FREEFLY 950-00030 User manual

USER MANUAL

REVISION B | 08.01.2015

REVISION HISTORY

REVISION DATE DESCRIPTION

A July 2015 Initial Release

B August 2015 Revised section order. Added Allowable Gross Weight table.

ALTA USER MANUAL
PART NUMBER: 77000042

CONTENTS

2 Revision History
3 Contents

5 ALTA OVERVIEW
6 Disclaimer and Warning
7 LIMITATION OF LIABILITY
8 Introduction
9 Symbols, Abbreviations and Terminology
12 Dimensions
14 Included Items
15 Specifications
19 Limitations
20 System Diagrams
24 ALTA Mobile App
24 Additional Required Components (not included)

25 SETTING UP ALTA
26 Unfolding ALTA
30 Radio Installation
35 Radio Mapping
40 Configuring Top or Bottom Mount
42 Isolator Cartridges
43 Battery Installation
47 Compass Calibration
49 Propellers
51 First Person View (FPV)
54 FPV On Screen Display Setup
58 Tuning ALTA
61 ALTA Flight Parameters

64 OPERATING ALTA
65 Flight Controller Modes
67 Home Switch

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67 Arm Enable Switch
68 Status Light
70 Orientation Lights
71 ALTA App Monitor
72 Data Logging

73 NORMAL PROCEDURES
74 Unpacking and Setup
75 Before Starting
77 Before Takeoff
79 After Every Flight
80 After Last Flight

81 EMERGENCY ROCEDURES
82 Emergency Guidance
83 Pilot Disorientation
84 Unexpected Flight Controller Behavior
85 Battery Exhaustion
86 Status Light Warning Indicator Illuminates
87 Loss of Radio Control Signal
88 Loss of FPV Signal

89 PERFORMANCE
90 Weight / Endurance Performance Data

91 Allowable Gross WeightAllowable Gross Weight

92 MAINTAINING ALTA
93 General Information and Techniques
94 Maintenance Items
96 Replacement of Parts
97 Firmware Update Process

98 TROUBLESHOOTING

101 APPENDIX
102 Appendix A. Default Tuning Values
103 Appendix B. Data Logging Fields

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ALTA OVERVIEW

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DISCLAIMER AND WARNING

IMPORTANT - Please read this disclaimer and warning carefully and review
the ALTA User Manual prior to flight. If you have any questions, please contact
[e-mail] prior to using the ALTA. You can review the most
current version of this User Manual at www.freeflysystems.com/software-manuals/.

By using the ALTA, you acknowledge that you have read, understand and agree to
this disclaimer. You agree that you are solely responsible for your conduct while
using the ALTA, and for any direct or indirect consequences that may result from its
use. You agree to only use the ALTA for proper purposes that are in accordance with
local and airspace rules and regulations.

» ALTA is not a toy and should be operated with extreme care, as improper

operation can cause damage to property, serious personal injury or death.

» As with any multi-rotor helicopter, the ALTA is a complex and technical

machine. Novice pilots should invest sufficient time on a flight simulator
and seek training from an experienced pilot prior to operation. The ALTA
User Manual and a flight simulator are no substitute for training with an
experienced pilot, particularly when it comes to learning how to safely
operate the ALTA. Novice pilots should never fly without the supervision of
an experienced pilot.

» Always check the ALTA and its components prior to operation.

» Always maintain a safe distance from the ALTA when in use.

» Never attempt to touch the ALTA when the propellers are moving.

» Never fly the ALTA over or around people, power lines or other aircraft.

» Never fly with any propellers that have visible imperfections or damage.

» Always keep children and animals a safe distance away from the ALTA

when in use and when changing configurations.

» Always remove the propellers or power ALTA using a low power source

when making a change to the configuration of the ALTA to prevent propeller
strikes in the event of unintentional motor starts.

» Always remove the configuration jumper when making changes to the

configuration of the ALTA.

» Always test the ALTA with the propellers removed to make sure that the

motors are spinning in the correct direction and that the motor assignment
is correct with respect to the SYNAPSE flight controller. If you have either
of these wrong, the ALTA will be uncontrollable and dangerous.

» It is your responsibility to perform a full system check of the ALTA prior to

every flight.

» It is your responsibility to learn how to safely operate the ALTA and to ad-

here to all applicable rules and regulations.

» Fly at your own risk.

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LIMITATION OF LIABILITY

IN NO EVENT SHALL FREEFLY BE LIABLE TO BUYER FOR ANY INDIRECT,
CONSEQUENTIAL, PUNITIVE, INCIDENTAL, OR SPECIAL DAMAGES, OR ANY
DAMAGES WHATSOEVER RESULTING FROM THE USE OF THE ALTA OR FROM LOSS
OF USE, DATA OR PROFITS (HOWEVER CAUSED AND UNDER ANY THEORY OF
LIABILITY), EVEN IF FREEFLY HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH
DAMAGES. IN NO EVENT SHALL FREEFLY’S LIABILITY FOR A PRODUCT (WHETHER
ASSERTED AS A TORT CLAIM, A CONTRACT CLAIM OR OTHERWISE) EXCEED THE
AMOUNTS PAID TO FREEFLY FOR SUCH PRODUCT. NOTWITHSTANDING ANYTHING
HEREIN, IN NO EVENT SHALL FREEFLY’S LIABILITY FOR ALL CLAIMS ARISING OUT
OF OR RELATING TO THIS AGREEMENT EXCEED THE AMOUNTS PAID BY BUYER TO
FREEFLY FOR PRODUCT IN THE LAST TWELVE (12) MONTHS. IN NO EVENT WILL
FREEFLY BE LIABLE FOR COSTS OF PROCUREMENT OR SUBSTITUTE GOODS BY
BUYER. THE LIMITATIONS SET FORTH HEREIN SHALL APPLY TO ALL LIABILITIES
THAT MAY ARISE OUT OF THIRD-PARTY CLAIMS AGAINST BUYER. THESE
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 the ALTA including, but not limited to, the following situations:

» Failure of operator to follow proper instructions and safety warnings found

at www.freeflysystems.com.

» Failure of the operator to follow onboard safety warnings while using the

ALTA.

» Failure of the operator to follow and comply with local rules and regula-

tions.

» Failure of the operator to inspect the ALTA and its components prior to

operation.

» Failure of the operator to properly maintain and/or service the ALTA

through an authorized Freefly Service Center with genuine ALTA parts.

» Use of third-party products on the ALTA.

» Use of the ALTA in a physically or mentally impaired capacity.

» Use of the ALTA without sufficient training.

» Use of the ALTA in unsafe conditions, including but not limited to, bad or

severe weather, such as rain, wind, snow, lightning, dust storms, etc., or in
areas of magnetic or radio interference, such as power stations, broadcast­ing and cell phone towers, government prohibited airspace, etc.

» Improper operation, misjudgment or risky behavior while using the ALTA.

» Infringement of third party data, audio or video rights recorded when using

the ALTA.

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INTRODUCTION

ALTA is a professional multi-rotor aircraft designed for demanding
cinematic, television, and photographic applications. Within five
minutes, ALTA can unfold from its carrying case to flying some of
the most capable cinema cameras on either the top or bottom of the
aircraft. The SYNAPSE flight controller is purpose-built for cinema
use, yielding precise, yet smooth control.

This User Manual has been prepared to describe the complete
operation of airframe and flight control systems, and the normal
maintenance of those items. Do not operate ALTA 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. Always consult local regulations before
flying ALTA. In areas where there are no flight training requirements,
it is the sole determination of the pilot-in-command as to whether he
or she has the appropriate level of training or experience for a given
flight. Always set and adhere to personal minimums and fly within
your own capabilities.

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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

Warnings are used to highlight proce­dures which, if not strictly observed,
may result in personal injury or loss
of life.

CAUTION

Cautions are used to highlight proce­dures which, if not strictly observed,
may cause damage to equipment.

NOTE

Notes are used to highlight specific
operating conditions or steps of a
procedure.

