The 7202 transmitter features Advanced Digital Trims on all
four stick axes. The Throttle Recovery feature allows the last
idle setting to be recovered with just a “click.”
The XP7202 package is a complete system that includes a
synthesized receiver, 1100 mAh 4.8-volt battery, sport digital
servos, and the accessories shown.
THE JR XP7202 seven-channel computer radio system is the
newest release from JR. When I think about a seven-channel system,
I normally envision a fairly basic sport system. However, the
XP7202 is far from it. This is a fully synthesized system (transmitter
and receiver).
The transmitter is a computer system that will handle fixed-wing
aircraft or helicopters with no problem. Multimodel memories,
advanced mixing, pitch and throttle curves, and many other features
are included.
The system includes the XP7202 transmitter, the R790
ScanSelect PCM receiver, four DS821 digital servos, an 1100 mAh
NiMH battery pack, a switch harness, a 12-inch aileron extension, a
dual charger for the transmitter, and an airborne pack. (The charger
has the correct rate for the 1100 mAh airborne pack.) There is also a
nice variety of servo arms/wheels, mounting screws, a hex wrench to
adjust stick length, and a nice instruction manual.
The transmitter fits your hands nicely and comfortably. The
sticks are adjustable from short to quite long. This is a nice feature
for me since I tend to like my sticks fairly long. Many transmitters
do not have sticks that are long enough for my liking.
The transmitter has a 1500 mAh NiMH battery pack. This large
pack easily gives you more than four hours of operation time.
The XP7202 system is available in an airplane or helicopter
version. However, the programming is the same in both. Only a
couple switches are repositioned to optimal locations for airplane or
helicopter operation, and the throttle detent is changed.
The nice-looking transmitter seems to be high in quality. The
switches are logically laid out and easy to reach. There is a twoposition
switch on either side of the antenna; on the left is the gear
switch (flight mode) and on the right is a switch used for mixing or
rudder dual rate (throttle hold).
Across the front, directly below and to either side of the antenna
are six switches. From left to right are the two-position elevator dual
rate, the three-position flap mix, and a rocker-type switch used for
training or flaps (hover pitch). Starting on the other side of the
transmitter is another rocker-type switch used for AUX2 (hover
throttle), the two-position AUX2, and the aileron dual rate.
Along the bottom of the transmitter is the large LCD screen. On
its right is a large rocker switch labeled “ADJUST” that is used to
increase or decrease values in the programming. Below it is the
“CLEAR” button, which is used for various functions such as
entering different menus and acknowledging an operation.
To the left of the screen is another rocker switch labeled
“SCROLL”; it is used to move through the menus. With this system
you can move forward and backward through the various menus.
Below SCROLL is the SELECT button. When used in
conjunction with SCROLL, it allows access to different
January 2007 61
The R790 ScanSelect receiver is a nice
size and will fit in almost any installation.
Changing its frequency takes just the
press of a button.
Setting pitch curves, throttle curves, or dual/expo rates is simple with the high
resolution provided by the large LCD screen.
The transmitter will not broadcast until the “CLEAR” button is pressed. A DSC cord
is the only way to operate the transmitter without broadcasting.
The four boxes arranged around the sides and bottom indicate trim positions. If either
of the two rocker-type buttons is operated, its position will be indicated as well.
System Mode:
• Model Select
• Model Name
• Model Type Select
• Modulation Select
• Model Reset
• Trainer System Select
• Throttle Recovery
• Input Select (switch selectability for
AUX2 and Gear)
• Wing Type
• Swashplate Type
• Frequency Selection (CH 15-60)
• Dual Rate Switch Select
Airplane Function Mode:
• Dual Rates
• Exponential
• Servo Reverse
• Sub-Trim
• Travel Adjust
• Elevator-to-Flap Mix
• Aileron-to-Rudder Mix
• Flap System
• Differential
• Programmable Mix (1-6)
• Fail-Safe
• Servo Monitor
Helicopter Function Mode:
• Dual Rates
• Exponential
• Servo Reverse
• Sub-Trim
• Travel Adjust
• Swashplate Mix
• Throttle Hold
• Throttle Curve (three) (five-point
mix)
• Pitch Curve (four) (five-point mix)
• Revolution Mix
• Gyro Sensing
• Fail-Safe
• Servo Monitor MA
XP7202 System
Programming Features
Photos by the author
62 MODEL AVIATION
• Fully synthesized and crystal free
• No frequency dials to turn
• Improved programming with more
mixes and better interface
• Based on proven XP8103 radio
system
• 20-model memory
• JR R790 receiver, 72-ounce JR
DS821 servos included
Key Features
• Number of channels: Seven
• Modulation: S-PCM, Z-PCM, PPM
• Band: Fully synthesized transmitter
• Servos: JR DS821 Digital Sport Hi-
Torque
• Receiver: R790 ScanSelect S-PCM
• Programming features: Aircraft,
helicopter
• Transmitter battery type: 1500
mAh NiMH
• Price: $329.99
Specifications
+
• Advanced radio system at a modest
price.
• Easy-to-understand menus and
features.
• High-resolution LCD screen.
• 20-model memory.
• New programming options that
enhance safety and convenience.
-• Timer reset feature can be easily
confused with the model-reset
function.
Pluses and Minuses
programming levels. SELECT is also used to
move the cursor through the menu structure
to choose the item you want to change.
The transmitter features digital trims,
called ADT (Advanced Digital Trim) by JR.
As with most digital trims, any setting you
establish is stored with that model’s memory
and is recalled anytime you select that
aircraft.
The LCD display indicates the trim
position for each channel. A single push of a
trim switch moves the trim one increment;
holding it down moves it continuously.
Holding a trim lever over for an extended
period of time will cause the rate of change
to increase.
The XP7202 has a trim feature called
“Throttle Recovery,” and I have grown to
really like it. It allows you to use the trim
lever to kill the engine but retain the throttle
trim’s last position.
When the Throttle Recovery feature is
turned on, to kill the engine you position the
throttle stick at the lowest setting. Then
using the trim lever, move it to the full low
setting, killing the engine. To return the trim
to the last setting, simply give the trim lever
one “click” of up-trim.
As I mentioned, this is a synthesized
transmitter. The channels are selectable from
15 to 60 (which is the normal range of
channels for JR). This selection is done via
the large LCD screen and buttons on the
front of the transmitter. That’s right; there
are no small, hard-to-read dials to turn!
This is also a nice safety feature because
the transmitter asks you if you want to
transmit when you power it up. It remembers
the last channel on which you operated but
will not begin transmitting until you push a
button acknowledging the channel you want
to operate and the fact that you want to
transmit.
The XP7202 can store the programming
for as many as 20 different models. That is a
significant number for a system in this price
range (most systems offer only half that
memory). The transmitter also has the ability
to transmit PPM or PCM (S or Z), making it
backward compatible with older JR
receivers.
The large, high-resolution LCD is the
heart of programming the system. The screen
is easy to read and is clear in almost any
lighting condition. This is one of the best
screens I’ve seen on any transmitter.
Simple changes to programming are easy
to make with two rocker switches and two
push buttons. As is standard with JR
systems, the menu structure consists of two
menu levels: “System Setup” and “Function
Mode.”
You access the System Setup menu by
holding down the Scroll and Select buttons
while powering up the transmitter. System
Setup includes functions that are basic to the
model setup. (See the programming features
sidebar.)
