ALTA X was designed from the ground up to be highly expandable and to support a large number of payloads. This section covers many of the integrations that have been tested.

For custom integrations, or to inquire about integrations in the works, please contact support!

Intro

Freefly Systems developed an FAA compliant Remote ID solution for Alta X.

• For existing Alta X operators, Remote ID field upgradeable kits are for sale in the Freefly Systems Store.

• Alta X - DIU Blue packages will not include our Remote ID solution per our DIU ATO.

• New Alta X shipping after February 2024 will come with Remote ID pre-installed (with the exception of the Alta X - DIU Blue package).

Freefly Part Offerings for Remote ID

The following options will be available in the Freefly Systems Store prior to the updated deadline of March 16, 2024.

Upgrade Instructions

Any Alta X variant that wasn't manufactured with the Standard Remote ID built in (most units that were shipped before February 2024) can be upgraded to be Broadcast Remote ID compliant. Upgrade can be done by the pilots in the field.

1. Buy and install the new IO board

• The new IO Panel comes with an integrated Remote ID broadcast module and it simply replaces the existing one that is installed on the Alta X.

• Purchase Remote ID Upgrade Kit (Alta X) (910-00790 or 910-00797) from the Freefly store.

• Follow these instructions to mount and connect the new IO Panel.

2. Update Alta X PX4 firmware to v1.4 or above

• Download firmware from https://freeflysystems.com/support/alta-x-support

• Follow update instructions from #updating-firmware

3. Register

• Find the Aircraft's FAA Remote ID Serial Number. You can simply tap the Remote ID icon on your Pilot Pro QGC, or you use an app like Drone Scanner to find your drone. Serial number will formatted as the following:

  • Standard: 1817 9 2 ________

  • Broadcast: 1817 9 3 ________

• Log in or Create an account at FAA DroneZone

• Select the 'Drone Owners and Pilots Dashboard'

• Select 'Manage Device Inventory' then 'Add Device' or 'Edit Device'

FAQ

Is Freefly Alta X compliant?

• Yes. We are currently building and shipping systems that were in the manufacturing process prior to Sept 16, 2023 that are not obligated to have the Remote ID capabilities at this time. See plan below for details on how to upgrade.

What is a “Broadcast module” (versus “Standard”)?

• A broadcast module is a device that broadcasts identification and location information about the drone and its take-off location in accordance with the Remote ID rule's requirements. The broadcast module can be added to a drone to retrofit it with Remote ID capabilities. Pilots operating a drone with a Remote ID broadcast module must be able to see their drone at all times during flight.

• In comparison, a "Standard" compliance means the ground control station with accurate real time positional data is required to operate the drone.

• "Standard" allows BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line Of Sight) operations. "Broadcast" doesn't.

• Freefly Alta X can be upgraded by the operators to become “Broadcast” RID compliant. However Alta X can only become “Standard” if manufactured or upgraded at Freefly facilities.

• 950-00150 Alta X part numbers are Standard Remote ID

What about Blue drones?

• Blue: The Remote ID transmission requirements present conflicts with DIU Blue's Authority to Operate security requirements. Consequently, the Alta X DIU Blue Package does not currently come with Remote ID enabled.

• NDAA Compliance: All Alta X DIU Blue Package drones are compliant with NDAA requirements, which do not impose the same security constraints as DIU Blue's Authority to Operate. To align with these standards, all Alta X DIU Blue Package drones will be equipped with Remote ID hardware in the future, though it will be defaulted to OFF. This ensures readiness for potential future activations while adhering to current security guidelines.

Can I use Futaba?

• Existing Futaba variants can purchase the upgrade kit and be Broadcast compliant.

• There will be "Standard" versions available to buy without Pilot Pro in the future. However you will be responsible to provide your own Remote ID compliant GCS with your Futaba or other RC controller to be able to operate. If GCS doesn’t send position info, you will not be able to arm.

• We will build and stock 950-00151 versions of Alta X for customers outside of the US that are not required to have Standard Remote ID to arm.

