Digital proportional radio control transmitter
I8
INSTRUCTION MANUAL
WARNING:
This product is only for 15 years
old or above
2
I8
Digital proportional radio control system
Thank you for purchasing our product, an ideal radio system for beginners or experienced users alike.
Read this manual carefully before operation in order to ensure your safety, and the safety of others or the
safe operation of your system.
If you encounter any problem during use, refer to this manual first. If the problem persists, contact your
local dealer or visit our service and support website for help:
www.hobbyking.com
3
Table of Contents
1. Safety ................................................................................................................................................4
1.2 Safety Guide ....................................................................................................................................................... 4
2. Introduction ..................................................................................................................................... 6
2.1 System Features ................................................................................................................................................6
2.2 Transmitter Overview .................................................................................................................................... 7
2.2.1 Transmitter Antenna.............................................................................................................................. 7
2.2.2 Sticks .........................................................................................................................................................8
2.2.3 Status Indicator ......................................................................................................................................8
2.2.4 Channel 5 6 Position Knob ................................................................................................................. 8
2.2.5 Knob Position Indicator LEDs ...........................................................................................................9
2.2.6 Trims ........................................................................................................................................................... 9
2.2.7 Update Interface ..................................................................................................................................... 9
2.3 Receiver Overview .......................................................................................................................................... 9
2.3.1 Receiver Antenna .................................................................................................................................. 9
2.3.2 Status Indicator ....................................................................................................................................... 9
2.3.3 Connectors .............................................................................................................................................. 9
3. Getting Started ...............................................................................................................................10
3.1 Transmitter Battery Installation ................................................................................................................. 10
3.2 Connecting the Receiver and Servos ......................................................................................................11
4. Operation Instruction ....................................................................................................................12
4.1 Power On ..........................................................................................................................................................12
4.2 Binding...............................................................................................................................................................12
4.3 Preflight Check ................................................................................................................................................12
4.4 Switching the Stick Modes ..........................................................................................................................13
4.5 Calibrating the Sticks and Knobs ..............................................................................................................14
4.6 Throttle Trim ................................................................................................................................................... 14
4.7 Power Off ..........................................................................................................................................................14
4.8 Switching the Channel Output Sequence .............................................................................................14
4.9 Reversing Channels .......................................................................................................................................15
4.10 Updating the Firmware ..............................................................................................................................15
5. Product Specification ....................................................................................................................16
5.1 Receiver Specification ...................................................................................................................................16
5.2 Transmitter Specification ............................................................................................................................16
Appendix 1 FCC Statement ..............................................................................................................17
4
I8
Digital proportional radio control system
1. Safety
1.2 Safety Guide
Prohibited
Mandatory
• Do not fly at night or in bad weather like rain or thunderstorm. It can cause
erratic operation or loss of control.
• Do not use the product when the visibility is limited.
• Do not use the product on rainy or snowy days. Should any type of moisture
(water or snow) enter any component of the system, erratic operation and loss
of control may occur.
• Interference could cause loss of control. To ensure the safety of you and others,
do not operate in the following places:
▫Near any site where other radio control activity may occur
▫Near high tension power lines or communication broadcasting antennas
▫Near people or roads
▫On any pond when passenger boats are present
• Do not use this product when you are tired, uncomfortable, or under the
influence of alcohol or drugs. It may cause serious injury to yourself as well as
others.
• The 2.4GHz radio band is completely different from the previously used lower
frequency bands. Always keep your model in sight as a large object can block
the RF signal and lead to loss of control.
• Never grip the transmitter antenna when operating a model. It significantly
degrades the RF signal quality and strength and may cause loss of control.
• Do not touch any part of the model that generates heat during operating or
immediately after use, like the engine, motor, or speed control. These parts may
be very hot and can cause serious burns.
5
• Misuse of this product can lead to serious injuries or death. To ensure the safety
of you and your equipment, read this manual and follow the instructions.
• Make sure the product is properly installed in your model. Failure to do so may
result in serious injury.
• Make sure to disconnect the receiver battery before turning off the transmitter.
Failure to do so may lead to unintended operation and cause an accident.
• Ensure that all motors operate in the correct direction. If not, adjust the
direction first.
• Make sure the model flies within a certain distance. Otherwise, it would cause
loss of control.
6
I8
Digital proportional radio control system
2. Introduction
The i8 is an 8-channel 2.4GHz AFHDS 2A digital proportional R/C system. It is compatible with multirotors,
helicopters, fixed-ring, and gliders.