The XP7202 offers three wing types:
normal, flaperon, and delta (elevon). V-tail
mixing is also available in the wing-type
menu.
On the helicopter side the system can
handle four types of swashplates: normal
(one servo for each function) and three
CCPM types. Two-servo 180°, three-servo
120°, or three-servo 90° mixing functions
are selectable.
The Function Mode contains items that
are more basic to programming the model.
(See the programming features sidebar.)
Each main menu item has various submenus
associated with it, which, when accessed, get
you into additional features.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the
general features this system offers. Each of
the two menu structures may be viewed in
two formats. In the list mode each available
function is displayed on the screen at once.
Exiting the list mode allows you to scroll
through each available function one by one.
I find myself using the nonlist mode
more than anything. It makes it quick to
scroll through the functions to get to the one
I want to program.
You can name the aircraft with as many
as eight different alphanumeric characters.
Once a model has been named or a memory
location dedicated to a particular aircraft, all
settings stay with that model. This includes
the type (Acro or Heli), channel (frequency)
and modulation type, and wing or swashplate
type. The System Setup menu also has an
integrated timer (counting anytime the
transmitter is turned on).
One of the few things I dislike about this
transmitter is the fact that this timer’s reset
function is on the same screen as the modelreset
function. The model reset clears all the
data you have programmed for a particular
model, so inadvertently selecting model
reset when meaning to reset the integrated
timer can have catastrophic results.
The good news is that you have 20 model
memories available and the ability to copy
the current aircraft to another modelmemory
location. With any system I
recommend backing up your models in this
manner. For me that would mean I’d have
only 10 total aircraft available, but the
security is worth it.
I found the Function Mode, where most
of the aircraft-specific changes are made, to
be nicely laid out and easy to understand
with or without the instruction manual.
There were only a couple instances where a
feature was unclear.
Please note that in most cases I’ll use the
airplane vernacular to describe various
functions instead of the helicopter
vernacular. Unless otherwise noted, the
feature is available in the airplane and
helicopter modes of operation.
The XP7202 has dual rates and
exponential (expo) rates on aileron, elevator,
and rudder. One of this system’s unique
features is that dual rates and expo (for all
channels) can be combined on a single
switch if you so desire. This gives you the
ability to switch between low and high rates
with the flick of a switch.
The helicopter mode has the additional
Auto Dual Rate/Expo feature, which
automatically changes the dual/expo rates
when you switch flight modes between
norm, ST-1 (Stunt 1), ST-2 (Stunt 2), or
Throttle Hold. This feature works nicely.
Servo reversing is handled by a
convenient screen that has a graphic
representation of reversing switches. To
change the direction of the servo, use the
SELECT button to scroll to the channel you
want to change and press the INCREASE or
DECREASE button to reverse the channel.
Sub-Trim and Travel Adjust are standard
menus. They are quick and easy with which
to make the necessary changes. The XP7202
features a menu to set up elevator-to-flap
mixing and aileron-to-rudder mixing. These
menus make those two more common
mixing programs easy to set up.
Another feature of this system is the
Automatic Landing function. With it turned
on, the throttle stick is used to activate the
system. This function is used primarily for
sailplanes since the stick can adjust elevator,
flaps, and spoilers. The function may be
switched in and out with the Flap Mixing
switch.
Differential Aileron Mixing is also
available on a preprogrammed menu. This
popular feature allows you to have individual
control of the ailerons in an airplane with a
separate servo driving each aileron. Using
this menu you can cause the ailerons to have
a different amount of up/down travel. This
can help dampen any odd yaw problems
your airplane might have when inputting
aileron commands.
In the helicopter mode the XP7202 has
five-point pitch and throttle curves that are
switchable with each of the three available
flight modes and when throttle hold is
switched. The depiction of the curves on the
LCD screen is clear, showing nice, smooth
arcs that help to dial things in accurately.
The XP7202 also features Revolution
Mixing and Gyro Sensitivity programming
features. The Gyro Sensitivity menu allows
you to determine two settings that can be
switched in and out.
In the airplane mode you have six
programmable mixes available; in the
helicopter mode you have three.
Programmable mix 5 and 6 in the airplane
mode are trimmable. Therefore, if the master
channel you select is one with a trim lever,
that particular lever will trim the master and
slave channels. This is an ideal feature for
dual-elevator-servo applications.
When in one of the PCM forms of
modulation, the system has fail-safe
available. You can select which of the seven
channels moves to the fail-safe position
when a condition causes a fail-safe to
activate. You must select fail-safe or hold as
an option. If you choose hold, the channel
will retain the servo at the last good position
the system had.
When in fail-safe the servo will move to
the position at which you select for it to
move. Fail-safe is easy to set up with this
system; simply move the sticks/switches to
the position where you want them and press
one button.
The transmitter also features a Servo
Monitor screen that shows you the position
of each channel. This is useful when trying
to set up complicated mixing.
This is a feature-packed transmitter!
The XP7202 system comes with the NER-
790 ScanSelect PCM receiver. I’d be lying
if I told you I did not like it. As are many
JR PCM receivers, the NER-790 is of the
single-conversion variety and uses
proprietary JR ABC&W circuitry to give it
10 kHz narrow-band ability.
The receiver is not tiny but not huge; it
measures 1.80 x .97 x .60 inches and
weighs 1.5 ounces. It has seven channels
output with a separate battery connector.
Using the supplied switch harness you also
have DSC (direct servo control) ability.
Ground range tests with this receiver and
transmitter far exceeded the 90 feet the
manual suggested.
As I have mentioned, this is a
synthesized receiver. To select a different
channel, let the transmitter know which
one you want to broadcast on in the
System Setup menu, power up the
receiver, and press the Scan button until
the LED goes off. Press the Scan button
one more time, and the LED flashes while
the receiver scans for the transmitter’s
signal.
Once the NER-790 finds and locks onto
the signal, the LED turns on solid and you
are ready to go. I only wish there was
some way of remotely mounting an LED
and the Scan button so that I could easily
switch channels when the receiver is
buried inside a fuselage or helicopter
frame.
The four DS821 digital servos included
with this system are a nice surprise. You
seldom find a system that comes with
anything but inexpensive sport servos. The
DS821s have no less than 72 ounce-inch of
torque and are fast, with transit times of
only .19 second through 60°. The output
shaft is ball-bearing supported.
I have not mentioned the instruction
manual much, and that is because it is so
good. I’ve long been a fan of the JR
manuals. Since the early years the
company has usually had a well-written,
easy-to-understand instruction booklet. JR
makes extensive use of graphics and
screen shots.
I’m impressed with the JR XP7202
system. Unless you need more than seven
channels, look no further for a radio
system. This one will do almost anything
you desire.
With a street price of $329, it’s hard to
beat. And considering that the XP7202 is a
synthesized system makes it just that much
better! It’s worth a look! MA
Steve Kaluf
[email protected]
Distributor:
Horizon Hobby Inc.
4105 Fieldstone Rd.
Champaign IL 61822
(217) 352-1913
www.horizonhobby.com
Additional Resources:
Model Airplane News magazine (January
2006 issue)
100 E. Ridge
Ridgefield CT 06877
(203) 431-9000
http://modelairplanenews.com/
Fly RC magazine (December 2006 issue)
650 Danbury Rd.
Ridgefield CT 06877
(203) 431-7787
[email protected]
Edition: Model Aviation - 2007/01
Page Numbers: 60,61,62,64
Edition: Model Aviation - 2007/01
Page Numbers: 60,61,62,64
The 7202 transmitter features Advanced Digital Trims on all
four stick axes. The Throttle Recovery feature allows the last
idle setting to be recovered with just a “click.”
