saved Cable Cam sequence	55
Figure 6.5.1.1: App - Orbit Setup	56
Figure 6.5.2.1: App - Orbit Controls	56
Figure 6.5.2.2: Orbit Controls	56
Figure 6.5.3.1: App - Orbit Settings	57
Figure 6.6.1.1: Follow in Look At Me mode	58
Figure 6.6.1.2: Follow in Follow mode	58
Figure 6.6.2.1: Follow Controls	58
Figure 6.6.3.1: App - Follow Settings	59
Figure 6.6.3.2: App - Free Look warning	59
Figure 7.1.1.1: Controller - Calibration in Progress Alerts	60
Figure 7.1.1.2: Controller - Uneven Surface Alert	60
Figure 7.1.1.3: Controller - Re-Calibration Required Alerts	60
Figure 7.1.1.4: Controller - Calibration Error Alert	61
Figure 7.1.2.1: Controller - Service Alerts	61
Figure 7.2.1.1: Controller - Altitude Limit Alert	61
Figure 7.2.2.1: Controller - App Connection Alerts	62
Figure 7.2.3.1: Controller - Controller Disconnected Alert	62
Figure 7.2.3.2: Controller - Controller Signal Alerts	62
Figure 7.2.4.1: Controller - GPS Signal Alerts	63
Figure 7.2.5.1: Controller - Low Battery Alerts	63
Figure 7.2.5.2: Controller - Critical Battery Alert	63
Figure 7.2.6.1: Controller - Controller Battery Alerts	64
Figure 8.2.1: App - Advanced Settings	66
Figure 8.3.1: App - A and B Presets	66
Figure 8.5.1: App - Performance Sliders	67
Figure 8.6.1: App - Change Units	67
Figure 8.7.1: App - Altitude Limit	67

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Figure 9.1: App - Submit Trouble Ticket	68
Figure 10.1.1: Controller Battery Installation	69
Figure 10.2.1.1: App - Compass Calibration Setup	69
Figure 10.2.1.2: App - Compass Calibration Procedure	70
Figure 10.2.2.1: App - Level Calibration	70
Figure 10.3.1: Pair Button	70
Figure 10.3.2: Detected Solo	71
Figure 10.3.3: Solo Paired	71
Figure 10.4.1: Leg Types	71
Figure 10.4.1.1: Standard Leg Replacement Process	72
Figure 10.4.2.1: Detaching the Antenna from the Leg	72
Figure 10.4.2.2: Attaching a New Leg with an Existing Antenna	72
Figure 10.4.2.3: Attaching an Existing Antenna to a New Leg	73
Figure 10.4.3.1: Compass Connector on Mainboard	73
Figure 10.4.3.2: Insert New Leg with Compass	74
Figure 10.5.1.1: GPS Cover Removal	75
Figure 10.5.2.1: Battery Tray Removal	75
Figure 10.5.2.2: Battery Tray Detachment	75
Figure 10.6.1: LED Cover Removal	76
Figure 10.6.2: Motor Pod Removal	76
Figure 10.6.3: Motor Pod Disconnection	77
Figure 10.6.4: Motor Pod Connection	77
Figure 10.6.5: Motor Pod and LED Cover Attachment	77
Figure 10.7.1: Pair Button	78
Figure 10.7.2: Strobing Pairing Light	78
Figure 10.7.3: Controller Reset	79
Figure 10.7.4: Controller Update	79
Figure 10.7.2.5: Controller Screen After Reset	79

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1 Introduction

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

1.1System Overview

The Solo system includes Solo, the Controller, and the Solo App. As the operator, you interact with the controller and app on the ground, and the controller communicates with Solo during flight.

1.1.1Solo

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

1.1.2Controller

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

1.1.3App

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

Video output

Telemetry output

Control input

Ground		Air
3DR Solo
Controller
Operator	3DR Link	3DR Solo
	Secure WiFi
3DR Solo	Network
App

Figure 1.1.3.1: Solo System Context Diagram

1.1.43-Axis Gimbal

The 3-Axis Solo Gimbal provides greater control of GoPro® HERO cameras. The Gimbal is included, fully installed, in the package Solo with 3-Axis Gimbal and is also available separately for Solo. This powerful accessory is fully covered in Chapter 3 of this manual.

