I N S T RU C T I O N M A N UA L N O T I C E D ’ U T I L I S AT I O N Illustration shows expanded version of the transmitter, fitted with optional accessories. L’illustration présente l’émetteur pourvu d’extensions et équipé de divers accessoires. FM 35 MHz NC FM 40 MHz NC FM 41 MHz NC No. F 4090 No. F 4091 No. F 4092 FM 35 MHz NiMH FM 40 MHz NiMH FM 41 MHz NiMH No. F 4095 No. F 4096 No.
Order Numbers F4090 - F4091 - F4092 F4095 - F4096 - F4097 Contents 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) ............................
Order Numbers F4090 - F4091 - F4092 F4095 - F4096 - F4097 Safety notes: please observe at all times. 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. 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.
Order Numbers F4090 - F4091 - F4092 F4095 - F4096 - F4097 1. Set contents 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 designed 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.
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 userfriendly software provides many new functions and caters for all types of model, while the 3-D hotkey makes navigation and setup straightforward and fast.
Order Numbers F4090 - F4091 - F4092 F4095 - F4096 - F4097 4. FX-18 transmitter 4.
Order Numbers F4090 - F4091 - F4092 F4095 - F4096 - F4097 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 16k 64k CAMPac 3 model memories CAMPac 12 model memories CAMPac 49 model memories No. F 1508 No. F 1509 No.
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. Transmitter crystals bear the abbreviation TX + channel number.
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.
Order Numbers F4090 - F4091 - F4092 F4095 - F4096 - F4097 Connecting the option modules to the circuit board 1. Connector for channel switches and linear sliders, channels 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.
Order Numbers F4090 - F4091 - F4092 F4095 - F4096 - F4097 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. 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.
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.
Order Numbers F4090 - F4091 - F4092 F4095 - F4096 - F4097 6.3 The FX-18 menu structure If you now rotate the 3-D hotkey (to left or right), you will find four different Home menus. 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.
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).
Order Numbers F4090 - F4091 - F4092 F4095 - F4096 - F4097 7.1 Parameter menu (PARA) Switching modulation 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.
Order Numbers F4090 - F4091 - F4092 F4095 - F4096 - F4097 G Q H MODE 4: Aileron left (Q) Elevator right (H) Throttle left (G) Rudder right (S) S This function must be combined correctly with the throttle reverse function; see Section 7.1.3. It is important to ensure that both the throttle direction and the throttle trim are set correctly. Trim range Normal The servo connections at the receiver are the same for all stick modes.
Order Numbers F4090 - F4091 - F4092 F4095 - F4096 - F4097 7.1.10 Model memory reset (REST) 7.1.8 Low voltage alarm (VOLT) In this menu point you can adjust the voltage at which the transmitter’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 currently set low-voltage threshold flashes on the screen. Rotate the 3-D hotkey to set your preferred voltage threshold.
Order Numbers F4090 - F4091 - F4092 F4095 - F4096 - F4097 The menu for model memory selection (MODL) also includes further 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. 7.3 Select model type (TYPE) To control sophisticated model aircraft many automatic links (mixers) between the transmitter controls are generally required.
Order Numbers F4090 - F4091 - F4092 F4095 - F4096 - F4097 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 +/0-125% 125% of the total servo travel, including 0-125% right left trim. This is sometimes necessary where a mechanical restriction, e.g. the control system linkage, prevents the servo moving over its full travel. The servo travel can then be reduced to suit the installation.
Order Numbers F4090 - F4091 - F4092 F4095 - F4096 - F4097 This means that two different transmitter controls with different mixer values can influence a single servo. The graph shows the characteristic curve of the different control travels. Note that the response is linear in both cases.When Dual Rates is selected, the servo travel at full stick deflection is only 60%. Servo travel A further application arises in conjunction with modern gyro systems, which tend to increase or reduce servo travels.
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 separately using a 3-point curve. 7.10 Linking mixers (VMIX1-3) Operating the transmitter control normally affects only the servo connected to that channel. If the transmitter control is to affect additional servos, a mixer is required. Rotate the 3-D hotkey to set the desired % value for the exponential function.
Order Numbers F4090 - F4091 - F4092 F4095 - F4096 - F4097 Press the "S" button until "MAS" (Master) 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. Dummy function Press the "S" button, and "SLV" (Slave) now flashes. Turn the 3-D hotkey and select the Slave control; in our example we leave it at No. 2. The arrow below the SLV row shows the Slave channel you have selected.
Order Numbers F4090 - F4091 - F4092 F4095 - F4096 - F4097 7.11 Dual mixers (XMIX) The mixer is now set to combine the control functions aileron and elevator, in each case with 50% inputs for elevator and aileron.
Order Numbers F4090 - F4091 - F4092 F4095 - F4096 - F4097 After the 6th trim increment the display reaches the top limit of the screen. At this point the display changes to a single arrow, which indicates the direction in which the trim has been moved. 7.13 Motor cut (TCUT) The purpose of this option is to enable 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).
Order Numbers F4090 - F4091 - F4092 F4095 - F4096 - F4097 Since we have programmed a countup 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: - 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.
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 transmitter to this modulation (see Section 7.1.1, Parameter menu). The model must be fitted with a robbe-Futaba PCM receiver. - 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).
Order Numbers F4090 - F4091 - F4092 F4095 - F4096 - F4097 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. 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 functions already described. 8.
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%.
