Sanwa RD8000 User Manual

This equipment has been tested in accordance with the

requirements contained in the appropriate Commission

regulations. To the best of our knowledge, these tests were

performed using measurement procedures consistent with

industry or Commission standards and demonstrate that the

equipment complies with the appropriate standards. Each

unit manufactured, imported or marketed, as defined in

the Commission’s regulations, will comform to the sample(s)

tested within the variations that can be expected due to

quality production and testing on a statistical basis.

We further certify that the necessary measurments were

made by Kansai Electronic Industry Development Center,

Ikoma Emission Measrement Station, 10830, Takayama-

Cho, Ikoma-City, Nara, 630-01 Japan.

2

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTION I INTRODUCTION

Page #

RD8000 Radio Control System

5

RD8000 Transmitter/Receiver Specifications

5

Academy of Model Aeronautics

6

Initial Preparation

6

RD8000 Transmitter Features

7

Airborne System Connections

8

NiCd Battery Charging

8

Airborne Components

9

Connectors

9

Audio Low Voltage Alarm

9

Transmitter Battery Removal

10

Control Stick Length Adjustment

10

Throttle High Warning

10

Transmitter Stick Tension Adjustment

11

Trainer System

12

Using the RD8000 Micro-Processor

13

Aero Features Description

14

Heli Features Description

15

SECTION II AIRPLANE

Implementation of Control Function

16

Servo Reversing

16

Control Centering

17

Data Reset

18

Model Selection

19

Stop Watch

20

Integral Timer

21

Model Naming

22

Exponential

23

Modulation

25

Data Copy

26

Switch Reverse

28

Click

29

Throttle Cut

30

RD8000 Transmitter - Aircraft

31

Aircraft Menu Structure

32

Programming for Aircraft (Model Type)

33

Dual Rate

35

End Point Adjustments

36

Landing Gear End Points

37

Trim Memory

38

3 Position Flap Switch

38

Flaperons

39

Alarms

41

Delta (Elevons)

42

Aileron to Rudder Mix

43

V-Tail (Rudder to Elevator Mix)

44

Throttle to Elevator Mix

45

Compensation Mixers (C-Mix)

46

Elev-Flap Mixing

48

Rud-Aileron Mixing

49

Rud-Elevator Mixing

49

Flap-Elevator Mixing

50

Spoilron

50

Aileron Differential

51

Landing Differential

52

Crow Left Aileron

53

Crow Right Aileron

53

Option Menu Screen

54

Trim Step

55

Fail Safe (PCM Only)

56

B-F-S (Battery Fail Safe)PCM Only

57

Basic ON / OFF

57

Dual Elevator Mixing

58

3

Page #

59

60
61
63
66
68
69
70
23
35
71
72
73
16
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
25
26
28
29
30
36
38
41
46
54
55
56
57
57

SECTION III HELICOPTER

RD8000 Transmitter - Helicopter

8

Airborne System Connections
Helicopter Menu Structure
Programming for Helicopter (Type)
Pitch Curves
Throttle Curves
Revolution Mixing
Gyro Adjustment
Trim Memory
Exponential
Dual Rate
Dynamic Trim Memory (DTM)
Swash Plate Type (CCPM)
Changing Flight Mode 1 and 2 Switch Locations
Implementation of Control Function
Servo Reversing
Control Centering
Data Reset
Model Selection
Stop Watch
Integral Timer
Model Naming
Exponential
Modulation
Data Copy
Switch Reverse
Click
Throttle Cut
End Point Adjustment
Trim Memory
Alarms ( Throttle High and Flight Mode Only)
Compensation Mixers (C-Mix)
Option Menu
Trim Step
Fail Safe (PCM Only)
B-F-S (Battery Fail Safe) PCM Only
Basic ON / OFF

APPENDIX I

74

4

RD8000 Aircraft and Helicopter Setup pages

SECTION I

RD8000 RADIO CONTROL SYSTEM

Thank you for selecting the Airtronics RD8000 Radio System. In designing the RD8000 we have made every
effort to provide you with a radio that will allow you to extract the maximum performance from your powered
aircraft, sailplane, or helicopter, while at the same time simplifying the task of setting up and adjusting your
model. These instructions are written in great detail to help you understand what all of your RD8000 capabili­ties are. Because of the many features of the RD8000, this manual is quite long. Don’t be intimidated! To
actually use the system, you may only need to read the INTRODUCTION section, the Common Functions
section, and study the section that applies to your type of aircraft. Each type of aircraft, i.e., fixed wing and
helicopter has its own self-contained section describing each applicable feature and its implementation.
However, helicopter flyers may find it advantageous to read all sections of the manual to become more
acquainted with the operation of the RD8000 unit. Note that the labels for fixed wing switch functions are in
red letters and helicopter switch functions are in white letters.

Again, we appreciate your selection of an Airtronics Radio Control System and wish you many hours of flying
enjoyment.

