30042
21
Verklein
Vergroot
Pagina terug
1/56
Pagina verder
FM 35 MHz NC No.F 4090
FM 40 MHz NC No.F 4091
FM 41 MHz NC No.F 4092
FM 35 MHz NiMH No.F 4095
FM 40 MHz NiMH No.F 4096
FM 41 MHz NiMH No.F 4097
II
II
NN
NN
SS
SS
TT
TT
RR
RR
UU
UU
CC
CC
TT
TT
II
II
OO
OO
NN
NN
MM
MM
AA
AA
NN
NN
UU
UU
AA
AA
LL
LL
NN
NN
OO
OO
TT
TT
II
II
CC
CC
EE
EE
DD
DD
UU
UU
TT
TT
II
II
LL
LL
II
II
SS
SS
AA
AA
TT
TT
II
II
OO
OO
NN
NN
Illustration shows expanded version of the transmitter,
fitted with optional accessories.
L’illustration présente l’émetteur pourvu d’extensions et équipé de divers
accessoires.
Order Numbers
F4090 - F4091 - F4092
F4095 - F4096 - F4097
Contents
Section Page
Safety requirements....................................................3
1. Set contents..................................................................4
2. General description ....................................................4
2.1 FX-18 transmitter ..........................................................................4
2.2 R147F receiver................................................................................5
2.3 S 3001 servo ....................................................................................5
3. Specification ................................................................5
3.1 FX-18 transmitter ..........................................................................5
3.2 R147F receiver................................................................................5
3.3 S 3001 servo ....................................................................................5
4. FX-18 transmitter ........................................................6
4.1 External transmitter features ....................................................6
4.2 Removing the back panel..........................................................6
4.3 Stick adjustments..........................................................................6
- Length adjustment
- Spring tension
- Throttle ratchet function
4.4 CAMPac memory modules........................................................7
4.5 Changing crystals..........................................................................7
4.6 Changing the transmitter battery ..........................................8
4.7 Installing and connecting option modules ........................8
4.8 Voltage display ............................................................................10
4.9 Low-voltage alarm......................................................................10
4.10 Charging the batteries..............................................................10
4.11 Trainer mode ................................................................................11
4.12 DSC mode / use with flight simulator ................................12
4.13 Data transfer to a PC..................................................................12
5. Connecting the servos ..............................................12
6. Using the transmitter for the first time ..................12
6.1 Screen and keypad ....................................................................12
6.2 Selecting a Home menu ..........................................................12
6.3 FX-18 menu structure (flow chart) ......................................13
7. Base settings (BASC)..................................................14
Menu structure of base functions ........................................14
7.1 Parameter menu (PARA) ..........................................................15
7.1.1 Modulation setting (MODU) ..................................................15
7.1.2 Stick mode (STCK) ......................................................................15
7.1.3 Throttle reverse (TREV) ............................................................16
7.1.4 Asymmetric throttle trim (ATL)..............................................16
7.1.5 Dual Rate switches (DRSW) ....................................................16
7.1.6 Audible sounder (BEEP)............................................................16
7.1.7 Language select (ENG)..............................................................16
7.1.8 Low voltage alarm (VOLT) ......................................................17
7.1.9 Multi-Switch-Prop function (MULT) ....................................17
7.1.10Model memory reset (REST) ..................................................17
7.2 Model memory select (MODL) ..............................................17
- Model memory copy (COPY) ..............................................18
- Entering the model name ....................................................18
7.3 Select model type (TYPE) ........................................................18
7.4 Servo reverse (REVR)..................................................................18
7.5 Servo centre offset (STRM)......................................................19
7.6 Servo travel (ATV) ......................................................................19
7.7 Transmitter control travel (AFR) ............................................19
7.8 Dual Rates (D/R) ..........................................................................20
7.9 Exponential function (EXP)......................................................20
7.10 Linking mixers (VMX1-3)..........................................................21
7.11 Dual mixers (XMIX) ....................................................................23
Section Page
7.12 Digital trims (TRIM) ....................................................................23
7.12.1Trim parameters (TRIM)............................................................24
7.12.2Trim travel (RATE)........................................................................24
7.12.3Trim increment (STEP) ..............................................................24
7.13 Motor cut (TCUT)........................................................................24
7.14 Stopwatch (ST-W) ................................................................24,25
7.15 External mix trimmers (VOLM) ..............................................25
7.16 Fail-Safe settings (F/S) ..............................................................26
8. Powered model aircraft (ACRO)................................27
8.1 Power program menu structure............................................27
8.2 Switch and mix trimmer assignment (ACRO) ..................27
8.3 Combi-switch (AI-R) ..................................................................27
8.4 Flaperon mixer (WING) ............................................................28
8.5 Delta mixer (ELVN)......................................................................30
8.6 Flap -> elevator mixer (FL>E)..................................................30
8.7 V-tail mixer (VTAL)......................................................................31
8.8 Snap-roll function (SNAP)........................................................32
8.9 Landing pre-sets (LAND)..........................................................32
9. Gliders (GLID) ............................................................33
9.1 Glider program menu structure............................................33
9.2 Socket assignment in GLID menu ........................................33
9.3 Switch and mix trimmer assignment (GLID) ....................34
9.4 Combi-mixer (AI>R)....................................................................34
9.5 Flaperon mixer (WING) ............................................................34
9.6 Aileron -> flap mixer (AI-F)......................................................36
9.7 Flap -> elevator mixer (FL>E)..................................................37
9.8 Butterfly mixer (BUTT) ..............................................................37
9.9 Butterfly -> elevator mixer (BU-E) ........................................38
9.10 V-tail mixer (VTAL)......................................................................38
9.11 Trim program 1 and 2 (TRM1/TRM2) ..................................39
10. Model helicopters (HELI) ..........................................40
10.1 Helicopter program menu structure ..................................40
10.2 Switch and mix trimmer assignment (HELI)......................40
10.3 Swashplate setting (SWSH) ....................................................41
10.4 Revolution mixer (REVO)..........................................................42
10.5 Idle-up,normal (NORM)............................................................42
10.6 Idle-up 1 (IDL-1) ..........................................................................43
10.7 Idle-up 2 (IDL-2) ..........................................................................43
10.8 Auto-rotation (T-HO) ................................................................44
10.9 Gyro gain (GYRO)........................................................................45
11. Installing channel expansion modules (MULT) ......46
11.1 Installing and connecting Multi-modules ........................46
11.2 FX Multi-Switch-Prop module................................................46
11.3 FX Multi-Switch module lighting set ..................................48
11.4 FX Multi-Switch module sound ............................................48
12. Connecting the receiving system, tips ....................49
- Connecting the receiver........................................................49
- Receiver aerial............................................................................49
- Switch harness ..........................................................................49
- Servo leads / servo suppression filters ............................49
- Servo installation / servo travels / output arms ....49,50
- Installing mechanical linkages............................................50
13. Using the system........................................................50
14. Guarantee ..................................................................51
15. Service Centre addresses ..........................................51
16. Post Office regulations..............................................51
17. Accessories............................................................52-55
2
Order Numbers
F4090 - F4091 - F4092
F4095 - F4096 - F4097
Safety notes: please observe at all times.
Be sure to read right through these instructions before you use
the system for the first time. This applies in particular to the
safety notes. If you are new to radio-controlled model aircraft,
boats or cars, we recommend that you ask an experienced
modeller for help.
This radio control system is designed and approved exclusively
for the operation of radio-controlled models. robbe
Modellsport accepts no liability of any kind if the equipment is
used for any other purpose.
Safety notes
Radio-controlled models are not toys or playthings in the usual
meaning of the term, and they should only be operated by young
people under 14 years if an experienced adult is available to
supervise them. Building and operating these models requires
technical expertise, manual skills, a careful attitude and safety-
conscious behaviour. Errors, negligence and omissions in building
or flying these models can result in serious personal injury and
damage to property.
The manufacturer and vendor of the equipment have no means of
checking that the models are built and operated correctly, and for
this reason we can do no more than bring these hazards expressly
to your attention. We deny all further liability. Technical faults,
whether electrical or mechanical,can cause electric motors to burst
into life unexpectedly, causing other parts to come loose and fly
around at high speed.Switching on the receiving system when the
transmitter is not active can also have the same effect.In either case
there is a serious risk of injury. Propellers,helicopter rotors and any
other rotating object which is driven by a motor represent a
constant hazard and a potential source of injury.
Avoid touching such parts at all costs. It is sobering to think
that a propeller revolving at high speed could cut off your
finger.
Whenever an electric motor is connected to a drive battery, never
stand in or close to the primary danger area of the propeller or
other rotating parts. Take care to keep all other objects from
making contact with revolving parts. Protect your radio control
system from dust,dirt and damp.Do not subject your equipment to
excessive heat, cold or vibration.
Radio control systems should only be used in "normal" conditions,
i.e. within a temperature range of -15°C to +55°C. Use
recommended battery chargers only, and do not charge your
batteries for longer than the stated periods. Read and observe the
information supplied by the battery manufacturer.Overcharging or
incorrect charging methods can cause batteries to explode.
Maintain correct polarity at all times.
Avoid subjecting this equipment to undue shock or pressure.
Check your system regularly for damage to cases and wiring. If a
unit is damaged in a crash,or gets wet,it should not be used again
even after you have dried it out thoroughly.The only safe course of
action is to replace damaged equipment,or at least have it checked
by a robbe Service Centre.Faults caused by damp or crash-induced
shock may not be obvious to the layman,but after a short period of
further use they may cause terminal failure. Please use only the
components and accessories which we expressly recommend.
Installing the option modules requires the use of tools.Please take
particular care when using them, to avoid injury. Always use
genuine robbe-Futaba connectors and original robbe-Futaba plug-
in crystals.
It is not permissible to make modifications of any kind to the
system components.
Routine pre-flight checks
If there are several modellers at your site, ensure that yours is the
only transmitter on "your" frequency before you switch on the
transmitter.
- Always extend the transmitter aerial fully before operating your
model,and check that it is firmly screwed into its socket.
- Ensure that the throttle stick is at stop / idle before you switch
on the receiver.
- Always switch on the transmitter first,then the receiver.
- Always switch off the receiver first,then the transmitter.
- Carry out a range check before the flight or run.
- Have you selected the correct model memory?
- Check all the working systems.Ensure that the control surfaces
respond to the stick commands in the correct "sense" (right stick
= right rudder etc.),and that the travels are as recommended.
- Are all the mixer functions and switches set correctly?
- Are the batteries sufficiently charged?
- If you are not sure of any point - dont fly!
Operating the model
- Never fly above spectators or other pilots.
- Do not fly in any way which could endanger humans or animals.
- Never fly close to high-tension overhead cables or residential
areas.
- Don’t operate your model in the vicinity of canals,locks or other
public shipping routes.
- You must not operate your model from public roads,
motorways,paths,squares etc.
Never operate your equipment in stormy weather.
The transmitter aerial must always be extended fully when you are
actually controlling a model. Don’t "point" the transmitter aerial
straight at the model when flying. The signal generated by the
transmitter is at its weakest in an imaginary line extending straight
from the aerial. It is always best if the long side of the aerial points
towards the model.
If several radio control systems are in use at the same time on
adjacent channels, the operators or pilots should always stand
together in a loose group. Pilots who insist on standing away from
the group endanger their own model as well as those of other
pilots.
Insurance
Ground-based models and gliders (unpowered model aircraft) are
usually covered by standard personal third-party insurance
policies.To fly powered model aircraft you will need to extend the
cover of your existing policy, or take out a specific policy. Check
your insurance policy and take out a new one if necessary.
Liability exclusion
robbe Modellsport are not in a position to influence the way you
install,operate and maintain the radio control system components,
and are not able to ensure that you follow the operating
instructions.
For this reason we are obliged to deny all liability for loss, damage
or costs which are incurred due to the incompetent or incorrect use
and operation of our products, or which are connected with such
operation in any way.
Unless otherwise prescribed by law,the obligation of the company
to pay compensation is limited to the invoice value of the robbe
products which were immediately and directly involved in the
event which caused the damage.
This does not apply if robbe is found to be subject to unlimited
liability according to binding legal regulation on account of
deliberate or gross negligence.
3
Order Numbers
F4090 - F4091 - F4092
F4095 - F4096 - F4097
1.Set contents
FX-18 NC
1 FX-18 transmitter,with 8 RSZ 750 mAh NC transmitter battery
1 R-147F receiver
3 S-3001 servos,with accessory pack
1 Switch harness with charge socket
1 Pair of crystals
Order Numbers
No.F 4090 FX-18 FM 35 MHz 4/7/3 NC
No.F 4091 FX-18 FM 40 MHz 4/7/3 NC
No.F 4092 FX-18 FM 41 MHz 4/7/3 NC (export)
FX-18 NiMH
1 FX-18 transmitter,with 8 NiMH 1400 mAh transmitter battery
1 R-147F receiver
3 S-3001 servos,with accessory pack
1 Switch harness with charge socket
1 Pair of crystals
Order Numbers
No.F 4095 FX-18 FM 35 MHz 4/7/3 NiMH
No.F 4096 FX-18 FM 40 MHz 4/7/3 NiMH
No.F 4097 FX-18 FM 41 MHz 4/7/3 NiMH (export)
Foreword
We are delighted that you have decided to purchase the robbe-Fut-
aba FX-18 radio control system.This equipment is particularly easy
to operate and includes many forward-looking features, setting
new standards in the area of high-performance computer radio
control systems.
Operating the FX-18 computer RC system is not difficult, and a
range of convenient mixer functions can be activated simply by
pressing a button.The program structure has been carefully desi-
gned and structured to ensure that you quickly become familiar
with the transmitter’s wide-ranging facilities.These instructions are
intended to help you achieve this aim with minimum effort.
Please read right through these instructions conscientiously
before using the equipment for the first time.
2.General description
2.1 Transmitter
The FX-18 transmitter is a sophisticated unit which covers virtually
all the requirements which are made on a modern radio control
transmitter.The FX-18 is a high-performance PCM/FM computer
system, designed for beginners and advanced modellers alike,and
is equally suitable for use with model aircraft, boats, cars and heli-
copters.The transmitter case is of ergonomically refined design and
modern appearance,and can be used equally well hand-held or in a
transmitter tray.
The transmitter’s specially moulded side panels fit the hands snu-
gly.All the controls are arranged in easily reached positions, where
they can be operated without having to take your hands off the
sticks.Linear sliders can be mounted on the rear panel as well as the
front face, where they can be operated comfortably with the index
fingers.
A unique feature of this transmitter is the wide range of expansion
options which it can accept, making the unit able to cope with all
modelling applications,i.e.complex boats and cars as well as model
aircraft,boats and cars.It is an ideal choice for multi-function model
trucks and boats.
The FX-18 transmitter is equipped with digital trims for all stick
channels, which eliminate the tiresome task of re-adjusting the
trims when you switch to a new model memory.The stick units are
precision-made high-quality assemblies, with variable stick length
and centring spring tension.
The transmitter features an internal PC interface for direct connec-
tion to a personal computer,enabling the user to archive model
data or print out the information.
In contrast to most conventional hand-held transmitters, the FX-18
is designed to accept a range of auxiliary switches to suit the user’s
individual needs.The system provides a wealth of functions and
expansion options which make it unique in its class.Whether you
require multi-channels for auxiliary working systems or a flight
mode switch for the helicopter program - everything you need is
available.
Several option wells are provided in which up to ten switches can
be installed in easily reached positions. Special stick switches are
also available for installation in the stick units themselves.Up to two
pairs of mix trimmers can also be fitted. These comprehensive
expansion options give you the means to equip the transmitter in
such a way that all your personal requirements are met in full.
In its standard form the transmitter can be used both as trainer and
pupil transmitter in a Trainer ("buddy box") setup,and a DSC facility
is also provided.
A comprehensive range of accessories is available, including trans-
mitter tray,shell handles, various aerials and neckstraps,giving you
the opportunity to customise the transmitter just as you wish.The
standard sets are also available with two different types of battery
for extra versatility.
4
Order Numbers
F4090 - F4091 - F4092
F4095 - F4096 - F4097
In addition to its comprehensive hardware facilities,the software of
the FX-18 includes features which go well beyond the standard for
this class of equipment.The programming is based on flight modes,
making it even easier to set up the mixer functions. The user-
friendly software provides many new functions and caters for all
types of model, while the 3-D hotkey makes navigation and setup
straightforward and fast.
For the sake of clarity some options feature sub-menus;this applies
in particular to the Parameter menu, in which all the basic
adjustments and settings are carried out. For this reason these
operating instructions deal with this section of the software first
(see Section 7.1).
The transmitter can directly store and manage data for up to 12
models, but if CAMPac modules are employed there is really no
limit; a single module can store the data for up to 49 models.The
software is present in three languages as standard,so you can carry
out the essential dialogue with the system in German, English or
French. The overall structure of the software is based on the
rotation principle, i.e. the individual menus are arranged in a
continuous loop,one after the other,and can be selected easily and
conveniently using the 3-D hotkey.
2.2 R147F receiver
This ultra-compact, lightweight FM receiver with PPM modulation
is manufactured using the latest SMT micro-technology,and yet
offers full effective range. Its slim case design, with the servo
sockets in the practical position on the end of the case,makes it an
excellent choice for use in mini- and small models generally, and
even in park-fly models and HLG gliders.
The active front end of this receiver provides outstanding narrow-
band characteristics, high adjacent channel separation and very
good interference suppression. A regulatory stage including
automatic gain control (AGC) ensures optimum reception at close
range and long range alike.
2.3 S 3001 servo
This ballraced servo is of standard case size.It is a high-quality,high-
performance unit suitable for use in all areas of modelling,
The special high-quality potentiometer features a 6-finger wiper,
and is housed in a sealed enclosure. The pot is operated by an
‘Indirect Drive’linkage which provides effective protection from
vibration.The ballrace and a special bronze bearing ensure that the
servo has minimum slop and a long effective life.
3.Specification
3.1 FX-18 transmitter
No.of channels: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
Optional channel expansion: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 additional
Frequency bands: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35/40/41 MHz
Spot frequencies: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 (+10), 22,20
Transmission system: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .PPM (FM) / PCM
Channel spacing: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 kHz
Power supply: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9.6 V battery
Current drain: . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40/250 mA (excl./incl.RF section)
Dimensions: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .205 x 170 x 52 mm
Weight (incl.battery): . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .approx.650 g
3.2 R147F receiver
No.of channels: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
Frequency bands: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35/40/41 MHz
Intermediate frequency: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .455 kHz
Transmission system: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .PPM (FM)
Channel spacing: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 kHz
Aerial length: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .100 cm
Operating voltage: . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4.8 - 6 V (4-5 cells NC/NiMH)
3.3 S 3001 servo
Torque: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30 Ncm
Transit speed: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .0.165s/45º
Nominal voltage: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6.0 V
Operating voltage: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4.8 - 6 V
Dimensions: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40.4 x 19.8 x 36 mm
Weight: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45.1 g
5
Order Numbers
F4090 - F4091 - F4092
F4095 - F4096 - F4097
4.3 Stick adjustments
Adjusting the stick length
The sticks are infinitely variable in length, and can easily be
adjusted to suit the pilot’s preference.
- Hold part A firmly and unscrew part B,
- Set the stick top to your preferred length,
- Lock part A against part B again.
The short stick tops fitted as standard are ideal for pilots who
prefer to use their transmitter hand-held.If you wish to use the
transmitter in a tray,long stick tops can be used; they are avai-
lable as optional accessories.
Spring tension
The tension of the centring springs on both stick units is infinitely
variable,and can be adjusted to suit the individual pilot’s preferen-
ce.
The first step is to remove the back panel from the transmitter.
The spring tension for each stick function can now be adjusted
using a small screwdriver.
6
A
B
Aerial
Left option well for mixer or
channel switches
Rear slider channel
option well
Trainer and DSC socket
Left stick unit,
functions 2 + 4
Right stick unit,
functions 1 + 3
Digital trims for
left stick unit
Transmitter
neckstrap lug
Digital trims for
right stick unit
Right option well for mixer
or channel switches
Rear slider channel
option well
Front slider channels
with centre detent
Front option wells for external
switches and trimmers
LCD screen
Operating buttons
On-Off switch
3-D hotkey
Aerial
storage
compartment
Charge socket
Illustration shows expanded transmitter
4.2 Removing the back panel
The back panel is secured by means of three lugs at the bottom and
two rotating latches at the top.
Opening the back panel
- Using a coin,rotate both latches inwards through 45° in the
direction of the aerial.
- Fold the top part of the back panel down until it is almost at
right-angles to the case.Take care if there are linear sliders
installed in the back panel - don’t pull on the cables.
- Lift the back panel up and off.
Closing the back panel
- Hold the back panel almost at right-angles to the case and
engage the lugs at the bottom.
- Arrange the cables from the linear sliders and mixer switches
etc.neatly between the circuit board and the aerial base.
Take care that there are no wires between the circuit board and
the back panel,nor close to the latches.
- Rotate the latches outwards until the coin slots are vertical.
4.FX-18 transmitter
4.1 External transmitter features
Order Numbers
F4090 - F4091 - F4092
F4095 - F4096 - F4097
- Rotate the screw clockwise -> higher spring tension
- Rotate the screw anti-clockwise -> lower spring tension
The white arrows in the illustration indicate the adjustment screws;
the screws on the inside adjust the horizontal stick functions.
Throttle ratchet function
The transmitter is supplied as
standard with four self-
neutralising stick functions.The
ratchet plate is fitted in such a
way that the ratchet has no
effect. The illustration also
shows how the spring tension
adjustor screws are accessed
when the ratchet plate is fitted.
One of the two vertical control planes can be converted to ratchet
action to cope with functions for which a self-neutralising action is
not required.In this case the stick stays at any intermediate position
in the fore-and-aft plane,instead of returning automatically to the
neutral position.The ratchet is generally used to control the throttle
of a glowplug motor and similar functions.
If you wish to engage the ratchet spring, the ratchet plate must be
mounted on the corresponding stick unit as shown in the
illustrations below.
- First undo the two screws (A) and remove the ratchet plate.
- To place the throttle function on the right stick,the plate has
to be rotated through 90º to the left,and mounted on the
left-hand stick unit (as seen from the rear).
- To place the throttle function on the left stick,the plate has to
be rotated through 90º to the right,and mounted on the
right- hand stick unit.
- To do this,press the return rocker of the stick unit down using
the pin (retainer,on the back face of the plate).The rocker is
located directly adjacent to the outside spring adjustment
screw; it has a spring attached to it.
- Place the ratchet plate on the stick unit screw dome in this
position,and re-fit the screws.
- The pictures above show the final installed position of the
ratchet plate.
4.4 CAMPac model memory modules
The transmitter’s model memory capacity can be expanded by
fitting "CAMPac" modules.Various CAMPac modules are available,
offering different numbers of additional model memories:
4k CAMPac 3 model memories No.F 1508
16k CAMPac 12 model memories No.F 1509
64k CAMPac 49 model memories No.F 1566
The CAMPac module is plugged onto the pin row with the
appropriate legend on the circuit board inside the transmitter.
Switch the transmitter off. Carefully
insert the module with the legend and
lug on the module matching the
diagram printed on the circuit board
itself.
CAMPac modules have to be "initialised" when they are first
plugged into the transmitter.
The screen initially shows the
message "CAM 49", confirming the
memory size of the CAMPac you have
fitted.
To prevent accidental over-writing of
CAMPac data, a flashing "OK?"
appears on the screen, requesting
confirmation.
Press the "S" button to start the initialisation process.
The initialisation process commences,
and the screen counts down the
possible number of model memories
as it proceeds. In our example a 64K
CAMPac is fitted,containing 49 model
memories. Once the count-down has
reached zero, the beeper sounds to
indicate that the process is completed.
The CAMPac module is now ready for use in the FX-18.
The CAMPac module is formatted using the FX-18 format.
If you ever wish to use it in a different transmitter type, you will
