RE: DX8 2.05 firware upgrade results in need to change subtrim?
Just noticed the revised PDF. Thanks. That is clear enough for even me to understand.
Posted on: 9/15/2012 9:39 AM by Author "SkidMan" in the forum "JR Radio & Spektrum Radios"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11229313

RE: DX8 2.05 firware upgrade results in need to change subtrim?
[quote]ORIGINAL: AndyKunz The changes for subtrim, travel, etc. were due to making trainer and heli compatible with DX10t/DX18 code. The NOTE would have been more clear if I had outdented it one instead of leaving it in the wrong column. Sorry about that. Please shoot me. :) Andy [/quote] "Outdent" - Haven't ran into that word before but makes total sense. I like it!
Posted on: 8/25/2012 12:42 PM by Author "SkidMan" in the forum "JR Radio & Spektrum Radios"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11205679

RE: DX8 2.05 firware upgrade results in need to change subtrim?
OK, I found some threads on RCG. I usually keep an eye on Spektrum stuff on this forum because there is a dedicated sub-forum that Andy frequents here. Also, wading through 1000+ page threads isn't a very productive way to deal with specific issues. Unfortunately, there wasn't much specific information about this behavior on this forum. I am a little confused because Andy posted the following on the other forum and it sounds like it was a change to "the trainer and heli" setups - not regular airplane operations. [quote]AndyKunz;22471287 Please read the PDF that came with the 2.05 download. In particular read the NOTE at the bottom of the page. As explained several times over the last few days, the trainer and heli systems were updated to match the DX10t/DX18 and correct problems with the sequence of operations. That is what the NOTE explains. Andy[/quote] In any case, it does appear to be affecting non-trainer and non-heli systems. In my case I checked all my control surfaces before I flew and it worked out OK - although I need to check my throws again. I'm sure that Andy will see this post so I still think it would be a good idea for Spektrum to: Prominently list that sub-trims and travel on all control surfaces may be altered and must be readjusted and verified List that the sub-trims and travel may be changed as a ''Known Issue'' on the download page Perhaps it should be worded some like: A correction to the trainer and heli modes, and adjusting the programming to match the DX10 and DX18, required changing the way that the sub-trims and trim values were handled. This will require checking the control surfaces of each model and making any needed adjustments. Further firmware upgrades should not require any additional adjustments to these settings. (or someting like that). Paul
Posted on: 8/20/2012 8:28 PM by Author "SkidMan" in the forum "JR Radio & Spektrum Radios"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11200427

RE: DX8 2.05 firware upgrade results in need to change subtrim?
I'm not finding a lot of information on this issue. I did find a heli site that mentions something that sounds like what I experienced and that the issue was referred to in the "notes." I just reviewed the Spektrum website itself that says, "Known Issues: None." [IMG]http://img69.imageshack.us/img69/8422/spektrumnoissues.jpg[/IMG] However, there is a note under the correction listed for "Corrected trainer normal Master mode" in the release notes PDF that describes pretty much what I've seen. [IMG]http://img214.imageshack.us/img214/6528/spektrumread.jpg[/IMG] If it affects all operations, not just in trainer mode, I would suggest that Spektrum takes the following simple steps: Prominently list that sub-trims and travel on all control surfaces will be altered and must be readjusted and verified List the need to check and adjust sub-trims and travel as a "Known Issue" Include verifying sub-trims and travel as a required step of the firmware upgrade process I am very grateful to Spektrum for this update! Recording telemetry to SD was a DX18 feature that I was hoping would be implemented on the DX8. It will be a bit of a pain to setup the radio again for each of my models. This is not a trivial task. It would be nice to know exactly what was changed so that I could just calculate the new settings to establish a good starting point. They also included a number of frequently requested changes including options for the alarm if the radio been left on but not used. This is a great sign that they are responsive to their customers! It will be interesting to see how this affects my planes that I have competed setting up mechanically - where zero sub-trim and trim is in trim in the air. My guess is that unless Spektrum changes something I'll have to adjust a lot of clevises. Paul
Posted on: 8/20/2012 7:08 PM by Author "SkidMan" in the forum "JR Radio & Spektrum Radios"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11200341

