Movi M5 User Manual

A FREEFLY SYSTEMS INNOVATION

USER

GUIDE

Freefly represents the intersection of art and technology. Our team consists of industry leading specialists all
focused on one task - inventing solutions to allow unrestricted camera movement. Freefly initially created the CineStar
line of multi-rotor camera platforms, which allowed smooth, stable and dynamic low-altitude aerial imagery. After

years of research and development in camera stability, Freefly has created the MōVI stabilized camera gimbal. Our
goal with the MōVI is to empower a new era of stabilized cinematography on a variety of platforms, from handheld to

helicopters and everything in between.

The Freefly MōVI is a digital 3 axis stabilization system that relies on
both active motor driven components and passive inertial stabilization.
Passive stabilization relies on the principles of inertia (tendency of an

object to resist change in its motion) and requires that the camera is

well-balanced in the Pan, Tilt, and Roll Axes. Active stabilization refers

to the techniques of using sensors to measure the camera’s Pan, Tilt,
and Roll movements and counteract those movements using motors
attached to the 3 axes. These 2 types of stabilization work in concert to

achieve the smooth and stable shots for which the MōVI is well known.

This manual will teach you how to setup, balance, and tune your MōVI
M5. For new users, the process of balancing and tuning a MōVI might

seem overwhelming at first, so allow some time to master the procedures
described in this manual.

IN•ER•TIA

><

4

9

5

1

2

7

3

6

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MōVI

COMPONENTS:

1. Pan Motor

2. Pan Axis

3. Roll Motor

4. Roll Axis

5. Tilt Motor

6. Tilt Axis

7. Tilt Front to Back Adjustment

8. Roll Adjustment Point

9. Tilt Vertical Adjustment

CONTENTS

01 GETTING STARTED

Batteries and Battery Charger:

Charging the Battery

Installing the Battery

Mounting the Camera

02 BALANCING the MōVI

Step 1: Tilt Front to Back Balance
Step 2: Tilt Vertical Balance
Step 3: Roll Balance
Step 4: Pan Balance

03 CONVERTING M10 to MR

Attaching Landing Gear Legs & Octo Suspension Plate
Bluetooth Pairing/Freefly Configurator Connection

04 GUI/ TUNING

Initial Tuning

Majestic Tuning
Pan Majestic Tuning
Tilt Majestic Tuning

GUI Parameter Definitions

05 REMOTE CONTROL

Remote Control Features

Mode Switch (Dual Operator, Majestic, Kill)

06 TROUBLESHOOTING

Symptoms, Possible Causes and Solutions

NOTICE

All instructions, warranties and other documents are subject to change
at the sole discretion of Freefly Systems Inc. (“Freefly”). For up-to-date
product literature, visit www.freeflysystems.com.

DISCLAIMER

This is a sophisticated cinema product. It must be operated with caution
and common sense and requires some basic mechanical ability. Failure
to operate this product in a safe and responsible manner could result
in injury or damage to the product or other property. This User Guide

contains instructions for safety and operation. It is essential to read

the entire User Guide and follow all instructions and warnings in the

manual, prior to setup or use, in order to operate the MōVI correctly

and avoid damage or injury.

Freefly has made every effort to provide clear and accurate
information in this User Guide, which is provided solely for the user’s
knowledge. While thought to be accurate, the information in this

document is provided strictly “as is” and Freefly will not be held

responsible for issues arising from typographical errors or user’s
interpretation of the language used in this User Guide that is different
from that intended by Freefly.

Freefly reserves the right to revise this User Guide and make changes
from time to time without obligation to notify any person of such

revisions or changes. In no event shall Freefly, its employees or
authorized agents be liable for any damages or losses, direct or

indirect, arising from the use of any technical or operational
information contained in this document.

BOX CONTENTS

Qty 1 - MōVI M5 Handheld Stabilizer
Qty 1 - MōVI Top Handle

Qty 1 - Stand

Qty 2 - Freefly 14.8V 1.3Ah MōVI Batteries

Qty 1 - Freefly LiPo Charger with AC cord

and Charge Lead Adapter

Qty 1 - M2 Hex Driver
Qty 1 - M2.5 Hex Driver

OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES

Qty 1 - DX7 Transmitter*

*Included with DX7 Transmitter:

Qty 1 - 2000MAh NiMh Transmitter Battery Pack
Qty 1 - SD Card
Qty 1 - 12V DC Power Supply
Qty 1 - DX7s Neck Strap
Qty 1 - DX7s User Manual

GETTING STARTED

0 1

01—P1

GETTING STARTED

• Never charge or store batteries in extremely hot or cold places

(recommended between 50º-80ºF/10º-26ºC), leave in a hot
environment (inside an automobile in hot weather), or leave in direct

sunlight.

• Never place or carry batteries in your pockets or clothing.

• Always use Freefly-approved LiPo batteries.

