❚ AR7100/AR7100R User Guide
❚
AR7100/AR7100R Bedienungsanleitung
Spektrum AR71002
EN
The following terms are used throughout the product literature to indicate
various levels of potential harm when operating this product:
NOTICE: Procedures, which if not properly followed, create a possibility of
physical property damage AND a little or no possibility of injury.
CAUTION: Procedures, which if not properly followed, create the probability of physical property damage AND a possibility of serious injury.
WARNING: Procedures, which if not properly followed, create the probability of property damage, collateral damage, and serious injury OR create a
high probability of superficial injury.
NOTICE
All instructions, warranties and other collateral documents are subject to
change at the sole discretion of Horizon Hobby, Inc. For up-to-date product
literature, visit horizonhobby.com and click on the support tab for this
product.
Meaning of Special Language
by children without direct adult supervision. Do not attempt disassembly, use
with incompatible components or augment product in any way without the
approval of Horizon Hobby, Inc. This manual contains instructions for safety,
operation and maintenance. It is essential to read and follow all the instructions and warnings in the manual, prior to assembly, setup or use, in order to
operate correctly and avoid damage or serious injury.
WARNING AGAINST COUNTERFEIT PRODUCTS
Thank you for purchasing a genuine Spektrum product. Always purchase
from a Horizon Hobby, Inc. authorized dealer to ensure authentic high-quality
Spektrum product. Horizon Hobby, Inc. disclaims all support and warranty
with regards, but not limited to, compatibility and performance of counterfeit
products or products claiming compatibility with DSM or Spektrum technology.
Age Recommendation: Not for children under 14 years.
This is not a toy.
WARRANTY REGISTRATION
Visit www.spektrumrc.com/registration today to register your product.
WARNING: Read the ENTIRE instruction manual to become familiar
with the features of the product before operating. Failure to operate the
product correctly can result in damage to the product, personal property and
cause serious injury.
This is a sophisticated hobby product. It must be operated with caution and
common sense and requires some basic mechanical ability. Failure to operate
this Product in a safe and responsible manner could result in injury or
damage to the product or other property. This product is not intended for use
Spektrum AR7100 3
EN
All sizes of nitro powered helicopters
500-class and larger electric helicopters
Co mpatible with all Spektrum™ and JR® DSM2™ full range
transmitters including:
Spektrum DX6i (RevLimit function not available as only six
channels are present)
Spektrum DX7
JR X9303 2.4
JR12X
Note: Not compatible with Spektrum’s DX6 parkflyer system (DSM)
Spektrum’s AR7100 series receivers offer the ultimate system for highperformance nitro or 500-class and larger electric helicopters. Combining
the bullet proof radio link of Spektrum’s DSM2 technology with a builtin regulator for the Rudder, Aux2, Gear and Throttle channels and an
integrated RevLimit limiter (AR7100R only), the AR7100 series receivers
make installation of these normally complex devices clean and simple.
The AR7100 features a Fail-On soft switch to ensure reliability and heavy
16AWG low resistance input power leads for uninterrupted power even
under the most demanding high-current draw applications. The newly
developed backplate rpm sensor makes this integrated receiver, limiter
and regulator system the easiest and neatest possible to install with only
one external rpm sensor lead for the limiter. Designed and developed by
helicopter experts, the all-in-one integrated design of the AR7100 takes
the hassle out of installing and properly setting up separate receivers,
regulators and limiters.
ApplicationsIntroduction
Spektrum AR71004
EN
Features
• Regulated 5.2-voltage output to the Rudder, Gear, Aux 2 and Throttle
channels allowing the cyclic servos to be powered at high voltage for
increased performance while the gyro and throttle servos are powered
by the necessary compatible lower voltage (5.2V).
• AR7100R incorporates an integrated RevLimit limiter with backplate rpm
sensor offering the cleanest, easiest installation available.
