The VEX AIR Drone comes with four total batteries: two each of the 900 mAh and 1200 mAh sizes. Each battery works slightly differently in terms of flight time and performance. This guide explains how to charge the batteries, read their indicator lights, and properly insert them before flight and remove them afterward.
Charging a Battery
To charge a battery, plug it into a power source using its USB-C port. Its indicator lights will begin blinking to show its current battery level as it charges, as shown in this animation. Drone batteries typically charge in under 50 minutes using the included USB cables and charging hubs.
When fully charged, all four indicator lights will stay solid green. Unplug batteries when they are fully charged. (Overnight charging is NOT recommended.)
You can set up a Charging Station in your space to keep all charging materials together. Be sure battery charging areas are in stable, non-flammable surfaces that are outside of the flight area. Charging areas should be clear of paper, cloth, and solvents.
Note: Do not use or charge a battery that appears swollen, overheated, leaking, or damaged in any way. Be sure to inspect batteries after any crash for damage.
Indicator Lights
The battery has four indicator lights that help show the current status of the battery.
To see your battery's status, press the button on the battery to turn on its indicator lights. In this animation, after the button is pressed three indicator lights turn on which means that the battery is 50-75% charged.
Each light represents roughly 25% of the total charge, as shown below:
- 1 light — 0-25% charge
- 2 lights — 25-50% charge
- 3 lights — 50-75% charge
- 4 lights — 75-100% charge
Battery Sizes
The VEX AIR Kit includes two types of drone batteries: a 1200 mAh battery and a 900 mAh battery.
- 900 mAh — Provides an average of about 7.5 minutes of flight time.
- 1200 mAh — Provides an average of about 9.5 minutes of flight time on a full charge.
Actual flight time may vary depending on how the drone is being used, such as whether it is carrying objects, hovering frequently, or flying continuously. Having two battery options allows you to choose between longer flight time or a lighter setup depending on your activity.
Inserting a Battery
To install the battery, hold it so the Up arrow is facing upward and pointed toward the drone, then slide it straight into the compartment until it clicks into place.
Note: Inserting the battery will automatically turn on the drone.
Removing a Battery
To remove the battery, first power off the drone completely, then grip the battery's pull tab and gently pull it straight out of the compartment.