Spektrum: News and Updates

We’ve recently become aware that a Spektrum module customer experienced a coaxial cable becoming detached from the connector on the back of his module. We believe this likely occurred when the transmitter was either dropped or tipped over onto its back. Should this coaxial cable become damaged, there is a good chance the antenna will not be able to function properly. Flying the system in this condition will result in a significant lack of range. We are already in the process of developing a solution to this potential problem and plan to have it available shortly. In the mean time, we highly recommend you check your coaxial connection before each flight to ensure the connection between the coaxial cable and the module’s connector is intact.

Carefully examine the Coax

With all radio installations it is vital the onboard power system provides adequate power of 4 volts or more without interruption to the receiver even when the system is fully loaded (servos at maximum flight loads). This becomes especially critical with giant scale models that utilize multiple high torque/ high current servos. Inadequate power systems that are unable to provide the necessary minimum voltage to the receiver during flight loads have become the number one cause of in flight failures.

Click the link below to read more about recommended power system guidelines.

The ROAR Carpet On-Road Nationals is always one of the fastest and most competitive events of the year, and the 2008 edition was no different. 1/12-scale cars are perhaps the most demanding to drive, as they require lightning-fast reflexes and stamina due to the longer race lengths. Spektrum's Ray Darroch, who is always a threat to win on carpet, used the new DX3R to TQ and win the 1/12-scale Super Stock class at this year's event. Ray took TQ by over a lap and was clearly the fastest driver all weekend. Ray also finished second in the Sedan Super Stock class. Fellow Spektrum driver Eli Ezrow also made the A-Mains with his DX3R, taking home second in Stock Sedan and fifth in 1/12-Stock.

The Spektrum DX3R has begun shipping to dealers and racers everywhere. The DX3R is the first-ever DSM2-equipped radio for surface applications and provides arguably the most responsive radio on the market. Packaged with Spektrum’s SR3100 receiver, the DX3R features a 30-model memory, digital sub-trims, graphically depicted exponential and travel adjustment, steering dual rate, dual rate override and adjustable servo frame rates. Look for the DX3R in winner’s circles around the world.

Quality control is a top priority for Spektrum, and we take all steps necessary to ensure that we provide you with the best products available. Unfortunately, this means occasionally we may not be able to meet anticipated ship dates. Due to some manufacturing issues, the new Spektrum deluxe transmitter case has experienced a delay, and we do not expect to receive our initial shipment of cases until the end of the year. We sincerely hope this has not caused an inconvenience for you. Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Randy Bridge and Travis Flynn took the top two positions at the recent F3D Pylon Racing World Championships. The 2007 Championships were held on the AMA grounds in Muncie, Indiana. In a competition where these planes travel in excess of 200 mph around the pylon course, having the most precise control over your aircraft is a must. Both Randy and Travis used the revolutionary Spektrum DX7 to control their planes. This win marks the first World Championship for Spektrum. Thank you Randy and Travis and congratulations!

Spektrum AR6000 and BR6000 Receivers sold prior to May, 2007 feature a “MADE IN THE U.S.A.” however do not qualify for such labeling in the State of California. Spektrum AR6000 and BR6000 Receivers shipping after May 1, 2007 feature updated labeling on current and future packaging. If you purchased the Spektrum AR6000 and BR6000 receiver in the state of California prior to May 1, 2007 and are dissatisfied due to this labeling issue, we will be happy to send you a new label or provide return shipping so that you may receive a full refund of your purchase price of the AR6000 or BR6000 including sales tax upon return. Returns must be received by Horizon no later than May 1, 2008 to receive a refund. For further information, please read the information on the links below.

Spektrum radio equipment once again made history, this time side-by-side with HPI Racing’s massive 1/5-scale buggy, the Baja 5B. HPI Racing’s Thad Garner used a Spektrum DX3.0 to control the 5B as it traversed the challenging 120-mile course from Barstow, California to Primm, Nevada. During the nearly 10-hour journey, the Spektrum DX3.0 transmitter provided the control and reliability necessary to complete this truly monumental event. To provide up-to-date information on engine temperatures, receiver pack voltage, and signal strength, the 5B was equipped with a Spektrum Telemetry system. For more information, visit HPIRacing.com.

