SharkX Smart Fishing Drone

Trademark Information

Rippton has made every effort to supply trademark information about company names, products, and services mentioned in this manual. Trademarks shown were derived from various sources. All trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

General notice: Some product names used in this manual are for identification purposes only and may be trademarks of their respective companies.

SharkX - Table of Contents

This section outlines the structure of the manual, covering preface, product description, preparation, operations, maintenance, troubleshooting, disposal, and compliance.

1. Preface

• 1.1. User Experience Requirements
• 1.2. Conventions Used in This Manual
• 1.3. Explanation of Safety Warnings
• 1.4. Read, Understand and Retain Instructions
• 1.5. Obtaining Documentation and Information

2. Description of the Product

• 2.1. Intended Use and Reasonably Foreseeable Misuse
• 2.2. Process Overview
• 2.3. Technical Data
• 2.4. Product Compliance
• 2.5. Product Components

3. Preparation and Installation

• 3.1. Unpack the Package and Check the Contents
• 3.2. Conditions before Assembling the SharkX
• 3.3. Installation of the SharkX
• 3.4. Preparation of the Controller

4. Operations & Use

• 4.1. Check before Using the SharkX
• 4.2. Start the SharkX
• 4.3. Start the Controller
• 4.4. Connect the SharkX to Your Mobile Device
• 4.5. Calibrate the Compass
• 4.6. Preflight Check List
• 4.7. Controller Interface
• 4.8. Take off the SharkX via the Controller
• 4.9. Control the SharkX
• 4.10. Return & Land the SharkX Manually via Controller
• 4.11. Return & Land the SharkX Automatically via Controller
• 4.12. Cancel RTH
• 4.13. Cast the Fishing Line via Controller

5. Maintenance

• 5.1. Take Care of the SharkX
• 5.2. Charge the SharkX Battery
• 5.3. Charge the Controller
• 5.4. Battery Capacity Checker Instructions
• 5.5. Inspect the Product
• 5.6. After-sales Information

6. Troubleshooting and Repair

• 6.1. Identify and Solve Problems
• 6.2. Replacing the Propellers

7. Disposal

• 7.1. Disposal of Electronic Components
• 7.2. Disposal of Packaging Waste
• 7.3. Disposal of Batteries

8. FCC Compliance

• 8.1. FCC Compliance
• 8.2. FCC Warning Message
• 8.3. FCC RF Radiation Exposure Statement Caution
• 8.4. FCC RF Exposure Information (SAR)

1. Preface

Notice: This manual is for the SharkX but also applicable to the SharkX Plus and the SharkX Pro. The SharkX is the basic model while the Plus and the Pro are upgraded versions, including additional functions and features. Therefore, all charts and graphics in this manual are for general reference and subject to actual applications and updates.

1.1. User Experience Requirements

This document is for users of the SharkX Smart Fishing Drone. It should only be used by individuals with drone-flying experience. Those without experience should practice for over 20 hours in a wide, empty space before using the SharkX for sea fishing.

1.2. Conventions Used in This Manual

The following style conventions are used:

• Bold: Names of product components, commands, options, programs, processes, services, and utilities. Names of interface elements (windows, dialog boxes, buttons, fields, menus) that the user selects, clicks, presses, or types.
• Italic: Publication titles referenced in the text. Emphasis (e.g., a new term). Variables.
• Courier: System output, such as error messages, script URLs, complete paths, filenames, prompts, and syntax.

1.3. Explanation of Safety Warnings

DANGER: Indicates a hazard with a high level of risk which, if not avoided, will result in serious injury.

WARNING: Indicates a hazard with a medium level of risk which, if not avoided, could result in serious injury.

CAUTION: Indicates a hazard with a low level of risk which, if not avoided, could result in minor or moderate injury.

NOTICE: Indicates information considered important, but not hazard-related.

