Horizon Hobby EXPERT4 User Manual

E X P E RT
4-Channel Radio System
I n s t ruction Manual
2
EXPERT Manual
INTRODUCTION TO THE EXPERT RADIO SYSTEM
Thank you for purchasing the EXPERT 4-Channel Radio System. This unit has been designed to provide the modeler with a user friendly radio system that can be depended upon for years to come.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction to the EXPERT Radio System . . . . . . . 3
1. System Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
2. EXPERT Transmitter
2.2 Transmitter Layout. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
2.3 Control Stick Length Adjustment. . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
2.4 Neck Strap Attachment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
3. RF600 Receiver
3.1 Receiver Features/Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
3.2 Receiver Layout. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
4. SL500 Servo
4.1 Servo Features Specifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
5. Airborne (Receiver) Battery Pack . . . . . . . . . . . 7
6. Charger Specifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
7. Charging Your EXPERT Radio System Prior to Installation
7.1 Battery Charger. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
It is important that you carefully read this manual before attempting to operate your EXPERT System. Please pay particular attention to Section 8, Charging Your EXPERT Radio System Prior to Installing.
8. Pre-Installation System Preparation
8.1 Flight Pack Connections. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
8.2 SL500 Servo Preparation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
8.3 Transmitter Preparation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
8.4 System Check. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
9. Flight Pack Installation
9.1 Installation Suggestions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
9.2 Servo Reversing/Setting Reversing Switches . . . 12
9.3 Adjusting Control Surface Travel. . . . . . . . . . . . 13
10. Pre-Flight Information
10.1 EXPERT Trainer System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
10.2 Operating the Trainer System . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
10.3 Range Testing Your Model . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
General Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Daily Flight Checks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Warranty and Service Information
Warranty Coverage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Repair Service Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Frequency Chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
EXPERT Manual
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1. SYSTEM SPECIFICAT I O N S
System Name EXPERT Receiver RF600 Airborne Battery 4.8V 600mAh Servos 4 – SL500
2. EXPERT TRANSMITTER
2.1
TRANSMITTER FEAT U R E S / S P E C I F I C AT I O N S
• Computer-designed, ergonomically styled case
• Servo reversing on all four channels (page 12)
• Adjustable control stick length (page 6)
• Trainer system feature compatible with Expert and JR radio systems
Accessories Mini Switch
Servo Accessories 12" Aileron Extension Instruction Manual Charger
• Easy-to-read transmitter battery voltage LED readout
• 9.6V 600mAh transmitter Ni-Cad battery pack
• Power output approximately 500mw
TRANSMITTER SPECIFICAT I O N S
Encoder 4-Channel Analog System RF 72 MHz Modulation PPM (FM)
Output Power Approximately 500mw Current Drain 150mAh Power Source 1.2V x 8 Ni-Cad (9.6V 600mAh) Output Pulse 1.0 –2.0ms
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EXPERT Manual
2.2
TRANSMITTER LAY O U T
Transmitter Battery Voltage LED
Neck Strap Attachment
Trainer Button
Throttle/Rudder Stick Throttle Trim
Rudder Trim
Trainer Cord Jack (Cord not included, order EXRA400.)
IMPORTANT
Transmiter Battery Voltage LED Indicator
Transmitter Antenna
Carrying Bar
Elevator Trim Elevator/Aileron Stick
Power Switch Aileron Trim
Transmitter Crystal
JR brand replacement crystals
recommended order JRPXF**
Replace ** with channel number
Servo Reversing Switches
Low Mid Full Red Orange Green
Low: Do not fly Mid: System should be recharged Full: System ok to fly
9.6V 600mAh Ni-Cad Transmitter Battery Pack
Carrying Bar
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2.3
CONTROL STICK LENGTH ADJUSTMENT
To adjust the control stick length, use a 2mm Allen wrench to unlock the set screw located inside the end of the control stick. Turn the set screw counterclockwise to loosen it, then turn the knurled portion of the stick to adjust the length. Counterclockwise will lengthen the stick and clockwise will shorten it. After the control stick(s) has been adjusted to suit your flying style, tighten the set screw.
