Potensic Atom SE User Manual

1. Disclaimer & Precautions

1.1 Disclaimer

Drones are complex products with potential dangers. Thoroughly read this User Manual to grasp basic knowledge and familiarize yourself with the drone's functions. For initial use of ATOM SE, operate in GPS mode in a spacious outdoor area. Adhere strictly to operational instructions and precautions for safe and correct usage. Users below 16 require adult supervision and the product should be kept out of reach of children. Potensic disclaims responsibility for losses resulting from failure to follow safety guidelines. Do not dismantle or modify the product without official guidance. For assistance, contact your local dealer or Potensic. Information is subject to change without notice. Latest updates available at www.potensic.com.

1.2 Safety Precautions

• Keep away from obstacles and crowds: Maintain distance from crowded areas, high-rise buildings, and high-voltage cables. Avoid severe weather (strong winds, heavy rain, thunderstorms) as it may cause unpredictable flight behavior.
• Keep off moisture: Prevent humidity damage to electronic and mechanical parts.
• Safe operation: Operate when not fatigued or in poor mental condition. Refit or repair with original parts. Operate within specified limits and adhere to local safety regulations.
• Keep away from high-speed revolving parts: Avoid contact with spinning propellers to prevent scratches or disturbances.
• Keep away from heat source: Prevent anomalies, deformation, or damage from heat and high-temperature exposure.

1.3 Warning & Prompts

1. Keep the package and manual secure.
2. Users are responsible for ensuring the drone's use does not harm others or property.
3. Potensic and dealers are not liable for losses from improper use.
4. Follow manual steps for installation and testing. Maintain a 1-2 meter distance from people during flight to prevent collisions.
5. Adult assembly required. Users under 16 need supervision. Charge battery under adult supervision, away from flammable materials.
6. Product contains small parts; keep out of reach of children.
7. Do not operate over roads or standing water.
8. Do not dismantle or refit the product (except propellers) as it may cause malfunctions.
9. Recharge battery with FCC/CE conforming USB charger.
10. Remote controller has a built-in 3.7V lithium battery.
11. Do not short-circuit or squeeze the battery.
12. Do not place battery in hot places.
13. Maintain safe distance from spinning propellers; avoid use in crowds.
14. Do not use in places with strong magnetic fields (e.g., near high-voltage cables, metal structures) as it may compromise connection stability.
15. Understand and comply with local laws and regulations.
16. Suspend remote controller use as instructed during periods of radio control order issuance by national authorities.
17. Refrain from flying at low altitudes over water surfaces.
18. Stay away from airports, flight paths, and restricted areas.

2. Reading Tips

2.1 Legend

• Prohibited: ❌
• Important: ⚠️
• Operation & use prompts: ?
• Technical Terms and reference information: ℹ️

2.2 Suggestions of Use

1. Watch the tutorial video and Quick Start Guide before reading the Manual.
2. Read the Disclaimer & Precautions section first.

2.3 Tutorial Video / Download App

Scan the QR code to:

• Download PotensicPro App.
• Watch tutorial videos.
• Access the latest User Manual.
• Learn about FAQs.

2.4 Registration & Help

An account is required for the best App experience. Registration involves entering email, setting a password, agreeing to protocols, and registering. An internet connection is needed. For help, contact support@potensic.com with your order ID and issue details.

2.5 Technical Terms

3. Overview

3.1 Introduction

The Atom SE features foldable arms for portability and weighs less than 250g. It includes a Vision Positioning System for precise hovering indoors and outdoors, and a GPS sensor for positioning and auto return. The camera is a 1/3-inch Sony CMOS sensor capturing 4K/30FPS video and 12MP photos, with ShakeVanish™™ EIS. The remote controller uses PixSync™™ 2.0 2.4G transmission for up to 4km range and 720P video. It has a retractable design for mobile devices and a 2.3-hour battery life. The drone uses SurgeFly™ flight control for speeds up to 16m/s and a 31-minute flight time, with wind resistance up to Level 5.