• Easy-to-mount backplate RevLimit rpm sensor—with a single lead that
plugs into the receiver, eliminates the hassle of mounting magnets and
brackets as is the case for typical rpm sensors.
• Heavy-duty 16AWG input leads pre-wired with EC3 connector.
• Dual outputs on the Throttle and Aux 2 channels (regulated to 5.2 volts/
unregulated).
• One internal receiver and up to two remote receivers.
• Soft switch fails-on if the switch is damaged.
• Optional charge ON/OFF adaptor lead (included) allows charging,
battery monitoring and ON/OFF through one easily accessible lead.
• Two types of failsafe—SmartSafe (throttle only) and conventional
failsafe (all servos).
• Quick Connect - If a power interruption (brown out) occurs the system
reconnects in less than .25 seconds.
• Flight Log compatible.
• Compatible with all Spektrum and JR DSM2 full range
radio systems.
• 2048 Resolution
Note: The AR7100/AR7100R uses a specifically designed switch.
Conventionally wired switches are not compatible with the AR7100.
Spektrum AR7100 5
EN
Important
The AR7100 and AR7100R require that at least one remote receiver
(included) be plugged into port B or R to operate.
Specifications
AR7100/ AR7100R
Voltage input - 6.0 to 10.0 volts/ 5 to 7 cell NiMH or 2-cell LiPo*
Minimum receiver operational voltage - 3.5 volts
Minimum regulator operational voltage - 5.5 volts
Output voltage - Rudder, Aux 2, Throttle 2, Gear 2 = 5.2 volts/
all other channels unregulated (for high voltage
compatible servos only)
Max regulated channel current - 2 amp continuous
Resolution - 2048
Dimensions LxWxH - 47.3x40.2x14.2mm/ 1.86x.1.58x .56 in
Weight - 1.1 oz / 32.5 g
Switch - Soft Switch (Switch port can also be used with charge
adaptors (included))
Connector type - EC3
Note: When the battery is connected to the AR71000/AR7100R a low
current drain of less than 1mA occurs even when the soft switch is
turned off. If the system is going to be stored for any length of time it’s
important that the battery be disconnected from the AR7100 to prevent
overdischarge.
Remote Receiver
Dimensions LxWxH - 25.8x20.2x6.8mm/ 1.02x.80x.27 in
Weight - 0.1 oz / 5.0 g
Items Included
AR7100/AR7100R Receiver
Remote Receiver - SPM9545
9” Remote Extension Lead - SPM9011
Soft Switch - SPM6820
Charge ON/OFF Adaptor Lead - SPM6821
Backplate Rpm Sensor (AR7100R only) - SPM6823
Features (continued)
Spektrum AR71006
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Battery Requirements
Bind Plug - SPM6803
Instruction Manual
Optional Items
• Batteries:
LiPo Receiver Pack 1350mAh - SPMB1350LP*
LiPo Receiver Pack 2000mAh - SPMB2000LP*
LiPo Receiver Pack 4000mAh - SPMB4000LP*
LiPo Receiver Pack 6000mAh - SPMB6000LP*
1650mAh 6.0V NiMH Receiver Pack - SPMB1650NM
2150mAh 6.0V NiMH Receiver Pack - SPMB2150NM
2700mAh 6.0V NiMH Receiver Pack - SPMB2700NM
4500mAh 6.0V NiMH Receiver Pack - SPMB4500NM
• Flight Log Data Recorder - SPM9540
• Additional Remote Receiver - SPM9545
• 6” Remote Receiver Extension - SPM9010
• 9” Remote Receiver Extension - SPM9011
• 12” Remote Receiver Extension - SPM9012
• 24” Remote Receiver Extension - SPM9013
* Consult your servo manufacturer’s specifications for maximum allowable
voltage.
IMPORTANT: Do not use a 4-cell 4.8-volt battery to power the
AR7100/AR7100R.
