I Broke My Mavic 2 Zoom - Don't Make This Same Mistake

[@vandraiss]

A cold solder joint is created at the time of original assembly. A good properly fluxed and soldered joint does not become"cold" with use or the passage of time. Unfortunately many times mass produced electronics are not properly soldered when manufactured.

[@CAv-lp2qk]

I bet what happened was the designer didn't have the temperature profile for that (relatively bulky metal) button, so just copied the temperature profile for another random (not as bulky) smd button. It probably needed a few more seconds to properly solder that part.

[@eried]

This. Also, if one or two pins desolder, the vibration is not going to make them set the drone to binding mode (the push-button is normally open)

[@CAv-lp2qk]

@@eried There is the possibility it's a normally closed button, this way the system can check the circuit is intact!

[@danman32]

@@CAv-lp2qk I doubt it is normally closed, otherwise Rick's symptom would have been perpetual binding mode. True, if could be edge triggered.

[@kobi2002]

John Vandraiss when I heard that I was going to say the same thing you said.

[@johntomik4632]

Thanks for all you do! I'm a 20+ year fixed wing pilot. Just discovered drones(uav's) about 10 months ago. I've learned so much from you and KZbin. I don't have anyone around me to fly with so I really appreciate your time. I'm (UNITED DRONE) in North Alabama. I have a bail bonding company in Guntersville ALABAMA. Drones help us a ton! Just wanted to let you know you have inspired me! That's the biggest compliment I can give! Keep doing what you're doing and thanks again!!!

[@Dronevalley]

Thanks for the post and your support of the channel! I really appreciate when I hear that someone is enjoying the clips I post and it inspires me to do more of them. Welcome to the family and be sure to stop back soon for even more content. Rick

[@av6162]

Three years later and its still relevant. Thanks very much for the tutorial and learning from past mistakes. Cheers

[@chrismiller7706]

Thanks for the tip Rick. I used a paper clip to bind mine because most things that get bound or reset have a recessed button as you know. I’m glad it didn’t break. Very gutsy to take it apart and fix it. Well done.

[@mje1625]

Given your thorough description of the incident, its cause, and the solution, I would CONFIDENTLY say 98% DJI's fault and 2% your fault. What you've described and explained in excellent detail is an engineering flaw, not an operator flaw. I, and likely most other reasonable-thinking owners, would have done exactly what you did. I have a feeling once DJI watches this video, subsequent Mavic 2 Pro/Zoom's will this component adhered much stronger to the frame than currently. Thank you for bringing this design flaw to our attention.

[@Dronevalley]

Thanks for the post but I hate to pick on such a small thing on such a beautiful and amazing quad especially since I was the caveman with the pen. I really just wanted to let others know that I could have the issue, they might want to be careful when hitting the button to start the binding. I do really appreciate your support and I have a lot of fun putting these clips together so it's inspiring to me that others are enjoying them. Rick

[@mje1625]

I'm not sure why folks are afraid or unwilling to call DJI out when they detect or experience a flaw, however great or small, in their product. DJI is not infallible. DJI makes mistakes. And they made one here, one they can easily correct in future versions of the drone. This is a drone that is designed to fly at 40 mph at 400 feet above the ground. It's designed (I hope) to take a few bumps and bruises. But it can't handle someone pressing a pen into one of its switches? Really? DJI, fix this design flaw in future versions of the Pro 2 and Zoom.

[@HugePanic]

Any silicone or glue will not do anything. The solder is by far stiffer than the glue. Means the solder will take all loads and break first. If you really want to improve this, you have to put the button on a sperate pcb and attach it with a wire, or use a sperate, more robust button.

[@antdx316]

There was a vid where the DJI A2s had shoddy solder joints on some connection. It was the reason for a lot of of them falling out of the sky. I assume this happens and everything cannot be totally perfect and beefed.

[@eroomomni]

Great video and commentary Rick. I teach soldering technology daily for the past 35+ years and I can attest that a great percentage of solder-related failure go back to design. Second to that is improper rework of the repair of those anomalies. Thanks for sharing your wisdom and experiences.

[@Dronevalley]

Thanks for the post and I hope I didn't disappoint you with the finished product. I was looking around the shop for some flux remover to clean up the board but couldn't find a can. I agree with you about bad solder joints causing issues and I actually made a good living repairing VCR's during college by repairing loose solder joints on their power regulators.

