Trimble ZX5 User Manual
USER GUIDE
Trimble ZX5
Version1.0.0
RevisionA
March2016
1
Legal Information
Trimble Navigation Limited
935 Stewart Drive
Sunnyvale, California 94085
U.S.A.
www.trimble.com
Copyright and Trademarks
© 2013–2016, Trimble Navigation Limited. All rights
reserved.
Trimble and the Globe and Triangle logo are
trademarks of Trimble Navigation Limited, registered
in the United States and in other countries. Access is a
trademark of Trimble Navigation Limited.
Microsoft and Windows are either registered
trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in
the United States and/or other countries.
The Bluetooth word mark and logos are owned by the
Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by
Trimble Navigation Limited is under license.
Wi-Fi is a registered trademark of the Wi-Fi Alliance.
All other trademarks are the property of their
respective owners.
COCOM Limits
The U.S. Department of Commerce requires that all
exportable GPS products contain performance
limitations so that they cannot be used in a manner
that could threaten the security of the United States.
The following limitations are implemented on this
product:
– Immediate access to satellite measurements and
navigation results is disabled when the receiver
velocity is computed to be greater than 1,000 knots,
or its altitude is computed to be above 18,000 meters.
The receiver GPS subsystem resets until the COCOM
situation clears. As a result, all logging and stream
configurations stop until the GPS subsystem is
cleared.
Notices
United States
Certification number:
FCC ID ONTJETIDS16US; ONTJETIR5US.
This equipment has been tested and found to comply
with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to
part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to
provide reasonable protection against harmful
interference when the equipment is operated in a
commercial environment. This equipment generates,
uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if
not installed and used in accordance with the
instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to
radio communications. Operation of this equipment
in a residential area is likely to cause harmful
interference in which case the user will be required to
correct the interference at his own expense.
Changes and modifications not expressly approved by
the manufacturer or registrant of this equipment can
void your authority to operate this equipment under
Federal Communications Commission rules.
Canada
Under Industry Canada regulations, this radio
transmitter may only operate using an antenna of a
type and maximum (or lesser) gain approved for the
transmitter by Industry Canada.
To reduce potential radio interference to other users,
the antenna type and its gain should be so chosen
that the equivalent isotropically radiated power
(e.i.r.p.) is not more than that necessary for successful
communication.
This device complies with Industry Canada licenseexempt RSS standard(s). Operation is subject to the
following two conditions:
(1) this device may not cause interference, and
(2) this device must accept any interference, including
interference that may cause undesired operation of
the device.
This Class A digital apparatus complies with Canadian
ICES-003.
Certification number:
IC 10491A-JETIDS16US; 10491A-JETIR5US.
This apparatus complies with Canadian RSS-210.
Conformément à la réglementation d'Industrie
Canada, le présent émetteur radio peut fonctionner
avec une antenne d'un type et d'un gain maximal (ou
inférieur) approuvé pour l'émetteur par Industrie
Canada.
Dans le but de réduire les risques de brouillage
radioélectrique à l'intention des autres utilisateurs, il
faut choisir le type d'antenne et son gain de sorte que
la puissance isotrope rayonnée équivalente (p.i.r.e.)
ne dépasse pas l'intensité nécessaire à l'établissement
d'une communication satisfaisante.
Le présent appareil est conforme aux CNR d'Industrie
Canada applicables aux appareils radioexempts de
licence. L'exploitation est autorisée aux deux
conditions suivantes:
(1) l'appareil ne doit pas produire de brouillage, et
(2) l'utilisateur de l'appareil doit accepter tout
brouillage radioélectrique subi, même si le brouillage
est susceptible d'en compromettre le fonctionnement.
Cet appareil numérique de la classe A est conforme à
la norme NMB-003 du Canada.
Numérique de certification IC: 4492A-DNT2400P.
Cet appareil est conforme à la norme CNR-210 du
Canada.
Trimble ZX5 User Guide 2
Europe
The product covered by this guide are intended to be
used in all EU member countries, Norway, and
Switzerland.
This equipment is classified as Group 1, Class A
equipment according to EN 55011. Group 1 is
applicable for all equipment within the scope of EN
55011 that is not classified as Group 2 equipment,
which contains all ISM RF equipment. Class A
equipment is equipment suitable for use in all
establishments other than domestic. Using Class A
equipment in domestic environments may cause
difficulties ensuring electromagnetic compatibility.
