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Product Review:
Futaba 10CAP

Perspective By:
Mike "Wizard" Martin

Manufacturer Contact:

Great Planes
 
 


Manufacturer Website:
www.greatplanes.com

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Introduction




 

Out of the Box:

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When the big brown truck pulled into the drive I was like a kid on Christmas morning.  I walked out and met the driver.  I took a quick look at the outer box to make sure that there was no shipping damage and almost ran back inside to open it up.  I opened the box and found everything had arrived safe and sound. 
 
I pulled the radio out of the box and checked out everything that came with the radio.  The transmitter had a very nice feel in the hands.  The receiver that comes with the 10C is the R6014FS receiver.  Also included NR4J 600mAh NiCd Receiver Battery, FBC-19B RX, TX Wall Charger, Switch Harness, 8" (203mm) Servo Extension, and a neck strap.  For those that just fly gassers they probably could care less about the receiver battery and switch harness but many of us still fly glow powered as well as gas and those extra goodies always come in handy.  The receiver battery is also great for doing bench setup of the radio. 
 
I plug in the charger and start charging the batteries.  The manual recommends at least an 18 hour initial charge.  So I pull out the extensive user manual and start reading.

Product Specifications
 


Set Up
Still feeling like a kid at Christmas, I couldn't wait for the batteries.  Almost like a kid stealing the batteries out of the TV remote for his new toy, I pulled the charged battery out of my 7C.  I then put the battery out of the 10C into the 7C to charge.  Now I was ready to play. 
 
First things first, I installed the FASST module into the back of the transmitter and turned it on.  I liked the backlit LCD screen, it makes it easy to see what you are doing in any light condition. 
 
As I was reading through the manual I found that you can change the Futaba logo to any thing you like up to 10 characters.  This is nice for those with more than one 10C or if you are flying with others that have the 10C with just a glance you can tell that you have the right transmitter.  So I entered my nickname into the radio and it now says Wizard.
 
The plane that I am switching over first is my trusty 30% Yak.  It has HS-5945s on all surfaces, Li-ion batteries with regulators and failsafe switches.  I first pulled out the old receiver using the labels that came with the 10C to label all the servo leads.  I made a change and removed the y-harness from the elevator servos and made custom extensions for each servo.  This just gives me more control over the setup of the two servos.  I also checked all the servo plugs to make sure that none needed attention.  It was just a good time for some preventive maintenance.
 
I installed the new R6014FS Receiver, following the recommendations from this thread.  Futaba FASST Receiver Installation Guidelines I used foam under the receiver and mounted it on the narrow side with a velcro strap.  I used tape to  position the antennas at 90 degrees to each other and plugged in the servos.
 
 


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Note:  All screen shots are photos of the actual LCD screen
 
Once I had the receiver installed, the next step was to start to program the radio for the plane.  If I had been using a 9C, I could have just imported the setup using a CAMpac module.  However since I had been using a 7C I had to program manually.  I figured that the settings from the 7C should be close, except for the elevators, since I had split them. 
 
The version I ordered was the airplane model, the default model type is ACRO so I didn't have to change that.  If you order the helicopter version the default mode is heli. Set up the model name. I then moved on to servo direction.  Again found from the basic menu.  Set the servo direction the same as on the 7C.  I set the end points the same as on the 7C.  I then set up the rates and expo, I set them to triple rates all on one switch.  I did this because I had the rates set to one switch on the 7C and wanted things similar to start with.  I will probably set the rates to different switches at a later date.  
 
 


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I then accessed the Advanced menu and set up Aileron Differential I have not had to use differential on this plane but it is a good way to link the aileron servos without having to worry about the flap knob.  
 
The last thing was to use the ailvator function to link the elevators.  This is a very easy way to link the elevators and allows the elevators to be mixed with the ailerons for advanced airobatics. The basic programming was done.  I then went in and did two more P-mixes to get rid of some of the rudder coupling. 
 