2.4
NECK STRAP AT TA C H M E N T
There is an eye hook on the front of the transmitter for attaching an
optional neck strap. The eye hook is precisely positioned (see Section
3. RF600 RECEIVER
3.1
RECEIVER FEAT U R E S / S P E C I F I C AT I O N S
Patented noise rejection system for excellent interference protection
Set Screw
SET SCREW
LOOSEN
Loosen
TIGHTEN
Tighten
3.2) so that the transmitter will be perfectly balanced when a neck strap is used.
Compact, lightweight design provides easy installation into most model designs
State-of-the-art surface mount technology (SMT) design
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RECEIVER SPECIFICAT I O N S
Model Number RF600 Type 6-Channel FM Frequency 72 MHz
Sensitivity
3.2
RECEIVER LAY O U T
Receiver Frequency Crystal
JR brand replacement crystals
recommended order JRPXF**
Replace ** with channel number
(Microseconds
)
5µs Minimum
RF600 Receiver
Selectivity 8KHz/50db Weight (oz.) 1 oz. Size (W x L x H) 1.43" x 2.06" x .55" Receiver Antenna 39" for all Aircraft Frequencies
Battery (Switch Harness)
Rudder Elevator Aileron Throttle (Engine)
Antenna
EXPERT Manual
4. SL500 SERV O
4.1
S E RVO FEAT U R E S / S P E I C I F I C AT I O N S
Low current drain
An indirect drive feedback potentiometer gives additional protection from vibration
SL500 SERVO SPECIFICAT I O N S
Torque (oz/in) 43 Speed(sec./60°) .25 Weight (oz.) 1.47
5. AIRBORNE (RECEIVER) BAT T E RY PA C K
Type 4.8V, 600mAh Voltage 1.2V x 4 Ni-Cad (4.8V 600mAh)
State-of-the-art surface mount technology (SMT)
The SL500 features a 3-pole ferrite cored motor for reliability
Size (WxLxH) 0.73" x 1.52" x 1.32" Motor 3-Pole Ferrite
Size (WxLxH) 2.24" x .59" x 2.05" Weight(oz.) 3.3
6. CHARGER SPECIFICAT I O N S
Input Voltage AC 100-120V Output Current 50mAh Transmitter/
50mAh Receiver
EXPERT Manual
Charging Time 15 Hours
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7. CHARGING YOUR EXPERT RADIO SYSTEM PRIOR TO INSTA L L AT I O N
Your EXPERT Radio System is shipped from the factory with both the
transmitter and receiver NiCad batteries in a discharged state. Before
attempting to install/operate your EXPERT system, it is important that
Under normal conditions, subsequent recharging of your EXPERT system will require only an overnight charge (approximately 16 hours) to attain peak charge capacity.
the system be charged for approximately 24 hours to ensure that both
transmitter and receiver packs are at peak capacity.
The charger supplied with this system is designed to recharge your transmitter and receiver battery packs at a rate of 50mAh.
Special note on EXPERT transmitter charge polarity:
The center pin of the charge receptacle on this radio system is Negative polarity. Therefore, the center pin is negative, not positive. Your radio system’s charge polarity is reversed from many other manufacturers chargers. Beware of improper polarity connections based on “color code” wire leads as they DO NOT APPLY in this instance.
You must always be certain that the center pin on any charger used with this system is wired for negative polarity, otherwise damage will occur to the charge circuit of the EXPERT. The Expert warranty does not cover any system that is damaged by reverse polarity charging.
Right Side of Transmitter
Charging Jack
Center Pin Is Negative
Outside Is Positive
Charger Pigtail For Transmitter
Black To Positive
Red To Negative
7.1
B AT T E RY CHARGER
The pilot lamps on the battery charger should always be on during the charging operation. If they are not, check to make sure you have turned off both the transmitter and receiver.
