Pertinent info for almost ANY Ni-cad battery. If you store them at 40-60% instead of full charge, you'll be amazed how much longer they are usable!!!!!
I've found that with 5 batteries and the charging hub, I can carry a portable battery charger with me (mophie, etc.) and charge 3 batteries at once through the hub. The hub has a built in micro usb slot on the opposite end of the DJI power cable port. It's slow, but it charges 3 batteries at once. Hope this helps someone.
As far as I know, this micro usb slot is only for firmware upgrades. I couldn’t get that port to charge the batteries trough the hub, can you elaborate on your setup?
I just turn it on and spin up the props (see my video on the remote) and it burns the battery down really quick. Thanks. Numbering the batteries is one of those simple, awesome things.
If they automatically drop to 70% after 10 days you only need to ensure you charge them before storing. If you forget about them, they will self protect by dropping themselves to 70%. (Assumed from watching this video)
Another great video, sir! I just received my new Spark and plan to get it up in the air today...your channel and videos helped my decide which drone to buy. Thanks again!!!
Steve Coutts thanks...so I have a question about these no fly zones. I live 2.2 miles from a small airport, and it is considered and authorization zone. Any suggestions???
Yikes! The geo fence in the software is designed not to let you fly where you shouldn't. I'm not familiar with US (assuming you're flying there) drone regulations. If you feel it's not accurate, you can try here - www.dji.com/ca/flysafe/self-unlock. Good luck!
I've been following your Spark vids for awhile now and after a lot of hesitancy to commit, decided to make my purchase of a Spark. Thanks for all the important lessons you've given us. I feel more comfy with the Spark than any of the other models. You've been a BIG help! Thanks again.
Great tips, another one thing I discovered trying to recharge the batteries immediately after fly, when batteries are too hot you can't charge, you need to wait for the heat dissipation.
I just added 2 more to my three.I do have an intelligent 4 battery, 2 USB charger. I also have a 120 volt battery pack that will charge all the batteries once just in case.
Great video and thanks for the tips. Is there any merit to the precaution of not re charging batteries until they cool down from flying? If so, what is the proper temperature
Thanks! The batteries may not even let you charge them if they are too hot, so yes, there is merit. I would let them cool down to room temperature before charging back up.
I Hope You Are Better Now, Still Have My Spark With 6 Batteries (2017-2023)(Never For Sale) But Will Upgrade When I feel That DJI Has Got To The Next Big Step. I Like The New On Screen Remote Controller 2022, Await May Be Mini 4 Or Mavic 3S. Using Latest Technology In 2023 PS.(2015 -2020) Great Fun Years Flying DJI Drones Way Ahead of Time Back Then Inc SPARK. Where Has All This Time Gone STEVE. !!!!!!!!.
Thanks Mike! Wow! I love hearing that people are still flying their Sparks. I had mine out for the first time in a long time in October and it reminded me how impressive a drone it was at the time and still is for that matter. The closest DJI has come to a Spark-like drone, I think, was the Mini 2. That drone was almost perfect and for the price/features was a pretty tough one to beat. Still can't compete with the Spark's toughness though. I really wish (as well as others I'm sure) that DJI had kept the Spark alive with a refresh or two instead of dropping it completely. I don't where all the time has gone - haha! Cheers!
It should automatically happen when you boot up your Mini but if it doesn't, download the DJI Assistant software for Mavic - www.dji.com/ca/downloads/softwares/assistant-dji-2-for-mavic. It will complain about a firmware incompatibility and do the update. I had to do that for two of my three batteries, worked like a charm. Cheers!
Nice video. I was wondering if you'd be able to help a question with a gimbal issue on the spark? I'd have to adjust the roll settings on the camera almost everytime I change headings. Have you heard this kind of issue on the spark? I've done IMU and compass calibration but weren't much of a help. Thanks.
Interesting. I wonder if you're having a mechanical issue. I haven't had such an issue. I would run that by DJI support and see if they can help you. I have always had good response from their support folks. Good luck!
I'd recommend the use of a pure sine inverter when charging lithium batteries. I wouldn't recommend using a modified sine wave for lithium battery chargers.
Do you thing anti slip lock strap is essential for Dji Spark? Many incidents of drop out batteries have reported but i have to say 2 things: 1) If you clip the battery correct to the aircraft if difficult to slip and 2) i am afraid of having even a slightly impact of its fighting behavior with this extra weight at on side. What is your opinion?
