Spektrum DX8 User guide

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										Instruction Manual


	The Leader in Spread Spectrum Technology
	The Leader in Spread Spectrum Technology									8-Channel DSM Radio System with
										Integrated Telemetry for Airplanes and
										Helicopters

SD Logo is a trademark of SD-3C, LLC

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 http://www.horizonhobby.com/ProdInfo/Files/SPM8800-manual.pdf.

Meaning of Special Language:

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.

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 and NOT a toy. 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 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 products 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 DSM2 or Spektrum.

WARRANTY REGISTRATION

Visit www.spektrumrc.com/registration today to register your product.

4	SPEKTRUM DX8 • RADIO INSTRUCTION MANUAL

Table of Contents

Spektrum’s DX8 with Integrated Telemetry .......................................................	6
Included Items...................................................................................................	6
System Features................................................................................................	6
Charging Your Transmitter................................................................................	7
NiMH/LiPo Battery Support..............................................................................	7
Battery and Charging Precautions and Warnings.............................................	7
Transmitter Identification Mode 2......................................................................	8
Transmitter Identification Mode 1......................................................................	9
Key Input and Display Functions....................................................................	10
Digital Trims....................................................................................................	10
Inactivity Warnings..........................................................................................	10
No RF Output Warning....................................................................................	10
Battery Alarm and Display...............................................................................	10
Programmable Alarms....................................................................................	10
AR8000 Receiver.............................................................................................	10
Receiver Installation........................................................................................	11
Binding............................................................................................................	11
Failsafe............................................................................................................	12
SmartSafe........................................................................................................	12
Hold Last Command Failsafe..........................................................................	12
Preset Failsafe.................................................................................................	12
Range Testing..................................................................................................	13
System Setup...........................................................................................	13
Model Select...................................................................................................	14
Model Type.....................................................................................................	14
Model Name....................................................................................................	15
Wing Type.......................................................................................................	15
Switch Select (Air)...........................................................................................	15
Swash Type.....................................................................................................	15
Switch Select (Heli).........................................................................................	16
F-Mode Setup.................................................................................................	16
Trim Step.........................................................................................................	16
Model Reset....................................................................................................	17
Model Copy....................................................................................................	17
Warnings.........................................................................................................	18
Telemetry.........................................................................................................	18
Frame Rate......................................................................................................	20
Trainer.............................................................................................................	20
System Settings..............................................................................................	20
Transfer SD Card.............................................................................................	21
Function Mode.........................................................................................	22
Servo Setup.....................................................................................................	22
D/R and Exponential........................................................................................	23
Differential.......................................................................................................	24
Throttle Cut.....................................................................................................	25
Throttle Curve (Air).........................................................................................	25
Throttle Curve (Heli)........................................................................................	26
Flap System....................................................................................................	26
Swashplate......................................................................................................	27
Governor.........................................................................................................	28
Pitch Curve.....................................................................................................	28
Mixing (Air).....................................................................................................	29
Aileron to Rudder Mix.....................................................................................	29
Programmable Mixes (Air)..............................................................................	29
Tail Curve for Non-Heading Hold Gyro Use Only...........................................	30
Mixing (Heli)...................................................................................................	31
Gyro................................................................................................................	33
Timer...............................................................................................................	33
Monitor...........................................................................................................	35

Troubleshooting Guide....................................................................................	35
General Information.........................................................................................	36
Servo Precautions
General Notes
Safety Do’s and Don’ts for Pilots
Federal Aviation Administration.................................................................	36
Purpose
Background
Operating Standards
Information Provided by
Daily Flight Checks
Warranty and Repair Policy.............................................................................	37
Warranty Period
1-Year Limited Warranty
Damage Limits
Safety Precautions
Warranty Services
Questions, Assistance, and Repairs
Inspection or Repairs
Warranty Inspection and Repairs................................................................	38
Non-Warranty Repairs
FCC Information..............................................................................................	38
Antenna Separation Distance..........................................................................	38
Compliance Information for the European Union............................................	39
Declaration of Conformity...............................................................................	39
Instructions for the Disposal of WEEE.............................................................	39
Appendix.......................................................................................................	39
Mode Changes...........................................................................................	39
Mechanical Conversion.............................................................................	39
Programming Conversion..........................................................................	40
Adjustable Stick Tension............................................................................	41
Advanced Range Testing............................................................................	41
Using a Flight Log—Optional...................................................................	42