Do not use the charger for equipment other than this system. The charging plug polarity may not be the same and equipment damage may result. Do not use other manufacturers’ after-market accessories
that plug into the transmitter’s charging jack. If you do, any damage that results will not be covered by the warranty. If you are unsure of compatibilities with your radio, seek expert advice before doing any­thing to avoid possible damage. During the charging operation, the charger’s temperature is slightly elevated. This is normal.
Charger Pigtail For Receiver
Red-Positive/Black-Negative/Grey-Signal
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EXPERT Manual
8. PRE-INSTA L L ATION SYSTEM PREPA R AT I O N
8.1
FLIGHT PACK CONNECTIONS
Connect all flight pack components of your EXPERT system as outlined in the diagram below:
Connect to Charger for
Charging
RF600 Receiver
Receiver Battery
4.8V 600ma
On/Off Switch Harness
(EXRA050)
Not Used With
4-Channel System
Not Used With
4-Channel System
Elevator
Rudder
Aileron
Note: On some types of 2 and 3 channel aircraft, the rudder servo is plugged in here.
8.2
SL500 SERVO PREPA R AT I O N
Using a Phillips screwdriver, remove the servo arm retaining screws from each of the SL500 servos as shown in Figure 1. Next, install 4 servo grommets and 4 servo eyelets to each SL500 servo as shown in Figure 2.
Servo Mounting Flange
Rubber Grommet
Servo Eyelet
EXPERT Manual
Antenna
Throttle
Servo Arm Retaining
Screw (Phillips Head).
Figure 1
Servo Arm Retaining Screw
Servo Arm/Horn
Servo Output Shaft
Servo Case
Servo Lead w/Connector
Figure 2
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8.3
TRANSMITTER PREPA R AT I O N
Adjust each of the 4 trim levers (aileron, elevator, rudder, and throttle) to the center position.
8.4
Gimble
SYSTEM CHECK
Slide the power on/off switch on your EXPERT Transmitter to the “on” position.
Next, slide the on/off switch on your flight pack switch harness to the “on” position.
Throttle
Rudder
Rudder
By moving each of the two transmitter sticks in a fore-aft, left-right
motion, the corresponding throttle, rudder, elevator, and aileron
(optional) servo arm/wheel will rotate. Please refer to the transmitter stick function chart below for clarification.
Aileron
(w/optional servo)
Gimble
Elevator
Aileron
(w/optional servo)
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Throttle
With the system still activated (on), move the throttle stick to the neutral (center) position. Double check to be sure that the four
doing this, the SL500 servos will be left in their neutral position, and
they are now ready to be installed into your model.
transmitter trim levers are still in their neutral position.
NOTE: Save the servo arms/horns; they will be reattached to the Next, with the power still activated to the transmitter and flight pack, remove the servo arm/horn from each of the SL500 servos, and then turn the power “off” to the flight pack first, then the transmitter. By
Elevator
servos after installation.
EXPERT Manual
9. FLIGHT PACK INSTA L L AT I O N
Flight pack installation varies greatly from one model to another. For your convenience, we have included the photograph below outlining a
Fuselage Servo, Receiver, Battery Installation
9.1
I N S TA L L ATION SUGGESTIONS
It is important to correctly install the radio system in your model. Please read and carefully follow the suggestions listed below:
1. For added protection, wrap the receiver and the receiver NiCad in
foam rubber that is at least 1/4" thick.
2. Run the receiver antenna through the fuselage and make sure it is
fully extended. Never cut or bundle your receiver antenna — this will decrease range and performance.
3. Rubber servo grommets are included with your radio system and
should be installed in the servo flanges. The servos should then be
mounted on either hardwood rails or a plywood tray with the mounting screws provided. Do not overtighten the mounting screws. The flange of the brass eyelets should face down (toward the wood). See Section 9.3.
typical flight pack installation in a standard 4-channel trainer type model airplane.
Aileron (Wing) Servo Installation
4. With the servo at neutral, install the required servo arm/horn exactly 90 degrees to the servo case as shown in the diagram below.
5. Before installing the servo output arms, make sure the servo is in its neutral position.
6. All servos must be able to move freely over the full range of their travel. Make sure the linkages do not impede servo travel. A stalled servo will drain the battery pack within a few minutes.