Ever since Spektrum introduced the DX6 and DX7 systems, thousands of JR and Futaba users like you have been asking for a way to add Spektrum’s revolutionary 2.4GHz technology to the aircraft systems they already have. Now they can with Spektrum’s new Aircraft Module Systems. Each module system includes everything you need to equip your JR or Futaba module-based system with the interference free, glitch free precision of DSM2—Spektrum’s advanced spread spectrum protocol that can be used with any size and type of aircraft.

Just think, now you can fly anytime you want without giving a second thought to frequency conflicts, RF interference or glitches AND use the same radio you’re flying with now.

Spektrum’s Travis Amezcua dominated the competition while maintaining perfect control once again. Amezcua attended the 12th Annual Rumble in the Rockies hosted at MHOR RC Raceway in Denver, Colorado where he used a Spektrum Pro Series Module and SR3500 receiver to precisely control his Team Losi XXX-CR. Travis went on to not only capture the TQ position, but also the overall win in the highly competitive 2wd Modified Buggy Class. In the perfect combination of car control and driving skill, Amezcua proved he is without a doubt one of the best drivers in the USA and World. The competition better look out as the season progresses for this potent 1-2-3 punch of Travis Amezcua, Spektrum Pro Series Equipment, and Team Losi Racecars.

The Spektrum team realizes that the charger included in the DX7 is not optimal for charging the Tx battery in a convenient, overnight fashion. Although the current charger works adequately with additional charge time, future production will include the higher rate charger as referenced in the instruction manual. If you intend to use the 50mah charger, please increase the charge time to 30hrs for the Tx and 22hrs for the Rx.

The DS821 servo is a powerful, accurate sport digital servo recommended for RC airplane applications up to 1.20-size. For helicopters, the DS821 operates best with 30-size glow models, and up to 50-size electric. Loads and vibration in larger models may cause premature failure of the servo resulting in damage or injury to property and persons.

Important: Do not use liquid thread lock with the DS821 servo!

Do not use any form of liquid thread lock to secure the servo arm screw to the output shaft of the DS821 servo. Chemicals in these liquids react with the polycarbonate gear set causing the plastic to become brittle, fracturing the final output gear.

You should always range test your Spektrum radio before each flying session, and especially with a new model. It is very important to perform a range check. The DX7 incorporates a range testing system which, when the bind button on the back of the transmitter is pressed and held, reduces the output power, allowing a range check.

1. With the model resting on the ground, stand 30 paces (approx. 90 feet) away from the model.

2. Face the model with the transmitter in your normal flying position and depress and hold the bind button on the back of the transmitter. This causes reduced power output from the transmitter.

3. You should have total control of the model with the button depressed at 30 paces (90 feet).

4. If control issues exist, call the Spektrum Service Center at before you fly the model 1-877-504-0233 for further assistance. If your model does not perform a good range test DO NOT FLY YOUR MODEL until the problem is resolved.

The new FS One Wireless Sim Adapter offered by Spektrum is designed to work with the FS One Precision RC Flight Simulator.  Once the adapter is bound to a Spektrum DX6 or DX7, radio users can operate the sim wirelessly. It also allows users to take advantage of the software in the transmitter and eliminates the hassle of any wires.

