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Test 3

FG First Look: Futaba 12FG 2.4 GHz"

I think it is safe to say that the era of 2.4 GHz is upon us and is here to stay for quite some time. While the pros and cons of 2.4 GHz systems have been an epic topic of debate, there is no doubt that this technology has taken the RC world by storm in the past couple of years. Not to be passed by when it comes to the 2.4 GHz revolution, Futaba has entered the game firing on all cylinders with some of the latest technology in 2.4 GHz. Leading the way in Futaba’s 2.4 GHz-ready arsenal is their 12FG radio system.

Out of the box:


The 12FG comes out of the box packed with features as. The radio boasts G3 2048 resolution, a 30 model memory (expandable up to 1,882 models with an optional 1GB SD-card), 8 total flight conditions as well as supports 13 wing types, 3 tail types, and 8 helicopter swash types. The 12FG shares the servo grouping feature of the 14MZ that allows for servo synchronization along with variable dual rates as well as take advantage of the R6014FS receiver, the only 2.4 GHz receiver on the market today with the ability to utilize all 14 channels.

Also included with the radio is a 7.4V, 1700mah NiMH battery pack for hours of operation, as well as charging support equipment, and a Futaba neck strap for those that utilize them while flying. The 12FG has a great feel to it in your hands, and balances well with a neck strap even without the mass of a full length antenna hanging off the top of the radio. All switches and gimbals are within easy reach and all switches on the radio are fully assignable. You also have the ability to adjust the spring pressure/tension on the sticks via a simple adjustment depending on your desired level of resistance when you fly.

The 12FG is available in both 72 MHz and 2.4 GHz versions. Because I ordered mine as 2.4 GHz, it comes with the TM-14 Fasst Module as well as the R6014FS receiver. If I chose, I could at anytime convert this radio back to a 72 MHz system with the addition of a 72 MHz module and a standard-length antenna. The overall versatility of this radio is excellent.

Programming:


When I finally made the decision to go with the 12FG, I have to admit I had some concerns about programming. These concerns stemmed from the fact that I had not programmed a Futaba Radio since about 1991 with that last systems being an 8UAP and Super 7 radios that I owned at the time. I was afraid that after 16 years of programming another radio brand, I might have a hard time making the adjustment to the Futaba. All of these concerns that I had were unwarranted! Turning on the 12FG for the first time quickly set my nerves at ease!!! Without looking at the manual, I was able to page through the three main menus with ease. Under each of the 3 main menus were clearly labeled sub-menus for the individual settings in that area. The radio boasted a variety of already pre-programmed mixes like Rudder to Aileron, Rudder to Elevator, etc, that just needed to be activated and fine tuned to your individual application. Everything in the programming menus was clearly labeled and easy to navigate with the scrolling dial and two button operation. In a matter of minutes I was able to find all of the normal functions that I used on my other radios as well as some other really nice features that I wasn’t accustomed to.

One of these such features was while I was designating my wing and stab types for the airplane that I was setting up (In this case, a 3.2m Radiowave Extra 300). I was use to the normal wing-types from my other radios that usually included: ffice:smarttags" />lace>Normallace>, Flaperon, and Delta. On the 12FG, I was able to select not only the wing type, but also the number of servos that I had in each wing, or horizontal stab! After selecting wing type and stab type, the radio then assigned the channels for the additional servos. For example, when I selected stab type “ailevator” and “2 servos”, the radio then assigned to channels directly next to each other to perform this function (for example, channels 1 and 2 on the receiver).

As I paged through the menus and the functions on the 12FG, I quickly realized that this radio was capable of an amazing amount of functions. After giving completing my self-guided tutorial on the 12FG, I decided to actually pull out the manual and give it a good look-through. The manual contains step by step directions with screen shot diagrams to lead you through any function or programming you might need. The manual is laid out nicely and includes a table of contents so that you can quickly locate the function or process you are looking for. Based on what I have seen so far, I don’t feel that I will need the manual much but it’s great to have it on hand as a reference if I ever get stumped! After my initial examination of the program, I realized that all of my concerns were unwarranted, and that I was going to have zero issues learning to program my new radio!!!

2.4 GHz Functions


The 12FG 2.4 GHz radio from Futaba comes equipped with the TM14 Module and R6014FS 14ch 2.4 GHz receiver. The versatility of this radio also allows you to switch between a 2.4 GHz system, and a 72 MHz system if you so choose. This is achieved simply by swapping out the module on the back of the transmitter and replacing it with a 72 MHz module. The module design and fit on the 12FG is perfect, and appears as if were an already integrated part of the system. The slim design fits into my radio case without modification with no exposed wires or coaxial cables that run the risk of being damaged by being exposed to the elements. Following the procedure detailed in the manual, I quickly bound up the R6014FS receiver and was ready to rock and roll!

12FG Flying


The 12FG has a great feel to it in my hands and balances well on my tried and true “PitsBros” transmitter neck-strap that I have come to depend on in recent years. I tend to prefer a little stiffer spring feel on my gimbals. That said, the radio gives you the ability to adjust the spring tension through an adjustment port on the back of the transmitter. If you feel that you need even more spring tension, Hobbico has the ability to install a heavier set of springs into the radio for you that can also be adjusted. I would recommend leaving the spring-swap to the experts at Hobbico, as I would be slightly concerned opening the case on a brand new radio, not to mention, I would probably void the warranty.

In the air, the 12FG was business as usual. The connection to the airplane felt as solid as ever with zero issues. I felt very comfortable right off the bat even though this was my first large airplane that I have switched to a 2.4 GHz system. The 12FG performed flawlessly and at NO time gave me any cause for concern! I wish that I had the ultra-fast reaction times of Animal Jesky or John Glezellis to actually feel the increased 2048 resolution, but I think the years are starting to catch up to me! Besides that, the airplane felt solid and 100% locked in to all of my inputs, just a like radio should! At this point, I am extremely satisfied with my new radio!!!

Conclusion


Futaba has definitely embraced the realm of 2.4 GHz technology within their radio systems! The 12FG 2.4 radio is a prime example of what is capable utilizing their FASST technology. With full 12 and 14 channel capabilities, the sky is the limit with programmability and functionality within these radios. Futaba made it easy for me to make a radio change after 16 years of using the same brand of systems and have left me with no concerns with my newly acquired radio. The 12FG has more features than I can even comprehend at this point, but I am sure that as I dig deeper, I will be continually surprised at more undiscovered features that this radio has to offer. The 2.4 GHz phenomenon is definitely upon us and has taken the R/C world by storm! Futaba has recognized this and is taking the strides not only to be an innovator in this industry, but also a leader in the 2.4 GHz radio realm!

[reyn3545]

Dittos here!

I've been back in the hobby now for about 3 years, and have been using the "other guys" radio system, including their 9-channel 2.4GHz equipment. I recently moved to the 12FG to get the additional channels in my 35% Edge.

I too would like a little more spring tension than the 12FG allows with the standard springs, but I think I'll adjust to it pretty quick. The manual, I think, could have done a better job of explaining "conditions" and how to utilize them as opposed to "flight modes". That said, the available options are almost endless, and the programming interface is pretty straightforward. I don't think I've learned half of the radio yet, but what I have learned, I'm very happy with.

I always thought that the other mfr's stuff was the most versatile, but after trying the 12FG, I'm glad I didn't wait on the 12x!!