need to re-initialise the module.This process erases the FX-18 data.
Individual CAMPac model
memories which have not been
assigned a name are indicated by the
letter "E" and a sequential number.
The "E" stands for external model
memory.
4.5 Changing crystals
Within the fixed frequency band the transmitter and receiver can
be operated on different spot frequencies (channels) by changing
the plug-in crystals. The crystals are located in sockets in the
transmitter and the receiver,and must be changed together.
7
Throttle right Throttle left
Spring tension
Ratchet
Ratchet
Ratchet
Retainer
Retainer
A
A
Order Numbers
F4090 - F4091 - F4092
F4095 - F4096 - F4097
The spot frequency of the transmitter and receiver must always be
the same.You must use a pair of crystals designed for the frequency
band of your system.Remove the transmitter back panel:the crystal
is on the left-hand side of the main circuit board.
It is not possible to use, say,a 40 MHz crystal in a 35 MHz unit;
the system simply will not work.
Equipment designed for the 35 MHz B-band can also be operated
with crystals for the 35 MHz A-band, and vice versa, but a
conversion is required.This work can be carried out by the robbe
Service Department,and is offered at a fixed price.
Be sure to use only genuine crystals from the robbe-Futaba
range, and use only those frequencies which are approved for
model use in your country, as listed in the frequency table
supplied.
4.6 Changing the transmitter battery
The FX-18 radio control system is available with two different types
of transmitter battery:
1. NC sets (No. F 4090 to F 4092) with 8-cell nickel-cadmium (NC)
battery,capacity 750 mAh;
2.NiMH sets (No.F 4095 to F 4097) with 8-cell nickel-metal-hydride
(NiMH) battery,capacity 1400 mAh.
Changing the transmitter battery
- Remove the transmitter back panel (see Section 4.2)
- Disconnect the battery connector from its socket
- Release the transmitter battery from the battery cradle - it is
secured with double-sided adhesive tape
- Peel off any adhesive residue if necessary
- Attach the new battery with the double-sided tape supplied
- Connect the battery lead.
The following replacement battery types are available:
No.4462 8 RSZ 750 mAh NC Operating time approx.3 hours
No.4461 8 RSZ 1500 mAh NC Operating time approx.6 hours
No.4463 8 NiMH 1400 mAh Operating time approx.6 hours
No.4460 8 NiMH 2200 mAh Operating time approx.9 hours
4.7 Installing and connecting option modules
An outstanding feature of the FX-18 transmitter is the wealth of
expansion options it offers.
You can install linear sliders, mixer switches and external mix
trimmers to suit your own requirements.The first step is to decide
on an option well where you can reach the control most easily,
without having to let go of the sticks.
A total of 4 option wells is available for linear sliders,plus 12 option
wells for mixer switches,channel switches and mix trimmers.
The following expansion modules can be installed and connected:
- 2 linear sliders (front panel),2 linear sliders (back panel)
- up to 10 mixer switches or channel switches
- up to 2 pairs of external mix trimmers (No.F 1506)
- 1 Multi-Switch module (up to 32 switched channels,
see Section 11)
- 2 stick-top switches
Please work carefully when connecting expansion modules to
avoid damaging the transmitter electronics.
- Switch off the transmitter before installing an option module
- Remove the back panel (Section 4.2)
- Disconnect the battery lead.
- To install switches in these wells,push through the thin inner
skin at the prepared hole position using a pointed object.
- Open up the hole to the final diameter of 6 mm using a 6 mm Ø
drill or scissor blade,holding the tool in your hand.
- Place the switch in the hole from the rear and position it in the
holder,then fit the nut on the front and tighten it carefully using
an 8 mm A/F spanner.
- Bend the cable from the switch virtually at right-angles,to
ensure that there is still adequate space for any slider which you
may wish to install in the back panel.
Take care to arrange the cables neatly!
8
Transmitter crystals
bear the
abbreviation
TX + channel
number.
Receiver crystals
bear the
abbreviation
RX + channel
number.
Dual-conversion
receiver crystals
bear the
abbreviation
RX-DS + channel
number.
Installing mixer and channel switches in the outer option wells
Installing the mixers and channel switches
in the inner option wells
Order Numbers
F4090 - F4091 - F4092
F4095 - F4096 - F4097
There are two alternatives for installing controls in the inner
option wells:
1. Cut a hole in the aluminium panel at the switch symbol position,
using a hand-held 6 mm Ø drill bit,or
2. Use a ready-made die-cut panel, which is available under
No.F 1589.The set includes 12 rubber plugs which are used to
seal any openings which are not used,e.g.after re-positioning
switches.
In all other respects the switches are installed and secured exactly
as described previously in this section.
Here again there are two alternative methods of installation:
1. Cut two holes in the aluminium panel at the switch symbol
position,using a hand-held 6 mm Ø drill bit,or
2. Use a ready-made die-cut panel, which is available under
No.F 1589.The set includes 12 rubber plugs which are used to
seal any openings which are not used,e.g.after re-positioning
switches.
Each mix trimmer module takes up three inner option wells.A maxi-
mum of two modules can be installed:one right,one left.
- Drill holes in switch well positions 1 and 3.
- Fit the module from the rear with the connecting lead termina-
ting in the 2-pin plug at the top,pointing towards the aerial.
- Fix the module to the transmitter using the screws supplied (see
arrow).
- Push the trimmer knobs onto the pot shafts.
- Ensure that the index line on the knob lines up with that on the
pot shaft.
- Secure the trimmer knob with a 1.5 mm allen key.
Take care to arrange the cables neatly!
- To install the front linear sliders,press the blind cover out from
the rear of the transmitter using a screwdriver.
- Carefully install the slider with the cable pointing down
(towards the battery).
- Route the cable under the main circuit board and connect the
slider.
The circuit board is mounted on stand-off pillars to provide space
for the cables.
Do not run the cables over the circuit board,otherwise they will
be jammed between the circuit board and the back panel.
- Carefully fix the slider in place from the front using the screws
supplied.
- Peel off the protective film and apply the self-adhesive scale
label.
- Carefully push the knob onto the slider shaft.
- Check that the slider works smoothly,then re-attach the back
panel.
- Carefully push out the rear blind cover of the slider slot from the
inside of the transmitter using a screwdriver.
- Install the slider from the rear,with the cable pointing up,
towards the latch.
- Carefully fit the retaining screws from the outside to secure the
unit.
- Each linear slider is supplied complete with one left-hand and
one right-hand knob.
- Select the appropriate knob to suit the side of the transmitter,
and push it onto the slider shaft.
- Check that the slider works smoothly,then re-attach the back
panel.
9
Installing mix trimmers (F 1506) in the inner option wells
Installing the front linear sliders
Installing the rear linear sliders
Order Numbers
F4090 - F4091 - F4092
F4095 - F4096 - F4097
4.8 Transmitter battery voltage display
The voltage of the transmitter battery
is displayed in Volts on the large LCD
screen.
In the example shown the voltage of
the transmitter battery is 10.3 V.
4.9 Low battery voltage alarm
As soon as the battery voltage falls to a certain pre-set value,visual
and audible alarms are triggered to alert you to an impending flat
transmitter battery.
The battery symbol on the screen
flashes, and the beeper sounds.The
trigger threshold for the battery
alarm can be set to any value in the
range 8.5 - 9.6 V in increments of 0.1 V.
(See also Section 7.1.8)
4.10 Charging the transmitter battery
The battery should be charged for 24 hours at a rate of 1/10 its
nominal capacity before the transmitter is used.
After use,and after any long period of storage, all the RC system
batteries should be given a charge lasting at least 14 hours at the
1/10 rate (slow charge rate), regardless of the length of the prece-
ding usage.The slow charge compensates for the batteries’self-
discharge characteristic,and balances the cells’state of charge.
(Example: 750 mAh battery: standard charge current = approx.75
mA)
The self-discharge rate of NC cells is around 1% per day.This means
that after 100 days a previously fully charged battery will be com-
pletely discharged, without ever having supplied current to any
load.
NiMH cells have the same self-discharge characteristic,but at a hig-
her rate of around 2-3% per day; the pack will be completely flat
after about 35-50 days.
The transmitter battery can be charged and discharged without
removing it from the case.
The charge socket is located next to the On/Off switch in the right-
hand side panel.
If you wish to charge the transmitter or receiver batteries at a hig-
her current than the 1/10 rate,be sure to use an automatic charger
with a "Delta-Peak" termination system.
We recommend the following battery chargers:
1.For simple charging,e.g.Lader 5,No.8308
10
Connecting the option modules to the circuit board
1. Connector for channel switches and linear sliders,chan-
nels 5 to 8
2. Connector for 8 external mixer switches
3. Trainer switch socket
4. Connector for mix trimmers; if 2 mix trimmers are to be
installed,the power supply cable for the second module
is plugged into the first module.
Basic menu
Mixer switch assignment:
1 = On-Off V-mix 1
2 = On-off V-mix 2
3 = On-off V-mix 3
4 = On-Off Dual Rates
5 = Throttle cut
6 = unused
7 = unused
8 = unused
Mix trimmer assignment:
1 = Mixer input V-Mix 1
2 = Mixer input V-Mix 2
3 = Mixer input V-Mix 3
4 = unused
5 = unused
6 = unused
7 = unused
8 = unused
Order Numbers
F4090 - F4091 - F4092
F4095 - F4096 - F4097
2. For optimum battery maintenance we recommend the "Reflex
Charger",No.8363.The special reflex charging process prevents
undesired memory and "lazy battery" effects; using this charger
ensures that you always have full battery capacity available.
If your system includes an NiMH battery you must use a charger
with a reliable automatic charge termination system, as these bat-
tery types are sensitive to overcharging.The advantage of the reflex
charging process with these packs is that only the quantity of
energy removed from the pack is charged back into it.
In principle all rapid chargers with "automatic charge termination"
can be used.
The transmitter and receiving system can only be charged if they
are switched off beforehand.
Note that the maximum charge current for the transmitter bat-
tery when using a rapid charger must not exceed 2 Amps.
The charge circuit in the transmitter is equipped with an electronic
fuse (polyfuse),which provides effective protection to the transmit-
ter battery if it is charged at too high a current,or if the charge lead
is short-circuited.
However, the point at which the fuse is triggered varies according
to the charge current and the battery type, so it is still essential to
avoid short-circuiting the charge lead.
Always start by connecting the banana plugs on the charge
lead to the charger.
Ensure that the charge lead is connected with correct polarity;
the fuse does not provide protection against reverse polarity.
The receiver battery can be left in the model for recharging.
You can use a switch harness with integral charge socket (No. F
1407) if you wish to avoid disconnecting the battery from the
switch harness every time you charge the battery.
After a lengthy period of storage (Winter break), the batteries
should be cycled (discharged and recharged) several times before
re-use.This process balances the packs, and restores them to full
capacity and operating time.
To protect the environment, take defective or exhausted batteries
to your local toxic waste collection centre.NC batteries in particular
are categorised as toxic waste.On no account dispose of old batte-
ries in the domestic waste.These batteries can be recycled.
4.11 Trainer mode
Trainer mode (sometimes known as a "buddy box" system) is an
excellent way for learners ("students") to learn the art of model fly-
ing with the help of a flight tutor ("trainer").
The tutor controls the model during the launch and landing pha-
ses,but transfers control to the learner by operating a push-button
or switch when the model is in a safe position.
If the model gets into a potentially dangerous flight attitude or
situation,the tutor releases the Trainer button and resumes control
of the model.This method provides a very easy way for beginners
to learn the art of model control in easy stages, without having to
worry constantly about damage or loss of the model.
The FX-18 transmitter is fitted as standard with a Trainer socket (A)
for Trainer operations; it is located on the front panel of the trans-
mitter.The FX-18 can be used either as Trainer or Student transmit-
ter.
The circuit board features a miniature switch marked TRAI - STUD.
This is used to determine whether the transmitter is to be operated
as the Trainer unit (TRAI) or Student (STUD) unit.
Carefully move the switch to the appropriate position using a pair
of tweezers.
The trainer and student transmitters are inter-connected using a 2-
core Trainer lead.
The following cables are available:
(see also the diagrams and recommended accessories on page 54.)
- No.8377 FX trainer lead,connects two FX-18 transmitters to
each other or one FX-18 to an FX-14 transmitter.
- No.8362 F->FX trainer lead.This lead is required if you wish to
use an FX-18 transmitter as student transmitter,connected to an
F-series RC system (F-14,FC-16,FC-18 or FC-28) fitted with a Trai-
ner Module 4.
An adaptor lead is also available under No.F 1581 for connecting
this lead to the F-series Trainer Module 3 (DIN 6-pin plug), and
robbe-Futaba hand-held transmitters.Read the instructions regar-
ding Trainer mode in the operating instructions supplied with
these transmitters.
If the FX-18 system is to be used as the Trainer transmitter,you will
also need to install a Trainer transfer switch,e.g.No.F 1524,which is
used to transfer control between the two transmitters.
On the circuit board you will find a socket for this switch, located
adjacent to the TRAI-STUD selector switch.
A battery must be fitted to the student transmitter for Trainer
mode operations.
- Remove the transmitter crystal or RF module from the student
transmitter,so that it cannot radiate an RF signal.
11
Trainer transfer switch
e.g.No.F 1524
A
Order Numbers
F4090 - F4091 - F4092
F4095 - F4096 - F4097
- Install the Trainer transfer switch in the Trainer transmitter,and
connect it to the appropriate socket.
- Move the "TRAI-STUD" switch to the appropriate position.
- The Student transmitter must be set to the same modula
tion (PPM or PCM) as the Trainer transmitter.
- The channel sequence of both transmitters must be the same,
any mixers in use must be the same,and the throttle function
must be on the same stick.If the settings are different,you must
change the stick mode in the Parameter menu (MODE) on the
Student transmitter.
- Connect the Trainer and Student transmitters using the Trainer
lead.
- Switch on both transmitters.
- Check that all functions work correctly,then operate the Trainer
switch and check that the Student transmitter has full control.
- Check that the Trainer transmitter regains control when you
switch back.
- The model aircraft is launched with the Trainer at the controls,
and taken to a safe height.At this point the Trainer transfers con
trol to the Student.In critical or difficult situations the tutor
releases the Trainer switch,regains control,and rescues the
model.
4.12 DSC mode / use with a flight simulator
A DSC lead (Direct Servo Control) can be connected to the barrel
socket on the transmitter front panel.This provides a direct means
of controlling the receiver and the servos connected to it,without
the transmitter radiating an RF signal.This can be very useful, for
example, if you want to carry out adjustments on your model, but
"your" spot frequency is in use by another modeller.To complete
the connection you will need the FX DSC lead (Order No.8335).
Note: to prevent Radio Frequency transmission the transmitter
crystal must be removed.
The "TRAI-STUD" switch must be at the "STUD" position.
DSC mode can only be carried out in conjunction with a receiver
which features a DSC socket (marked "C"), e.g.R-118F receivers. Set
the appropriate modulation (PPM/PCM) to match the receiver.
To connect the transmitter to a flight simulator you require the
adaptor lead,No.8383,and the transmitter must be set to PPM (FM)
modulation.The "TRAI-STUD" switch must also be set to the "STUD"
position.
4.13 Data transfer to a PC
The FX-18 transmitter is equipped
internally with a PC interface socket.
This socket is marked "DATA", and is
located on the right-hand side of the
circuit board.
Special software is in preparation
which allows you to call up, store and
print out model data stored on the PC.
5.Connecting the servos
The sequence of servo connections at the receiver is pre-defined,as
many mixer functions in the model type menus Glider,Power and
Heli are pre-programmed.These mixers are described in the appro-
priate section.
If you have not activated any mixers, the servo sequence can be
chosen at will, but we recommend that you set up and adhere to
your own standard sequence, or keep to the pre-set assignment,
otherwise you will end up with models which require different
arrangements, and this can easily lead to potentially dangerous
confusion.
Servo assignment in the Basic menu:
Channel 1: Aileron
Channel 2: Elevator
Channel 3: Throttle / airbrakes / landing flaps
Channel 4: Rudder
Channel 5: Auxiliary channel
Channel 6: Auxiliary channel
Channel 7: Auxiliary channel
Channel 8: Auxiliary channel
Please refer also to Section 7.1.2, Transmitter stick mode
(MODE),with regard to servo assignments.
6.Using the transmitter for the first time
6.1 Screen and keypad
The user controls the software of the FX-18 radio control system by
programming and "conversing" with it,and the means of this dialo-
gue is the large LCD screen,the input buttons Select (S) and Home
(H),and the multi-function 3-D hotkey.
The 3-D hotkey, with its convenient handling, is an important part
of the system, as it provides a fast method of moving through the
individual menus and a quick,simple method of setting the appro-
priate mixer values.
Section 6.3, "Summary of the menu structure", describes the
method of finding your way through the menus using the controls
provided.
If necessary, choose the function “Language select” now (see
section 7.1.7).
6.2 Selecting a Home menu
When you first switch on the transmitter you initially see the "FX-
18" name displayed briefly,which is replaced
by the name of the model (model memory)
you last used;in this case EASY.The name flas-
hes.
Press the 3-D hotkey briefly to confirm the
model memory.
If you have not assigned a model name, the
memory number (M-01) appears as the name.
In the top right-hand corner the screen displays the spot number of
the selected model memory.
This process is intended to ensure that the user is deliberately
made aware of the model memory he has selected.
However,the selected model memory remains active even if
you do not confirm it.
12
Order Numbers
F4090 - F4091 - F4092
F4095 - F4096 - F4097
If you now rotate the 3-D hotkey (to left or right), you will find
four different Home menus.
Home menu 1
Display of:
- model name (M-01)
- Voltage (10.1V)
- Model memory number (01)
Home menu 2
Display of:
- Model memory operating time
(1 hour 23 min)
- Voltage (10.1V)
- Model memory number (01)
The operating hours timer is useful as it gives you a constant check
of the transmitter battery capacity.When you recharge the trans-
mitter battery you should remember to reset the timer to zero by
pressing the 3-D hotkey twice briefly.
The timer depends on the model memory.
Home menu 3
Display of:
- Stopwatch (2 min 35 sec)
- Voltage (10.1V)
- Model memory number (01)
The stopwatch settings are adjusted as described in Section 8.15.
This menu is only used to display the stopwatch and reset it to the
initial value;this is done by pressing the 3-D hotkey twice.
Home menu 4
Display of
- Stopwatch (1 min 59 sec)
- Operating time (87 minutes)
- Model memory number (01)
This is a combination display of the two timers; the operating time
is displayed in minutes = 87 minutes (max. display 199 minutes), in
contrast to Home menu 2 = 1 hour 27 min.
In this menu you can reset the stopwatch to the initial value by
pressing the 3-D hotkey twice.The operating hours display is reset
in Home menu 2.
6.3 The FX-18 menu structure
The software of the FX-18 makes available comprehensive set-up
facilities for the various types of radio-controlled models.The FX-18
transmitter is equipped with a tried and tested method of software
control which allows you to navigate both forward and back within
the menu structure.
This saves the constant, tiresome need to "leaf through" the setup
menus,if you have accidentally skipped the function you wished to
use.The menu structure is shown in graphic form in these instruc-
tions for each of the model types.
Home menu level
The top Home menu level embraces all those functions which are
important when the system is actually in use,such as model name,
voltage,operating time,stopwatch.
Rotate the 3-D hotkey to change to the display you wish to see.
Select menu level
The next level down is the menu in which you select functions.
- To eliminate the danger of changing a setting accidentally,you
must hold the 3-D hotkey pressed in for one second in order to
reach this level.
- Rotate the 3-D hotkey to "leaf through" within this menu until
you arrive at the desired function.At this point the selected
function flashes.
- Pressing the 3-D hotkey takes you to the setup menu for the
function you have selected.
- Hold the "H" button pressed in for one second to return to the
Select menu level.
- Holding the "H" button pressed in for one second again takes
you back to the Home menu level.
Setup menu level
- Within the setup menu you move around using the "S" button
(forward) and the "H" button (back).
- The 3-D hotkey is used to adjust the selected setting (change
the percentage value,switch the mixer on/off etc.).The set-up
feature you have selected flashes on the screen.
- To quit the Setup level hold the "H" button pressed in for one
second;this takes you back to the Select menu level (selected
function flashes).
- A further one-second press of the "H" button takes you back
to the Home menu level.
All adjustments and changes apply only to the currently active
model memory.All changes and settings are stored immediately,
and do not need to be confirmed separately.
The transmitter reads the data into an area of working memory,and
saves the data in the corresponding model memory when it is swit-
ched off.
13
Order Numbers
F4090 - F4091 - F4092
F4095 - F4096 - F4097
7.Basic functions menu structure (BASC)
The basic transmitter settings are grouped together in the (BASC)
menu. The Basic program is intended for simple models, and also
for use with model boats and trucks. If you wish to operate more
complex models such as power model aircraft (ACRO), gliders
(GLID) and helicopters (HELI), special mixer functions are provided
under the menu point "TYPE" (see Section 7.3).The specific mixers
are described in detail in Sections 8, 9 and 10.
The following flow chart shows the menu structure of the BASC
functions; it also shows the associated sub-menus and the Home
menus.
14
Home menu
Setup menu level
1 sec
1 sec
1 sec
Page 17
Page 18
Page 18
Page 15
Page 19
Page 19
Page 19
Page 20
Page 20
Page 21
Page 21
Page 21
Page 23
Page 24
Page 24
Page 24
Page 25
Page 26
Key:
Rotate 3-D
hotkey
Press "S"
button
Press "H"
button
Press 3-D
hotkey
Select menu level
Alternately
Order Numbers
F4090 - F4091 - F4092
F4095 - F4096 - F4097
7.1 Parameter menu (PARA)
The Parameter menu,like all the other
menus, is incorporated in the endless
rotation loop of the Select menu level.
All the basic (global) settings are
adjusted in this menu.
Paradoxically the last menu point is
described here first; there are good
ergonomic reasons for this.
If you rotate the 3-D hotkey to the left, then "PARA" is the first
menu you see,and it is also the first one you need in order to set up
the global functions for a particular model.
When you are using the system,however,the most common menu
you need will be "Model", which is also the first one you reach
when you rotate the hotkey to the right.
This eliminates the time-consuming business of leafing through
unnecessary menus.
The Setup level also operates using this logic;if you jump to the left
with the "H" button, a mixer function is switched on or off. If you
jump to the right with the "S" button you jump to the percentage
value setting in the menu,which is the most frequently used option
when setting up a new model.
Move to the Setup menu level "PARA" via the Select menu, as
shown in Section 7.
The setup menu "PARA" contains 10 sub-menus which are
explained in the following section.
The ten options are arranged in a loop,and within this loop you can
always move forward with the "S" button, and back with the "H"
button,in each case giving a short press.
A longer press (about 1 second) on the "H" button takes you back to
one level higher in the menu system.
7.1.1 Modulation setting (MODU)
This function is required in order to set the desired modulation,i.e.
PCM or PPM (FM).If you are using an FM receiver,you must set PPM
mode (P) on the transmitter.
A PCM receiver requires PCM mode (C).
In PCM mode you can only use genuine robbe-Futaba and
Futaba receivers.Do not expect other makes of PCM receiver to
be compatible.
PCM modulation differs in practice as follows:when an FM system is
operated at the extreme limit of range,or when motor interference
occurs, the servos tend to jitter,and PCM modulation suppresses
this effect.The receiver achieves this by storing the signals briefly.If
invalid or incorrect signals are picked up by the receiver, it
continues to give out the stored signals until it picks up correct
signals from the transmitter again.
See also F/S (Fail-Safe),Section 7.16.
We recommend that you use a PCM connection if you know that
reception conditions are difficult. For example, if your model is
powered by a large petrol engine with magneto ignition, or a
powerful electric motor.
Switching modulation
- Select the MODU sub-menu in the PARA menu
- Rotate the 3-D hotkey
- to the left for PPM (FM),screen shows (P)
- to the right for PCM,screen shows (C)
- If you change the setting,the PPM or PCM symbol on the screen
flashes.
- The actual transition to the new transmission mode only
occurs when you switch the transmitter off,and then on
again.
- The fact that the transmission mode only changes when you
switch the transmitter on and off is particularly important when
you are selecting a new model,as the type of modulation is
stored individually in each model memory.See also Section 7.2.
Check that the modulation setting is correct when you switch
the transmitter on again.The screen will show the symbol PPM
or PCM.
7.1.2 Stick mode (STCK)
The assignment of the receiver outputs is pre-defined, in order to
allow for the pre-programmed electronic mixer functions.
It is still necessary to set up the
transmitter to suit your chosen stick
mode, and this is carried out in this
sub-menu.
Basically all you have to do here is
define the stick to which the non self-
neutralising ratchet function (to control the motor or airbrake
function) is to be assigned (see also Section 5).
There are four alternative stick modes (modes 1-4):
MODE 1:(default)
Aileron right (Q)
Elevator left (H)
Throttle right (G)
Rudder left (S)
MODE 2:
Aileron right (Q)
Elevator right (H)
Throttle left (G)
Rudder left (S)
MODE 3:
Aileron left (Q)
Elevator left (H)
Throttle right (G)
Rudder right (S)
15
G
G
G
S
S
S
Q
Q
Q
H
H
H
Order Numbers
F4090 - F4091 - F4092
F4095 - F4096 - F4097
MODE 4:
Aileron left (Q)
Elevator right (H)
Throttle left (G)
Rudder right (S)
The servo connections at the receiver are the same for all stick
modes.
Channel 1: Aileron
Channel 2: Elevator
Channel 3: Throttle / airbrakes / landing flaps
Channel 4: Rudder
Channel 5: Auxiliary channel
Channel 6: Auxiliary channel
Channel 7: Auxiliary channel
Channel 8: Auxiliary channel
In the Parameter menu use the "S"
button or "H" button to move to the
menu point "MODE". Rotate the 3-D
hotkey to select one of the four stick
modes MODE 1-4.
7.1.3 Throttle reverse (TREV)
With this option you can determine whether the full-throttle posi-
tion is to be at the forward or back end of the stick arc.
When you select this menu,the channel number "3" (throttle func-
tion) flashes on the screen. A small arrow below the channel num-
ber (reverse) or above the channel number (normal) indicates the
current status.
N = Normal = Full throttle forward
R = Reverse = Full throttle back
You can reverse the throttle function by turning the 3-D hotkey to
the left; rotating it to the right restores the normal condition. (See
also Section 7.1.4: Asymmetric throttle trim.)
7.1.4 Asymmetric throttle trim (ATL)
This function is used to determine whether the trim for the throttle
function is to be effective over the full arc of travel, or only at the
idle end. For controlling the carburettor of internal-combustion
engines we recommend switching this function on,so that the trim
only affects the idle end of the motor’s range, and not the full-
throttle position.
When you select this function, the
symbol "OFF" flashes on the screen.
Turning the 3-D hotkey to the right
switches it "ON"; turning it left swit-
ches it "OFF".
This function must be combined
correctly with the throttle rever-
se function;see Section 7.1.3.It is
important to ensure that both
the throttle direction and the
throttle trim are set correctly.
--
7.1.5 Dual Rates switch (DRSW)
In this menu you can determine the function or functions which are
affected by the Dual Rates switch.The Dual Rates switch is connec-
ted to socket 4 on the circuit board (see illustration, page 10).You
can set the switch functions you prefer by rotating the 3-D hotkey
to left or right.
The associated DRSW number flashes on the screen, and a small
arrow below the function number indicates the assignment clearly.
(See Section 7.8 for an explanation of the D/R function and for
details of setting the values.)
There are four options here:
7.1.6 Audible sounder (BEEP)
This option allows you to switch off the beep signal,which confirms
each keypad action and each entry.
Even if you switch off the beeper, the alarm functions continue to
trigger the beeper,i.e.the mixer alarm and the low battery alarm.
Of course, the audible confirmation beeps will only be heard if the
beeper is switched on.
Turn the 3-D hotkey to the right to
switch the beep "ON"; turn it left to
switch the beep "OFF". The beeper
sounds briefly when you switch it on.
7.1.7 Language select (ENG)
