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Payload Connection System (PCS)

Attach Payloads

If flying with a payload, attach it to the airframe with the Payload Connection System.

Warning sign Note: Depending on the mass of the payload, the user may need to adjust the number of damper balls used.

Warning sign Warning: The damper balls come with a high-frequency whisker. These are functional items and should not be cut off.

High frequency whisker
Damper balls

1. Determine how many damper balls are needed for your payload.

Payload MassExample PayloadNumber of
Damper Balls
0–0.75 kg (0–1.7 lbs)Nadir mounted Sony a6400
or RX1Rii		4
0.6–1.5 kg (1.3–3.3 lbs)WIRIS Pro on Pixy-WP8
1.25–2 kg (2.75–4.4 lbs)Custom payload12

Warning sign Note: Always remove the center most damper balls first. For example, if you have a payload that weighs around 1 kg (2.2 lbs), the 4 damper balls in the middle should be removed (2 from the left side and 2 from the right side). If you have a light payload that weighs around 0.5 kg (1.1 lbs), the 8 damper balls in the middle should be removed and you’ll just have the 4 outermost corners remain.

diagram showing which damper balls to remove

2. If you need to remove damper balls:

  • First, gently pushing the top of the damper ball through the floating plate. Be careful not to apply too much force, or the damper balls can tear and will need to be replaced. 
  • Then, push the bottom of the damper ball through the lower main plate.
  • Pull the damper ball out sideways, between both plates. 
  • Place them in the bit box for storage.
Proper seating of damper balls between upper and lower plates. Note the upward or download facing position.

3. If you need additional damper balls:

  • Remove damper balls from the bit box.
  • Start by adding the center-most damper balls first, and work outwards. 
  • Gently poke the damper ball into place. Be careful not to use anything that is too sharp because it can tear through the damper ball. 
  • Double check that all damper balls are securely seated in place on the top and bottom.

4. Once the correct number of damper balls have been set, slide the payload into place. The payload mounting bracket on the top of the payload slides into the opening of the payload connection system on the belly of the aircraft.

Payload is not shown in this illustration for clarity.

5. Once the payload is seated, rotate the red ring to secure it.

6. Run the wires for the payloads through the safety loop on the bottom of the aircraft.

7. Plug in the payload. Any Vision Aerial payload will come with one or more of the appropriate connector(s) listed below.

Diagram of 3 connection ports on the bottom of the aircraft
  • For low power and data, connect the primary payload connector. 
    • 1. Ensure the cable is in the correct orientation with the screw on the bottom.
    • 2. Move the cable to the connection on the bottom of the drone until the two ends are secured.
    • Warning sign NOTE: The magnet is intended to retain the connection, but not make the connection. Be sure to press the two ends together firmly.
  • For video, connect the HDMI connector from your payload to the EPCS.

Images Coming Soon

For high power, connect the XT-30 connector from your payload to the EPCS. 

Warning sign NOTE: The XT-30 connector is not needed for all payloads. Only high-powered payloads require this connection.

Images Coming Soon

6. Turn on your payload (if applicable).
(See Payload Section for payload-specific information.)

Warning sign NOTE: Payloads cannot be hot-swapped. Power shall be removed for payload changes. Failure to power off the drone during payload swaps can result in damage to the sensor.

Warning sign NOTE: If applicable, ground test the payload and associated equipment.