July 2008 61
A solid, full-range digital
spread spectrum RC
system that’s easy to
use
Power Switch: Airtronics RDS8000
BOB ABERLE
The new Airtronics RDS8000 RC transmitter is a full eight-channel-function unit
intended for fixed-wing and helicopter flying. It has 10-model memory and many
standard and special programmable mixing controls.
The RDS8000 system comes with a dual-output Ni-Cd
battery charger and switch harness. You supply or separately
purchase the airborne battery pack and servos.
ALTHOUGH DIGITAL spread spectrum
(DSS) radio transmission was known about
(and employed) for many years, this
technology wasn’t introduced into our
segment of the RC hobby until
approximately three years ago. In that short
span of time since, DSS has won over many
RC fliers who now enjoy its many
advantages.
The technology’s principal advantage is
that it is safe to operate without channel (or
frequency) control, regardless of where you
fly. When using this new equipment,
operating on the 2.4 GHz band, there is no
need for a frequency clip, pin, flag, or any
kind of local flying-site control. (You might
still want to limit the number of models in
the air at any one time for safety reasons.)
The chances of interference are
extremely remote. Best of all, the cost to
embrace this new technology is certainly not
excessive and much of the existing
equipment, such as servos and batteries, can
be used.
Keep in mind that employing DSS or not
is purely up to you. The existing 50 RC
aircraft channels operating on 72 MHz will
be available to us indefinitely.
I’m not going to spend time on a technical
dissertation on DSS technology. You can
find many good articles about it on various
Web sites. But I do want you to know that
The spread spectrum eight-channel
receiver is small and weighs only 1/2 ounce.
This stand-alone unit has two antennas;
each is a total of 71/2 inches long.
62 MODEL AVIATION
Photos by the author and Michael Ramsey
Keep the RDS8000’s 31/ 2-inch-long
antenna at an angle perpendicular to the
ground, as shown. A special provided
range-check procedure is easy to follow.
The transmitter’s front control panel is identical to that of the
RD8000 72 MHz RC system. It employs the “Channel Priority
Menu System,” which is unique in the RC industry.
An eight-cell, 700 mAh Ni-Cd rechargeable
battery pack provides the power.
Transmitter current drain is 180 mA, so you
should be able to get up to three hours of
operation before recharging is necessary.
A large LCD screen opens to this display
every time power is turned on. At the top is
a bar showing remaining battery capacity
(from full to empty). Model memory
position is at the upper left. Battery voltage
is indicated.
The most important thing the user must do
is the binding process. The process is simple
and involves using a blue LED and a pushbutton
Bind switch on the left corner of the
transmitter control panel.
The Throttle Cut push button pulls throttle trim all the way closed
when depressed. At the top right is the flap switch for when in aero
mode. In all cases the user can select aero or helicopter control
functions.
The push-button switch is for the trainer function. The top left
switch is for aircraft retracts. The center switch can be elevator dual
rate for aero or gyro control for helicopter.
Left: The other half of the binding
process involves the receiver,
which also has a blue LED and a
Bind switch. Once the receiver is
paired to your transmitter, it is
unnecessary to repeat the process
(in most cases).
Right: Airtronics allows the
helicopter pilot to change the
location of the two flight-mode
switches at the top corners of the
transmitter and substitute the
labels. The straps are a courtesy
for mounting the receiver.
July 2008 63
Pluses and Minuses
+•
The classic RD8000 has been upgraded
to 2.4 GHz.
• Inexpensive entry into DSS technology.
• Full-range system is suitable for indoorto
outdoor-size models.
• Multiple mixing functions for aircraft and
helicopters.
• Receiver operates with just 2 volts. -• Full systems with servos aren’t yet
available.
Key Features
Specifications
Number of channels: Eight
Model memory: 10
Programming features: Aircraft,
helicopter
Band: 2.400-2.483 GHz
Spectral capacity: 40-50, depending
on systems in use
Modulation type: FHSS (Frequency
Hopping Spread Spectrum)
Resolution: Unknown
Transmitter current: 180 mAh
Transmitter battery: 9.6-volt, 700
mAh Ni-Cd
Receiver battery: Not included
Servos: Not included; compatible with
analog, digital types
Receiver: Model 92824 (eight channels,
2.4 GHz)
Price: $229.99
• Model naming (three letters)
• Data reset
• Stopwatch
• Digital trims
• LCD transmitter voltage meter
• Large LCD
• Adjustable stick tension and length
• Center adjustment on all channels
• Dual rate on elevator, aileron (plus
rudder on helicopter)
• Endpoint adjustment on all channels
• Exponential on aileron, elevator, rudder
• Four flight modes
• Dual rate alarm
• Fail-safe/hold
• Menu options
• Receiver-battery fail-safe
• Dual elevator mix
• Thirteen aircraft mixes
• Five-point throttle, pitch curves
(helicopter)
• Swashplate mix selection
You can see a complete documented
list of this system’s features on the
Airtronics Web site. There you can also
access a detailed listing of all the hobby
dealers who sell it and download the
entire operating manual.
more than one type of spread spectrum
technology is available to our RC modelaircraft
hobby.
Until now, three DSS RC systems were
offered. The first were the Spektrum DX6
and DX7 (from Horizon Hobby), which use
a concept known as DSM (or now DSM2).
That stands for Digital Spectrum
Modulation.
The second was by a company known
as Xtreme Power Systems. It released
transmitter modules (that adapt to several
brands of radios) and companion spread
spectrum receivers.
The third was Futaba’s FASST (Futaba
Advanced Spread Spectrum Technology)
systems. They are available either as new
units or adaptable modules that are used to
convert some existing Futaba radios.
The Spektrum system employs a DSS
technique that assigns a pair of channels, at
start-up, from a series of 40 pairs that are
available in the band. These two randomly
selected channels can literally bounce back
and forth during a flight to provide solid
RC control.
The Xtreme Power Systems and Futaba
units employ a spread spectrum technique
that is more similar to what the cell phone
industry uses. This technique known as
“frequency hopping” happens so fast that
you are unaware of it during a flight.
A fourth RC manufacturer—
Airtronics—entered the DSS market in
early 2008. Global Hobby Distributors
distributes its products to hobby dealers in
the US, Canada, and South America. The
RDS8000 is Airtronics’ first DSS RC
system. It was derived from the popular
Airtronics RD8000 72 MHz system that
has been on the market for the past six
years or more.
Except for the frequency and
modulation difference, the RDS8000 and
RD8000 are identical controlwise. They
have full eight-channel control capability
with all the popular computer-generated
special control features.
In this review I’ll concentrate only on
the differences associated with the DSS
technology. The new Airtronics system
also employs the frequency-hopping
concept (which it calls “FHSS”).
It is important to know that each RC
manufacturer employs digital coding
techniques that make its products different
from the others. In fact, as each new
system is developed, the manufacturer
must certify to the FCC that its equipment
will not interfere with other systems that
are already in production. Because of this
discrete coding technology, you will not be
able to mix brands of RC transmitters and
receivers.
The marketing concept associated with
the Airtronics RDS8000 FHSS RC system
is interesting. The presumption is that most
RC fliers already own plenty of servos and
airborne battery packs. So to make entry
into DSS RC as cost-effective as possible,
Airtronics is basically selling the
transmitter (which includes a battery pack
and charger), a companion eight-channel
receiver (model 92824), and a switch
harness for $229.99. You can purchase
additional receivers for $79.99 each.
When you buy this new transmitter and
receiver, it will take only a short time to
You must locate the two receiver antennas inside your aircraft with care, using these
supplied sketches as a guide. The antennas must be placed at right angles to each other. It is
recommended that the antennas not be placed near noise-generating devices such as ESCs
(used with electric power) and servos.
Receiver Receiver Receiver Receiver
Antenna
90° 90°
90°
90°
swap the RDS8000 system into an aircraft.
Then you can be out flying again—but
without concern for frequency control.
Airtronics’ RDS8000 transmitter will
provide the same control features as the
existing 72 MHz version does. The only
noticeable difference is the extremely short
antenna (31/2 inches long) that exits the top
of the RDS8000 transmitter’s case.
Remember not to point this transmitter
antenna directly at your aircraft. Always
hold it off to one side or the other for
optimal signal clarity.
The new eight-channel-function
companion DSS receiver measures only 17/8
inches long, 1 inch wide, and 9/16 inch thick,and it weighs an extraordinarily light 1/2
ounce. This size unit would be perfect for
even an average-size park flyer.
Airtronics’ model 92824 is a single
receiver. I point this out because some
manufacturers require two separate units
that are joined by a cable.
Two short antennas (71/2 inches) exit the
receiver, and the way these antennas are
located and mounted in your aircraft is
extremely important to the Airtronics
system’s overall operation. The antennas
must be placed 90° to one another.
A series of easy-to-follow diagrams in
the instruction manual shows the
recommended antenna orientation. The
suggestion is made to slip the ends of the
antenna wire inside plastic soda straws that
have been attached to the inside of the
aircraft’s fuselage. There is a warning not to
get the ends of the antennas close to
conductive-type material or near noisegenerating
devices such as ESCs or RC
servos.