RD8000 Transmitter Specifications:

Transmitter Type:
Dimensions:
Weight:
Power Output:
Frequencies:
Modulation:
Power Supply:
Current Drain:
Temperature Range:
Pulse Width:
Model Memory:

RD8000 Receiver Specifications:

Receiver Type:
Receiver Sensitivity:
Dimensions:
Weight:
Receiver Power Supply:

Additional Receivers that will work with the RD8000:

8 Channel, Dual Stick with propriety Microprocessor.
W: 7.5” X H: 8.0” X D: 2.5”
1 lb. 11 oz
600 mWatts
72 MHz
PPM/FM / PPM/FM Reverse / PCM1 and PCM2

9.6 Volt, 700 mAh NiCd
180 MA
0 to160 degrees F

1.5 ms (nominal)
10

92778Z PPM/FM 8 Channel, Super Narrow Band with Universal “Z” Connectors

1.5 microvolts
L: 2.50”, W: 1.06”, H: 0.85”

1.3 ounces
Four Cell, 4.8 Volt, 700 mAh NiCd

92515Z 5 channel FM Sigle Conversion receiver. (channels 11 thru 54 only)
92777Z 7 channel FM Dual Conversion receiver.
92085Z 8 channel FM Dual Conversion receiver.
92185Z 8 channel PCM Dual Conversion receiver.

5

ACADEMY OF MODEL AERONAUTICS

5161 East Memorial Drive

Muncie, Indiana 47302

The Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA) is a national organization representing modelers in the United States. We
urge you to examine the benefits of membership, including liability protection in the event of certain injuries. The
Academy has adopted simple and sane rules which are especially pertinent for radio controlled flight as the OFFICIAL
AMA NATIONAL MODEL AIRCRAFT SAFETY CODE, which we have partially reprinted below:

I will not fly my model aircraft in sanctioned events, airshows or model flying demonstrations until it has been proven to
be airworthy by having been previously, successfully flight tested.
I will not fly my model higher than approximately 400 feet within 3 miles of an airport without notifying the airport
operator. I will give the right-of-way and avoid flying in the proximity of full-scale aircraft. Where necessary, an ob­server shall be utilized to supervise flying to avoid having models fly in the proximity of full-scale aircraft.
Where established, I will abide by the safety rules for the flying site I use, and I will not willfully and deliberately fly my
models in a careless, reckless and/or dangerous manner.
I will have completed a successful radio equipment ground range check before the first flight of a new or repaired
model.
I will not fly my model aircraft in the presence of spectators until I become a qualified flyer, unless assisted by and
experienced helper.
I will perform my initial turn after take off away from the pit or spectator areas, unless beyond my control.
I will operate my model using only radio control frequencies currently allowed by the Federal Communications Commis­sion. (See chart below) Only properly licensed amateurs are authorized to operate equipment on amateur band frequen­cies.

72 MHz BAND by Channel and Channel Frequency

11 72.010
12 72.030
13 72.050
14 72.070
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
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

INITIAL PREPARATION

PACKAGING:

The packaging of your Airtronics RD8000 Radio Control System has been especially designed for the safe transporta­tion and storage of the radio’s components. After unpacking your radio, DO NOT DISCARD THE CONTAINERS! You
should set the packaging aside for use if you ever need to send your radio in for service, or to store your radio in case
you do not plan to use it for an extended period of time.

6

RD8000 TRANSMITTERS FEATURES

The RD8000 narrow band PPM/FM computer radio control system is designed for the use by power model, sailplane,
and helicopter pilots who demand a quality product. The RD8000 is packed with all of the capabilities that the beginner
as well as the more advanced modelers demand for all three types of flying. It has the features available to get the most
out of any type of model.

Program Features for all types of models (BASIC turned ON)

10 Model Memory
Stop Watch
Digital Trims
Servo Reversing on all channels
Dual Rate on Elevator and Aileron channels
(Plus Rudder on Helicopter)
Large Screen Liquid Crystal Display (LCD)
End Point Adjustment on all channels

Model Type selection
Center Adjustment on all channels
Data Reset
LCD Transmitter Voltage Meter
High Capacity Transmitter/Receiver NiCd
Batteries
Adjustable Stick Tension and Length
Low Battery, High Throttle and Power Alarms

Aircraft Advanced Features (BASIC turned OFF)

All of the features listed under the program with the BASIC turned ON are also included in this Advanced Features
section.

