Zhiyun SMOOTH 5E Gimbal User Manual

Introduction

This document provides a comprehensive guide to the Zhiyun SMOOTH 5E smartphone gimbal. It covers product features, setup, operation, app integration, firmware updates, calibration, and technical specifications.

Product Contents

Before using the product, please carefully check if the product packaging contains all the items listed below. If any items are missing, please contact customer service or your dealer.

• SMOOTH 5E x1
• Tripod x1
• USB Type-C Cable x1
• VIP Card x1
• Quick Start Guide x1
• Magnetic Fill Light x1*
• AI Tracker x1*

*The asterisk indicates that this accessory is included with the Zhiyun SMOOTH 5E Smartphone Gimbal COMBO set.

Understanding the SMOOTH 5E

The SMOOTH 5E is a sophisticated smartphone gimbal designed to stabilize your phone for professional-quality video and photography. The following diagrams illustrate the different parts of the gimbal:

Battery and Charging

The SMOOTH 5E has a built-in battery. Before first use, please fully charge the battery to activate it and ensure smooth operation.

Charging Method: Use the included USB Type-C cable to connect to a USB charger (not included) to charge the SMOOTH 5E. It is recommended to use a PD-compatible USB charger. The SMOOTH 5E supports a maximum PD charging power of 14W. The charging is complete when the battery indicator light is constantly on.

[Icon: Battery charging symbol] Please charge the SMOOTH 5E while it is powered off.

Installation and Balancing

Installing the Smartphone

1. Unlock the pitch axis, roll axis, and pan axis locking states, and unfold the SMOOTH 5E.
2. Install your smartphone onto the phone clamp. You can choose between vertical or horizontal mounting based on your shooting needs.

Vertical Mounting: [Diagram: Smartphone being mounted vertically on the gimbal clamp.]

Horizontal Mounting: [Diagram: Smartphone being mounted horizontally on the gimbal clamp.]

Note:

• Rotate the phone clamp to switch between vertical and horizontal mounting. Pay attention to the rotation direction of the phone clamp during use.
• When installing the phone, refer to the diagram and ensure the phone's camera is facing the correct direction.
• Ensure the smartphone is fully secured in the phone clamp, with the back of the phone firmly against the clamp's panel for a secure fit.
• Before powering on the SMOOTH 5E, ensure the smartphone is installed and balanced.

Balancing Adjustment

For Vertical Mounting:

1. Unlock the roll axis arm locking state [1], move the roll axis arm left and right [2] until it remains still and parallel to the ground [3]. Then, tighten the locking knob [4].
2. Move the smartphone left and right [1] until it remains still and parallel to the ground [2].

For Horizontal Mounting:

1. Unlock the roll axis arm locking state [1], move the roll axis arm left and right [2] until it remains still and parallel to the ground [3]. Then, tighten the locking knob [4].
2. Move the smartphone clamp forward and backward [1] until it remains still and parallel to the ground [2].

[Icon: Lightbulb] The balance of the smartphone significantly impacts the battery life of the SMOOTH 5E. An unbalanced phone may still work, but it will consume more power, and the torque for stabilization will be reduced.

Installing the Fill Light

Attach the magnetic fill light to the designated mounting position on the gimbal's phone clamp. You can choose to illuminate the front or rear camera based on your shooting needs.

Front Camera Fill Light: [Diagram: Magnetic fill light attached to the front of the phone clamp.]

Rear Camera Fill Light: [Diagram: Magnetic fill light attached to the rear of the phone clamp.]

