3D Robotics X8-M - Manual (Page 6)

5
Camera Setup
The X8 includes a Canon PowerShot SX260 HS running the 3DR EAI script.
SD card locked
Load 3DR EAI
»
Fly a mapping mission
SD card unlocked
Load default Canon software
»
View images on camera
»
Save images to ground station
»
Update script
3DR EAI (Exposure-Aperture-ISO)
3DR EAI runs on the Canon Hacker Development Kit (CHDK), a powerful open-
source tool that expands the functionality of Canon point-and-shoot cameras. 3DR
EAI optimizes image exposure and integrates with the Pixhawk autopilot to enable
distance-based imaging.
This software is designed to load off the camera’s SD card, leaving the original Canon
programming intact. The yellow switch on the side of the SD card allows you to lock
or unlock the card. Lock the SD card to run 3DR EAI; unlock the SD card to save
images to your ground station or to boot the camera with its original programming.
For more information about 3DR EAI, see page 36.
Charging
Charge the camera battery before your first flight. Once
fully charged, insert the battery into the camera.
status indicator
Starting a Mission
To prepare the camera to fly a mapping mission, ensure
that the mode dial is set to P (program) mode. Power on the
camera using the silver button on the top. 3DR EAI will start
automatically, and you will see the script messages on the
camera display. Check to see that the last line of the script
reads waiting on USB signal. The camera is now ready to map!
power button
Camera ready to map: waiting on USB signal
Canon battery charger
Power off the camera before removing the SD card.
!
Camera running 3DR EAI Camera running Canon software
mode dial