METEOROLOGICAL TERMINOLOGY

ISA 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

MSL Mean Sea Level is the average height above

the surface of the sea for all stages of tide

AGL Above Ground Level is the height of

the aircraft above the ground

OAT Outside Air Temperature is the free air static

temperature surrounding the aircraft

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Pressure Altitude Altitude measured from standard sea level pressure

(29.92 in. Hhg) 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
Power Output

Maximum Instantaneous
Peak Power Output

The maximum typical power output of a
motor averaged over the entire flight

The maximum power output of a motor during
any phase of flight, such as when maneuvering

FLIGHT AND POWERPLANT CONTROL

Throttle Stick The radio controller stick responsible for

throttle control. For Mode 2 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

Yaw Stick The radio controller stick responsible

for yaw (also called pan) control

For Mode 2 and Mode 1 controllers, this is the
lateral movement of the left control stick

Pitch Stick The radio controller stick responsible for

pitch control. For Mode 2 controllers, this is
the vertical movement of the right stick

For Mode 1 controllers, this is the
vertical movement of the left stick

Roll Stick The radio controller stick responsible for roll

control. For Mode 2 and Mode 1 controllers, this is
the lateral movement of the right control stick

Pitch/Roll Stick
or Cyclic Stick

The radio control stick responsible
for both pitch and roll control

For Mode 2 controllers, this is the right stick

WEIGHT AND BALANCE

Maximum Takeoff
Weight (MTOW)

Standard Empty Weight Weight of a standard aircraft

Maximum allowable weight at liftoff

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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

sUAS Small Unmanned Aircraft System includes all

components of the system required for the flight of
an unmanned aircraft, including the radio controller,
data link and other related support equipment

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DIMENSIONS

457

(18.0)

1064

(41.9)

178

(7.0)

1126

(44.3)

1533

(60.4)

1

2

3

4

5

6

457

(18.0)

1064

(41.9)

(44.3)

1533

(60.4)

1

2

3

4

5

6

1533

(60.4)

1064

(41.9)

6

1

5

2

4

3

457

(18.0)

UNFOLDED PLAN VIEW WITH BOOM NUMBERING SCHEME MM (INCH)

318

(12.5)

180

(7.1)

UNFOLDED SIDE VIEW WITH LANDING GEAR MM INCH

1126

178

(7.0)

UNFOLDED FRONT VIEW WITHOUT LANDING GEAR MM INCH

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550

(21.7)

515

(20.3)

180
(7.1)

205

(8.1)

220

550

(21.7)

(8.7)

FOLDED SIDE VIEW MM INCH

550

(21.7)

FOLDED PLAN VIEW MM INCH

180

(7.1)

FOLDED FRONT VIEW MM INCH

515

(20.3)

205

(8.1)

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INCLUDED ITEMS

1. Case

2. ALTA

3. Case Lid Foam

4. Isolator Cartridges

a. (6) Teal (Installed)

b. (6) Black

c. (6) Red

5. Documentation

6. USB-Futaba Power Cable

7. Inverted Landing Gear

8. Anten n a Tub e s

9. FPV Cables

a. Skyzone/BOSC AM

b. ImmersionRC /Fat Shark

c. Ready Made RC

10. Fasteners

a. (4) M3 × 8 Socket Head for

Toad In The Hole Male Adapter

b. (2) M3 × 8 Flat Head for Accessory

Mount

11. Toad In The Hole Male Adapter

12. 5.5mm Wrench

13. Hex Drivers (1.5mm, 2.0mm, 2.5mm)

14. Accessory Mount

15. Double-Sided Tape

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SPECIFICATIONS

DIMENSIONS

Unfolded Diameter
(does not include Props)

Folded Diameter
(does not include Props)

Height to base of Toad In The Hole (TITH) 220 mm

POWERPLANT

Number of Motors 6

Motor Type Direct Drive 3-Phase PMAC Outrunner

Motor Model F45

Motor Max Continuous Power Output 350 W

Motor Max Instantaneous
Peak Power Output

Maximum RPM (flat rated) 6300 RPM

Equivalent Kv 384

Electronic Speed Controller Freefly Silent-Drive Sine Wave ESC

PROPELLERS

Material Carbon fiber with balsa core

Propeller Orientation (3) CW and (3) CCW Props

Propeller Type 18 × 6 Folding

1126 mm

550 mm

950 W

BATTERY

Nominal Battery Voltage 6S / 22.2V

Maximum Battery Size 240 × 180 × 80 mm

Maximum Battery Quantity 2 Battery Packs (Parallel)

Battery Connectors 2× EC5 (Parallel)

Required Minimum Battery
Discharge Rating

Dual Pack: 200A / 400A Peak

Single Pack: 300A / 600A Peak

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WEIGHTS

Maximum Gross for Takeoff

Maximum Useful Load

Maximum Payload

3

Typical Standard Empty Weight: 4.5 kg (10.0 lbs)

1

2

13.6 kg (30.0 lbs)

9.1 kg (20.0 lbs)

6.8 kg (15.0 lbs)

SPECIFIC LOADINGS

Typical Specific Power

Thrust Ratio at MTOW

1

At sea level, ISA.

2

Top and bottom mount. Includes batteries.

3

Payload weight top or bottom mount.
Battery weight not included and mounted
on opposite side from payload.

4

At MTOW, sea level, ISA.

4

1

145 W/kg

1.85 : 1

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FLIGHT CONTROLLER

Model Name Freefly SYNAPSE flight controller

Flight Modes Manual, Height Mode, Position

Mode, Return-To-Home, Autoland

Supported Inputs: DSMX, DSM2, S.Bus,

S.Bus2, PPM, FPV SD

Supported Radios Futaba S.Bus & S.Bus2, DSMX,

DSM2 (Spektrum/JR), PPM,

PPM Invert, PPM Graupner

Supported Radio Controller
Telemetry Systems

Minimum Radio Controller
Channels Required

Supported GNSS GPS, GLONASS, Galileo

Supported SBAS QZSS, WAAS, EGNOS, MSAS

First-Person View System
Video Formats

Supported First-Person
View Transmitters

Supported First-Person View Cameras Ready Made RC

First-Person View OSD Telemetry User Configurable

Installed Transceivers Wi-Fi

Data Logging Rate 25 Hz

Futaba w/ built-in voltage sense port

NTSC, PAL

Skyzone, BOSCAM,

ImmersionRC, Fat Shark

5

LIGHTING AND INDICATION

Status Light 1 Watt Red, 1 Watt White LED

Orientation Lights 3-Watt RGB LED

Orientation Light Color Options Red, Yellow, Blue, Green, White

Accessory Lighting Port 12 VDC

Accessory Lighting Port Location Outboard on Boom Ends

ISOLATION SYSTEM

Vibration Isolation System Silicone O-Rings

Option 1: Soft / Light Payloads Red O-Rings

Option 2: Medium / Medium Payloads Teal O-Rings

Option 3: Stiff / Heavy Payloads Black O-Rings

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PAYLOAD MOUNTING

Mounting Locations Bottom and Top Mount

Mounting System Freefly Toad In The Hole

(TITH) Quick Release

FPV Camera Mount Forward, underneath chassis

FPV Transmitter Mount Boom #5

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LIMITATIONS

NOTE

These limitations are advisory in nature and do not extend or
restrict limitations provided by local aircraft operational regulation.

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 in temperatures exceeding 45ºC (113ºF) or below -20ºC(-4ºF).

WEIGHT LIMITS

Maximum Takeoff Weight 13.6 kg (30.0 lbs)

Maximum Payload 6.8 kg (15.0 lbs)

5

FLIGHT CONTROLLER LIMITS

Maximum Pitch/Roll Angle 45°

Maximum Yaw Rate 150° / second

5

Must additionally observe battery temperature ratings.

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SYSTEM DIAGRAMS

sUAS OVERVIEW

GPS Satellite

HD Video Link,

Preview Monitor*

*NOT INCLUDED

Radio Controller*

2.4GHz Mō VI Controller*

FPV Rx,

Preview Monitor*

ALTA App

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FLIGHT CONTROL

ESC

A. Spektrum Receiver

DSMX, DSM 2

B. Futaba Receiver or Generic Receiver

S.BUS, S.BUS 2 or PPM

SYNAPSE

Flight

Controller

A.

B.

Status

Light

PWM

ESC

CAN

6 Position Lights

ESC

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POWER SYSTEM

Motor

Lights*

Motor

Lights*

FUSE

RE C EI V ER

FP V T x FP V C AM

SYNAPSE

Flight

Controller

12v 5v

REGULATORS

Motor

Lights*

Fu tba Te l.

RE C EI V ER

Motor

Lights*

FUSE

5v

Motor

Lights*

Flight

Battery

EC5 Connector

Flight

Battery

Motor

Lights*

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FPV EQUIPMENT

FPV Tx

(not included)

FPV Camera

(not included)

FPV Camera Cable

SYNAPSE

Flight

Controller

FPV Camera Lead

Pre-installed

FPV Tx Cable

Boscam/Skyzone or Fat Shark/ImmersionRC

FPV Tx Lead

Pre-installed

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ALTA MOBILE APP

The ALTA App is used to configure ALTA parameters and to monitor ALTA’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 is on the ground and disarmed. In
addition, radio mapping parameters can only be adjusted when the Configuration
Jumper is removed. For more information on radio mapping, see the Radio Mapping
section of this manual.

When making configuration changes with the ALTA App, wait three seconds for the
app to automatically save changes to ALTA before shutting off the app or the mobile
device.

The ALTA App will be actively maintained, and additional functionality may be added
over time. For information on individual app updates, refer to the App release notes.

