FUTABA R6014FS, TM-14 RF Instruction Manual

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How to Get the Best Performance from Your Futaba® 2.4GHz
FASST™ Aircraft Receivers
Every R/C pilot learns by experience what methods work well for installing and maintaining radio equipment. At the same time, we also want our aircraft to have the advantage of up-to-the-minute technology...which means that every now and then, we must master some new techniques.
Spread spectrum radio technology offers the perfect example. When Futaba introduced 2.4GHz FASST radio equipment, R/C hobbyists quickly jumped to the front of electronic technology’s cutting edge. Not surprisingly, those new, state-of-the-art
2.4GHz receivers have significant differences compared to old 72MHz units. So it’s time to change a few old habits.
Below are some recommendations for updating the way you install and maintain radio gear. Make them a part of your routine, and you’ll enjoy the best performance from your
2.4GHz FASST radio gear.
1. Don’t wrap your FASST receiver in foam.
Protecting your receiver from vibration by wrapping it in foam used to be a “must”. Not so with 2.4GHz FASST receivers. Unlike 72MHz equipment, they’re not as vulnerable to vibration. Using less foam lets them operate cooler — which is a plus for all electronics. Tip: To keep the receiver cooler use small foam blocks (like standoffs) so that there is an air channel around the receiver.
2. Shade your model from sunlight when not flying.
Clear canopies expose the radio compartment to direct sunlight which results in additional heat in the model interior. This causes no problems during flight, but makes shading your model on the ground very important. Cover the canopy with a white towel; or better yet, park your airplanes in the shade. This will help keep the electronic components cool. Tip: It is important to note that lighter covering colors will absorb less heat whereas darker colors will absorb more heat.
3. Mount your FASST receiver away from heat sources.
We had to avoid mounting 72MHz receivers near anything that might produce RF noise. That’s not as much of a concern with 2.4GHz FASST receivers — you should instead make sure that you’re mounting the unit in the coolest part of the radio compartment. Stay away from the muffler exhaust, battery packs, regulators or any other heat source. We also recommend that you use the receiver’s long, narrow side as its base
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(rather than mounting it with the bottom flat against the radio compartment floor). Secure the receiver using a Velcro® strap or gel tape.
We hope that these tips help you with your 2.4GHz FASST receiver installation and maintenance. If you have any questions, please let us know. Just contact us at the Futaba Service Center, by e-mail at: service@futaba-rc.com.
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Important: The 2.4GHz band offers different characteristics than that of the conventional 50MHz and 72MHz. As such, we strongly encourage you to read this manual carefully prior to utilizing the TM-14 and R6014FS FASST system.
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Your 2.4GHz system includes the following components:
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TM-14 RF Module-
• Communication system: one-way communication
• Antenna: 1/2 wavelength di-pole
• Current consumption: 150mA maximum
• LED (light emitting diodes) indicate the operational status
R6014FS Receiver-
• Dual antenna diversity
• Power requirement: 4.8V or 6.0V battery or regulated out­put from ESC, etc.
• F/S and Battery F/S function
• Size: 2.06 x 1.48 x 0.63 in. (52.3 x 37.5 x 16.0 mm)
• Weight: 0.72 oz. (20.8g)
TM-14 RF Module
FASST Air System
TM-14 RF Module
and
R6014FS Receiver
Thank you for purchasing the TM-14 2.4GHz FASST transmitter module and R6014FS receiver. This system is designed for use only with the Futaba transmitters indicated elsewhere in this manual. In order to use the TM-14 transmitter module, you will need to carefully remove the existing transmitter module and replace it with the TM-14 transmitter module. The receiver R6014FS, as the model number indicates, is capable of controlling models up to 14(fourteen channels)- 12(twelve) proportional and two digital. Please note: The installation of the R6014FS differs slightly from that of a typical receiver. Please pay special attention to the information contained within this
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Features:
2.4GHz Spread Spectrum radio communication system. Exclusive ID code to avoid interference from other FASST systems. Fail Safe (F/S) function, Battery F/S Dual antenna diversity (R6014FS)
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T12FG, T12Z and T14MZ
*Each of the aforementioned transmitters includes a region specifi c
code. This code varies depending upon the region in which the trans­mitter was purchased. If the region specifi c code within the transmit­ter does not match that of the TM-14 module an error message will be displayed on the screen. For example, when using an incorrect module in either the T14MZ or T12Z, the error message will indicate: "MISMATCHED RF MODULE". With the T12FG, the on-screen mes­sage will be as follows: "INCORRECT RF MODULE". In either situ­ation, we suggest that you contact the Futaba Service Center at the address provided elsewhere within this manual.
