Futaba 4EX User Manual

4EX

Futaba Corporation

Technical updates available at:

Entire Contents © Copyright 2005

INSTRUCTION MANUALINSTRUCTION MANUAL

for Futaba 4EXfor Futaba 4EX 4-channel,

FM radio control system for aircraft

http://www.futaba-rc.com

1M23N15601

TABLE OF CONTENTSTABLE OF CONTENTS

Introduction..................................................................... 2

Service ............................................................................ 2

Contents and specifications ........................................... 3

Glossary.......................................................................... 3

Introduction to the 4EX system ...................................... 4

Transmitter controls and descriptions ........................... 4

Radio installation ............................................................ 5

Receiver and servo connections.................................... 7

Charging the Ni-Cd batteries .......................................... 7

LCD and Programming controls..................................... 8

Programming the T4EX radio ......................................... 9

Model select / Data reset...........................................10

Servo reversing ........................................................10

End Point Adjustments..............................................11

Trims........................................................................11

Exponentials.............................................................11

V-tail mixing ..............................................................12

Elevon mixing ...........................................................12

Flow chart.................................................................13

Other T4EX functions.....................................................14

Trainer switch ...........................................................14

Adjustable-length control sticks..................................14

Changing the stick mode...........................................14

Flying safety guidelines.................................................15

Flight preparation...........................................................16

Model Data Recording Sheets .......................................17

Futaba Accessories .......................................................20

INTRODUCTION INTRODUCTION

Thank you for purchasing the Futaba® 4EX digital proportional R/C aircraft system. If this is your first “computer” radio, rest
assured that it is designed to make initial setup and field-tuning of your airplane easier and more accurate than would be if
using a
order to make the best use of your Futaba 4EX and to operate it safely, you must carefully read all of the instructions.

Suggestion: If, while reading the instructions, you are unclear of some of the procedures or functions and become “stuck,”

Suggestion:

continue to read on anyway. Often, the function or procedure will be explained again later in a different way providing another
perspective from which to understand it. Another suggestion is to connect the battery, switch and servos to the receiver and
actually operate the radio on your workbench as you make programming changes. Then, you
your programming inputs.

“non-computer” radio. Although this is a beginner or sport system with the requirements of those flyers in mind, in

’ll be able to see the effects of

(in USA)

If any difficulties are encountered while setting up or operating your system, please consult the instruction manual first. For
further assistance you may also refer to your hobby dealer, or contact the Futaba Service Center at the web site, fax
number or telephone number below:

Telephone (8:00 am to 5:00 pm Central time Monday through Friday): [phone], extension 2Telephone (8:00 am to 5:00 pm Central time Monday through Friday): [phone], extension 2

If unable to resolve the problem, pack the system in its original container with a note enclosed and a thorough, accurate
description of the problem(s). Include the following in your note:

SERVICESERVICE

www.futaba-rc.comwww.futaba-rc.com
Fax: [phone]Fax: [phone]

• Symptoms. • Any unusual mounting conditions.

• An inventory of items enclosed. • The items that require repair.

• Your name, address, and telephone number. • Include the warranty card if warranty service is requested.

Send your system to the authorized Futaba R/C Service Center at the address below:

Futaba Service Center Futaba Service Center

3002 N Apollo Drive Suite 1 3002 N Apollo Drive Suite 1

Champaign, IL 61822 Champaign, IL 61822

This product is to be used for sport and recreational flying of radio-control models only. Futaba is not
responsible for the results of use of this product by the customer or for any alteration of this product,
including modification or incorporation into other devices by third parties. Modification will void any
warranty and is done at the owner

(USA only)(USA only)

Protect the environment by disposing of rechargeable batteries responsibly. Throwing rechargeable
batteries into the trash or municipal waste system is illegal in some areas. Call 1-800-8-BATTERY
for information about Ni-Cd battery recycling in your area.

’s risk.