Now we get down to the real difference
in operation. There are two new items
associated with the use of any DSS RC
system, the first of which is a technique
called “pairing” or “binding.” Each
transmitter gets a unique code embedded
into its memory. The first time you go to
operate your companion receiver, you must
“bind” it to your specific transmitter.
On the Airtronics RDS8000 transmitter,
you will find a Bind LED and a Bind key on
the lower left front panel. Likewise, the
RDS8000 FHSS receiver has a Bind LED
and a Bind key. The instructions for
performing the binding process are simple,
and it takes only a few minutes.
Once completed for that particular
transmitter and receiver, it shouldn’t be
necessary to bind them again. But every
once in awhile, such as to reset the fail-safe
control positions, it may be necessary to
rebind. Keep a copy of the binding
instructions handy.
The second item that is different from
what we are normally used to is how you go
about making a range-verification test. On
our 72 MHz frequencies, you collapsed the
transmitter antenna, which reduced the
power output. Then you walked away from
your aircraft to see if the controls worked at
something such as 50-100 feet apart.
The antenna on this 2.4 GHz system is
only 31/2 inches long, so there is nothing to
collapse. The trick is to reduce the power
output electronically so that a simulated
range check can be made.
The procedure is provided, and it does
take a few steps to accomplish. Keep a copy
of the range-verification instructions with
you for when you need them. Range
checking should always be done
immediately following a new aircraft RCsystem
installation or when any airborne
equipment is changed or relocated in any
manner.
One of the questions I hear lately as more
and more DSS equipment becomes available
is, “Can interference still occur?” I guess the
basic answer is, “Never say never!” But the
digital coding techniques that each RC
manufacturer employs make interference
from brand to brand or even within a
specific brand of DSS system close to
impossible.
Since no frequency control is required
for DSS 2.4 GHz RC channels, more
systems are likely to be on the air at any one
time. You may limit the number of models
in the air at any flying site, but that doesn’t
preclude many transmitters from being
turned on in the pit areas for test purposes.
What would happen if too many DSS
transmitters went on at the same time (called
“saturation”)? With the DSM systems, using
a pair of channels at a time, if all 40 channel
pairs went into use, theoretically the 41st to try
to link couldn’t until somebody shut down. In
this case, you couldn’t get a clear pair until a
pair was available. The good thing is that the
condition occurs safely on the ground—not in
the air.
With the frequency-hopping concept,
more channels turned on will eventually slow
the control response time. It wouldn’t be a
drastic slowdown, but it would be enough to
caution you to land your airplane and wait for
some of the traffic to subside.
In either case there does not seem to be a
chance of outright interference knocking your
model out of the sky. Therefore, the lack of
frequency control should not prove to be a
safety issue.
Some concern has been voiced about
existing DSS systems that the receivers may
be intolerant to low voltage. The thought is
that when a certain low-voltage level is
reached, the receiver system will go into failsafe
and try to reboot.
The Airtronics RDS8000 will operate
down to 2 volts. Since your servos won’t
work at that low of a voltage, they will quit
operating long before the receiver does. So in
this regard, you don’t have to worry about a
low-voltage “brownout” in flight causing a
system reboot, which might result in a
crashed aircraft.
The RDS8000 is a full-range system that
is capable of flying everything from park
flyers to Giant Scale aircraft, jets, helicopters,
and Thermal Duration sailplanes. If you can
see it, you can control it.
Also be aware that operation on 2.4 GHz
frequencies virtually eliminates noise
problems associated with gasoline/ignition
engine power. Even Society of Antique
Modelers fliers are noting excellent RC
performance when using replica Old-Timer
ignition systems.
You might still have question and
concerns about switching to DSS operation.
Mike Greenshields, Global Hobby
Distributors’ product manager, has
established “Mike’s I Fly R/C Blog.” I’ve
seen the start of it, and it looks really
interesting.
When we received our 50 new RC aircraft
channels in the early 1980s, we were told that
the narrower-band channels wouldn’t work
because they needed expensive and bulky
dual-conversion receivers. We eventually
learned that dual-conversion receivers could
be made at 0.3 ounce at an eventual street cost
of just $60. That progress benefited all of us
in the RC hobby.
Those channels, as given to us back then,
were in the middle of what we were already
using. So a complex phasing out-and-phasing
in process took more than 10 years to
straighten out.
In the 2006-2008 time frame, our industry
people have come up with economical DSS
systems on a new band that offers our ability
to fly RC model aircraft so many more
advantages. We are lucky to have this new
technology, which we can embrace
voluntarily with no concern for our existing
RC channels.
Many modelers have already switched to
DSS, and many more will eventually join the
ranks. If you choose to stay on 72 MHz, no
one will ever stop you. This latest addition to
DSS RC—the Airtronics RDS8000—is
welcomed into our hobby. MA
Bob Aberle
[email protected]
Manufacturer/Distributor:
Airtronics/Global Hobby Distributors
18480 Bandilier Cir.
Fountain Valley CA 92807
(800) 262-1178
www.airtronics.net/
Other Review Articles:
Hobby Merchandiser: February 2008
Model Airplane News: May 2008
Park Pilot: Winter 2008
RC Heli: May 2008
Sources:
Mike’s I Fly R/C Blog
http://mikegoesflying.wordpress.com/
Edition: Model Aviation - 2008/07
Page Numbers: 61,62,63,64,65
Edition: Model Aviation - 2008/07
Page Numbers: 61,62,63,64,65
July 2008 61
A solid, full-range digital
spread spectrum RC
system that’s easy to
use
Power Switch: Airtronics RDS8000
BOB ABERLE
The new Airtronics RDS8000 RC transmitter is a full eight-channel-function unit
intended for fixed-wing and helicopter flying. It has 10-model memory and many
standard and special programmable mixing controls.
The RDS8000 system comes with a dual-output Ni-Cd
battery charger and switch harness. You supply or separately
purchase the airborne battery pack and servos.
ALTHOUGH DIGITAL spread spectrum
(DSS) radio transmission was known about
(and employed) for many years, this
technology wasn’t introduced into our
segment of the RC hobby until
approximately three years ago. In that short
span of time since, DSS has won over many
RC fliers who now enjoy its many
advantages.
The technology’s principal advantage is
that it is safe to operate without channel (or
frequency) control, regardless of where you
fly. When using this new equipment,
operating on the 2.4 GHz band, there is no
need for a frequency clip, pin, flag, or any
kind of local flying-site control. (You might
still want to limit the number of models in
the air at any one time for safety reasons.)
The chances of interference are
extremely remote. Best of all, the cost to
embrace this new technology is certainly not
excessive and much of the existing
equipment, such as servos and batteries, can
be used.
Keep in mind that employing DSS or not
is purely up to you. The existing 50 RC
aircraft channels operating on 72 MHz will
be available to us indefinitely.
I’m not going to spend time on a technical
dissertation on DSS technology. You can
find many good articles about it on various
Web sites. But I do want you to know that
The spread spectrum eight-channel
receiver is small and weighs only 1/2 ounce.
This stand-alone unit has two antennas;
each is a total of 71/2 inches long.
62 MODEL AVIATION
Photos by the author and Michael Ramsey
Keep the RDS8000’s 31/ 2-inch-long
antenna at an angle perpendicular to the
ground, as shown. A special provided
range-check procedure is easy to follow.
The transmitter’s front control panel is identical to that of the
RD8000 72 MHz RC system. It employs the “Channel Priority
Menu System,” which is unique in the RC industry.
An eight-cell, 700 mAh Ni-Cd rechargeable
battery pack provides the power.
Transmitter current drain is 180 mA, so you
should be able to get up to three hours of
operation before recharging is necessary.
A large LCD screen opens to this display
every time power is turned on. At the top is
a bar showing remaining battery capacity
(from full to empty). Model memory
position is at the upper left. Battery voltage
is indicated.
The most important thing the user must do
is the binding process. The process is simple
and involves using a blue LED and a pushbutton
Bind switch on the left corner of the
transmitter control panel.
The Throttle Cut push button pulls throttle trim all the way closed
when depressed. At the top right is the flap switch for when in aero
mode. In all cases the user can select aero or helicopter control
functions.
The push-button switch is for the trainer function. The top left
switch is for aircraft retracts. The center switch can be elevator dual
rate for aero or gyro control for helicopter.
Left: The other half of the binding
process involves the receiver,
which also has a blue LED and a
Bind switch. Once the receiver is
paired to your transmitter, it is
unnecessary to repeat the process
(in most cases).
Right: Airtronics allows the
helicopter pilot to change the
location of the two flight-mode
switches at the top corners of the
transmitter and substitute the
labels. The straps are a courtesy
for mounting the receiver.
July 2008 63
Pluses and Minuses
+•
The classic RD8000 has been upgraded
to 2.4 GHz.
• Inexpensive entry into DSS technology.
• Full-range system is suitable for indoorto
outdoor-size models.
