Spektrum iX20 DSMX Transmitter Only, case User guide

Instruction Manual

NOTICE

All instructions, warranties and other collateral documents are subject to change at the sole
discretion of Horizon Hobby,LLC. For up-to-date product literature, visit www.horizonhobby.com
or www.towerhobbies.com and click on the support or resources tab for this product.

MEANING OF SPECIAL LANGUAGE

The following terms are used throughout the product literature to indicate various levels of
potential harm when operating this product:

WARNING: Procedures, which if not properly followed, create the probability of property
damage, collateral damage, and serious injury OR create a high probability of supercial injury.
CAUTION: Procedures, which if not properly followed, create the probability of physical
property damage AND a possibility of serious injury.

NOTICE: Procedures, which if not properly followed, create a possibility of physical property
damage AND a little or no possibility of 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. 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, LLC. 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.

Age Recommendation: Not for children under 14. This is not a toy.

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

• Always ensure all batteries have been properly
charged prior to using the model.

• Always check all servos and their connections
prior to each run.

• Never operate your model near spectators,
parking areas or any other area that could result
in injury to people or damage of property.

• Never operate your model during adverse

• Never point the transmitter antenna directly
toward the model. The radiation pattern from
the tip of the antenna is inherently low.

• If, at any time during the operation of your
model, you observe any erratic or abnormal
operation, immediately stop operation of your
model until the cause of the problem has
been identied and corrected.

weather conditions. Poor visibility can cause
disorientation and loss of control of your model.

CHARGING WARNINGS

CAUTION: All instructions and warnings must be followed exactly. Mishandling of Li-Po

batteries can result in a re, personal injury and/or property damage.

• NEVER LEAVE CHARGING BATTERIES
UNATTENDED.

• NEVER CHARGE BATTERIES OVERNIGHT.

• By handling, charging or using the included
Li-Po battery, you assume all risks associated
with lithium batteries.

• If at any time the battery begins to balloon or
swell, discontinue use immediately. If charging

• Always store the battery at room temperature
in a dry area for best results.

• Always transport or temporarily store the
battery in a temperature range of 40–120º F
(5–49° C). Do not store the battery or model
in a car or direct sunlight. If stored in a hot car,
the battery can be damaged or even catch re.

• Always charge batteries away from

or discharging, discontinue and disconnect.
Continuing to use, charge or discharge a battery
that is ballooning or swelling can result in re.

ammable materials.

• Always inspect the battery before charging.

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

• Always constantly monitor the temperature of

• Never charge batteries outside recommended

the battery pack while charging.

• ONLY USE A CHARGER SPECIFICALLY
DESIGNED TO CHARGE LI-PO BATTERIES.
Failure to charge the battery with a compatible
charger may cause a re resulting in personal
injury and/or property damage.

• Never discharge Li-Po cells to below 3V
under load.

levels.

• Never charge damaged batteries.

• Never attempt to dismantle or alter the charger.

• Never allow minors to charge battery packs.

• Never charge batteries in extremely hot or
cold places (recommended between 40–
120° F [5–49° C]) or place in direct sunlight.

• Never cover warning labels with hook and
loop strips.

WARNING AGAINST COUNTERFEIT PRODUCTS: If you ever need to replace your

Spektrum receiver found in a Horizon Hobby product, always purchase from Horizon Hobby,
LLC or a Horizon Hobby authorized dealer to ensure authentic high-quality Spektrum product.
Horizon Hobby, LLC 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.

NOTICE: This product is only intended for use with unmanned, hobby-grade, remote-controlled
vehicles and aircraft. Horizon Hobby disclaims all liability outside of the intended purpose and
will not provide warranty service related thereto.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

How To Use the Manual

Navigating the Pages
Return To Spektrum AirWare App
Using the Table of Contents

Box Contents
Basic Operation

Setting Up A New Model

Control Stick Length Adjustment

Android Operating System

Android Navigation Icons
Android Home Screen Elements
Notication Screen

Spektrum AirWare

Navigation

Volume Control

Transmitter Functions
Spektrum LED
Charging
Physical Transmitter Adjustments

Transmitter Mode Change
Stick Tension
Throttle Strap Adjustment

Telemetry Reset

Model Type Defaults

Acro Defaults
Heli Defaults
Sail Defaults
Multi Defaults

Model Utilities

Control Sticks

Select A Different Model

Add A New Model

Save As Template
Sort Model List
Import Models
Export Models

Model Details

Model Name
Model Image
Using the Built In Camera

Model Note

Binding

Spektrum Failsafe Types

Binding And Programming Failsafe

Testing Failsafe

Auto Switch Select
Active Boxes

Monitor Channel Count
Model Category
Expanded Model Details
Reset Model Timer
Duplicate Model
Reset Model
Delete Model

Active Box Custom Setup

My List

MODEL ADJUST

Servo Setup

Reverse

Travel

Sub Trim
Export Model

Speed

Absolute Travel

0.5 Mixing Values
Balance
On The Fly (OTF) Trim Functions

Dual Rates and Expo
Throttle Cut
Throttle Curve

Adding and Deleting Curve Points
Heli, Sail and Multirotor Throttle Curve

Back Mixing

Sailplane Pre-Configured Mixes
Forward Programming
Sequencer

®

AS3X
Differential
V-Tail Differential

Throttle Hold
Practical Throttle Curve Example

Video Tx
Mixing

Offset
Trim
Combo Mixing

Flap System
Pitch Curve

Acro Pitch Curve

Swashplate

Electronic E-Ring
Elevator Compensation

Gyro

Understanding Mixing

Heli Gyro

Acro Gyro

Telemetry screen Conguration
3-Axis Gyro
Single Axis Gyro

Governor
Tail Curve
Camber Preset
Camber System

In-ight camber control

Telemetry Sensors

Auto-Conguring Telemetry At Binding

Analog Switch Setup
Sleep Mode

Spektrum LED Indicator

Digital Switch Setup

Switch Status
In-ight braking

Camber System Programming

MODEL SETUP
Bind
Timers
Frame Rate
Spektrum Telemetry

Switch Assignments

Audio Events

Switch Change Reports
Custom Reports
Touch Switch Reports
Trim Reports
Trim Release Report