The XP7202 package is a complete system that includes a
synthesized receiver, 1100 mAh 4.8-volt battery, sport digital
servos, and the accessories shown.
THE JR XP7202 seven-channel computer radio system is the
newest release from JR. When I think about a seven-channel system,
I normally envision a fairly basic sport system. However, the
XP7202 is far from it. This is a fully synthesized system (transmitter
and receiver).
The transmitter is a computer system that will handle fixed-wing
aircraft or helicopters with no problem. Multimodel memories,
advanced mixing, pitch and throttle curves, and many other features
are included.
The system includes the XP7202 transmitter, the R790
ScanSelect PCM receiver, four DS821 digital servos, an 1100 mAh
NiMH battery pack, a switch harness, a 12-inch aileron extension, a
dual charger for the transmitter, and an airborne pack. (The charger
has the correct rate for the 1100 mAh airborne pack.) There is also a
nice variety of servo arms/wheels, mounting screws, a hex wrench to
adjust stick length, and a nice instruction manual.
The transmitter fits your hands nicely and comfortably. The
sticks are adjustable from short to quite long. This is a nice feature
for me since I tend to like my sticks fairly long. Many transmitters
do not have sticks that are long enough for my liking.
The transmitter has a 1500 mAh NiMH battery pack. This large
pack easily gives you more than four hours of operation time.
The XP7202 system is available in an airplane or helicopter
version. However, the programming is the same in both. Only a
couple switches are repositioned to optimal locations for airplane or
helicopter operation, and the throttle detent is changed.
The nice-looking transmitter seems to be high in quality. The
switches are logically laid out and easy to reach. There is a twoposition
switch on either side of the antenna; on the left is the gear
switch (flight mode) and on the right is a switch used for mixing or
rudder dual rate (throttle hold).
Across the front, directly below and to either side of the antenna
are six switches. From left to right are the two-position elevator dual
rate, the three-position flap mix, and a rocker-type switch used for
training or flaps (hover pitch). Starting on the other side of the
transmitter is another rocker-type switch used for AUX2 (hover
throttle), the two-position AUX2, and the aileron dual rate.
Along the bottom of the transmitter is the large LCD screen. On
its right is a large rocker switch labeled “ADJUST” that is used to
increase or decrease values in the programming. Below it is the
“CLEAR” button, which is used for various functions such as
entering different menus and acknowledging an operation.
To the left of the screen is another rocker switch labeled
“SCROLL”; it is used to move through the menus. With this system
you can move forward and backward through the various menus.
Below SCROLL is the SELECT button. When used in
conjunction with SCROLL, it allows access to different
January 2007 61
The R790 ScanSelect receiver is a nice
size and will fit in almost any installation.
Changing its frequency takes just the
press of a button.
Setting pitch curves, throttle curves, or dual/expo rates is simple with the high
resolution provided by the large LCD screen.
The transmitter will not broadcast until the “CLEAR” button is pressed. A DSC cord
is the only way to operate the transmitter without broadcasting.
The four boxes arranged around the sides and bottom indicate trim positions. If either
of the two rocker-type buttons is operated, its position will be indicated as well.
System Mode:
• Model Select
• Model Name
• Model Type Select
• Modulation Select
• Model Reset
• Trainer System Select
• Throttle Recovery
• Input Select (switch selectability for
AUX2 and Gear)
• Wing Type
• Swashplate Type
• Frequency Selection (CH 15-60)
• Dual Rate Switch Select
Airplane Function Mode:
• Dual Rates
• Exponential
• Servo Reverse
• Sub-Trim
• Travel Adjust
• Elevator-to-Flap Mix
• Aileron-to-Rudder Mix
• Flap System
• Differential
• Programmable Mix (1-6)
• Fail-Safe
• Servo Monitor
Helicopter Function Mode:
• Dual Rates
• Exponential
• Servo Reverse
• Sub-Trim
• Travel Adjust
• Swashplate Mix
• Throttle Hold
• Throttle Curve (three) (five-point
mix)
• Pitch Curve (four) (five-point mix)
• Revolution Mix
• Gyro Sensing
• Fail-Safe
• Servo Monitor MA
XP7202 System
Programming Features
Photos by the author
62 MODEL AVIATION
• Fully synthesized and crystal free
• No frequency dials to turn
• Improved programming with more
mixes and better interface
• Based on proven XP8103 radio
system
• 20-model memory
• JR R790 receiver, 72-ounce JR
DS821 servos included
Key Features
• Number of channels: Seven
• Modulation: S-PCM, Z-PCM, PPM
• Band: Fully synthesized transmitter
• Servos: JR DS821 Digital Sport Hi-
Torque
• Receiver: R790 ScanSelect S-PCM
• Programming features: Aircraft,
helicopter
• Transmitter battery type: 1500
mAh NiMH
• Price: $329.99
Specifications
+
• Advanced radio system at a modest
price.
• Easy-to-understand menus and
features.
• High-resolution LCD screen.
• 20-model memory.
• New programming options that
enhance safety and convenience.
-• Timer reset feature can be easily
confused with the model-reset
function.
Pluses and Minuses
programming levels. SELECT is also used to
move the cursor through the menu structure
to choose the item you want to change.
The transmitter features digital trims,
called ADT (Advanced Digital Trim) by JR.
As with most digital trims, any setting you
establish is stored with that model’s memory
and is recalled anytime you select that
aircraft.
The LCD display indicates the trim
position for each channel. A single push of a
trim switch moves the trim one increment;
holding it down moves it continuously.
Holding a trim lever over for an extended
period of time will cause the rate of change
to increase.
The XP7202 has a trim feature called
“Throttle Recovery,” and I have grown to
really like it. It allows you to use the trim
lever to kill the engine but retain the throttle
trim’s last position.
When the Throttle Recovery feature is
turned on, to kill the engine you position the
throttle stick at the lowest setting. Then
using the trim lever, move it to the full low
setting, killing the engine. To return the trim
to the last setting, simply give the trim lever
one “click” of up-trim.
As I mentioned, this is a synthesized
transmitter. The channels are selectable from
15 to 60 (which is the normal range of
channels for JR). This selection is done via
the large LCD screen and buttons on the
front of the transmitter. That’s right; there
are no small, hard-to-read dials to turn!
This is also a nice safety feature because
the transmitter asks you if you want to
transmit when you power it up. It remembers
the last channel on which you operated but
will not begin transmitting until you push a
button acknowledging the channel you want
to operate and the fact that you want to
transmit.
The XP7202 can store the programming
for as many as 20 different models. That is a
significant number for a system in this price
range (most systems offer only half that
memory). The transmitter also has the ability
to transmit PPM or PCM (S or Z), making it
backward compatible with older JR
receivers.
The large, high-resolution LCD is the
heart of programming the system. The screen
is easy to read and is clear in almost any
lighting condition. This is one of the best
screens I’ve seen on any transmitter.
Simple changes to programming are easy
to make with two rocker switches and two
push buttons. As is standard with JR
systems, the menu structure consists of two
menu levels: “System Setup” and “Function
Mode.”
You access the System Setup menu by
holding down the Scroll and Select buttons
while powering up the transmitter. System
Setup includes functions that are basic to the
model setup. (See the programming features
sidebar.)
