3D R Solo User manual

User Manual
™

3DR Support
Contact 3DR Support for questions and technical help.
online: 3dr.com/support
email: [email protected]
call: [phone] (direct)
[phone] (toll free in the US and Canada)
Support line hours:
Mon-Fri 8 am to 5 pm PST
3D Robotics (3DR)
1608 4th Street, Suite 410
Berkeley, CA 94710
Tel. [phone]
3dr.com
Solo User Manual V5
© 2015 3D Robotics Inc.
Solo is a trademark of 3D Robotics, Inc.
GoPro, HERO, the GoPro logo, and the GoPro Be a HERO logo are
trademarks or registered trademarks of GoPro, Inc.

Contents
1 Introduction 1
1.1 System Overview 1
1.2 Aircraft Overview 2
1.3 Controller Overview 3
1.4 Operating Parameters 4
1.5 Autopilot 5
1.6 Propulsion 5
1.7 LED Meanings 5
2 Setup 6
2.1 In the Box 6
2.2 Battery 6
2.3 Controller 8
2.4 Propellers 9
2.5 Camera 9
2.6 Mobile App 11
3 Safety 15
3.1 Location 15
3.2 Environmental Awareness 15
3.3 Visual Line of Sight 15
3.4 Flight School 15
3.5 Propellers 16
3.6 GPS 16
3.7 Home Position 16
3.8 Altitude Limit 16
3.9 Emergency Procedures 17
3.10 Flight Battery 18
3.11 Controller 18
3.12 Antenna Configuration 18
4 First Flight 19
4.1 Preflight Checklist 19
4.2 Takeoff 19
4.3 Landing 20
4.4 Return Home 21
4.5 In-Flight Data 21
4.6 Joystick Control 22
4.7 App Interface Overview 25
5 Smart Shots 26
5.1 Selfie 26
5.2 Cable Cam 27
5.3 Orbit 29
5.4 Follow 30
6 Alerts 32
6.1 Preflight Errors 32
6.2 In-Flight Errors 33
7 Advanced Settings 36
7.1 Advanced Flight Modes 36
7.2 Enabling Advanced Flight Modes 37
7.3 Accessing Advanced Flight Modes 37
7.4 Home Position Safety 37
7.5 Performance Adjustment 38
7.6 Units 38
7.7 Maximum Altitude Adjustment 38

8 Support 39
9 Maintenance 39
9.1 Controller Battery Replacement 39
9.2 Calibrations 40
9.3 Pairing 41
9.4 Legs 42
9.5 Battery Tray 45
9.6 Motor Pods 46
9.7 Factory Reset 48
10 Appendix 49
10.1 Specifications 49
10.2 Warranty 50
10.3 Regulatory Compliance 50

