Attach Payloads
If flying with a payload, attach it to the airframe with the Payload Connection System.
Note: Depending on the mass of the payload, the user may need to adjust the number of damper balls used.
Warning: The damper balls come with a high-frequency whisker. These are functional items and should not be cut off.
1. Determine how many damper balls are needed for your payload.
Payload Mass | Example Payload | Number 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-WP | 8 |
1.25–2 kg (2.75–4.4 lbs) | Custom payload | 12 |
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.
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.
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.
5. Once the payload is seated, rotate the red ring to secure it.
6. Plug in the payload. Any Vision Aerial payload will come with one or more of the appropriate connector(s) listed below.
- 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.
- 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.
For high power, connect the XT-30 connector from your payload to the EPCS.
NOTE: The XT-30 connector is not needed for all payloads. Only high-powered payloads require this connection.
7. Turn on your payload (if applicable).
(See Payload Section for payload-specific information.)
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.
NOTE: If applicable, ground test the payload and associated equipment.