RE: TM1000 RPM Telemetry from CDI Module/Hall Effect Sensor
It works very well for me with a RCEXL CDI. I just put a Y-cable inline with the hall effect to CDI cable and only connect the "signal" wire (no ground or power) to the TM1000. I just crimped a servo connector to a cut off Spektrum satellite receiver cable. (The satellite receiver cables are the same connector that the TM1000 uses. I had a couple inexpensive "Brand X" cables so it didn't cost much to sacrifice one) Of course, YMMV. It works great for me. [IMG]http://img528.imageshack.us/img528/6524/tm1000rpmconnector.jpg[/IMG]
Posted on: 8/20/2012 6:44 PM by Author "SkidMan" in the forum "JR Radio & Spektrum Radios"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11200291

DX8 2.05 firware upgrade results in need to change subtrim?
Last night I upgraded from 2.04 to 2.05 firmware on my DX8. This morning, when I set up my plane, powered up the transmitter, and then switched on the plane I noticed that the ailerons shifted to a very significant right roll position. Repeated power downs and power ups did not change anything. The right aileron kept returning to a significantly up position and the left down (they are on a "Y"). It is a relatively new set up and I had not yet adjusted all the mechanical linkages to trim with zero sub-trim and trim. I went into the sub-trim menu and adjusted the aileron center position to mechanical level the ailerons. Due to the mechanical trim not yet being correct I needed to make a large reduction of the sub-trim. The same thing was true with the rudder. After a few power ups and downs (including turning off the transmitter reproducing a data link loss) and a range check, and having all control surfaces work fine with the elevator appearing to be level I took off only to discover that I was trimmed way nose down so I did the "get it high and hold the trim" adjustment to get it close and then to fine tune all of the control surfaces. Has anyone else had this experience?
Posted on: 8/20/2012 1:47 PM by Author "SkidMan" in the forum "JR Radio & Spektrum Radios"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11199943

RE: Is there a radio that does not lose signal?
[quote]ORIGINAL: jeffh694 I know spektrum is great but while using dx6i and ar6100 receiver on two separate flights I lost control for 3 to 6 seconds but regained control because I had enough altitude. If I had been landing it may have been a different story I dont know why it happened but have not used that receiver since, would any of you? I love my dx6i and have not had any other problems exept for these times. [/quote] [quote] Spektrum Website on AR6100 specs "Park flyer, Foamies, Up to 400-class Helis" [/quote] The AR6100 is a "Park flyer" receiver and not designed for longer ranges. I use them on small helis but wouldn't rely on a AR6100 a longer distances and especially where antenna orientation or shielding may be an issue. Under the right circumstances they can work at nearly the same distance as the "full range" receivers but a moving air craft that is constantly changing its orientation and possible obstacles make a significant difference. http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=783753 Glad you had the altitude to recover. Landing was probably OK because you may have been closer. Paul
Posted on: 8/12/2012 6:26 PM by Author "SkidMan" in the forum "RC Radios, Transmitters, Receivers, Servos, gyros"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11190922

RE: Recommended Throttle servo for a 30cc engine
635's and 645's are way overkill. Some have brought up that the Karbonite gears are fairly brittle and that the vibration from a solid throttle link will wear them out. They suggest the nylon gear servos, like the 3003's, can do a better job with vibration. Others will point out that a servo with very little backlash and deadband are critical for repeatable idle settings. Then there are the people who will invest big bucks in a throttle servo and install a sloppy linkage. Here are the bullet points: You don't need a lot of torque. Cheap standard servos have plenty of torque. Sloppy linkages negate your investment in expensive digital servos Vibration is a factor to consider (I know plenty of people who have not had any problems with Karbonite geared servos). If you want a dependable idle you want a servo with very little backlash and relatively little deadband (in other words, very repeatable positioning). But your financial investment must be matched, or exceeded, by your mechanical setup. Paul
Posted on: 7/22/2012 6:07 PM by Author "SkidMan" in the forum "Gas Engines"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11165031

RE: Wife was NOT amused . . .
Just because someone has to ask .... What oil are you using? Spektrum? Futaba? Hitec? Airtronic? How can you say that you built it? It is clearly an ARF. Tweeker
Posted on: 7/21/2012 5:24 AM by Author "SkidMan" in the forum "RC Jets"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11163342

RE: Telemetry Tach on DLE20
Here is what I did. Just use a "Y" connector between the sensor on the prop hub and the ignition module and plug this lead in. I made it from a Spektrum satellite extension. [IMG]http://img528.imageshack.us/img528/6524/tm1000rpmconnector.jpg[/IMG]
Posted on: 7/14/2012 6:31 PM by Author "SkidMan" in the forum "Gas Engines"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11155494