[@dalewiley9208]

Rick, as a new subscriber and drone recreational pilot I must say I was highly impressed with not only your technical knowledge and acumen but the manner of your presentation maintained my attention throughout your video. This is not easy to do. Of course, I will never pop the cover off any drone. But your explanation of a weak point in the drone's construction will definitely benefit me in the long run. Thank you very much.

[@focusonchrist6752]

Being new to drones, and branching into with my zino pro until i can get one more top notch, your channel is a great resource. Thank you for everything you've provided. Be well

[@cscape1973]

Sorry but I think you are giving DJI more credit than they deserve......if the switch broke off the board, it was not fixed properly.

[@johnb2572]

Adam Shaw yes it’s bad design for that button.

[@MrSteve2714740]

Another informative video from the Drone God. I bet this vid will save the lives of many Mavics out there. Nice one Rick. Keep em coming. Love watching them.

[@Dronevalley]

Steve, thanks for the nice post! I broke it so I had to fix it :) I have a lot more content posting soon so be sure to stop back or sub the channel. Rick

[@YassirAlSaffar]

That looks and sounds definetly more than 2% Dji's fault. I would go with 75% their fault. You cannot have a switch floating without support and expect solder points to hold it for ever.

[@AntiqueTractorsandEquipment]

Excellent highlight of a perceived weakness in the design. Well presented. Appreciate your time doing this.

[@JohnAutry]

Hey great production. Can you recommend a decent miniature tool kit? They all seem to shred the heads of screws I an’t really tell which one gets stepped first the screwdriver, or the screes? Thanks

[@wolverinemaxxd3105]

Thanks for sharing. You’re bolder that I by hitting it with a soldering iron unless it was out of warranty. Glad you got it repaired

[@tedtenpadrones1831]

Hey Rick, I have Absolutely no Idea how the inside of the drone is put together. But did u happen to see if the SD card slot & USB C_Port are put together the same way. Thanks.

[@kirkchase5048]

Good advise got a 2 pro arriving tomorrow and I always use tools to push small buttons...

[@Dronevalley]

Be gentle with it, it's a fragile connection. Use your finger and you'll be fine. Other than the button, it's a really sold quad and so fast and smooth in the air.

[@kirkchase5048]

@@Dronevalley Thanks Im so glad I saw this video...woulda ruined it immediatly...I have noticed alot of 2's crash because ppl take them out to far!

[@Dronevalley]

@@kirkchase5048 I'm glad I posted it and saved you the hassle. Just keep the M2 in Line of Sight and you'll be fine. The vast majority of crashes happen when pilots do goofy things and then bad things happen. Be sure to sub the channel as I'll have a ton more content posting on quads and other high-tech gear.

[@estouch]

I have to say that even if thy switch is loose during flight it should not ever accidentally go into binding mode because the switch is a momentary power connect only wen pressed. So if the button is pressed is only when it would make the electrical connection to go I to binding mode.

[@AndrewVSmith10]

Thanks Rick! Just a warning to others that this will void the warranty if someone attempts this, can’t fix it and ends up sending it in. I voided mine by just fixing the landing gear. When I sent the drone in because the camera stopped focusing, I had to pay for that repair since I had previously fixed the landing gear...even though one thing had nothing to do with the other. This is a good warning though. I wish I had your “geek” skills to make that repair.

[@marctrainor5595]

I'm wondering how DJI knew that you'd had the drone apart in the past when you dixed the landing gear? Maybe they have some kind of sticker that breaks once you open it up. Marc

[@pt1435]

Thanks Rick !!! Love your channel. I have followed your channel from the start and I really appreciate the passion and information you have provided for the hobby.

[@steveh8724]

Interesting description of the problem, the cause, and the solution. Have to disagree on one point though. Pushing on a soldered on component such as this to the point of failure switch *does not* "...eventually cause a cold solder joint." (5:37) A cold solder joint is a technically inadequate soldering join caused by improper heating of the area of the joint. It is characterized by a rough mottled appearance rather than the shiny surface that results with proper soldering. A cold solder joint is more likely to have significantly compromised mechanical and electrical properties.

[@Fluterra]

Nice video. I wouldn’t worry about the button being loose and trying to unbind in flight. I’m sure the firmware will not unbind if in flight.

