XPS field test

[jgunpilot]

I just test flew my Raptor .50 with a new Xtreme Power Systems 2.4G 10-channel receiver and transmitter module for my Futaba 9C Super. It was easy to bind, set up, test and range check as per their instructions. The feel of the bird in flight improved, possibly due to some servo changes I made as well, but I definitely don't want to go back. Whatever latency might exist in the system is undetectable (to me), and to me it is less than my previous PCM setup. I was glad to look at the frequency board as I left and not need to retrieve my AMA card.

I'm putting 2.4G receivers in everything else I fly now. This is really nice. I'm really pleased with the quality and ease of use of the XPS gear, and will be sticking with them for a while.

[ErichF]

Welcome to the mix!

I have been using the XPS system on my 9303 since mid July, and just love it. The largest event I flew with it was the US Nationals. I have since installed a Blade CX2 Transmitter antenna on my 9303, and ran the coax through the radio straight into the module. So, I have no external wiring, and the antenna looks more natural. The Blade antenna fit right onto the 9303 antenna casting on the case without mod.

[Pinecone]

You do realize that your antenna mod makes the system no longer FCC type accepted, and therefore illegal?

[ErichF]

Oh here we go...

It would make it illegal to sell as a unit, yes. But for private use, it's no different than putting a rubber duck antenna on a 72 mhz TX or a whip antenna on any 72mhz Receiver.

It's not illegal for my own use, and I'm not selling the modifications.

On the same note, these operate on the ISM unlicensed band. You can use whatever antenna systems you deem necessary for equipment in the ISM bands. If I wanted to put a 12dBi antenna on it, I could do so. Not that I would, though, as it would really mess up the RF pattern.

I know some folks out there love to cry "That's Illegal" for anything they can, that's just the way our society is these days :roll:

[e292644]

Right on ErichF, that mod looks great.

[theglennster]

Wow thats a neat mod ErichF any picture of the back of it ?

[DavidH]

Just my take on the antenna mod. As was mentioned that was not how it was type accepted by the FCC. I would think the insurance carrier for the AMA would probably deny a claim for an accident involving the modified transmitter as to a modulation modification. Might be something to discuss with AMA personel that handles the insurance.
Nice looking mod and I am sure it works well. I am just looking at the other side of the fence. Too many lawyers here in the USA looking for cases that would involve something like this.

David

[Pinecone]

Oh here we go...

It would make it illegal to sell as a unit, yes. But for private use, it's no different than putting a rubber duck antenna on a 72 mhz TX or a whip antenna on any 72mhz Receiver.

It's not illegal for my own use, and I'm not selling the modifications.

On the same note, these operate on the ISM unlicensed band. You can use whatever antenna systems you deem necessary for equipment in the ISM bands. If I wanted to put a 12dBi antenna on it, I could do so. Not that I would, though, as it would really mess up the RF pattern.

I know some folks out there love to cry "That's Illegal" for anything they can, that's just the way our society is these days :roll:

Up to you, but the entire unit is an FCC type accepted device. On 72MHz, the antenna is not included in the type acceptance. This was discussed heavily over on RCG. Someone looked up the actual type acceptance data and the unit acceptance includes the antenna.

Unlicensed doesn't mean a free for all. :)

[jgunpilot]

Yes, Eric is out of control. Next, he may be playing cards or dancing...

In any event, I like your mod for the antenna. I'm looking for some way to plug the hole in the top of my Futaba. Sooner or later, I'll see something I can use, possibly some knurled nut or something similar.