Introduction
Welcome to the AMAX PA-1003 HD Streaming Video Drone. This instruction booklet contains valuable information on how to properly fly and care for your PA-1003.
Package Contains:
- PA-1003 Drone
- 2.4G Wireless Controller
- USB Charger
- Phone Holder
- Battery
- Instruction Manual
- Spare Parts (e.g., propellers)
Colors and styles may vary slightly.
Features
- Compact fold-in design for easy portability.
- New obstacle avoidance training feature that allows the drone to automatically circumvent walls and obstructions, aiding new pilots.
- Air pressure sensor locks flight altitude for stable video footage.
- On-board HD Camera for taking video and still shots.
- 6-axis gyro for extremely stable flight and maneuverability.
Getting Started
Remote Control Battery Installation
To install batteries in the remote controller:
- Unscrew and remove the battery cover from the back of the controller.
- Install 3 fresh "AAA" alkaline batteries into the controller, observing correct polarity. (Diagram A: Battery Compartment shows placement for 3 "AAA" batteries, not included).
- Replace the battery cover and secure it.
- Turn the controller over and press the power button. If the power indicator turns on, the batteries are installed correctly.
Charging the PA-1003 Li-Poly Battery
Important: Always unplug the charging cord when not in use.
- Connect the USB charger to the battery charging socket (Diagram B: USB Charger Connection). Caution: The USB plug fits only one way; do not force it to prevent battery damage.
- Connect the USB end of the cable to your computer's USB port or a USB wall charger (Diagram C: USB Power Source).
- The indicator light on the USB charger will turn solid red while charging. The red LED indicator will turn off when charging is complete.
- Average charging time is approximately 50-60 minutes (using a 5.0V, 2A USB wall charger). A fully charged PA-1003 can fly for 5-6 minutes depending on the environment and user input.
Installing the PA-1003 Battery
Push the fully charged battery into the battery compartment until it locks. The battery fits only one way; do not force it. (Diagram D: Installing Battery shows the process).
Expanding and Folding the PA-1003
Before flying, expand the foldable arms. Turn the drone over, bottom side facing you, and carefully pull and expand all 4 arms until they are fully extended. After flying, it is recommended to fold all 4 arms back in. Be gentle when expanding or folding the drone. (Diagram E: Expanding/Folding Arms illustrates this).
PA-1003 Diagram
The drone features propellers, a power button, and a camera.
Controller Diagram
The controller includes a speed setting button, 360° stunt rolls button, power indicator, ON/OFF power switch, direction control sticks, throttle/yaw control, forward/backward trim, left/right bank trim, and an auto start/land button.
Flight Preparation
- Ensure the remote control has 3 "AAA" batteries and the PA-1003 battery is fully charged.
- Fly in a large, open space, preferably a field or park with at least 200 feet of clear radius.
- Start your drone on a clean, flat, level surface before takeoff.
- Important: For beginners, it is advised to fly in zero or extremely light wind conditions. Avoid flying in any rate of wind until you gain experience.
Syncing Your PA-1003
Important: Ensure the drone is on a flat level surface and digital trim settings are centered before syncing.
- Turn off the controller and remove the PA-1003 battery. Ensure no other 2.4G devices are active nearby.
- Insert the battery into the PA-1003 and place it on a flat level surface. Press and hold the drone's power button for a few seconds (Diagram F: Syncing Drone). The drone's LED lights should begin to flash.
- Turn ON the remote controller. The top red LED light on the controller should illuminate.
- Push the throttle stick all the way up until it stops, then pull it all the way down. You should hear a high-pitched beep in both directions. The drone and controller lights will stop flashing and become solid, indicating a successful sync. If syncing fails, repeat steps 1-4.
Tips:
- Minimize the time between inserting the drone battery and turning on the controller to avoid a sync timeout.
- Syncing indoors or in shade can make it easier to see the LED indicators.
Flying the Drone
Recognizing the Front & Rear of the PA-1003
The front of the PA-1003 is identified by the camera, while the rear has a red light. (Diagram G: Front/Rear Identification shows this).