SPEKTRUM DX8 • RADIO INSTRUCTION MANUAL

Spektrum’s DX8 with Integrated Telemetry

The DX8 is Spektrum’s first aircraft system that incorporates integrated telemetry. The transmitter’s screen displays real-time telemetry including receiver battery voltage, flight log data and signal quality. External sensors allow rpm, external voltage and temperature to be displayed on screen in real time. Alarms can

be programmed to warn of low battery, over temperature, exceeded rpm and diminished RF signal strength.

The DX8 offers sophisticated programming to meet the demands of even the most experienced airplane and helicopter pilots. An easy-to-use rolling selector combined with intuitive software makes setting up models quick and easy. The DX8 is SD-card compatible allowing an infinite number of models to be stored and transferred. Plus firmware updates can be downloaded from the SPEKTRUMRC.com website providing the user with the latest software upgrades.

ITEMS INCLUDED

SYSTEM features

•Integrated Telemetry

•Quad Bearing Gimbals

•High Speed 11ms frame rate

•2048 resolution

•Telemetry warning system

•Sophisticated Airplane and Helicopter programming

•SD Card compatible

AR8000 ReceiveR

Note: The DX8 is compatible with all current Spektrum DSM2 aircraft receivers.

CAUTION: When using the DX8 with parkflyer receivers (the AR6100 and AR6110), it’s imperative that these receivers only be flown in parkflyer-type aircraft (small electric airplanes or mini and micro helicopters). Flying receivers designed for parkflyers in larger aircraft could cause loss of connection.

Note: The DX8 is NOT compatible with the original DSM AR600 receiver.

DX8 transmitter

AR8000 8-channel receiver Power supply w/ adaptors Neckstrap

SD card Bind Plug

TM1000 telemetry module Voltage sensor Temperature sensor

Data lead

Telemetry Y-Harness Decal sheet

DX8 instruction manual Programming Guide 2.0mm L hex wrench

Decal sheet

12V DC Power Supply

Neckstrap

Male/female bind plug
			2.5” Telemetry
	16MB SD Card	Voltage Sensor	Data Lead	2.5” Telemetry
	16MB SD Card	Temperature Sensor		2.5” Telemetry
Telemetry module (TM1000)		Temperature Sensor		Y-harness
Telemetry module (TM1000)				Y-harness

6	SPEKTRUM DX8 • RADIO INSTRUCTION MANUAL

Charging Your Transmitter

The DX8 features a built-in multi-chemistry charger designed to charge 4-cell NiMH and 2-cell LiPo batteries at a charge rate of 200mAh. The charge jack on the right side of the transmitter is non-polarity-critical, allowing you to use any type of 12-volt supply to charge the battery regardless of connector polarity.

Using the included SPMB2000NMTX NiMH battery pack, you should plug the included 12-volt AC to DC power supply in for 10 to 12 hours to fully charge the battery.

CAUTION: Never plug in a peak detection or fast charger into your DX8 as this could damage the internal charge circuit. Use only a 12V DC source.

With the transmitter power turned off, plug the included 12 volt power supply into a wall outlet. Then plug the male charge plug into the charge jack. The blue LED on the front of the transmitter will illuminate. When charging the optional SPMB4000LPTX, a full charge can take up to 30hrs depending on the initial charge state of the battery. When charging a LiPo, the blue light will turn off when the charge cycle is complete.

NiMH/LiPo Battery Support

The DX8 includes a rechargeable NiMH battery pack. A low battery alarm sounds when the battery reaches 4.3 volts. Spektrum offers an optional 2-cell LiPo battery pack (SPMB4000LPTX) for the DX8. LiPo batteries have a higher operational voltage and when switching to a 2-cell LiPo battery in the transmitter, it is important to change the low battery alarm to the LiPo setting to prevent over-discharging the pack.

To Access and Change Battery Type

In the System Setting screen (see page 20 in your manual) rotate the roller to select NEXT at the bottom right of the System setting screen. The following screen appears.