3.2 Drone Diagram

A diagram of the Potensic Atom SE drone with numbered callouts indicating: 1. Charging indicator, 2. TYPE-C charging port, 3. Battery buckle, 4. SD card slot, 5. Tail indicator, 6. Monocular visual module, 7. TOF module, 8. Bottom cooling hole, 9. Power indicator, 10. Power/frequency pairing button, 11. Integrated single-axis gimbal camera, 12. Brushless motor, 13. Propeller, 14. Arm, 15. Antenna tripod, 16. Arm shaft.

3.3 Remote Controller Diagram

A diagram of the Potensic Atom SE remote controller with numbered callouts indicating: 1. Power button, 2. Power indicator, 3. Control stick slot, 4. TYPE-C interface, 5. RTH/Pause button, 6. Control stick, 7. Foldable double antennas, 8. Placement for mobile device, 9. Shoot button, 10. Record button, 11. Thumbwheel.

3.4 Preparing the Drone

Unfold the drone by unfolding the front arm before the rear arm, then unfold the propeller blades.

3.5 Preparing the Remote Controller

Installation involves unfolding the antenna, connecting the mobile phone via USB cable to the controller, opening the controller to fix the phone, connecting the other USB cable end to the controller, taking out and screwing in the control sticks.

3.6 Charging / Startup and Shutdown

Charging: Use a FCC/CE conforming USB charger for the TYPE-C port. The red indicator stays on during charging and turns off when complete. A Parallel Charging HUB can charge multiple batteries and the remote controller. Charging time is approx. 1h 25min with 5V/3A output. Remove the battery from the drone for charging. Do not charge if the battery is too hot. Charge every three months to maintain cell activity. Use a cable supporting over 3A current.

Startup:

• Drone: Insert battery, short press then long press power button until indicators are on.
• Remote controller: Long press power button until indicators are on.

Shutdown:

• Drone: Short press then long press power button until indicators are off.
• Remote controller: Long press power button until indicators are off.

4. Drone

4.1 Positioning

The Atom SE uses SurgeFly™ flight control with two positioning modes: GPS positioning for precise navigation, hovering, and auto return; and Vision positioning using the Downward Vision System for high-precision hovering indoors or without GPS. The system automatically switches modes. If both fail, it defaults to Attitude Mode, requiring manual control. In OPTI Mode (Vision Positioning), Intelligent Flight Modes are unavailable. ATTI Mode increases handling difficulty.

4.2 Downward Vision System

Located beneath the drone, this system uses a monocular camera and a TOF module to calculate altitude and aid high-precision positioning at low altitudes. It works best between 0.3-5m altitude with a range of 0.3-10m. It enables positioning when GPS is unavailable if the surface is discernible and well-lit. If altitude exceeds 5m, it enters ATTI Mode. The tail indicator blinks cyan twice when the system is working. Flight speed is limited for accuracy.

4.3 Drone Status Indicator

A table details indicator lights for: Startup/Shutdown (Green solid), Flight Status (GPS: green flash, Vision: cyan flash, Attitude: blue flash, Return: red flash), Warning & Error (Connection loss: blue solid, Low battery: red quick flash, Sensor error: red solid, Emergency stop: red brief flashes), and Upgrade & Calibration (Compass horizontal: red/green alternate flash, Compass vertical: blue/green alternate flash, Frequency pairing: green quick flash, Upgrade mode: blue quick flash).

4.4 Smart Battery

4.4.1 Function

The Atom SE smart battery (Model: DSBT02A) has 2 series cells, 2500mAh capacity, 7.2V rated voltage, and 8.4V charge completion voltage. Charging modes include TYPE-C (5V/3A) and Parallel Charging HUB (8V/2.2A x 3). Functions include balance, auto-discharge (to 50-70% after 5 days idle), overcharge, temperature (0-40°C), auto-limit charging current, over-discharge (Hibernation mode), short-circuit protection, battery health monitoring, and communication with the drone/App. If not used for a long time, charge every three months. Store in a cool, dry place.