I have never used one and have not had a problem with batteries dropping out. I have a mix of 2 original batteries and 4 others that were purchased at different times over the past two years. Zero problems
Thanks for the video. I have two questions. Does the OTG cable still work with the spark? And why would i get transmission errors out to about 60m in an open flied? Im afraid of fly aways.
The OTG cable does work with my iPhone, not sure about Android phones. For transmission errors, I would try putting your phone in airplane mode and then just turn WiFi back on. Also, make sure you don't have other bluetooth devices on your person like watches or fitness trackers. Still having trouble, check in on the DJI Forum. Lots of helpful, knowledgeable folks there. Good luck.
Yes..otg cable does work on my Android phone... you just have to make sure you plug it in the correct way for some reason. Mine only works if the otd lead is going from phone to controller, if i swap ends, it doesn`t work.
OTG works with newest firmware and the newest avalivable dji app on android 8.0 , on the CE radio mode transmission quality was really poor for me tho. I changed the radio mode to FCC and it is a HUGE difference now , no transmission errors at all even when flying like 500 meters up and 1 kilometer away ( in open field of course , in the city i rather stay at max 120 meters height)
I have another doubt, my spark is disconnecting frequently from the controller under any building roof, if I come to a open area, it's properly connected, previously it didn't show such kind of things, what could be the reason behind it.
I do it one of two ways. If the batteries are depleted, I put them on the charger and take them off when I have two solid lights (50%). If they are full, I power everything up, use the combination stick command (both joysticks to bottom inner or outer corners) to start up the motors and let the battery tick down. You can monitor it from your smartphone or tablet. It doesn't have to be perfect. The point is you shouldn't store completely full or depleted batteries. It seems like I am always flying my Spark so thankfully I don't have to do this too often. 😀
I want to ask just two questions.i am planning to buy the dji spark. is it okay to buy this drone in 2019 or not?. And please tell me the price of separate batteries?
I still think the Spark is a very good, capable drone, even in 2019 but you know how it is with technology there is always something new and better around the corner. If the Spark meets your needs and your budget, maybe it's a good choice for you. Fly it for a few years, build your skill and then move on to something bigger and better down the road. Batteries are $49US direct from DJI. Good luck making your choice. 👍
@@SteveCoutts YEAH YOU SAID RIGHT.Thanks sir. thank you very much for my help. I was not taking any decision for many days but still I decided to buy dji spark.Finally again thanks for your help.Take care see you later bye bye.your videos are very informative keep it up.😀😊👍👍And I am waiting for your new upcoming videos.
@@akgaming.2938 are you still happy with your Spark? I just ordered a used one. I would have gotten the mavic mini except it doesn't have features like active track
Have the spark for about a month now. First thing I did was to number the batteries(5)...good tip though. Have two 20,000mAh batteries with a 3.0 QC port. Charges spark batteries fron 0% to 100% in 30 min. Highly recommended...again good tip. Looking for a good multi charging station, any suggestions?
Hi Steve, another great tutorial... When checking the battery firmware - your vid shows the drone (turned on) and your smartphone with a cable plugged [into it]. I am suspecting this is the cable that is supplied with the charging unit. Where is the other end of the cable connected to?
Thank you. Plugged in to my iPhone was a lightning charging cable, on the other end of that was an OTG (on-the-go) cable plugged in to the Spark's remote. The OTG cable is a direct cable connection between smartphone or tablet and remote, eliminating the WiFi connection. I use it indoors when doing iPhone screen captures and yes, it can be used for flying too, although it's not "officially" supported by DJI. The OTG cable I use is this one amzn.to/2G4eIPv. DJI Also sells one for Spark on their website.
Thanks again Steve,, I do have an OTG cable, which I use to connect my iPhone to the controller. Not sure what a "lightning charging cable" is however,,, (yes, I am being a PITA,, ha). Any help with that would be appreciated.,,, thanks in advance.
How real is the battery unclipping problem on flight? And usage of that 3rd party battery holder. Should i get one for to extra secure my battery? Or is it just like 1 in 1000s ?
That's a good question. Personally I have not encountered the issue. Might be a good question to ask in the DJI Spark Forum to see how prevalent it is among actual Spark owners.
A piece of masking tape works great to thwart this particular issue, which i havent seen on 2 sparks as of yet. My Phantom 3 is constantly spitting the batts out enough to give an error however, no matter how tight they fit, oem or aftermarket. Skeery!!! On the spark, just make sure you have a good positive click on both sides, push forward on the release tabs and give the batt a slight tug to verify its latched in nice and solid 🖖
Hey Steve! Have you had any troubles with your battery clips which eventually causes the drone to separate from the battery and crash? I think checking the battery clips before each flight should be a MUST when flying with Spark.