Figures
Figure 1.1.3.1: Solo System Context Diagram 1
Figure 1.2.4.1: Solo Overview 2
Figure 1.3.10.1: Controller Overview 4
Figure 1.4.10.1: Solo Operating Parameters 4
Figure 1.6.10.1: Solo Motor Order 5
Figure 2.1.10.1: Solo Parts 6
Figure 2.2.1.1: Solo Battery Charging 7
Figure 2.2.2.1: Powering Solo 7
Figure 2.3.1.1: Controller Charging 8
Figure 2.3.2.1: Power On Controller 8
Figure 2.4.1.1: Attach Propellers 9
Figure 2.5.1.1: : Camera Configuration Process 10
Figure 2.5.2.1: Attach Camera 10
Figure 2.6.2.1: Connect to Solo Link 11
Figure 2.6.3.1: App - Settings Menu 11
Figure 2.6.3.2: App - Wi-Fi Settings 12
Figure 2.6.4.1: Controller Preflight Update 12
Figure 2.6.4.2: App - Software Update 12
Figure 2.6.4.3: App - Connect Instructions 12
Figure 2.6.4.4: App - Connect Instructions List 13
Figure 2.6.4.5: App - Download Update 13
Figure 2.6.4.6: App - Begin Update 13
Figure 2.6.4.7: Controller - Updating 13
Figure 2.6.4.8: App - Update Disconnection 13
Figure 2.6.4.9: Controller Update Displays 14
Figure 2.6.4.10: Controller - Waiting for Solo 14
Figure 2.6.4.11: App - Update Success 14
Figure 2.6.5.1: App - Viewing Video 14
Figure 3.4.5.1: App Flight School 15
Figure 3.9.5.1: Controller - Motor Shutoff 17
Figure 3.12.5.1: Controller Antenna Orientation 18
Figure 4.2.1.1: Controller - Start Motors Prompt 19
Figure 4.2.2.1: Controller - Takeoff Prompts 20
Figure 4.3.2.1: Controller - User-Initiated Landing 20
Figure 4.4.2.1: Return Home Behavior 21
Figure 4.5.2.1: Controller - In-Flight Data 21
Figure 4.6.2.1: Controller Left Joystick 22
Figure 4.6.2.2: Throttle Joystick Behaviors 22
Figure 4.6.2.3: Yaw Joystick Behavior 23
Figure 4.6.2.4: Controller Right Joystick Controls 23
Figure 4.6.2.5: Pitch Joystick Controls 24
Figure 4.6.2.6: Roll Joystick Controls 24
Figure 4.7.2.1: App - Main Interface 25
Figure 4.7.2.1: App - Shot List 25
Figure 5.1.2.1: Selfie Path and Settings 26
Figure 5.1.1.1: App - Selfie Activation 26
Figure 5.1.2.1: App - Selfie Control 27
Figure 5.1.2.2: Controller - Selfie Control 27
Figure 5.1.3.1: App - Selfie Settings 27
Figure 5.2.1.1: App - Cable Cam Setup 28
Figure 5.2.2.1: App - Cable Cam Controls 28
Figure 5.2.2.2: Controller - Cable Cam Controls 28
Figure 5.2.3.1: App - Cable Cam Settings 28
Figure 5.3.1.1: App - Orbit Setup 29
Figure 5.3.2.1: App - Orbit Controls 29
Figure 5.3.2.2: Orbit Controls 29
Figure 5.3.3.1: App - Orbit Settings 30
Figure 5.4.1.1: App - Follow Setup 30
Figure 5.4.2.1: Follow Controls 31
Figure 5.4.3.1: App - Follow Settings 31
Figure 6.1.1.1: Controller - Calibration in Progress 32
Figure 6.1.1.2: Controller - Uneven Surface Alert 32
Figure 6.1.1.3: Controller - Re-Calibration Required 32
Figure 6.1.1.4: Controller - Calibration Error Alert 33
Figure 6.1.2.1: Controller - Service Alerts 33
Figure 6.2.1.1: Controller - Altitude Limit Alert 33
Figure 6.2.2.1: Controller - App Connection Alerts 34
Figure 6.2.3.1: Controller - Disconnected Aler 34
Figure 6.2.3.2: Controller - Signal Alerts 34
Figure 6.2.4.1: Controller - GPS Signal Alerts 35
Figure 6.2.5.1: Controller - Low Battery Alerts 35
Figure 6.2.5.2: Controller - Critical Battery Alert 35
Figure 6.2.6.1: Controller - Battery Alerts 35
Figure 7.2.5.1: App - Advanced Settings 37
Figure 7.3.5.1: App - A and B Presets 37
Figure 7.5.5.1: App - Performance Sliders 38
Figure 7.6.5.1: App - Change Units 38
Figure 7.7.5.1: App - Altitude Limit 38
Figure 8.7.5.1: App - Submit Trouble Ticket 39
Figure 9.1.5.1: Controller Battery Installation 39
Figure 9.2.1.1: App - Compass Calibration Setup 40
Figure 9.2.1.2: App - Compass Calibration Procedure 40
Figure 9.2.2.1: App - Level Calibration 40
Figure 9.3.2.1: Solo Pair Button 41
Figure 9.3.2.2: Controller Pairing Procedure 41
Figure 9.4.2.1: Leg Types 42
Figure 9.4.1.1: Standard Leg Replacement Process 42
Figure 9.4.2.1: Detaching the Antenna from the Leg 43
Figure 9.4.2.2: Attaching New Leg with Exist. Antenna 43
Figure 9.4.2.3: Attaching Exist. Antenna to a New Leg 43
Figure 9.4.3.1: Compass Connector on Mainboard 44
Figure 9.4.3.2: Insert New Leg with Compass 44
Figure 9.5.3.1: LED Cover Removal 45
Figure 9.5.3.2: Motor Pod Removal 45
Figure 9.5.3.3: Motor Pod Disconnection 46
Figure 9.5.3.4: Motor Pod Connection 46
Figure 9.5.3.5: Motor Pod and LED Cover Attachment 46
Figure 9.6.1.1: Pair Button 47
Figure 9.6.1.2: LED Pairing Indicator 47