• Multiple mixing functions for aircraft and
helicopters.
• Receiver operates with just 2 volts. -• Full systems with servos aren’t yet
available.
Key Features
Specifications
Number of channels: Eight
Model memory: 10
Programming features: Aircraft,
helicopter
Band: 2.400-2.483 GHz
Spectral capacity: 40-50, depending
on systems in use
Modulation type: FHSS (Frequency
Hopping Spread Spectrum)
Resolution: Unknown
Transmitter current: 180 mAh
Transmitter battery: 9.6-volt, 700
mAh Ni-Cd
Receiver battery: Not included
Servos: Not included; compatible with
analog, digital types
Receiver: Model 92824 (eight channels,
2.4 GHz)
Price: $229.99
• Model naming (three letters)
• Data reset
• Stopwatch
• Digital trims
• LCD transmitter voltage meter
• Large LCD
• Adjustable stick tension and length
• Center adjustment on all channels
• Dual rate on elevator, aileron (plus
rudder on helicopter)
• Endpoint adjustment on all channels
• Exponential on aileron, elevator, rudder
• Four flight modes
• Dual rate alarm
• Fail-safe/hold
• Menu options
• Receiver-battery fail-safe
• Dual elevator mix
• Thirteen aircraft mixes
• Five-point throttle, pitch curves
(helicopter)
• Swashplate mix selection
You can see a complete documented
list of this system’s features on the
Airtronics Web site. There you can also
access a detailed listing of all the hobby
dealers who sell it and download the
entire operating manual.
more than one type of spread spectrum
technology is available to our RC modelaircraft
hobby.
Until now, three DSS RC systems were
offered. The first were the Spektrum DX6
and DX7 (from Horizon Hobby), which use
a concept known as DSM (or now DSM2).
That stands for Digital Spectrum
Modulation.
The second was by a company known
as Xtreme Power Systems. It released
transmitter modules (that adapt to several
brands of radios) and companion spread
spectrum receivers.
The third was Futaba’s FASST (Futaba
Advanced Spread Spectrum Technology)
systems. They are available either as new
units or adaptable modules that are used to
convert some existing Futaba radios.
The Spektrum system employs a DSS
technique that assigns a pair of channels, at
start-up, from a series of 40 pairs that are
available in the band. These two randomly
selected channels can literally bounce back
and forth during a flight to provide solid
RC control.
The Xtreme Power Systems and Futaba
units employ a spread spectrum technique
that is more similar to what the cell phone
industry uses. This technique known as
“frequency hopping” happens so fast that
you are unaware of it during a flight.
A fourth RC manufacturer—
Airtronics—entered the DSS market in
early 2008. Global Hobby Distributors
distributes its products to hobby dealers in
the US, Canada, and South America. The
RDS8000 is Airtronics’ first DSS RC
system. It was derived from the popular
Airtronics RD8000 72 MHz system that
has been on the market for the past six
years or more.
Except for the frequency and
modulation difference, the RDS8000 and
RD8000 are identical controlwise. They
have full eight-channel control capability
with all the popular computer-generated
special control features.
In this review I’ll concentrate only on
the differences associated with the DSS
technology. The new Airtronics system
also employs the frequency-hopping
concept (which it calls “FHSS”).
It is important to know that each RC
manufacturer employs digital coding
techniques that make its products different
from the others. In fact, as each new
system is developed, the manufacturer
must certify to the FCC that its equipment
will not interfere with other systems that
are already in production. Because of this
discrete coding technology, you will not be
able to mix brands of RC transmitters and
receivers.
The marketing concept associated with
the Airtronics RDS8000 FHSS RC system
is interesting. The presumption is that most
RC fliers already own plenty of servos and
airborne battery packs. So to make entry
into DSS RC as cost-effective as possible,
Airtronics is basically selling the
transmitter (which includes a battery pack
and charger), a companion eight-channel
receiver (model 92824), and a switch
harness for $229.99. You can purchase
additional receivers for $79.99 each.
When you buy this new transmitter and
receiver, it will take only a short time to
You must locate the two receiver antennas inside your aircraft with care, using these
supplied sketches as a guide. The antennas must be placed at right angles to each other. It is
recommended that the antennas not be placed near noise-generating devices such as ESCs
(used with electric power) and servos.
Receiver Receiver Receiver Receiver
Antenna
90° 90°
90°
90°
swap the RDS8000 system into an aircraft.
Then you can be out flying again—but
without concern for frequency control.
Airtronics’ RDS8000 transmitter will
provide the same control features as the
existing 72 MHz version does. The only
noticeable difference is the extremely short
antenna (31/2 inches long) that exits the top
of the RDS8000 transmitter’s case.
Remember not to point this transmitter
antenna directly at your aircraft. Always
hold it off to one side or the other for
optimal signal clarity.
The new eight-channel-function
companion DSS receiver measures only 17/8
inches long, 1 inch wide, and 9/16 inch thick,and it weighs an extraordinarily light 1/2
ounce. This size unit would be perfect for
even an average-size park flyer.
Airtronics’ model 92824 is a single
receiver. I point this out because some
manufacturers require two separate units
that are joined by a cable.
Two short antennas (71/2 inches) exit the
receiver, and the way these antennas are
located and mounted in your aircraft is
extremely important to the Airtronics
system’s overall operation. The antennas
must be placed 90° to one another.
A series of easy-to-follow diagrams in
the instruction manual shows the
recommended antenna orientation. The
suggestion is made to slip the ends of the
antenna wire inside plastic soda straws that
have been attached to the inside of the
aircraft’s fuselage. There is a warning not to
get the ends of the antennas close to
conductive-type material or near noisegenerating
devices such as ESCs or RC
servos.
Now we get down to the real difference
in operation. There are two new items
associated with the use of any DSS RC
system, the first of which is a technique
called “pairing” or “binding.” Each
transmitter gets a unique code embedded
into its memory. The first time you go to
operate your companion receiver, you must
“bind” it to your specific transmitter.
On the Airtronics RDS8000 transmitter,
you will find a Bind LED and a Bind key on
the lower left front panel. Likewise, the
RDS8000 FHSS receiver has a Bind LED
and a Bind key. The instructions for
performing the binding process are simple,
and it takes only a few minutes.
Once completed for that particular
transmitter and receiver, it shouldn’t be
necessary to bind them again. But every
once in awhile, such as to reset the fail-safe
control positions, it may be necessary to
rebind. Keep a copy of the binding
instructions handy.
The second item that is different from
what we are normally used to is how you go
about making a range-verification test. On
our 72 MHz frequencies, you collapsed the
transmitter antenna, which reduced the
power output. Then you walked away from
your aircraft to see if the controls worked at
something such as 50-100 feet apart.
The antenna on this 2.4 GHz system is
only 31/2 inches long, so there is nothing to
collapse. The trick is to reduce the power
output electronically so that a simulated
range check can be made.
The procedure is provided, and it does
take a few steps to accomplish. Keep a copy
of the range-verification instructions with
you for when you need them. Range
checking should always be done
immediately following a new aircraft RCsystem
installation or when any airborne
equipment is changed or relocated in any
manner.
One of the questions I hear lately as more
and more DSS equipment becomes available
is, “Can interference still occur?” I guess the
basic answer is, “Never say never!” But the
digital coding techniques that each RC
manufacturer employs make interference
from brand to brand or even within a
specific brand of DSS system close to
impossible.
Since no frequency control is required
for DSS 2.4 GHz RC channels, more
systems are likely to be on the air at any one
time. You may limit the number of models
in the air at any flying site, but that doesn’t
preclude many transmitters from being
turned on in the pit areas for test purposes.
What would happen if too many DSS
transmitters went on at the same time (called
“saturation”)? With the DSM systems, using
a pair of channels at a time, if all 40 channel
pairs went into use, theoretically the 41st to try
to link couldn’t until somebody shut down. In
this case, you couldn’t get a clear pair until a
pair was available. The good thing is that the
condition occurs safely on the ground—not in
the air.
With the frequency-hopping concept,
more channels turned on will eventually slow
the control response time. It wouldn’t be a
drastic slowdown, but it would be enough to
caution you to land your airplane and wait for
some of the traffic to subside.
In either case there does not seem to be a
chance of outright interference knocking your
model out of the sky. Therefore, the lack of
frequency control should not prove to be a
safety issue.
Some concern has been voiced about
existing DSS systems that the receivers may
be intolerant to low voltage. The thought is
that when a certain low-voltage level is
reached, the receiver system will go into failsafe
and try to reboot.
The Airtronics RDS8000 will operate
down to 2 volts. Since your servos won’t
work at that low of a voltage, they will quit
operating long before the receiver does. So in
this regard, you don’t have to worry about a
low-voltage “brownout” in flight causing a
system reboot, which might result in a
crashed aircraft.
The RDS8000 is a full-range system that
is capable of flying everything from park
flyers to Giant Scale aircraft, jets, helicopters,
and Thermal Duration sailplanes. If you can
see it, you can control it.
