X10+ Channel Expander
MA columnist Greg Gimlick contributed this review of the Xtreme Power Systems (XPS) X10+ Channel Expander. Here is what he had to say:
When I first saw the X10+ at a trade show, I was curious as to why I would want such a thing or exactly what it did. After some explanation from Jim Drew, owner and head designer at XPS, I not only wanted one—I wanted several!
The X10+ Channel Expander uses a single serial data link from your receiver and allows you to drive up to 11 servos, regardless of your receiver’s capabilities. In fact, if you’re using Spektrum, you simply connect a satellite receiver much the same as you would when configuring a flybarless helicopter setup.
The latest firmware update provides dual- (redundancy) receiver support, so you can use dual XtremeLink, Futaba SBUS/SBUS2, or Spektrum satellite receivers. When you use the dual-receiver option, you are limited to 10 channels. The 11th channel becomes the second receiver input. Xtreme Power Systems has received permission to support the new DMSS protocol from JR, which will soon be added.
The device has a 21-page manual available online that describes the various programming functions. You have the option of programming with the onboard programming button and LED or you can use the optional Serial Programming device and your computer.
I included a screen shot of my setup showing how the channel mapping can be altered along with the failsafe settings. Each servo receives its signal simultaneously so there is no latency problem when assigning multiple channels to operate control surfaces or throttles for multiengine projects. Helicopter pilots will love having their swashplate servos simultaneously respond.
The X10+ allows even the simplest radio to have channel mapping. The receiver binds to the transmitter in much the usual manner, but it only acts to bring the signal to the X10+ and the servos take their commands from there. If your radio only provides basic failsafe settings that can’t be defined, you now have the ability to tell each servo exactly what you want it to do in case of a problem.
Finally, you will have a way to see by the LED if your receiver power is sagging to dangerous levels. XPS sells a device called the TattleTail that monitors receiver voltage, but that capability is programmed into the X10+ device. Your receiver and X10+ power can be provided from the BEC unit of an ESC or a separate battery. My Giant Scale airplane’s radio is powered by an A123 two-cell pack connected to the X10+ with 12-gauge wires.
Priced reasonably at $29.95, this device expands and improves the capabilities of any radio it is connected to. User updateable firmware and continuing support from XPS makes it a no-brainer to try.
Xtreme Power Systems: 2440 N. Kiowa Blvd., Lake Havasu City AZ 86403; website: www.xtremepowersystems.net
Xion Wing Locks
Plug-in wings are a great feature. They make transporting your model a breeze, but sometimes attaching them can take a while. Most manufacturers use a bolt in each wing half which can be cross-threaded, dropped into the model, or even dropped into the grass at the field.
These new Wing Locks from Redwing RC offer an alternative that is similar to the wheel locks on higher-end bicycles. It only requires a little setup and allows you to instantly attach your wings. After a Wing Lock is installed, simply slide your wing onto the wing tube and into the fuselage, then click and securely lock in place.
We’ve tried several installations of these Wing Locks and had great success. The only thing to note is Wing Lock requires a bit of space for the lock to move. The lock’s “handle” is 11/2 inches long and requires 90° of movement to fully lock and unlock.
Wing Locks are currently available in two thread sizes—1/4 x 20 and 6mm—and sold in pairs for $19.99.
Redwing RC: 760 Penny Ct., Baldwin MO 63011; Tel. (636) 600-8735; website: www.redwingrc.com
Battery Boxes
Retro RC has expanded its line of accessories that help keep things organized. The new Battery Boxes have joined the company’s lineup of glue and tool caddies. The boxes are available in three sizes to hold 18 1S 160 mAh, 12 1S 300 mAh, or eight 2S 300 mAh batteries respectively. All the plywood parts are laser cut. If you have never built anything, this is a great place to start. All three sizes are priced individually at $14.99.
Joe Hass contributed the following on constructing the Battery Boxes. Here is what he had to say:
Lay out all the parts and review the instructions. The pieces go together like a jigsaw puzzle, so there is virtually no chance of making a mistake. Although it’s unnecessary, a few moments sanding each piece will remove the slight burn from the laser cutting. Sandpaper in the 150- to 220-grit range works well. To make it easier to sand each part, lay a full sheet of sandpaper on your work surface. Place the part in the middle and then sand the top surface. The flat sheet of sandpaper keeps the part from moving.
After you are satisfied with each part, begin the assembly. Even without instructions and pictures, you will be able to put things together. After everything was assembled I found it was better to place a rubber band around the box to hold it together. Then place the box on a flat surface to make sure everything is square before gluing it together. You can use CA or white glue. Leave it on the flat surface until the glue sets.
One additional, but highly recommended, step is to spray the entire assembly with clear polyurethane to protect the wood. Besides the protecting the wood and laser printing, it takes a on a deep, rich finish. Make sure you spray outside with plenty of ventilation.
Retro RC: Box 193, Keego Harbor MI 48320; Tel.: (248) 212-9666; website: www.retrorc.us.com.