Using the SMOOTH 5E

Control Buttons / Indicator Lights / Port Descriptions

1. Focus/Zoom Rocker: In the StaCam app, rotate the rocker to control focus/zoom. In the ZY Cami app, rotate the rocker to control zoom. Rotating the rocker also adjusts the roll axis angle.
2. Focus/Zoom Switch Button: In the Stacam app, press to cycle through focus/zoom/roll axis angle adjustment. In the ZY Cami app, cycle through zoom/roll axis angle adjustment.
3. MENU Button: Press to enter the SMART menu in the ZY Cami app or return to the shooting interface from the settings menu. In the StaCam app, press to return to the shooting interface.
4. Joystick: Move the joystick up, down, left, or right to control the gimbal's rotation.
5. Gimbal Modes / Battery / Status Indicator Lights:
   • Gimbal Mode Indicators:
   • First indicator light solid: PF Mode
   • Second indicator light solid: L Mode
   • Third indicator light solid: F Mode
   • Fourth indicator light solid: POV Mode
   • Fifth indicator light solid: V Mode
   • Third indicator light flashing: GO Mode
   • Gimbal Status Indicators:
   • All five indicators breathing: Standby Mode
   • All five indicators flashing rapidly: Firmware Update Failed
   • All five indicators flashing sequentially: Firmware Updating
   • Battery Status Indicators:
   • One red indicator flashing: Low Battery Warning
   • One white indicator flashing: 0-20% Battery Remaining
   • Two white indicators flashing: 20-40% Battery Remaining
   • Three white indicators flashing: 40-60% Battery Remaining
   • Four white indicators flashing: 60-80% Battery Remaining
   • Five white indicators flashing: 80-100% Battery Remaining
6. Resolution Button: Press to enter the resolution adjustment interface in the ZY Cami/StaCam app.
7. Rocker: In the ZY Cami/StaCam app, rotate the rocker to select relevant parameters/functions in certain menu interfaces. In some native phone camera apps, it cycles through photo/video modes.
8. Fill Light Button: Press once: In ZY Cami/StaCam app, acts as a confirmation button in certain menu interfaces. Double-press: In ZY Cami/StaCam app, starts recording in the corresponding mode. Press and hold: Turns the magnetic fill light on/off (when on, rotating the rocker adjusts brightness).
9. ISO/Exposure Button: Press once: No function in ZY Cami app. In StaCam app, cycles through shutter, ISO, and white balance.
10. DISP. Button: Press once: No function in ZY Cami app. In StaCam app, cycles through display effects.
11. Album Button: Press once: Opens/closes the album in ZY Cami/StaCam app.
12. MODE Gimbal Mode Switch Button: Press once: Switches gimbal modes (PF-L-F-POV-V). Double-press: Returns to the previous gimbal mode.
13. Record Button: Press once: Starts recording in the corresponding mode in ZY Cami/StaCam app. Double-press: Switches between front and rear cameras in ZY Cami app. In StaCam app, switches between wide-angle, ultra-wide-angle, telephoto, auto, and front camera.
14. Power Button: Press once: Check gimbal battery level. Press and hold: Turn on/off.
15. FN Button: Press once: No function in ZY Cami app. In StaCam app, enters the screen settings menu. Press five times: Resets Bluetooth. Press and hold: Turns on the built-in fill light on the pitch arm.
16. Type-C Charging / Firmware Update Port: Use this port to charge the gimbal or connect to a computer for firmware updates.
17. Trigger Button: Press once: Start/stop intelligent follow in ZY Cami app. Double-press: Recenters the gimbal. Triple-press: Rotates the pan motor 180°. Quadruple-press: Switches to selfie mode. Press and hold: Enters Hyperlapse mode.

[Icon: Lightbulb] After connecting the phone via Bluetooth to the SMOOTH 5E, you can control the phone's native camera without the ZY Cami/StaCam app (for phones that support camera control via volume buttons). You can visit the official Zhiyun website (www.zhiyun-tech.com) to check the "Zhiyun SMOOTH 5E Mobile Function Support List" for the latest information.

Some button functions are only available when the phone is connected to the gimbal and running the ZY Cami/StaCam app. It is recommended to download the ZY Cami/StaCam app to use with the SMOOTH 5E.

The StaCam app is designed for professional video shooting and offers advanced features such as composition lines, focus peaking, and zebra stripes. Choose the appropriate app based on your needs.

AI Tracking

The AI Tracker can recognize gestures and automatically track subjects without needing an app connection. It can also be used to control the gimbal and camera via gestures.

