Futaba 3PL FHSS User Manual
1M23N23002
3PL-2.4G
3-channel, FHSS
Radio control system
for Cars
INSTRUCTION MANUAL
Digital Proportional R/C System
R
Thank you for purchasing a Futaba FHSS 3PL 2.4GHz system.
This system is based on the combination of the newly developed 2.4GHz transmitter
and its corresponding receiver. Before using your 3PL 2.4GHz system, read this manual
carefully and use your R/C set safely.
After reading this manual, store it in a safe place.
FHSS 3PL 2.4GHz system
• 2.4GHzSS (Spread Spectrum) radio communication system
• Frequency channel setting unnecessary: Sifting the channels within the 2.4GHz band automatically, this
system minimizes the interference from other 2.4GHz system.
• Accepts no unwanted signals by using ID code
• Built-in antenna (T3PL-2.4G transmitter)
Application, Export, and Modification
1. This product may be used for models only. It is not intended for use in any application other than the
control of models for hobby and recreational purposes.
2. Exportation precautions:
(a) When this product is exported from the country of manufacture, its use is to be approved by the laws
governing the country of destination concerning devices that emit radio frequencies. If this product is
then re-exported to other countries, it may be subject to restrictions on such export. Prior approval of the
appropriate goverment authorities may be required. If you have purchased this product from an exporter
outside your country, and not the authorized Futaba distributor in your country, please contact the seller
immediately to determine if such export regulations have been met.
(b) Use of this product with other than models may be restricted by Export and Trade Control Regulations,
and an application for export approval must be submitted.
3. Modification, adjustment, and replacement of parts: Futaba is not responsible for unauthorized
modification, adjustment, and replacement of parts on this product. Any such changes may void the
warranty.
Compliance Information Statement (for U.S.A.)
This device, trade name Futaba Corporation of America, model number R2004GF, complies with part 15 of
the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
(1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and
(2) This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired
operation.
The party responsible for this device's compliance is:
3002 N Apollo Drive Suite 1, Champaign, IL 61822 U.S.A.
TEL (217)398-8970 or E-mail: support@futaba-rc.com (Support)
TEL (217)398-0007 or E-mail: service@futaba-rc.com (Service)
Battery Recycling (for U.S.A.)
The RBRCTM SEAL on the (easily removable) nickel-cadmium battery contained in Futaba
products indicates that Futaba Corporation of America is voluntarily participating in an
industry program to collect and recycle these batteries at the end of their useful lives, when
taken out of service within the United States. The RBRC
alternative to placing used nickel-cadmium batteries into the trash or municipal waste system, which is
illegal in some areas.
You may contact your local recycling center for information on where to return the spent battery. Please
call 1-800-8-BATTERY for information on Ni-Cd battery recycling in your area. Futaba Corporation
of America's involvement in this program is part of its commitment to protecting our environment and
conserving natural resources.
RBRCTM is a trademark of the Rechargeable Battery Recycling Corporation.
TM
program provides a convenient
Table of Contents
Safety Precautions ............................. 4
Definition of Symbols ............................................................ 4
2.4GHz System Precautions ................................................. 4
Operation Precautions .......................................................... 5
Storage and Disposal Safety Precautions ........................... 6
Other Safety Precautions ...................................................... 7
Before Operation ................................ 8
System Contents .................................................................... 8
Nomenclature / Handling ....................................................... 9
Assembly / Adjustment ..................... 12
Receiver and Servo Connection ......................................... 12
Receiver Antenna Installation ............................................. 12
Assembly Precautions ........................................................ 13
How to Link Transmitter and Receiver ............................... 14
Transmitter Set-Up Procedures .......................................... 15
3PL-2.4G Functions ........................... 16
Steering Trim (TRM-CH1) ..................................................... 16
Throttle Trim (TRM-CH2) ...................................................... 16
Steering Dual Rates (D/R-CH1) ........................................... 16
Model Selection/Model Reset (MDL) .................................. 17
Steering Servo Reversing (REV-CH1) ................................ 17
Throttle Servo Reversing (REV-CH2) ................................. 17
Channel-3 Servo Reversing (REV-CH3) ............................. 17
Channel-4 Servo Reversing (REV-CH4) ............................. 17
Steering End Point Adjustment (EPA-CH1) ....................... 18
Throttle End Point Adjustment (EPA-CH2) ........................ 18
Channel-3 End Point Adjustment (EPA-CH3) .................... 18
Channel-4 End Point Adjustment (EPA-CH4) .................... 19
ABS function (ABS-CH2) ..................................................... 19
Model Name (NAME) ............................................................ 19
4WS/BRK Mixing Selection (SMX) ...................................... 19
Channel-4 Trim (TRM-4) ....................................................... 20
Throttle Fail Safe Function .................................................. 20
MC230CR/MC330CR ............................................................ 21
Safety
Precautions
Before
Operation
Assembly /
Adjustment
3PL-2.4G
Functions
Function
Map
Reference
Function Map .................................... 22
*Each function is easily selected with the SELECT key and set with the digital trim DT1/DT2.