Using Spektrum Telemetry

Telemetry Warnings

Stepping Reports

Binding Wireless Trainer
Trainer State Reports
Center Tone
Model Start Alerts
Pre-Flight Checklist
System Sounds
Spoken Flight Mode
Binding Alerts

Head Tracking FPV Setup

Focal Channel Assignments

Range Test

Flight Log Data

Guidelines for DSM2 Installations

Guidelines for DSMX Installations

Receiver Installation
Timer Reports

Channel Assign

Channel Input Conguration
Receiver Port Assignments

Trainer

Wireless Trainer
Trainer Alerts

Model Start Warnings
Serial Port Setup

Serial Port Protocol

Spektrum RF

Serial Port Power (9.5v)

Aircraft Type

Swashplate Type (Helicopter)
Instructor Transmitter Conguration

Sailplane Type (Sailplane)

Aircraft Type (Multirotor)

1-Year Limited Warranty

Flight Mode Setup

Examples of Flight Mode Applications
Using Flight Mode Setup
Hold (Helicopter)

Trim Setup

Cross Trims

Menu Setup

Warranty and Service Contact Information
FCC Information
IC Information
Compliance Information for the European

Union
Instructions for disposal of WEEE by users

in the European Union

SYSTEM SETTINGS
System Configuration
Product Information
Calibration
Regulatory Information

TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE

FAQS

HOW TO USE THE MANUAL

The manual for the iX20 is an interactive .pdf document, optimally viewed in the .pdf viewer app
on the Android.
To access the manual from Spektrum AirWare app:

1. Touch the System Settings button from the
home screen.

2. Long-press the Manual button. A dialogue
appears prompting to download the latest
Manual.

3. Touch PROCEED to download the latest
version of the manual. The manual opens in
the .pdf viewer.

NAVIGATING THE PAGES

1. Touch the middle of the screen once to access the reader app toolbars.

2. Touch the page icon ( ) to set the viewing mode.

3. Select Single Page (

4. After the viewing mode is set, touch in the center of the screen to enter full-screen mode.

) for best viewing results.

5. Touch toward the far right side of the

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screen or swipe left to go the next page.
Touch toward the far left side of the screen
or swipe right to go to the previous page.

RETURN TO SPEKTRUM AIRWARE APP

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To return to the Spektrum AirWare app:

1. Swipe from the bottom of the screen to
access the Android navigation tools.

2. Touch the Overview icon.

3. Touch the Spektrum AirWare app in the list
of running apps.

Overview icon

USING THE TABLE OF CONTENTS

The Table of Contents is fully interactive. Touch an entry to go directly to that page.

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Return to the Table of Contents

At the end of each manual section, touch the

TOC button to return to the Table of Contents.

BOX CONTENTS

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The iX20 radio system is supplied with the following:

• Spektrum iX20 Transmitter

• 10,500mAh Li-Ion Transmitter Battery Pack (Installed)

• Quick Start Guide

• iX20 Neck Strap

• iX20 Decal Sheet

• Short and Long optional stick ends

• Orange grip set

• USB magnetic adapter cable with magnetic micro USB adapter

BASIC OPERATION

The iX20 transmitter is based on an Android operating system. All RC related functions are

™

handled by the Spektrum AirWare

application.

• Power On: Press and hold the power button for several seconds to power on the iX20
transmitter. The transmitter is designed to prevent inadvertently powering on from a touch
to the power button. After the transmitter is on, the Android operating system will take
approximately 1minute to boot up. The Spektrum AirWare app will automatically launch. Do
not attempt to open other applications while the Spektrum AirWare app is launching. When the
application has nished launching, the Spektrum AirWare home screen will be displayed. The
Android operating system may then be accessed to utilize other apps.

• Power Off: Press and hold the power button for several seconds to access the shutdown
menu. Select either “Power off” or “Restart” from the popup menu. Power off will power
off the iX20. Restart will restart the iX20.

• WiFi Connection: Swipe down from the top of the screen and click on the WiFi icon to
connect to available WiFi networks. Spektrum AirWare app updates and rmware updates for
the radio hardware are available through the Google Play Store. Internet access through a WiFi

access point is required. After logging into the Google Play Store, any available updates will
automatically download.

• System Configuration: Press the System Settings button at the bottom right of the home
screens. Touch the System Conguration button to dene the user name, stick mode,
language and battery and inactivity alarm settings.

• Sleep Modes: The iX20 may be used like similar smart devices that stay powered for long
periods of time. Powering the transmitter off between ights is not necessary.
Power off the RF transmission, put the screen to sleep, activate WiFi or Bluetooth by double
tapping the power button to bring up the SLEEP MODE menu. Switch the RF, Screen, WiFi and
Bluetooth on or off and press and hold APPLY or simply press and hold the QUICK SLEEP
button to put all functions into sleep mode.
Press the Power button once to wake the system from Sleep Mode.

IMPORTANT: The rst time a double tap is used to bring up the SLEEP MODE screen, the

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iX20 may ask the operator for administrator privileges. Press accept to give the Spektrum
AirWare app permission to put the screen to sleep.