The FX-18 software is present in three languages as standard; the
languages available are German, English and French. In this menu
you can select the language of your choice.
When you select this option, the currently active language is dis-
played flashing on the screen.
Rotate the 3-D hotkey to right or left
to select a different language for the
screen displays.
DEU = German
ENG - English
FRA - French
16
Trim
range
Normal
Reverse
DRSW 1
1 - Ailerons
DRSW 2
1 - Ailerons
2 - Elevator
DRSW 3
1 - Ailerons
4 - Rudder
DRSW 4
1 - Ailerons
2 - Elevator
4 - Rudder
H
S
Q
G
Order Numbers
F4090 - F4091 - F4092
F4095 - F4096 - F4097
7.1.8 Low voltage alarm (VOLT)
In this menu point you can adjust the voltage at which the trans-
mitter’s low voltage alarm is triggered.The range of adjustment is
from 8.5 to 9.5 Volts in 0.1 Volt increments.
When you select this option, the cur-
rently set low-voltage threshold flas-
hes on the screen.
Rotate the 3-D hotkey to set your pre-
ferred voltage threshold.
The purpose of this function is to adjust the low-voltage alarm to
suit different types and capacities of battery.
Caution:
Please don’t be tempted to see too low an alarm threshold. For
safetys sake it makes more sense to set the threshold slightly too
high than too low.The nominal voltage of an 8-cell transmitter bat-
tery is 9.6 Volts,and the pack is capable of maintaining this value for
a long time before it slowly starts to decline towards 8.8 Volts.
Around this value the battery voltage starts to fall off more rapidly.
Usually this "kink" in the voltage curve occurs around 1.1 Volts per
cell,i.e.8.8 Volts for the transmitter battery as a whole.
If you use a battery of relatively low capacity, or an NiMH battery,
we recommend setting a slightly higher threshold value (approx.9
Volts),so that there is still plenty of time for you to land your model
safely,especially if you are flying a glider at a great height.
In some other applications you will always be able to switch off the
transmitter safely very soon after the low voltage alarm is trigge-
red,and in such cases it may well be safe to reduce the threshold to
8.6 Volts in order to obtain longer operating times.You can estab-
lish exactly how long the residual operating time is by switching on
the transmitter in your modelling workshop, with the aerial fitted
and extended. Measure the time between the low voltage alarm
and the absolute bottom limit for the operating voltage, which is
7.5 Volts.
7.1.9 Multi-Switch-Prop function (MULT)
If the transmitter is set to PCM modulation,it is necessary to select
the transmission channel or channels for the Multi-Switch or Multi-
Prop expansion modules at the transmitter.This processes switches
those channels to the special modulation required for Multi-modu-
les. A channel set up for Multi-Switch-Prop transmission is no
longer available for a "normal" control function and mixers.
Important: the system will only work with PCM modulation if the
slide switch on the Multi-Switch or Multi-Prop decoder is also set to
PCM mode. If you use FM mode no changes are required at the
transmitter; however, the Multi-decoders must still be switched to
PPM modulation.
You can select up to two channels from channels 5…8 for Multi-
Switch-Prop operations by rotating the 3-D hotkey.
- Turning the hotkey to the left
activates the 1st channel
(left number) from 5…8, or
de-activates it if you select "-".
- Turning the hotkey to the right
selects the 2nd channel
(right number) from 5…8,or
de-activates it if you select "-".
In our example channels 5 and 6 are active for Multi mode.
If no Multi-modules are connected,
you must not select a channel for this
mode.
Set the display to "- -" to switch off the
Multi-module function.
7.1.10 Model memory reset (REST)
In this menu you can erase the model data in the currently active
model memory, i.e. set the memory back to the factory default set-
tings (Reset).
Reset (erase process)
- Press the 3-D hotkey;the screen displays OK? to check that you
really want to erase the data.
- If you do not want to erase the data,release the 3-D hotkey
immediately.
- If you do want to erase the data,hold the 3-D hotkey pressed in
for about two seconds.
- The symbols "SET" and "REST" (reset) now flash in the initial
display,and the beeper sounds once to indicate that erasure is
actually taking place.
- When the memory has been erased,the beeper sounds twice
and the "REST" display stops flashing.
7.2 Model memory select (MODL)
As standard the transmitter provides
12 model memories, and all the set-
tings you make are stored in them.
This is a very convenient method of
storing individual settings for diffe-
rent models and applications,which
can be called up again quickly when needed.To help you manage
the memory system, each model memory is numbered,and you
can also assign a short model name of 4 letters to each one.
CAMPac model memory modules can also be employed to expand
the model memory capacity virtually without limit (see also Section
4.4).
Move to the Select menu level and turn the 3-D hotkey until
"MODL" appears on the screen. A short press on the 3-D hotkey
switches to Setup mode.
- The screen shows the active model memory;in this case No.10.
- Turn the 3-D hotkey to select a new model memory (9).The
screen displays the currently active memory (10) at the top,and
the newly selected memory (9) at the bottom.
- Hold the 3-D hotkey pressed in for two seconds,and the system
accepts the new model memory and makes it active.
The beeper sounds to confirm this, and the screen shows the
newly selected model memory at both positions.
Important note:
The type of modulation - PCM or PPM - is stored with each
model.
If the modulation stored in the newly selected model memory
is different from the one you have just used, the PPM or PCM
symbol on the screen flashes.
This indicates that you must switch the transmitter off and on
again in order to confirm the switch to the new modulation.
17
1st Multi-
channel
2nd Multi-
channel
Order Numbers
F4090 - F4091 - F4092
F4095 - F4096 - F4097
The menu for model memory selection (MODL) also includes furt-
her functions which are indicated by the right-pointing arrow.A
brief press on the "S" button takes you to the next menu point:
model memory copy.
Model memory copy (COPY)
This function is used to copy the contents of a model memory.This
is a very useful function when you wish to program a model which
is similar to an existing one.
All you do is copy the contents of one model memory to another
free memory, change the model name and correct the settings for
the new model.This saves the bother of entering the basic func-
tions for the new model,and shortens the set-up time considerably.
- Initially the COPY menu shows the same model memory in both
positions.
- Turn the 3-D hotkey to select the model memory into which the
copy is to be placed.
- The upper model memory number (10) shows the source,from
which the data is to be copied,and the bottom one (9) the
destination,into which it is to be copied.
- Hold the 3-D hotkey pressed in for 2 seconds.
- The beeper gives an audible indication of the progress of the
copy process:
- 1 x beep -> start of the copy process
- 2 x beep -> end of the copy process
The model data from the current memory (10) has now been
copied into the newly selected one,but you have not yet switched
to the new model memory. If you want to activate the new
memory, you must use the Model Memory Select menu,as already
described;this is accessed by pressing the "H" button.
Entering the model name
If you press the "S" button again, you move to the Setup menu for
the model name.
- First the initial letter (here "M") flashes;by rotating the 3-D hot
key you can select any letter or numeral with which to start the
model name.Some special symbols are also available.
- Press the "S" button again to move to the next letter;press "H" to
move back again.
- A total of four letters can be entered for the model name.Once
you have entered the last letter,the arrow on the screen disap-
pears to indicate that you cannot enter any more letters.Hold
the "H" button pressed in for one second to move one level hig
her into the Select menu level.
7.3 Select model type (TYPE)
To control sophisticated model air-
craft many automatic links (mixers)
between the transmitter controls are
generally required.To make it easier
for the user to set up such models,the
FX-18 transmitter provides a wealth of
pre-programmed functions (mixer
menus).
The new function menus are included in the existing Base menu;
they are located before the base menu "PARA".
The 3-D hotkey and the screen are used to activate the mixers
required for the model in question,and to set the mixer values.
The mixer menus have been carefully optimised to suit the model
type you have selected.
The following model types are available for you to select:
BASC
Base menu for setting up the stan-
dard functions,and for operating sim-
ple models; also for multi-function
models such as boats and trucks.
ACRO
In addition to the base menu this
option activates special pre-pro-
grammed mixer functions designed
for powered model aircraft.
GLID
In addition to the base menu this
option activates special pre-pro-
grammed mixer functions designed
for model gliders.
HELI
In addition to the base menu this
option activates a comprehensive set
of pre-programmed mixer functions
designed for model helicopters.
Selecting the model type:
- Select the TYPE menu and press the 3-D hotkey.
- Rotate the hotkey to select the model type BASC - ACRO - GLID
or HELI.
- Press the 3-D hotkey,and the screen displays the security
query OK?; hold the hotkey pressed in until the "Set" display
appears.After about 3-4 seconds the transmitter emits a dou-
ble beep to confirm that the model type has changed.
- If you wish to interrupt the process,release the 3-D hotkey after
the OK? query appears on the screen.
7.4 Servo reverse (REVR)
This function is used to reverse the
direction of rotation of any servo or all
eight servos electronically.This means
that you do not need to take into
account the servos’direction of rota-
tion when installing them in the
model.
18
Order Numbers
F4090 - F4091 - F4092
F4095 - F4096 - F4097
You can simply install the servos in the position which produces the
most direct pushrod linkages, and later select the appropriate
direction of servo rotation.
Press the "S" or "H"
button to select the
desired channel; the
number flashes.
Turn the 3-D hotkey left to switch it to "reverse" (R),and turn it to
the right to reset it to "normal" rotation (N) again.An arrow above
or below the servo channel number clearly indicates the set direc-
tion of rotation.
7.5 Servo centre offset (STRM)
When installing servos in a model it is
always best to fit them in such a way
that the servo output arm is at neutral
when the transmitter trim is also at
centre.Sometimes this is just not pos-
sible,and sometimes servos of a diffe-
rent make may not centre properly,and this function can be used to
set the servos of all eight functions exactly to the correct neutral
position.
Move to the Setup menu, and select
the desired servo channel with the "S"
or "H" buttons.Turn the 3-D hotkey to
adjust the neutral position of the
selected servo.
The adjustment range is -125% to +125%.
Hold the 3-D hotkey pressed in for 1 second to revert to the default
value (0%).
The screen shots above show a few typical settings.
It is important that the deviation from centre
is not excessive, otherwise the servo travel
will be distinctly different for each side of
neutral.This function is not intended for cor-
recting deficiencies in a model’s control sur-
face linkages.
For special applications the centre setting
can be offset by as much as 125%, in which
case the servo covers its full arc of travel,but
only in one direction.
7.6 Servo travel adjustment (ATV)
This function provides the means to adjust
servo travel separately for each side of
centre.The range of adjustment is 0 to +/-
125% of the total servo travel, including
trim.
This is sometimes necessary where a mecha-
nical restriction, e.g.the control system lin-
kage,prevents the servo moving over its full
travel.The servo travel can then be reduced
to suit the installation.The function affects
the selected servo channel,and also reduces
all mixed functions involving that channel. Any change to the set-
ting also affects the trim travel proportionally,together with any
Dual Rate settings you have entered.
- At the top of the screen a small arrow under the row of numbers
indicates the selected channel.
- Move to the Setup menu and press the "S" or "H" button to
select the desired servo channel.
Any changes you make to the settings affect this servo channel
only.
In the example shown
here the system is set
up to change the servo
travel for the first chan-
nel (left aileron) of the model stored in memory number 10.The
arrow indicates the direction of travel which can currently be chan-
ged.You select the other side of centre by moving the associated
transmitter control.
In the case of the horizontal transmit-
ter controls the arrow indicates right
and left.With the vertical control func-
tions the arrow indicates up and
down. Press the "S" or "H" button to
select a different channel.
Rotate the 3-D hotkey to adjust the
travel as a percentage value from 0 to
125%,or from 0 to -125%.This process
must be carried out separately for
each side of centre for each function.
Holding the 3-D hotkey pressed in for
one second resets the value to the default setting (100%).
If you set a negative value (in this case
-20%) using the 3-D hotkey, the servo
runs in the same direction regardless
of the direction in which you move
the stick.This can be used to control
special working systems on certain
types of multi-function model.
7.7 Transmitter control travel (AFR)
Function for adjusting the travel of the transmitter control within
the range 0…100%,separately for each side of centre.
In contrast to servo travel reduction
(described above),this function also
affects any associated mixer func-
tions which you have activated.
A reduction in transmitter control
travel therefore affects the mixing
rate when two functions are mixed
onto one servo.
19
0-125%
left
0-125%
right
0-100%0-100%
Order Numbers
F4090 - F4091 - F4092
F4095 - F4096 - F4097
This means that two different transmitter controls with different
mixer values can influence a single servo.
A further application arises in conjunction with modern gyro
systems,which tend to increase or reduce servo travels.
This can be corrected by setting an appropriate value for transmit-
ter control travel; the value you set affects the pirouette speed of a
model helicopter.
Another possible use for this function is to reduce the transmitter
control travel to 0%; this disables the transmitter control comple-
tely,and the channel can then be used for a mixer (V-mix) without
running the risk that an accidental movement of the transmitter
control has an unwanted effect on the model.
The selected channel is indicated by a small arrow under the row of
numbers at the top of the screen.
Adjustments affect all the mixed channels which are affected
by the transmitter control channel in question.
In the example shown
here any adjustment
made will affect the
transmitter control tra-
vel for the 1st channel;
this applies to model
number 10.
The arrow indicates which direction can currently be programmed.
The side can be changed by moving the associated transmitter
control.
In the case of the horizontal transmit-
ter controls the arrow indicates right
and left. With the vertical control
functions the arrow indicates up and
down. Press the "S" or "H" button to
select a different channel.
Rotate the 3-D hotkey to adjust the
travel as a percentage value from 0 to
100%.
Holding the 3-D hotkey pressed in for
one second resets the value to the
default setting (100%).
7.8 Dual Rates - switchable reduced travels (D/R)
The Dual Rates facility allows the pilot
to select different control travels
during a flight simply by operating an
external mixer switch.You can set up
the function so that the switch selects
either larger or smaller travels when
you switch Dual Rates on.
If no switch is assigned,the D/R function can be used as a means of
setting permanent travel reduction which affects both sides of cen-
tre equally.
In this case it affects the servo channel corresponding to the trans-
mitter control you select, and also all other functions which are
affected (through mixers) by the same transmitter control.
Other mixed signals which affect the same servo output are not
affected,in contrast to standard servo travel limiting.
The external mixer switch should be connected to socket 4 (see
illustration in Section 4.7). A single switch can control 1, 2 or 3
functions.
This is achieved by setting up the switches in the PARA/DRSW
menu (see also "PARA" menu,Section 7.1.5).
The graph shows the characteristic curve of the different control tra-
vels.Note that the response is linear in both cases.When Dual Rates is
selected,the servo travel at full stick deflection is only 60%.
This option is available for the three primary control surface functions:
aileron,rudder and elevator.
The top part of the screen displays the functions to which travel
reduction can be applied.The arrow below the numbers indicates
which function is currently selected.
Press the "S" button to select the next
function. The flashing "%" symbol
shows that adjustment is possible;
rotate the 3-D hotkey to set the value.
Turning the 3-D hotkey to the left redu-
ces the control travel; turning it to the
right increases the value. The screen
displays the control travel you have set
in the form of a percentage number
between 0 and 100%.You can return to
the default setting (100%) by holding
the 3-D hotkey pressed in for about
two seconds.
For reasons of safety you should never reduce the Dual Rates
value to 0%,as this would give you no control at all for that func-
tion.We recommend 20% as the safe minimum value.
The exception to this rule is the case where you deliberately
assign no function to a particular transmitter control,should you
wish to use this channel to carry a self-generated mixer function
(V-MIX).
7.9 Exponential function (EXP)
The "EXPO" function affects the charac-
teristic curve of the transmitter sticks,
i.e.the linear association between stick
travel and servo travel is changed to a
non-linear (exponential) curve. The
basic purpose of EXPO is to provide fine
control of the model around the neu-
tral position.
The top part of the screen displays the
transmitter controls 1…4, for which
EXPO is available.
The arrow below "1" indicates that it is
currently possible to alter the setting
for transmitter control 1.The % symbol
flashes to show that the value can be
changed.
20
Transmitter control travel
Servo travel
Order Numbers
F4090 - F4091 - F4092
F4095 - F4096 - F4097
Note:the EXPO function is not available in the Heli program for the
throttle function (3), as the curve for this channel is adjusted sepa-
rately using a 3-point curve.
Rotate the 3-D hotkey to set the des-
ired % value for the exponential func-
tion.You can reset EXPO to the default
value (0%) by holding the 3-D hotkey
pressed in for 1 second.
For high-speed model aircraft a degressive control characteristic
(EXPO setting) is very often preferred.
This setting provides fine control of the model around the centre
position of each function, without having to forfeit full travel at the
end-points of stick travel.
Exponential can also offer advantages when beginners are learning
to fly.
The exponential curve can be set to operate in either direction:
- Positive prefix ->
powerful control
effect around neutral,
reducing towards the
extremes (curve 1).
- Negative prefix ->
reduced control effect
around neutral, incre-
asing towards the
extremes (curve 2).
- In each case full
servo travel is still
available at the stick
end-points.
The straight line represents the normal,linear association between
the transmitter control travel (set value 0%) and the servo.
The selected exponential setting affects the function of the selec-
ted transmitter control, and also all other functions which are
affected (through mixers) by this transmitter control.
Mixed signals from other transmitter controls which influence the
same servo output are not affected by the EXPO setting.
The exponential function is normally always active,but it can be
switched between two settings using a switch connected to sok-
kett 4.This does not apply to channel 3 (throttle).
A switch connected to socket 4 affects both D/R and Exponen-
tial.
If the D/R switch is also in use for the Dual Rates function,the expo-
nential setting is switched at the same time.In this case the same
exponential settings should be set for both switch positions.
This does not represent a limitation, as usually either the D/R or
EXPO function is set for a particular transmitter control or model; it
is also possible to select the transmitter controls which are assig-
ned to the switch connected to socket 4. This is done in the
PARA/DRSW menu.
An exponential setting also affects a transmitter control for which a
D/R travel reduction has already been set.
7.10 Linking mixers (VMIX1-3)
Operating the transmitter control
normally affects only the servo con-
nected to that channel. If the trans-
mitter control is to affect additional
servos,a mixer is required.
The software mixes part of the sig-
nal from the transmitter control into the signal for another channel.
For each mixer the proportion of the signal and its direction are
user-variable.
The software of the FX-18 includes three linking mixers, with a
dummy function and an offset function.These mixers can be used
to mix any control function with any other servo channel.
The mixer can be switched on and off in flight if an external mixer
switch is fitted,and its effect can also be adjusted in fight by means
of external mix trimmers.You can also select your preferred method
of working of the trims.
The method of operating and adjusting all three linking mixers
(VMX1-3) is identical.The only difference is that the mixer switches
and trimmers have to be connected to different sockets on the cir-
cuit board (see Section 4.7,Connecting the option modules).
With a linking mixer the signal from one transmitter control (mas-
ter) is passed to another transmitter channel (Slave).
The first step is to find your way to the
Setup menu for V-Mix 1. Initially SET
and the "%" display on the screen
flash, to indicate that the software is
ready to accept your desired value.
Rotate the 3-D hotkey to set the value
you wish to use. Percentage values
with a "+" prefix work in the same
direction as the transmitter control;
values with a "-" prefix work in the
opposite direction.
Press the "S" button until "INH" flas-
hes. INH means "inhibit", i.e. not
active.
Turn the 3-D hotkey to the left to acti-
vate the mixer.The screen now swit-
ches to "ON".
The mixer is now permanently swit-
ched on.The V-mixer can be switched
off (screen displays "OFF") if you con-
nect an external mixer switch to sok-
ket 1.
21
Transmitter control travel
Servo travel
Curve 1
(+%)
Curve 2
(-%)
Order Numbers
F4090 - F4091 - F4092
F4095 - F4096 - F4097
Press the "S" button until "MAS" (Mas-
ter) flashes.Turn the 3-D hotkey and
select the Master control, e.g. 3.The
arrow above the "MAS" row indicates
the selected Master channel.
Press the "S" button,and "SLV" (Slave)
now flashes.Turn the 3-D hotkey and
select the Slave control; in our exam-
ple we leave it at No. 2. The arrow
below the SLV row shows the Slave
channel you have selected.
Offset value (OFST)
Press the "S" button.You will now see
"OFST" on the screen. Here you can
set the point on the Master transmit-
ter control’s travel at which the
mixing is to occur.Usually this is the
centre position of the transmitter
control.
For some applications - for example,landing flaps or spoilers - it can
be useful to set the mixer to start its effect from one end-point of
the transmitter control.
To set this up move the Master transmitter control to the desired
position and hold the 3-D hotkey pressed in for 2 seconds.The
query "OK?" appears on the screen,and the new position is stored.
The beeper sounds twice to confirm this.
In our example we have set the Offset point to coincide with motor
idle.
Trim mixing (TRIM)
Press the "S" button. This function
allows you to select whether the digi-
tal trim of the Master channel is also
to affect the Slave transmitter control.
This may be necessary,for example,if
your model features two separate
elevator servos.
Both control surfaces are mixed together at the 100% rate,and you
no longer need a Y-lead.
Of course,the trim must affect both elevators.
Rotate the 3-D hotkey to the left to switch trim mixing on, and to
the right to switch it off.
In our example the setting is left at "OFF".
This completes the setup process.The screen shows a mixer com-
pletely programmed.
In this case the throttle (3) is set as the Master channel,with a mixer
rate of +20% affecting the elevator (Slave channel 2).
The effect of this mixer is as follows:at full-throttle a 20% down-ele-
vator deflection is automatically applied, to prevent the model
climbing too strongly at full motor power.
This type of mixer is often recommended for highly-powered elec-
tric model aircraft (hot-line models) and power trainers.
You may find it necessary to change the prefix from "+" to "-",
depending on the orientation of the elevator servo, in order to
obtain down-elevator compensation rather than up-elevator.
In model aircraft the optimum mixer value often cannot be predic-
ted accurately,and you have to establish it in a series of test-flights.
If you install an external mix trimmer,the convenient linking mixer
facility of the FX-18 allows you to use it to override the pre-set per-
centage value by +/- 25% This makes it easy to determine the opti-
mum value with the model in flight.
To achieve this, connect an external mix trimmer (as described on
page 10) to socket 1,and switch the trimmer to active (see also Sec-
tion 7.15).
Dummy function
As is shown in the adjacent screen
shot, the software also allows you to
select "no" Master channel. This
means that the selected mixer value is
mixed into the selected Slave channel.
In the example shown here a 5% proportion of the elevator signal
(down-elevator) is mixed in.This can be used,for example, to avoid
having to hold the elevator constantly in this position for a speed
flying task.The function can also be used to set a fixed rotational
speed or servo position.
The V-MIX 1 - 3 linking mixers are all set up, adjusted and operated
in the same manner.
Sockets Mixer switch Mix trimmer
V-MIX 1 1 1
V-MIX 2 2 2
V-MIX 3 3 3
Special feature:stick-to-stick mixing
All the VMIX 1-3 mixer functions act directly on the Slave transmit-
ter control.
If the Slave transmitter control already operates other pre-pro-
grammed mixer functions (V-tail,X-mixer etc.),this results in what is
known as cascading,or superimposed mixer functions.
The advantage of this new type of "stick to stick" mixing is that one
can mix directly into existing mixer functions.
Depending on the type of mixer,this means that you can mix a
signal into the transmitter control in such a way that another
servo function operates in the opposite direction, or in the
same direction.
An interesting example is the combination of an X-mixer with a V-
mixer,in order to connect separately actuated elevators and ope-
rate them in parallel as ailerons;a system known as "tailerons" (AIL-
VATOR).This can be used on the robbe Hunter, for example, where
the tailerons provide better and more axial roll response.
This is the procedure:
Connect the servos to the receiver:
1 = Ailerons
2 = Elevator
3 = Rudder
4 = Throttle (speed controller)
5 = Elevator (2nd servo)
Activate an X-mix (dual mixer). Set up channel 2 as the Master,
channel 5 as the Slave, and a mixer rate of 100% in both cases.See
also the description of the X-MIX mixers which follows.
Now select V-Mix 1, activate it and set it to operate from MAS 1 to
SLV 5;mixer rate 50-100%,trim ON.
This concludes the setup procedure.
22
Order Numbers
F4090 - F4091 - F4092
F4095 - F4096 - F4097
7.11 Dual mixers (XMIX)
A mixer which combines two func-
tions equally,with both superimposed
on the other,is termed a dual mixer or
cross-mixer.In this case there are two
Master functions instead of a Master
and a Slave.
A good example of a dual mixer is the type required for delta model
aircraft.When up-elevator is applied,both wing flaps must move up
together, but when an aileron command is given, the right flap
should move up, the left flap down, i.e. they move in opposition to
each other. When aileron is applied the aileron channel is the
Master control.When elevator is applied the elevator channel is the
Master,i.e. the signals are mixed equally, and neither takes prece-
dence.
The software of the FX-18 includes one freely programmable dual
mixer (XMIX),which means that you can select any two of the trans-
mitter controls 1 - 8 for the mixer,without restriction. In the follo-
wing example the control functions for a model delta are combined
in a dual mixer.This means that the transmitter controls 1 (ailerons)
and 2 (elevator) have to be mixed together.
Initially the % display flashes,and on
the screen at top left you see "MAS".
The arrow above the number, e.g. 3,
shows that the mixer value (%) for
control function 3 is available for
adjustment. For the moment we will
leave that value at +50%.
Press "S" to move on within the menu
until "SLV" appears, and the arrow
above the number changes to, say, 4.
You can now set the mixer value (%)
for control function 4. We will also
leave its value at +50% for the
moment.
Move on with the "S" button until
"INH" (INH - mixer function switched
off) flashes, then turn the 3-D hotkey
to the left to switch on the X-Mix dual
mixer (ON).
Press the "S" button again until "MAS" flashes,and the arrow in the
top row shows the control function you have selected.
- Rotate the 3-D hotkey to select function 1 (aileron).
- Press "S" again;"SLV" flashes,and you can select the second con-
trol function.
- Move the bottom arrow under the number 2 (elevator) by rota-
ting the 3-D hotkey.
The mixer is now set to combine the control functions aileron and
elevator, in each case with 50% inputs for elevator and aileron.
Depending on the physical orientation of the servos and the con-
trol surface linkages you may find it necessary to reverse the direc-
tion of servo rotation, or the direction of mixing,so that the servos
move in the same direction for elevator control and in the "correct"
opposite directions for aileron control.
The first step should always be to reverse the servos as required in
order to make the elevator function work correctly.
If the mixer then works in the wrong direction, set the elevator
mixer input (SLV 2) to -50% instead of +50%.as shown in the screen
shot.
You may now find that you need more aileron response than eleva-
tor,in which case the percentage value for "MAS" 1 should be incre-
ased.The mixer inputs can be varied independently of each other
within the range 0% to +/- 100%.
This type of X-mixer is also suitable for superimposing the motor
