ZHIYUN SMOOTH 5S User Manual

Introduction

This document provides instructions for the ZHIYUN SMOOTH 5S smartphone gimbal. It covers product features, setup, operation, app usage, firmware updates, and important safety information.

Product Contents

Before using the product, please check if the package contains all the following items. If any items are missing, please contact customer service or your dealer.

• SMOOTH 5S x1
• Tripod x1
• USB Type-C Cable x1
• Storage Bag x1
• Fill Light x1
• Fill Light Filters x4
• Lanyard x1
• VIP Card x1
• Quick Start Guide x1

Getting to Know SMOOTH 5S

The SMOOTH 5S features various components for optimal performance. Refer to the diagrams for identification:

Component Identification:

1. Magnetic Fill Light Mount
2. Focus/Zoom Rocker
3. Focus/Zoom Switch
4. Handle
5. Tripod
6. Phone Power Port
7. Phone Clamp
8. Roll Arm
9. Roll Axis Lock Knob
10. Roll Axis Motor
11. Indicator Light / Control Panel
12. Pitch Axis Motor
13. Pitch Axis Lock Clip
14. Roll Axis Lock Clip
15. 1/4" Screw Hole
16. Power Button
17. FN Button
18. Phone Clamp Rotating Shaft
19. Pitch Arm Built-in Fill Light
20. Pan Axis Arm
21. Pan Axis Motor
22. Pan Axis Lock Switch
23. Type-C Charging / Firmware Update Port
24. Trigger Button
25. Lanyard Hole
26. Armor SMOOTH 5S Magnetic Fill Light (Included with SMOOTH 5S COMBO package)

Battery and Charging Instructions

The SMOOTH 5S has a built-in battery. Please fully charge it before first use to activate the battery and ensure smooth operation.

Charging Method: Use the standard USB Type-C cable to connect to a USB charger (not included). It is recommended to use a USB charger that supports PD protocol (SMOOTH 5S supports a maximum PD charging power of 14W). The charging is complete when the battery indicator light is solid.

? Charge the SMOOTH 5S when it is powered off.

Installation and Balancing

Mounting the Phone

1. Unlock the pitch axis, roll axis, and pan axis, then unfold the SMOOTH 5S.
2. Mount your phone onto the phone clamp. You can choose between vertical or horizontal mounting based on your shooting needs.

Vertical Mounting: Rotate the phone clamp to switch between vertical and horizontal mounting states. Pay attention to the rotation direction of the phone clamp during use.

Horizontal Mounting: When installing the phone, ensure the phone's camera is oriented correctly as shown in the diagram.

Ensure the phone is fully secured in the phone clamp, with the back of the phone against the clamp's panel for a stable installation.

The SMOOTH 5S must have a phone mounted and balanced before powering on.

Installing the Fill Light

The SMOOTH 5S COMBO package includes a magnetic fill light. When installing the fill light, you can choose to illuminate the front or rear camera, ensuring it is securely attached.

You can also replace the fill light filters according to your needs. Avoid looking directly at the fill light during use.

Balancing Adjustment

For Vertical Mounting:

1. Unlock the roll axis arm ①, move the roll axis arm left or right ② until it is level with the ground ③, then tighten the lock knob ④.
2. Move the phone left or right ① until it is level with the ground ②.

For Horizontal Mounting:

1. Unlock the roll axis arm ①, move the roll axis arm left or right ② until it is level with the ground ③, then tighten the lock knob ④.
2. Move the phone clamp forward or backward ① until it is level with the ground ②.

? The phone's balance status significantly affects the SMOOTH 5S's battery life. An unbalanced phone may still operate but will consume more power, and the stabilization torque will be reduced.

