Hobbico TTX650 User Manual

2.4GHz 6-CHANNEL COMPUTER RADIO
INSTRUCTION MANUAL

Tactic's TTX650 computer transmitter uses the advanced 2.4GHz spread spectrum SLT "Secure Link Technology"
protocol for solid, interference-free control of R/C models. Ball-bearing gimbals, a wireless trainer system, 20
model memories, and advanced programming options are just a few of the benefits which can be used on models
of all sizes. Tactic 2.4GHz transmitters are compatible only with Tactic brand receivers and those utilizing the SLT
protocol.

For safe operation and best results, it’s strongly recommended to read this manual in its entirety
before use! Also read and understand the instructions included with the model. Damage resulting
from misuse or modification will void your warranty.

INDEX

SLT TECHNOLOGY, Tx-R, AND COMPATIBLE RECEIVERS Page xx
RECEIVER INSTALLATION xx
TTX650 POWER SYSTEM xx
Input Power xx
Charge Jack and Rechargeable Batteries xx
Power LED xx
FLIGHT CONTROLS xx
Gimbal Sticks xx
Stick Tension and Throttle Ratchet xx
Case Separation and Assembly xx
Digital Stick Trims xx
Toggle Switches xx
Antenna xx
HOME SCREEN xx
MENUS xx
LCD AND PROGRAMMING CONTROLS, MENU NAVIGATION xx
SYSTEM SETUP xx
User Name xx
Stick Mode xx
Contrast xx
Beep Volume xx
Battery Alarm xx
MODEL SETUP MENU – AIRPLANES xx
Model Select xx
Model Management xx
Wing Type xx
Channel Assignments xx

Warnings xx
Trainer xx

Trim Setting xx
SETTINGS MENU – AIRPLANES xx
Servo Set (reverse, sub-trim, travel limits) xx

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Dual-Rates and Exponential xx
CH5 and CH6 Set xx
Throttle Curve xx
Throttle Cut xx
Aileron Differential xx
Aileron Flap Adjustments xx
Aileron Mixer xx
Elevator Mixer xx
Flap Mixer xx
Air Brake Set xx
Programmable Mixer xx
Rf Output xx
Timer xx
MODEL SETUP MENU – HELICOPTERS xx
Swash Type xx
SETTINGS MENU – HELICOPTERS xx
Servo Set, Dual-Rates, Exponential, RF Output, Timer xx
Throttle Cut xx
Throttle Hold xx
Throttle Curve xx
Pitch Curve xx
Gyro Mixing xx
Swash Mixing xx
Throttle Mixing xx
Rudder Mixing xx
Swash Ring xx
Programmable Mixer xx
BIND THE RX TO THE TX xx
FAILSAFE FUNCTION xx
WIRELESS TRAINER xx
RANGE TEST xx
FIRMWARE UPGRADES xx
WARNING INDICATIONS xx
SYSTEM CHECK AND OPERATION xx
FLYING THE AIRCRAFT xx
IMPORTANT WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS xx
TTX650 SPECIFICATIONS xx
TROUBLESHOOTING xx
SAFETY GUIDE xx
ACCESSORIES xx
FCC STATEMENT xx
WARRANTY INFORMATION xx

** large glamour picture with callouts
neck strap eyelet
power switch
antenna
LED power indicator

2

LCD
pushbuttons
carrying handle
each toggle switch
charge jack (left side, bottom)
firmware upgrade jack (left side, just above charge jack)
trim levers

SLT TECHNOLOGY, Tx-R, AND COMPATIBLE RECEIVERS

Tactic's custom SLT technology ensures that transmitters emit a strong, clear, frequency-hopping 2.4GHz signal,
and that your compatible receiver accepts no signal except yours. Binding Tactic brand receivers is as simple as
pushing a button, which creates a locked-in, interference free link. The TTX650 radio can store up to 20 models in
memory, making it perfect to control a full fleet of models with the super-affordable Tactic brand 2.4GHz receivers.
The TTX650 is also compatible with non-Tactic brand receivers which use the *SLT protocol, for the ultimate in
convenience and flexibility.

* Make sure optional receivers have the genuine SLT protocol before use with the TTX650.

The TTX650 is also compatible with all transmitter-ready aircraft bearing the "Tx-R" logo. Such aircraft include
receivers having the SLT protocol.