Reference .......................................... 24
Ratings .................................................................................. 24
Troubleshooting ................................................................... 25
Error Displays ...................................................................... 26
When Requesting Repair .................................................... 27
Warning: This product contains a chemical known to cause cancer and birth defects (or
other reproductive harm).
3
Safety Precautions
For your safety as well as that of others, please read this manual thoroughly prior to
installation and operation of your digital proportional R/C system.
Definition of Symbols
The following defines the symbols used in this manual.
Explanation of Symbols
DANGER
ｎ
WARNING
ｎ
CAUTION
ｎ
Procedures which may lead to a dangerous condition and cause death or
serious injury to the user if not carried out properly.
Procedures which may lead to a dangerous condition or cause death or
serious injury to the user if not carried out properly, or procedures where
the probability of superficial injury or physical damage is high.
Procedures where the possibility of serious injury to the user is small, but
there is a danger of injury, or physical damage, if not carried out properly.
Explanation of Graphic Symbols
Indicates an operation that prompts a warning (including Caution).
ｎ
Indicates an operation that must not be performed.
ｌ
Indicates an operation that always must be performed.
ｊ
2.4GHz System Precautions
WARNING
ｎ
Do not cover/hold the built-in antenna part of T3PL-2.4G transmitter by your hand during
ｌ
running. Do not put any conductive plate/sticker on the antenna part.
Otherwise, the operating range may become shorter.
Do not perform the linking procedure when motor's main wire is connected or the engine is
ｌ
operating as it may result in serious injury.
While the linking is done, please cycle receiver power and check if the receiver to be linked
ｊ
is really under the control of the transmitter to be linked.
Always use R2004GF under 6.0V NiCd battery or regulated output from your ESC.
ｊ
Using dry cell batteries may cause malfunction.
Be sure that when using an ESC's regulated output, the capacity of the ESC meets your
usage condition.
In order to maintain complete control of your car/boat it is important that it remains visible
ｊ
at all times. Running behind large objects is not suggested. Doing so may result in the
reduction of the quality of the radio frequency link to the model.
4 Safety Precautions
Operation Precautions
WARNING
ｎ
When using a Ni-cad battery to power your system, always charge and check the battery
ｊ
voltage prior to operation. Should the battery discharge below the minimum voltage level,
control will be lost.
Prior to operation always perform a range test. Even one abnormality in the R/C system
ｊ
may cause loss of control.
[Range Test Procedure]
Have a friend hold the model, or place it on a stand where the wheels or prop cannot come
in contact with any object. Operate from a distance of about 100 feet. Be sure to check the
movement of each servo to make sure it follows the movement of the steering wheel and
throttle trigger. If the servos do not follow the commands from the transmitter or any type of
interference is detected, Do Not operate the model.
Never operate in the rain or run through puddles.
ｌ
The transmitter, receiver, batteries and most servos and speed controls are not waterproof.
Contact with any type of moisture or immersion in water or snow will cause damage along
with possible loss of control. Should any type of moisture enter any component of the system, immediately stop using the R/C system and return it to our service center for inspection.
Do not operate when visibility is limited.
ｌ
Should you lose sight of the model, a collision or other dangerous situation may occur.
Do not operate near people or roads.
ｌ
Do not operate on any pond when boats are present.