and steering functions of chain-driven vehicles, and can be useful
for twin-motor model boats. In this case the control functions
motor (3) and steering (1 or 4) are usually mixed at a rate of 100% in
each case.
7.12 Digital trims (TRIM)
Stick function trims are
required in order to make
adjustments to the neutral
settings, so that a model
running or flying with the
sticks centred actually runs
straight ahead.
Minor corrections to the
centre settings are carried
out by adjusting the associ-
ated trim.
The FX-18 transmitter is equipped with a digital trim function.This
modern type of trim offers the important advantage that the
system automatically reverts to the previously set trim values when
you switch to a different model memory, i.e. when you decide to
use a different model.
This eliminates the need to check and re-trim the new model.The
trim values for each model are stored in the individual model
memory.
Each stick function features a momentary micro push-button with
two switch positions.These buttons can be operated with great
sensitivity.
The position of the trim is indicated on the screen by a black square
which moves a greater or lesser distance from the centre position in
the direction of the trim offset.
The beeper sounds every time you push one of the four digital trim
buttons,so that you can also check the change in settings by ear,
without having to look at the screen.
In this screen shot all four trims are in
the neutral position.This is indicated
by a double arrow for each trim,and a
black square which is exactly in the
centre.
If you now push the trim button of the
right stick (vertical plane) forward,the
associated square moves up by one
increment. A total of 30 trim incre-
ments are available to each side of
centre, and for each trim increment
the servo moves through about 0.5°.
Since the length of the trim display bar is limited, the display alter-
nates as you continue to push the trim:first one square,then two
squares.
23
H
Q
Order Numbers
F4090 - F4091 - F4092
F4095 - F4096 - F4097
After the 6th trim increment the dis-
play reaches the top limit of the
screen. At this point the display chan-
ges to a single arrow,which indicates
the direction in which the trim has
been moved.
The display scrolls in the appropriate direction, so that the com-
plete bar travel can be seen.The display also changes,and the trim
button must be pushed twice to update the display and add a furt-
her square.
To help you locate the neutral point easily,when the neutral posi-
tion is reached the trim briefly "misses",and you will hear a double
beep.
Release the trim button at this point,and you have found the exact
neutral position. With a little practice you will find that you can
adjust the trim values "blind",and can locate the exact neutral posi-
tion without having to look at the transmitter itself.
Any major trim value offsets from the neutral point should be cor-
rected at the servo output arm or pushrod, otherwise you will
notice a difference in servo travel to each side of centre.
All the other trims work on the same principle.
7.12.1 Trim parameters
In this menu you can adjust the digi-
tal trim parameters "trim travel" and
"increment size".
These are stored in the model
memory, and thus can be optimised
for each model separately.
7.12.2 Trim travel (RATE)
For some applications it is necessary
to reduce the normal trim travel
(approx.+/- 15%). If the trim travel is
reduced, the value for the individual
trim increments also becomes smal-
ler, i.e. finer trim control becomes
available.
This is essential in some cases, especially when using a Heading
Lock gyro,in order to set the neutral position with great accuracy.
In the case of SMM gyros in AVCS mode it may even be desirable to
switch off the trim entirely (Rate 0%),in order to prevent accidental
trim changes.
To adjust the trim rate select the appropriate transmitter control
(1…4) using the "S" or "H" button,and rotate the 3-D hotkey to set
the desired value.
7.12.3 Trim increment (STEP)
In this sub-menu you can set the size
of each increment or step which
occurs when the trim button is pus-
hed.
The increment can be adjusted in
steps of 0 to 30.
A small increment size produces very fine trim control,but requires
more button-pushes in order to offset the trim by a relatively great
amount.
At the other extreme a large increment means that the trim can be
adjusted quickly,but the trim offset per increment is not so fine.
Table of trim increments:
Step 0 = Trim switched off
Step 1 = 120 Button pushes
Step 4 = 30 Button pushes (default value)
Step 8 = 15 Button pushes
Step 10 = 12 Button pushes
Step 20 = 6 Button pushes
Step 30 = 4 Button pushes
7.13 Motor cut (TCUT)
The purpose of this option is to ena-
ble you to cut the motor without
adjusting the idle trim. You will
require an external mixer switch for
this function, connected to socket 5
(see Section 4.7).
Use the 3-D hotkey to adjust the position which the throttle servo is
to take up when you operate the switch.The set value of 0…+/-
40% corresponds to the idle trim travel of around +/- 15%.The pre-
set position varies according to the throttle stick position.
For use with internal-combustion engines asymmetric throttle trim
should also be activated (see Section 7.1.4).
- Find your way to the Select menu "TCUT".
- A brief press on the 3-D hotkey takes you to the Setup menu;the
"%" display flashes.
- You can now change the percentage value by rotating the 3-D
hotkey; a good starting point is 25%.Hold the 3-D hotkey pres
sed in for 1 second to revert to the default value (0%).
- Press the "S" button,and "INH" (OFF) flashes.Rotating the 3-D
hotkey to the left switches the mixer on (ON);the symbol "Mix"
appears on the screen to indicate an active mixer.The screen
shows the symbol "ON" or "OFF" depending on the position
of the switch.
- If the throttle cut is still switched on (ON) when you switch on
the transmitter,the software activates a mixer alarm:the screen
shows the symbol "MIX" and the beeper sounds.Reverse the
position of the external mixer switch (5) once to switch off the
alarm.
- This alarm function is inten-
ded to remind the user that
the carburettor is completely
closed,and the motor there-
fore cannot be started.
- To start the motor the throttle
cut function must be set to
"OFF".
- Now carefully set the percen
tage value so that the carbu-
rettor is closed,but the push
rod does not strike its end-
stop.
- If you operate the external
mixer switch to switch off the
throttle cut,i.e.for running the engine normally,the screen
displays "OFF".
7.14 Stopwatch (ST-W)
The software includes a stopwatch
which can be set to count up or down,
and is started either by a transmitter
channel or a separate mixer switch.
This function can be used to record
your model’s flight times (counting
up),or to record motor runs (counting
down),e.g.with an electric-powered model.In either case the stop-
watch can display the results on the screen.
The following section explains the stopwatch setup process using
the example of an upward counting stopwatch with a pre-set time
of 1 min 10 sec; the timer is to be controlled by the transmitter
throttle channel 3.
24
Servo
travel
Trim travel
Throttle
shut-off
travel
Order Numbers
F4090 - F4091 - F4092
F4095 - F4096 - F4097
- Move to the Select menu "ST-W".
- A brief press on the 3-D hotkey takes you to the Setup menu,
and the display "0" under M (for minutes) flashes.
- Move on by pressing the "H" button until "INH" flashes.Turn the
3-D hotkey to the left to switch on the stopwatch.The screen
now shows "ON".
- Continue by pressing the "H" button until "up" flashes.By
turning the 3-D hotkey to the left you can select whether the
stopwatch counts up (up),i.e.from 0 seconds to the pre-set time,
or down (dn),i.e.starting from the pre-set time.For our example
we will leave it at "up".
- Press the "H" button again;the mixer switch "S1" flashes.
- Rotate the 3-D hotkey to select the transmitter control you wish
to use,or a mixer switch.In this case +C3 (C = Channel 3).
- This means:
C1...C8 = Transmitter channels 1 ...8.
S1 ...S8 = mixer switch 1 ...8
+/- indicates the direction of switching,i.e.the position at which
the switch is on or off.
- As soon as you select
transmitter control "C" for
the stopwatch,the screen
shows "SET" to indicate that
you can now set the switch
trigger point to any position
of the transmitter control.
Set the transmitter control to the position of your choice,and
hold the 3-D hotkey pressed in for 1 second;the new trigger
point is accepted.
- Continue by pressing the "H" button,and the Seconds display
flashes.Rotate the 3-D hotkey to set the seconds (10 sec).
- Continue by pressing the "H" button again,and the Minutes
display flashes.Rotate the 3-D hotkey to set the number of
minutes (1 min).
That concludes all the settings for our example. If you now move
the throttle stick 3 forward past the set trigger point,the stopwatch
starts running. If you move the stick back below the trigger point,
the timer stops.
To check the timer function,switch from the Setup menu "ST-W" to
HOME menu 3,where the stopwatch function is displayed.
Since we have programmed a count-
up timer, the stopwatch starts at 0:00
and runs up to the pre-set time.
The beeper emits the following
signals to keep you informed of
progress:
- Every time the stopwatch starts or stops (1 x brief)
- Every full minute (1 x brief)
- The last 10 seconds before reaching the pre-set time,every
second thereafter (in each case 1 x brief)
- When the pre-set time has elapsed (1 x long)
- When the set time is exceeded,the timer continues running and
the overall time is displayed on the screen.
- The stopwatch can be stopped and started again at any time;in
each case it resumes running from the last stored value.
- Reset the stopwatch by pressing the 3-D hotkey twice
briefly.Switching off the transmitter also has the same
effect.
The stopwatch function is specific to each model memory; if you
select a different model memory,you can configure a different type
of stopwatch exactly as you wish.
7.15 External mix trimmers (VOLM)
If you wish to make adjustments when your model is flying or
running, the mix trimmers must be switched to active. It is also
possible to switch the trimmers off, to ensure that the correct
values,once established,are not lost by mistake.
- Find your way to the Setup menu "VOLM"
- Press the "S" button to select the trimmer number you wish to
configure;the selected number flashes.The sequence is
identical to that of the physical sockets on the circuit board.
- Rotate the 3-D hotkey to move the arrow below the number;the
arrow positions mean:
Arrow above -> trimmer switched off
Arrow below -> trimmer switched on
The mix trimmer and adjustor assignments vary according to the
selected model type, and are described in detail in the separate
Sections relating to power models,gliders and helicopters.
25
On
Off
Switching
point
Basic model type
Mix trimmer - assignment:
1 = Mixer ratio V-Mix 1
2 = Mixer ratio V-Mix 2
3 = Mixer ratio V-Mix 3
4 = free
5 = free
6 = free
7 = free
8 = free
Order Numbers
F4090 - F4091 - F4092
F4095 - F4096 - F4097
7.16 Fail-Safe settings (F/S)
This function is only available in PCM
mode; you must first set the transmit-
ter to this modulation (see Section
7.1.1, Parameter menu). The model
must be fitted with a robbe-Futaba
PCM receiver.
In the Fail-Safe menu you can carry out the following adjustments
for channels 1…8.
1."NOR" (Normal),or Hold mode.
The receiver stores the last error-free signals,and passes them on to
the servos if interference occurs.
These signals are maintained until valid signals are picked up again
from the transmitter.
2.(F/S) Fail-Safe position.
In this case the servos run to a position pre-programmed at the
transmitter;these values are also stored in the receiver.As standard
the fail-safe value for the throttle channel is activated at a value of
20%.
A "Battery fail-safe" function is also available.
As soon as the voltage of the receiver battery falls below a value of
around 3.8 V,the throttle servo runs to a pre-set position (20%) in
order to indicate to the pilot that the model’s receiver battery is
dangerously low.
You must land immediately if this should occur.
The battery fail-safe function can be reset for a period of 30
seconds by moving the throttle stick briefly below the pro-
grammed fail-safe position.The throttle servo will then revert to
the pilot’s control.This can be repeated as required.
This function is active even if you do not program a F/S setting
for the throttle channel.
Don’t set too low a value for the throttle,otherwise the motor could
stop at an awkward moment. The default value of 20% can, of
course,be overwritten.
The F/S settings should be carried out separately for each model
type. For example,a helicopter should be set to a safe hover,whe-
reas a fixed-wing model should be set to a broad turning pattern.
Program the settings which allow the model to fly by itself for a
while in an inherently stable flight attitude.This should allow the
model to survive unscathed if brief interference strikes, until con-
tact with the transmitter is restored.
You can check the settings by switching off the transmitter,and
watching the response of the servos in the model.
The Fail-Safe settings are automatically transmitted to the
receiver at intervals of about 60 seconds.
To ensure that the data is actually stored in the receiver,you should
wait for at least 60 seconds between switching on the transmitter
and operating the model.
- Move to the Select menu "F/S".
- Press the 3-D hotkey briefly to move to the Setup menu.
- Use the "S" and "H" buttons to select the control channels which
are to be set to Fail-Safe (F/S).
- Rotate the 3-D hotkey clockwise to activate the Fail-Safe option.
If you wish to revert to the basic setting (NOR),turn the 3-D hot
key to the left.
- The triangle symbol shows the status of each control channel.
- Now move the sticks for all the channels for which an F/S setting
is to be made to the desired Fail-Safe position simultaneously,
and hold the 3-D hotkey pressed in for at least 1 second to store
the settings.
General notes on the Base program
The options listed for the ‘BASCmixer program are also available in
the special programs (ACRO,GLID and HELI).
As a general rule you can make use of additional, model-specific
functions by selecting the special programs; these are in addition
to those in the Base menu.
The expanded functions are included in the rotation loop, and can
be found in the screen sequence before the menu point PARA.
Servo assignment in the ACRO menu:
Channel 1: Aileron
Channel 2: Elevator
Channel 3: Throttle
Channel 4: Rudder
Channel 5: Auxiliary channel (retracts)
Channel 6: Aileron 2
Channel 7: Auxiliary channel,optionally Aileron 2
Channel 8: Auxiliary channel
26
Channel 1
Channel 6/7
Channel 2
Channel 3
Channel 4
Order Numbers
F4090 - F4091 - F4092
F4095 - F4096 - F4097
8.2 Assignment of external switches and mix trimmers (ACRO)
The assignment of the external mixer switches and mix trimmers
varies according to the selected model type.
Switch assignment for power model program:
1 = V-mix 1
2 = V-mix 2 / Snap
3 = V-mix 3
4 = Dual Rates (D/R)
5 = Throttle cut (TCUT)
6 = Combi-switch (AI>R)
7 = Aileron differential (DIFF)
8 = Landing pre-sets (LAND)
Mix trimmer assignment for power model program:
1 = Mixer ratio,V-Mix 1
2 = Mixer ratio,V-Mix 2
3 = Mixer ratio,V-Mix 3
4 = Aileron differential input
5 = Mixer ratio,V-tail,elevator
6 = Mixer ratio,V-tail,rudder
7 = Mixer ratio flap - elevator
8 = Unused
8.3 Combi-mixer (AI-R)
The software of the FX-18 includes a pre-programmed aileron -
rudder compensation mixer which can be switched on and off in
flight.The mixer couples the ailerons and rudder in such a way that
only one stick needs to be operated when flying a turn.
This is especially useful when flying
large power models, since the
negative roll moment (adverse yaw)
of the model works against the
ailerons when the model is turning.
Automatic rudder compensation can eliminate this effect. This
mixer function is similar to the V-MIX linking mixers: part of the
aileron signal is passed to the rudder channel,and at the same time
the rudder stick retains full control of its own function.
Coupled rudder can be an embarrassment on the landing
approach and in some other manoeuvres, so this option can be
switched on and off in flight by means of a switch connected to
socket 6.
- Move to the "AI-R" display in the Select menu.
- Press the 3-D hotkey;"%" flashes.
- Press the "S" button;"INH" flashes.
- Turn the 3-D hotkey to the left,the display switches to "ON",the
mixer is activated;it can be switched "OFF" by means of an
external switch.
27
8.Powered model aircraft (ACRO)
The mixer program for power models provides a range of special
menus for this type of model aircraft, in addition to the basic func-
tions already described.
These menus are integrated into the rotation loop, and can be
found before the Parameter menu (PARA) when you have already
selected the corresponding model type in the TYPE menu.See also
Section 7.3.
Please note the servo sequence on the previous page.
8.1 Menu structure of the power model program
Page 27
Page 30
Page 31
Page 32
Page 28
Setup menu level
Select menu level
Page 32
1 sek
Legend:
Rotate 3-D
hotkey
Press "S"
button
Press "H"
button
Press 3-D
hotkey
Order Numbers
F4090 - F4091 - F4092
F4095 - F4096 - F4097
- Press the "S" button again;"%" flashes.
- Turn the 3-D hotkey,and you can set the mixer value you wish to
use;50% is a good starting point.
- Check that the rudder moves to the right when you give a "right
aileron" command (right aileron up).
- If that is not the case,turn the 3-D hotkey left to set a negative
mixer value of -50%.Check the function again.Holding the 3-D
hotkey pressed in for 1 second reverts to the default value of
50%.
8.4 Wing mixers (WING)
This menu point groups together various mixers involving the
control surfaces on the wings,and offers a very convenient method
of setting them up.
FLPN sub-menu: with this function you can add differential travel
to the two ailerons, and also (optionally) set up the ailerons to rise
together to work as spoilers; this function is known as a flaperon
mixer (flap + aileron = flaperon).
In the ELVN sub-menu you can activate a pre-programmed mixer
for delta or flying wing model aircraft.
The flow chart below provides an overview of the individual sub-
menus to help you find your way around.
Explanation of terms:
Since the mixer inputs for the wing flap travels can be set separately
for "up" and "down",the ailerons can be used for several functions;
their function varies according to the flap travel:
- Large deflection up -> spoilers
- Small deflection up -> speed flaps for high-speed flying
- Large deflection down -> landing flaps
It is possible to program the wing flap deflection in the same
direction for both sides of centre;for example:large "up" deflection
as spoilers, at the other extreme only slight "up" as speed flight
trim.
To help you understand and emulate the following
adjustments,we recommend that you set up a model with two
aileron servos (sockets 1 and 6),or just two servos on their own,
and observe the effects of the mixer on the model.
Flaperon mixer FLPN
- Move to the Select menu "WING".
- Press the 3-D hotkey,and the display "INH" (Off) appears; the
flaperon and delta mixers are switched off.
- Turn the 3-D hotkey to the right,and the Setup menu FLPN
appears;confirm by pressing the "S" button,and the display "SET
%" flashes.
- The two aileron servos (channels 1 and 6) are now mixed
together;the flap function (FLPN) is also active,and aileron
differential is set to the default of +50%.
- The FLPN function can be operated over its full travel by
means of a transmitter control (e.g.linear slider) connected
to channel 6.
- Check the "sense" of the aileron system:when you move the
aileron stick to the right,the right-hand aileron should rise,the
left aileron fall.If one or both servos runs in the wrong direction,
reverse it in the Setup menu "REVR".
- Check also that the travel of the down-going aileron is now
smaller (correct differential).
If this is not the case, i.e. the travel of the up-going aileron is
smaller, press the "S" button.The "+" prefix now flashes; rotate the
3-D hotkey to the left, and the prefix changes to "-", which reverses
the differential.
0% No differential
50% Differential by half the maximum travel
100% "Split" mode:only the up-going aileron moves
If you connect an external mix trimmer to Pin 4 (see Section 8.2)
the differential value can be over-ridden by +/- 25%; this enables
you to set the correct differential in flight.
If you connect an external mixer switch to socket 7, you can
switch off differential in flight, which produces greater aileron
response for the landing approach.
Holding the 3-D hotkey pressed in for 1 second restores the default
differential value (+50%).
Selecting the 2nd aileron output (CH)
Pressing the "S" button again activates the menu in which you can
select the output to which the second aileron is to be connected.
The default arrangement is channel "6".
Turning the 3-D hotkey to the left switches it to channel "7".
If you select channel 7 for the
second aileron output, the wing
flpn mixer function is automatically
switched off.
If you connect a transmitter control,e.g.a linear slider,to channel 6,
it acts as a normal transmitter control on servo channel 6.
This is the correct setting for model aircraft which require aileron
differential,but no superimposed flap function for the ailerons.
The second aileron servo must be connected to receiver output
7;re-connect the servo if necessary.
28
Order Numbers
F4090 - F4091 - F4092
F4095 - F4096 - F4097
Setting flap travel (flaperon) (FLTR)
Provided that you have selected channel 6 as the second aileron
channel, you can now press the "S" button to move on to a further
sub-menu in which you can set the travels for the flaperon option
(flaps).If the mixer is switched off (INH),flap travel is 100%.
- The first step is to activate the mixer.
- The "INH" symbol flashes;turn the 3-D hotkey to the left to "ON".
- Press the "S" button; the "%" symbol flashes.
- The flap servo travels can now be set for each direction of the
transmitter control separately.The default setting is 30%.
- Move the linear slider 6 or the throttle stick forward;the arrow
should point up.If the arrow points down, locate the plug from
the linear slider at the circuit board and turn it through 180°.
- Travel is adjusted by rotating the 3-D hotkey.The adjustment
range is -100% to +100%.
- Pull the linear slider 6 back,and set the flap travel for the "down"
direction.
- Holding the 3-D hotkey pressed in for 1 second reverts to the
default value (30%).
The diagrams show an example in which large "up" travel has been
set for use as spoilers (65% = approx. 40º flap travel), while the
"down" travel is smaller,for use as camber-changing flaps,intended
to give a slight increase in wing lift.
Offset (centre offset)
To make it easier to control the spoilers in flight it is desirable to set
a defined position for the retracted and extended flaps when
acting as spoilers.
This can be achieved by offsetting the centre position of the spoiler
control (linear slider or stick) to any desired position.
In our example this is the end-point of the transmitter control.
- Press the "S" button until "SET" on the screen flashes.
- Move the linear slider or stick to the desired position,then hold
the 3-D hotkey pressed in for 1 second.
- This causes the software to adopt the new transmitter control
position as the "new zero setting".
Dead zone range (LIMT); only active if FLTR = "ON"
Pressing the "S" button again takes
you to the "LIMT" menu, in which you
can set a "dead zone".
This makes sense if the spoilers are operated by a linear slider,as it
is easy (and unwanted) to extend the spoilers slightly by accident.
To prevent this you can set a particular point on the spoiler travel
after which the transmitter control starts to have effect; this is done
in the LIMT menu.
- 1 = "Dead zone"; transmitter control has no effect
- 2 = Limit point
- 3 = Active airbrake travel
- Move the transmitter control (stick or linear slider) to the posi
tion at which the Limit point (2) is to be located.
- Now hold the 3-D hotkey pressed in until the new position is
displayed on the screen as a percentage of the control travel.
- Rotating the 3-D hotkey reverses the prefix,so that you can
select whether the active brake range lies above or below the
Limit point.
29
Offset position
Order Numbers
F4090 - F4091 - F4092
F4095 - F4096 - F4097
8.5 Delta mixer (ELVN)
This mixer combines the signals of
the ailerons and elevators for use in
model aircraft of the delta or flying
wing configuration.
It works in the same way as the XMIX
mixer (see also Section 7.11), but is
programmed permanently for the aileron and elevator channels.
When you operate the elevator stick, both servos run in the same
direction; move the aileron stick, and they run in opposite
directions.
The travels for the aileron and elevator functions are separately
variable,and aileron differential is also available as standard.
The left aileron servo is connected to
receiver output 1 (Aileron) and the
right servo to channel 2 (Elevator).
- Move to the Wing mixer (WING) menu at the Select level.
- A short press on the 3-D hotkey takes you to the sub-menu
where you can select between the Flaperon (FLPN) and Delta
mixers (ELVN);select ELVN by turning the hotkey to the right.
- Press the "S" button to reach the Setup menu level.
- The screen shows arrows under the numbers,indicating that the
two functions 1 and 2 are mixed.
- The arrow above the numbers and the flashing "SET and %"
indicate that the mixer value for Function 1 (Aileron) can now be
adjusted.
- Rotate the 3-D hotkey to enter the servo travel as a percentage
between -100% and +100%.The default value of 50% can be left
in place for the moment.
- Press the 3-D hotkey for 1 second to revert to the default value
(+50%).
- A further press on the "S" button highlights the Elevator channel
(2).You can now set up the aileron servo travel in exactly the
same way as just described.
Depending on the physical orientation of the servos and the
control surface linkages you may find it necessary to reverse the
direction of servo rotation, or the direction of mixing, so that the
servos move in the same direction for elevator control and in the
"correct" opposite directions for aileron control.
The first step should always be to reverse the servos as required in
order to make the elevator function work correctly.If the mixer then
works in the wrong direction, set the elevator mixer input (2) to -
50%.
You may find it necessary to set different travels for the two
functions.In our experience most models are more sensitive to the
elevator,and therefore require slightly more travel for the ailerons.
When setting the control surface travels, check that the servos
do not strike their mechanical end-stops at full stick travel
when the functions are superimposed.
Aileron differential
- Press the "S" button again to reach the aileron differential menu.
- Set the desired program values using the 3D-hotkey.
- Check that the travel of the
down-going aileron is now
smaller.
If this is not the case,i.e.the travel of the up-going aileron is smaller,
press the "S" button. The "+" prefix now flashes; rotate the 3-D
hotkey to the left, and the prefix changes to "-", which reverses the
differential.
Explanation:
0% No differential
50% Differential by half the maximum travel
100% "Split" mode:only the up-going aileron moves
Note: the ELVN and VTAL mixer functions are mutually exclusive,
i.e. only one of them can be used.They are locked electronically to
prevent this.If you have activated one mixer function, the other
cannot be activated.
8.6 Camber-changing flaps -> elevator mixer (FL>E)
When you deploy the flaps (see also Section 8.4) many models
exhibit a pitch trim change,i.e. nose up or down.The pilot usually
has to compensate for this with an elevator command.
The FX-18 also provides a mixer to solve this problem, i.e. it
automatically provides the corrective elevator movement.
The following example assumes that the ailerons have been
programmed in the WING menu in such a way that they move up
through about 45º in order to act as a landing aid.This generally
requires a down-elevator trim correction of around -10%.
Note: it may be necessary to mix in a little up-elevator (+10%),
depending on the model’s layout and tail moment arm.
30
Channel 1
Channel 2
Aileron deflection
Aileron deflection
Elevator deflection
Elevator Aileron
Order Numbers
F4090 - F4091 - F4092
F4095 - F4096 - F4097
- Move to the Select menu "FL>E"
- A short press on the 3-D hotkey takes you to the Setup menu,
and the "%" display flashes.
- Rotating the 3-D hotkey changes the percentage value;we
recommend a starting point of -10%.Hold the 3-D hotkey
pressed in for 1 second to revert to the default value (+50%).
- Press the "H" button,and "INH" (OFF) will flash.Turn the 3-D
hotkey to the left and switch the mixer on (ON).
- The mixer function is now active;carry out a check on your
model.
If you connect an external mix trimmer to Pin 7,the optimum value
can be adjusted in flight.The trimmer allows you to over-ride the
pre-set value by +/- 25%.
If you have activated the mixer FLTR in the WING menu (Section
8.4),any neutral point alterations (offset) and dead zone values
(LIMT) you set at that point are automatically adopted by this
mixer.
If you carry out a neutral point offset in this menu (hold the "S"
button pressed in until "SET" flashes, then hold the 3-D hotkey
pressed in for 1 second),this in turn is also adopted in the menu
"WING".
This feature saves you having to switch between the two menus.
Special case
If the FLTR mixer has not been activated in the WING menu,the
full aileron travel is available as a flap function.In this case it is
necessary to set the neutral point here for the elevator
compensation mixer.
This is the procedure:
- Press the "S" button until "SET" flashes.
- Move the transmitter control for the flaps to the position at
which the flaps are retracted (neutral point)
- Hold the 3-D hotkey pressed in for 1 second;the elevator now
moves to the new neutral position,and will be mixed in with the
flaps from this position.
Dead zone (LIMT)
This function also only needs to be set
if the FLTR mixer is switched off,
otherwise the value is taken from the
LIMT setting in the WING menu. As
with the offset point,any adjustments
made here also take effect in the
WING / LIMT menu.
If the FLTR mixer in the WING menu has not been activated,the full
aileron travel is available as a flap function. In this case the Limit
function for the elevator compensation is set in this menu.
This is the procedure:
- Press the "S" button until "LIMT" flashes.
- Move the transmitter control for the flaps to the position at
which the flaps are retracted (neutral point).
- Hold the 3-D hotkey pressed in for 1 second;the elevator now
moves to the new neutral position,and will be mixed in with the
flaps from this position.
- You can set whether the Limit function takes effect above or