Rotate the roller to highlight battery type.

Press the roller to access NiMH or LiPo. The low voltage cutoff will default to the recommended voltage for the battery type selected. The voltage cutoff can be adjusted from this screen, but normally the default cutoff of 6.4 volts for LiPo is recommended.

Battery and Charging

Precautions and Warnings

Failure to exercise caution while using this product and comply with the following warnings could result in product malfunction, electrical issues, excessive heat, FIRE, and ultimately injury and property damage.

•Read all safety precautions and literature prior to use of this product.

•Never allow minors to charge battery packs without adult supervision.

•Never drop power supply or batteries.

•Never attempt to charge damaged batteries

•Never attempt to charge a battery pack containing different types of batteries.

•Never charge a battery if the cable has been pinched or shorted.

•Never allow batteries or battery packs to come into contact with moisture at any time.

•Never charge batteries in extremely hot or cold places (recommended between 50-80 degrees F) or place in direct sunlight.

•Always disconnect the battery after charging, and let the charger cool between charges.

•Always inspect a new battery before charging.

•Always terminate all processes and contact Horizon Hobby if the product malfunctions.

•Always keep batteries and charger away from any material that could be affected by heat (such as ceramic and tile), as they can get hot.

•Always end the charging process if the charger or battery becomes hot to the touch or starts to change form (swell) during the charge process.

SPEKTRUM DX8 • RADIO INSTRUCTION MANUAL

Transmitter Identification Mode 2

Note: to change transmitter modes see page 39

WARNING: ENSURE FUTURE ANTENNA SAFETY Do not attempt to use the antenna to bear

any weight, pick up the transmitter by the antenna or alter the antenna in any way. If the transmitter antenna or related components become damaged the output strength can be severely impeded which could lead to a crash, injury, and property damage.

Antenna

	Trainer/Timer
	Bind Button
Gear	Flap/Gyro	L Trimmer
Flight Mode	Flap/Gyro
Flight Mode

Elevator D/R

Throttle/Rudder

Stick

Rudder Trim

SD Card Slot

Throttle Trim

Clear Button

Back Button

Speaker

Display Screen

Aux 3 Knob

Handle

R Trimmer	Aux 2/Governor
	Aux 2/Governor
	Mix/Hold

Rudder D/R

Aileron D/R

Aileron/Elevator

Stick

Aileron Trim

Elevator Trim

Charge Jack

Rolling Selector

Power Switch

8	SPEKTRUM DX8 • RADIO INSTRUCTION MANUAL

Transmitter Identification Mode 1

Antenna

Trainer/Timer

Bind Button

Mix/Hold	Flap/Gyro	L Trimmer
	Flap/Gyro

Rudder D/R

Elevator D/R

Elevator/Rudder

Stick

Rudder Trim

SD Card Slot

Elevator Trim

Clear Button

Back Button

Speaker

Display Screen

Aux 3 Knob

Handle

R Trimmer	Aux 2/Governor
	Aux 2/Governor
	Gear

Flight Mode

Aileron D/R

Throttle/Aileron

Stick

Aileron Trim

Throttle Trim

Charge Jack

Rolling Selector

Power Switch

SPEKTRUM DX8 • RADIO INSTRUCTION MANUAL

Key Input and Display Functions			No RF Output Warning

The DX8 utilizes a roller that can be rotated or pressed and two buttons, Back and			The DX8 features a No RF output warning. If the 2.4GHz band is full, it’s possible
Clear that are used to access and program all the functions.			that the DX8 may not be able to find open channels when the transmitter is first
			turned on. If the transmitter finds no open channels a warning screen appears and

			will remain until the transmitter is able to find two open channels and transmit.

		Press the ROLLER to access screens or functions	Battery Alarm and Display
		Press the ROLLER to access screens or functions	Battery Alarm and Display
		Rotate the roller to adjust values or to select options	When the transmitter voltage drops below 4.3 volts, “Warning Low Battery” will
		Note: Pressing the roller for more than three seconds will
		Note: Pressing the roller for more than three seconds will	flash and an alarm sound. If you are flying when this occurs, land immediately.
		return to the main screen.
		return to the main screen.
		Press the Clear button to return the highlighted value to its default setting

	Press the Back button to return to the previous screen
	Press the Back button to return to the previous screen
Direct Model AccessFrom the main screen, you can access the Model Select
screen (used to change models) by pressing the Back and Clear buttons
simultaneously.