The XP7202 offers three wing types:
normal, flaperon, and delta (elevon). V-tail
mixing is also available in the wing-type
menu.
On the helicopter side the system can
handle four types of swashplates: normal
(one servo for each function) and three
CCPM types. Two-servo 180°, three-servo
120°, or three-servo 90° mixing functions
are selectable.
The Function Mode contains items that
are more basic to programming the model.
(See the programming features sidebar.)
Each main menu item has various submenus
associated with it, which, when accessed, get
you into additional features.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the
general features this system offers. Each of
the two menu structures may be viewed in
two formats. In the list mode each available
function is displayed on the screen at once.
Exiting the list mode allows you to scroll
through each available function one by one.
I find myself using the nonlist mode
more than anything. It makes it quick to
scroll through the functions to get to the one
I want to program.
You can name the aircraft with as many
as eight different alphanumeric characters.
Once a model has been named or a memory
location dedicated to a particular aircraft, all
settings stay with that model. This includes
the type (Acro or Heli), channel (frequency)
and modulation type, and wing or swashplate
type. The System Setup menu also has an
integrated timer (counting anytime the
transmitter is turned on).
One of the few things I dislike about this
transmitter is the fact that this timer’s reset
function is on the same screen as the modelreset
function. The model reset clears all the
data you have programmed for a particular
model, so inadvertently selecting model
reset when meaning to reset the integrated
timer can have catastrophic results.
The good news is that you have 20 model
memories available and the ability to copy
the current aircraft to another modelmemory
location. With any system I
recommend backing up your models in this
manner. For me that would mean I’d have
only 10 total aircraft available, but the
security is worth it.
I found the Function Mode, where most
of the aircraft-specific changes are made, to
be nicely laid out and easy to understand
with or without the instruction manual.
There were only a couple instances where a
feature was unclear.
Please note that in most cases I’ll use the
airplane vernacular to describe various
functions instead of the helicopter
vernacular. Unless otherwise noted, the
feature is available in the airplane and
helicopter modes of operation.
The XP7202 has dual rates and
exponential (expo) rates on aileron, elevator,
and rudder. One of this system’s unique
features is that dual rates and expo (for all
channels) can be combined on a single
switch if you so desire. This gives you the
ability to switch between low and high rates
with the flick of a switch.
The helicopter mode has the additional
Auto Dual Rate/Expo feature, which
automatically changes the dual/expo rates
when you switch flight modes between
norm, ST-1 (Stunt 1), ST-2 (Stunt 2), or
Throttle Hold. This feature works nicely.
Servo reversing is handled by a
convenient screen that has a graphic
representation of reversing switches. To
change the direction of the servo, use the
SELECT button to scroll to the channel you
want to change and press the INCREASE or
DECREASE button to reverse the channel.
Sub-Trim and Travel Adjust are standard
menus. They are quick and easy with which
to make the necessary changes. The XP7202
features a menu to set up elevator-to-flap
mixing and aileron-to-rudder mixing. These
menus make those two more common
mixing programs easy to set up.
Another feature of this system is the
Automatic Landing function. With it turned
on, the throttle stick is used to activate the
system. This function is used primarily for
sailplanes since the stick can adjust elevator,
flaps, and spoilers. The function may be
switched in and out with the Flap Mixing
switch.
Differential Aileron Mixing is also
available on a preprogrammed menu. This
popular feature allows you to have individual
control of the ailerons in an airplane with a
separate servo driving each aileron. Using
this menu you can cause the ailerons to have
a different amount of up/down travel. This
can help dampen any odd yaw problems
your airplane might have when inputting
aileron commands.
In the helicopter mode the XP7202 has
five-point pitch and throttle curves that are
switchable with each of the three available
flight modes and when throttle hold is
switched. The depiction of the curves on the
LCD screen is clear, showing nice, smooth
arcs that help to dial things in accurately.
The XP7202 also features Revolution
Mixing and Gyro Sensitivity programming
features. The Gyro Sensitivity menu allows
you to determine two settings that can be
switched in and out.
In the airplane mode you have six
programmable mixes available; in the
helicopter mode you have three.
Programmable mix 5 and 6 in the airplane
mode are trimmable. Therefore, if the master
channel you select is one with a trim lever,
that particular lever will trim the master and
slave channels. This is an ideal feature for
dual-elevator-servo applications.
When in one of the PCM forms of
modulation, the system has fail-safe
available. You can select which of the seven
channels moves to the fail-safe position
when a condition causes a fail-safe to
activate. You must select fail-safe or hold as
an option. If you choose hold, the channel
will retain the servo at the last good position
the system had.
When in fail-safe the servo will move to
the position at which you select for it to
move. Fail-safe is easy to set up with this
system; simply move the sticks/switches to
the position where you want them and press
one button.
The transmitter also features a Servo
Monitor screen that shows you the position
of each channel. This is useful when trying
to set up complicated mixing.
This is a feature-packed transmitter!
The XP7202 system comes with the NER-
790 ScanSelect PCM receiver. I’d be lying
if I told you I did not like it. As are many
JR PCM receivers, the NER-790 is of the
single-conversion variety and uses
proprietary JR ABC&W circuitry to give it
10 kHz narrow-band ability.
The receiver is not tiny but not huge; it
measures 1.80 x .97 x .60 inches and
weighs 1.5 ounces. It has seven channels
output with a separate battery connector.
Using the supplied switch harness you also
have DSC (direct servo control) ability.
Ground range tests with this receiver and
transmitter far exceeded the 90 feet the
manual suggested.
As I have mentioned, this is a
synthesized receiver. To select a different
channel, let the transmitter know which
one you want to broadcast on in the
System Setup menu, power up the
receiver, and press the Scan button until
the LED goes off. Press the Scan button
one more time, and the LED flashes while
the receiver scans for the transmitter’s
signal.
Once the NER-790 finds and locks onto
the signal, the LED turns on solid and you
are ready to go. I only wish there was
some way of remotely mounting an LED
and the Scan button so that I could easily
switch channels when the receiver is
buried inside a fuselage or helicopter
frame.
The four DS821 digital servos included
with this system are a nice surprise. You
seldom find a system that comes with
anything but inexpensive sport servos. The
DS821s have no less than 72 ounce-inch of
torque and are fast, with transit times of
only .19 second through 60°. The output
shaft is ball-bearing supported.
I have not mentioned the instruction
manual much, and that is because it is so
good. I’ve long been a fan of the JR
manuals. Since the early years the
company has usually had a well-written,
easy-to-understand instruction booklet. JR
makes extensive use of graphics and
screen shots.
I’m impressed with the JR XP7202
system. Unless you need more than seven
channels, look no further for a radio
system. This one will do almost anything
you desire.
With a street price of $329, it’s hard to
beat. And considering that the XP7202 is a
synthesized system makes it just that much
better! It’s worth a look! MA
Steve Kaluf
[email protected]
Distributor:
Horizon Hobby Inc.
4105 Fieldstone Rd.
Champaign IL 61822
(217) 352-1913
www.horizonhobby.com
Additional Resources:
Model Airplane News magazine (January
2006 issue)
100 E. Ridge
Ridgefield CT 06877
(203) 431-9000
http://modelairplanenews.com/
Fly RC magazine (December 2006 issue)
650 Danbury Rd.
Ridgefield CT 06877
(203) 431-7787
[email protected]
Edition: Model Aviation - 2007/01
Page Numbers: 60,61,62,64
The 7202 transmitter features Advanced Digital Trims on all
four stick axes. The Throttle Recovery feature allows the last
idle setting to be recovered with just a “click.”