Okay, unfortunately for me my Sparks' battery fell out mid-flight on July 4th. DJI was very nice and understanding that I did not crash my drone after looking at the flight log and they replaced it. But I'm still not happy that they do not take responsibility for these clips quality. You should look it up, and you'll be surprised on how many people have had issues with batteries coming out mid-flight. I was one of the few lucky ones to get a replacement, haven't seen much success from others on the Forum.
This might a silly question, but how safe are these batteries? I've heard all those stories about LiPo fires. Can you store these just on a shelf or you need some kind metal container for them?
Honestly, I have not read or heard a single incident with a lithium polymer *drone* battery. I'm sure we have all heard countless stories of smartphones and tablets bursting in to flames. I keep my drone batteries on a shelf but I do make sure to follow DJI's recommendations for storage, some of which I touched on in the video. So far no issues for me - knock on wood.
Great video! I numbered my batteries before my first flight. I plan to buy a 4th battery once I get more field time invested. I also bought a new Anker with a high watt output to charge one while backpacking.
Hello my friends I have a problem in tying the control of Raymond on the plane, but the plane has a link on the phone running without any problems Possible solution
Getting my first drone soon. It’s a spark. Thanks for the battery tips. I have a question. I am mainly using my spark for photography over video. Do you know what print size I could get up to? Thanks!! :)
Awesome! Good luck with your Spark! I'm the opposite, I rarely shoot pictures with the Spark - not sure why really. The Spark's camera is 12MP (3968x2976). You should definitely be able to get a great 8x10 print and likely a decent 11x14 print too. You may be able to push it a bit beyond using Photoshop but you may start running in to quality issues.
For charging In the field you could also use a portable charger with an ac outlet .. Iv been thinking about getting on from rav power 20100 mah .. Maybe you could do a video on that?
Thanks and thanks for watching! Cool! Congrats on your Spark! Honestly, I didn't even know they made third-party batteries. Perhaps I will have to try one. I'm sure they are fine but I wouldn't use one, or any third-party parts like propellers, until you are out of the warranty period. Happy flying! 👍
@@SteveCoutts upon further review it looks like you're right. The third party batteries I saw on Amazon where for CHARGERS only, not actual batteries. So maybe a third party charging station could be a good value play.
Did you ever experience the battery falling out of the Spark mid flight? Planning on buying a Spark but the cases I've heard of batteries popping out kinda scare me. 😵
Great tips, Steve! Waiting for consistently decent weather ( US-Virginia - it’s coming!) to see how much I get out, but know my two existing batteries will get some company soon!
Hello, nice video !!! I had a problem with my battery while I was making the up date frame, the up date stopped and the battery got still with 2 lights on, I waited till the lights went of ( 15 days ) with the hope that when I charge it again it will get alive but nothing happend, any advice? thank you very much. Sorry for my english Im from Argentina
Sounds like the battery malfunctioned during a firmware upgrade. I do not have any experience with this type of situation. My first instinct would be to talk to DJI support, it may require a replacement. Alternatively, you can try the DJI forum. Good luck!
One more things you to do cool it down before charging will help your batery life and it will charge faster,try this technique it will save your batery life thanks for video like it
the new firmware, did it change the gimbal way of taking video? like when you turn left or right the footage is tilted, before it wasn't like that. do your guys footage tilt when turning the spark? thks if anyone can tell me.
You could try posting on the DJI Forum (forum.dji.com) to see if someone in your region has a Spark battery that they would be willing to donate or sell cheaply. Good luck.
Hey my battery life looses life fast it goes from 52-20 like in 3 minutes and dies pretty quick is it the battery ? Or my error lets say im about to fly ill charge for an hour and ill go to fly and 5 minutes and it’ll start giving me warning , Thanks please let me know thank you !!
Can you please help me I have a DJI spark and whenever I try to charge it nothing shows up and I have tried different cables and power outlets and nothing works
Yikes! I would suggest contacting DJI Support or posting your question in the DJI Forums. I have found both to be excellent resources for getting help for your Spark. Good luck.
I’m having issues with my batteries, they won’t charge. I saw a lot of similar issue in YT. How to fix this? My spark is brand new. Flew only twice and kept it.
If it's brand new it should still be under warranty as the warranty starts from the purchase date. I would contact DJI Support, they should take care of it for you. Good luck!
