Spektrum SPM18000 DX18QQ User Manual

Instruction Manual

Bedienungsanleitung

Manuel d’utilisation

Manuale di Istruzioni

About Quique

t began in Argentina with his father, Mario. Throughout the late 1970’s,

Mario Somenzini was the reigning F3A Champion of Argentina and most of South America. As a boy, Quique would spend hours with his father at the ﬂ ying ﬁ eld cleaning airplanes, watching and learning. It paid off.

In 1976, Quique made his ﬁ rst RC solo ﬂ ight at the age of 9. Just three years later, he followed in his father’s footsteps and won his ﬁ rst Argentina F3A National Championship. That same year he had the privilege of representing his country at the F3A World Championships in South Africa. He didn’t win, but he did set a record of sorts as the youngest pilot ever to compete for an F3A world title; a record that still stands today.

In the years that followed, Quique won a host of other titles, including 17 more Argentina F3A national championships, four U.S. F3A national championships, four 1st place TOC ﬁ nishes and one F3A world championship. But if you ask him, there is one RC title Quique cherishes above all others - “The Father of 3D”. Around the world, RC pilots point to his pioneering efforts in perfecting the art of ﬂ ying aerobatics beyond the stall as the birth of 3D aerobatics.

Today, Quique Somenzini remains one of the most dynamic and inﬂ uential forces in RC ﬂ ight; one that will be shaping the future of the sport for years to come.

• 4 Time TOC Champion

• F3A World Champion

• 4 Time US F3A National Champion

• Free Style World Champion

• 2 Time Tucson Shootout Free Style Champion

• XFC Champion

• 3 Time Don Lowe Master Champion

• 17 Time Argentina F3A National Champion

• 6 Time South America F3A Champion

• 20 years in top ten F3A world championships including 3 times runner

up places.

• Has competed at the world class level for 30 years.

• Still holds the world record as the youngest pilot ever to compete in

F3A World Championship.

SPEKTRUM DX18QQ

Sol de Mayo

he Sol de Mayo (Sun of May) symbol on the SpektrumTM DX18QQ

transmitter case comes from the national ﬂ ag of Quique’s native country of Argentina. It’s just one of the many personal touches that Quique and the Spektrum team have included to make the DX18QQ unlike any transmitter you’ve ﬂ own with before.

ongratulations on the purchase of your DX18QQ! I’m very excited

about this transmitter. So many people were involved in making this project a reality and we all want to say thank you for choosing to make it such a central part of your ﬂ ying experience. I’m conﬁ dent you’re going to love its elegant style and exclusive features every bit as much as I do.

Best regards. QQ

Exclusive DX18QQ Features:

• “Roll” between telemetry, monitor and main screens without entering the Settings menu

• Switch between Function List and System Settings menus without powering off the transmitter

• Program mixes of less than 10% can be adjusted in 0.5% increments

• 6-Servo wing setup

• Canard options (1- and 2-servo Rudder) are available under tail type when the elevon wing type is selected

• Origin mixing

• Selectable sound menu lets you activate or inhibit speciﬁ c DX18QQ sounds

• Assign ﬁ ve Airplane ﬂ ight modes to any combination of up to three switches

• Expanded selection of avatar choices for model memory identiﬁ cation

• Assign in-ﬂ ight aircraft gyro gain adjustment to one of the side levers, the right knob, or one of the auxiliary trim switches at the top of the transmitter faceplate

• Pitch curve for Airplane models with variable pitch props

• Turn the throttle trim into a 3-position switch for turbine engine start up ease

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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

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 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 superﬁ cial 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, 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

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.

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.

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

Warranty Registration

Visit community.spektrumrc.com today to register your product.

NOTICE:

While DSMX allows you to use more than 40 transmitters simultaneous-

ly, when using DSM2 receivers, DSMX receivers in DSM2 mode or transmitters in DSM2 mode, do not use more than 40 transmitters simultaneously.

SPEKTRUM DX18QQ

General Notes

• Models are hazardous when operated and maintained incorrectly.