CE Declaration of Conformity
Hereby, Trimble Navigation, declares that
this product is in compliance with the
essential requirements and other relevant
provisions of:
– EMC Directive (2004/108/EC)
– Radio Equipment Directive (1999/5/EC)
– RoHS Directive (2011/65/EU)
– Machine Directive (2006/42/EC)
Japan
Certification numbers for the DNT2400P RFM radio
module: 007WWCUL0739 and 003UVA110681
Australia and New Zealand
This product conforms with the regulatory
requirements of the Australian
Communications and Media Authority
(ACMA) EMC framework, thus satisfying the
requirements for C-Tick Marking and sale within
Australia and New Zealand.
Taiwan – Battery Recycling Requirements
The product contains a removable lithium polymer
battery. Taiwanese regulations require that waste
batteries are recycled.
廢 電 池 請回 收
Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE)
For product recycling instructions and more
information, please go to
www.trimble.com/Corporate/Environmen
tal_Compliance.aspx.
Recycling in Europe: To recycle Trimble WEEE (Waste
Electrical and Electronic Equipment, products that run
on electrical power), call +31 497 53 24 30, and ask for
the “WEEE Associate”. Or, mail a request for recycling
instructions to:
Trimble Europe BV
c/o Menlo Worldwide Logistics
Meerheide 45
5521 DZ Eersel, NL
FCC Declaration of Conformity
We, Trimble Navigation Limited.
935 Stewart Drive
PO Box 3642
Sunnyvale, CA 94088-3642
United States
+1-408-481-8000
Declare under sole responsibility that DoC products
comply with Part 15 of FCC Rules.
Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
(1) This device may not cause harmful interference,
and
(2) This device must accept any interference
received, including interference that may cause
undesired operation.
Trimble ZX5 User Guide 3
Environmental hazards
The product complies with international RoHS regulations.
Toxic and hazardous substances and elements
Part name Lead
(Pb)
Battery
Lithium polymer
rechargeable battery
Cables
Internal wiring
LCD Display
Keypad
Motor
Power adapter
Power supply
Printed circuit board
assembly
Radio module
Chassis
O O O O O O
O O O O O O
O O O O O O
X O O O O O
O O O O O O
O O O O O O
O O O O O O
O O O O O O
X O O O O O
X O O O O O
X O O O O O
O O O O O O
Mercury
(Hg)
Cadmium
(Cd)
Hexavalent
Chromium
(Cr6+)
Poly-brominated
biphenyls
(PBB)
Poly-brominated
diphenyl ethers
(PBDE)
Enclosure
Hardware
Paper manual
O O O O O O
O O O O O O
O O O O O O
Trimble ZX5 User Guide 4
Contents
Safety
1 Introduction
The Trimble ZX5 9
ZX5 system components 9
ZX5 UAV 10
Camera gimbal 16
Ground control station 17
2 Preparing Equipment
Transportation 20
Checking the ZX5 aerial imaging rover 21
Checking the GCS 24
Checking the ZX5 battery pack 24
Charging the ZX5 battery pack 24
Pre-flight acoustical signals 30
Charging the camera batteries 30
Configuring the camera settings 31
3 Operating the ZX5 Using the Remote Control
Controls on the remote control unit 33
Main functions 34
Camera functions 35
Additional functions 35
Flight functions 36
Remote control software menus 40
Remote control in-flight announcements 45
7
8
19
32
4 Completing a Flight
Checking flight permissions and conditions 48
Flight time 51
Pre-flight checks 51
Emergency failsafe functions 53
Ending the flight 54
5 Troubleshooting
Updating the ZX5 firmware 57
Calibrating the compass 58
Technical support 59
6 Specifications and Settings
Operation limitations 61
ZX5 specifications 62
Remote control specifications 63
47
56
60
Trimble ZX5 User Guide 5
Contents
A Country-Specific Regulatory Information
FAA conditions and limitations of operation 66
B Learn to Fly Tutorials
Tutorial 1: Position hold, flying in GPS mode 71
Tutorial 2: Start, hover and land in manual mode 72
Tutorial 3: Auto start assistant 73
Tutorial 4: Auto landing assistant 74
Tutorial 5: Coming Home 75
Tutorial 6: Easy Move 76
65
70
Trimble ZX5 User Guide 6
Contents
Safety
WARNING – Failure to read and follow the instructions, warnings and recommendations in this guide
can lead to loss of control of the ZX5. Loss of control of the ZX5 can lead to a crash, causing damage to
equipment and property and/or serious personal injury or even death. Make sure to familiarize
yourself regularly with the contents of this guide.