1
1 Introduction
We designed Solo to be the perfect aerial-video tool. It’s powerful, simple and reliable with intuitive Smart Shots
inspired by our favorite cinema pilots. With Solo, you don’t need a professional camera crew, you can get the
perfect shot every time. We’re excited to share our passion with you and help you see your world from a new
perspective. Join us in capturing the next evolution of creative videography.
1.1 System Overview
The Solo system includes Solo, the Controller, and the Solo App. As the operator, you interact with the controller
and app on the ground, and the controller communicates with Solo during flight.
1.1.1 Solo
Solo is a small unmanned aerial vehicle powered by four motors and four propellers. Solo’s onboard computers
control navigation, attitude, and communications in flight while sending real-time telemetry and video output and
receiving control inputs over the 3DR Link secure Wi-Fi network. Solo is optimized for capturing aerial video using a
GoPro®HERO camera.
1.1.2 Controller
The controller provides control mechanisms and displays in-flight data on a full-color screen. Using twin long-
range antennas, the controller acts as the central hub for all communication on the 3DR Link network, receiving all
communications from Solo and the app, forwarding telemetry outputs to the app, and managing the transmission of
all control inputs to Solo.
1.1.3 App
The Solo App outputs a live video stream from an onboard GoPro® camera to an Android or iOS device. The App
allows you to view the live video with overlaid telemetry and access a simplified graphic interface for controlling
Solo’s advanced functions. The App also connects to the 3DR Link network to receive video and telemetry outputs
and send control inputs.
Figure 1.1.3.1: Solo System Context Diagram
Video output
Telemetry output
Control input
Operator
3DR Solo
Controller
3DR Solo
3DR Solo
App
AirGround
3DR Link
Secure WiFi
Network

2
1.2 Aircraft Overview
1.2.1 Smart Battery
The battery connects to Solo’s battery bay. Solo’s power button is located on the battery; Solo can only be powered
when the battery is connected.
1.2.2 Motors and Propellers
Solo’s arms are labeled one through four on the ends of the arms. Motors on arms #1 and #2 spin counterclockwise
and use clockwise-tightening propellers with silver tops. Motors on arms #3 and #4 spin clockwise and use
counterclockwise-tightening propellers with black tops.
1.2.3 Orientation LEDs
Each arm contains an LED for ground-to-air directional awareness; when armed for flight, the two front arms (#1 and
#3) display white, and the two rear arms (#2 and #4) display red. This LED scheme mimics the headlight and taillight
style of a car.
1.2.4 Fixed Camera Mount and HDMI Cable
Solo includes a GoPro®The Frame fixed mount to mount a GoPro®HERO camera. The HDMI cable connects to the
GoPro®to output video during flight.
Figure 1.2.4.1: Solo Overview
Silver-top propeller
Power button
Battery
Rear orientation LEDs
Black-top propeller
Motor
Arm numbering
Front orientation LEDs
Fixed camera mount
HDMI cable
Height: 10.2”
Motor-to-motor: 18.1”
Weight (no camera): 3.3 lbs.

3
1.3 Controller Overview
1.3.1 Mobile-Device Holder
Mount an Android or iOS device to run the Solo App and effortlessly integrate the App into the controller’s
operational flow. A user-supplied smartphone or tablet is required to initialize Solo and use Smart Shots.
1.3.2 Joysticks
The controller’s left and right joysticks provide direct manual control of Solo and physical control mechanisms for
use with Smart Shots.
1.3.3 Screen
The controller’s full-color screen provides live in-flight data and prompts for certain Solo functions.
1.3.4 Power Button
Press the power button once to check the controller’s battery level. Hold the power button until you see the Solo
logo followed by a single vibration to power on the controller.
1.3.5 Fly Button
The Fly button lets you control Solo’s main flight functions: starting motors, takeoff, land, and activating GPS flight.
1.3.6 Return Home
The Return Home button allows you to end your flight automatically at any point by returning Solo to its original
launch point and landing.
1.3.7 Pause Button
The Pause button is Solo’s emergency air brake. Press Pause to stop Solo and hover in place at any time.
1.3.8 Option Buttons
The A and B buttons change functionality based on where you are in the operational flow. The screen will show the
currently assigned functions of A and B at all times. You can program A and B to specific functions using the app.
By default, the A button is assigned to Cable Cam and the B button is assigned to Orbit.
1.3.9 Antennas
The controller’s long-range dipole antennas communicate with Solo during flight. See Section 3.12 for proper
antenna configuration.
1.3.10 Gimbal Controls
The paddle, buttons, and dial on the top of the controller are used to control the Solo Gimbal. They can also be used
to set camera position in some Smart Shots.

