Power Switch: Airtronics SD-10G 2.4 GHz 10-Channel Radio - 2011/03

Left: A Gaui Hurricane 425 was
treated to the Airtronics SD-10G.
This radio’s performance was
enhanced by the low system
latency and finite nine-point
mixing options for the power and
pitch controls.
Left: The satin finish and rounded surfaces
on the 10G are easy to keep clean. Notice
that the neck-strap clip is lower, so that
the strap will hang in the ideal position.
A 10-channel-friendly computer
radio set for all aircraft
DENNIS RIDENHOUR
Power Switch: Airtronics SD-10G 2.4 GHz 10-Channel Radio
THIS ALL-IN-ONE, high-performance
computer radio provides every sport and
competition pilot with a system that is easy to
use, powerful, and flexible for any
application, yet
affordable.
The SD-10G includes a transmitter,
receiver, charger, standard switch harness,
one servo extension, and manual. Available
aftermarket items include servos, a
Lithium transmitter battery, stick
extension ends, trainer cord, memory
expansion card, and USB computer
interface program and patch cord.
It was almost as if Airtronics had
forgotten about its aircraft customers. Then
the company released the RDS8000, which
took on the 2.4 GHz demand. MA Technical
Editor Bob Aberle reviewed that radio here,
and Editor Michael Ramsey has been using it
in his Park Pilot magazine helicopter
reviews.
The RDS8000 is a great sport radio, but
fans of the enduring Airtronics Stylus, such
as I, cried out that it was time for loyal users
to have the next industry-leading, innovative
competition radio. That call was answered
with the SD-10G, which features 10 channels
and a 10-bit computer system that averages
latency speeds up to 10 times faster than
those of the competition.
The full-range, full-feature SD-10G was
designed for all RC pilots. Whether you’re a
sport enthusiast or a demanding competition
fixed-wing, helicopter, or sailplane flier, this
no-nonsense radio can accommodate many
tastes.
Admittedly, the SD-10G thinks
differently from other double-digit-channel
radios. Its three-tier program menu is well
organized, and the logic strength of the
system is its ability to handle flight modes.
But don’t let that ability scare you; I’ve
learned that embracing the Flight Mode style
of setup can make the user’s experience more
enjoyable.
I’ll attempt to explain. Mr. Ramsey took
care of the photos (as well as some of the
testing) with his SD-10G.
I like very much how clean the case design
is. Despite the fact that it’s loaded to the hilt
with levers, buttons, and switches, the
smooth and rounded shape of the “box” is as
functional as it is practical. It’s not glossy, as
is chrome that scratches easily, or solid
black, showing every flaw, but has a finegrain
silver metallic satin coating that is easy
to clean and nonreflective (antiglare
anyway).
The SD-10G was developed upon a long
relationship between Airtronics technicians
and field representatives. The company is
strongest in the RC interest with the Soaring
community, but it also has helicopter and
aerobatics customers worldwide.
This radio seems to have been designed
to please a lot of people. In addition to
meeting competitors’ demands, Airtronics
didn’t forget that some RC pilots simply
want the basics and to explore their hobby at
a leisurely pace. The 10G will grow with you
and go to the podium with a winner.
March 2011 65
03sig3.QXD_00MSTRPG.QXD 1/24/11 1:38 PM Page 65
66 MODEL AVIATION
systems is included that can be customized
by the user. Soaring pilots with
specific working
model, push the “Display” button to power
up the screen; this allows programming but
doesn’t broadcast a signal. The benefit is a
significant power-consumption savings.
I like the supplied charger.
It’s a single-output
type for only the
transmitter and
seems to sense the
pack voltage.
When the battery
is fully charged, the
charger LED goes from
red to green. Its rate is
10C, which is safe. I
recommend that you
remove the pack and
burn in the battery for 24
hours at 150 mA.
The 10G is all about
safety. If you turn it on
with the Normal Flight
Mode switch off or the
throttle on, the transmitter
will let you know.
A host of alarm
The transmitter
antenna can remain retracted
when flying in the park or indoors. For full
rang the antenna should be extended and rotated to the
correct orientation (vertical).
Photos by Michael Ramsey
Under
the battery hood is
access to the standard NiMH pack
and a slot for the optional memory card. Airtronics
also sells a two-cell Li-Poly battery for the 10G.
All switches are the three-position type. The author assigned the
Inc/Dec function to the left toggle switch, so that highlighted
mixing values can be easily tuned while flying.
The navigator pad is used to highlight, in a spreadsheetlike
manner, the data packed onto the screen. A three-tiered menu
system makes programming fast and simple.