WARNING – The Trimble ZX5 is not a toy. Misuse of this aircraft may result in serious injury or death of
the operator and spectators. The ZX5 must only be operated by trained personnel. Training is available
from Trimble-certified trainers.
WARNING – Always keep a minimum safety distance of 10m (33ft) between the ZX5 and any person
who is not directly responsible for operating the aircraft. Never fly directly over gatherings of people
or traffic on the ground.
WARNING – Contact with moving parts can result in serious personal injury. Do not touch the ZX5
when the propellers are rotating. Before starting the ZX5 make sure all personnel and objects are at a
minimum safety distance of 3m (10ft).
WARNING – For safety reasons, after landing the motor speed can increase again after 2seconds
under certain circumstances. To avoid injury from suddenly moving parts, immediately shut down the
ZX5 motors completely, even if you intend to restart the ZX5. To do this, pull the throttle stick on the
remote control all the way down and move the motor switch to the Off position. Attempting to restart
the ZX5 when the motors are idling can cause loss of control of the ZX5 and lead to a crash directly
after take-off.
WARNING –Loss of control of the aircraft can result in equipment damage, property damage, serious
personal injury, or death. To minimize the risk of loss of control, observe the following at all times:
– Do not fly near other objects in the air.
– Do not fly on rainy or windy days or at night.
– Do not fly near high tension lines, electrical substations, high structures, or communication facilities.
– Never fly this aircraft where damage to property or injury to persons may result if loss of control
occurs.
– Always maintain visual line of sight between you on the ground and the ZX5 in the air.
– Always be prepared to make an emergency landing, without endangering others or damaging their
property.
WARNING –Always inspect the ZX5 carefully after a hard landing or a crash. Damage to parts can
cause unstable flight characteristics, which may lead to loss of control of the aircraft.
WARNING –Lithium polymer batteries are volatile. Make sure to read and understand all information
regarding battery charging and use in this document and the Trimble ZX5 Lithium Polymer Batteries
Precautions guide.
Trimble ZX5 User Guide 7
Introduction
C H A P T E R
1
n The Trimble ZX5
n ZX5 system components
n ZX5 UAV
n Camera gimbal
n Ground control station
The Trimble ZX5 User Guide provides detailed
information about operating the components of
the Trimble® ZX5.
Even if you have used other unmanned aviation
systems before, please read this user guide
carefully to familiarize yourself with the ZX5.
Trimble ZX5 User Guide 8
1 Introduction
The Trimble ZX5
The Trimble ZX5 is an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). An unmanned aerial vehicle is a generic term,
and refers to an aircraft that is operated remotely. The ZX5 is a radio controlled, electric powered
aircraft capable of vertical starts and landings. Using electronic sensors and an integrated GPS
receiver, it is self-stabilising in every direction. The ZX5 is able to fly to pre-set waypoints by itself
and also hold its position under windy conditions.
The camera takes aerial images over the defined area. During the flight, the pictures are acquired at
a specified height, along parallel lines with specified overlap between the image exposures. At the
same time, position information of the pictures is recorded for further processing in image
processing software such as Trimble Business Center software.
The high-performance control unit in the ZX5 provides high accuracy. The ZX5 is controlled by
remote control. For extra control, it is possible for the ZX5 and the camera to be controlled
independently using two different control units. This allows the pilot to concentrate on flying while
the camera operator takes care of the ideal camera view to obtain the best pictures.
To assist with repeated air activity the ZX5 is able to learn waypoints and fly them semiautomatically.
The ZX5 is shipped with an optional Inspection Module, which contains the video receiver to allow a
live video feed during flight.
