DJI Ronin-SC User Manual

Using this Manual

This section provides guidance on how to effectively use this manual.

• Searching for Keywords: Use Ctrl+F (Windows) or Command+F (Mac) to search for specific terms like "battery" or "install".
• Navigating to a Topic: Refer to the table of contents to find and navigate to specific sections.
• Printing this Document: The document supports high-resolution printing.

Legend:

• ⚠️ Warning: Procedures that, if not properly followed, can cause property damage and potential injury.
• ❗ Important: Procedures that, if not properly followed, can cause property damage, collateral damage, serious injury, or high probability of superficial injury.
• ? Hints and tips: Useful suggestions for operation.
• ? Reference: Links or references to other relevant information.

Before You Begin

This manual is designed to help you safely operate and maximize the use of your DJI Ronin-SC. It is recommended to also consult the Ronin-SC Quick Start Guide and the Ronin-SC Disclaimer and Safety Guidelines.

For detailed information, read this entire user manual and watch the informational and tutorial videos available on the DJI official website (http://www.dji.com/ronin-sc). Understanding the disclaimer and safety guidelines is crucial for your legal rights and responsibilities. For any questions or issues regarding installation, maintenance, or use, contact DJI or an authorized DJI dealer.

Download the Ronin App

Search for "Ronin" on the App Store or Google Play to download and install the Ronin App. The app requires iOS 9.0 or above, or Android 5.0 or above.

Introduction

The DJI Ronin-SC is a professional 3-axis single-handed gimbal designed for mirrorless cameras. It offers various operation modes, including SmoothTrack and Lock mode, and a Sport mode for capturing fast-moving scenes. The 360 Roll algorithm allows for smooth rotational footage. The gimbal features 3-axis locks for easier balancing and storage. Users can control gimbal movement and switch profiles with a single button. With included camera control cables, the Ronin-SC can manage shutter, recording, and focus. Accessory ports allow for the attachment of focus wheels and motors. The gimbal and grip are detachable, with the grip housing a 2450 mAh battery providing up to 11 hours of standby time*. The Ronin app enables control over gimbal movement and settings, including intelligent functions like Panorama, Timelapse, Motionlapse, and Motion Control. ActiveTrack 3.0 allows for automatic subject tracking, and Force Mobile enables gimbal control via a mobile phone.

* Standby time tested with a well-balanced Ronin-SC without accessories or camera cables.

Ronin-SC Diagram

The Ronin-SC consists of the following parts:

1. Tilt Motor
2. Tilt Lock
3. Camera Control/Accessories Port (USB-C)
4. Roll Motor
5. Roll Lock
6. Pan Motor
7. Pan Lock
8. Profile LED Indicators
9. Joystick
10. Camera Control Button
11. M Button
12. Battery Level Indicators
13. Battery Level Button
14. Lever
15. Ronin Series Accessories (RSA) Port
16. Safety Lock
17. Camera Mounting Plate
18. Power Port (USB-C)
19. Trigger
20. Tripod
21. Grip (includes 1/4" and 3/8" mounting holes)
22. Power Button

Getting Started

Attaching the Tripod

The tripod provides a stable base for the gimbal. Attach the tripod to the bottom of the grip.

Locking/Unlocking the Gimbal

To lock an axis, toggle its corresponding axis lock to the locked position. To unlock, toggle it to the unlocked position. It is recommended to hold the axis arm while toggling the lock.

• Pan Axis Lock
• Tilt Axis Lock
• Roll Axis Lock

Mounting the Grip

The grip is detachable and can be mounted onto the gimbal.

Mounting the Camera

Supported Cameras and Lenses

The Ronin-SC supports a payload of up to 2.0 kg. Ensure the combined weight of your camera, lens, and accessories does not exceed this limit. For the latest compatibility list, visit the DJI website (www.dji.com/ronin-sc).

Camera Preparation

Before mounting, remove the lens cap and ensure the camera battery and memory card are inserted.

1. The gimbal's three axes are locked by default. Unlock them, adjust the gimbal to the shown position, and re-lock the axes.
2. If necessary, attach the riser plate to the bottom of the camera using a flathead screwdriver. A riser plate is recommended for small, lightweight cameras (e.g., Sony A6300), cameras with large-diameter lenses (e.g., Sony A7M3 with 16-35mm f/2.8 GM lens), or when using a focus motor.
3. Attach the dovetail plate (1) and lens support (2). Position the slider towards the front of the plate. Ensure the camera lens and the arrow on the dovetail plate face the same direction. Mount the camera according to the indicators on the dovetail plate. Use the lens support for optimal performance.
4. Loosen the knob on the camera mounting plate (1) and move it aside. Slide the camera onto the plate (2). Tighten the knob when the camera is centered. Ensure the screw under the dovetail plate is tightened.