Sliders on the right and left sides of the transmitter can be
assigned almost any function and are accessible when the
transmitter is either held by hand or mounted in a tray.
If you have your own preferences when it
comes to switch use, Airtronics thought of
you; the entire array is numbered instead of
named. All switches are the three-position
type, so they can perform almost any
function you want.
For faster programming, some functions
are preprogrammed onto the most popular
switch locations. All of those settings are
easy to change; assign all functions to a
single switch if you want (but that would be
silly)!
It seems that this transmitter’s mission is
to fit the pilot’s needs. Selecting operational
modes (i.e., Mode 1, Mode 2, and so on) and
setting gimbal tensions soft, as delivered, or
intensely tight (using the included stiff
springs) are a couple of the mechanical
options.
A six-cell NiMH battery is provided with
the transmitter, which has a 1500 mAh
capacity. It can handle Lithium power
sources as well, but be sure to update the
low-voltage alarm to the power source you
are using.
To learn the transmitter and program the
03sig3.QXD_00MSTRPG.QXD 1/24/11 1:41 PM Page 66
March 2011 67
can get fancy and even change the channel
names if you want.
The 10G cross-references the channel
number with a two-digit label. “RA” is right
aileron, “LE” is left elevator, and so on.
If you choose a wing with multiple servos
on one surface, familiarize yourself with the
channel number that Airtronics assigned.
And if you don’t like it, change the number
sequence.
Full servo control is offered when each
servo is allocated to an individual channel.
The servo-delay feature helped me slow the
retract gear servos on a foam electric-ductedfan-
powered model.
Flight Mode delay is another inputvariation
feature; it controls how quickly the
features of a Flight Mode are uploaded. For
instance, my Landing Flight Mode controls
the flaps, from a switch, but the delay brings
the flaps down slowly as well as the elevator
trim mix that keeps the attitude of the model
stable. The more I played, the more fun this
radio became.
The 10G is available with either a 10- or
radio. The
instruction manual is easy to
follow and deeply concerned that the user
makes the correct programming choices.
Reminders are bountiful for the operator
to confirm changes and understand the
boundaries of every feature. These reminders
are focused on Flight Mode options.
I programmed the first model without the
manual and was surprised by how quick the
process was. Then I read the manual and
found that it was actually a carefully laid-out
plan.
Low-level programming is done once you
choose the type (Aero, Glider, or Heli) and
control functions. With that completed, you
times can program alarms to sound when a
phase of the flight is reached, or aerobatics
pilots can sequence the timers to better
harmonize a presentation or keep the flight
inside a strict time bracket.
The functional programming options are
intense with the 10G, but only if you want to
explore them. I encourage that you do so,
based on what I’ve learned about Flight
Modes, which I’ll explain shortly.
Programming the 10G is simple,
especially if it is not your first computer
Left: This 60-size Edge 540 got the SD-10G cure. Its
ability to perform 3-D flight was greatly enhanced by
using the radio’s simple-to-program flight-mode
options.
The lightest receiver in its class—the 10-channel 91204—
offers full range for any aircraft and can handle
direct voltage from a 7.4-volt Li-
Poly battery.
Above: The Airtronics manual is easy to read and full
of great tips. With more than 208 pages, it deserves
to be bound and kept handy for reference. Updates
are available online.
Service Bulletin
Sanwa/Airtronics USA/Canada issued
a service bulletin in mid-November of
2010. It concerns only Airtronics SD-10G
owners only in the purchase region of the
US and only with a specific list of serial
numbers. See the Airtronics Web site for
that listing. If your system’s serial number
is not within this group, your radio is not
affected.
A small number of SD-10G users in
the US have reported momentary loss of
signal when using the system in FHSS-1
modulation, typically in crowded
environments. Although very few users
have reported this problem, it is still of
concern to Airtronics.
Sanwa/Airtronics has researched these
events and is offering a free update to the
affected SD-10G owners. The update is a
small change to the radio frequency
board. It requires the work of a qualified
service technician and cannot be properly
performed by the owner. Rest assured
that this update will not affect the
system’s model memory system.
Those with radios that fall within the
range of serial numbers in the US or
Canada who would like this upgrade,
please return the system to Airtronics.
Visit the company’s Web site for return
details.
Airtronics will test every SD-10G for
proper operation and then return it to its
owner. There is no cost for this upgrade
service or parts. MA
—Michael Ramsey
03sig3.QXD_00MSTRPG.QXD 1/24/11 1:43 PM Page 67
68 MODEL AVIATION
• Compatible with all Airtronics FHSS aircraft receivers.
