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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 RUclips. 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!!!
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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
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
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.
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!
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
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.
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.
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.
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
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!
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
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.
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.
Nice tip Rick. You're absolutely right, this is a weak design, as cleaver as DJI is. It needs revved. However, I would assume a detached switch like that couldn't enable binding mode, as mentioned with a cold solder joint, since binding apparently requires the closing of an open circuit, which is impossible with a detached switch. It seems over dramatized implying a drone could spontaneously go into binding mode during flight with a cold solder joint on that switch. Am I wrong?
Tom, thanks for the post and you're right about the switch. The real danger is that the case of the switch is metal and it it's rattling around on top of that board the case could make contact with the pads on the board and close the circuit. I know it's a long shot but with something this sophisticated small things can have a big impact. I was really just trying to let everyone know what a dumb guy (me) can do when they aren't careful with the binding switch. Be sure to stop back soon as I have a lot more content posting. Rick
@@Dronevalley don't be hard on yourself Rick. I doubt you mashed on that button with unreasonable force. With all sorts of accessories coming out to take the place of the remote, it may soon get used more often over time.
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.
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.
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.
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
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
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
Not your fault mate, that’s one dodgy work on that button and I have seen plenty buttons like that on phones I fix in the past 10 years and nothing as bad as this. Expect more from a $2,000 AUD drone.
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.
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!
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
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
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!😁
Just seen this interesting clip - it begs a question thats concerned me for a while, which is the "suggestion" that DJI are now cutting quality/material corners to reduce costs while keeping prices high. It would be terrible, but not surprising for a marque company to look to cost savings, and the only way really is to change material quality. It would be interesting to plot returns based on what has failed/broke or was just badly fitted in the factory - sadly, I doubt DJI would ever release such info.
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
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 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.
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.
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.
To all manufacturers that get called out on design flaws such as this, it only serves to better their product development, or lose to the competition. This is great for the users of these products, especially drones, where near 100% reliability is required these days to keep the regulators off our backs.
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
Hello and welcome to the Drone Valley family! The Spark is an amazing quad and I hope you make the move to the Mavic 2 Zoom soon. It's a lot of fun to fly and the zoom function really adds a new element to filming. Stay tuned and I have a lot more content posting. Rick
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.
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
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
That's good to know. I hope DJI sees this video and puts a dob of silicon on each terminal of the switch's leg. Live and learn. Thanks again Rick.... Now go flying :-)
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.
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
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....
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.
Great info,i dont have a Zoom but I've been into game consoles for over 30 years and have had similar problems with the circut boards,Bad solder joints,I figured out the problems but why don't they make them more sturdy,I've had Routers break from pushing the rest button,they need to make stuff More sturdy because most people arnt gentle when their pushing the buttons,there mad and irritated,they Want there stuff to Work again!!!!
Are you an engineer? Your videos are very professionally done and you present well. BTW I have BSME degree and I have a DJI Mavic Air and Phantom 4 Pro.
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
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.
EXCELLENT point Rick!..but more DJI than you considering on the P3S that alot of ppl start with,it recommends a pen or pencil on that button..So the general mindset,like you did,is there...;)
DJI's product finish is usually very good, the iOS software is usually above average in quality and features. DJI's build quality does vary though. The Mavic series was clearly built on a budget. Basic design issues around the USB ports still persist on their controller, and drones. I'm a bit of a DJI fan, but sometime I look at internal build quality/design and wonder. I very much hope the Mavic 3 is built much stronger than the Mavic 2. If not I will be looking at a different brand, for the upgrade.
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?
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
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.
Well DJI should also take note that there might be countries that does not have DJI support. I'm from the Seychelles islands and we do not have a DJI repairs here nor do we have a lot of drone flyers but thats besides the point. DJI should ensure that when they make a product attention to detail even as small as the button solder should be up to quality of standards. If a problem as small as that were to happen here. Its going to cost even more than someone who lives in UK or US as we need to think of shipping plus repairs. In most cases manufacturers tend to tell u to send products for repairs to the countries you bought them not a country closer to the consumer and thats a huge problem.
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 RUclips about it. Do you feel that there is a manufacturing defect?
What I dont understand is, why you were able to bind them without any problem at the shore, and why you having problem binding them again at home? I assume at home you would do the same way as you did at the shore.