7. In the case of gas-powered model aircraft, mount the receiver power switch on the side of the fuselage opposite the muffler to protect the switch from exhaust residue. With other types of models, mount the switch in the most convenient place. Make sure the switch operates freely and is capable of traveling its full distance.
EXPERT Manual
Control Rod
Servo Horn
90° with Servo at Neutral/Center Position
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9.2
S E RVO REVERSING/SETTING REVERSING SWITCHES
After radio installation, it is imperative that the proper servo/control system direction be established. Servo reversing allows you to alter the
of the transmitter stick. Please refer to the chart in the following section below to determine the proper control surface direction.
direction of the servo/control surface movement to match the direction
1. Connect all control linkages and check to see that all servos move freely.
2. While standing directly behind the airplane, go through the steps
3. Using the Servo Reversing Switches located on the front of the transmitter, adjust the direction of each servo as necessary for proper operation.
shown in the charts below to check proper direction of the control surface.
Full Throttle
Full Throttle Down Elevator
Left
Left
Rudder
Rudder
Right
Right
Rudder
Rudder
Left
Left
Aileron
Aileron
Down Elevator
Right
Right
Aileron
Aileron
Up Elevator
Elevator
Idle
Idle
RudderElevatorAileronThrottle
Servo Reversing Switches
High (Full)
Aileron Down
Carburetor
Low (Idle)
1/16"
Throttle Right Aileron
Up Elevator
Up Elevator
Aileron Up
Rudder
Right Rudder
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EXPERT Manual
9.3
ADJUSTING CONTROL SURFACE TRAV E L
Servo Arm
The final step in your flight pack installation will be to determine the amount each control surface will move on your model at full transmit­ter stick deflection. Please refer to your aircraft’s instruction manual for suggested travel limits.
It is possible to increase/decrease the amount that your control surface moves at full stick deflection by mechanical adjustments.
more quickly from your flight pack battery, thereby reducing your usable flying time. Fortunately, servo “stalling” is usually easy to detect by either a “buzzing” or “humming” sound which comes from the stalled servo.
The following diagram is designed to help clarify how to increase or decrease control surface travel mechanically to eliminate control sur-
face “binding” and servo “stalling”. It is imperative that the servo does not attempt to push/pull the con­trol surface past its mechanical limits. This condition is called “binding.” When a servo moves a control surface into a “binding” position, the servo itself then becomes “stalled,” unable to reach its full deflection. This condition is both harmful to your control linkage and to your servo. This “stalled” condition will also force the servo to drain power
Figure 1 Normal (Linear)
Linkage Set Up
Control Rod
Control Surface Arm
(Horn)
Figure 2 Increased Control
Surface Movement
Control Rod
Servo Arm Servo Arm
Control Surface Arm
(Horn)
Figure 3 Reduced Control
Surface Movement
Control Rod
Control Surface Arm
(Horn)
To increase control surface travel, select a linkage attachment point fur­ther outward on the servo arm or further inward on the control horn closer to the control surface (Figure 2).
To reduce control surface travel, select the linkage attachment point close to the center of the servo area or further out on the control horn on the control surface (Figure 3).
Quite simply, by moving the control rod in on the servo arm/wheel, control surface travel will be reduced, and by moving the control rod out on the servo arm, the control surface travel will be increased. The
opposite holds true for the control surface arm (horn) as well. You may
EXPERT Manual
also use any combination of these positions to achieve proper control surface/servo travel.
NOTE:Once the appropriate servo arm/wheel and control rod location
has been established, be certain that you have secured the servo arm to the servo output shaft using the original servo horn screw.
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10. PRE-FLIGHT INFORMAT I O N
10.1
10.2
E X P E RT TRAINER SYSTEM
The EXPERT features a built-in trainer system. The transmitter can be used as either a master (trainer) or as a slave (trainee). The EXPERT is compatible with all other current PPM selectable (FM) EXPERT or JR
Trainer Button
Optional
Trainer Cord
(EXRA400)
Master Transmitter
Power Switch On
radios that have built-in trainer systems. An optional trainer cord is needed (EXRA400).