• Always install and operate a radio control system correctly.

• Always pilot a model so the model is kept under control in all conditions.

• Please seek help from an experienced pilot or your local hobby store.

• Contact local or regional modeling organizations for guidance and instructions about ﬂ ying in your area.

• When working with a model, always power on the transmitter ﬁ rst and power off the transmitter last.

• After a model is bound to a transmitter and the model is set up in the transmitter, always bind the model to the transmitter again to establish failsafe settings.

Pilot Safety

• Always make sure all batteries are fully charged before ﬂ ying.

• Time ﬂ ights so you can ﬂ y safely within the time allotted by your battery.

• Perform a range check of the transmitter and the model before ﬂ ying the model.

• Make sure all control surfaces correctly respond to transmitter controls before ﬂ ying.

• Do NOT ﬂ y a model near spectators, parking areas or any other area that could result in injury to people or damage to property.

• Do NOT ﬂ y during adverse weather conditions. Poor visibility, wind, moisture and ice can cause pilot disorientation and/or loss of control of a model.

• When a ﬂ ying model does not respond correctly to controls, land the model and correct the cause of the problem.

BEFORE USING YOUR TRANSMITTER: Before going any further, visit the Spektrum Community website at community.spektrumrc.com to register your transmitter and download the latest AirWare™ ﬁ rmware updates. A registration reminder screen occasionally appears until you register your transmitter. When you register your transmitter, the reminder screen does not appear again.

Box Contents

• DX18QQ Transmitter

• 2600mAh LiPo Transmitter Pack (Installed in transmitter)

• SPMAR12120 12 Channel

™

PowerSafe

• X-Plus 8 module

• SPM6803 Male/Female Bind plug

• Global Power Supply

• DX18QQ Transmitter case

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X-PlusTM Receiver

• DX18QQ SD card

• Neck strap

• 34mm optional stick ends (24mm stick ends installed)

• Decal sheet

• Flashlight

• Microﬁ ber cloth

• Hat

• Manual

Table of Contents

System Overview

Transmitter Batteries ................................................................................... 8

Charging Your Transmitter ..............................................................................8

Transmitter Functions ............................................................................... 10

Main Screen ............................................................................................... 12

Navigation .................................................................................................. 13

Binding ....................................................................................................... 14

Programming Failsafe Positions ............................................................... 15

SmartSafe Failsafe ......................................................................................15

Hold Last Command .................................................................................... 15

Preset Failsafe ............................................................................................15

X-Plus 8 ...................................................................................................... 16

Installation .................................................................................................. 16

X-Plus Channels and Failsafe ....................................................................... 18

SD Card ......................................................................................................19

Model Type Programming Guide ......................................... 20

Common System Setup FunctIons ...................................... 22

Model Select ...............................................................................................22

Model Type .................................................................................................22

Model Name ...............................................................................................22

F-Mode Setup ............................................................................................. 23

Flight Mode Name Setup .............................................................................23

Aircraft and Sailplane Flight Mode Table .......................................................23

Channel Assignment....................................................................................24

Channel Input Conﬁ guration .........................................................................24

X-Plus Input Conﬁ guration ...........................................................................24

Trim Setup ..................................................................................................25

Model Copy ................................................................................................26

Model Reset ...............................................................................................26

Warnings ....................................................................................................26

Telemetry ...................................................................................................27

Preﬂ ight Setup ............................................................................................28

Frame Rate .................................................................................................28

Bind ........................................................................................................... 28

Trainer ........................................................................................................29

Analog Switch Setup ...................................................................................29

System Settings ..........................................................................................30

Inactive Alarm .............................................................................................32

Extra Settings .............................................................................................32

Serial Number .............................................................................................33

Calibrate ..................................................................................................... 33

Transfer SD Card .........................................................................................34

Function List ........................................................................ 36

Servo Setup ................................................................................................36

D/R & Expo .................................................................................................37

Differential (Air And Sail Types Only) .............................................................38

V-Tail Differential (Air And Sail Types Only) ....................................................38

Throttle Cut ................................................................................................38