2.1 System Features
The AFHDS 2A (Automatic Frequency Hopping Digital System Second Generation) developed and
patented by FLYSKY is specially developed for all radio control models. Offering superior protection
against interference while maintaining lower power consumption and high reliable receiver sensitivity,
FLYSKY's AFHDS technology is considered to be one of the leaders in the RC market today.
Multi-channel Hopping Frequency
This systems bandwidth ranges from 2.4055GHz to 2.475GHz. This band is divided in
140 channels. Each transmitter hops between 16 channels (32 for Japanese and Korean
versions) in order to reduce interference from other transmitters.
Omni-directional Gain Antenna
The high efficiency Omni-directional high gain antenna cuts down on interference, while
using less power and maintaining a strong reliable connection.
Unique ID Recognition System
Each transmitter and receiver has it's own unique ID. Once the transmitter and receiver
have been paired, they will only communicate with each other, preventing other systems
accidentally connecting to or interfering with the systems operation.
Low Power Consumption
The system is built using highly sensitive low power consumption components,
maintaining high receiver sensitivity, while consuming as little as one tenth the power of a
standard FM system, dramatically extending battery life.
7
2.2 Transmitter Overview
'TZKTTG
9ZGZ[Y/TJOIGZUX
9ZOIQ
:XOS
)NGTTKR9]OZIN
)NGTTKR1TUH
9ZOIQ
6U]KX9]OZIN
:XOS
:XOS
1TUH6UYOZOUT
/TJOIGZUX2+*Y
)NGTTKR
VUYOZOUT1TUH
)NGTTKR1UTH
:XOS
'TZKTTG
.GTJRK
;VJGZK/TZKXLGIK
(GZZKX_
)USVGXZSKTZ
2.2.1 Transmitter Antenna
Precautions:
□For best signal quality, make sure that the antenna is at about a 90 degree angle to the model. Do not
point the antenna directly at the receiver.
□Never grip the transmitter antenna when operating a model. It significantly degrades the RF signal
quality and strength and may cause loss of control.
8
I8
Digital proportional radio control system
2.2.2 Sticks
There are two sticks on the transmitter and two preset modes for the functions of the sticks. You can
switch the sticks to suit your operation habit. For details, refer to section
4.4 Switching the Stick Modes
.
You can also loose or tighten the lever head to adjust the length of the stick.
2.2.3 Status Indicator
The status indicator is used to indicate the power and working status of the transmitter.
□Off: the transmitter is powered off.
□Lit in red: the transmitter is on and working.
□Flashing: the transmitter is binding, switching the sticks or calibrating the middle position; or the
battery charge is low.
2.2.4 Channel 5 6 Position Knob
The Flight modes rotary knob has been specifically made to give a full 6 positions or flight modes by
simply rotating the knob. The 6 center mounted easily visible LEDs give a quick visual reference to the
selected flight mode/knob position. The included label sticker sheet lets you marks and layout your flight
modes to match your preferences.
The Flight modes knob is configured to channel 5 of the CPPM stream and corresponding CH5 PWM out
pins of the IA8 receiver. The 6 knob positions represent 6 different PWM/uS outputs that are spaced to
match most popular flight controller's flight mode options. The 6 PWM values for the knob positions are
as follows:
Channel 5 PWM to Knob position map:
Position 1 = 1200uS
2= 1300uS
3= 1400uS
4= 1500uS
5= 1700us
6= 1800uS
9
2.2.5 Knob Position Indicator LEDs
The knob position indicator LEDs are used to indicate the currently position of the channel 5 6 position
knob, each indicator corresponds to a flight mode. When the knob changes position, the corresponding
indicator lights up.
2.2.6 Trims
There are 4 trims affecting stick functionality, one for rudder (Channel 4), elevator (Channel 2), throttle
(Channel 3) and ailerons (Channel 1). Each time a trim is toggled, the trim will move one step. It is possible
to make quicker trim adjustments by holding the trim in the desired direction. When the trim position
reaches the middle, the transmitter beeps in a higher tone.
2.2.7 Update Interface
The update interface is used to update the system software. If you want to update the system to the latest
version, contact your local dealer or visit our service and support website for help: www.hobbyking.com.
2.3 Receiver Overview
'TZKTTG 9ZGZ[Y/TJOIGZUX
).).6U]KX)UTTKIZUXY
2.3.1 Receiver Antenna
Attention
• For best signal quality, ensure that the receiver is mounted away from motors
or metal parts. Also make sure that the antennas are mounted at a 90 degree
angle to each other.
2.3.2 Status Indicator
The status indicator is used to indicate the power and working status of the receiver.
□Off: the power is not connected.
□Lit in red: the receiver is on and working.
□Flashing quickly: the receiver is binding.
□Flashing slowly: the bound transmitter is off.