RECEIVER INSTALLATION

Always mount the optional receiver, servos, switch harness, battery, electronic speed control, etc. as explained in
the manual included with such equipment and/or the model. Keep the Rx and its antenna(s) as far away from the
engine/motor, servos, and ESC and other electronic items as much as possible. It may also be a good idea to
mount the Rx inside certain models using Velcro

®

, and wrap it in foam rubber to prevent damage from strong
vibrations or crash damage (except in extremely warm environments). It's best to have as few items surrounding
the receiver's antenna tips as possible inside the model, to allow for the most obstruction-free signal path to the
transmitter. Exposing the receiver's antenna tip outside the model is recommended if possible. For receivers with
two antennas, position the antennas at 90 degree angles with the tips resting at least 5 inches apart. If possible,
allow one antenna to point vertically above the receiver itself.

TTX650 POWER SYSTEM

INPUT POWER: Four 1.5V "AA" alkaline cells (included) or 1.2V "AA" NiCd or NiMH cells supply power to the

TTX650. Do not mix cell types, or old and new cells, etc. Slide open the battery door to find the four "AA" cell
battery holder. Insert all cells with the proper polarity as shown inside the battery holder. Carefully tuck the wires
and battery holder inside the battery compartment so not to damage them when closing the battery door.

Alternatively, an assembled 4.8V NiCd or NiMH "AA" flat pack can be installed. Remove the alkaline cell holder
from the battery compartment and carefully observe the polarity of the wires before disconnecting the plug from
the Tx. Install the NiCd or NiMH battery by first inserting its connector into the jack in the battery compartment.
Make sure to observe proper polarity.

Battery voltage is shown on the LCD's home screen for easy monitoring. A "LOW BATTERY" warning will show
when battery power drops to the voltage value shown in the BATTERY ALARM screen as described on page xx.

3

WARNING! Never operate an R/C model with weak Tx batteries! Reduced operational range
and/or possible loss of control of the aircraft could result. Replace weak alkaline batteries, or
re-charge NiCd or NiMH batteries, before attempting a flight!

A "Tx Batt." timer in the TIMER menu described on page xx can track the total amount of time the transmitter has
been operational.

See the ACCESSORIES section on page xx for optional batteries and chargers available at local hobby retailers.

CHARGE JACK AND CHARGING RECHARGEABLE BATTERIES: The charge jack
should only be used for recharging optional NiCd or NiMH batteries (charger not
included). Do not try to recharge alkaline batteries. Charge adapters for Futaba
brand transmitters are compatible, with the center pin being positive polarity. The
Tx power switch must be in the OFF position to recharge batteries. Do not charge batteries at greater than 1 amp.
Cycling of the Tx batteries can be accomplished through this jack. Misuse, improper charging, or over-charging of
rechargeable cells can result in damage to the cells that could include cell rupture, explosion, or fire!!

WARNING! Do not accidentally short circuit the terminals inside the charge jack, as this can cause
permanent damage to the radio's charge circuitry and battery and void the warranty.

POWER LED: The blue LED illuminates when the power switch is turned on and ample voltage is supplied by the
battery. This LED will flash if battery voltage drops to the voltage set in the BATTERY ALARM setting described on
page xx.

FLIGHT CONTROLS

Channels 1 - 4 are fully proportional. Channels 5 and 6 can be controlled by a non-proportional switch. However,
if a proportional channel (1-4) is mixed to channel 5 or 6 these channels can exhibit proportional control.

Aircraft control is accomplished through various electro-mechanical devices which are manipulated by the pilot,
such as the control sticks and toggle switches. In addition, the Tx can automatically manipulate the pilot's control
inputs electronically to alter the control signals before they are delivered to the receiver (e.g. mixing two channels,
applying differential reduction to a channel, etc.). Some electronic functions can be turned on/off by the pilot
during flight such as a timer. Other functions can only be altered while the model is on the ground, such as
changing travel limits or reversing for a particular channel.

GIMBAL STICKS: Ball-bearing construction allows both sticks to provide the ultimate in smooth, precise control.
Stick length can be adjusted for optimum feel and control. Each stick consists of a base and a tip. To adjust, hold
the base tightly, then loosen the tip by turning it counter-clockwise. Adjust the stick tip to the desired length.
Tighten the stick by holding the tip in place and turning the base counter-clockwise until it's tight against the tip.

STICK TENSION AND THROTTLE RACHET: Each control stick can be adjusted for softer or stiffer movement
tension. A ratchet is also included for the throttle stick which can be adjusted for feel depending on personal
preference. Adjustment of either feature requires removal of the rear of the Tx case as explained in the CASE
SEPARATION AND ASSEMBLY section below.

