So I saw the $399 special on WOOT! for a Phantom v1.1.1 and jumped on the deal. I used to fly RC planes years ago as an occasional weekend hobby and I already owned a GoPro Hero HD which I use for automotive/motorcycle use. I figured the combo of the two might be fun to play with and create some interesting vids.
So in addition to my Phantom I ordered an extra battery, an anti-jello mount, and a prop balancer. I wanted to be ready to shoot some footage as soon as I had the basics of flying sorted out. The Phantom arrived last night and I assembled it and charged the batteries, but I now defer to you the experts to help me get answers to a few questions I have before I make my first flight.
1. So right off the bat I see that the prop balancer I bought is not going to work with the stock self-tightening props. I can't return it (the balancer) and I'm not going to purchase a Du-Bro just so I can jury rig it to balance these new style props UNLESS... someone can convince me these self-tightening props are the best thing since sliced bread. Right now I'm leaning towards purchasing a set of the older style props and a set of nuts. I know that regardless of which route I take the key is running a set of properly balanced props to ensure minimal jello. Suggestions on replacement props? Seems the forums are all over the place as far as recommendations go...
2. Stock battery charger & battery packs. What's the deal with the extra 4-conductor connector? Besides the charger, what else does this connector interface with? What is its purpose? When using the stock charger do I set it for 1, 2, or 3 Amps?
3. In the box with my Phantom was an “accessory” bag with a few odds-n-ends in it. A wrench that fits something? A 4-inch piece of string and a couple small pieces of foam. Any ideas what this stuff is for?
4. Should I install the assist software and upgrade the firmware now before my first flight or not? I’ve read that I should just take it out, calibrate the compass and fly & enjoy it while others say I must update the firmware first. What say ye?
TIA
U.M.
So in addition to my Phantom I ordered an extra battery, an anti-jello mount, and a prop balancer. I wanted to be ready to shoot some footage as soon as I had the basics of flying sorted out. The Phantom arrived last night and I assembled it and charged the batteries, but I now defer to you the experts to help me get answers to a few questions I have before I make my first flight.
1. So right off the bat I see that the prop balancer I bought is not going to work with the stock self-tightening props. I can't return it (the balancer) and I'm not going to purchase a Du-Bro just so I can jury rig it to balance these new style props UNLESS... someone can convince me these self-tightening props are the best thing since sliced bread. Right now I'm leaning towards purchasing a set of the older style props and a set of nuts. I know that regardless of which route I take the key is running a set of properly balanced props to ensure minimal jello. Suggestions on replacement props? Seems the forums are all over the place as far as recommendations go...
2. Stock battery charger & battery packs. What's the deal with the extra 4-conductor connector? Besides the charger, what else does this connector interface with? What is its purpose? When using the stock charger do I set it for 1, 2, or 3 Amps?
3. In the box with my Phantom was an “accessory” bag with a few odds-n-ends in it. A wrench that fits something? A 4-inch piece of string and a couple small pieces of foam. Any ideas what this stuff is for?
4. Should I install the assist software and upgrade the firmware now before my first flight or not? I’ve read that I should just take it out, calibrate the compass and fly & enjoy it while others say I must update the firmware first. What say ye?
TIA
U.M.