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| Issue 29 (November 2008) |
Words: Chuck Bassani |
It's here! Yep, the long awaited Futaba 10C radio is really here. This is probably one of the most anticipated new radio releases in recent history. Futaba has been pitching this radio to have pro-class capability with a sport-class price tag. Did they deliver? That's what I'm aiming to find out. For those of you that have been holding out for this radio, has it been worth the wait? I'll let you be the judge of that.
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Opening the box
When I got the call informing me to expect this radio for review, I was pretty excited to say the least. So naturally, when the UPS truck stopped in front of the house and the driver emerged with that plain brown box, I couldn't wait to rip into it. Once I got the product package out of the shipping box, though, I pretty much stopped in mid frenzy. Believe it or not, I actually found myself reading the box. What's up with that? Kudos to the marking team at Futaba, they really did a super job on the packaging. This box screams "Hey you. Pick me up and take a good look. I'm special". I'm guessing the LHS owners are really going to appreciate that!
Alright, back to the topic at hand. As is becoming more and more the norm for heli systems, the Futaba 10CHP is offered as a TX/RX (no servos) package. I really do like this trend because you're not paying for servos that are almost guaranteed to not be right for your particular application.
Inside the package you'll find:
• T10CHP Transmitter w/72 Mhz Antenna
• TM-10 FASST 2.4 GHz Transmitter Module
• NT8S700B 9.6v 700 mAh NiCd Transmitter Battery Pack
• R6014FS 14-Channel FASST Receiver
• NR-4RB 4.8v, 1000 mAh NiCd Receiver Battery Pack
• FBC-19B 120v AC 70 mA TX / 100 mA RX Battery Charger
• Airborne Switch Harness
• 8" Servo Extension
• Neck Strap
• Small Screwdriver (for adjustments)
• Instruction Manual
Transmitter
Physical Layout
The transmitter has a very solid construction for a radio offered at its price point, and it certainly has a 'high tech' look (and feel) to it. Those familiar with Futaba products will find this radio closer in feel to the 12FG than to the 9C.
Along with the four main joystick controls, the radio has eight toggle switches and five variable position controls. The newly designed sticks, although not pro-class, are very smooth and accurate. Digital trims are provided for all four stick controls. The switch layout is what you'd expect on a radio configured for heli use. On the top left you'll find two toggle switches; the rear one being a 2-position switch and the front one a 3-position switch. On the top right are two more 2-position toggle switches, the rear one being spring loaded. Moving to the face, along the top you'll find four more 2-position toggle switches, two on each side. The top center area sports three variable position rotary controls and a CAMPAC port. The center face has two LEDs (Power & RF) along with the main power switch. All programming is done via two buttons (MODE & END), a cursor lever (small joystick for making selections), and a digital rotary dial with a push button center (for adjusting and setting values) which Futaba calls "Dial 'n Key". A very large back-lit graphic LCD displays all programming and operational information. On each side of the transmitter there's a variable position slider control up towards the top. The battery charging jack is located on the lower right side. The back of the transmitter contains a socket for the RF module as well as a DSC/Trainer port.
The transmitter is powered by a 700 mAh NiCd battery pack. This will provide over 4.5 hours of use between charges when used with the TM-10 RF module. Excessive use of the backlight, however, will reduce this time.
Features
The 10CHP contains programming for helicopters, airplanes, and sailplanes & gliders. I'll briefly go over some general information and basic programming features so you get a good feel for what I'll call the usual stuff. Then, I'll move on to discuss some of the 'advanced' features built into this radio in a little more detail.
General Specifications
• 15 model memory (expandable with optional CAMPac memory cards)
• 2.4G-10CH and 2.4G-7CH modulation (with the included TM-10 RF module)
• PPM and PCM modulation (with an optional FM RF module)
• 8 proportional / 2 digital channels
• Advanced 'trainer' system that allows you to fly using the 10CHP's programming with a 4-channel 'buddy-box' (with optional trainer cord)
• Non-volatile memory utilizing EEPROM (no back-up battery is necessary)
• Smooth (non-detent) throttle
• Support for transmitter modes 1,2,3, & 4
[sidebar]Good News - Those of you that already have a Futaba 9C transmitter will be happy to know that the 10C can use the same FM module as is used in that one. Also, 9C model programming can be directly imported into the 10C, thus eliminating the need to go through a fresh setup for existing models.[/sidebar]
Programming
The programming is broken down into 'basic' and 'advanced' feature sets. I'm going to cover the HELI features ( since we are a 'heli' oriented magazine).
Basic Features
The 'basic' features are, for the most part, common to all aircraft types, but there are some differences. In HELI mode, the 'basic' features also include swashplate adjustments and throttle/pitch curves and revo mixing for the 'Normal' flight mode.
