ZHIYUN Smooth 5S AI Combo 3-Axis Gimbal Stabilizer User Manual

1. Setup

1.1 Package Contents

Verify that all items are present in your ZHIYUN Smooth 5S AI Combo package:

• ZHIYUN SMOOTH 5S AI Gimbal Stabilizer ×1
• Tripod ×1
• USB Type-C Charging Cable ×1
• AI Tracking Module ×1
• VIP Card ×1

Image: ZHIYUN Smooth 5S AI Combo package contents, including the gimbal, AI tracking module, tripod, and USB-C cable.

1.2 Component Identification

Familiarize yourself with the main components of your Smooth 5S AI Gimbal Stabilizer:

Image: Detailed view of the gimbal's control panel, showing the Mode Display, Touch Wheel, MENU Button, Fill Light Button, Joystick Control, MODE Button, and Photo/Video Button.

• Mode Display: Shows current gimbal mode (PF, L, F, POV, V).
• Touch Wheel: For precise control and adjustments.
• MENU Button: Accesses gimbal settings.
• Fill Light Button: Controls the built-in fill light.
• Joystick Control: Manually adjusts gimbal orientation.
• MODE Button: Switches between gimbal modes.
• Photo/Video Button: Triggers photo capture or video recording.
• Power Button: Turns the gimbal on/off.
• FN Button: Customizable function button.
• Pan Axis Latch: Locks the pan axis for storage or balancing.
• Focus/Zoom Switch: Toggles the function of the control wheel.
• Focus/Zoom Control Wheel: Adjusts focus or zoom.
• Type-C Charging / Firmware Upgrade Port: For charging and connecting to a computer for firmware updates.
• Trigger Button: Located on the front of the handle, often used for quick mode changes or re-centering.

1.3 Charging the Gimbal

Before first use, fully charge the gimbal using the provided USB Type-C cable. Connect the cable to the Type-C charging port on the gimbal and a USB power adapter (not included). The gimbal supports PD fast charging.

A full charge provides approximately 26 hours of runtime for the gimbal alone. With the AI module and one fill light, runtime is about 7 hours. With three fill lights, runtime is approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes.

Image: The ZHIYUN Smooth 5S AI Gimbal being charged via its USB-C port, highlighting the 26-hour battery runtime.

1.4 Mounting Your Smartphone

1. Ensure the gimbal is powered off or in a locked state.
2. Extend the phone clamp and securely place your smartphone in the center.
3. The phone clamp allows for quick switching between landscape and portrait orientations.

1.5 Balancing the Gimbal

Proper balancing is crucial for optimal performance and battery life. An unbalanced gimbal will strain the motors and may not function correctly.

1. Mount your smartphone as described above.
2. Tilt Axis Balance: Loosen the tilt axis knob and adjust the horizontal arm until your phone remains level when released. Tighten the knob.
3. Roll Axis Balance: Adjust the roll axis arm until the phone is level and does not tilt left or right.
4. Pan Axis Balance: Hold the gimbal horizontally. If the phone tilts, adjust the pan axis arm until it remains stable.

Note: If the gimbal beeps or turns off after balancing, it may indicate an issue with the balance or an overloaded motor. Ensure your phone is within the supported weight range.

1.6 AI Tracking Module Installation

The AI tracking module is included in the Combo and Pro packages. It enables target tracking without requiring an app.

1. Attach the AI tracking module to the designated slot on the gimbal, typically above the phone clamp.
2. Ensure it is securely fastened.

Image: Close-up of the AI tracking module attached to the ZHIYUN Smooth 5S AI Gimbal, showing its activation and sleep modes.

1.7 App Installation (Optional)

For advanced features, firmware updates, and additional control, download the ZY Cami or StaCam app from your smartphone's app store. These apps offer customizable framing, lens adjustments, beauty effects, and video templates.

• StaCam App: Supports professional parameter adjustments and lens adjustments.
• ZY Cami App: Offers intelligent creation with AI templates, filters, music, effects, and stickers.

2. Operation

2.1 Power On/Off

• Power On: Press and hold the Power Button until the gimbal vibrates and the mode display illuminates.
• Power Off: Press and hold the Power Button until the gimbal vibrates and the mode display turns off.

