Freefly ALTA 8 User manual

| SETUP GUIDE
SETUP GUIDE
REVISION C | 03.18.2016

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| SETUP GUIDE
TABLE OF CONTENTS
04 Disclaimer and Warning
07 Introduction
13 Unboxing ALTA
16 Weight Limitations
18 Disarm Safety Switch
19 Control Modes
22 Status Light
23 Alarms
24 Orientation Lights
25 Compass Calibration
26 Arming and Starting ALTA Motors
28 Setting Hover Throttle
29 Tuning ALTA
30 Unfolding ALTA
31 Folding ALTA
32 Installing a Radio Receiver
37 Configuration Jumper
38 ALTA App
39 Mapping Channels
40 Failsafe and Loss of Signal
42 Installing a Battery
46 Attaching a MōVI

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DISCLAIMER AND WARNING
IMPORTANT - Please read this disclaimer and warning carefully and review
the appropriate ALTA Aircraft Flight Manual (AFM) for your ALTA model prior to
flight. If you have any questions, please contact support@freeflysystems.com
prior to using the ALTA . You can review the most current version of
this Setup Guide at www.freeflysystems.com/software-manuals/.
By using ALTA, you acknowledge that you have read, understand and
agree to this disclaimer. You agree that you are solely responsible for your
conduct while using ALTA , and for any direct or indirect consequences that
may result from its use. You agree to only use ALTA for proper purposes
that are in accordance with local and airspace rules and regulations.
»ALTA is not a toy and should be operated with extreme care, as improper
operation can cause damage to property, serious
personal injury or death.
»As with any multi-rotor aircraft, ALTA is a complex and technical machine.
Novice pilots should invest sufficient time on a flight simulator and seek
training from an experienced pilot prior to operation. A flight simulator is no
substitute for training with an experienced pilot, particularly when it comes
to learning how to safely operate ALTA. Novice pilots should never fly without
the supervision
of an experienced pilot.
»Always check ALTA and its components for proper
and complete installation prior to operation.
»Always maintain a safe distance from ALTA when in use.
»Never attempt to touch ALTA when the propellers are moving.
»Never fly ALTA over or around people, power lines or other aircraft.
»Always keep children and animals a safe distance away from ALTA when in
use and when changing ALTA’s configurations.
»Only use propellers supplied by Freefly Systems that are designed
for use on ALTA.
»Always remove the propellers or power ALTA using a low-power source
when making a change to the configuration of ALTA to prevent propeller
strikes in the event of unintentional motor starts.
»Always remove the Configuration Jumper when making changes to the
configuration of ALTA.
»Always test ALTA with the propellers removed to make sure that the motors
are spinning in the correct direction and that the motor assignment is correct
with respect to the Synapse Flight Controller. If either of these conditions
are not met, ALTA will be uncontrollable and dangerous.
»It is your responsibility to perform a full system
check of A LTA prior to every flight.
»It is your responsibility to learn how to safely operate ALTA and to adhere to
all applicable rules and regulations.
»Fly at your own risk.
»ALTA is a tuned system with custom components selected for each
application. Modification to, removal, or substitution of ALTA components will
void the warranty and can lead to unsafe operating conditions.