The XP7202 package is a complete system that includes a
synthesized receiver, 1100 mAh 4.8-volt battery, sport digital
servos, and the accessories shown.
THE JR XP7202 seven-channel computer radio system is the
newest release from JR. When I think about a seven-channel system,
I normally envision a fairly basic sport system. However, the
XP7202 is far from it. This is a fully synthesized system (transmitter
and receiver).
The transmitter is a computer system that will handle fixed-wing
aircraft or helicopters with no problem. Multimodel memories,
advanced mixing, pitch and throttle curves, and many other features
are included.
The system includes the XP7202 transmitter, the R790
ScanSelect PCM receiver, four DS821 digital servos, an 1100 mAh
NiMH battery pack, a switch harness, a 12-inch aileron extension, a
dual charger for the transmitter, and an airborne pack. (The charger
has the correct rate for the 1100 mAh airborne pack.) There is also a
nice variety of servo arms/wheels, mounting screws, a hex wrench to
adjust stick length, and a nice instruction manual.
The transmitter fits your hands nicely and comfortably. The
sticks are adjustable from short to quite long. This is a nice feature
for me since I tend to like my sticks fairly long. Many transmitters
do not have sticks that are long enough for my liking.
The transmitter has a 1500 mAh NiMH battery pack. This large
pack easily gives you more than four hours of operation time.
The XP7202 system is available in an airplane or helicopter
version. However, the programming is the same in both. Only a
couple switches are repositioned to optimal locations for airplane or
helicopter operation, and the throttle detent is changed.
The nice-looking transmitter seems to be high in quality. The
switches are logically laid out and easy to reach. There is a twoposition
switch on either side of the antenna; on the left is the gear
switch (flight mode) and on the right is a switch used for mixing or
rudder dual rate (throttle hold).
Across the front, directly below and to either side of the antenna
are six switches. From left to right are the two-position elevator dual
rate, the three-position flap mix, and a rocker-type switch used for
training or flaps (hover pitch). Starting on the other side of the
transmitter is another rocker-type switch used for AUX2 (hover
throttle), the two-position AUX2, and the aileron dual rate.
Along the bottom of the transmitter is the large LCD screen. On
its right is a large rocker switch labeled “ADJUST” that is used to
increase or decrease values in the programming. Below it is the
“CLEAR” button, which is used for various functions such as
entering different menus and acknowledging an operation.
To the left of the screen is another rocker switch labeled
“SCROLL”; it is used to move through the menus. With this system
you can move forward and backward through the various menus.
Below SCROLL is the SELECT button. When used in
conjunction with SCROLL, it allows access to different
January 2007 61
The R790 ScanSelect receiver is a nice
size and will fit in almost any installation.
Changing its frequency takes just the
press of a button.
Setting pitch curves, throttle curves, or dual/expo rates is simple with the high
resolution provided by the large LCD screen.
The transmitter will not broadcast until the “CLEAR” button is pressed. A DSC cord
is the only way to operate the transmitter without broadcasting.
The four boxes arranged around the sides and bottom indicate trim positions. If either
of the two rocker-type buttons is operated, its position will be indicated as well.
System Mode:
• Model Select
• Model Name
• Model Type Select
• Modulation Select
• Model Reset
• Trainer System Select
• Throttle Recovery
• Input Select (switch selectability for
AUX2 and Gear)
• Wing Type
• Swashplate Type
• Frequency Selection (CH 15-60)
• Dual Rate Switch Select
Airplane Function Mode:
• Dual Rates
• Exponential
• Servo Reverse
• Sub-Trim
• Travel Adjust
• Elevator-to-Flap Mix
• Aileron-to-Rudder Mix
• Flap System
• Differential
• Programmable Mix (1-6)
• Fail-Safe
• Servo Monitor
Helicopter Function Mode:
• Dual Rates
• Exponential
• Servo Reverse
• Sub-Trim
• Travel Adjust
• Swashplate Mix
• Throttle Hold
• Throttle Curve (three) (five-point
mix)
• Pitch Curve (four) (five-point mix)
• Revolution Mix
• Gyro Sensing
• Fail-Safe
• Servo Monitor MA
XP7202 System
Programming Features
Photos by the author
62 MODEL AVIATION
• Fully synthesized and crystal free
• No frequency dials to turn
• Improved programming with more
mixes and better interface
• Based on proven XP8103 radio
system
• 20-model memory
• JR R790 receiver, 72-ounce JR
DS821 servos included
Key Features
• Number of channels: Seven
• Modulation: S-PCM, Z-PCM, PPM
• Band: Fully synthesized transmitter
• Servos: JR DS821 Digital Sport Hi-
Torque
• Receiver: R790 ScanSelect S-PCM
• Programming features: Aircraft,
helicopter
• Transmitter battery type: 1500
mAh NiMH
• Price: $329.99
Specifications
+
• Advanced radio system at a modest
price.
• Easy-to-understand menus and
features.
• High-resolution LCD screen.
• 20-model memory.
• New programming options that
enhance safety and convenience.
-• Timer reset feature can be easily
confused with the model-reset
function.
Pluses and Minuses
programming levels. SELECT is also used to
move the cursor through the menu structure
to choose the item you want to change.
The transmitter features digital trims,
called ADT (Advanced Digital Trim) by JR.
As with most digital trims, any setting you
establish is stored with that model’s memory
and is recalled anytime you select that
aircraft.
The LCD display indicates the trim
position for each channel. A single push of a
trim switch moves the trim one increment;
holding it down moves it continuously.
Holding a trim lever over for an extended
period of time will cause the rate of change
to increase.
The XP7202 has a trim feature called
“Throttle Recovery,” and I have grown to
really like it. It allows you to use the trim
lever to kill the engine but retain the throttle
trim’s last position.
When the Throttle Recovery feature is
turned on, to kill the engine you position the
throttle stick at the lowest setting. Then
using the trim lever, move it to the full low
setting, killing the engine. To return the trim
to the last setting, simply give the trim lever
one “click” of up-trim.
As I mentioned, this is a synthesized
transmitter. The channels are selectable from
15 to 60 (which is the normal range of
channels for JR). This selection is done via
the large LCD screen and buttons on the
front of the transmitter. That’s right; there
are no small, hard-to-read dials to turn!
This is also a nice safety feature because
the transmitter asks you if you want to
transmit when you power it up. It remembers
the last channel on which you operated but
will not begin transmitting until you push a
button acknowledging the channel you want
to operate and the fact that you want to
transmit.
The XP7202 can store the programming
for as many as 20 different models. That is a
significant number for a system in this price
range (most systems offer only half that
memory). The transmitter also has the ability
to transmit PPM or PCM (S or Z), making it
backward compatible with older JR
receivers.
The large, high-resolution LCD is the
heart of programming the system. The screen
is easy to read and is clear in almost any
lighting condition. This is one of the best
screens I’ve seen on any transmitter.
Simple changes to programming are easy
to make with two rocker switches and two
push buttons. As is standard with JR
systems, the menu structure consists of two
menu levels: “System Setup” and “Function
Mode.”
You access the System Setup menu by
holding down the Scroll and Select buttons
while powering up the transmitter. System
Setup includes functions that are basic to the
model setup. (See the programming features
sidebar.)