In HELI mode, the 'basic' features include:
• Model select/name/copy
• User name
• Model type (8 swashplate configurations; 1 'normal' & 7 'eCCPM' with graphics)
• Parameters settings for model reset, modulation, adjustable travel limit (on channel 3)
• Contrast, back-light, user name, & logical (Smart Switch Technology) switches
• Servo reverse
• End point adjustments
• Trim memory and sub-trims
• Swash AFR (swashplate direction and travel adjustments)
• Assignable functions and switches
• Throttle mixing (separate Aileron, Elevator, & Rudder to Throttle)
• Throttle cut
• Dual rates and exponential (on 4 channels)
• Multiple timers
• Failsafe
• Servo display and test
Advanced Features
The 'advanced' features contain some expected functionality as well as some very cool stuff.
In HELI mode, the 'advanced' features include:
• Throttle hold
• 7-point pitch/throttle curves (for up to three idle-ups and throttle hold)
• Revo mixing (with 5 point curves)
• Trims and trim offsets
• Delay
• Hovering setups
• High/low pitch
• Gyros and governors
• Programmable mixes (both linear and with curves)
• Throttle needle (mixture)
The cool stuff
Let's look a little deeper into some of the features that I feel deserve mentioning...
Model Type
Eight swashplate setups are supported; the 'Normal' 1-servo setup and seven 'eCCPM' configurations. This pretty much handles any swashplate geometry you can throw at it.
Throttle/Pitch Curves
Separate Throttle and Pitch Curves are available for 'Normal', 'Idle-Up1', 'Idle-Up2', 'Idle-Up3', and 'Throttle Hold' (pitch curve only). Curves can have up to seven points. One of the neat features here is that the points can be moved along the x-axis (stick position) by as much as 2% away from an adjacent point.
Parameter (ATL)
This is a special 'Adjustable Travel Limit' on the throttle channel and gives you the ability to set whether the trim works over just the lower end of the throttle range (the usual setup for helicopters) or over the entire travel range (in the event you're not using channel 3 for throttle). There's also a 'Throttle Reverse' function that allows you to change ATL so it affects only the upper end of the throttle range.
Logical Switches (Smart Switch Technology)
Three 'Logical Switches' are available. Each one gives you the ability to assign one of a number of functions (such as 'Throttle Cut', 'Timer(s)', etc.) to logical combinations of two physical switch positions and/or a switch position and the throttle stick (with a selectable trigger point). As an example, 'Logical Switch 1' can be programmed to be active when the 'Throttle Stick is above 5%' OR 'Switch E is in the center or down position'. Assuming you have 'Switch E' set as your 'Flight Mode' switch, assigning a count-down timer to 'Logical Switch 1' configured this way will cause the timer to run except in 'Normal Flight Mode' with the 'Throttle Stick is below 5%'.
Timers
There are four timers; a 'Total' timer that displays the cumulated transmitter ON time and three 'General Purpose' up/down timers that can be configured to count-up, count-down (and then count-up), or count-down and stop. The third 'General Purpose' timer can also be configured as a 'Model' timer that will display the cumulated ON time for the selected model. Each 'General Purpose' timer can be assigned to any switch, logical switch, or the throttle stick (with a selectable trigger point). All timers can be reset individually.
Failsafe
Lets you set channel positions in the event of a loss of signal or a low receiver voltage. Failsafe is available in 2.4G and PCM FM mode only. Each channel may be set independently and can be adjusted to either hold the current position or move to a pre-determined position when Failsafe engages.
Trims/Offset
If 'Offset' is inhibited, trim adjustments made in any flight mode affect all flight modes. When 'Offset' in enabled, separate trim adjustments are maintained for each flight mode. When enabled, 'Offset' can be either 'active' or 'inactive'. When 'active', the trims will adjust on top of the stored offset values. When 'inactive', the stored offsets are ignored and the trims simply adjust the trim settings for the active flight mode.
Delay
Delay can be used to dampen transitions between trim positions. Separate values can be assigned to the Aileron, Elevator, Rudder, Throttle, and Pitch. For example, I like setting up my heli to hover at half-stick in 'Normal' and 'Idle-Up1' flight modes and have zero pitch at half-stick in 'Idle-Up2'. Putting a 15% - 20% delay on Pitch and Throttle will result in a smoother transition when I throw the switch to go between 'Idle-Up1' and Idle-Up2'. I no longer need to switch during a full collective climb-out in order to prevent the helicopter from jerking.
High/Low Pitch
This function allows for separate in-flight adjustments to the high and low sides of the pitch curves. There are separate settings for each flight mode. You can assign the adjustments to any variable position control. Adjustments can also be 'memorized', thus allowing you to return the control to the neutral position while still maintaining that trim.
Programmable Mixes
There are four 'Linear' mixes and two '5-Point Curve' mixes in HELI mode. Only channels 1 - 8 can be mixed (remember channels 9 & 10 are digital). You can set a joystick control, offset, or variable position control as the 'Master' ('Curve' mixes can only use a joystick control as the 'Master'). The mixes can be set to be always active, active via switch (or logical switch), or throttle-stick position (with a selectable trigger point). Trims and offsets may also be applied to programmable mixes (except for 'Curve' mixes).