Amen to that, I once had the same thing with a battery connector in a GPS tracker, which also wasn't fixed properly. I had to solder 8 joints to put it back in place, and did the same thing as you by leaving small domes on it. Never came off since. But I'd say this is more DJI's fault than yours for the very reasons you mentioned. It should have been properly fixed in the first place.
Don't for a moment believe that you were coarse with that reset microswitch. From the pix its clearly under-engineered. But will DJI put out a recall? I know what I think on that one...
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
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
![Kumamoto Masters Japan 2024 | Gregoria Mariska Tunjung (INA) [5] vs. Akane Yamaguchi (JPN) [2] | F](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/EIjZybhsWqA/mqdefault.jpg)
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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)
@@eried There is the possibility it's a normally closed button, this way the system can check the circuit is intact!
@@CAv-lp2qk I doubt it is normally closed, otherwise Rick's symptom would have been perpetual binding mode. True, if could be edge triggered.
John Vandraiss when I heard that I was going to say the same thing you said.
Three years later and its still relevant. Thanks very much for the tutorial and learning from past mistakes. Cheers
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 RUclips. 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!!!
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
Adam Shaw yes it’s bad design for that button.
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.
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.
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.
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
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
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
Excellent highlight of a perceived weakness in the design. Well presented. Appreciate your time doing this.
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.
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!
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
Very interesting video. Thank you for this experience sharing.
To my advice DJI switches, in general, are not that good engineered as they should.
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.
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
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!
I love the curiosity of fellow engineers to investigate!
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.
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
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.
Did you blob it with hot melt glue after your emergency soldering job? That should give it some extra strength.
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.
Nice tip Rick. You're absolutely right, this is a weak design, as cleaver as DJI is. It needs revved. However, I would assume a detached switch like that couldn't enable binding mode, as mentioned with a cold solder joint, since binding apparently requires the closing of an open circuit, which is impossible with a detached switch. It seems over dramatized implying a drone could spontaneously go into binding mode during flight with a cold solder joint on that switch. Am I wrong?
Tom, thanks for the post and you're right about the switch. The real danger is that the case of the switch is metal and it it's rattling around on top of that board the case could make contact with the pads on the board and close the circuit. I know it's a long shot but with something this sophisticated small things can have a big impact. I was really just trying to let everyone know what a dumb guy (me) can do when they aren't careful with the binding switch. Be sure to stop back soon as I have a lot more content posting. Rick
@@Dronevalley don't be hard on yourself Rick. I doubt you mashed on that button with unreasonable force. With all sorts of accessories coming out to take the place of the remote, it may soon get used more often over time.
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.
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!!! ✌😎👍
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.
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.
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
I hope you brought this quality assurance issue to DJI’s attention.
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
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.
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
Not your fault mate, that’s one dodgy work on that button and I have seen plenty buttons like that on phones I fix in the past 10 years and nothing as bad as this. Expect more from a $2,000 AUD drone.
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.
Probably got a unit that went past inspection , with Abad solder joints, could probably use hot glue for extra strength
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 !!!!
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!
Thank you Rick , you brave and smart 😊
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
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
@@Dronevalley looking forward to it. 👌
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!😁
Thanks for the heads up.
Only have the mavic pro however I won't use a pen
Thanks for the post and I'm glad it helped. Put the pen down and use your finger :)
Thanks for valuable fix information. It would have been enjoyable to see some of the footage from the shore, you built up so nicely.
Just seen this interesting clip - it begs a question thats concerned me for a while, which is the "suggestion" that DJI are now cutting quality/material corners to reduce costs while keeping prices high. It would be terrible, but not surprising for a marque company to look to cost savings, and the only way really is to change material quality. It would be interesting to plot returns based on what has failed/broke or was just badly fitted in the factory - sadly, I doubt DJI would ever release such info.
Has DJI resolved this problem since you put out this video.. I am planning on buying a Mavic 2 pro later this year.
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
Good advise got a 2 pro arriving tomorrow and I always use tools to push small buttons...
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.
@@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!
@@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.
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.
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.
Nice find. Thanks for sharing your discoveries.
I think I would have a better chance removing my own appendix than working on my drone🙂...lol...you are a talented guy for sure...may God bless
To all manufacturers that get called out on design flaws such as this, it only serves to better their product development, or lose to the competition. This is great for the users of these products, especially drones, where near 100% reliability is required these days to keep the regulators off our backs.
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
As a drone woman, who ride a dji spark....my dream is to buy a Mavic2Zoom! Thank you for this video!
