> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://manual.fotokite.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://manual.fotokite.com/failure-modes/messages-and-warnings.md).

# Messages and Warnings

As the Fotokite Sigma is flying and providing situational awareness, many different messages and warnings can pop up on the screen. Below is a summary of those messages and some helpful suggestions as to what can be done to correct the situation.

<figure><img src="/files/yfkGjfLb23ByL3eK6ME5" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

* [Bad GPS signal](#bad-gps-signal)
* [External magnetic disturbance detected](#external-magnetic-disturbances-detected)
* [Force sensor issue detected](#force-sensor-issue-detected)
* [Ground Station backup battery temperature problem](#ground-station-backup-battery-temperature-problem)
* [Ground Station backup battery voltage problem](#ground-station-backup-battery-voltage-problem)
* [Ground Stations missing Kite data](#ground-station-missing-kite-data)
* [High Wind](#high-wind)
* [Inconsistent estimation](#inconsistent-estimation)
* [Kite backup battery temperature problem](#kite-backup-battery-temperature-problem)
* [Kite backup battery voltage problem](#kite-backup-battery-voltage-problem)
* [Kite detection failed](#kite-detection-failed)
* [Kite motor problem](#kite-motor-problem)
* [Main power supply disconnected](#main-power-supply-disconnected)
* [Rooftop Box lids stuck](#rooftop-box-lids-stuck)
* [Secondary Autopilot problem](#secondary-autopilot-problem)
* [Spool Stuck](#spool-stuck)
* [System is moving](#system-is-moving)

## Bad GPS signal

The signal of the GPS is too weak. Bad GPS signal can happen anytime there are tall buildings or steel structures in the surroundings blocking or interfering with the GPS satellites. It also can be impacted by atmospheric conditions (very cloudy day) and satellite visibility (dense forests or deep valleys may have lower satellite visibility or urban environments with tall buildings closely packed together).

The altitude will be limited to 25m (82ft)

<figure><img src="/files/0WKMEJMDal3IaRUfjGYe" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

## Ground Station missing Kite data

Make sure all the LEDs of the Kite are ON and have the correct colors (Kite cover LEDs green and red, Kite frame LEDs green and the top kite LEDs are blue).

Double check that the system software is up-to-date. See [System Update](/fotokite-live-walkthrough/system-update.md)

Wait until the Kite is not flying and power cycle the whole system. Unplug the Ground Station from the main power supply and wait until all the LEDs are completely off before plugging it back in.  Contact Fotokite support is issue persists.

<figure><img src="/files/hwPyHEiyGytgury28MDE" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

## Kite backup battery temperature problem

### Kite backup battery temperature is too high

The temperature detected in the backup battery of the Kite is too high to fly. Unplug the system and allow it to cool down (approximately 30 minutes). This can happen if the system has been left plugged in for a long time with the lid ON or if left in direct sunlight for long periods of time on a hot day.

<figure><img src="/files/yQrC1xnBPmh7PtHIlIFi" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

### Kite backup battery temperature is too low

The temperature detected in the backup battery of the Kite is too low to fly. Leave the system plugged it and wait for the system to warm up (approximately 15 minutes). This can happen if the system is not plugged in and sitting outside in lower temperatures.

<figure><img src="/files/OoErMgnxX1ciTx6fayLo" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

## Ground Station backup battery temperature problem

### Ground Station backup battery temperature is too high

The temperature detected in the backup battery of the Ground Station is too high to fly. Unplug the system and wait until it cools down (approximately 30 minutes). This can happen if the system has been left plugged in for a long time with the lid ON or if left in direct sunlight for long periods of time on a hot day.

<figure><img src="/files/sCMrrhqGgOLhVgy7i6AA" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

### Ground Station backup battery temperature is too low

The temperature detected in the backup battery of the Ground Station is too low to fly. Leave the system plugged it and wait for the system to warm up (approximately 30 to 45 minutes). This can happen if the system is not plugged in and sitting outside in lower temperatures.

<figure><img src="/files/cirqMqQUc8KVHdbYwFRY" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

## Kite backup battery voltage problem

### Kite backup battery voltage is low or unbalanced

The voltage of the Kite backup battery is too low to fly. This can happen if the system was left unplugged for a long period of time. Please leave the system plugged in, with the lid off to prevent overheating.  Make sure the Kite is also powered on (lights will be visible) so the backup battery can charge and balance.

It is recommended to power on the system at least once a month for an hour when inactive. If the system has been out of use for more than 3 months, it should be powered on overnight, with the lid off, before using it again.

<figure><img src="/files/7H839zKdBqFzZb2xIvib" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

### Kite backup battery voltage is high

The voltage of the Kite backup battery is too high to fly. Please try power cycling the Kite, if the problem persists contact Fotokite Support.

<figure><img src="/files/yp3pGGXDojxmXP3FiTEg" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

## Ground Station backup battery voltage problem

### Ground Station backup battery voltage is low or unbalanced

The voltage of the Ground Station backup battery is too low to fly. This can happen if the system was left unplugged for a long time. Please leave the system plugged in with the lid off to prevent overheating.

It is recommended to power on the system at least once a month for an hour when inactive. If the system has been out of use for more than 3 months, it should be powered on overnight, with the lid off, before using it again.

<figure><img src="/files/0Hof7F3hk0c1mewxRrfl" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

### Ground Station backup battery voltage is high

The voltage of the Ground Station backup battery is too high to fly. Please try power cycling the system, if the problem persists contact support.

<figure><img src="/files/6oXrwIMfpNOggGnPFHzA" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

## High Wind

High gusts or constant wind is detected by the Kite while flying. See [Kite and Tether Envelope](/operational-guidelines/kite-and-tether-envelope.md) for more details on Kite behavior while flying, to make sure the Kite is not flying outside normal operational parameters.

