R1 uses rechargeable lithium polymer batteries (often abbreviated as LiPo), which are used commonly throughout many consumer electronics products.
Best Practices and Safety Guidelines
- Charge your R1 batteries using only the Skydio supplied charging dock and power adapter. We recommend using the provided power adapter; however, most USB-C power adapters that are rated from 40W up to 100W should be compatible as well (charge time may be affected when using non-Skydio chargers).
- Connecting your R1 to a computer (or even to the included power adapter) via USB-C will not charge the battery. R1 batteries must be charged via the included Skydio charging dock and power adapter.
- TSA and FAA guidelines state that spare (uninstalled) lithium batteries must be transported in carry-on baggage only. When traveling with R1, be sure to pack your extra batteries in your carry-on luggage only. For more info, please see this FAA page.
- Do not use your R1 batteries at temperatures below 0°C, as they will not function properly below that temperature. If your batteries do get cold, warm them up in a room temperature environment - DO NOT use higher heat (hair dryer, etc.) to accelerate heating.
- Do not charge your batteries in high-temperature conditions.
- If storing your batteries long-term, we recommend fully charging and discharging them every two months. We also advise storing your batteries at room temperature (71°F - 82°F / 22°C - 28°C) and away from any moisture (less than 75% relative humidity).
- Battery idle state: If the battery is above 60% state of charge, after 14 days of idle time (no flights) it will start to self-discharge down to 60%. This self-discharge helps extend battery cell lifetime and may take several days to complete. Charge your battery as you would normally to exit this idle state.
- Do not disassemble the batteries, charger, or charging docks. Do not strike the battery with high force.
- Do not use any batteries which have become dented or begin to split apart (after a crash or drop).
- Do not immerse the batteries, charger, or charging docks in water or other liquids.
- Lithium polymer batteries can leak, overheat, melt, release harmful gas, burst or ignite when exposed to heat, water, and other liquids or when pierced, punctured or ruptured.
- If any substances from the battery pack get into your eyes, do not rub them. Seek medical attention immediately.
- Take care when disposing of the battery pack. Contact your local waste facility to verify if lithium polymer batteries are permitted in your regular waste. Many stores also offer free recycling.
- Never insert any other materials into the battery terminals.
Check out our related articles for more information. If you need any additional help, just contact us.