• If you have strict requirements to have both the Futaba and Standard RID on your Alta X, please reach out to support@freeflysystems.com to discuss options. We can offer shipping standard RID licensed aircraft with Futaba, however you will be responsible to provide your own Remote ID compatible GCS to be able to operate. This GCS, most likely through the use of FRX Pro, needs to send its standard remote ID packets that include its real time position data to Alta X. If GCS doesn’t send position info, you aircraft won't be allowed to arm (Designed per FAA requirements).

DJI's transmission technology works on various frequency bands, including non-DFS (Dynamic Frequency Selection) and DFS frequency bands. While this empowers filmmakers on movie sets, it also raises concerns about potential interference with aircraft (Alta X) operating within the same area.

The non-DFS frequency bands, comprising ranges such as 2.4000-2.4835 GHz, 5.150-5.250 GHz, and 5.725-5.850 GHz, are widely used by various wireless devices. DJI Transmission systems operating in these frequency ranges may unintentionally disrupt the operation of Wi-Fi networks, Bluetooth devices, and other aircraft connections. Such interference can lead to signal degradation, communication disruptions, or even complete loss of control for other devices sharing the same frequency spectrum.

Similarly, DJI's transmission technology in the DFS frequency bands, encompassing ranges like 5.250-5.350 GHz, 5.470-5.600 GHz, and 5.650-5.725 GHz, operates within frequencies that are subject to regulatory requirements to avoid interference with radar systems. Unintended interference from DJI Transmission can compromise the functionality of critical systems while working. This interference can pose significant risks to the safety and efficiency of any Alta X (and other Drone) operations in its vicinity.

Conclusion:

While DJI's transmission technology offers unparalleled connectivity and video transmission capabilities for cinematography, it is vital to emphasize the potential risk of interference it can cause to other aircraft (Unmanned & Manned) and systems operating within the same frequency spectrum. Responsible drone operation, adherence to regulatory guidelines, and airspace awareness are paramount to ensure the safety and efficiency of all aircraft.

Intro

Follow this guide to install Herelink on Alta X and get it setup for flight with a Pilot Pro.

Pilot Pro Airside Kit Details

*Not shown in the picture

For any information concerning Pilot Pro, please refer to Pilot Pro Wiki.

Installation Guide

Pilot Pro Airside Kit Installation

FRX Pro + Futaba Radio Removal

Herelink + Antenna Installation

Binding Alta X and Pilot Pro

Pilot Pro Setup

Follow these instructions to setup your Pilot Pro for use with Alta X. This step only needs to be completed once. Before continuing please make sure your Alta X has been updated to the latest FW.

QGround Control Setup

Follow these instructions to set QGround Control up for the first time after receiving your AltaX + Herelink Upgrade kit. If you have accidentally uninstalled QGround Control you will have to repeat these steps.

Alta X Case Modifications

Perform this rework on your Alta X Case to ensure the new antenna mounts fit inside the case.

Pilot Notes and Controller Limitations

Pilot Notes

• Kill Switch Behavior

  • Any time the kill switch is activated (pulled down), all PWM signals to the motors will halt and the motors will immediately stop. If the unit is in flight it will not land gracefully.

    • This switch will work regardless of flight mode or other settings.

    • Once killed the unit must be power cycled to regain functionality. Even though QGround Control can send an 'Arm' command after the unit has been killed the unit will not spin its props.

• Safely Powering Alta X + Herelink

  • The Alta X cannot power the Herelink when only receiving USB Power.

  • In order to power the Herelink as well as the drone safely hold down the 'ACTION' button on the GPS until light pattern changes (~2s). On the Freefly RTK GPS the STATUS LED will flash white once and then the POWER LED will slowly flash Red.

Controller Limitations

• Pilot Pro Dials, Triggers, and Switches

  • As of right now only critical flight features are activated when using AltaX and Pilot Pro. These include the Mode Buttons, RTL, Kill Switch, and gimbals. We are working on updates to the FW which will allow users to have access to the Triggers and Switches found on Pilot Pro.