Mounting the Phone Holder

The phone holder is required for using ActiveTrack 3.0, Force Mobile, and for using the mobile device as a monitor.

Method 1: For using ActiveTrack 3.0

Attach the phone holder to the camera's hot shoe. Then, select ActiveTrack in the Ronin app. ActiveTrack 3.0 is only available via this method.

1. Detach the bottom of the phone holder by rotating the mounting knob.
2. Attach the phone holder to the camera's hot shoe and secure the mobile phone in the bracket. For ActiveTrack 3.0, the mobile phone must be in landscape mode, with its camera lens positioned as close as possible to the camera lens.
3. Power on the camera and mobile phone. Adjust the mobile phone's view by sliding it left or right and using the angle knob to match your camera's view. Retighten the angle knob after adjustment.

ActiveTrack 3.0 works best in Underslung or Upright modes, not in Flashlight mode. For supported phone models, visit http://www.dji.com/ronin-sc/downloads.

Method 2: For using Force Mobile

Attach the phone holder to a tripod, handlebar, or similar platform. Open Force Mobile in the Ronin app to control gimbal movement by tilting and rotating your phone. Max speed settings affect the rotation ratio between the phone and gimbal. Adjust max speed and smoothing via the control dial for desired sensitivity and responsiveness.

1. Detach the phone holder's bottom by rotating the mounting knob.
2. Attach the phone holder to the tripod or handlebar using the screw hole.
3. Secure the mobile phone in the bracket. Force Mobile requires Portrait mode and is only available on iOS devices.

Method 3: For using mobile phone as a monitor

Install the phone holder to the RSA port on Ronin-SC. Camera parameters can be adjusted via the camera app.*

1. Detach the RSA adapter plate from the phone holder and attach it to the RSA port, securing with screws.
2. Attach the phone holder to the RSA adapter plate and tighten the mounting knob.
3. Secure the mobile phone in the bracket and adjust the viewing angle.

* Using a mobile phone as a monitor requires a compatible camera app (e.g., Sony Imaging Edge Mobile, Panasonic Image App) and a secure Wi-Fi connection.

Camera Connections

Connect the provided camera control cable to the camera control port on the gimbal and camera. The camera control button functions vary by camera model.

After connection and settings confirmation:

• Press halfway to autofocus, similar to a DSLR shutter button.
• Press once to start or stop recording.
• Press and hold to take a photo.

Important Notes:

• Do not plug or unplug the RSS cable while Ronin-SC is powered on to prevent cable damage.
• When using a USB cable, power on Ronin-SC before powering on the camera for camera control to function.
• Playback access may be limited when using the camera control cable (USB-C). Enter sleep mode via the power button to access playback.

Balancing

Proper balancing is essential for optimal performance, especially for shots requiring fast motion or acceleration, and contributes to longer battery life. Balance all three axes before powering on Ronin-SC and setting up the software.

Before Balancing

1. Ensure the camera is fully configured with all accessories and cables connected. Remove the lens cap.
2. If using an optical zoom lens, power on the camera. If using a varifocal lens, select the focal length. Ensure Ronin-SC is powered off or in sleep mode.
3. Mount all accessories, such as the phone holder or focus motor, before balancing. Refer to accessory manuals for details.
4. The balancing process is consistent whether a phone holder and mobile phone are mounted or not, unless otherwise specified.

1. Balancing Depth for the Tilt Axis

1. Unlock the tilt axis and lower the camera by loosening the tilt axis knob.
2. Rotate the tilt axis so the camera lens points forward. Check for front-heaviness or back-heaviness. Adjust the camera position forward or backward accordingly.
3. Loosen the knob under the camera mounting plate and adjust the camera balance until it is steady.
4. Tighten the tilt axis knob.

2. Balancing the Vertical Tilt

1. Rotate the tilt axis so the camera lens points upward. If a phone holder and mobile phone are attached, tilt the camera lens up to approximately 45°. Ensure the camera is not top- or bottom-heavy. If tilted, adjust the tilt arm.
2. Loosen the knob on the tilt motor and adjust the camera balance until it remains steady.
3. Tighten the tilt axis knob.
4. Repeat Step 1 to balance the tilt axis depth. Use the slider on the dovetail plate to record the balance position. Move the slider next to the mounting plate and tighten it.