2.3.3 Connectors
The connectors are used to connect the parts of model and the receiver.
□CH1 to CH8 connectors are used to connect the servos, power or other parts.
□B/PPM connector is used to connect the bind cable for binding.
10
I8
Digital proportional radio control system
3. Getting Started
Before operation, install the battery and connect the system as instructed below.
3.1 Transmitter Battery Installation
Danger • Only use specified battery.
Danger • Do not open, disassemble, or attempt to repair the battery.
Danger • Do not crush/puncture the battery, or short the external contacts.
Danger • Do not expose to excessive heat or liquids.
Follow the steps to install the transmitter battery:
1. Open the battery compartment.
2. Insert a fully-charged battery into the compartment. Make sure that the battery makes good contact
with the battery compartment's contacts.
3. Replace the battery compartment cover.
11
3.2 Connecting the Receiver and Servos
Connect the receiver and the servos as indicated below:
(CH1)
(CH2)
(CH3)
(CH4)
8KIKO\KX
(CH5)
(CH6)
(CH7)
(CH8)
<<
12
I8
Digital proportional radio control system
4. Operation Instruction
After setting up, follow the instructions below to operate the system.
4.1 Power On
Follow the steps below to turn on the system:
1. Check the system and make sure that:
▫The battery is fully charged and installed properly.
▫The receiver is correctly installed.
▫The throttle stick is at it's lowest position.
2. Slide the power switch up to the ON position.
3. Connect the receiver power supply.
The system is start now. Operate with caution, or serious injury could result.
4.2 Binding
The transmitter and receiver have been pre-bound before delivery. If you are using another transmitter or
receiver, follow the steps below to bind the transmitter and receiver:
1. Make sure a battery is installed in the transmitter and that the transmitter is turned off.
2. Connect the bind cable to the B/PPM connector of the receiver.
3. Connect the power to any of the CH1 to CH8 connectors. The indicator starts to flash, indicating that
the receiver is in binding mode.
4. Turn the transmitter on. The status indicator starts to flash, indicating that the transmitter is in binding
mode. Then the indicator on the receiver starts to flash slowly for a short time after which it will
become a solid colour indicating that the binding was successful.
5. Check if all the servos work as expected. If anything is wrong, restart this procedure from the
beginning.
4.3 Preflight Check
Before operation, perform the following steps to check the system:
1. Check to make sure that all servos and motors are working as expected
2. Check the safe distance: one operator holds the transmitter, and another one moves the model away
from the transmitter. Check the model and mark the distance from where the model starts to lose
control.
Danger • Stop operation if any abnormal activity is observed.
Danger • Make sure the model flies within the safe distance.
13
4.4 Switching the Stick Modes
There are two sticks on the transmitter and two preset modes for the functions of the sticks. Usually the
stick with the self centring feature on both axis will be mapped to the Elevator, while the other to the
Throttle.
The functions of the sticks in respective modes are shown below:
Mode 1 Mode 2
8[JJKX 'ORKXUT
+RK\GZUX
:NXUZZRK
8[JJKX 'ORKXUT
:NXUZZRK
+RK\GZUX
You can switch the stick modes to suit your operation habit. To switch the sticks:
1. Take the battery out from the transmitter. Loosen the four screws that hold the rear cover. Keep the
screws properly.
2. Unhook the spring with tweezers and then take out the potentiometer presser. Turn the potentiometer
presser around and install it to the other side of the seat. Hook one end of the spring to the seat and
the other end to the potentiometer presser.
3. Loosen the two screws that hold the throttle plate, and then take out the throttle plate. Then intall the
throttle plate to the other side of the seat, and tighten the screws.
• Note:
Do not install the potentiometer presser and the throttle plate to the same side of the seat.
:NXUZZRKVRGZK
9VXOTM
6UZKTZOUSKZKXVXKYYKX
9VXOTM
4. Re-assemble the rear cover of the transmitter, and tighten the screws.
5. Move the left stick to the top left cornor and the right stick to the top right corner, and slide the
power switch up to the ON position simultaneously. The status indicator starts to flash.
• Note:
If the throttle function is switched to the left stick, the transmitter beeps. If the function is
switched to the right stick, the transmitter does not beep.
6. Slide the power switch down to the OFF position.
14
I8
Digital proportional radio control system
4.5 Calibrating the Sticks and Knobs
After switching the stick modes, it is required to calibrate the sticks and knobs on the transmitter. You
should also perform a calibration after switching sticks or if the transmitter sticks/knobs are not working
accurately.
To perform a calibration:
1. Move the left stick to the top right corner and the right stick to the top left corner, and slide the
power switch up to the ON position simultaneously. The status indicator starts to flash.