Understanding the AI Tracker

[Diagram: AI Tracker with labels for Indicator Light and Camera.]

Sleep/Wake Button (AI Tracker):

• Press once: Wakes the AI Tracker from low-power mode.
• Press and hold: Puts the AI Tracker into sleep mode.

Installing the Tracker

Attach the AI Tracker to the gimbal's phone clamp via the magnetic contacts. Rotate the tracker 180° to switch the mounting direction for front or rear camera tracking.

Front Camera Tracking: [Diagram: AI Tracker mounted for front camera tracking.]

Rear Camera Tracking: [Diagram: AI Tracker mounted for rear camera tracking.]

Gesture Recognition Instructions

Tracker Status Instructions

[Icon: Lightbulb] The effective gesture recognition range of the AI Tracker is 3 meters. Backlighting or low light conditions may affect the recognition range.

Working Modes

Press the MODE button once or twice to switch working modes.

[Diagram: Flowchart showing transitions between different gimbal modes: PF, L, F, POV, V, GO.]

Red circles indicate motors that follow handle movement and change angle. Gray circles indicate locked motor angles that do not follow handle movement.

Left and Right Follow Mode (PF)

The pitch and roll axis motors are locked. The pan axis motor follows handle movement. Push the joystick up/down to adjust the pitch angle, and left/right to adjust the horizontal orientation.

[Diagram: PF mode illustration showing locked pitch and roll axes, and the pan axis following movement.]

All Locked Mode (L)

All three motors lock their angles and do not follow handle movement. Push the joystick up/down to adjust the pitch angle, and left/right to adjust the horizontal orientation.

[Diagram: L mode illustration showing all axes locked.]

All Follow Mode (F)

The roll axis motor is locked. The pitch and pan axis motors follow handle movement. Push the joystick up/down to adjust the pitch angle, and left/right to adjust the horizontal orientation.

[Diagram: F mode illustration showing locked roll axis, and pitch and pan axes following movement.]

First Person View Mode (POV)

All three motors follow handle movement.

[Diagram: POV mode illustration showing all axes following movement.]

3D Dream Mode (V)

The pitch axis motor rotates 90° upwards. The pitch, roll, and pan axis motors follow handle movement. Pushing the joystick left/right controls the rotation of the pan axis.

[Diagram: V mode illustration showing specific movements of the axes.]

Follow Mode (GO)

The roll axis motor is locked. The pitch and pan axis motors follow handle movement rapidly.

[Diagram: GO mode illustration showing rapid following movement.]

Manual Positioning

In PF and L modes, you can manually rotate the phone to the desired angle and hold it for approximately 2 seconds. Release the joystick, and the phone's angle will be fixed (pitch and pan axes).

[Diagram: Illustration of manual positioning adjustment.]

Quick Standby

When the SMOOTH 5E is powered on, manually rotate the roll axis to the locking position. The SMOOTH 5E will automatically enter standby mode. When the roll axis is moved out of the locking position, the SMOOTH 5E will resume working.

Storage

When storing, please rotate the gimbal to the storage position as shown in the diagram.

[Diagram: Illustrations showing the gimbal being folded for storage.]

APP Usage

Downloading the APP

You can scan the QR code on the left to download the "ZY Cami" app (for Android 7.0 and above, iOS 10.0 and above), or search for "ZY Cami" in your phone's app store.

• Using the dedicated "ZY Cami" app for SMOOTH 5E allows you to utilize all the features of this stabilizer.
• Please use the latest version of the app. Updates may be released without prior notice.

How to Connect

1. Turn on the SMOOTH 5E and enable your phone's Bluetooth.
2. Open the "ZY Cami" app. On the main screen, tap the "Camera" icon in the top left corner to enter the device list. Select the SMOOTH 5E you wish to connect to (the Bluetooth name of the SMOOTH 5E can be found on the handle, labeled as USER ID: XXXX).
3. When connecting the SMOOTH 5E to the "ZY Cami" app for the first time, you will need to activate the device according to the app's prompts. Activation requires an internet connection. After successful activation, you can enter the "ZY Cami" app camera interface for shooting.