CASE SEPARATION AND ASSEMBLY

TTX650 CHARGE JACK

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WARNING! Failure to follow these instructions for separating and re-assembling the Tx case can
result in permanent damage to the transmitter, and void the warranty. Contact Hobby Services if you
do not feel comfortable that you can safely and accurately perform these steps.

ALWAYS disconnect and remove the batteries from the battery compartment FIRST. Failure to do so can
result in permanent damage to the Tx.

Remove the six screws from the back of the Tx case. Carefully pull the case rear away from the case front and
note exactly how all wires are routed inside the case.

After adjustments are made as described in other sections of this manual, close the case by first carefully tucking
all cables back inside as when the case was opened. Align the case rear back onto the case front, making sure that
no wires are pinched between the case parts. Press the case halves together. Insert the screws back into their
positions and carefully tighten them until snug - making sure not to cross the threads or over-tighten the screws.
Re-connect the battery holder's connector to the socket inside the Tx. Insert the battery into the compartment,
and carefully tuck the wires inside the cavity so they do not become pinched when the door is closed. Close the
battery door.

Stick tension: Silver screws on the back of each gimbal are used to adjust the stick tension, as shown in this
picture. Turn the screw clockwise to make stick tension more firm. Turn the screw counter-clockwise to make
stick tension more light.

Throttle ratchet: A silver ratchet bar is mounted across the throttle gimbal. For airplane use, a more firm ratchet
feel might be desired for the throttle. In this case, turn the adjustment screw clockwise. For helicopter use, less of
a ratchet feel might be desired. Turn this adjustment screw counter-clockwise to achieve the desired feel.

DIGITAL STICK TRIMS: The trim controls for the four main channels are digital. Holding the trim lever will cause
the servo output to move repeatedly. Trim positions are visible on the LCD's home screen, and stored into that
respective memory. Changing the model memory will also cause trim settings to change accordingly.

For aircraft with glow engines, the precise position of the trim lever is helpful when determining the engine’s
preferred idle point. The throttle trim lever is not active when the main throttle stick is above 50% full throttle.

The amount of servo movement for each increment of a digital trim can be adjusted as desired, as explained in
the TRIM SETTING section on page xx.

TOGGLE SWITCHES: Each switch can be assigned to control one of a variety of functions as desired and
described throughout this manual. See page xx for the location of all switches, which are also marked on the Tx
by letter. The factory default switch assignments are as follows:

Switch Type Default Function – Airplane Default Function - Helicopters

A 2-position CH2 elevator dual-rate timer control
B 2-position CH5 landing gear gyro gain
C 3-position CH6 flaps (no setting)
D 2-position CH1 aileron dual-rate aileron, elevator, and rudder
dual-rates (all)
E 3-position CH4 rudder dual-rate normal / idle-up control
F 2-position, momentary trainer throttle cut

5

H 2-position throttle cut throttle hold

ANTENNA: The strongest signals are emitted at a 45 degree angle from the sides of the antenna. Rotate and
fold the antenna so that it's not pointing directly towards the model during flight. Do not grab the antenna
during operation as it may affect radio signal quality.

HOME SCREEN

The factory default screen and menus will be for airplanes. See the next section for navigating and changing
menus for model type and other functions.

MENUS

The TTX650 has three types of menus.

The SYSTEM SETUP menu allows for setting basic operational functions for the radio itself.

Selecting and managing the model memories, configuring the radio for the structure of the airplane or helicopter,
etc. is done in the MODEL SETUP menu. Most functions apply for both airplanes and helicopters. Select functions
are available for airplanes only or helicopters only.

Setting various radio functions to control the model is done in the SETTINGS menu. Some settings apply for both
airplanes and helicopters. Select settings are available for airplanes only or helicopters only.

LCD, PROGRAMMING CONTROLS, MENU NAVIGATION

The LCD contrast is adjustable for optimum viewing. Six pushbuttons navigate the menus and settings. Single
button pushes will result in a single incremental adjustment on-screen. Holding a button for a short time will
result in slow scrolling of adjustments; continued holding will result in fast adjustments.

Left side buttons:
SERVO Press any time to see the servo position screen shown below. Indicators for certain channels will
change depending on model type, wing type, etc. Moving any Tx control will graphically be shown on this screen.
When setting / adjusting mixes to determine if the mix is as desired, set the mix and then view this screen. Move
all controls to determine if the mix moves each respective channel as needed.