Digital Trims			Programmable Alarms
The DX8 2.4 features advanced digital trims. The Main screen displays the			The DX8 features programmable alarms that warn of a potential unsafe switch
graphic position for the trims. The Throttle Aileron, Elevator, and Rudder trim			or stick position when the transmitter is turned on. In Acro mode programmable
levers, and when activated the right and left trimmers, feature an audible center			alarms include high throttle, gear and mid and land flap positions while in
trim beep and a pause. You can adjust the amount of travel per each trim in the			helicopter mode warnings include high throttle, Stunt 1, Stunt 2, and Hold. If
Trim Step Function, located in System Setup Mode. See page 16 for more details.			any of these switches or throttle stick position is in an unsafe position when the
		Note: When the transmitter is turned off, the trims and left and right	transmitter is turned on, an alarm will sound, the screen will display the offending
			switch position and the transmitter will not transmit a signal. Moving the switch
		trimmer values are stored in memory and recalled when the system is
			or stick to the desired position will clear the warning and normal operation will
		turned back on.
		turned back on.	resume. See page 18 for details on programming warnings.
			resume. See page 18 for details on programming warnings.

Inactivity Warning		AR8000 Receiver
Inactivity Warning
		The AR8000 full range 8-channel receiver features DSM2™ technology and
The DX8 features an inactivity warning that warns if the transmitter is left on
	is compatible with all Spektrum™ and JR® aircraft radios that support DSM2
preventing draining the batteries. If the transmitter is left on and no input is given
		technology including: JR12X, 11X, X9503, X9303, Spektrum DX8, DX7, DX7se,
to the sticks or switches for 10 minutes, an alarm will sound and warning screen
		DX6i, DX5e and Module Systems.
appear. Moving any stick or switch will clear the alarm. Normal RF modulation		DX6i, DX5e and Module Systems.
		Note: The AR8000 receiver is not compatible with the Spektrum DX6
continues throughout the alarm maintaining the RF link.
		parkflyer transmitter.
		parkflyer transmitter.
		Features
		• 8-channel full range receiver
		• MultiLink receiver technology
		• Includes one internal and one remote receiver
		• SmartSafe™ failsafe system
		• Hold Last Command failsafe
		• Hold Last Command failsafe
		• Preset Failsafe
		• QuickConnect™ with Brownout Detection
		• Flight Log compatible (optional)

10		SPEKTRUM DX8 • RADIO INSTRUCTION MANUAL

•2048 Resolution

•High-speed 11ms operation when used with capable transmitters

•Hold indicator (Red LED indicates number of holds incurred during flight).

Applications

Full range up to 8-channel aircraft including:

•All types and sizes of glow, gas and electric powered airplanes

•All types and sizes of no-powered gliders

•All types and sizes of glow, gas and electric powered helicopters

Note: Not for use in airplanes that have full carbon fuselages. Not for use in airplanes that have significant carbon or conductive structures. It is recommended to use one of the carbon fuselage receivers. (SPMAR9300, SPMAR6255).

Specifications:

Type: DSM2 full range receiver Channels: 8

Modulation: DSM2

Main Receiver Dimensions: 1.27 x 1.35 x 0.45 in (32.3 x 34.3 x 11.4mm)

Remote Receiver Dimensions: 0.80 x 1.10 x 0.27 in (20.3 x 28.0 x 6.9mm)

Main Receiver Weight: .33 oz (9.4 g) Remote Receiver Weight: .2 oz (3 g)

Weight with Remote Receiver: .49 oz (13.9 g) Voltage Range: 3.5 to 9.6V

Resolution: 2048

Frame Rate: 11ms when paired with the DX7se or DX8 Compatibility: All DSM2 aircraft transmitters and module systems

Receiver Installation

In gas and glow aircraft install the main receiver by wrapping it in protective foam and fastening it in place using rubber bands or hook and loop strap.

