Topic: Has anyone got a 2.4Ghz radio set? (Read 16012 times)

Scottie · « **on:** November 22, 2006, 01:38:03 pm »

I'm thinking of buying one and wondered if anyone has any experience that they'd like to share.
From what I've read they seem to be a good idea from a frequency point ot view but how good are they in reality.

Scottie

ukengineman · « **Reply #1 on:** November 24, 2006, 03:29:29 pm »

I spoke to a guy who was using a Spektrum set up in a fast electric at Beale Park. I asked him how he was getting on with the equipment and he was very pleased and recommended it. The Tx module was installed in a Hitec Eclipse Tx.
Alan

Scottie · « **Reply #2 on:** November 24, 2006, 03:36:11 pm »

Thanks Alan,

I am looking at the 6chn Spektrum set rather than the rf modules but since it's the frequency that's the major difference your info is appreciated.

Scottie

ukengineman · « **Reply #3 on:** November 25, 2006, 04:28:30 pm »

It might be worth your while to speak to Ken Binks at KBits. He uses the Spektrum gear in his racing yachts and also includes the equipment in his catalogue. His website is:-
http://www.kbits.co.uk/
Alan

Scottie · « **Reply #4 on:** November 25, 2006, 04:59:40 pm »

Thanks again Alan, that's very useful.

I've already ordered a set which should be here within a week or so. I can't wait to play with it.

Scottie

Faraday's Cage · « **Reply #5 on:** November 26, 2006, 04:33:59 pm »

Hi Scottie,

Please excuse my reply in advance as this is my first attempt at using the forum. I saw your query and couldnt resist a reply.

I've been using Spektrum 2.4Ghz equipment for just over 12 months now with no glitches. I started with the 3 channel set (Tx looks like its been designed for cars with wheel for steering and trigger for thottle. Nevertheless I got used to it pretty quickly.

I've since bought the 6 channel version but as yet not fitted it to a model. Im holding back at the moment due to concerns raised in a recent issue of MMI regarding the power of the 6 channel unit. Apparently, power output is around 100 mw whilst the current regs in this country for 2.4 ghz equipment is only 10 mw. It was stated in the article that should any accidents occur when using this equipment then any insurance that the user has will be void.

On the up side is the fact that those who must be obeyed in the wireless fraternity are considering raising the limit on 2.4Ghz equipment to 100mw.
This should be agreed by the end of the year I am told. (Watch this space)

Ive also done some load testing of the Spektrum systems and found some startling results.
The 3 channel Tx draws 80ma and the Rx 60ma which seems to be ok but the 6 channel set -
Tx draws 250 ma and the rx 120ma so you'll need some decent cells for your 6 Channel set. Im using 2300ma NiMh cells for my Tx.

I hope this reply has been of some use to you.

Terry. :)

Scottie · « **Reply #6 on:** November 26, 2006, 04:45:51 pm »

Hi Terry and welcome to the forum.

Thanks very much for that, it's very useful indeed.
I've been trying to find out what the power output of the Tx is and haven't been able to. I did read that UK regs only allow 10mw on this band and that they're 'in the process' of bringing it in line with the other bands. I guess I'll just have to careful if I decide to use it prior to the change in regs.

Re power drain... The Rx is actually two receivers (or so I've read) so it's not surprising that it takes twice the current. A quarter amp through the Tx is a bit excessive but I've seen an article about how to reduce the consumption, I wasn't aware of the drain so I didn't bother reading it. Now I'll have to go back and find it again.

Scottie.

Faraday's Cage · « **Reply #7 on:** November 26, 2006, 05:01:51 pm »

Hi Scottie,

I wouldnt mind a look at that article myself if you manage to find it.

By the way. The tests I did on the rx's were with no servos connected. I know that there will be a slight increase when they are operating.

Cheers, Terry.

Scottie · « **Reply #8 on:** November 26, 2006, 05:50:31 pm »

Hi Terry,

I found it!
http://www.dimensionengineering.com/appnotes/spektrum_mod/spektrum_mod.htm

All that is required is a change of voltage regulator and it looks simple. Only problem is finding the new regulator without getting one from the US, I've checked Maplin and CPC but neither has the one mentioned in the article.

Scottie.

Faraday's Cage · « **Reply #9 on:** November 26, 2006, 06:26:57 pm »

Thanks for that Scottie. I'll give it a try. Ive just ordered 2 of the regulators from U.S.

I'll let you know how things go.

Terry.

Scottie · « **Reply #10 on:** November 26, 2006, 06:34:39 pm »

Please do that Terry, if it is as easy as it looks I'll do my own when I get it.