R6014FS Receiver
Instruction Manual
Repair Service (in U.S.A.)
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assistance you may also refer to your hobby dealer, or contact the Futaba Service Center at the web site, fax or telephone number below:
www.futaba-rc.com, www.2.4gigahertz.com, www.hobbyservices.com Fax (217) 398-7721, Tel (217) 398-0007
If you are unable to resolve the issue, pack the system in its original container with a note enclosed and a thorough, accurate GHVFULSWLRQRI WKHGLI¿FXOW\ ,QFOXGHWKH following in your note:
Symptoms (Including when the problem occurred) System (Transmitter, Receiver, Servos and model numbers) Model (Model name) Model numbers and quantity Your Name, Address and Telephone number
Send the respective items to the authorized Futaba Service Center address below:
Futaba Service Center
3002 N Apollo Drive Suite 1
Champaign, IL 61822
Special Markings;
Pay special attention to the safety at the parts of this manual that are indicated by the following marks.
[Symbol] ; Prohibited ; Mandatory
Mark Meaning
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.
Usage Precautions:
1) Prior to utilizing any radio control system, it is strongly recom­mended that you read and abide by the Safety Code created by the Academy of Model Aeronautics as well as any site spe­cifi c rules and regulations that might exist. Doing so will greatly increase your enjoyment of the hobby.
2) In order to maintain complete control of your aircraft it is im­portant that it remains visible at all times. Flying behind large objects such as buildings, grain bins, etc. is not suggested. Doing so may result in the reduction of the quality of the radio frequency link to the model.
3) Please do not grasp the transmitter module's antenna during fl ight. Doing so may degrade the quality of the radio frequency transmission.
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FASST transmitter module, system and receiver compatibility
Transmitter
Receiver
R606FS
R607FS R617FS
R608FS
R6014FS
TM-14 Module
Multi-ch mode Okay
7ch mode Okay Okay
TM-8 Module
8ch mode Okay
7ch mode Okay
TM-7 Module Okay
T7C 2.4G System Okay Okay
T6EX 2.4G System Okay Okay
©Copyright 2007. No part of this manual may be reproduced in any form without prior permission. The contents of this manual are subject to change without prior notice. While this manual has been carefully written, there may be inadvertent errors or omissions. Please contact our service
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FUTABA CORPORATION Phone: (043) 296-5118 Facsimile: (043) 296-5124
Makuhari Techno Garden Bldg., B6F 1-3 Nakase, Mihama-ku, Chiba 261-8555, Japan
©FUTABA CORPORATION 2007, 12 (1)
FCC Information
To assure continued FCC compliance:
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void the user's authority to operate the equipment.
FCC Label Compliance Statement: This device 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.
• Factory use only. Do not connect anything. (DATA connector)
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Attachment of the Module
CAUTION
Be sure to turn off the power of the transmitter before you install or replace the module.
1
Prior to attaching the module to the transmitter, it is
important that the transmitter's software is updated accordingly. To obtain the software update, please follow the instructions that accompanied your respective transmitter. Update the transmitter as per the instruction manual. Additionally, this update will also include written instructions on the operation and use of the TM-14 module and R6014FS receiver. As such, we strongly suggest that you read them carefully before proceeding.