The XP7202 offers three wing types:
normal, flaperon, and delta (elevon). V-tail
mixing is also available in the wing-type
menu.
On the helicopter side the system can
handle four types of swashplates: normal
(one servo for each function) and three
CCPM types. Two-servo 180°, three-servo
120°, or three-servo 90° mixing functions
are selectable.
The Function Mode contains items that
are more basic to programming the model.
(See the programming features sidebar.)
Each main menu item has various submenus
associated with it, which, when accessed, get
you into additional features.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the
general features this system offers. Each of
the two menu structures may be viewed in
two formats. In the list mode each available
function is displayed on the screen at once.
Exiting the list mode allows you to scroll
through each available function one by one.
I find myself using the nonlist mode
more than anything. It makes it quick to
scroll through the functions to get to the one
I want to program.
You can name the aircraft with as many
as eight different alphanumeric characters.
Once a model has been named or a memory
location dedicated to a particular aircraft, all
settings stay with that model. This includes
the type (Acro or Heli), channel (frequency)
and modulation type, and wing or swashplate
type. The System Setup menu also has an
integrated timer (counting anytime the
transmitter is turned on).
One of the few things I dislike about this
transmitter is the fact that this timer’s reset
function is on the same screen as the modelreset
function. The model reset clears all the
data you have programmed for a particular
model, so inadvertently selecting model
reset when meaning to reset the integrated
timer can have catastrophic results.
The good news is that you have 20 model
memories available and the ability to copy
the current aircraft to another modelmemory
location. With any system I
recommend backing up your models in this
manner. For me that would mean I’d have
only 10 total aircraft available, but the
security is worth it.
I found the Function Mode, where most
of the aircraft-specific changes are made, to
be nicely laid out and easy to understand
with or without the instruction manual.
There were only a couple instances where a
feature was unclear.
Please note that in most cases I’ll use the
airplane vernacular to describe various
functions instead of the helicopter
vernacular. Unless otherwise noted, the
feature is available in the airplane and
helicopter modes of operation.
The XP7202 has dual rates and
exponential (expo) rates on aileron, elevator,
and rudder. One of this system’s unique
features is that dual rates and expo (for all
channels) can be combined on a single
switch if you so desire. This gives you the
ability to switch between low and high rates
with the flick of a switch.
The helicopter mode has the additional
Auto Dual Rate/Expo feature, which
automatically changes the dual/expo rates
when you switch flight modes between
norm, ST-1 (Stunt 1), ST-2 (Stunt 2), or
Throttle Hold. This feature works nicely.
Servo reversing is handled by a
convenient screen that has a graphic
representation of reversing switches. To
change the direction of the servo, use the
SELECT button to scroll to the channel you
want to change and press the INCREASE or
DECREASE button to reverse the channel.
Sub-Trim and Travel Adjust are standard
menus. They are quick and easy with which
to make the necessary changes. The XP7202
features a menu to set up elevator-to-flap
mixing and aileron-to-rudder mixing. These
menus make those two more common
mixing programs easy to set up.
Another feature of this system is the
Automatic Landing function. With it turned
on, the throttle stick is used to activate the
system. This function is used primarily for
sailplanes since the stick can adjust elevator,
flaps, and spoilers. The function may be
switched in and out with the Flap Mixing
switch.
Differential Aileron Mixing is also
available on a preprogrammed menu. This
popular feature allows you to have individual
control of the ailerons in an airplane with a
separate servo driving each aileron. Using
this menu you can cause the ailerons to have
a different amount of up/down travel. This
can help dampen any odd yaw problems
your airplane might have when inputting
aileron commands.
In the helicopter mode the XP7202 has
five-point pitch and throttle curves that are
switchable with each of the three available
flight modes and when throttle hold is
switched. The depiction of the curves on the
LCD screen is clear, showing nice, smooth
arcs that help to dial things in accurately.
The XP7202 also features Revolution
Mixing and Gyro Sensitivity programming
features. The Gyro Sensitivity menu allows
you to determine two settings that can be
switched in and out.
In the airplane mode you have six
programmable mixes available; in the
helicopter mode you have three.
Programmable mix 5 and 6 in the airplane
mode are trimmable. Therefore, if the master
channel you select is one with a trim lever,
that particular lever will trim the master and
slave channels. This is an ideal feature for
dual-elevator-servo applications.
When in one of the PCM forms of
modulation, the system has fail-safe
available. You can select which of the seven
channels moves to the fail-safe position
when a condition causes a fail-safe to
activate. You must select fail-safe or hold as
an option. If you choose hold, the channel
will retain the servo at the last good position
the system had.
When in fail-safe the servo will move to
the position at which you select for it to
move. Fail-safe is easy to set up with this
system; simply move the sticks/switches to
the position where you want them and press
one button.
The transmitter also features a Servo
Monitor screen that shows you the position
of each channel. This is useful when trying
to set up complicated mixing.
This is a feature-packed transmitter!
The XP7202 system comes with the NER-
790 ScanSelect PCM receiver. I’d be lying
if I told you I did not like it. As are many
JR PCM receivers, the NER-790 is of the
single-conversion variety and uses
proprietary JR ABC&W circuitry to give it
10 kHz narrow-band ability.
The receiver is not tiny but not huge; it
measures 1.80 x .97 x .60 inches and
weighs 1.5 ounces. It has seven channels
output with a separate battery connector.
Using the supplied switch harness you also
have DSC (direct servo control) ability.
Ground range tests with this receiver and
transmitter far exceeded the 90 feet the
manual suggested.
As I have mentioned, this is a
synthesized receiver. To select a different
channel, let the transmitter know which
one you want to broadcast on in the
System Setup menu, power up the
receiver, and press the Scan button until
the LED goes off. Press the Scan button
one more time, and the LED flashes while
the receiver scans for the transmitter’s
signal.
Once the NER-790 finds and locks onto
the signal, the LED turns on solid and you
are ready to go. I only wish there was
some way of remotely mounting an LED
and the Scan button so that I could easily
switch channels when the receiver is
buried inside a fuselage or helicopter
frame.
The four DS821 digital servos included
with this system are a nice surprise. You
seldom find a system that comes with
anything but inexpensive sport servos. The
DS821s have no less than 72 ounce-inch of
torque and are fast, with transit times of
only .19 second through 60°. The output
shaft is ball-bearing supported.
I have not mentioned the instruction
manual much, and that is because it is so
good. I’ve long been a fan of the JR
manuals. Since the early years the
company has usually had a well-written,
easy-to-understand instruction booklet. JR
makes extensive use of graphics and
screen shots.
I’m impressed with the JR XP7202
system. Unless you need more than seven
channels, look no further for a radio
system. This one will do almost anything
you desire.
With a street price of $329, it’s hard to
beat. And considering that the XP7202 is a
synthesized system makes it just that much
better! It’s worth a look! MA
Steve Kaluf
[email protected]
Distributor:
Horizon Hobby Inc.
4105 Fieldstone Rd.
Champaign IL 61822
(217) 352-1913
www.horizonhobby.com
Additional Resources:
Model Airplane News magazine (January
2006 issue)
100 E. Ridge
Ridgefield CT 06877
(203) 431-9000
http://modelairplanenews.com/
Fly RC magazine (December 2006 issue)
650 Danbury Rd.
Ridgefield CT 06877
(203) 431-7787
[email protected]
Edition: Model Aviation - 2007/01
Page Numbers: 60,61,62,64
The 7202 transmitter features Advanced Digital Trims on all
four stick axes. The Throttle Recovery feature allows the last
idle setting to be recovered with just a “click.”