4
Figure 1.3.10.1: Controller Overview
1.4 Operating Parameters
The following operating parameters apply to Solo. Always operate Solo within these parameters. Solo’s performance
and behaviors may vary significantly conditions violate the parameters listed below.
Figure 1.4.10.1: Solo Operating Parameters
*Flight time varies with payload, wind conditions, elevation, temperature, humidity, flying style,
and pilot skill. Listed flight time applies to elevations less than 2,000 ft above sea level.
**See Section 7.7 to adjust maximum altitude.
***Depending on environmental conditions.
****This top speed corresponds to Solo when operating in Fly mode. Maximum speeds for advanced
modes may vary, see Section 7.1 for more information.
Estimated flight time up to 25 minutes*
Default maximum altitude 150 ft. (46 m) above ground level**
Range .5 miles*** (.8 km)
Payload capacity 1 lb. (450 g)
Cruise speed 18 mph (8 m/s)
Maximum speed 33 mph (15 m/s)****
Wind speed limitation 25 mph (11 m/s)
Operating temperature 32° F - 113° F (0° C to 45° C)
Antennas
Mobile-device holder
Gimbal controls
Joysticks
Screen
Pause
Return home
Fly
Power
Options

5
1.5 Autopilot
Solo uses a Pixhawk 2 autopilot running ArduPilot Copter software. ArduPilot is open-source flight control based on
the MAVlink communication protocol. Pixhawk 2 runs an ARM Cortex-M4 STM32F427 processor with 2 MB of flash
memory and 256 KB of RAM. Combined with an array of CAN, I2C, SPI, PWM, and UART interfaces, Pixhawk 2
uses a suite of onboard sensors to calculate Solo’s orientation and motion in flight. This data is input into ArduPilot’s
inertial navigation and position estimation algorithms and combined with control inputs to send commands to Solo’s
propulsion system.
1.6 Propulsion
Solo uses four brushless 880 Kvmotors and four self-tightening propellers for propulsion. For control and
aerodynamic efficiency, two motors spin clockwise and two motors spin counterclockwise. Navigation in the air is
achieved by mixing propulsion of the four motors to actuate flight control along the roll, pitch, and yaw axes.
Each of the four motors is numbered by the marking on the arm. These numbers correspond to the autopilot
calculations for these commands and are used for indicating motor replacement procedures. Each motor is
controlled by an ESC (Electronic Speed Controller) that regulates the rotation of the motors to achieve the speed
commanded by the autopilot.
Figure 1.6.10.1: Solo Motor Order
1.7 LED Meanings
Solo’s four LEDs indicate its status during startup and in flight.
• Solid white (front) and red (back): Ready to fly, standard flight configuration
• Pulsing white (front) and red (back): Solo is flying under autopilot control
• Flashing red alternating front and back: Controller signal lost
• Flashing rainbow: Update in progress
• Solid green, then turning off one-by-one: Startup successful
• Solid green without turning off automatically: Startup unsuccessful, please restart Solo
03 01
02 04

6
2 Setup
This sections covers everything you need to set up Solo out of the box.
2.1 In the Box
Solo includes the Solo Vehicle, the Solo Controller, propellers (four plus two spares), the Solo Smart Battery, the
Solo Smart Battery charger, and a charger for the Solo Controller.
Figure 2.1.10.1: Solo Parts
2.2 Battery
Solo is powered by the rechargeable Solo Smart Battery that provides up to 25 minutes of flight time per full charge.
(Keep in mind that flight time depends on payload, wind conditions, elevation, temperature, humidity, flying style and
pilot skill, so the actual flight time may vary.) As a lithium polymer battery, the Solo Smart Battery requires specific
handling practices to ensure safe operation and prevent accidents. For more information about battery safety, see
Section 3.10.
2.2.1 Charging
The level of the battery charge is indicated by the lights below the power button. Press the power button once to
display the current power level. The Solo Smart Battery ships with approximately 50% charge, so charge fully before
your first flight for maximum flight time.
Remove the battery from Solo before charging by holding the release button and sliding the battery towards the
back of Solo. Charge the battery using the designated Solo charger only; using a different charger can damage the
battery or cause a fire.
To charge the battery, connect the Solo charger to the battery and a wall outlet. While charging, the indicator lights
pulse at the current level. There is an additional indicator on the battery charger that turns from red to green when
the battery is fully charged. The battery takes approximately 1.5 hours to charge to 100%.
Storing the Solo Smart Battery at an excessively depleted charge (7 percent and under) for an extended period of
time may result in a shortened battery life or permanent damage to the battery. The optimal storage charge for the
Solo Smart Battery is 50%.
Solo Three silver-top props
& three black-top props
Controller
Solo Smart Battery charger
Controller charger

