Properly shutting down your DJI Neo after a flight is just as important as knowing how to turn it on. Failing to follow the correct procedure can lead to firmware issues or put you at risk of injury from spinning propellers.
This guide provides a clear, step-by-step walkthrough of the correct power-off sequence, ensuring you can safely and effectively shut down your DJI Neo every time.
30 Second Summary
- Press the power button on the back of the DJI Neo once briefly.
- Immediately after the first press, press and hold the power button for approximately one to two seconds.
- Watch the LED indicator lights on the drone as they will turn off to confirm the shutdown process has begun.
- Release the power button once the lights have turned off completely.
- The DJI Neo is now fully powered off and safe to store or transport.
Land the DJI Neo on a Stable Surface
Before you even think about turning off your DJI Neo, the first and most critical step is to land it safely. Choose a flat, stable, and level surface that is free from obstacles, water, or debris. This ensures the drone is secure and will not tip over during the shutdown process. Attempting to power off the drone while it is still in the air can cause it to fall and result in significant damage or injury.
Locate the Main Power Button
With the DJI Neo safely landed, you need to find the power button. It is the same button you used to turn the drone on, typically located on the tail or rear of the aircraft's main body. Keep the drone on the ground while you perform the shutdown sequence.
Press the Power Button Once
The power-down sequence for the DJI Neo is identical to the power-on procedure. Start by giving the power button a single, short press and then immediately release it. This action doesn't shut the drone down but serves as the first step in the two-part command, preparing the system for shutdown.
Press and Hold the Power Button Again
Immediately after the first short press, press the power button a second time. This time, press and hold the button for approximately two seconds. This "press, then press-and-hold" action is a safety feature designed to prevent accidental shutdowns, especially during flight. You will hear a chime or see the lights change as the drone begins its power-off sequence.
Confirm Shutdown When LEDs Turn Off
Continue holding the power button until all the battery level indicator LEDs on the DJI Neo turn off completely. The cessation of all lights and sounds confirms that the drone has successfully and completely powered down. Once off, it is safe to handle the drone, remove the battery for charging, or prepare it for storage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the correct order for shutting down my equipment?
You should always turn off the DJI Neo drone first before you power down the remote controller. Following this order helps prevent any unexpected behaviour or connection issues the next time you power on your devices.
What should I do if my DJI Neo won't turn off?
If your DJI Neo remains powered on after you perform the shutdown sequence, it could be due to a failed firmware update or a damaged power button. DJI's official advice is to try running the firmware update again. If that does not resolve the issue, you will need to contact DJI support for a repair.
Can I stop the motors without turning the whole drone off?
Yes, after landing, you can stop the motors by pushing the left control stick down and holding it there for about three seconds. The motors will stop spinning, but the DJI Neo will remain powered on, which is useful if you need to access settings or review footage on the app without fully rebooting.
Is it safe to remove the battery if the drone won't power off?
No, you should avoid forcibly removing the battery while the drone is still powered on unless it is an absolute emergency. Doing so could potentially corrupt the drone's firmware or damage the battery's electronics. Always try to resolve the power-off issue via the correct procedure or contact support.
Why is the "press, then press-and-hold" sequence used?
This two-step sequence is a critical safety feature. It prevents the drone from being accidentally turned off mid-flight by an inadvertent button press, which would cause the aircraft to fall from the sky. The deliberate action is required to confirm your intent to shut down the drone.
Do I need to turn off the remote controller the same way?
Yes, the power-off procedure for the DJI remote controller is identical to that of the drone. You use the same "short press, then long press" sequence on the controller's power button to turn it off safely.
What happens if I try to turn off the DJI Neo while it is flying?
Attempting the standard shutdown sequence while the drone is airborne will not work, as it's a safety feature to prevent accidental crashes. However, there is an emergency motor stop function (Combination Stick Command) that will shut down the motors mid-flight, but this should only be used in extreme emergencies to prevent a more severe collision, as the drone will immediately fall.
Will the drone turn itself off automatically?
DJI Intelligent Flight Batteries are designed with an auto-discharge feature to protect their health during storage. If left unused, the battery will slowly discharge to a safe storage level over a period of days. However, the drone itself will not fully power down automatically after a flight; you must always perform the manual shutdown procedure.
What if the power button is physically stuck or broken?
If the power button is physically damaged, stuck in the down position, or unresponsive, it will prevent you from being able to turn the drone on or off. This is a hardware fault that requires professional service. You should not attempt to pry the button free yourself, as this could cause further damage. Contact DJI support to arrange a repair.
Does the battery level affect the ability to turn the drone off?
No, the battery's charge level will not prevent you from turning the drone off. You can perform the shutdown sequence regardless of whether the battery is full or nearly depleted. However, you cannot power the drone on if the battery is completely flat.
Conclusion
Mastering the "press, then press-and-hold" sequence is essential for safely operating your DJI Neo. This deliberate two-step process for both powering on and off is a core safety feature across the DJI ecosystem, designed to prevent accidental operation or shutdown. By always landing your drone on a stable surface and following this simple procedure, you ensure the longevity of your equipment and the safety of yourself and those around you. With a little practice, this sequence will become an effortless part of your post-flight routine.
About the Author
Written by
Peter Leslie
Peter Leslie is a CAA-approved commercial drone pilot with 10+ years experience and over 10,000 flight hours. He holds the GVC and A2 CofC drone licences with full CAA Operational Authorisation. Peter is a member of ARPAS-UK, the UK's non-profit trade association for the drone industry. He founded HireDronePilot to connect UK businesses with qualified, insured drone operators.
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