2. Move the sticks and knobs through their maximum range of movement.
3. Wait until the status indicator stops flashing. The calibration is finished.
4.6 Throttle Trim
For motor-driven models, it is required to set the initialization position of the throttle before first use.
1. Push the power switch up to the ON position.
2. Press and hold the throttle trim button upward or downward until you hear a beep of a higher tone.
4.7 Power Off
Follow the steps below to turn off the system:
1. Disconnect the receiver from the battery.
2. Slide the power switch of the transmitter down to the OFF position.
Danger
• Make sure to disconnect the receiver battery before turning off the transmitter.
Or it may lead to unintended operation and cause an accident.
4.8 Switching the Channel Output Sequence
Generally the transmitter outputs channel signals in a sequence of CH1 -> CH2 -> CH3 -> CH4 -> CH5 ->
CH6 -> CH7
-> CH8. If needed, you can change the sequence to CH1 -> CH2 -> CH3 -> CH4 -> CH5 ->
CH7 -> CH6
-> CH8.
To switch between the two sequences:
1. Turn off the transmitter.
2. Move both of the sticks to the top left corner, and slide the power switch up to the ON position
simultaneously.
The sequence is now set and will not change unless the above procedure is performed again.
15
4.9 Reversing Channels
You can reverse the direction of channels 1, 2, 3 or 4 in relation to the sticks. For example, if a servo is
mounted upside down in order to fit inside a model, when the corresponding stick is moved, the servo
will move in the oppisite direction. To fix this, all we need to do is reverse the channel.
To reverse the channels,
1. Turn off the transmitter.
2. Move both of the sticks to the bottom right corner, and slide the power switch up to the ON position
simultaneously. The transmitter now enters channel reversing mode.
In channel reversing mode, the following four LEDs indicate the current status of the four channels. If
a channel is reversed, the corresponding LED will light up.
3. Press the trim buttons up or to the left to reverse the corresponding channels. If a channel is reversed,
press the trim buttons down or to the right to change it back to normal.
4. Adjust the SWA switch to another position. The status indicator starts to flash and the setting is saved.
4.10 Updating the Firmware
The internal software of the transmitter can be updated using the USB cable connected via a PC computer.
Once this function is activated, all functions of the transmitter stop. To avoid any loss of control of the
vehicle, turn its receiver off before entering this mode. A confirmation is requested.
When the firmware is updating, never disconnect the USB cable or remove the battery or the transmitter
will become unusable.
This function can be helpful only when connected with computer. Follow the steps as shown below:
1. Make sure the transmitter is powered off.
2. Press the two trim buttons shown in the figure below down, and slide the power switch up to the ON
position simultaneously. The transmitter now enters firmware update mode.
3. Connect the transmitter with a computer by USB cable.
4. Download and open the newest official software.
5. Click "Program" to update the firmware.
When the update is complete, the transmitter will restart automatically.
6. Disconnect the USB cable.
16
I8
Digital proportional radio control system
5. Product Specification
5.1 Receiver Specification
No. of Channels 8
Model type Multicopter/Fixed-wing/Glider/Heli
RF 2.4 GHz
Protocol AFHDS 2A
Output PWM/CPPM
Voltage range 4.0-6.5V
Dimension 25*8.1*44.5mm
Weight 13 grams
Certificate CE0678, FCC and C-TICK
5.2 Transmitter Specification
Model type Multicopter/Fixed-wing/Glider/Heli
RF 2.4 GHz
Protocol AFHDS 2A
Low voltage warning Less than 3.7V
Charge port Yes
Display mode LED indicator
Output PWM/CPPM
Battery 3.7 V 1700mah Li-ion Polymer
Color Black/White
Dimension 193*184*104mm
Weight 430 grams
Certificate CE0678, FCC and C-TICK
17
Appendix 1 FCC Statement
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device pursuant
to part 15 of theFCC rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful
interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency
energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference
to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular
installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or televison reception, which
can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the
interference by one or more of the following measures:
▫
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
▫
Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
▫
Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is
connected.
▫
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
To assure continued compliance, any changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party
responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate this equipment. (Example use only
shielded interface cables when connecting to computer or peripheral devices).
This equipment 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.
Caution!
The manufacturer is not responsible for any radio or TV interference caused by unauthorized
modifications to this equipment. Such modifications could void the user authority to operate the
equipment.
The antenna(s) used for this transmitter must be installed to provide a separation distance of at least 20 cm
from all persons and must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or
transmitter.
Digital proportional radio control system
Edition: 2015-9-22
Loading...