Scottie

Tug-Kenny RIP · « **Reply #11 on:** November 26, 2006, 08:07:35 pm »

It seems they make these 3.3 volt regulators themselves. They are priced at around £8.00 plus shipping. I don't expect we can get them any where else :(

Cheers...Ken

Doc · « **Reply #12 on:** November 27, 2006, 07:36:12 am »

Scottie,
I'm using the 'US' version of the DX-6 by Spektrum. So far, I've had no particular problems with it. The only 'problem' is a fairly short transmitter battery life between charges. Not really much of a 'problem', just not as long as other systems I have (if it were that much of a problem I'd change the batteries). The system's range is more than I would normally use so not a 'biggy' for most types of R/C boating. I really like the fact that I don't have to worry about crystals or finding an unused channel. Lots of features I haven't found a use for yet, but then I don't know what most of them do anyway! Not a bad choice of radios for the 'USA', can't say about the 'UK'.
- 'Doc

tigertiger · « **Reply #13 on:** November 28, 2006, 12:58:40 pm »

Quote from: Doc on November 27, 2006, 07:36:12 am

The system's range is more than I would normally use so not a 'biggy' for most types of R/C boating.

Doc
What is the range?

Faraday's Cage · « **Reply #14 on:** November 28, 2006, 01:17:02 pm »

tigertiger,

Ive range tested the DX6 up to 200 metres with no loss of signal which is more than ample for my eye-signal.

Terry.

By the way, Scottie,

Had a mail from Dimension eng. to say that regulators on the way. (Soldering iron on stand by).

Terry.

Scottie · « **Reply #15 on:** November 28, 2006, 01:23:10 pm »

Great Terry, please do let me know how it works out.

Scottie

tigertiger · « **Reply #16 on:** November 28, 2006, 01:34:07 pm »

Theoretically, what would the range be with 100mw??

Faraday's Cage · « **Reply #17 on:** November 28, 2006, 01:45:16 pm »

Tigertiger,

Sorry dont know the answer to that one (I did look for some info on the subject from Spektrum but drew a blank) but the DX6 is designed for the "parkflier" type of model aircraft which I take to mean closer range than the usual model aircraft equipment.

Up to 200 metres will do for me though !!

Terry.

Scottie · « **Reply #18 on:** December 02, 2006, 03:17:17 pm »

Oh happy days,

My new toy just arrived, Spektrum DX6 radio gear. First impressions - looks great, feels good too. I love the tiny Tx aerial.

These are the smallest servos I've ever had my hands on. Now I suppose I'll have to build something small just so they don't look 'lost'.
I've had to 'butcher' the lead on a spare Tx/Rx charger that I had lying around to get the Tx charged up. Why do the yanks have to do everything back to front? Still, the Rx charging cable might come in handy, a nice long piece of three way ribbon cable with a servo socket.

Anyway, I'm very impressed so far. Going to fit it in my Egrete now and give it a try on the pond tomorrow.

Scottie.

rats · « **Reply #19 on:** December 02, 2006, 03:26:32 pm »

Scottie where did you buy your DX6 from haven't seen any UK advertising them ?

cheers rats

ukengineman · « **Reply #20 on:** December 02, 2006, 03:32:33 pm »

Sussex Model Centre list the Spektrum DX6:-
http://www.sussex-model-centre.co.uk/shopexd.asp?id=21224
Don't know if they have any in stock
Alan

rats · « **Reply #21 on:** December 02, 2006, 03:38:53 pm »

Thanks ukengineman They certainly look the business !

Scottie · « **Reply #22 on:** December 02, 2006, 03:42:57 pm »

Quote from: rats on December 02, 2006, 03:26:32 pm

Scottie where did you buy your DX6 from haven't seen any UK advertising them ?

cheers rats

Imported from US through ebay. Sussex price looks good to me, added VAT and other charges makes it cheaper (without carriage) from them.

Scottie

rats · « **Reply #23 on:** December 02, 2006, 03:50:52 pm »

Let us know how you get on Scottie I think im going a bit green with envy !

Doc · « **Reply #24 on:** December 02, 2006, 06:43:23 pm »

tigertiger,
To be painfully honest, I have no idea what the range is for my DX-6. I've tried it at about 100 yards and it does fine. The advertisements say about '1/2' mile (?) which would be totally wasted for me, can't see the @#$ boat and tell what it's doing at 100 yards much less further.
I'll leave you with this idea. No radio is ever going to be totally 'fool-proof', or interference free, even the 2.4 Ghz thingys. The primary reason I bought the DX-6 is the 'extra' channels and the no crystals thingy. And because the price was right (the biggy!).
- 'Doc

That 'interference free' thingy works both ways, you know. My DX-6 isn't bothered, but if you have one of the 'Bluetooth' 'hands-free' thingys for your phone, or one of the wireless TV thingys for backing up in your car or business, the DX-6 will ruin your whole day - LOL!

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Author Topic: Has anyone got a 2.4Ghz radio set? (Read 16012 times)

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