Model Boat Mayhem

Technical, Techniques, Hints, and Tips => Radio Equipment => Topic started by: phillnjack2 on July 22, 2014, 08:25:45 pm

Title: Futaba FF7 conversion to 2.4 ghz ?
Post by: phillnjack2 on July 22, 2014, 08:25:45 pm

I have heard that simply by buying a new module that just replaces the one on the back of my old futaba FF7 can give me a full 2.4ghz transmitter ?
I would be buying the receiver to go with the module at same time that is compatible but wondered if there is any problems in doing such a thing.

This would allow me to have my well proven and trusty radio for marine use without getting any interference.

and would this give me a decent range ? if so how much  on water ?

or is a new cheap plastic 2.4ghz set just as good as my old futaba ?



phill

Title: Re: Futaba FF7 conversion to 2.4 ghz ?
Post by: w3bby on July 23, 2014, 09:29:45 am

You've asked this before.... (http://www.modelboatmayhem.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=27990.0)

Modern radios come with failsafe functions for loss of signal, low battery etc. Use of these can prevent a runaway boat but you will need to be prepared to retrieve a dead boat from the water.

Title: Re: Futaba FF7 conversion to 2.4 ghz ?
Post by: phillnjack2 on July 23, 2014, 01:38:10 pm

yes I did ask this a long time ago, and forgot the answers to it. (that's why I asked again !!!! :P )

I fit my own fail safes to my boats and never worried about a dead boat in the water as I am in my speedboat with it 99% of the time.

I have seen some pretty cheap modules from a few different makers, and wondered what are good and what are bad.
I would buy a genuine futaba  if I find a cheap one used. Futaba prices are far too much for stuff they don't even make.

Title: Re: Futaba FF7 conversion to 2.4 ghz ?
Post by: Mankster on July 23, 2014, 02:08:24 pm

The FF7 does not have a replaceable module, so you will need a hack module. I don't think Futaba make any hack modules.
I converted a FF7 to 2.4ghz, pictures at the bottom of this thread
http://www.modelboatmayhem.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,24085.0.html
Check out the cost of receivers as well, they are normally specific to which 2.4GHz system you are using.

Title: Re: Futaba FF7 conversion to 2.4 ghz ?
Post by: Subculture on July 23, 2014, 02:13:26 pm

A few years ago, it was worth doing. Now, unless you have a radio which you're really fond of and/or has some unique capabilities you wish to retain I wouldn't bother.

I would go with Spektrum/Orange based gear. It's the closest you can get to a standard with 2.4ghz, and there is a huge range of receivers at very competitive prices.

Title: Re: Futaba FF7 conversion to 2.4 ghz ?
Post by: phillnjack2 on July 23, 2014, 02:39:21 pm

sorry mankster
 but the pics you refer to are not of a field force 7 like mine.
I think your mistaking what a real FF7 is ?
mine does have a plug in module on the back

here is the original FF7 from futaba, and no the colour is not wrong, its a metal look bronze finnish.

Title: Re: Futaba FF7 conversion to 2.4 ghz ?
Post by: Mankster on July 23, 2014, 04:32:34 pm

Ops, got carried away... :embarrassed:

Title: Re: Futaba FF7 conversion to 2.4 ghz ?
Post by: tsenecal on July 27, 2014, 05:48:00 pm

phillnjack2 (http://www.modelboatmayhem.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=profile;u=11129),


i have several of the FF7's bigger brother the 9cap , and i have owned the 7uap, and 8uap (the US name for the FF7, and what i assume would be the FF8 )


all use the same module for the RF deck.


I have purchased and highly recommend the Assan module and receivers.  i have several (almost a dozen) of the Assan 6 and 7 channel receivers.  one nice thing about them is that they have their own built in failsafe setup.


they can be found at most chinese websites including HobbyKing.