ADDITIONAL REQUIRED COMPONENTS (NOT INCLUDED)

RADIO CONTROLLER

ALTA 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 9 channels is highly recommended to make
use of Velocity and Climb Rate Clamps, Return-To-Home, and Arm Enable functions.
It is recommended to use a radio controller with a three way switch for the Mode,
Home and Arm Enable functions, and a knob or slider input for both the Velocity and
Climb Rate Clamp functions.

FLIGHT BATTERY

ALTA can accommodate a variety of Lithium Polymer (LiPo) flight battery packs.
Battery packs must be 6S, having a nominal voltage of 22.2 V. When running two
packs, each pack must have a continuous discharge rating of 200 amps or greater,
and a peak discharge rating of 400 amps or greater. When running a single pack, the
pack must have a continuous discharge rating of 300 amps or greater, and a peak
discharge rating of 600 amps or greater. For additional information on expected
flight durations, refer to the Performance Section of the manual.

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SETTING UP ALTA

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UNFOLDING ALTA

ALTA features swan-neck booms that fold into a compact size for
travel. They are secured in an open position for flight using over­center latches.

TO UNFOLD ALTA

1. Remove ALTA from case

2. Fold down all six boom retention clips

3. Open ALTA booms

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4. Snap shut all six boom latches until they “click”

5. Visually confirm all latches are seated properly

6. Remove prop protectors

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TO FOLD ALTA

1. Secure props with prop protectors

2. Unlatch all six booms

3. Close ALTA booms

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4. Fold up all six boom retention clips to secure booms

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RADIO INSTALLATION

RADIO CONTROLLER RECEIVER

ALTA 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.

Additionally, ALTA supports radio receiver diversity using S.Bus, S.Bus2, DSM2 and
DSMX receivers. This means two receivers may be installed, and the SYNAPSE flight
controller will automatically use the receiver with the best signal quality. Using two
receivers requires the radio controller to be bound to both receivers.

Refer to the instructions provided with your radio controller to complete the binding
process. For Spektrum/JR radios, a receiver is required to bind the satellites to a
radio controller.

1. Locate the noted closeout panels used for receiver

installation (between booms 1 & 2 and 5 & 6)

2. Remove side closeout panel with radio wires using a 1.5mm hex driver

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3. Identify required wire

PPM

4. Feed wire through grommet

5. Replace side closeout panel

DSM2/DSMXS.BUS/S.BUS2

6. Plug in receiver/satellite to wire per the radio

manufacturer’s installation instructions

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7. Attach receiver/satellite to exterior using the provided double sided tape

a. Futaba & PPM

b. Spektrum/JR

8. For Futaba receivers, feed antenna wires into antenna

tubes and zip tie to noted mounting location

9. Repeat 1-7 on opposite side for dual receivers (only

applies to Futaba and Spektrum/JR)

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RECOMMENDED RECEIVER PLACEMENT

FUTABA

Mount Futaba receivers 15mm from the wiring grommet for easy S.Bus wire
installation and removal (See Radio Controller Receiver step 7a).

SPEKTRUM/JR SATELLITES

Mount satellites so antennae are blocked by the airframe as little as possible. If
using two receivers, place them at a 90° angle to each other. (See Radio Controller
Receiver 7b)

VOLTAGE TELEMETRY

ALTA supports battery voltage telemetry on Futaba radios using a receiver that
supports an external voltage sensor, such as the R7008SB. To set up ALTA with
voltage telemetry for Futaba radios:

1. Locate the radio receiver wire bundle behind the

closeout panel between booms 1 and 2.

2. Identify the voltage sense wire and connector in the bundle. It is the small,

2-pin white connector attached to a black and red twisted wire pair.

NOTE

This wire is already connected to an in-line fuse.
Soldering a fuse into this wire is not required.

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3. Feed the voltage sense wires through the grommet on the closeout panel.

4. Connect the white connector to the external voltage

sense port on the Futaba receiver.

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RADIO MAPPING

ALTA can be used with a variety of radio controllers. Different radio controllers can
map functions to different channels, so properly mapping controller channels to
ALTA functions is an important step before flying. Radio mapping is performed using
the ALTA App.

This section describes the steps required to complete radio mapping.

If you are uncertain about your 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 mapping
parameters. With the jumper in place, the motors may operate, but channel
mapping is prevented. With the jumper removed, channel mapping may take place,
but motor operation will be prevented.

To remove or replace the Configuration Jumper:

1. Locate the closeout panel where the jumper is installed

2. Remove the side closeout panel with the jumper using a 1.5mm hex driver

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3. Remove or replace the jumper

4. Reattach the closeout panel

MAPPING RADIO CHANNELS USING ALTA APP

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.

1. Remove the Configuration Jumper

WARNING

Always ensure the Configuration Jumper is removed prior to
adjusting radio settings to prevent unintentional motor starts.

2. Power ALTA using a battery pack or by plugging in the included

USB-Futaba cable into an available port on a Futaba receiver

3. Open the ALTA App and connect to ALTA

4. Open Configurations > Radio

5. Open each ALTA function and adjust the channel to the desired channel

number, and use the toggle to invert the orientation of a control

6. Ensure proper channel selection by moving the control input on the radio

controller and verifying the displayed graph in the ALTA App responds correctly

WARNING

Ensure proper channel mapping prior to flight. Incorrect mapping
can lead to immediate loss of control.

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ONCE CHANNELS ARE MAPPED

7. 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.

CONTROLLER

Use this to select the appropriate receiver. The following guide is compiled for
convenience. For complete specifications and which mode will work with your
receiver, refer to your radio controller or receiver manuals.

» DSM2/DSMX are typically used by Spektrum and some JR controllers.
» SBUS is typically used by Futaba controllers.
» PPM is a generic standard used by many controllers and receivers.
» PPM Invert is the same as PPM except channel inputs are reversed.
» PPM Graupner interprets Graupner radio PPM inputs.

PITCH/ROLL/YAW/THROTTLE

The Pitch, Roll, Yaw and Throttle controls are the basic flight controls and are
mapped to the two radio controller sticks.

MODE

The required Mode Switch selects between the three different flight modes: Manual,
Height and Position. A three-position switch is recommended to select the three
different modes. However, a two-position switch may be used, but will only allow for
selecting between Manual Mode and (depending on radio controller mixes) either
Position Mode or Height Mode

HOME SWITCH

The optional Home Switch selects between the different Return-To-Home (RTH)
functions. A three-position switch is required for the Home Switch functions to
select between the Home Set, RTH Off, and RTH Enable functions.

VELOCITY AND CLIMB RATE CLAMP

Velocity and Climb Rate Clamps set the maximum ground speed or vertical speed

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available in Height Mode and Position Mode. The clamps can be adjusted mid-flight.
An analog dial or slider is recommended for the Velocity and Climb Rate Clamp
Functions.

ARM ENABLE

Arm Enable is an optional safety feature that inhibits arming while on the ground,
or disarming while in the air based on the position of the switch. When not mapped,
ALTA may be armed or disarmed at any time following normal arming and disarming
procedures. See the Arm Enable Switch section of this manual under Operating
ALTA for more information on switch behavior.

A minimum two-position switch is required to make use of Arm Enable. A three
position switch may be used to temporarily turn off the feature as both arm and
disarm are allowed in the switch’s center position.

ALL FUNCTIONS

The meaning of the direction or position of the indicator is described in the following
table for all mappable parameters. The top and right positions on the radio mapping
indicators represent 2000µs, and the bottom and left positions represent 1000µs,
and the middle position represents 1500µs.

FUNCTION

Pitch

Roll

Yaw

Throttle

Mode

Home

Velocity Clamp

IN-APP
INDICATOR
POSITION

INDICATES

Top Nose Up

Bottom Nose Down

Left Roll Left

Right Roll Right

Left Nose Left

Right Nose Right

Top High Throttle

Bottom Low Throttle

Top Position

Middle Height

Bottom Manual

Top Set New Home Position

Middle RTH Off

Bottom Initiate RTH

Top Fast

Bottom Slow

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Climb Rate
Clamp

Arm Enable
Switch

Top Fast

Bottom Slow

Top Arm Enable / Disarm Disable

Middle Arm Enable / Disarm Enable

Bottom Arm Disable / Disarm Enable

TYPICAL CHANNEL MAPPINGS

The following are channel mapping configurations as set in the ALTA App. These
are recommendations only. Depending on exact radio models, these may help as
an initial configuration. However, it is up to the pilot setting up ALTA for flight to
determine if these settings are appropriate.