[@droneart8038]

Great video, Rick. I have a M2 Pro and just purchased a M2 Zoom without a controller. If I pair/bind the Zoom to the M2 controller, will that mean that both will be good to fly without constantly repairing? Thank you.

[@dennisbrooks240]

What about arm bracers for the Air 2S? Valuable or not?

[@hdfb78]

It was interesting to see that this kind of poor construction design still in place. I had similar problems with On/Off button on Motorola MPB36 baby monitor.

[@JohnofDublin]

I love the curiosity of fellow engineers to investigate!

[@randelljack]

Hello Rick, I found out from our meetup group the NJDUG that you're flying with us tomorrow. I am a big fan. Can't wait to shake your hand.

[@Dronevalley]

Randel, thanks for the post and I will be out on the field tomorrow and look forward to meeting you. I actually live very close to the field we're using and am excited to be part of the group. Hopefully we'll have nice weather. See you there! Rick

[@topilot]

A good reason to hold off on ordering a new drone model. Your great detailed analysis of the problem should be welcome news to DJI and hopefully they will address it for a change to their production operation. You amaze me in your engineering skills and ability to open up the drones. I wonder if this would void any DJI warrantee. Doing what you are doing in fixing the problem would make me a nervous wreck! Thanks Rick for all you are doing for the drone community.

[@LEXPIX]

Nice find. Thanks for sharing your discoveries.

[@davidbernard2816]

thank u for a great video u help me a lot just getting in to drones iam 63 flying makes me feel like a kid again keep u the good work !!!!

[@maxv77]

Thanks for the warning Rick. I've pushed mine with a pointy thing as I didn't think it went in with just my finger. I won't be doing that again. Pleased you got yours fixed. Keep up the great work

[@Ginuwine-kx2iv]

Maybe the drone will not go into binding mode in the air? It is possible to have protection to prevent this. Great find, and keep up the good work.

[@gd198070]

I also used a pen when binding the Mavic 2 Pro with the new DJI goggles when it didn't seem to respond. (I have large fat fingers) I wonder now if I actually damaged it

[@TheDHWphotography]

Great video! I hope you informed DJI of this potential issue! Keep up the great videos!

[@rickybritton7212]

Rick Britton, Wow Rick, That was very interesting, I'm glad that you didn't hurt your Drone, are heaven forbid lose it, That was really nice of you to show other piloits ,how something like that can happen so easy, that most likely could be like that for most Binding buttons, on all kinds of Drones, Thank you Rick for helping all Drone owners 👍 Sincerely Rick from Mo and God bless you and your family

[@moodberry]

First time watching your channel. You're a good teacher. But...since I'm not a DJI owner, I was confused by your graphic. At the beginning of the vid you showed a black binding button (1:41), but then talked about a "hole" (7:16) where you could insert a pen. So, is one supposed to use your finger on a button, or, somehow access a hole?

[@leslieevans4177]

why as my drone got red lights flashing on the front have you done a video off pearing mavic 2 zoom

[@zh68270]

Very interesting video. Thank you for this experience sharing. To my advice DJI switches, in general, are not that good engineered as they should.

[@t-eighthundredtwo-thousand2711]

Hi, not all reset switches are the same, some are strong some are weak like this drones, thank you for letting us know , great tip!!! ✌😎👍

[@agentbertram4769]

Did you blob it with hot melt glue after your emergency soldering job? That should give it some extra strength.

[@rotortrek9531]

Rick, I think most agree, what you did should have been anticipated by DJI when engineering this switch on the board. As you implied, paperclips and ball point pens are standard for pushing these tiny buttons. Thanks for the vid!

[@roycornelis2645]

Excellent Rick. Priceless -Thanks for putting this one together.

[@Dronevalley]

Roy, I appreciate you stopping by and am glad you enjoyed the clip. I'll have a few more posting this weekend so be sure to stop back soon! Rick

[@roycornelis2645]

Drone Valley Did you have a chance to look on the USB-C and SD card slot? Are they as vulnerable? I pop my card every time and you have to apply some pressure to release it. Same thing goes for the USB cable.

[@danman32]

Good point!

