How to Update Drone Firmware for DJI, Autel, ACSL SOTEN, and Inspired Flight

Updating drone firmware is one of the simplest ways to keep your aircraft stable, safe, and compliant. Most mission issues—GPS drift, sensor errors, flight-control bugs—come from outdated firmware. And for public safety, inspection, and industrial teams, a missed update can slow operations or create avoidable risk.

This guide shows how to update firmware across DJI, Autel, ACSL SOTEN, and Inspired Flight platforms, with steps tailored for field operators who need clear, reliable instructions.

The detailed walkthroughs for each brand are below.

Why Firmware Updates Matter for Professional Drone Operations

A drone is only as reliable as the software running it. Firmware controls every core function: flight stability, GPS performance, obstacle sensing, camera behavior, and system safety checks. When firmware falls behind, problems start to appear. And in public safety, inspection, and industrial missions, those problems slow crews down or force operators to repeat work.

Updating drone firmware prevents issues that operators deal with every day, which includes:

• GPS drift during mapping flights
• Unresponsive gimbals or sensors
• Slow RTK lock or inconsistent positioning
• Battery communication faults
• Controller link drops
• Thermal calibration errors
• Payload compatibility issues after hardware swaps

Many of these failures trace back to outdated firmware. A simple update often brings the aircraft back to stable performance.

Key Reasons Firmware Updates Matter

1. Better flight stability: New firmware corrects flight-control bugs that affect hovering, braking, and wind handling.
2. Improved sensor accuracy: Manufacturers refine camera, thermal, and LiDAR behavior through firmware over time.
3. Compliance with rules and safety requirements: Remote ID, updated geofence data, and operational restrictions rely on current firmware.
4. Security improvements: New firmware can patch vulnerabilities that affect encrypted links and data integrity.
5. Payload and accessory support: Updates enable compatibility with new sensors, batteries, RTK modules, and lighting tools.
6. Reduced downtime in the field: A current firmware version avoids version-mismatch errors between controller, aircraft, and payloads.

Why This Matters for Industrial and Public Safety Teams

Professional crews depend on predictable aircraft behavior.
When a drone is used for:

• Search and rescue
• Fireground overwatch
• Traffic crash reconstruction
• Utility inspection
• Critical infrastructure surveys
• Environmental monitoring

…firmware version issues can interrupt the mission or force operators to change aircraft mid-deployment. That creates unnecessary risk, delay, and frustration.

Up-to-date firmware keeps the aircraft stable and predictable so teams can focus on the job, not the aircraft.

Before You Update: Universal Firmware Prep Checklist

Updating drone firmware is straightforward. Problems usually happen when the aircraft, controller, or payloads are not prepared. A short pre-update check avoids most failures and keeps the process clean, especially during field operations or fleet-wide updates.

Below is a simple checklist used by many professional teams before installing firmware across DJI, Autel, ACSL SOTEN, and Inspired Flight aircraft.

Why These Steps Matter

Every update contains new instructions for flight control, sensors, and system logic. A small interruption—faulty cable, low battery, corrupt package—can cause the drone to stop mid-update. Following this checklist reduces that risk and ensures the aircraft accepts the firmware without errors.

When working with multiple brands or multiple aircraft in one fleet, this checklist helps maintain consistency so every operator starts with the same baseline. For agencies or enterprise teams, a fleet-management platform such as DJI FlightHub 2, Flytbase or Airdata helps monitor which aircraft, batteries, and controllers still need updates so nothing slips through during mission prep.

How to Update Firmware for DJI Drones

DJI provides several ways to install firmware depending on the aircraft model and the operating environment. Professional teams usually update through the DJI Pilot 2 app or DJI Assistant 2 since both offer clearer version visibility and better stability for enterprise platforms like the Matrice and Mavic 3 Enterprise Series.

If you operate a fleet, using a consistent update method prevents version gaps between operators, aircraft, and payloads.

Supported DJI Firmware Update Methods

DJI supports four reliable ways to install firmware:

1. On-Device Update with DJI Pilot 2

Used mainly for enterprise platforms such as:

• Matrice 350 RTK
• Mavic 3 Enterprise / Thermal
• Matrice 30 / 30T
• Matrice 300 RTK (with Pilot 2 upgrade)

Pilot 2 provides a clear interface that shows available firmware, required accessory updates, and version notes.

