Freefly ALTA X User Manual
ALTA X
Features
Worlds Toughest Drone Flight Time
Introducing the world's toughest drone: ALTA X.
ALTA X folds to 30% of its full size to fit in
ALTA X is designed to be a platform that
In order to keep ALTA X in the field as
Speed
Packability
External Power
Easy Integration
Never worry about keeping up with the
the same case as ALTA 8 while still being
Five user accessible power expansions
can be customized for any aerial need;
much as possible all ALTA X parts can be
Easy Deployment
Flight Modes
Expandability
External Computer
We’re confident in ALTA X because we
action again, ALTA X has a top speed of
able to carry 175% ALTA 8’s payload. This
allow ALTA X to power any accessories or
from cinema, to forestry, and bridge
bought as spares and replaced onsite. Of
push it to the limit, and then well past -
over 60mph (95km/h), just make sure that
case is TSA approved and has been tested
payloads you need to do the job.
inspection, ALTA X is a versatile tool ready
course we will still offer factory checkups
over and over again so that we know our
the action can keep up with ALTA X!
to ensure ALTA X arrives to location ready
for any challenge.
and repair services should they be needed!
customers will have plenty of margin in the
to go!
Like all Freefly products, ALTA X is backed
User repairable
unpredictable real world.
High quality sensors and GPS modules
by a team of experts ready to answer any
Customer Service
Payload
allow ALTA X to maintain its position and
questions and make sure you get the job
ActiveBlade
height even in the most unfavorable
done.
ALTA X can carry up to a 35lb payload
weather conditions providing assurances
while maintaining a 2:1 thrust to weight
during autonomous waypoint missions and
ratio.
piloted flights.
Four ActiveBlades reduce the motor
vibrations to 1/5th the normal level. This
No assembly required! Using a clever rotating
Designed with the future in mind, ALTA X is
Some drone applications require real time
planar linkage ALTA X folds and unfolds with
modular and easily expandable to adapt to
onboard computing; ALTA X has the necessary
An effort to make ALTA X as light as possible
ease! This revolutionary feature allows ALTA X
ever changing technology. This expandability
mounts, power, and I/O so it can be upgraded
allows ALTA X to fly MōVI Carbon (20lb
to go from case to flight within minutes,
ensures that ALTA X will continue to be statewith an external computer.
payload) for 25 minutes, or a max payload for 8
reducing setup time and minimizing the risk of
of-the-art even after years of service.
minutes. Smaller payload flight times can
misassembly on the job.
exceed 40 minutes
innovative solution to reduce vibrations
increases the lifetime of ALTA X and helps
keep any payload stable.
We’re confident in ALTA X because we
An effort to make ALTA X as light as possible
push it to the limit, and then well past over and over again so that we know our
customers will have plenty of margin in the
unpredictable real world.
Introducing ALTA X
allows ALTA X to fly MōVI Carbon (20lb
payload) for 25 minutes, or a max payload for 8
minutes. Smaller payload flight times can
exceed 40 minutes
ALTA X is a professional multi-rotor aircraft designed for demanding cinematic,
professional, and industrial applications. Completely redesigned from the ground up, ALTA X
is the next generation of the ALTA family. Built for the user, ALTA X emphasizes
expandability and customization to make sure it can stand up to all challenges thrown its
way, while still being the reliable workhorse drone that ALTA pilots know and love.
This Aircraft Flight Manual describes the complete operation of airframe and flight control
systems, and the normal maintenance of those items. Do not operate ALTA X 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 X. 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.
Throughout the manual warnings, cautions and notes are used to highlight various
important procedures. These are defined as follows:
{% hint style="danger" %} Warnings are used to highlight procedures which, if not strictly
observed, may result in personal injury. {% endhint %}
{% hint style="warning" %} Cautions are used to highlight procedures which, if not strictly
observed, may cause damage to equipment. {% endhint %}
{% hint style="info" %} Notes are used to highlight specific operating conditions, usability
tips and tricks or steps of a procedure. {% endhint %}
Legal
Disclaimer and Warning
Please read this disclaimer and warning carefully and review the ALTA X Aircraft Flight
Manual (AFM) prior to flight. If you have any questions, please contact
support@freeflysystems.com prior to using the ALTA X. You can review the most current
version of this manual on the ALTA X Support Page. By using ALTA X, you acknowledge that
you have read, understand and agree to this disclaimer. You agree that you are solely
responsible for your conduct while using ALTA X, and for any direct or indirect consequences
that may result from its use. You agree to only use ALTA X for proper purposes that are in
accordance with local and airspace rules and regulations.
