We get asked alot, “What advice do you have for the first time flier?” so we thought we’d put together a simple list of the basic stuff you should do before flying your DJI Phantom Quadcopter for the first time.

DJI Phantom

Firstly and most importantly, read the manual.  I can not stress enough how important it is to do this and probably more than once.  You can find the manual for your specific Phantom on the DJI website at www.dji.com/support

1.  Learn the light sequences by memory.  Knowing what your Phantom is doing before and during flight is paramount.

Eg, 20 rapid flashing green lights means home position has been locked.  Constant green flashes means enough satellites are locked on for GPS enabled flight.

These are just two of the many light sequences but probably the most important.

2.  Calibrate your compass.  This is essential for your first flight and many people recommend re-calibrating every flight although this isn’t really necessary but is a good habit to get into for that extra peace of mind.

3.  Ensure you have enough GPS satellites locked on and that your Phantom has acquired home position lock before taking off.  Failure to so could result in your Phantom not returning back to the take off position in the event of a problem during flight.

4.  Take your first flight in a wide open space and keep it close.  Build your confidence slowly and don’t try to run before you can walk.

5.  Don’t fly behind trees or buildings even if using FPV.  The signal will soon be blocked and your Phantom will enter into Return to Home mode without your control.

6.  Your first landing can be tricky so make sure you try to land on a level/soft surface.  Concrete probably isn’t a good surface for your first landing.  Keep it smooth and slowly lower your Phantom to the ground.  Once you have both landing skids on the ground keep the left stick in the down position until the rotors shut down.  DO NOT shut down the motors in the same manner that you start them, ie, both sticks towards the centre.  This can cause the Phantom to tip over and damage your props, etc.

7.  Have fun!

For more information, sales, help and advice, contact Hobby Mounts (Official DJI Dealer based in Cornwall, UK).

01208 269885
www.hobbymounts.co.uk