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Product Review:
Spektrum 2.4ghz Modules

Perspective By:
LeadingEdge

Manufacturer Contact:
Horizon Hobby, Inc.
4105 Fieldstone Road
Champaign, IL 61822

Main Phone: (217) 352-1913
Toll-Free: (800) 338-4639
Support Phone: (877) 504-0233
Sales Phone: (800) 338-4639

Manufacturer Website:
http://www.horizonhobby.com

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Introduction

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Spread Spectrum Technology is by far the most exciting technological advancement to hit the hobby in years. In 2007, we've seen quantum leaps in the advancement and availability of 2.4 products come available to consumers. So what's all this 2.4 stuff you might ask? It's the newest "killer app" in modeling that promises to all but eliminate our current 72Mhz frequency band through the use of advanced frequency hopping technologies. With 2.4, channel conflicts are mitigated, and modelers can focus less on pin board drama, and more on flying. It's faster than traditional 72mhz systems, less prone to "hits" or traditional engine noise, and in the coming months and years, we'll unbelievable increases resolution and more. One of the most anticipated products of 2007 are drop in modules which can be used to retrofit existing 72mhz systems like the JR 10x, JR 8103, Futaba 14MZ, Futaba 9c, and other similar platforms.

Spektrum  is the first company on the scene to bring  2.4ghz technology to the masses is, and today we're going to take a look at their module based system, the Spektrum DM9 9 channel aircraft module for JR radio systems, and the AR9000 9 channel receiver. Spektrum has similar modules which are compatible with Futaba systems as well.


Out of the Box:

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The DM9 module is designed to drop into existing JR transmitters. The total install time is less than 2 minutes. The kit includes a replacement antenna, mounting studs, and the Spektrum DM9 transmitter module. We've chosen a 10X to perform our testing on, and setting it up was a piece of cake!



Product Specifications
Spektrum modules and receivers for JR and Futaba Transmitters

Installing the DM9 module

When using the 10X, the metal stud is used to secure the antenna to the base load of the transmitter. The antenna is secured in with a set screw, and once it's in place, the configuration is very stout. The antenna connects to the back of the module through a 6" cable and screws into place once the antenna is mounted. The only problem, if it is one, that I realized was that the transmitter cannot lay flat without resting on the connector that joins the antenna to the module.

On the back of the module, there is a range check / bind button.

One more note. Make sure the modulation on your transmitter is set to PPM when using the DM9 or other compatible Spektrum module.



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Taking a look at the AR9000 Receiver

The AR9000 is an advanced 2.4ghz receiver that is has some very exciting features. The system is specifically built for modeling applications, and one look will tell you it's a serious little unit! It is common knowledge that systems that operate on the 2.4ghz band operate more efficiently and effectively through the use of "diversity" antennas, or antennas which can capture the transmitters signal from multiple paths. This is an important design feature as our models are constantly moving, rotating, flipping, and flopping. With diversity antennas, a more effective link can be established with the transmitter.

The AR9000 has it's own set of diversity antennas, and has the capability to add two additional  receivers which add to the robustness of the AR9000 system. And significantly decrease the likelihood of signal complications.

We installed our test unit into a 42% model airplane which utilizes a total of 14 servos. Before we go into anything else, it's very important to understand the power requirements of a system like this. The AR9000 system contains a microprocessor, and special attention must be made to the way the system is powered. If you're flying any 2.4ghz system in a smaller model including electrics, make sure to use a separate battery, or a good source of power. In the larger stuff, consider upgrading to higher gage wire, deans connectors, and strong regulators and batteries. Don't ever let these things drop below 4 volts, or they will reboot, which isn't good. You have been warned. ;)

In our test model, we're making use of a Smart-Fly Power Expander which keeps a constant 5 volts to the receiver, and 6 volts to the servos. Fromeco batteries power the system through the use of 16 gage wire and deans connectors. With this setup, our power requirements are met, and the system will have as much juice as it needs even under the heaviest load.

The AR9000 also has another very cool feature – a data port to plug in the optional data logger! The logger will present to you the current system voltage, and displays data link information for the internal and external receivers. I was a little confused about the usage in our test model as I initially had the system installed underneath the canopy, and it is not easily accessed when at the field. With a little ingenuity, the logger can be plugged in from the outside of the model with the use of a modified, or similar. Helicopter guys, no problem. Just Velcro this puppy to the top of the receiver.