In electric airplanes or helicopters, you can use thick double-sided foam tape to fasten the main receiver in place.

Mount the remote in a slightly different location from the primary receiver. This gives tremendous improvements in path diversity. Essentially, each receiver sees a different RF environment and this is key to maintaining a solid RF link. This is especially the case in aircraft with substantial conductive materials (e.g., larger gas engines, carbon fiber, pipes etc), which can weaken the signal.

Using servo tape, mount the remote receiver keeping it at least 2 inches away from the primary antenna. Ideally, you should position the antennas

perpendicular to each other. In airplanes, we recommend mounting the primary receiver in the center of the fuselage on the servo tray and the remote receiver to the side of the fuselage or in the turtle deck.

Y-Harnesses and Servo Extensions

Do not use amplified Y-harnesses and servo extensions with Spektrum equipment. Only use standard non-amplified Y-harnesses and servo extensions. When converting existing models to Spektrum, replace all amplified Y-harnesses and/or servo extensions with conventional non-amplified versions

Power System Requirements

Onboard power systems must provide adequate power, without interruption, to the receiver even when the system is fully loaded (servos at maximum flight

loads). Inadequate power systems are a primary cause of in-flight failures. Some components that affect the ability to properly deliver adequate power include: the selected receiver battery pack (number of cells, capacity, cell type, state of charge), switch harness, battery leads and, if used, the regulator and power bus. The AR8000’s minimum operational voltage is 3.5-volts. Test the system per the following guidelines to a minimum voltage of 4.8-volts during ground testing. This will compensate for battery discharging or actual flight loads that are greater than ground test loads.

Recommended Power System Guidelines

1.When setting up large or complex aircraft with multiple high-torque servos, use a current and voltmeter (HAN172). Plug the voltmeter in an open channel port in the receiver, and with the system on, load the control surfaces on your aircraft by applying pressure with your hand. Monitor the current as you load control surfaces. The voltage should remain above 4.8 volts even when all servos are heavily loaded.

2.With the current meter inline with the receiver battery lead, load control surfaces while monitoring the current. The maximum continuous recommended current for a single heavy-duty servo/battery lead is 3 amps. Short-duration current spikes of up to 5 amps are acceptable. If your system draws more than these currents, you need to use multiple packs of the same capacity with multiple switches and multiple leads plugged into the receiver.

3.If using a regulator, perform tests for a 5-minute period. A regulator may provide adequate short-term power, but this tests its ability to maintain voltage at significant power levels over time.

4.For really large aircraft or complex models, multiple battery packs with multiple switch harnesses are necessary. No matter what power systems you choose, always carry out test #1. Make sure the receiver is constantly provided with 4.8 volts or more under all conditions.

CAUTION: When charging any brand of NiMH battery pack, make sure the battery is fully charged. Due to the nature of peak charges and variations in charging rates, heat development, and cell types–the capacity reading of a battery charged on a fast peak charger may only reach 80% of its nominal value. Use a charger that displays total charge capacity. Note the number of mAh put into a discharged pack to verify the charge is at full capacity.

Binding

You must bind the receiver to the transmitter before the receiver will operate. Binding teaches the receiver the specific code of the transmitter, so it will only connect to that transmitter.

1.To bind an AR8000 to a DSM2 transmitter, insert the bind plug in the BATT/ BIND port on the receiver.

SPEKTRUM DX8 • RADIO INSTRUCTION MANUAL

Note: To bind an aircraft with an electronic speed controller that powers the receiver through the throttle channel (ESC/BEC), insert the bind plug into the BATT/BIND port in the receiver and the throttle lead into the throttle (THRO) port. Proceed to Step #2.

2.Power the receiver. The LED on the receiver will be flashing, indicating the receiver is ready to be bound to the transmitter.

3. Move the sticks and switches on the transmitter to the desired failsafe positions (low throttle and neutral control positions).

4.Press and hold the trainer button while powering on transmitter.

5.The system will connect within a few seconds. Once connected, the LED on the receiver will go solid indicating connection.

6.Remove the bind plug from the BATT/BND port on the receiver. Power off the transmitter and store the bind plug in a convenient place.