Throttle Curve .............................................................................................39

Mixing ........................................................................................................ 39

Sequencer .................................................................................................. 41

Range Test .................................................................................................. 42

Timer .........................................................................................................43

Telemetry ...................................................................................................43

System Setup .............................................................................................43

Monitor.......................................................................................................44

X-Plus Monitor ............................................................................................44

SPEKTRUM DX18QQ

ACRO (Airplane) ................................................................... 45

Aircraft Type ...............................................................................................45

Recommended Servo Connections ...............................................................45

Elevon Servo Control ...................................................................................46

Flap System ................................................................................................47

ACRO Mixing ..............................................................................................47

Acro Gyro Function .....................................................................................48

Pitch Curve Function ...................................................................................48

HELI (Helicopter) .................................................................. 49

Swash Type ................................................................................................49

Pitch Curve .................................................................................................49

Swashplate ................................................................................................. 50

Gyro ........................................................................................................... 50

Governor ....................................................................................................51

Tail Curve ..................................................................................................51

Mixing .......................................................................................................51

SAIL (Sailplane) ................................................................... 52

Sailplane Type .............................................................................................52

Camber Preset ............................................................................................ 52

Camber System ..........................................................................................52

SAIL Mixing ................................................................................................53

Receiver Installation And Power System Requirements .... 54

Speciﬁ cations .............................................................................................55

Battery Requirements ..................................................................................55

Installation .................................................................................................. 56

Plugging in the Servos ................................................................................. 58

Binding ....................................................................................................... 58

QuickConnect with Brownout Detection ........................................................60

Storing Your System ....................................................................................60

Physical Transmitter Adjustments ...................................... 61

Mode Conversion ........................................................................................61

Adjust Stick Tension ...................................................................................61

Control Stick Length Adjustment .................................................................61

Adjust Throttle Friction Straps ......................................................................62

Throttle Ratchet Strip Installation .................................................................. 62

2.4GHz Troubleshooting Guide ............................................ 63

Parts list ............................................................................... 65

AMA National Model Aircraft Safety Code ................................................ 66

FCC Information ......................................................................................... 68

Antenna Separation Distance .......................................................................68

Purpose ...................................................................................................... 69

Background ................................................................................................ 69

Operating Standards ...................................................................................69

FAA Information ......................................................................................... 69

1-Year LIMITED WARRANTY ...................................................................... 70

Parts Contact Information ......................................................................... 72

Warranty and Service Contact Information .............................................. 72

Compliance Information for the European Union ..................................... 73

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Transmitter Batteries

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

• Never drop charger 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 10–27 degrees C) 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

Charging Your Transmitter

The DX18QQ has an internal charger designed to charge the included 2-cell LiPo battery at a charge rate of 200mAh. The charge port on the right side of the transmitter is not polarity-dependent.

NOTICE: Never connect an external battery charger to your DX18QQ transmitter. If you wish to charge the LiPo battery using a LiPo charger, you must remove the battery from the transmitter before charging.

The ﬁ rst time you charge the transmitter battery, the charge time may be 12–15 hours. Always charge the transmitter on a heat-resistant surface.

1. Power off your transmitter.

2. Connect the power supply connector to the transmitter charge port.

3. Connect the power supply to a power outlet using the appropriate adapter.

4. The blue LED on the front of the transmitter turns on during charging and turns off when the battery is fully charged.

5. Disconnect the transmitter from the power supply once charging is complete and disconnect the power supply from the power outlet.

CAUTION: Never leave a charging battery unattended.

SPEKTRUM DX18QQ

LED indicators

The blue LED indicates the transmitter battery is charging. The orange LED indicates the transmitter is powered on and there is radio transmission.

Battery Alarm

The System Settings Screen allows you to change the battery type and low alarm settings. See “System Settings” for more information.

• An alarm will sound when the battery reaches the low voltage limit (4.3V for NiMH, 6.4V for LiPo).

CAUTION: Never change the low voltage limit for LiPo batteries from

6.4V. Doing so could over-discharge the battery and damage both battery and transmitter.