• Always inspect the battery before charging.

• Always connect the positive red lead (+) and negative black lead (-)

terminals of the battery to the charger terminals correctly.

• Always disconnect the battery after charging, and let the charger

cool between charges.

• If a battery will not be used for more than one week, it is recommended
that the battery is stored with a voltage of approximately 3.8V per

cell. Do not store the battery fully charged. Store the battery at room

temperature in a cool or shaded area (ideally between 50º-80ºF
/10º-26ºC).

• Batteries should be stored in a vented, fire-resistant container. No
more than two batteries should be placed in a container to avoid
chain reactions. Storage temperatures should not fall below

32ºF/0ºC or above 130ºF/54ºC. Damaged batteries are extremely

sensitive to temperature fluctuation and care should be taken in

their immediate disposal. High temperatures may cause fire, even

with undamaged batteries.

NOTICE: All instructions and warnings must be followed exactly.

Mishandling of LiPo batteries can result in fire. By handling, charging
or using the included LiPo batteries, you assume all risks associated
with LiPo batteries. If you are not prepared to accept complete
liability for the purchase and/or use of the batteries, you are advised
to return them in new and unused condition to the place of purchase

immediately.

IMPORTANT NOTE: If you are using the battery to power or charge an

accessory used with the MōVI, it is your responsibility to constantly
monitor the battery’s voltage through the use of a voltage checker. If
the accessory drains the battery below 3.0V per cell, it will damage the

battery and render the battery unusable. Never attempt to charge a

battery that has individual cell voltages below 3.0V.

BATTERIES AND BATTERY CHARGER

WARNING: You must read these safety instructions and warnings
carefully before charging or using your batteries. Failure to exercise
caution while using Lithium Polymer (LiPo) batteries and comply
with the following warnings could result in battery malfunction,
electrical issues, excessive heat, fire, or injury and property damage.

GENERAL GUIDELINES AND WARNINGS

You must read these safety instructions and warnings carefully
before charging or using your battery.

• Stop using or charging the battery immediately if the battery
becomes or appears damaged, starts to balloon or swell, leaks,
becomes deformed or gives off an odor, exceeds a temperature of
160ºF (71ºC), or if anything else abnormal occurs. Disconnect the
battery and observe in a safe area outside of any building or vehicle
for at least 45 minutes, as a damaged battery can experience a
delayed chemical reaction that could possibly result in fire.

• Never disassemble, modify, puncture, shock, drop, crash and/or
short circuit the battery. Leakage, smoke emission, ignition,
explosion or fire can occur, which may result in personal injury or

property damage.

• DO NOT leave the battery and charger unattended during use.

• Never drop charger or batteries.

• Never attempt to charge “dead” or damaged batteries.

• Never charge a battery if the cable has been pinched or shortened.

• Never allow minors to charge or use battery packs without

adult supervision.

• Never allow batteries to come in contact with moisture at any time.

01—P2

CHARGING PROCESS WARNINGS AND SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

• Never charge or use a LiPo battery that shows any damage or
disfigurement of any kind, as this may be a sign of internal damage.
Any damage to the protective cover, wiring or plugs is also reason to
discontinue use.

• Never leave the lead wires dangling from a battery.

• Never charge a battery unattended.

• Never connect more than one battery pack to the charger at a time.

• Never charge near moisture, extreme temperatures, flammable or

combustible materials.

• Never charge the battery while installed on the MōVI or other

equipment or while inside a vehicle.

• Never attempt to charge a battery that is damaged or has individual

cell voltages below 3.0V.

• Always inspect batteries before charging.

• Always use a specific LiPo charger only. Do not use a Nickel-cadmium

(NiCd) or Nickel-metal hydride (NiMh) charger, even though these

chargers may appear similar to a LiPo charger. Failure to do so may
cause a fire, which may result in personal injury and/or property
damage.

• Always let the battery cool down to ambient temperature before
charging.

• Always monitor the temperature of the battery while charging. If the

battery becomes hot to the touch or begins to swell, discontinue

charging immediately. Disconnect the battery from the charger and

observe it is a safe place for at least 45 minutes.

• Always ensure that the proper cell count or voltage is selected on
your charger for this battery. Failure to properly set the cell count or
voltage could result in fire or explosion of the battery.

• For optimal performance and extended life, do not allow your battery

voltage to drop below 3.4V. It is recommended that you use a voltage

checker to actively monitor battery voltage.

BATTERY DISPOSAL:

NOTICE: LiPo batteries require special handling for safe disposal. The
following steps must be taken to avoid damage or injury to yourself,
your property or anyone who comes in contact with the battery.

If the battery is undamaged but no longer useful:

1.Discharge the battery to a maximum of 1.0V per cell using a safe
discharge method.

2.Leave the battery uncharged and retest the battery after 24 hours. If
the battery is over 1.0V per cell, repeat the procedure until the
battery is 1.0V per cell or less.