[@JoeL-zx2tl]

Thank you for the information it’s great to know hopefully you’ve taken time to actually document more than what you’ve done and send this to DJI maybe they can fix the problem. Great video thanks

[@wayntiole]

I recently bought a used Mavic 2 Pro with a bad controller. I already owned a Mavic 2 Zoom so I planned at least for the time being to use the Zoom controller for both drones. When I attempted to bind the Pro to the controller, I had similar problems as in the video. I removed the bottom assembly from the Pro and the button switch hadn't come loose from the PCB but was just stuck in the on or depressed position. I just sprayed some contact cleaner in it and worked it a few times to free it up, re-assembled the drone, and wallah, it bound to the controller as it should. I've since actually repaired the controller that came with the Pro so I now have working ones for each drone.

[@1971mgb]

Thanks for the heads up. Only have the mavic pro however I won't use a pen

[@Dronevalley]

Thanks for the post and I'm glad it helped. Put the pen down and use your finger :)

[@davemalcom5257]

Keep'em coming. Thanks for your time and effort.

[@Dronevalley]

Dave, I appreciate the post and I have a few more clips posting this weekend so stay tuned! Rick

[@marctrainor5595]

Rick, thanks again for your engineering savvay. I'm almost positive I've hit that button with a paper clip, and/ or a pen, and now I know, I'm just luckey I didn't break it loose. You are so right, in my opinion, that if it got jarred lose and you flew it, the vibrations or even Murphy's Law might un-connect the drone from the RC and your in hot water. I'm not too thrilled that DJI didn't install that switch better, especially in the way you said with the backing idea. For the price of these drones, that's too cheezy for me. Shame on them, and I hope they read your post and fix it in the future. Marc T.

[@wb8cxo]

That switch is just soldered by the mask that solders all the other surface mount components that are not subject to mechanical stress. In a perfect world DJI should hand solder those switches adding more solder or perhaps as you suggested apply glue to the switch. But that would add another process to production and enough added process's (sp?) will add to the production costs. DJI will not do that unless it becomes a problem. You are right in that you don't use the switch that much.... It's a gamble where you, the consumer lost, but talented enough to fix. Thanks for sharing your adventure with us!

[@Dronevalley]

Thanks for the post and I agree that it could be improved on but honestly most people won't have an issue with the quad as long as they use their finger instead of a pen. I did the clip to point that out and am hoping it helps a few fliers. Be sure to stop back soon! Rick

[@carloschavez6208]

Now that's a great piece of information!! Thank you for taking the time, I really appreciate it!!

[@Elle2010Mercury]

Hello Rick, quick question regarding the Mavic2 pro. How do you feel about the issues with the rear arms hitting the body of the drone when closing them? Have you experienced that issue? There’s been a lot of hype on KZbin about it. Do you feel that there is a manufacturing defect?

[@JohnIn2SonAZ]

A cold solder joint happens at time of soldering. It doesn't happen over time. You can break a solder joint, but it does not just become a cold solder joint from fatigue.

[@cathyann1601]

I always enjoy your videos and learn!

[@Dronevalley]

Thanks for the post and it really does feel good to know that people are enjoying the clips. Thank you so much for posting and stay tuned as I'll have more content posting this week. Rick

[@biketrippinwithbryan]

Rick, do you ever fly your mavic without using the app?

[@r.t.1942]

Probably got a unit that went past inspection , with Abad solder joints, could probably use hot glue for extra strength

[@Mpactpics]

Thanks for valuable fix information. It would have been enjoyable to see some of the footage from the shore, you built up so nicely.

[@TaitGuy]

Great info, Rick. I concur with you on some type of backing and support on the switch... Thanks for your curiosity, even weather you didn't mean to fat finger it or not... It's people like me who benefit... Thank you! X David X

[@crazyleg2006]

Important video! Thanks for making this.

[@DennisLovelady]

Oh no! Glad, though, that you told us early that you fixed it! Great job on the warning, the details of the problem, and the fix. Thanks, Rick. Like Crew!