  • This includes A1, D1-4, L1/2, R1/2, S1/2, and both Rockers.

• Second External Telem Port (UART)

  • While the new IO Panel features an additional Telem Port, Alta X's upgraded in the field will not have this feature available without extra work. More information can be found here.

• HDMI Video

  • HDMI Video will not currently function through the QGround Control App - this is will be fixed in coming updates to the QGround Control App.

• Ethernet Drone Connectivity

  • While you will be able to connect a computer to the ETH port on the Pilot Pro's radio module and access AltaX, you will not be able to have a true ethernet connection with the drone.

FAQ's

• Can I fly a Alta X Herelink with a Herelink Controller?

  • We do not recommend flying Alta X Herelink with anything but Pilot Pro. Both the air and ground sides of the Alta X Herelink and Pilot Pro have been configured to work together and will not work with a normal Herelink. To use a Herelink Controller you would need to buy a off-the-shelf Herelink Air Unit and integrate the systems yourself.

DIU Blue sUAS - Alta X

The Freefly Systems Alta X has been approved by the Defense Innovation Unit and was added to the . Freefly offers the , , and a .

The original

Uses a Black Cube flight computer. This aircraft was developed and released in 2019 prior to the DIU Blue sUAS program.

Uses an NDAA compliant Blue Cube flight computer assembled in the U.S.A. This flight computer uses identical hardware as the Black Cube (original Alta X). The Alta X (Blue Cube) aircraft also utilizes specialized firmware that has been vetted and approved by DIU.

• Note: The Blue Cube is equipped with firmware that permanently disables WiFi and Bluetooth to comply with DIU Blue requirements and can only have Blue qualified firmware installed from the factory.

• Note: Alta X (Blue Cube) PN: 950-00112 does not include a hand controller. You can purchase a controller separately or provide your own.

• Note: Alta X (Blue Cube) and Alta X (DIU Blue Package) are NOT and will NOT be FAA Remote ID compliant from the factory.

Includes the Alta X (Blue Cube) described above, as well as a UXV tablet based controller with an RFD 900X telemetry radio. This encrypted radio sends and receives MAVlink telemetry and control inputs to/from the aircraft.

• As part of the Blue sUAS program, the Alta X is under strict revision control and updates in firmware or hardware will only be released after review from DIU.

• Limitations:

  • Freefly RTK does not currently work on the Alta X DIU Blue Package.

  • FRX Pro does not currently work on the Alta X DIU Blue Package.

  • We are not able to upgrade your existing Alta X to a “blue system”.

  • The Alta X DIU Blue Package is not FAA Remote ID compliant.

• Important Security Guidelines for the User: To reduce the cyber vulnerability and increase the security of the system we recommend the following:

  • Logs: Aircraft flight logs are crucial for analysis in the events where logs are needed for technical support. However having logs enabled also pose vulnerability. If drone is intercepted mid-mission, and attacker gains physical access to drone, user can access unencrypted logs without authentication via physical access to drone, and can get current mission plan and logs. To address this vulnerability, you can set SDLOG_MODE parameter to -1 to fully disable logging.

  • Radio: The UXV tablet comes with password authentication to access the tablet. However the drone may still be armed using the joysticks without needing to access he tablet. To address this vulnerability, you can enable power to the radio using the installed RFD app upon every tablet login, then disable power after each use before shutting down the system.

IO Panel Upgrade

Broadcast Module Specs

• Output frequency: 2.4Ghz (2.402 - 2.481 GHz for Bluetooth 5)

• Transmit power: +18dBm (63mW) max

• Power consumption: Insignificant (~379mW peak consumption, which will decrease Alta's flight time by less than 0.15 seconds over a 25 minute flight for example)

Intro

Alta X () comes with a UXV tablet-based controller with an RFD 900X telemetry radio. This knowledge base wiki page aims to provide an overview of the usage and operation of the Alta X with the UXV hand controller.