RE: Has anyone tried the new PTE36R ?
If the bolts sheared below the prop hub use an EasyOut/ Screw extractor http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SMrDYJvY0Ts Check your ignition battery votage for the other problems. That can cause all of the symptoms you describe. Don't ask me how I know.
Posted on: 7/11/2012 11:55 AM by Author "SkidMan" in the forum "Gas Engines"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11151566

RE: AMSOIL SABER 100:1 PRE MIX SYNTHETIC 2-CYCLE OIL AND AMSOIL QUICK SHOT FUEL ADDITIVE
Being a supporter of many Amsoil products for automobile use the number of very critical posts on running their Saber 2-cycle oil on this an other forums has always stayed in my mind. Seeing this thread continuing I just did a search on "carbon Amsoil Saber" Come to your own conclusion. Check it out: http://search.rcuniverse.com/search.do?indexName=testforumdb&searchable=&templateName=forumsearch&q=amsoil+saber+carbon+forumid%3A142+&searchwhere=both
Posted on: 7/11/2012 6:57 AM by Author "SkidMan" in the forum "Gas Engines"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11151199

RE: AMSOIL SABER 100:1 PRE MIX SYNTHETIC 2-CYCLE OIL AND AMSOIL QUICK SHOT FUEL ADDITIVE
Wow. The only posts amsoilj has made on RCU the whole time he has been "flying giant scale r/c planes for about ten years' are the 5 posts in this single thread promoting a product sold by his Amsoil dealership. My own decision is to not run 100:1 in my engines or even use SABER. This does not even come remotely close to making me reconsider. Paul
Posted on: 7/10/2012 11:51 AM by Author "SkidMan" in the forum "Gas Engines"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11150198

RE: Bungee launch a Habu 32?
We use between 4-6 lbs of bungee tension for each pound of model. We don't launch anything as large as the 32, however, if you can put in a secure launch hook I can't see any reason why it wouldn't work.
Posted on: 7/9/2012 2:14 PM by Author "SkidMan" in the forum "Electric RC Jets"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11149073

RE: Bungee launch a Habu 32?
The sarcastic side of me wants to say that with a big enough bungee I can launch my truck. [8D]
Posted on: 7/8/2012 6:31 PM by Author "SkidMan" in the forum "Electric RC Jets"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11148038

RE: muffler screws coming loose
[quote]ORIGINAL: R/C Addiction The next option I was going to explore if the above didn't work would have been Nord-Lock washers from McMaster-Carr...just another option you can try if none of the above appeals to you... [/quote] Thumbs up for Nord-Lock washers for engine mounts and muffler bolts not involving plastic or wood between the bolts being tightened. Nord-Locks will create a far greater force making it more difficult for the bolts to back out than the method in the pdf in post #5. So much so that it is possible to use Never-seez on the bolts - Which can help protect your threads with the steel bolt, aluminum threads, and plenty of heat environment. Of course, wiring the bolts can't be beat if they are not recessed. Paul
Posted on: 7/8/2012 6:02 PM by Author "SkidMan" in the forum "Gas Engines"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11148000

RE: Loctite and gasket sealant
[quote]ORIGINAL: mick1404 hi all I was wondering if it is necessary to use Loctite on bolts on a 20cc RCG engine and use gasket sealant with the gaskets on rear crankcase cover and cylinder to crankcase and on exhaust, I'm not sure if vibration is an issue on these engines Any help would be great. Thanks. [/quote] Nord-lock washers work great on muffler, engine mount, and other bolts - metal to metal (no wood, plastic, or other compressibles) http://www.nord-lock.com/default.asp?url=7.16.37 Great comparison video: http://youtu.be/mgwmuZuJ02I McMaster-Carr: http://www.mcmaster.com/#nord-lock-washers/=ib3tcy
Posted on: 7/7/2012 4:43 PM by Author "SkidMan" in the forum "Gas Engines"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11146919

RE: Has the extreme Heat stopped your flying
We're flying down here in Central Florida where it is, as we like to say, in the 90's Temperature in the high 90's Humidity well above 90% Greater than 90% chance of thunderstorms Paul
Posted on: 7/6/2012 1:11 PM by Author "SkidMan" in the forum "RC Jets"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11145576