22

CONTENTS AND SPECIFICATIONSCONTENTS AND SPECIFICATIONS

Transmitter: T4EXTransmitter: T4EX

T4EX Transmitter with 4-model memory.
Transmitting on 29, 35, 36, 40, 41, or 72 MHz band.
Operating system: 2-stick, 4-channel system
Modulation: FM(Frequency modulation)
Power supply: 9.6V NT8S600B Ni-Cd battery or 12V alkaline battery
Current drain: 250mA

Receiver: R127DF, R136F, R124F, or R114FReceiver: R127DF, R136F, R124F, or R114F

R127DF FM Dual conversion 7 channel receiver.
R136F FM 6 channel receiver.
R124F/R114F FM 4 channel micro receiver.
Receiving on 29, 35, 36, 40, 41, or 72 MHz band.
Intermediate frequencies: 455kHz (R127DF- 10.7MHz/455kHz)
Power requirement: 4.8V or 6V (R124F/R114F- 4.8V)
Current drain: 9.5mA @ 4.8V (R124F/R114F- 6mA @ 4.8V)
Size: R127DF- 1.39x2.52x0.82" (35.3x64.0x20.8mm)/

R136F- 1.31x1.98x0.71" (33.4x50.3x18.1mm)/
R124F- 1.31x0.64x0.62" (33.2x16.2x15.7mm)/
R136F- 0.86x1.25x0.53" (21.8x31.7x13.5mm)/

Weight: R127DF- 1.5oz (42.5g) / R136F- 0.98oz (27.8g) /

R124F- 0.30oz (8.5g) / R114F- 0.38oz (10.9g)

Servos: S3004, S3003, S3109M, or S3108Servos: S3004, S3003, S3109M, or S3108

S3004 ball bearing/S3003 standard servo
S3109M/S3108 micro servo
With mounting hardware and servo arm assortment.
Control system: Pulse width control,1.52ms neutral
Power requirement: 4.8 or 6V from receiver (S3109M/S3108- 4.8V)
Output torque: S3004/S3003- 44.4oz-in [3.2kg-cm] @4.8V

S3109M- 6.25oz-in [0.45kg-cm] @4.8V
S3108- 16.7oz-in [1.2kg-cm] @4.8V

Operating speed: S3004/S3003- 0.23sec/60

S3109M- 0.14sec/60
S3108- 0.12sec/60

Size: S3004/S3003- 1.59x0.78x1.41" [40.4x19.8x36mm]

S3109M/S3108- 0.86x0.43x0.78" [21.8x11x19.8mm]

Weight: S3004- 1.3oz (37.2g) / S3003- 1.3oz (38.0g) /

S3109M- 0.22oz (6.3g) / S3108- 0.27oz (7.6g)

Other components:Other components:

Switch harness
9"[200mm]aileron extension cord (to facilitate quick connecting and
disconnecting of aileron servo with removable wing)
Instruction manual

°@4.8V

°@4.8V

°@4.8V

*Specifications and ratings are subject to change without notice

GLOSSARYGLOSSARY

It will be helpful to understand the following terms before reading the rest of the manual. The terms are not in alphabetical
order, but are in a logical order that prepares the reader for understanding the next term.

Reversing (servo reversing) -

Reversing (servo reversing) - A function that allows the user to determine the direction of response of each servo. If, after

hooking up the servos, a control on the model responds in the wrong direction, the user may change the servo's direction so
the control responds correctly.

Throw -

Throw - When speaking of a control surface (such as an elevator or aileron), the throw is

the distance the surface moves. Control surface throw is usually measured at the trailing
edge of the surface and is expressed in inches or millimeters. The model in the diagram has
1/2" [13mm] of up elevator throw. Throw can also refer to the distance a servo arm (or
wheel) travels.

End point adjustment (E.P.A.) -

End point adjustment (E.P.A.) - Sets the overall, maximum distance the servo rotates in

either direction.