7
Figure 2.2.1.1: Solo Smart Battery Charging
2.2.2 Powering
To power Solo, insert the battery into Solo’s battery bay and slide the battery forward until it clicks into place. Press
and hold the battery power button to turn on Solo. When Solo powers on, the battery will display an LED animation
and you will hear the startup tone. Only power Solo using the designated 3DR Solo Smart Battery; using a different
battery can permanently damage Solo.
Figure 2.2.2.1: Powering Solo
Charge indicator
Charge indicator
Make sure Solo is level before powering on and keep Solo still during
startup and while the sensors initialize. Moving Solo during this
process causes the sensors to calibrate incorrectly and can create a
preflight error or affect in-flight performance.
1. Slide to connect
2. Hold to power

8
2.3 Controller
The Solo controller includes a pre-installed rechargeable lithium ion (Li-ion) battery.
2.3.1 Charging
Charge the controller using the designated controller charger only; using a different charger can damage the
controller or cause a fire.
To charge the controller, connect the controller charger to the barrel jack on the side of the controller and to a
wall outlet. To check the battery level of the controller, press the power button. A fully charged controller lasts for
approximately 6 hours. Always check the controller’s battery level before you fly, and recharge when prompted by
the controller. The controller takes approximately 3 hours to charge to 100%.
Figure 2.3.1.1: Controller Charging
2.3.2 Powering
To power on the controller, press and hold the controller power button until you see the Solo logo, followed by a
single vibration.
Figure 2.3.2.1: Power On Controller

9
2.4 Propellers
Solo uses two types of self-tightening propellers, indicated by the color of the circle at the center of the propeller.
2.4.1 Attaching
Attach the propellers with silver tops to the motors with a silver dot on the top of the motor shaft, and attach the
black-top propellers to the motors with black dots. Make sure to remove the paper labels from the motors before
attaching the propellers.
Silver-top propellers tighten clockwise; black-top propellers tighten counterclockwise. Check the lock and unlock
icons on each propeller to see the correct directions for tightening and removing.
Figure 2.4.1.1: Attach Propellers
2.5 Camera
Solo includes a fixed GoPro® The Frame™ mount for your GoPro® HERO 3, 3+ or 4.
2.5.1 Camera Settings
For best results, first adjust the camera settings for inverted orientation and medium field of view. (Setting the field
of view to medium ensures that you won’t see the propellers in the frame.)
remove motor labelsremove motor labels

10
Figure 2.5.1.1: : Camera Configuration Process
2.5.2 Attaching
To attach the camera to the GoPro® The Frame™ fixed mount, insert your GoPro® upside down and connect the
Solo HDMI cable to the camera.
GoPro®The Frame™
Your GoPro®
HERO 3, 3+ or 4 Mount your GoPro®
upside down.
Connect the HDMI
cable.
Figure 2.5.2.1: Attach Camera
Make sure that the Wi-Fi on your GoPro®is turned OFF. It can interfere
with Solo’s communication signals and cause unexpected behavior.
Set the GoPro®HERO3
to inverted orientation:
Enable GoPro®HERO4
auto-orientation:
Set the GoPro®to
medium field of view:
GoPro®
Settings
Camera
Orientation
GoPro®
Settings
ORIENTATIONSETUP
OFF
:OFF
:UP
:VIDEO
ORIENTATION
OFF
:OFF
:AUTO
:VIDEO
EXIT
EXIT
RESET CAM
ORIENTATIONSETUP
OFF
:OFF
:UP
:VIDEO
ORIENTATION
OFF
:OFF
:AUTO
:VIDEO
EXIT
EXIT
RESET CAM