4.4.2 Battery Installation & Removal

Insert battery into compartment and secure buckle until it clicks. Remove by pressing the buckle. Ensure buckle is snapped back for safety.

4.4.3 Charging

Refer to section 3.6.

4.4.4 View Power Level

After inserting the battery, short press the power button to view power level via 4 LEDs. A table shows LED states corresponding to power percentages (0%-100%).

4.4.5 Operation Instructions of Smart Battery at High/Low Temperature

Low temperature (<5°C) prompts a warning and requires preheating. High temperature (>60°C) prevents flight. Discharge capacity and flight duration are reduced at low temperatures. Avoid long-term low-temperature operation to preserve battery life.

4.5 Propellers

Two types of propellers exist, designed for different spin directions. Marked propellers attach to marked arms, unmarked to unmarked. Use the provided screwdriver. Handle propeller blades carefully as they are sharp. If a propeller is broken, replace both on that motor. Ensure motors are mounted securely and rotate smoothly. Tighten screws before each flight. Do not insert foreign materials into motors.

4.6 Flight Data

Flight data is recorded automatically and accessible via the App. Flight logs detail each flight. Data is stored on the mobile device unless voluntarily uploaded.

4.7 Single Axis Gimbal Camera

4.7.1 Single Axis Gimbal

The camera has a single-axis gimbal for pitch adjustment (+20° to -90°), controlled by the remote controller's left thumbwheel. The gimbal resets to -9° on startup. Avoid collision and force. Ensure the gimbal is clean. It's connected via shock absorption support to reduce vibration.

4.7.2 Camera

Basic Parameters: Sensor brand: SONY, Effective pixel: 12MP, FOV: 118°, ISO: 100-6400, Memory: Micro SD card, Picture size: 12MP, Video format: MP4 (H.264), Video specification: 4K@30fps, 2.7K@30fps, 1080P@60/30fps. Sensor size: 1/3", Aperture: F2.2, Focus range: 3m~∞, Shutter: 1/30s-1/25000s, Image format: JPG/JPG+RAW(DNG), Max bitrate: 40Mbps, Supported file system: FAT32, exFAT, Storage card: Micro SD 4-256GB (Class 10/U1). Do not touch the lens after recording. Do not record video while the drone is not flying to prevent overheating. At 1080P/60fps, the FOV is approx. 66°.

4.7.3 Image Storage

Videos and pictures are stored on the SD card (not included). Insert SD card before flight. Preview and download via the App. SD Card Requirements: FAT32/exFAT, 4GB-256GB, U1/C10 speed. App downloaded videos are 720P. Recording may terminate due to slow write-in. Backup important data. Do not insert/remove SD card while powered on.

5. Remote Controller

5.1 Overview

The DSRC02A remote controller uses Potensic PixSync™ 2.0 for up to 4km transmission range and 720p video. It has onboard buttons, detachable sticks, and a 2.4Ghz dual band antenna. Battery: 3000mAh, 2.3 hours run time. TYPE-C port for device connection and charging (5V/500mA). It automatically selects firmware for Atom SE (PixSync™ 2.0) or Atom (PixSync™ 3.0).

5.2 Control Stick Mode

Mode 1 (Left Hand Throttle): Left stick controls ascent/descent and yaw (turn left/right). Right stick controls forward/backward and left/right strafe.

Mode 2 (Right Hand Throttle): Left stick controls ascent/descent and forward/backward. Right stick controls yaw (turn left/right) and left/right strafe.