1.4. Read, Understand and Retain Instructions

Read and understand this manual and its safety instructions before using this product. Failure to do so can result in serious injury. Follow all instructions to avoid fire, explosion, electric shock, or other hazards that may damage property and/or cause severe injuries. The product should only be used by individuals who have fully read and understood this user manual. Ensure all users have read and follow these warnings and instructions. Keep all safety information and instructions for future reference and pass them on to subsequent users.

The manufacturer is not liable for material damage or personal injury caused by incorrect handling or non-compliance with safety instructions. In such cases, the warranty will be voided.

1.5. Obtaining Documentation and Information

1.5.1. Internet

The latest version of the documentation and video tutorials are available at: www.rippton.com/tutorial or Rippton's official YouTube channel.

1.5.2. Ordering documentation

Documentation, user instructions, and technical information can be ordered by emailing support@rippton.com.

1.5.3. Documentation feedback

Comments on Rippton product documentation can be submitted via the support website or by emailing support@rippton.com.

1.5.4. Support and service

For service-related questions, please contact: Rippton/Ningbo Pelican Drone Co., Ltd. support@rippton.com.

2. Description of the Product

2.1. Intended Use and Reasonably Foreseeable Misuse

The SharkX is intended for recreational sea fishing purposes, such as flying and releasing the fishing line to a desired location. It should be used in open areas on the beach or above the sea, with no obstacles, and always within the user's sight. The product can carry a maximum payload of 3 kg.

The SharkX is NOT intended for:

• Indoor use.
• Use in or near residential areas or areas frequented by people.
• Use in No-Fly Zones.
• Use as a toy. The SharkX must not be used by children under 14 years of age.
• Use in or near rough water and extreme weather conditions (rain, snow, fog).
• Use in strong winds greater than 36 km/h. (Payload is affected by wind; GPS mode is recommended for dropping loads in strong winds).
• Use near large metal structures.
• Areas with high levels of electromagnetism (e.g., base stations, radio transmission towers).
• Areas where a flight fence cannot be set.
• Flight above the maximum allowed altitude of 120 meters and maximum allowed flight radius of 1 km.

The SharkX Fishing Drone should be used only with the following software, original accessories, and components:

• SharkX battery (including charger)
• SharkX remote controller (including charging cable)
• SharkX propellers
• Rippton App
• Other new accessories listed on the Rippton official website

All other uses not described in this manual are considered unintended.

2.2. Process Overview

The SharkX is a drone for recreational fishing. It comprises a drone with a built-in fishing line release mechanism, a controller, and a mobile device clamp. Flight data, including telemetry and status information, is automatically recorded onto the SharkX's internal storage. The fishing line release mechanism allows for accurate line release. The fishing line can be attached to this mechanism and dropped at the desired location via the controller or the Rippton App.

2.3. Technical Data

2.4. Product Compliance

This product complies with all relevant Australia & New Zealand Directives.

2.5. Product Components

The product package includes the following main components:

• 1. SharkX Smart Fishing Drone: The main aerial vehicle with propellers, battery compartment, and hook release mechanism.
• 2. SharkX Remote Controller: The device used to control the drone, featuring joysticks, antennas, an LCD screen, and various buttons.

3. Preparation and Installation

Handle, lift, carry, and transport the product with great care to prevent damage.

3.1. Unpack the Package and Check the Contents

Ensure the package contains all the following items:

• SHARKX Smart Fishing Drone
• SHARKX Drone Battery x1
• Drone Battery Charger x1
• Power Cord x1
• Charging Cable x2
• Remote Controller x1
• Controller Charger x1
• Digital Battery Capacity Checker

3.2. Conditions before Assembling the SharkX

1. Make sure you have downloaded and installed the Rippton App from the Google Play Store, Samsung Galaxy Apps, or Apple App Store. Register as a Rippton App user.
2. Ensure that the SharkX battery and controller are fully charged.

3.3. Installation of the SharkX

Battery Installation:

1. Insert the battery into the compartment.
2. Connect and fasten the wire connectors.
3. Close the compartment cover.
4. Lock the cover by twisting the rotary switches.