FUTABA 14SG/8FG

FUNCTION CHANNEL NUMBER DIRECTION

Pitch 2 Normal

Roll 1 Normal

Yaw 4 Normal

Throttle 3 Reverse

Mode 5 Normal

Home Switch 6 Reverse

Arm Enable 9 Reverse

Velocity Clamp 8 Reverse

Climb Rate Clamp 7 Reverse

SPEKTRUM DX18

FUNCTION CHANNEL NUMBER DIRECTION

Pitch 3 Reverse

Roll 2 Reverse

Yaw 4 Reverse

Throttle 1 Normal

Mode 6 Reverse

Home Switch 7 Reverse

Arm Enable 8 Normal

Velocity Clamp 10 Normal

Climb Rate Clamp 11 Normal

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CONFIGURING TOP OR BOTTOM MOUNT

A MōVI can be attached to either the top or bottom of ALTA via the Freefly Toad In
The Hole (TITH) quick release.

ALTA comes pre-configured for bottom mounting a MōVI.

BOTTOM MOUNT

1. Prepare your MōVI for bottom-mount flight (see MōVI manual)

a. Attach landing gear

b. Install TITH receiver on MōVI

2. Connect MōVI to bottom Toad

ADDING A TITH TOP MOUNT

CAUTION

Top mounting is not supported by the MōVI M10.

1. Prepare your MōVI for top-mount flight

a. Remove landing gear (see MōVI manual)

b. Install TITH receiver on MōVI (see MōVI manual)

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2. Connect and secure the supplied inverted landing gear to the bottom Toad

3. Remove the four flat-head M3×6 bolts that secure the top handle

4. Attach the supplied Toad to the top plate using the four M3×8 bolts provided

5. Connect MōVI to the top Toad

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ISOLATOR CARTRIDGES

Different Isolator Cartridges can be used to fine tune vibration damping
performance for different payload weights. Three isolation cartridge styles are
provided with ALTA with the red for light payloads, teal for medium payloads, and
black for heavy payloads. Flight testing may be required to determine the optimal
isolator for a given setup.

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 in place.

CAUTION

Always ensure isolator cartridges are locked in place before flying
ALTA. Isolator cartridges that are not locked can cause the payload
to loosen and change ALTA’s fundamental flying characteristics.

To remove, pinch the cartridge latch to unlock it from the battery and chassis plate.
Simultaneously pull the battery and chassis plate apart while pulling the cartridge
outward.

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BATTERY INSTALLATION

Batteries may be installed on either the top or bottom of an ALTA and are always
mounted opposite of the payload location. In both locations, battery pack(s) are
secured with silicone straps tensioned across the pack(s). The straps are secured
using studs located on either side of the pack(s).

WARNING

Always secure battery pack(s) with both battery retention straps.

CAUTION

When installing two battery packs, ensure they are at a
similar state of charge (a full pack voltage difference less
than 0.5V). 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.

CAUTION

When using two battery packs, only use packs that are
identical in their capacity and at a similar condition.
Using a pack with another that is larger, or has many
more cycles, can damage the battery packs.

CAUTION

Always refer to and follow the battery manufacturer’s instructions,
recommendations and guidelines for battery handling.

CAUTION

When plugging in battery pack(s), ensure the polarity is
correct. Positive is indicated by a red power lead, and
negative/ground is indicated by a black power lead.
Reversing polarity will damage ALTA’s electronics.

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BOTTOM MOUNT

1. Place battery retention strap studs at the appropriate height for battery pack(s)

2. Adjust battery stops to fit battery pack(s)

3. Attach the single-hole end of the battery retention straps to the studs

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4. Place battery pack(s) on battery tray below handle

5. Tension and secure battery retention straps

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TOP MOUNT

CAUTION

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.

1. Adjust battery stops to fit battery pack(s)

2. Attach the single-hole end of the battery retention

strap to a stud on the landing gear

3. Place battery packs(s) in landing gear

4. Tension and secure battery retention straps

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COMPASS CALIBRATION

For best results, it is recommended to perform manual compass calibrations away
from ferrous objects, buildings and vehicles. In addition, concrete can contain steel
rebar which may influence compass calibrations.

WARNING

Verify ALTA is disarmed prior to performing a compass calibration.
To ensure ALTA does not arm, set the Arm Enable Switch (if
available) to disable, and remove the Configuration Jumper.

NOTE

It is recommended to use two people to perform the
compass calibration as it requires handling and rotating
ALTA. Perform calibration without a payload attached.

NOTE

Ensure a microSD card is installed in the GPS/compass
module prior to performing compass calibration.

TO PERFORM A COMPASS CALIBRATION:

1. Secure a battery onto ALTA

2. Plug in the battery

3. Open the ALTA app

4. Select Configurations > More > Compass

5. Under Calibration, select Start Manual

6. Follow the on-screen instructions

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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 > More > Compass. Change the Auto
Calibration setting to On.

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PROPELLERS

The folding propellers include two carbon fiber propeller blades attached to prop
hubs, which are themselves secured to the motors. The propellers installed on
booms 1, 3 and 5 spin clockwise when viewed from above ALTA, and the propellers
installed on booms 2, 4 and 6 spin counterclockwise when viewed from above.

For information on propeller installation and maintenance, refer to the Maintenance
section of this manual.

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CHECKING PROP BOLT TIGHTNESS

Over time, the bolts that hold the propeller blades to the prop hub can loosen due to
vibration. To check prop bolt tightness, twist the prop about its length. If there is free
play, the prop bolt is too loose. Use the provided 2.5mm hex driver and wrench to
tighten the bolt and nut that secure the prop blade just enough to remove the play.

CAUTION

Do not overtighten, or the prop may fail to unfold completely
during motor start up, leading to excessive vibration.

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FIRST PERSON VIEW (FPV)

ALTA 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.

Two FPV transmitter cables are included. The cable with two connectors on one of
the ends will run ImmersionRC and Fat Shark systems, and the cable with a single
connector on the end will run Boscam and SkyZone systems.

A single camera cable is provided, and is configured to run a Ready Made RC
camera.

Camera and transmitter cables follow this wiring scheme:

CABLE COLOR FUNCTION

Red +12 VDC

Black Ground

Yellow Video signal

WARNING

It is the responsibility of the pilot to see and avoid other aircraft,
people or obstacles. Always maintain direct line of sight with ALTA
during flight, use visual observers as operations require, and
follow local regulations regarding see-and-avoid requirements.

FPV SYSTEM INSTALLATION

CAMERA

1. Mount FPV camera on the FPV mount on the front

underside of ALTA or other preferred location.

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2. Locate the FPV camera cable included in the ALTA package.

3. Remove the front closeout panel with a 1.5 mm hex driver.

4. Pass the FPV cable through the grommet, and connect to the mating FPV

camera lead inside ALTA. Connect the other end directly to the camera.

5. Replace front closeout panel.

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TRANSMITTER

1. Mount FPV transmitter on the provided carbon fiber accessory mount plate.

2. Attach Accessory Mount to boom 5 with M3×8 flathead bolts.

3. 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 connector)

4. Remove the side closeout panel with the FPV

transmitter lead using the 1.5mm hex driver.

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5. Pass transmitter cable through the underside of the

hinge, and connect to the FPV transmitter lead.

6. Replace side closeout panel.

7. Zip tie the FPV transmitter lead to the boom cable bundle for strain relief.

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

NAME OPTIONS DESCRIPTION

Video Mode PAL / NTSC

Units

Horizontal
Offset

Vertical Offset 0, 8, 16, 24, 30 Centers the OSD components vertically

Borders 0, 1, 2, 3

Metric /
Imperial

0, 15, 30, 45, 60 Centers the OSD components horizontally

Indicates to the SYNAPSE the
FPV video camera format

Changes the displayed units

Adds gaps between OSD components
and the edges of the display, measured
in character widths and heights

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TEXT COMPONENTS

The following components are displayed as text items, and can be configured to
display as big or small letters, or no letters effectively turning off the display.

NAME DESCRIPTION

Height

Vario

Heading

Distance

Ground Speed

Displays the height of ALTA from its
starting point in meters or feet

Displays the vertical speed of ALTA in
meters per second or feet per minute

Displays the magnetic heading of ALTA
and is measured in degrees

Displays the distance ALTA is from the
home position in meters or feet

Displays the ground speed of ALTA in
meters per second or knots

Battery Displays the voltage of the flight battery pack

Time Displays the time of the flight in minutes and seconds

GPS Displays the number of GPS satellites in view

GPS Accuracy

Lat/Long

Displays the horizontal accuracy of the
GPS signal in meters or feet

Displays the GPS derived latitude and
longitude coordinates of ALTA

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.

NAME OPTIONS DESCRIPTION

No Turns off all artificial horizon components

Artificial
Horizon

Basic

Ladder

Adds a horizon line that moves up and down
as ALTA changes pitch, and rolls as ALTA rolls

Adds pitch marks at intervals defined
by the Pitch Interval setting

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Adds small dash marks on the left

Basic

and right side of the artificial horizon
that indicate changes in roll

Roll Marker

Horizon Adds marks to include a full horizon line

Adds small marks on either side

Ladder

of the artificial horizon ladder that
roll with ALTA roll movements

Pitch and
Roll Scaling

Pitch and
Intervals

10, 20, 30, 40

10, 20, 30, 40

Allows for scaling of the artificial
horizon markings to compensate for
FPV cameras of different field views

Sets the number of degrees
between pitch markings when the
artificial horizon ladder is used

OTHER COMPONENTS

The following components can be turned on or off. There are no other options
associated with these components.