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Transmitter Functions

Function

Antenna 1

RIght Trim

Right Knob

Switch E

Switch H

Switch G

Switch F

Throttle/Aileron Stick (Mode 1)

Elevator/Aileron Stick (Mode 2) Throttle/Rudder Stick (Mode 3) Elevator/Rudder Stick (Mode 4)

Elevator Trim (Mode 2, 4)

Throttle Trim (Mode 1, 3) Aileron Trim (Mode 1,2)

Rudder Trim (Mode 3,4) Roller

Charge Port

On/Off Switch

LCD

Clear Button

Function

Back Button

Speaker Grill

Rudder Trim (Mode 1,2)

Aileron Trim (Mode 3,4) Elevator Trim (Mode 1,3)

Throttle Trim (Mode 2,4) Elevator/Rudder Stick (Mode 1)

Throttle/Rudder Stick (Mode 2) Elevator/Aileron Stick (Mode 3) Throttle/AileronStick (Mode 4)

Switch C

Switch B

Switch A

Switch D

Bind/Switch I

Left Trim

LED

The transmitter comes with a thin, clear plastic ﬁ lm applied to some front panels for protection during shipping. Humidity and use may cause this ﬁ lm to come off. Carefully remove this ﬁ lm as desired.

26 27

15 16 17

10 11

SPEKTRUM DX18QQ

Throttle Spring Tension

Adjustment (Mode 2,4)

Left Lever

Left Rear Grip

Trainer Port

SD Card

Battery Cover

Charge Port

Function

Throttle Spring Tension

Adjustment (Mode 1,3)

Right Rear Grip

Right Lever

Gimbal Stick Tension Adjustment

Handle/Antenna 2

Mode Change

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Main Screen

Function

Model Memory

Model Name

Transmitter Battery Charge Level Digital Battery Voltage (an alarm sounds and the screen ﬂ ashes when battery

charge gets down to 4.3V when using an NiMH battery or 6.4V for a LiPo battery.)

Model Type Elevator Trim (Modes 2 and 4)

Throttle Trim (Modes 1 and 3) Aileron Trim (Modes 1 and 2)

Rudder Trim (Modes 3 and 4)

Model Memory Timer Rudder Trim (Modes 1 and 2)

Aileron Trim (Modes 3 and 4) Throttle Trim (Mode 2 and 4)

Elevator Trim (Mode 1 and 3)

Timer

Also displays R Trim values when

the Right Trim button is pressed

Also displays L Trim values when

the Left Trim button is pressed

I H G

SPEKTRUM DX18QQ

Navigation

• Turn the scroll wheel to move through the screen content or change programming values. Press the scroll wheel to make a selection.

• Use the Back button to go to the previous screen (for example, to go from the Mixing Screen to the Function List).

• Use the Clear button to return a selected value on a screen to the default setting.

• Direct Model Access enables you to access the Model Select screen without powering off the transmitter. Anytime the transmitter power is on, press the Clear and Back buttons to access the Model Select screen.

• Press and hold the roller while powering on the transmitter to show the System Setup list. No radio transmission occurs when a System Setup screen is displayed, preventing accidental damage to linkages and servos during changes to programming.

• At the main screen you can roll the roller to view the servo monitor.

• The Main Screen appears when you power on the transmitter. Press the scroll wheel once to display the Function List.

• When you want to change a value in a screen for a particular control position, move the control to the desired position to highlight the value you want to change, such as 0/1/2, up/down or left/right.

Enter, Choose or Exit

Turn HoldPress

Move between options or change value in an option

Hold for 3 seconds and release to move to the Main Screen

Tip: The tick mark below shows the current switch position. Rolling and clicking the roller turns the selected box black, indicating that the value or condition will act on that position.

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Binding

Binding is the process of programming the receiver to recognize the GUID (Globally Unique Identiﬁ er) code of a single speciﬁ c transmitter. The DX18QQ and AR12120 are pre-bound at the factory. You will need to rebind after the model programming is initially set up to fully program the model’s failsafe positions.