Also be aware that operation on 2.4 GHz
frequencies virtually eliminates noise
problems associated with gasoline/ignition
engine power. Even Society of Antique
Modelers fliers are noting excellent RC
performance when using replica Old-Timer
ignition systems.
You might still have question and
concerns about switching to DSS operation.
Mike Greenshields, Global Hobby
Distributors’ product manager, has
established “Mike’s I Fly R/C Blog.” I’ve
seen the start of it, and it looks really
interesting.
When we received our 50 new RC aircraft
channels in the early 1980s, we were told that
the narrower-band channels wouldn’t work
because they needed expensive and bulky
dual-conversion receivers. We eventually
learned that dual-conversion receivers could
be made at 0.3 ounce at an eventual street cost
of just $60. That progress benefited all of us
in the RC hobby.
Those channels, as given to us back then,
were in the middle of what we were already
using. So a complex phasing out-and-phasing
in process took more than 10 years to
straighten out.
In the 2006-2008 time frame, our industry
people have come up with economical DSS
systems on a new band that offers our ability
to fly RC model aircraft so many more
advantages. We are lucky to have this new
technology, which we can embrace
voluntarily with no concern for our existing
RC channels.
Many modelers have already switched to
DSS, and many more will eventually join the
ranks. If you choose to stay on 72 MHz, no
one will ever stop you. This latest addition to
DSS RC—the Airtronics RDS8000—is
welcomed into our hobby. MA
Bob Aberle
[email protected]
Manufacturer/Distributor:
Airtronics/Global Hobby Distributors
18480 Bandilier Cir.
Fountain Valley CA 92807
(800) 262-1178
www.airtronics.net/
Other Review Articles:
Hobby Merchandiser: February 2008
Model Airplane News: May 2008
Park Pilot: Winter 2008
RC Heli: May 2008
Sources:
Mike’s I Fly R/C Blog
http://mikegoesflying.wordpress.com/
Edition: Model Aviation - 2008/07
Page Numbers: 61,62,63,64,65
July 2008 61
A solid, full-range digital
spread spectrum RC
system that’s easy to
use
Power Switch: Airtronics RDS8000
BOB ABERLE
The new Airtronics RDS8000 RC transmitter is a full eight-channel-function unit
intended for fixed-wing and helicopter flying. It has 10-model memory and many
standard and special programmable mixing controls.
The RDS8000 system comes with a dual-output Ni-Cd
battery charger and switch harness. You supply or separately
purchase the airborne battery pack and servos.
ALTHOUGH DIGITAL spread spectrum
(DSS) radio transmission was known about
(and employed) for many years, this
technology wasn’t introduced into our
segment of the RC hobby until
approximately three years ago. In that short
span of time since, DSS has won over many
RC fliers who now enjoy its many
advantages.
The technology’s principal advantage is
that it is safe to operate without channel (or
frequency) control, regardless of where you
fly. When using this new equipment,
operating on the 2.4 GHz band, there is no
need for a frequency clip, pin, flag, or any
kind of local flying-site control. (You might
still want to limit the number of models in
the air at any one time for safety reasons.)
The chances of interference are
extremely remote. Best of all, the cost to
embrace this new technology is certainly not
excessive and much of the existing
equipment, such as servos and batteries, can
be used.
Keep in mind that employing DSS or not
is purely up to you. The existing 50 RC
aircraft channels operating on 72 MHz will
be available to us indefinitely.
I’m not going to spend time on a technical
dissertation on DSS technology. You can
find many good articles about it on various
Web sites. But I do want you to know that
The spread spectrum eight-channel
receiver is small and weighs only 1/2 ounce.
This stand-alone unit has two antennas;
each is a total of 71/2 inches long.
62 MODEL AVIATION
Photos by the author and Michael Ramsey
Keep the RDS8000’s 31/ 2-inch-long
antenna at an angle perpendicular to the
ground, as shown. A special provided
range-check procedure is easy to follow.
The transmitter’s front control panel is identical to that of the
RD8000 72 MHz RC system. It employs the “Channel Priority
Menu System,” which is unique in the RC industry.
An eight-cell, 700 mAh Ni-Cd rechargeable
battery pack provides the power.
Transmitter current drain is 180 mA, so you
should be able to get up to three hours of
operation before recharging is necessary.
A large LCD screen opens to this display
every time power is turned on. At the top is
a bar showing remaining battery capacity
(from full to empty). Model memory
position is at the upper left. Battery voltage
is indicated.
The most important thing the user must do
is the binding process. The process is simple
and involves using a blue LED and a pushbutton
Bind switch on the left corner of the
transmitter control panel.
The Throttle Cut push button pulls throttle trim all the way closed
when depressed. At the top right is the flap switch for when in aero
mode. In all cases the user can select aero or helicopter control
functions.
The push-button switch is for the trainer function. The top left
switch is for aircraft retracts. The center switch can be elevator dual
rate for aero or gyro control for helicopter.
Left: The other half of the binding
process involves the receiver,
which also has a blue LED and a
Bind switch. Once the receiver is
paired to your transmitter, it is
unnecessary to repeat the process
(in most cases).
Right: Airtronics allows the
helicopter pilot to change the
location of the two flight-mode
switches at the top corners of the
transmitter and substitute the
labels. The straps are a courtesy
for mounting the receiver.
July 2008 63
Pluses and Minuses
+•
The classic RD8000 has been upgraded
to 2.4 GHz.
• Inexpensive entry into DSS technology.
• Full-range system is suitable for indoorto
outdoor-size models.
• Multiple mixing functions for aircraft and
helicopters.
• Receiver operates with just 2 volts. -• Full systems with servos aren’t yet
available.
Key Features
Specifications
Number of channels: Eight
Model memory: 10
Programming features: Aircraft,
helicopter
Band: 2.400-2.483 GHz
Spectral capacity: 40-50, depending
on systems in use
Modulation type: FHSS (Frequency
Hopping Spread Spectrum)
Resolution: Unknown
Transmitter current: 180 mAh
Transmitter battery: 9.6-volt, 700
mAh Ni-Cd
Receiver battery: Not included
Servos: Not included; compatible with
analog, digital types
Receiver: Model 92824 (eight channels,
2.4 GHz)
Price: $229.99
• Model naming (three letters)
• Data reset
• Stopwatch
• Digital trims
• LCD transmitter voltage meter
• Large LCD
• Adjustable stick tension and length
• Center adjustment on all channels
• Dual rate on elevator, aileron (plus
rudder on helicopter)
• Endpoint adjustment on all channels
• Exponential on aileron, elevator, rudder
• Four flight modes
• Dual rate alarm
• Fail-safe/hold
• Menu options
• Receiver-battery fail-safe
• Dual elevator mix
• Thirteen aircraft mixes
• Five-point throttle, pitch curves
(helicopter)
• Swashplate mix selection
You can see a complete documented
list of this system’s features on the
Airtronics Web site. There you can also
access a detailed listing of all the hobby
dealers who sell it and download the
entire operating manual.
more than one type of spread spectrum
technology is available to our RC modelaircraft
hobby.
Until now, three DSS RC systems were
offered. The first were the Spektrum DX6
and DX7 (from Horizon Hobby), which use
a concept known as DSM (or now DSM2).
That stands for Digital Spectrum
Modulation.
The second was by a company known
as Xtreme Power Systems. It released
transmitter modules (that adapt to several
brands of radios) and companion spread
spectrum receivers.
The third was Futaba’s FASST (Futaba
Advanced Spread Spectrum Technology)
systems. They are available either as new
units or adaptable modules that are used to
convert some existing Futaba radios.
The Spektrum system employs a DSS
technique that assigns a pair of channels, at
start-up, from a series of 40 pairs that are
available in the band. These two randomly
selected channels can literally bounce back
and forth during a flight to provide solid
RC control.
The Xtreme Power Systems and Futaba
units employ a spread spectrum technique
that is more similar to what the cell phone
industry uses. This technique known as
“frequency hopping” happens so fast that
you are unaware of it during a flight.
A fourth RC manufacturer—
Airtronics—entered the DSS market in
early 2008. Global Hobby Distributors
distributes its products to hobby dealers in
the US, Canada, and South America. The
RDS8000 is Airtronics’ first DSS RC
system. It was derived from the popular
Airtronics RD8000 72 MHz system that
has been on the market for the past six
years or more.
Except for the frequency and
modulation difference, the RDS8000 and
RD8000 are identical controlwise. They
have full eight-channel control capability
with all the popular computer-generated
special control features.
In this review I’ll concentrate only on
the differences associated with the DSS
technology. The new Airtronics system
also employs the frequency-hopping
concept (which it calls “FHSS”).
It is important to know that each RC
manufacturer employs digital coding
techniques that make its products different
from the others. In fact, as each new
system is developed, the manufacturer
must certify to the FCC that its equipment
will not interfere with other systems that
are already in production. Because of this
discrete coding technology, you will not be
able to mix brands of RC transmitters and
receivers.