2. In-App Update with DJI Fly

Used for smaller or prosumer aircraft such as:

• Air Series
• Mini Series
• Mavic Air / Mavic 2 Series

Pilot 2 is still preferred for most professional work, but Fly remains common in training environments.

3. Desktop Update with DJI Assistant 2

This method is used across enterprise and consumer models for:

• Major updates
• Manual installation
• Rollback (where supported)
• Aircraft that fail to update through an app
• Controller, battery, and payload upgrades

4. Offline Update Packages

Some agencies cannot connect to public networks.
DJI allows offline updates for select enterprise platforms through pre-approved update packages or controlled network environments. Operators must follow agency protocols.

Step-by-Step: How to Update DJI Firmware

The steps below cover the primary workflows used by professional drone teams.

A. Update Using DJI Pilot 2

1. Power on aircraft and controller.
2. Ensure both devices have at least 50% battery.
3. Connect to a stable network.
4. Open DJI Pilot 2.
5. Pilot 2 automatically scans for available firmware.
6. Tap Update when prompted.
7. Download the firmware package.
8. Follow on-screen steps to apply aircraft, controller, and payload updates.
9. Restart aircraft and controller.
10. Check version numbers under About.

Pilot 2 may require separate updates for:

• Batteries
• Gimbals
• Sensors
• Remote controllers

Update all components to avoid version conflicts.

B. Update Using DJI Fly

1. Turn on aircraft and controller.
2. Connect your mobile device and open DJI Fly.
3. The app displays a firmware prompt if an update is available.
4. Tap Download.
5. Wait while the update installs.
6. Restart the system afterward.

This method is more common for training drones or smaller aircraft.

C. Update Using DJI Assistant 2 (Desktop)

1. Download the correct version of DJI Assistant 2 for your aircraft model.
2. Connect aircraft to your computer via USB.
3. Open Assistant 2.
4. Log in with a DJI account if required.
5. Select your aircraft.
6. Click Firmware Update.
7. Choose the newest version and download.
8. Allow Assistant 2 to install the update.
9. Restart aircraft and controller.
10. Repeat the process for batteries or payloads if needed.

Assistant 2 is the most reliable method when the aircraft fails to update through mobile apps.

Common DJI Firmware Update Issues and Fixes

• Update Stuck at 0% or 99%: Often caused by low battery, unstable network, or connection issues.
  Fix: Restart aircraft and controller, reconnect, and retry.
• Version Mismatch Warning: The aircraft, controller, and payloads must run compatible firmware.
  Fix: Update each component one by one.
• Aircraft Fails to Start After Update: Connect to DJI Assistant 2 and reinstall or refresh the firmware.
• No Update Prompt Appears: Check:

• • Network access
  • Controller-aircraft link
  • Correct DJI app version
  • Assistant 2 compatibility

• Payload Not Recognized: Update the payload separately through Pilot 2 or Assistant 2.

How to Update Firmware for Autel Drones

Autel gives operators several ways to install firmware depending on the aircraft, controller, and mission environment. Most EVO II and EVO Max operators use the Autel Sky or Autel Explorer app for quick updates. Enterprise teams with RTK modules, beacons, or thermal payloads may rely on SD card updates or controlled-network workflows for more stable installations.

Autel firmware updates are important because they often include sensor tuning, thermal calibration improvements, RTK stability fixes, and compatibility updates for new accessories. Updating all components—aircraft, controller, batteries, and payloads—keeps Autel platforms consistent across fleets.

Supported Autel Firmware Update Methods

Autel supports three primary workflows.

1. Update with Autel Sky or Autel Explorer

This is the most common method for EVO II Series, EVO Lite, and EVO Max aircraft.

• Autel Sky (EVO Lite, Nano, Max)
• Autel Explorer (EVO II Series, EVO II Enterprise, Dual 640T)

These apps detect firmware automatically and guide operators through download and installation.

2. SD Card Manual Update

Useful for:

• Environments with limited connectivity
• Enterprise agencies that require controlled updates
• Aircraft that fail OTA installation
• Updating payloads or accessories

Works across most EVO II and EVO Max platforms.