Binding Using the Receiver and Receiver Battery (mode 2 shown)

1. 2.

Hold button while powering on

4. 5. 6.

1. Move the throttle stick to the lowest position and power off the transmitter.

2. Insert the bind plug into the BIND/DATA port on the receiver.

3. Connect a fully charged receiver pack to any open port on the receiver. The orange LED on the receiver rapidly ﬂ ashes when the receiver is in bind mode.

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

5. Release the Bind button when the transmitter screen displays “Binding”. Binding is complete when the orange transmitter and receiver LEDs turn solid.

6. Power off the receiver and remove the bind plug.

Binding Using the Receiver and ESC (mode 2 shown)

5. 6.

Hold button while powering on

1. Lower the throttle to the lowest position and make sure the transmitter is powered off.

2. Insert the bind plug into the BIND/DATA port.

3. Insert the ESC plug into the THRO port.

4. Connect the battery to the ESC and turn on the ESC switch, if available. The receiver’s LED will rapidly ﬂ ash when the receiver is ready to bind.

5. While pressing the Bind button, power on the transmitter.

6. Release the Bind button after the receiver has stopped ﬂ ashing rapidly. Once the receiver’s LED turns solid, the receiver is bound to the transmitter. The screen also provides binding information.

7. Remove the bind plug from the receiver.

CAUTION: When using the DX18QQ with parkﬂ yer receivers, only use

receivers in parkﬂ yer-type aircraft (small electric airplanes or mini and micro helicopters). Installing parkﬂ yer receivers in larger aircraft could cause signal blocking and loss of connection.

SPEKTRUM DX18QQ

Programming Failsafe Positions

You establish failsafe positions when you bind your transmitter and receiver. If the radio signal connection is lost between the transmitter and receiver, the receiver immediately moves the aircraft control surfaces to the failsafe positions. The Spektrum AR12120 receiver has three failsafes programming options: SmartSafe, Hold Last Command, and Preset. If you assign the receiver THRO channel to a transmitter channel other than throttle, we recommend using Preset failsafe with the throttle in the low position.

NOTICE: Failsafe features vary according to receiver. Always consult the receiver instruction manual for failsafe features.

Before ﬂ ight, ALWAYS conﬁ rm the failsafe functions as you would expect.

SmartSafeTM Failsafe

SmartSafe failsafe is a technology that only acts on the throttle channel and offers the following beneﬁ ts:

• Prevents electric motors from operating when the receiver power is on and the transmitter power is off.

• Prevents the speed controller from arming until the throttle is moved to the low throttle position.

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

To Program SmartSafe, move the throttle to the low or off position before putting the transmitter into bind mode.

To Test the SmartSafe failsafe

1. Power the transmitter and receiver on.

2. Power off the transmitter. The throttle should immediately move to the failsafe position.

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

Hold Last Command

The Hold Last Command failsafe maintains the last command on all channels except throttle. If the radio signal is lost, the aircraft maintains the commanded heading until the receiver regains signal. To program Hold Last Command, follow the provided binding instructions in this instruction manual.

To Test Hold Last Command

1. Power on the transmitter and receiver.

2. Move one of the control sticks to the desired Hold Last Command position and hold the input.

3. While holding the control input (for example, a small amount of rudder) power off the transmitter. The rudder should maintain the input command.

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

throttle.

Preset Failsafe

The Preset failsafe moves all channels to their programmed failsafe positions. We recommend using Preset failsafe to deploy spoilers on sailplanes to prevent a ﬂ yaway if the radio signal is lost.

To program Preset failsafe:

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

2. Remove the bind plug when the orange LED on the main receiver and all attached remote receivers ﬂ ash rapidly. The orange receiver LEDs will continue ﬂ ashing.

3. Move the transmitter control sticks and switches to the desired Preset failsafe position. Power the transmitter on.

4. Failsafe programming is complete when the orange LEDs on the transmitter and all receivers turn solid.

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

throttle.