WARNING: Turning off the RF causes the iX20 to stop sending control signals. Do not
turn off the RF when a model is powered on and connected to the transmitter.

• Screen Sleep Mode: Tap the Power button once to put the screen to sleep. The radio will
continue to transmit RC control signals.

• The transmitter has enough battery power for approximately 6 hours of use. Fully charging the
battery requires approximately 6 hours.

• Any time the iX20 needs to turn off the RF transmission, it will display a warning. Press and
hold PROCEED to power off the RF transmission and continue programming.

SETTING UP A NEW MODEL

Each model type has its own set of default settings to match the application.
See the Model Type section of this manual for the default assignments in each model type.
Default settings include switch assignments for auxiliary channels and ight modes, voice alerts,
timers and the channel output assignments on the receiver.

Out of the box, the transmitter will have one Acro model stored in the model memory. Use this
default or create a new model. Tap in the upper left corner of the Spektrum AirWare app main
screen to add a new airplane, helicopter, sailplane, or multirotor model.

After selecting the model type and before binding, tap the Model Setup button from the main
screen in the Spektrum AirWare app to access the model setup options.

The most critical setup option is Aircraft Type and will dene many pre-congured options
such as specialized mixing for multi servo wings, swashplates for helicopters and other aircraft
type-specic options. These options vary signicantly between aircraft types, and this should be
set prior to binding.

Assign switches and functions to suit the aircraft setup needs.

Place sticks and switches in their desired failsafe positions.

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With the receiver in bind mode, power on the aircraft.

TIP: Remove control horns if necessary to conrm the servo center positions before you power
on the aircraft to bind it.

Either tap the BIND button on the Spektrum AirWare dashboard or access the Bind menu
through Model Setup.

Press and hold BIND to bind the transmitter to the aircraft receiver.

1

TRANSMITTER FUNCTIONS

20
21
22
23
24
25
26
11

27*

12

28*

41

42

43 44

3

5

9
10

11
12*
13

4

6
7
8

33

21
23
25

24

38

29
13
11
30
31
32

2

14
15*
16*
11

17
18
19

34
35

36
37

39
40

Function

Function

1 Antenna
2 LCD Touchscreen
3 Switch E2
4 Right Knob
5 Switch E
6 Right Top Trim
7 Switch H

Throttle/Aileron (Mode 1)
Elevator/Aileron (Mode 2)

14

Throttle/Rudder (Mode 3)

Elevator/Rudder (Mode 4)
15 Up/Down Gimbal Stick Tension Adjustment*
16 Left/Right Gimbal Stick Tension Adjustment*

Aileron Trim (Mode 1,2)
17

8 Switch G

9 Switch F
10 Throttle Strap Adjustment (Mode 1,3)
11 Gimbal Travel Limiter Covers
12 Rear Lever Tension Adjustment*
13 Mode Change Gimbal Centering Screw

Rudder Trim (Mode 3,4)
Elevator Trim (Mode 2, 4)

18

Throttle Trim (Mode 1, 3)
19 Neck Strap Mount
20 Switch D2
21 Switch I
22 Switch D

Function

Function

23 Left Top Trim
24 Switch A
25 Switch B
26 Switch C
27 Up/down Gimbal Stick Tension Adjustment*
28 Left/Right Gimbal Stick Tension Adjustment*

Elevator/Rudder (Mode 1)

Elevator Trim (Mode 1,3)
32

Throttle Trim (Mode 2,4)
33 Right Rear Lever
34 Camera Lens
35 Micro Memory Card Port
36 USB Charge Port
37 Battery Cover

Throttle/Rudder (Mode 2)

29

Elevator/Aileron (Mode 3)
Throttle/Aileron (Mode 4)

Rudder Trim (Mode 1,2)

30

Aileron Trim (Mode 3,4)

31 Throttle Strap Adjustment (Mode 2,4)

38 Left Rear Lever
39 Serial Interface Port
40 Audio Jack
41 Left Trim
42 Power Button
43 LED
44 Right Trim

* NOTICE: Always perform a stick tension test while turning the screws to ensure stick tension is

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not too loose or too tight. Overtightening a screw can damage the spring. Loosening a screw too
far can cause a spring to fall out in the transmitter and possibly damage the circuitry within.

SPEKTRUM LED

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The 5-bar LED on the front of the iX20 indicates different transmitter functions.

• The LED glows solid orange when the iX20 is powered on and actively transmitting.

• The LED is off when either the iX20 is powered off or when the RF is in sleep mode with the
screen active.

• The LED slowly ashes orange for a short time when both the RF and screen are put into
sleep mode.

• The LED glows solid blue when the battery is charging while the transmitter is powered on
with the screen on.

• If charging while in sleep mode, the LED will initially ash both orange and blue, then will go off.

CHARGING

For optimum charging results, the built-in charger requires a USB power supply capable of at least
2-3A output. Using a power supply with a lower output will result in very long charge times or the
transmitter not charging if it is powered on while attempting to charge.
The rst time the transmitter is charged, the charge time may be 6-7 hours. Charge the
transmitter when the low battery alarm sounds. See the System Settings section for information
on setting the low battery alarm level.
Always charge the transmitter on a heat-resistant surface.

CAUTION: Never change the low voltage limit for Li-Ion batteries below 3.3V. Doing so
could over-discharge the battery and damage both battery and transmitter.

CAUTION: Never leave a charging battery unattended.

CAUTION: Never charge the battery outside of the transmitter. Charging the battery

outside of the transmitter may interfere with the battery monitoring system, which can
give false low battery warnings.

1. Connect a 2-3A USB power supply (not included) to an AC outlet.

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2. Connect the included magnetic USB charging cable
to the power supply.