Because of the built-in regulator the AR7100/AR7100R has a minimum
recommended operational battery voltage of 5.5 volts and is designed
to use 6-volt 5-cell NiMH, 7.2-volts 6-cell NiMH or 7.4-volt 2-cell
LiPo batteries. (Higher voltage should be used only if the servos are
compatible.) While the AR7100 will continue to operate down to 3.5
volts, the AR7100/ AR7100R features a built-in 5.2-volt regulator for the
Rudder, Aux 2, Gear 2, Throttle 2 channels output. A 4-cell 4.8-volt battery
will not provide sufficient headroom (voltage margin) to maintain a 5.2
regulated voltage. Regulated outputs are provided to allow the gyro, gyro
gain and throttle to be operated at the necessary lower voltage while the
cyclic servos (aileron, elevator and pitch) are powered directly by the pack
voltage (typically 5-cell 6-volt NiMH or if high voltage compatible servos
are used 2-cell 7.4-volt LiPo batteries).
Features (continued)
Spektrum AR7100 7
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Battery Capacity
It is important to select a battery that has more than adequate capacity to
provide the necessary flight time. Our staff has been recording in-flight
data to determine typical current consumption of aircraft in flight. The
following graph illustrates a T-REX Nitro 600 during aggressive 3D flight.
Helicopter -T-REX 600N
Servos - 3-JR8717’s, 1-8900G (rudder), 1-8317 (throttle)
Batteries - 1- 2100mAh 2-cell 7.4-volt LiPo
Engine - YS50
Flight envelope - Aggressive 3D
Average current - 1.15 amps
Peak current - 3.33 amps
Milliamps used per 8 minute flight- 173mAh
In the above example the average current was 1.15 amps, which calculates
to 153mAh per 8 minutes (typical flight length). It’s recommended that
only 60% of the available capacity be used to ensure plenty of reserve
battery capacity. In this example using 2000mAh batteries 2000 x 60% =
1200mAh (available usable capacity) divided by the capacity used per 8
minute flight, 153mAh would allow up to 7 flights of 8 minutes each.
Spektrum AR71008
EN
Recommended Guidelines for Battery Capacity
For 50-size electric and glow powered helicopters a minimum capacity
of 2000mAh is recommended. For 90-size helicopters a minimum of
3000mAh is recommended. Our staff uses 2000mAh LiPos in 50-size helis
and 4000mAh LiPos in 90-size machines and typically flies 4 or 5 flights
then recharges.
Following is a picture of a typically recommended installation.
Spektrum AR7100 9
EN
Installation
• Mount the Receiver unit in the position recommended by the helicopter
manufacturer. Foam or thick double-sided tape is recommended to
isolate the receiver from vibration.
• Mount the switch and insert the switch plug into the port in the main
unit marked SWITCH. Note: The AR7100/AR7100R uses a specifically
designed switch. Conventionally wired switches are not compatible with
the AR7100.
• Using the battery capacity guidelines select the battery system that best
fits your application and install the battery in your heli. Connect the
battery to the receiver’s EC3 connector. Spektrum batteries are pre-wired
with an EC3 connector and plug directly in. If using another brand of
battery it will be necessary to solder EC3 connectors to the battery
leads.
• Using double-sided foam tape and tie wrap, mount a minimum of 1 and
up to 2 remote receivers in your aircraft and plug them into the receiver
ports. NOTE: It’s necessary that one receiver be plugged into port B or
R in order to operate. The receiver should be mounted at least 2” away
from the main receiver with the antennas perpendicular.
• If using the RevLimit Limiter (AR7100R only) mount the rpm sensor and
bracket to the backplate under two backplate screws of your engine as
shown.
Spektrum AR710010
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Installation (continued)
Important: Normally, the pickup is mounted touching the backplate of the
engine. If your system is not limiting RPM in flight, re-position the sensor
.5 to 1mm away from the back plate. This can be easily accomplished by
loosening the 2-56 button head screw on the sensor mount, re-adjusting
the position, and then tightening. This should resolve the issue.