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| SETUP GUIDE
LIMITATION OF LIABILITY
IN NO EVENT SHALL FREEFLY BE LIABLE TO BUYER FOR
ANY INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL, PUNITIVE, INCIDENTAL,
OR SPECIAL DAMAGES, OR ANY DAMAGES WHATSOEVER
RESULTING FROM THE USE OF ALTA OR FROM LOSS OF USE,
DATA OR PROFITS (HOWEVER CAUSED AND UNDER ANY
THEORY OF LIABILITY), EVEN IF FREEFLY HAS BEEN ADVISED
OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. IN NO EVENT SHALL
FREEFLY’S LIABILITY FOR A PRODUCT (WHETHER ASSERTED
AS A TORT CLAIM, A CONTRACT CLAIM OR OTHERWISE)
EXCEED THE AMOUNTS PAID TO FREEFLY FOR SUCH PRODUCT.
NOTWITHSTANDING ANYTHING HEREIN, IN NO EVENT SHALL
FREEFLY’S LIABILITY FOR ALL CLAIMS ARISING OUT OF
OR RELATING TO THIS AGREEMENT EXCEED THE AMOUNTS
PAID BY BUYER TO FREEFLY FOR PRODUCT IN THE LAST
TWELVE (12) MONTHS. IN NO EVENT WILL FREEFLY BE LIABLE
FOR COSTS OF PROCUREMENT OR SUBSTITUTE GOODS BY
BUYER. THE LIMITATIONS SET FORTH HEREIN SHALL APPLY
TO ALL LIABILITIES THAT MAY ARISE OUT OF THIRD-PARTY
CLAIMS AGAINST BUYER. THESE LIMITATIONS SHALL APPLY
NOTWITHSTANDING ANY FAILURE OF ESSENTIAL PURPOSE OF
ANY LIMITED REMEDY.
Freefly shall not be liable for damages or injuries incurred directly or
indirectly from the use of ALTA including, but not limited to,
the following situations:
»Failure of operator to follow proper instructions and safety warnings found at
www.freeflysystems.com/software-manuals/.
»Failure of the operator to understand and operate the aircraft within the
operating limitations described in this manual.
»Failure of the operator to follow onboard safety
warnings while using ALTA.
»Failure of the operator to follow and comply
with local rules and regulations.
»Failure of the operator to inspect ALTA and its
components prior to operation.
»Failure of the operator to properly maintain and/or service
ALTA through an authorized Freefly Service Center
with genuine ALTA parts.
»Use of third-party products on ALTA.
»Use of ALTA in a physically or mentally
impaired capacity.
»Use of ALTA without sufficient training.
»Use of ALTA in unsafe conditions, including, but not limited to, bad or severe
weather, such as rain, wind, snow, lightning, dust storms, etc., or in areas
of magnetic or radio interference, such as power stations, broadcasting and
cell phone towers,
government prohibited airspace, etc.
»Improper operation, misjudgment or risky behavior
while using ALTA .
»Infringement of third-party data, audio or video
rights recorded when using ALTA.

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BOOM NUMBERING AND PROP ROTATION (OVERHEAD VIEW)
BOOM 1 – Clockwise
BOOM 2 – Counter-Clockwise
BOOM 3 – Clockwise
BOOM 4 – Counter-Clockwise
BOOM 5 – Clockwise
BOOM 6 – Counter-Clockwise
BOOM 7* – Clockwise
BOOM 8* – Counter-Clockwise
* Applies to ALTA 8 ALTA 6 ALTA 8

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INTRODUCTION
ALTA is a line of professional multi-rotor aircraft
designed for demanding cinematic, television, and
photographic applications. Within five minutes, ALTA can
unfold from its carrying case to flying some of the most
advanced cinema cameras on either the top or bottom of
the aircraft. The Synapse Flight Controller is purpose-
built for cinema use, yielding precise yet smooth control.
This Setup Guide has been prepared to highlight
the operation of basic airframe and flight control
systems. It is supplemental to the Aircraft Flight
Manual (AFM) for your ALTA model, which contains
all the information required to set up, operate and
maintain an ALTA system safely. Do not operate
ALTA without completely reading the AFM found at
www.freeflysystems.com/software-manuals/.
WARNING
Warnings are used to call attention to operating procedures which,
if not strictly observed, may result in personal injury or loss of life.
CAU TION
Cautions are used to call attention to operating procedures which,
if not strictly observed, may cause damage to equipment.
NOTE
Notes are used to highlight specific operating conditions or steps
of a procedure.