3.Place electrical tape over each wire lead and tape the wire leads to
opposite sides of the battery.

4.Place battery in a sealed plastic bag and place plastic bag in a vented,
fire-safe container.

5.Use a fire-safe container to deliver battery to a recycling center

authorized for LiPo batteries. Please note that not all battery­recycling services include LiPo batteries. If no LiPo recycling facility
is available in your area, contact your state or local HAZMAT agency

for instructions.

If the battery is damaged:

1.If the battery or wiring is damaged, please contact your state or local
HAZMAT facility for instructions. Batteries must be rendered safe

before being transported or recycled.

2.DO NOT transport or ship batteries which have more than 1.0V per
cell charged OR that show signs of damage without following the

instructions given by the HAZMAT agency.

01—P3

GETTING STARTED

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

CHARGING the BATTERY

1.Insert the AC power cord into the charger.

2.Insert the AC power cord into the wall socket. All LEDs will light for 1

second and the charge status LED will flash green, which indicates

the charger is ready to charge.

3.Select “LiPo” on the battery type switch.

4.Select the “1A” charging current on the charge current switch when

charging the included batteries.

5.Connect battery main charge lead to the charge lead input in the
front of the charger. Make sure the red plug is plugged into the red
charge socket and the black plug is plugged into the black charge
socket.

6.Connect the Freefly 4s 1.3Ah battery to the charge lead. Always

connect the positive red lead (+) and negative black lead (-)

terminals to the corresponding colored terminals on the charger.

7.Connect the battery balance lead to the “4S” balance socket on the

side of the charger. The charger will automatically start charging.

8.The charge status LED and the cell status LED will light constant red.
The cell 1-4 LED’s will glow continuously indicating a 4 cell battery

pack.

9.When the battery is fully charged, the “charge status” LED will glow
constant green.

10.Unplug the battery from the balance port and charge lead. The battery

is ready for use in your MōVI M5.

6. 7-9.

‘LiPo’ ‘1A’

+

-

+

-

BATT.

‘4S’

BATT.

01—P4

Battery Specification

Battery Type: Lithium Polymer
Capacity: 1.3Ah
Voltage: 14.8v
Max Continuous Discharge: 3C (3.9A)
Max Burst Discharge: 5C (6.5A)
Max Charge Voltage: 4.2V per cell
Minimum Discharge Voltage: 3.0V per cell
Dimensions: [69mm (L) x 34mm

(W) x 28mm (H)]

Weight: 125g

Charger Specification

AC Input Voltage: 100-240V, 50-60HZ
Output Power: 20W
Charging Current (Selected by Switch):

1A, 2A, 3A

Current Drain for Balancing: 200mA
4 LEDs for Balancing Indicator
1 LED for Charging Status

Insert battery into battery compartment observing proper orientation (Freefly sticker visible).

1.

Engage battery latching mechanism.

2.

Ensure the MōVI power switch is set to “off” and plug the
battery into the power input connector on the MōVI.

Note: The battery and input connector are keyed. Do not force the
battery and input connector together.

3.

INSTALLING BATTERY

in the MōVI

The MōVI battery is custom designed to fit snugly in
the MōVI battery compartment. The battery is

retained using a lightweight plastic latch
mechanism. Be careful when installing/removing
the battery to avoid damaging the battery lead and
balance lead.

01—P5

GETTING STARTED

Attach the bottom camera rail to your camera using the provided ¼ - 20 screw. Please note that there
are multiple attachment holes in the camera rail to choose from to cater to different camera layouts.

1.

Install the hot shoe adapter into the hot shoe of your camera.

2.

MOUNTING the
CAMERA

The MōVI uses a custom lightweight adjustable

camera rail to allow you to easily balance, install,

and remove your camera package. It is important

that you fully build your camera package prior to
installing it on the M5. Adding accessories after
balancing the M5 would necessitate re-balancing,

so it is best to install all accessories (follow focus

motors, receivers, batteries, etc.) prior to mounting

the camera to the MōVI.

Attach the top camera rail to the hot shoe adapter using the provided M3x6 flat head screws.

3.

BALANCING the MōVI

One of the most critical factors in achieving optimal performance from

the MōVI is proper balancing. The better the camera is balanced, the

less work the motors have to do to achieve a stable shot. Accurate

balance is highly critical in shots where the MōVI will be subjected to
extreme movements or accelerations (running, horseback, biking, car

mount, helicopter, etc.).

There are 3 Axes we need to accurately balance prior to turning the

MōVI on and setting up the software. To reiterate, the camera needs to

be fully setup with all accessories prior to installing and balancing the
camera on the gimbal. The addition of accessories (follow focus motors,
receivers, etc.) will cause the balance to shift, so they need to be
installed prior to beginning the balancing process.

02

1

2

3