11
2.6 Mobile App
The Solo App provides a streaming video link to a mobile device and a simple graphic interface for interacting with
Smart Shots and other advanced Solo features.
2.6.1 Install
Visit 3dr.com/soloapp or download “3DR Solo” from the App Store or Google Play Store. 3DR Solo works with iOS
8.0 or later and Android 4.3 or later. For Android, you must also install the “3DR Services” app to your device.
2.6.2 Connect to Solo
To connect the app to Solo’s 3DR Link Wi-Fi network, access the Wi-Fi settings on the mobile device and select
Solo_Link-####. Enter the temporary password “sololink”. Once connected, return to the app to continue. Both Solo
and the controller must be powered on to connect to the app.
Figure 2.6.2.1: Connect to Solo Link
2.6.3 Change SoloLink Password
Once connected to Solo Wi-Fi (“SoloLink_XXXX”), change your password to secure your SoloLink network. Select
the Settings menu from the top-left drop-down, and choose Solo to access the options for your drone.
Figure 2.6.3.1: App - Settings Menu
Settings
Airplane Mode
WI-FI
Bluetooth
Cellular
Solo_Link-####
On
Notifications
Control Center
Do Not Disturb
7:34 PMLTE
General
Sounds
Wallpapers & Brightness
Privacy

12
In the Solo menu, select Wi-Fi Settings, and set a new password. The password should be between 8 and 32
characters with no spaces. Select Apply to enable your changes. If you forget your SoloLink password, perform the
factory reset procedure in Section 9.7 to reset the password to the temporary password (sololink).
Figure 2.6.3.2: App - Wi-Fi Settings
2.6.4 Update
Before your first flight, use the App to perform the required first-flight update of Solo and the Controller. The
Controller will prompt you for the update with the preflight update alert. Ensure that both the Controller and Solo
are powered, the controller has at least 50% battery remaining, and the app is connected to Solo Wi-Fi. The total
update process can take up to 10 minutes.
Figure 2.6.4.1: Controller Preflight Update Prompt
To start the update, open the Settings menu in the App, and select Software Update.
Figure 2.6.4.2: App - Software Update
Because your mobile device has never connected to this Solo before, you will need to link your device with Solo
Wi-Fi (SoloLink). Select Connect Instructions for steps on how to connect.
Figure 2.6.4.3: App - Connect Instructions
ARTOO UPDATE SCREEN FEEDBACK V10C
Update Requirement Screen
Controller updated
Controller update in progress screen
Is displayed after user initiates update in app.
Persists until controller update is successful.
Update complete feedback.
Tells the user that controller update was successful.
HAPTIC: Three 20 millisecond pulses,
to communicate update completion.
A-Press required to dimiss (same as current implementation)
Controller updating
Update will take about 5 minutes
Please ensure charger is connected
Controller may go dark while updating
Please reconnect to Sololink wifi
Press to continue
Returns user to hold-Fly-button screen
Green Solo LEDs (showing update complete) change to
standard red and white when this screen is displayed
preflight update
Required before first flight!
Use 3DR Solo App to update
update error
Solo and Controller have
different software versions
Use 3DR Solo app to update the system
Waiting for Solo
Persists until Solo reconnects
or
Artoo auto-shutdown
Solo-Artoo version mismatch
If Solo and Artoo have a mismatched version on startup
this message is displayed in the update ow in
place of the “preight update” screen.
Press when LEDs are green
Update complete (Connects to matching version Solo)
Prompt stays on screen until update is successful.
Post Unlock Behavior
After system is unlocked, user should be able to y using Artoo / Solo
versions that were last successfully installed.
(Even if they have failed in their most recent update attempt.)
Update unsuccessful (Artoo and Solo version mismatch)
Update Timeout
If update does not complete in X minutes
Update-unsuccessful screen is displayed
Update Timeout
If update does not complete in X minutes
“update-unsuccessful”screen is displayed
Update failure
If update fails, display“update unsuccessful”
screen
update unsuccessful
Please use 3DR Solo app to try
the update again
waiting for Solo
Cable Cam Orbit
FLY
12
FLY
Hold to start motors