Trainer Button
O P E R ATING THE TRAINER SYSTEM
Slave Transmitter Power Switch Off
10.3
1. Match the servo reversing and trims of both radios.
Special Note to Beginners: We strongly suggest that you seek the
2. Plug the optional trainer cord into both transmitters.
3. Turn on the master transmitter. NOTE: The slave radio must be left off.
4. Test all the control functions on your aircraft with the master radio.
5. Push the trainer button on the master transmitter and check all the
control functions with the slave radio.
RANGE TESTING YOUR MODEL
We suggest that before the initial flight of your model, you first perform a ground range test to ensure that the transmitting/receiving abilities of your EXPERT perform properly. Conduct the range test as follows:
Do not extend the transmitter antenna at this time. Turn your EXPERT transmitter “on.” Next, turn the model switch “on.” Slowly walk away from the model while moving the control surfaces. The system should function properly to a distance of approximately 60-65 feet.
NOTE: If your test falls short of the described range, confirm that your
help of an experienced model airplane pilot prior to flying your new model.
NiCad batteries are fully charged. If this situation remains unchanged, please contact the Horizon Service Center (address and phone number at the back of this manual) before attempt­ing to fly your model.
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EXPERT Manual
GENERAL NOTES
Radio controlled models are a great source of pleasure. Unfortunately, they can also pose a potential hazard if not maintained and operated properly. It is imperative that you install your radio control system cor­rectly. Additionally, your level of piloting competency must be high enough to ensure that you are able to control your aircraft under all conditions. If you are a newcomer to radio controlled flying, please seek help from an experience pilot or your local hobby shop.
Listed below are some safety Do’s and Don’ts that must be followed by
all pilots.
• Ensure that your batteries have been properly charged prior to initial flight.
• Keep track of the time that the system is turned on so that you will have an idea of how long you can safely operate your system.
• Perform a ground range check prior to the initial flight of the day. See the “Daily Flight Checks” section for information on how to do so.
• Check all control surfaces prior to each take off.
• Use frequency flags.
• Do not fly your model near spectators, parking areas, or at any other area that could result in injury to people or damage of property.
• Do not fly during adverse weather conditions. Poor visibility can cause disorientation and loss of control of your aircraft. Strong winds can cause similar problems.
• Do not fly unless your frequency is clear.
Warning:Only one transmitter at a time can operate on a given
• Do not point the transmitter antenna directly toward the model. The radiation pattern from the tip of the antenna is inherently low.
• Do not take chances. If at any time during flight you observe any erratic or abnormal operation, land immediately, and do not resume flight until the cause of the problem has been ascertained and corrected.
frequency. If you turn on your transmitter while someone else is operating a model on your frequency, both pilots will lose control of their models. Only one person can use a given frequency at a time. It does not matter if it is AM, FM or PCM — only one frequency at a time.
D A I LY FLIGHT CHECKS
1. Check the battery voltage on both the transmitter and the receiver battery packs. Don’t fly below 9.0 volts on the transmitter (orange and red lights on only) or below 4.7 volts on the receiver. To do so can cause a crash of your aircraft. NOTE: When you check the receiver battery, be sure that you
have polarities correct on your expanded scale voltmeter (optional).
2. Check all hardware (linkages, screws, nuts, bolts) prior to each day’s flight. Be sure that binding does not occur, and that every­thing is properly secured.
3. Ensure that all surfaces are moving in the proper manner.
EXPERT Manual
4. Perform a ground range check before each day’s flying session. The range check should be as follows:
• Do not extend the transmitter antenna at this time. Turn the
transmitter “on.”
• Turn the model “on.”
• Slowly walk away from the model while moving the control
surfaces. The aircraft should function properly at a distance of 60-75 feet.
5. Ensure that all trim levers are in the proper location.
6. Check to be sure that all servo pigtails and switch harness plugs are secure in the receiver. Also, make sure that the switch harness moves completely in both directions.
