DJI Phantom 2 Quadcopter with Zenmuse H3-3D Gimbal User Manual

1. Introduction

The DJI Phantom 2 Quadcopter, bundled with the Zenmuse H3-3D 3-Axis Gimbal, offers an advanced aerial photography and videography platform. This model features extended flight times, self-tightening propellers, and an intelligent battery for up to 28 minutes of flight. The integrated 3-axis gimbal provides exceptional stability for GoPro Hero3 and Hero3+ cameras, ensuring smooth video capture across yaw, pitch, and roll axes. This manual provides essential information for the safe and effective use of your Phantom 2 system.

2. What's in the Box

Your DJI Phantom 2 Quadcopter with Zenmuse H3-3D Gimbal package includes the following components:

• DJI Phantom 2 Quadcopter
• Zenmuse H3-3D 3-Axis Gimbal
• Remote Transmitter (requires 4 AA batteries, not included)
• Intelligent 5,200-mAh Lithium Polymer (LiPo) Battery
• Self-tightening Propellers
• Gimbal connection cable
• Anti-interference board
• Damping unit
• Accessory pack (screws, washers, etc.)

Image: DJI Phantom 2 Quadcopter with Zenmuse H3-3D Gimbal, showcasing the drone and its camera system.

Image: DJI Phantom 2 Quadcopter with Zenmuse H3-3D Gimbal, showing various components including the drone, remote, and gimbal.

3. Setup Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your DJI Phantom 2 for flight. Ensure all components are handled with care.

3.1. Initial Preparation

1. Charge Battery: Fully charge the intelligent flight battery before the first flight.
2. Install Remote Batteries: Insert 4 AA batteries into the remote transmitter.
3. Attach Propellers: Securely attach the self-tightening propellers to the motors. Ensure they are tightened correctly to prevent detachment during flight.

3.2. Zenmuse H3-3D Gimbal Installation

The Zenmuse H3-3D gimbal provides stable camera footage. Follow these steps carefully for installation:

1. Prepare Gimbal Components: Unpack the gimbal, anti-interference board, damping unit, and accessory pack.
2. Connect Video Output Board: Gently remove the tape from the gimbal's connection cable. Plug the connection cable into the video output board, ensuring correct orientation and a firm connection.
3. Attach Camera: Secure your GoPro Hero3 or Hero3+ camera to the gimbal. Install the mounting bracket and fasten it with two M2.5x6.3 screws.
4. Connect Camera to Gimbal: Connect the other end of the gimbal's connection cable to the camera's mini-USB port.
5. Mount Damping Unit: Identify the wide-spaced screw holes on the damping unit, which indicate the nose direction. Insert the securing pins diagonally into the damping unit.
6. Attach Damping Unit to Phantom 2: Mount the damping unit onto the Phantom 2, ensuring the securing pins align with the M1 and M3 positions. Fasten with four M2.5x5 screws.
7. Mount Gimbal onto Damping Unit: Carefully place the assembled gimbal onto the damping unit.
8. Secure Gimbal: Attach the rubber dampers to the lower bracket of the gimbal. Lock them in place with the securing washers at the first notch. Do not overtighten, as this can affect damping performance.
9. Install Anti-Interference Board: Mount the anti-interference board. This can be attached underneath or inside the Phantom 2.
10. Connect Phantom 2 Cables: Plug the Phantom 2's 8-pin cable into the designated port (left or right, as indicated). Connect the gimbal's 8-pin port to the remaining 8-pin port.
11. Power On: Power up the Phantom 2 and wait for initialization. The gimbal will self-calibrate.

4. Operating Instructions

Operating the DJI Phantom 2 requires practice and adherence to safety guidelines. Always ensure you are flying in an open, safe environment.