13
Then follow these instructions to connect to Solo W-Fi.
Figure 2.6.4.4: App - Connect Instructions List
Once connected, return to the App and you will be notified of the current version you are about to update to. Select
Download Update to continue. For this step you will need an internet connection, either cellular data or Wi-Fi. If you
opt to use Wi-Fi, you’ll need switch from SoloLink to your Wi-Fi network.
Figure 2.6.4.5: App - Download Update
When the App detects an active connection with the controller, it will prompt you to begin the update. (Solo and the
controller must be powered on to connect to Solo Wi-Fi.) Select Begin to start the update.
Figure 2.6.4.6: App - Begin Update
While the update is in progress, the controller will show the controller updating display. The controller will complete
a full restart as part of the update process, which can take up to 5 minutes.
Figure 2.6.4.7: Controller - Updating
Because the controller must restart as part of the update process, your device will lose its connection to Solo Wi-Fi.
When you see the display below, select Next to continue.
Figure 2.6.4.8: App - Update Disconnection Confirmation
ARTOO UPDATE SCREEN FEEDBACK V10C
Update Requirement Screen
Controller updated
Controller update in progress screen
Is displayed after user initiates update in app.
Persists until controller update is successful.
Update complete feedback.
Tells the user that controller update was successful.
HAPTIC: Three 20 millisecond pulses,
to communicate update completion.
A-Press required to dimiss (same as current implementation)
Controller updating
Update will take about 5 minutes
Please ensure charger is connected
Controller may go dark while updating
Please reconnect to Sololink wifi
Press to continue
Returns user to hold-Fly-button screen
Green Solo LEDs (showing update complete) change to
standard red and white when this screen is displayed
preflight update
Required before first flight!
Use 3DR Solo App to update
update error
Solo and Controller have
different software versions
Use 3DR Solo app to update the system
Waiting for Solo
Persists until Solo reconnects
or
Artoo auto-shutdown
Solo-Artoo version mismatch
If Solo and Artoo have a mismatched version on startup
this message is displayed in the update ow in
place of the “preight update” screen.
Press when LEDs are green
Update complete (Connects to matching version Solo)
Prompt stays on screen until update is successful.
Post Unlock Behavior
After system is unlocked, user should be able to y using Artoo / Solo
versions that were last successfully installed.
(Even if they have failed in their most recent update attempt.)
Update unsuccessful (Artoo and Solo version mismatch)
Update Timeout
If update does not complete in X minutes
Update-unsuccessful screen is displayed
Update Timeout
If update does not complete in X minutes
“update-unsuccessful”screen is displayed
Update failure
If update fails, display“update unsuccessful”
screen
update unsuccessful
Please use 3DR Solo app to try
the update again
waiting for Solo
Cable Cam Orbit
FLY
12
FLY
Hold to start motors