Steve Slayden once again laid it down and drove brilliantly en route to another huge win. This time it was at the 4th Annual Monster Madness race at RC Madness in Enfield, Connecticut. Steve used an Airtronics M11 radio paired with a Spektrum Pro Series module and receiver to control both his Traxxas Revo and Revo 3.3. Steve was the fastest in qualifying for the Small Block Class to capture the TQ. He showed his mastery of the track by qualifying second with his Revo 3.3 in the Big Block Class. In small block, Steve was clearly the dominant truck. At one point, he held a 2-lap lead over the field until a rear suspension rocker broke. He was still able to hold on to second to capture a podium position. He had no such troubles in the Big Block class, as he won that class handily

It seems that whether it’s an indoor or outdoor race, on or off road, electric or nitro, racers all over the world have been taking advantage of Spektrum 2.4GHz DSM Technology. With all of Spektrum’s benefits (built-in fail safe, no frequency clips, no glitching, etc) that should come as no surprise. Recently, Traxxas’ lead driver Steve Slayden TQ’ed the Silver State Nitro Challenge Production Monster Truck Class. Steve is well known as an expert driver in the world of Monster Trucks and has TQ’ed and won many races in the past. For the best combination of control, a secure RF link, fast response time, and durability, Steve outfitted his Traxxas Revo with one of the new Spektrum Pro Series Modules and Receivers. Congratulations to Steve and Spektrum.

Okay, maybe you don’t fit the description, but you know someone who does. Send us his or her name and contact information, and if we end up hiring that individual, we’ll supply you with $1000 of any Horizon proprietary products for your lead.

Spektrum, the 2.4Ghz line that’s turning the RC industry upside down with innovative products, is looking for a very special individual to organize the development of Spektrum products. If your DNA is such that you’re a highly motivated to organize - you can anticipate issues and resolve them before they occur through superior planning, we need to talk. The ideal candidate will know Microsoft Project like the back of their hand, have Excel engrained in their frontal lobe, and have experience dealing with contract manufacturing on a global level. Of course, if your experience is in the electronics industry, that’d be a big plus. If the thought of being on our team is inviting, send your resume to our HR department today!

Team Losi driver Travis Amezcua pulled off yet another great major race win as well as creating a bit of RC Car history last weekend at the Team Losi Off-Road Championships. Travis bested a star studded field of the worlds best racers to win the 2WD Pro Modified class and accomplished this great feat using Spektrum's new module/receiver with his M11 transmitter. This marks the first such major event win in the elite pro ranks where the new Spektrum Pro Series System was used and shows that it has now been accepted by the world's top racers.

The 13th Annual Speedline Grand Prix, presented by Mike's Hobby Shop, was held March 31-April 2 at Gulf Coast Raceway in Houston Texas. Scott Kimbrow, with the help of Spektrum, TQ'ed and won the 1/8 scale on-road class. Using Spektrum, Scott was able to:

• lower the single lap record from 15.3 to 14.8
• lower the qualifying record from 19 laps 5:05, to 20 laps 5:06
• TQ by almost 5 seconds over 2nd qualifier
• win the main by 5 laps

Fellow Spektrum users making the Main included Jim Adkins (3rd), Sal DiFazio (10th), and Brandon McNally (11th). Congratulations to all of the winners!

Spektrum’s new BR6000 receiver is designed for robot and special application usage where it’s desirable to have the failsafe drive all channels to a preprogrammed position during loss of signal vs. hold the last command. This is ideal for applications where it’s necessary to shut down systems (ie. weaponry, drive motors, etc,) during loss of signal to prevent an unsafe condition. If you currently own a DX6 radio and are using it in a robot application, you’ll want the new BR6000 receiver. You can order SPM6000BR or simply return your AR6000 receiver and we will exchange it for a BR6000. Send the AR6000 receiver along with your name and address to Spektrum Service, 4105 Fieldstone Road, Champaign, IL 61822. We will quickly send out the BR6000 receiver in return!&l

Now in its 12^th year, the SnowBird Nationals is regarded as one of the largest and most prestigious races in the world, and the 2006 edition was no exception. Drivers from all over the world converged on the Orlando Grand Plaza to battle it out for the title of “SnowBirds Champion”. More racers relied on Spektrum 2.4gHz DSM technology in one race than ever before, with more than 125 individual Spektrum users in attendance. Spektrum captured the Top Qualifying positions, wins, and numerous top ten finishes in both oval and on-road classes. Alan Behler took the win in the ultra-competitive 4-cell stock oval class, while Bobby Scherff TQ-ed the 19-Turn oval class. Look for more in-depth results soon.