I didn’t use the drones for a while ( almost one year), I am now unable to charge battery, when I place the battery in the charging plate, only red light blinks, no green light. What could have gone wrong? Is battery’s life over? Is it dead? Please advise
Sounds like your battery is toast. DJI recommends full discharge/recharge once every 3 months to maintain battery health. If you stored it for that long while it was depleted, it likely became damaged. Even with a partial charge that is too long to store a rechargeable battery. Crappy. Hope you can find a replacement. Cheers!
Honestly, I don't know. I didn't encounter any information on it while researching the information for this video. I suspect if you take care of them, following DJI's recommendations you should get two to three solid years out of them before the really start to decline. I imagine they will follow similar degradation to any modern battery, like your smartphone. Although the Spark batteries should go through a lot fewer charge/discharge cycles.
Steve Coutts Thanks Steve yes I thought this would be the case. And there will come a time when the Spark and other DJI Drones are not made but we will still need the odd replacement now and again for thouse folks who still love to fly there little baby's. Me included. Cheers for replying. M.
Interesting. Well, "normal" for me is seeing the battery info. Perhaps you want to post that question on the DJI Forums to see if someone has an answer for you. Lots of helpful, knowledgeable folks there. 😀
@1:35 - Battery Level Indicators
OOOO....88-100%
OOOØ...75-88%
OOO......63-75%
OOØ......50-63%
OO.........38-50%
OØ.........25-38%
O............13-25%
Ø..............0-13%
O = solid led
Ø = flashing led
Cool
Busy learning new techniques on my Spark forgot the importance of performance batteries. Great tips, thank you!
Very well explain, I like the idea of numbering the batteries. Thank you my friend!
Hey awesome channel! I got my DJI Spark because of you! It's amazing!
Awesome! Happy flying and safe landings! 😀
Pertinent info for almost ANY Ni-cad battery. If you store them at 40-60% instead of full charge, you'll be amazed how much longer they are usable!!!!!
Good to know for my new, just purchased Spark. Great ! Thanks !
Awesome! Happy flying and safe landings! 👍
Great tips Steve. I carry 6 battery packs around with my Canon DSLR and do exactly the same things to improve their longevity.
Awesome! Thanks!
Thanks for the info, Just ordered my Spark w/3 batteries last night. Couldn't wait anymore.
Journeyman My spark just arrived three days ago. I love it 😍
Mine should be here tomorrow, and it feels like the night before X-mas when I was 10. And that was 51 years ago. 😀
Journeyman I am no teenager myself lol. Have fun with it. I do. 👍👍👍.
I've found that with 5 batteries and the charging hub, I can carry a portable battery charger with me (mophie, etc.) and charge 3 batteries at once through the hub. The hub has a built in micro usb slot on the opposite end of the DJI power cable port. It's slow, but it charges 3 batteries at once. Hope this helps someone.
Cool! Thanks for the info!
As far as I know, this micro usb slot is only for firmware upgrades. I couldn’t get that port to charge the batteries trough the hub, can you elaborate on your setup?
Great useful tips on getting the most from your batteries. Thanks.
Professionaly executed instruction!
More tips please! Great video as always!
How do you discharge the batt? Is there another way besides turning on the units?
Love the tip about numbering the batteries
I just turn it on and spin up the props (see my video on the remote) and it burns the battery down really quick.
Thanks. Numbering the batteries is one of those simple, awesome things.
If they automatically drop to 70% after 10 days you only need to ensure you charge them before storing. If you forget about them, they will self protect by dropping themselves to 70%. (Assumed from watching this video)
Great advice for us newbies.. Thanks..
great tips thank you
Thanks! 👍
Another great video, sir! I just received my new Spark and plan to get it up in the air today...your channel and videos helped my decide which drone to buy. Thanks again!!!
Awesome! Have fun and stay safe out there! 👍
Steve Coutts thanks...so I have a question about these no fly zones. I live 2.2 miles from a small airport, and it is considered and authorization zone. Any suggestions???
Yikes! The geo fence in the software is designed not to let you fly where you shouldn't. I'm not familiar with US (assuming you're flying there) drone regulations. If you feel it's not accurate, you can try here - www.dji.com/ca/flysafe/self-unlock. Good luck!
great and clear video
Excellent advice as always Steve, thank you for the thorough and informative tips for your batteries!
Thanks!
बैटरी भेजने ऑनलाइन
I've been following your Spark vids for awhile now and after a lot of hesitancy to commit, decided to make my purchase of a Spark. Thanks for all the important lessons you've given us. I feel more comfy with the Spark than any of the other models. You've been a BIG help! Thanks again.
That's terrific! Thanks for the comment and I'm glad the videos have been helpful. Best of luck with your Spark! 👍
Great tips, another one thing I discovered trying to recharge the batteries immediately after fly, when batteries are too hot you can't charge, you need to wait for the heat dissipation.
