2.4ghz radio frequency.

[Daz(DJLFlapper)]

Hi guys and gals.

I have been reading a lot about the new radio frequencies allowed in the uk that have been used in other countries for some time. The new microwave signal certainly has a hell of a lot to be thankfull for. It is a system that has been used on cars for some time now and has proved very very succesfull.

There are 2 radios on sale at the moment that use the 2.4ghz system one is the DX6 and the other is the DX7, both are made by Spectrum both are suitable for heli use thoguh there are more usefull program params in the DX7.

The greatest benefit is that you don't need to wait for other flyers to stop flying before you start. Each radio has a identification number that the receiver recognises and it has the ability to filter out all others that dont carry its code. This means no more shot me down stories and far safer and faster signal rates. They are taking off like hotcakes in the UK at the moment and a few of us (Myself included) are waiting to see what other manufacturers are going to do. for now Spectrum are doing a great trade.

Its well priced as well, So to rap up read on this system I wreckon it is going to be the standard for the future in aircraft use. It is easily the safest thing for all our aircraft.

I WILL be taking this system on in the future.

[Jeff0r3]

I heard that by end of this year, they will be selling the modules and recievers just like they do with the cars. Instead of going and buying a whole new Spektrum system, you will be able to buy the module and a reciever. So if you prefer Futaba, then you'll still be able to use Futaba with a spektrum reciever. I also heard that Futaba will be releasing their 2.4 Ghz system this year or early next year. Not sure of either of the two, as my source that I know if is not represented by Spektrum or Futaba. However, if you like Futaba, or JR, their systems will be out soon I feel like because Spektrum is really putting a hurting on their business.

And with the Futaba 12Z and 14Z, you don't have to worry about interference either. As it attaches a code to the beginning of each signal that makes it lock on to only that Tx. However, your gonna pay 5 times the amount as you would for a new spektrum system.

Spektrum is lovin this I know! And I heard its a really nice system anyways.

[hawkman]

Thanks for answering a question for me....I posted quite recently on another site and got no reply.....I was curious about this new technology for radios.....I am amazed at radio/reciever sets...and what they do. Without doubt the computer type radios are becoming the norm.....but to actually have this new system as well just blows me away.

How much would a typical heli radio cost with this stuff installed? Good idea about being able to convert an existing radio to 2.4 ghz....I quite like the Futaba I have.

Rob

[Aztek1701]

Hi M8,

You'd need a Spektrum Radio and a reciever. I think midland helis is looking for about 150 gbp for the DX7 (I MIGHT be wrong cos its not on their website yet) and I have no idea whatsoever about the price of the RX (which is actually 2 rx's one that needs to be orientated Vertically, one that needs to be orentated Horizontally. (4 Antennas). Im guessing the rx will be about 50 gpb. Im told by midland helis that it will drive futaba servos.

It looks like its the way forward for model radio, but cos ur in the falklands Id be a bit careful about how good it is at rejecting radar interference with HM Forces probably creating lots of 2.4GHz noise that might affect it. (This is purley speculation though.)

Hope this helps... Azzy

[Headache mt]

Just a heads up

http://www.xtremepowersystems.net/xtremelink.php

[Jeff0r3]

That website is pretty much just the main page. Any attempt to see the system is blank. Atleast it was for me. But that is very interesting. Not saying that its a scam or anything, just saying that their website is pretty shady at the moment. I gonna look into this more. Thanks for the info!

Jeff

[hawkman]

Thats interesting Aztek....I have a frequency checker here for the 35 mhz band.....I get channels on it that are occupied from time to time....my channel has never been interfered with.

Goodness knows what the interference is....the Base here plus the Capital gets interference....could explain some crashes in the Capital area....I am the only flyer with this checker.....its invaluble.

Rob

[Daz(DJLFlapper)]

The use of radio frequency checkers is abviously an invaluable aid to your own and others about you in respect to saftey. What I like to do is simple but affective and it has shown frequencies that are in use before. I have always been a nitro head till recently and now enjoy the both versions. I have a meathod of checking for interference that does work.
I disconect the engine on my heli if electric and just turn the power to the servos on the nitro models without engine running. If there is any interference with the servos that looks like the channel is being used I simply change out my crystals and check with a new frequency installed. I give it 2 minutes in the check mode. nothing going on I happily fly my heli.

It may seem like it is a bit strange to do this but I can assure you that I have never lost control of my heli due to interference. Of course thats not to say I have not seen any during flight! I have and the buty about PPM/FM is that I am able to land and check for any further interference without be locked out by PCM failsafes. This I may add is why I never switched to PCM in the first place. Don't get me wrong it is a good receiver and has served others well. I just prefer PPM/FM you see the heli glitch and even get the opertunity to do sommat about it. Not like when I fly my only heli to carry a PCM receiver, I am constantly flying with a terrible feeling in the pit of my stomach that is waiting for the heli controls to be taken away just when I don't have time to do anything about it. Even though I have set the failsafes the heli would need to be level to have any chance. SO PPM/FM has served me great. BUT the 2.4ghz is definatly in my wish list. And as I use Futaba system throughout I would like to see if the price of the conversion they will bring out makes good economical sence. Because I for one will choose the best option for my wallet.
I have heard such good things about the specktrum system (DX7) I was close to charging the plastic yesterday.
then you can forget the cost of PCM receivers holding such a high price for long if people still want 35mhz.
I for one have a few heli's that I would like to fly with the 35mhz still. It has been great for 25 years. I couldn't just dump the gear and go all out 2.4ghz straight away.

Buy the way there is a great write up on this system in the latest issue of Rotorworld heli magazine.