• Compatible with two-cell Li-Poly batteries.
• Full-range 92104 10-channel 2.4 GHz receiver is included.
• Ball race-supported gimbals with adjustable springs and
adjustable throttle ratchet.
• Unique “Direct Model Select” allows fast selection of three
favored models.
• Stick modes 1, 2, 3, and 4 are available (default is Mode 2).
• Telescoping transmitter antenna.
• Five complete flight modes that can be named.
• Three-axis triple rates and triple exponential with unique
adjustment in each direction of travel.
• All switches are three-position.
• Proportional side sliders with center detent.
• 100% assignable switches.
• 20-model memory and 20 more with aftermarket Sanwa
card.
• Airtronics USB cable and program options (available
separately).
• Five P-mixes with nine-point curves and graphs.
• Customizable menu.
• Complete trim authority and sensitivity adjustments and
cross trims.
• Fail-safe programming available on all channels.
• Multifunction timer.
• Advanced trainer functions (trainer available only 10G to
10G).
Universal Features
Type: Computer system for RC aircraft
Skill: Intermediate to expert
Number of channels: 10
Model memory: 20 (40 with expansion card)
Frequency: 2.4 GHz FHSS-3/FHSS-1 selectable
Output power: 100 milliwatts
Weight with battery: 32.8 ounces
Current drain: 240 mA per hour
Channel resolution: 1,024/2,048 (FHSS-1/FHSS-3)
Power supply: 7.2-volt, 1500 mAh NiMH
Operating voltage: 6.7-10.2
Temperature range: 32 degrees Fahrenheit to 122
degrees Fahrenheit
Pulse width: 0.9-2.1 milliseconds
Trim type: Digital (x6)
Gimbal type: Ball bearing/adjustable in length and tension
View screen: 2.7 x 1.4-inch LCD
Trainer function: Available
Latency: 6.7 milliseconds minimum; 16.3 milliseconds
maximum; 11.83 milliseconds average
Operational array: Nine switches, six trim levers, two
sliders, two buttons, one dial
Program input: Five buttons, one multidirectional
navigation pad
Charger: Input 110 volts; output 150 mA
Included: 10-channel receiver, switch, servo extension,
charger, high-tension stick springs
Street price: $429.99
General Specifications
Model: 92104 (for 10G transmitter only)
Number of channels: 10
Modulation: 2.4 GHz FHSS-3
Voltage: 4.8-7.4 (2.0 minimum)
Weight: 0.53 ounce
Size: 1.95 (length) x 1.05 (width) x 0.6 (height) inches
Intention: Full range for aircraft
Price: $149.99 (included)
Receiver Specifications
Pluses and Minuses
+•
Easy navigation, spreadsheetlike menu for control
surface/swashplate adjustments.
• Simple wing, swashplate, and model templates for easy
model setup.
• Inc/Dec switch allows the pilot to adjust mixing values in
flight.
• Multiple custom alert options for precision timing of flight
schedule.
• Comes with lightest 10-channel receiver available.
• Safety Link function (10-channel receiver only) prevents
wrong model operation.
• Best 10-channel radio available for less than $500. -•
Product bulletin; must send radio back for service (but
it’s free).
• Update software not yet available.
• Side slider ratchet is a bit soft.
Helicopter:
• Advanced swashplate control with both channel and
servo EPA, delay, linear adjustments.
• Three gyro gains in each flight mode.
• Three governor settings in each flight mode.
• Nine-point pitch and throttle curves with graphs.
Aircraft:
• Nine-point throttle curve with graph.
• Advanced mixing for roll, pitch, yaw coupling, and enginethrust
compensation.
• Available functions for twin-engine aircraft.
• Throttle Cut button.
• Dual idle (Idle Down) function.
• Easy setup for differential ailerons.
• Easy setup for dual elevator or V-tail.
Sailplane:
• Proper landing override flight mode.
• Six-servo-wing-capable.
• Proper camber-to-elevator and elevator-to-camber mix
with multipoint curves with graph.
• Landing mode assigned to ratcheted stick overrides
other modes when activated.
Programming Features
03sig3.QXD_00MSTRPG.QXD 1/24/11 2:03 PM Page 68
seven-channel receiver. The cost difference is
approximately $60, but with the 10-channel
version you get a safety feature—Safety
Link—that only one other radio brand I know
of offers.
With FHSS-3 Airtronics receivers, as with
the 10-channel, along with the mandatory
G.U.I.D. code recognition, Safety Link binds
a specific model memory to that specific
receiver as well. This way I can’t try to fly a
model on the wrong program and cause an
accident.