Note: Threadlock must be used on the screws. The rpm sensor bracket is
adjustable for 50-size or 90-size engines by extending
or retracting the rpm sensor and fastening the screw in place.
• Plug the servo leads and rpm sensor into the appropriate ports in the
receiver.
• You are now ready to bind the system.
Note: In order for the system to operate, one remote receiver must be
plugged into receiver port B or R.
Connections
Note: The throttle and gear channels have two outputs. Output 1 is
unregulated and the pack voltage is provided at this port. Throttle and Gear
outputs 2 are regulated to 5.2 volts when a throttle servo and gyro are used
that are not compatible with high voltage. (Most gyros require less than 6
volts.)
.
Bracket adjusted for 50-size engine
Bracket adjusted for 90-size engine
Spektrum AR7100 11
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Binding
It is necessary to program the receiver to the transmitter so that the
receiver will only recognize that specific transmitter, ignoring signals
from any other sources. If the receiver is not bound to the transmitter, the
system will not operate. During binding the servo’s failsafe positions are
stored.
How To Bind
1. With the system hooked up and at least one remote receiver attached to
port B or R as described previously, insert the bind plug in the DATA/
BIND port.
2. Power the receiver by plugging a battery into the battery lead and
turning on the soft switch (if being used). Note that the LEDs on all
receivers should be flashing indicating that the receiver is ready to bind.
3. Establish the desired failsafe stick positions: normally low throttle, low
pitch and cyclic controls neutral. Please see the Failsafe Functions
section for more information about setting SmartSafe and PreSet
Failsafe functions.
4. Follow the procedures of your transmitter to enter it into bind mode. The
system will connect within a few seconds. The LEDs on all receivers
should go solid, indicating the system has connected.
5. Remove the bind plug and store it in a convenient place. A blue light on
the main unit and an amber light on the remote receiver should turn on
indicating the system is powered. Check servo operation.
6. After you’ve programmed your model, it’s important to rebind the system
so the true low throttle and neutral control surface positions are stored
in the receiver.
Spektrum AR710012
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Optional Charge ON/OFF Adaptor Lead
Included with the system is an optional charge, ON/OFF adaptor lead.
Some heli pilots may prefer to use this adaptor lead instead of the
included Soft Switch. When plugged into the receiver’s switch port this
adaptor lead allows the following:
• The battery can be charged through the adaptor lead.
• The system can be turned off by inserting the bind plug. Removing the
bind plug turns the system on.
• Battery voltage can be monitored through the adaptor lead using a
Flight Log or voltmeter. If the voltmeter is plugged directly into the
male-male extension, the system is active and voltage under load
(system operational) is displayed. If plugged into the charging lead, the
at-rest battery voltage is displayed.
Install the adaptor lead as shown to the right.
Spektrum AR7100 13
EN
Failsafe Instructions
The AR7100/AR7100R feature two types of failsafe: SmartSafe™ and Preset
Failsafe.
SmartSafe
This type of failsafe is recommended for most types of helicopters.
When the transmitter and receiver are turned on the receiver connects
to the transmitter and normal control of all channels occurs. If loss of
signal occurs, SmartSafe drives the throttle servo only to its preset failsafe
position (low throttle) that was set during binding. All other channels hold
their last position. When the signal is regained, the system immediately
(less than 4 ms) regains control.
Preset Failsafe
When the transmitter and receiver are turned on and after the receiver
connects to the transmitter and normal control of all channels occurs,
if loss of signal occurs preset failsafe drives all servos to their preset
failsafe positions. Some pilots prefer this method but normally SmartSafe
is recommended for helicopters. When the signal is regained, the system
immediately (less than 4 ms) regains control.
Programming SmartSafe
During the binding process the bind plug is left in throughout the process
and is removed only after the receiver connects to the transmitter. After the
connection is made, confirmed by operating the servos, the bind plug can
be removed. The receiver is now programmed for SmartSafe.