NAME DESCRIPTION

Compass Arrow Displays an arrow that points in the direction of north

Home Arrow

Displays an arrow that points in the
direction of the home point

Displays a bar on the right of the screen that scales

Vario Bar

with 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

Forward Velocity

The bar will extend up to indicate forward velocity,
or down to indicate a rearward velocity

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

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TUNING ALTA

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TUNING ALTA

ALTA comes pre-tuned for a wide variety of payloads and flying conditions. Generally,
additional tuning is not required to fly ALTA, 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.

Parameters fall into three categories - Attitude, Height and Position. Typically,
tuning should take place in that order, ensuring Attitude parameters are set first,
then moving to Height parameters, and finally Position parameters.

Tuning should take place as an iterative process by making only small changes, test
flying the changes, observing the new flight behaviors, and repeating. Only tune a
single parameter at a time during this process for best results.

To tune ALTA, open the ALTA App and select Configurations > Aircraft Dynamics.

WARNING

Tuning can change the fundamental flying characteristics of ALTA.
It is possible for ALTA 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.

NOTE

The ALTA App only allows tuning while ALTA is on the ground.

ATTITUDE TUNING

Attitude tuning adjusts how ATLA responds to control inputs and disturbances.
Attitude directly controls responsiveness and changes ALTA’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.

STIFFNESS

Stiffness is adjusted for pitch and roll simultaneously, and yaw independently. It
changes how stable ALTA is in these axes and is the primary variable to adjust when

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tuning. When tuning Stiffness first, or making large stiffness changes, Hold Strength
should be set to a low, non-zero value.

Higher Stiffness values give more responsive control. Values that are too high can
cause instability or oscillation.

WARNING

Excessively high stiffness values can cause ALTA to become
unstable and difficult or even impossible to control.

Lower Stiffness values give less responsive control. Values that
are too low can cause a vague or disconnected control response.

HOLD STRENGTH

Hold Strength controls how much ALTA will try to maintain a pitch/roll
angle command, or a yaw heading command. It is adjusted for pitch and roll
simultaneously, and yaw independently. A higher Hold Strength setting will give a
faster control response and a more responsive feel. However, values that are too
high can cause ALTA to overshoot pitch or roll commands, or even cause instability.

WARNING

Excessively high strength values case cause ALTA to become
unstable and difficult or even impossible to control.

Typically, this setting will not need to be changed from
the default value, and only then in small increments.

HEIGHT TUNING

Tuning height parameters will adjust the control feel of ALTA’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.

Similar to attitude tuning, stiffness is the primary tuning parameter.

If switching to Height Mode causes ALTA to fly in an unstable manner, switch back to
Manual Mode, land and try reducing the values of height tuning gains if they are very
high, or increasing them if they are very low.

VERTICAL STIFFNESS

Vertical Stiffness Gain modifies the vertical stability of the ALTA in Height mode.

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Decrease this value if ALTA experiences vertical oscillation or vibration. Increase
this value if ALTA is sluggish while accelerating to a desired climb or descent rate in
Height mode.

HOLD STRENGTH

Hold Strength Gain tunes how much ALTA will attempt to stay on a desired altitude
in Height Hold mode only. A higher value will result in height being held more
precisely. Too high of a value can cause ALTA to overreact to winds, gusts or
turbulent air.

CLIMB RATE STRENGTH

Climb Rate Strength adjusts how much ALTA will attempt to maintain a desired
climb rate. Higher values will result in a more direct feel between pilot climb or
descent commands and ALTA flying behavior. However, values that are too high may
cause instability.

POSITION TUNING

Tuning position parameters will adjust how well ALTA maintains a desired ground
speed or a position over the ground. Similar to attitude and height tuning, the
primary value to adjust is stiffness.

HORIZONTAL STIFFNESS GAIN

This changes the horizontal stability of ALTA. Higher values increase ALTA’s
resistance to wind gusts or turbulence from moving ALTA off its target position.
Values that are too high can cause instability of ALTA.

HOLD STRENGTH GAIN

This adjusts how much ALTA 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 to fly past a target position.

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ALTA FLIGHT PARAMETERS

Flight Parameters are different from tuning parameters in that the flight
characteristics of ALTA 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 to pitch or roll
with a neutral control input.

Use the in-app pitch and roll trim settings instead of radio controller trim features
as large radio controller trims could prevent position hold from engaging at neutral
stick positions.

MAXIMUM PITCH/ROLL ANGLE

This sets the maximum angle the ALTA will be allowed to fly in all modes and in all
flight conditions.

MAXIMUM YAW RATE

This is the maximum rate the ALTA will yaw (pan) when at full stick deflection.

HEIGHT

HOVER THROTTLE

Hover Throttle is a parameter that adjusts ALTA’s thrust at center throttle stick, and
ensures ALTA does not climb or descend at the center stick position while flying in
Manual Mode. A Hover Throttle setting that is too high or too low can cause ALTA to
climb or descend when switching between Manual and Height Modes.

NOTE

Hover Throttle will need to be adjusted when
changing the overall weight of the system, or when
moving between very different elevations.

Adjust the Hover Throttle setting such that during a stable hover the required
throttle position is at middle stick, or about 1500 µs in the App radio chart. Increase
Hover Throttle if hover occurs above center stick, and decrease if hover occurs

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below center stick.

Alternatively, if ALTA 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 descends, decrease hover throttle, since a descent indicates a
stick position that is lower than neutral in Manual mode.

NOTE

The ALTA App does not allow hover throttle
adjustments while ALTA is flying.

MAXIMUM CEILING

This adjusts the highest altitude the ALTA is allowed to climb from its starting point
while in Height or Position modes. If the maximum ceiling is exceeded in Manual
mode, the Status Light will illuminate white.

MAXIMUM CLIMB RATE

This sets the maximum speed ALTA will climb at full throttle stick deflection in
Height Mode or Position Mode

If Climb Rate Clamp is mapped to an radio controller channel, the parameter will
adjust the fastest climb speed available to the Climb Rate Clamp feature.

GPS HEIGHT CORRECTION

With GPS Height Correction On, SYNAPSE will use both barometer and GPS sensor
measurements to determine its altitude. It can be useful for assisting in windy or
gusty conditions, but requires good GPS reception. It is recommended to keep this
enabled unless GPS reception is problematic.

POSITION

MAXIMUM G

This sets the total maximum acceleration, in G’s, that the controller will place on the
airframe. It is recommended to use lower G settings with heavier payloads.

This setting has no effect in Manual mode.

MAXIMUM GPS ANGLE

This sets the maximum pitch and roll angle the ALTA may fly under Position mode.
This will not override the Attitude Maximum Pitch/Roll Angle. Instead, ALTA will

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follow the lower of these two limits.

MAXIMUM GPS SPEED

Max GPS Speed sets the maximum speed ALTA will fly across the ground at full stick
deflection in Position Mode.

If Velocity Clamp is mapped to an RC transmitter channel, the parameter will adjust
the fastest ground speed available to the Velocity Clamp feature.

RANGE

Range sets the maximum distance ALTA may fly away from the home point while
in Position mode. If the range is exceeded in Manual mode, the status light will
illuminate white.

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OPERATING ALTA

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FLIGHT CONTROLLER MODES

ALTA has three primary flight control modes: Manual Mode, Height Mode, and
Position Mode. They are selected with the Mode Switch

CAUTION

Always neutralize control inputs when
switching between control modes.

MANUAL MODE

In Manual Mode, ALTA will only stabilize its attitude. At neutral control input (middle
pitch and roll stick position), ALTA will attempt to remain level. Throttle control is
direct.

HEIGHT MODE

Height Mode changes the throttle stick behavior to command climb and descent
rates. The higher the throttle stick position, the faster ALTA will climb. Conversely,
the lower the throttle stick position, the faster ALTA will descend.

When the throttle stick is centered, ALTA will enter Height Hold. In Height Hold,
ALTA will maintain a target altitude and try to correct for drift. If a disturbance
moves ALTA away from this target altitude, ALTA will climb or descend to return to
the target altitude.

POSITION MODE

Position Mode changes the pitch/roll stick behavior to command ground speeds.
Pitch and roll stick deflection will command fore/ aft and left/right ground speeds
respectively. Controlling altitude in Position Mode is the same as in Height Mode.

With pitch and roll controls centered, ALTA will enter Position Hold. In Position
Hold, ALTA will maintain its position over a given point on the ground and correct for
disturbances.