ALTA X 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 aircraft, ALTA X 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 X Aircraft Flight Manual and a flight
simulator are no substitute for training with an experienced pilot, particularly when it
comes to learning how to safely operate ALTA X. Novice pilots should never fly without
the supervision of an experienced pilot.
Always check ALTA X and its components prior to operation.
Always maintain a safe distance from ALTA X when in use.
Never attempt to touch ALTA X when the propellers are moving.
Never fly ALTA X 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 ALTA X when in use and
when changing configurations.
Only use propellers supplied by Freefly Systems that are designed for use on ALTA X.
Always remove the propellers or power ALTA X using a low power source when making
a change to the configuration of ALTA X to prevent propeller strikes in the event of
unintentional motor starts.
Always remove the configuration jumper when making changes to the configuration of
ALTA X.
Always test ALTA X 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 Autopilot flight controller. If you have either of these wrong, the ALTA X will be
uncontrollable and dangerous.
It is your responsibility to perform a full system check of ALTA X prior to every flight.
It is your responsibility to learn how to safely operate ALTA X and to adhere to all
applicable rules and regulations.
Fly at your own risk.
ALTA X is a tuned system with custom components selected for each application.
Modification, removal, or substitution of ALTA X components will void the warranty
and can lead to unsafe operating conditions.
Limitations 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 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 ALTA X including, but not
limited to, the following situations:
Failure of the operator to follow proper instructions and safety warnings found at
www.freeflysystems.com.
Failure of the operator to understand and operate the aircraft within the operating
limitations described in this manual.
Failure of the operator to follow onboard safety warnings while using ALTA X.
Failure of the operator to follow and comply with local rules and regulations.
Failure of the operator to follow and comply with the local communications law.
Failure of the operator to inspect ALTA X and its components prior to operation.
Failure of the operator to properly maintain and/or service ALTA X through an
authorized Freefly Service Center with genuine ALTA X parts.
Use of third-party products on ALTA X.
Use of ALTA X in a physically or mentally impaired capacity.
Use of ALTA X without sufficient training.
Use of ALTA X 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 ALTA X.
Infringement of third party data, audio, or video rights recorded when using ALTA X
Appendix
Specifications
Dimensions
Dimension Length [mm]
Unfolded Diameter (not including props)
1415
Unfolded Diameter (Including Props)
2273
Folded Diameter
877
Height
387
Dimension Length [mm]
Height (Skyview) 434
Powerplant
Number of Motors 4
Motor Max Continuous Power Output 100 A
Motor Max Instantaneous Peak Power Output 130 A (>3s)
Equivalent Kv 115 rpm/V
Propellers
Material Carbon Fiber Reinforced Nylon
Propeller Orientation (2x) CW and (2x) CCW Props
Propeller Type Folding - 840 x 230 mm (33 x 9in)
Battery
Cells 12S
Nominal Battery Voltage 44.4V
Charged Battery Voltage 50.4V
Battery Connectors XT-90
320 Amps per battery
Required Minimum Battery Discharge
Rating (Per Pack)
(assumes two batteries) 20C for a 16Ahr pack.
Weight
Maximum Gross for Takeoff 34.9kg
Maximum Payload 15.9kg
Typical Standard Empty Weight 10.4 kg
Flight Controller
Autopilot Name Custom Auterion PX4 flight control stack
Flight Modes Manual, Altitude, Position, Mission, Loiter, Orbit, Return
Supported Inputs MAVlink SDK
Futaba, Spektrum, PX4 compatible SBUS and PPM
Supported Radios
receivers
Supported Radio Controller
Voltage feed provided for Futaba RX telemetry
Telemetry Systems
Minimum Radio Controller
5 (roll, pitch, yaw, throttle, mode)
Channels Required
Supported GNSS GPS/Glonass/Beidou/Galileo
Lighting and Indication
Orientation Lights Boom tip mounted LEDs
Orientation Light Color
Options
FPV Ability
User controlled in software - red, orange, yellow, green, cyan,
blue, purple, white, and off.