below the defined point by changing the pre-fix;this is done by
rotating the 3-D hotkey.
8.7 V-tail mixer (VTAL)
This mixer combines the signals of the
rudder and elevator in order to
control a V-tail on a model aircraft. It
works in the same way as the XMIX
mixer (see also Section 7.11), but is
programmed to act upon the elevator
and rudder channels.
When the elevator stick is operated, both servos run in the same
direction;when the rudder stick is operated,they move in opposite
directions.
- Move to the Select menu "VTAL".
- A short press on the 3-D hotkey takes you to the Setup menu;
the "%" display flashes.
- Arrows under the numbers on the screen indicate that the two
functions 2 and 4 are mixed together.
The arrow above the numbers, and
the flashing "SET and %",indicate that
you can now set the mixer value for
function 2 (elevator).
- Rotate the 3-D hotkey to set the servo travel in the form of a
percentage between -100% and +100%.To check this,move the
appropriate stick to both end-points.The default value of 50%
can be left for the moment.
- Holding the 3-D hotkey pressed in for 1 second reverts to the
default value (+50%).
Press the "S" button again, and the
rudder channel (4) is highlighted on
the screen.You can now set the servo
travel for the rudder using the
method described above.
Depending on the physical
orientation of the servos and the
control surface linkages you may find
it necessary to reverse the direction of
servo rotation, or the direction of
mixing,so that the servos move in the
same direction for elevator control and in the "correct" opposite
directions for rudder control.
The first step should always be to reverse the servos as required in
order to make the elevator function work correctly.If the mixer then
works in the wrong direction, set the elevator mixer input (2) to -
50%.
You may find it necessary to set different travels for the two
functions.In our experience most models are more sensitive to the
elevator,and require slightly more travel for the rudder.
Our recommended starting point:
Elevator (2) = 40%;rudder (4) = 70%
If you connect external mix trimmers to pins 5+6,they can be used
to set the optimum mixer values while the model is in flight.
Trimmers provide the means to override the pre-set values by +/-
25%.
When setting the control surface travels, check that the servos
do not strike their mechanical end-stops at full stick travel
when the functions are superimposed.
31
Order Numbers
F4090 - F4091 - F4092
F4095 - F4096 - F4097
8.8 Snap-roll function (SNAP)
Snap-rolls are violent rolling manoe-
uvres. This function allows you to
determine stick positions which result
in a particular manoeuvre when a
switch is operated.
This manoeuvre is then carried out automatically when you opera-
te an external mixer switch (Pin 2). To operate and set up the
manoeuvre this switch or push-button is absolutely essential, and
should be connected before you start the set-up procedure.
- Move to the Snap Roll menu (SNAP) at the Select level.
- Press the "S" button to reach the Setup menu level
The screen displays arrows under the
numbers, indicating which control
functions can be assigned a pre-set
position.
- Press the "H" button to activate the function: "INH" (OFF) now
flashes.Turn the 3-D hotkey to the left to switch the mixer (ON).
The symbol "OFF" or "ON" now appears on the screen,depen
ding on the position of the physical switch.At the same time the
symbol "Mix" appears to indicate that a mixer is switched on.
- Switch the SNAP function ON.
- Press the "H" button again, and an arrow appears under the
number 4; the "%" symbol flashes.
- Now turn the 3-D hotkey to set the desired control surface tra
vel for channel 4 - Rudder.The adjustment range is +/- 100%.
Hold the 3-D hotkey pressed in for 1 second to revert to the
default value of +70%.
- The settings for the other control functions are made in the
same way; key to the numbers on the screen:
1 = Aileron
2 = Elevator
4 = Rudder
If a mixer for a second aileron has been set up in the WING menu,
both servos are actuated,as you would expect.
The SNAP function cannot be over-ridden,i.e.the control functions
1, 2 and 4 are switched off for the period of time that the SNAP
function is active.
Note:
Switch position 2 has two functions, and affects both V-MIX 2 and
the SNAP-ROLL function.
You should bear this in mind when programming your transmitter.
V-Mix 2 can therefore only be invoked as an alternative to the
SNAP-roll function.
If you wish to use both functions,use another free mixer (V-Mix 1 or
3).
8.9 Landing pre-sets (LAND)
With this option you can determine
the servo position of the landing flaps
or spoilers and the elevator for the
approach phase and landing.
This manoeuvre is carried out when you operate an external mixer
switch (Pin 8). This switch or push-button is essential if you are to
use and adjust this function, and should be connected before you
start the set-up procedure.
- Move to the LAND menu within the Select level.
- Press the "S" button to move to the Setup menu level
The screen displays arrows under the
numbers, indicating which control
functions can be assigned a pre-set
position.
- Press the "H" button to activate the function: "INH" (OFF) now
flashes.Turn the 3-D hotkey to the left to switch the mixer (ON).
The symbol "OFF" or "ON" now appears on the screen,depen
ding on the position of the physical switch.At the same time the
symbol "Mix" appears to indicate that a mixer is switched on.
- Switch the LAND function ON.
- Press the "H" button again, and an arrow appears under the
number 2; the "%" symbol flashes.
- Now turn the 3-D hotkey to set the desired control surface tra
vel for channel 2 - Elevator.The adjustment range is +/- 100%.
Hold the 3-D hotkey pressed in for 1 second to revert to the
default value of +20%.
- The settings for the other control functions are made in the
same way; key to the numbers on the screen:
1 = Left aileron (landing flap)
2 = Elevator (default 20%)
6 = Right aileron (landing flap)
This function assumes that a mixer to a second aileron has already
been activated in the WING menu.
The pre-set LAND settings can be over-ridden.
The effect of the trim values for channels 1, 2 and 6 varies
according to the output you selected for the 2nd aileron in the
WING menu.
2nd aileron output: channel 6
In this variant the landing position settings affect channels 1,2 and
6.The settings for the left and right ailerons are carried out separa-
tely.
2nd aileron output: channel 7
In this variant the value which is set for channel 1 affects both chan-
nels (1 and 7). The value entered for channel 6 then only affects
channel 6 as landing flaps.In each case the settings for the ailerons
and flaps are carried out in pairs.
32
Order Numbers
F4090 - F4091 - F4092
F4095 - F4096 - F4097
For models with 1 servo per wing
Channel 1: Aileron 1 (flaperon)
Channel 2: Elevator
Channel 3: Auxiliary channel /speed controller
Channel 4: Rudder
Channel 5: Aileron 2 (flaperon)
Channel 6: Auxiliary channel
Channel 7: Auxiliary channel / optional aileron 2
(differential)
Channel 8: Auxiliary channel
For models with 2 servos per wing
Channel 1: Aileron 1 (flaperon)
Channel 2: Elevator
Channel 3: Auxiliary channel /speed controller
Channel 4: Rudder
Channel 5: Camber-changing flap 1
Channel 6: Camber-changing flap 2
Channel 7: Aileron 2
Channel 8: Auxiliary channel
33
Page 34
Page 36
Page 37
Page 37
Page 38
Page 38
Page 39
Page 39
Select menu
level
Page 34
Setup menu level
Legend:
Rotate 3-D
hotkey
Press "S"
button
Press "H"
button
Press 3-D
hotkey
9.Model gliders (GLID)
The mixer program for model gliders provides a range of special
menus for this type of model aircraft, in addition to the basic func-
tions already described.
These menus are integrated into the rotation loop,and can be found
before the Parameter menu (PARA) when you have already selected
the corresponding model type in the TYPE menu. See also Section
7.3.
Channel 1
Channel 5/7
Channel 1
Channel 5
Channel 6
Channel 7
Channel 2
Channel 4
Channel 4
Channel 2
Channel 3
Channel 3
9.2 Servo assignment in the GLID menu:
9.1 Menu structure of the Glider program
Order Numbers
F4090 - F4091 - F4092
F4095 - F4096 - F4097
9.3 Assignment of external switches and mix trimmers (GLID)
The assignment of the external mixer switches and mix trimmers
varies according to the selected model type.
Switch assignment for Glider program:
1 = V-mix 1
2 = V-mix 2 / aileron-flap mixer
3 = V-mix 3 / trim menu 2
4 = Dual Rates (D/R)
5 = Throttle cut (TCUT)
6 = Combi-switch (AI>R)
7 = Aileron differential (DIFF)
8 = Trim menu 1 (TRIM 1)
Mix trimmer assignment for Glider program:
1 = Mixer ratio,V-Mix 1
2 = Mixer ratio,V-Mix 2
3 = Mixer ratio,V-Mix 3
4 = Aileron differential input
5 = Mixer ratio,V-tail,elevator
6 = Mixer ratio,V-tail,rudder
7 = Mixer ratio flap - elevator
8 = Unused
9.4 Combi-mixer (AI>R)
The software of the FX-18 includes a
pre-programmed aileron - rudder
compensation mixer which can be
switched on and off in flight. The
mixer couples the ailerons and rudder
in such a way that only one stick
needs to be operated when flying a
turn.This is especially useful when flying large model gliders,since
the negative roll moment (adverse yaw) of the model works against
the ailerons when the model is turning.
Automatic rudder compensation can eliminate this effect. This
mixer function is similar to the V-MIX linking mixers: part of the
aileron signal is passed to the rudder channel,and at the same time
the rudder stick retains full control of its own function.
Coupled rudder can be an embarrassment on the landing appro-
ach and in some other manoeuvres,so this option can be switched
on and off in flight by means of a switch connected to socket 6.
- Move to the "AI>R" display in the Select menu.
- Press the 3-D hotkey; "%" flashes.
- Press the "S" button; "INH" flashes.
- Turn the 3-D hotkey to the left,the display switches to "ON",the
mixer is activated;it can be switched "OFF" by means of an exter-
nal switch.
- Press the "S" button again;"%" flashes.
- Turn the 3-D hotkey,and you can set the mixer value you wish to
use; the default setting is 50%, which is a good starting point.
- Check that the rudder moves to the right when you give a "right
aileron" command (right aileron up).
- If that is not the case,turn the 3-D hotkey left to set a negative
mixer value of -50%. Check the function again.
- Hold the 3-D hotkey pressed in for 1 second to revert to the
default value of 50%.
9.5 Wing mixers (WING)
The software of the FX-18 includes a very convenient wing flap
mixer.
This function can be used on the one hand to mix two separate
aileron servos with variable differential travel, and also, as an
option,to set the ailerons to rise together as a landing aid.This func-
tion is usually termed a flaperon (= flap + aileron) mixer.
The following flow chart is intended to help you find your way
around the program.
Explanation of terms
Since the mixer inputs for the wing flap travels can be set separate-
ly for "up" and "down", the ailerons can be used for several func-
tions; their function varies according to the flap travel:
- Large deflection up -> spoilers
- Small deflection up -> speed flaps for high-speed flying
- Large deflection down -> landing flaps
- Small deflection down -> camber-changing flaps for
thermalling
It is possible to program the wing flap deflection in the same direc-
tion for both sides of centre; for example: large "up" deflection as
spoilers, at the other extreme only slight "up" as speed flight trim.
This wing mixer is ideal for use in speed tasks and for thermal-hun-
ting with an electric-powered hot-line model.
To help you understand and emulate the following adjust-
ments,we recommend that you set up a model with two aileron
servos (sockets 1 and 5), and observe the effects of the mixer
on the model.
For the following description the 2nd aileron must initially be chan-
ged from channel 7 to channel 5 (see Section 9.5.3).
9.5.1 Selecting the transmitter control for flaperons /
camber-changing flaps
In this sub-menu you determine which transmitter control (MAS-
TER) is used to operate the flaperon mixer (landing / camber-chan-
ging flaps).As alternatives to channel "3" (throttle channel) you can
choose a linear slider connected to channel "5" or a switch.
- Move to the Select menu "WING".
- Press the 3-D hotkey,and "FUNC"
appears.The default setting is
that the transmitter control (MAS 5)
operates the flaps (SLV 5),
which can be seen from the arrows
above and below the number 5 on the screen.
- If you wish to control the flaps with the throttle stick,turn the
3-D hotkey to the left, and the screen display changes to
"MAS 3".
In effect you have swapped over functions 3 and 5.
Note: since both the landing / camber-changing flap function
(WING menu) and also the Butterfly function (BUTT) can be assig-
ned to the throttle channel,check that both functions are not assig-
ned to the throttle stick at the same time.
34
Order Numbers
F4090 - F4091 - F4092
F4095 - F4096 - F4097
9.5.2 Flaperon mixer (FLPN) / Aileron differential (DIFF)
- Move to the Select menu "FLPN".
The default setting is a mixer to the
2nd aileron connected to output
channel 7, with a differential value of
50%.
- The symbols "%" and "Set" flash to indicate that the differential
value can be altered by rotating the 3-D hotkey.
- Check that the right aileron rises and the left aileron falls when
you move the aileron stick to the right.If one or both servos ope
rates in the wrong direction,move to the Setup menu "REVR"
(Reverse) and reverse the offending servo.
- You should also check that the down-going aileron moves
through a smaller (differential) travel than the up-going aileron.
- If this is not the case,i.e.the travel of the up-going aileron is
smaller,press the "S" button.The "+" prefix now flashes; rotate
the 3-D hotkey to the left, and the prefix changes to "-t", which
reverses the differential.
Explanation:
0% No differential
50% Differential by half the maximum travel
100% "Split" mode:only the up-going aileron moves
You can revert to the default value (+50%) by holding the 3-D hot-
key pressed in for 1 second.
If you connect an external mix trimmer to Pin 4 (see Section 4.7)
the value can be over-ridden by +/- 25%,allowing you to set the
optimum value with the model in flight.
If you connect an external mixer switch to socket 7,the differen-
tial can be switched off, which produces greater aileron response
for the landing approach.
This is the correct setting for model aircraft in which aileron diffe-
rential is required,but without a superimposed flap function.
The second aileron servo must be connected to receiver output 7;
please re-connect the servo accordingly.
9.5.3 Selecting the 2nd aileron output (CH)
Pressing the "S" button again activa-
tes the menu in which you can select
the output to which the second
aileron is to be connected.
The default arrangement is channel
"7".
Turning the 3-D hotkey to the left
switches it to channel "5".
If you select channel 5 for the second aileron output, the wing
flap mixer function is automatically switched on.
- Now the two aileron servos (channels 1 and 5) are mixed toget-
her; the flap function (FLPN) is also active, and the differential is
set to +50%.
- If you connect a transmitter control,e.g.a linear slider,to chan-
nel 5,the flap function is operated over its full travel.Alternati-
vely the throttle control can be used;see also Section 9.5.1.
- Check that the right aileron moves up and the left aileron down
when you operate the aileron stick to the right. If one or both
servos works in the wrong direction, reverse the servo in the
Setup menu "REVR" (Reverse).
9.5.4 Setting flap travel,Flap Trim (FLTR)
You can now press the "S" button to move on to a further sub-menu
in which you can set the travels for the flaperons (flaps) option. If
FLTR is switched off (INH), flap travel is 100%.
- The first step is to activate the mixer.
- The "INH" symbol flashes;turn the 3-D hotkey to the left to
switch it "ON".
- Press the "S" button; the "%" symbol flashes.
- The flap servo travels can now be set separately for each direc
tion of the transmitter control.The default setting is 30%.
- Move the linear slider 5 or the throttle stick forward;the arrow
should point up.If the arrow points down, locate the plug from
the linear slider at the circuit board and turn it through 180°.
- Travel is adjusted by rotating the 3-D hotkey.The adjustment
range is -100% to +100%.
- Pull the linear slider 5 back,and set the flap travel for the "down"
direction. Press the 3-D hotkey for 1 second to revert to the
default value (30%).
The diagrams show an example in which large "up" travel has been
set for use as spoilers (65% = approx. 40º flap travel), while the
"down" travel is smaller, for use as camber-changing flaps for ther-
mal hunting.
If your model has two servos per wing,it is possible to set up a
Butterfly function in addition to a normal camber-changing
flap control system. To achieve this the Butterfly mixer or
aileron-flap mixer must be switched on. In this case the flaps
are operated by means of the linear slider 5 or the throttle
channel.
Offset (centre offset)
To make it easier to control the spoilers in flight it is desirable to set
a defined position for the retracted and extended flaps when
acting as spoilers.
This can be achieved by offsetting the centre position of the spoiler
control (linear slider or stick) to any desired position. In our exam-
ple this is the end-point of the transmitter control.
- Press the "S" button until "SET" on the screen flashes.
- Move the linear slider or stick to the desired position,then hold
the 3-D hotkey pressed in for 1 second.
- This causes the software to adopt the new transmitter control
position as the "new zero setting".
See sketch on the following page.
35
Order Numbers
F4090 - F4091 - F4092
F4095 - F4096 - F4097
9.5.5 Dead zone range (LIMT);only active if FLTR = "ON"
Pressing the "S" button again takes
you to the "LIMT" menu, in which you
can set a "dead zone" in the form of a
percentage value in the range 0% to
100%.
This makes sense if the airbrakes or spoilers are operated by the
throttle stick. Since the aileron function is on the same stick, it is
easy to extend the airbrakes or spoilers slightly by accident when
you give an aileron command. To prevent this you can set a
particular point on the airbrake (spoiler) travel after which the
transmitter control starts to have effect; this is done in the LIMT
menu.
- 1 = "Dead zone";transmitter control has no effect
- 2 = Limit point
- 3 = Active airbrake travel
- Move the transmitter control (stick or linear slider) to the
position at which the Limit point (2) is to be located.
- Now press the 3-D hotkey until the new position is displayed on
the screen as a percentage of the control travel.
- Rotating the 3-D hotkey reverses the prefix,so that you can
select whether the active brake range lies above or below the
Limit point.
9.5.6 WING "OFF"
The wing mixer (mixing to a second aileron) can be switched off if
you wish to operate a model with only one aileron.Turn the 3-D
hotkey to the left to switch if "OFF".
9.6 Aileron -> camber-changing flap mixer (AI>F)
(2nd aileron output = channel 7)
With this mixer you can achieve
improved roll response from a model
glider, because the flaps follow the
aileron movements, giving a more
powerful rolling moment.
- Move to the Select menu "AI>F".
- Press the "H" button;"INH" (OFF) now flashes.Turn the 3-D
hotkey to the left to switch the mixer ON.
- Press the "S" button to reach the Setup menu,where the "%"
display is flashing.
Rotate the 3-D hotkey to set the rate
(+/- 100%) to which the flaps are to
follow the ailerons when an aileron
command is given.
- The default value of 50% can be left for the moment.
- Holding the 3-D hotkey pressed in for 1 second reverts to the
default value of +50%.
Differential flap movement (as ailerons)
Pressing the "S" button again takes
you to the point where you can set
the differential for the camber-
changing flaps.
Check that the travel of the down-going flap is now smaller.
- If this is not the case,i.e.the travel of the up-going aileron is
smaller,press the "S" button again.
- The "+" prefix now flashes;rotate the 3-D hotkey to the left,and
the prefix changes to "-",which reverses the differential.
Explanation:
0% No differential
50% Differential by half the maximum travel
100% "Split" mode:only the up-going aileron moves
Flaps working as ailerons can be undesirable on the landing
approach and in some other manoeuvres, so this option can be
switched on and off in flight by means of a switch connected to
socket 2.
Note:
Switch position 2 has two functions,and affects both V-MIX 2 and
the aileron-flap function.
You should bear this in mind when programming your transmitter.
V-Mix 2 can therefore only be invoked as an alternative to the
aileron-flap function.If you wish to use both functions,use another
free mixer (V-Mix 1 or 3).
36
Offset position
Order Numbers
F4090 - F4091 - F4092
F4095 - F4096 - F4097
Important note re.flaperon mixer:
Link: if the 2nd aileron output is set to 7 and you activate the AI>F
or BUTT mixer, the system automatically creates a means of
controlling the camber-changing / landing flaps (servo channels 5
and 6).This is operated by a slider connected to channel 5, or the
throttle function (see also Section 9.5.1). The flap travels are
adjusted in the Flap Trim sub-point (FLTR);see Section 9.5.5.
9.7 Camber-changing flap -> elevator mixer (FL>E)
When you deploy camber-changing flaps or flaperons many
models react with an unwanted pitch trim change (nose up or
down).Normally the pilot has to correct this with the elevator stick.
Once again the FX-18 software includes a tailor-made mixer which
carries out this compensation automatically.
The following example assumes that the ailerons are programmed
to deflect up by about 45º to act as landing aid; this is set in the
WING menu. In nearly all cases this requires the addition of about
10% down-elevator trim to compensate.
Note: in some cases it may even be necessary to mix in slight up-
elevator (+10%); this depends on the tail moment arm and model
layout.
- Move to the Select menu "FL>E".
- A short press on the 3-D hotkey takes you to the Setup menu,
and the "%" display flashes.
- Rotate the 3-D hotkey to change the percentage value;-10% is a
good starting point.Hold the 3-D hotkey pressed in for 1 second
to revert to the default value (+50%).
- Press the "S" button three times,and "INH" (OFF) flashes.Turn
the 3-D hotkey to the left to switch the mixer on (ON).
- The mixer function is now active;check that the function works
correctly.
- If you connect an external mix trimmer to Pin 7,the optimum
value can be adjusted in flight.The trimmer allows you to over-
ride the pre-set value by +/- 25%.
If have activated the FLTR mixer in the WING menu (Section
9.5),any neutral point alterations (offset) and dead zone values
(LIMT) you set at that point are automatically adopted by this
mixer.
If you carry out a neutral point offset in this menu (hold the "S"
button pressed in until "SET" flashes, then hold the 3-D hotkey
pressed in for 1 second),this in turn is also adopted in the menu
"WING".
This feature saves you having to switch between the two menus.
Special case
If the FLTR mixer has not been activated in the WING menu,the
full aileron travel is available as a flap function.In this case it is
necessary to set the neutral point for the elevator
compensation mixer.
This is the procedure:
- Press the "S" button until "SET" flashes.
- Move the transmitter control for the flaps to the position at
which the flaps are retracted (neutral point)
- Hold the 3-D hotkey pressed in for 1 second;the elevator now
moves to the new neutral position,and will be mixed in with the
flaps from this position.
9.8 Butterfly mixer (BUTT)
(2nd aileron output = channel 7)
The Butterfly mixer function, also
known as a "crow" system, provides a
powerful braking effect on the model
through moving both ailerons up and
both camber-changing flaps down.
Selecting the transmitter control for the Butterfly function
In this sub-menu you can determine which transmitter control
(MASTER) is to be used to operate the Butterfly function. The
channels available are channel "3" (throttle channel) or a linear
slider or switch connected to channel "6".
- Move to the Select menu "BUTT".
Press the 3-D hotkey,and the screen
displays "FUNC".The default setting is
that the transmitter control (MAS 6)
operates the flaps (SLV 6), which can
be seen from the arrows above and
below the number "6".
- If you wish to operate the flaps with the throttle channel,turn
the 3-D hotkey left,and the screen switches to "MAS 3".
In effect you have swapped over functions 3 and 6.
Note: since both the landing / camber-changing flap function
(WING menu) and also the Butterfly function (BUTT) can be
assigned to the throttle channel,check that both functions are not
assigned to the throttle stick at the same time. For one of the
functions you should use a linear slider or switch connected to
socket 5 or 6.
Travel adjustment for ailerons and landing flaps
Pressing the "S" button takes you to a further sub-menu in which
you can set the travels for the Butterfly function.
- The first step must be to activate the mixer. It is essential that
the 2nd aileron output is assigned to channel 7.This is done
in the WING menu,Section 9.5.
- Press the "H" button.
- The "INH" symbol flashes;turn the 3-D hotkey left to switch it
"ON".
- Press the "S" button twice;the "%" symbol flashes,and the arrow
stands under the number "1".
- Now rotate the 3-D hotkey to set the travel for both ailerons.
Note that you should not set too large a travel,otherwise the
gliders aileron response will be reduced almost to nothing.We
recommend around 40 - 50%.
- Press the "S" button again,and the arrow moves to channel 5.
You can now set the travel for the two flaps.
- Holding the 3-D hotkey pressed in for 1 second resets the
percentage travels to the default values.
37
Order Numbers
F4090 - F4091 - F4092
F4095 - F4096 - F4097
Offset value (centre offset)
It is desirable to set a defined position for the retracted and
extended state of the wing flaps, in order to make it easier to
operate the Butterfly function when the model is in flight.
This is achieved by offsetting the centre position of the Butterfly
control (linear slider or stick) to any desired position. In this
example it is moved to the end-point.
- Press the "S" button until "SET" flashes on the screen; the arrow
moves under the number "6".
- Move the linear slider or stick to the desired position,then hold
the 3-D hotkey pressed in for 1 second.
- The system now adopts the new position of the transmitter
control as "new neutral position".
9.9 Butterfly -> elevator mixer (BU>E)
When you deploy the Butterfly mixer many models exhibit a pitch
trim change, i.e. nose up or down. The pilot usually has to
compensate for this with the elevator stick.The FX-18 also provides
a mixer to solve this problem, i.e. it automatically provides the
corrective elevator movement.
The following example assumes that the ailerons and flaps have
been programmed in the BUTT menu in such a way that they move
up and down through about 45º respectively in order to act as a
landing aid.This generally requires a down-elevator trim correction
of around -10%.
Note: it may be necessary to mix in a little up-elevator (+10%),
depending on the model’s layout and tail moment arm.
- Move to the Select menu "BU>E"
- Pressing the 3-D hotkey takes you to the Setup menu, and the
"%" display flashes.
- Rotating the 3-D hotkey changes the percentage value;we
recommend a starting point of -10%. Hold the 3-D hotkey
pressed in for 1 second in order to revert to the default value
(+20%).
- Press the "H" button twice,and "INH" (OFF) flashes.Turn the 3-D
hotkey to the left and switch the mixer on (ON).
- The mixer function is now active;carry out a check on your
model.
Note: if you press the "H" button the screen shows the flashing
symbol "SET". At this point you can also set the offset point for the
Butterfly function by holding the 3-D hotkey pressed in for 1
second.See also the description of Offset adjustment in Section 9.8:
Butterfly mixer.
If you carry out a neutral point offset in this menu,this in turn is also
adopted in the menu "BUTT".
This feature saves you having to switch between the two menus.
9.10 V-tail mixer (VTAL)
This mixer
combines the
signals of the
rudder and
elevator in
order to
control a V-tail on a model aircraft.It works
in the same way as the XMIX mixer (see also
Section 7.11), but is programmed to act
upon the elevator and rudder channels.
When the elevator stick is operated, both
servos run in the same direction; when the
rudder stick is operated, they move in
opposite directions.
- Move to the Select menu "VTAL".
- A short press on the 3-D hotkey takes
you to the Setup menu; the mixer is still
"INH" = switched off.
- Press the "H" button, and turn the 3-D
hotkey to the left to switch the mixer
"ON".
- Press the "S" button again.
Arrows under the numbers on the
screen indicate that the two functions
2 and 4 are mixed together. The
arrows above the numbers, and the
flashing "SET and %",indicate that you
can now set the mixer value for
function 2 (elevator).
- Rotate the 3-D hotkey to set the servo travel in the form of a
percentage between -100% and +100%.To check this,move the
appropriate stick to both end-points.The default value of 50%
can be left for the moment.
- Holding the 3-D hotkey pressed in for 1 second reverts to the
default value (+50%).
Press the "S" button again, and the
rudder channel (4) is highlighted on
the screen.You can now set the servo
travel for the rudder using the
method described above.
Depending on the physical
orientation of the servos and the
control surface linkages you may find
that it is necessary to reverse the
direction of servo rotation, or the
direction of mixing,so that the servos
move in the same direction for
elevator control and in the "correct" opposite directions for rudder
control. The first step should always be to reverse the servos as
required in order to make the elevator function work correctly. If
the mixer direction then works in the wrong direction, set the
elevator mixer input (2) to -50%.
You may find it necessary to set different travels for the two
functions. In our experience most model are more sensitive to the
elevator,and require slightly more travel for the rudder.
Our recommended starting point: elevator (2) = 40%;
rudder (4) = 70%
If you connect external mix trimmers to pins 5+6,they can be used
to set the optimum mixer values while the model is in flight.
Trimmers provide the means to override the pre-set values by +/-
25%.
When setting the control surface travels, check that the servos
do not strike their mechanical end-stops at full stick travel
when the functions are superimposed.
38
Neutral
Butterfly
H
S
Order Numbers
F4090 - F4091 - F4092
F4095 - F4096 - F4097
9.11 Trim program 1 and 2 (TRM1 / TRM 2)
The software of the FX-18 transmitter
provides two trim menus to cater for
the different flight tasks of model
gliders, in order to pre-set the
optimum trim settings of the control
surfaces and flaps for flight phases
