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

Keeping your drone’s firmware current is one of the simplest ways to maintain safe, stable, and predictable performance. Firmware controls how every onboard system behaves, from flight control and GPS lock to camera tuning and obstacle sensing. When manufacturers push a new release, they are refining how the aircraft interprets its environment, communicates with the controller, and manages its internal hardware.

Enterprise teams feel these changes first. A firmware update can tighten RTK accuracy on a DJI Matrice 350, sharpen thermal output on an Autel EVO Max 4T, or improve system reliability for an ACSL SOTEN following a TAKEOFF update. Inspired Flight platforms depend on firmware to stabilize heavy-lift performance and keep HereLink connections steady. In short, updates keep your fleet aligned, predictable, and ready for field operations.

Understanding Drone Firmware Updates for Enterprise Operations

Firmware is the operating layer inside every aircraft. It dictates how the drone interprets data from its sensors, how it stabilizes flight, and how it communicates with the controller. Updating firmware is not only about adding new features. It is also about applying performance improvements and closing any vulnerabilities found after the previous release.

Why Consistent Firmware Matters for Enterprise Teams

A firmware update is more than a routine maintenance task. It affects how an aircraft performs across entire missions. For example:

• Updating a DJI Matrice platform can improve obstacle avoidance logic.
• Updating Autel EVO Max firmware can adjust sensor fusion for clearer thermal imaging.
• Updating ACSL SOTEN firmware through TAKEOFF ensures the controller and aircraft remain fully synchronized.
• Updating Inspired Flight aircraft and HereLink together ensures heavy-lift systems remain stable under load.

Mixed versions across a fleet increase support issues and extend preflight checks. Keeping everything aligned reduces downtime and gives operators a consistent baseline every time they deploy.

Tools Needed for a Drone Firmware Update

A smooth firmware update starts with having the right tools in place before connecting any hardware. Each brand relies on its own ecosystem of apps, cables, and desktop utilities, so preparing these items first helps avoid failed downloads, slow installs, or mismatched versions. DJI and Autel rely heavily on mobile apps for wireless updates. ACSL SOTEN keeps everything inside the TAKEOFF environment, while Inspired Flight uses a combination of HereLink and aircraft-level firmware loaders.

Use the table below to confirm which tools each brand relies on before starting a firmware update across your fleet.

Required Tools for a Drone Firmware Update by Brand 

Brand	Mobile App Used for Updates	Desktop or Controller Tools	Manual Installation Support	Notes
DJI	DJI Fly or DJI Go 4	DJI Assistant 2	None	Assistant 2 supports aircraft, controllers, and batteries depending on the model.
Autel	Autel Explorer App	None	SD card installation for compatible models	EVO II V3 and EVO Max series can update through Explorer or manual SD methods.
ACSL SOTEN	TAKEOFF App	None	Limited, based on ACSL support files	System update workflow lives inside TAKEOFF.
Inspired Flight	HereLink Settings App	IGC updater tools and firmware loaders	Yes, when directed by documentation	Ground station and aircraft must be updated separately for full compatibility.

Pre-Update Preparation Checklist

Preparing your hardware and software ahead of time prevents the most common update failures. Low battery, unstable network connections, outdated apps, or incorrect cables are the issues that cause almost every incomplete installation. A short checklist keeps your workflow predictable and reduces frustration during the update.

Before installing any firmware, run through these preparation steps recommended across DJI, Autel, ACSL SOTEN, and Inspired Flight platforms.

• Charge the aircraft, controller, and mobile device. Most manufacturers require at least 80 percent battery before the update begins. This prevents the aircraft from powering down in the middle of installation.
• Connect to a stable network for app-based updates. OTA updates from DJI Fly, DJI Go 4, Autel Explorer, and TAKEOFF require a reliable connection. Even a short drop can interrupt the process.
• Update the mobile app before connecting the drone. Using the latest version ensures the software can detect the firmware package correctly. Older apps sometimes fail to trigger the update prompt.
• Use the correct data cable for desktop or controller workflows. DJI Assistant 2 and Inspired Flight aircraft updates require a data-capable cable, not a charge-only cable.
• Check available storage on your phone, tablet, or SD card. Some firmware packages for enterprise aircraft are large and require space for download and installation.
• Back up mission profiles or custom settings when possible. Inspired Flight’s documentation recommends backing up settings before using HereLink or IGC update tools. This ensures your payload behavior, geofence rules, or control mappings remain consistent.
• Power off the aircraft before connecting to desktop tools. DJI Assistant 2 requires the aircraft to be powered off until prompted, which helps establish a clean USB handshake with the computer.
  