Order Numbers F4090 - F4091 - F4092 F4095 - F4096 - F4097 Setting flap travel (flaperon) (FLTR) Offset position 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".
Order Numbers F4090 - F4091 - F4092 F4095 - F4096 - F4097 8.5 Delta mixer (ELVN) 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.
Order Numbers F4090 - F4091 - F4092 F4095 - F4096 - F4097 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. - 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.
Order Numbers F4090 - F4091 - F4092 F4095 - F4096 - F4097 8.9 Landing pre-sets (LAND) 8.8 Snap-roll function (SNAP) Snap-rolls are violent rolling manoeuvres. This function allows you to determine stick positions which result in a particular manoeuvre when a switch is operated. With this option you can determine the servo position of the landing flaps or spoilers and the elevator for the approach phase and landing.
Order Numbers F4090 - F4091 - F4092 F4095 - F4096 - F4097 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 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. Setup menu level Select menu level 9.
Order Numbers F4090 - F4091 - F4092 F4095 - F4096 - F4097 9.3 Assignment of external switches and mix trimmers (GLID) 9.5 Wing mixers (WING) The assignment of the external mixer switches and mix trimmers varies according to the selected model type. 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.
Order Numbers F4090 - F4091 - F4092 F4095 - F4096 - F4097 9.5.2 Flaperon mixer (FLPN) / Aileron differential (DIFF) - Move to the Select menu "FLPN". 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 default setting is a mixer to the 2nd aileron connected to output channel 7, with a differential value of 50%.
Order Numbers F4090 - F4091 - F4092 F4095 - F4096 - F4097 9.6 Aileron -> camber-changing flap mixer (AI>F) (2nd aileron output = channel 7) Offset position 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. 9.5.
Order Numbers F4090 - F4091 - F4092 F4095 - F4096 - F4097 9.8 Butterfly mixer (BUTT) (2nd aileron output = channel 7) 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).
Order Numbers F4090 - F4091 - F4092 F4095 - F4096 - F4097 Offset value (centre offset) 9.10 V-tail mixer (VTAL) 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 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.
Order Numbers F4090 - F4091 - F4092 F4095 - F4096 - F4097 9.11 Trim program 1 and 2 (TRM1 / TRM 2) - 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. 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.
Order Numbers F4090 - F4091 - F4092 F4095 - F4096 - F4097 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.
Order Numbers F4090 - F4091 - F4092 F4095 - F4096 - F4097 Number Channel 1 Channel 2 Channel 3 Channel 4 Channel 5 Channel 6 Channel 7 Channel 8 Transmitter control assignment Aileron (roll-axis) Elevator (pitch-axis) Throttle Rudder (yaw-axis) Gyro gain Coll. pitch trim Free Free Flight phase Normal Idle-up 1 Switch 6 Idle-up 2 Switch 7 Auto-rotation Switch 8 10.3 Throttle curve Thr. curve normal Thr. curve hover Thr. curve Cruise Thr.
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 swashplate may jam as a result. - 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.
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) - The screen also shows the symbol "Mix" to indicate that a mixer is switched on. - Switch the IDL-1 function ON.
Order Numbers F4090 - F4091 - F4092 F4095 - F4096 - F4097 Throttle and collective pitch curve for the flight mode "Idle-up 2" for 3-D flying Throttle - collective pitch curve, Idle-up 2 (IDL-2) 3-D flying Throttle Servo travel 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.
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. When you activate the flight mode switch for Idle-up 2, a second gyro gain setting becomes active (Rate 3 or 4).
Order Numbers F4090 - F4091 - F4092 F4095 - F4096 - F4097 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 system’s proportional channels to Multi-modules provides up to 16 switched channels for each proportional channel.
Order Numbers F4090 - F4091 - F4092 F4095 - F4096 - F4097 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 The illustration shows the numbering of the switches and their mechanical function.
Order Numbers F4090 - F4091 - F4092 F4095 - F4096 - F4097 11.3 FX Multi-Switch module lighting set The illustration shows the switch numbering and the mechanical function of the switches. No. 8372 Ratchet Ratchet Ratchet Ratchet Ratchet Button The methods of installing and connecting the module, and its general method of working, have already been described in detail in the preceding section.
Order Numbers F4090 - F4091 - F4092 F4095 - F4096 - F4097 12. Connecting the receiving system, tips on installation 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.
Order Numbers F4090 - F4091 - F4092 F4095 - F4096 - F4097 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.
Order Numbers F4090 - F4091 - F4092 F4095 - F4096 - F4097 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 operation of radio systems in the European Community. 14.
Order Numbers F4090 - F4091 - F4092 F4095 - F4096 - F4097 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 carry handle No.
Order Numbers F4090 - F4091 - F4092 F4095 - F4096 - F4097 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. 2-position stick switch Long 2-position channel 3-position stick switch No. 8343 For operating mixer, channel or Multi functions. switched No. 8344 For operating mixer, channel or Multi functions. No. F 1524 Expands the FX transmitter by one 2-position switched channel.
Order Numbers F4090 - F4091 - F4092 F4095 - F4096 - F4097 FX DSC lead No. 8385 For direct servo control (DSC) without radiating an RF signal. No. F 1576 No. 8362 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) FX-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.
Order Numbers F4090 - F4091 - F4092 F4095 - F4096 - F4097 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. FX Multi-Switch module lighting set No. 8372 Expansion module for switching auxiliary working functions.
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.