RE: Dx8 still has problems
[quote]ORIGINAL: sidgates ... Another gadget is sold called the "Tattletale" which captures the lowest voltage reading every 10ms until it is reset. I use one in all new installations for awhile and plug it in any questionable battery. ... [/quote] I looked up the Tattletale and here is a link: http://www.aero-works.net/store/detail.aspx?ID=443 http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1164449 (more details) $19.95 http://www.xtremepowersystems.net/proddetail.php?prod=XPS-TT&cat=10 Extremely small and reasonably priced. A person could easily buy one and swap it between planes and find out some good information about what is going on with their power systems. I'm running the Spektrum telemetry. I don't know how fast the voltage reading updates but it will read voltage drops - even with 2300 mAH A123's - when swirling the sticks. If I didn't have this telemetry I would buy a Tattletale. Paul
Posted on: 7/3/2012 4:47 AM by Author "SkidMan" in the forum "RC Radios, Transmitters, Receivers, Servos, gyros"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11140997

RE: bad luck at the feild
Photos?
Posted on: 7/2/2012 12:53 PM by Author "SkidMan" in the forum "Crash & Rebuild"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11140153

RE: Digital Servos + 2000mAh NiMH = Huh!?
Thank you for following up with your findings and your gracious attitude! Paul
Posted on: 6/29/2012 4:30 AM by Author "SkidMan" in the forum "RC Radios, Transmitters, Receivers, Servos, gyros"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11136198

RE: Composite Arf......Problem SOLVED
[quote]ORIGINAL: IB ... I went for the new model and as I lived a half hours drive from the Reps premises offered to return the model in its box, we looked at the damage and he agreed it was not acceptable, we then realised how the damage was caused, the wing is held firmly in the box by two shaped polystyrene formers which prevent vertical movement but there was no packing to prevent the wing shifting laterally and it became apparent that the box had been dropped on its end allowing the unrestained wing to impact on its wingtip causing the crease and damage, ... Ian B [/quote] It sounds like the shipper could have rightly claimed that the contents were inadequately packed. If any drop was so insignificant that it did not cause any visible external damage to the box it certainly should not have damaged the contents. I am glad that you, as the customer, got what you paid for: a new model. Paul
Posted on: 6/27/2012 6:07 AM by Author "SkidMan" in the forum "Giant Scale Aircraft - 3D & Aerobatic"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11133610

RE: Adhesive Question?
I love it. Now I can watch epoxy debates just like the oil debates [8D] In a major crash the only thing remaining on some of these planes will be the epoxy.
Posted on: 6/25/2012 7:38 AM by Author "SkidMan" in the forum "Composites Fabrication And Repair"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11130926

RE: Tm1000 leads
OK, I finally got around to trying what I've read elsewhere - but with very few details. I put a Y-harness between the pickup on the prop hub and the ignition module and plugged the TM1000 into the other connector, connecting ONLY the "signal" lead from the timing sensor on the hub. This works for my RCEXL ignition. I understand that DA ignition systems are different and that this will not work on them. I made the wire for connecting the TM1000 module to the "Y" adapter (just a standard servo "Y") using a Spektrum satellite extension cable and crimping on a servo connector. While I have not yet flown it, it works great in the driveway. A picture of the connector follows. [IMG]http://img807.imageshack.us/img807/6524/tm1000rpmconnector.jpg[/IMG] Paul
Posted on: 6/23/2012 8:27 AM by Author "SkidMan" in the forum "RC Radios, Transmitters, Receivers, Servos, gyros"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11128742

RE: DX8 telemetry RPM pickup for Gas engines - SOLVED!!
I finally got around to hooking my ignition module up to my TM1000 and I can confirm that connecting only the "signal" wire from a "Y" in the connection from the Hall sensor and the ignition module works with the following equipment. Thank you to the people that posted what worked for them on several forums. RCEXL CDI Module AeroTech IBEC (I list this because any possible differences in how the wiring works because when using this IBEC the TM1000 and the CDI are powered independently and at different voltages but off of the same battery) [quote]ORIGINAL: Jezmo I agree Red, it's very weird. I had mine hooked up exactly like yours with what you term an extension with leads "spliced" on and I just called it a "Y" because that is basically how a "Y" is made. It would not give any readout on the RPM telemetry at all. After reading the post here on RCU about using only the white connected to the light brown "signal" wire on the module I simply clipped my black wire and took the plane outside for a trial. I was excited when I had a good stable RPM readout. It is very interesting why some installations require two wires and some only one. Oh well, I'm not complaining, mine works. [/quote] To connect the TM1000 to the standard servo-type Y-adapter in the ignition timing sensor I chopped one end off of Spektrum satelite receiver extension cable and crimped on a servo servo connector. After trying a couple different wiring combinations I was unable to get it to work off of the separate "Tachometer" output from the ignition module. I wish I knew what was different about these signals because I would rather plug into this output than put a Y-adapter in the ignition system. Using this wiring I was able to leave the "Poles" setting at the stock "Inh" setting. This provides a very good RPM reading and I prefer it over the separate RCEXL tach and optical tachometers. Paul
Posted on: 6/23/2012 8:16 AM by Author "SkidMan" in the forum "JR Radio & Spektrum Radios"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11128735