  
  

How to Perform a Drone Firmware Update for DJI

DJI gives operators two dependable ways to update firmware. You can install updates directly through the DJI Fly or DJI Go 4 app, or you can use DJI Assistant 2 on a computer for a more controlled workflow. Enterprise aircraft such as the Matrice 350 RTK, Matrice 4 series, and Mavic 3 Enterprise follow the same general process, even if the interface varies slightly between models.

Drone Firmware Update Using the DJI Fly or DJI Go 4 App

The mobile app method is the most common because it detects updates automatically. It works for nearly all modern DJI aircraft, including enterprise-class drones that rely on DJI Fly or DJI Pilot 2 for flight operations.

The mobile app method is the fastest option because it checks for new firmware as soon as the aircraft and controller connect. This path works for nearly all DJI drones, including Pilot 2 compatible enterprise systems.

How to Update Using the App

Prepare the system

• Power on the aircraft and remote controller so the app can read device status
• Launch DJI Fly or DJI Go 4 and wait for the firmware prompt to appear

Install the update

• Follow the on-screen update notification to begin the download
• Keep the connection stable while the app transfers and installs the package
• Allow the aircraft and controller to restart once installation completes

Verify the results

• Check that aircraft and controller versions match inside the app
• Resolve mismatches before flying, since paired versions reduce link instability

Why this matters: The app guarantees that each device receives the correct version and keeps controller and aircraft aligned. This pairing is essential for stable flight performance and consistent sensor behavior.

 

Drone Firmware Update Using DJI Assistant 2

DJI Assistant 2 is useful when operators need more visibility into version history, when app updates fail to initiate, or when updating specific components such as controllers and batteries. The desktop method gives you a controlled environment with fewer variables.

How to Update Using Assistant 2

Set up the connection

1. Power off the aircraft and connect it to your computer with a data-capable USB cable
2. Open DJI Assistant 2 and log in
3. Wait for the device to appear in the interface

Install the firmware

• Open the firmware list and review available versions
• Select “Upgrade” to begin downloading the package
• Allow the tool to complete installation without unplugging the device

Restart and confirm

1. Wait for the automatic restart
2. Check firmware information inside Assistant 2
3. Repeat for the controller or batteries if required

Why this matters: Assistant 2 provides a stable USB connection and a full version list, which makes it ideal for training environments, fleet-wide updates, or troubleshooting cases where OTA methods are unreliable.

 

How to Perform a Drone Firmware Update for Autel

Autel gives pilots two reliable ways to update firmware. The Autel Explorer App handles wireless updates for EVO II V3 and EVO Max series aircraft, while the SD card method provides a dependable alternative when network access is limited. Both paths follow a predictable workflow and keep the aircraft and controller aligned.

Drone Firmware Update Using the Autel Explorer App

The Autel Explorer App checks for firmware updates as soon as the aircraft links with the controller. This workflow is ideal for most operators because it requires no additional equipment beyond your mobile device.

How to Update Using the Explorer App

Prepare the system

1. Power on the aircraft and remote controller
2. Connect your mobile device and launch the Autel Explorer App
3. Wait for the app to check system status and load the update prompt

Install the update

1. Select the on-screen update notification
2. Allow Explorer to download and install the firmware package
3. Keep the connection stable and do not power off the system
4. Wait for the automatic restart, which indicates completion

Verify the results

1. Open the “About” menu in Explorer
2. Confirm that aircraft and controller versions match
3. Resolve mismatched versions before flying for stable link behavior

Why this matters: Explorer handles version pairing automatically. When both devices run the same release, you reduce the risk of link errors, performance issues, or sensor inconsistencies.

Manual Drone Firmware Update for Autel (SD Card Method)

Autel’s manual SD card method is ideal when OTA updates slow down or fail due to inconsistent network conditions. Many operators also prefer it for critical updates that Autel releases as downloadable files.