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1.2Aircraft Overview

1.2.1Smart Battery

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

1.2.2Motors and Propellers

Solo’s arms are labeled 1 through 4 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.

1.2.3Orientation LEDs

Each arm contains an LED for ground-to-air directional awareness; when armed for flight, 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.

1.2.4Fixed 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.

Height: 10.2” Motor-to-motor: 18.1” Weight (no camera): 3.3 lbs.

Silver-top propeller

Power button

Battery

Rear orientation LEDs

Black-top propeller

Motor

Arm numbering

Front orientation LEDs

Fixed camera mount

HDMI cable

Figure 1.2.4.1: Solo Overview

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1.3Controller Overview

1.3.1Mobile-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.

1.3.2Joysticks

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

1.3.3Screen

The controller’s full-color screen provides live in-flight data and prompts for certain Solo functions.

1.3.4Power 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.

1.3.5Fly Button

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

1.3.6Return 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.

1.3.7Pause Button

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

1.3.8Option Buttons

The A and B buttons change functionality based on where you are in the operational flow. The screen shows 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.

1.3.9Antennas

The controller’s long-range dipole antennas communicate with Solo during flight. See Section 4.12 for proper antenna configuration.

1.3.10Gimbal Controls

Use the paddle, buttons, and dial on the top of the controller are used to control the Solo Gimbal. You can also use them in some Smart Shots.

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Antennas

Mobile-device holder

Gimbal controls

Joysticks

Screen

Pause

Return home

Fly

Power

Options

Figure 1.3.10.1: Controller Overview

1.4Operating Parameters

The following operating parameters apply to Solo. Always operate Solo within these parameters. Solo’s performance and behaviors may vary significantly if flying in that conditions violate the parameters listed below.

Estimated flight time	up to 25 minutes*
Default maximum altitude	150 ft. (46 m) above ground level**
Range	.5 mile*** (.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)

Figure 1.4.1: 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.

**To adjust maximum altitude, see Section 8.7.

***Depending on environmental conditions

****This top speed corresponds to Solo when operating in Fly mode. Maximum speeds for advanced modes may vary; see Section 8.1 for more information.

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1.5Autopilot

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.

1.6Propulsion

Solo uses four brushless 880 Kv 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.

03

01

02

04

Figure 1.6.1: Solo Motor Order

1.7LED 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

5

2 Setup

This section covers everything you need to set up Solo out of the box.

2.1In the Box - Solo with The Frame

The Solo package includes the Solo Vehicle with The Frame (for mounting a GoPro camera), the Solo Controller, propellers (four plus two spares), the Solo Smart Battery, the Solo Smart Battery charger, and a charger for the Solo Controller.

	Solo	Three silver-top props
		& three black-top props

Controller

Controller charger

Solo charger

Figure 2.1.1: Solo Parts

2.2In the Box - Solo with 3-Axis Gimbal

The Solo with 3-Axis Gimbal package includes the Solo Vehicle with 3-Axis Gimbal installed, the Solo Controller, propellers (four plus four spares), the Solo Smart Battery, the Solo Smart Battery charger, and a charger for the Solo Controller.

	Four silver-top props
Solo with Installed Gimbal	& four black-top props

Controller

Solo charger	Controller charger

Figure 2.2.1: Solo with 3-Axis Gimbal Parts

2.3Battery

Solo is powered by the rechargeable Solo Smart Battery, which provides up to 25 minutes of flight time per full charge. (Note: Flight time depends on payload, wind conditions, elevation, temperature, humidity, flying style and

6

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 4.10, Flight Battery, on page 28.

2.3.1Charging

The level of the battery charge is indicated by the lights below the power button. Press the power button once to display the current power level. The Solo Smart 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. An additional indicator on the battery charger turns from red to green when

the battery is fully charged. The battery takes approximately 1.5 hours to charge to 100%.

The optimal storage charge for the Solo Smart Battery is 50%. Storing the Solo Smart Battery at an excessively depleted charge (7 percent and under) for an extended period might result in shorter battery life or permanent damage to the battery.