3. Accessory and Payload Updates

Separate firmware may be required for:

• Thermal sensors (Dual 640T)
• RTK Modules
• Beacons
• Spotlights
• Speakers
• Enterprise add-ons

Autel lists update requirements in each firmware release note.

Step-by-Step: How to Update Autel Firmware

Below are the most reliable workflows for Autel operators.

A. Update with Autel Sky or Autel Explorer

1. Power on aircraft and controller.
2. Connect mobile device to the controller.
3. Open Autel Sky or Autel Explorer.
4. Ensure a stable internet connection.
5. The app scans for firmware updates automatically.
6. Tap Update to begin.
7. Download the firmware package.
8. Wait while the system updates aircraft, controller, and payloads.
9. Restart all devices once installation finishes.
10. Check version information under the device settings menu.

This method is ideal for everyday EVO II or EVO Max operations.

B. Update via SD Card (Manual Installation)

1. Download the correct firmware package from Autel’s official site.
2. Insert a formatted SD card into your computer.
3. Copy the firmware file into the SD card root directory.
4. Insert the SD card into the aircraft.
5. Power on the aircraft.
6. The system detects the firmware package.
7. Follow on-screen instructions to install firmware.
8. Restart aircraft after update completes.

This workflow is preferred for enterprise teams working in secure or low-connectivity environments.

C. Update Accessories and Payloads

Some components require individual firmware installation:

• RTK module
• Dual 640T thermal sensor
• Loudspeaker
• Spotlight
• Strobe or beacon

To update:

1. Connect accessory or payload to the aircraft.
2. Power on system.
3. Open Autel Sky or Explorer.
4. App detects accessory firmware if available.
5. Download and install the update.
6. Restart.

Always update payloads after finishing aircraft and controller updates to avoid mismatch errors.

Common Autel Firmware Issues and Fixes

• “Firmware Version Mismatch” Warning: Occurs when aircraft, controller, or payloads are on different version levels.
  Fix: update each component individually until all versions match.
• Thermal Sensor Not Initializing: Thermal payloads such as the Dual 640T may require separate updates.
  Fix: update payload via Explorer, then restart aircraft.
• Update Freezes or Fails: Often caused by:
  • • Weak internet connection
    • Low battery
    • Corrupt download
    • Incomplete SD card file transfer

Fix: redownload update, ensure stable connection, retry installation.

• Map or RTK Data Missing: Autel updates sometimes reset map cache or RTK settings.
  Fix: reconnect to RTK source and re-enable service.

How to Update Firmware for ACSL SOTEN

ACSL SOTEN operates differently from DJI and Autel. The platform is built for government, public safety, and industrial missions that require secure, NDAA-compliant workflows. Because of this, ACSL uses a controlled firmware process with verified packages, offline installation options, and additional integrity checks.

For agencies that need predictable performance, strong security, and restricted network environments, ACSL firmware updates keep the aircraft aligned with operational, cybersecurity, and flight-control requirements.

SOTEN updates also improve sensor reliability, enhance positioning accuracy, refine encrypted communication links, and correct issues identified through enterprise deployments.

Supported ACSL SOTEN Firmware Update Methods

ACSL uses verified update packages that operators install through offline or controlled-network workflows.

1. Secure Package Installation (SD or USB)

This is the primary method used by most ACSL customers.
Operators download a verified firmware file, validate it, and upload it to the aircraft via SD or USB media.

2. Controller and Payload Updates

The ground controller and camera modules may require their own updates.
ACSL bundles these in release notes and provides instructions for each component.

3. Offline Updates for Secure Sites

Agencies operating in restricted facilities or no-internet environments can update SOTEN through approved offline packages.

Step-by-Step: How to Update ACSL SOTEN Firmware

This workflow is designed for field operators and agency technicians.

A. Update Using Secure Package (SD or USB)

1. Download the correct firmware package from ACSL’s official support portal.
2. Verify the package checksum or signature according to ACSL instructions.
3. Format an SD card or USB drive using FAT32.
4. Copy the verified firmware file to the root directory.
5. Power off the aircraft.
6. Insert SD or USB into the aircraft’s designated port.
7. Power on the aircraft.
8. The system detects the update file.
9. Follow on-screen prompts to install firmware.
10. Restart the aircraft when the update completes.
11. Confirm version numbers in the system menu.