[Diagram: Steps for connecting the app: 1. Bluetooth connection icon. 2. App interface showing device list. 3. App interface showing successful connection.]

APP Main Features

[Diagram: A mind map showing the main features of the ZY Cami app: Intelligent Follow, SMART Mode, Gesture Control, Time-lapse Photography, Editor, Firmware Update.]

For more information on "ZY Cami" app features, please visit the official Zhiyun website (www.zhiyun-tech.com) for relevant video tutorials on the SMOOTH 5E.

Firmware Update and Calibration

Firmware Update

The SMOOTH 5E can be updated using the "Zhiyun Gimbal Tools" software or the "ZY Cami" app.

Method One:

1. Connect the SMOOTH 5E to your computer using the USB Type-C cable via the Type-C charging/firmware update port. Turn on the SMOOTH 5E and ensure it is in standby mode.
2. Visit the official Zhiyun website (www.zhiyun-tech.com), navigate to the SMOOTH 5E product page, and find the "Download" section. Download the USB driver, Zhiyun calibration and update tool, and firmware (USB driver installation is not required for macOS).
3. Install the software and driver. Unzip the firmware package to obtain the .ptz file.
4. Open the Zhiyun calibration and update tool "Zhiyun Gimbal Tools". Select the corresponding port, click "Open COM Port" at the top of the tool, click "Firmware Update", click "Path" and then "Browse" to select the latest downloaded firmware (.ptz file). Finally, click "Update" at the bottom of the tool to start the update process. The SMOOTH 5E will automatically shut down upon successful update.

[Diagram: Screenshot of the Zhiyun Gimbal Tools software interface with steps for firmware update.]

Method Two:

After connecting the SMOOTH 5E to the "ZY Cami" app, if the app prompts for a firmware update, follow the on-screen instructions. An internet connection is required during the update. Refer to the "APP Usage" section of this manual for steps on connecting the SMOOTH 5E to the "ZY Cami" app.

[Icon: Lightbulb] Ensure the SMOOTH 5E has at least 50% battery power before updating the firmware. Do not exit the app or switch to the background during the update process. Pay attention to the app's prompts.

Calibration Methods

Automatic Gimbal Calibration Method:

1. Mount the SMOOTH 5E onto a tripod and connect it to the "ZY Cami" app.
2. In the app, navigate to "Gimbal Settings" and select "Automatic Gimbal Calibration". The SMOOTH 5E will automatically calibrate. Follow the app's prompts to monitor the calibration progress.

[Diagram: Illustration of the gimbal on a tripod with the app interface showing calibration.]

Six-Side Calibration Method:

The SMOOTH 5E can perform six-side calibration using the "Zhiyun Gimbal Tools" software.

1. Connect the SMOOTH 5E to your computer using the USB Type-C cable via the Type-C charging/firmware update port. Turn on the SMOOTH 5E and ensure it is in standby mode.
2. Open the "Zhiyun Gimbal Tools" software, click on "IMU Calibration", and follow the on-screen instructions based on the image prompts to perform the calibration. Upon successful calibration, the software interface will display a checkmark [✓].

[Diagram: Step-by-step illustrations for six-side calibration.]

*Refer to the diagram below for the six-side calibration steps. After completing the calibration, restart the gimbal for normal use.

*Six-side calibration can be understood as ensuring that the six surfaces of the pitch axis arm are perpendicular to the horizontal plane.

Specifications

Product Model: SM122

Lab Data 1: This data was obtained at an ambient temperature of 25°C. The test involved an iPhone XR, with the gimbal's center of gravity balanced. With the three fill lights on at maximum brightness, the operating time was 2h20min. With the fill lights off and the gimbal in standby PF mode, the operating time was 26h.

Lab Data 2: This test was conducted at an ambient temperature of 25°C using a 15W fast charger, resulting in a charging time of 2 hours. At an ambient temperature of 25°C using a 5V/2A power adapter, the charging time was 3.5 hours. Charging times may vary depending on environmental factors. Lower charging temperatures may result in lower charging currents and longer charging times.