Using the Stabilizer

Control Buttons / Indicator Lights / Port Description

1. Focus/Zoom Rocker: Rotate the rocker to control focus/zoom in the StaCam app. Rotate to control zoom in the ZY Cami app.
2. Focus/Zoom Switch: Single press to cycle through focus/zoom modes in the StaCam app.
3. MENU Button: Single press to enter the SMART menu in the ZY Cami app or return to the shooting interface from the settings menu. In the StaCam app, it returns to the shooting interface.
4. Joystick: Push the joystick up, down, left, or right to control gimbal rotation.
5. Gimbal Mode / Battery / Status Indicator Light:
   • Gimbal Mode: Solid indicator light for the current mode (F light flashes for Hyperlapse mode).
   • Battery Display (Press the power button once after powering on):
     • PF light flashing red: Low battery warning.
     • One white light flashing: 0-20% battery remaining.
     • Two white lights flashing: 20-40% battery remaining.
     • Three white lights flashing: 40-60% battery remaining.
     • Four white lights flashing: 60-80% battery remaining.
     • Five white lights flashing: 80-100% battery remaining.
   • Status Display: Five lights breathing and flashing: Standby mode. Five lights flashing rapidly: Firmware update failed. Five lights flashing from left to right: Firmware updating.
6. Shutter/Focus Button: Single press: Enter the resolution adjustment interface in the ZY Cami/StaCam app.
7. Control Wheel: In the ZY Cami/StaCam app, rotate the control wheel to select relevant parameters/functions in some menu interfaces.
8. Fill Light Button: Single press: Confirm button in some menu interfaces in the ZY Cami/StaCam app. Double press: Start shooting in the corresponding mode in the ZY Cami/StaCam app. Long press: Turn the magnetic fill light on/off (rotate the control wheel to adjust brightness when on).
9. ISO/Exposure Button: Single press: Invalid in the ZY Cami app. In the StaCam app, cycles through shutter speed, ISO, and white balance.
10. DISP Button: Single press: Invalid in the ZY Cami app. In the StaCam app, cycles through display effects.
11. Album Button: Single press: Open/close the album in the ZY Cami/StaCam app.
12. MODE Gimbal Mode Switch Button: Single press: Switch gimbal modes (PF-L-F-POV-V). Double press: Return to the previous gimbal mode.
13. Shutter/Record Button: Single press: Start shooting in the corresponding mode in the ZY Cami/StaCam app. Double press: Switch between front and rear cameras in the ZY Cami app. In the StaCam app, switches between wide-angle, ultra-wide-angle, telephoto, auto, and front camera.
14. Power Button: Single press: Check gimbal battery level. Long press: Turn on/off the gimbal.
15. FN Button: Single press: Invalid in the ZY Cami app. In the StaCam app, enters the screen settings menu. Five presses: Reset Bluetooth. Long press: Turn on the built-in fill light on the pitch arm.
16. Type-C Charging / Firmware Update Port: Use this port to charge the gimbal or connect to a computer for firmware updates.
17. Trigger Button: Single press: Start/stop intelligent follow in the ZY Cami app. Double press: Center the gimbal. Triple press: Rotate the pan axis motor 180°. Long press: Enter Hyperlapse mode.

① After Bluetooth pairing with SMOOTH 5S in phone settings, you can control the phone's native camera without the ZY Cami/StaCam app (for phones that support camera control via volume buttons). Refer to the official ZHIYUN website (www.zhiyun-tech.com) for the "SMOOTH-5S Phone Function Support List" for the latest information.

② Some button functions are only available when the phone is connected to the gimbal and the ZY Cami/StaCam app is running. It is recommended to download the ZY Cami/StaCam app to use with SMOOTH 5S.

③ StaCam App is designed for professional video shooting and offers advanced features like composition lines, focus peaking, and zebra patterns. Choose the appropriate app based on your needs.

Working Mode Description

Press the MODE button once or twice to switch working modes.

• Pan Following Mode (PF): Pitch and roll axis motors are locked. The pan axis motor follows the handle's movement. Push the joystick up/down to adjust the pitch angle, and left/right to adjust the pan direction.
• All Locked Mode (L): All three motors are locked, and the angle will not follow the handle's movement. Push the joystick up/down to adjust the pitch angle, and left/right to adjust the pan direction.
• Full Following Mode (F): Roll axis motor is locked. Pitch and pan axis motors follow the handle's movement. Push the joystick up/down to adjust the pitch angle, and left/right to adjust the pan direction.
• POV Mode: All three motors follow the handle's movement.
• 3D Gyro Mode (V): The pitch axis motor rotates 90° upwards. The pitch, roll, and pan axis motors follow the handle's movement. Pushing the joystick left/right controls the pan axis rotation.
• Hyperlapse Mode (GO): Roll axis motor is locked. Pitch and pan axis motors follow the handle's movement rapidly.