Do not operate near high tension power lines or communication broadcasting antennas.
Prior to the operation of any model, be sure the area you plan to use is safe. Be aware of
all objects that may be in the path of your model. Do not operate the model where people
or any type of moveable object could stray in the path of your model. Control loss due to
interference, component failure, loss of sight or low battery voltage could result in serious
injury to yourself and others as well as damage to your model.
Do not operate when you are tired, not feeling well or under the influence of alcohol or
ｌ
drugs.
Your judgment is impaired and could result in a dangerous situation that may cause serious
injury to yourself and others.
(Turning on the power switches)
ｊ
Always check the throttle trigger on the transmitter to be sure it is at the neutral position.
1. Turn on the transmitter power switch.
2. Turn on the receiver or speed control power switch.
(Turning off the power switches)
Always be sure the engine is not running or the motor is stopped.
1. Turn off the receiver or speed control power switch.
2. Then turn off the transmitter power switch.
If the power switches are turned off in the opposite order the model may unexpectedly run
out of control and cause a very dangerous situation.
Safety Precautions
5
Make all adjustments to the radio control system with the engine not running, or the electric
ｊ
motor disconnected.
If the engine is running or the motor is connected while adjustments are made, the model
may run out of control.
Remove the main battery source from electric powered models when they are not being
ｊ
used.
Should you accidentally leave the receiver switch on, the model could run out of control.
(Fail safe function)
ｊ
Before running (cruising), check the fail safe function.
Check Method:
Before starting the engine, check the fail safe function as follows:
1. Turn on the transmitter and receiver power switches.
2. Turn off the transmitter power switch.
3. Check if the fail safe function moves the servos to the preset position when reception fails.
The fail safe function is a safety feature that minimizes set damage by moving the servos
to a preset position when reception fails. However, if set to a dangerous position, it has the
opposite effect.
Setting example: Throttle idle or brake position
Do not touch the engine, motor, speed control or any part of the model that will generate
ｌ
heat while running.
Touching hot parts will result in serious burns.
CAUTION
ｎ
When the charger is not in use, disconnect it from the outlet. This will prevent accidents,
ｊ
overheating and short circuits.
Storage and Disposal Safety Precautions
WARNING
ｎ
At the end of a day's operation, store the system with NiCd battery discharged. Be sure to
ｊ
recharge the system before it is used again.
You should fully discharge your system's batteries periodically to prevent a condition called
"memory". For example, if you only make two runs in a day or you regularly use a small
amount of a battery's capacity, the memory effect can reduce the actual capacity even if
the battery is charged for the recommended amount of time.
Do not throw a Ni-cad battery into a fire. Do not disassemble or attempt to repair a Ni-cad
ｌ
battery pack.
Overheating, damage and acid leakage may lead to burns, loss of eyesight as well as numerous other types of injuries. The electrolyte in Ni-cad batteries is a strong alkali. Should
you get even the smallest amount of the electrolyte in your eyes, Do Not rub, wash immediately with water, and seek medical attention at once. The electrolyte can cause blindness. If
electrolyte comes in contact with your skin or clothes, wash with water immediately.
Do not leave the radio system or models within the reach of small children.
ｌ
A small child may accidentally operate the system. This could cause a dangerous situation
6 Safety Precautions
and injuries. NiCd batteries can be very dangerous when mishandled and cause chemical
damage.
CAUTION
ｎ
Do not store your R/C system where it will be exposed to the following conditions.
ｌ
s%XTREMEHEATORCOLDNESS
s$IRECTSUNLIGHT
s7HEREHUMIDITYISHIGH
s7HEREVIBRATIONISPREVALENT
s7HEREDUSTISPREVALENT
s7HERETHEREISSTEAMANDCONDENSATION
Storing your R/C system under adverse conditions could cause deformation and numerous
other problems with operation.
If the system will not be used for a long period of time, remove the batteries from the model
ｊ
and store in a cool, dry place.
If the batteries are left in the model, electrolyte may leak and damage the model.
<NiCd Battery Recycling>
A used NiCd battery is valuable resource. Insulate the battery terminals and dispose of the battery by taking
it to a battery recycling center.