Hello and welcome to the Drone Valley family! The Spark is an amazing quad and I hope you make the move to the Mavic 2 Zoom soon. It's a lot of fun to fly and the zoom function really adds a new element to filming. Stay tuned and I have a lot more content posting. Rick
Thank you
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.
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.
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
Great video! I hope you informed DJI of this potential issue! Keep up the great videos!
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
That's good to know. I hope DJI sees this video and puts a dob of silicon on each terminal of the switch's leg.
Live and learn.
Thanks again Rick.... Now go flying :-)
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.
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
Would you recommend the 1 year extended warranty from DJI?
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....
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.
Thanks for sharing. DJI should take note of what you found and perhaps add you as reviewer for future products.
Great info,i dont have a Zoom but I've been into game consoles for over 30 years and have had similar problems with the circut boards,Bad solder joints,I figured out the problems but why don't they make them more sturdy,I've had Routers break from pushing the rest button,they need to make stuff More sturdy because most people arnt gentle when their pushing the buttons,there mad and irritated,they Want there stuff to Work again!!!!
Are you an engineer? Your videos are very professionally done and you present well. BTW I have BSME degree and I have a DJI Mavic Air and Phantom 4 Pro.
Are you going to beef up your solder bind pin joints too?
Thanks Rick for the caution very important information
Great tip. Dam now a extra thing to worry about my drone. Thank you.
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.
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
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.
Really curious ... But thanks for sharing and we'll be watching out!
EXCELLENT point Rick!..but more DJI than you considering on the P3S that alot of ppl start with,it recommends a pen or pencil on that button..So the general mindset,like you did,is there...;)
Now that's a great piece of information!! Thank you for taking the time, I really appreciate it!!
Rick, do you ever fly your mavic without using the app?
DJI's product finish is usually very good, the iOS software is usually above average in quality and features. DJI's build quality does vary though. The Mavic series was clearly built on a budget. Basic design issues around the USB ports still persist on their controller, and drones.
I'm a bit of a DJI fan, but sometime I look at internal build quality/design and wonder. I very much hope the Mavic 3 is built much stronger than the Mavic 2. If not I will be looking at a different brand, for the upgrade.
Great advice. Thanks for letting us learn from your mishap!
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?
Thanks for the heads up! Did you look at any of the other solder joints to see if they were lightly soldered on?
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
Excellent Rick. Priceless -Thanks for putting this one together.
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
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.
Good point!
Important video! Thanks for making this.
Always a full value clip for us noobies.. Thnks Rick
Well DJI should also take note that there might be countries that does not have DJI support. I'm from the Seychelles islands and we do not have a DJI repairs here nor do we have a lot of drone flyers but thats besides the point. DJI should ensure that when they make a product attention to detail even as small as the button solder should be up to quality of standards. If a problem as small as that were to happen here. Its going to cost even more than someone who lives in UK or US as we need to think of shipping plus repairs. In most cases manufacturers tend to tell u to send products for repairs to the countries you bought them not a country closer to the consumer and thats a huge problem.
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 RUclips about it. Do you feel that there is a manufacturing defect?
What I dont understand is, why you were able to bind them without any problem at the shore, and why you having problem binding them again at home? I assume at home you would do the same way as you did at the shore.
Buttons are meant to be pushed. Switches are meant to be switched. Beer is meant to be dranked! :o) Great video.
Keep'em coming. Thanks for your time and effort.
Dave, I appreciate the post and I have a few more clips posting this weekend so stay tuned! Rick
What about arm bracers for the Air 2S? Valuable or not?
Great video thanks for the heads up & tips on this...
Great Information Rick.... Keep sharing so we can fly safe....
Amen to that, I once had the same thing with a battery connector in a GPS tracker, which also wasn't fixed properly. I had to solder 8 joints to put it back in place, and did the same thing as you by leaving small domes on it. Never came off since. But I'd say this is more DJI's fault than yours for the very reasons you mentioned. It should have been properly fixed in the first place.
Boop! 😂 Thanks for sharing! I've seen this all to often with buttons and laptop power cord connections especially. Thankfully it was an easy fix.
Don't for a moment believe that you were coarse with that reset microswitch. From the pix its clearly under-engineered. But will DJI put out a recall? I know what I think on that one...
Great fix Rick!
Good to know. Thanks for putting this out there.
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
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
Thanks Rick. I'll definitely make sure to put the pen and paperclip away. Thank God because that's exactly what I would have used. Lol.