NOTICE: Remove the bind plug to prevent the system from entering bind mode the next time the power is turned on.

7.After setting up your model, rebind the system so the true low throttle and neutral control surface positions are set.

Failsafes

When you bind your transmitter, you are programming the receiver with failsafe defaults. If connection is lost between the transmitter and receiver, the receiver immediately operates in those preprogrammed default positions. Those positions are failsafes. The AR8000 has three failsafes: SmartSafe Failsafe, Hold Last Command Failsafe, and Preset Failsafe.

SmartSafe Failsafe

SmartSafe Failsafe is always active in both hold last command failsafe and in preset failsafe. SmartSafe is a safety feature on the throttle channel only that offers the following benefits:

•Prevents electric motors from operating when the receiver only is turned on

(no signal present)

•Prevents the speed controller from arming until the throttle is moved to low throttle position after connection is made

•Shuts off electric motor and reduces gas/glow engines to idle if signal is lost

•If throttle is at any position other than low, the ESC won’t arm

•If connection is lost in flight:

-SmartSafe sets the throttle to the position it was in during the binding process.

How To Program

SmartSafe is automatically set when hold last command failsafe or Preset failsafe is programmed or the system is bound. Note: It’s important to have the throttle stick in the low position to store low throttle during binding

To Test

Confirm the failsafe setting is correct by turning off the transmitter. The throttle should go to the preset low throttle position.

CAUTION: Make sure the aircraft is restrained on the ground. If failsafe is not set, your aircraft might advance to mid or full throttle.

Hold Last Command

If you lose connection, all channels except for throttle channel hold last given command and the aircraft continues on its path. So, if you were turning when connection was lost, your aircraft would continue turning.

How to Program

1.Leave the bind plug in the bind port through the entire binding process.

2.Remove bind plug only after receiver connects to transmitter

To Test

Confirm the failsafe settings are correct by turning off the transmitter. All channels except for the throttle should hold the last command.

CAUTION: Make sure the aircraft is restrained on the ground. If failsafe is not set, your aircraft might advance to mid or full throttle.

Preset Failsafe

If the signal is lost, all channels are driven to their failsafe position set during binding.

Preset Failsafe is ideal for sailplanes, as spoliers can be deployed during loss of signal, preventing a flyaway.

How To Program

1.Insert the bind plug and power on the receiver.

2.When the receiver LEDs blink indicating bind mode, remove bind plug before binding the transmitter to the receiver.

3.LED lights will continue to blink.

4.Move transmitter’s control sticks and switches to the desired Preset Failsafe positions then turn it on in bind mode.

5.The system should connect in less than 15 seconds.

NOTICE: Failsafe features vary according to receiver, so if using a receiver other than the AR8000, consult your receiver’s instructions for the failsafes that apply.

Before flight, ALWAYS confirm your binding is good and failsafe is set. To do this, make sure the system is connected, turn your transmitter off. Confirm that low-throttle is active.

CAUTION: Make sure the aircraft is restrained on the ground. If failsafe is not set, your aircraft might advance to mid or full throttle.

12	SPEKTRUM DX8 • RADIO INSTRUCTION MANUAL

Range Testing

The Range Test function reduces the power output. This allows for a range test to confirm the RF link is operating correctly. Perform a range check at the beginning of each flying session to confirm system operation.

To Access the Range Test screen

With the transmitter on and the main or telemetry screen displayed, press the roller. The Function list displays.

Rotate the roller to highlight Range Test then press the roller to access the Range Test function.

With the Range Test screen displayed, push and hold the trainer button. The screen displays Reduced Power. In this mode the RF output is reduced allowing for an operational range test of your system.

If you let go of the trainer button, the transmitter will go back to Full Power.

Range Testing the DX8

1.With the model restrained on the ground, stand 30 paces (approx. 90 feet/28 meters) away from the model.

2.Face the model with the transmitter in your normal flying position and place the transmitter into Range Test mode (see above) and push the trainer button reducing the power output.

3.Operate the controls. You should have total control of your model with the transmitter in Range Test mode.

30 paces (90 feet/28 meters)

4.If control issues occur contact the appropriate Horizon Product Support office for assistance.

