Q. What Transmitters support Forward Programming?

A. All Gen2 DX Transmitters, including all version of the DX18 and DX9, NX Series and iX Series support Forward Programming.

Q. What is the transmitting range of a Spektrum Transmitter?

A. Air system - In a perfect environment and setup, Air transmitters will get up to 2km. There are many factors, either on model setup or in the environment, that will reduce the maximum range. Our rule of thumb is line of sight, if you can see your model, you should have control. Please see your receiver’s manual for tips on installation for best reception.

Surface system - In a perfect environment and setup, Surface transmitters will get up to 450 meters. There are many factors, either on model setup or in the environment, that will reduce the maximum range. A major factor to consider with Surface models is to consider the ground plane when positioning your antenna. Please see your receiver’s manual for tips on installation for best reception.

Q. Can I bind my Spektrum Surface Transmitter to a Spektrum Air Receiver (or vice versa)?

A. No, Air and Surface protocols are coded differently so that they perform well in those environments. An AR### is the indicator for Air protocol DSMX and DSM2 systems, SR### is for Surface Protocol DSMR and DSM2 systems.

Q. Can I bind my “brand X” transmitter to a Spektrum Receiver?

A. The best indicator of compatibility is the advertised 2.4gHz protocol. Spektrum Receivers currently use DSMX, DSMR, and DSM2 protocols. There are some 3^rd party transmitters and receivers that support these protocols BUT it is important to note that Spektrum does not test with these 3^rd party modules and systems and can not guarantee that they will be fully functional. We always recommend using genuine Spektrum products for the best experience and service.

Q. I am having trouble binding, what should I do?

A.

1. Double check all connections for proper polarity.
2. Make sure the LED on the receiver is flashing to indicate it is in Bind Mode. Normally this is done via a button press on the receiver or using a Bind Plug.
3. Make sure the receiver has adequate power and that you are not using a old or worn out battery for power.
4. Put some space between Transmitter and Receiver during binding. When they are too close the signal can become over saturated and the bind will not take place.

Q. Can I bind more then one receiver to one model memory?

A. Yes, as long as the receivers are essentially the same type. This is a popular method for quadcopter pilots because most of those setups are the same with matching settings. There is no limit and it can be done at any time, all at once or one after another. Take note that each receiver needs to be bound in the same Frame Rate and Protocol Mode. Such as DSMX 11ms vs DSM2 22ms.

Q. My AS3X/SAFE/AVC receiver indicates it bound but the LED does not stay on and the controls do not work, what do I do?

A. These types of receivers have a brief initialization process that requires the model to be motionless on start up. Make sure after you bind or power on that your model is steady and on its wheels, give it a moment and then you should have control.

Q. My SAFE airplane does not seem to bind.

A. All SAFE equipped models, be it a SAFE, SAFE Plus or SAFE Select must be oriented on their landing gear (as if about to takeoff) and completely motionless for the system to calibrate and bind. The indicator lights in the receiver will stay off until the plane is put into the correct orientation.

Q. My airplane does not have much control throw and has nearly no down elevator.

A. This is due to an error in radio setup. Essentially the model is in Panic mode, which is controlled by channel 6 (Aux 1). Make sure you have this setup properly according to the manual. Most of the time it is because reversing Aux 1 was neglected.

Q. When I do a control correction test, I am not seeing any movement on the surfaces.

A. This could be one of two things. First, if this is an AS3X only plane or SAFE is not turned on, then the corrective movement on the controls can be subtle and is only proportionate to the disturbance that the model endures. Move the model quickly and watch the surface as the model is moving. Secondly, correction does not start until the throttle has passed 25% at least once. After that point, throttle can be brought back to the off position and the control correction test can be conducted. Try Beginner mode, which has self-leveling, where correction direction is most obvious.

Q. I am having trouble with the AS3X App; it keeps crashing on start up.

A. Make sure you have granted the App the permissions that it requires from your device. This can be found in the App settings menu of your device. It is important that the volume of your headphones be at the full position. It is also important to delete all previous versions of the software, the AS3X named folders and AS3X App cache in your smart device.

Q. Do I have to choose an unused transmitter switch in order to activate SAFE Select?

A. Any switch can be assigned the SAFE Select on/off feature, even if it’s already used for another channel or feature such as flaps, retracts, expo or dual rate. However, transmitters above 6-channels may require activation of the switch in the system menu.