Yes, see the FPV integration section for instructions on how
to mount the FPV.
Isolation Systems
Vibration Isolation System Built-in (see chart below for weight suggestions)
Payload [lb] Payload [Kg] Isolator Durometer Cartridge Qty
0 - 3 * 0 - 1.4 30A 3
4 - 10 * 1.8 - 4.5 30A 6
11 - 19 ** 5.0 - 8.6 30A 9
20 - 23 ** 9.1 - 10.4 30A/40A 9
24 - 29 ** 10.9 - 13.2 40A 9
30 - 32 ** 13.6 - 14.5 40A/50A 9
Payload [lb] Payload [Kg] Isolator Durometer Cartridge Qty
33 - 35 ** 15.0 - 15.9 50A 9
>35 *** >15.9 60A 9
Performance Charts
Flight Time v. Payload
Maximum Gross Weight
To determine maximum gross weight, determine flight location pressure altitude and
temperature, and refer to the weight in the chart below. Gross Weight includes payload,
battery and structure weight.
The maximum gross weight might exceed the weight allowed by regulatory agencies. When
determining gross weight, please consider any such local restrictions on aircraft weight when
planning aircraft weight.
{% hint style="info" %} The maximum gross weight at a defined density altitude was
established by calculating weight so that sufficient thrust margin for maneuvering is
maintained. {% endhint %}
{% hint style="info" %} Cells highlighted in yellow indicate where the weight is limited by the
maximum design weight {% endhint %}
Expansion Ports
External Com Expansion
The external communications expansion port is located between booms 1 and 2 on the ALTA.
GH-6 Pin GH-4 Pin
Image not found or type unknownImage not found or type unknown
5V External Power
The external expansion connector port 5V power is provided by a dedicated 5V 3A current
limited power supply separate of the redundant 5V power supplies for the flight controller.
Each output on the external expansion connectors is protected by a 1.1A hold 2.2A trip PTC
(Part number 0ZCG0110FF2C). The sum of the power supplying the following components
must be less than 3A:
Motor boom LEDs (approx 1A during flight with 2x red and 2x green LEDs)
Long range radio if not powered via other means (FRX Pro is powered by 12V)
All internal CANbus peripherals on CAN expansion connectors
All external UART, I2C, and CANbus connectors
UART Port - GH-6 Pin
MAVLink serial communications at 57600b 8-N-1
Pin Signal Voltage (V)
1 VCC +5V
2 TX (Out) +3V
3 RX (In) +3V
4 CTS (In) +3V
5 RTS (Out) +3V
6 GND GND
GPS2 Port - GH-6 Pin
Nuttx console output at 57600b 8-N-1.
Pin Signal Voltage (V)
1 VCC +5V
2 TX (Out) +3V
3 RX (In) +3V
4 I2C1 SCL +3V
5 I2C1 SDA +3V
6 GND GND
CAN Ports - GH-4 Pin
Peripheral CANbus for future expansion.
Pin Signal Voltage (V)
1 VCC +5V
Pin Signal Voltage (V)
2 CAN_H +5V
3 CAN_L +5V
4 GND GND
{% hint style="warning" %} WARNING: Internal Long Range RF CAN is 12V VCC, do not use!
{% endhint %}
I2C Ports - GH-4 Pin
I2C bus for future expansion
Pin Signal Voltage (V)
1 VCC +5V
2 I2C1 SCL +3V
3 I2C1 SDA +3V
4 GND GND
Power Expansion
The power expansion port is located between booms 1 and 2 on the ALTA; it contains three
externally-facing and two internally-facing direct battery connected power expansion
connectors with female socket pin XT-30 type connectors. Each external output is protected
by a 10A automotive mini blade type fuse. The replacement fuse part number is
0297010.WXNV.
The system and fuses are sized to supply 10A or less continuously on each external port
simultaneously; the internal connectors share the same fuse with the external connector J1.
Please note that the output voltage will vary with system battery voltage as the battery
discharges.