How to Update Using a MicroSD Card

Prepare your update media

1. Visit Autel’s support or download page and retrieve the correct firmware file
2. Format a MicroSD card in FAT32 and copy the firmware file to the root directory

Install the firmware

1. Insert the SD card into the aircraft
2. Power on the drone and allow it to detect the file
3. Wait for the aircraft to run the update sequence and display status indicators
4. Do not remove the card or interrupt the system during installation

Restart and confirm

1. Power cycle the aircraft once the update completes
2. Open the Explorer App to verify version information and controller compatibility

Why this matters: Manual updates give operators a consistent and repeatable workflow, especially in field conditions where connectivity is limited. Keeping a set of SD cards prepared with current firmware ensures your aircraft can be updated anywhere without relying on a network.
 

How to Perform a Drone Firmware Update for ACSL SOTEN

ACSL built the SOTEN platform for agencies that need reliable performance without relying on complex update workflows. The TAKEOFF app manages nearly all system updates for the aircraft and remote controller. This keeps the process simple for operations teams that work in public safety, utilities, and industrial inspection.

The official SOTEN manual provides a high-level overview rather than step-by-step instructions, but the update sequence is consistent across all ACSL aircraft. Operators rely on the TAKEOFF interface to scan, download, and apply updates directly.

Drone Firmware Update Using the ACSL TAKEOFF App

The TAKEOFF app checks for firmware availability every time the controller connects to the aircraft. The update prompt appears automatically, and the app guides you through the full process.

How to Update Using TAKEOFF

Instead of listing consecutive steps, the workflow below is grouped into logical stages to reduce repetition and improve readability.

Connect and check system status

1. Power on the SOTEN aircraft and controller
2. Launch TAKEOFF to establish a link and load system information
3. Open the main menu and navigate to the System or Firmware Update section

Download and apply the update

1. Select the available firmware package
2. Allow TAKEOFF to complete the download
3. Keep the aircraft, controller, and mobile device powered throughout the installation
4. Expect the progress bar to take up to 30 minutes depending on file size

Restart and confirm

1. The system reboots once the update finalizes
2. Open the System Information page to confirm that the new version is active

Why this matters: ACSL uses a single interface to reduce operator workload. This helps teams maintain readiness without switching between mobile apps, SD card workflows, or desktop software. 

Checking ACSL SOTEN Firmware Version

After the restart, open TAKEOFF and navigate to System Information. This page lists firmware versions for the aircraft, controller, and any connected modules. Version confirmation only takes a few seconds and should always be done before launching any mission-critical flight.

How to Perform a Drone Firmware Update for Inspired Flight

Inspired Flight aircraft rely on two update paths. The first is the HereLink Settings App, which manages the ground control station. The second is a firmware loader or updater used for the aircraft itself. Both must remain aligned, especially on platforms like the IF800 and IF1200, where controller-aircraft communication is critical.

The official Inspired Flight documentation provides clear instructions for each component, and the workflow is consistent across current models.

Drone Firmware Update for HereLink Ground Control Station

The HereLink controller is the central communication hub for Inspired Flight systems. Updating it ensures the interface, telemetry link, and mission controls remain compatible with the aircraft firmware.

What Happens During a HereLink Update

When you update the HereLink unit, expect the following sequence:

• The controller checks for newer firmware
• The update package downloads over a stable network
• The system applies the new build
• The HereLink unit restarts to finalize changes
  
  

How to Update the HereLink Controller

To avoid repetitive step formatting, the workflow is grouped into stages similar to the ACSL section.

Prepare and connect

• Power on the HereLink controller
• Ensure the unit is connected to a stable network
• Open the Settings App where the firmware tools are located

Apply the update

• Navigate to the Firmware Update menu
• Allow the controller to scan for available versions
• Select the newest release and begin installation
• Keep the controller powered until installation finishes

Restart and verify

• Let the HereLink unit restart automatically
• Reopen Settings to confirm the updated firmware version

Why this matters: A current HereLink build reduces link drops and ensures mission planning tools communicate correctly with the aircraft.

Drone Firmware Update for Inspired Flight Aircraft

Aircraft firmware manages flight control, navigation, sensor fusion, and payload behavior. Inspired Flight uses dedicated firmware loaders or the IGC update software to apply releases safely and consistently.

Unlike OTA methods, this process gives industrial operators a reliable offline update path, which is useful in remote worksites.