such as landing, launch and speed. Trim menus 1 and 2 are
identical, for which reason this section only describes the method
of setting up the Trim 1 menu.
The pre-set flight phases can then be called up by means of
external mixer switches.Of course,the settings can be over-ridden
at any time.
To operate and set up the system this switch or push-button is
absolutely essential, and should be fitted and connected before
starting the set-up procedure.
Trim 1 = switch to socket 8
Trim 2 = switch to socket 3
We recommend the use of a 3-position switch,No.F 1522,assigned
as follows:
Forward = Winch launch
Centre = Neutral
Back = Speed
- Move to the menu TRM1 in the
Select level.
- Press the "S" button to reach the
Setup menu level.
- The screen now shows arrows
under the numbers,indicating the
control functions for which the
position can now be defined.
- Press the "H" button to activate the function; the "INH" (OFF)
symbol now flashes.Turn the 3-D hotkey left to switch the
mixer ON.The screen will display the symbol "OFF or "ON",
depending on the physical switch position.
- The symbol "MIX" also appears,to confirm that a mixer is
switched on.This symbol is displayed,and an audible alarm
sounds,if you switch on the system with one of the trim
functions active,to warn you that an active mixer is in operation.
- Switch the TRM1 function ON.
- Press the "H" button again; an arrow appears under the number
"5",and the "%" symbol flashes.
- Now rotate the 3-D hotkey to set the desired control surface
travel for the landing / camber-changing flaps.The adjustment
range is +/- 100%.
- Holding the 3-D hotkey pressed in for 1 second resets the .
default value of 0%.
- Enter the settings for the other control functions in the same
manner.
Please note the following special feature relating to mixers.
The effect of the trim values for channels 1, 2 and 5 varies
according to the output you selected for the 2nd aileron in the
WING menu.
2nd aileron output:channel 5
In this variant the trim settings
affect channels 1,2 and 5,as shown
in the sketch alongside.
The settings for the left and right
ailerons are adjusted separately.
2nd aileron output:channel 7
This mixer function also requires
that one of the two mixer menus
"Butterfly" or "Aileron-flap" is
active, in order to carry out the
mixing of the two camber-
changing flaps.
In each case the adjustments for
the ailerons (1 & 7) and flaps (5 & 6)
are carried out in pairs.
Note:
Switch socket 3 is a dual-purpose socket,and can be used both for
V-mix 3 and also for the TRM2 function.
You should bear this in mind when programming your transmitter.
V-Mix 3 can therefore only be invoked as an alternative to the TRM2
function.
If you wish to use both functions,use another free mixer (V-Mix 1 or
2).
39
Example:
winch launch
Example:
speed
Value 1
Value 5
Value 1
Value 5
Value 5
Value 1
Value 2
Value 2
Order Numbers
F4090 - F4091 - F4092
F4095 - F4096 - F4097
40
10.1 Menu structure of the Helicopter program
Page 42
Page 42
Page 43
Page 43
Page 44
Page 41
Page
45
S
S
etup menu le
etup menu le
v
v
el
el
Select menu
level
1 sec
Legend:
Rotate 3-D
hotkey
Press "S"
button
Press "H"
button
Press 3-D
hotkey
10.Model helicopters (HELI)
The mixer program for model helicopters provides a range of special
menus for this type of model aircraft, in addition to the basic
functions already described.
These menus are integrated into the rotation loop,and can be found
before the Parameter menu (PARA) when you have already selected
the corresponding model type in the TYPE menu. See also Section
7.3.
10.2 Servo assignment in the HELI menu
The sequence of servo connections in the Heli menu varies greatly
according to the helicopter type,i.e.the type of swashplate control
system in use.
The table lists the servo assignment to the receiver outputs, accor-
ding to swashplate type.
This assignment is fixed, and you must adhere to it, as the throttle
and collective pitch functions are already mixed at the transmitter;
the appropriate servos are also already mixed to suit your choice of
swashplate type.
The special features of the individual swashplate mixers are explai-
ned under the swashplate menu (SWSH).
Transmitter channels 5 and 6 are pre-configured for gyro gain
adjustment and collective pitch servo trim.
The second table shows that some of the transmitters mixer func-
tions are swapped over,and in some cases different settings can be
called up according to the flight phase currently selected.
If you wish to be able to switch between different flight phases,
external mixer switches must first be installed and connected.
Assignment of switches and mix trimmers (HELI)
Switch assignment for model helicopters
1 = V-Mix 1
2 = V-Mix 2
3 = V-Mix 3
4 = Dual Rate (D/R)
5 = Throttle cut (TCUT)
6 = Idle-up 1 (IDL-1)
7 = Idle-up 2 (IDL-2)
8 = Auto-rotation (T-HO)
Mix trimmer assignment for model helicopters:
1 = Mixer ratio,V-Mix 1
2 = Mixer ratio,V-Mix 2
3 = Mixer ratio,V-Mix 3
4 = Mixer ratio, revolution mixer (REVO)
5 = Throttle neutral setting (IDL-1)
6 = Throttle neutral setting (IDL-2)
7 = Throttle minimum for auto-rotation
8 = Unused
Swashplate type H-2
This is the control system used in "Heim-system" model helicopters.
With this swashplate type one roll servo and
one collective pitch servo (channels 1 and 6)
are used;the collective pitch and roll control
system tilt the swashplate right and left. If a
collective pitch command is given, both
servos move the swashplate up and down.
Pitch-axis control is via a servo connected to
channel 2. A bridge is required to the pitch-
axis control system in the helicopter,as only
the collective pitch and roll servos are mixed.
Swashplate type HR-3
The "HR-3" swashplate type requires one collective-pitch servo, one
roll servo and one pitch-axis servo,arranged
symmetrically as shown in the diagram
alongside.
The three servos are arranged at angles of
120º to each other, and actuate the
swashplate directly.
Opposed movements of the two servos 1
and 6 tilt the swashplate right and left.
Pitch-axis control is obtained by all the
servos tilting the swashplate forward and back.If the collective pitch
stick is moved,all three servos move the swashplate up and down.
Swashplate type H-4
This control system requires two pitch-axis servos and two roll
servos (channels 2/8 and 1/6).
Both roll and pitch-axis travel are generated
by opposed movements of the servos.
If a collective pitch command is given, all
four servos move the swashplate up and
down.
A variant of this system is a 3-point linkage
with servos arranged at 90°, created by
omitting the servo connected to channel 8;
this is the system used by the ECO model helicopter.
Order Numbers
F4090 - F4091 - F4092
F4095 - F4096 - F4097
41
10.3 Swashplate setting (SWSH)
In this menu you set up the HELI mixer program to suit the type of
swashplate present in your model
helicopter.
That is why this menu point is descri-
bed first in these instructions, alt-
hough it appears last in the sequence.
The software carries out all the essen-
tial electronic changes automatically
when you select the appropriate swashplate type.
The software of the FX-18 transmitter caters for all four of the most
important swashplate types.
- Move to the Select menu SWSH and press the 3-D hotkey to enter
the Setup menu.
- The screen shows "H-1",the basic setting.
- Rotate the 3-D hotkey to select one of the following types:
H-1
H-2
HR-3
H4
- When you have selected the appropriate type,hold the 3-D hot
key pressed in for 1 second,and "OK?" appears on the screen.
- If you really want to select the new swashplate type,hold the hot
key pressed in until you hear a double beep;this confirms your
selection.
Swashplate type H-1
This is one of the most popular swashplate variants. The system is
controlled by means of separate roll, pitch-
axis and collective pitch servos.The roll con-
trol system tilts the swashplate right and left.
If you give a pitch-axis command,the swash-
plate tilts forward or back. The collective
pitch control system moves the swashplate
up or down by means of another servo
(channel 6).
The functions are not mixed with each
other.
Direction of flight
Direction of flight
Direction of flightDirection of flight
Number Transmitter control
assignment
Channel 1 Aileron (roll-axis)
Channel 2 Elevator (pitch-axis)
Channel 3 Throttle
Channel 4 Rudder (yaw-axis)
Channel 5 Gyro gain
Channel 6 Coll.pitch trim
Channel 7 Free
Channel 8 Free
Receiver servo connections for different swashplate types
H-1 H-2 HR-3 H-4
Roll Roll 1 Roll 1 Roll 1
Pitch-axis Pitch-axis Pitch-axis Pitch-axis 1
Throttle Throttle Throttle Throttle
Tail rotor Tail rotor Tail rotor Tail rotor
Aux.gyro channel Aux.gyro channel Aux.gyro channel Aux.gyro channel
Coll.pitch Roll 2 Roll 2 Roll 2
Free Free Free Free
Free Free Free Pitch-axis 2
Flight phase Throttle Coll.pitch Revo-Mix Gyro Trim
curve curve coll.-tail rotor gain
Normal Thr.curve Coll.curve
normal normal Gyro rate 1 Trim increment
Idle-up 1 Thr.curve Coll.curve Gyro rate 2 Normal / hover
Switch 6 hover hover Revo-Rate
Idle-up 2 Thr.curve Coll.curve Gyro rate 3
Switch 7 Cruise Cruise Gyro rate 4 Trim value,cruise
Auto-rotation Thr.position Coll.curve Gyro rate 1 Trim value
Switch 8 Auto-rotation Auto-rotation Gyro rate 2 Normal / hover
Order Numbers
F4090 - F4091 - F4092
F4095 - F4096 - F4097
Special feature:types H-2,HR-3 and H-4
The mixing of the swashplate functions makes it necessary to
reverse the mixed channels.The overall travel produced by mixing
the signals may also produce excessive movements,and the swash-
plate may jam as a result.
The software provides an answer to these problems: if you select
one of the swashplate types listed above, Setup menus appear
when you press the "S" button.
At this point you can set the travel of
the corresponding control functions
to maximum by turning the 3-D hot-
key. (Control travel adjustment of the
mixed functions.)
Turning the hotkey to the left generates a Rate with a negative pre-
fix,which means that the function is reversed.
The first step is to use the REVR menu to reverse the direction of
servo rotation as required; the aim is that all the servos run in the
same direction when you operate the collective pitch control.
Once this is achieved, you should set the correct direction of run-
ning of the mixed swashplate functions using servo reverse and
transmitter control travel rate adjustment; this is carried out in the
SWSH menu.
At this stage set the maximum possible swashplate travel.
10.4 Revolution mixer (REVO)
This function is designed to compen-
sate for torque changes in the main
rotor due to changes in the throttle or
collective pitch setting, using an elec-
tronic compensation mixer involving
the tail rotor.
Setting up this function accurately makes the work of a tail rotor
gyro system much easier. On the other hand, an incorrectly
adjusted Revo-Mix may even counteract the function of the gyro.
For this reason it is very important to set up this mixer carefully.
It has to be admitted that the inexperienced pilot does not find it
easy to control a model helicopter without a gyro,in order to adjust
the Revo mixer value accurately.
Modern gyro systems with piezo sensors are relatively sensitive,
and do not necessarily require a perfect Revo-Mix setting; in this
case it is perfectly feasible to fly the model with the guideline value
of 25%.
Modern SMM gyros with semi-conductor sensors (e.g. robbe-Fut-
aba GY 401 gyro) do not necessarily require more than a small
amount of Revo-Mix support - if at all - particularly if you are an
advanced pilot; in this case the Revo-Mix function can simply be
switched off.
Special case:
If a piezo or SMM gyro is operated in Heading-Hold / AVCS
mode,the Revo-Mix function must always be switched off.
The software provides a Revo-Mix set-
ting which remains constant in all
flight modes. See the flight mode
table on this page.
- Move to the Select menu REVO and press the 3-D hotkey to
move to the Setup menu.
- The "SET" and "%" displays flash.Rotate the 3-D hotkey to set the
guide value of 25%.
- Press the "S" button,and the "INH" display flashes.Switch the
mixer on by turning the 3-D hotkey to the left.
The direction of rotation of the main rotor must be taken into
account when you are setting the percentage value.If you increase
collective pitch on a right-hand rotation main rotor,the pitch of the
tail rotor must also be increased - assuming that it rotates in the
same direction. With a left-hand rotation main rotor the exact
opposite is true.
(-) negative prefix = left-hand rotation main rotor
(+) negative prefix = right-hand rotation main rotor
It is generally necessary to carry out a series of test-flights in order
to find the optimum set-up for the Revolution mixer.
Please note that the model should already be well trimmed, i.e. it
should require no control commands to stay in a stable hover.
If you connect a mix trimmer to socket 4,the REVO mixer value can
be altered while the model is in flight.
10.5 Idle-up Normal (NORM)
The software of the FX-18 transmitter offers a total of four different
flight mode mixers:
Normal setting (NORM);Idle-up 1 (IDL-1),Idle-up 2 (IDL-2) and auto-
rotation (AURO).
In the Normal menu you carry out all the adjustments for throttle
and collective pitch, as they are needed for starting and stopping
the motor,and for lifting the helicopter off at the start of a flight.
It is usually possible to leave the settings for throttle and collective
pitch as they are,as these values are used as the base setting for the
throttle and collective pitch travels, i.e. they represent maximum
values.
Note that the collective pitch travel should also be set to the maxi-
mum value in the SWSH menu if you select an appropriate swash-
plate type (H-2,HR-3,H-4).
At maximum collective pitch travel the helicopter’s collective pitch
angle should be around +12°;at stick centre the pitch angle should
be around +4°,and at minimum collective pitch a blade angle of -5º
is correct.
The carburettor linkage should be adjusted so that the throttle bar-
rel is completely open at the full-throttle position.At the stick cen-
tre position it should be around 60% open,and at the idle position
the aim is a reliable idle.
The settings can then be fine-tuned using the percentage adjust-
ment facility in the sub-menus:
- Move to the Select menu NORM,and press the 3-D hotkey to
move to the Setup menu.
- The Setup menu for the throttle idle point now appears.The fol
lowing Setup menus appear if you subsequently press the "S"
button:
42
Order Numbers
F4090 - F4091 - F4092
F4095 - F4096 - F4097
T-LO = Throttle minimum (idle)
T-NT = Throttle neutral setting (hover point)
T-HI = Throttle maximum (full-throttle position)
P-LO = Collective pitch minimum (idle / maximum descent)
P-NT = Collective pitch neutral setting (hover point)
P-HI = Collective pitch maximum (maximum climb)
- Press the "S" button to move forward through the Setup menus,
and the "H" button to move backward.
- Rotate the 3-D hotkey to change the percentage values.
- Holding the 3-D hotkey pressed in for about 1 second resets the
original value.
- You can now enter the basic settings for the "Normal" flight
mode as already described,and as shown in the graph below.
Note that servo travel is displayed above the stick travel.Since a
collective pitch curve must also be set up for each throttle
curve,both curves are included in the same graph.
10.6 Idle-up (IDL-1),hover
This is the flight mode in which the helicopter is usually hovered.
The bottom throttle value is raised compared with the "Normal"
flight mode (NORM), to ensure that the motor maintains a certain
minimum rotational speed even at quite low collective pitch set-
tings.
The top collective pitch value is reduced to around +10°.
You can call up this pre-set flight mode by means of an external
mixer switch;the settings can be over-ridden at any time.
A separate switch is essential in order to operate and adjust this
function.Connect the switch to socket 6 before setting up the func-
tion.
- Move to the Select menu IDL-1,then press the 3-D hotkey to
move on to the Setup menu.
- Press the "H" button to activate the function;"INH" (OFF) now
flashes,and you can switch the mixer (ON) by turning the 3-D
hotkey to the left. The screen now displays the symbol "OFF"
or "ON",depending on the physical position of the switch.
- The screen also shows the symbol "Mix" to indicate that a mixer
is switched on.
- Switch the IDL-1 function ON.
- Press the "S" button,and the Setup menu for the throttle idle
point T-LO appears on the screen.Pressing the "S" button brings
up additional Setup menus:
T-LO = Throttle minimum (minimum throttle position)
T-NT = Throttle neutral setting (hover point)
T-HI = Throttle maximum (full-throttle position)
DELY = Throttle servo delay
P-LO = Collective pitch minimum (minimum coll.pitch position)
P-NT = Collective pitch neutral setting (hover point)
P-HI = Collective pitch maximum (maximum climb)
- Press the "S" button to move forward through the Setup menus,
and the "H" button to move backward.
- Rotate the 3-D hotkey to change the percentage values.
- Holding the 3-D hotkey pressed in for about 1 second resets the
original value.
- You can now set the basic settings for the "Idle-up 1" flight
mode as shown in the graph below.
Note that servo travel is displayed above the stick travel.Since a col-
lective pitch curve must also be set up for each throttle curve,both
curves are included in the same graph.
The set-up procedure is essentially the same as for the "Normal"
flight mode.
This Setup menu also includes the Delay sub-menu (DELY). At this
point the program enables you to slow the transit speed of the
throttle servo, so that the new, higher throttle position does not
take effect abruptly.
We suggest setting a value of 60% here;the value can later be fine-
tuned to suit the size of your motor and the response speed of its
carburettor.This delay value also applies when you switch from IDL-
1 to IDL-2.
Since the performance of the model motor (and therefore its rota-
tional speed) varies greatly according to atmospheric conditions
and ambient temperature, the hover throttle point (T-NT) can be
over-ridden by +/- 25% by means of an external mix trimmer con-
nected to socket 5.This allows you to optimise the value in flight.
10.7 Idle-up 2 (IDL-2),Cruise
At this point you can raise the bottom throttle value by a further
amount, in order to maintain a minimum motor speed for all flight
manoeuvres which require a lot of power. In contrast, the bottom
collective pitch value is reduced to -3º in order to avoid an exces-
sive rate of descent.
43
Transmitter control travel
T-LO T-NT T-HI
P-LO P-NT P-HI
Servo travel
Transmitter control travel
T-LO T-NT T-HI
P-LO P-NT P-HI
Servo travel
Throttle - collective pitch curve,Normal (NORM)
Throttle - collective pitch curve,Idle-up 1 (IDL-1)
Hover
Throttle
Throttle
Order Numbers
F4090 - F4091 - F4092
F4095 - F4096 - F4097
Please note that the collective pitch travels must be set symmetri-
cally to +/- 10°;at stick centre collective pitch should be 0°.
Before you switch from Idle-up 1 to Idle-up 2 fly your helicopter to a
safe height and place it in a climb,since the collective pitch setting
is markedly different at the stick centre position,and the model will
otherwise descend abruptly.
Expert 3-D pilots will know that the Idle-up 1 and Idle-up 2 curves
should be set symmetrically.
10.8 Auto-rotation (T-HO)
When you switch the auto-rotation flight mode on,the program
sets the motor to idle (or cuts it completely),regardless of the posi-
tion of the throttle stick.The throttle servo immediately runs to the
pre-set position.
At the same time the program reduces the bottom collective pitch
value to -5°,in order to keep the rotational speed of the rotor head
as high as possible while the helicopter is descending rapidly.
The program also raises the maximum collective pitch value to
+12°, to enable the pilot to flare out as gently as possible with a
high pitch angle,and then to touch down safely.
Once set up,this flight mode can be called up by means of an exter-
nal mixer switch.
A separate switch is essential in order to operate and adjust Auto-
rotation.Connect the switch to socket 8 before you start setting up
the function.
Please note that the auto-rotation mixer switch always has priority,
and over-rides both the switches for Idle-up 1 and Idle-up 2.
44
The set-up procedure is essentially the same as for the "Normal" and
"Idle-up 1" flight modes.
Connect the external mixer switch to socket 7,and the external mix
trimmer for throttle centre point adjustment (T-NT) to socket 6.
Note that the mixer switch for Idle-up 2 has priority, and over-rides
the switch for Idle-up 1.
Cruise trim
The flight mode Idle-up 2 also features a separate trim in addition to
the Idle-up 1 menu.This is designed to cope with the distinct diffe-
rence in trim values between hover and the cruise setting which is
usually apparent in model helicopters.This effect is due to the dyna-
mic effect of changing airflow over the main and tail rotors and the
stabilisers.
When you operate the flight mode switch to activate Idle-up 2, the
program also switches to a second internal trim value memory for
the roll,pitch-axis and tail rotor functions.
You trim your model in the usual way,but the transmitter internally
assigns the trim value to the appropriate flight mode.You can check
the trim values by moving the Idle-up 2 switch (7) between the two
positions IDL-1 and IDL-2.The trim bars on the screen display the
corresponding values.
An internal delay is pre-programmed for the roll, pitch-axis and tail
rotor functions to ensure that the switch in trim values occurs gra-
dually.This is fixed,and cannot be adjusted.
Caution: if you are using a gyro in AVCS (heading lock) mode,
you must not store another value for the tail rotor function
(channel 4).
Transmitter control travel
T-LO T-NT T-HI
P-LO P-NT P-HI
Servo travel
Throttle - collective pitch curve,Idle-up 2 (IDL-2)
Cruise
Throttle and collective pitch curve for the flight mode
"Idle-up 2" for 3-D flying
You can set up Idle-up 2 in either of two ways:either for aerobatics,
with an even greater increase in throttle compared with Idle-up 1,
or,as in the example shown here,as a 3-D curve for "3-D flying" and
inverted flight.
Transmitter control travel
T-LO T-NT T-HI
P-LO P-NT P-HI
Servo travel
Throttle - collective pitch curve,Idle-up 2 (IDL-2)
3-D flying
Throttle
Throttle
When you activate the flight mode switch for Idle-up 2, a second
gyro gain setting becomes active (Rate 3 or 4). Once again, the rea-
son for this lies in the flight dynamics of a helicopter:the airflow over
the fuselage and tail makes the model more stable at speed than
when hovering.
For this reason gyro gain is reduced when you are flying circuits (IDL-
2),to prevent any tendency for the tail boom to oscillate.
- Move to the Select menu GYRO,and
press the 3-D hotkey to enter the
Setup menu.
- Press the "H" button to activate this
function; the symbol "INH" (OFF)
now flashes on the screen.
Turn the 3-D hotkey to the left to switch the mixer (ON); the screen
then displays the symbol "ON".
- Press the "S" button,and the "%"
display flashes;the arrow symbol
appears above and below the num
ber "1".You can now set Rate 1 (-
100% to +100%) for gyro gain by
rotating the 3-D hotkey.
- Press the "S" button to move on to Rates 2 ...4;the lower arrow
indicates which Rate can be adjusted at any time.
- The upper arrow is controlled by the Idle-up 1 and Idle-up 2
switch,and also by the position of the slider or switch connected
to channel 5.At any one time it shows which Rate is currently acti
ve.
In our example Rate 4 is ready to be adjusted,and Rate 1 is cur
rently active.
The graph above shows that Rates 1 ... 4 can be set to any value in
the range 0% ... +/- 100%. This offers a wide range of possibilities in
conjunction with a Heading Lock or AVCS gyro.
For example, it is possible to set two different Rates (gyro gain) for
the flight modes Norm / IDL-1 / T-HO.These rates can be freely selec-
ted within the Normal and/or AVCS ranges.
The software again provides 2 Rates for gyro gain setting (Rates 3
and 4) for the flight mode Idle-up 2.
These features make it possible to set up optimum gyro values for all
flight modes.
Note: even if a linear slider is used to control gyro gain, it can only
switch between the pre-set Rates 1&2 and 3&4. No intermediate
values can be set.
Order Numbers
F4090 - F4091 - F4092
F4095 - F4096 - F4097
Check carefully that the auto-rotation switch is set to "OFF"
before you attempt to start the motor,otherwise the motor will
refuse to start. As with the other mixer functions, the screen
displays the MIX symbol to indicate that a mixer function is
active.
You can adjust the idle speed in flight, and even stop the motor, if
you connect an external mix trimmer to socket 7.If the auto-rota-
tion function is still active when you switch on the transmitter,the
screen displays the symbol "MIX", to make the pilot aware of the
active mixer.
The set-up procedure for the auto-rotation flight mode is essential-
ly the same as for the preceding "Idle-up 1" and "Idle-up 2" flight
modes.The program provides the following sub-menus:
T-LO = Throttle minimum (idle position or motor stopped)
P-LO = Collective pitch minimum (maximum descent)
P-HI = Collective pitch maximum (maximum blade pitch)
The collective pitch neutral position corresponds to the collective
pitch setting you have already entered in the "Normal" menu.
You can now enter the basic settings for the Auto-rotation flight
mode,as shown in the graph below.
Servo travel is shown above the transmitter stick travel in the
graph.
Since a collective pitch curve must also be set up for each throttle
curve,both curves are included in the same graph.
10.9 Gyro gain (GYRO)
This function enables you to switch
the gyro gain between two settings
from the transmitter.The (AUX) input
on the gyro must be connected to
receiver channel "5" for this to work.
The transmitter must be fitted with either a linear slider or a switch,
connected to channel 5, if gyro gain is to be switchable.As already
described for flight mode trim,the gyro gain value can be set sepa-
rately for the flight modes NORM,IDL-1 and T-HO (Rate 1 or 2).See
the table on page 41 for more details.
45
Transmitter control travel
T-LO
P-LO P-NT (0 % fest) P-HI
Servo travel
Throttle - collective pitch curve,Auto-rotation (T-HO)
Throttle
Slider / switch Gyro gain Norm IDL2
to channel 5 IDL1
T-HO
Order Numbers
F4090 - F4091 - F4092
F4095 - F4096 - F4097
46
11.Installing channel expansion modules
The FX-18 transmitter can be expanded by installing channel
expansion modules (Multi-modules) to provide extra switched and
proportional channels. These additional channels are primarily
needed for multi-function model trucks and boats.Assigning one or
two of the systems proportional channels to Multi-modules
provides up to 16 switched channels for each proportional channel.
Each FX Multi-module can control 2 Multi-decoders.
The signals are encoded at the transmitter via the Multi-modules,
and must be used in conjunction with Multi-decoders at the receiver
end in order to generate the signals required for the auxiliary units.
These Multi-decoders also feature integral switching stages which
can be used to control electrical units such as filament bulbs, low-
power electric motors etc.
Three different Multi-modules are available for the transmitter; the
method of installing and connecting them is described in the
following section.
11.1 Installing and connecting Multi-modules
- Open the back panel.
- Disconnect the transmitter battery.
- For improved access,pull the main circuit board back out of its
guides.
- Install the Multi-module circuit board in the upper central option
well.
- Remove the aluminium panel,releasing it at the rear by pushing a
screwdriver through the holes and pulling it forward.
- Apply the die-cut aluminium panel with its legend areas in the
same position;this
is available under
No.F 1589.The set
includes 12 rubber
plugs which can be
used to seal
unused openings,
e.g.after moving switches.
- Insert the Multi-module in the holes from the rear.
Caution:the pin row must face up.
- Fit the nuts (supplied) on the projecting switch shafts,and
tighten them with a suitable spanner (see also "Installing mixer
switches",Section 4.7).
- Connect the cables as shown in the illustration,and arrange them
neatly.
- The transmitter can accommodate the following additional
controls:
- 4 switched channels
- 4 linear sliders
- 2 stick switches (in the stick shafts)
Since the option wells can also be used for channel switches, mixer
switches,linear sliders or Multi-modules, the maximum number of
proportional or multi-channels may be limited by the number and
position of extra controls you have fitted; i.e. the degree to which
you have expanded the transmitter. For example, 4 proportional
channels and 36 multi-functions are more than sufficient for most
applications.
The physical controls,such as linear sliders or switched channels,are
installed as described in Section 4.7.
11.2 FX Multi-Switch-Prop module No.8380
The Multi-Switch-Prop module features 6 switches, each with 2
functions,which control the first 6 outputs (12 functions) of a Multi-
Switch-Prop 12+2 decoder (1). Switch 1 controls decoder output 1,
switch 2 -> output 2 etc.Each switch operates 2 functions, so the
function sequence is as follows:
Switch 1 operates -> functions 1 + 2
Switch 2 operates -> functions 3 + 4
Switch 3 operates -> functions 5 + 6
Switch 4 operates -> functions 7 + 8
Switch 5 operates -> functions 9 + 10
Switch 6 operates -> functions 11 + 12
Slider or switch 7 operates -> functions 13 + 14
Slider or switch 8 operates -> functions 15 + 16
To control decoder outputs 7 and 8 (proportional channels for direct
connection of servos or speed controllers) we recommend installing
linear sliders in the transmitter,and connecting them to sockets 7
and 8 on the Multi-module; these are marked with black numbers.
Naturally,a channel switch can be used instead of a linear slider,but
in this case the servo channel would be switched, and not
proportional.
The Multi-modules for FX-series transmitters feature two
independent encoders on one circuit board, and can therefore
control two Multi-decoders at the receiver end of the system. A
unique feature is that the user can select the physical control he
wants to use,and the location in the transmitter where it is to be
fitted.This applies in particular to the controls of the second Multi-
module,which is integrated into the same circuit board.
To achieve this, physical controls for all 8 channels must be
fitted in the transmitter case.
It is possible to choose with complete freedom which physical
controls operate the various functions.The controls for the second
Multi-module are connected to sockets 1...8; these are marked with
white numbers.These sockets are located on the rear face of the
Multi-Switch-Prop module circuit board.
Decoder 2
Decoder 1
Optional channel 5...8.
Socket number corresponds to
receiver output number
Order Numbers
F4090 - F4091 - F4092
F4095 - F4096 - F4097
47
The choice of physical controls on the transmitter must match the