The XP7202 package is a complete system that includes a
synthesized receiver, 1100 mAh 4.8-volt battery, sport digital
servos, and the accessories shown.
THE JR XP7202 seven-channel computer radio system is the
newest release from JR. When I think about a seven-channel system,
I normally envision a fairly basic sport system. However, the
XP7202 is far from it. This is a fully synthesized system (transmitter
and receiver).
The transmitter is a computer system that will handle fixed-wing
aircraft or helicopters with no problem. Multimodel memories,
advanced mixing, pitch and throttle curves, and many other features
are included.
The system includes the XP7202 transmitter, the R790
ScanSelect PCM receiver, four DS821 digital servos, an 1100 mAh
NiMH battery pack, a switch harness, a 12-inch aileron extension, a
dual charger for the transmitter, and an airborne pack. (The charger
has the correct rate for the 1100 mAh airborne pack.) There is also a
nice variety of servo arms/wheels, mounting screws, a hex wrench to
adjust stick length, and a nice instruction manual.
The transmitter fits your hands nicely and comfortably. The
sticks are adjustable from short to quite long. This is a nice feature
for me since I tend to like my sticks fairly long. Many transmitters
do not have sticks that are long enough for my liking.
The transmitter has a 1500 mAh NiMH battery pack. This large
pack easily gives you more than four hours of operation time.
The XP7202 system is available in an airplane or helicopter
version. However, the programming is the same in both. Only a
couple switches are repositioned to optimal locations for airplane or
helicopter operation, and the throttle detent is changed.
The nice-looking transmitter seems to be high in quality. The
switches are logically laid out and easy to reach. There is a twoposition
switch on either side of the antenna; on the left is the gear
switch (flight mode) and on the right is a switch used for mixing or
rudder dual rate (throttle hold).
Across the front, directly below and to either side of the antenna
are six switches. From left to right are the two-position elevator dual
rate, the three-position flap mix, and a rocker-type switch used for
training or flaps (hover pitch). Starting on the other side of the
transmitter is another rocker-type switch used for AUX2 (hover
throttle), the two-position AUX2, and the aileron dual rate.
Along the bottom of the transmitter is the large LCD screen. On
its right is a large rocker switch labeled “ADJUST” that is used to
increase or decrease values in the programming. Below it is the
“CLEAR” button, which is used for various functions such as
entering different menus and acknowledging an operation.
To the left of the screen is another rocker switch labeled
“SCROLL”; it is used to move through the menus. With this system
you can move forward and backward through the various menus.
Below SCROLL is the SELECT button. When used in
conjunction with SCROLL, it allows access to different
January 2007 61
The R790 ScanSelect receiver is a nice
size and will fit in almost any installation.
Changing its frequency takes just the
press of a button.
Setting pitch curves, throttle curves, or dual/expo rates is simple with the high
resolution provided by the large LCD screen.
The transmitter will not broadcast until the “CLEAR” button is pressed. A DSC cord
is the only way to operate the transmitter without broadcasting.
The four boxes arranged around the sides and bottom indicate trim positions. If either
of the two rocker-type buttons is operated, its position will be indicated as well.
System Mode:
• Model Select
• Model Name
• Model Type Select
• Modulation Select
• Model Reset
• Trainer System Select
• Throttle Recovery
• Input Select (switch selectability for
AUX2 and Gear)
• Wing Type
• Swashplate Type
• Frequency Selection (CH 15-60)
• Dual Rate Switch Select
Airplane Function Mode:
• Dual Rates
• Exponential
• Servo Reverse
• Sub-Trim
• Travel Adjust
• Elevator-to-Flap Mix
• Aileron-to-Rudder Mix
• Flap System
• Differential
• Programmable Mix (1-6)
• Fail-Safe
• Servo Monitor
Helicopter Function Mode:
• Dual Rates
• Exponential
• Servo Reverse
• Sub-Trim
• Travel Adjust
• Swashplate Mix
• Throttle Hold
• Throttle Curve (three) (five-point
mix)
• Pitch Curve (four) (five-point mix)
• Revolution Mix
• Gyro Sensing
• Fail-Safe
• Servo Monitor MA
XP7202 System
Programming Features
Photos by the author
62 MODEL AVIATION
• Fully synthesized and crystal free
• No frequency dials to turn
• Improved programming with more
mixes and better interface
• Based on proven XP8103 radio
system
• 20-model memory
• JR R790 receiver, 72-ounce JR
DS821 servos included
Key Features
• Number of channels: Seven
• Modulation: S-PCM, Z-PCM, PPM
• Band: Fully synthesized transmitter
• Servos: JR DS821 Digital Sport Hi-
Torque
• Receiver: R790 ScanSelect S-PCM
• Programming features: Aircraft,
helicopter
• Transmitter battery type: 1500
mAh NiMH
• Price: $329.99
Specifications
+
• Advanced radio system at a modest
price.
• Easy-to-understand menus and
features.
• High-resolution LCD screen.
• 20-model memory.
• New programming options that
enhance safety and convenience.
-• Timer reset feature can be easily
confused with the model-reset
function.
Pluses and Minuses
programming levels. SELECT is also used to
move the cursor through the menu structure
to choose the item you want to change.
The transmitter features digital trims,
called ADT (Advanced Digital Trim) by JR.
As with most digital trims, any setting you
establish is stored with that model’s memory
and is recalled anytime you select that
aircraft.
The LCD display indicates the trim
position for each channel. A single push of a
trim switch moves the trim one increment;
holding it down moves it continuously.
Holding a trim lever over for an extended
period of time will cause the rate of change
to increase.
The XP7202 has a trim feature called
“Throttle Recovery,” and I have grown to
really like it. It allows you to use the trim
lever to kill the engine but retain the throttle
trim’s last position.
When the Throttle Recovery feature is
turned on, to kill the engine you position the
throttle stick at the lowest setting. Then
using the trim lever, move it to the full low
setting, killing the engine. To return the trim
to the last setting, simply give the trim lever
one “click” of up-trim.
As I mentioned, this is a synthesized
transmitter. The channels are selectable from
15 to 60 (which is the normal range of
channels for JR). This selection is done via
the large LCD screen and buttons on the
front of the transmitter. That’s right; there
are no small, hard-to-read dials to turn!
This is also a nice safety feature because
the transmitter asks you if you want to
transmit when you power it up. It remembers
the last channel on which you operated but
will not begin transmitting until you push a
button acknowledging the channel you want
to operate and the fact that you want to
transmit.
The XP7202 can store the programming
for as many as 20 different models. That is a
significant number for a system in this price
range (most systems offer only half that
memory). The transmitter also has the ability
to transmit PPM or PCM (S or Z), making it
backward compatible with older JR
receivers.
The large, high-resolution LCD is the
heart of programming the system. The screen
is easy to read and is clear in almost any
lighting condition. This is one of the best
screens I’ve seen on any transmitter.
Simple changes to programming are easy
to make with two rocker switches and two
push buttons. As is standard with JR
systems, the menu structure consists of two
menu levels: “System Setup” and “Function
Mode.”
You access the System Setup menu by
holding down the Scroll and Select buttons
while powering up the transmitter. System
Setup includes functions that are basic to the
model setup. (See the programming features
sidebar.)