Propeller Installation:

The drone uses Clockwise (CW) and Counter-Clockwise (CCW) propellers. Ensure the correct propeller is installed on the corresponding motor. The motors are marked with CW and CCW indicators. The propellers are also marked.

CW Propeller Installation: Install CW propellers onto motors marked CW.

CCW Propeller Installation: Install CCW propellers onto motors marked CCW.

NOTICE: It is recommended to fix the motor when screwing in the propellers.

Notice: Please refer to step 6.2.1 to disassemble the propellers.

3.4. Preparation of the Controller

1. Tilt the antennas up.
2. Fasten your mobile device securely to the clamp.

Notice: For optimal range, the controller antennas should face the drone while it is in flight and NOT point directly at the drone.

4. Operations & Use

4.1. Check before Using the SharkX

4.1.1. Minimum space needed

Ensure there are no people or obstacles within a 30-meter range before flying to avoid injury or damage. Use the product only in open areas on the beach and above the sea.

4.1.2. Preload the map on the App

When using the SharkX in new areas, connect to network and preload the map in the Rippton app before connecting the SharkX to your mobile device.

4.1.3. Satellite Check

Before launching, ensure the satellite number is no less than 15; otherwise, the drone will not take off successfully.

4.1.4. Flight Mode

Before flight, ensure the Controller is set to "Position Hold / POS Hold" mode, not "Altitude Hold / ALT Hold" mode.

4.2. Start the SharkX

Long press the 'POWER' button until LED indicators turn on and the SharkX beeps.

4.3. Start the Controller

Long press the 'POWER' button. The controller will vibrate and beep, and then the screen lights up.

4.4. Connect the SharkX Controller to Your Mobile Device

1. With the remote switched on, search for the SHARKX Wi-Fi on your mobile device. The Wi-Fi name is 'SharkX_xxxxxxxxxxxx'. The default password is 12345678.
2. Enter the Rippton App and tap 'Device' on the home page.
3. Slide and find 'SharkX'.
4. Tap 'Enter'.

Notice: A voice prompt indicates SharkX connected successfully.

4.5. Calibrate the Compass

NOTICE: The compass needs to be calibrated in the following situations:

• When you use the SharkX for the first time.
• When you fly at a new place (more than 100m away).
• When the SharkX has not been used for more than one month.

DO NOT calibrate the compass in the presence of strong magnetic interference (e.g., magnetite, parking structures, steel reinforcements underground). DO NOT carry ferromagnetic materials (like mobile phones, unless already connected to the controller) during calibration. DO NOT mute your mobile device during calibration to hear voice prompts.

NOTICE: Choose an outdoor open area to carry out the calibration procedures.

Two ALTERNATIVE ways of entering compass calibration:

4.5.1. Entering calibration on RC

Step 1: Press and hold two middle buttons until the RC beeps and the screen shows "CAL command successfully".

Step 2: When the screen shows "Horizontal calibration", hold the drone horizontally with its nose outwards and start rotating. The RC will emit a long beep indicating success.

Step 3: When the screen shows "Vertical calibration", hold the drone vertically with its nose downwards and start rotating. The RC will emit a short beep, and the screen will show "Calibration succeeded".

Notice: Please refer to step 2&3 in 4.5.2 on how to hold the drone during calibration.

After successful calibration, place the SharkX on a flat surface and switch the drone OFF, then ON again to "save" the calibration.

SharkX Indicator Status of Horizontal Calibration:

SharkX Indicator Status of Vertical Calibration:

4.5.2. Entering Calibration on App

Step 1: Open the Rippton App. Enter the flight control interface. Tap 'Set' on the top right and follow the steps to enter ‘COMMON SETTINGS'.

Step 2: Tap the 'CALIBRATE' icon and enter the compass calibration interface.

Step 3: Following the voice prompt, hold the drone horizontally with its nose outwards and complete the horizontal calibration. Then, hold the drone vertically with its nose downwards and complete the compass calibration.

Notice: Calibrate the compass when there are no less than 15 satellites.

After successful calibration, place the SharkX on a flat surface and switch the drone OFF and then Back ON to "save" the calibration.