Charge indicator

Charge indicator

Figure 2.3.1.1: Charing the Solo Smart Battery

2.3.2Powering

To power Solo, insert the Smart Battery into Solo’s battery bay and slide the battery forward until it clicks into place. To turn on Solo, press and hold the battery power button. When Solo powers on, the battery displays an LED animation and you hear the startup tone. Power Solo only with the designated 3DR Solo Smart Battery; using a different battery can permanently damage Solo.

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

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2 Hold to power

1 Slide to connect

Figure 2.3.2.1: Powering Solo

2.4Controller

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

2.4.1Charging

Charge the controller using the designated controller charger only; using a different charger can damage the controller or cause a fire.

To charge the controller, connect the controller charger to the barrel jack on the side of the controller and to a wall outlet. To check the battery level of the controller, press the power button. A fully charged controller lasts for approximately 6 hours. Always check the controller’s battery level before you fly, and recharge when prompted by the controller. The controller takes approximately three hours to charge to 100%.

Figure 2.4.1.1: Controller Charging

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2.4.2Powering

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

Figure 2.4.2.1: Power On Controller

2.5Propellers

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

2.5.1Attaching

Attach the propellers with silver tops to the motors with a silver dot on the top of the motor shaft, and attach the black-top propellers to the motors with black dots. Make sure to remove the paper labels from the motors before attaching the propellers.

Silver-top propellers tighten clockwise; black-top propellers tighten counterclockwise. Check the lock and unlock icons on each propeller to see the correct directions for tightening and removing.

Figure 2.5.1.1: Attach Propellers

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2.6Camera

The Solo package includes a fixed GoPro® The Frame™ mount for your GoPro® HERO 3, 3+ or 4.

Note: If you have Solo with 3-Axis Gimbal or have installed the Gimbal separately, see Section 3.2.5, Camera Installation, on page 19.

2.6.1Attaching GoPro to The Frame

To attach the camera to the GoPro® The Frame™ fixed mount, insert your GoPro® upside down and connect the Solo HDMI cable to the camera.

GoPro® The Frame™

Your GoPro®	Mount your GoPro®	Connect the HDMI
HERO 3, 3+ or 4	upside down.	cable.

Figure 2.6.1.1: Attach Camera

2.6.2Settings

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.)

Set the GoPro® HERO3

to inverted orientation:

GoPro®

Camera

Settings

Orientation

Enable GoPro® HERO4

SETUP

ORIENTATION

ORIENTATION

EXIT

auto-orientation:

OFF

OFF

:UP

:AUTO

RESETCAM

:VIDEO

:VIDEO

:OFF

:OFF

EXIT

Set the GoPro® to medium field of view:

GoPro®

Settings

Figure 2.6.2.1: Camera Configuration Process

Make sure the Wi-Fi on your GoPro® is turned OFF. Otherwise, it can interfere with Solo’s communication signals and cause unexpected behavior.

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2.7Mobile App

The Solo App provides a streaming-video link to a mobile device and a simple graphic interface for using Smart Shots and other advanced Solo features.

2.7.1Install

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

2.7.2Register

The first time you run the App, you’re prompted for registration information and the Solo serial number. You also have the option to view some intro videos. Once you’ve completed this process, you’re taken to the home screen of the App.

2.7.3Connect to Solo

To connect the App to Solo’s 3DR Link Wi-Fi network, tap the Connect button on the home page of the App and follow the prompts. When in the Wi-Fi settings on the mobile device, connect to SoloLink_####. Enter the temporary password “sololink”. Once connected, return to the app to continue. Both Solo and the controller must be powered on to connect to the App.

LTE	7:34 PM
	Settings
Airplane Mode
WI-FI	Solo_Link-####
Bluetooth	On
Cellular
Notifications
Control Center
Do Not Disturb

Figure 2.7.3.1: Connect to Solo Link

2.7.4Change SoloLink Password

Once connected to Solo Wi-Fi, change your password to secure your SoloLink network as follows: Access the Settings section by tapping Settings at the bottom-right of the home screen, then choose Solo to access the options for your drone.