Exponential Aileron Differential
Trim Memeoy Landing Differential
Trim Authority (STEP) for digital trims Crow
Model Naming (3 Letters) Dual Rate Alarm
Failsafe / Hold (PCM Rx only) Menu Options
Receiver Battery Failsafe (PCM Rx only) Flap to Elevator Mix
Low Battery Alarm Throttle to Elevator Mix
Integral System Timer Rudder to Aileron Mix
Data Copy Aileron to Rudder Mix
Flaperon Mix Rudder to Elevator Mix
Spoilron Mix Elevator to Flap Mix
Elevon Mix Switch Reversing
V-Tail Mix 2 Compensation Mixers
Throttle Cut 4 Modulation Modes
Click Delta Mix
Dual Elevator Mix

Helicoter Features (BASIC) Helicopter Features (Advanced) includes Basic

Stop Watch Exponential
Servo Reversing Fail Safe (PCM Rx Only)
Dual Rate Elev, Ail and Rud Throttle Cut
Servo Centering Model Naming (3 Letters)
End Point Adjustment 2 Compensation Mixers
Throttle Curve (5 Point) in all Flight modes Integral System Timer
Revo Mix (3 Point) in all Flight Modes Trim Step
4 Flight Modes Switch Reversing
Gyro Sensitivity Adjustment in all Flight Modes Data Copy
Pitch Curve (5 Point) in all Flight Modes 4 Modulation Modes
Model Select Click
Model Type Battery Fail Safe (PCM Rx only)
Data Reset Dynamic Trim Memory
Basic ON Swash Plate Type

Basic OFF
Option Menu

7

AIRBORNE SYSTEM CONNECTIONS

AERO HELI

Charge
Connector

97020Z Y Harness
or connect the Switch
Harness directly into
the Receiver

92778Z Receiver

NiCd

Battery

Switch Harness

AUX 2 AUX 2

AUX 1 AUX 1

Flap

Collective Pitch

Retract Gear

Rudder

Throttle

Aileron

(Tail Rotor)

Throttle

(L/R Cyclic)

Gyro

Rudder

Aileron

Elevator

The above diagram shows how to connect the components of your RD8000 system together. At this point your objective
is to get the system operating on your workbench. Once connected you must then refer to the corresponding diagram
for your system, i.e., either AERO or HELI showing the transmitter control stick function.

NiCd BATTERY CHARGING INFORMATION:

In order to protect the charging circuit in your RD8000 transmitter, a diode has been installed to protect it from some of
the high discharge rate “cycler’s” on the market. We recommend that you charge the transmitter battery (while installed)
with the supplied ATX charger, Part # 95033Z.
Should you wish to “cycle” or discharge the transmitter battery, you must first remove it from the transmitter. This allows
you to bypass the protective diode.
The following two Airtronics service items will allow you to “cycle” your RD8000 transmitter battery. See your local
dealer for these items.

(1) #99704 Transmitter Charging Plug with Cable for use with your cycling device (black wire w/white tracer is positive.

(1) #97051 Transmitter Battery Cycling Adapter Cable.

Above items will also work with Airtronics Quasar, Radiant, Vanguard, VG Series and all RD Series transmitter batter­ies.

8

Elevator

(F/A Cyclic)

AIRBORNE COMPONENTS

While your systems batteries are charging, you can familiarize yourself with the airborne portion of your radio. The
airborne portion of the radio refers to any components which are mounted in your plane or helicopter and carried aloft
when you fly. The airborne components consist of the receiver, which receives the signals from the transmitter, decodes
them, and relays the commands to the servos; the servos which are simply electronically controlled motors used to
move the controls of the plane; the NiCd battery pack which provides power for the receiver and servos to operate; and
the switch harness which allows you to turn the airborne package on and off.

CONNECTORS

Your RD8000 unit is equipped the new universal AIRTRONICS “Z” connectors which are color coded blue, and are
electrically compatible with the receivers of other radio control system manufacturers. The connectors are rugged but
should be handled with care. Note that these connectors are not compatible with older AIRTRONICS R/C equipment
unless Adapter p/n 99399Z is used!

“Z” CONNECTOR

(-)Negative

(+)Positive

Signal

AUDIO LOW VOLTAGE ALARM

Your RD8000 transmitter is equipped with an Audio Alarm which will sound whenever the transmitter batteries drop
below 9.5 volts during transmitter operation. If the alarm sounds while you are flying, land immediately and don’t
operate the transmitter until it has been charged for 12 hours. The transmitter should normally operate 120 to 150
minutes before the alarm sounds. If the alarm sounds even after the batteries have been on charge for the required time
it indicates that there is a problem with either the battery pack or the transmitter, and you should contact AIRTRONICS
about service.

9

TRANSMITTER BATTERY REMOVAL

The NiCd battery in your RD8000 transmitter can easily be removed and replaced with a fully charged pack to extend
operating time.
Additional packs are sold separately as an accessory item under the Airtronics part number 95010 (600Mah) or 95052
(1100Mah) battery packs.
To remove the pack, push down on the two ears of the battery door located on the rear of the transmitter. The door can
then be removed and the NiCd battery pack can now be removed and unplugged. Reverse the procedure to install a
new pack.

Negative

Positive

CAUTION:
Observe the correct polarity when plugging in the NiCd battery pack.
If incorrect, damage to the transmitter will occur!

