The Autel Robotics Smart Controller V3 is a powerful tool for drone pilots, but some users have reported charging problems. One user experienced an issue where the controller appeared to charge, indicated by the sequential lighting of green LEDs, but the operating system showed no charging progress. Despite trying various charging methods, including the supplied power brick and cable, as well as a high-powered Anker charger, the controller’s battery level continued to decrease. The controller recognized it was plugged in, but the Android OS didn’t register the charging process.
The user, who also owns DJI equipment, anticipated firmware updates might be necessary. However, the drone updated its battery automatically upon initial boot-up. The controller, curiously, remained at 20% charge despite hours connected to power. System and app updates were checked, showing the controller was already up-to-date. With the battery level dwindling to 10%, concerns arose about having sufficient power to implement any future firmware fixes. A support ticket was submitted, but no immediate response was received.
This experience highlights a potential issue with the Autel Robotics Smart Controller V3’s charging system. While the physical indicators suggest charging is occurring, a disconnect between the hardware and the software prevents the battery from actually replenishing. This problem could be due to a firmware bug, a hardware malfunction, or an incompatibility with certain charging methods.
Troubleshooting steps could include:
- Trying different USB-C cables: A faulty cable can prevent proper charging.
- Restarting the controller: A simple reboot might resolve temporary software glitches.
- Factory resetting the controller: This could resolve more persistent software issues, but should be done as a last resort.
If these steps don’t resolve the issue, contacting Autel Robotics support for further assistance is recommended. This issue underscores the importance of thorough testing and quality control for drone accessories, especially critical components like the smart controller. A reliable charging system is crucial for uninterrupted drone operation and a positive user experience.