Good one! My buddy who just came back from Costa Rica just told me that one too. I've been flying all winter, heat hasn't been a problem. Haha!
Nice, thanks Steve!
Nicely done Steve.
Excellent tips!
👍 Glad they were helpful!
Nice one buddy ,as always well put together and educational as always ..
Thanks. I actually learned 2 important things.
Even better! 😀
Really good video!
Extremely useful
I just added 2 more to my three.I do have an intelligent 4 battery, 2 USB charger. I also have a 120 volt battery pack that will charge all the batteries once just in case.
Great video and thanks for the tips. Is there any merit to the precaution of not re charging batteries until they cool down from flying? If so, what is the proper temperature
Thanks! The batteries may not even let you charge them if they are too hot, so yes, there is merit. I would let them cool down to room temperature before charging back up.
Great tips as always
That was useful! Thank you 👍
Excellent video. One of the best tips for me was check battery health 2:15. Thanks. I subbed:)
Thanks, glad it was helpful Michael. Cheers!
I Hope You Are Better Now, Still Have My Spark With 6 Batteries (2017-2023)(Never For Sale) But Will Upgrade When I feel That DJI Has Got To The Next Big Step. I Like The New On Screen Remote Controller 2022, Await May Be Mini 4 Or Mavic 3S. Using Latest Technology In 2023 PS.(2015 -2020) Great Fun Years Flying DJI Drones Way Ahead of Time Back Then Inc SPARK. Where Has All This Time Gone STEVE. !!!!!!!!.
Thanks Mike! Wow! I love hearing that people are still flying their Sparks. I had mine out for the first time in a long time in October and it reminded me how impressive a drone it was at the time and still is for that matter.
The closest DJI has come to a Spark-like drone, I think, was the Mini 2. That drone was almost perfect and for the price/features was a pretty tough one to beat. Still can't compete with the Spark's toughness though. I really wish (as well as others I'm sure) that DJI had kept the Spark alive with a refresh or two instead of dropping it completely.
I don't where all the time has gone - haha! Cheers!
Thank's 👍👍👍
This is very informative.
Thank you.
Thank's 👍
Thanks for watching!
Brilliant tips.
Hi, Steve! How to check the battery FW for mavic mini? I`m not sure it is up to date.
It should automatically happen when you boot up your Mini but if it doesn't, download the DJI Assistant software for Mavic - www.dji.com/ca/downloads/softwares/assistant-dji-2-for-mavic. It will complain about a firmware incompatibility and do the update. I had to do that for two of my three batteries, worked like a charm. Cheers!
Nice video. I was wondering if you'd be able to help a question with a gimbal issue on the spark? I'd have to adjust the roll settings on the camera almost everytime I change headings. Have you heard this kind of issue on the spark? I've done IMU and compass calibration but weren't much of a help. Thanks.
Interesting. I wonder if you're having a mechanical issue. I haven't had such an issue. I would run that by DJI support and see if they can help you. I have always had good response from their support folks. Good luck!
@@SteveCoutts Thanks. I'll let you know the outcome.
Great tips. Thanks for the helpful video. ✌🏻
I'd recommend the use of a pure sine inverter when charging lithium batteries. I wouldn't recommend using a modified sine wave for lithium battery chargers.
Yes all where new for me. That's really awesome. I like your videos. Keep it up 💪👌💪👍
Awesome! Thanks! 👍
Two words I could say "thank you"
Very insightful tutorial,, thanks for sharing!
Thanks for watching! 😀
thanks for the tips it really helped a lot
Awesome! Glad it was helpful!
Always giving value
Do you thing anti slip lock strap is essential for Dji Spark? Many incidents of drop out batteries have reported but i have to say 2 things: 1) If you clip the battery correct to the aircraft if difficult to slip and 2) i am afraid of having even a slightly impact of its fighting behavior with this extra weight at on side. What is your opinion?
I have never used one and have not had a problem with batteries dropping out. I have a mix of 2 original batteries and 4 others that were purchased at different times over the past two years. Zero problems
Great tips. Thanks.
Thanks for the video. I have two questions. Does the OTG cable still work with the spark?
And why would i get transmission errors out to about 60m in an open flied?
Im afraid of fly aways.
The OTG cable does work with my iPhone, not sure about Android phones. For transmission errors, I would try putting your phone in airplane mode and then just turn WiFi back on. Also, make sure you don't have other bluetooth devices on your person like watches or fitness trackers. Still having trouble, check in on the DJI Forum. Lots of helpful, knowledgeable folks there. Good luck.