It was time to power up the system and check it out.  I powered up the transmitter then turned on the receiver.  The green light came on to tell me there was a good link.  (Note:  The R6014FS Receiver comes bound to the transmitter out of the box.)  It was at this point that I found out that I would have to change out my throttle servo.  It was an older model digital and not compatible with the new R6014FS Receiver.  There is a note in the manual explaining this.  So I went to the shelf and grabbed a Futaba 3004 standard servo to install for the throttle. 
 
I checked all the servo directions and servo throws, they were right on the money using the settings from the 7C.  Made sure that the elevator servos were tracking together and the end points were right after changing from a Y harness to separate channels. 
 
I took the plane outside and performed a range check, first without the engine running and then with the engine running.  Both checks were well over 150 feet. 
 
I then set up the throttle cut, idle down, throttle curve and flight timer. Put everything on charge to top off. <

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Out to the Field
It's time for a test flight.  Load everything up and it's off to the field. I get to the field and the wind is kicking at about 20 miles an hour.  Not the best day for setting up a new radio but, I was going to fly. 
 
I assemble the plane except for the hatch, turn on the transmitter then the receiver.  I get the green light on the receiver telling me I have a good signal and bind. turn everything back off, put the hatch in place and fuel the plane.  It's time for a range check.
 
Turn on the transmitter in low power mode and take off walking.  At over 150 feet I still have not had a single glitch.  I walk back and fire up the engine and repeat the range test.  I still get over 150 feet glitch free.  Switch the radio to full power and walk back.
 
I  take the plane out of the hold down, then look at my flying buddy and give the line that we both use before any maiden, "Looks like I'm out of excuses, it's time to fly,"
 
I do a quick taxi test with no problems, then give it some throttle and the plane jumps into the air.  Just a few clicks of trim and my Yak is flying the same as it always did.  I flew for 10 minutes and never felt a glitch or problem.  The higher resolution did make the plane feel more responsive than it did using the 7C. I ran through all the rates and the setting from the 7C worked great.  Brought it back in to a nice gentle landing. 
 
About the only thing I need to tweak on the existing program is the throttle curve.  The 7C did not have one and my initial curve was a little week around mid throttle.  I didn't work on any other mixes due to the high wind.  I would not have been able to get them dialed in.  I will save that for another day.
 
 

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Some of the features of the 10C that really stand out to me are:
 
The Dial and Key programming is just like on the 7C that I have been used to.
 
The joystick menu navigation makes it quick to program.
 
The Smart Switch Technology, Logic switches, allow for activation of a function with a switch and/or stick position.
 
The Ailvator  function allows for easy linking of elevator servos.
 
Three separate assignable timers.



Tips for Success
There are a few tips that I have found for this radio. 
 
First, like all electronics, take some simple steps to keep the receiver from high temperatures.  Mount the receiver out of direct sunlight and shielded from the heat of exhaust systems.
 
Second, use servos that are made to work with the new signal voltage of 2.7 volts.  If you have a servo that isn't acting right switch it out for a newer one.
 
Lastly, the strap attachment is placed for balance with the 72 Mhz antenna.  There are some after market attachments that go on the strap attachment that will shift the balance point.  I really didn't notice the difference in balance while flying, but some might.

Conclusion
Now that I have flown this radio, I know that I made the right decision to wait to make the switch to 2.4 FASST.  The features are what I really wanted in a  new radio.  For those that have been flying the 9C the programming will be second nature, and can import their models with use of a CAMpac module.  The higher resolution really can be felt in the air.  As some say, they feel more connected to the model.
 
The system is build with those changing over to 2.4 in mind.  In the 2.4 mode it has the higher resolution for that "more connected" feel.  Then with the change of a module you can still fly your 72 Mhz receivers and change your fleet over gradually to 2.4 FASST.
 
The Futaba 10C is a great mid priced radio system with the features expected.
 
We are going to start a new feature with this review. We will be having review follow ups.  This will include items such as how the  product is performing 1 month later, 3 months later.  It will also include further tips on the usage.  So stay tuned.