3. Balancing the Roll Axis

1. Lock the tilt axis and unlock the roll axis. Observe the roll motor's swing direction. If the camera rotates left, move it right; if it rotates right, move it left.
2. Loosen the knob on the camera mounting plate and adjust its position until the camera is steady.
3. Tighten the roll axis knob. If the camera moves forward, move it back until the slider is next to the mounting plate.

4. Balancing the Pan Axis

1. Unlock the pan axis. Hold the grip and tilt Ronin-SC sideways to check the pan axis movement. If the camera lens rotates downward, push the pan axis back. If it rotates upward, push it forward.
2. Loosen the knob on the pan motor and adjust the camera balance until it is steady when rotating the pan while lifting the grip.
3. Tighten the pan axis knob.

Note: Gimbal knobs can be pulled out and repositioned if obstructed. Counterweights may be required for longer camera systems and will be sold separately.

Grip and Built-In Battery

The grip is designed for handheld use and contains a 2450 mAh battery, offering up to 11 hours of maximum standby time when the Ronin-SC is properly balanced.

Charging

The battery must be charged to activate before first use. Battery level indicators will light up upon successful activation. Charge the grip via the power port using the included power cable and a compatible USB adapter (5V/2A recommended).

Using the Grip

During charging, battery level indicators show the charge status. When not charging, press the battery level button to check the battery level.

Safety Guidelines

The following terms indicate potential hazards:

• NOTICE: Procedures that, if not followed, may cause property damage and minimal injury risk.
• WARNING: Procedures that, if not followed, may cause property damage, collateral damage, serious injury, or a high probability of superficial injury.

General Safety Precautions

Read the user manual thoroughly before operating. Incorrect operation can lead to product damage, personal property damage, and serious injury. This is a sophisticated product requiring caution, common sense, and basic mechanical ability. Operate responsibly to avoid injury or damage.

• This product is not intended for unsupervised use by children.
• Do not use incompatible components or alter the product.
• Follow all safety, operation, and maintenance instructions in the user manual.

Grip Use Safety

• Keep the grip away from liquids and moisture. Do not drop it into water, as battery damage could occur, potentially leading to fire or explosion.
• If the grip accidentally falls into water, place it in a safe, open area and maintain a safe distance until it is completely dry. Do not use it again and dispose of it properly.
• Use water, sand, or a dry powder fire extinguisher for fires.
• Only use genuine DJI batteries. DJI is not responsible for damage caused by non-DJI batteries.
• Do not use or charge a swollen, leaky, or damaged grip. Contact DJI or an authorized dealer if the grip is abnormal.
• Operate the grip within temperatures of -20°C to 45°C (-4°F to 113°F). Temperatures above 50°C (122°F) can cause fire or explosion. Temperatures below -10°C (14°F) can cause permanent damage.
• Avoid strong electrostatic or electromagnetic environments, which can cause battery control board malfunction.
• Do not disassemble, pierce, or strike the grip or its battery. Do not place heavy objects on the grip or charger.
• Battery electrolytes are corrosive. If contact occurs with skin or eyes, wash immediately with fresh running water for at least 15 minutes and seek medical attention.
• Do not heat batteries or place the grip in a microwave or pressurized container.
• Do not manually short-circuit the grip.
• Clean grip terminals with a clean, dry cloth.

Grip Charging Safety

• Do not leave the grip unattended during charging.
• Do not charge near flammable materials or surfaces.
• Allow the grip to cool down to near room temperature before charging after use.
• Charging outside the temperature range of 5°C to 40°C (41°F to 104°F) may cause leakage, overheating, or battery damage. The ideal charging temperature is 22°C to 28°C (72°F to 82°F).

Grip Storage Safety

• Keep the grip out of reach of children and animals.
• For extended storage, charge the grip to 30%-50% battery level.
• Avoid storing the grip near heat sources or in vehicles on hot days. Ideal storage temperature is 22°C to 28°C (72°F to 82°F).
• Keep the grip dry.

Grip Maintenance

• Avoid using the grip in extreme temperatures.
• Do not store the battery in environments above 45°C (113°F) or below 0°C (32°F).

Travel Notice

• For airline travel, discharge the battery to below 30% in a fireproof location and store in a ventilated area.
• Keep the grip away from metal objects like jewelry and watches.
• Do not transport a damaged grip or one with a battery level above 30%.

Grip Disposal

Dispose of the grip in designated recycling containers after complete discharge. Do not place in regular trash. Follow local regulations for battery disposal.

Grip Use (Post-Storage/Maintenance)

• Ensure the grip is fully charged before use.
• If a low-battery warning appears, stop using the grip immediately.