Check the wind conditions (any official website can be used i.e. <https://windy.app/spots>) during the flight are optimal and never above 40 km/h (25 mph).

The system will automatically reduce altitude, if it emergency lands try flying below \~15-20m (\~50-65ft).

<figure><img src="/files/JgYkBphzJpmLIhwHItHw" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

## Rooftop Box lids stuck

The Rooftop Box lids cannot close or open automatically when taking off or landing. Please see [Rooftop Box Troubleshooting](/troubleshooting/troubleshooting-general-issues/rooftop-box-troubleshooting.md#lids-wont-open) and [Rooftop Box Troubleshooting](/troubleshooting/troubleshooting-general-issues/rooftop-box-troubleshooting.md#lids-wont-close) for more information about this issue.

<figure><img src="/files/gZkGA8jujvvRpBfNg9is" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

## External magnetic disturbances detected

There are several factor that can cause magnetic disturbances while flying:

* Electronic devices or power lines
* Metallic objects: buildings, bridges, guard rails or large metal structures.
* Radio towers or radar installations.

If needed to fly under non-optimal conditions, avoid high altitude and yawing.

<figure><img src="/files/miYx60MGSUyYCpqyZFMo" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

## Inconsistent estimation

This might trigger if there's an erratic flight behavior detected. It is recommended to avoid flying close to steel structures or tall buildings.&#x20;

After the Kite has landed, try power cycling the Kite (Main Menu > Maintenance > Utilities > Kite Power Off, wait 3 seconds and then press Kite Power On)

If this warning appears in certain locations try to fly below 15-20m (\~50-65ft). If it is consistently appearing contact Fotokite Support.

<figure><img src="/files/0Xjcyu8kVd0B8vNAbAsU" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

## Force sensor issue detected

The values read from the force sensor are not within the expected range. Make sure the tether connection metal ring is properly secured before attempting takeoff.&#x20;

Release the tether brake by pressing the orange button for 3 seconds and releasing it on the Ground Station.  Gently lift kite up and check that the metal ring connection underneath is secure&#x20;

If the problem persists, contact Fotokite Support attaching a screenshot of the maintenance tab including the field **Force Sensor** (see below).

<figure><img src="/files/Eo3e7xEyGDcRIVMgxjL0" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

<figure><img src="/files/QYiDNmA2zq4frIJhsOuu" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

## Secondary Autopilot problem

A Secondary Autopilot problem can happen by a number of different causes but it is mainly due to high or gusty winds or Inconsistent Estimation.

### High wind detected (FCR)

See [#high-wind](#high-wind "mention") for more information.

### Inconsistent Estimation (FCR)

See [#inconsistent-estimation](#inconsistent-estimation "mention") for more information.

## Main power supply disconnected

A disconnection of the main power supply was detected. This can be  because the power cable was unplugged by mistake or there was an issue with the power supply.

If using an inverter or generator, confirm it is at least providing 1000W of consistent power. For the Roof Top Box specifically, make the DC power supply provides at least 12V and 55A. For more information about power specification, please check [System Specifications](/system-specifications.md).

Check that your GFCI cable has not tripped. Make sure there are no grounding issues on the AC power source being used.

<figure><img src="/files/weFmZTr8ayaDcOLU0PCC" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

## Kite motor problem

Open the propellers fully before initiating a takeoff. Try power cycling and taking off a couple of times. Check in Maintenance Tab > Telemetry > Motor Temperatures. If one of these values is 0 or if one of the LEDs on the frame just below the propellers is not green when the Kite is powered on, contact Fotokite Support.

<figure><img src="/files/iIa9m4inl0d1hVPXu3TC" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

## Kite detection failed

The Ground Station does not detect the Kite is available to power on. Confirm that the Ground Station LEDs are not red and check if the Kite LEDs are ON.&#x20;

Make sure the Ground Station is completely unpowered.  Release the tether brake by pressing the orange button for 3 seconds and releasing it on the Ground Station.  Gently lift kite up and check the tether connection for any visible short or burn mark.  If any noticable marking is visible, go to Maintenance Tab > Telemetry > Kite Detection and GAC/GDC status and contact Fotokite Support.

<figure><img src="/files/a17d2FRzpM8x6uHYu1rp" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

<figure><img src="/files/VifLMo274LWBKhk7VgFi" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

## Spool Stuck

If this message appears while flying, please follow the instructions and press 'Land' or the orange button on the Ground Station to land the Kite (if a Roof Top Box configuration, your unit may have an external Safety Land button installed typically near the tablet mount).

Follow these steps to check if the tether can be released:

* Power off the Kite from the GUI (Maintenance > Utilities > Kite Power Off).
* Wait until the LEDs on the Ground Station are white or blue. If they are white, press the orange button for 3 seconds and release on the Ground Station. The tether brake should be released now.
* Try to pull the Kite. The tether should be released following the Kite.  Unspool a fair amount of the tether to at least the height that the Spool Stuck error happened if the unit was flying when the error was realized.
* Press the orange button on the Ground Station for 3 seconds and release again.  The tether should spool in.  Guide the kite back into place on top of the Ground Station.

If any of the steps below do not work, contact Fotokite Support.

## System is moving

The Ground Station cannot move while the system is flying or attempting to fly.

Check that there are no magnetic disturbances around the system (for more details see [#external-magnetic-disturbances-detected](#external-magnetic-disturbances-detected "mention")).

Try to manually open the RTB lids using the GUI (Maintenance > Utilities > Open Roof) before taking off.

<figure><img src="/files/3eCToWYofZqatgRMYErM" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>


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