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X-PlusTM 8

The X-Plus 8 module is designed to allow expansion of up to 8 servos for noncontrol surface functions such as bomb drops, lights, winches, retractable landing gear, and many more. The X-Plus 8 is compatible with Spektrum™ X-Plus transmitters and receivers. The X-Plus 8 module offers the option to power the connected servos via dual auxiliary battery ports with separate batteries and switch harnesses (sold separately) independent of the receiver. The X-Plus 8 module can also be powered inclusive of the receiver by using the included jumper through either of the dual BATT/JMPR ports.

Features:

• 8-channel expansion

• Dual battery ports

• Included Jumper offers option of using receiver power

• Allows ﬁ ne tuning of 8 servos on non-critical controls (bomb drops, lights, winches, gear, etc.)

Applications

Scale modelers with complex aircraft, ships, or surface applications will enjoy the easy programming and functions of the X-Plus 8 module using X-Plus compatible transmitters AirWare™ software. Modelers will be able to select 2 position, 3 position or potentiometer adjustment through their transmitter. After selecting the speciﬁ c switch or port, AirWare software will allow the individual servo adjustment of each X-Plus channel‘s travel adjust, sub trim, reversing, and speed.

Speciﬁ cations

Type: X-Plus Module Channels: 8 Dimensions: 0.91x 1.61 x 0.79 in

Weight: .42 oz (11.9 g) Voltage Range: 3.5 to 9.6V Resolution: 512 Compatibility: All X-Plus transmitters

(23 x 41 x 20mm)

and receivers

X+1 X+2 X+3

X+4 X+5 X+6

X+7 X+8

BATT/JMPR

SRXL

Installation

In gas and glow aircraft, install the X-Plus 8 module by wrapping it in protective foam and fastening it in place using rubber bands or a hook and loop strap. In electric airplanes or helicopters, you can use thick double-sided foam tape to fasten the module in place.

When using an X-Plus receiver and module, it is recommended that the X-Plus 8 module be mounted as near to the receiver as possible. When using the jumper lead to power the module, mounting the X-Plus 8 module near the receiver system will minimize the current loss from the receiver. Servo extensions can be used with each servo, but we recommend using heavy 22 gauge wire with goldplated connectors.

A power jumper plug must be installed in one of the BATT/JMPR ports of the module if the module is powered from the receiver through the SRXL port.

Always remove the power jumper when an auxiliary battery or auxiliary batteries are used. When the auxiliary battery option is used, the X-Plus 8 module can be mounted as far away from the receiver as needed to be near connected servos.

SPEKTRUM DX18QQ

X+6 Servo

To SRXL Port

X+5 Servo

Auxiliary Battery Pack

(optional)

On/Off Switch Harness (optional)

X+4 Servo X+3 Servo X+2 Servo X+1 Servo

Jumper

X+8 Servo X+9 Servo

Power System Requirements

Inadequate power systems that do not provide the necessary minimum voltage to the receiver during ﬂ ight are the number one cause of in-ﬂ ight failures. Some of the power system components that affect the ability to properly deliver adequate power include:

• Receiver battery pack (number of cells, capacity, cell type, state of charge)

• The ESC’s capability to deliver current to the receiver in electric aircraft

• The switch harness, battery leads, servo leads, regulators, etc.

The X-Plus 8 module has a minimum operational voltage of 3.5 volts; it is highly recommended that the power system be tested per the guidelines below.

Recommended Power System Test Guidelines

If a questionable power system is being used (e.g., a small or old battery, an ESC that may not have a BEC that will support high-current draw, etc.), perform the following test with a voltmeter. The Hangar 9

Digital Servo & Rx Current Meter

(HAN172) or the Spektrum Flight Log (SPM9540) work well for this test. Plug the voltmeter into an open channel port in the receiver and, with the system

on, load the control surfaces (apply pressure with your hand) while monitoring the voltage at the receiver. The voltage should remain above 4.8 volts even when all servos are heavily loaded.

CAUTION: When charging Ni-MH batteries, make sure the battery fully charges. Ni-MH batteries charged with peak detection fast chargers have

a tendency to false peak (i.e. not fully charge), which could lead to a crash.