5.3 Function

5.3.1 Function List

• Charge: Connect USB charger to TYPE-C port. LEDs flash during charging, solid when complete. Remote controller can charge mobile devices (5V/500mA).
• Indicator function: See 5.3.2.
• Flight control: See 5.2.
• Low battery prompt: Beeps every second when power is below 10%.
• Auto shutdown: Shuts down after 20 mins of no connection or operation.
• One-key return: See 7.9.
• Pause: Press once to brake and hover during Intelligent Flights or auto landing. Press again to resume.
• Emergency stop: Press "Shoot" and "Record" buttons for 2s simultaneously in emergencies; drone stops and falls.
• Shoot: Short press to take a photo. In video mode, short press switches to photo mode.
• Record video: Short press to start/stop recording. In photo mode, short press switches to video mode.
• Gimbal Dial: Dial right to increase pitch (head up), dial left to decrease pitch (head down).
• Remote controller frequency pairing: See 5.3.3.

5.3.2 Indicator

Four white LEDs indicate power level and status. Tables show charging indication, power indication (in use), and status indication (frequency pairing, upgrade mode, start calibration).

5.3.3 Remote Controller Function

The drone and controller are pre-paired. For new devices, conduct frequency pairing via PotensicPro App (Settings > Re-pair the drone). Power on controller, connect phone, launch App. Power on drone, long press power button until green indicators flash. Wait 7s for confirmation beep. Keep controller within 1m of drone during pairing. Avoid interference.

5.4 Antenna Angle

Adjust antenna angle for optimal communication. Point antennas towards the drone for longer distance. When directly above, signal weakens; lower altitude or fly horizontally. Do not cross antennas or press them on the mobile device.

5.5 Remote Controller Calibration

5.5.1 When to perform remote controller calibration

When the drone drifts, rotates continuously, or control sticks are over-sensitive/lack sensitivity.

5.5.2 Calibration Procedure

Turn on controller, connect mobile device, go to App Settings > Remote Controller Calibration. Ensure sticks are centered. Tap "Start Calibration", follow on-screen instructions to toggle sticks in all directions until 100% is displayed. Rotate dial to max extent. "Calibration Succeeded" confirms completion.

6. PotensicPro App

6.1 App Homepage

The homepage allows access to flight logs, Potensic Academy, model selection, connection status, and the flight interface. Other sections include Equipment, Photo Album, and Me (for reporting problems, account info, user agreement, etc.).

6.2 Flight Interface

The flight interface displays:

• 1. Return button: To homepage.
• 2. Navigation prompt bar: Drone status and flight mode.
• 3. Flight mode: Video, Normal, Sport.
• 4. Positioning mode: GPS, OPTI (Vision), Atti (Attitude).
• 5. GPS status: Signal strength and satellite count.
• 6. Signal quality of video transmission.
• 7. Power level of smart battery and estimated remaining flight time.
• 8. Settings: Access Safety (Beginner Mode, measurement system, virtual fence, flight tips), Calibration (compass, controller, re-pairing), Control (stick modes), Camera (white balance, gridlines, SD card), and About (device info).
• 9. Shooting Information Display/Settings: Photo mode shows format, EV, photo count/capacity. Video mode shows resolution, EV, recording time/capacity. Options to set EV, photo format, video resolution/frame rate.
• 10. Shooting Information Display/Settings: Icons to switch between shooting and video recording.
• 11. Shoot/Record button: Tap to shoot photo or start/stop video.
• 12. Album: Preview/download photos/videos from SD card.
• 13. Flight Safety Tips: On-screen tips and suggestions.
• 14. Display flight speed and distance: Horizontal distance, relative height, flight speed, ascent/descent speed.
• 15. Attitude Indicator/Thumbnail map: Switch to Attitude Indicator Mode or full-screen map.

The Attitude Indicator shows drone direction, tilt angle, and remote controller direction. Colors indicate tilt angle and video quality: Green (small tilt, optimal quality), Yellow (large tilt, reduced quality), Red (very large tilt, potential strong winds, compromised quality). Optimal communication signal is indicated by green drone and controller icons. HOME point updates when drone enters GPS mode. If taking off in OPTI mode and switching to GPS, HOME point is not the takeoff point.