[@goodq8y]

Thank you Rick , you brave and smart 😊

[@Dronevalley]

Dennis, great to see you stopping by and I couldn't be without the M2 Zoom for a week or two for the repair. I had to break out the Torx drivers and soldering iron :) Stop back soon as I'll be posting a few more clips this weekend. Rick

[@Dronevalley]

goodq8y - thanks for the post but I just couldn't bear the wait for the repair if I to send it back to DJI. The summer is winding down and I want to get in as many flights as I can before the snow starts falling. Thanks for the post and be sure to stop back soon. Rick

[@DennisLovelady]

@@Dronevalley looking forward to it. 👌

[@danman32]

Rick, I wish we lived near each other. I too like taking things apart. My parents first words when I would get something interesting with screws: "Now don't take it apart". My P3A was a gift from dad, my M2Z even more expensive that I won't do it unless I have to. If I was near you I could watch you do the dirty deed on your stuff!😁

[@1vigorousdragon]

Considering the original mavic Pro DID require a pin or paperclip to bind, its fortunate many other haven't done it ,Including me. My first thought when binding the M2 was "wheres my pen?" Fortunately i noticed it was a raised button. thanks Rick for warning us all.

[@rommelrdz3391]

Can you make a review about the motor temperature of the mavic 2 zoom , what i experienced about the mavic 2 , the two front motors gets considerably hot to touch compare to the rear motors , i was wondering if this is actually normal and what should be the operating temperature of these motors , i hope you be able to shed some light that even the dji guys wont give me exact accurate answer about this concern , thank you....

[@RICKHALBUR]

Thanks Rick for the caution very important information

[@kobi2002]

A cold solder joint is when the temperature of the solder cools down but can still bond with the other joint. Once fully cooled , it doesn’t bond correctly. A good solder joint is when two joints of solder are joined when solder is hot and still a liquid. Once those two joints are cooled together, you have a correct bond between the material you are applying solder on and the solder joint itself. That simple.

[@jmanEOS17]

Thanks for the heads up! Did you look at any of the other solder joints to see if they were lightly soldered on?

[@Dronevalley]

Thanks for the post and I did check them and they looked good. I think it was the torque of the button being pushed that caused the issue and I promise you that I didn't hit it that hard. Stay tuned for more content this week. Rick

[@monumentalvibes849]

I operate an SMT line, and that's some bad quality control. Probably rushing the first panels through the oven during warmup. It doesn't even look like it went into reflow.

[@paulmurray4106]

Great Information Rick.... Keep sharing so we can fly safe....

[@ExplorationObsession]

You might also have missed the center of the switch with the paper clip, and jammed it between the housing and switch and lifted it.

[@Dronevalley]

Thanks for the post but I'm always careful with these smaller switched and it was just a case of the switch not being supported on the PC Board underneath. Once I realized it wasn't working, I had to get it sorted out so I took it apart, found the issue and fixed it. I did the clip to let others know about the possible issue and to warn them to be gentle with the reset. Be sure to sub the channel as I have a lot more content posting this week. Rick

[@TravelswithYoly]

Would be interesting to know if the accompanying DJI manual specifically states instructions such as "Do not use any objects other than your finger to depress the binding button" ? It's obvious, as you state, that the design limitation for button travel is the flat surface that would limit a finger from depressing it more than a specified amount. Also agree with you that a solid mount should have been used since the consequences of the quad entering a binding event while in flight could be significant.

[@Level1Bob]

Great advice. Thanks for letting us learn from your mishap!

[@matefromvirginia4959]

Hi. I have a Dji Air and I registered it with the FAA and have my registered number. I just purchased a Dji Mavic 2 Pro. Can I use the same FAA numbers on it or do I have to register it separately and obtain a different number? Thanks. Byron.

[@Megzamani]

Each drone needs it's own

[@vashon100]

Number is used for all your drones.

[@vashon100]

@@Megzamani Wrong

[@Megzamani]

Then why on the registration screen it says manage inventory. I paid five dollars for each drone. The registration requires each drones unique serial number make model type plus the nickname name of each individual one. I sold one and then went back up and deactivated that one. Then a month later got a new one. The number needs to be on each drone.

[@danman32]

If you are registering for recreation, only one number for all your UAS. If 107, then you register each UAS. They are two different registration portals that are easy to confuse.

[@raffyturc]

I dont own a DJI of any kind BUT very informative! of how too little the solder is.. yep better reheat again w more lead.

[@Dronevalley]

Thanks for the post and it's an easy fix. I just wanted to point it out so that others could avoid the issue. Be sure to stop back soon, I have more content posting. Rick

[@musgrovebarry]

what's the cheapest phone that works with this{new} ie Mavic 2 pro

[@lowhombre]

Great fix Rick!

