Aim:
To understand and perform basic calibration steps using a training drone or simulator.

Materials Needed:

• Training drone or QGroundControl simulator

• Computer or tablet

• Stable, flat surface

• Safety supervision (teacher or lab assistant)

• Calibration log sheet

Step-by-Step Process

Step 1: Review Sensor Roles

Before calibration, identify each main sensor:

• Gyroscope → keeps the drone level

• Accelerometer → detects movement and tilt

• Compass → shows the direction

• Barometer (optional) → helps measure height

Observe in the software dashboard how sensor values change when you move or tilt the drone.

Step 2: Open Calibration Menu

• Launch QGroundControl (or similar software).

• Connect your training drone or simulator.

• Go to Vehicle Setup → Sensors → Calibration.

• You’ll see options for Accelerometer, Gyroscope, and Compass.

Step 3: Calibrate the Gyroscope

• Place the drone on a flat surface.

• Select Gyroscope Calibration.

• Keep the drone completely still until calibration completes.

• The system sets “zero motion” as the reference point.

Purpose: Ensures the drone can correctly detect even the smallest tilts.

Step 4: Calibrate the Accelerometer

• Follow on-screen prompts to place the drone in multiple orientations — flat, on its sides, nose-up, and nose-down.

• Hold each position steady until the software confirms the calibration step.

• This helps the accelerometer understand gravity and movement directions.

Step 5: Calibrate the Compass

• Move the drone slowly in a figure-eight motion or rotate it on all axes as instructed.

• Keep away from metallic objects or magnetic fields (like metal tables or mobile phones).

• Once calibration completes, the compass will correctly identify north and direction.

Step 6: Save and Test

• Save the calibration data.

• Start a short simulation test flight or ground motor spin test.

• Observe stability — the drone should stay balanced and respond smoothly to controls.

Step 7: Record in Calibration Log

In your worksheet or logbook, note:

• Date of calibration

• Sensors calibrated

• Any issues observed before and after calibration

• Result (e.g., “Drift reduced, stable hover achieved”)

Reflection

When all parts of a drone are tuned and working together, the flight feels effortless.
Calibration is like tuning an instrument before a concert — it ensures harmony.
Just as a balanced drone flies smoother, a balanced pilot — one who checks, plans, and adjusts — makes better decisions in the air.