Multi-decoder which is in use; alternatively the Multi-decoder type
must be selected to match the physical controls which are present.
The following types of Multi-decoder are available:
- Multi-Switch-Prop 12+2 decoder memory No.8370
= 12 switched channels and 2 prop (servo) channels
- Multi-Switch 16 decoder memory No.8369
= 16 switched channels
- Multi-Prop 8 decoder No.8042
= 8 proportional (servo) channels
General note on the multi-function decoders:
The decoder type determines whether proportional functions
(servos) or switched functions (lamps, motors) can be controlled.
Each Multi-module can control any type of decoder,although some
combinations may produce a system which is not particularly
convenient in use.
Example 1:
A proportional channel at the decoder end can be operated with a
switch; in this case the servo is switched (left-centre-right), and
cannot be controlled proportionally.
Example 2:
A switched channel at the decoder end can also be operated by a
proportional control (linear slider). In this case the slider must be
moved from the centre to the end-points to produce the switching
effect.
Note:
If you want to use all 8 switch
connections for the second part of
the Multi-module,you will need
to have stick switches installed,
since there are not enough
option wells present to accept
the full number of switches.
These stick switches are
installed in the main stick
shafts;the work must be carried
out by a robbe Service Centre.
For a more detailed
description of all the switches
and accessories available
please refer to Section 17,
Accessories.
In this example 2 Multi-Switch-
Prop decoders are used.It is also
possible to use any other
combination.
Please refer to the instructions
supplied with each Multi-
decoder for specifications,
details of power supply
requirements, maximum
switchable currents and
connection of electrical units.
DSC
Empfänger
receiver
recepteur
9-10
1-2
3-4
5-6
7-8
15-16
11-12
11-12
9-10
7-8
5-6
3-4
1-2
15-16
prop2
prop2
13/14
13/14
prop1
prop1
The wiring example shows an 8-channel
receiver. Any of channels 5...8 can be
selected for transmitting the Multi-Switch
signals.
The illustration shows the
numbering of the switches
and their mechanical function.
Ratchet
Ratchet
Ratchet
Ratchet
Ratchet
Button
Connections for Multi-Decoder 2 Connections for
Multi-Decoder 1
The illustrations clearly show the connection between the
numbering of the switches (channels) and the numbering of the
functions.
Button
Ratchet
Button
11.3 FX Multi-Switch module lighting set No. 8372
The methods of installing and connecting the module,and its
general method of working,have already been described in detail
in the preceding section.The following section describes the diffe-
ring features of the "FX Multi-module lighting set",and the
method of using it in conjunction with the Truck and Trailer super
lighting set.
The physical controls,such as switches and pots,are arranged in
such a way that all the functions of the Truck and Trailer lighting
set can be controlled conveniently.The Multi-module is fitted as
standard with 5 switches and one pot,which are used to control
the first 6 outputs of the Multi-decoder which is an integral part of
the Super lighting set.Switches 7 and 8 have to be installed sepa-
rately.
The switches and pot are used to control the following
functions:
No. Function on truck: Function on trailer:
1 Supplementary servo, right-left
2 Hazard flasher Trailer on-off / hazard flasher
3 Running, parking, rear light Running,parking,rear light
4 High beam,high beam flash
5 Trailer strut,up-down
6 Coupling open-close
7 Rear foglamp / flasher Rear fog lamp
8 Flasher,left-right Flasher,left-right
Please refer to the instructions supplied with the lighting set,as
they include a full wiring diagram,specifications etc.
This Multi-module includes as standard an encoder to control a
second Multi-decoder.To make use of this, connect the correspon-
ding controls such as switches and sliders to the rear face of the
circuit board (see also Section 11.1).
11.4 FX Multi-Switch module sound No.8382
The methods of installing and connecting the module,and its
general method of working,have already been described in detail
in Section 11.1.The following section describes the differing featu-
res of the "Multi-module sound" and the way of using it in
conjunction with the Navy and Truck sound modules.
The switch controls are arranged in such a way that all the func-
tions of both sound modules can be controlled conveniently,with
the Multi-module controlling the Multi-decoder which is an inte-
gral part of the sound module. Switches 6 and 7 each control one
further free channel at the sound module,and can be installed
and connected as options if and when required.
The switches operate the following functions on the sound
module:
No. Sound module Truck Sound module Navy
1 Release compressed air Ships bell
2 Horn Foghorn
3 Martins horn Martins horn
4 Horn Destroyer siren
5 Engine Engine
6 Free switched channel Free switched channel
7 Free switched channel Free switched channel
8 - Typhoon
Please refer to the instructions supplied with the sound modules
for a full wiring diagram,specifications etc.This Multi-module also
features as standard an encoder which can control a second Multi-
decoder.To make use of this, connect the corresponding controls
such as switches and sliders to the rear face of the circuit board.
For truck modellers we recommend that you install a Super ligh-
ting set as the second Multi-decoder,as this combination of deco-
ders produces the optimum arrangement for controlling the auxi-
liary functions of a model truck.
We recommend the following switch arrangement:
The switches numbered in black circles have the following
functions with the Truck and Trailer lighting set:
No. Function on truck: Function on trailer:
1 Supplementary servo, right-left
2 Hazard flasher Trailer on-off / hazard flasher
3 Running, parking, rear light Running,parking,rear light
4 High beam,high beam flash
5 Trailer strut,up-down
6 Coupling open-close
7 Rear foglamp / flasher Rear fog lamp
8 Flasher,left-right Flasher,left-right
The following illustration shows the connections at the Multi-
module.
Order Numbers
F4090 - F4091 - F4092
F4095 - F4096 - F4097
48
The illustration shows the switch numbe-
ring and the mechanical function of the
switches.
Ratchet
Ratchet
Ratchet
Ratchet
Ratchet
Button
The illustration shows the switch numbe-
ring and the mechanical function of the
switches.
Ratchet
-------
Ratchet
Ratchet
-------
Button
Order Numbers
F4090 - F4091 - F4092
F4095 - F4096 - F4097
49
12.Connecting the receiving system,tips on installation
Connecting the receiver
Receiver aerial
The receiver aerial is attached directly to the receiver.It is about 100
cm long and must not be shortened or extended.The aerial should
be routed as far as possible away
from electric motors, servos,
metal pushrods and high-current
cables.
Do not deploy the aerial in an exactly straight line. It is better to
tension it to the fin tip with a rubber band and allow about 10 - 15
cm to trail freely,forming an L-shape.This helps to prevent "blind
spots" and "glitches" when flying.
If this is not possible, we
recommend that you deploy the
aerial in an S-shape inside the
fuselage, as it will take up little
space in this configuration.
Wind the wire onto a small plate
made of card, plywood or plastic, as shown in the sketch here, and
locate it close to the receiver if possible.This does not affect effective
range.
Avoid aerial damage by fitting a tension relief and guide,e.g.a short
piece of fuel tubing, where the wire exits the fuselage.It is essential
to ensure that the aerial cannot foul the propeller.
If your model has a carbon fibre fuselage, the aerial must be
deployed outside it, and should not even run parallel to the
fuselage,as the shielding effect of this material can cause reception
problems.
Switch harness
It must be possible to operate the receiving system switch easily,
without mechanical restriction, i.e. the cut-out in the fuselage side
must be large enough to avoid obstructing the mechanism. In
powered models with internal-combustion engines the switch
should be mounted on the opposite side to the exhaust,to avoid the
danger of oil penetrating the switch and soiling the contacts.
Servo leads
When deploying servo leads ensure that they are not under any
mechanical strain and are not kinked or bent tightly, as this might
cause them to fracture over time. Make sure there are no sharp
edges which might damage the cable insulation. All connectors
must be firmly fitted and secure.When disconnecting them, pull on
the plastic housings - not on the wires.
Servo leads should not just be left dangling inside the fuselage; it is
far better to attach the leads neatly to, say, the fuselage side or the
chassis using adhesive tape or cable ties.
It is not permissible for modifications of any kind to be made to the
receiving system components. Avoid reversed polarity and short-
circuits of all kinds,as the electronics are not protected against such
errors.
Servo suppression filters for extension leads
If you wish to use long servo leads or extension leads,e.g.for aileron
servos installed outboard in the wings,please note that interference
may be picked up via the servo leads.Where servo cables are longer
than two normal leads (approx. 50 cm), you should at least use
twisted cables (No.F 1452).
Even better:use suppressor filters,No.F 1413.
Installing servos
Always use the rubber grommets and brass eyelets supplied when
installing servos. When you tighten the servo retaining screws,
ensure that the screws are not tightened beyond the point where
the brass eyelets make contact top and bottom; if they are
compressed,the ability of the rubber grommets to absorb vibration
would be lost.The following diagram shows two typical methods of
mounting servos.Diagram "A" shows a wooden servo plate.Diagram
"B" shows the use of a plastic or aluminium plate.
In model aircraft suitable servo plates or quick-release mounts
normally have to be fitted.In RC model cars the servos are usually
fitted in the openings provided for them in the RC installation plate.
robbe quick-release servo mounts are a good choice for model
boats. Please take great care over mounting servos, as they are
sensitive to vibration.
Servo travels
Each servo must be able to move through its full arc of travel
without being mechanically obstructed by the control surface or its
linkage.This applies in particular to the carburettor linkage.The "full
throttle" and "idle" settings must be determined by the stick
positions; never by the throttles mechanical end-stop.If you ignore
this warning, the servo motor will be under almost full load
constantly,and will consume an extremely high current.
1
2
3
3
4
4
1
2
5
1 Woodscrew
2 Washer
3 Rubber grommet
4 Eyelet
5 Wood
1 Nut
2 Washer
3 Rubber grommet
4 Eyelet
5 Aluminium plate
6 Screw
5
6
Servo output arms
Servos with splined output shafts permit mechanical adjustment of
the servo neutral position.The position is adjusted by undoing the
retaining screw and lifting off the output device.
Position the output device in the appropriate neutral position,push
it down onto the splines,and tighten the retaining screw again.The
following diagram shows a servo with pushrod connected.
A range of servo output arms is available for robbe servos,and they
are illustrated in the picture below. The picture also shows the
angular change per spline segment.
Installing linkages
The basic rule when installing mechanical linkages and control
surfaces is that they must be extremely free-moving,otherwise the
servos will draw excessive currents, and the effective operating
time per battery charge will be greatly reduced. At the same time
the centring accuracy of the control system will be worse, which in
turn has a negative influence on the model’s flying characteristics.
13.Using the system
All robbe-Futaba receivers continue to work with full range at
reduced voltage, down to the point where the supply voltage falls
to 3 V.The advantage of this is that normally the receiving system
will continue to work even if one cell fails completely (short-circuit),
as robbe-Futaba servos still work down to 3.6V, albeit at slightly
lower speed and with less power. This is very important in Winter,
when ambient temperatures are very low, otherwise any
momentary voltage collapse could cause the loss of a model.
However,there is a drawback:under certain circumstances the user
may not even notice the failure of a battery cell. For this reason it is
important to check the receiver battery from time to time. We
especially recommend the use of a robbe battery controller (No.
8248) or a robbe 10-LED switch harness (e.g.Order No. F 1404).
Power-on sequence
Always switch on the transmitter first, and only then the
receiver.
Reverse the sequence when switching off.
When you switch the receiver on, the servos run to the neutral
position. We recommend that you check each function in turn by
operating the associated stick or other transmitter control. Check
that each control surface functions in the correct "sense"
(direction).If any control surface moves in the wrong direction,that
servo must be reversed at the transmitter.
"Noise" interference
If your radio control system is to operate safely and reliably, it is
essential to avoid what is known as electrical "noise" interference.
This problem is due to metal parts, such as pushrods, rubbing
against each other intermittently as a result of vibration. For this
reason the linkage to the engine’s carburettor must always
terminate in a plastic clevis - never connect a metal linkage directly
to the carburettor arm without insulation.
Electric motors
All electric motors in RC models
must be effectively suppressed,
otherwise the sparks which are
generated between the
armature and the carbon
brushes when the motor is
running will have a serious
adverse effect on the radio
control system,and cause interference.
We recommend robbe suppressor filters, No.8306, 8307 or a set of
suppressor capacitors, No. 4008. Each electric motor in the model
must be suppressed individually as shown in the diagram.
Electronic ignition systems
The ignition systems of spark-ignition petrol engines can also
produce interference, which has an adverse effect on the radio
control system. Never power an ignition system from the receiver
battery; a separate battery is essential.
Be sure to use properly suppressed spark plugs, plug caps and
shielded ignition cables.
Keep the receiving system as far away as possible from any ignition
system.
Receiver battery capacity and operating times
This rule applies to all types of battery:at low temperatures battery
capacity is severely reduced, i.e. safe operating times are shorter in
cold weather.
The safe operating time varies greatly according to the number of
servos connected to the receiver, the stiffness of the linkages, and
the frequency of control commands which the pilot gives. A
standard servo draws between 150 and 600 mA when the motor is
running,and about 8 mA at idle. Super-servos and powerful digital
servos can draw peak currents of up to 1300 mA at full power.
Be sure to select a receiver battery with ample capacity,
bearing in mind the likely current drain and the number of
servos.
Ensure that all mechanical linkages are free-moving, and that the
servo is not obstructed in its travel. A servo running constantly
against a mechanical stop or limit draws a very high current, and
will also inevitably suffer damage in the long-term.
When the receiver battery is almost discharged, you may notice
that the servos respond much more slowly.The moment you notice
this, land the model immediately and recharge the battery. To
monitor the receiver battery during a session we recommend the
use of a battery controller,which gives you a useful idea of the state
of charge of the battery between flights.
Order Numbers
F4090 - F4091 - F4092
F4095 - F4096 - F4097
50
Retaining screw
Pushrod
14.Guarantee
We guarantee this radio control system for a period of 24 months.
Take care to keep the purchase receipt given to you by your model
shop, as you will need it as proof of the guarantee period. The
model shop will give you the receipt when you purchase your new
radio control system.Any repairs carried out under guarantee do
not extend the guarantee period.
During this period any faults in operation or manufacture or
material defects will be corrected by us at no cost to you.Any other
claims, e.g.in the case of consequent damage, are excluded from
the guarantee.
The system must be returned to us carriage-paid; we will pay the
cost of transport back to you.We will not accept shipments sent
C.O.D.
We accept no liability for damage in transit or loss of your
shipment; we recommend that you take out suitable insurance to
cover this.
Send your equipment to the robbe Service Centre for the country
in which you live.
To process your guarantee claims the following conditions
must be fulfilled:
- The purchase receipt must be included with your shipment.
- The units must have been operated in accordance with the
operating instructions.
- Recommended batteries and genuine robbe accessories were
used exclusively.
- Damage due to damp,tampering,reverse polarity,overloads
and mechanical damage are not covered.
- You must include a succinct description of the problem to help
us locate the fault or defect.
15.Service Centre addresses
Order Numbers
F4090 - F4091 - F4092
F4095 - F4096 - F4097
51
Andorra
SORTENY
130 LES ESCALDES
Tel.:0037-6-82 08 27
Fax:0037-6-82 54 76
Denmark
MAAETOFT DMI
8900 RANDERS
Tel.:0045-86-43 61 00
Fax:0045-86-43 77 44
Greece
TAG MODELS HELLAS
143 41 NEA PHILADELFIA
Tel.:0030-1-25 84 38 0
Fax:0030-1-25 33 53 3
France / Belgium
S.A.V.MESSE
ROBBE / FUTABA
BP 12
F-57730 FOLSCHVILLER
Tel./Fax:0033-387-946258
Austria
ROBBE - SERVICE
HOSNEDLGASSE 35
A-1220 WIEN
Tel.:0043-01259-6652-14
Fax:0043-01258-1179
Sweden
MINICARS HOBBY AB
75323 UPPSALA
Tel.:0046-18-71 20 15
Fax:0046-18-10 85 45
Turkey
FORMULA MODEL SPORTS
35060 PINARBASI-IZMIR
Tel.:0090-232-47 91 25 8
Fax:0090-232-47 91 71 4
Switzerland
SPAHR ELEKTRONIK
GOTTHELFSTRASSE 12
CH-2543 LENGNAU
Tel.:0041-032-6522368
Fax:0041-032-6537364
Netherlands / Belgium
JAN VAN MOUWERIK
SLOT DE HOUVELAAN 30
NL-3155 VT MAASLAND
Tel./Fax:0031-1059-13594
Italy
MC-ELECTRONIC
VIA DEL PROGRESSO 25
I-36010 CAVAZZALE (VI)
Tel.:00390-0444-945992
Fax:00390-0444-945991
Slovak Republic
FLY - FAN
91105 TRENCIN
Tel.:0042-1831-74 44 20 3
Fax:0042-1831-74 44 71 5
Spain
MODELIMPORT S.A.
28850 TORREJON DE
ARDOZ MADRID
Tel.:0034-91-67 74 72 0
Fax:0034-91-67 79 86 0
Germany
ROBBE - SERVICE
METZLOSER STRAßE 36
36355 GREBENHAIN
Tel.:0049-6644-87-0
Fax:0049-6644-74 12
Finland
HOBBY-NOR KY
02100 ESPOO
Tel.:0035-89-45 51 13 3
Fax:0035-89-45 51 13 0
Poland
JANTAR SP. O.O.
85-078 BYDGOSZCZ
Tel./Fax:0048-52-34 54 291
Norway
NORWEGIAN
MODELLERS A.S.
3101 TØNSBERG
Tel.:0047-333- 78 00 0
Fax:0047-333 -78 00 1
England
ROBBE-SCHLUETER UK
LEICESTERSHIRE,LE10-1UB
Tel.:0044-1455-63 71 51
Fax:0044-1455-63 51 51
16.Post Office regulations
The R&TTE (Radio Equipment & Telecommunications Terminal
Equipment) directive is the new European directive applicable to
radio systems and telecommunications equipment, and applies to
all such equipment which has general conformity approval in the
EC. Part of the R&TTE directive regulates the setting up and opera-
tion of radio systems in the European Community.
An important change compared with earlier regulations is the aboli-
tion of approval procedures. The manufacturer or importer must
submit the radio system to a conformity assessment procedure
before marketing the equipment,and is obliged to notify the appro-
priate authority when the process is completed.
The CE symbol is applied to all such equipment,and indicates that it
fulfils the currently valid European norms. An
exclamation mark is also applied to radio trans-
mitting equipment, as an indication that the
approved frequencies are not uniform throug-
hout Europe.
This symbol is used in all the countries of the European Union.Other
countries such as Switzerland, Norway, Estonia and Sweden have
also accepted this directive.
Your radio control system is registered (i.e. approved) in all these
countries,and can legally be sold and operated there.
Please note that the radio control system may only be operated
on the approved frequencies for your country. A frequency
table is supplied with your system.
We are obliged to point out that the responsibility for this,and also
for operating a radio system which fulfils the requirements of the
directives,rests with you,the user.
In Germany radio control systems for models operating in the fre-
quency bands of 27 MHz and 40 MHz do not need to be registered
or licensed, and no fee is payable.This may not apply in the coun-
try in which you live.In Germany a General Licence to use these fre-
quencies is granted by right.A copy of this "general licence" is supp-
lied with your system.
In Germany the same does not apply to 35 MHz systems, for
which a fee is payable on registration. The licence must be obtai-
ned from the appropriate RgTP centre before you use the system.An
application form for this licence is supplied with the RC system; ple-
ase refer to the form for further details.
Before using the system check whether you need to register or
license your radio control equipment in the country where you
intend to operate it.
Czech Republic
MS Composit Modelsport
CZD25265 Tursko
Tel.:00420-205-786 266
Fax:00420-205-786 401
Order Numbers
F4090 - F4091 - F4092
F4095 - F4096 - F4097
52
17. Accessories
FX transmitter tray No.8373
A modern transmitter tray with
handrests, moulded in carbon
fibre-look material. Integral
storage compartments for
crystals and tools. The special
form of the tray provides access
to the rear-mounted linear sliders
for transmitter tray users. The
transmitter battery can also be
recharged without removing it
from the tray.
FX support system No 8374
Neckstrap with central plate for
secure fixing to the transmitter
back panel.
The bars lock in the vertical
position. For transport the bars
can be folded back, and for
programming they can be folded
to the side.
FX shell handles No.8376
Self-adhesive shell handles
moulded in special non-slip
plastic.
The handles provide even better
moulding of the transmitter to fit
the pilot’s hands, and a secure
transmitter grip even if you
specialise in powerful "hand-
launches".
Contents:1 pair
FX carry handle No.8375
A practical carry handle is
available for pilots who prefer a
hand-held transmitter.
Helical aerial,35 MHz
No. 8081
Helical aerial,40/41 MHz
No. 8072
These short helical aerials can be
used as an alternative to the
telescopic aerial.
The principal advantages are: no
wear, and greater freedom of
movement. Effective range is
about 30% lower.
Single-point neckstrap
No. F 1550
Soft neckstrap, adjustable in
length, with spring clip and
swivel.
FX long rear linear slider
No. F 1586
Linear slider for installation in the
back panel of the transmitter.
Supplied with 2 long operating
levers; can be used left or right.
The version with long levers is
recommended for use in a
transmitter tray. Also expands
Multi-modules by one
proportional channel.
FX short rear linear slider
No. F 1590
Linear slider for installation in the
back panel of the transmitter.
Supplied with 2 short, low-profile
operating levers; can be used left
or right. The version with long
levers is recommended for use in
a transmitter tray. Also expands
Multi-modules by one
proportional channel.
FX ball and socket aerial base
No.F 1559
Ball and socket base for
telescopic aerial. Variable aerial
rake for optimum radiated power.
Cross-over neckstrap
No.8151
Comfortable, adjustable-length
cross-over strap for transmitter
trays and support systems.
Promotes fatigue-free model
flying even over long periods.
Broad, soft strap for pleasant,
comfortable flying.
FX front linear slider
No.F 1587
Expands the FX transmitter by
one slider channel on the front
panel. Supplied with operating
knob and scale label. Also
expands Multi-modules by one
proportional channel.
Long 3-position switched
channel
No.F 1588
Expands the FX transmitter by
one 3-position switched channel.
Also expands Multi-modules by
one proportional channel.
Order Numbers
F4090 - F4091 - F4092
F4095 - F4096 - F4097
53
Short 3-position switched
channel
No. F 1500
Expands the FX transmitter by
one 3-position switched channel.
Also expands Multi-modules by
one proportional channel.
Long 2-position switched
channel
No.F 1524
Expands the FX transmitter by
one 2-position switched channel.
Also expands Multi-modules by
one proportional channel
Long 2-position mixer push-
button
No.F 1504
For operating mixer functions.
2-position stick switch
No.8343
For operating mixer, channel or Multi
functions.
3-position stick switch
No.8344
For operating mixer, channel or Multi
functions.
Push-button stick switch
No.8346
For operating momentary functions such
as stopwatch etc.
Short 2-position mixer push-
button
No.F 1502
For operating mixer functions.
Long 2-position mixer switch
No.F 1521
For operating mixer functions.
Stick top extension
No.8086
Extends the sticks for use in a
transmitter tray or with the
neckstrap system. Variable
length;10.5 mm Ø,length 47 mm.
Contents:2 units
Long 3-position mixer switch
No.F 1522
For operating mixer functions.
Mini battery controller
No.8248
For 4.8 Volt receiver batteries.10-
stage chain of LEDs provides
information about the current
voltage level of the receiver
battery while the model is in use.
Short 3-position mixer switch
No.F 1503
For operating mixer functions.
Short 2-position latching mixer
switch
No.F 1523
For operating mixer functions.
10-LED switch harness,4 NC
No.F 1404
Switch harness with integral
battery controller and
DSC/charge socket in a compact
housing. The integral battery
monitor shows the voltage of the
receiver battery in 1/10 Volt
increments.
CAMPac model memory
modules
4 K No.F 1508 3 models
16 K No.F 1509 12 models
64 K No.F 1566 49 models
Double mix trimmer module
No.F 1506
Two mix trimmers for adjusting
mixer values in flight. Supplied
with aluminium knobs.
Order Numbers
F4090 - F4091 - F4092
F4095 - F4096 - F4097
54
FX DSC lead No.8385
For direct servo control (DSC)
without radiating an RF signal.
FX Trainer lead,2.5 - 2.5 mm
No.8377
Trainer lead for two FX
transmitters.
Length approx.2.5 metres.
FX Trainer lead,2.5 - 3.5 mm
No.8362
Trainer lead for FX transmitter to
F transmitter with Trainer Module
4.
Length approx.2.5 metres.
FX adaptor for flight simulator
No.8383
Adaptor lead for connecting FX
transmitter to flight simulators
with 3.5 mm barrel plug (2.5 ->
3.5 mm)
The illustrations below are schematic wiring diagrams of the
trainer and adaptor leads required to connect the FX-18
transmitter to F-series transmitters and the hand-held
transmitters of the international Futaba series.
Trainer 4 adaptor
No.F 1576
Adaptor for connecting the
Trainer lead, No. 8362, to trainer
transmitters with Trainer module
1 or 3 and transmitters with DIN
6-pin Trainer socket.
Student 4 adaptor
No.F 1581
Adaptor for connecting the
trainer lead, No. 8362, to student
transmitters with Trainer module
1 or 3 and transmitters with DIN
6-pin Trainer socket.
No.8377
Use of 2 FX transmitters, trainer lead No.8377 and switch No.F
1524.
F-series transmitter with integral Trainer 4 module No. F 1574.
Requires trainer lead No.8362.
No.8362
FX-18 in conjunction with F-series transmitters, with integral Trainer
4 module No.F 1574
Requires trainer lead No.8362 and switch No.F 1524.
No.8362
FX-Serie
F-Serie
F-Serie
F-series transmitter in conjunction with integral Trainer module 1 or
3,also hand-held transmitters with DIN 6-pin socket.
Requires trainer lead No.8362 and adaptor lead No.F 1576.
No.F 1576 No.8362
No.8362 No.F 1581
FX-18 in conjunction with F-series transmitters with integral Trainer
module 1 or 3,also hand-held transmitters with DIN 6-pin socket.
Requires trainer lead No.8362 and adaptor lead No.F 1581.
F-Serie
F-Serie
FX-Serie
FX-Serie
FX-Serie
FX-Serie
FX-Serie
Order Numbers
F4090 - F4091 - F4092
F4095 - F4096 - F4097
55
FX Multi-Switch module lighting set No.8372
Expansion module for switching auxiliary working functions. Expands
2 proportional channels of an FX transmitter to provide up to 32
switched channels.The switches are selected and arranged to afford
optimum control of a Truck lighting set.
FX Multi-Switch Prop module No.8380
Expansion module for switching auxiliary working functions.
Expands 2 proportional channels of an FX transmitter to provide up
to 32 switched channels.The switches are selected and arranged to
afford optimum control of a Multi-Switch-Prop decoder.
Truck super lighting set No.8411
Multi-decoder module providing scale control of the lighting
system and proportional auxiliary working systems in model
vehicles such as trucks,etc.All the standard flashing and constant
light functions can be controlled; the "throttle" channel of the
radio control system is monitored,and automatically controls the
brake lights and reversing lights.
Two additional proportional servo channels are switchable. Zero-
contact control signal transfer to the Trailer lighting set by means
of infra-red transmission system.
Trailer super lighting set No.8412
Complements the Truck lighting set,used to control the lighting
functions in the trailer.
Multi-Switch-Prop 12+2 decoder memory No.8370
Multi-decoder required to decode Multi-module signals. The
decoder takes up only one servo channel,and directly controls 12
switched channels and 2 servo channels.
Operating voltage 4.8 - 24 Volts,up to 2.7 A per output.
Multi-Switch 16 decoder memory No.8369
Multi-decoder required to decode Multi-module signals. The
decoder takes up only one servo channel,and directly controls 16
switched channels.
Operating voltage 4.8 - 24 Volts,up to 1.8 A per output.
Multi-Prop 8 decoder No.8042
Multi-decoder providing additional proportional channels. The
decoder takes up only one servo channel,but provides independent
control of 8 servos or speed controllers connected to it.
Navy sound module No.8270
Sound module for model boats containing six digitally stored
original sounds.
Martins horn * foghorn * ships bell * typhoon or destroyer siren plus
motor speed-dependent diesel engine sound.
The sound module includes an integral multi-decoder which allows
the individual sounds to be switched on and off independently of
each other.
Truck sound module No.8268
As the Navy sound module, but with the following sounds in
addition to the diesel engine:
* compressed air release * Martins horn * horn * hooter
Operating voltage:6-12 Volts,output stage power approx.6 W into 8
Ohm.
FX Multi-Switch module sound No.8382
Expansion module for switching auxiliary working functions.
Expands 2 proportional channels of an FX transmitter to provide up
to 23 switched channels.The switches are selected and arranged to
afford optimum control of a Truck or Navy sound module.
robbe Modellsport GmbH & Co.KG
Metzloserstr.36
D-36355 Grebenhain
Germany
Telephone:0049-6644-870
Errors and omissions excepted.
Modifications reserved.
Copyright robbe-Modellsport 2002
Copying and re-printing,in whole or in part,only with
prior written approval of robbe-Modellsport GmbH &
Co.KG
21