[@kennywheelus6857]

Ty for sharing this information, very helpful

[@joes8117]

why didnt you glue it ' joint soldered ' with epoxy as well rick ?

[@pabloperlado]

Really curious ... But thanks for sharing and we'll be watching out!

[@uacl028]

great advise, thanks.......congrats on 60 thousand subs.

[@Dronevalley]

Thanks for the post and I am absolutely blown away from the support for the channel from the community. I know you have been stopping by for a long time and I really appreciate it! Stay tuned, I have a lot more cool stuff posting this week. Rick

[@deadlykitten6546]

not connecting to the board will result in the binding key not working, but not constantly "ready to pair" like you said that it might bind to someone else while flying? plu i dont think you can bind a dji copter to 2 controllers? they pbbly thought youd press that button only once in its lifetime, and just be done with it

[@tracykimball6919]

Thank you for sharing this important information. I have seen stranger things happen and anyone watching this video will have this in the back of their mind.

[@gofast4127]

Great video thanks for the heads up & tips on this...

[@jdentertainmentdjmcservice409]

As all way's great video , I sold most of my drones but keep the DJI Phantom 4 Pro. I sold them to get back into my DJ company so had to sell to get the DJ gear back. Back when you first started your page I was a fan and still am , even bought from your store front. keep up the great work and yes I been there with the tear apart. Remember when DJI had issues with the " cracking body " with the Phantom 2 , Yes had mine totally apart , TOTALLY ! Great point on the board, I had many drones apart also Solo, Chroma and many other's even built " Racer's ( 250 model's ). any way been there got the tee shirt and again great point, hope DJI see's your video and makes an correction. james

[@400AGLNET]

Rick, Good Saturday morning to you... As always another great video with info that is really good to know. Like you I'm the type of guy that would start pulling screws and make the repair. But also like you I wouldn't recommend that to anyone else because as soon as you pull that first screw "pop" goes the warranty.. P.S. I'm in Albany, Ny, 03:25 9.22.18. I'm headed back down to Monroe Twp and should be in that area this morning about 08:00 / 09:00. After that headed south to that truckstop in Bordentown. I'll shoot you a text later this morning to see if you maybe will be around?

[@WyvernApalis]

Also the binding while flying thing, I would assume it can't go into binding mode while flying so that probably wouldn't happen

[@Dronevalley]

The button wouldn't close on its own but the case of the button is metal and if was loose enough it could close the contacts by sliding across them.

[@jimo3129]

Thanks for heads up

[@Dronevalley]

James, you're welcome and I'm happy to help when I can. Be sure to watch the channel for new content this weekend. Rick

[@rezahar]

Love U Rick! Thanks for all the info. I am waiting for mavic 2 to become available here in Iran to buy!😍

[@Dronevalley]

Thanks for the post and I'm really glad you're enjoying the channel. I hope you get the quad soon, you're going to love flying it! Stay tuned and I'll have more clips posting soon. Rick

[@cvheugten]

Rick I really hope that DJI responds to your solid description of the switch issue you had. DJI should be glad that there are drone enthousiasts as you who can describe whats going on. Really hope they react

[@lengordon2375]

Good to know. Thanks for putting this out there.

[@СлавянскийПуть-щ4н]

Well done. Great vid.

[@Dronevalley]

Thanks for the post and I'm glad you enjoyed the clip. Stay tuned this week for more content we'll be posting. Rick

[@Rick-fs9wc]

Great tip. Dam now a extra thing to worry about my drone. Thank you.

[@jaychris5850]

Thank you so much for sharing this

[@grahamlwilson]

I hope you brought this quality assurance issue to DJI’s attention.

[@rickjwilliams]

Has DJI resolved this problem since you put out this video.. I am planning on buying a Mavic 2 pro later this year.

[@Dronevalley]

Rick, I don't know if they've changed their manufacturing process but I do know they watch these clips so I hope they have. Either way, it's not an issue if you're gentle with the button. Only use a finger to press it and you won't have any issues. If you want to support the channel, use this link when you make your purchase and we get a small credit from DJI - tinyurl.com/y2freehx. Thanks, Rick

[@StudioDaVeed]

Good info. Question: Is the Mavic Pro the same way? You've been deep into it also. Do I need to be aware of being super gentle with it's buttons also? Thanks! Dave

[@patrickfougere0001]

I think it was a cold solder joint from the factory and when you pressed the button to bind to the controller with your finger, the button popped off the board. the button made contact just long enough to bind to the controller, but it still popped off. The reason I think this is because you said the button surface was below the housing when you wen't to set the controller back to its original controller. I don't think the paperclip did it AT ALL....