Position Mode requires a strong GPS signal. If a weak signal is present, ALTA will not
enter Position Mode, and if the GPS signal degrades while in Position Mode, ALTA
will automatically revert to Manual Mode.

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CAUTION

RADIO LOSS OF SIGNAL RTH

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.

RETURN-TO-HOME

Return-To-Home Mode will command ALTA to fly back to the starting point of the
flight or the last defined Home Point. When ALTA first acquires a GPS position, it
sets this as the Home Point of the flight. The Home Switch on your radio controller
can also be used to set a new Home Point. See the Radio Mapping section in this
manual for more information on setting up the Home Switch.

RTH can be initiated manually by the Home Switch or be initiated with an LOS event.

When initiated with the Home Switch, ALTA will fly back to the Home Point, and the
pilot will maintain control of ALTA’s altitude the entire time. ALTA will not Autoland
if an adequate signal is detected. The pilot can cancel the RTH procedure by
commanding a pitch or roll command or by retuning the Home Switch to the middle
position. The Mode Switch must be in Position Mode to activate RTH manually.

During an LOS event, ALTA will first check its current altitude against Safe Height. If
it is lower, it will climb to Safe Height, and if ALTA is above Safe Height, it will remain
at its current altitude. Next, ALTA will fly back to the home position at the RTH
Speed set in the ALTA App. Finally, upon reaching the home position, ALTA will begin
Autoland.

SAFE HEIGHT IS USER DEFINED

ALTA App > Configurations > Safety > Safe Height

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AUTOLAND

The Autoland function will command ALTA to hover for 10 seconds and will then land
in place. This only occurs if Autoland is selected as the Loss of Signal (LOS) event in
the ALTA App, or at the end of an LOS Return-to-Home (RTH) event. If ALTA is above
the app-configurable Safe Height setting, ALTA will first descend to the Safe Height
at the Maximum Descent Rate. After reaching this height, ALTA’s descent will slow to
the Autoland Descent Rate until landing.

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’s current position. This could be useful for
setting a point away from the initialization point, such as if the ALTA were started
underneath an overhang or a tree.

A new home point can only be set within 20 meters of ALTA’s starting point.
Momentarily moving the Home Switch to the Set Home position sets a new home
point. When a new home point is set, the Status Light will turn white to indicate the
new home point was successfully set.

RTH OFF

This is the normal switch position and does not initiate an RTH command.

RTH ON

This manually initiates the RTH function. In a manual RTH, the pilot maintains
control of height while the SYNAPSE will command ALTA’s position over the ground
to the home point.

ARM ENABLE SWITCH

The optional Arm Enable Switch allows for added safety while working around and
flying ALTA by disallowing arming during ground handling or disarming during
flight. To set up an Arm Enable Switch, refer to Mapping Channels or the ALTA User
Manual.

If used, the Arm Enable function should be mapped to a three-position switch.

SWITCH POSITION ARMING DISARMING

1 Possible Not possible

2 (middle) Possible Possible

3 Not possible Possible

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STATUS LIGHT

The rear-facing Status Light shows the status of ALTA 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

Booting

Standby

Armed Off Ready for Flight

Flight - all modes Solid Red

Flashing Red
+ White

Flashing White

Flashing Red

Solid Red Flight controller boot unsuccessful

Flight controller is booting

Flight controller is running
and dis-armed

Flight controller is running
and not ready to arm

A flight controller error has
occurred or Battery cell voltage
below user-defined levels

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Flight - Manual
Mode

Flight - Height
Hold

Flight - Position
Hold

Off

Solid White

Off

Slow Flashing
White

Flashing Red

Nominal flight status
No errors

Outside user-defined range,
height or speed limits

Nominal flight status
Height hold inactive

Height hold active

Battery cell voltage below
user-defined levels

Nominal flight status

Off

Height hold inactive
Position hold inactive

Slow Flashing
White

Height Hold or Position Hold Active

Fast Flashing White Height Hold and Position Hold Active

Flashing Red

Battery cell voltage below
user-defined levels

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ORIENTATION LIGHTS

BOTTOM VIEW

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

FLIGHT PHASE LIGHT COLOR MEANING

Booting Blue ESC booting

Standby Flashing Green ESC booted normally

Armed User-defined Nominal Status

Flight User-defined Nominal Status

Firmware Update Blue then Yellow ESC firmware is updating

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ALTA APP MONITOR

The ALTA App includes a flight status monitor that displays information about the
health of the ALTA 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.

Battery displays the voltage of the battery pack.

Status displays the state of the SYNAPSE flight controller.

Radio displays if the SYNAPSE detects a radio controller signal. A LOS (Loss Of

Signal) warning is displayed if no signal is present.

GPS displays if SYNAPSE has resolved a GPS fix or not.

Sats displays the number of GPS satellites in view and being received.

Lock displays whether a position lock is ready, indicating a valid GPS fix and good

heading. This is required before the SYNAPSE will allow switching into Position
Mode.

Height displays the current height control mode: Manual, Vario if in Height or
Position mode and climbing or descending, and Hold.

Attitude displays the current attitude control mode.

Position displays the current position control mode: Manual, Velocity if in Position

mode and moving across the ground, and Hold

Compass displays the status of the compass and if the SYNAPSE believes the
compass readings are good or bad. If Bad, the compass may require recalibration
(see the Compass Calibration section in this manual).

Station displays if ALTA is currently over its commanded position over the ground, or
if it attempting to fly to it.

Temp displays the temperature of the SYNAPSE flight controller board.

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DATA LOGGING

ALTA automatically logs flight and control data when ALTA 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.

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NORMAL PROCEDURES

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UNPACKING AND SETUP

1. Aircraft REMOVE from case

2. Prop protectors REMOVE

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

AMPLIFICATION

To set up ALTA for flight, remove it from the case and remove the prop protectors.
Stow the six boom retention clips by folding them down. The clips only fold in one
direction and are spring-loaded to stay in open and closed detented positions.

Unfolding the booms is most easily accomplished by unfolding opposite pairs
partially. Then unfold the opposite boom pairs completely. ALTA can become
unbalanced while unfolding booms individually, so unfolding opposite pairs reduces
this possibility.

Once unfolded, push on the boom latches until they audibly click, indicating the
booms are secure. There should be little to no slop in the hinge. Check that the
receivers and the electrical connectors that attach to the receivers are secure.

For information on installing isolator cartridges and setting up payload mounting
locations, refer to the Isolator Cartridges and Configuring Top or Bottom Mount
sections of this manual.

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BEFORE STARTING

1. Payload SECURED

2. Isolator Cartridges CHECK

3. microSD Card INSTALLED

4. Props CHECK CONDITION, VERIFY TIGHT

5. Prop Hub VERIFY SECURE

6. Motors CHECK CONDITION

7. Radio Controller ON, VERIFY TX BATT

8. Radio Controller Model SELECT

9. Aircraft Placement AWAY from people and obstacles

10. Battery Pack Voltage VERIFY ABOVE 24V

11. Battery Packs SECURE

12. Battery Leads CHECK CONDITION and CONNECT

13. Aircraft KEEP STATIONARY

14. Flight Controller INITIALIZED

15. Status Light VERIFY SLOW FLASHING WHITE

16. Orientation Lights VERIFY FLASHING GREEN

17. Receivers VERIFY BOUND

18. ALTA App CONNECT

19. ALTA App Monitor VERIFY NO WARNINGS

20. Compass Calibration AS REQUIRED

21. Radio Control Range Check AS REQUIRED

AMPLIFICATION

Check that the payload is secure by checking that the Toad In The Hole quick
release lever is pushed in, and that the payload does not slip. Check that all isolator
cartridges are locked in place, especially if they have been recently replaced. A
microSD card is required to be installed in the GPS/Compass module for reliable
compass sensing and data logging.

The blades should be checked for damage, including nicks and scrapes. If a prop
has been nicked enough such that it catches a fingernail, it should be replaced.
Bolt tightness should be checked by rotating the blade about its length (blade pitch
up and down). There should be no slop, and if there is, the bolt and nut should be
tightened until the slop is removed. There should be no slop between the prop hub
and the motor.

75| USER MANUAL

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 plugging in ALTA. Follow the battery
installation guidance in the Battery Installation section of this manual for battery
installation instructions.

While the SYNAPSE flight controller initializes, keep the ALTA as stable as possible.
Wedging a foam prop protector between the stationary gimbal or landing gear and
the ALTA frame can be used to stabilize ALTA from spinning during this process.

NOTE

If ALTA moves during initialization, it many not boot properly.

When it is impossible to initialize ALTA without movement (such as booting on a
boat), Motion Booting can be used. It is not recommended to use Motion Booting
regularly.

During initialization, the Status Light will quickly flash a sequence of red and
white lights. At the end of this process, it will begin slow flashing white, indicating
SYNAPSE is ready for arming. The Orientation Lights will also begin flashing
green. Verify that all six motors are flashing green, indicating all ESCs initialized
successfully.