The 10-channel FHSS-3 receiver (92104)
is the lightest I’ve seen; it’s as lightweight as
some seven-channel receivers I’ve used in
park flyers. It’s full range and operates as a
stand-alone unit. In composite aircraft the
long whiskers can be easily located
externally, to provide uninterruptable service.
Airtronics did not initially recommend the
10-channel receiver for use with two-cell Liion/
LiFe or Li-Poly packs. It recently revised
the voltage limitations and now approves
higher-voltage use, such as from a two-cell
Li-Poly pack without a regulator. Be sure that
your servos can handle higher voltage.
The 10G is fast, especially when used with
an FHSS-3 receiver. Independent testing has
shown that no other nine- or 10-channel radio
is faster on average. That is partially because
of the 10-bit hardware, which is totally
digital.
Faster translation of information between
the pilot and aircraft results in a more
enhanced flight experience. Servos react
faster when you tell them to, and they
improve my confidence in maneuvers.
According to Airtronics:
“The SD-10G with the 10-channel
receiver may be too fast for some analog
servos—they simply may not work. To truly
see the advantages of this high resolution,
high frame rate, low latency radio, you’ll
need digital servos.”
Michael Ramsey used digital servos in a
helicopter and reported excellent
performance. I used modern analog servos
alongside digital servos and reported no
issues using the 92104 receiver.
Perhaps it’s the old or low-quality servos
that the company is worried about. The
FHSS-1-series Airtronics receivers work with
all servo types.
I quickly learned that the 10G was as
friendly as the computer radios I’d previously
operated and liked. With the more advanced
aircraft I tested, I learned that the
preprogrammed mixing was an invaluable
asset. Like adding ingredients to a pie, the
cool features of my airplane turned on as I
mixed the functions, and I could easily see
how to fine-tune their operation.
The 10G has a cool tool called “INC/
DEC,” which is essentially an input value
control that raises or lowers a highlighted
variable on the LCD screen. It’s similar to the
YES and NO buttons used to navigate
programming. Assigning the INC/DEC
function to the toggle switch in the left-hand
switch array makes it easy to change mixing
while the model is flying.
Before takeoff I’ll set the screen to the
mixing menu I want, to customize and
highlight the value in question. Let’s say I
want to trim the elevator to the landing
position of the flaps.
When the elevator value is highlighted, I
fly the aircraft with flaps deployed and
operate the INC/DEC switch to add or
subtract elevator until the model’s attitude is
as desired. I played with this feature a great
deal.
As I mentioned, the Airtronics system is
based on the use of Flight Modes. Normal
Mode, which is in use when you first turn on
the system (and is the default position), is
used for basic flight.
You never have to optimize your 10G to
use all of its Flight Modes; most RC pilots
will be happy operating in Normal. However,
while playing with the INC/DEC function I
learned that setting up a Flight Mode would
help me.
The Edge 540 I used for testing has two
aileron servos, and in 3-D flight it can be
programmed with slight camber or reflex to
optimize slow flight or high-alpha flight
maneuvers. I used to fly those two unique
ways by feeling my way around the
transmitter and operating the correct sequence
of nobs and switches to get the controls set, or
I’d stress out flying the model because the
drastic control surface changes made it a
challenge to pilot.
Using Flight Modes for slow flight and
high-alpha-style flying, I move one switch
and my model is instantly set the way I need
it. Maybe I’ll crash less often now.
Yeah, getting that Flight Mode the way I
needed it took a bit of practice, but that’s why
the INC/DEC function is now my favorite. I
didn’t have to land every time I made a
tweak.
A Flight Mode can be common to all other
flight options and trims, or it can be set as
separate. With my Scale model and its flaps, a
separate Flight Mode conditions that the trim
changes I make in that mode don’t change my
perfectly trimmed model in Normal Mode.
When I’m flying a helicopter, sometimes I
want the gyro to be more sensitive when
hovering with a low head speed. But in the 3-
D mode I need the gyro gain turned down
slightly to keep the model from wagging.
Using Flight Modes means that I don’t
have to settle, nor do I have to deal with a
high-skill-demanding aircraft; I can fix it.
With the SD-10G I have more options to help
me fly better. And if I have an easy model to
fly, my radio will get me flying sooner on
Sunday than I was before. MA
Dennis Ridenhour
[email protected]
Manufacturer/Distributor:
Airtronics/Global Hobby Distributors
18480 Bandilier Cir.
Fountain Valley CA 92708
(714) 963-0329
www.airtronics.net
March 2011 69
03sig3.QXD_00MSTRPG.QXD 1/24/11 1:44 PM Page 69

Left: A Gaui Hurricane 425 was
treated to the Airtronics SD-10G.