[@SinkyYT]

Do you think it's a good idea to fly your drones for 90 minutes almost non-stop? I would be worried about the electrics getting hot.

[@DarkWolfWon]

great tip ,Rick .Thanks

[@manuelferran6486]

Well the button is designed not to use other thing than the finger to push it?

[@Dronevalley]

Correct, you should normally push it with your finger but most of us are used to a recessed button that needs to be pushed with a pen of a paper clip. I post the clip to warn others to only use their fingers. Thanks for the post! Rick

[@drcoolit]

very interesting "report". but the scary thing is -- what if this kind of design flaw (which I think it is) is not limited to just this switch? You may have come across Ken Heron's videos where he has these "crash compilations" and he had his own drone lose a power connection in mid-flight (DJI) due to "cold solder joint"! While I agree w/ you that opening up your drone to preemptively reinforce this specific solder point, it MIGHT be worthwhile (Given Ken's mishap) to look at other similar solder connections (hopefully there aren't THAT many) and see if these could benefit from some reinforcement. I certainly can understand your anxiety of having a non-bound copter in flight and how that might play out, but if you thought power could be interrupted during flight (regardless of whether it was over water) that might motivate you to consider this inspection/repair suggestion. one thing I will comment on for people like you and others who share their mishaps/misfortunes so that the rest of us will be the wiser is you deserve our gratitude. I have learned from this video alone about this potential (or maybe ACTUAL) issue re this button and the concerns of having something like this occurring during active drone use. I have a Mavic Pro -- since your video is so in-depth re how to remove the coverings to gain access to the innards, I might just look into mine. no worries about warranty since bought this off eBay and it's well past the expiration anyway.

[@alexrothbard4324]

Hey Rick, I know you don't know me but I have a huge favor to ask. Today I flew my mavic 2 zoom for the second time and when I flew it back to me after a nice flight I found that the rear gimble motor was scratched all over. I found some DJI forums online of people having this exact same issue. The cause is actually quite obvious. When I got back home and inspected the gimble/camera with a flashlight I found the rear gimble motor is chafing on the plastic lower gimble bracket somehow. I found it odd because it is very difficult to make the rear gimble motor contact that bracket by pushing on it so I'm wondering if it is caused by g forces in sport mode, or wind, or something else. So firstly, I know you have the zoom so I'm wondering if you have the same issue. And secondly, if you do, it may be a good idea to make a video on why its happening, and also just make a video on it because in my opinion this is completely unacceptable for DJI to release a drone with a gimble that scratches itself through normal use and if that is whats happening I really want people to spread the word so DJI doesn't just get away with this Scott free. In my personal opinion DJI should have caught this before mass production started but considering that they didn't(big surprise), I do believe they should be doing a slight redesign on that gimble bracket and replacing the damaged components for any customer who experiences this issue. I love your videos because you have a great technical mind and I love how clearly you explain everything so I thought if there was anybody who could figure out whats happening exactly, it would be you. Any help with this would be much appreciated, thanks Rick.

[@Dronevalley]

Alex, thanks for the post and I just checked my M2Z and don't see any scratches on the back or sides. I will be flying it tomorrow and will check to see how those could occur with the quad. I agree that it's not normal and I'd be frustrated as well if mine did that. Stay tuned and I'll update you with what I find. Rick

[@stanleyf.daniel5734]

😧...wow. Thanks for heads up on that Rick. Excellent info and presentation as always. 👍

[@Dronevalley]

Stanley, thanks for the post and the support. I figured that if I tripped over it, someone else might as well so I put the clip together to help you avoid the issue. Stop back soon as I'll have a few more clips posting this weekend. Rick

[@pilotguychris7217]

Always a full value clip for us noobies.. Thnks Rick

[@peterhughes2091]

Hi Rick, thanks for the video and the cautionary tale that you had the courage to largely admit to....fair play. I wonder if, as a dealer, you would forward your valid fears regarding the drone going into pairing mode mid flight? I think coming from one of their accredited dealers DJI would feel a little more inclined to take note and corrective action. Take care and catch you later. Peter