Futaba 2.4 module and 7chRx Vs DX7, advice pse

[Rick Rotorhead]

Hi all, I'm on the verge of buying a DX7 tmw to get over a persistent glitch issue with my 9C.

Trouble is I love the bells and whistle on my 9C, even the ones I don't use!!! And the case looks so sexy.

Now I found I can get a conversion module to make my 9C work on 2.4 Gig and a 7Ch Rx to match for just under 200 quid (400 bucks).

So now I don't know! 9C module/DX7,, DX7/9C module, think think think think...........painful choice!

So what do you guys think? The DX7 will be quicker, more 'connected', but the 9C is just such a darn good piece of kit and does waaaaay more than the DX7.
They have many other pros and cons too - I just don't know what's best anymore..........

[Big Fil]

Get the DX7 and don't look back.....or if you want more bells and wistles get teh X9303. Modules are bandaids IMO and don't give you two of the best features of Spektrum systems which is the speed and model match.

[Steve Bryant]

Rick,

I was in the same delima as you. I've had 9C transmitters for as long as i can remember. Like you I am comfortable with the feel of that particular transmitter. And my stiff hands and tired brain know where all the switches are without looking.

I looked at, and flew a heli with the spectrum. It controlled the model fine. I didn't however, like the "feel" of the transmitter. I decided the Futaba 2.4 Ghz module was the direction I wanted to go. I took stock of everything I had that would fly. Nothing needed more than 7 channels (provided I jack the battery leads into the two vacent slots on the gyro plug). I ordered the 7 channel module and 5 receivers. I converted everything (airworthy) I have. Binding each reciever to the transmitter takes about 1.5 seconds each and your ready to go.

I have 4 electrics Trex450, E600, E620, and a converted Raptor 90. All of them would have a small millisecond glitch every now and again. nothing predictable, Just enough so it would startle you if you were getting relaxed with it.

After the 2.4 conversion, nodda, nothing, not even once have I got a bump, glitch, shudder, whatever you want to call them. I am sold.

No it doesn't have the model match feature, and everybody seems to think this "latency" issue is a big deal for the average flyer. I would argue the point. I'm no sponsored 3D wiz, but I can get it around the field without needing a garbage sack. I can't feel it. Either I adapted quickly, or its not that much faster or slower.

If you like the 9C, get the module. I am well pleased with mine.

Steve Bryant
Leeds, Alabama

[Pla]

If you love your 9C you may get a module to keep the price of conversion down.
You have 3 choices for module - Spektrum, FASST, and XPS.

None of the module solutions will have module match.
Also all of the modules will have higher latency compared to integrated 2.4GHz solution - Tx outputs PPM signal, module converts the PPM signal to 2.4GHz proprietary protocol. Intgrated solution skips the PPM conversion step and thus reduces latency.

I bought XPS and I am happy with so far.

[stevehonn]

Also all of the modules will have higher latency compared to integrated 2.4GHz solution - Tx outputs PPM signal, module converts the PPM signal to 2.4GHz proprietary protocol. Intgrated solution skips the PPM conversion step and thus reduces latency.


Agreed but if you are flying with PCM receivers at the moment then latency will be less as the transmitter codes PPM faster than PCM. I'm using a Spektrum module in my 9303 and although latency is greater than the DX7 I was suing previously, I'm not good enough to notice the difference and I'm pretty handy with the sticks too.

If you're happy with your 9C then if you fit a Spektrum module the only difference you will notice is that you won't ever get a glitch again imho.

[theglennster]

Rick just a thought here but your persistent glitching sounds odd to me, remember its not the TX at fault its at the receiver end. Is the bird glitching at close proximity ?

I do have the occasional lockout (not glitch) with my 9C setup but thankfully it has not moved over to my T-Rex600. You could simply have a range issue here my Futaba R146iP is limited to 300m range and its at a distance where I am having problems, running a PCM setup causes it to go to failsafe (not glitch). I am going to go with a full range RX on my 450 to try cure the problem a lot cheaper than getting a Spektrum setup for all my birds (planks included !) remember we are talking UK prices here guyz!

I must admit I am tempted to go 2.4 GHZ but by the time these FASST modules hit our shores those ba$tard Taxmen with surely add on an extra £150 just for the fun of it.:arggg:

Cheers
Glenn

[Rick Rotorhead]

Hi Guys. Nah, its happening at moderate ranges, like 50 feet and less. My 146ip never glitched that I could tell, but it toasted 3 servos (I think, though not proven) so it had to go! The Shultzs RX was the most highly recommended alternative - its got a neat LED that counted glitch hits, even if you don't see them.

2.4 conversion isn't cheap, but I like the look of the forthecoming JR x9303, however, rumour control has it that we'll only get the modulised 9303 over here. If so, I got no problem with ordering a proper integrated one from uncle Sam. Now, if Futaba made a proper integrated 2.4 9C Super I'd have that, I do like Futaba, latency or not!!! On the other hand I've tried little else to be honest and loads of folk use JR so it can't be bad......

[Sherpa FE]

Rick,
I cant give you a technical reason as to why I like the JR, but I do.
Throughout my years I have had Futaba, Airtronics, Hitec, and JR. JR has been my favorite.

I have a DX-7 now and I have not had one single problem. I love it to death.
However, when the JR 12X comes out I am going to ditch the DX-7 as fast as I can. If the price is too much, then I will get the 9303.

Just my opinion.
Josh

PS I have been following your problems, and my heart goes out to you, I hope you are able to get it resolved.