This radio’s performance was
enhanced by the low system
latency and finite nine-point
mixing options for the power and
pitch controls.
Left: The satin finish and rounded surfaces
on the 10G are easy to keep clean. Notice
that the neck-strap clip is lower, so that
the strap will hang in the ideal position.
A 10-channel-friendly computer
radio set for all aircraft
DENNIS RIDENHOUR
Power Switch: Airtronics SD-10G 2.4 GHz 10-Channel Radio
THIS ALL-IN-ONE, high-performance
computer radio provides every sport and
competition pilot with a system that is easy to
use, powerful, and flexible for any
application, yet
affordable.
The SD-10G includes a transmitter,
receiver, charger, standard switch harness,
one servo extension, and manual. Available
aftermarket items include servos, a
Lithium transmitter battery, stick
extension ends, trainer cord, memory
expansion card, and USB computer
interface program and patch cord.
It was almost as if Airtronics had
forgotten about its aircraft customers. Then
the company released the RDS8000, which
took on the 2.4 GHz demand. MA Technical
Editor Bob Aberle reviewed that radio here,
and Editor Michael Ramsey has been using it
in his Park Pilot magazine helicopter
reviews.
The RDS8000 is a great sport radio, but
fans of the enduring Airtronics Stylus, such
as I, cried out that it was time for loyal users
to have the next industry-leading, innovative
competition radio. That call was answered
with the SD-10G, which features 10 channels
and a 10-bit computer system that averages
latency speeds up to 10 times faster than
those of the competition.
The full-range, full-feature SD-10G was
designed for all RC pilots. Whether you’re a
sport enthusiast or a demanding competition
fixed-wing, helicopter, or sailplane flier, this
no-nonsense radio can accommodate many
tastes.
Admittedly, the SD-10G thinks
differently from other double-digit-channel
radios. Its three-tier program menu is well
organized, and the logic strength of the
system is its ability to handle flight modes.
But don’t let that ability scare you; I’ve
learned that embracing the Flight Mode style
of setup can make the user’s experience more
enjoyable.
I’ll attempt to explain. Mr. Ramsey took
care of the photos (as well as some of the
testing) with his SD-10G.
I like very much how clean the case design
is. Despite the fact that it’s loaded to the hilt
with levers, buttons, and switches, the
smooth and rounded shape of the “box” is as
functional as it is practical. It’s not glossy, as
is chrome that scratches easily, or solid
black, showing every flaw, but has a finegrain
silver metallic satin coating that is easy
to clean and nonreflective (antiglare
anyway).
The SD-10G was developed upon a long
relationship between Airtronics technicians
and field representatives. The company is
strongest in the RC interest with the Soaring
community, but it also has helicopter and
aerobatics customers worldwide.
This radio seems to have been designed
to please a lot of people. In addition to
meeting competitors’ demands, Airtronics
didn’t forget that some RC pilots simply
want the basics and to explore their hobby at
a leisurely pace. The 10G will grow with you
and go to the podium with a winner.
March 2011 65
03sig3.QXD_00MSTRPG.QXD 1/24/11 1:38 PM Page 65
66 MODEL AVIATION
systems is included that can be customized
by the user. Soaring pilots with
specific working
model, push the “Display” button to power
up the screen; this allows programming but
doesn’t broadcast a signal. The benefit is a
significant power-consumption savings.
I like the supplied charger.
It’s a single-output
type for only the
transmitter and
seems to sense the
pack voltage.
When the battery
is fully charged, the
charger LED goes from
red to green. Its rate is
10C, which is safe. I
recommend that you
remove the pack and
burn in the battery for 24
hours at 150 mA.
The 10G is all about
safety. If you turn it on
with the Normal Flight
Mode switch off or the
throttle on, the transmitter
will let you know.
A host of alarm
The transmitter
antenna can remain retracted
when flying in the park or indoors. For full
rang the antenna should be extended and rotated to the
correct orientation (vertical).
Photos by Michael Ramsey
Under
the battery hood is
access to the standard NiMH pack
and a slot for the optional memory card. Airtronics
also sells a two-cell Li-Poly battery for the 10G.
All switches are the three-position type. The author assigned the
Inc/Dec function to the left toggle switch, so that highlighted
mixing values can be easily tuned while flying.
The navigator pad is used to highlight, in a spreadsheetlike
manner, the data packed onto the screen. A three-tiered menu
system makes programming fast and simple.