THROTTLE HIGH WARNING

The RD8000 has a built in warning feature that will not allow you to use the transmitter if the throttle stick is not in the
lowest position when you turn on the transmitter. If the throttle stick is not in the low position, when you turn it on, you
will hear a continuous beeping sound and the display will read TH-HI! Pull the throttle stick down to the full low position.

The normal menu will then be displayed and you can operate and/or program the transmitter.

CONTROL STICK LENGTH ADJUSTMENT

The sticks in your RD8000 transmitter are adjustable in length and spring tension to allow you to tailor their feel to your
personal preference. To adjust stick length, hold Part B with your fingers and unscrew Part A counterclockwise to loosen
the two pieces. Now screw Part A in or out to the desired position and lock it in place by screwing Part B against it. It is
best to leave at least four threads inside Part A when screwed out to its longest length for the best mechanical security.
Do not over tighten when you screw the two parts together.

Part (A) Loosen End Cap First

10

Part (B) Adjust Stick Length by turning here

TRANSMITTER STICK TENSION ADJUSTMENT

To adjust the spring tension of the transmitter sticks you need to remove the back of the transmitter case. First remove
the antenna and the NiCd battery pack from the transmitter. Now remove the eight screws that hold the case back in
place, four in the main case, two in the LCD back cover and two on the handle.
Once the screws are removed swing the back of the case away from the transmitter being careful of the trainer plug
wiring.

1

4

2

3

Screw Locations

There are four locations for the stick tension adjustment screws installed because the stick controlling the throttle is
ratcheted and has no tension adjustment. The #1 and #3 screws adjust the tension for the vertical motion of each stick.
The #2 and #4 screws adjust the tension for the horizontal motion of each stick. To make the tension adjustment use a
small phillips type screwdriver to turn the adjustment screws. Turning the screw clockwise will increase the stick tension,
turning it counterclockwise will decrease the tension. Once you have completed your stick adjustments, replace the case
back and install the NiCd battery pack and antenna. Be careful to line the battery charging port pins when replacing the
back cover.

WARNING:

Any other modifications made to the transmitter other than adjusting stick tension will void any and all warranties
covered be Airtronics Inc.

11

TRAINER SYSTEM

The Trainer system in the RD8000 transmitter allows you to connect any two Airtronics RD series transmitters together
for the purpose of training a new pilot. You can also connect the RD8000 to either VG 400, VG 600, Radiant or Van­guard PPM unit. The Trainer cord to use is the ATX Part # 97100. The RD8000 is NOT compatible with Infinity 660 or

Quasar units.

In actual use, one of the two transmitters will serve as the Master and the second transmitter will serve as the Trainer.
The Master transmitter is held by the instructing pilot, AND IS THE TRANSMITTER THAT MUST MATCH THE RE­CEIVER FREQUENCY INSTALLED IN THE MODEL! The trainer transmitter is held by the learning pilot, and does not
need to be on the same frequency as the model. The frequency of the Trainer transmitter is unimportant because the
switch of the trainer transmitter is NOT turned on during instructional flying. Normally during training, the instructor
takes the model off and flies it to a reasonable altitude. While the Master/Trainer switch on the Instructors transmitter is
left in its OFF position, the Master transmitter will have full control of the model. When the instructor is ready to begin
training, he presses and holds the spring loaded switch on his transmitter which transfers control to the student.

Master Transmitter

Trainer Transmitter

Trainer Switch
(Spring Loaded)

(As long as the instructor holds his Trainer switch in the ON position, the model will respond to the commands of the
Trainer transmitter sticks allowing the student to fly the model. It is not necessary for the student to hold the trainer
switch on the Trainer transmitter.)

When the instructor ceases to stop training, or if he feels that the student is in a situation that endangers the model, the
instructor can release the spring loaded switch and control of the model will immediately return to the Master transmitter.
To use the Trainer system, you must plug the appropriate Trainer cable into the back of both the Master and the Trainer
transmitters. Turn on the Master transmitter and the Model. The cable will energize the encoder section of the Trainer
transmitter. Once you have verified that both the Master and the Trainer transmitters will control the model with the spring
loaded switch in the appropriate position you are ready to start training.

NOTE:

Both transmitters must be programmed identically for the trainer system to function properly. All servos must operate in
the same direction, centering, end points, and other settings such as type of Modulation must be identical.

12

USING THE RD8000 MICROPROCESSOR

Airtronics has invested a large amount of design effort to ensure that the powerful capabilities of the RD8000 are as
simple as possible to use. This manual has been written to offer the user complete instructions for either fixed wing
aircraft or helicopter models. The manual is divided into three sections. One for introduction and another for aircraft
(both powered and sailplane), and one for helicopters. You only need to read the introduction section and the one that
applies to your type of model. In most cases all of the programming of a setup is accomplished through the use of the
input keys on the RD8000 transmitter. The function(s) of these are shown below.