2.2 Gimbal Modes

The Smooth 5S AI offers various operating modes, indicated on the Mode Display:

• PF (Pan Follow Mode): The roll and tilt axes are locked, and the pan axis follows the handle's movement.
• L (Lock Mode): All three axes are locked, and the camera direction remains fixed.
• F (Follow Mode): All three axes follow the handle's movement.
• POV (Point of View Mode): All three axes follow the handle's movement, providing a first-person perspective.
• V (Vortex Mode): The camera rotates 360° along the roll axis, creating a dynamic "vortex" effect.
• GO Mode: Provides faster response for quick movements and transitions.

Press the MODE button to cycle through these modes.

Image: Visual representation of the gimbal's 360° auto rotation capabilities and various modes: GO Mode, Lock Mode, POV Mode, Vortex Mode, Pan-Follow Mode, and Follow Mode.

2.3 AI Tracking and Gesture Control

The integrated AI tracking module allows for intelligent subject tracking without the need for a smartphone app.

1. Activate AI Tracking: Ensure the AI module is powered on (single tap for low power, long press for sleep mode). Use a specific hand gesture (e.g., an "OK" sign) to initiate tracking.
2. Stop AI Tracking: Use another specific hand gesture (e.g., an open palm) to stop tracking.
3. AI Custom Composition: A gesture can be used to define a custom framing for the AI to maintain.
4. Start/Stop Photo/Video: Gestures can also be used to start or stop recording.

Image: Examples of gesture controls for the ZHIYUN Smooth 5S AI Gimbal, including gestures to start AI tracking, stop AI tracking, set AI custom composition, and start/stop photo/video recording.

2.4 Fill Light Operation

The Smooth 5S AI features a built-in fill light. The Combo package includes an additional magnetic fill light.

• Press the Fill Light Button on the control panel to turn on/off the built-in light and adjust its brightness levels.
• The magnetic fill light can be attached to the gimbal for additional illumination. It may have its own power button or be controlled via the gimbal.
• The combined output of the built-in and magnetic fill lights can reach 6W, providing up to 1360 lux.

Image: Comparison showing the ZHIYUN Smooth 5S AI Gimbal with its integrated 6W fill lights (built-in and magnetic) versus other gimbals with less powerful lighting.

2.5 Focus/Zoom Control

Use the integrated control wheel to adjust focus or zoom:

1. Toggle the Focus/Zoom Switch to select between focus and zoom functions.
2. Rotate the Focus/Zoom Control Wheel to make precise adjustments.

Image: A user adjusting the focus/zoom control wheel on the ZHIYUN Smooth 5S AI Gimbal, with a visual scale indicating zoom levels.

2.6 Shooting Angles and Perspectives

The gimbal's 3-axis stabilization and design allow for versatile shooting:

• Low-Angle Shooting: Easily capture unique perspectives by holding the gimbal low to the ground.
• Landscape or Portrait: Seamlessly switch between horizontal and vertical phone orientations for different content formats.

Image: Demonstrates the ZHIYUN Smooth 5S AI Gimbal being used for low-angle shooting and its ability to switch between landscape and portrait modes.

3. Maintenance

3.1 Cleaning

• Wipe the gimbal body with a soft, dry cloth.
• Avoid using liquid cleaners or solvents, as they may damage the finish or internal components.
• Keep the motor axes free from dust and debris.

3.2 Storage

• Store the gimbal in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• Ensure the gimbal is powered off before storing.
• For long-term storage, charge the battery to approximately 50-60% every three months to maintain battery health.

3.3 Firmware Updates

Periodically check for firmware updates via the ZY Cami or StaCam app. Firmware updates can improve performance, add new features, and fix bugs.

1. Connect your gimbal to the app via Bluetooth.
2. Follow the in-app instructions to check for and install any available firmware updates.
3. Ensure the gimbal has sufficient battery power before starting an update.

4. Troubleshooting

5. Specifications

6. Warranty & Support

6.1 Warranty Information

Your ZHIYUN Smooth 5S AI Combo includes a VIP Card and a Warranty Card. Please refer to these documents for detailed warranty terms and conditions. ZHIYUN typically offers a one-year membership for ZHIYUN Prime with product registration.

6.2 Customer Support

For technical assistance, troubleshooting not covered in this manual, or warranty claims, please contact ZHIYUN customer support. You can usually find contact information on the official ZHIYUN website or through the ZY Cami/StaCam app.

Visit the official ZHIYUN Store for more information: ZHIYUN Official Store