GC3-S User Guide
Version: V1.0 - 2021.06
Thank You
Thank you for purchasing the SwellPro GC3-S gimbal camera. The GC3-S is a waterproof 4K 3-axis gimbal camera designed for the SplashDrone 4, enabling high-quality photography and videography. Its powerful 3-axis gimbal captures ultra-smooth videos and crisp photos, both in the air and underwater. The GC3-S features Pro mode and supports RAW photos, with the option to add ND filters for enhanced creative control.
Using This Manual
This document is intended for printing or viewing on a computer or mobile device.
Tutorial Videos
To watch tutorial videos or download firmware, please visit the SwellPro website at www.swellpro.com.
Precautions
- The GC3-S is a precision electronic device constructed with corrosion-resistant materials, suitable for harsh marine environments. Proper attention and maintenance are crucial for its long-term operation, as with any marine equipment.
- When taking off or landing, proceed slowly to prevent damage to the gimbal camera from high-speed impacts with the surface. Crashing directly into water from above can cause significant damage to both the drone and the gimbal camera.
- After use in seawater, soak and rinse the camera thoroughly with clean fresh water before the seawater dries. If seawater or other sediments accumulate on the gimbal camera, soak it thoroughly with fresh water and clean all sediments from the camera and motor before subsequent use. Refer to the drone's "Maintenance Manual" for more detailed information.
Installation
Install the Gimbal
Follow these steps to install the gimbal:
- Unscrew and remove the gimbal port cover plate using a hex screwdriver (provided with SplashDrone 4).
- Plug the gimbal connector into the drone's gimbal port and secure it with a screwdriver. ⚠️ Ensure the rubber ring is attached to the gimbal connector before screwing it in place.
- Align the holes on the base of the gimbal with the mounting points on the bottom of the drone. Screw the gimbal into place, ensuring the camera is pointing towards the front of the drone.
Install SD Card
Follow these steps to install the Micro SD card:
- Open the soft rubber seal on the top of the camera. Insert the Micro SD card in the correct direction and press it until it clicks, indicating it is properly seated.
- After installing the Micro SD card, securely replace the rubber seal. ⚠️ Ensure the rubber seal is tightly plugged in to maintain waterproofing.
The GC1-S supports Micro SD cards up to 128GB. For optimal performance with high-stream video data, use Micro SD cards with Class 10 or UHS-1 rating or higher.
Do not insert or remove the Micro SD card during flight, as this may damage or cause loss of data files.
Once recording is complete, stop recording and save the file. Turning off the power directly before saving may result in the loss of the recording file.
After Use Casing
After using the gimbal camera, you can choose to leave it attached to the drone and place the entire unit into its case. Follow these steps to ensure the gimbal camera is securely stored:
- Remove the double-side-glued pad from the gimbal box and affix it inside the drone's case as illustrated.
- After cleaning and drying both the gimbal camera and the aircraft, secure the gimbal camera using the provided fixing case. Then, place the aircraft and other components into the main case. The case is now secured and ready for transport.
Control
Gimbal Control
Remote Controller Function | Description |
---|---|
Tilt Control (Right Stick) | Toggle the right gimbal control to move the gimbal up or down from 0° to -90°. |
Pan Control (Left Stick) | Toggle the left gimbal control to move the gimbal left or right from -25° to 25°. |
Camera Control
Remote Controller Function | Description |
---|---|
Video | Press once to start recording; press again to stop recording and save files. |
Photo | Press once to take a picture. |
APP Interface
To access the APP's camera interface:
- Power on the remote controller and the aircraft.
- Connect your phone to the remote controller's Wi-Fi hotspot.
- Tap "Login device" within the app.
The camera interface displays various settings and controls:
- Camera Settings: Access and adjust parameters like ISO, Shutter Speed, EV, White Balance, Color, Distortion Correction, Frame Rate, and Metering Mode.
- Photo Mode: Options include Photo Size (e.g., 12MP 4:3/16:9), Burst Mode (3/5/10 shots), Self-Timer, and Pro Mode.
- Video Mode: Options include Resolution (e.g., 4K 30P, 2.7K 60P, FHD 120p, HD 240p), EIS Electronic Image Stabilization, Video Standard (PAL/NTSC), and Video Format (MP4/MOV).
- Playback: View recorded videos and photos.
Specifications
Parameter | Details |
---|---|
Gimbal Stabilization | 3-axis (tilt, pan, roll) |
Controllable Range | Tilt: -90° to 0°, Pan: -25° to 25° |
Max Control Speed | Tilt: 60°/s |
Weight | Approx. 145g |
Size | 71*55*65mm |
Camera Sensors | 1/2.3" 12M CMOS |
Lens | F4.53mm; f/2.65; FOV: 92.6° |
ISO Range | 100 - 3200 |
Shutter Speed | 1/6 - 1/16000 s |
Photo Size | 4:3/16:9 12MP |
Burst Mode | 3/5/10 shoots |
Interval Shot | 1/3/5/10 s |
Video Resolution | 4K: 3840*2160/30P | 2.7K: 2704*1520/60P | FHD: 1920*1080/30/60/120p | HD: 1280*720/240p |
Max Data Stream | 64 MBps |
Photo Format | JPEG / DNG (RAW) |
Video Format | MP4, MOV |
Memory Card | Micro SD card: supports up to 128GB capacity, write speeds ≥ 60 MB/s, and transfer speed rating of Class 10 or above, or with UHS-1 rating. |
Working Temperature | -10°C - 40°C |
Gimbal Waterproof Rating | IP67 |