Yes..otg cable does work on my Android phone... you just have to make sure you plug it in the correct way for some reason. Mine only works if the otd lead is going from phone to controller, if i swap ends, it doesn`t work.
OTG works with newest firmware and the newest avalivable dji app on android 8.0 , on the CE radio mode transmission quality was really poor for me tho.
I changed the radio mode to FCC and it is a HUGE difference now , no transmission errors at all even when flying like 500 meters up and 1 kilometer away ( in open field of course , in the city i rather stay at max 120 meters height)
Great information!! Thank you so much for your time
Thanks for watching! 👍😀
I have another doubt, my spark is disconnecting frequently from the controller under any building roof, if I come to a open area, it's properly connected, previously it didn't show such kind of things, what could be the reason behind it.
Considering that things work fine in open space, it's probably interference from the building.
thanks for the tips
Thanks and thanks for watching!
Thank you for sharing this great tips 💯.
Thanks for watching! 👍
You can plug the battery hub on a external battery with some cables
Saving this!
great tips thanks bro.
Nice! Very helpful.
Great information but how do I discharge the batteries to the 40% to 65% level and how do I know when they are at that level?
I do it one of two ways. If the batteries are depleted, I put them on the charger and take them off when I have two solid lights (50%). If they are full, I power everything up, use the combination stick command (both joysticks to bottom inner or outer corners) to start up the motors and let the battery tick down. You can monitor it from your smartphone or tablet. It doesn't have to be perfect. The point is you shouldn't store completely full or depleted batteries. It seems like I am always flying my Spark so thankfully I don't have to do this too often. 😀
great tips,thanks
I want to ask just two questions.i am planning to buy the dji spark. is it okay to buy this drone in 2019 or not?. And please tell me the price of separate batteries?
I still think the Spark is a very good, capable drone, even in 2019 but you know how it is with technology there is always something new and better around the corner. If the Spark meets your needs and your budget, maybe it's a good choice for you. Fly it for a few years, build your skill and then move on to something bigger and better down the road. Batteries are $49US direct from DJI. Good luck making your choice. 👍
@@SteveCoutts YEAH YOU SAID RIGHT.Thanks sir. thank you very much for my help. I was not taking any decision for many days but still I decided to buy dji spark.Finally again thanks for your help.Take care see you later bye bye.your videos are very informative keep it up.😀😊👍👍And I am waiting for your new upcoming videos.
@@akgaming.2938 are you still happy with your Spark? I just ordered a used one. I would have gotten the mavic mini except it doesn't have features like active track
I charge mine with my trucks built-in power inverter..very convenient.
Guess they are Smart! Thanks for the info. I will start to use it!
Have the spark for about a month now. First thing I did was to number the batteries(5)...good tip though. Have two 20,000mAh batteries with a 3.0 QC port. Charges spark batteries fron 0% to 100% in 30 min. Highly recommended...again good tip. Looking for a good multi charging station, any suggestions?
A couple of people mentioned the Smatree Portable charging station but I do not have any experience with it.
@@SteveCoutts
I did see those. Thanks for the quick response. 😉
Hi Steve, another great tutorial... When checking the battery firmware - your vid shows the drone (turned on) and your smartphone with a cable plugged [into it]. I am suspecting this is the cable that is supplied with the charging unit. Where is the other end of the cable connected to?
Thank you. Plugged in to my iPhone was a lightning charging cable, on the other end of that was an OTG (on-the-go) cable plugged in to the Spark's remote. The OTG cable is a direct cable connection between smartphone or tablet and remote, eliminating the WiFi connection. I use it indoors when doing iPhone screen captures and yes, it can be used for flying too, although it's not "officially" supported by DJI. The OTG cable I use is this one amzn.to/2G4eIPv. DJI Also sells one for Spark on their website.
Thanks again Steve,, I do have an OTG cable, which I use to connect my iPhone to the controller. Not sure what a "lightning charging cable" is however,,, (yes, I am being a PITA,, ha). Any help with that would be appreciated.,,, thanks in advance.
It's the standard iPhone charging cable.
Ahh,, great,, thanks (what a boob!) ha (( meaning me!)
Great tips!
Good video how do I take it out of hibernation mode
Start charging the battery and after a few minutes it will come out of hibernation. Cheers!
@@SteveCoutts And if it doesn't and only the 2 lights blink 4 times and then goes off then 4 times and goes off
@@paulhyde4899 Likely a damaged battery that needs replacing.
awesome advise!!!
