User Manual

USER GUIDE
62
6.1 Preflight Checklist
The Vector includes an interactive preflight checklist, which lists some of the common things that you should
check (or do) before flying. Of course, no generic list is complete, so this should only serve as a supplement to
your normal checklist.
The preflight checklist is invoked from the main menu.
The cumulative time you will spend going through your
checklist before flying is probably much less than the time it
takes to rebuild your model once.
Note that some of the items on the checklist do not necessarily
need to be done each flight (such as setting the pack mAH,
rezeroing gyros, setting flat level mounting, and verifying the
GPS/MAG is mounted away from power wires). They are there
for your convenience.
Also, some of the compass/GPS related items, and the compass
display, will not be present on the checklist if you are not using
the magnetic compass.
6.1.1 Resetting Home Position
On the preflight checklist, and on the main menu, you’ll find the “Reset Home Position” option. This option
lets you finalize the home position for the Return to Home feature. Typically, the GPS position accuracy
improves over time, and resetting the home position just before takeoff may more accurately set this position.
Additionally, this feature can be used if you want your home position to be at a slightly different location from
where the GPS was first powered on.
Resetting the home position rezeros the altimeter, the pitot speed sensor (if used), and the GPS altitude
readings.
If you are using the Eagle Eyes antenna tracker, make sure the tracker is located close to the home
point, for best results.
6.2 First Flight Recommendations
6.2.1 Ground Tests before First Flight
6.2.1.1 Vibration Check for Fixed Wing
If you can do so safely, it is recommended that you perform a prop-on engine run-up on the ground with 2D
stabilization enabled (and the gain knob at midpoint or higher, if used), while watching your control
surfaces for drift. This is especially important to do if you have a nitro, gas, or other high vibration motor.
Don’t fly your model if your control surfaces are moving unexpectedly during engine run-up! You’ll need
to find ways of further isolating the Vector, or your airframe, from motor vibration, such as using a
cushioned motor mount.