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X-Plus Channels and Failsafe

Failsafe is not supported for servos connected to the X-Plus Module. We recommend that no failsafe should be expected or attempted for a servo connected through the X-Plus Module. However, servos connected to the X-Plus Module will hold last command in the event of a failsafe condition.

To Activate X-Plus

1. Open the Frame Rate Menu in System Setup.

2. Scrolll to X-Plus and press the scroll wheel to activate. The X-Plus Inputs screen is now active in the Channel Assign menu.

AUX6 and AUX7 channels are available on 12-channel receivers when X-Plus is active. AUX6 and AUX7 are 2048 resolution and 22ms frame rate (12-channel

receivers only).

Channels X+1 and X+2 are duplicate channels of channels 11 and 12 on a 12-channel receiver with X-Plus active. If channels 11 and 12 require any adjustment for travel adjust, servo reversing, sub trim or any other function, adjust channels X+1 and X+2. Note that channels 11 and 12 will also show on the X-Plus monitor as channels X+1 and X+2.

If you select 11ms frame rate before you activate X-Plus, the transmitter reverts to 22ms frame rate when X-Plus is active.

CAUTION:

X-Plus Module. The X-Plus channels are intended to be used for auxiliary functions only. X-Plus channels have a resolution of 512 and variable latency from 22ms to about 88ms. When X-Plus is active, the ﬁ rst 10 channels default to 22ms.

Refer to community.spektrumrc.com for more information about X-Plus options.

Do NOT connect throttle or any primary control surface to the

from Channel Assign menu

SPEKTRUM DX18QQ

SD Card

Installing the SD Card

The included SD Card enables you to:

• Import (copy) models from another DX18QQ transmitter

• Export (transfer) models to another DX18QQ transmitter

• Update AirWare™ software in the transmitter

To install the SD Card:

1. Power off the transmitter.

2. Remove the battery door.

3. Press the SD Card into the card slot with the card label facing upward.

4. Install the battery door.

Exporting the Transmitter Serial Number to the SD Card

Exporting the transmitter serial number to the SD Card allows you to copy and paste the serial number into the registration screen at

community.spektrumrc.com.

To export the serial number:

1. Press and hold the scroll wheel while powering the transmitter on until the System Setup list appears.

2. Scroll to the System Settings menu. Press the scroll wheel once to open the menu.

3. Select NEXT on the System Settings and Extra Settings screens.

4. When the Serial Number screen appears, select EXPORT.

5. Power off the transmitter and remove the SD Card from the transmitter.

6. Insert the SD Card in your computer and open the .txt ﬁ le on the card.

7. Copy and Paste the serial number into the Registration screen on the Spektrum Community site (community.spektrumrc.com).

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Model Type Programming Guide

Menu options show up on model type selection. These menu options vary between Model Types (Airplane Helicopter and Sailplane), but are identical for all models in that type. Subsequent aircraft type (Aircraft, Swashplate or Sailplane) selections make other menu options appear.

System Setup List: Model Select

Model Type

Model Name

Aircraft Type

F-Mode Setup Channel Assign Trim Setup Model Copy Model Reset Warnings Telemetry Preflight Setup

Frame Rate

Bind Trainer Analog Switch Setup System Settings Transfer SD Card

System Setup List: Model Select

Model Type

Model Name

Swashplate Type

F-Mode Setup Channel Assign Trim Setup Model Copy Model Reset Warnings Telemetry Preflight Setup

Frame Rate

Bind Trainer Analog Switch Setup System Settings Transfer SD Card

Function List: Servo Setup D/R and Expo Differential V-Tail Differential Throttle Cut Throttle Curve Gyro1 Gyro2 Pitch Curve Flap System Mixing Sequencer Range Test Timer Telemetry System Setup Monitor XPlus Monitor

Function List: Servo Setup D/R and Expo Throttle Cut Throttle Curve Pitch Curve Swashplate Gyro Governor Tail Curve Mixing Sequencer Range Test Timer Telemetry Frame Rate System Setup Monitor XPlus Monitor