3. Insert the included magnetic micro USB adapter in
the USB port on the back of the transmitter.

4. Connect the USB charging cable to the magnetic adapter.

5. The LED will ash blue while charging. A fast press
of the power switch will bring the Charge Battery

icon to the color touch screen display.

6. Charging is complete when the button is pressed and
the battery capacity icon on the screen shows full.

Disconnect the USB cable once charging is complete.
Disconnect the power supply from the power outlet.
The magnetic micro USB adapter can be left in the transmitter USB port for future use.

PHYSICAL TRANSMITTER ADJUSTMENTS

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The adjustment points for the iX20 are located around the face of each gimbal.*
This arrangement allows for quick and easy adjustment without removing the back cover.
Available adjustments:

• Mode Change

• Throttle Ratchet

• Throttle Tension

• Stick Tension

• Rear Lever Tension

*The gimbal adjustment screws are covered by small rubber plugs, and the throttle limit switches
are covered by small plastic caps. Carefully remove these covers prior to making adjustments.
The rubber plugs are not interchangeable. Ensure to note where each plug is removed from and
replace them accordingly.

TRANSMITTER MODE CHANGE

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Mode 2 is the default transmitter control mode for the iX20. The transmitter is capable of
converting to modes 1, 3 or 4 as well. This conversion requires both a programming and
mechanical adjustment.
The conversion consists of the following steps:

• Programming Conversion

• Change the Throttle Ratchet

• Adjust the Gimbal Centering Screw

• Move the Throttle Limit Switches

• Calibration

PROGRAMMING CONVERSION

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See the System Setup, System Conguration section to select the control layout mode. If
changing between modes 2 and 4 or 1 and 3, no physical gimbal changes are required.

CHANGE THE THROTTLE RATCHET

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1. Locate the throttle strap adjustment screws on both gimbals. The ratchet set screw engages
a serrated section on the gimbal for a ratcheted throttle, while the tension set screw engages
a strap for smooth tension on the gimbal.

2. To engage the throttle ratchet, using a small Phillips screwdriver, turn the ratchet set screw
clockwise until the ratchet engages.

3. To disengage the throttle ratchet, using a small Phillips screwdriver, turn the screw
counterclockwise until the gimbal moves freely.

Ratchet set

screws

Tension set

screws

ADJUST THE GIMBAL CENTERING SCREW

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When changing between Modes 1 and 2, or between Modes 3 and 4, the gimbal centering
screw must be adjusted on both gimbals to enable the centering spring on the elevator gimbal
and disable it on the throttle gimbal.

1. Use a small Phillips screwdriver to tighten the gimbal centering screw. Tightening the screw
will disengage the centering spring.

2. Using a small Phillips screwdriver, loosen the opposite gimbal centering screw until the lever
engages.

Centering

screw

Centering

screw

MOVE THE THROTTLE LIMITING SWITCHES

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Throttle limiting is used on the throttle gimbal to limit the maximum travel. When changing
between Modes 1 and 2, or between Modes 3 and 4, the limits are the throttle gimbal.

1. To disengage the throttle limiting, slide them both to the opposite side of the track.

2. To engage the throttle limiting, slide them both to the opposite side of the track.

Throttle limiting switch

CALIBRATION

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After changing the mode, cycle the power of the iX20. When it powers on, a calibration screen
will be displayed. Move every control to the extreme and return them to center. The indicator will
turn green when the range of each control has been accepted; the control must be centered for
the indicator to stay green. Select Save when all the indicators are green.

STICK TENSION

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Turn the screws clockwise a small amount using a small Phillips screwdriver to tighten the stick
tension and counterclockwise to loosen.

NOTICE: Always perform a stick tension test while turning the screws to ensure stick tension
is not too loose or too tight. Overtightening a screw can damage the spring. Loosening a screw
too far can cause a spring to fall out in the transmitter and possibly damage the circuitry within.

Horizontal spring

tension

Vertical spring

tension

Vertical spring

tension

Horizontal spring

tension

THROTTLE STRAP ADJUSTMENT

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The gimbals on the iX20 can be congured for smooth tension or ratcheted throttle.

SMOOTH THROTTLE TENSION

1. Locate the throttle strap adjustment screws on the throttle gimbal.

2. Adjust the throttle tension by turning the tension set screw clockwise to tighten or
counterclockwise to loosen, using a small Phillips screwdriver.

Ratchet

set screws

Tension

set screws

RATCHETED THROTTLE

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If desired, disengage the smooth throttle strap and engage the ratcheted throttle, using a small
Phillips screwdriver.

1. Back the set screw out on the smooth tension strap until the throttle moves freely.

2. Tighten the set screw on the ratchet until it engages the gimbal.

3. Adjust the ratchet tension by turning the set screw clockwise to tighten or counterclockwise
to loosen.

NOTICE: Overtightening a screw can damage the spring. Loosening a screw too far can cause
a spring to fall out in the transmitter and possibly damage the circuitry within.

CONTROL STICKS

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To Change Control Stick Ends:

1. Grasp the lower knurled portion of the stick and loosen the upper knurled portion of the stick.

2. Unscrew the stick and replace it with optional stick ends.

3. Once the new stick end is at the correct height, lock in place by holding the upper knurled
portion of the stick and tightening the lower knurled portion against it.

CONTROL STICK LENGTH ADJUSTMENT

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The control sticks are composed of two machined aluminum pieces threaded onto the gimbal.
To adjust the Control Stick Length:

1. Grasp the lower knurled portion of the stick and loosen the upper knurled portion of the stick.

2. Make the stick shorter by turning both portions of the stick clockwise or longer by turn ing
them counterclockwise.

3. Lock the stick length by holding the upper knurled portion of the stick and tightening the
lower knurled portion against it.