All data mentioned in this manual is based on internal testing by Zhiyun's laboratory. Data may vary to some extent under different objective conditions. Please refer to the actual product experience.

Disclaimer and Warnings

Thank you for purchasing this product. The information contained herein relates to your safety, legal rights, and responsibilities. Please read this document carefully before using the product to ensure correct setup. Failure to follow the instructions and warnings in this document may result in injury to yourself and others, or damage to the product or other property.

Zhiyun (ZHIYUN) reserves the right to interpret this document and all related product documentation. Updates may be released without prior notice. Please visit www.zhiyun-tech.com for the latest product information.

By using this product, you acknowledge that you have carefully read the disclaimer and warnings, and you understand and accept all terms and conditions herein. You agree to take full responsibility for the use of this product and any consequences thereof. You agree to use this product only for lawful purposes and in accordance with all relevant regulations, policies, and guidelines issued by Zhiyun (ZHIYUN).

Except as required by Chinese laws and regulations, Zhiyun (ZHIYUN) is not liable for any losses, injuries, or legal liabilities arising directly or indirectly from the use of the product or this material. Users should comply with all safety guidelines mentioned in this document, including but not limited to.

ZHIYUN™ is a trademark of Guilin Zhipu Information Technology Co., Ltd. and its affiliates. Product names and brands appearing in this document are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.

Reading Tips

Symbol Description: [Icon: Information symbol] Operation or usage tips.

Important Safety Precautions: [Icon: Warning symbol]

Warning

This product is precision-engineered. Users should possess basic practical skills and common sense regarding safety, and use it with care. Please read the user manual first to familiarize yourself with the product's functions before use. Incorrect operations may lead to product damage, property loss, or even personal injury. This product is not suitable for children. Do not use this product with accessories not provided or recommended by Zhiyun (ZHIYUN), or use it in a manner not described in the safety guidelines within the Zhiyun (ZHIYUN) product documentation. This document contains safety guidelines, operating, and maintenance instructions. To ensure you use this product correctly and safely, please carefully read all instructions and warnings in the user manual and safety guidelines before installation, setup, and use, and strictly follow the relevant instructions for installation and use.

Safety Operation Guidelines

Warning:

1. Do not expose the product to any liquids. Do not immerse the product in water or get it wet. Do not use the product in rain or humid environments. Contact with water inside the product may cause corrosion, leading to battery self-ignition or even explosion.
2. In case of fire, immediately use water, water mist, sand, fire blanket, dry powder, or carbon dioxide fire extinguishers to extinguish the fire. Please choose the appropriate fire extinguishing method from the recommended order based on the situation.
3. Use the product in environments with temperatures between -10°C and 45°C.
4. Do not disassemble the product in any way. If the battery is punctured during disassembly, the electrolyte inside the battery may leak, leading to fire or explosion.
5. Do not subject the product to mechanical impact, crushing, or dropping. Do not place heavy objects on the product.
6. Do not heat the product. Do not place the product in a microwave oven or pressure cooker.
7. Do not place the product near heat sources (stoves or heaters) or in hot car interiors. Do not store the product in environments exceeding 60°C. The ideal storage temperature is between 22°C and 28°C.
8. Do not store the battery for extended periods after completely discharging it, as this may lead to the battery entering an over-discharge state, causing damage to the battery cells, making it unrecoverable.

Caution:

1. The SMOOTH 5E is a high-precision control device. Dropping or external impact may damage the SMOOTH 5E and cause abnormal operation.
2. Ensure that the gimbal's rotation is not obstructed by external forces when the SMOOTH 5E is powered on.
3. The SMOOTH 5E is not waterproof. Avoid contact with any liquids or cleaning agents. It is recommended to clean the SMOOTH 5E with a soft, dry cloth.
4. Pay attention to dust and sand protection during the use of the SMOOTH 5E.