Press this key to select a
channel and move to the Right

Press this key to move up in a menu

Press this key to increase a value or to indicate YES

Press this key to
decrease a value or to
indicate NO

Press this key to return to
the previous screen

Press this key to select a
channel and move to the left

Press this key to move
down in the menu

Select Flight Mode (Helicopter)

Note: Pressing the INC+/YES and DEC-/NO keys simultaneously will clear a setting and return it to the default value.

BAR GRAPH VOLTAGE INDICATOR

As a convenience the RD8000 transmitter provides a Bar Graph transmitter battery voltage indicator at the top of the
Liquid Crystal Display screen labeled “E” and “F”. The “F” symbol indicates FULL and the “E” indicates EMPTY. You can
consider it similar to a visible gas gauge. The Bar Graph indicator is in addition to the normal battery voltage that is
displayed on the main screen when ever you select either AIR or HELI by pushing the END key twice. When the Bar
Graph reads less than half you should not fly until you recharge the transmitter.

13

RD8000 AERO FEATURES

FEATURES

STW (Stopwatch)

REV (Reverse)

D/R (Dual Rate)

CNT (Center)

TRM (Trim)

EXP (Exponential)

EPA (End Point Adjustment)

M-SL (Model Select)

MOD (Modulation)

TYP (Type of Model)

INT (Integral Timer)

RST (Reset)

CLK (Click)

NAM (Name)

SW-R (Switch Reverse)

CPY (Copy)

FLAPE (Flaperons)

DELTA (Elevons)

V-TAIL (Rudder and Elevator)

DESCRIPTION

Used as a stopwatch or to
countdown to a preset time.

Reverses the servo operating
direction.

Adjusts servo throw. Available on
Elev and Ail.

Changes servo neutral position.

The LCD provides an indicator of
the value, as well as the direction of
the trim.

Changes the linear movement of the
servo to the relation of the stick
movement. Can be set Positive or
Negative.

Limits the total movement of a servo
in each direction.

Select models 1~10.

Transmitting Modulation PPM/FM,
PPM/Reverse FM, PCM1, PCM2.

Model Type Aircraft or Helicopter.

Used to show how long the
transmitter has been in use. Can be
reset to zero.

Clears all setup data in any model to
factory default settings.

A beep sound can be heard every
time you press a transmitter key.
Options Active or Inoperative.

You can use up to 3 characters to
name your model.

You can reverse the default direction
of all control switches.

Copy one model to another.

Activates 2 channels to be used for
Ailerons.

Ailerons operate as ailerons and as
well as Elevators. Used for flying
wings.

Used for V-Tail models.

FEATURES DESCRIPTION

T-CUT (Throttle Cut)

C-MIX (Compensation Mixing)

E>F (Elevator to Flap Mixing)

R>A (Rudder to Aileron Mixing)

R>E (Ruder to Elevator Mixing)

F>E (Flap to Elevator Mixing)

SPOIR (Spoilerons)

AI-DIF (Aileron Differential)

L-DIF (Landing Differential)

CR:LA (Crow Left Aileron)
CR:RA (Crow Right Aileron)

OPT (Option Menu)

Step (Trim Step)

FAIL (Fail Safe)

B-F-S ( Battery Fail Safe)

BASIC ( ON/OFF )

D-EL ( DUAL ELEVATOR )

You can set the point where the
throttle can be cut using the
throttle cut-off button.

Ability to mix a master channel to
another slave channel with a C­Mix Switch.

Ability to mix Elevator to Flap.

Ability to mix Rudder to Ailerons.

Ability to mix Ruder to Elevator.

Ability to mix Flap to Elevator.

For sailplanes. Both ailerons will
act as spoilers as the throttle stick
is used.

Changes the total amount of throw
up and down to both aileron
servos independently to help stop
a bad yaw.

Allows Aileron control to remain
effective when Crow or Spoilers
are used (Sailplane)

Crow is used to slow the sailplane
down. Ailerons go up when flaps
go down. Left and
Right Ailerons are adjustable

Advanced program allows you to
turn off or on function displays.

Sets the amount of movement a
servo will move with one beep of
the trim.

You can preset a default control
input when aircraft loses it’s signal
from the transmitter. Only works
with a PCM receiver.

Will bring the throttle servo to idle
when the airborne battery reaches
a predetermaned low voltage. Only
works with a PCM receiver.

Turn Basic menu on or off

Activates 2 channels to be used
for dual elevator servos
Ch 1 left servo
Ch 7 Right servo

D/A-A (Dual Rate Alarm)

14

Alerts you when a Dual Rate switch
is on. Options On or Off.

RD8000 HELI FEATURES

FEATURES

STW (Stopwatch)

REV (Reverse)

D/R (Dual Rate)

CNT (Center)

TRM (Trim)

EXP (Exponential)

EPA (End Point Adjustment)

M-SL (Model Select)

MOD (Modulation)

TYP (Type of Model)

INT (Integral Timer)

RST (Reset)

CLK (Click)

NAM (Name)

SW-R (Switch Reverse)

CPY (Copy)

DESCRIPTION

Used as a stopwatch or to countdown to a preset time.