Exponential -Exponential - Normally, servos respond proportionally to control stick input from the transmitter (e.g., if the stick is moved

halfway, the servo will move halfway). However, with
stick movement (less servo movement is more common). Exponentials are commonly used to
servo travel for the ailerons, elevators and rudder. This way, initial control stick inputs from the pilot result in small servo
movement for a smoother flying airplane.

“exponential,” the servo can be made to move more or less than initial

“soften,” or decrease initial

Mixing -

Mixing - Two (or more) servos can be made to operate together either by mechanically joining the wires (with a Y-connector)

or by electronically “joining” them through programming functions (WING mixing) in the transmitter. When servos are
electronically joined via programming, they are said to be “mixed.” Each servo’s end points can be independently set.

33

INTRODUCTION TO THE 4EX SYSTEMINTRODUCTION TO THE 4EX SYSTEM

IMPORTANT!:IMPORTANT!: Always turn on the transmitter first, then the receiver. When turning off the system, always turn off the receiver

first. The object is never to have the receiver on by itself. Otherwise, the servos or control surfaces could be damaged, or in
the case of electric-powered models, the motor may unexpectedly turn on causing severe injury.

IMPORTANT!:

IMPORTANT!: Never collapse the transmitter antenna by pushing down from the top. If one of the segments becomes momentarily

stuck you may damage the antenna. Instead, collapse the antenna from the bottom, drawing in one segment at a time.

Transmitter

Transmitter

The liquid-crystal display (LCD) on the face of the compact, ergonomically-designed case is easy to read and allows rapid data
input. The system also holds independent memories for four different models. The new, adjustable-length control sticks provide an
improved feel. External switches operate trainer cord or “buddy-box” capabilities. Programming features include servo reversing
and E.P.A on all channels, exponentials. Additionally, any one of three, factory-set, preprogrammed “wing-type” mixers including
V-tail, elevon mixing may be selected.

Transmitter controls

Transmitter controls

The diagram and explanations briefly describe the functions of the Futaba T4EX transmitter. Full instructions on how to
operate the controls are provided beginning on page 9.

NOTE: NOTE: The diagram shows a Mode 2 system as supplied. (More on flight modes on page 14).

Trainer switch

Throttle/rudder

control stick

Throttle trim

lever

Rudder trim

lever

MODE key

Carrying handle

Antenna

Neck strap hook

Aileron/elevator

control stick

Elevator trim lever

Aileron trim lever

Charging jack

On-off switch

DATA INPUT lever

SELECT key

DESCRIPTIONS: DESCRIPTIONS:
Neck strap hook - Neck strap hook - Mounting point for optional neck strap.
Aileron/elevator control stick -Aileron/elevator control stick - Operates the servos connected to channel 1 (aileron) and channel 2 (elevator) in the receiver.
Trim levers (all) -Trim levers (all) - Used to shift the neutral or center position of each servo as labeled in the diagram.

NOTE:NOTE: Changing the trims affect the overall settings. When trim usage is extreme, recheck your installation for

maximum travel.

Liquid-crystal display

screen (LCD)

44

Charging jack -Charging jack - Port for charging the transmitter batteries with the included battery charger.
On-off switchOn-off switch
DATA INPUT lever -DATA INPUT lever - Used to change the values of the various functions displayed on the LCD screen.

Liquid-crystal display screenLiquid-crystal display screen (LCD) - Displays programming modes and values entered.
MODE key -MODE key - Used to scroll through and display the seven different functions.
SELECT key -SELECT key - Used to display the values for the current function.
Throttle/rudder control stick -

Throttle/rudder control stick - Operates the servos connected to channel 3 (throttle) and channel 4 (rudder) in the receiver.

Trainer switch -

Trainer switch - Operates the trainer functions. To operate as a trainer switch the transmitter must be connected to another

transmitter via. a trainer cord (available separately).

Antenna -

Antenna - Radiates signals to the receiver. Never fly a model without fully extending the antenna or you may create

interference to other modelers and decrease operational signal range of the transmitter. The antenna may be removed and
replaced with another in case it is inadvertently broken.