ZX5 system components
The ZX5 aerial imaging system comprises the following components:
l ZX5 UAV
l Camera gimbal, mounted below the UAV
l Ground control station (GCS) for pilot, with or without a video receiver
or
Trimble ZX5 User Guide 9
1 Introduction
ZX5 UAV
The ZX5 comprises the following parts:
l ZX5 frame, page 10
l Propellers, page 11
l Battery pack, page 11
l Dome, page 13
l Connectors, page 13
l Remote control receiver with antenna, page 14
l Video transmitter with antenna , page 15
l Flight recorder, page 15
l Pre-flight acoustical signals
ZX5 frame
The ZX5 is built symmetrically. The front is between the two yellow extension arms.
Trimble ZX5 User Guide 10
1 Introduction
Propellers
The folding propellers are pre-installed on the ZX5.
There are two different rotation directions for the propellers: clockwise and counter-clockwise. Each
propeller must be attached to the appropriate motor so that the ZX5 can fly safely.
WARNING – Always ensure propellers are fitted to the correct motor. If one or more propellers are
fitted to a motor that rotates in the opposite direction to the propeller, the ZX5 cannot fly correctly
causing loss of control. Loss of control of the ZX5 may lead to a crash, resulting in equipment damage,
property damage, or personal injury.
The propellers are very light, but also fragile in case of a hard landing. Each folding propeller is a unit
made of two blades and a center piece. The propeller unit is dynamically balanced during
manufacture to operate at 8000 rpm. The propellers must be properly balanced to avoid vibrations
during flight. Make sure the propellers are kept clean. For more information, see Check the
propellers, page 22.
Avoid contact with other objects during transportation and flight. Fold the propellers before
storing the ZX5 in the flight case. For more information, see Transportation, page 20.
WARNING – Never fly with a damaged propeller. Always replace a damaged propeller before the next
flight. Always replace the full propeller, not just a single blade as the two blades are dynamically
balanced. Exchanging only one blade will create vibration. A damaged propeller can cause loss of
control of the ZX5 which may lead to a crash, resulting in equipment damage, property damage, or
personal injury.
CAUTION – Make sure the propellers are properly balanced before flight to avoid unnecessary
vibration. Vibration can cause blurred and out of focus images or affect the flight characteristics of the
ZX5, causing damage to the ZX5 or loss of control.
For maintenance of the propellers, refer to the Trimble ZX5 Maintenance Guide.
Battery pack
The ZX5 is operated by two high-power lithium polymer batteries connected in parallel. To get the
best performance and lifetime, the two batteries should always be used together. The pair of
batteries is only as good as the bad battery.
Trimble ZX5 User Guide 11
1 Introduction
CAUTION –Do not separate the battery pack. Always use the complete battery pack for the lifetime of
the poorest battery. Attempting to separate the battery pack will damage the batteries.
Lithium polymer batteries are characterized by their low weight, high capacity and high power
output.
Correct handling of the batteries is essential to delay the inevitable aging of the battery cells. With
time and use the voltage level of the cell is reduced and the inner resistance is increased. The
batteries deliver less current.
To delay the aging process:
l Use the batteries regularly (approximately once per month).
l If the ground control station warns "Low battery" during flight, end the flight, let the battery
cool (wait 30-45 minutes), and then recharge it. Lithium polymer batteries have no memory
effect, and fully discharging them will only shorten their life.
Always recharge the battery pack before use. For more information, see Charging the ZX5 battery
pack, page 24.
Storing the battery pack
WARNING – LiPo batteries should never be stored at full charge for more than a few hours at most.
Note – The charger can only charge a battery; it cannot discharge a battery.
Stored batteries should be recharged every three months.
For optimal battery life, store the ZX5 batteries in a cool, dry area (below 15–20 °C / 59–68 °F) that is
subject to little temperature change.
During flight the temperature of the battery is regulated due to the flow of current. When not in
flight, elevated temperatures can result in reduced battery service life. Do not place batteries near
heating equipment, nor expose to direct sunlight for long periods. Do not store or transport
batteries above 60 °C (140 °F) or below 10 °C (50 °F). Extreme temperatures will result in the battery
venting flammable liquid and gases. Do not store the battery inside a vehicle. Temperatures inside
a vehicle can rapidly exceed the recommended maximum storage temperature.
Batteries should be separated from other materials and stored in a noncombustible, well
ventilated, sprinkler-protected structure with sufficient clearance between walls and battery stacks.