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WARRANTY AND SERVICE INFORMAT I O N
WARRANTY COVERAGE
Your new equipment is warranted to the original purchaser against man­ufacturer defects in material and workmanship for 1 year from the date of purchase. During this period, Horizon Service Center will repair or replace, at our discretion, any component that is found to be factory
defective at no cost to the purchaser. This warranty is limited to the orig-
inal purchaser of the unit and is not transferable.
This warranty does not apply to any unit which has been improperly installed, mishandled, abused, or damaged in a crash, or to any unit
R E PAIR SERVICE INSTRUCTIONS
In the event that your equipment needs service, please follow the instructions listed below:
1. Check all on/off switches to be sure they are off. This will speed the repair process of checking battery condition.
2. R e t u rn your system components only (transmitter, re c e i v e r, servos, etc.). Do not return your system installed in a model car, boat, plane, etc.
3. Use the original carton/packaging (molded foam container), or equivalent, to ship your unit. Do not use the carton itself as a shipping carton; you should package the equipment carton within a sturdy shipping container using additional packing material to safe­guard against damage during transit. Include complete name and
a d d ress information inside the carton, as well as writing it
clearly on the outer label/re t u rn address are a . Ship your
equipment fully insured and prepaid. Horizon Service Center is not responsible for any damages incurred during shipping.
which has been repaired or altered by any unauthorized agencies. Under no circumstances will the buyer be entitled to consequential or incidental damages. This limited warranty gives you specific legal rights; you also have other rights which may vary from state to state.
As with all fine electronic equipment, do not subject your unit to extreme temperatures, humidity or moisture. Do not leave it in direct sunlight for long periods of time.
5. Warranty Repairs. To receive warranty service, you must include a legible photocopy of your original dated sales receipt to verify your proof-of-purchase date. Providing that warranty conditions have been met, your radio will be repaired without charge.
6. Normal Non-Warranty Repairs. Should your repair cost exceed 50% of the retail purchase cost, you will be provided with an estimate advising you of your options.
Mail your system to:
Horizon Service Center
4105 Fieldstone Road Champaign, Illinois 61822 (217) 355-9511
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4. Include detailed information explaining your operation of the equip­ment and problem(s) encountered. Provide an itemized list of equip­ment enclosed and identify any particular area/function which may
better assist our technicians in addressing your concerns. Date your c o rrespondence and include your name, mailing address, and
a phone number where you can be reached during the busi­ness day. Within your letter, advise us of the payment method you
prefer to use. Horizon Service Center accepts VISA or MasterCard, or we can return the equipment C.O.D. cash-only. If you prefer to use a credit card, include your card number and expiration date.
EXPERT Manual
FREQUENCY CHART/REPLACEMENT CRY S TA L S
72 MHz requires no special license to operate. * It is important that you attach the enclosed frequency ID plates/flag to your EXPERT transmitter antenna.
7 2 M H z 7 2 M H z
CH.NO. FREQUENCY
15 72.090 16 72.110 17 72.130 18 72.150 19 72.170 20 72.190 21 72.210 22 72.230 23 72.250 24 72.270 25 72.290 26 72.310 27 72.330 28 72.350 29 72.370 30 72.390 31 72.410 32 72.430 33 72.450 34 72.470 35 72.490 36 72.510 37 72.530
CH.NO. FREQUENCY
38 72.550 39 72.570 40 72.590 41 72.610 42 72.630 43 72.650 44 72.670 45 72.690 46 72.710 47 72.730 48 72.750 49 72.770 50 72.790 51 72.810 52 72.830 53 72.850 54 72.870 55 72.890 56 72.910 57 72.930 58 72.950 59 72.970 60 72.990
REPLACEMENT CRY S TA L S
Your EXPERT system has been designed to use the standard “JR” type FM crystals. As replacement crystal sets are not available through Expert, please use JR brand crystals for replacements (part number JRPXF**).
Replace ** with channel number
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Distributed exclusively by Horizon Hobby, Inc. Champaign, IL 61822
www.horizonhobby.com
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EXPERT Manual
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