The marketing concept associated with
the Airtronics RDS8000 FHSS RC system
is interesting. The presumption is that most
RC fliers already own plenty of servos and
airborne battery packs. So to make entry
into DSS RC as cost-effective as possible,
Airtronics is basically selling the
transmitter (which includes a battery pack
and charger), a companion eight-channel
receiver (model 92824), and a switch
harness for $229.99. You can purchase
additional receivers for $79.99 each.
When you buy this new transmitter and
receiver, it will take only a short time to
You must locate the two receiver antennas inside your aircraft with care, using these
supplied sketches as a guide. The antennas must be placed at right angles to each other. It is
recommended that the antennas not be placed near noise-generating devices such as ESCs
(used with electric power) and servos.
Receiver Receiver Receiver Receiver
Antenna
90° 90°
90°
90°
swap the RDS8000 system into an aircraft.
Then you can be out flying again—but
without concern for frequency control.
Airtronics’ RDS8000 transmitter will
provide the same control features as the
existing 72 MHz version does. The only
noticeable difference is the extremely short
antenna (31/2 inches long) that exits the top
of the RDS8000 transmitter’s case.
Remember not to point this transmitter
antenna directly at your aircraft. Always
hold it off to one side or the other for
optimal signal clarity.
The new eight-channel-function
companion DSS receiver measures only 17/8
inches long, 1 inch wide, and 9/16 inch thick,and it weighs an extraordinarily light 1/2
ounce. This size unit would be perfect for
even an average-size park flyer.
Airtronics’ model 92824 is a single
receiver. I point this out because some
manufacturers require two separate units
that are joined by a cable.
Two short antennas (71/2 inches) exit the
receiver, and the way these antennas are
located and mounted in your aircraft is
extremely important to the Airtronics
system’s overall operation. The antennas
must be placed 90° to one another.
A series of easy-to-follow diagrams in
the instruction manual shows the
recommended antenna orientation. The
suggestion is made to slip the ends of the
antenna wire inside plastic soda straws that
have been attached to the inside of the
aircraft’s fuselage. There is a warning not to
get the ends of the antennas close to
conductive-type material or near noisegenerating
devices such as ESCs or RC
servos.
Now we get down to the real difference
in operation. There are two new items
associated with the use of any DSS RC
system, the first of which is a technique
called “pairing” or “binding.” Each
transmitter gets a unique code embedded
into its memory. The first time you go to
operate your companion receiver, you must
“bind” it to your specific transmitter.
On the Airtronics RDS8000 transmitter,
you will find a Bind LED and a Bind key on
the lower left front panel. Likewise, the
RDS8000 FHSS receiver has a Bind LED
and a Bind key. The instructions for
performing the binding process are simple,
and it takes only a few minutes.
Once completed for that particular
transmitter and receiver, it shouldn’t be
necessary to bind them again. But every
once in awhile, such as to reset the fail-safe
control positions, it may be necessary to
rebind. Keep a copy of the binding
instructions handy.
The second item that is different from
what we are normally used to is how you go
about making a range-verification test. On
our 72 MHz frequencies, you collapsed the
transmitter antenna, which reduced the
power output. Then you walked away from
your aircraft to see if the controls worked at
something such as 50-100 feet apart.
The antenna on this 2.4 GHz system is
only 31/2 inches long, so there is nothing to
collapse. The trick is to reduce the power
output electronically so that a simulated
range check can be made.
The procedure is provided, and it does
take a few steps to accomplish. Keep a copy
of the range-verification instructions with
you for when you need them. Range
checking should always be done
immediately following a new aircraft RCsystem
installation or when any airborne
equipment is changed or relocated in any
manner.
One of the questions I hear lately as more
and more DSS equipment becomes available
is, “Can interference still occur?” I guess the
basic answer is, “Never say never!” But the
digital coding techniques that each RC
manufacturer employs make interference
from brand to brand or even within a
specific brand of DSS system close to
impossible.
Since no frequency control is required
for DSS 2.4 GHz RC channels, more
systems are likely to be on the air at any one
time. You may limit the number of models
in the air at any flying site, but that doesn’t
preclude many transmitters from being
turned on in the pit areas for test purposes.
What would happen if too many DSS
transmitters went on at the same time (called
“saturation”)? With the DSM systems, using
a pair of channels at a time, if all 40 channel
pairs went into use, theoretically the 41st to try
to link couldn’t until somebody shut down. In
this case, you couldn’t get a clear pair until a
pair was available. The good thing is that the
condition occurs safely on the ground—not in
the air.
With the frequency-hopping concept,
more channels turned on will eventually slow
the control response time. It wouldn’t be a
drastic slowdown, but it would be enough to
caution you to land your airplane and wait for
some of the traffic to subside.
In either case there does not seem to be a
chance of outright interference knocking your
model out of the sky. Therefore, the lack of
frequency control should not prove to be a
safety issue.
Some concern has been voiced about
existing DSS systems that the receivers may
be intolerant to low voltage. The thought is
that when a certain low-voltage level is
reached, the receiver system will go into failsafe
and try to reboot.
The Airtronics RDS8000 will operate
down to 2 volts. Since your servos won’t
work at that low of a voltage, they will quit
operating long before the receiver does. So in
this regard, you don’t have to worry about a
low-voltage “brownout” in flight causing a
system reboot, which might result in a
crashed aircraft.
The RDS8000 is a full-range system that
is capable of flying everything from park
flyers to Giant Scale aircraft, jets, helicopters,
and Thermal Duration sailplanes. If you can
see it, you can control it.
Also be aware that operation on 2.4 GHz
frequencies virtually eliminates noise
problems associated with gasoline/ignition
engine power. Even Society of Antique
Modelers fliers are noting excellent RC
performance when using replica Old-Timer
ignition systems.
You might still have question and
concerns about switching to DSS operation.
Mike Greenshields, Global Hobby
Distributors’ product manager, has
established “Mike’s I Fly R/C Blog.” I’ve
seen the start of it, and it looks really
interesting.
When we received our 50 new RC aircraft
channels in the early 1980s, we were told that
the narrower-band channels wouldn’t work
because they needed expensive and bulky
dual-conversion receivers. We eventually
learned that dual-conversion receivers could
be made at 0.3 ounce at an eventual street cost
of just $60. That progress benefited all of us
in the RC hobby.
Those channels, as given to us back then,
were in the middle of what we were already
using. So a complex phasing out-and-phasing
in process took more than 10 years to
straighten out.
In the 2006-2008 time frame, our industry
people have come up with economical DSS
systems on a new band that offers our ability
to fly RC model aircraft so many more
advantages. We are lucky to have this new
technology, which we can embrace
voluntarily with no concern for our existing
RC channels.
Many modelers have already switched to
DSS, and many more will eventually join the
ranks. If you choose to stay on 72 MHz, no
one will ever stop you. This latest addition to
DSS RC—the Airtronics RDS8000—is
welcomed into our hobby. MA
Bob Aberle
[email protected]
Manufacturer/Distributor:
Airtronics/Global Hobby Distributors
18480 Bandilier Cir.
Fountain Valley CA 92807
(800) 262-1178
www.airtronics.net/
Other Review Articles:
Hobby Merchandiser: February 2008
Model Airplane News: May 2008
Park Pilot: Winter 2008
RC Heli: May 2008
Sources:
Mike’s I Fly R/C Blog
http://mikegoesflying.wordpress.com/
Edition: Model Aviation - 2008/07
Page Numbers: 61,62,63,64,65
July 2008 61
A solid, full-range digital
spread spectrum RC
system that’s easy to
use
Power Switch: Airtronics RDS8000
BOB ABERLE
The new Airtronics RDS8000 RC transmitter is a full eight-channel-function unit
intended for fixed-wing and helicopter flying. It has 10-model memory and many
standard and special programmable mixing controls.
The RDS8000 system comes with a dual-output Ni-Cd
battery charger and switch harness. You supply or separately
purchase the airborne battery pack and servos.
ALTHOUGH DIGITAL spread spectrum
(DSS) radio transmission was known about
(and employed) for many years, this
technology wasn’t introduced into our
segment of the RC hobby until
approximately three years ago. In that short
span of time since, DSS has won over many
RC fliers who now enjoy its many
advantages.
The technology’s principal advantage is
that it is safe to operate without channel (or
frequency) control, regardless of where you
fly. When using this new equipment,
operating on the 2.4 GHz band, there is no
need for a frequency clip, pin, flag, or any
kind of local flying-site control. (You might
still want to limit the number of models in
the air at any one time for safety reasons.)
The chances of interference are
extremely remote. Best of all, the cost to
embrace this new technology is certainly not
excessive and much of the existing
equipment, such as servos and batteries, can
be used.
Keep in mind that employing DSS or not
is purely up to you. The existing 50 RC
aircraft channels operating on 72 MHz will
be available to us indefinitely.
I’m not going to spend time on a technical
dissertation on DSS technology. You can
find many good articles about it on various
Web sites. But I do want you to know that
The spread spectrum eight-channel
receiver is small and weighs only 1/2 ounce.
This stand-alone unit has two antennas;
each is a total of 71/2 inches long.