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ALTA 6 OVERVIEW
1. GPS/Compass/Wi-Fi Module/microSD Card
2. Propeller
3. Boom
4. Boom Latch
5. Inverted Landing Gear
6. Boom Retention Clip
7. Isolator Cartridge
8. Motor
9. Battery Pack (Not Included)
10. Battery Retention Strap
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SKYVIEW CONFIGURATION
TOP MOUNT

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11. Status Light
12. Orientation Light
13. Toad In The Hole Adapter
14. MōVI & Camera (Not Included)
15. Landing Gear (Not Included)
16. FPV Camera Mount
17. Handle
18. Power Leads
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GROUNDVIEW CONFIGURATION
BOTTOM MOUNT

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ALTA 8 OVERVIEW
1. GPS/Compass/Wi-Fi Module/microSD Card
2. Propeller
3. Boom
4. Boom Latch
5. Inverted Landing Gear
6. Boom Retention Clip
7. Isolator Cartridge
8. Motor
9. Battery Pack (Not Included)
10. Battery Retention Strap
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SKYVIEW CONFIGURATION
TOP MOUNT
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11. Status Light
12. Orientation Light
13. Toad In The Hole Adapter
14. MōVI & Camera (Not Included)
15. Landing Gear (Not Included)
16. FPV Camera Mount
17. Handle with Battery Mount
quick release
18. Power Leads
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| SETUP GUIDE
GROUNDVIEW CONFIGURATION
BOTTOM MOUNT

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| SETUP GUIDE
UNBOXING ALTA 6
1. Case
2. ALTA 6 Aircraft
3. Case Lid Foam
4. Isolator Cartridges
a. (6) Teal (Installed)
b. (6) Black
c. (6) Red
5. Documentation
6. Electronic Luggage Scale
7. USB-Futaba Power Cable
8. Inverted Landing Gear
9. Antenna Tubes
10. FPV Cables
a. Skyzone/BOSCAM Transmitter
b. ImmersionRC/Fat Shark Transmitter
c. BOSCAM Micro Transmitter
d. Ready Made RC Camera
11. Fasteners
a. (4) M3 × 8 Socket Head for
Toad In The Hole Male Adapter
b. (2) M3 × 6 Flat Head for Accessory Mount
12. Toad In The Hole Male Adapter
13. 5.5mm Wrench
14. Hex Drivers (1.5mm, 2.0mm, 2.5mm)
15. Accessory Mount
16. Double-Sided Tape

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UNBOXING ALTA 8
1. Case
2. ALTA 8 Aircraft
3. Case Lid Foam
4. Isolator Cartridges
a. (6) Teal (Installed)
b. (6) Black
c. (6) Red
5. Documentation
6. Electronic Luggage Scale
7. USB-Futaba Power Cable
8. Inverted Landing Gear
9. Antenna Tubes
10. FPV Cables
a. Skyzone/BOSCAM Transmitter
b. ImmersionRC/Fat Shark Transmitter
c. BOSCAM Micro Transmitter
d. Ready Made RC Camera
11. (2) M3 x 6 Flat Head for Accessory Mount
12. Quick Release Battery Tray (Installed)
13. 5.5mm Wrench
14. Hex Drivers (1.5mm, 2.0mm, 2.5mm)
15. Accessory Mount
16. Double-Sided Tape