Programming Preset Failsafe
During the binding process the bind plug is inserted in the bind port,
and then the receiver is powered up. The LEDs in each receiver should
blink, indicating that the receiver is in bind mode. Now before binding
the receiver to the transmitter and with the receiver in bind mode, remove
the bind plug. The LEDs will continue to blink. With the control sticks
and switches in the desired failsafe positions, bind the transmitter to the
receiver by putting the transmitter/module into bind mode. The system
should connect in less than 15 seconds. The receiver is now programmed
for preset failsafe.
Note: Failsafe positions are stored via the stick and switch positions on
the transmitter during binding.
Spektrum AR710014
EN
Standard Range Testing Advanced Range Testing Using a Flight Log
Before each flying session, and especially with a new model, it’s important
to perform a range check. All Spektrum aircraft transmitters incorporate
a range testing system which reduces the output power, allowing a range
check.
Range Testing
1. With the model resting on the ground, stand 30 paces (approx. 90 feet)
away from the model.
2. Face the model with the transmitter in your normal flying position and
put your transmitter into range test mode. This causes reduced power
output from the transmitter.
3. You should have total control of the model while in range check mode
at 30 paces (90 feet).
4. If control issues exist, call the Horizon Product Support department at
1-877-504-0233 for further assistance.
The following advanced range check will confirm that internal and remote
receivers are operating optimally and that the installation (position of
the receivers) is optimized for the specific aircraft. This Advanced Range
Check allows the RF performance of each receiver to be evaluated and to
optimize the locations of each individual remote receiver.
Advanced Range Testing
1 Plug a Flight Log (SPM9540 - optional) into the data port in the AR7100
and turn on the system (Tx and Rx).
2. Advance the Flight Log until F- frame losses are displayed by pressing
the button on the Flight Log.
3. Have a helper hold your helicopter while he observes the Flight Log
data.
4. Standing 30 paces away from the helicopter, face the model with the
transmitter in your normal flying position and put your transmitter
into range test mode. This causes reduced power output from the
transmitter.
5. Have your helper position the model in various orientations (nose up,
nose down, nose toward the Tx, nose away from the Tx, etc.), while
your helper watches the Flight Log noting any correlation between the
aircraft’s orientation and frame losses. Do this for 1 minute. The timer
on the transmitter can be used here.
6. After one minute, a successful range check will have less than ten
30 paces (90 feet)
Spektrum AR7100 15
EN
Advanced Range Testing Using a Flight Log (continued)
recorded frame losses. Scrolling the Flight Log through the antenna
fades (A, B, R) allows you to evaluate the performance of each receiver.
Antenna fades should be relatively uniform. If a specific antenna is
experiencing a high degree of fades then that antenna should be moved
to a different location.
7. A successful advanced test will yield the following:
H - 0 holds
F - less than 10 frame losses
A, B, R, - Antenna fades will typically be less than 100. It’s
important to compare the relative antenna fades and if a particular receiver
has a significantly higher number of fades (2 to 3X) then the test should
be redone. If the same results occur, move the offending receiver to a
different location.
Flight Log (SPM9540 Optional)
The Flight Log is compatible with the AR7100/AR7100R. The Flight
Log displays overall RF link performance as well as the individual internal
and external receiver link data. Additionally it displays receiver voltage.
Using the Flight Log
After a flight and before turning off the receiver or transmitter, plug the
Flight Log into the Data port on the AR7100/AR7100R. The screen will
automatically display voltage e.g. 6v2= 6.2 volts.
Note: When the voltage reaches 4.8 volts or less, the screen will flash
indicating low voltage.
Press the button to display the following information:
A - Antenna fades on the internal antenna
B - Antenna fades on the left external antenna
L - Not used
R - Antenna fades on the right external if used
F - Frame loss
H - Holds
Antenna fades—represents the loss of a bit of information on that specific
antenna.