Throttle Needle
This is a pre-programmed mix with a 5-point curve and is used to operate an in-flight mixture servo (plugged into channel 8). It uses the throttle stick position as a master. Separate curves are available for 'Normal', 'Idle-Up1 & Idle-Up2 (combined)', and 'Idle-Up3'.
Receiver
Included with the system is a R6014FS FASST receiver. This is a full range, 14-channel receiver that, when used with the TM-10 RF module, supports the 2.4G-10CH (2048-bit resolution) mode of operation.
On the top of the receiver you'll find a two-color LED that illuminates when power is applied. This LED is used to indicate receiver status. Status is determined as per this table:
Status LED color
No signal being received Red
Signal being received from the linked transmitter Green
Signal being received, but from a non-linked transmitter Green (blinking)
Receiver failure (EEPROM, etc.) Alternating Red & Green
Right next to this LED is the 'Easy Link' button used for linking the receiver to the transmitter. A servo connector block on the side of the receiver provides the pins necessary for connecting to the 14 output channels. There's also a dedicated input connector for connecting a battery. Channel outputs 11 & 12 as well as the two outputs labeled DG1 & DG2 (digital channel outputs for channels 13 & 14) are not applicable when using the 10C transmitter.
Important - The R6014FS receiver's output pulse amplitude is 2.7 volts. This is a slightly lower voltage than the 3.0 volt signal level that until recently has been the norm. Although most equipment (servos, gyros, etc.) do operate at this signal level, you should check with their respective manufacturers to be sure.
The R014FSFS receiver has a street price of $199.99. The 10CHP with the TM-10 RF Module is also capable of operating with these other Futaba FASST receivers:
• R608FS (8 channel, full range, 2.4G-10CH mode) $139.99
• R607FS (7 channel, full range, 2.4G-7CH mode) $95.99
• R617FS (7 channel, full range, 2.4G-7CH mode) $99.99
• R616FFM (6 channel, park flyer, 2.4G-7CH mode) $59.99
Because this radio is capable of operating in both 10 and 7-channel modes of 2.4 GHz FHSS as well as PCM and PPM FM operation, we'll present separate latency measurements for each. In addition to latency, other relevant measurements and information are presented where appropriate.
TM-10 Transmitter Module / R6014FS Receiver (packaged setup):
(10 Channel 2.4 GHz mode, resolution is 2048 steps (11-bits), receiver frame period is 14.0 mSec)
• Minimum Latency: 7.3 mSec
• Maximum Latency: 28.0 mSec
• Average Latency: 18.0 mSec
Receiver outputs channels 1 - 6 simultaneously, then 7 - 9, and finally 10. eCCPM performance is generally good, with data for all three swash channels synced. There are however occasions where data for the swash channels is split between frames.
TM-10 Transmitter Module / R617FS Receiver:
(7 Channel 2.4 GHz mode, resolution is 1024 steps (10-bits), receiver frame period is 16.0 mSec)
• Minimum Latency: 9.4 mSec
• Maximum Latency: 29.4 mSec
• Average Latency: 19.4 mSec
PCM1024 / R319DPS Receiver
(PCM-FM, resolution is 1024 steps)
• Minimum Latency: 13.0 mSec
• Maximum Latency: 43.0 mSec
• Average Latency: 28.0 mSec
These measurements are based on the first detectable change in output pulse width. Futaba has implemented what John Kos has called 'slew rate limiting' when the radio is in PCM modulation mode and an eCCPM swash mode is selected. This is the same as on the 9C Super and 7C and is effectively artificial servo speed limiting in hopes of reducing swashplate dancing. This limiting is not active when in normal swash mode.
PPM
(PPM-FM, measured at the encoder output)
• Minimum Latency: 2.5 mSec
• Maximum Latency: 24.9 mSec
Average Latency: 13.9 mSec
There's a new top dog on the street. Futaba for sure has jumped to the front of the 'must have' list with this one. All you manufacturers out there take notice. This is how it should be done - 10 Channels, excellent programming (and fairly straightforward I might add), a beautiful, large backlit graphical display and latency second to none. I must also note that this is the first radio to simultaneously hold the top spots for minimum latency, average latency, and latency range (maximum - minimum). Wow, all this and a very attractive price to boot. I think the answers to the questions I posed in the introduction are obvious.
Happy Flying...
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HITS
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• Outstanding value
• Excellent construction for its price point
• Very comprehensive programming
• 10 channels (8 proportional)
• Large, back-lit display
• Excellent latency
• Good eCCPM performance (NOTE: I would emphasize that the performance is better when not using PCM because of the slew rate limiter. Your milage may vary.)
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MISSES
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• NiCd batteries are not immune to that chemistry's memory effect
MANUFACTURER: Futaba
PART NUMBER(S): FUTK9253
STREET PRICE: $599.99
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