It can be frustrating when your new DJI Neo won't turn on, but the solution is usually very simple. The power-on sequence for DJI drones is specific and not always intuitive at first. This guide will provide a clear, step-by-step walkthrough to ensure you can power up your DJI Neo correctly every time and get it ready for flight.
30 Second Summary
- To power on your DJI Neo, ensure the Intelligent Flight Battery is correctly inserted and has sufficient charge.
- Locate the power button on the main body of the DJI Neo
- Press the power button once to view the current battery level via the LED indicators
- Immediately press the power button again, this time holding it down until the DJI Neo powers on
- The DJI Neo is now on and ready to be connected to your remote controller or mobile device
Ensure the Intelligent Flight Battery is Inserted and Charged
Before attempting to power on your DJI Neo, it is crucial to verify that the Intelligent Flight Battery is fully charged and correctly seated in its compartment. A low or depleted battery is a common reason for a drone failing to start. Slide the battery into the drone until you hear a distinct click, which confirms it is securely locked in place. As a pre-flight best practice, you should also remove the gimbal protector before powering on the device to allow the camera to self-calibrate without obstruction.
Locate the Power Button on the DJI Neo
The power button for the DJI Neo is located on the main body of the aircraft. It is a physical button that you will use for the entire power-on and power-off sequence. Familiarise yourself with its position so you can access it easily.
Press the Power Button Once to Check the Battery Level
The first step in the power-on sequence is a quick, single press of the power button. Do not hold the button down at this stage. This action will activate the LED indicators on the battery, which light up to display the current charge level. This allows you to quickly confirm if the battery has enough power for your flight without fully booting the drone's systems.
Press and Hold the Power Button to Turn On the DJI Neo
This is the most critical step in the process. Immediately after the first short press, press the power button a second time, but this time press and hold it for about two seconds. You will hear a startup chime and see the LED lights sequence, indicating that the DJI Neo is powering on. Once the drone has completed its startup self-check, which includes the gimbal and propellers moving briefly, it is fully powered on.
Connect the DJI Neo to Your Phone
With the DJI Neo successfully powered on, the final step is to establish a connection with your remote controller. Power on your controller using the same "short press, then long press" method on its power button. Once both devices are on, open the DJI Fly app on your mobile device to link the controller and the drone, view the camera feed, and prepare for takeoff.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I turn the DJI Neo off?
To power off your DJI Neo, use the same button sequence as turning it on. With the drone already powered on, press the power button once, then immediately press and hold it for about a second until the drone powers down.
Why won't my DJI Neo turn on while it's charging?
For safety and system stability, the DJI Neo is designed so that it cannot be powered on while connected to a charger. You must first disconnect the charging cable from the drone before attempting the power-on sequence.
My DJI Neo's battery is brand new but it won't power on. What's wrong?
New batteries, or batteries that have not been used for a long period, enter a hibernation mode to preserve their health. To wake a battery from hibernation, you must connect it to a charger and charge it fully before its first use.
What should I do if the power button feels stuck or unresponsive?
First, visually inspect the power button for any debris, dirt, or physical damage like cracks. You can try to gently clean around the button with a soft, dry cloth. If the button is physically jammed or broken, it will likely require professional service, and you should contact DJI support for a repair.
My DJI Neo turns on, but it won't connect to the controller. What should I do?
Ensure both the drone and controller are powered on and the DJI Fly app is running. A very common reason for a connection failure, especially with a new drone, is outdated firmware. You must update the firmware on the DJI Neo itself via the DJI Fly app before it will connect properly to the controller.
How can I check the battery contacts for problems?
Carefully inspect the metal connectors on the battery and inside the drone's battery compartment. Look for any dirt, dust, or signs of corrosion, which can appear as a white or greenish powder. If you see any debris, gently clean the contacts using a soft, dry cloth or a dry cotton swab, being careful not to bend the pins.
My DJI Neo won't power off. How do I fix this?
A drone that will not power off can be caused by a failed firmware update or a damaged power button. DJI Support suggests trying to run the firmware update again. If the issue persists or you suspect the button is damaged, the drone will need to be sent to DJI for diagnosis and repair.
Can a failed firmware update prevent the DJI Neo from turning on?
Yes, a firmware update that fails or is interrupted can cause power-related issues, including preventing the drone from turning on or off. If you suspect this is the case, the recommended solution is to try installing the firmware update again.
The LEDs flash once, but the drone still won't turn on. What does this mean?
Seeing the LEDs flash once confirms the battery has a charge and is responding to the first button press. If the "press and hold" step does not initiate the startup sequence, first ensure you are holding the button long enough (about two seconds). If it still fails, the issue could be with the power button itself or an internal hardware fault that requires professional service.
What do the LEDs blinking during charging mean?
When the battery is connected to the charger, the LED patterns indicate the charging status. However, if all four LED indicators blink at the same time, this is a sign that the battery is damaged or has a fault and should not be used. In this case, you should contact DJI Support for a replacement.
Conclusion
Turning on your DJI Neo is straightforward once you master the "short press, then long press" technique. This two-step method is a safety feature common across all DJI products, preventing accidental power-ups. By following the steps of ensuring a charged battery, correctly identifying the power button, and using the proper press sequence, you can reliably start your drone for every flight. Now that you know the process, it will quickly become second nature.
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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