Figure 2.7.4.1: App - Settings Menu

In the Solo section, select Solo Name & Wi-Fi, and set a new password. The password should be between 8 and 32 characters with no spaces. Select Apply to enable your changes. If you forget your SoloLink password, perform the factory reset procedure described in Section 10.7 to reset the password to the temporary password (sololink).

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Figure 2.7.4.2: App - Wi-Fi Settings

2.7.5Update

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

preflight update

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

Figure 2.7.5.1: Controller Preflight Update Prompt

To start the update, open the Settings menu in the App, and select Software Update.

Figure 2.7.5.2: App - Software Update

Because your mobile device has never connected to this Solo before, you will need to link your device with Solo Wi-Fi (SoloLink).

Figure 2.7.5.3: App - Connecting Instructions

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Then follow these instructions to connect to Solo Wi-Fi:

Figure 2.7.5.4: App - Instructions List

Once connected, return to the App and you will be notified of the current version you are about to update to. To continue, select Download Update. For this step you will need an Internet connection, either cellular data or Wi-Fi. If you opt to use Wi-Fi, you’ll need switch from SoloLink to your Wi-Fi network.

Figure 2.7.5.5: App - Download Update

When the App detects an active connection with the controller, it prompt you to begin the update. (Solo and the controller must be powered on to connect to Solo Wi-Fi.) To start the update, select Begin.

Figure 2.7.5.6: App - Start Update

While the update is in progress, the controller shows the controller updating display. The controller completes a full restart as part of the update process, which can take up to five minutes.

Controller updating

Update will take about 5 minutes

Please ensure charger is connected

Controller may go dark while updating

Figure 2.7.5.7: Controller - Updating

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Because the Controller must restart as part of the update process, your device will lose its connection to Solo Wi-Fi. When you see the following screen, select Next to continue.

Figure 2.7.5.8: App - Update Disconnection Confirmation

The Controller restarts and displays a green checkmark to indicate its update was successful. When you see the green checkmark on the controller, reconnect to Solo Wi-Fi in the app and press A on the controller to continue the update.

Controller updated

Please reconnect to Sololink wifi

Press to continue

Figure 2.7.5.9: Controller Update Complete Displays

After you press A, Solo restarts to complete the update. While Solo restarts, the controller displays “waiting for Solo.”

waiting for Solo

Press when LEDs are green

Figure 2.7.5.10: Controller - Waiting for Solo

When the update is complete, Solo’s LEDs turn green, the controller returns to the standard takeoff screen, and the App shows that the software is up to date. After displaying green, Solo’s LEDs return to the standard white-and-red pattern. If you do not see white-and-red LEDs after a few minutes following the update, restart Solo.

Figure 2.7.5.11: App - Update Success

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2.7.6View Video

After the update is complete, to view video in the app, first make sure Solo, the controller, and the GoPro® are powered on, and that the App is connected to Solo via Wi-Fi. Then, on the App home screen, tap Fly Solo.

Before your first flight, verify that you can see video. If the video is inverted, see section 2.6.

Figure 2.7.6.1: App - Viewing Video

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3 The Solo Gimbal

The optional Solo Gimbal holds your GoPro® camera and lets you control it remotely. It taps Solo’s intelligence to get perfectly automated shots, plus rock-solid footage, GoPro® control and charging, and long-range HD video feed. With the 3-Axis Solo Gimbal, you get:

•Smooth and fluid HD footage every flight.

•Start and stop recording (HERO4 models) while you fly so you can pick and choose the shots you want.

•Footage stabilized to within 0.1 degree of pointing accuracy for enhanced Smart Shots.

•Fine-grain camera tilt control, including angle presets and instant speed adjustment.

Note: If you purchased the Solo with 3-Axis Gimbal package, skip to section “Camera Installation” on page 19.

3.1In the Box

The Solo 3-Axis Gimbal package includes the Solo Gimbal, the sunshade, four balance weights for the GoPro® camera, and a screwdriver for installing the Gimbal.