This method reduces network exposure and maintains operational security.

B. Update Ground Controller

1. Power on the controller.
2. Insert SD or USB with the verified controller firmware file.
3. Open the system update menu.
4. Select the update package.
5. Install firmware and restart the controller.
6. Confirm the version under settings.

C. Update Payloads and Camera Modules

1. Connect payload to aircraft or controller (depending on module).
2. Insert update media.
3. System detects payload firmware.
4. Install update.
5. Restart aircraft and payload.
6. Confirm sensor version in settings.

ACSL payload modules often rely on precise firmware compatibility.
Always update the aircraft first.

Common ACSL Firmware Issues and Fixes

Update Package Not Recognized. Usually caused by:

• Wrong file format
• Incorrect directory placement
• Corrupt download
• Unsupported media

Fix: redownload, reformat media, and copy the file again.

Security Key or Signature Mismatch. This occurs when the package fails verification.
Fix: revalidate checksum or download the correct secure package.

Camera Module Not Updating. Payloads sometimes need to be installed separately.
Fix: ensure payload is correctly mounted and power-cycled.

Incomplete Update Due to Power Loss. Always update with fully charged batteries to avoid mid-install shutdown.

How to Update Firmware for Inspired Flight Drones

Inspired Flight platforms are engineered for U.S. government, industrial, and NDAA-compliant operations. Their firmware ecosystem reflects this priority: updates are delivered through controlled channels, installation relies on secure desktop utilities, and each release focuses on flight stability, system security, and payload compatibility.

Because these aircraft support heavy-lift operations, inspection payloads, LiDAR sensors, and other mission-critical equipment, keeping firmware current is essential for predictable behavior in demanding environments.

Inspired Flight firmware updates help operators maintain safe lift performance, stable GPS, balanced motor output, and reliable data links. Updates also improve compatibility with new payloads, gimbals, or mission-planning features.

Supported Inspired Flight Firmware Update Methods

Inspired Flight supports a secure, straightforward update process built around controlled software tools.

PC-Based Update Utility

This is the primary method across IF750, IF1200A, and other Inspired Flight platforms.
Operators connect the aircraft to a computer and use the Inspired Flight updater to load the newest firmware.

Offline Update Packages

Operators who work in restricted or air-gapped environments can install updates manually using verified packages downloaded from official channels.

Payload, Gimbal, and Accessory Updates

Some third-party sensors require separate firmware installations.
Inspired Flight provides compatibility notices in their release documentation.

Step-by-Step: How to Update Inspired Flight Firmware

The workflow below applies to IF750, IF1200A, and other Inspired Flight enterprise platforms.

Update Using the Inspired Flight Desktop Utility

1. Download the latest firmware updater from Inspired Flight’s official support portal.
2. Install the updater on a Windows or macOS computer.
3. Power off the aircraft.
4. Connect the aircraft to the computer using the correct data cable.
5. Power on the aircraft.
6. Open the Inspired Flight update utility.
7. The utility detects the aircraft and displays the current firmware version.
8. Select the newest available version.
9. Download or load the firmware file.
10. Click Install to start update.
11. Wait until installation finishes.
12. Restart aircraft and controller.
13. Confirm the version in system settings.

This method ensures proper version control across critical flight systems.

Update Using Offline Packages

1. Access the secure firmware package from Inspired Flight’s support portal or agency-approved repository.
2. Verify the package checksum if required.
3. Open the update utility and select Manual Update.
4. Load the local firmware file.
5. Connect the aircraft.
6. Install firmware.
7. Restart aircraft and verify version.

This workflow is common for government, defense, and utility customers who operate in restricted network environments.

Update Payloads, Gimbals, and Accessories

Certain payloads require separate updates:

• Gremsy gimbals
• LiDAR sensors
• High-resolution mapping cameras
• Specialized industrial payloads

To update supported payloads:

1. Connect payload to aircraft or computer as specified.
2. Open the Inspired Flight updater or payload-specific software.
3. Select firmware file.
4. Install update.
5. Restart aircraft and payload.
6. Verify version numbers.

