The Ultimate Guide to Spring Maintenance and Upgrades for DJI Drones
The Ultimate Guide to Spring Maintenance and Upgrades for DJI Drones: Revitalizing the DJI FPV, Air 2S, and Mini 2 in 2023
Introduction:
Spring is finally upon us, and it's time to dust off our drones and get ready to capture the beauty of the season from above. If you, like me, own one or more DJI drones, you know that routine maintenance and the occasional upgrade can keep these flying marvels in top shape.
We have three ageing DJI drones in our fleet that we still get immense value out of and they happen to be some of the most widely owned consumer drones out there. They are the Air 2S, the Mini 2, and the FPV.
Enduring Value in 2023:
We definitely keep current. Simply being able to buy new drones is a primary reason for why we started a drone business! DJI is the undisputed leader in quality and comprehensive features and they dominate our fleet. We love the latest lineup which includes the Mavic 3, the Mini 3 Pro, and the Avata.
Despite newer drone models like these constantly entering the market, the DJI FPV, Air 2S, and Mini 2 continue to hold their own in 2023. With compatibility for SDKs allowing the use of third-party software like Dronelink, a plethora of accessories, and an enduring reputation for quality, these drones remain excellent choices for both beginners and seasoned pilots. They can even serve as benchmarks for future drone technology, experimental platforms for new parts, or stylish decor pieces for your home or office.
The Comprehensive Spring Maintenance Checklist:
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Firmware Updates - Begin by checking for the latest firmware updates on the DJI website. Keep an eye on DJI's forums for information on firmware stability and improvements. If you're unsure whether a newer version is better or worse than a previous one, consult user experiences and reviews. Always back up your settings before updating.
a. DJI Assistant 2 - Download and install DJI Assistant 2 on your computer. Connect your drone and follow the on-screen instructions to update the firmware.
b. DJI Fly App - For the Mini 2 and Air 2S, use the DJI Fly app on your smartphone or tablet to check for updates and install them.
c. DJI FPV Goggles and Remote Controller - Don't forget to update the firmware for your DJI FPV Goggles and Remote Controller as well.
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Inspect and Repair Body Damage - Examine your drone carefully for any cracks, dents, or damage that may have occurred during winter storage or previous flights.
a. Replacement Parts - If you find any issues, consider purchasing replacement parts like shells, arms, or landing gear (see links below). Consult your drone's manual for guidance on replacing damaged components.
b. Glue or Epoxy Repairs - For minor damage, use glue or epoxy to reinforce and repair the affected areas. Ensure the adhesive you use is suitable for the drone's materials and follow the manufacturer's instructions. We use Gorilla Glue. Use it sparingly! It expands.
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Refresh Registration Labels or Markings - In Canada, drones weighing over 250g require registration. Double-check that your drone's registration information is up-to-date and clearly visible on the body of the aircraft. If necessary, create a new label or update the existing markings.
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Check Battery Health - Inspect your batteries for any signs of swelling, damage, or wear. Use a battery checker to ensure they're still holding a charge and functioning properly. Consider investing in new batteries if you notice any issues.
a. Storage Tips - Store your batteries at room temperature and at around 50% charge to prolong their lifespan. Avoid overcharging or deep discharging, as this can harm battery health.
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Perform Thorough Function Tests - Before taking to the skies, test all of your drone's systems to ensure everything is in working order.
b. Gimbal and Camera Check - Test the gimbal's movement and stabilization, as well as the camera's focus, zoom (if available), and recording capabilities. Make any necessary adjustments in the app settings.
c. Motor and Propeller Inspection - Examine the motors for signs of wear or debris, and ensure the propellers are in good condition. Replace any damaged propellers and clean the motors using compressed air if needed.
d. Obstacle Avoidance Sensors - Test your drone's obstacle avoidance sensors, if applicable, by slowly approaching an object while watching for alerts on your app or controller.
Upgrades and Accessories for Your DJI Drones:
We've gone ahead and saved our shopping lists for these drones to share:
These lists are not comprehensive because like many things there are many more accessories out there than are useful. We look to add some function, solve some problem, or promote our brand. Here are a few must have highlights from our lists for these drones:
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ND Filters - Improve your aerial photography and videography by investing in a set of high-quality ND filters. ND filters help control exposure and reduce glare, giving you more creative freedom and better image quality.
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Propeller Upgrades - Consider upgrading the propellers on your DJI FPV, Air 2S, or Mini 2 for enhanced performance. Some aftermarket propellers offer improved efficiency, stability, and reduced noise, making them an attractive option for drone enthusiasts.
- DJI FPV Motion Controller - Enhance your FPV experience with the DJI Motion Controller. This intuitive controller offers a more immersive and interactive way to control your DJI FPV drone.
Exceptionally, there is one accessory that we have found to be more valuable than all others, the Insta360 Sphere Camera. This turns your DJI Air 2 or Air 2S into an invisible drone and a 360-degree content creation machine. You can get an FPV look and reframe from any angle. It is like having another drone. Use our link directly from Insta360 and get a free battery with your purchase.
Fun Fact: In 2022, the number of registered drones in Canada exceeded 200,000! It's evident that our love for these high-flying gadgets continues to grow.
Conclusion:
Spring is the perfect time to show your DJI drones some love with thorough maintenance and thoughtful upgrades. By following this comprehensive guide, you'll ensure your FPV, Air 2S, and Mini 2 are ready to conquer the skies in 2023. Don't forget to check out the links found throughout this post for fantastic deals and lists of replacement parts and accessories.
If you're new to the drone world or looking to upgrade your certifications, spring is also an opportune time to obtain your basic or advanced operations certificate through our affiliated training establishment. With the proper certification, you can unlock even more potential with your DJI drone.
Learn to check and understand flight restrictions and get certified. Click here to enroll in Coastal Drone Co's Basic and here to enroll in the Advanced online course.
So, what are you waiting for? Get your drone ready for the season and be sure to check back soon for a blog about spring shopping for new drones.
Thanks for reading.