ANDROID OPERATING SYSTEM

The iX20 transmitter is built on the Android
operating system and features a large color
touch screen display. Navigate the iX20 using
the same actions and gestures as those used to
operate any other Android device.
To navigate, use your nger to tap, swipe and
drag icons and menus found on the display.

ANDROID NAVIGATION ICONS

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The Spektrum AirWare application will hide
the Android home screen navigation icons. To
access the Android navigation icons at anytime,
swipe up from the bottom edge of the screen
as shown.

Press the circle icon to go to the Android home
screen.

Circle icon

ANDROID HOME SCREEN ELEMENTS

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1

2 3 4

1. All Apps: Contains all applications loaded in the iX20.

2. Back: Return to previous screen.

3. Home: Return to the home screen.

4. Overview: Allows switching between any active applications.

Remove any of the apps from the active list by swiping left or right or pressing “X”.

NOTIFICATION SCREEN

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1. Swipe down from the top of the screen once to exit full screen mode and bring the home
screen navigation icons to the front.

2. Swipe down a second time to roll down the Notication Screen for quick access to:

• Settings

• User Info

• Brightness

• WiFi

• Bluetooth

• Landscape

• Location

• Cast Screen

SPEKTRUM AIRWARE NAVIGATION

The iX20 Spektrum AirWare app has up to four
main screens that can be quickly accessed by
swiping left or right on the touch screen display.
The Dashboard and Monitor screens are always
available. Telemetry Dashboard and Telemetry
Min/Max are only available when telemetry
information is present.

• Dashboard: The main screen displaying
Trims and Timers, as well the model name
and image.

The Dashboard and the other main screens contain common information and navigation options
to access various functions of the iX20 transmitter.

Long press to return to Dashboard

Model Name:
Touch for Model
Utilities Menu
OR long press to

from any other main screen

Available battery
capacity and voltage

Telemetry Signal
Strength: Long press
to reset telemetry data

Volume

Active main screen:

quickly access
Direct Model
Access to change
the active model

Touch or sweep
screen left or right
to change

Spektrum Airware navigation buttons

• Monitor: Graphically displays all current control inputs in real time.

• Telemetry Dashboard*: Displays telemetry information for each sensor. User selects which items

to display on this page from the Telemetry setup menu. Additional telemetry pages are available
when activated in the telemetry setup menu.

• Telemetry Min/Max*: Logs the minimum and maximum values collected from each telemetry

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sensor.

*Only available if telemetry is active and the transmitter is bound to a telemetry receiver.

VOLUME CONTROL

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• Touch the Volume icon (
iX20 Volume menu.

• Move the slider up and down to adjust the volume.

• Touch the Mute button (

) in the top right corner of any of the main screens to access the

) to silence all sounds within the Spektrum AirWare app.

TELEMETRY RESET

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When the transmitter is bound to a telemetry receiver, telemetry signal strength bars appear in
the main screen top bar (
and erase the min/max data.

). Long press the strength bars to reset the telemetry ight data

MODEL TYPE DEFAULTS

When a new model is created, the iX20 assigns a baseline conguration, which includes
warnings, timers, channel input conguration (switch assignments), receiver port assignments
(channel assignments), ight modes, and menu options all based on the model type selected.
The four model types available include:

• Airplane (Acro)

• Helicopter (Heli)

• Sailplane (Sail)

• Multirotor (Multi)

Consult the aircraft manual for more information on specic aircraft setup requirements.

ACRO DEFAULTS

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• Throttle position warning at 10%.

• 5:00 minute timer set to count down from throttle stick movement above 25%.

Switch Assignments

A- Gear
B- N/A
C- N/A
D- Aux 1
D2- N/A
E- Aux 2
E2- N/A

R Knob- Aux 3
Left Slider- Aux 4
Right Slider- Aux 5
Left Trimmer- N/A
Right Trimmer- N/A
Top Left Trimmer- N/A
Top Right Trimmer- N/A

Channel Assignments

1. Throttle

2. Aileron

3. Elevator

4. Rudder

5. Gear

6. Aux 1

7. Aux 2

8. Aux 3

9. Aux 4

10. Aux 5

11. Aux 6

12. Aux 7

F- N/A
G- N/A
H- N/A

HELI DEFAULTS

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• Throttle position warning at 10%.

• 5:00 minute timer set to count down from throttle output above 25%.

• Flight modes are called Stunt Modes in Heli. Flight Mode 0 is Normal, Flight Mode 1 is Stunt 1
and Flight Mode 2 is Stunt 2.

Switch Assignments

A- N/A
B- Flight Mode
C- N/A
D- Gear
D2- N/A
E- Aux 2
E2- N/A

R Knob- Aux 3
Left Slider- Aux 4
Right Slider- Aux 5
Left Trimmer- N/A
Right Trimmer- N/A
Top Left Trimmer- N/A
Top Right Trimmer- N/A

Channel Assignments

1. Throttle

2. Aileron

3. Elevator

4. Rudder

5. Gear

6. Pitch

7. Aux 2

8. Aux 3

9. Aux 4

10. Aux 5

11. Aux 6

12. Aux 7

F- N/A
G- N/A
H- N/A

SAIL DEFAULTS

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• Throttle position warning at 10% if the motor option is enabled in the Sailplane Type menu in
Model Setup.

• 5:00 minute timer set to activate with Switch I.

• Flight modes are called Launch, Cruise and Land if ight modes are assigned, no default ight
mode assignments.