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WEIGHT LIMITATIONS
As altitude and temperature increase, the density of the air decreases. Consequently, ALTA’s thrust will decrease. The following
tables describe maximum gross weight limits with respect to altitude and temperature for both ALTA 6 and ALTA 8 models.
Press Alt Ft Maximum
Gross Weight
(lb)
30.0
30.0
29.4
28.4
27.3
26.3
25.4
24.4
23.5
22.6
21.8
13.6
13.6
13.3
12.9
12.4
11.9
11.5
11.1
10.7
10.3
9.9
30.0
29.4
28.4
27.4
26.4
25.4
24.5
23.5
22.7
21.8
21.0
13.6
13.4
29.5
28.4
12.9
12.4
12.0
11.5
11.1
10.7
10.3
9.9
9.5
27.4
26.4
25.5
24.5
23.6
22.7
21.9
21.1
20.3
13.4
12.9
12.4
12.0
11.5
11.1
10.7
10.3
9.9
9.6
9.2
28.5
27.5
26.5
25.5
24.6
23.7
22.8
22.0
21.2
20.4
19.6
12.9
12.5
12.0
11.6
11.2
10.8
10.4
10.0
9.6
9.2
8.9
27.6
26.6
25.7
24.7
23.8
23.0
22.1
21.3
20.5
19.7
19.0
12.5
12.1
11.6
11.2
10.8
10.4
10.0
9.7
9.3
8.9
8.6
Maximum
Gross Weight
(kg)
Maximum
Gross Weight
(lb)
Maximum
Gross Weight
(kg)
Maximum
Gross Weight
(lb)
Maximum
Gross Weight
(kg)
Maximum
Gross Weight
(lb)
Maximum
Gross Weight
(kg)
Maximum
Gross Weight
(lb)
Maximum
Gross Weight
(kg)
S.L.
1000
2000
3000
4000
5000
6000
7000
8000
9000
10000
0ºC 10ºC 20ºC 30ºC 40ºC
ALLOWABLE GROSS WEIGHT
As altitude and temperature increase, the density of the air decreases. Consequently, ALTA’s thrust will decrease. The follow-
ing table describes maximum gross weight limits with respect to altitude and temperature.
ALTA 6

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WEIGHT LIMITATIONS (CONTINUED)
Press Alt Ft Maximum
Gross Weight
(lb)
40.0
40.0
39.2
37.8
36.4
35.1
33.8
32.6
31.3
30.2
29.0
18.1
18.1
17.8
17.2
16.5
15.9
15.3
14.8
14.2
13.7
13.2
40.0
39.3
37.8
36.5
35.2
33.9
32.6
31.4
30.2
29.1
28.0
18.1
17.8
39.3
37.9
17.2
16.5
15.9
15.4
14.8
14.2
13.7
13.2
12.7
36.6
35.2
34.0
32.7
31.5
30.3
29.2
28.1
27.0
17.8
17.2
16.6
16.0
15.4
14.8
14.3
13.8
13.2
12.7
12.3
38.0
36.7
35.4
34.1
32.8
31.6
30.5
29.3
28.2
27.2
26.1
17.2
16.6
16.0
15.5
14.9
14.3
13.8
13.3
12.8
12.3
11.9
36.8
35.5
34.2
33.0
31.8
30.6
29.5
28.4
27.3
26.3
25.3
16.7
16.1
15.5
15.0
14.4
13.9
13.4
12.9
12.4
11.9
11.5
Maximum
Gross Weight
(kg)
Maximum
Gross Weight
(lb)
Maximum
Gross Weight
(kg)
Maximum
Gross Weight
(lb)
Maximum
Gross Weight
(kg)
Maximum
Gross Weight
(lb)
Maximum
Gross Weight
(kg)
Maximum
Gross Weight
(lb)
Maximum
Gross Weight
(kg)
S.L.
1000
2000
3000
4000
5000
6000
7000
8000
9000
10000
0ºC 10ºC 20ºC 30ºC 40ºC
ALTA 8 ALLOWABLE GROSS WEIGHT
As altitude and temperature increase, the density of the air decreases. Consequently, ALTA 8’s thrust will decrease. The
following table describes maximum gross weight limits with respect to altitude and temperature.
ALTA 8

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DISARM SAFETY SWITCH
The Disarm Safety Switch aids in preventing accidental motor disarming
while the ALTA is in flight and in manual mode. It may be mapped to
either a two-position or three-position switch. To set up the Lockout
Switch, refer to the Mapping Channels section or the ALTA Aircraft
Flight Manual.
3-POSITION SWITCH FUNCTION
1On - Disarming is not possible
2Off - Disarming is possible
3Off - Disarming is possible
2-POSITION SWITCH FUNCTION
1On - Disarming is not possible
2Off - Disarming is possible