4.5.3. To calibrate the IMU

NOTICE: IMU calibration is only required after a crash or a repair.

Refer to 4.5.2 and enter ‘COMMON SETTINGS'. Tap the lower ‘CALIBRATE' icon to enter the IMU calibration interface.

4.5.4. IMU Calibration Completion

Place the SharkX on very flat and level ground. Tap 'Continue'. IMU calibration will be completed automatically.

Notice: If the SharkX appears to shift forward or backward, does uncontrolled circles, or does not respond to controls, or flies erratically – land immediately and re-calibrate the compass. If problems persist, contact your local distributor/dealer. After completing compass and IMU calibration, turn off the drone, place it on the desired takeoff ground, and restart the drone, controller, and Rippton App.

4.6. Pre-flight Check List:

• Make sure the controller, SharkX battery, and mobile device are fully charged.
• Make sure the propellers are mounted correctly and firmly.
• Make sure the mobile device clamp is mounted correctly and firmly.
• Make sure the hook release mechanism operates correctly.
• Make sure the payload does not exceed 3KG.
• Make sure the Rippton App operates correctly and is connected.
• Ensure the Shark X Controller is in "Position Hold" Mode.
• Ensure you have a large clear space around you, free of children, pets, and people before attempting to fly.
• Always have the nose of the drone facing away from you and towards the sea before takeoff.

4.7. Controller Interface

The controller interface displays real-time information including: GPS signal strength, satellite number, controller battery level, SharkX battery voltage, drone nose direction, drone lock status, real-time drone coordinates, and flight mode (e.g., Pos Hold).

4.8. Take off the SharkX via the Controller

4.8.1. Switch the flight mode to Pos Hold

It is recommended to set the drone on Pos Hold mode at all times. Alt Hold mode is for professional drone pilots only.

Notice: When both joysticks are centered, in Pos Hold mode, the drone will hover at the current position. In Alt Hold mode, the drone might be pushed away by wind.

4.8.2. Unlock the SharkX

Push the left joystick to the lower right corner and hold until the controller beeps and the lock icon disappears on the controller screen. All propellers will start rotating, indicating the drone is unlocked. Slowly push the left joystick back to the center. The SharkX is ready to take off.

Notice: The location where the SharkX gets unlocked will be the HOME point.

4.8.3. Taking off the SharkX

Push the left joystick up and gently lift the SharkX off the ground.

4.9. Control the SharkX

4.9.1. Vertical flight

• Push the left joystick up to ascend and down to descend. Always push the joystick gently to prevent sudden elevation changes.
• Moving the left joystick left and right adjusts the drone's nose direction. Push the left joystick left to rotate the SharkX counter-clockwise and right to rotate it clockwise.

4.9.2. Horizontal flight

• Push the right joystick up to fly forward and down to fly backward.
• Push the right joystick left to fly left and right to fly right.

Notice: When both joysticks are centered, the SharkX will hover at the current position.

Notice: Do not pull the fishing line if it gets snagged with the drone, as this may affect the drone's balance.

Notice: Do not attempt to stop the motors (disarm) while the Shark X is in flight, as this will cause a crash.

4.10. Return & Land the SharkX Manually via Controller

1. Use the joysticks to return the SharkX to the desired landing spot.
2. Push the left joystick down gently. The SharkX will descend to a height of 5 meters and hover briefly before landing safely. Then, push the left joystick to the lower left corner and hold until the controller beeps, the lock icon appears on the controller screen, and all propellers stop rotating, indicating the SharkX has been locked.

Notice: Pushing the left joystick down and holding it can also lock the drone.

4.11. Return & Land the SharkX Automatically via Controller

1. Short press the 'RTH' button on the controller until 'RTH' shows on the screen and the controller beeps.
2. The SharkX will fly to the HOME point, descend to a height of 10 meters, hover briefly, and then land safely. After landing, the SharkX will automatically lock (stop) the motors.