Switch Assignments

A- Gear
B- N/A
C- N/A
D- Aux1
D2- N/A
E- Aux 2
E2- N/A
F- N/A

R Knob- Aux 3
Left Slider- Aux 4
Right Slider- Aux 5
Left Trimmer- Inhibit
Right Trimmer- Inhibit
Top Left Trimmer- N/A
Top Right Trimmer- N/A

Channel Assignments

1. Inhibit

2. Aileron

3. Elevator

4. Rudder

5. Gear

6. Aux 1

7. Aux 2

8. Aux 3

9. Aux 4

10. Aux 5

11. Aux 6

12. Aux 7

G- N/A
H- N/A

MULTI DEFAULTS

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• Throttle position warning at 10%.

• 5:00 minute timer set to count down from throttle stick movement above 25%.

Switch Assignments

A- Gear
B- N/A
C- N/A
D- Aux 1
D2- N/A
E- Aux 2
E2- N/A

R Knob- Aux 3
Left Slider- Aux 4
Right Slider- Aux 5
Left Trimmer- N/A
Right Trimmer- N/A
Top Left Trimmer- N/A
Top Right Trimmer- N/A

Channel Assignments

1. Alti

2. Roll

3. Pitch

4. Yaw

5. Gear

6. Aux 1

7. Aux 2

8. Aux 3

9. Aux 4

10. Aux 5

11. Aux 6

12. Aux 7

F- N/A
G- N/A
H- N/A

MODEL UTILITIES

The Model Utilities menu is accessed by touching the model name at the top left corner of the
home screens in the Spektrum AirWare app. If RF is on, a dialog box will appear to turn off RF.
Touch and hold PROCEED to continue to the Model Utilities menu.
Touch the ribbon across the top of the screen to view the available models by type or to view all
models together.

WARNING:

Never turn off
RF during ight.
You will lose control
of your aircraft.

Expand
Ribbon

Use the Model Utilities Screen to:

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• Select a Different Model

• Add a New Model

• Import Models

• Export Models

• Sort Model List

Expanded
menu options

SELECT A DIFFERENT MODEL

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The active model appears in the model list with an orange outline around it.
To change the active model from the Model Utilities menu list:

1. Touch the model to be activated on menu list. The Model Details screen for the selected
model is displayed.

2. Touch SELECT/ACTIVATE MODEL to activate the model. A blue check appears to indicate
the model is active. All of the options for the model within the Model Details are now available.

3. Press the back arrow (
and again to exit to the home screen, or press and hold the back arrow (
to the home screen.

) at the top left of the screen to return to the Model Utilities screen

) to return directly

ADD A NEW MODEL

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1. Touch the expand icon (

2. Select Add a New Model from the drop down menu.

3. Select Default or Template from the pop up menu. Use Default to create a model using
default values for all model settings. Use Template to start from a model template that has
been saved to the iX20 transmitter.

4. Select the desired model option and select Create to continue.

5. The iX20 will return to the Model Utilities screen and the new model will be selected. Touch

) at the top right corner of the Model Utilities screen.

the new model to enter the Model Details screen or touch the back arrow at the top left of the
screen to return to the Dashboard.

TIP: Set up a generic model in each model type with desired switch assignments, rates,
curves, and other details; name the model, and save it as a template. Future setups can be
based on the saved template by selecting Template during the process of adding a new model.

SORT MODEL LIST

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To sort the order the models appear on the models list:

1. Touch the expand icon (

2. Touch Sort Model List.

3. Either select the A-Z or Z-A options to sort the entire models list alphabetically or select a
model to be moved. Use the arrows at the bottom of the screen to move the selected model
to the position desired on the list.

4. Press the back arrow (
and again to exit to the main screen.

) at the top right corner of the Model Utilities screen.

) at the top left of the screen to return to the Model Utilities screen

To import models:

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IMPORT MODELS

1. Touch the expand icon (

2. Select Import Models from the drop down menu.

3. Open the desired le(s).

) at the top right corner of the Model Utilities screen.

To export multiple models:

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EXPORT MODELS

1. Touch the expand icon (

2. Select Export Models from the drop down menu.

3. The le extension type is set to .ispm. The exported models are only compatible with other
Android based, Spektrum AirWare equipped transmitters.

4. Select the model to be exported, or Select All.

5. Touch EXPORT.

6. An Android menu appears with several options to export the model le. This list may vary

) at the top right corner of the Model Utilities screen.

depending on third party apps that are installed. Save the le or transfer it via any option that
allows le transfers.

MODEL DETAILS

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Access the Model Details menu by touching to select a model from the Model Utilities menu
list. The model selected must be the active model for the full menu to open. If it is not the active
model, touch SELECT/ACTIVATE MODEL to activate it.
Use the Model details menu to:

• Change the Model Name

• Change the Model Image

• Change the Monitor Channel Count

• Change the Aircraft Category

MODEL NAME

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The selected model must be the active model to enable the option to change the model name.
To change the selected model name:

1. Touch in the model name box. The text input
screen will appear.

2. Enter up to 20 characters.

3. Touch DONE to return to the Model Details
menu.

MODEL IMAGE

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The model image can be changed on any model from the model utilities list, including models
that are not active.
To change the model image:

1. Touch the model image.

2. Select an image from the stock images,
select PICK AN IMAGE FROM THE

GALLERY to choose a le from the Android

images gallery folder, or choose TAKE

PICTURE to use the built in camera.

TIP: Image les should be 266 x 164 pixels,

however the system will stretch the image le to
t. Image les should be saved in .jpg format.