CLEAR Quickly resets certain values and settings back to factory defaults.
ESC Jumps back to the previous screen, and removes certain pop-up messages from the screen.

Right side buttons: adjustment of values on-screen.

↑+ Moves the cursor up, and for increasing highlighted values/settings.
↓‐ Moves the cursor down, and for decreasing highlighted values/settings.

ENTER To select or de-select a setting, or enter a screen.

SYSTEM SETUP

Fundamental settings for the transmitter itself are located in this menu. With the power switch in the OFF position,
press and hold ENTER, turn the power switch ON and wait for the SYSTEM SETUP screen to show. Move the
cursor and press ENTER to select any setting. Press ↑+ and↓‐to change settings. Press ENTER to confirm the
setting.

USER NAME: Enter your name to identify the radio. The cursor will be under the first character to enter. Press
↑+ and↓‐to find the desired character, then ENTER to confirm. The cursor will automatically move to the next

6

cursor. Pressing ← or → can move the cursor freely. Repeat as necessary for up to 8 characters. Pressing CLEAR
will move the cursor back one space and erase the character in that space. Press ESC when finished.

STICK MODE: The TTX650 is factory set to
Mode 2 configuration, but can be changed to

LEFT STICK RIGHT STICK

Mode 1 (elevator on left, throttle on right). To
change modes in the programming, move the
cursor to the STICK MODE line, highlight and

rudder

aileron

press ENTER, then press ↑+ or↓‐.Press
ENTER to confirm.

In addition to programming changes, stick

Mode 1: elevator
Mode 2: throttle

Mode 1: throttle
Mode 2: elevator

mode changes require reversal of the throttle
ratchet and elevator arm/spring. Refer to the

NORM AL STICK CONFIGURATIONS

CASE SEPARATION AND ASSEMBLY section on
page xx for opening and safely re-assembling the case after the mechanical adjustments are made. Failure to do

this properly can cause permanent damage to the radio and void the warranty.

Throttle ratchet: The long metal bar resting across the throttle gimbal must be moved to the other gimbal.

Carefully remove the screws at each end of the bar. Re-locate the bar to the other gimbal and install across the
ratcheted surface of the gimbal as shown. Re-install both screws. Carefully install the screw at top until snug – do
not over-tighten! The screw at bottom should be tightened until the vertical movement of this stick has the
desired amount of resistance.

Elevator arm and spring: The black plastic arm and spring must be re-located from the elevator gimbal to the
opposite gimbal. Using a pair of needle nose pliers or hemostats, carefully grip the end of the spring which is
looped over the end of the black plastic arm and gently lift it off the arm. Then slide the spring towards the center
of the gimbal to remove it from the gimbal. Set the spring aside.

Raise the plastic arm to a vertical position. Slide the arm towards the center of the gimbal to remove it from its
mounting pin.

Rotate the arm 180 degrees to mount it to the opposite gimbal as shown. While in the vertical position, slide the
arm over the mounting pin on the opposite gimbal. Lay the arm down across the gimbal.

Gripping one loop on the end of the spring, carefully lower the opposite loop of the spring into the gimbal to
slide it over the appropriate mounting pin. With the spring holding onto the pin inside the gimbal, carefully
stretch the spring and hook the loop over the end of the plastic arm. Confirm the arm and spring are mounted
properly by moving this stick and ensuring all movement is smooth but with resistance from the spring.

Close the transmitter as explained in the CASE SEPARATION AND ASSEMBLY section.

CONTRAST: Adjust the LCD's contrast level for optimum viewing.

BEEP VOLUME: Adjust the loudness of the radio's beeper as desired. This volume setting affects all tones that
are emitted from the radio including trim adjustments, alarms, programming changes, etc.

7

BATTERY ALARM: An alarm will sound and the display will show "LOW BATTERY" when the Tx battery's voltage
drops to the level shown in this setting. Do NOT set this value too low, as the radio could lose power very rapidly
as the battery nears full discharge and cause a loss of control of the model. Land the model immediately once

this alarm has sounded!

Battery Alarm

Battery type Default Recommended Minimum

Nickel-Cadmium (NiCd) or
Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH)
Alkaline 4.00V 4.00V 3.60V

4.40V 4.40V 4.00V

Once all functions in this menu are set, press ESC to return to the home screen.

MODEL SETUP MENU – AIRPLANES

From the home screen, press and hold ENTER for 2 seconds to find the MODEL SETUP menu which is for setting of
fundamental operating parameters as shown here.