Always update the aircraft first before installing payload firmware to prevent compatibility issues.

Common Inspired Flight Firmware Issues and Fixes

Aircraft Not Detected by Updater. Usually caused by:

• Wrong cable
• Improper USB port
• Outdated updater version
• Driver conflict

Fix: reconnect, update the utility, or switch ports.

Firmware Install Freezes. Often tied to unstable power or corrupted files.
Fix: redownload firmware, recharge batteries, or switch computers.

Payload Not Recognized. Payload may require its own firmware or may be incompatible with current flight firmware.
Fix: install payload firmware or check compatibility notes.

Version Error After Update. Occurs when aircraft and controller versions do not match.
Fix: update controller and any connected payloads.

Cross-Brand Comparison Table

Every manufacturer handles firmware updates differently. Some rely on mobile apps, while others use secure offline packages. The table below gives operators a quick way to see how DJI, Autel, ACSL SOTEN, and Inspired Flight compare.

Use this as a reference when planning updates for mixed fleets, shared operations, or multi-brand mission sets.

Firmware Update Methods At-a-Glance

Quick Summary for Operators

• DJI offers the most standardized update workflow but requires all components to stay on matching versions.
• Autel gives users flexible options, though payloads and accessories often require extra updates.
• ACSL SOTEN uses secure, offline-first packages that fit government and restricted environments.
• Inspired Flight relies on controlled desktop tools ideal for heavy-lift, Blue UAS, and industrial platforms.

This overview helps teams choose the right installation method and avoid mismatched versions across fleets.

How Often Should You Update?

There is no single update schedule that works for every drone or mission type. Each manufacturer releases firmware at different times, and every operation has its own risk level. But professional teams can follow a simple rule: update when the manufacturer issues a stable release, and only after confirming it supports your operational needs.

For public safety, inspection, and industrial crews, firmware timing matters. An update installed at the wrong time can disrupt a mission. An update installed too late can cause errors that were already fixed. The goal is balance: update often enough to stay secure and stable, but not during active operations.

Recommended Update Rhythm by Industry:

Public Safety (Police, Fire, SAR)

Update before major deployments or when a new version fixes:

• Stability issues
• GPS errors
• Link problems
• Thermal calibration issues

Avoid updating during ongoing operations unless the aircraft is grounded.

Utilities and Industrial Inspection

Update monthly or after major release notes that improve:

• RTK positioning
• Mapping consistency
• Camera output
• Battery reliability

Consistency matters when multiple pilots fly the same platform.

Mapping and Survey Teams

Update once per project cycle, but only after testing the new firmware with:

• RTK base stations
• Third-party mapping apps
• LiDAR or photogrammetry payloads

Mapping flights rely heavily on predictable behavior. Always test before field use.

Government and Secure Facilities

Follow internal policies.
Some agencies update on a fixed schedule. Others only update after security vetting.
For ACSL SOTEN and Inspired Flight users, this often means updating:

• After approval from IT/security teams
• During scheduled maintenance windows

When You Should Not Update

There are times when updating firmware creates more risk than benefit. Avoid updating:

• Right before a mission
• During emergency deployments
• When the fleet is split across multiple locations
• If a third-party payload has not confirmed compatibility
• When operating a mixed-version fleet without the ability to unify versions

If update notes warn about known issues or pending fixes, wait for the next stable version.

Seasonal and Operational Firmware Scheduling

Professional drone teams rarely update firmware at random. The most reliable operators schedule updates around mission cycles, seasonal workload, and agency availability. This helps reduce downtime and prevents last-minute issues when equipment is needed the most.
A predictable schedule also keeps fleets aligned so every operator works with the same firmware version and the same system behavior.

Below are the time windows when most industrial and public safety teams handle firmware updates.

Best Times to Install Firmware Updates

Before High-Demand Seasons

Many agencies update ahead of peak mission periods:

• Fire season
• Hurricane and storm-response months
• Agricultural spraying and mapping cycles
• Utility inspection windows

Updating before these periods ensures aircraft and sensors are stable for consistent operations.