How real is the battery unclipping problem on flight? And usage of that 3rd party battery holder. Should i get one for to extra secure my battery? Or is it just like 1 in 1000s ?
That's a good question. Personally I have not encountered the issue. Might be a good question to ask in the DJI Spark Forum to see how prevalent it is among actual Spark owners.
A piece of masking tape works great to thwart this particular issue, which i havent seen on 2 sparks as of yet. My Phantom 3 is constantly spitting the batts out enough to give an error however, no matter how tight they fit, oem or aftermarket. Skeery!!! On the spark, just make sure you have a good positive click on both sides, push forward on the release tabs and give the batt a slight tug to verify its latched in nice and solid 🖖
Hey Steve! Have you had any troubles with your battery clips which eventually causes the drone to separate from the battery and crash? I think checking the battery clips before each flight should be a MUST when flying with Spark.
I personally haven't had any trouble with the battery clips (*knock on wood*) but I think it's definitely a good idea to check them before flying. 😀
Okay, unfortunately for me my Sparks' battery fell out mid-flight on July 4th. DJI was very nice and understanding that I did not crash my drone after looking at the flight log and they replaced it. But I'm still not happy that they do not take responsibility for these clips quality. You should look it up, and you'll be surprised on how many people have had issues with batteries coming out mid-flight. I was one of the few lucky ones to get a replacement, haven't seen much success from others on the Forum.
Interesting. Thanks for sharing.
This might a silly question, but how safe are these batteries? I've heard all those stories about LiPo fires. Can you store these just on a shelf or you need some kind metal container for them?
Honestly, I have not read or heard a single incident with a lithium polymer *drone* battery. I'm sure we have all heard countless stories of smartphones and tablets bursting in to flames. I keep my drone batteries on a shelf but I do make sure to follow DJI's recommendations for storage, some of which I touched on in the video. So far no issues for me - knock on wood.
Steve Coutts ppmn ngubdyuzfdd hcfhfgnt
Great video! I numbered my batteries before my first flight. I plan to buy a 4th battery once I get more field time invested. I also bought a new Anker with a high watt output to charge one while backpacking.
Awesome! Sounds like you're all set. 👍😀
Well explained
Thanks!
Hello my friends I have a problem in tying the control of Raymond on the plane, but the plane has a link on the phone running without any problems Possible solution
Getting my first drone soon. It’s a spark. Thanks for the battery tips. I have a question. I am mainly using my spark for photography over video. Do you know what print size I could get up to? Thanks!! :)
Awesome! Good luck with your Spark! I'm the opposite, I rarely shoot pictures with the Spark - not sure why really. The Spark's camera is 12MP (3968x2976). You should definitely be able to get a great 8x10 print and likely a decent 11x14 print too. You may be able to push it a bit beyond using Photoshop but you may start running in to quality issues.
Thanks a lot...really helps...God Bless
Glad it was helpful! 😀
One question!... did you ever tried with smartphones wall chargers? Did you recomend to use these? Thank you.
I have not tried them so I can't recommend them.
I have, you can only charge 1 at a time. But, it works with my Samsung quick chargers.
Great video. Question- What kind of backpack do you have in the video? Looks awesome. Thanks! Keep the videos coming.
Thanks! The backpack is the LowePro ProTactic 450AW. Link in the description. 😀
Thanks Steve
Thanks for watching Rex, looks like you're going through the whole catalog. Cheers! 😀
For charging In the field you could also use a portable charger with an ac outlet .. Iv been thinking about getting on from rav power 20100 mah .. Maybe you could do a video on that?
Hmmm... interesting, I didn't know something like that existed. I will have to look in to it. Thanks.
Good tips
Great video full of terrific tips! Thanks! I just got a Spark and currently have just one battery. Do you recommend buying any third party batteries?
Thanks and thanks for watching! Cool! Congrats on your Spark! Honestly, I didn't even know they made third-party batteries. Perhaps I will have to try one. I'm sure they are fine but I wouldn't use one, or any third-party parts like propellers, until you are out of the warranty period. Happy flying! 👍
@@SteveCoutts thanks for the quick reply!! 🤙
@@SteveCoutts upon further review it looks like you're right. The third party batteries I saw on Amazon where for CHARGERS only, not actual batteries. So maybe a third party charging station could be a good value play.
Did you ever experience the battery falling out of the Spark mid flight? Planning on buying a Spark but the cases I've heard of batteries popping out kinda scare me. 😵
I have heard about people having problems with that but I have not had it happen to me. Not once.
never happened to me either . just make sure it CLICKS into place and good to go ..