? Red circles indicate motors that follow handle movement, while gray circles indicate locked motors.

Manual Positioning

In PF and All Locked modes, you can manually rotate the phone to the desired angle and hold it for approximately 2 seconds. Releasing the phone will lock the angle (pitch and pan axes).

Quick Standby

When the SMOOTH 5S is powered on, manually rotate the roll axis to the locked position. The SMOOTH 5S will automatically enter standby mode. When the roll axis is moved out of the locked position, the SMOOTH 5S will resume working.

Storage

When storing, rotate the gimbal to the storage position as shown in the diagrams.

App Usage

Download the App

You can scan the QR code on the left to download the "ZY Cami" app (Android 7.0+ and iOS 10.0+), or search for "ZY Cami" in your phone's app store.

• Using the dedicated "ZY Cami" app for SMOOTH 5S allows you to utilize all the stabilizer's functions.
• Please refer to the latest app version. Updates are subject to change without notice.

How to Connect

1. Turn on the SMOOTH 5S and your phone's Bluetooth.
2. Open the "ZY Cami" app. Tap the camera icon in the top-left corner of the homepage to enter the device list. Select your SMOOTH 5S (the Bluetooth name can be found on the pitch arm as USER ID: XXXX).
3. When connecting SMOOTH 5S to the "ZY Cami" app for the first time, you will need to activate the device according to the app's prompts. Activation requires an internet connection. After successful activation, you can access the "ZY Cami" app's camera interface.

ZY Cami App Main Features

The ZY Cami app offers various features:

• Intelligent Follow
• Time-lapse Photography
• SMART Mode
• Editor
• Gesture Control
• Firmware Update

For more information on ZY Cami app features, visit the ZHIYUN official website (www.zhiyun-tech.com) for video tutorials on SMOOTH 5S.

Firmware Update and Calibration

Firmware Update

SMOOTH 5S firmware can be updated using the "Zhiyun Gimbal Tools" or the "ZY Cami" app.

Method One:

1. Connect SMOOTH 5S to your computer using the USB Type-C cable via the Type-C charging/firmware update port. Power on SMOOTH 5S and ensure it is in standby mode.
2. Visit the official ZHIYUN website (www.zhiyun-tech.com), navigate to the SMOOTH 5S product page, find the "Download" section, and download the USB driver, Zhiyun Gimbal Tools, and firmware (Apple systems do not require a USB driver installation).
3. Install the software and drivers. Unzip the firmware package to obtain the .ptz file.
4. Open "Zhiyun Gimbal Tools", select the correct port, click "Open Serial Port" at the top of the tool, click "Firmware Update", click "Browse" in the path field to select the latest firmware file (.ptz), and then click "Update" at the bottom of the tool. The SMOOTH 5S will automatically shut down after a successful update.

Method Two: After connecting SMOOTH 5S with the "ZY Cami" app, if the app prompts for a firmware update, follow the on-screen instructions. An internet connection is required for the update.

? Ensure the SMOOTH 5S battery is above 50% before updating firmware. Do not exit the app or switch to the background during the update. Pay attention to the app's prompts.

Calibration Methods

Calibration Reasons:

• The gimbal's pitch angle deviates from the horizontal plane after startup.
• The gimbal's roll angle deviates from the horizontal plane after startup.
• Frequent small adjustments in horizontal orientation when stationary.
• The gimbal's pitch angle still deviates from the horizontal plane after automatic calibration.
• The gimbal has not been used for a long time.
• Significant temperature variations in the operating environment.

Calibration Methods:

• Automatic Gimbal Calibration:
  1. Mount SMOOTH 5S on the tripod and connect to the "ZY Cami" app.
  2. In the app, navigate to "Gimbal Settings" and select "Automatic Gimbal Calibration". SMOOTH 5S will then perform the calibration. Follow the app's prompts to monitor the calibration progress.
• Six-Sided Calibration:

  SMOOTH 5S can perform six-sided calibration using "Zhiyun Gimbal Tools".