Verify that there are no flight warnings by connecting to ALTA via the ALTA app and
checking on its status from the App. For more information, see the ALTA App section
of this manual.

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BEFORE TAKEOFF

1. Prop Area CLEAR

2. Mode Switch MANUAL

3. Home Switch CENTER POSITION

4. Radio Controller VERIFY CORRECT MODEL

5. Telemetry (if equipped) CHECK OPERATION

6. Arm Enable Switch ENABLE ARM

7. ALTA ARM

8. Status Light VERIFY OFF

9. Orientation Lights VERIFY USER-DEFINED COLOR

10. Motors START and VERIFY OPERATION

11. Flight Controls VERIFY CORRECT

12. Throttle ADVANCE

AMPLIFICATION

Prior to start, check the surrounding area to ensure people and objects are clear
of ALTA and its props. Also ensure that there are no people or objects between the
ALTA’s takeoff location and its intended flight path.

WARNING

ALTA’s props spin at a high RPM, and the ends of the blades
move at high speeds. ALTA’s props can cause severe injury
or death or cause damage to objects while they are rotating.
Always ensure the area surrounding the props and ALTA is
clear of people or objects prior to starting the ALTA’s motors.

ALTA can only be armed for flight when it is in the Manual Mode, and the Home
Switch is in the middle position. If an Arm Enable Switch is configured, it must be
placed in an ENABLE ARM position. To arm, hold full low throttle and full left yaw.

WARNING

Do not approach ALTA while it is armed.

To start the motors, hold full low throttle and full right yaw. Ensure that all the

77| USER MANUAL

motors are spinning. Keep the throttle in the lowest position and move the pitch,
roll and yaw controls slightly. ALTA should pitch, roll and yaw slightly due to isolator
cartridge flex. Ensure that the ALTA behaves as expected. If it does not, shutdown
ALTA and ensure the props are installed in the correct orientation.

CAUTION

Do not make large yaw commands while on the
ground with the inverted landing gear installed.
Large yaw commands can cause instability.

After checking flight control directions, advance the throttle to enter a hover.

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AFTER EVERY FLIGHT

1. Mode Switch MANUAL

2. Home Switch CENTER POSITION

3. Arm Enable Switch ENABLE DISARM

4. ESCs and Motors DISARM and STOP

5. Arm Enable Switch DISABLED

6. Orientation Lights VERIFY FLASHING GREEN

7. Status LED VERIFY SLOW FLASHING WHITE

8. ALTA App CHECK for warnings

9. Batteries DISCONNECT and REMOVE

10. Radio Controller Power AS REQUIRED

11. Aircraft Condition INSPECT

12. Motor and Prop Condition INSPECT

13. Battery Condition INSPECT

AMPLIFICATION

Upon landing, disarm the motors by holding full low 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. Disarming can only be done while in Manual Mode. If
configured, set the Arm Enable Switch to ENABLE DISARM. Once the motors are
disarmed, the Orientations Lights will flash green and the Status Light will slowly
flash white, indicating it is safe to approach ALTA.

WARNING

Only approach ALTA after confirming that it is disarmed by
verifying the Status Light and Orientation Light colors.

The downwash from the props can disturb debris. This debris can be ingested by
the props or motors and cause damage. After the flight, ensure there is no damage
to the props 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.

After flight is also a good time to check a battery pack’s condition. Always refer
to the battery manufacturer’s recommendations for inspection and replacement
intervals or requirements.

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AFTER LAST FLIGHT

1. Props FOLD and PLACE inline with booms

2. Prop Protectors INSTALL

3. Boom Latches UNLOCK

4. Booms FOLD

5. Boom Retention Clips EXTEND

6. Payload REMOVE

7. ALTA INSERT into case

AMPLIFICATION

Packing ALTA is similar to the unpacking process. Keeping ALTA on the payload or
landing gear facilitates the process as ALTA may be turned on the Toad In The Hole
adapter while folding the props and booms. Make sure that the handle is aligned
front-to-back when putting ALTA in the included case, and that the battery leads are
facing to the right.

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EMERGENCY

PROCEDURES

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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.

Emergency situations are dynamic events, and not all conditions or procedures can
be anticipated or applied during the event. These procedures are not a substitute for
thorough understanding of aircraft systems and sound pilot judgement.

In general, if an emergency occurs, three basic actions can be applied to most
situations:

Maintain aircraft control - Small emergencies can quickly escalate if the pilot is
distracted attempting to determine or troubleshoot the problem. Always maintain
visual contact with the aircraft during an emergency to reduce the likelihood of
disorientation.

Analyze the situation - Once the aircraft is stabilized, begin to assess the cause of
the emergency if practical.

Take appropriate action - In many cases, the appropriate action will be to land the
aircraft as soon as possible. Always consider the safety of yourself and others before
attempting to save the aircraft in an emergency.

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PILOT DISORIENTATION

1. Control Inputs NEUTRALIZE

2. Mode Switch POSITION

3. Yaw NOSE AWAY

4. Roll VERIFY DIRECTION

AMPLIFICATION

Regaining spatial orientation as quickly as possible is most important. In
disorientation situations, control inputs will not give the expected result, so
neutralize them. If a good GPS signal is available, enable Position Mode so ALTA will
stay in a one place.

Use yaw only to reorient ALTA so the nose is pointed away, then use the roll control
to verify the orientation of ALTA.

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UNEXPECTED FLIGHT CONTROLLER BEHAVIOR

1. Control Inputs NEUTRALIZE

2. Mode Switch MANUAL

If the problem persists

3. ALTA LAND as soon as possible

AMPLIFICATION

If the ALTA behaves unexpectedly, neutralize control inputs and observe ALTA. If it
is still flying in an uncommanded manner, switch to Manual mode if it is in Height
or Position modes. In most cases, unexpected behavior is due to erroneous sensor
readings, or degraded GPS signal reception.

If the behavior occurred while in Manual mode, land as soon as possible and check
the ALTA App for any warnings.

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BATTERY EXHAUSTION

If battery cell voltage is between Alarm Voltage and Land Voltage

1. Status Light Illuminates red (solid or blinking)

2. ALTA LAND as soon as possible

If battery cell voltage is below Land Voltage

1. ALTA Begins Autoland

2. Pitch and Roll MANEUVER away from people or objects

AMPLIFICATION

If the battery cell voltage drops below the Alarm Voltage, the Status Light will
turn solid red in Manual Mode, or turn blinking red if holding position or altitude.
Terminate the flight and land as soon as possible.

In the event the cell voltage drops below the Land Voltage, ALTA will begin to auto
land. However, pitch and roll commands are still active. During the time ALTA is
descending, use pitch and roll to avoid people or objects during the descent and
landing.

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STATUS LIGHT WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATES

1. Mode Switch MANUAL

2. ALTA LAND as soon as possible

3. ALTA App OPEN MONITOR

AMPLIFICATION

The Status Light can turn red, indicating a warning, for a number of different
reasons. It is always recommended to land as soon as possible and investigate the
problem while ALTA is on the ground.

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LOSS OF RADIO CONTROL SIGNAL

1. Controller Battery CHECK

2. Controller Antenna REPOSITION

3. Mode Switch POSITION

4. Home Switch RETURN-TO-HOME

AMPLIFICATION

Loss of Signal (LOS) can occur if the radio controller stops transmitting a signal,
or if ALTA is too far away to receive it. In the event ALTA detects a LOS, it will
automatically execute a Return-to-Home or Autoland as configured in the App.
However, it is always recommended to attempt to regain signal link with ALTA to
keep the pilot in control of the aircraft.

Move the antenna orientation for best signal strength. Ensure the transmitter
antenna matches the direction of the receiver antennae. Move the transmitter away
from objects to get a clear line-of-sight to ALTA.

Setup the Mode and Home switches to enable Return-To-Home so ALTA will
continue to approach the starting point and have a higher likelihood of regaining
signal reception.

NOTE

If efforts to regain control signal are unsuccessful, ALTA
will begin the Return-To-Home and Autoland sequence.

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LOSS OF FPV SIGNAL

1. Control Inputs AS REQUIRED

2. Visual Contact ESTABLISH

3. ALTA POSITION for optimal signal reception

If visual contact or FPV signal is not reestablished

1. Mode Switch POSITION

2. Home Switch RETURN TO HOME

3. 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 line of sight. Regaining visual contact
is the preferred method to reestablish control of the aircraft, either with the pilot
seeing the aircraft, or by the use of a second visual observer.

Yawing the aircraft can help signal reception if the body of the aircraft is blocking the
line of sight between the transmitter and receiver antennas.

If FPV signal or visual contact cannot be reestablished, enabling Return To Home
can be used to bring the aircraft back to signal reception range.

