Spektrum 2.4GHz DSM technology has helped to revolutionize the way people interface with their vehicles. Whether you’re dealing with cars, trucks, or airplanes, Spektrum technology makes it possible for you to operate your vehicle when you want without worrying about frequency control, RF interference, and more. Recent breakthroughs have helped engineers reduce latency and increase responsiveness, while providing the same exceptional RF link users have become accustomed to. The culmination of these advancements is the exciting DX3R. We recently had an opportunity to get up close and personal with a DX3R to check out some of the programming features that have been designed into this world-class radio. Come along and get an inside look at what is sure to be one of the hottest radios you can get.
Time to Roll
The first thing you should notice about the DX3R is its simplified menu navigation system. Gone are the countless buttons and dials found on other radios, replaced with an intuitive roller button. Selecting a menu item is as simple as pushing the roller in. Once in the menu, you can select any of the DX3R’s main features. From travel and steering rate adjustments to binding and exponential rates, everything is here in the main menu.
In a Bind?
The DX3R is an all-new radio from the ground up. From the unique casing to the menu system, the DX3R is unlike any radio. Unlike previous Spektrum-based radios or modules, the binding process is initiated electronically instead of mechanically. Gone is the Bind Button, replaced with a setting in the DX3R’s menu system. To bind your receiver to your radio, power on your receiver with the bind button pushed in or bind plug installed. Highlight "Bind" in the menu and push the roller in. After a few seconds, the binding process is complete. It’s all very simple and quite convenient.
Adjusting throttle or steering exponential rates or the travel is done via very similar looking screens. The graphically displayed curves make it very easy to understand what effect your changes will have.
Check Out These Curves
As we’ve stated, the DX3R is one of the most tunable radios you can get. For proof of this you don’t need to look any further than the adjustable exponential rate system that the DX3R utilizes. As with other pro-grade radios, the exponential rates can be adjusted for both throttle and steering. Unlike other radios, however, the DX3R features a separate curve for each movement of either the steering wheel or throttle. For example, oval racers can set their steering exponential to one setting for turning left and a different setting for turning right. The same can be said of the brake and throttle movements as well. The DX3R provides you the opportunity to truly fine-tune your radio to your driving style.
Have you been framed?
Three different frame rates can be selected via the DX3R’s menu, further tailoring the feel and responsiveness to your liking. The 16.5 and 11.5m/s frame rates are used with analog servos, while users of digital servos can take advantage of the lightning-fast 5.5m/s frame rate.
One of the most popular topics when it comes to Spektrum equipment is the responsiveness of the system. Thanks to two separate technological advancements, the DX3R is the fastest and most responsive radio ever produced. The first advancement has been used in the DX7 aircraft radio for some time: DSM2. DSM2 technology represents the second-generation DSM protocol for Spektrum equipment. A radio system equipped with DSM2 will feature reduced latency and an overall faster response time when compared to any other 27 or 75MHz radio system or any frequency hopping (FHSS) 2.4GHz system. DSM2 technology makes it possible for the radio system to see more of the RF signal, providing a truly locked-in feeling behind the radio.
The second speed-enhancing feature of the DX3R is an advanced frame rate system. The frame rate will help determine the time at which the servo information is transmitted to and updated by the receiver. With a lower frame rate you’ll enjoy a faster reaction time. The DX3R has an adjustable frame rate 16m/s, 11 m/s, or 5.5m/s. When combined with digital servos, the 5.5 m/s rate translates into lightning-fast response times. As a heads up, the 5.5m/s frame rate can only be used with digital servos; analog servos must utilize the 16m/s or 11m/s rate.
Other Key Features:
There are several other awesome features found on the Spektrum DX3R. The DX3R can be quickly and easily configured for either left- or right-hand use. The contrast on the LCD display can be fine-tuned to suit your personal preferences, and you can even personalize your DX3R by inputting your name in the main menu listing. You can even store 30-distinct model profiles in the DX3R’s main memory.
We’ve barely scratched the surface on the capabilities of the DX3R. As with any new piece of technology, the more you use the features the more you will learn and gain confidence in them. Thanks to DSM2 technology, the DX3R features the fastest and most secure RF link that you will find in a radio system. When combined with its 100% backwards compatibility with previous-generation Spektrum receivers, you have a total radio system for all your driving needs.