Geo Mode
In Geo mode, the gimbal stares at a given target Latitude, Longitude, and Altitude (LLA). In order
for Geo mode to accurately work, the gimbal must have a valid GPS position and must have map
elevation data. Once in Geo mode, a user can click on the video to direct the gimbal to stare at a new
location or use the onscreen joystick to steer the gimbal. The gimbal can enter Geo mode in
multiple ways:
o Clicking Geo mode: the gimbal stares at the LLA in the center of the video
o Double clicking on the map: the gimbal stares at the location clicked
o Selecting a preloaded geopoint: the gimbal stares at the geopoint LLA
Mode limitations: operators will notice that at narrow fields of view, the gimbal will slowly
oscillate about a target which is a consequence of errors in the gimbal attitude solution. For this
reason, Scene Mode described below is most commonly used at narrow fields of view. Geo mode
may behave poorly if the gimbal is located near the ground due to errors in the GPS altitude and the
ground elevation model. Therefore, Geo mode should not necessarily be expected to work
accurately unless the gimbal is at least 50 to 100 feet above the ground.
Scene Mode
In Scene mode, the gimbal uses video processing feedback to continue looking at the current video
scene. In a similar manner as Geo mode, Scene mode will keep the gimbal staring at a location on
the ground regardless of gimbal movement. Once in Scene mode, a user can click on the video to
direct the gimbal to stare at a new location or use the onscreen joystick to steer the gimbal.
Mode limitations: for Scene mode to work well, there must be sufficient image content for the
onboard video processor to lock on; when operating over water, sand, or when using IR cameras in
situations with poor contrast, Scene mode will result in erratic behavior. In these cases, Geo mode
should be used instead.
1.1.4 Preflight Checklist
Prior to operation, ensure the following items are checked:
• GPS
o Ensure the gimbal has a valid GPS location shown in the top left of the video window.
• Maps
o In order for the system to determine an accurate image location, ground elevation
data must be accessible. Elevation data and map imagery will be automatically
downloaded over an active internet connection and cached for later use. If gimbals
will be operated without an internet connection, imagery and elevation data should
be either manually placed into the map directory, or the SkyLink map should be used
to inspect the mission location ahead of time in order to automatically cache data.
• Bitrate
o Set the gimbal video bitrate to a quality appropriate for your radio range which is
found under Settings – Gimbal Settings. If you are operating with a strong link, video
should be set to 3 to 4 Mbps. If you are operating with a weak link at range, video
should be set to 1 Mbps.
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