62 MODEL AVIATION
Photos by the author and Michael Ramsey
Keep the RDS8000’s 31/ 2-inch-long
antenna at an angle perpendicular to the
ground, as shown. A special provided
range-check procedure is easy to follow.
The transmitter’s front control panel is identical to that of the
RD8000 72 MHz RC system. It employs the “Channel Priority
Menu System,” which is unique in the RC industry.
An eight-cell, 700 mAh Ni-Cd rechargeable
battery pack provides the power.
Transmitter current drain is 180 mA, so you
should be able to get up to three hours of
operation before recharging is necessary.
A large LCD screen opens to this display
every time power is turned on. At the top is
a bar showing remaining battery capacity
(from full to empty). Model memory
position is at the upper left. Battery voltage
is indicated.
The most important thing the user must do
is the binding process. The process is simple
and involves using a blue LED and a pushbutton
Bind switch on the left corner of the
transmitter control panel.
The Throttle Cut push button pulls throttle trim all the way closed
when depressed. At the top right is the flap switch for when in aero
mode. In all cases the user can select aero or helicopter control
functions.
The push-button switch is for the trainer function. The top left
switch is for aircraft retracts. The center switch can be elevator dual
rate for aero or gyro control for helicopter.
Left: The other half of the binding
process involves the receiver,
which also has a blue LED and a
Bind switch. Once the receiver is
paired to your transmitter, it is
unnecessary to repeat the process
(in most cases).
Right: Airtronics allows the
helicopter pilot to change the
location of the two flight-mode
switches at the top corners of the
transmitter and substitute the
labels. The straps are a courtesy
for mounting the receiver.
July 2008 63
Pluses and Minuses
+•
The classic RD8000 has been upgraded
to 2.4 GHz.
• Inexpensive entry into DSS technology.
• Full-range system is suitable for indoorto
outdoor-size models.
• Multiple mixing functions for aircraft and
helicopters.
• Receiver operates with just 2 volts. -• Full systems with servos aren’t yet
available.
Key Features
Specifications
Number of channels: Eight
Model memory: 10
Programming features: Aircraft,
helicopter
Band: 2.400-2.483 GHz
Spectral capacity: 40-50, depending
on systems in use
Modulation type: FHSS (Frequency
Hopping Spread Spectrum)
Resolution: Unknown
Transmitter current: 180 mAh
Transmitter battery: 9.6-volt, 700
mAh Ni-Cd
Receiver battery: Not included
Servos: Not included; compatible with
analog, digital types
Receiver: Model 92824 (eight channels,
2.4 GHz)
Price: $229.99
• Model naming (three letters)
• Data reset
• Stopwatch
• Digital trims
• LCD transmitter voltage meter
• Large LCD
• Adjustable stick tension and length
• Center adjustment on all channels
• Dual rate on elevator, aileron (plus
rudder on helicopter)
• Endpoint adjustment on all channels
• Exponential on aileron, elevator, rudder
• Four flight modes
• Dual rate alarm
• Fail-safe/hold
• Menu options
• Receiver-battery fail-safe
• Dual elevator mix
• Thirteen aircraft mixes
• Five-point throttle, pitch curves
(helicopter)
• Swashplate mix selection
You can see a complete documented
list of this system’s features on the
Airtronics Web site. There you can also
access a detailed listing of all the hobby
dealers who sell it and download the
entire operating manual.
more than one type of spread spectrum
technology is available to our RC modelaircraft
hobby.
Until now, three DSS RC systems were
offered. The first were the Spektrum DX6
and DX7 (from Horizon Hobby), which use
a concept known as DSM (or now DSM2).
That stands for Digital Spectrum
Modulation.
The second was by a company known
as Xtreme Power Systems. It released
transmitter modules (that adapt to several
brands of radios) and companion spread
spectrum receivers.
The third was Futaba’s FASST (Futaba
Advanced Spread Spectrum Technology)
systems. They are available either as new
units or adaptable modules that are used to
convert some existing Futaba radios.
The Spektrum system employs a DSS
technique that assigns a pair of channels, at
start-up, from a series of 40 pairs that are
available in the band. These two randomly
selected channels can literally bounce back
and forth during a flight to provide solid
RC control.
The Xtreme Power Systems and Futaba
units employ a spread spectrum technique
that is more similar to what the cell phone
industry uses. This technique known as
“frequency hopping” happens so fast that
you are unaware of it during a flight.
A fourth RC manufacturer—
Airtronics—entered the DSS market in
early 2008. Global Hobby Distributors
distributes its products to hobby dealers in
the US, Canada, and South America. The
RDS8000 is Airtronics’ first DSS RC
system. It was derived from the popular
Airtronics RD8000 72 MHz system that
has been on the market for the past six
years or more.
Except for the frequency and
modulation difference, the RDS8000 and
RD8000 are identical controlwise. They
have full eight-channel control capability
with all the popular computer-generated
special control features.
In this review I’ll concentrate only on
the differences associated with the DSS
technology. The new Airtronics system
also employs the frequency-hopping
concept (which it calls “FHSS”).
It is important to know that each RC
manufacturer employs digital coding
techniques that make its products different
from the others. In fact, as each new
system is developed, the manufacturer
must certify to the FCC that its equipment
will not interfere with other systems that
are already in production. Because of this
discrete coding technology, you will not be
able to mix brands of RC transmitters and
receivers.
The marketing concept associated with
the Airtronics RDS8000 FHSS RC system
is interesting. The presumption is that most
RC fliers already own plenty of servos and
airborne battery packs. So to make entry
into DSS RC as cost-effective as possible,
Airtronics is basically selling the
transmitter (which includes a battery pack
and charger), a companion eight-channel
receiver (model 92824), and a switch
harness for $229.99. You can purchase
additional receivers for $79.99 each.
When you buy this new transmitter and
receiver, it will take only a short time to
You must locate the two receiver antennas inside your aircraft with care, using these
supplied sketches as a guide. The antennas must be placed at right angles to each other. It is
recommended that the antennas not be placed near noise-generating devices such as ESCs
(used with electric power) and servos.
Receiver Receiver Receiver Receiver
Antenna
90° 90°
90°
90°
swap the RDS8000 system into an aircraft.
Then you can be out flying again—but
without concern for frequency control.
Airtronics’ RDS8000 transmitter will
provide the same control features as the
existing 72 MHz version does. The only
noticeable difference is the extremely short
antenna (31/2 inches long) that exits the top
of the RDS8000 transmitter’s case.
Remember not to point this transmitter
antenna directly at your aircraft. Always
hold it off to one side or the other for
optimal signal clarity.
The new eight-channel-function
companion DSS receiver measures only 17/8
inches long, 1 inch wide, and 9/16 inch thick,and it weighs an extraordinarily light 1/2
ounce. This size unit would be perfect for
even an average-size park flyer.
Airtronics’ model 92824 is a single
receiver. I point this out because some
manufacturers require two separate units
that are joined by a cable.
Two short antennas (71/2 inches) exit the
receiver, and the way these antennas are
located and mounted in your aircraft is
extremely important to the Airtronics
system’s overall operation. The antennas
must be placed 90° to one another.
A series of easy-to-follow diagrams in
the instruction manual shows the
recommended antenna orientation. The
suggestion is made to slip the ends of the
antenna wire inside plastic soda straws that
have been attached to the inside of the
aircraft’s fuselage. There is a warning not to
get the ends of the antennas close to
conductive-type material or near noisegenerating
devices such as ESCs or RC
servos.
Now we get down to the real difference
in operation. There are two new items
associated with the use of any DSS RC
system, the first of which is a technique
called “pairing” or “binding.” Each
transmitter gets a unique code embedded
into its memory. The first time you go to
operate your companion receiver, you must
“bind” it to your specific transmitter.
On the Airtronics RDS8000 transmitter,
you will find a Bind LED and a Bind key on
the lower left front panel. Likewise, the
RDS8000 FHSS receiver has a Bind LED
and a Bind key. The instructions for
performing the binding process are simple,
and it takes only a few minutes.
Once completed for that particular
transmitter and receiver, it shouldn’t be
necessary to bind them again. But every
once in awhile, such as to reset the fail-safe
control positions, it may be necessary to
rebind. Keep a copy of the binding
instructions handy.
The second item that is different from
what we are normally used to is how you go
about making a range-verification test. On
our 72 MHz frequencies, you collapsed the
transmitter antenna, which reduced the
power output. Then you walked away from
your aircraft to see if the controls worked at
something such as 50-100 feet apart.
The antenna on this 2.4 GHz system is
only 31/2 inches long, so there is nothing to
collapse. The trick is to reduce the power
output electronically so that a simulated
range check can be made.
The procedure is provided, and it does
take a few steps to accomplish. Keep a copy
of the range-verification instructions with
you for when you need them. Range
checking should always be done
immediately following a new aircraft RCsystem
installation or when any airborne
equipment is changed or relocated in any
manner.
One of the questions I hear lately as more
and more DSS equipment becomes available
is, “Can interference still occur?” I guess the
basic answer is, “Never say never!” But the
digital coding techniques that each RC
manufacturer employs make interference
from brand to brand or even within a
specific brand of DSS system close to
impossible.