Trimble ZX5 User Guide 12
1 Introduction
Dome
The dome contains the main board that controls the ZX5. The main board is connected to a GPS
antenna for navigation, and other electronic sensors such as gyroscope, accelerometer and
compass for flight stability. The main board is also connected to a remote control receiver for
communicating with the ground control station. If you have the optional Inspection Module, the
main board is also connected to a video transmitter antenna for a live video stream.
Always detach the battery pack before removing the dome. To disassemble the dome, unplug the
connectors and lift it up.
You must remove the dome to:
l Update the firmware.
l Attach the cables of the servos.
l Attach the cable of the camera trigger.
l Remove the flight recorder micro SDcard to obtain the GPS data and recorded images.
Connectors
The ZX5 has the following connectors:
l 6 x 3-pin connectors for up to 4 servo motors and 1 camera trigger.
l Socket for video access.
l Socket for firmware update.
l Socket for data cable.
Servo connectors
The connectors for the camera mount servos are located under the dome.
CAUTION –To avoid damaging the electronics, disconnect the power supply before attaching or
detaching the servo cables.
The connectors are consecutively numbered from left to right
as shown:
1. Roll compensation
2. Pitch compensation
3. Trigger for camera
4. No function
5. No function
6. No function
Trimble ZX5 User Guide 13
1 Introduction
Firmware update connector
Make sure to keep the firmware up to date. For more information, see Updating the ZX5 firmware,
page 57.
CAUTION –To avoid damaging the electronics, avoid contact with the electronic devices and
conducting paths on the board.
Data connector
The data cable port is for connecting the data cable to upload
missions created using the GroundStation software.
Before connecting to the ZX5 for the first time, make sure the
computer running the GroundStation software has an
Internet connection so that the appropriate drivers can be
downloaded automatically. For more information, refer to
the GroundStation Software for the Trimble ZX5 User Guide.
Note – Installation make take some time. If you experience
issues installing the drivers, go to
www.ftdichip.com/Drivers/VCP.htm.
Before uploading the mission, connect the data cable to the indicated port below the dome and to
the USB port of the computer that has GroundStation installed.
During flight, the ZX5 records the GPS coordinates for each photo location. Use the data cable to
download the GPS coordinates after the flight, so that the images can be synchronized with the
correct coordinates.
Remote control receiver with antenna
The remote control receiver works in a range of 2.4 GHz, using a dipole-antenna to keep
interference as low as possible. The yellow antennas are secured by a flexible hose.
CAUTION –Take care never to bend the antennas. The antennas should be aligned in a straight line
and at a 90° degree angle to each other. Damaged antennas may reduce the range of the remote
control and cause loss of control of the ZX5.
Trimble ZX5 User Guide 14
1 Introduction
Video transmitter with antenna
This is available with the Inspection Module only.
The video transmitter is installed into the camera gimbal. It works in a frequency range of 5.8 GHz.
It is connected with the video antenna shown. The antenna can be adjusted by turning it at the
plug. Find the ideal position for reception by trying. This will vary, depending on the external
conditions and the camera in use (shadowing effects).
Note – Avoid obstacles or barriers between the ZX5 and the video receiver as they can cause
image interference.
Flight recorder
A micro SD card slot is located on the flight control panel beneath the dome. The flight recorder
uses the micro SD card to memorize all system and sensor data during the flight. If you should have
problems with the ZX5 you can import the flight data on the SD card to your computer and then
send it to your Trimble distributor. To get to the board you must remove the dome. Press onto the
card to release it.
The ZX5 can be started only when the micro SD card provided with your system is inserted. If you
lose or damage your card, contact your Trimble distributor.
Trimble ZX5 User Guide 15
1 Introduction
CAUTION –The micro SD card contains data files that can be read only with the appropriate software.
Damage to the data on the micro SD card can render the ZX5 and the micro SD card unusable. To
avoid damaging the data:
– Do not reformat the micro SD card.
– Do not copy data from the micro SD card.
– In case of a crash, do not power on the ZX5 afterward as this can cause overwriting of the latest flight
data and the reason for the problem cannot be analyzed.
Camera gimbal
The camera gimbal holds the camera. It is attached to the ZX5 frame below the dome. The camera
gimbal provides a straight and stable picture even if the ZX5 flies askew to move or to travel against
the wind.
