Intermediate Drone Kit

Welcome to the Georgia Public Library Service (GPLS) Intermediate Drone Kit. This kit is designed to help users progress beyond beginner drones and gain experience with a more advanced but still lightweight drone system. The DJI Mini 2 offers high-quality video, intelligent flight modes, and extended range, while still weighing under 249 g—making it simple to use legally for recreational flying in most cases.

This kit is perfect for library programs, STEM workshops, community demonstrations, and staff training.

What’s in the Kit?

• DJI Mini 2 drone

• DJI drone controller (pre-paired with drone)

• iPhone with DJI Fly app installed (logged in to DJI/Apple accounts)

• 3 spare drone Batteries

• Battery charger and cables (USB-C and Lightning)

• Spare propellers and propeller cage (recommended for learning/indoor practice)

• Hard carrying case with documentation and account credentials, sling carry bag

Setup and Usage Instructions

Charging & Preparation

1. Charge the Batteries

   • Insert each battery into the charger hub.

   • LEDs will blink during charging; solid green means fully charged.

   • Charge the controller and iPhone as well.

2. Attach Propeller Cage (optional)

   • If practicing indoors, secure the propeller cage to the drone’s arms for safety.

   • Check that all propellers spin freely after attaching.

   • Remove any covers on the camera and make sure the leans is clean.

3. Power On Devices

   • Drone: Press once, then press and hold the power button until the LEDs light up.

   • Controller: Press and hold the power button until lights appear.

   • iPhone: Unlock and launch the DJI Fly app.

   • Devices are pre-linked, but if not, follow on-screen prompts to link again.

Pre-Flight Checklist

• Drone placed on flat, clear ground.

• Batteries at least 50% charged.

• Propellers undamaged and securely fastened.

• Area free of people, pets, and obstructions.

• GPS signal locked (satellite icon in DJI Fly app shows ready).

Flight Controls

• Left Stick: Up/down (altitude), rotate left/right (yaw).

• Right Stick: Forward/backward, move left/right.

• Cine Mode: Smooth, slow movement (recommended for new pilots).

• Normal Mode: Standard speed and responsiveness.

• Sport Mode: Fastest response (not for beginners).

Flying the Drone

Takeoff

• Confirm readiness in DJI Fly app.

• Tap Auto Takeoff or pull both control sticks down and inward to start motors.

• Slowly push left stick up to lift off.

During Flight

• Keep the drone within line of sight at all times.

• Monitor altitude, distance, and battery status on the iPhone screen.

• Use the camera button on the controller to take photos or start video recording.

• Monitor battery level and land before power is low (each battery lasts ~31 minutes).

Landing

• Tap Return-to-Home (RTH) in the app or hold the RTH button on the controller.

• Drone will ascend to safe altitude, return to starting point, and land.

• Or, land manually by gently lowering altitude until the drone touches the ground.

• Power off drone, controller, and iPhone after landing.

After Flight

• Remove batteries and recharge them to 50-70% only for storage or returning to GPLS.

• Collapse drone as shown on the stickers on the drone body. Use included "strap" to hold propellers in so they don't catch and bend during transport. 

• Replace any camera covers on the drone.

Safety Notes

• Do not fly in rain, snow, fog, or strong winds.

• Stay at least 5 m away from buildings and 3 m above water surfaces.

• Do not fly over people, vehicles, or sensitive structures.

• Always keep the drone in view.

Legal Requirements

• Waiver and TRUST certificate: Libraries checking this kit out must sign a "Drone Kit Safety Waiver and Release of Liability" and send the signed document to loanerkits@georgialibraries.org before use, this applies to every person flying the drone. All pilots that plan to fly outdoors must have a TRUST certificate (free online test).

• Recreational Use Only: No FAA registration is required if drone weighs <249 g, and if the drone is only used recreationally. 

• Commercial Use Not Allowed: Requires FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. Staff that prove they have a 107 license may use the drone for commercial purposes after confirming with GPLS IT staff.

• Maximum Altitude: Do not exceed 400 ft.

• Airspace Rules: Stay clear of airports and restricted zones. Check the DJI FlySafe map: dji.com/flysafe.

• Line Of Sight Requirements: Always keep the drone in view.

• People And Property: Do not fly over people, vehicles, or sensitive structures.

Example Use Cases

• Drone Photography Programs: Show patrons how to capture aerial images and video.

• STEM Workshops: Explore flight physics, GPS technology, and drone sensors.

• Community Outreach: Demonstrate how drones are used in mapping, environmental monitoring, or journalism.

• Staff Training: Practice safe drone operations for future library-led programs.

Troubleshooting

• Drone won’t connect to controller: Restart both devices and check that they are linked in the DJI Fly app.

• No video feed: Ensure the iPhone is connected and app permissions are enabled.

• Unstable flight: Calibrate the compass/IMU if prompted by the app.

• Blurry video/photos: Clean the camera lens with a microfiber cloth.

Safety Tips & Best Practices

• Start flying in wide-open spaces before trying smaller areas.

• Use Beginner Mode until you are comfortable.

• Keep spare batteries charged, but do not store them fully charged, return the kit with batteries at 50-70%.

• Transport the drone in the included protective case.

Checklist for Returning the Kit

• Drone, controller, iPhone, and all accessories are included. 

• Drone collapsed with strap reinstalled to protect drone during transport.

• All batteries and cables accounted for. Batteries charged to 70% maximum.

• Spare propellers and propeller cage included.

• Everything packed securely in the case.

• Post-use survey completed.