Since no frequency control is required
for DSS 2.4 GHz RC channels, more
systems are likely to be on the air at any one
time. You may limit the number of models
in the air at any flying site, but that doesn’t
preclude many transmitters from being
turned on in the pit areas for test purposes.
What would happen if too many DSS
transmitters went on at the same time (called
“saturation”)? With the DSM systems, using
a pair of channels at a time, if all 40 channel
pairs went into use, theoretically the 41st to try
to link couldn’t until somebody shut down. In
this case, you couldn’t get a clear pair until a
pair was available. The good thing is that the
condition occurs safely on the ground—not in
the air.
With the frequency-hopping concept,
more channels turned on will eventually slow
the control response time. It wouldn’t be a
drastic slowdown, but it would be enough to
caution you to land your airplane and wait for
some of the traffic to subside.
In either case there does not seem to be a
chance of outright interference knocking your
model out of the sky. Therefore, the lack of
frequency control should not prove to be a
safety issue.
Some concern has been voiced about
existing DSS systems that the receivers may
be intolerant to low voltage. The thought is
that when a certain low-voltage level is
reached, the receiver system will go into failsafe
and try to reboot.
The Airtronics RDS8000 will operate
down to 2 volts. Since your servos won’t
work at that low of a voltage, they will quit
operating long before the receiver does. So in
this regard, you don’t have to worry about a
low-voltage “brownout” in flight causing a
system reboot, which might result in a
crashed aircraft.
The RDS8000 is a full-range system that
is capable of flying everything from park
flyers to Giant Scale aircraft, jets, helicopters,
and Thermal Duration sailplanes. If you can
see it, you can control it.
Also be aware that operation on 2.4 GHz
frequencies virtually eliminates noise
problems associated with gasoline/ignition
engine power. Even Society of Antique
Modelers fliers are noting excellent RC
performance when using replica Old-Timer
ignition systems.
You might still have question and
concerns about switching to DSS operation.
Mike Greenshields, Global Hobby
Distributors’ product manager, has
established “Mike’s I Fly R/C Blog.” I’ve
seen the start of it, and it looks really
interesting.
When we received our 50 new RC aircraft
channels in the early 1980s, we were told that
the narrower-band channels wouldn’t work
because they needed expensive and bulky
dual-conversion receivers. We eventually
learned that dual-conversion receivers could
be made at 0.3 ounce at an eventual street cost
of just $60. That progress benefited all of us
in the RC hobby.
Those channels, as given to us back then,
were in the middle of what we were already
using. So a complex phasing out-and-phasing
in process took more than 10 years to
straighten out.
In the 2006-2008 time frame, our industry
people have come up with economical DSS
systems on a new band that offers our ability
to fly RC model aircraft so many more
advantages. We are lucky to have this new
technology, which we can embrace
voluntarily with no concern for our existing
RC channels.
Many modelers have already switched to
DSS, and many more will eventually join the
ranks. If you choose to stay on 72 MHz, no
one will ever stop you. This latest addition to
DSS RC—the Airtronics RDS8000—is
welcomed into our hobby. MA
Bob Aberle
[email protected]
Manufacturer/Distributor:
Airtronics/Global Hobby Distributors
18480 Bandilier Cir.
Fountain Valley CA 92807
(800) 262-1178
www.airtronics.net/
Other Review Articles:
Hobby Merchandiser: February 2008
Model Airplane News: May 2008
Park Pilot: Winter 2008
RC Heli: May 2008
Sources:
Mike’s I Fly R/C Blog
http://mikegoesflying.wordpress.com/
Edition: Model Aviation - 2008/07
Page Numbers: 61,62,63,64,65
July 2008 61
A solid, full-range digital
spread spectrum RC
system that’s easy to
use
Power Switch: Airtronics RDS8000
BOB ABERLE
The new Airtronics RDS8000 RC transmitter is a full eight-channel-function unit
intended for fixed-wing and helicopter flying. It has 10-model memory and many
standard and special programmable mixing controls.
The RDS8000 system comes with a dual-output Ni-Cd
battery charger and switch harness. You supply or separately
purchase the airborne battery pack and servos.
ALTHOUGH DIGITAL spread spectrum
(DSS) radio transmission was known about
(and employed) for many years, this
technology wasn’t introduced into our
segment of the RC hobby until
approximately three years ago. In that short
span of time since, DSS has won over many
RC fliers who now enjoy its many
advantages.
The technology’s principal advantage is
that it is safe to operate without channel (or
frequency) control, regardless of where you
fly. When using this new equipment,
operating on the 2.4 GHz band, there is no
need for a frequency clip, pin, flag, or any
kind of local flying-site control. (You might
still want to limit the number of models in
the air at any one time for safety reasons.)
The chances of interference are
extremely remote. Best of all, the cost to
embrace this new technology is certainly not
excessive and much of the existing
equipment, such as servos and batteries, can
be used.
Keep in mind that employing DSS or not
is purely up to you. The existing 50 RC
aircraft channels operating on 72 MHz will
be available to us indefinitely.
I’m not going to spend time on a technical
dissertation on DSS technology. You can
find many good articles about it on various
Web sites. But I do want you to know that
The spread spectrum eight-channel
receiver is small and weighs only 1/2 ounce.
This stand-alone unit has two antennas;
each is a total of 71/2 inches long.
62 MODEL AVIATION
Photos by the author and Michael Ramsey
Keep the RDS8000’s 31/ 2-inch-long
antenna at an angle perpendicular to the
ground, as shown. A special provided
range-check procedure is easy to follow.
The transmitter’s front control panel is identical to that of the
RD8000 72 MHz RC system. It employs the “Channel Priority
Menu System,” which is unique in the RC industry.
An eight-cell, 700 mAh Ni-Cd rechargeable
battery pack provides the power.
Transmitter current drain is 180 mA, so you
should be able to get up to three hours of
operation before recharging is necessary.
A large LCD screen opens to this display
every time power is turned on. At the top is
a bar showing remaining battery capacity
(from full to empty). Model memory
position is at the upper left. Battery voltage
is indicated.
The most important thing the user must do
is the binding process. The process is simple
and involves using a blue LED and a pushbutton
Bind switch on the left corner of the
transmitter control panel.
The Throttle Cut push button pulls throttle trim all the way closed
when depressed. At the top right is the flap switch for when in aero
mode. In all cases the user can select aero or helicopter control
functions.
The push-button switch is for the trainer function. The top left
switch is for aircraft retracts. The center switch can be elevator dual
rate for aero or gyro control for helicopter.
Left: The other half of the binding
process involves the receiver,
which also has a blue LED and a
Bind switch. Once the receiver is
paired to your transmitter, it is
unnecessary to repeat the process
(in most cases).
Right: Airtronics allows the
helicopter pilot to change the
location of the two flight-mode
switches at the top corners of the
transmitter and substitute the
labels. The straps are a courtesy
for mounting the receiver.
July 2008 63
Pluses and Minuses
+•
The classic RD8000 has been upgraded
to 2.4 GHz.
• Inexpensive entry into DSS technology.
• Full-range system is suitable for indoorto
outdoor-size models.
• Multiple mixing functions for aircraft and
helicopters.
• Receiver operates with just 2 volts. -• Full systems with servos aren’t yet
available.
Key Features
Specifications
Number of channels: Eight
Model memory: 10
Programming features: Aircraft,
helicopter
Band: 2.400-2.483 GHz
Spectral capacity: 40-50, depending
on systems in use
Modulation type: FHSS (Frequency
Hopping Spread Spectrum)
Resolution: Unknown
Transmitter current: 180 mAh
Transmitter battery: 9.6-volt, 700
mAh Ni-Cd
Receiver battery: Not included
Servos: Not included; compatible with
analog, digital types
Receiver: Model 92824 (eight channels,
2.4 GHz)
Price: $229.99
• Model naming (three letters)
• Data reset
• Stopwatch
• Digital trims
• LCD transmitter voltage meter
• Large LCD
• Adjustable stick tension and length
• Center adjustment on all channels
• Dual rate on elevator, aileron (plus
rudder on helicopter)
• Endpoint adjustment on all channels
• Exponential on aileron, elevator, rudder
• Four flight modes
• Dual rate alarm
• Fail-safe/hold
• Menu options
• Receiver-battery fail-safe
• Dual elevator mix
• Thirteen aircraft mixes
• Five-point throttle, pitch curves
(helicopter)
• Swashplate mix selection
You can see a complete documented
list of this system’s features on the
Airtronics Web site. There you can also
access a detailed listing of all the hobby
dealers who sell it and download the
entire operating manual.
more than one type of spread spectrum
technology is available to our RC modelaircraft
hobby.
Until now, three DSS RC systems were
offered. The first were the Spektrum DX6
and DX7 (from Horizon Hobby), which use
a concept known as DSM (or now DSM2).
That stands for Digital Spectrum
Modulation.