The XP7202 offers three wing types:
normal, flaperon, and delta (elevon). V-tail
mixing is also available in the wing-type
menu.
On the helicopter side the system can
handle four types of swashplates: normal
(one servo for each function) and three
CCPM types. Two-servo 180°, three-servo
120°, or three-servo 90° mixing functions
are selectable.
The Function Mode contains items that
are more basic to programming the model.
(See the programming features sidebar.)
Each main menu item has various submenus
associated with it, which, when accessed, get
you into additional features.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the
general features this system offers. Each of
the two menu structures may be viewed in
two formats. In the list mode each available
function is displayed on the screen at once.
Exiting the list mode allows you to scroll
through each available function one by one.
I find myself using the nonlist mode
more than anything. It makes it quick to
scroll through the functions to get to the one
I want to program.
You can name the aircraft with as many
as eight different alphanumeric characters.
Once a model has been named or a memory
location dedicated to a particular aircraft, all
settings stay with that model. This includes
the type (Acro or Heli), channel (frequency)
and modulation type, and wing or swashplate
type. The System Setup menu also has an
integrated timer (counting anytime the
transmitter is turned on).
One of the few things I dislike about this
transmitter is the fact that this timer’s reset
function is on the same screen as the modelreset
function. The model reset clears all the
data you have programmed for a particular
model, so inadvertently selecting model
reset when meaning to reset the integrated
timer can have catastrophic results.
The good news is that you have 20 model
memories available and the ability to copy
the current aircraft to another modelmemory
location. With any system I
recommend backing up your models in this
manner. For me that would mean I’d have
only 10 total aircraft available, but the
security is worth it.
I found the Function Mode, where most
of the aircraft-specific changes are made, to
be nicely laid out and easy to understand
with or without the instruction manual.
There were only a couple instances where a
feature was unclear.
Please note that in most cases I’ll use the
airplane vernacular to describe various
functions instead of the helicopter
vernacular. Unless otherwise noted, the
feature is available in the airplane and
helicopter modes of operation.
The XP7202 has dual rates and
exponential (expo) rates on aileron, elevator,
and rudder. One of this system’s unique
features is that dual rates and expo (for all
channels) can be combined on a single
switch if you so desire. This gives you the
ability to switch between low and high rates
with the flick of a switch.
The helicopter mode has the additional
Auto Dual Rate/Expo feature, which
automatically changes the dual/expo rates
when you switch flight modes between
norm, ST-1 (Stunt 1), ST-2 (Stunt 2), or
Throttle Hold. This feature works nicely.
Servo reversing is handled by a
convenient screen that has a graphic
representation of reversing switches. To
change the direction of the servo, use the
SELECT button to scroll to the channel you
want to change and press the INCREASE or
DECREASE button to reverse the channel.
Sub-Trim and Travel Adjust are standard
menus. They are quick and easy with which
to make the necessary changes. The XP7202
features a menu to set up elevator-to-flap
mixing and aileron-to-rudder mixing. These
menus make those two more common
mixing programs easy to set up.
Another feature of this system is the
Automatic Landing function. With it turned
on, the throttle stick is used to activate the
system. This function is used primarily for
sailplanes since the stick can adjust elevator,
flaps, and spoilers. The function may be
switched in and out with the Flap Mixing
switch.
Differential Aileron Mixing is also
available on a preprogrammed menu. This
popular feature allows you to have individual
control of the ailerons in an airplane with a
separate servo driving each aileron. Using
this menu you can cause the ailerons to have
a different amount of up/down travel. This
can help dampen any odd yaw problems
your airplane might have when inputting
aileron commands.
In the helicopter mode the XP7202 has
five-point pitch and throttle curves that are
switchable with each of the three available
flight modes and when throttle hold is
switched. The depiction of the curves on the
LCD screen is clear, showing nice, smooth
arcs that help to dial things in accurately.
The XP7202 also features Revolution
Mixing and Gyro Sensitivity programming
features. The Gyro Sensitivity menu allows
you to determine two settings that can be
switched in and out.
In the airplane mode you have six
programmable mixes available; in the
helicopter mode you have three.
Programmable mix 5 and 6 in the airplane
mode are trimmable. Therefore, if the master
channel you select is one with a trim lever,
that particular lever will trim the master and
slave channels. This is an ideal feature for
dual-elevator-servo applications.
When in one of the PCM forms of
modulation, the system has fail-safe
available. You can select which of the seven
channels moves to the fail-safe position
when a condition causes a fail-safe to
activate. You must select fail-safe or hold as
an option. If you choose hold, the channel
will retain the servo at the last good position
the system had.
When in fail-safe the servo will move to
the position at which you select for it to
move. Fail-safe is easy to set up with this
system; simply move the sticks/switches to
the position where you want them and press
one button.
The transmitter also features a Servo
Monitor screen that shows you the position
of each channel. This is useful when trying
to set up complicated mixing.
This is a feature-packed transmitter!
The XP7202 system comes with the NER-
790 ScanSelect PCM receiver. I’d be lying
if I told you I did not like it. As are many
JR PCM receivers, the NER-790 is of the
single-conversion variety and uses
proprietary JR ABC&W circuitry to give it
10 kHz narrow-band ability.
The receiver is not tiny but not huge; it
measures 1.80 x .97 x .60 inches and
weighs 1.5 ounces. It has seven channels
output with a separate battery connector.
Using the supplied switch harness you also
have DSC (direct servo control) ability.
Ground range tests with this receiver and
transmitter far exceeded the 90 feet the
manual suggested.
As I have mentioned, this is a
synthesized receiver. To select a different
channel, let the transmitter know which
one you want to broadcast on in the
System Setup menu, power up the
receiver, and press the Scan button until
the LED goes off. Press the Scan button
one more time, and the LED flashes while
the receiver scans for the transmitter’s
signal.
Once the NER-790 finds and locks onto
the signal, the LED turns on solid and you
are ready to go. I only wish there was
some way of remotely mounting an LED
and the Scan button so that I could easily
switch channels when the receiver is
buried inside a fuselage or helicopter
frame.
The four DS821 digital servos included
with this system are a nice surprise. You
seldom find a system that comes with
anything but inexpensive sport servos. The
DS821s have no less than 72 ounce-inch of
torque and are fast, with transit times of
only .19 second through 60°. The output
shaft is ball-bearing supported.
I have not mentioned the instruction
manual much, and that is because it is so
good. I’ve long been a fan of the JR
manuals. Since the early years the
company has usually had a well-written,
easy-to-understand instruction booklet. JR
makes extensive use of graphics and
screen shots.
I’m impressed with the JR XP7202
system. Unless you need more than seven
channels, look no further for a radio
system. This one will do almost anything
you desire.
With a street price of $329, it’s hard to
beat. And considering that the XP7202 is a
synthesized system makes it just that much
better! It’s worth a look! MA
Steve Kaluf
[email protected]
Distributor:
Horizon Hobby Inc.
4105 Fieldstone Rd.
Champaign IL 61822
(217) 352-1913
www.horizonhobby.com
Additional Resources:
Model Airplane News magazine (January
2006 issue)
100 E. Ridge
Ridgefield CT 06877
(203) 431-9000
http://modelairplanenews.com/
Fly RC magazine (December 2006 issue)
650 Danbury Rd.
Ridgefield CT 06877
(203) 431-7787
[email protected]