The roll and yaw axis are controlled by brushless motors and their own stabilising unit. The camera
can be adjusted manually to define the needed pitch to focus the desired object.
The gimbal is powered with its own power switch, located at the side of the gimbal. Beside the
power switch there is a small push button for calibration. For more information, refer to the
Trimble ZX5 Maintenance Guide.
Trimble ZX5 User Guide 16
1 Introduction
Ground control station
The ground control station is used to control the ZX5.
Jeti DS14 remote control Jeti DC16 remote control with the optional Inspection
Module
The remote control (RC) is linked to the ZX5 with a 2.4 GHz radio communication link. The RC
receives and shows telemetry data from the ZX5, analyzes the received telemetry data received
from the ZX5, shows the telemetry data on the RCscreen and, if required, sends audible messages
to the pilot about the state of the ZX5 components. In addition, the RCsends data (such as
geographical coordinates)and flight control instructions to the ZX5.
The remote control is powered by its own lithium polymer battery. The top right corner of the
remote control display shows the battery status. Charge the battery with the provided charging
device. For more information, refer to the manual provided with the radio control unit.
If you have purchased the Inspection Module, the ground control station includes a monitor with
video receiver. On the monitor the pilot can see the live view of the transported camera. The
monitor has its own lithium polymer battery, separate to the battery provided for the remote
control unit. Low battery status for the monitor is indicated by a red LED on the front of the
monitor.
The ZX5 can be controlled with the following models of remote control: Jeti DC16 or Jeti DS14. For
more information, see Operating the ZX5 Using the Remote Control .
Video receiver
This is available with the Inspection Module only.
The video receiver receives the video signal direct from the ZX5 and reproduces the picture on the
monitor. The monitor has its own lithium polymer battery, separate to the battery provided for the
remote control unit. Low battery status for the monitor is indicated by a red LED on the front of the
monitor.
Note – Use the same battery charger to charge the battery as for the ZX5 battery, but make sure
the charge current switch is set to 1 A.
Trimble ZX5 User Guide 17
1 Introduction
To ensure safe operation and long battery life, refer to the general advice for all LiPo batteries as
described in this guide. If the battery voltage falls below 9.6V, replace the battery.
The complete video receiver package (receiver, monitor, battery) can be either fixed to the remote
control or onto a tripod. To display the picture, attach the battery and power on the monitor.
Trimble ZX5 User Guide 18
Preparing Equipment
C H A P T E R
2
n Transportation
n Checking the ZX5 aerial imaging rover
n Checking the GCS
n Checking the ZX5 battery pack
n Charging the ZX5 battery pack
n Pre-flight acoustical signals
n Charging the camera batteries
n Configuring the camera settings
As part of your flight preparation, make sure all
equipment is in good condition and
well-prepared.
Trimble ZX5 User Guide 19
2 Preparing Equipment
Transportation
When transporting the system, store the ground control station and the gimbal into the base of
the flight case:
Take special care not to damage the propellers on the ZX5. To avoid contact with any other objects,
fold the propellers as shown:
Trimble ZX5 User Guide 20
2 Preparing Equipment
After folding the propellers, fold the arms of the ZX5 frame:
Store the folded frame in the top tray of the flight case:
Secure the equipment well in the vehicle. Check the equipment again each time you remove it from
the flight case.
Checking the ZX5 aerial imaging rover
Thoroughly check the ZX5 before each flight to make sure that it is undamaged from any previous
flight.
WARNING –Damage to parts can cause unstable flight characteristics, which may lead to loss of
control of the aircraft. If you find any damage, do not fly. Exchange the part or contact your Trimble
service provider.
Trimble ZX5 User Guide 21
2 Preparing Equipment
Refer to the following sections:
l Check the frame, page 22
l Check the propellers, page 22
l Check the dome, page 23
Check the frame
1. Check all parts for cracks, abrasion, broken parts.
2. Visually make sure all bolted connections on the ZX5 fuselage, the six arms, and landing gear
are secure.
Note – All screws and nuts are either self locking or sealed with loctite.
3. Check the antennas and make sure they are correctly aligned and free of kinks. If required,
align the antennas in a straight line.
If any antenna has kinks, then signal transmission is limited. For more information, contact
your Trimble service provider.
4. Check the landing gear and make sure:
a. The legs snap in correctly.
b. During folding/unfolding of the landing gear there is a grinding resistance to avoid
flapping.