7. Flight

7.1 Requirements of Flight Environment

1. Do not use in severe weather (gale, rain, snow, fog).
2. Fly in open areas; avoid tall structures and large metal structures (keep 5m away).
3. Keep product within sight and away from obstacles/crowds.
4. Avoid high-voltage power lines, telecommunication base stations, or launching towers.
5. Use caution above 3,000m altitude as performance may be affected.

7.2 Precautions of Flight

• Ensure remote controller, battery, and mobile device are fully recharged.
• Check drone integrity and propeller installation.
• Verify camera works normally after power-on.
• Ensure App is running normally.
• Check SD card insertion and camera cleanliness.
• Take off from flat, hard surfaces; avoid sandstone or bush.
• Be careful when taking off from moving objects.
• GPS and waypoint flight are disabled in polar regions.
• Do not use in extreme cold or hot conditions.

7.3 Connection

Follow steps in "3.5 Preparing the Remote Controller" and "3.4 Preparing the drone". Turn on both. Launch App to view connection status (indicated by ). Tap to enter the flight interface. Animated guide is recommended for first-time users.

7.4 Flight Mode

Three flight modes: Video (Ascent: 2m/s, Descent: 1.5m/s, Speed: 6m/s), Normal (Ascent: 4m/s, Descent: 3m/s, Speed: 10m/s), and Sport (Ascent: 5m/s, Descent: 4m/s, Speed: 16m/s). Beginner Mode is default for first-time use, limiting speed to Video mode levels. Sport Mode requires battery >30% and altitude >8m; it exits automatically if battery drops below 30% or altitude below 4m. Sport Mode has increased responsiveness and requires a 30m braking distance.

7.5 Compass Calibration

7.5.1 Scenarios Requiring Compass Calibration

First-time use, or flying more than 50 km from the last flight location.

7.5.2 Calibration Procedure

Choose an open area. When prompted, tap "Start calibration". Hold drone horizontally, rotate 360° (tail indicator flashes blue/green). Hold drone vertically, rotate 360° (calibration completes). Can also be triggered manually via App Settings > Calibration > Compass Calibration. Avoid locations with magnetic interference. Ensure drone is at least 1.5m above ground. Not necessary indoors. If calibration fails repeatedly, change location. Do not calibrate with arms folded.

7.6 Beginner Mode

Automatically set for first-time use. Flight distance and height restricted to 0-30m. Speed level matches Video mode. Recommended for learning.

7.7 Takeoff/Landing/Hovering

7.7.1 Manual Takeoff/Landing

Takeoff: Start motors using a combination stick command (push both sticks to bottom inner/outer corner). Gently push throttle stick up to ascend and hover. Release stick when hovering.

Landing: Pull throttle control stick down until motors stop spinning. Release stick.

Precautions: Take off from stable surfaces. Avoid low battery takeoffs. Stay 5m away from drone if not level/stationary and use stick command to unlock motors. Maintain 0.5m distance from ground for hovering. If drone fails to lock after landing, pull throttle stick to limit for 3s.

7.7.2 One-key Takeoff / Landing

One-key takeoff: Tap button in App, swipe right to ascend to 1.2m and hover.

One-key landing: Tap button in App, swipe left to land or swipe right to return.

7.8 Smart Flight

7.8.1 Circle Flight

Drone flies in a circle around the current position. Radius, speed, and direction can be set. Start when GPS is normal and altitude is ≥5m. Exit by tapping 'X', moving a control stick, or pressing RTH/Pause. Drone ascends to 5m if below it. No obstacle avoidance; use with caution.