WARNING

It is the responsibility of the pilot to see and avoid other aircraft,
people or obstacles. Always maintain direct line of sight with ALTA
during flight, use visual observers as operations require, and
follow local regulations regarding see-and-avoid requirements.

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PERFORMANCE

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PERFORMANCE

WEIGHT / ENDURANCE PERFORMANCE DATA

Conditions:

Altitude Sea Level, ISA

Winds Zero

90| USER MANUAL

ALLOWABLE GROSS WEIGHT

Press Alt Ft

As altitude and temperature increase, the density of the air decreases. Consequently, ALTA’s thrust will decrease. The follow-

ing table describes maximum gross weight limits with respect to altitude and temperature.

ALLOWABLE GROSS WEIGHT

10000

21.8

21.8

21.0

9.5

20.3

9.2

9000

22.6

10.3

21.8

9.9

21.1

9.6

8000

23.5

10.7

22.7

10.3

21.9

9.9

7000

24.4

11.1

23.5

10.7

22.7

10.3

6000

25.4

11.5

24.5

11.1

23.6

10.7

5000

26.3

11.9

25.4

11.5

24.5

11.1

4000

27.3

12.4

26.4

12.0

25.5

11.5

3000

28.4

12.9

27.4

12.4

26.4

12.0

2000

29.4

13.3

28.4

12.9

27.4

12.4

1000

30.0

13.6

29.4

13.4

28.4

12.9

S.L.

30.0

13.6

30.0

13.6

29.5

13.4

(lb)

(kg)

(lb)

(kg)

(lb)

(kg)

Gross Weight

Maximum

Gross Weight

Maximum

Gross Weight

Maximum

Gross Weight

Maximum

Gross Weight

Maximum

Gross Weight

Maximum

0ºC 10ºC 20ºC 30ºC 40ºC

19.6

8.9

19.0

8.6

20.4

9.2

19.7

8.9

21.2

9.6

20.5

9.3

22.0

10.0

21.3

9.7

22.8

10.4

22.1

10.0

23.7

10.8

23.0

10.4

24.6

11.2

23.8

10.8

25.5

11.6

24.7

11.2

26.5

12.0

25.7

11.6

27.5

12.5

26.6

12.1

28.5

12.9

27.6

12.5

(lb)

(kg)

(lb)

(kg)

Gross Weight

Maximum

Gross Weight

Maximum

Gross Weight

Maximum

Gross Weight

Maximum

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MAINTAINING ALTA

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GENERAL INFORMATION AND TECHNIQUES

USE OF THREADLOCKER

Bolts and screws that are called out in this manual to regularly remove or replace
typically do not require use of a threadlock compound. This includes the screws
holding on the handle, battery retention strap studs, battery stops, closeout panels,
the top male Toad In The Hole adapter. In addition, fasteners that attach to nuts with
a nylon locking feature (nylock nuts) do not require threadlocker.

All structural fasteners require the use of threadlock. This includes chassis screws,
lower male Toad In The Hole adapter and motor attachment fasteners. In addition,
the four M3 x 8 socket head bolts that attach the folding propeller to the motor
require threadlocker. Typically, a medium threadlocker (such as Loctite Blue 243) is
used on structural fasteners.

BOLT INSTALLATION

The Freefly hex drivers included with ALTA are designed to help limit the torque that
can be applied to each bolt.

Thread all fasteners into their respective holes until “snug”. This is when the
fastener head bottoms out and lightly clamps the two mating parts together

To prevent tightening the bolts excessively and damaging the bolts or parts, it
is suggested to hold the wrench in your hand, and twist the wrench from the
smaller dia knurled section of the tool between your thumb and index finger for
small fasteners (under size M3) or with your thumb and two forefingers for larger
fasteners (size M3 and larger).

93| USER MANUAL

MAINTENANCE ITEMS

PROPELLERS

Propeller blades should be removed when making a change to the configuration of
the ALTA to prevent propeller strikes in the event of unintentional motor starts and
should be replaced on an as needed basis if they become damaged. Generally, a
nick on the leading edge that is large enough to catch a fingernail indicates that the
prop should be replaced. If the blade composite structure becomes delaminated, the
propeller blade should be replaced.

Freefly makes folding propeller assemblies available that include the blades and
prop hub fully assembled. They are available in clockwise and counter-clockwise
orientations.

The folding props are installed on the motors with four M3×8 socket head bolts.

CAUTION

Always use a threadlocking compound on the bolt
threads that attach the propeller hub to the motor.

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Odd numbered booms (1, 3 and 5) use clockwise rotating props when looking from
the top down, and even numbered booms (2, 4 and 6) use counterclockwise rotating
props.

WARNING

Always check to ensure the correct prop rotation direction
and correct propeller prior to flight. Props that spin in the
incorrect direction will cause ALTA to be uncontrollable.

REPLACING PROPELLER BUMPERS

Under normal use, propeller bumpers may split and fall out of the folding propeller
assembly. Six spare bumpers are provided with the ALTA. To replace the bumper,
disassembly of the folding propeller is required.

Start by removing the M3 x 19 bolt and nylon nut. Pull off the upper prop adapter.
The two bumpers are held in place by circular features in the lower prop adapter.
Replace the worn or split bumper with a new one.

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. The PTFE washer is wider and thinner and is
installed between the prop blades and prop adapters.

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EVERY 15 FLIGHTS

ALTA is designed to be as maintenance-free as is possible.

It is recommended to check ALTA’s fasteners regularly. This check should
occur roughly after every 15 flights, dependent upon the level of vibration ALTA
experiences in flight or during handling. To check ALTA’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 Bolt Installation
section. Do not apply additional threadlocking compound unless the bolt has
repeatedly come loose.

REPLACEMENT OF PARTS

Spare or replacement parts are available for sale separately at

www.freeflysystems.com. Please refer to the company store for

a current listing of all available spare parts.

96| USER MANUAL

FIRMWARE UPDATE PROCESS

NOTE

Carefully follow in-app instructions for saving and restoring ALTA
configuration settings during the firmware update process.

WARNING

Remove propellers before performing a firmware update.
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.

SYNAPSE firmware is updated using the ALTA App. New app updates may include
new firmware installations. To update firmware:

1. Provide power to ALTA

a. Install and plug in a fully charged flight pack or

b. Plug in the USB-Futaba cable to an available receiver

port (Futaba and PPM receivers only)

2. Open the ALTA App

3. Open Monitor > Updates

4. The latest firmware included with the app release is compared with the ALTA

firmware. If a new release is available, the app will provide a notification

5. Tap the Install button in the App if an update is available

6. Wait until the firmware is loaded and ALTA has booted—

Do not power down ALTA during this time

7. Reload saved configuration

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TROUBLESHOOTING

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GENERAL WARNINGS

SYMPTOM POTENTIAL CAUSE POTENTIAL SOLUTION

Compass Warning

GPS Warning

microSD card
is missing

Compass
calibration
is invalid

GPS/Compass
Unit has become
disconnected

Check the microSD card is installed

Recalibrate the compass

Check the GPS/Compass
unit wiring for damage

FLIGHT CONTROLLER

SYMPTOM POTENTIAL CAUSE POTENTIAL SOLUTION

ALTA Home

ALTA will not arm

Motors will
not stop

Switch not in
middle position

ALTA Mode Switch
not in Manual

ALTA Arm Enable
Switch not on
Allow Arm

Radio not bound

Radio not mapped
properly

SYNAPSE boot
not successful

ALTA Mode Switch
not in Manual

ALTA Arm Enable
Switch not on
Allow Disarm

Move Home Switch to middle position

Move Mode Switch to manual

Move Arm Enable Switch to Allow Arm

Follow radio controller
manufacturer’s binding procedure

Check ALTA App radio mapping
charts for correct behavior

Adjust mapping as necessary

Power cycle ALTA. Ensure it
does not move during boot

If ALTA must move during boot
(such as on a moving platform),
use Motion Booting

Move Mode Switch to manual

Move Arm Enable Switch
to Allow Disarm

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FLIGHT BEHAVIOR

SYMPTOM POTENTIAL CAUSE POTENTIAL SOLUTION

ALTA does not
maintain level
pitch or roll

ALTA does not
maintain heading

ALTA circles
a point in
Position Mode

ALTA does not
track straight in
Position Mode

Unexpected
flight behavior

Pitch or Roll Trim
position not set

ALTA yaw
during boot

Compass
calibration
is invalid

Position Hold
tuning values
too high

Compass
calibration invalid

Tuning too high
or too low

Use the ALTA app to set the
appropriate pitch and roll trim

Re-initialize SYNAPSE while keeping
ALTA stationary in all directions

Recalibrate the compass

Reduce Position Hold tuning values,
starting with Position Hold Strength

Perform a manual compass calibration

Revert tuning to the last known
working configuration

Set tuning back to default values

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