5. Check the six arms and make sure:
a. The arms snap in correctly.
b. During folding/unfolding of the arms there is a grinding resistance to avoid flapping.
6. Check the motors and turn them with your hand to make sure they move freely without
making any unusual grinding or bearing noise.
If a motor is difficult to turn or if you hear a grinding or bearing noise when turning it, contact
your Trimble service provider.
If you find any damage to any part of the frame, refer to the Trimble ZX5 Maintenance Guide.
Alternatively, contact your Trimble service provider.
Check the propellers
1. Clean the propellers carefully using a damp cloth.
2. Check the propellers for cracks, abrasions, or broken parts.
3. Make sure each propeller is freely moveable and unfolds easily. If the folding mechanism is
dirty, clean it carefully using a smooth brush or compressed air.
4. Make sure the propellers are fitted to the correct motor.
The clockwise rotating propellers must be installed on the clockwise rotating motors and the
counter-clockwise rotating propellers must be installed on the counter-clockwise rotating
motors.
Trimble ZX5 User Guide 22
2 Preparing Equipment
5. If any propellers are damaged, cannot be cleaned, or are not correctly installed, replace them
immediately. For more information, refer to the Trimble ZX5 Maintenance Guide.
WARNING – Never fly with a damaged propeller. Always replace a damaged propeller before the next
flight. A damaged propeller can cause loss of control of the ZX5. Loss of control of the ZX5 may lead to
a crash, resulting in equipment damage, property damage, or personal injury.
WARNING –Dirt on the propellers can disturb the balance and cause unnecessary vibration. Vibration
can cause blurred and out of focus images or affect the flight characteristics of the ZX5, causing
damage to the ZX5 or loss of control.
WARNING – If one or more propellers are fitted to a motor that rotates in the opposite direction to
the propeller, the ZX5 cannot fly correctly. It cannot be operated by the pilot, flips upside down and
will be damaged. An uncontrolled ZX5 can also cause serious personal injury.
Check the dome
WARNING – Always disconnect the battery pack before removing the top cover.
1. Make sure all wire connections inside and outside the dome are clean and free of damage.
Clean any dirty connections with a smooth brush.
2. Make sure all connectors and soldered wires are fitted correctly.
3. When removing the top cover, make sure there is a grinding resistance.
If you find any damage, contact your Trimble service provider.
Trimble ZX5 User Guide 23
2 Preparing Equipment
Checking the GCS
Thoroughly check the GCS before each flight to make sure that it is undamaged from any previous
flight.
WARNING –Damage to parts can cause unstable flight characteristics, which may lead to loss of
control of the aircraft. If you find any damage, do not fly. Exchange the part or contact your Trimble
service provider.
1. Check all parts for cracks, abrasion, broken parts.
If you find any damage, refer to the Trimble ZX5 Maintenance Guide.
2. Check all bolted connections.
If you find any damage, refer to the Trimble ZX5 Maintenance Guide.
3. Check all wire connections and make sure they are clean and free of damage. Clean any dirty
connections with a smooth brush.
If you find any damage, contact your Trimble service provider.
4. Check the antennas and make sure they are correctly aligned and free of kinks.
If any antenna has kinks, then signal transmission is limited. For more information, contact
your Trimble service provider.
Checking the ZX5 battery pack
Thoroughly check the ZX5 battery pack before each flight to make sure that it is undamaged.
WARNING –Do not charge or use a damaged battery. Damage to the battery can cause fire or the
emission of hazardous vapors when the battery is being charged or is in use.
1. Check the battery for pressure marks, cuts, cracks, swelling and any deformities.
2. Make sure the isolation on the battery is completely intact.
3. If the battery has been in a crash, take special care when charging the battery as although
there may be no external signs of damage, it may have sustained internal damage.
If the battery balloons or expands, it cannot be used again and must be disposed of safely.
Charging the ZX5 battery pack
Carefully read this section to familiarize yourself with charging and storing ZX5 batteries.
Always recharge the batteries before use.
WARNING –Lithium polymer batteries are volatile. Make sure to read and understand all information
regarding battery charging and use in this document and the Trimble ZX5 Lithium Polymer Battery
Precautions guide.
Trimble ZX5 User Guide 24
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