  1. Connect SMOOTH 5S to your computer using the USB Type-C cable via the Type-C charging/firmware update port. Power on SMOOTH 5S and ensure it is in standby mode.
  2. Open the Zhiyun calibration tool, click "IMU Calibration", and follow the on-screen instructions. The tool will display a "√" symbol upon successful calibration.

  The six-sided calibration steps are illustrated above. Essentially, it involves making the six faces of the pitch arm perpendicular to the horizontal plane.

Specifications

Product Model: SM118

Lab Data 1: This data was obtained under an ambient temperature of 25°C, with an iPhone XR mounted, the gimbal balanced, and the fill light at maximum brightness. Working time was 2.5 hours. When the fill light was off and the gimbal was stationary, the operating time was 24 hours.

Lab Data 2: Under an ambient temperature of 25°C, a 15W fast charger was used for this test, resulting in a charging time of 2 hours. Under an ambient temperature of 25°C, a 5V/2A power adapter was used, resulting in a charging time of 4 hours. Charging time may vary due to environmental factors. Lower charging temperatures may result in lower charging currents and longer charging times.

All data in this manual are based on ZHIYUN's internal lab test results. Actual results may vary under different conditions. Please refer to the actual product experience.

Disclaimer and Warnings

Thank you for purchasing the SMOOTH 5S. This document contains important information regarding your safety and legal rights. Please read this document carefully before using the product to ensure correct setup. Failure to follow the instructions and warnings in this document may cause injury to yourself or others, or damage to the SMOOTH 5S or other property. ZHIYUN (ZHIYUN) reserves the right to interpret this document and all related ZHIYUN documentation. Updates may be made without prior notice. Please visit www.zhiyun-tech.com for the latest product information.

By using this product, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agreed to all terms and conditions of this disclaimer and warning. You assume full responsibility for the use of this product and any consequences thereof. You agree to use this product only for legitimate purposes and comply with all applicable regulations, policies, and guidelines set forth by ZHIYUN.

Except as required by applicable laws in China, ZHIYUN is not liable for any loss, injury, or legal liability arising from the direct or indirect use of the product or this material. Users should adhere to all safety guidelines mentioned in this document.

ZHIYUN™ is a trademark of Guilin Zhishen Information Technology Co., Ltd. and its affiliates. Product names and brands appearing in this document are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.

Reading Tips

• Symbol Description: ? Operation/Usage tips. ⚠️ Important safety precautions.

Warning

The SMOOTH 5S is a precision instrument. Users should possess basic practical skills and safety awareness. Please read the SMOOTH 5S user manual carefully and familiarize yourself with the product's functions before use. Incorrect operations may lead to product damage, property loss, or personal injury. This product is not suitable for children. Do not use the SMOOTH 5S with accessories not provided or recommended by ZHIYUN, or if not used in accordance with ZHIYUN's safety guidelines. This document contains safety, operation, and maintenance instructions. To ensure correct and safe use of the SMOOTH 5S, please read all instructions and warnings in the user manual and safety guidelines carefully before installation, setup, and use, and strictly follow the relevant instructions for installation and use of the SMOOTH 5S.

Safety Operation Guidelines

• Warning:
• 1. Do not expose the product to any liquids. Do not immerse the product in water or get it wet. Do not use the product in the rain or in humid environments. Contact with water inside the product may cause corrosion, leading to battery self-ignition or even explosion.
• 2. In case of fire, immediately use water, water mist, sand, fire blanket, dry powder, or carbon dioxide fire extinguishers. Choose the appropriate fire extinguishing method based on the situation, following the recommended order.
• 3. Use the product in environments with temperatures between -10°C and 45°C.
• 4. Do not disassemble the product in any way. If the battery is punctured during disassembly, the electrolyte may leak, potentially causing fire or explosion.
• 5. Do not subject the product to mechanical impact, crushing, or dropping. Do not place heavy objects on the product.
• 6. Do not heat the product. Do not place the product in a microwave oven or pressure cooker.
• 7. Do not place the product near heat sources (stoves or heaters) or in hot vehicles. Do not store the product in environments exceeding 60°C. The ideal storage temperature is between 22°C and 28°C.
• 8. Do not store the battery for extended periods after it has been completely discharged. This can lead to the battery entering an over-discharge state, causing cell damage that cannot be recovered.