2
While it is unlikely that the existing transmitter
antenna will interfere with the radio frequency transmission of the TM-14, we suggest not installing it in the transmitter as a precautionary measure.
3
Next, with the transmitter's power off, remove the
existing transmitter module and install the TM-14 module with care so that the connector pins of the transmitter won't be damaged.
4
Turn on the transmitter's
power and switch the RF band to 2.4GHz. To do so, please follow the instructions that were included in the software update.
Antenna of TM-14
1
As with all radio frequency transmissions, the
strongest area of signal transmission is from the sides of the TM-14 transmitter module's antenna. As such, the antenna should not be pointed directly at the model. If your flying style creates this situation, easily move the antenna to correct this situation.
2
Please do not grasp the transmitter's antenna
during flight. Doing so may degrade the quality of the RF transmission to the model.
Easy Link
Each TM-14 transmitter module has an individually assigned unique ID code. In order to start operation, the receiver must be linked to the respective TM-14's ID code. Once the linking is done, the ID code is stored in the receiver and the re-linking is not necessary unless the receiver is to be used with a different TM-14 module.
Additionally, it is important to note that this TM-14 and R6014FS receiver set has already been linked by the factory. Should you wish to re-link them, or if you have purchased a separate receiver and would like to link it to this TM-14, please adhere to the following procedure.
1
After the TM-14 module has been installed into
the transmitter, using the aforementioned steps, turn on the transmitter and activate the RF transmission according to the transmitter's instruction manual. The LED, located on the rear of the TM-14 transmitter module,
should begin to blink momentarily before turning to a solid green light. If not, power down the transmitter and turn it on once again.
2
With the transmitter on, and the green LED illuminated, turn on the receiver.
3
With the receiver on, the LED on the receiver start green blinking. This means the receiver is detecting
the TM14's RF signal but the ID code is not linked yet.
4
Press and hold the Easy Link button, located on the
top of the receiver, for approximately two seconds and release it. Then the receiver starts linking procedure. When the linking process has been completed, the LED on the receiver will change to a solid green and the linking is established.
TM-14 LED indication
* When the transmitter is powered up, the LEDs on the rear of the
module will begin to glow or blink accordingly. The chart below pro
-
vides you with an easy reference as to the meaning of the LEDs.
LED indication
Green Red Status
Solid Solid Initializing
Blink Off RF is off
Alternate Blink Check nearby RF condition
Solid Off RF power on
Solid Blink
RF power on (Power reduced to perform the range check function))
Receiver Installation and Channel Assignment
You will note that the R6014FS differs in appearance from the standard Futaba receiver. The R6014FS incorporates two separate antennas into its design which enables it to receive the radio frequency transmission at two different locations. Futaba's dual antenna diversity, or DAD, then seamlessly selects the best signal reception between these antennas to ensure that there is no loss of signal.
Antenna
*Must be kept as straight as possible.
Coaxial cable
R6014FS Receiver
Additionally, it is imperative to note that the servo grouping in the FASST system differs from that of the standard G3 PCM receivers. Futaba's FASST system data is transmitted in packets of four channels. Therefore, when utilizing the FASST system, channels 1-4, 5-8 and 9-12 are grouped together. Please refer to the instructions that were included with the software download for information on how to optimize your set-up for peak performance and satisfaction.
To obtain the best results from the R6014FS receiver, please refer to the following instructions and precautions:
1
Install the receiver in the aircraft using the same
methodology as you would a standard receiver. That is, make sure that you wrap the receiver in foam rubber or other such material to make it less susceptible to vibration, etc.
2
Ensure that the two receiver antennas are kept as straight as possible. This will allow you to obtain the
maximum effective range from your model.
3
If possible, please make sure that the two antennas
are placed at 90 degrees to each other. Please note: This is not a critical figure, however, the most important thing is to keep the antennas away from each other as much as possible.