Sliders on the right and left sides of the transmitter can be
assigned almost any function and are accessible when the
transmitter is either held by hand or mounted in a tray.
If you have your own preferences when it
comes to switch use, Airtronics thought of
you; the entire array is numbered instead of
named. All switches are the three-position
type, so they can perform almost any
function you want.
For faster programming, some functions
are preprogrammed onto the most popular
switch locations. All of those settings are
easy to change; assign all functions to a
single switch if you want (but that would be
silly)!
It seems that this transmitter’s mission is
to fit the pilot’s needs. Selecting operational
modes (i.e., Mode 1, Mode 2, and so on) and
setting gimbal tensions soft, as delivered, or
intensely tight (using the included stiff
springs) are a couple of the mechanical
options.
A six-cell NiMH battery is provided with
the transmitter, which has a 1500 mAh
capacity. It can handle Lithium power
sources as well, but be sure to update the
low-voltage alarm to the power source you
are using.
To learn the transmitter and program the
03sig3.QXD_00MSTRPG.QXD 1/24/11 1:41 PM Page 66
March 2011 67
can get fancy and even change the channel
names if you want.
The 10G cross-references the channel
number with a two-digit label. “RA” is right
aileron, “LE” is left elevator, and so on.
If you choose a wing with multiple servos
on one surface, familiarize yourself with the
channel number that Airtronics assigned.
And if you don’t like it, change the number
sequence.
Full servo control is offered when each
servo is allocated to an individual channel.
The servo-delay feature helped me slow the
retract gear servos on a foam electric-ductedfan-
powered model.
Flight Mode delay is another inputvariation
feature; it controls how quickly the
features of a Flight Mode are uploaded. For
instance, my Landing Flight Mode controls
the flaps, from a switch, but the delay brings
the flaps down slowly as well as the elevator
trim mix that keeps the attitude of the model
stable. The more I played, the more fun this
radio became.
The 10G is available with either a 10- or
radio. The
instruction manual is easy to
follow and deeply concerned that the user
makes the correct programming choices.
Reminders are bountiful for the operator
to confirm changes and understand the
boundaries of every feature. These reminders
are focused on Flight Mode options.
I programmed the first model without the
manual and was surprised by how quick the
process was. Then I read the manual and
found that it was actually a carefully laid-out
plan.
Low-level programming is done once you
choose the type (Aero, Glider, or Heli) and
control functions. With that completed, you
times can program alarms to sound when a
phase of the flight is reached, or aerobatics
pilots can sequence the timers to better
harmonize a presentation or keep the flight
inside a strict time bracket.
The functional programming options are
intense with the 10G, but only if you want to
explore them. I encourage that you do so,
based on what I’ve learned about Flight
Modes, which I’ll explain shortly.
Programming the 10G is simple,
especially if it is not your first computer
Left: This 60-size Edge 540 got the SD-10G cure. Its
ability to perform 3-D flight was greatly enhanced by
using the radio’s simple-to-program flight-mode
options.
The lightest receiver in its class—the 10-channel 91204—
offers full range for any aircraft and can handle
direct voltage from a 7.4-volt Li-
Poly battery.
Above: The Airtronics manual is easy to read and full
of great tips. With more than 208 pages, it deserves
to be bound and kept handy for reference. Updates
are available online.
Service Bulletin
Sanwa/Airtronics USA/Canada issued
a service bulletin in mid-November of
2010. It concerns only Airtronics SD-10G
owners only in the purchase region of the
US and only with a specific list of serial
numbers. See the Airtronics Web site for
that listing. If your system’s serial number
is not within this group, your radio is not
affected.
A small number of SD-10G users in
the US have reported momentary loss of
signal when using the system in FHSS-1
modulation, typically in crowded
environments. Although very few users
have reported this problem, it is still of
concern to Airtronics.
Sanwa/Airtronics has researched these
events and is offering a free update to the
affected SD-10G owners. The update is a
small change to the radio frequency
board. It requires the work of a qualified
service technician and cannot be properly
performed by the owner. Rest assured
that this update will not affect the
system’s model memory system.
Those with radios that fall within the
range of serial numbers in the US or
Canada who would like this upgrade,
please return the system to Airtronics.
Visit the company’s Web site for return
details.
Airtronics will test every SD-10G for
proper operation and then return it to its
owner. There is no cost for this upgrade
service or parts. MA
—Michael Ramsey
03sig3.QXD_00MSTRPG.QXD 1/24/11 1:43 PM Page 67
68 MODEL AVIATION
• Compatible with all Airtronics FHSS aircraft receivers.
• Compatible with two-cell Li-Poly batteries.