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CAUTION
Always neutralize control inputs when switching
between control modes.
NOTE
ALTA’s emergency control modes are for emergency use only.
Do not test or use emergency control modes in normal flight
conditions.
CONTROL MODES
ALTA has three primary flight control modes: Manual Mode, Height Mode, and
Position Mode. They are selected with the Mode Switch. ALTA also has two
emergency control modes, Return-To-Home and Autoland, which are available
only during certain situations. For additional information, refer to the sub-section
associated with each emergency control mode in the AFM.
MANUAL MODE
In Manual Mode, ALTA will only stabilize its attitude. At neutral
control input (middle pitch and roll stick position), ALTA will
attempt to remain level. Throttle control is direct.
HEIGHT MODE
Height Mode changes the throttle stick behavior to command climb and
descent rates. The higher the throttle stick position, the faster ALTA will climb.
Conversely, the lower the throttle stick position, the faster ALTA will descend.
When the throttle stick is centered, ALTA will enter Height Hold. In
Height Hold, ALTA will maintain a target altitude and try to correct
for drift. If a disturbance moves ALTA away from this target altitude,
ALTA will climb or descend to return to the target altitude.

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CONTROL MODES [CONTINUED]
POSITION MODE
Position Mode changes the pitch/roll stick behavior to command
ground speeds. Pitch and roll stick deflection will command fore/
aft and left/right ground speeds respectively. Controlling altitude in
Position Mode is the same as in Height Mode.
With pitch and roll controls centered, ALTA will enter Position Hold.
In Position Hold, ALTA will maintain its position over a given point on
the ground and correct for disturbances.
Position Mode requires a strong GPS signal. If a weak signal is present,
ALTA will not enter Position Mode, and if the GPS signal degrades while
in Position Mode, ALTA will automatically revert to Manual Mode.
RETURN-TO-HOME
Return-To-Home (RTH) Mode will command ALTA to fly back to the
starting point of the flight or the last defined Home Point. When ALTA
first acquires a GPS position, it sets this as the Home Point of the
flight. The Home Switch on your radio controller can also be used
to set a new Home Point. See Channel Mapping in the AFM for more
information on setting up the Home Switch.
RTH can be initiated manually by the Home Switch or be initiated
with an Loss of Signal (LOS) event.
When initiated with the Home Switch, ALTA will fly back to the Home
Point, and the pilot will maintain control of ALTA’s altitude the entire
CAUTION
Flight using Position Mode in areas of degraded GPS signal, such as near buildings
or under dense tree cover, is not recommended. The reversion to Manual Mode can
sometimes cause abrupt changes in flight behavior.
time. ALTA will not autoland if adequate signal is detected. The pilot can
cancel the RTH procedure by commanding a pitch or roll command.
During an LOS event, ALTA will first check its current altitude against
Safe Height. If it is lower, it will climb to Safe Height, and if ALTA is
above Safe Height, it will remain at its current altitude. Next, ALTA will
fly back to the home position at the RTH Speed set in the ALTA App.
Finally, upon reaching the home position, ALTA will begin Autoland.
AUTOLAND
The Autoland function will command ALTA to hover for 10 seconds and will
then land in place. If ALTA is above the app-configurable Safe Height setting,
ALTA will first descend to it at the Maximum Descent Rate. After reaching
this height, ALTA’s descent will slow to the Autoland Descent Rate.
Autoland will only initiate if one of the following conditions is met:
• During Loss of Signal (LOS) if Autoland is selected as the LOS event
in the ALTA app
• At the end of a LOS Return-to-Home event
• Battery exhaustion while flying in Height or Position modes only