Great Planes
 
 
www.greatplanes.com
 
Default Product Perspective: Futaba 10ACAP Radio Control System with FASST
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Old 06-27-2008, 10:40 AM   #2
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Default Re: Product Perspective: Futaba 10ACAP Radio Control System with FASST
Nice job Mike! Looks like you are enjoying your 10C!
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Old 06-27-2008, 10:45 AM   #3
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Default Re: Product Perspective: Futaba 10ACAP Radio Control System with FASST
I'm really liking the radio. I will be enjoyingit more when the winds decide to layback. They have been around 20Miles an hour since I have made the change over. I'm looking forward to getting the mixes all set up.
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Old 06-27-2008, 11:12 AM   #4
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Default Re: Product Perspective: Futaba 10ACAP Radio Control System with FASST
Wizard Great Review

My question is about the servo's, do you have examples of what won't run with the new system.
I'm wanting to get this radio and I'm running all new Hitec 5955's and a 5985 for the throttle will these work with the new system?

Thanks Steve P
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Old 06-27-2008, 11:27 AM   #5
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Default Re: Product Perspective: Futaba 10ACAP Radio Control System with FASST
I'm not sure on which ones will work and which ones won't. I have heard that the older versions of the 5955 won't work but the newer ones will. I'm not sure on the 5985. The one I pulled out was an old (read about 5 years) hi tec 5475
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Old 06-27-2008, 11:38 AM   #6
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Default Re: Product Perspective: Futaba 10ACAP Radio Control System with FASST
All my servo's are only 2 years old so hopefully they will all work.

Thanks Wizard
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Old 06-28-2008, 01:26 AM   #7
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Default Re: Product Perspective: Futaba 10ACAP Radio Control System with FASST
Stevep, I'm thinking about getting the 10c also, so I've been looking into this abit. I just happened to check with Hi-tec yesterday about this exact thing. I too am running 6 HS 5955 and a 5985 for throttle on a Aeroworks 260 35% I was told that the Newer 5955's (within the last two years) you will have no problem. We did not discuss the 5985. The Futaba RX R6014fs operates on a lower signal voltage 2.7volts,(thats the new technology that they all will be going to)
and some of the older Digital servos are not compatable for this new lower voltage. Keep in mind it is a lower signal voltage. The Voltage coming from your Batteries or regulators into your RX will be the same voltage coming out of the RX. In my case I have two regulators, 6 volts coming out of each one
and then into the RX and 6 volts back out to power the servos.
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Old 07-01-2008, 09:28 AM   #8
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Default Re: Product Perspective: Futaba 10ACAP Radio Control System with FASST
"So I entered my nickname into the radio and it now says Wizard."

Hi Wizard. Do you know of any way to get the same font and size that the default "Futaba" logo comes in? Also, how do I change it back to the default "Futaba"

Thanks!
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Old 07-01-2008, 10:58 AM   #9
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Default Re: Product Perspective: Futaba 10ACAP Radio Control System with FASST
Nice review.... Thanks
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Old 07-01-2008, 07:50 PM   #10
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Default Re: Product Perspective: Futaba 10ACAP Radio Control System with FASST
Quote: Originally Posted by MAAC
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"So I entered my nickname into the radio and it now says Wizard."

Hi Wizard. Do you know of any way to get the same font and size that the default "Futaba" logo comes in? Also, how do I change it back to the default "Futaba"

Thanks!
I don't think that the font size is changable. To change it back to default, just go back in and delete what is there... Over write it with blanks.
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Old 07-01-2008, 09:34 PM   #11
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Default Re: Product Perspective: Futaba 10ACAP Radio Control System with FASST
Quote: Originally Posted by wizard
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I don't think that the font size is changable. To change it back to default, just go back in and delete what is there... Over write it with blanks.
Thanks Wizard.

We can't use "I don't think that the font size is changable." as an excuse as we all need to know for certain what your sources at Futaba say. It has to be changable, so please let us know how. Thanks.
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Old 07-02-2008, 09:01 PM   #12
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Default Re: Product Perspective: Futaba 10ACAP Radio Control System with FASST
Great review WIZ!!!

I order mine to my local hobby shop in Israel...and they say it will be late() so I think I will come to USA just to take mine as soon as i can do it and go back to Israel (I think its worth it)...DAMM I can't wait anymore!.!.!.!.!.!.!.!.!.!.!.!.!.!.!.!.!.!.!.!.!.! .!.!

Daniel :-)
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