14
The controller will restart and display a green check mark to indicate that the controller was updated successfully.
When you see the green check mark on the controller, re-connect to Solo Wi-Fi in the App and press A on the
controller to continue the update.
Figure 2.6.4.9: Controller Update Complete Displays
After pressing A, Solo will restart to complete the update. The controller will display waiting for Solo while Solo
restarts.
Figure 2.6.4.10: Controller - Waiting for Solo
When the update is complete, Solo’s LEDs will turn green, the controller will return to the standard takeoff screen,
and the app will show that the software is up to date. After displaying green, Solo’s LEDs will return to the standard
white-and-red pattern. If you do not see white-and-red LEDs after a few minutes following the update, restart Solo.
Figure 2.6.4.11: App - Update Success
2.6.5 View Video
After the update is complete, select Fly Solo to view video from your GoPro in the App. Solo, the controller, and the
GoPro must be powered to view video. Verify that you can view video before your first flight. If the video is inverted,
see section 2.5.2.
Figure 2.6.5.1: App - Viewing Video
ARTOO UPDATE SCREEN FEEDBACK V10C
Update Requirement Screen
Controller updated
Controller update in progress screen
Is displayed after user initiates update in app.
Persists until controller update is successful.
Update complete feedback.
Tells the user that controller update was successful.
HAPTIC: Three 20 millisecond pulses,
to communicate update completion.
A-Press required to dimiss (same as current implementation)
Controller updating
Update will take about 5 minutes
Please ensure charger is connected
Controller may go dark while updating
Please reconnect to Sololink wifi
Press to continue
Returns user to hold-Fly-button screen
Green Solo LEDs (showing update complete) change to
standard red and white when this screen is displayed
preflight update
Required before first flight!
Use 3DR Solo App to update
update error
Solo and Controller have
different software versions
Use 3DR Solo app to update the system
Waiting for Solo
Persists until Solo reconnects
or
Artoo auto-shutdown
Solo-Artoo version mismatch
If Solo and Artoo have a mismatched version on startup
this message is displayed in the update ow in
place of the “preight update” screen.
Press when LEDs are green
Update complete (Connects to matching version Solo)
Prompt stays on screen until update is successful.
Post Unlock Behavior
After system is unlocked, user should be able to y using Artoo / Solo
versions that were last successfully installed.
(Even if they have failed in their most recent update attempt.)
Update unsuccessful (Artoo and Solo version mismatch)
Update Timeout
If update does not complete in X minutes
Update-unsuccessful screen is displayed
Update Timeout
If update does not complete in X minutes
“update-unsuccessful”screen is displayed
Update failure
If update fails, display“update unsuccessful”
screen
update unsuccessful
Please use 3DR Solo app to try
the update again
waiting for Solo
Cable Cam Orbit
FLY
12
FLY
Hold to start motors
ARTOO UPDATE SCREEN FEEDBACK V10C
Update Requirement Screen
Controller updated
Controller update in progress screen
Is displayed after user initiates update in app.
Persists until controller update is successful.
Update complete feedback.
Tells the user that controller update was successful.
HAPTIC: Three 20 millisecond pulses,
to communicate update completion.
A-Press required to dimiss (same as current implementation)
Controller updating
Update will take about 5 minutes
Please ensure charger is connected
Controller may go dark while updating
Please reconnect to Sololink wifi
Press to continue
Returns user to hold-Fly-button screen
Green Solo LEDs (showing update complete) change to
standard red and white when this screen is displayed
preflight update
Required before first flight!
Use 3DR Solo App to update
update error
Solo and Controller have
different software versions
Use 3DR Solo app to update the system
Waiting for Solo
Persists until Solo reconnects
or
Artoo auto-shutdown
Solo-Artoo version mismatch
If Solo and Artoo have a mismatched version on startup
this message is displayed in the update ow in
place of the “preight update” screen.
Press when LEDs are green
Update complete (Connects to matching version Solo)
Prompt stays on screen until update is successful.
Post Unlock Behavior
After system is unlocked, user should be able to y using Artoo / Solo
versions that were last successfully installed.
(Even if they have failed in their most recent update attempt.)
Update unsuccessful (Artoo and Solo version mismatch)
Update Timeout
If update does not complete in X minutes
Update-unsuccessful screen is displayed
Update Timeout
If update does not complete in X minutes
“update-unsuccessful”screen is displayed
Update failure
If update fails, display“update unsuccessful”
screen
update unsuccessful
Please use 3DR Solo app to try
the update again
waiting for Solo
Cable Cam Orbit
FLY
12
FLY
Hold to start motors

15
3 Safety
The following best practices will help ensure safe, successful flights and help reduce the risk of accident and serious
injury. Always fly under adult supervision and with your full attention at all times. Do not fly under the influence
of drugs or alcohol or when your ability to operate Solo safely is impaired. Use common sense to avoid unsafe
situations and always operate Solo responsibly.
3.1 Location
Don’t fly Solo indoors. Always fly outside in clear, open areas at a safe distance from yourself, other people, power
lines, animals, vehicles, trees, and buildings. When flying in areas with potential hazards, maintain 100 feet (30 m)
from any people, vehicles, or structures. As the operator, you are responsible for navigating Solo to avoid obstacles,
including during Smart Shots.
Don’t fly within 5 miles of an airport or within any airspace restricted by your local, state, or national airspace
authority. As the operator, you are responsible for knowing and understanding the regulations that govern small
unmanned aircraft like Solo in your jurisdiction.
3.2 Environmental Awareness
Don’t fly Solo in extreme conditions such as rain, high winds, snow, or fog. Extreme weather conditions can
permanently damage Solo, cause instability in flight, or limit visibility.
Before flying, determine the boundaries of the safe flying area at your location. Be aware of any risks, including
bodies of water, structures, trees, power lines, etc, and designate a few areas where you can land Solo in case of
an unsafe situation. Throughout your flight, be prepared to recover Solo manually or use an emergency procedure if
Solo flies outside the safe flying area.
3.3 Visual Line of Sight
Always fly Solo within your visual line of sight. Don’t let Solo get so far away from you that you cannot see its
orientation or so that any physical obstructions block your view of Solo.
3.4 Flight School
If you’re new to flying, review the video tutorials in the Flight School area of the app before your first flight. Flight
School provides useful tips for learning to operate Solo safely and correctly.
Figure 3.4.5.1: App Flight School
Read and understand these important safety instructions before your
first flight to help reduce the risk of accident and serious injury.
Physical obstructions can also block communication signals with the controller,
causing Solo to attempt to Return Home along an obstructed path