Starting/Stopping the Rotors
You can start/stop rotors manually or automatically.
- Manual Start/Stop: To start, move both control sticks down and out (Diagram H1: Manual Start). Hold until rotors spin, then release sticks to neutral and push throttle up to take off. To stop immediately, move both sticks down and in (Diagram H2: Manual Stop). After takeoff, pulling the throttle all the way down will land the drone.
- Auto Start/Land: Press the AUTO START/LAND button on the controller for automatic takeoff or landing (Diagram H3: Auto Start/Land). You can still control direction during auto operations to avoid obstacles.
Speed Select Button
The PA-1003 has four speed settings: T (Training), 1 (SLOW), 2 (MEDIUM), and 3 (HIGH). The default is SLOW. Press the speed setting button to cycle through speeds; beeps indicate the current setting.
T (Training) Mode & Obstacle Avoidance
Press and hold the Speed Button for 2 seconds to enter T Mode (indicated by a long beep). T Mode offers very slow flight speeds with set height limits. The obstacle avoidance feature is active in T Mode, allowing the drone to automatically circumvent obstacles.
Flight Control
Learn basic flight functions using the remote controller. Start in a large open space with the drone facing away from you.
- Ascend/Descend: Move the left throttle stick up to increase propeller speed and ascend; move it down to decrease speed and descend. (Diagram I: Ascend/Descend).
- Rotate Left/Right: Move the left throttle stick left to rotate left; move it right to rotate right. (Diagram J: Rotate Left/Right).
- Move Forward/Backward: Move the right direction stick up to move forward; move it down to move backward. (Diagram K: Move Forward/Backward).
- Bank Left/Right: Move the right direction control left to bank left; move it right to bank right. (Diagram L: Bank Left/Right).
Flight Practice
Practice simple takeoffs, landings, and turns. Progress to square and cross pattern maneuvers for mastery. (Illustrations show Fixed-Point Landing, Square Pattern Maneuver, and Cross Pattern Maneuver).
Adjusting the Trim
The drone is pre-trimmed, but adjustments may be needed after crashes or for fine-tuning flight style.
- Forward/Backward Trim: If the drone drifts forward or backward, use the FORWARD/BACKWARD TRIM buttons. Push and release the BACKWARD TRIM button if it drifts forward; push and release the FORWARD TRIM button if it drifts backward until stable. (Diagram M: Forward/Backward Trim).
- Left/Right Bank Trim: If the drone banks left or right automatically, use the LEFT BANK or RIGHT BANK TRIM buttons. Push and release the RIGHT BANK TRIM button if it banks left; push and release the LEFT BANK TRIM button if it banks right until stable. (Diagram N: Left/Right Bank Trim).
A single long beep from the trim buttons indicates center trim. No sound means maximum trim on that side.
Calibrating the PA-1003
If the drone drifts or fails to hold its center position after crashes or shocks, recalibration may be necessary.
- Place the PA-1003 on a flat level surface.
- Ensure the PA-1003 is on and the controller is synced. Do not start the blades. Move both throttles and control sticks down and to the right corner (Diagram R: Calibration). The drone's lights will flash rapidly and then stop, indicating calibration is complete.
Troubleshooting Sync/Calibration: If lights don't flash during calibration, remove the drone battery, turn off the controller, and restart. Ensure the battery is inserted first, then the controller is turned on. Push the left throttle stick up and then down; a beep confirms sync and readiness for calibration.
Performing 360° Stunt Rolls
- Hover the PA-1003 at least 5 feet above and below any obstacles. Set speed to mode 2 or 3 (stunts are not available in T Mode or SLOW).
- Press the 360° Stunt Roll button (Diagram S: Stunt Roll Button). Rapid beeping sounds indicate stunt mode entry.
- Quickly push the right control stick in the desired direction to flip the drone. (Diagram T: Stunt Roll Direction).
To exit stunt roll mode without flipping, press the button again.
Camera Operation
Using Your On-Board Camera and Video Recorder
The PA-1003 features an onboard digital camera (1280x720 pixels, 30 frames per second) for aerial photography and videography.