Get Familiar

Before operating the Alta X with the UXV controller, make sure you:

First Time Setup

• The UXV controller ships with a factory password. Upon receipt, update this to a password of your choice with the following minimum requirements:

• Review the different Alta X offerings, particularly the DIU Blue Package, which includes a UXV tablet controller and a RFD 900X telemetry radio.

• Read the Alta X wiki to familiarize yourself with the platform's setup and operation. Pay special attention to the and sections. Note that most articles use Futaba as the primary controller. This page will focus on the differences in operating with the UXV controller.

• 15 characters consisting of lower and upper case letters, numbers, and symbols.

Security

• Always keep the Alta X UAS and Controller physically secured. Unauthorized access to these items can allow attack vectors such as modifications of aircraft settings, or unauthorized exfiltration of confidential data and flight logs.

• Freefly records default passwords as well as radio pair encryption keys as part of the production process. If the user requires increased security it is suggested the user updates these items.

• Enabling LTE, WiFi, or Bluetooth will increase the vulnerability of the tablet.

Safety Warnings

• Even when Q-Ground-Control (QGC) is not open, the tablet is still sending RC controls. This is by design so that if the app crashes, you can maintain control of your aircraft. Always treat the tablet as being in control of the aircraft.

Getting Started

• Proper antenna placement is crucial for optimal performance. Follow these guidelines:

• On the drone, ensure the antennas face down as pictured.

• On the UXV controller, position the antennas vertically. Hold the controller with the long antennas pointing up or down, and avoid touching them to the controller's back. For the best performance and range, make sure not to point the tips of the antennas at the aircraft.

• Maintain line of sight with the aircraft for optimal range and connectivity. Plan missions accordingly.

• Antenna installation on the controller can be tricky. Gently place the antenna on the RP-SMA connector and turn the silver part to attach the antennas until hand-tight.

• Be gentle when repositioning the antennas once tightened.

UXV Navtab Controls and Buttons

• Take a moment to familiarize yourself with the locations of controls and mode buttons pictured below:

Flight Part 1 - Flight Modes

• Manual mode is intentionally not set up on the UXV controller by default, as the sticks are not designed for precision manual flying. We don't recommend flying in manual mode.

• Startup flight modes - PENDING:

  • The drone starts up in PENDING flight mode, meaning it doesn't yet have a enough GPS position lock or home point.

  • The drone automatically switches from PENDING to POSITION mode when a position lock is available.

  • If the operator wishes to take off without a valid home point, they can click the mode button to altitude mode and take off anyway. Be aware that return failsafe will not function without a valid home point established before takeoff.

• (QGC) QGroundControl allows users to enter any flight mode via the flight mode dropdown, however, it is not recommended unless the user has prior experience with these modes. Use the controller buttons for mode switches and the on-screen slider for mission start when possible to avoid accidental mode changes.

Flight Part 2 - Operation

• UXV joysticks:

  • The UXV joysticks send SBUS commands directly to the aircraft and function even if QGroundControl is closed or the tablet stops working.

• Taking off in pos+alt mode,

  • To Takeoff, hold the left control stick fully down and right for 1.5 seconds to arm motors.

  • Once motors are at idle speed and all motors are running smoothly, push up on the left stick to takeoff and climb to the desired altitude.

• Landing in pos+alt mode,

  • Do not give positional commands during landing unless necessary, even minor joystick inputs when touching down can cause tip overs.

  • Once on the ground, keep throttle low and allow the aircraft to auto disarm in 5 seconds.

• RTL

  • Always check Return To Land settings for the operating area. Select an altitude high enough to clear any obstacles between any flight location and the home point.

  • A loss of link event will initiate an RTL (Return to Landing). When this occurs, the aircraft will climb to your preset altitude and fly directly to the home point. This should be accounted for when selecting a takeoff location to avoid tall obstacles.

  • To manually activate an RTL, center press the left directional pad momentarily.

