Aircraft Power
The following procedure must be performed, unless the Energy Storage Device Hot Swap procedure is used.
Aircraft Power: Prior to performing the remainder of this procedure, ensure that the aircraft has been depowered for at least 1 minute.
Energy Storage Devices: The energy storage devices are loaded as follows.
Inspect the condition of the energy storage devices. The energy storage device should not have visible damage such as cuts, dents, punctures, or torn protective covering, exposed leads or wires, or be swollen. The condition of the connector should be such that there is no visible damage. Signs of damage are cuts to cable insulation, recessed, bent, or missing pins, melting, and excessive scorching or charring. The energy storage device cells should not be visible.
- Energy Storage Plate/Velcro: The device’s Velcro straps should be free of visible tears or fraying, and be properly routed around the device.
After inspecting the energy storage devices, each device should be loaded onto the aircraft. There are two parallel, matching energy storage device trays on top of the aircraft to hold the energy storage devices. It is possible to attach and detach these trays. Do not do so when performing normal procedures, as it is not required. The steps for attaching the energy storage devices are as follows.
- Energy Storage Devices: Take a fully charged energy storage device and align its sled with one energy storage device tray. Ensure the energy storage device leads are facing the rear of the aircraft, so they can be plugged in.
The energy storage devices may be loaded from either the front or the back.
- Lock Packs Into Place: Ensure that the locking pins on the rear of the aircraft secure the energy storage devices in place.
Do not connect the energy storage device leads into the connectors located on the rear of the aircraft at this time.
As a reminder, prior to installing the energy storage devices, the condition should be inspected. In this situation, the energy storage devices shall be inspected for swelling or leaking fluid, the plate/velcro is properly secured to the pack, and the connectors and cables are in proper condition.
Connectors and Cables: After the energy storage devices are inspected, ensure the cables are clear of the propeller path and the balance leads are wrapped.
Aircraft Power: When powering on the aircraft, it is important to allow time for the sensors on both the aircraft and parachute to calibrate. It is crucial not to move or shake the aircraft as it is initializing. Plug in each battery quickly in succession. Ensure the aircraft is as stable as possible to allow the sensors to calibrate. Wait to tighten energy storage device velcro straps until after the 1 minute wait period has completed.