Typically it’s normal to have as many as 50 to 100 antenna fades during a
flight. If any single antenna experiences over 500 fades in a single flight,
the antenna should be repositioned in the aircraft to optimize the RF link.
Spektrum AR710016
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Advanced Range Testing Using a Flight Log (continued)
Frame loss—represents simultaneous antenna fades on all attached
receivers. If the RF link is performing optimally, frame losses per flight
should be less than 20. A hold occurs when 45 consecutive frame losses
occur. This takes about one second. If a hold occurs during a flight,
it’s important to evaluate the system, moving the antennas to different
locations and/or checking to be sure the transmitter and receivers are all
working correctly.
Note: A servo extension can be used to allow the Flight Log to be plugged
in more conveniently without having to remove the helicopter’s canopy. On
some models, the Flight Log can be plugged in, attached and left on the
model using double-sided tape. Mounting the Flight Log conveniently to
the side frame is common with helicopters.
Spektrum AR7100 17
EN
RevLimit Instructions (AR7100R only)
Servo Requirements
Connections
The Spektrum AR7100R features an integrated RevLimit limiter. The
RevLimit functions as a digital rpm limiter preventing the main rotor from
over-speeding. When the rotor speed is at or below the programmed
rpm, throttle position is controlled via the radio (i.e. throttle curves). The
RevLimit only engages when the rotor rpm exceeds the programmed rpm
reducing the throttle position preventing over-speed.
The RevLimit limiter is designed to limit engine speed between 9,500 and
20,500 rpm. Engine rpm = Rotor rpm * Main gear ratio
All common three-wire servos (analog and digital) are compatible and can
be used for the throttle servo. Note that two throttle channel outputs are
available: unregulated and regulated. The unregulated throttle operates at
the battery voltage. The regulated throttle is regulated to 5.2 volts and is
to be used when a high-voltage compatible servo is not being used for
throttle control.
The RevLimit is totally integrated and the target rpm is adjusted via the
Gear channel (channel 5). The only external connection needed is to
mount the backplate rpm sensor to the backplate of your engine using
two backplate screws. Note that the rpm sensor mount has two positions:
extended for .90-size engines and retracted for .50-size engines. When
installed correctly, the rpm sensor should just contact the backplate. On
some engines and specifically the YS .50 and .90, the sensors must be
spaced .5 to 1mm from the backplate. No additional magnets or brackets
are needed. The rpm sensor picks up the magnetic effect of the crankpin
as it passes the rpm sensor.
If your system is not limiting RPM in flight, re-position the sensor .5
to 1mm away from the backplate. This can be easily accomplished by
loosening the 2-56 button head screw on the sensor mount, re-adjusting
the position, and then tightening. This should resolve the issue.
Install the servos in their appropriately labeled ports. Note: The throttle
and gear channels have two outputs. Output 1 is unregulated and the
pack voltage is provided at this port. Throttle and Gear outputs 2 are
regulated to 5.2 volts when a throttle servo and gyro are used that are not
compatible with high voltage. (Most gyros require less than 6 volts.)
Spektrum AR710018
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Modes of Operation
DX7
If using the DX7, the following is recommended.
In system setup mode program AUX2 to GYRO and GEAR to AUX2, the
RevLimit will be controlled and adjusted via the AUX2 switch,
and all the target rpm’s will be adjusted using the GEAR channel travel
adjust.
Note: The Gyro Gain channel will plug into the AUX2 channel and the gyro
screen will be used to adjust the gyro gain (see the DX7 manual for more
detail on gyro gain settings).
In the travel adjust screen two values can be selected that will correspond
with the desired rpm. Note that two different rpms can be selected, or if
one value is programmed to zero, the RevLimit will be turned off when the
AUX2 switch is in that position.
Important: When calibrating the system the AUX2 channel must remain
at 100% in both directions.
The RevLimit target rpm is adjusted thru the Gear channel (channel 5)
output.
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