MODEL SELECT: Memories are available to store parameters for up to 20 different models. This screen is for
selecting the memory to be active. Move the cursor to find the desired memory to make active, and press ENTER.
The radio will automatically return to the home screen.

Changing the model memory is not possible if the Tx battery voltage is too low. See the INPUT POWER section
on page xx. It's a good idea to keep a record of all settings in each memory as a backup in case parameters in a
particular memory are accidentally changed, etc.

MODEL MANAGEMENT: Shows basic information regarding the model setup in the memory number shown at
top in brackets. Move the cursor up or down to select / change the function to adjust, and press ENTER to enter
the function screen.

Type: Press ↑+ to select the model type as airplane or helicopter. Press ENTER to confirm.

Name: Move the cursor to this line and press ENTER. The method for setting the model name is the same as

for entering the USER NAME as described on page xx. The maximum number of characters is six. Press ESC
when finished.

Copy: To copy all parameters from one model memory to another, place the cursor over "Copy" and press
ENTER. The "COPY FROM" page will show. Highlight the memory to copy FROM and press ENTER. Now the
"COPY TO" page will show.

Place the cursor over the memory number to copy TO, and press ENTER. The confirmation screen will show.

To NOT proceed with the copy function as shown on-screen, highlight "NO" and press ENTER to cancel and
return to the main MODEL MANAGEMENT screen.

Otherwise, press ↓- to highlight "YES" and press ENTER. All settings that previously existed in the receiving
memory will be permanently erased. The display will return to the main MODEL MANAGEMENT screen. Return
to the MODEL SELECT screen to confirm the copy function was successful by looking at the memory that was
copied "to".

8

Reset: To change the parameters of any single memory except model type and model name use this reset
function. Enter this screen, move the cursor over the memory to reset and press ENTER. Select "NO" to cancel
or "YES" to proceed with the reset, and press ENTER. The display will then return to the home screen.

Erase: Use the erase function to completely clear all settings (including model type and name) in any single
memory to factory default settings. The method for selecting, cancelling, and approving this function is the
same as for reset.

WING TYPE: This is for setting the type of tail and wing configuration for the model. Depending on the mixes
used and setup of the aircraft, it might be necessary to change the aileron, elevator, or rudder reversing settings
to achieve the proper throw directions for the model.

"Normal" is the factory default setting for the "TAIL" type. Move the cursor over "Normal", press ENTER then ↑+
or↓‐ to select from V-Tail, Delta (elevon), and 2 Elevator options. Press ENTER to confirm the selection. The
charts below can aid in determining the preferred tail and flap setting for the model.

Normal: One servo each is used for aileron(s), elevator(s), and rudder.

1AIL 1AIL/1FLAP 2AIL 2AIL/1FLAP
CH1 AIL AIL AIL AIL
CH2 ELEV ELEV ELEV ELEV
CH3 THRO THRO THRO THRO
CH4 RUDD RUDD RUDD RUDD
CH5 AUX1 FLAP AUX1 FLAP
CH6 AUX2 AUX2 AIL2 AIL2

V-tail: Elevator and rudder channels are

mixed. Two servos are used in the tail –
one for each control surface, with
connections as shown in the graphic below.
V-tail mixing controls the airplane's "pitch"
and "yaw" axis at the same time. If the
elevator and rudder functions appear

1AIL 1AIL/1FLAP 2AIL 2AIL/1FLAP
CH1 AIL AIL AIL AIL
CH2 V-TAIL1 V-TAIL1 V-TAIL1 V-TAIL1
CH3 THRO THRO THRO THRO
CH4 V-TAIL2 V-TAIL2 V-TAIL2 V-TAIL2
CH5 AUX1 FLAP AUX1 FLAP
CH6 AUX2 AUX2 AIL2 AIL2

reversed at the control surfaces, it may be
necessary to swap the channel 2 and
channel 4 servo plug positions in the Rx.
The travel limits for each servo can be
adjusted independently.

Delta wing (elevon): Elevator and aileron channels are mixed, useful for aircraft such as flying wings and other
models not having a tail. Elevon mixing controls the airplane's "pitch" and "roll" axis at the same time. One servo
is used for each control surface. Travel limits for each servo can be adjusted separately. If the elevator and aileron
functions appear reversed at the control surfaces, it may be necessary to swap the channel 2 and channel 3 servo

AIRPLANE NORMAL TAIL

AIRPLANE V-TAIL

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