RADIO INSTALLATIONRADIO INSTALLATION

Follow these guidelines to properly mount the servos, receiver and battery.

•• Make certain the alignment tabalignment ta b on the battery, switch and servo connectors is oriented correctly and “keys” into the

corresponding notch in the receiver or connectors before plugging them in. When unplugging connectors, never pull on the
wires. Always pull on the plastic connector instead.

•• If any servo wires are not long enough to reach the receiver, servo extension wires (available separately) may be used.

•• Always mount the servos with the supplied rubber grommetsrubber grommets. Do not over tighten the

screws. No part of the servo casing should contact the mounting rails, servo tray or any
other part of the airplane structure. Otherwise, vibration will be transmitted to the servo
causing premature wear and/or servo failure.

•• Note the small numbers (1, 2, 3, 4) molded into each arm on the Futaba 4-arm servo arms.

The numbers indicate how many degrees each arm is
minute manufacturing deviations from servo to servo.

•• To center the servos, connect them to the receiver and turn on

th e tr a n s mi t te r an d r e ce i ve r. Cen t e r th e tr i ms on the
transmitter, then find the arm that will be perpendicular to the
pushrod when placed on the servo.

“off” from 90 degrees to correct for

Servo

Rubber
grommet

55

• After the servos are installed, operate each servo over its full travel and check that the pushrods and servo arms do not bind

or contact each other. Also make sure the controls do not require excess force to operate. If there is an objectionable buzzing
sound coming from a servo, there is probably too much resistance in the control. Find and correct the problem. Even if there is
no servo damage, excess battery drain will result.

• Use the mounting platemounting plate from the receiver on/off switch as a template for the cutout and screw holes. Mount the switch on

the side of the fuselage opposite the engine exhaust, and where it won’t be inadvertently turned on or off during handling or
storage. Be certain the switch moves without restriction and

“snaps” from ON to OFF, and that the cutout allows full motionfull motion

of the switch in bothboth directions.

• IMPORTANT: NEVERIMPORTANT: NEVER cut the receiver antenna or mount it in the model folded back on itself. Doing so will change its

electrical length, possibly reducing the distance from the pilot that the model can be controlled (

“range”).

• The receiver antenna may be mounted inside or outside the model:

Internal antenna mounting:Internal antenna mounting:

The antenna may be routed down through the inside of the fuselage, or through any non-metallicnon-metallic housing or tube within the
fuselage. Keep the antenna away from metal pushrods, wires and cables; otherwise, range may be decreased. Always perform a
range check before flying (see page 16).

Rubber Band etc.

Antenna

External antenna mounting:External antenna mounting:

A. Use a cut off servo arm as a

““stopstop”” or strain reliefstrain relief inside the fuselage to keep

tension off the solder joint holding the antenna to the receiver. Guide the antenna
through a hole in the fuselage. (If possible, insulate the hole with a rubber grommet or a
small piece of rubber tubing.)

B. Make a hookhook from another cut off servo arm. Insert the end of the antenna

through two holes, then connect the hook to a rubber band around a pin inserted into the
vertical stabilizer. Allow any excess antenna length to trail behind the hook.

• The receiver contains precision electronic parts. It is the most delicate (and expensive) radio component on-board the model

and should be protected from vibration, shock and temperature extremes. To protect the receiver, wrap it in R/C foam rubber
or other vibration-absorbing material. If appropriate, waterproof the receiver by placing it in a plastic bag and closing the open
end with a rubber band before wrapping it in foam. If moisture enters the receiver, intermittent operation or a failure may result.
Wrapping the receiver in a plastic bag also protects it from fuel and exhaust residue which, in some models, can work its way
into the fuselage.

Mounting the frequency clip:Mounting the frequency clip: (for USA)(for USA)

• To announce your frequency and avoid potential interference problems, the

frequency number should always be displayed on the transmitter antenna while
flying. Peel the backing from the numbers and apply them to both sides of the
clip. Snap the end of the clip that fits best to the base of the antenna as shown.
You may cut off the other end of the clip.

66