The second was by a company known
as Xtreme Power Systems. It released
transmitter modules (that adapt to several
brands of radios) and companion spread
spectrum receivers.
The third was Futaba’s FASST (Futaba
Advanced Spread Spectrum Technology)
systems. They are available either as new
units or adaptable modules that are used to
convert some existing Futaba radios.
The Spektrum system employs a DSS
technique that assigns a pair of channels, at
start-up, from a series of 40 pairs that are
available in the band. These two randomly
selected channels can literally bounce back
and forth during a flight to provide solid
RC control.
The Xtreme Power Systems and Futaba
units employ a spread spectrum technique
that is more similar to what the cell phone
industry uses. This technique known as
“frequency hopping” happens so fast that
you are unaware of it during a flight.
A fourth RC manufacturer—
Airtronics—entered the DSS market in
early 2008. Global Hobby Distributors
distributes its products to hobby dealers in
the US, Canada, and South America. The
RDS8000 is Airtronics’ first DSS RC
system. It was derived from the popular
Airtronics RD8000 72 MHz system that
has been on the market for the past six
years or more.
Except for the frequency and
modulation difference, the RDS8000 and
RD8000 are identical controlwise. They
have full eight-channel control capability
with all the popular computer-generated
special control features.
In this review I’ll concentrate only on
the differences associated with the DSS
technology. The new Airtronics system
also employs the frequency-hopping
concept (which it calls “FHSS”).
It is important to know that each RC
manufacturer employs digital coding
techniques that make its products different
from the others. In fact, as each new
system is developed, the manufacturer
must certify to the FCC that its equipment
will not interfere with other systems that
are already in production. Because of this
discrete coding technology, you will not be
able to mix brands of RC transmitters and
receivers.
The marketing concept associated with
the Airtronics RDS8000 FHSS RC system
is interesting. The presumption is that most
RC fliers already own plenty of servos and
airborne battery packs. So to make entry
into DSS RC as cost-effective as possible,
Airtronics is basically selling the
transmitter (which includes a battery pack
and charger), a companion eight-channel
receiver (model 92824), and a switch
harness for $229.99. You can purchase
additional receivers for $79.99 each.
When you buy this new transmitter and
receiver, it will take only a short time to
You must locate the two receiver antennas inside your aircraft with care, using these
supplied sketches as a guide. The antennas must be placed at right angles to each other. It is
recommended that the antennas not be placed near noise-generating devices such as ESCs
(used with electric power) and servos.
Receiver Receiver Receiver Receiver
Antenna
90° 90°
90°
90°
swap the RDS8000 system into an aircraft.
Then you can be out flying again—but
without concern for frequency control.
Airtronics’ RDS8000 transmitter will
provide the same control features as the
existing 72 MHz version does. The only
noticeable difference is the extremely short
antenna (31/2 inches long) that exits the top
of the RDS8000 transmitter’s case.
Remember not to point this transmitter
antenna directly at your aircraft. Always
hold it off to one side or the other for
optimal signal clarity.
The new eight-channel-function
companion DSS receiver measures only 17/8
inches long, 1 inch wide, and 9/16 inch thick,and it weighs an extraordinarily light 1/2
ounce. This size unit would be perfect for
even an average-size park flyer.
Airtronics’ model 92824 is a single
receiver. I point this out because some
manufacturers require two separate units
that are joined by a cable.
Two short antennas (71/2 inches) exit the
receiver, and the way these antennas are
located and mounted in your aircraft is
extremely important to the Airtronics
system’s overall operation. The antennas
must be placed 90° to one another.
A series of easy-to-follow diagrams in
the instruction manual shows the
recommended antenna orientation. The
suggestion is made to slip the ends of the
antenna wire inside plastic soda straws that
have been attached to the inside of the
aircraft’s fuselage. There is a warning not to
get the ends of the antennas close to
conductive-type material or near noisegenerating
devices such as ESCs or RC
servos.
Now we get down to the real difference
in operation. There are two new items
associated with the use of any DSS RC
system, the first of which is a technique
called “pairing” or “binding.” Each
transmitter gets a unique code embedded
into its memory. The first time you go to
operate your companion receiver, you must
“bind” it to your specific transmitter.
On the Airtronics RDS8000 transmitter,
you will find a Bind LED and a Bind key on
the lower left front panel. Likewise, the
RDS8000 FHSS receiver has a Bind LED
and a Bind key. The instructions for
performing the binding process are simple,
and it takes only a few minutes.
Once completed for that particular
transmitter and receiver, it shouldn’t be
necessary to bind them again. But every
once in awhile, such as to reset the fail-safe
control positions, it may be necessary to
rebind. Keep a copy of the binding
instructions handy.
The second item that is different from
what we are normally used to is how you go
about making a range-verification test. On
our 72 MHz frequencies, you collapsed the
transmitter antenna, which reduced the
power output. Then you walked away from
your aircraft to see if the controls worked at
something such as 50-100 feet apart.
The antenna on this 2.4 GHz system is
only 31/2 inches long, so there is nothing to
collapse. The trick is to reduce the power
output electronically so that a simulated
range check can be made.
The procedure is provided, and it does
take a few steps to accomplish. Keep a copy
of the range-verification instructions with
you for when you need them. Range
checking should always be done
immediately following a new aircraft RCsystem
installation or when any airborne
equipment is changed or relocated in any
manner.
One of the questions I hear lately as more
and more DSS equipment becomes available
is, “Can interference still occur?” I guess the
basic answer is, “Never say never!” But the
digital coding techniques that each RC
manufacturer employs make interference
from brand to brand or even within a
specific brand of DSS system close to
impossible.
Since no frequency control is required
for DSS 2.4 GHz RC channels, more
systems are likely to be on the air at any one
time. You may limit the number of models
in the air at any flying site, but that doesn’t
preclude many transmitters from being
turned on in the pit areas for test purposes.
What would happen if too many DSS
transmitters went on at the same time (called
“saturation”)? With the DSM systems, using
a pair of channels at a time, if all 40 channel
pairs went into use, theoretically the 41st to try
to link couldn’t until somebody shut down. In
this case, you couldn’t get a clear pair until a
pair was available. The good thing is that the
condition occurs safely on the ground—not in
the air.
With the frequency-hopping concept,
more channels turned on will eventually slow
the control response time. It wouldn’t be a
drastic slowdown, but it would be enough to
caution you to land your airplane and wait for
some of the traffic to subside.
In either case there does not seem to be a
chance of outright interference knocking your
model out of the sky. Therefore, the lack of
frequency control should not prove to be a
safety issue.
Some concern has been voiced about
existing DSS systems that the receivers may
be intolerant to low voltage. The thought is
that when a certain low-voltage level is
reached, the receiver system will go into failsafe
and try to reboot.
The Airtronics RDS8000 will operate
down to 2 volts. Since your servos won’t
work at that low of a voltage, they will quit
operating long before the receiver does. So in
this regard, you don’t have to worry about a
low-voltage “brownout” in flight causing a
system reboot, which might result in a
crashed aircraft.
The RDS8000 is a full-range system that
is capable of flying everything from park
flyers to Giant Scale aircraft, jets, helicopters,
and Thermal Duration sailplanes. If you can
see it, you can control it.
Also be aware that operation on 2.4 GHz
frequencies virtually eliminates noise
problems associated with gasoline/ignition
engine power. Even Society of Antique
Modelers fliers are noting excellent RC
performance when using replica Old-Timer
ignition systems.
You might still have question and
concerns about switching to DSS operation.
Mike Greenshields, Global Hobby
Distributors’ product manager, has
established “Mike’s I Fly R/C Blog.” I’ve
seen the start of it, and it looks really
interesting.
When we received our 50 new RC aircraft
channels in the early 1980s, we were told that
the narrower-band channels wouldn’t work
because they needed expensive and bulky
dual-conversion receivers. We eventually
learned that dual-conversion receivers could
be made at 0.3 ounce at an eventual street cost
of just $60. That progress benefited all of us
in the RC hobby.
Those channels, as given to us back then,
were in the middle of what we were already
using. So a complex phasing out-and-phasing
in process took more than 10 years to
straighten out.
In the 2006-2008 time frame, our industry
people have come up with economical DSS
systems on a new band that offers our ability
to fly RC model aircraft so many more
advantages. We are lucky to have this new
technology, which we can embrace
voluntarily with no concern for our existing
RC channels.
Many modelers have already switched to
DSS, and many more will eventually join the
ranks. If you choose to stay on 72 MHz, no
one will ever stop you. This latest addition to
DSS RC—the Airtronics RDS8000—is
welcomed into our hobby. MA
Bob Aberle
[email protected]
Manufacturer/Distributor:
Airtronics/Global Hobby Distributors
18480 Bandilier Cir.
Fountain Valley CA 92807
(800) 262-1178
www.airtronics.net/
Other Review Articles:
Hobby Merchandiser: February 2008
Model Airplane News: May 2008
Park Pilot: Winter 2008
RC Heli: May 2008
Sources:
Mike’s I Fly R/C Blog
http://mikegoesflying.wordpress.com/