Flight Part 3 - Emergency/Advanced

• Emergency shutoff:

  • In case of emergency, click "armed" on QGC and swipe to shut down. This will work even when the aircraft is airborne

  • Be aware that emergency disarm in the air will lead to a crash, so this action should only be taken in extreme situations when absolutely necessary to prevent a potentially more dangerous outcome.

• Low battery

  • Low battery failsafe activation may occur early if the drone has low battery and high power demands.

  • The failsafe doesn't consider the drone's distance from takeoff when returning, so plan accordingly to prevent battery depletion.

  • To abort low battery, reselect position mode to override. Use caution!

  • Low battery thresholds may be adjusted for specific use cases. For instance you can decrease the threshold when flying close or with light payloads.

Pro Tips and Limitations

• Mission guidance:

  • The default mission and RTL speed have been increased to 10m/s in this firmware (5m/s was the default before). Users may need to override the speed in the mission if they previously relied on the 5m/s default.

• Charging time:

  • Be aware that charging the UXV controller can take a long time. Always charge in advance.

  • Supplemental power can be provided to extend the run time by using an external USB power source, such as a battery bank.

• Freefly RTK does not currently work on the Alta X DIU Blue Package with the UXV controller.

FPV System installation

Note: If you are installing a different FPV Transmitter other than the Freefly FPV system, please see the appendix section for wiring guidance.

VTX System Installation

Gimbal Ready Alta X systems equipped with the Payload Vibration Damper (Alta X) have interchangeable isolator cartridges. The Payload Vibration Damper ships with 30A isolators, but they are available in different durometers.

These options give the user the ability to fine tune vibration damping performance for different payload weights or ambient temperatures. Durometer options include 30A, 40A, and 50A. The durometer of a cartridge is shown in recessed lettering on each of the O-rings. Use the chart below as a general guide choosing the correct isolator cartridges for your payload.

Please use RIEGL systems to ensure easy integration and compatibility with Alta X. Reach out to RIEGL for assistance on integration - INFO@RIEGLUSA.COM. The table below is the RIEGL compatibility chart for Alta X & RIEGL Systems.

RIEGL

ALTA X allows for the installation of a radio control system. S.Bus, S.Bus2, DSM2, and DSMX receiver types are supported. Some ALTA X emergency control modes (Return-to-Land and Autoland) may vary depending on the type of radio. Refer to the section of this manual for additional details.

Installation and Setup of Pilot Pro

To integrate Pilot Pro on Alta X use the integration instruction found .

For more details on Pilot Pro refer to its !

Installation of Futaba Radio

Installation of Spectrum Radio

Radio Controller Calibration and Mapping

ALTA X can be used with a variety of radio controllers. Different radio controllers can map functions to different channels, so properly mapping controller channels to ALTA X functions is an important step before flying. Radio calibration and channel mapping are performed using the ALTA QGroundControl program or app.

If you are uncertain about your radio channel mapping, obtain assistance from an experienced pilot or from Freefly Customer Support.

Calibrating Radios Using ALTA QGroundControl App

Calibrating any compatible radio is done using the ALTA QGroundControl app. This only needs to be done when using a new radio with the ALTA X; ALTA X that were bought with a radio have already gone through the Calibration and Mapping procedures.

1. Power the ALTA X by plugging in a USB-C cable to the expansion port.

2. The expansion port is located under the closeout between booms 1 and 2 .

3. Once connected, the ALTA X electronics will be powered and you may turn on the radio.

4. Open the ALTA QGroundControl program, navigate to the Radio tab in the Vehicle Setup menu, and then initiate the radio calibration.

5. Set the transmitter mode radio button that matches your radio configuration (this ensures that QGroundControl displays the correct stick positions for you to follow during calibration).

6. Move the sticks to the positions indicated in the text (and on the radio image). Press Next when the sticks are in position. Repeat for all positions.

7. When prompted, move all other switches and dials through their full range (you will be able to observe them moving on the Channel Monitor).

