Video Duration: 3 Minutes 24 Seconds
Performing thorough pre-flight checks is essential for every safe flight. This lesson covers the crucial steps before your first flight and every subsequent operation.
Pre-Flight Checklist:
- Environment:
- Location: Ensure you are in an open area, away from people, animals, obstacles, and potential interference sources (power lines, large metal structures). Verify you are not in a No-Fly Zone.
- Weather: Check wind speed, visibility, and precipitation. Avoid flying in adverse conditions.
- Equipment – Physical Inspection:
- Airframe: Inspect the frame, arms, and landing gear for any signs of damage, cracks, or loose parts.
- Arms & Propellers: Ensure arms are fully unfolded and securely locked. Check propellers for nicks, cracks, or warping. Ensure they are correctly installed (CW/CCW) and securely fastened. Motors should be clean and spin freely.
- Payload: Confirm the spray tank or spreader is securely mounted, clean, and free from leaks or blockages. Ensure lids are closed.
- Batteries: Inspect batteries for damage, swelling, or leaks. Ensure they are fully charged and securely latched into the drone.
- Sensors: Clean FPV camera lens, mapping camera lens (if applicable), and radar surfaces. Ensure they are unobstructed.
- Equipment – Power On & System Check:
- Remote Controller (RC): Turn on the RC first. Check battery level. Ensure antennas are positioned correctly (usually vertical).
- Drone Power On: Power on the drone by short pressing, then long pressing the battery button.
- App Connection: Launch the Agri Assistant App and ensure it connects to the drone and RC. Check RC internet connection if using Network RTK.
- GPS/RTK Status: Check the satellite count and RTK status (should indicate „Fixed“ for high precision) on the app. Wait for a strong signal and home point recording before proceeding.
- Firmware: Verify that the app, drone, and RC firmware are up-to-date. Perform updates if necessary (with propellers removed).
- Compass Calibration: Perform compass calibration if prompted by the app or if flying in a new location (follow app instructions, ensure no magnetic interference).
- IMU Status: Check IMU status in the app. Calibrate if necessary.
- Safety Settings: Confirm failsafe settings (Low Battery Action, Lost Connection Action) are appropriately configured. Ensure obstacle avoidance and terrain following are enabled/disabled as desired for the mission.
- Payload System Check:
- Spraying: Check settings (droplet size, flow rate). Perform a brief water test (if feasible and safe) to check pump and nozzle function.
- Spreading: Check spreader settings and ensure mechanism is clear.
- Control Mode: Verify the selected control stick mode (e.g., Mode 2 – American Hand) matches your preference.
- Light Indicators: Understand the drone’s status lights (e.g., Yellow for standby, Red/Green for orientation, Flashing Red for warnings).
- Final Clear Check: Do a final visual scan of the drone and the immediate surroundings before unlocking motors.
Unlocking Motors:
- Use the designated stick command (e.g., both sticks down and inwards for Mode 2) to unlock the motors. Motors should spin at idle.
Taking the time for these checks minimizes risks and ensures your FP700 is ready for a successful operation.