Grip Charging (Post-Storage/Maintenance)

• The grip stops charging when full. Monitor charging and disconnect when complete.

Grip Storage (Post-Storage/Maintenance)

• For storage longer than 10 days, discharge to 40%-65% to extend battery life.
• If the battery depletes during storage, the grip enters sleep mode; recharge to exit.
• Remove the grip from the gimbal for extended storage.

Grip Maintenance (Post-Storage/Maintenance)

• Battery life may decrease with extended non-use.
• Discharge and charge the grip fully every three months for optimal condition.

Grip Disposal (Post-Storage/Maintenance)

• If the grip is disabled and the battery cannot be discharged, contact a professional disposal/recycling agent.
• Dispose of the grip immediately if it cannot power on after over-discharging.

Operation

Activating Ronin-SC

Activation via the Ronin app is required before first use.

1. Press and hold the power button to turn on the gimbal.
2. Enable Bluetooth on your mobile device and launch the Ronin app. A DJI account is necessary. Select Ronin-SC from the device list and enter the default Bluetooth password: 12345678. (Press the M button six times to restore the default password).
3. Ensure an internet connection and follow the on-screen instructions for activation.

Ronin App Settings

After balancing and powering on Ronin-SC, adjust gimbal settings via the Ronin App. The following describes app interface elements:

• Top Bar:
• Sleep/Wake: Tap to enter/exit sleep mode (motors off, gimbal powered).
• M1: Displays the current user profile.
• Battery Level: Shows the gimbal's battery status.
• About: Access account details, quick start guide, device list, and firmware version.
• Academy: View tutorials and read manual documents.
• Create Virtual Joystick: Use the on-screen joystick to control gimbal movement and shooting.
• 1. Control Dial: Adjusts max speed and smoothing for gimbal control.
• 2. Roll Stick: Controls roll axis movement.
• 3. Pan/Tilt Stick: Controls pan and tilt axis movement.
• 4. Shoot/Record Button: Tap to take photos or record video.
• 5. Photo/Video Toggle: Switches between photo and video modes.
• 6. Recenter: Resets the gimbal to its neutral position.

ActiveTrack 3.0

ActiveTrack 3.0 uses deep learning algorithms for tracking human subjects. Mount the phone holder and mobile phone on the camera to use this feature.

1. Select the subject: Press the trigger once when the subject is in the selection box, or select it on the screen.
2. Control gimbal and adjust subject position using the joystick. Press the trigger twice to center the subject.
3. Change tracking speed: Tap the icon in the lower left corner. Use 'Fast' for fast-moving subjects or 'Slow' for slow-moving ones.
4. Record video: Tap the record button. Note that only the camera records video; the mobile phone does not. Ensure a camera control cable is connected.
5. Stop tracking: Press the trigger once or the upper left icon.

To track with the camera in a lower position, enter sleep mode (power button once), place Ronin-SC in Underslung mode, then exit sleep mode (power button once) to use ActiveTrack 3.0.

For best results, use ActiveTrack 3.0 in environments with plain backgrounds and fewer subjects.

Force Mobile

Requires the phone holder and a mounted mobile phone. Enable Force Mobile in the Ronin app to control gimbal movement by tilting and rotating your phone. Max speed settings influence the rotation ratio. Adjust max speed and smoothing via the control dial.

Panorama

Capture a series of interconnected images. Ensure the camera and gimbal are connected via the appropriate cable. Set overlap value to 30%. The delay parameter should be one second longer than the shutter time to prevent blur. Adjust the panorama range by dragging dots on the grid map. The tilt axis range is ±45°, and the pan axis allows for 360° rotation.

Timelapse

In Timelapse mode, Ronin-SC captures still images at a set interval time and stops automatically upon completion. Content duration and frame rate can be set to calculate the required number of images.

Push Mode: Manually adjust pan and tilt axes before launching Timelapse by pushing Ronin-SC to alter camera orientation and framing. The virtual joystick can also be used.

Motionlapse

Set up to five waypoints for camera movement during Timelapse. Adjust waypoint positions by tapping and pushing axes or using the virtual joystick. Add waypoints using the '+' icon and delete them via the trash icon. Preview or start shooting after setting waypoints. Ensure camera and gimbal are connected.

Motion Control

Capture video with up to 10 repeatable waypoints. Set travel time between waypoints. Select waypoints by moving the gimbal or using the virtual joystick. The duration parameter indicates travel time between waypoints, and Stay Time determines how long the gimbal remains steady at each waypoint.