Other Safety Precautions
CAUTION
ｎ
When operating two or more models at the same time, have a third person act as a spotter.
ｊ
They will be in charge of safety and you should follow their instructions.
Beginners should receive instructions regarding safety and operation from an experienced
ｊ
modeler.
Always use only genuine Futaba transmitters, receivers, servos, and electronic speed
ｊ
controls, along with other optional parts and components.
Futaba will not be held responsible for damages caused by other than genuine Futaba
parts and components. Use only genuine Futaba parts and components listed in the instruction manual and catalog.
Do not short circuit the Ni-cad battery terminals.
ｌ
Short circuiting the terminals will lead to sparks and overheating and could cause a fire and
burns as well.
Do not expose plastic parts to fuel, motor spray, waste oil or exhaust.
ｌ
The fuel, motor spray, waste oil and exhaust will penetrate and damage the plastic.
<NiCd Battery Electrolyte>
The electrolyte in NiCd batteries is a strong alkali. Should you get even the smallest amount of the
electrolyte in your eyes, DO NOT RUB. Wash immediately with water and seek medical attention at once.
The electrolyte can cause blindness. If electrolyte comes in contact with your skin or clothes, wash with
water immediately.
Safety Precautions
7
Before Operation
System Contents
After opening the container, check the contents for the following items. The contents will
vary with the system purchased.
3PL-2.4GHz System Contents
Transmitter
Receiver
Servo
E.S.C.
Switch
Miscellaneous
NOTE: This Futaba FHSS system, including the T3PL-2.4G transmitter and
R2004GF receiver, does not work with current Futaba FASST™ systems. Please
use the T3PL-2.4G and R2004GF in pairs. Futaba FASST™ systems and FHSS
system are not compatible.
----- S3003 (x2) S3003 (x1) S3050 (x1)
----- -----
SSW-GS (x1) ----- -----
*Servo mounting hardware and servo horns (only w/servo set)
T3PL-2.4G (x1)
R2004GF (x1)
MC230CR or
MC330CR (x1)
Mini Screwdriver
MC330CR (x1)
Receiver R2004GF
Link Switch LED
Connectors
"4" : Channel-4 Servo (CH4)
"3" : Channel-3 Servo (CH3)
"2" : Throttle Servo (CH2)
"1" : Steering Servo (CH1)
"B": Power connector
8 Before Operation
Servo S3003/S3050
Mounting
Servo Horn
Flange
Nomenclature / Handling
Transmitter T3PL-2.4G
Steering Trim Lever (DT1)
Adjusts the steering in small increments so
the model will run straight.
Throttle Trim Lever (DT2)
Adjusts the throttle in small increments so the
model will not move at neutral.
LCD screen
Power switch turned on: Beep confirmation
sound is generated and the model name is
displayed for about two seconds and then
the initial screen appears.
(Initial screen)
'y number display
'!!y voltage display
Power Switch
When slid upward,
the power is turned on.
Channel 3 Switch
Turn channel 3 servo to left
or right.
Grip Handle
(*1)
(*1)
WARNING
ｎ
As with all radio frequency
ｊ
transmissions, the strongest area
of signal transmission is from
the sides of the antenna(builtin). As such, the antenna (arrow
direction) should not be pointed
directly at the model.
Antenna (Built-in)
The antenna is inside of this part.
Select Button
Press the Select button to select the
desired function screen.
Steering Wheel
Turn model to left or right.
Throttle Trigger
Control the speed of the model and movement
forward and backward.
Steering Dual Rate Lever (D/R)
Adjust the vehicle's steering sensitivity across
the entire range.
(*1)
(*1)
Digital trim DT1, DT2, and D/R operation
Push the lever to the left or right (up or down).
The current position is displayed on the LCD screen for about two seconds.
Each step is indicated by a tone. When the trim exceeds the maximum trim
adjustment range, the beep tone will change and the servo will not move
any further. Remember, the trims are digital so the position of each trim is
remembered for each model separately.
WARNING
ｎ
Do not cover/hold the built-in antenna part of T3PL-2.4G transmitter
ｌ
by your hand during running.
Do not put any conductive plate/sticker on the antenna part.
Otherwise, the operating range may become shorter.
Before Operation
9
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