USING THE BUILT IN CAMERA

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To take a picture with the built in camera for the model image:

1. Touch the model image.

2. Select TAKE PICTURE.

3. Point the camera at the subject and compose the image on the screen.

4. Touch the camera icon to take the picture.

5. Select the check mark (
the back arrow (

)to take the picture again. Select the ( ) to exit the camera function.

) to accept the picture and return to the Model Details menu. Select

MONITOR CHANNEL COUNT

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Select the number of channels to display on the main monitor screen.

Select the desired model category.

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MODEL CATEGORY

EXPANDED MODEL DETAILS

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Touch the expand icon (
list of additional options. These options affect the selected model and vary whether the model
selected is active.

Options in the drop down menu include:

• Reset Model Timer

• Duplicate Model

• Reset Model

) at the top right corner of the Model Details screen for a scrollable

• Delete Model

• Export Model

• Save As Template

• Model Note

RESET MODEL TIMER

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Touch Reset Model Timer to reset the timer for the selected model.

DUPLICATE MODEL

Touch Duplicate Model to make a copy of the selected model as a new model.

RESET MODEL

Touch Reset Model to return all values of the selected model to the default values.

DELETE MODEL

Touch Delete Model to delete the model from the model list.

EXPORT MODEL

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To export the selected model le settings for use on a different transmitter:

1. Touch Export Model to export the selected model le.

2. The .ispm le extension is selected. This le format is compatible with other Android based
Spektrum AirWare equipped transmitters. This format includes all settings from the le being
copied, except for the model image.

3. Touch EXPORT. A list of connectivity options appears.

4. Save the le to a memory card in order to transfer it to another transmitter.

SAVE AS TEMPLATE

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Select Save As Template to save the selected model as a default model template, which can
be accessed any time a new model is created.

TIP: Establish a default for each model type to dene switch positions, text to speech features,
telemetry congurations, rates and curves, or any features commonly used on a given type of model.

MODEL NOTE

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Use this option to add notes to support the model. This can include setup details, ight logs, fuel
mixtures, etc.
To add a model note:

1. Touch and drag up in the expanded Model
Details list to scroll to the bottom.

2. Touch Model Note.

3. Touch the text eld to access the text input
screen.

4. Touch DONE when the note is complete.

5. Touch the back arrow (

)to exit Model Note.

BINDING

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Binding is the process of linking the iX20 to an aircraft receiver. The iX20 is compatible with

®

genuine DSM2

and DSMX® Spektrum receiver products. The EU version of the iX20 does not
support DSM2 receiver products.
Access the Bind menu from the Model Setup menu or access it directly by touching the BIND
button on the Dashboard screen.

Activate Telemetry Auto Config to
automatically congure telemetry after a
successful bind with a telemetry receiver.
See Auto-Configuring Telemetry At Binding
for more information.

Touch Alerts to congure any alerts which
occur during binding.

SPEKTRUM FAILSAFE TYPES

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™

Spektrum receivers use two types of failsafe modes, Smartsafe

with hold last command and

Preset. These are set on the receiver during the binding process.

™

• SmartSafe

failsafe mode keeps the receiver from powering the throttle channel in the

event an aircraft is powered on prior to the transmitter, thus reducing the likelihood of an
electric powered model accidentally powering on when no transmitter signal is present. After
connection, in the event of a hold, the throttle channel will be moved to the position set during
bind. This failsafe mode will hold other control inputs at the last known command until the
transmitter/receiver link is re-established. If the throttle control has been mapped to another
channel in the transmitter setup, use the Preset failsafe mode.

• Preset failsafe mode returns all control commands to the binding presets.

It is important to know how and when to use each of the failsafe modes. Consult the receiver
manual for information.

BINDING AND PROGRAMMING FAILSAFE

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Failsafe is congured when the transmitter and receiver go through the binding process. When
binding an aircraft, always follow these steps to ensure the failsafe operates as expected in the
unlikely event of a loss of radio link:

1. Move the throttle to the low or off position.

2. Set all other controls to the desired failsafe position.

3. Follow the receiver instructions to power the receiver on in bind mode.

4. From the iX20 transmitter Bind menu, touch and hold BIND until the transmitter reports it is
binding.

5. When the transmitter indicates binding was successful, power off the receiver, according to
the receiver instructions.

After the transmitter and receiver are bound, if the radio signal link is ever lost between the
transmitter and receiver, the receiver immediately moves the aircraft control surfaces to the
failsafe positions or holds position depending on the type of failsafe set during bind.

TESTING FAILSAFE

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CAUTION: Make sure the aircraft is fully restrained on the ground. If the failsafe is not set
correctly, the aircraft might advance to mid or full throttle. Always remove propellers or

disengage motors from drive systems when testing failsafe on electric power systems.
NOTICE: Failsafe features vary according to receiver. Always consult the receiver instruction

manual for failsafe features. Before ight, ALWAYS conrm failsafe functions as expected.

The aircraft must be congured and binding complete prior to testing the failsafe settings.
To test the function of the failsafe settings:

1. Power on the transmitter and receiver and conrm the controls function properly.

2. Power off the RF signal on the transmitter by double clicking the power button, switching off

RF and touch and hold OK. The throttle and control surfaces should immediately move to the

expected failsafe positions or hold position depending on the failsafe type set during bind.
Throttle should always be set to return to low throttle.

3. Restore the RF signal by double pressing the power button and selecting RF on and
touch and hold OK.

AUTO SWITCH SELECT

Switches, sliders, trims and the rotary knob on the iX20 are all assignable.
Switches may be assigned for various functions, for example, assigning a dual rate switch or
activating throttle cut (shown below).
To assign a switch to a function:

1. Touch the “Switch” selection box.

Switch selection

2. Select the desired switch from the popup menu. A quicker alternative to selecting the switch

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from the popup menu is to toggle the actual desired switch while the popup menu is active.
The switch will automatically be assigned to the selected function.