Reverses the servo operating direction.

Adjusts servo throw. On Elev, Ail and (Rud in Heli Mode)

Changes servo neutral position.

The LCD provides an indicator of the value, as well as the direction of the trim.

Changes the linear movement of the servo to the relation of the stick movement. Can
be set Positive or Negative.

Limits the total movement of a servo in each direction.

Select models 1~ 10.

Transmitting Modulation PPM/FM, PPM/Reverse FM, PCM1, PCM2.

Model Type Aircraft or Helicopter.

Used to show how long the transmitter has been in use. Can be reset to zero.

Clears all setup data in any model to factory default settings.

A beep sound can be heard every time you press a transmitter key. Options Active or
Inoperative.

You can use up to 3 characters to name your model.

You can reverse the default direction of all control switches.

Copy one model to another.

T-CUT (Throttle Cut)

DTM (Dynamic Trim Memory)

GYR (Gyro)

CV-P# (Throttle Curve)

CV-P# (Pitch Curve)

RV (Revolution Mixing)

FAIL (Fail Safe)

C-MIX (Compensation Mixing)

STEP (Trim Step)

B-F-S (Battery Fail Safe)

SWH (Cyclic Type)

BASIC ( ON/OFF)

OPT (Option Menu)

You can set the point where the throttle can be cut using the throttle cut off button.

Memorizes trims in each flight mode.

Gyro sensitivity for each flight mode

To setup a curve in all flight modes.

To setup a curve in all flight modes.

Tail rotor offset mixing

You can preset a default control input when aircraft loses it’s signal from the
transmitter. Only works with a PCM receiver.

Ability to mix a master channel to another slave channel with a C-MIX switch.

Sets the amount of movement a servo will move with one beep of the trim.

Will bring the throttle servo to idle when the airborne battery reaches a predetermaned
low voltage. Only works with a PCM receiver.

5 Cyclic Options (Normal, CP3F, CP3B, CP4F, CP4B)

Basic menu ON or Off

Advanced program allows you to turn off or on function displays.

15

SECTION II COMMON FUNCTIONS

The following functions are common and are applicable to both Aircraft and Helicopter sections of this manual. The
Liquid Crystal Display shows an Aero model selected; however, a similar screen will be displayed when a Helicopter
type model is selected.

NOTE: Switches labeled with red lettering are for aircraft and blue lettering is used for helicopter.

IMPLEMENTATION OF CONTROL FUNCTIONS

In this section you will learn how to implement the control functions and tailor the servo movement and centering for
each control. Pressing the END key on the front panel several times will bring you to the following screen, i.e., the initial
screen that indicates the current model type and number, PPM modulation and the transmitter NiCd battery pack
voltage.

Press the (CH +) key to obtain the STW screen. The Elevator channel will appear on the upper part of the screen. The
model number and aero will be present on the left side and the stop watch will indicate zero since no time has been
programmed.

REV (SERVO REVERSING)

The RD8000 allows you to electronically REVERSE the direction of rotation for each of the servos in use. This allows
you to hook up your control linkages and pushrods in the most mechanically desirable manner without regard to the
direction of servo movement. After installing your linkages check to see if any of the controls move in the wrong
direction when you move the controls. If so proceed as follows for reversing the elevator channel. Reverse for all other
channels are done the same way.

Press the FUNCTION down key to arrive at the following screen:

If the Elevator servo moves in the wrong direction, press the INC +/YES key to change the direction.

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CNT (CONTROL CENTERING)

Your RD8000 allows you to fine-tune the CENTER or neutral position of all flight control servos. After hooking up your
controls and mechanically centering all linkages to the approximate positions, press the FUNCTION down key to arrive
at the following screen for the Elevator control.

(Note that the Aileron, Throttle, Rudder, Flap, AUX-1 and AUX-2 centering operates in the same manner when you
select that channel on the upper part of the screen. You can move across to the CNT function of each channel as well
as some of the other functions by pressing the (CH+ ) key.

By pressing the INC+/YES or DEC-/NO keys you can vary the value from 0 to + or - 100%. Default is 0%

IMPORTANT NOTE:
It is desirable to adjust the control linkages as close as possible to the correct center positions, then use the CNT
(CENTER) commands to “Fine-tune” the exact position of the control surface when the transmitter control is in neutral.

Using a large amount of electronic centering adjustments will decrease the total throw available for that channel. In
particular, centering adjustments greater than + or - 50% will tend to make the extreme stick position on one end less
responsive!

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RST (DATA RESET)

If you want to “UNDO” all of your programmed parameters at one time, you can use the RST function. However, be
certain that is what you want to do, since this function will reset all settings to the factory default settings. The RST
function will only affect the specific model that you have selected. ALL OTHER Models in memory are unaffected by
the RST function.