The posted Spektrum issues affect only a small percentage of users. If you have Spektrum Telemetry Packages or Modules on your shelves and would like to return them, please contact Horizon Customer Support. We will be happy to give you a Return Authorization and Pick Up tag. Currently we do not have replacement inventory for you, so a credit will be issued upon arrival of your merchandise.

The Spektrum Telemetry system is a state of the art way to receive information about your radio control equipment. One of the many features is our lap counter with data storage. During some recent testing we have found that some units have a slight glitch when recalling lap times. Approximately 1 in every 16 lap times is off by 2-3 seconds. If you experience this with your unit, please contact Horizon Service toll free at 877-504-0233 or send your unit along with a letter which includes your name, address and daytime contact number to: Spektrum Service; 4105 Fieldstone Road; Champaign, IL, 61822. Your unit will be repaired free of charge and returned to you as soon as possible.

Since the release of the Spektrum Telemetry System, it has come to our attention that some on-board modules are giving inaccurate voltage readings. If your Telemetry on-board module has this issue, the readings will show significantly lower than actual voltage. Most will show in the 2.5 to 3 volt range when actual voltage is 5.5 to 6 volts. If you experience this type of readout with your module, please contact Horizon Service toll free at 877-504-0233 or send your module along with a letter which includes your name, address and daytime contact number to: Spektrum Service; 4105 Fieldstone Road; Champaign, IL  61822. Your module will be repaired free of charge and returned to you as soon as possible.

With more and more racers taking advantage of the benefits of Spektrum’s 2.4GHz DSM Technology, the excellent finishes at big races just keep adding up. This time it was at the 2006 US Touring Car Championships sponsored by Novak. Jim Piersol captured the TQ in the 19-Turn Division, while Kevin Bottoms took the top spot in the Tamiya Mini class. Kevin won the first two A-Mains to take the overall win as well. Nick Stampfel placed his car in the 19-Turn A-main where he finished third overall. Each of these drivers used Spektrum modules in their transmitters and enjoyed crystal-clear reception and performance out of their radios. Other drivers also managed to run very well with Spektrum DSM technology. Roughly 25% of all A-Main participants used Spektrum Technology.

While the vast majority of Spektrum surface users are experiencing the benefits of no-pins, no-interference, no-glitching DSM digital control, a few customers have reported their system “shuts-down” on occasion – usually when operating on carpeting. Our engineers traced the source of the problem to electrostatic discharge (ESD) and have developed a fix that completely solves the issue. If you have experienced a shut down issue, first check your unit’s antenna (see “Simple Fix for Shut-Down Issue” below). If the antenna is not the issue, please send your Spektrum module and receiver to our service center for a fast and free software upgrade. We apologize for the inconvenience.

To prevent possible damage to your servo while using the flaperon program, we recommend that the initial Tx setup is done without power to the Rx and the flap servo arm disconnected from the output shaft. When the flaperon function is initially selected, the flap switch is still active and will try to drive the servo to full deflection and possibly stalling. As stated on pg. 33 of the instruction manual, the switch is de-activated by setting the travel adjust to 0% for both switch directions.

Futaba 3PK owners interested in the fastest possible processing speed are sure to be blown away by Spektrum’s latest engineering breakthrough, the Spektrum DSM System for Futaba HRS.

A new dedicated module and receiver have been developed specifically for use with the Futaba 3PK when HRS modulation is selected. The Spektrum latency has been reduced from 5.6ms to just 2ms!

This system is designed for use with digital servos only, and it’ll be available at your local hobby shop early in 2006. The module and receiver will be designated “Futaba HRS Version” and is for use with the HRS system only. 

Starting today and while supplies last, you will receive an additional free receiver with every DX3 you order. With the DX3, you get Spektrum's race-proven 2.4GHz DSM technology in a 3-channel radio that puts the pro-style digital features you really need right at your fingertips. The DX3 is a great radio for any racer, and an additional free receiver just makes it that much more desirable!

To find out more about the DX3, visit the link below.