Setting up the DM9 and AR9000 was a very seamless process. After installing the module and receiver, it was time to bind, or mate the two systems. This is accomplished through inserting a bind plug into the receiver's "batt" port, and turning on the transmitter while holding down the bind button on the module. After a few seconds, all of the lights on the 3 receivers come on,  the link is established, and the servos started to hum! Very cool I thought, all of the existing programming from the 10x model seemed to work – it was time to pack 'r up and head to the field! One thing to remember about binding these things. When setting up a new model, always make sure to re-bind once you have completed radio programming and configuration. When you bind any Spektrum system, the receiver remembers the control surface inputs from the initial binding process. Please see the manual for more information.



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Flight testing and performance

Upon arriving to the field with our test model, we put on the wings, performed one final voltage test on the Smart-Fly Power Expander and batteries, checked the voltage on the Flight Log, and sealed the canopy. It was time for a range check. On a side note, this model had been previously tested with the Spektrum DX7. All worked flawlessly of course, and our range check with the DX7 was about 180 feet.

Holding the bind/range button on the back of the module (drops the transmitter output RF power for testing), I started walking backward away from the model with the prop and spinner facing me. After about 150 feet, I stopped walking backwards, and started to jog all the time moving the surfaces. Turning around, I saw my spotter giving me the thumbs up, so I kept on jogging. This went on for awhile. I was absolutely surprised to see that I was able to get 450 feet away from the model before experiencing any link complications. I'm sure if we re-orientated the model, facing sideways, the I could have gotten further away. Feeling confidence from the range check, it was time to fire her up, and take yet another maiden voyage on this model. All control surface checks performed as expected. We're ready to go!

After firing up the motor, I had the pre-flight jitters, especially with a brand new system – FlyingGiants was among the first to receive 'em. Whatever. It's go time! With the motor running, I punched it! The model lifted off as normal and gained altitude. Most of the trims were still right on the money after a few trim passes. It was time to wring the system out.

After performing rolling harriers, torque rolls, and hovering around for awhile, it I felt like nothing had changed from my old 72mhz module. The response of the plane was absolutely.. perfect, and mentally I felt like the response was even better than the 72mhz module setup. However in reality, the response is just about the same.  For one reason or another, I thought it would be a good test to fly until I could not see the model any more. I guess I could have done this all day. The model disappeared into the sky and appeared like jet flying at 35 thousand feet. No glitches, lockouts, or drama. The rest of the test flight was entirely uneventful, and that being the case proves, in this reviewer's opinion, the potential and viability of this product, and 2.4 technology.


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Upon landing, we plugged the datalogger into the side of the plane's extended data port (we added a charge jack that extended the length of the AR9000's connection). Each time you click the button on the logger, it cycles through different screens. The first 4 screens show signal reception "fades" (not communication dropouts) on the main receiver, and the two sattellite receivers. By interpreting these numbers, users can move the antennas around to increase reception - lower numbers, the better. The logger also shows "holds" which indicate complete system lockouts if any (we had none), and frame drops. For the first time, we can now fine tune our receiver setups to gain optimal reception, and peace of mind. This is a very, very cool feature.

After landing our test model, high fives commenced, and we realized that we were the first to publically test this awesome product from Spektrum. The complete DM9 and AR9000 setup was also recently flown in an IMAC competition without any issues. I can honestly say without prejudice that we have a winner here. These module systems are a killer product that the hobby needs. Spektrum modules have been designed and tested by professionals, and again, they have taken 2.4ghz to the next level.

After landing our test model, high fives commenced, and everyone at the field was pleased at the performance from this awesome product from Spektrum. These module systems are a killer product that the hobby needs. Spektrum modules have been designed and tested by professionals, and again, they have taken 2.4ghz to the next level. The forthcoming generation of 2.4 native radios promise to bring incredible advancements in speed and resolution as well. Until then, these modules are the perfect upgrade for your current 72mhz systems.

Get down to your LHS and pick one up.


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Horizon Hobby, Inc.
4105 Fieldstone Road
Champaign, IL 61822

Main Phone: (217) 352-1913
Toll-Free: (800) 338-4639
Support Phone: (877) 504-0233
Sales Phone: (800) 338-4639 http://www.horizonhobby.com
 
Default REVIEW: Spektrum Conversion Modules for 72Mhz Transmitters
REVIEW: Spektrum Conversion Modules for 72Mhz Transmitters

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Old 05-08-2007, 03:49 PM   #2
LeadingEdge
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Default Re: REVIEW: Spektrum Conversion Modules for 72Mhz Transmitters
In addition to testing in the JR 10x, we also tried out the DM9 module in a JR 8103. We did not perform the level of testing that we did in the giant scale Extra, but we did bind up some foamies and a Fliton AJ Extra with Spektrum receivers with the same results. Here are some photos of the DM9 installed in the 8103.