Note:

1. After charging, please disconnect the product from the charger.
2. If the product is not used for more than 10 days, please discharge the battery to 40%-65% for storage to extend its lifespan.
3. Recharge and discharge the battery every 3 months to maintain its activity.
4. When starting the SMOOTH 5E, keep the handle stable. Shaking the SMOOTH 5E during startup may cause startup failure.

Warranty Card

Warranty Period Description

1. Within 15 days of signing for receipt, if quality issues occur, you are entitled to a replacement or free repair service.
2. The warranty period for the product under correct usage and maintenance is generally one year from the date of receipt. Due to differences in product components, national laws, and regulations, the warranty period may vary. Please consult the official Zhiyun (ZHIYUN) website or your authorized Zhiyun (ZHIYUN) dealer for warranty information in your region.

Warranty Exclusions

1. Unauthorized repairs, misuse, collision, negligence, abuse, liquid ingress, accidents, or modifications.
2. Improper use of the product, or removal/alteration of labels and anti-counterfeit marks.
3. Exceeding the valid warranty period.
4. Damage caused by force majeure events such as fire, flood, lightning, etc.

To Obtain Zhiyun (ZHIYUN) Warranty Service, Please Follow These Steps:

1. If a malfunction occurs after purchasing the product, please contact your local authorized Zhiyun (ZHIYUN) dealer. If there is no dealer in your area, you can contact Zhiyun (ZHIYUN) customer service via email (info@zhiyun-tech.com) or through the website (www.zhiyun-tech.com) to obtain the necessary warranty support.
2. Your Zhiyun (ZHIYUN) dealer or Zhiyun (ZHIYUN) customer service will guide you on how to ship the relevant materials and product, and how to handle your warranty claim. Zhiyun (ZHIYUN) reserves the right to inspect the damaged product.

User Information:

• User Name:
• Contact Number:
• Address:

Sales Information:

• Date of Sale:
• Dealer Name:
• Dealer Contact Number:
• Machine Serial Number:

First Repair Record:

• Date of Submission:
• Reason for Malfunction:
• Repairman Signature:
• Result of Treatment: [ ] Repaired [ ] Not Repaired [ ] Returned/Exchanged

Contact Information

[QR Code: Zhiyun Official Website]

[QR Code: Zhiyun WeChat]

[QR Code: Zhiyun Douyin]

[QR Code: Zhiyun Video Channel]

Official Website: www.zhiyun-tech.com

Email: info@zhiyun-tech.com

Phone: 400 900 6868

Address: No. 9, Huangtong Road, Tieshan Industrial Park, Qixing District, Guilin City, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region

Certificate of Conformity: This product has passed strict inspection and meets the standard, and is approved for sale.

Inspector: [Signature/Stamp Area] QC PASS 检02

For complete product information, please visit the Zhiyun (ZHIYUN) official website: www.zhiyun-tech.com. Content is subject to change without prior notice. ZHIYUN™ is a trademark of Zhipu. Product names and brands mentioned in this document may be trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies. Copyright © 2025 Zhipu All Rights Reserved.

Hazardous Substances

This table is compiled in accordance with SJ/T 11364.

○: Indicates that the content of the hazardous substance in all homogeneous materials of this component is within the limit requirements specified by GB/T 26572.

X: Indicates that the content of the hazardous substance in at least one homogeneous material of this component exceeds the limit requirements specified by GB/T 26572. (The product complies with EU RoHS directive environmental requirements)

Management Measures for Low-Power Radio Frequency Devices

Article 12:

Type-certified low-power radio frequency devices shall not alter the frequency, increase power, or change the original design characteristics and functions without permission from the company, firm, or user.

Article 14:

Low-power radio frequency devices should not interfere with aviation safety or legitimate communications. If interference is found, the device should be stopped immediately, and improvements should be made until there is no interference before continuing use.

• Legitimate communication refers to wireless communication operating in accordance with telecommunications law.
• Low-power radio frequency devices must tolerate interference from legitimate communication or industrial, scientific, and medical radio frequency devices.