Just subscribe! 🙂 These information is really helpful!
Great tips, Steve! Waiting for consistently decent weather ( US-Virginia - it’s coming!) to see how much I get out, but know my two existing batteries will get some company soon!
Thanks Bill. We have had a horribly long, cold and snowy winter. I too am waiting for the weather to improve. I am really tired of frozen hands. 😀
Great tips. Never thought to click on the drone to Check the battery.
Cool, thanks
Hello, nice video !!! I had a problem with my battery while I was making the up date frame, the up date stopped and the battery got still with 2 lights on, I waited till the lights went of ( 15 days ) with the hope that when I charge it again it will get alive but nothing happend, any advice? thank you very much. Sorry for my english Im from Argentina
Sounds like the battery malfunctioned during a firmware upgrade. I do not have any experience with this type of situation. My first instinct would be to talk to DJI support, it may require a replacement. Alternatively, you can try the DJI forum. Good luck!
thank you
One more things you to do cool it down before charging will help your batery life and it will charge faster,try this technique it will save your batery life thanks for video like it
That's a really good point and tip!
Thanks alot Steve!!!
You bet! Thanks for watching! 😀
the new firmware, did it change the gimbal way of taking video? like when you turn left or right the footage is tilted, before it wasn't like that. do your guys footage tilt when turning the spark? thks if anyone can tell me.
"when you turn left or right the footage is tilted" Sounds like your gimbal is in FPV mode. Switch to follow mode.
Thank you sir for the info...
You bet!
thx my friends..
thanks you ... have 2 ..one need to be repair but to expensive. helping primary indigenous school in Malaysia
You could try posting on the DJI Forum (forum.dji.com) to see if someone in your region has a Spark battery that they would be willing to donate or sell cheaply. Good luck.
Hey my battery life looses life fast it goes from 52-20 like in 3 minutes and dies pretty quick is it the battery ? Or my error lets say im about to fly ill charge for an hour and ill go to fly and 5 minutes and it’ll start giving me warning , Thanks please let me know thank you !!
Can you please help me I have a DJI spark and whenever I try to charge it nothing shows up and I have tried different cables and power outlets and nothing works
Yikes! I would suggest contacting DJI Support or posting your question in the DJI Forums. I have found both to be excellent resources for getting help for your Spark. Good luck.
I’m having issues with my batteries, they won’t charge. I saw a lot of similar issue in YT. How to fix this? My spark is brand new. Flew only twice and kept it.
If it's brand new it should still be under warranty as the warranty starts from the purchase date. I would contact DJI Support, they should take care of it for you. Good luck!
Thanks for the tips! They were really useful. What about those white LED batteries? Are they from DJI?
You're welcome. I have not heard about "white LED" batteries. DJI only makes one battery for the Spark and those are the ones in my video.
Steve Coutts, at 3:26 I see the LED a little whitish, so I thought it wasn't from DJI, but thanks for the clarification
Haha! Ok, thanks for letting me know. 😀
Nice tips!
I didn’t use the drones for a while ( almost one year), I am now unable to charge battery, when I place the battery in the charging plate, only red light blinks, no green light. What could have gone wrong? Is battery’s life over? Is it dead? Please advise
Sounds like your battery is toast. DJI recommends full discharge/recharge once every 3 months to maintain battery health. If you stored it for that long while it was depleted, it likely became damaged. Even with a partial charge that is too long to store a rechargeable battery. Crappy. Hope you can find a replacement. Cheers!
Steve Coutts how do I get the spare battery? Any suggestion?
@@niteshkumar-iu9xo store.dji.com/shop/spark-series?from=menu_icon
Hi Steve, what do think the lifespan of the Batteries is? Mark.
Honestly, I don't know. I didn't encounter any information on it while researching the information for this video. I suspect if you take care of them, following DJI's recommendations you should get two to three solid years out of them before the really start to decline. I imagine they will follow similar degradation to any modern battery, like your smartphone. Although the Spark batteries should go through a lot fewer charge/discharge cycles.
Steve Coutts Thanks Steve yes I thought this would be the case. And there will come a time when the Spark and other DJI Drones are not made but we will still need the odd replacement now and again for thouse folks who still love to fly there little baby's. Me included. Cheers for replying. M.
I don't see 'battery' in about settings, is that normal? Everything else is there, app, aircraft remote controller etc
Interesting. Well, "normal" for me is seeing the battery info. Perhaps you want to post that question on the DJI Forums to see if someone has an answer for you. Lots of helpful, knowledgeable folks there. 😀
@@SteveCoutts thanks for replying, will try the forums