During Scheduled Maintenance or Training Days

Most teams update firmware:

• During monthly equipment checks
• Ahead of quarterly drills or training blocks
• Before fleet-wide inspections or audits

This avoids surprise downtime during real deployments.

When New Batteries or Payloads Arrive

Adding a new payload or battery type often requires firmware changes.
Updating at the same time ensures compatibility across the fleet.

When Not to Update

Firmware should not be installed during active or time-sensitive operations.
Avoid updating:

• Mid-deployment
• During major events or emergency readiness
• When the fleet is split between multiple locations
• If operators cannot confirm payload compatibility
• When you cannot perform a post-update test flight

A poorly timed update can cause more trouble than an outdated version.

How to Use Seasonal Downtime

Seasonal downtime gives teams a chance to perform complete system reviews:

Use this period to:

• Align all drones and controllers on the same version
• Update payloads, RTK modules, and batteries
• Clear old cache files
• Back up logs and mission data
• Recalibrate IMU, compass, and gimbal if recommended
• Test flight behavior before the next busy cycle

Teams that follow these steps reduce unexpected failures during mission-critical operations.

FAQ: Firmware Updates for Professional Drone Fleets

Do I need to update drone firmware regularly?

Yes. Firmware updates keep aircraft stable, secure, and compatible with new batteries, payloads, and controllers. Skipping updates leads to version mismatches and flight issues.

Why does firmware affect flight stability?

Firmware controls flight logic, GPS performance, obstacle sensing, and motor output. Outdated firmware causes drifting, link problems, and sensor errors.

How long does a drone firmware update take?

Most DJI and Autel updates take 3–10 minutes. ACSL SOTEN and Inspired Flight updates take longer because they use secure or offline workflows.

Can firmware updates fix GPS or RTK problems?

Often, yes. Many updates improve GPS lock, GNSS stability, RTK positioning accuracy, and satellite acquisition speed.

Do batteries have their own firmware?

Yes. DJI, Autel, ACSL, and Inspired Flight smart batteries have firmware. Insert each battery after updating the aircraft to complete battery updates.

What happens if the update fails or stops midway?

Most drones remain recoverable. Restart aircraft and controller, reconnect, and retry. If firmware becomes corrupted, install through DJI Assistant 2, Autel Explorer, ACSL secure package, or Inspired Flight utility.

Can I roll back firmware if something goes wrong?

Rollbacks are limited. DJI allows some rollbacks through DJI Assistant 2. Autel, ACSL, and Inspired Flight may not support rollback. Always test updates during non-critical periods.

Can I update drone firmware without the internet?

Yes. DJI supports offline updates for enterprise platforms. Autel supports SD card updates. ACSL SOTEN and Inspired Flight both support secure offline packages.

Why does my controller show a version mismatch warning?

The aircraft, controller, payload, and batteries must run compatible versions. Update all components until no mismatch warnings appear.

Should public safety teams update during an active deployment?

No. Wait until the aircraft can be safely grounded. Updating during a deployment risks downtime and unexpected behavior.

When to Contact DSLRPros for Drone Firmware Support

Most firmware updates are simple, but professional teams run into problems when fleets grow, payloads change, or missions require strict version alignment. If you manage public safety aircraft, industrial inspection drones, or multi-platform fleets across DJI, Autel, ACSL SOTEN, or Inspired Flight, a firmware issue can slow operations or create unnecessary risk.

DSLRPros supports teams that need reliable guidance, mission stability, and clear answers backed by field experience.

Contact DSLRPros if you need help with:

• Firmware conflicts between aircraft, controllers, and payloads
• Updating mixed fleets across multiple brands
• Troubleshooting failed or incomplete updates
• Establishing a safe firmware schedule for operations
• Preparing a fleet for inspection, training, or year-round deployments
• Confirming payload compatibility after major updates
• Setting up secure offline update workflows for restricted environments

We work with agencies and industrial crews who need consistent results—not guesswork. If your team depends on drones for daily operations, we can help you keep your fleet stable and mission-ready.

Talk to a DSLRPros expert today.

Get clear guidance on drone firmware updates, compatibility checks, and fleet-wide recommendations from technicians who support DJI, Autel, ACSL SOTEN, and Inspired Flight platforms every day.

Keep your aircraft stable. Keep your missions on schedule.