{% hint style="warning" %} Use of any other size fuse could cause the aircraft to crash if
shorted. {% endhint %}
Maintenance
Interval Inspections
Every 15 Flights
ALTA X is designed to be as low-maintenance as possible. It is recommended to check ALTA
X’s fasteners regularly. This check should occur roughly after every 15 flights. To check ALTA
X’s fasteners, apply a tightening torque to each fastener on the chassis using the supplied
hex drivers. The fasteners should not slip.
Inspect Fastener Tightness
Check the tightness of the following fasteners:
Motor mount bolts
Boom clamping bolts
Prop hub bolts
Prop bolts
Top and bottom chassis bolts
Closeout panel bolts
FPV camera mounting plate bolts
Boom stay attachment bolts
GPS/Compass mounting bolts
{% hint style="info" %} If a fastener does slip, tighten it using the methods described in the
Fastener Installation section. Do not apply additional thread locking compound unless the
fastener has repeatedly come loose. {% endhint %}
Every 15 Flight Hours
Inspect Fastener Tightness
Check the tightness of the fasteners as described above.
Inspection Wear Components
Inspect the following items. Replace if worn.
Propeller blades - Chips, cracks, or deep scratches
ActiveBlade bumpers
Broken or crushed
Inspect Boom Ring Latch Tightness
Check boom latching tightness by closing the latch. There should be a firm closing force and
click. Adjust the tension by using a 2.0mm hex wrench on the set screw located in the rear of
the latch link.
Replacement of Parts
Spare or replacement parts are available for sale separately at freeflysystems.com. Please
refer to the store for a current listing of all available spare parts.
{% hint style="warning" %} Use Of Threadlocker
Bolts and screws used in the daily use of this aircraft do not require threadlocking
compound. This includes the screws holding on the battery trays, vibration isolation system
and the Skyview landing gear parts.
However, for the structural fasteners described in parts of this section blue Loctite 243
compound or equivalent is required. Apply sparingly to the threads before insertion. {%
endhint %}
{% hint style="warning" %} Fastener Installation
The Freefly hex drivers included with ALTA X are designed to limit the torque that can be
applied to each bolt or screw and help prevent stripping the fastener head.
Thread all fasteners into their respective holes until snug (when the fastener head bottoms
out and lightly clamps the two mating parts together).
To prevent excessive tightening and damaging the fastener or parts, twist the driver from
the smaller diameter 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). {% endhint %}
{% hint style="danger" %} Before performing any part replacement, ensure that ATLA X has
been unplugged from any power source. Leaving ALTA X powered while performing any work
on it can result in a potentially dangerous situation. {% endhint %}
Replacing ActiveBlade Bumpers
Push down on one side of the ActiveBlade assembly to open the gap and
1.
provide better access. Pull the bumper out from that side.
2. Repeat this for the second bumper.
To replace, insert the tail of the new bumper into the hole and pull into
3.
place, until the shoulder is fully seated. A circular motion may help with
seating.
To replace the second bumper, push down on the ActiveBlade assembly
4.
and again pull the tail of the bumper to seat.
Rock the the ActiveBlade assembly back and forth to make sure the
5.
bumpers are aligned.
****
Replacing Propeller Sets
First, remove the ActiveBlade bumpers as detailed in the previous
1.
section.
2. Remove (2x) M5x30 bolts and (4x) M3x10 bolts and remove the top plate.
3. Replace props and nylon washers if required.
Refit top plate and attach with (2x) M5x30 bolts and (4x) M3x10 bolts.
4.
Loctite 243 or equivalent must be used to secure these fasteners.
5. Reinsert the ActiveBlade bumpers as detailed in the previous section.
{% hint style="warning" %} Props are supplied as a weight matched and balanced pair. Only
fit props in the factory supplied pair. {% endhint %}
****
Replacing ActiveBlades
Remove (x4) M3x10 bolts by accessing through the top of the assembly
1.
as shown.
Fit new assembly and secure with (x4) M3x10 bolts. Loctite 243 or
2.
equivalent must be used to secure these fasteners.
Opening Chassis
Set aircraft on a stable level work surface.During disassembly, take care to note the
1.
location of fasteners and orientation of parts, as this will greatly help with reassembly.
Remove the following fasteners:
1.
(x4) M4x16 Combo - which secure the boom stays to the boom
2.
(x4) M3x10 FHCS - which secure the closeout panels
3.