Sunshade	Balance weights (4) Screwdriver

Solo Gimbal

Figure 3.1.1: Solo Gimbal Parts

To install the Solo Gimbal and start utilizing its features, follow these Solo Gimbal installation instructions:

3.2Gimbal Installation

Before installing the Solo Gimbal, make sure the firmware on Solo and your GoPro as well as the Solo App on your mobile device are up to date for the best performance.

Recommended versions:

•Solo: 1.2.0 or higher

•Solo App: 1.2.0 or higher

•GoPro: 3.00.00 or higher

3.2.1Remove The Frame

1.Flip Solo over to access the bottom of the vehicle.

2.The Frame is secured to Solo by three captive screws (permanently attached to the mount to prevent losing them). Since these screws don’t come out all the way, loosen each screw until they can’t be backed out any further.

3.Detach the mount from Solo by gently lifting up on it.

4.Route the HDMI cable out through the mount to complete the separation.

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Gently detach

the plate.

Turn over Solo.

	Loosen the three screws	Free the cable,
	securing the mount.
		and remove the mount.
	Figure 3.2.1.1: Removing The Frame

3.2.2Connect Gimbal

1.Remove the foam insert holding the gimbal in place and set it to the side (this piece is used to help protect the gimbal during travel).

2.On the bottom of the gimbal plate are two ports: one for the HDMI cable and one for the gimbal cable. Plug in the cables running from Solo to their respective ports on the gimbal, as shown following.

Connect

HDMI cable.

Connect gimbal cable.

Figure 3.2.2.1: Connecting cables

3.2.3Position Cables

With both cables now connected to the Solo Gimbal, it is important to position each cable out of the way of other internal components. When configuring the HDMI and gimbal cables, the HDMI cable should rest on top of the gimbal cable.

1. Position the gimbal cable out out of the way by pushing any slack towards the front of the Solo Shell.

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Tuck the Gimbal Cable’s slack into the front of the Solo body

Figure 3.2.3.1: Positioning the Gimbal Cable

2.Loop the HDMI cable around and inside the front of the body, pushing any extra slack towards the pocket of Arm #01 as seen below.

Tuck the HDMI Cable’s slack into the side of the Solo body

Figure 3.2.3.2: Positioning the HDMI Cable

3.2.4Mount the Gimbal

1.Position the gimbal plate over the opening in the Solo Shell, making sure that the three screw positions are aligned (two in the back and one in front).

2.Slide the back of the plate in first, and then pinch the two front prongs in and down to insert the plate.

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Have extended feet? (Optional)

Install for added clearance.

Figure 3.2.4.1: Mounting the Gimbal

3. When the plate is inserted and resting flush with the Solo Shell, tighten each of the three captive screws.

If the plate isn’t resting flush with the Solo Shell, the most likely cause is that the screws didn’t catch correctly. If the screws are misaligned, do not try to tighten them. Back out any crooked screws with the screwdriver, then realign them manually before tightening with the screwdriver.

3.2.5Camera Installation

The 3-Axis Solo Gimbal holds your GoPro® HERO 3, 3+ or 4. To install your GoPro camera, follow these directions:

1.To create space for your GoPro inside the camera housing, move the the rubber HDMI plug out and away from the camera housing.

Figure 3.2.5.1: HDMI Plug Positioning

2.Slide your GoPro into place from the front and gently press it in until it is flush with the back of the camera housing.

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Figure 3.2.5.2: Attach GoPro

3.Take the rubber HDMI plug and insert into the exposed side of your GoPro. This simultaneously fastens the GoPro into place and secures the HDMI connection. Your GoPro is now installed!

Figure 3.2.5.3: Fasten Camera

3.2.6Add Balance Weights

Out of the box, the Solo Gimbal is perfectly weighted for use with the GoPro HERO4 Black. If you are using the GoPro HERO4 Silver or the GoPro HERO3+, then you need to add balance weights to optimize these cameras for use with the Solo Gimbal. To balance your GoPro, attach the corresponding balance weights to the threaded inserts on the top and bottom of the camera housing, as shown following.

GoPro Weight Balancing®

HERO4 Black	No blalance weights needed
HERO4 Silver	Add the 2.7g balance weights
HERO3+ Silver	Add the 6g balance weights

Figure 3.2.6.1: GoPro Weight Balancing

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