8. Press Next to save the settings

Mapping Channels Using ALTA QGroundControl App

Radio channel mapping is accomplished with the ALTA Qgroundcontrol App. Prior to mapping channels, ensure your radio controller and receivers are properly installed and calibrated. Refer to the Radio Installation section of this manual and your radio controller’s documentation.

1. Power the ALTA X by plugging in a USB-C cable to the expansion port.

   1. The expansion port is located under the closeout between booms 1 and 2

2. Once connected, the ALTA X electronics will be powered and you may turn on the transmitter.

3. Open the ALTA QGroundControl program, navigate to the Flight Mode tab in the Vehicle Setup menu for access to the channel mapping.

4. Channel mapping can be customized by the user on this menu to fit their preferences. Below is a quick description of the items mapped to the transmitter and suggested channels for each mapped item.

Function Descriptions

The following functions can be mapped to radio controller channels. These are found in the Radio section of the Configurations menu in ALTA QGroundControl. Each function is also represented by a chart that responds to control input allowing for quick verification of mapping settings.

Controller

Use this to select the appropriate receiver. The following guide is compiled for convenience. For complete specifications and which mode will work with your receiver, refer to your radio controller or receiver manuals.

• DSM2/DSMX are typically used by Spektrum controllers

• SBUS is typically used by Futaba controllers

Pitch/Roll/Yaw/Throttle

The Pitch, Roll, Yaw and Throttle controls are the basic flight controls and are mapped to the two radio controller sticks.

Mode

The required Mode Switch selects between the three different flight modes: Manual, Altitude, and Position. A three-position switch is recommended to select the three different modes. However, a two-position switch may be used, but will only allow for selecting between Manual Mode and (depending on radio controller mixes) either Altitude Mode or Positon Mode . Other modes are available, but should be only used by experienced operators.

Return to Home Switch

The optional Return to Home Switch selects between the different Return-to-Land (RTH) functions. At minimum a two-position switch is required for the Home Switch functions to select between RTL Off, and initiate RTL functions.

Typical Channel Mappings

The following radio channel mapping configurations are recommendations only and can be set in ALTA QGroundControl. Depending on exact radio models, these may help as an initial configuration. However, it is up to the pilot setting up ALTA X for flight to determine if these settings are appropriate.

Futaba 14SG/8FG

Spektrum DX18

Freefly's Skyview allows for payloads mounted on the top-side of the aircraft.

Description & Specifications

The Freefly DC-DC converters draw power from the 50V battery bus and provide up to 120W of 5V or 12V DC. The converters utilize off the shelf converters mounted on a custom heatsink with and a custom capacitor board to provide better transient response.

Note 1: Above ambient temperatures of 50C, some current/power derating will be necessary.

Installation

The converter mounts onto any unused closeout. Installation steps:

Operation Notes

The power converter will power on automatically as soon as the battery is connected on the aircraft.

• The power converter will power on automatically as soon as the battery is connected on the aircraft.

• The converters have overcurrent & short circuit protection, and will restart automatically upon clearing of overcurrent/short circuit condition.

MoVI Carbon makes a perfect companion to the ALTA X. When installing Carbon onto an ALTA, please note the following:

• To use MōVI Carbon with ALTA X, we recommend using the 40 duro isolators that ship with ALTA X.

• Install landing gear on MōVI Carbon and attach to ALTA X using the Toad in the Hole Quick Release.

• We recommend using qty 2 12s 16Ah flight packs with MōVI Carbon as this will allow 20+ minute flight times.

• The default Movi Carbon tuning should work well with ALTA X.

• FRX Pro can be added to MoVI Carbon to increase control range and robustness.

External Computer Mounting

Power & Comms

Power is available from a few sources:

• 5V from expansion ports (see Expansion Ports section)

• 5V or 12V DC-DC converters

Communication to the aircraft is currently available through the Mavlink on the expansion port labelled "UART" (see expansion ports sections)