7.8.2 Follow Me Flight

Drone follows the mobile device. Flight height and yaw are adjustable. Start when GPS is strong and distance is 5-50m. Exit by tapping 'X' or pressing RTH/Pause. Accuracy depends on GPS signal and mobile device positioning. Requires positioning permission.

7.8.3 Waypoint Flight

Set 1 or multiple waypoints on the App map. Drone flies to coordinates sequentially. Start when GPS is strong and altitude ≥5m. Tap map to pin waypoints, then tap GO. User can set 2-30 waypoints. Exit by tapping 'X', moving a control stick (except throttle), or pressing RTH/Pause. Altitude can be adjusted during flight. Exits waypoint flight and hovers if virtual fence is reached.

7.9 Return(RTH)

Three steps: 1. Ascent to preset return altitude. 2. Level flight towards HOME point. 3. Landing. Must be in GPS mode. One-key RTH: Press and hold RTH button (1s) or tap in App. Auto RTH triggers on low battery, lost signal, or abnormalities. Exit RTH via App or briefly pressing RTH button. Requirements: Take off in GPS mode and record HOME point. Setting appropriate return altitude is crucial. Altitude can be adjusted during return. Within 20m of HOME point, user selects landing or return. Drone lands automatically after 10s if no action. Obstacles can block signal; avoid flying behind tall buildings. If drone enters ATTI mode, return may fail. Strong headwinds may require lowering altitude. Insufficient power causes forced landing. Drone does not support obstacle avoidance during return.

7.10 Emergency Stop

See 5.3.1 for operation. Designed to prevent injury or damage in case of drone failure. Use with caution, as stopping motors mid-flight causes a crash.

8. Appendix

8.1 Specification & Parameters

8.2 Post-Flight Checklist

Visually inspect drone, controller, camera, batteries, and propellers. Ensure camera lens and vision sensors are clean. Store drone correctly before transport.

8.3 Maintenance Instructions

Keep small parts away from children/animals. Store battery and controller in a cool, dry place (22-28°C recommended for long-term storage). Avoid water/liquids contact with camera; dry with soft cloth if wet. Do not use alcohol or flammable cleaners. Check drone after crashes. Battery rated for 250 cycles. Fold arms/antennas when transporting. Battery enters sleep mode after long storage; charge to exit. Store all components in a dry environment. Remove battery before servicing. Clean with a soft cloth; avoid wet cloths or alcohol cleansers. Turn off battery before replacing/checking propellers.

8.4 Troubleshooting Procedures

• Battery not used before first flight: Must be activated by charging.
• No function: Check if battery/controller are charged. Contact support if issue persists.
• Power-on/start-up problems: Check battery power. Contact support if it won't start.
• SW update issues: Follow manual instructions. Restart devices if update fails. Contact support if problem persists.
• Shutdown/power-off problems: Contact support.
• Detecting careless handling/storage: Contact support.

8.5 Risk and Warnings

Warning prompts appear on PotensicPro for: unsuitable takeoff status, compass interference, or other on-screen instructions.

8.6 Disposal

Observe local regulations for electronic device disposal. Batteries must be fully discharged before disposal in specific recycling containers; do not use regular trash. Contact professional disposal/recycling agency if battery cannot be fully discharged.

8.7 C0 Certification

ATOM SE (DSDR04B) is compliant with C0 certification. Max Take-Off Mass (MTOM) is 248g. Do not add unauthorized payloads or non-qualified parts. Do not retrofit the drone.

List of Items, including qualified accessories (For C0)

List of Spare and Replacement Parts (For C0)

• ATOM SE Propellers
• ATOM SE Smart Flight Battery

Remote Controller Warnings (Model: DSRC02A)

If disconnected, App prompts; drone performs preset behavior. Controller shuts down after 20 mins. Avoid interference from Wi-Fi. Adjust mobile device brightness for flight monitoring. Release control sticks or press pause for unexpected operations.

EASA Notice

Read Drone Information Notices. Link: EASA Drone Information Notices.