• Full-range 92104 10-channel 2.4 GHz receiver is included.
• Ball race-supported gimbals with adjustable springs and
adjustable throttle ratchet.
• Unique “Direct Model Select” allows fast selection of three
favored models.
• Stick modes 1, 2, 3, and 4 are available (default is Mode 2).
• Telescoping transmitter antenna.
• Five complete flight modes that can be named.
• Three-axis triple rates and triple exponential with unique
adjustment in each direction of travel.
• All switches are three-position.
• Proportional side sliders with center detent.
• 100% assignable switches.
• 20-model memory and 20 more with aftermarket Sanwa
card.
• Airtronics USB cable and program options (available
separately).
• Five P-mixes with nine-point curves and graphs.
• Customizable menu.
• Complete trim authority and sensitivity adjustments and
cross trims.
• Fail-safe programming available on all channels.
• Multifunction timer.
• Advanced trainer functions (trainer available only 10G to
10G).
Universal Features
Type: Computer system for RC aircraft
Skill: Intermediate to expert
Number of channels: 10
Model memory: 20 (40 with expansion card)
Frequency: 2.4 GHz FHSS-3/FHSS-1 selectable
Output power: 100 milliwatts
Weight with battery: 32.8 ounces
Current drain: 240 mA per hour
Channel resolution: 1,024/2,048 (FHSS-1/FHSS-3)
Power supply: 7.2-volt, 1500 mAh NiMH
Operating voltage: 6.7-10.2
Temperature range: 32 degrees Fahrenheit to 122
degrees Fahrenheit
Pulse width: 0.9-2.1 milliseconds
Trim type: Digital (x6)
Gimbal type: Ball bearing/adjustable in length and tension
View screen: 2.7 x 1.4-inch LCD
Trainer function: Available
Latency: 6.7 milliseconds minimum; 16.3 milliseconds
maximum; 11.83 milliseconds average
Operational array: Nine switches, six trim levers, two
sliders, two buttons, one dial
Program input: Five buttons, one multidirectional
navigation pad
Charger: Input 110 volts; output 150 mA
Included: 10-channel receiver, switch, servo extension,
charger, high-tension stick springs
Street price: $429.99
General Specifications
Model: 92104 (for 10G transmitter only)
Number of channels: 10
Modulation: 2.4 GHz FHSS-3
Voltage: 4.8-7.4 (2.0 minimum)
Weight: 0.53 ounce
Size: 1.95 (length) x 1.05 (width) x 0.6 (height) inches
Intention: Full range for aircraft
Price: $149.99 (included)
Receiver Specifications
Pluses and Minuses
+•
Easy navigation, spreadsheetlike menu for control
surface/swashplate adjustments.
• Simple wing, swashplate, and model templates for easy
model setup.
• Inc/Dec switch allows the pilot to adjust mixing values in
flight.
• Multiple custom alert options for precision timing of flight
schedule.
• Comes with lightest 10-channel receiver available.
• Safety Link function (10-channel receiver only) prevents
wrong model operation.
• Best 10-channel radio available for less than $500. -•
Product bulletin; must send radio back for service (but
it’s free).
• Update software not yet available.
• Side slider ratchet is a bit soft.
Helicopter:
• Advanced swashplate control with both channel and
servo EPA, delay, linear adjustments.
• Three gyro gains in each flight mode.
• Three governor settings in each flight mode.
• Nine-point pitch and throttle curves with graphs.
Aircraft:
• Nine-point throttle curve with graph.
• Advanced mixing for roll, pitch, yaw coupling, and enginethrust
compensation.
• Available functions for twin-engine aircraft.
• Throttle Cut button.
• Dual idle (Idle Down) function.
• Easy setup for differential ailerons.
• Easy setup for dual elevator or V-tail.
Sailplane:
• Proper landing override flight mode.
• Six-servo-wing-capable.
• Proper camber-to-elevator and elevator-to-camber mix
with multipoint curves with graph.
• Landing mode assigned to ratcheted stick overrides
other modes when activated.
Programming Features
03sig3.QXD_00MSTRPG.QXD 1/24/11 2:03 PM Page 68
seven-channel receiver. The cost difference is
approximately $60, but with the 10-channel
version you get a safety feature—Safety
Link—that only one other radio brand I know
of offers.
With FHSS-3 Airtronics receivers, as with
the 10-channel, along with the mandatory
G.U.I.D. code recognition, Safety Link binds
a specific model memory to that specific
receiver as well. This way I can’t try to fly a
model on the wrong program and cause an
accident.