Press the END key to select the initial AR 1 screen that indicates the Transmitter NiCd pack battery voltage. Now, press
the CH + to access the STW (Stopwatch) screen. This screen allows you to move up and down as well as left and right
on the screen in the RD8000 program.

Press the CH + key several times to move across the CH indicator portion of the screen until it reads “etc”. Now, press
the FUNCTION down key three times to move down in the menu until you reach the RST (Data Reset) screen.

To RESET ALL DATA for this model to default settings press the (CH +) key and the screen will flash YES. Now, press
the INC +/YES key and the screen will indicate OK! All paramameters on this specific model number have now been
reset to default values. Press the END key twice to return to the STW screen.

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HOW TO SELECT MODEL SET-UPS: M-SL (Model Select)

The RD8000 has built in memory to store ten model setups in any combination of model types. To use or modify one of
the model setups you first must select M-SL in the etc menu. Assume that you want to select a second model. To do
so, press the END key to bring up the initial screen that indicates transmitter voltage and model number.

Press the (CH +) key to scroll to “etc”. Use the FUNCTION down key to select MSL. Next press the INC +/YES key and
the screen will flash MSL to indicate you can select a second model. Press the INC +/YES key again to select the next
or following model such as AR2.

Press the END key three times to return to the initial screen which will show the model number and the transmitter
battery voltage reading.

NOTE: if the model type is incorrect, i.e., HELI rather than AERO, continue with the model selection procedure. The
model type can then be selected on the TYP screen.

TYP (MODEL TYPE)

To select the type of model you wish to program, press the (CH+) key to scroll to “etc”. Next press the FUNCTION key to

select TYP. Now press the (CH+) key to select the next model type, either HELI or AERO. The screen will flash YES with

the type of model indicated on the LCD display. To confirm your selection, press the INC+/YES key and the screen will

indicate OK!

Press the END key three times to return to the inital screen that will then show your model number/type and transmitter

battery voltage.

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STW (STOPWATCH)

The RD8000 offers a built-in timer and allows the pilot to use the stopwatch function in either elapsed time mode or in a
countdown mode of operation. To use the stopwatch, press either the (CH -) or the (CH +) key to select “etc” on the
Channel indicator display.

Now press the FUNCTION down key to scroll through the various screen’s until you find the STW screen with the
flashing >indicator. This is where you can set your stopwatch countdown time. The STW (set) screen is just above the
INT screen as shown on the Menu Structure, page 32.

Use the INC +/YES key to set a value for the Start of your count down; as an example set it at 10.00 minutes. The
screen will look like the following illustration. If you want to decrease the time, use the DEC - /NO key. If you want to
clear the time, press the INC +/YES and the DEC - /NO keys simultaneously.

You can now start the stop watch when you are on any of the channel indicator screens that displays the STW screen
and the time you previously programmed. Press the INC+/YES key to start or stop the countdown. When the time
reaches 10 seconds, a tone will be heard and one will also be heard every second as it counts down to zero. When the
timer reaches zero, a steady tone will be heard and it will start counting up. Press the INC+/YES key and DEC-/NO key
simultaneously to reset the timer to your previously programmed time.

Note: To program a time, you must be in the BASIC OFF mode of operation.

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INT (INTEGRAL TIMER)

The Integral Timer function of the RD8000 is activated each time the transmitter power switch is turned on, and contin­ues to time up to 99 hours and 59 seconds at all times when the transmitter is turned on. This time will give an excel­lent indication of how many hours of actual use you RD8000 transmitter has accrued. Or, you may wish to re-set the
timer to zero at certain intervals, for instance, each time you charge the transmitter NiCd battery pack.

The INT (Integral Timer) function is located in the “etc” column of the menu, directly below STW (set). Use the
FUNCTION down key to access the INT screen. Note that it will have some indication of how long the transmitter has
been operating. It may look like the following screen, but with a different time shown. The time will show a change for
each elapsed second and minute. If you want to reset the Integral Timer to Zero, press the INC +/YES and the DEC -/

NO keys simultaneously.

If you desire, you can display the Integral Timer function instead of the STW (stop watch) function on all of the Channel
screens. To do so while you are in the INT screen, press the (CH +) key to obtain the following screen.

Press the INC +/YES key and the bottom line of the screen will change from INH (inhibit) to read ACT (active). You can
press either the DEC -/NO key or the INC +/YES key to change it back to INH. Most pilots prefer to have the Stop
watch function displayed on all of their Channel screens, rather than the Integral Timer, therefore, they leave the Integral
Timer DSP at INH (inhibit). Press the END key twice to get back to the top of the “etc” menu column.