RE: Digital Servos + 2000mAh NiMH = Huh!?
[quote]ORIGINAL: Approach Control Go to Harbor Freight if u have one close by and buy a $4.00 digital Volt meter (modiy your connectors so u will have the proper connector and u can load test it using a y harness to tour servos [/quote] Two problems with that: Normal volt meters are purposefully designed to have very high resistance and won't put any load on the battery and it is the voltage under flight loads that is important Cheap digital volt meters do not update fast enough nor capture high and low voltages to adequately track the voltage under load I'm with the earlier poster who recommended (after verifying the switch, wiring, and individual servos) just going to different battery chemistry. The OP said he was looking at nicads and while I use A123 and LiFe batteries myself, decent nicads are capable of dumping more current with a lower voltage drop than NiMh. If the OP can do it I would highly recommend just biting the bullet and going to the newer battery chemistries. The BEC with a LiPo idea would work just fine but I wouldn't rely on the BEC in a small (25A) ESC if he is having problems with a NiMh battery back. The integrated BEC probably won't handle very much current. The 6 cell pack idea can help. I would give you a little wiggle room before you hit the brownout zone. BTW - Contrary to what one poster said, going to a higher capacity pack can actually actually help if the two packs have the same internal resistance or "C" rating. By definition a A 5C 1100mAH battery can supply 5.5 amps and a 5C 2000 mAH pack can supply 10 amps. Paul Paul
Posted on: 6/21/2012 3:28 PM by Author "SkidMan" in the forum "RC Radios, Transmitters, Receivers, Servos, gyros"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11127016

RE: *New Hanger 9 Pulse XT 60*
I'm actually surprised we don't hear from more people looking for those hatches. [quote]ORIGINAL: drube Anyone have a hatch laying around? [/quote]
Posted on: 6/21/2012 3:05 PM by Author "SkidMan" in the forum "ARF or RTF"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11126982

RE: Tm1000 leads
I want to get something working to read the RPM's on my larger gas engines but I have to tell you that I have one of the Spektrum RPM sensors that picks up through the back plate of the engine on a small front carb'd engine and it works GREAT. I think Spektrum would find that there are a lot of people that would buy a cable or interface that would connect to an RCEXL ignition through either a "Y" or the tach lead (the same thing). Paul
Posted on: 6/21/2012 7:23 AM by Author "SkidMan" in the forum "RC Radios, Transmitters, Receivers, Servos, gyros"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11126450

RE: What Aircraft are you installing your DLE20
[quote]ORIGINAL: acdii OK, what size prop are you running, and is the rest all stock setup using the parts in the manual? ARF or KIT? Just did a search, looks like this one is also no longer available. [/quote] Good point about it not being available new but I've got two that I picked up used. As the other poster notes, you can get a Big Stick. I can't figure out why they discontinued it. I guess that is why I'm not in the ARF business. I am a little under-prop'd with a 15x8 and some slightly larger than stock wheels to get ground clearance. It has unlimited verticle climb and is a lot of fun. I cut out most of the bottom of the nose to mount the throttle servo and ignition system and mounted the fuel tank at the CG. Paul
Posted on: 6/18/2012 3:57 PM by Author "SkidMan" in the forum "Gas Engines"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11122860

RE: Tm1000 leads
For the Temp sensor extension: I took a cheap HK satellite receiver extension cable, cut an end off, and crimped on a female servo connector. I then took the temp sensor and chopped then end off and crimped on a male servo connector. Works great. The satellite receiver extension cables have the correct male fitting for connecting to the TM1000 and servo connectors are cheap and I already have them - unlike the female connectors for making an extension. When I cut the connectors off I always leave enough wire to solder another length so I can use both ends to make extensions. Alternately, you can cut the fitting off of the temp sensor and just solder in enough wire to cover the distance you need. There are some posts on using the Tach output on RCEXL ignitions but I haven't done it yet. I will be trying it soon. Paul
Posted on: 6/18/2012 12:26 PM by Author "SkidMan" in the forum "RC Radios, Transmitters, Receivers, Servos, gyros"
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/fb.asp?m=11122604