How to Update the Aircraft

Prepare your update environment

• Power off the aircraft
• Connect it to a computer using a data-capable cable
• Download the correct firmware file from the Inspired Flight documentation site

Load the firmware

• Open the IGC updater tool or the firmware loader
• Allow the software to detect the aircraft
• Import the firmware file into the update tool

Install and verify

• Start the update and wait for the progress indicator to complete
• Restart the aircraft after installation
• Confirm the version inside IGC or through the controller interface

Why this matters: Inspired Flight aircraft operate in demanding settings. A clean update ensures stable flight control and maintains compatibility with linked payloads, navigation units, and the HereLink controller.

Common Issues During a Drone Firmware Update

Even when you prepare the right tools, firmware updates can fail for predictable reasons. Most failures fall into a few categories that affect DJI, Autel, ACSL SOTEN, and Inspired Flight systems in similar ways. These patterns help operators troubleshoot quickly and avoid wasting time repeating the same process.

Fast Ways to Spot Update Failures

• Slow progress at the beginning usually means network instability.
• Sudden stop during installation often indicates cable or power issues.
• Version mismatch alerts signal the controller or aircraft was not updated.
• A device not appearing in software usually comes from a bad cable or USB port.
• SD card errors almost always relate to formatting or missing files.
  
  

Common Drone Firmware Update Issues and How to Fix Them

The table below lists the most common issues, how they appear with each brand, and what typically resolves them. These entries are based on verified behaviors outlined in official DJI, Autel, ACSL, and Inspired Flight documentation, along with real-world cases reported in support channels and user tutorials.

Issue	DJI	Autel	ACSL SOTEN	Inspired Flight	Recommended Fix
Update stuck at low percentages (0 to 15 percent)	Often related to unstable network connection or outdated app	Common on Explorer when OTA signal drops	Happens when TAKEOFF loses connection	Appears when HereLink cannot complete download	Restart app, reconnect network, relaunch update. Use desktop methods if available.
Aircraft and controller versions do not match	DJI Fly flags mismatch errors	Autel Explorer shows link warnings	TAKEOFF restricts flight until resolved	HereLink may lose pairing	Update both aircraft and controller. Restart both after installation.
Update fails midway through installation	Caused by power dips or cable issues	SD card updates fail if file is incorrect	TAKEOFF progress bar freezes	IGC updater stops due to corrupted file	Ensure full charge, use correct data cable, and re-download firmware package.
Device not recognized by software	Assistant 2 sometimes needs reconnecting	Not applicable for Autel desktop	TAKEOFF may require relaunch	IGC tools need a clean USB handshake	Try a different cable or USB port. Restart computer or controller.
SD card not detected	Not applicable	Common cause of Autel manual update failure	Not typically used	Rare, only in manual loading cases	Reformat SD card to FAT32 and recopy firmware.
System reboots but firmware does not change	Outdated mobile app	Explorer app stored cached data	TAKEOFF version not updated	HereLink did not finalize reboot	Update the app first, then reinstall firmware. Clear cache when applicable.

Why These Issues Occur Across All Brands

Firmware failures tend to fall into only four root causes:

1. Power interruptions
2. Unstable network connections
3. Corrupted or incomplete firmware files
4. Controller-aircraft version misalignment

These are universal across DJI, Autel, ACSL, and Inspired Flight, which makes troubleshooting more predictable once you know what to look for.

Best Practices for a Safe Drone Firmware Update

A reliable firmware update is the foundation of a stable fleet. When you follow a consistent process, you avoid version mismatches, link instability, sensor drift, and update loops that cost teams valuable time in the field. These best practices give DJI, Autel, ACSL SOTEN, and Inspired Flight operators a predictable workflow they can use across mission profiles.

Best Practices for Enterprise Firmware Updates

A good firmware routine keeps your fleet reliable. These best practices help operators maintain stable aircraft behavior and avoid update issues during mission work.