What You Will Need
- One microSD card (not included).
- One microSD card reader (included).
- A computer with a USB port and media player capable of playing AVI files.
Formatting Your microSD Card
Before use, format your microSD card. Insert it into the USB SD card reader and connect to your computer (Diagram U1 & U2: microSD Card Formatting). Follow computer instructions to format the card.
Installing the microSD Card
Place the formatted microSD card into the PA-1003's SD card port until it clicks. Ensure the drone is powered on and synced. (Diagram U3: Installing microSD shows placement).
Taking Digital Photos
Short press the CAMERA button on the controller. A "beep" and a single flash of the red and white LED lights indicate a photo has been taken.
Recording Videos
Long press the CAMERA button for 2 seconds to start recording. Two "beeps" and flashing camera LEDs indicate video mode. Long press again to stop recording; a "beep" confirms the video has stopped.
Removing Your microSD Card
Gently push the SD card in until it pops out slightly, then pull it out. Store the card safely.
Downloading and Clearing Space
Connect the microSD card reader to your computer to download videos and pictures. Delete files from the card after downloading.
App and Connectivity
Live Video Streaming Setup
The drone can stream video and photos to your mobile devices.
What You Will Need
- One Apple or Android phone (not included).
- The Voyage1003 APP installed from the app store or Android market.
Phone Holder and Phone Installation
Attach the phone holder hook to the slots on top of the controller. Place your smartphone securely in the holder. (Diagram U4: Phone Holder shows attachment).
PA-1003 WiFi App Installation
- Ensure you are using a compatible Android™ or Apple® iOS device with internet access.
- For iOS: Search for "voyage1003" in the App Store and install.
- For Android: Visit the Google Play store, search for "voyage1003", and install.
- After installation, open the "voyage1003" app icon to verify correct installation.
Pairing PA-1003 to Your Compatible Device
- Ensure the PA-1003 battery is fully charged and installed.
- On your device, go to Settings and turn on Wi-Fi.
- Select the "Voyage" Wi-Fi network. Enter the provided 8-digit password to connect.
Note: Apple® devices require iOS 7.0+; Android™ devices require OS 4.2.2+.
Quick Start (App Control)
- Open the "voyage1003" app and tap "START". You should see a real-time video stream from the drone's camera.
- To control the drone via the app, tap the "ON" button to activate control sticks. Tap the "LAUNCH" icon to start motors or auto-launch the drone. Tap again to auto-land.
- Tap the camera icon ? to take still pictures. Tap the video icon ▶️ to record videos. Both are stored on your mobile device. Tap the folder icon ? to view pictures and videos.
Detailed App Overview
The app provides various functions accessible via menus and icons. Key sections include the Home Page (showing drone status), Control Sticks for flight, and Help Pages detailing app features and drone operations. Camera settings allow for photo and video adjustments.
Troubleshooting
PROBLEM | POSSIBLE CAUSE | POSSIBLE SOLUTION |
---|---|---|
No Power | 1. Power switched off 2. Polarity reversed 3. Batteries low or need charging | 1. Switch ON/OFF to ON. 2. Ensure batteries are installed correctly (Diagram A). 3. Replace batteries. |
Aircraft Not Responding | 1. Remote switched off 2. Weak remote battery 3. Remote not synced 4. Out of control range | 1. Turn PA-1003 ON/OFF switch to ON. 2. Replace remote batteries. 3. Re-sync the remote. 4. Do not fly beyond 500 feet. |
Aircraft Won't Lift Off | 1. Rotor speed too slow 2. Aircraft not fully charged 3. Obstruction of rotors | 1. Push throttle lever forward. 2. Recharge PA-1003. 3. Check rotors for obstructions. |
Aircraft Spins, Cannot Be Trimmed | Rotor deformation or bad motor | Replace the damaged rotor. Consult customer service if needed. |
Aircraft Tilt to One Direction | Aircraft did not calibrate properly | Restart aircraft and controller, then calibrate on a flat surface. |
Altitude Hold Height Unstable | Aircraft vibrates too much | Check propeller deformation. |
Replacing the Propeller Blades
The PA-1003 propeller system requires precision. Propellers may need replacement due to damage from crash landings.
