This guide provides a streamlined workflow for users who have previously completed a Stand Count mission and require a quick reference for field operations. For first-time users, we recommend reviewing the Before Heading to the Field guide for a more detailed orientation.
Availability: Who has access?
Stand Count is available for users with Agriculture subscriptions. It is compatible with iOS devices and the DJI RC Pro Enterprise controller (M3E).
When and why do we use this tool?
Use Stand Count during the early emergence stages of corn and soybeans to replace manual scouting. This tool provides instant, field-edge data on crop populations and gaps, enabling faster and more accurate replant decisions.
How to use Stand Count
Phase 1: Before you leave
Update firmware and software: Ensure your drone firmware is up to date via the DJI app.
Verify the DroneDeploy app: Confirm you are running the latest version of the DroneDeploy app from the Apple App Store or the APK RC Pro download link.
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Open the DroneDeploy dashboard and select New Project.
Locate your field by searching or dragging the map, then select Create project here.
Enter a project name and select Continue.
Under the New Plan menu, select Stand Count.
Define your flight boundaries by dragging the white perimeter lines. Use the + icons to add vertices for complex field shapes.
Phase 2: In the field
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Preflight setup:
Connect your iOS device to the remote controller.
Power on the controller and the drone.
Verify a stable GPS connection (minimum 12 satellites; 15+ is recommended).
Select Start preflight checklist.
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Execute the flight:
Once the checklist is complete, select Start flight.
The drone will travel to the first waypoint, descend to capture altitude, and begin capturing images.
Note: The live feed may pause momentarily during image transfer to the mobile device; this is expected behavior.
Monitor the camera icon in the mission box to track image capture progress.
Phase 3: Post-flight and syncing
Data transfer: Keep the mobile device connected to the controller until all images have finished transferring.
Process results: Once the mission is complete, navigate to the Explore tab to view the processed field-edge results.
Sync to web: To view results on the DroneDeploy web portal, ensure your device has a cellular or Wi-Fi connection. Keep the app open (pinned) to allow the sync to complete. A blue dot in the top right corner indicates that a sync is currently in progress.
Phase 4: Stand Count Report
The report can be downloaded as a PDF and shared via text or email to share the results.
- Tap on the Report tab, then click on the blue 'View link' under the Stand Count Report section (at the bottom)
- After choosing the Stand Count Report, click the 'View' button to generate a PDF report.
- To share this report, click on the download button in the upper-right corner to download the report.
- You can create an email or text from here and attach this PDF report.
Key features
Field-edge processing: View population counts and gap maps immediately after flight without an internet connection.
Offline reporting: Generate assessment reports directly from your mobile device.
Limitations
Device compatibility: Stand Count is currently optimized for iOS and the DJI RC Pro Enterprise. Android mobile devices are not supported.
Field geometry: Automated assessments are currently unavailable for circular fields or twin-row configurations.
FAQs
Q: What should I do if the camera test photo fails during preflight?
A: Select Retry. If the failure persists, you may select Continue anyway, provided you have verified the camera status in the DJI app.
Q: Can I swap batteries mid-mission?
A: While the drone will automatically return home for a battery swap, DroneDeploy recommends planning single-battery missions for Stand Count to ensure data consistency.
Q: Why can't I see my report on the web dashboard?
A: Ensure the mobile device has finished syncing (check the FLY tab) and has a stable internet connection.
V2.2