Which SS option?

[Ivan]

Which would be better, to keep my 10x's and put the upgrade modules on them to make them Spread Spectrum or get a 9303?

I like the fact that the 9303 is designed from the ground up for the SS and has no external wires. But that isn't a major factor in the decision as far as I am concerned.

I would guess that the new 9303 has a faster processor and would make better use of the lower latency of the SS technology as well, but that is just a guess.

Any thing else that would sway someone either way?

Thanks

Ivan

[Pinecone]

Well, the XPS method is technically a LOT better than the Spectrum SS methods of working.

[Ivan]

Well, the XPS method is technically a LOT better than the Spectrum SS methods of working.

Please elaborate

[Pinecone]

Spectrum picks two out of 80 channels upon initial turn on. If the channels degrade due to noise or similar, they stay on those two channels until you power cycle them. And actually only 79 are available, limiting to 39 Txs flying (more than enough really).

XPS has bi-directional communications. If the link degrades, the Rx tells the Tx and they switch frequencies. The bi-directional will also allow in flight telemetry to be added. XPS has hundreds of available frequencies. XPS modules and Rxs are firmware upgradeable, later one will be at home upgradeable.

Spectrum (for the full Spectrum Txs, NOT the add in modules) does have model match, where the Rx will not allow you to operate with the wrong model selected in the Tx. Technically the only advantage I can see.

Spectrum is easier to get as it is carried more places.

[kgfly]

An integrated spread spectrum Tx is likely to always out perform a modular Tx with a spread spectrum module. If ultimate performance is what you are looking for then get a DX7 or the new X9303 or 12X with "Spektrum Inside". As mentioned, these have the not to be dismissed ModelMatch feature which ensures you cannot attempt to fly a model with the wrong model memory selected in the Tx. Would have saved my Logo10 from a take-off crash last week had I had that feature.

If you are going to go with a module approach then I agree with Terry that the XPS solution seems the best of the bunch (the others being Spektrum and FASST). FASST is of course Futaba only so that's out. XPS has the promise of the advantages Terry mentions (telemetry, noise-triggered preemptive channel hopping, wireless adapter for firmware upgrades and Tx/Rx feature programming) as well as:

* Per-channel failsafe programming (hold last or user modes) in the Rx
* Programmable channels assignments in the Rx (eliminates the need for Y-cables)
* Tx module will utilise all available channels (up to 16) when the Tx is set to PPM mode

and of course, it is a lot cheaper.:)

So my suggestion is - If you love your 10X, or simply want to hang on to all the programming, then get an XPS solution. Otherwise get an X9303 or X12 once they become available.

[Ivan]

Very informative answers. Thank you.

I am looking forward to getting a newer radio soon, and was questioning my LHS dealer about the price of the 9303SS, and got quite an argument from him. He contended that I should get the SS module, and be happy with my 10x. I really don't care to be argued with when I am considering buying something from him. I bet Rick's will have them.

Thanks again guys. If I do decide to go with the modules, it will probably be the XPS stuff. That new 12x looks pretty nifty though.