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NAM (NAMING YOUR MODEL)

The RD8000 provides the capability for you to designate each of the 10 models you have programmed by use of a 3
digit name. Use the (CH +) key to select the “etc” screen. Press the FUNCTION down key twice to select the NAM
screen.

Now press the (CH +) key to select the screen for model number one. The first charater will be flashing to indicate you
can change that letter.

Press the INC +/YES key to scroll through the letters of the alphabet and make a change in the first letter. You many
use any combination of LETTERS (upper and lower case), NUMBERS, Colon(:), Dash (-), Character, or blank space to
designate a model. When you have finished the first letter or number, press the (CH +) key to move to the next letter
and set it in a similar manner. The DEC -/NO key can also be used to change a letter or number in the opposite
direction. Press both the INC + /YES and DEC -/NO keys simultaneously to return to the default setting of AR 1. Once
you have completed designating your present model, press the END key twice to return to the “etc” column heading.

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EXP (EXPONENTIAL)

The RD8000 allows the pilot to choose two settings for Exponential throw for each of the primary flight channels,
Elevator, Aileron (and Rudder in helicopter mode).

Exponential throw is primarily used to “soften” or decrease the control stick sensitivity of a control around the neutral
point. With Exponential disabled, a control funtion servo will move in an amount proportional to the amount of control
stick deflection, i.e., 50% stick deflection will result in 50% servo travel; 75% stick deflection will result in 75% servo
travel.

Exponential settings DO NOT change the amount of travel available at 100% stick deflection, but rather it changes the
amount of the servo travel that will occur with stick deflections less than 100%. The first 25% of stick deflection may be
set to result in only 10% of total servo throw making the control less sensitive around neutral. See the following
illustrations.

100

LINEAR THROW

75

l
e
v
a

r
T

50

o
v

r
e
S

25

0

02550

75

100

100

75

l
e
v
a

r
T

50

o
v

r
e
S

25

0

EXPONENTIAL THROW

02550

75

100

Stick Deflection Stick Deflection

If you have used Exponential functions before, you will want to start with a small amount of Exponential (10 to 20%) to
determine wheather you like this sort of control response. Exponential is most useful where strong control response is
desired at extreme stick positions but softer response to small stick movement is desired in order to make very accurate
small corrections to flight path.

The switch positions for Exponential #1 and Exponential #2 correspond to the Dual Rate switch positions of Elevator
and Aileron. Exponential #1 is with the Dual Rate switch in the down i.e., Off position. Exponential #2 is with the Dual
Rate switch UP i.e.,ON position. (Note however that you can leave the Dual Rate adjustments for Elevator and Aileron
set at 100% which is no rate, so that switching a Dual Rate switch ON will activate Exponential only.

NOTE: Setting the Exponential with a positive number will make servo movement soft in the neutral area of the stick
movement. Setting the Exponential with a negative number will make servo movement faster in the neutral area and
softer at the end of the stick travel.

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As an example, to set Exponential for elevator, access “EL” in the Channel area by using the (CH+) key.

Now press the FUNCTION down key to select the EXP display for the Elevator Channel as shown below.

This screen tells you the present Exponential status of the elevator channel and when a Dual Rate Exponential switch is
set to ON position, the Exponential setting for that control function. The possibilble range for Exponential settings is
from -100% to +100%. Note that 0% is linear. A negative value will speed up the response and it will make the stick
movement more sensitive around the neutral position.

To set an Exponential rate in this example, turn the Dual Rate switch for Elevator to the ON upward position. Note that
the display changed to Exponential #2. You can set the value for the Elevator channel Exponential. Press the INC+/Yes
key to set a positive value of Exponential function as indicated below.

In the above example we set Exponential #2 to be 20% of the maximum for the Elevator channel. This is a good starting
point for determining the suitability of Exponential throw for you aircraft and flying style.

You can actually have two different Exponential setting’s if you desired. One for switch position #1 and another for
switch position #2. However when you first start using Exponential throw, it is usually best to leave the switch #1
position at 0% which is linear throw.

In general, large amounts of Exponential are useful only in instances where very large control surface deflection is
required at extreme throw, while very small amounts of control response are necessary for smaller control stick inputs.
One example of models for which large Exponential settings may be useful is the highly maneuverable “Competition
FUN FLY” style models. For most sport and aerobatic models, an Exponential setting from +10% to +25% will give the
desired “softness” around neutral.

CAUTION: Proceed with care when setting Exponential functions to ensure that you will have adequate control
deflection available in any possible switch position. Setting Exponential to a very high or 100% setting will require very
large stick movements to achieve small control responses. Always make sure that you are aware of the present status
of any rate assignments that you have selected! For the most flexibility in setting up an aircraft model to your liking,
study the available options for Dual Rates, End Point Adjustments, and Exponential. The combinations possible when
using these options allows for several possible set-ups. The Exponential for the Aileron Channel is set in the same
manner as done for the Elevator. The AI D/R switch located above the right stick assembly is then used when setting
the Exponential Throw.

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