4.12. Cancel RTH

1. Toggle the lever to 'Alt Hold' and then back to 'Pos Hold' on the controller.

Notice: Always remember to ensure the SharkX is in Position Hold Mode before taking off again.

4.13. Cast the Fishing Line via Controller

The Hook Release Mechanism is located on the middle bottom of the drone.

4.13.1. Attach the fishing line

1. Press the 'Hook Release' button on the remote control to open the hook release mechanism.
2. Put the fishing line in the device.
3. Press the 'Hook Release' button on the remote control to close the hook release mechanism.

Notice: It is recommended not to attach the fishing line when the SharkX is flying in the air to avoid accidents.

4.13.2. Cast the fishing line

Fly the SharkX to the desired fishing spot and press the 'Hook Release' button on the controller to cast the fishing line.

5. Maintenance

5.1. Take Care of the SharkX

5.1.1. Cleaning, disinfecting and rinsing

• The controller is not water resistant or waterproof; clean it with a damp (freshwater) cloth.
• Clean the SharkX with a damp cloth after each use and use a dry cloth to wipe it. Do not rinse the controller with water; wipe it with a soft, clean, damp cloth.
• Use commercial cleaning agents and disinfectants if necessary.
• Do not use alcohol, chemical cleaning agents, or solvents, as they can damage plastic parts.
• Do not apply cleaning agents directly onto the devices; always apply them onto a soft cloth.
• Do not clean any electrical or mechanical parts.

5.1.2. Storing the SharkX during intervals of normal use

• Ensure all functions work properly before storing.
• Disassemble the propellers.
• Store the product in its original packaging.
• Store the product within a temperature range of 5°C to 40°C and with a relative humidity of max. 50% at +40°C.
• Remove the SharkX battery.
• Store the SharkX battery in a cool and dry place.
• Store the battery at temperatures between -20°C to 25°C.
• Regularly charge the battery to avoid over-discharge, which can lead to loss of battery function. Recharge if left uncharged for one month.
• For battery longevity, store at approximately 50% charge when leaving for long periods.

5.2. Charge the SharkX Battery

Notice: Always charge the battery when the temperature is between 10°C and 45°C. The charger will stop charging if the temperature is outside this range.

• Only charge the battery with the provided battery charger.
• Connect all cables properly before powering on the charger at the wall socket. A green checkmark indicates correct connection; a red 'X' indicates incorrect connection.

WARNING: DO NOT POWER ON THE CHARGER AT THE WALL SOCKET UNTIL THE CABLES ARE ALL CONNECTED PROPERLY.

Battery Maintenance: Considering potential battery-life loss from regular charging, it is recommended to perform battery maintenance every 3 months. When 'storage' appears on the screen, the charger provides maintenance. If the battery has not been used for a long time (over 1 month), perform maintenance before charging.

It takes approximately 2 hours to fully charge the drone battery. When fully charged:

• Unplug the power cord from the power supply.
• Disconnect the charging cables from the SharkX battery and the charger.
• Disconnect the power cord from the battery charger.

5.3. Charge the Controller

Notice: Always charge the controller when the temperature is between 10°C and 45°C. The charger will stop charging if the temperature is outside this range.

• The charger should only be used for the SharkX remote controller. Do not use it to charge other devices.
• Connect the charger with the controller and insert the plug into the power supply.

It takes approximately 3.5 hours to fully charge the controller. When fully charged:

• Unplug the power cord from the power supply.
• Disconnect the charging cable from the controller.

5.4. Battery Capacity Checker Instructions

The Digital Battery Capacity Checker supports various battery types (LiPo, LiFe, Li-Ion, NiCd, NiMH) and cell counts. It can display total voltage, total cell battery capacity, individual battery cell voltage, lowest/highest cell voltage, and voltage difference between cells.

Notice: Please read the instructions carefully.

5.4.1. Balance function

Long press the first button; 'LIPO/LIIO' will blink, indicating the balance process is active. Use the second button to view each battery voltage. The balance process uses the battery in the lowest section as the benchmark.

5.4.2. Battery checker layout

Buttons: TYPE, CELL, MODE.