Q. Where do I start the gain levels?

A. The rule of thumb is to start with relatively low gain values. You can use the flight mode option to experiment with different levels on the fly. Another option is to find a BNF® airplane with AS3X technology that’s relatively similar. All registered receivers can accept AS3X presets available from the Spektrum.com website. Upload the preset and then use the flight mode option to fine-tune to your liking.

Q. Why would I want to use the flight mode option?

A. The flight mode option allows you to assign gain values and set gain levels for different flight conditions (pattern vs. 3D flight) or turn AS3X off completely from a switch on your transmitter.

Q. My SAFE airplane does not seem to bind.

A. All SAFE equipped models, be it a SAFE, SAFE Plus or SAFE Select must be oriented on their landing gear (as if about to takeoff) and completely motionless for the system to calibrate and bind. The indicator lights in the receiver will stay off until the plane is put into the correct orientation.

Q. I do not see Torque and speed specs for my Spektrum Servo, why?

A. The majority of the OEM servos that we source for BNF, PNP and RTF/RTR models will not have these specs listed. So, if it came with or is a replacement part for a model, then it is likely that this spec is not available.

Q. Do I have to use Digital Servos with my AS3X and AVC equipped receivers?

A. It is highly recommended. This is because these units, in many cases, output a faster frame rate then many Analog servos can handle. In some cases, this frame rate can be adjusted, such as with the AR637T using the built-in frame rate menu. If you are not sure if the servos you are using are compatible, please contact the manufacture of the servo for additional information.

Q. What Spline type do Spektrum Servos use?

A. All Standard size, Mini size, and Wing Type servos use the standard 23T spline. Spektrum 5th Scale Servos use a larger 15T Spline and Micro size servos feature a smaller spline. Please note these Micro servo splines can be specific to the servo itself and It is best to use the servo arms that are included with that servo.

Q. Can I use an Airplane or Heli servo as a steering servo on my surface model?

A. Air, Heli, and Surface servos are designed for those specific needs. Heli servos are generally faster with lower torque and a narrower deadband. Airplane servos generally have better holding when deflected with a wide variety of sizes, torque and speed specifications. And Surface steering servos are traditionally designed to be more durable for bashing and racing. Also, many Surface servos feature gaskets and coatings that protect from the elements, such as water, dirt and dust. All that being said, you are welcome to experiment and mix servos between model variants, but just know that these guidelines are there to help hobbyists choose the correct servo for their application.

Q. Do the NX Transmitters (NX6/NX8/NX10) have diversity antennas?

A. All three have diversity antennas. The second antenna is located behind the transmitter nameplate. On the DX transmitters the antenna is in the transmitter handle.

Q. Do the NX transmitters provide power to the serial port located on the back of the transmitter?

A. Although all the NX transmitters have a serial port, only the NX10 provides power to the port (9.5V). The NX6 and NX8 will require an external power source for the 3rd party module.

Q. Do the NX transmitters support the Immersion RC Ghost module?

A. Currently no, but we are working with Immersion to add compatibility.

Q. Do the NX transmitters have an Android interface?

A. No, the NX transmitters do not use Android. They are an updated version of the DX Airware interface.

Q. Do all NX transmitters feature Hall-effect gimbals?

A. Only the NX10 has Hall-effect gimbals. Also, at this time, it is not going to be offered as an upgrade for NX6 or NX8.

Q. Can the NX transmitter share files with DX and iX transmitters?

A. Yes, you can share model files from DX to NX, but not from NX to DX. The iX can share models between DX, and NX.

Q. Do the NX transmitters have a touchpad screen?

A. No, the NX transmitters use a roller and 3 buttons for navigation.

Q. Can I use the NX6 with E-flite BNF planes with flaps and retracts (most warbirds) and still have a switch for SAFE Select?

A. Yes, the NX6 has an extra channel that can be used for SAFE Select. This extra channel is non-proportional and non-adjustable, aside from reversing.

Q. Will the NX transmitters work with DSM2 receivers?

A. Yes, the NX transmitters are DSM2 and DSMX compatible.

Q. What SD memory cards can be used with NX Transmitters?

A. We suggest using a Class 6 or lower, 32g or smaller Micro SD Card that is formatted FAT or FAT32 file systems. Some Class 10 cards will work from top brands like SanDisk and Toshiba.