5.If performing a range test while a telemetry module is active, the display will show flight log data.

System Setup

The DX8 organizes the programming screens in two separate categories: System Setup Mode and Functions Mode. The System Setup Mode contains programming that is generally used when initially setting up a model, and seldom used at the field. System Setup functions includes Model Type, Model Name, Wing Type, (Swashplate Type for Helis) Model Reset, etc. Note: No radio transmission occurs when a System Setup screen is displayed to prevent

accidental servo operation. This protects linkages/servo gears from damage when making programming changes. System Setup in Airplane and Heli Model type includes the following screens.

Airplane Model

Model Select page 14 Model Type page 14 Model Name page 15 Wing Type page 15 Switch Select page 15 Trim Step page 16 Model Reset page 17 Model Copy page 17 Warnings page 18 Telemetry page 18 Frame Rate page 20 Trainer page 20

System Settings page 20 Transfer SD Card page 21

helicopter Model

Model Select page 14 Model Type page 14 Model Name page 15 Swash Type page 15 Switch Select page 16 F-Mode Setup page 16 Trim Step page 16 Model Reset page 17 Model Copy page 17 Warnings page 18 Telemetry page 18 Frame Rate page 20 Trainer page 20

System Settings page 20 Transfer SD Card page 21

To Access the System Setup List

Press and hold the roller while turning on the transmitter. When System Setup appears on the screen, release the roller. The DX8 is now in System Setup Mode.

To Access a System Setup Function from the System Setup List

In the System Setup list rotate the roller to highlight the desired function then press the roller to access. The selected function screen will appear.

SPEKTRUM DX8 • RADIO INSTRUCTION MANUAL

Model Select

The Model Select function is used to change to a different model memory, typically when switching from the current model. You can store up to 30 models in the DX8’s model memory. You can access the model select function through the System Setup mode or through Direct Model Access. Direct Model Access allows you to access the model select function at any time the main screen or a telemetry screen is displayed.

Direct Access Model Select

Press the Clear and Back buttons simultaneously to access the Model Select screen

To directly access the Model Select Screen any time from the Main Screen or the Telemetry screen, press the Clear and Back buttons simultaneously. The Model Select screen displays for 10 seconds. If no activity occurs, the screen returns to the previous Main or Telemetry screen.

To Access the Model Select Function through System Mode

Press and hold the roller while turning on the transmitter. When System Setup appears on the screen, release the roller. The DX8 is now in System Setup Mode. Highlight Model Select then press the roller to access the function.

The following screen appears. Rotate the roller to highlight the desired model then press to select. The model name will display on the main screen.

ModelMatch

The DX8 features ModelMatch technology that prevents operating a model using the wrong model memory. This feature can prevent stripped servo gears, broken linkages and even a crash due to attempting to operate a model using the wrong memory.

How ModelMatch Works

Each individual model memory (30 in total) has its own embedded code transferred to the receiver during the binding process. The receiver actually learns the specific model memory selected during binding. When bound, it operates only when that model memory is selected. If a different model memory is selected, the receiver won’t connect. At any time you can reprogram the receiver to operate with any other model memory by rebinding with the transmitter programmed to the desired model.

Model Type

Model Type programs the selected model memory to function in Helicopter or Airplane programming. You should program Model Type first when setting up a new model. Note: You can assign each model memory its own model type.

To Access the Model Type Function

Press and hold the roller while turning on the transmitter. When System Setup appears on the screen, release the roller. The DX8 is now in System Setup Mode.

Rotate the roller to highlight Model Type then press to access the function. The following screen appears:

Rotate the roller to highlight the desired model type (Helicopter or Airplane) then press the roller to select.

You can return to the System Setting screen at anytime by pressing the Back button on the transmitter once.

To return to the Main screen press the Back button on the transmitter twice or press and hold the Roller for more than three seconds.

The following screen appears. Rotate the roller to highlight YES then press the roller to accept the model type. Selecting NO will return you to the previous screen.

Note: When you change model types (Heli to Acro or Acro to Heli) all current programming in the selected model memory will reset to the factory default settings. All previous settings will be lost.

14	SPEKTRUM DX8 • RADIO INSTRUCTION MANUAL

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