4
If your model includes metal conductive items which
may impact the receiver's ability to clearly receive the radio frequency signal, we suggest mounting the receiver so that the receiver antennas exit both sides of the model. This will allow the best radio frequency signal condition at any flying attitude.
5
Ensure that the antennas are at least 1/2" away from
any conductive materials such as metal and carbon. Please note: this is not applicable to the coaxial portion of the antenna. It is important, however, to not bend the coax, or antenna in a tight radius.
6
If the fuselage is made of conductive materials such
as metal and carbon, the antennas part MUST be positioned so that they exit the fuselage. Additionally, do not attach the antenna itself to this fuselage.
* For example, there are many types of gliders which use carbon
fuselage. When installing the receiver into such models, it is impera
-
tive that the antenna precautions are adhered to strictly.
WARNING
Be very careful when handling the receiver antennas.
Repeated bending and flexing of the antennas or ex­cessive force could weaken or compromise the internal an­tenna connections.
Keep the antennas away from the motor, ESC, and
other noise sources as much as possible.
Antenna Antenna
• The main purpose of the photo demonstrates how the antenna should be placed. For actual installation the receiver must be
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from vibration.
• The receiver contains delicate electronic parts and should be pro
-
tected from vibration, shock and temperature extremes.
• The receiver is not impervious to damage from moisture. If moisture should enter the receiver, intermittent operation or failure may result. To prevent this from occurring, we suggest wrapping the receiver in a plastic bag or similar protective covering. This will also protect the receiver from any fuel or exhaust residue which can work its way into the fuselage.
R6014FS LED indication
Green Red Status
Off Solid No signal received
Solid Off Signal received, normal operation
Blink Off Reciever is receiving signals but the ID is unmatched
Alternate blink Unrecoverable error (EEPROM, etc.)
F/S (Fail Safe) setting
The TM-14 allows the modeler to adjust the Fail Safe settings via the transmitter. There are two different operational RF modes offered by the TM-14: "MULTI-CH" and "7-CH mode". The available Fail Safe settings vary depending upon which receiver model and RF mode are being utilized.
7-CH Mode: When using the "7-CH mode", Fail Safe is only available for channel three (throttle).
MULTI-CH Mode: If you are utilizing the "MULTI-CH" mode, as is the case with the R6014FS, Fail Safe settings and operation are identical to that of the fail safe when using the PCM- G3 receivers.
The F/S is suggested for use as it offers a safety factor when controlling your models. It is also possible to cancel the F/S operation if you do not wish to use it.
Range Check the Radio
It is extremely important to range check your models prior to
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is functioning as it should and to obtain maximum enjoyment from your time flying. The TM-14 transmitter module incorporates a system that reduces its power output and allows you to perform such a range check.
1
Turn on the transmitter and activate the 'RANGE
CHECK' mode through the transmitter's System menu. Please note: if the RF is activated, the 'RANGE CHECK' mode will not be available to utilize. As such, do NOT activate the RF when the transmitter is turned on.
2
After the radio frequency has been activated as
indicated by a solid green LED and a blink red LED, on the TM-14. As indicated by the blinking red LED, the radio frequency power has been reduced to allow for the range check.
3
Walk away from the model while simultaneously
operating the controls. Have an assistant stand by the model to confirm that all controls are completely and correctly operational. You should be able to walk approximately 30-50 paces from the model without losing control.
4
If everything operates correctly, return to the model.
Set the transmitter in a safe, yet accessible, location so it will be within reach after starting the engine or motor. Be certain the throttle stick is in the low throttle position, then start the engine or motor. Perform another range check with your assistant holding the aircraft with the engine running at various speeds. If the servos jitter or move inadvertently, there may be a problem. We would strongly suggest you do not fly until the source of the difficulty has been determined. Look for loose servo connections or binding pushrods. Also, be certain that the battery has been fully charged.
Installing the TM-14 Module and R6014FS Receiver
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