The kit includes a plastic plug that is similar to that of the 10x metal plug. The antenna mounts in a very similar fashion, and is very stout, and not flimsy at all.
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Old 05-08-2007, 05:13 PM   #3
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Default Re: REVIEW: Spektrum Conversion Modules for 72Mhz Transmitters
Cant wait to get mine. Great write up.
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Old 05-08-2007, 05:25 PM   #4
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Default Re: REVIEW: Spektrum Conversion Modules for 72Mhz Transmitters
Thanks for the review, I know you touched on it some, but since you had the DX-7 and the spektrum module in the 10X installed in the same plane was there the same speed or locked in feel you got with the DX-7?

BTW, great write up
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Old 05-08-2007, 06:24 PM   #5
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Default Re: REVIEW: Spektrum Conversion Modules for 72Mhz Transmitters
Chuck, the DX7 was definately more responsive. The DM9 felt just like the 10x on 72mhz, as it should. There is alot of hooey floating around right now about conversion modules having the ability to magically increase response time from the transmitter to the servo from a legacy 72mhz system - The reality is, response is dictated by the performance of the weakest link, which in this case is the PPM stream from the transmitter. This will of course change with the introduction of native FASST and DSM systems like the 9303 and 12FG, which I'm very much looking forward to moving to.
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Old 05-08-2007, 06:29 PM   #6
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Default Re: REVIEW: Spektrum Conversion Modules for 72Mhz Transmitters
Thanks Max I appreciate it!
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Old 05-08-2007, 06:52 PM   #7
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Default Re: REVIEW: Spektrum Conversion Modules for 72Mhz Transmitters
The Futaba solution seems to be module based.
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Old 05-08-2007, 08:30 PM   #8
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Default Re: REVIEW: Spektrum Conversion Modules for 72Mhz Transmitters
Great review, I think these 2.4 systems are going to be in every radio in the future. And we will not need to use frequency boards anymore and not have to worry about being shot down, you also dont have to worry about being out of range with these.
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Old 05-15-2007, 11:51 AM   #9
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Default Re: REVIEW: Spektrum Conversion Modules for 72Mhz Transmitters
Anyone have an idea of when these will actually be on the street? I have had mine on order now for over two months now and it's driving me crazy with anticipation!
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Old 05-15-2007, 01:26 PM   #10
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Default Re: REVIEW: Spektrum Conversion Modules for 72Mhz Transmitters
I think the big distributors got them and they are shipping, but a lot of small hobby shops (one here as well) did not get any. I ordered mine from Donald's Hobby, and will have it tommorow. Will post my thoughts after I flight test in on Thursday.
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Old 05-21-2007, 09:04 AM   #11
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Default Re: REVIEW: Spektrum Conversion Modules for 72Mhz Transmitters
what about futaba? 9cap?
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Old 05-22-2007, 01:25 AM   #12
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Default Re: REVIEW: Spektrum Conversion Modules for 72Mhz Transmitters
These are shipping as we speak according to Horizon.
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Old 05-22-2007, 09:28 AM   #13
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Default Re: REVIEW: Spektrum Conversion Modules for 72Mhz Transmitters
Exciting times!
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Old 09-11-2007, 04:09 PM   #14
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Default Re: REVIEW: Spektrum Conversion Modules for 72Mhz Transmitters
OK need some insite transmitter 10x Module installed have a glitch on the throttle at mid range on the sticks horizon seems to think that it is my servo because it is not a digital servo that thats my problem has any body had this happen to them.
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Old 09-11-2007, 04:17 PM   #15
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Default Re: REVIEW: Spektrum Conversion Modules for 72Mhz Transmitters
Nope.

Here's some other info. As reported by Rolling Thunder (aka Quist).....there was a software issue on Spektrums site about servo's moving past 100% then effecting the next servo in line.

If you have the new antenna version.....the plastic insert where the antenna snaps onto instead of screwing on then you have the software update (according to my emails with spektrum. Also you should take apart your RX and hotglue down the capacitor in the RX or send it in to spektrum for them to do. They have had some cases of vibration affecting the capacitor. All the info is on Spektrums website. I did the fix in about 3mins on mine.
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