Caution:

• 1. SMOOTH 5S is a high-precision control device. Dropping or external impact may damage the SMOOTH 5S and cause malfunctions.
• 2. Ensure the gimbal rotates without obstruction when the SMOOTH 5S is powered on.
• 3. SMOOTH 5S is not waterproof. Avoid contact with any liquids or cleaning agents. It is recommended to clean the SMOOTH 5S with a soft, dry cloth.
• 4. Be mindful of dust and sand during the use of SMOOTH 5S.

Note:

• 1. Disconnect the product from the charger after charging is complete.
• 2. If the product is not used for more than 10 days, discharge the battery to 40%-65% before storing it. This will help extend the battery's lifespan.
• 3. Recharge and discharge the battery every 3 months to maintain its activity.
• 4. Keep the handle stable when starting the SMOOTH 5S. Shaking the SMOOTH 5S during startup may cause startup failure.

Warranty Card

Warranty Period Description

1. Within 15 days of signing for receipt, if quality issues arise, you are entitled to a replacement or free repair service.
2. The warranty period for the product, under correct usage and maintenance, is generally one year from the date of receipt. Due to variations in product components, country-specific laws, and regulations, warranty periods may differ. Please consult your local ZHIYUN authorized dealer or the ZHIYUN official website for warranty information in your region.

Warranty Exclusions

• 1. Unauthorized repairs, misuse, collision, negligence, abuse, liquid ingress, accidents, or modifications.
• 2. Improper use of the product, or tampering with/altering labels or anti-counterfeit markings.
• 3. Exceeding the valid warranty period.
• 4. Damage caused by force majeure events such as fire, flood, earthquake, or lightning.

To Obtain ZHIYUN Warranty Service, Please Follow These Steps:

1. If a malfunction occurs after purchasing the product, please contact your local ZHIYUN authorized dealer. If there is no dealer in your area, you can contact ZHIYUN customer service via email (info@zhiyun-tech.com) or through the website (www.zhiyun-tech.com) to obtain warranty support.
2. Your ZHIYUN dealer or ZHIYUN customer service will guide you on how to ship the relevant materials and product, and how to handle your warranty claim. ZHIYUN reserves the right to inspect the damaged product.

User Information

• User Name:
• Contact Number:
• Address:

Sales Information

• Sales Date:
• Dealer Name:
• Dealer Contact Number:
• Serial Number:

First Repair Record

• Date of Submission:
• Reason for Malfunction:
• Repairman's Signature:
• Result: [ ] Repaired [ ] Not Repaired [ ] Replaced/Returned

Contact Card

• Official Website: www.zhiyun-tech.com
• Customer Service Hotline: 400 900 6868
• Email: info@zhiyun-tech.com
• WeChat
• Douyin
• Video Channel
• Address: No. 9, Huangtong Road, Tieshan Industrial Park, Qixing District, Guilin City, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region

Certificate of Conformity

This product has passed strict inspection and meets standard requirements, approved for sale.

Inspector:

QC PASS

检02

For complete product information, please visit the ZHIYUN official website: www.zhiyun-tech.com. Information is subject to change without notice.

ZHIYUN™ is a trademark of ZHIYUN.

Product names and brands mentioned in this document may be trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies.

Copyright © 2024 ZHIYUN. All rights reserved.

Hazardous Substances Declaration

This table is compiled in accordance with SJ/T 11364.

○: Indicates that the content of this hazardous substance in all homogeneous materials of this component is below the limit requirements specified in GB/T 26572.

X: Indicates that the content of this hazardous substance in at least one homogeneous material of this component exceeds the limit requirements specified in GB/T 26572. (The product complies with the environmental requirements of the EU RoHS directive).

Regulations for Low-Power Radio-Frequency Devices Management

Article 12: Certified low-power radio-frequency devices shall not alter frequency, increase power, or change original design characteristics and functions without permission.

Article 14: The use of low-power radio-frequency devices shall not affect aviation safety or interfere with lawful communications. If interference occurs, the device shall be immediately suspended, and improvements shall be made to eliminate interference before continued use.

• Lawful communications refer to wireless communications operated in accordance with telecommunications laws.
• Low-power radio-frequency devices must tolerate interference from lawful communications or industrial, scientific, and medical radio-frequency devices.