The 10-channel FHSS-3 receiver (92104)
is the lightest I’ve seen; it’s as lightweight as
some seven-channel receivers I’ve used in
park flyers. It’s full range and operates as a
stand-alone unit. In composite aircraft the
long whiskers can be easily located
externally, to provide uninterruptable service.
Airtronics did not initially recommend the
10-channel receiver for use with two-cell Liion/
LiFe or Li-Poly packs. It recently revised
the voltage limitations and now approves
higher-voltage use, such as from a two-cell
Li-Poly pack without a regulator. Be sure that
your servos can handle higher voltage.
The 10G is fast, especially when used with
an FHSS-3 receiver. Independent testing has
shown that no other nine- or 10-channel radio
is faster on average. That is partially because
of the 10-bit hardware, which is totally
digital.
Faster translation of information between
the pilot and aircraft results in a more
enhanced flight experience. Servos react
faster when you tell them to, and they
improve my confidence in maneuvers.
According to Airtronics:
“The SD-10G with the 10-channel
receiver may be too fast for some analog
servos—they simply may not work. To truly
see the advantages of this high resolution,
high frame rate, low latency radio, you’ll
need digital servos.”
Michael Ramsey used digital servos in a
helicopter and reported excellent
performance. I used modern analog servos
alongside digital servos and reported no
issues using the 92104 receiver.
Perhaps it’s the old or low-quality servos
that the company is worried about. The
FHSS-1-series Airtronics receivers work with
all servo types.
I quickly learned that the 10G was as
friendly as the computer radios I’d previously
operated and liked. With the more advanced
aircraft I tested, I learned that the
preprogrammed mixing was an invaluable
asset. Like adding ingredients to a pie, the
cool features of my airplane turned on as I
mixed the functions, and I could easily see
how to fine-tune their operation.
The 10G has a cool tool called “INC/
DEC,” which is essentially an input value
control that raises or lowers a highlighted
variable on the LCD screen. It’s similar to the
YES and NO buttons used to navigate
programming. Assigning the INC/DEC
function to the toggle switch in the left-hand
switch array makes it easy to change mixing
while the model is flying.
Before takeoff I’ll set the screen to the
mixing menu I want, to customize and
highlight the value in question. Let’s say I
want to trim the elevator to the landing
position of the flaps.
When the elevator value is highlighted, I
fly the aircraft with flaps deployed and
operate the INC/DEC switch to add or
subtract elevator until the model’s attitude is
as desired. I played with this feature a great
deal.
As I mentioned, the Airtronics system is
based on the use of Flight Modes. Normal
Mode, which is in use when you first turn on
the system (and is the default position), is
used for basic flight.
You never have to optimize your 10G to
use all of its Flight Modes; most RC pilots
will be happy operating in Normal. However,
while playing with the INC/DEC function I
learned that setting up a Flight Mode would
help me.
The Edge 540 I used for testing has two
aileron servos, and in 3-D flight it can be
programmed with slight camber or reflex to
optimize slow flight or high-alpha flight
maneuvers. I used to fly those two unique
ways by feeling my way around the
transmitter and operating the correct sequence
of nobs and switches to get the controls set, or
I’d stress out flying the model because the
drastic control surface changes made it a
challenge to pilot.
Using Flight Modes for slow flight and
high-alpha-style flying, I move one switch
and my model is instantly set the way I need
it. Maybe I’ll crash less often now.
Yeah, getting that Flight Mode the way I
needed it took a bit of practice, but that’s why
the INC/DEC function is now my favorite. I
didn’t have to land every time I made a
tweak.
A Flight Mode can be common to all other
flight options and trims, or it can be set as
separate. With my Scale model and its flaps, a
separate Flight Mode conditions that the trim
changes I make in that mode don’t change my
perfectly trimmed model in Normal Mode.
When I’m flying a helicopter, sometimes I
want the gyro to be more sensitive when
hovering with a low head speed. But in the 3-
D mode I need the gyro gain turned down
slightly to keep the model from wagging.
Using Flight Modes means that I don’t
have to settle, nor do I have to deal with a
high-skill-demanding aircraft; I can fix it.
With the SD-10G I have more options to help
me fly better. And if I have an easy model to
fly, my radio will get me flying sooner on
Sunday than I was before. MA
Dennis Ridenhour
[email protected]
Manufacturer/Distributor:
Airtronics/Global Hobby Distributors
18480 Bandilier Cir.
Fountain Valley CA 92708
(714) 963-0329
www.airtronics.net
March 2011 69
03sig3.QXD_00MSTRPG.QXD 1/24/11 1:44 PM Page 69