Farm Progress: Maximizing drone coverage with a swarm

The DJI AGRAS T40 drone has received several important firmware updates that enhance performance, safety, and usability. Here is a quick overview of the new and improved features and how to take advantage of these updates on your T40. PERFORMANCE UPDATES NEW! “Hills” Scene in Field Route Operation Mode A new “Hills” scene has been added to the field route operation mode to improve ground imitation accuracy for tall crops. The T40 will adjust its flight pattern when flying over hilly terrain. IMPROVED! Adjustable Route Spacing The adjustable range for route spacing has been expanded to accommodate different flight path requirements. Whether you’re covering large fields or small plots, the T40 allows you to customize the spacing. SAFETY UPDATES IMPROVED! Enhanced Propeller Motor Safety To improve safety during takeoff and landing, the propeller motors will automatically stop spinning if they remain idle for more than 10 seconds. This will prevent accidental contact with the spinning blades. USABILITY UPDATES FIXED! Abnormal Flight Altitude in Fruit Tree Operation Mode In certain situations, the T40 had abnormal flight altitude when returning to the task resume point during Fruit Tree operation mode. This issue has been fixed, giving you more accurate altitude control. NEW! Spinner Disc Disable Option The update introduces a new feature that allows you to turn off the spinner disc while maintaining other spraying functions. NEW! Cancel Auto-Landing Feature In emergencies or when adjusting landing plans, you can now cancel auto-landing by moving the control sticks. This gives you more control over the landing process. IMPROVED! Amount Spread Display The accuracy of the “Amount Spread” information displayed on the Task Summary screen has been optimized. NEXT STEPS TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THESE UPDATES: If you have multiple batteries: This firmware update may include* updates for the Intelligent Flight Battery. Insert each one into the drone to check if any updates are needed. Check your aircraft & controller: Ensure that both your aircraft (version 01.03.1005) and remote controller (version 04.01.1000) are updated to ensure compatibility. Incompatible versions may lead to operational issues. To learn more about these updates or request assistance, contact Rantizo® customer service at support@rantizo.com or call 319-201-3020. *Dependent on the firmware being updated from; recent versions will not need updated, older versions, most likely, will need updated.

As spray drone technology continues to evolve, operators often encounter challenges requiring expert support. From calibration uncertainties and warranty repairs to technical troubleshooting and regulatory questions, the complexities can be daunting. Whether you’re a seasoned pilot or just starting out, here’s how a support package can benefit your business. 1. Calibration Questions Calibrating your drone helps ensure correct readings for more precise spray coverage. A support team can provide peace of mind that you’ve completed the process correctly, allowing you to fly with confidence. For example, calibrating your drone helps in getting a correct report on targeted vs. actual gallons per acre sprayed following a job. Common questions asked: How do I calibrate the spray system of the drone? How often do I need to calibrate my drone? Why should I calibrate my drone? 2. Warranty Repairs If your drone malfunctions or breaks down, maintain your warranty and investment by having a Certified Technician to assist with repairs. Find a team that can help you facilitate the process and provide clear instructions to help you get back to work efficiently. Common questions asked: Why am I receiving an error message? My drone is having malfunctions that I can’t figure out. Can you help? What documents do I need to complete for warranty repairs? Why is my pump not spraying? 3. Technical Troubleshooting Technology isn’t perfect and errors do occur. Troubleshooting errors alone can be a headache. Having a drone expert you can call for help will make it easier to solve these tricky problems and get you back in the air faster. Common Questions asked: Why is my drone giving me a pump error message? Why am I getting ESC (Electronic Speed Controller) errors? Why is my charger not fast charging? Why am I getting kicked into manual flight mode? Why is my RTK not connecting? Why won’t my drone take off? 4. Regulatory Questions Starting an FAA-compliant spray drone business can be intimidating. But with the right support team, you can confidently ask any regulatory question, basic or advanced. Common questions asked: How close can I fly to an airport? What do I need if the FAA shows up and questions me? How far away from roads do I need to be? How long does my medical card last? Why did my registration get denied? 5. Basic Operation Questions Quick questions deserve a quick answer. Especially when that question could directly affect your in-field performance. When choosing a support team, ensure that you reach a real person via call, text or email who can supply that quick answer to get you back in the air. Common questions asked: How to only spray a field boundary? What is the optimal gpa to spray fungicide? What should I set my swath width at if I’m spraying a pasture? What should my chemical mixture be to spray 30 acres of wheat at 2gpa? Where should I set up my RTK? 6. In-Field Repairs Downtime is lost revenue. With a support package, you can get the support you need to get back in the air quickly. Call in with a quick repair question or troubleshoot a larger issue with a Certified Technician. They can advise on in-field repairs or schedule your drone for repairs at our shop. Common questions asked: How do I change the propellers? Why aren’t the pumps spraying at max rate? How do I change the hopper gate on the dry spreader? How do I lock the battery in? 7. Product Recommendations At times, a fresh perspective is essential. Ensure that the drone support package you choose comes with a dedicated support line, offering top-notch advice on products such as generators, nozzles, components, or personal protective equipment. Common questions asked: What is the best propeller to use? What nozzles are best for fungicide? What is the best generator for my set up? Where can I buy a mixing tank? This season, make sure you have reliable support that you can count on. For more information on support packages available from Rantizo, visit www.rantizo.com/our-services or request a quote today.