4.1. Pre-Flight Checks

• Battery Check: Ensure both the flight battery and remote control batteries are fully charged.
• Propeller Security: Verify all propellers are securely attached and free from damage.
• Gimbal and Camera: Confirm the gimbal and camera are correctly installed and connected. Turn on the GoPro camera BEFORE powering on the Phantom 2 to avoid gimbal interference.
• GPS Signal: Always wait for a strong GPS signal before taking off. This enables stable flight and the "Return to Home" feature.
• Compass Calibration: Calibrate the compass when prompted (indicated by blinking lights) or if flying in a new location.
• Environment Check: Avoid flying in winds exceeding 25mph. Be aware that winds above 12-15mph will affect control and battery life. Do not launch near cliffs, bodies of water, or tilted surfaces.

4.2. Flight Controls (Phantom 2 Mode)

In Phantom 2 control mode, the drone utilizes GPS for stability, making it easier to fly.

• Hovering: Release the control sticks, and the Phantom 2 will automatically hover in place using GPS and its compass.
• Altitude Control: The drone maintains selected height automatically when flying forward, backward, or sideways.
• Gimbal Control: Use the small lever on the bottom of the remote to adjust the gimbal's tilt angle during flight.

4.3. Landing Procedure

Proper landing technique is essential to prevent damage.

1. Hover the drone over your desired landing area.
2. Release the right stick completely.
3. Slowly and gently depress the left stick downwards to reduce altitude.
4. As soon as the drone touches the ground, pull the left stick all the way down.
5. To stop the motors, pull both control sticks to the outside bottom corners simultaneously.

4.4. Emergency Procedures

• Panic Situation: If you panic, you can either push the left stick upwards to gain altitude and re-evaluate, or turn off the remote control. If the remote is turned off, the drone will automatically return to its launch point.
• Return to Home: The "Return to Home" feature will activate if the remote signal is lost. The drone will ascend to a safe altitude, fly back to its recorded launch point, and slowly land. Note that GPS accuracy may result in landing 10-20 feet from the exact launch spot.

5. Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and safe operation of your Phantom 2.

• Propeller Inspection: Regularly inspect propellers for any cracks, chips, or deformities. Replace damaged propellers immediately.
• Battery Care: Store batteries at recommended temperatures and avoid over-discharging or over-charging.
• Cleaning: Keep the drone and gimbal clean from dust, dirt, and debris. Use a soft, dry cloth.
• Screw Checks: Periodically check all screws, especially those on the gimbal and damping unit, to ensure they are secure.
• Firmware Updates: Check the official DJI website for any available firmware updates for your Phantom 2 and Zenmuse H3-3D gimbal.

6. Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter.

• Drone Not Flying Right / Spinning Out of Control:
  • Ensure proper GPS and compass calibration. Always wait for a GPS signal before flying.
  • Check for damaged or improperly installed propellers.
  • Verify that the remote control is turned on before the drone to ensure quick connection.
• Gimbal Interference / Wi-Fi Issues:
  • Wi-Fi streaming from a camera (e.g., GoPro) is not recommended as it may interfere with the Phantom's remote control. Turn off camera Wi-Fi before flight.
  • Ensure the gimbal connection cable is firmly seated in both the gimbal and the camera's mini-USB port.
• Short Flight Time:
  • Ensure the intelligent flight battery is fully charged.
  • Strong winds or aggressive flying can significantly reduce flight time.
  • Battery degradation over time can also lead to reduced flight duration.
• Drone Drifts / Unstable Hover:
  • Recalibrate the compass.
  • Ensure a strong GPS signal is acquired before takeoff.
  • Check for strong winds or electromagnetic interference in the flight area.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty and Support

For warranty claims and technical support, please refer to the following information:

• Warranty: Due to the nature of the product, returns may not be offered. An original receipt will be included for warranty issues directly through DJI. Please retain your purchase receipt for any warranty claims.
• Technical Support: For further assistance, troubleshooting, or detailed product information, please visit the official DJI support website or contact their customer service.
• Online Resources: Additional resources, including updated manuals, FAQs, and software/firmware downloads, are available on the DJI website.