ACTIVE BOXES

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Many of the iX20 menus include Active Boxes. These boxes represent switch positions when the
value or condition being shown will be active or inactive.
The active box appears grey by default, indicating the curve or condition is active at this switch
position. The switch position directly corresponds to the curve or condition. At switch position 0,
curve 0 is active. At switch position 1, curve 1 is active and so on.

Active Boxes

ACTIVE BOX CUSTOM SETUP

Select Custom Setup to customize the switch position to active curve setup.

Custom Setup

With Custom Setup selected, the active box for each curve is shown in orange. Custom Setup
allows you to select which switch position to use for each curve/condition. Select the curve then
touch the desired active button(s) to assign the switch positions to be used for the selected
curve. Any of the curves can be assigned to all or none of the switch positions, but only one
curve can be assigned to each switch position.

Curve

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Select a curve to change the curve that is displayed on the screen. Selecting the curve shows
the active switch position for that curve. This may be changed by selecting or deselecting the
active switch box.
Change the shape of the curve by increasing or decreasing the percent values of each point
along the curve, or add and delete curve points, as described in the Mixing section.

IMPORTANT: Turning Custom Setup off will reset the curve switch assignments back to the
default settings.

MY LIST

My List allows the user to create a list of shortcuts to quickly navigate to the most used functions.
To create a shortcut list:

1. In Model Setup, touch the Menu Setup button.

2. Activate the My List option.

3. Return to the main dashboard screen.

4. Touch the My List tab on the main screen.

5. Touch the Congure button and select which functions to add to the My List. The functions
will have a check mark next to the name when selected.

6. Touch the Save button to save the list.

The selected functions are now directly available in the My List screen.

TIP: The functions in the My List tab menu can be re-ordered to suit your needs.

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1. With the My List menu open, touch and hold the menu item you wish to move.

2. The transmitter vibrates to indicate the selection.

3. Drag the menu item to the desired location.

The My List tab menu is congurable for each model and may be turned on or off from the

Model Setup, Menu Setup menu.

MODEL ADJUST

The Model Adjust menu contains features and adjustments that are used to nalize the settings for
a model conguration. Options in the Model Adjust menu will vary depending on the model type
selected during initial model conguration and the aircraft type selected in the Model Setup menu.
The Model Adjust menu features
common across model types include:

• Servo Setup

• Mixing

• Dual Rates and Expo

• Forward Programming

• Sequencer

• Video TX

Model Adjust menu options specic to certain model types include, but are not limited to:

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Airplane Type

• Differential

• Flap System

Helicopter Type

• Pitch Curve

• Gyros

• Governor

Sailplane Type

• Camber Presets

• Camber System

• Pre-Congured Mixes

Multirotor Type

• Motor Cut

• Motor Curve

• Tail Curve

SERVO SETUP

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From the Model Adjust menu, touch Servo Setup.
The following setup sub menus are available:

• Reverse

• Travel

• Sub Trim

Touch the desired function in the ribbon at the
top of the screen to bring up the corresponding
setup sub menu.
Touch and drag on any of the sub menus to
scroll through the channel lists.

• Speed

• Absolute Travel

• Balance

The Model Adjust menu can be accessed at
any time from the Servo Setup sub menus by
touching the back arrow (
Touch and hold the back arrow (
to the dashboard.

).

) to return

CAUTION: After adjusting the servo
setup, always rebind the transmitter and

receiver to set the failsafe position.

REVERSE

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Use the Reverse menu to reverse the travel direction of any channel. For example, if the elevator
moves up and it should move down, reverse the elevator channel travel direction.
To reverse a channel travel direction:

1. Select Reverse in the Servo Setup menu ribbon.

2. Touch the button next to the channel you wish to reverse.
If the throttle channel is reversed, a conrmation screen appears. Select YES to reverse the
channel. A second screen appears, reminding to re-bind the transmitter to the receiver, at low
throttle, to re-set the throttle failsafe.

CAUTION: Always rebind the transmitter and receiver after reversing the throttle channel.
Failure to do so will result in the throttle moving to full throttle if failsafe activates.

Always perform a control test after making adjustments to conrm the model responds properly.

TRAVEL

The Travel menu sets the travel or endpoints of the servo arm movement.

To adjust travel values:

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1. Touch TRAVEL in the ribbon at the top of
the Servo Setup menu.

2. Select the high or low side of the channel.

3. Touch the lock icon (
directions at the same time, if desired,
or adjust the Low and High values
independently.

4. Make adjustments by sliding the highlighted
circle, touching the + or – buttons.

5. Touch OK to exit back to the main Travel menu.

) to adjust both

IMPORTANT: ALT, ROL, PIT and YAW replace THR, AIL, ELE and RUD labels respectively in
multirotor to more closely reect the ight axis of multirotor aircraft.

SUB TRIM

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The Sub Trim menu adjusts the servo travel center point.

To adjust sub trim values:

1. Touch SUB TRIM in the ribbon at the top of the Servo Setup menu.

2. Touch the number to the right of the desired channel to open the channel sub trim menu.
Changes can be made by sliding the highlighted circle or touching the + or – buttons.

SPEED

The Speed menu slows the response time on any channel, such as landing gear or aps.

To adjust speed values:

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1. Touch SPEED in the ribbon at the top of the Servo Setup menu.

2. Touch either the right or left side value of the desired channel to open the channel Speed menu.

3. Slow the channel response by sliding the highlighted circle or using the + or – buttons to
change the time value. Each side of the servo travel has independent speed adjustments.