SPEKTRUM DX18QQ

System Setup List: Model Select

Model Type

Model Name

Sailplane Type

F-Mode Setup Channel Assign Trim Setup Model Copy Model Reset Warnings Telemetry Preflight Setup

Frame Rate

Bind Trainer Analog Switch Setup System Settings Transfer SD Card

Function List: Servo Setup D/R and Expo Differential V-Tail Differential Throttle Cut Motor Curve Camber Presets Camber System Mixing Sequencer Range Test Timer Telemetry Frame Rate System Setup Monitor XPlus Monitor

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Common System Setup FunctIons

Model Select

Model Select enables you to access any of the 50 internal model memory locations in the Model Select list.

1. Scroll to the desired model memory in the Model Select list.

2. When the desired model memory is highlighted, press the scroll wheel once to select the model. The transmitter returns to the System Setup List.

Direct Model Access

Press the Clear and Back buttons from the Main Screen or a telemetry screen to access Model Select.

Model Type

Select from Airplane, Helicopter or Sailplane model types.

IMPORTANT: When you select a new model type, you will delete any programming data in the current model memory. Always conﬁ rm the desired model memory before changing model types. It will be necessary to re-bind after resetting the model type.

To change the model type:

1. Scroll to the desired model type and press the scroll wheel. The Conﬁ rm Model Type screen appears.

2. Select Yes and press the scroll wheel to conﬁ rm the model type. All data will be reset. Selecting No will exit the Conﬁ rm Model Type screen and return to the Model Type screen.

Model Name

Model Name enables you to assign a custom name to the current model memory. Model names can include up to 20 characters including spaces.

To add letters to a Model Name:

1. Scroll to the desired letter position and press the scroll wheel once. A ﬂ ashing box appears.

2. Scroll left or right until the desired character appears. Press the scroll wheel once to save the character.

3. Scroll to the next desired letter position. Repeat Step 1 and 2 until the Model Name is complete.

4. Select BACK to return to the System Setup list.

SPEKTRUM DX18QQ

F-Mode Setup

Use the Flight Mode Setup menu to assign switches to ﬂ ight modes.

Mode Number of Switches Number of Flight Modes

Aircraft Up to 3 5

Heli 3 (including Throttle Hold) 5 (including Throttle Hold)

Sailplane Flight Mode Setup

You can assign up to ten ﬂ ight modes using any combination of up to three switches. You can also assign a priority switch. When the priority switch position is active, only the current ﬂ ight mode is active, regardless of other switch positions.

Number of Flight Modes

Switch 1 (number of positions)

Switch 2 (number of positions)

Flight Mode 1

2 Cruise Cruise Cruise Cruise Cruise Cruise 3 Land Land Land 4 Thermal Thermal Thermal Thermal 5 Speed Speed

*Must be set up in a 4/5 ﬂ ight mode.

2 3 3* 4 4 5

2P 3P 2P 2P 3P 3P

2P 3P 2P 3P

Launch Launch Launch Launch Launch Launch

Flight Mode Name Setup

Enables you to assign custom names to the Flight Mode positions. Flight Mode names can include up to 20 characters including spaces.

To change the Flight Mode name:

1. Scroll to the Flight Mode name you wish to change and press the scroll wheel.

2. Scroll to the character position you wish to change and press the scroll wheel once. A ﬂ ashing box appears.

3. Scroll left or right until the desired character appears. Press the scroll wheel once to save the character.

4. Repeat Steps 2 and 3 until the Model Name is complete.

5. Select BACK to return to the Flight Mode Names list.

Aircraft and Sailplane Flight Mode Table

You can assign the available ﬂ ight modes (up to 5 for Air, up to 10 for Sail) to each of the switch positions (up to 3 switches can be used). Press NEXT from the Flight Mode Name page to access the ﬂ ight mode table assignment page when Custom ﬂ ight mode has been selected in the Flight Mode Setup page. The combination of up to 3 switches can be used to access all of the ﬂ ight modes available.

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