- The drone has four sets of blades: two marked A & B on the front, and two marked B & A on the rear (Diagram V: Propeller Blades).
- Match the indication markings on the new blades to the old ones during replacement.
- Unscrew and remove the damaged blade.
- Replace with the correct new blade. (Blade Front Left = A, Blade Front Right = B, Blade Back Left = B, Blade Back Right = A).
Blade Guard Installation
Blade guards are recommended for beginners for safety. Attach the 4 blade guards to each landing gear. (Diagram W: Blade Guard Installation shows the process).
Warnings and Maintenance
PA-1003 Warnings
- The PA-1003 is designed for indoor and outdoor use. Its high-speed revolving blades can cause damage to users, spectators, and animals. Maintain a safe distance. Warn spectators of your flight.
- WARNING! Choking/Cutting Hazard: Small Parts/Sharp Rotor Blades. Keep hands, hair, and loose clothing away from propellers when the drone is powered ON.
- Turn off the transmitter and drone when not in use.
- Use only the included charger for the PA-1003 Li-Poly battery.
- New alkaline batteries are recommended for maximum performance.
- Parental supervision is recommended when flying the PA-1003.
Battery Warnings
- Rechargeable Battery: The PA-1003 uses a Li-Poly rechargeable battery. Dispose of batteries properly according to local requirements if they no longer hold a charge.
- Controller Batteries: Requires 3 "AAA" batteries (not included). Follow battery safety guidelines: do not mix battery types (alkaline, carbon-zinc, NiMH), do not mix old and new batteries, non-rechargeable batteries are not to be recharged, rechargeable batteries must be removed before charging and charged under adult supervision. Dispose of exhausted batteries properly and do not short-circuit terminals. Use only recommended battery types and insert with correct polarity. Do not dispose of batteries in fire.
Care and Maintenance
- Always remove batteries from the remote control when not in use for extended periods.
- Clean the remote control and drone with a clean, damp cloth.
- Keep the toy away from direct heat or sunlight.
- Do not submerge the toy in water, as this can cause irreparable damage.
- Parental guidance is recommended when installing or replacing batteries.
Warranty and Support
Limited 90-Day Warranty (North America)
AMAX Group USA warrants this product against electrical or mechanical defects for 90 days from the purchase date. For warranty service, the unit must be shipped postage prepaid and insured to the warranty center with the original receipt. The warranty covers normal consumer use and excludes damage from alterations, accident, misuse, neglect, wear and tear, inadequate maintenance, commercial use, or unreasonable use. Removal of parts voids the warranty. Implied warranties are limited to 90 days. Consequential or incidental damages are excluded.
Repair/Replace Product
If the product malfunctions, contact the warranty center. If a return is necessary, a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number and form will be issued. AMAX reserves the right to repair, replace, or refund the product.
Important Notice: Returns
Returns without an AMAX-issued RMA form and number will be rejected. Contact the warranty center before returning.
Preparation for Shipping Your Product
Repack the product securely, preferably in its original carton. Include the RMA form, your daytime telephone number, and email address. For service after warranty expiration, contact customer care at customercare@amaxbrands.com.
FCC Part 15 C Notice
This equipment complies with FCC Part 15 rules for Class B digital devices. It is designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference. Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the responsible party could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.
IC Radiation Exposure Statement
This equipment complies with IC radiation exposure limits for uncontrolled environments. Maintain a minimum distance of 20cm between the radiator and your body.
Safety Warnings
WARNING! CHOKING HAZARD – Small parts. Not suitable for children under 3 years.
Trademarks and Compliance
Requires Speed Class 6 or higher microSD or microSDHC card (not included). microSDHC Logo is a trademark of SD-3C, LLC. Conforms to safety requirements of FCC. Voyage Aeronautics™ is a registered trademark of AMAX Industrial Group LTD. AMAX Group USA Address: 12645 Memorial Dr Suite FI #388 Houston, TX 77024. © 2020 All Rights Reserved. Visit www.amaxbrands.com. Made in China.