2.
(x4) M3x10 Combo - which secure the closeout panels
4.
(x2) M3x10 Combo - which secure the battery connector mount
5.
(x2) M3x10 Combo - which secure the center ring
6.
(x4) M4x14 Combo - which secure the center ring
7.
Remaining M4 bolts that secure the top chassis to each hinge
The top chassis can now be removed from the machine, and the inner cover lifted off
3.
to access the enclosure area.
To reassemble, refit the enclosure making sure it is well seated and there are no
4.
trapped wires.
Attach the power connector with (x2) M3x10 bolts before reseating the top chassis,
5.
making sure the orientation is correct.
Reassemble the remaining chassis fasteners. Take care to align the fasteners correctly.
6.
It is recommended to get all fasteners started before torquing. Loctite 243 or
equivalent should be used in all these locations.
`
Replacing Booms
{% hint style="info" %} If replacing more than one boom, replace one at a time to reduce the
chances of mixing up connections. {% endhint %}
1. Remove the top chassis as detailed in the previous section.
Trace the wires from the boom to be replaced. There will be three cables from each
2.
boom, a power cable, an LED cable and a motor control cable. Carefully unplug each,
taking care to note the locations for when the replacement boom is fitted.
3. Remove any strain relieving zip ties. Take care to note the correct wire routing.
Loosen the three M4 bolts that clamp the boom, and carefully slide the boom out of
4.
the hinge.
Remove the corrugated tube from the old boom, noting its location on the harness. If
5.
being reused, remove the ActiveBlade assembly from the old boom.
6. Prepare the new boom assembly by attaching the corrugated tube.
Feed the wiring harness through the hinge, slide the boom into place and temporarily
7.
secure by lightly tightening the hinge bolts.
Connect new boom’s three cables, route the wires and secure with strain relief zip ties
8.
where needed. Make sure the corrugated tube is positioned correctly and strain
relieved to the chassis securely.
9. Replace the enclosure cover and reinstall the top chassis per the previous section.
The booms on ALTA X are clocked to improve yaw authority. Replacement booms are
supplied with alignment cards to allow accurate clocking of the motors. Their use is
10.
covered in this video. Before aligning the motors, completely remove the M4 boom
clamp fasteners, and apply Loctitie 243 or equivalent. Once aligned, torque fasteners.
11. Reattach the ActiveBlade assembly as described in previous section.
Updating Firmware
Autopilot and system component firmware is updated via the USB expansion port on ALTA
X located in the chassis closeout between booms 1 and 2. To update firmware download the
latest FW files from the ALTA X Firmware page and follow the instructions below.
Download the latest ALTA X FW from the ALTA X Firmware page on the
1.
support website.
Plug in a USB cable to your computer. Leave the other end unplugged from
2.
ALTA X for now.
Remove the chassis closeout between Booms 1 and 2 to reveal the
3.
expansion board.
Hold down the USB MSC Button on the expansion board while plugging in
4.
the USB C to the expansion board on ALTA Pro. Your ALTA will show up in
your file browser as a USB disk named FF-ALTA.
5. You should see a folder named FF-ALTA.
Replace the ‘freefly’ folder in the root of the drive with the new one
6.
downloaded from the Freeflysystems.com website.
Unplug ALTA X from the USB and then apply USB power (or battery power
7.
with the props removed) while holding down the Boot button on the
expansion board.
ALTA X should display blue solid or flashing lights on its motors to show it
8.
is updating its FW. Once complete the system will boot normally and
display red and green directional lights on the motors.
{% hint style="info" %} For troubleshooting, you can view details of the bootloading process
by connecting to the GPS2 UART on the expansion connector with a USB to UART adapter
and a cable using the dronecode/PX4 UART standard pinout. The UART settings are 57600
baud, 8-N-1. {% endhint %}
{% hint style="warning" %} 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. {% endhint %}
{% hint style="danger" %} Do not use a battery to power ALTA X during FW updates! Using
USB power prevents unwanted motor spin-ups. {% endhint %}
Integrations
RX Transmitter
ALTA X allows for the installation of a radio control system. S.Bus, S.Bus2, DSM2, and DSMX
receiver types are supported. Some ALTA X emergency control modes (Return-to-Land and
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