Compass Calibration

General

The Compass calibration is performed to allow the compass to neutralize the influence of the ferrous material on-board the aircraft. The calibration is performed at the factory and in most cases does not need to be repeated.

Preparations

• Install Mission Planner (if not previously installed)

  • Instructions

  • Download Link

• Assemble the copter as it would be for flight

• Install batteries

• Payload installation

  • Some payloads affect the compass and some do not. You may calibrate without the payload installed, then install it and check the flight controller messages for errors.

  • If there are “compasses inconsistent” errors, then install or remove the payload and perform the calibration again

• Move the copter into an open area with no metal objects nearby

  • Try to have at least 30 feet from any nearby metal objects

  • Remove any metal from the person performing the compass calibration

    • Watches, belts, loose change, phones, etc.

• Connect batteries to power the aircraft

  • Use an in-line fuse if available

Connect with the Computer

1. Connect aircraft telemetry modem to the ground station computer

2. Launch “Mission Planner”

3. Select the COM port for the aircraft and click “connect”

4. Select the “Setup” from the top menu bar

5. Select “Mandatory Hardware” from the side bar menu

6. Select the Compass menu

Performing the Calibration

1. Press the “Start” button on the compass calibration screen

2. Rotate the copter at least once about each axis

   1. Continue rotating about the axes until complete

3. Upon completion the aircraft will emit an ascending tone

4. Click “Ok” on the computer screen

5. Power cycle the aircraft by disconnecting and reconnecting the batteries

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What if the calibration fails to complete?

Check the area for local magnetic interference, make sure the operator(s) who are manipulating the aircraft are free of any ferrous metals and try again. It is possible to encounter buried or otherwise not visible disturbances to the magnetic field that can cause the calibration to fail. In these instances, try a different location.

2. How often must I perform the calibration

The calibration is performed at the factory and in most cases does not need to be repeated. The copter contains a world magnetic model that allows it to automatically compensate for magnetic declination and local variances due to geological features. Only perform the calibration if there is a corresponding error that requires a recalibration to resolve.