Symptoms
- Calibration process stalls or restarts repeatedly
- App shows calibration failed message
- Drone doesn't respond to the calibration's rotation steps
- Calibration completes but flight behavior doesn't improve
Likely causes
- CommonSurface not flat or stable during calibrationIMU calibration requires the drone to be perfectly still and level at each step.
- CommonDrone moved or bumped during the calibration sequenceAny vibration or movement during calibration invalidates the readings.
- PossibleBattery too low to complete the processSome calibrations require a minimum battery level to run.
- PossibleApp or firmware version mismatch causing calibration errorsOutdated software can interfere with the calibration sequence.
- Less commonIMU sensor hardware faultWould prevent successful calibration even under ideal conditions.
What to do
- Place the drone on a hard, flat, and perfectly level surface for calibration.
- Make sure the battery is charged above the minimum level recommended for calibration.
- Follow the app's calibration steps exactly, keeping the drone completely still except for the specific rotations instructed.
- Perform calibration in a stable environment free of wind or vibration, ideally indoors on a solid table.
- Update the app and drone firmware before attempting calibration again.
- Restart both the drone and the app if calibration repeatedly fails partway through.
- If calibration still won't complete on a stable, level surface with updated software, the IMU sensor may need professional inspection.
Tools and parts
- Flat, level surface
When to call a pro
If IMU calibration still fails on a stable, level surface with updated software, a drone repair specialist can inspect the sensor hardware.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.