Battery Type: NiCd/NiMH, Li-Po, LiFe, Li-Ion.

Cell Number: NiCd/NiMH (4~7 cells), Lithium type (1~7 cells).

Display Mode: Shows battery cell voltages, total voltages, lowest cell voltage, highest cell voltage, voltage gap between highest and lowest cell voltage, and remaining battery capacity (%).

NiCd/NiMH Type Battery Input: Connect using the appropriate terminals.

Lithium Battery Input: Use the balancing connector.

Note: The capacity shown for NiXX type cells is not accurate and should not be relied upon.

NiCd and NiMH batteries for the TX and RX (4~7 cells) can be connected to this capacity checker.

Lithium Type Batteries:

• Displays voltage and remaining capacity for each cell.
• Shows highest/lowest cell voltage, cell number, and the voltage gap.
• Shows total voltage, highest cell voltage, and remaining capacity.
• Shows lowest cell voltage, cell number, and remaining capacity.

JST EH and JST XH type plugs on lithium battery packs can be directly connected. When using with Thunder Power/Flight Power and Poly Quest type batteries, an adaptor board with a balance adaptor board lead is necessary (e.g., FS-BLEAD, FS-BAPQ, FS-BATP).

5.5. Inspect the Product

5.5.1. Weekly inspection tasks

5.6. After-sales Information

Visit the following pages for more information on after-sales policy and warranty:

https://www.rippton.com/support

6. Troubleshooting and Repair

6.1. Identify and Solve Problems

6.2. Replacing the Propellers

6.2.1. Disassemble the propellers

To disassemble the propellers, unscrew them. It is recommended to fix the motors while unscrewing.

6.2.2. Install the propellers

Please refer to step 3.3 for propeller installation instructions.

7. Disposal

7.1. Disposal of Electronic Components

The symbol on the product, accessories, and packaging indicates that this device must not be treated as unsorted municipal waste but collected separately. Dispose of the device via a collection point for recycling of waste electrical and electronic equipment, especially within the EU and other European countries with separate collection systems. Proper disposal helps avoid hazards to the environment and public health. Recycling conserves natural resources.

7.2. Disposal of Packaging Waste

The packaging is made of environmentally friendly materials and can be disposed of through local recycling facilities. Proper disposal avoids hazards to the environment and public health. The symbol on the packaging indicates it is made of PAP.

7.3. Disposal of Batteries

The product contains a battery. Batteries must not be disposed of with domestic waste due to potential toxic heavy metals and hazardous waste regulations. Dispose of used rechargeable batteries at a local collection point.

8. FCC Compliance

8.1. FCC Compliance

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy. If not installed and used per instructions, it may cause harmful interference to radio communications. There is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If interference occurs, users are encouraged to try correcting it by:

• Reorienting or relocating the receiving antenna.
• Increasing the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connecting the equipment to an outlet on a different circuit than the receiver.
• Consulting a dealer or experienced radio/TV technician.

The device must not be co-located or operated in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter.

8.2. FCC Warning Message

Any changes or modifications not expressly approved by the responsible party for compliance could void the user's authority to operate the equipment. This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules, subject to two conditions: (1) it may not cause harmful interference, and (2) it must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

8.3. FCC RF Radiation Exposure Statement Caution

To maintain compliance with FCC RF exposure guidelines, place the product at least 20cm from nearby persons.

8.4. FCC RF Exposure Information (SAR)

This device meets government requirements for exposure to radio waves. It is designed and manufactured not to exceed emission limits for RF energy set by the U.S. Federal Communications Commission. The exposure standard for wireless devices uses the Specific Absorption Rate (SAR). The FCC SAR limit is 1.6 W/kg. Tests are conducted using standard operating positions. Although SAR is determined at the highest certified power level, the actual SAR level during operation can be well below the maximum value, as the device uses only the power required to reach the network. Generally, proximity to a wireless base station antenna reduces power output. While SAR levels may vary, all devices meet government requirements.

Email: support@rippton.com