Hulp nodig? Stel uw vraag in het forum

Spelregels

Misbruik melden

Gebruikershandleiding.com neemt misbruik van zijn services uitermate serieus. U kunt hieronder aangeven waarom deze vraag ongepast is. Wij controleren de vraag en zonodig wordt deze verwijderd.

Product:

Bijvoorbeeld antisemitische inhoud, racistische inhoud, of materiaal dat gewelddadige fysieke handelingen tot gevolg kan hebben.

Bijvoorbeeld een creditcardnummer, een persoonlijk identificatienummer, of een geheim adres. E-mailadressen en volledige namen worden niet als privégegevens beschouwd.

Spelregels forum

Om tot zinvolle vragen te komen hanteren wij de volgende spelregels:

Belangrijk! Als er een antwoord wordt gegeven op uw vraag, dan is het voor de gever van het antwoord nuttig om te weten als u er wel (of niet) mee geholpen bent! Wij vragen u dus ook te reageren op een antwoord.

Belangrijk! Antwoorden worden ook per e-mail naar abonnees gestuurd. Laat uw emailadres achter op deze site, zodat u op de hoogte blijft. U krijgt dan ook andere vragen en antwoorden te zien.

Abonneren

Abonneer u voor het ontvangen van emails voor uw Futaba FX18 bij:


U ontvangt een email met instructies om u voor één of beide opties in te schrijven.


Ontvang uw handleiding per email

Vul uw emailadres in en ontvang de handleiding van Futaba FX18 in de taal/talen: Engels als bijlage per email.

De handleiding is 6,61 mb groot.

 

U ontvangt de handleiding per email binnen enkele minuten. Als u geen email heeft ontvangen, dan heeft u waarschijnlijk een verkeerd emailadres ingevuld of is uw mailbox te vol. Daarnaast kan het zijn dat uw internetprovider een maximum heeft aan de grootte per email. Omdat hier een handleiding wordt meegestuurd, kan het voorkomen dat de email groter is dan toegestaan bij uw provider.

Stel vragen via chat aan uw handleiding

Stel uw vraag over deze PDF

Andere handleiding(en) van Futaba FX18

Futaba FX18 Gebruiksaanwijzing - Nederlands - 56 pagina's

Futaba FX18 Gebruiksaanwijzing - Deutsch - 56 pagina's

Futaba FX18 Gebruiksaanwijzing - Français - 56 pagina's


Uw handleiding is per email verstuurd. Controleer uw email

Als u niet binnen een kwartier uw email met handleiding ontvangen heeft, kan het zijn dat u een verkeerd emailadres heeft ingevuld of dat uw emailprovider een maximum grootte per email heeft ingesteld die kleiner is dan de grootte van de handleiding.

Er is een email naar u verstuurd om uw inschrijving definitief te maken.

Controleer uw email en volg de aanwijzingen op om uw inschrijving definitief te maken

U heeft geen emailadres opgegeven

Als u de handleiding per email wilt ontvangen, vul dan een geldig emailadres in.

Uw vraag is op deze pagina toegevoegd

Wilt u een email ontvangen bij een antwoord en/of nieuwe vragen? Vul dan hier uw emailadres in.



Info