Balance Adjustment & Motor Parameters

Balance Adjustment

Tap 'Begin Test' to check the balance status for each axis. Ensure the gimbal is unobstructed during the test and follow on-screen instructions.

Motor Parameters (Auto Tune)

Auto Tune determines motor stiffness based on gimbal payload. Run Auto Tune via the app or by pressing the M button and trigger simultaneously for four seconds. The process takes 15-30 seconds. If the gimbal is balanced, motor power values should be within ±5. If power consumption exceeds this range, check mechanical balance.

Stiffness: Adjust motor stiffness to fine-tune power for stability. Excessive stiffness may cause shaking; insufficient stiffness may affect performance. Ensure axes are unlocked and Ronin-SC is on a steady surface in Upright mode when using Auto Tune. Re-tune stiffness values whenever the camera or lens changes.

User Profile

Save up to three custom user profiles for settings.

Gimbal Follow Mode

• Pan and Tilt Follow: Pan and tilt axes follow grip movement.
• Pan Follow: Only the pan axis follows grip movement.
• FPV: Pan, tilt, and roll axes follow grip movement.
• Custom: Manually set which axis follows grip movement using blue arrows.
• 3D Roll 360: Allows 360° camera rotation at any attitude.
• Speed: Controls the camera's travel speed during pan, tilt, or roll movements.
• Deadband: Sets the tolerance for gimbal movement before translating to camera motion.
• Push: Allows manual adjustment of gimbal axes after enabling Push mode.

Control Settings

Channels

Channel indicators provide feedback for remote operation. Pan, tilt, and roll channels can be reassigned and inverted. Default mapping is CH1 to tilt and CH3 to pan. Customize channel mapping by tapping axis names.

Motion

Adjust joystick control via deadband, max speed, smoothing, and endpoints for each axis. Three default profiles are available.

• Deadband: Increases required stick movement for gimbal translation.
• Max Speed: Adjusts remote-controlled rotational speed.
• Smoothing: Controls gimbal sensitivity; lower values increase sensitivity.
• Endpoint: Limits rotational range. Pan axis allows continuous rotation (180° endpoints). Tilt axis endpoints can be set to prevent lens collision.

Status

Displays gimbal status information. Options include:

• Motor Pause: Powers off motors.
• Disable Selfie Mode: Prevents accidental activation of selfie mode.
• System Calibration: Use if gimbal drifts. Follow on-screen instructions.
• Restore Gimbal Setup: Resets motor parameters, follow mode, and control settings to default.

Button Features

• Power Button: Press and hold to turn Ronin-SC on/off. Tap to enter/exit sleep mode.
• M Button: Tap to select a user profile. Press and hold to enter Sport mode. Press six times to restore default Bluetooth password.
• Sport Lock: Hold M Button and double-tap trigger to enter/stay in Sport Mode. Repeat to exit.
• Joystick: Controls tilt (up/down) and pan (left/right) axes. Adjust parameters in the Ronin app.
• Camera Control Button: Half-press for autofocus, press to start/stop recording, press and hold to take a photo. Refer to the DJI website for the latest Camera Compatibility List.
• Trigger: Press and hold for Lock mode. Double-tap to recenter the gimbal. Triple-tap to rotate the gimbal 180°. Press and hold four times to begin Joystick Calibration.

Joystick Calibration: Required if the gimbal drifts. Push and pull the joystick in all directions. Press and hold the trigger again to complete. A solid red LED indicates calibration failure.

Operation Modes

Ronin-SC offers three operation modes:

• Upright mode
• Underslung mode
• Flashlight mode

Roll 360 is available in Flashlight mode, allowing continuous roll rotation via the pan axis slip-ring.

To set up Roll 360:

1. Connect to Ronin-SC via the Ronin app.
2. In Channels settings, remap CH3 to the roll axis (default is pan) and set CH1 to N/A.
3. Hold Ronin-SC in Flashlight mode, double-tap the trigger to re-center. Push the joystick left/right for continuous rolling. Double-push left/right to rotate the camera automatically. Double-tap the trigger to stop rotation.
4. 3D Roll 360: Select this option in the User Profile screen in the Ronin app. Ensure the camera is unobstructed.

Updating Firmware

Update firmware via the Ronin app. On-screen alerts will notify you of available updates. Follow the instructions.

Maintenance

Ronin-SC is not waterproof. Protect it from dust and water. Wipe with a soft, dry cloth after use. Do not spray cleaning liquids.

Specification

DJI Support

For support and the latest version of this document, visit http://www.dji.com/support or http://www.dji.com/ronin-sc. For questions, contact DocSupport@dji.com.

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