Q. I am having trouble connecting to WiFi on my NX Transmitter, what should I do?

A. If your transmitter is up to date (V3.03.3 or higher) and you are still having trouble, check your WiFi routers DNS settings. Currently NX Transmitters only supports Primary DNS and not Secondary DNS.

Q. Is Horizon Hobby still provide customer support to DX radios?

A. Yes, we will support DX radios for years to come. Also, we are going to provide Airware updates for the foreseeable future. Support for new features could be left out if the older hardware cannot support these new features.

Q. What SD memory cards can be used with DX Transmitters?

A. We suggest using a Class 6 or lower, 32g or smaller Micro SD Card that is formatted FAT or FAT32 file systems. Some Class 10 cards will work from top brands like SanDisk and Toshiba

Q. Can the DX transmitter share files with NX and iX transmitters?

A. Yes, the .SPM file type is supported across the 3 current model groups.

Q. Will Smart chargers (G1 / G2) charge ANY brand of battery?

A. Yes – your G1 and G2 Smart charger will charge nearly any RC hobby battery. Please refer to your manual for a full listing of battery types that can be charged with your Smart charger.

Q. How do I update my Smart G1/G2 charger?

A. You can find if updates are available for your Smart charger by going to www.spektrumsmart.com, searching for your model of charger, clicking on the manuals and support tab, and selecting the updating instructions link.

Q. Is there a Smart Parallel Charging Board, or can I parallel charge with a Smart Charger?

A. Currently there is not a Smart Parallel Charging Board. Also we do not recommend charging with a parallel board because it does add some risk to charging LiPo batteries. Yes it can be done, just like any other charger, but user discretion is advised.

Q. Do G2 Smart batteries require a Spektrum Smart charger for charging?

A. Yes – only a Spektrum Smart charger with G2 firmware will charge and balance a G2 Smart LiPo battery. Go to www.spektrumsmart.com to search for the latest charger and battery firmware for your product.

Q. Why do the G2 Smart batteries NOT have a balance connector?

A. G2 Smart batteries have a very fast, integrated proprietary self-discharge and cell balancing circuit. G2 batteries require a Smart charger to charge and balance your G2 battery safely.

Q. Is it normal for my G2 battery to warm up during a balance-charge and auto-storage event?

A. Your G2 battery will give off heat during a balance-charge and when it is discharging to a safe storage voltage. The battery is working hard to keep your battery healthy. It monitors the temperature during these two events and will slow down to stay within proper temperatures.

Q. Do I need a Spektrum Smart charger to charge my Smart batteries?

A. 1) G2 Smart batteries DO require a Spektrum Smart charger with G2 firmware loaded on it to charge and balance your G2 Smart battery. 2) G1 Smart batteries with a balance lead do NOT require a Spektrum Smart charger for charging.

Q. Do I need to update my Spektrum Smart charger to charge Smart batteries?

A. Your Spektrum Smart charger may require a firmware update to charge G2 Smart batteries. To find out if your Smart charger needs an update before charging G2 Smart batteries please go to www.spektrumsmart.com, find your product, and go to the manuals and support tab to find updating instructions.

Q. Why does my fully charged Smart battery show low voltage when I go to use it days later?

A. Every Smart battery has “auto-storage” mode on when they ship from Horizon Hobby. The default auto-storage mode is 72 hours and 3.90V/cell. This means that a fully charged Smart battery will begin to self-discharge to 3.90V/cell after 72 hours of non-use. You can change or turn off auto-storage mode via a Smart battery checker or your Smart charger.

Q. How fast (what amperage rate) can I charge my Smart batteries?

A. Smart batteries default at 1C (1x total capacity of the battery in ampere hours). Check your Smart battery’s label for its recommended maximum charge rate.

Q. Are Smart G1 batteries being replaced by Smart G2 batteries?

A. No! We are going to keep both in the line up to help meet all RC needs.

Q. Do you have a battery to fit my needs?

A. We have a very wide variety of G2 and G1 batteries that meet most RC needs from RC airplanes to high speed drag racers. Check out www.spektrumsmart.com for more details