1. Avoid updating on mission days. New firmware can change flight behavior, interface layouts, or sensor tuning. Give yourself time to validate updates before critical operations.
2. Update one aircraft first, then scale to the rest of the fleet. This creates a controlled test environment. If any issues appear, you catch them before updating ten or twenty airframes.
3. Keep a simple firmware log for each unit. Tracking version history helps diagnose performance issues and provides a reliable record for compliance audits. This is especially useful for public safety and industrial clients.
4. Recalibrate after major updates. Updates can modify IMU behavior, compass output, gimbal control, or GPS performance. A quick calibration session immediately after installation prevents drift or poor sensor alignment.
5. Confirm Remote ID behavior after updates. DJI and Autel occasionally adjust Remote ID messaging. Enterprise teams that operate in regulated airspace should always verify compliance after a major update.
6. Store firmware packages for manual workflows. This applies to Autel SD updates and Inspired Flight aircraft loaders. Keeping a local backup ensures you can reinstall firmware even if your network connection is unreliable.
7. Document performance changes after updates. Some changes improve obstacle sensing, RTK accuracy, or payload integration. Recording these behaviors helps understand the impact across your fleet and supports future mission planning.

How to Build a Firmware Update Policy for Public Safety and Industrial Teams

A structured firmware policy makes updates predictable. Enterprise programs that manage several aircraft benefit from having a simple, repeatable workflow.

1. Set an update cycle. Most teams check for updates weekly or biweekly. This keeps workloads manageable and reduces the chance of falling behind.
2. Define approval roles. Choose who decides when updates should be installed. This prevents pilots from updating without coordination.
3. Test updates before fleet rollout. Use a designated aircraft for validation. Perform a short flight, test obstacle sensors, examine camera functions, and check system stability.
4. Create a rollback plan. Some brands allow reverting to earlier firmware if needed. Keep documentation on how to do this, along with stored firmware files.
5. Maintain a shared update log. Include aircraft ID, controller ID, firmware versions, installation dates, and any performance notes. This is helpful for training, audits, and mission readiness.
6. Keep update tools consistent across the team. Use the same cables, apps, laptop software, and update methods to avoid inconsistent results.

These practices give your team a more stable, predictable fleet. They also reduce troubleshooting time and support smoother deployment under time-sensitive conditions.

Drone Firmware Update Quick Reference Tables

Mixed fleets often force operators to switch between different update tools and workflows. This quick-reference section helps you compare update paths for DJI, Autel, ACSL SOTEN, and Inspired Flight at a glance. Use it when planning fleet updates, assigning roles, or building your internal firmware policy.

Drone Firmware Update Methods by Brand

Brand	Primary Update Method	Secondary Method	Update Duration	Controller Required	Offline Update Option	Where to Verify Version
DJI	Mobile app (DJI Fly or DJI Go 4)	DJI Assistant 2	5 to 15 minutes	Yes	No	App settings or Assistant 2
Autel	Autel Explorer App	SD card installation	5 to 20 minutes	Yes	Yes	Explorer App, About menu
ACSL SOTEN	TAKEOFF App	Limited manual files via ACSL support	10 to 30 minutes	Yes	Limited, model dependent	TAKEOFF System Information
Inspired Flight	HereLink Settings App	IGC updater or loader	10 to 25 minutes	Yes	Yes	HereLink settings or IGC software

Why These References Matter to Enterprise Teams 

Different brands follow different update philosophies. DJI depends on tightly controlled digital ecosystems. Autel offers both wireless and manual installation paths. ACSL builds everything into its TAKEOFF interface. Inspired Flight separates aircraft and controller updates for more control in industrial environments.

The comparison above helps operators:

• Plan updates for mixed-brand fleets
• Estimate downtime for each aircraft
• Choose the right update method for field or office conditions
• Maintain consistent version tracking across all units

 

Final Checklist for a Successful Drone Firmware Update

A good firmware update routine keeps your aircraft stable and predictable. It also reduces the time your team spends troubleshooting link issues or recalibrating sensors before missions. Before sending a drone back into the field, use this simple review to confirm that the update completed correctly and that both the aircraft and controller are ready for operational use.

 

Need Expert Help With Firmware or Fleet Planning?

If your agency or organization manages multiple aircraft, a structured firmware policy can improve readiness and reduce downtime. The Dronefly team works with public safety departments, utilities, construction firms, and industrial operators who depend on stable fleets every day.

Whether you need help choosing the right aircraft, setting up a predictable firmware workflow, or building a fleet that scales with your missions, our experts are here to support you. 

Contact Dronefly for guidance, training recommendations, and hardware solutions that keep your operation mission-ready.