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Before you fly the DJI Mavic Mini do this first [firmware update and more]

Before you fly the DJI Mavic Mini (from DJI or Amazon) do this first. I know when you receive the new mini-drone from DJI, you really only want to unbox it as fast as you can, charge the batteries and start flying. But, before you do that, do these things first, which includes a firmware update.

Before you fly the DJI Mavic Mini do this first

So here’s the list of what you should do before flying your DJI Mavic Mini for the first time!

  • Unbox the drone (duh)
  • Charge all the batteries until they are at 100%
  • While the batteries are charging, go to the FAA website not to register but to learn how to fly safely and responsibly
  • Download the DJI Fly app (see here for instructions on where to download)
  • While you’re at it, also download the B4UFLY, UASidekick, and Kittyhawk apps so you’ll where you can safely fly your drone
  • Remove the gimbal cover from the drone and make sure the camera moves freely in all directions
  • Startup the drone, the controller and the DJI Fly app on your phone
  • Connect to the DJI Mavic Mini
  • Firmware update!
  • Calibrate the camera and IMU
  • Calibrate compass preferably outside in large open space with no metal objects around
  • Launch the drone and have fun flying!

This list was put together with help from Lauren D. from the Calgary drone group, who added:

Another tip for you when you get your mini. When you complete your unboxing, remove the gimbal lock and ensure the gimbal moves freely in all required directions. I have found that some are “jammed” and don’t rotate left and right. If you encounter this, lightly pull the camera forward just a little to unlock it. Gimbal should move freely. REMEMBER TO DO THIS BEFORE POWERING UP THE FIRST TIME.

What do you think about the DJI Mavic Mini? Let us know in the comments below.

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Avatar for Haye Kesteloo Haye Kesteloo

Haye Kesteloo is the Editor in Chief and Main Writer at DroneDJ, where he covers all drone related news and writes product reviews. He also contributes to the other sites in the 9to5Mac group such as; 9to5Mac, 9to5Google, 9to5Toys and Electrek. Haye can be reached at haye@dronedj.com or @hayekesteloo