Spektrum SPMAR12200 User Manual

AR12200 User Guide

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 a little or no possibility of injury.

CAUTION: Procedures, which if not properly followed, create the probability of physical property damage AND a possibility of serious injury.

WARNING: Procedures, which if not properly followed, create the probability of property damage, collateral damage, and serious injury OR create a high probability of superﬁcial injury.

WARNING: Read the ENTIRE instruction manual to become familiar with the features of the product before operating. Failure to operate the

product correctly can result in damage to the product, personal property and cause serious injury. This is a sophisticated hobby product. It must be operated with caution and common sense and requires some basic mechanical ability. Failure to operate this Product in a safe and responsible manner could result in injury or damage to the product or other property. This product is not intended for use by children without direct adult supervision. Do not attempt disassembly, use with incompatible components or augment product in any way without the approval of Horizon Hobby, Inc. This manual contains instructions for safety, operation and maintenance. It is essential to read and follow all the instructions and warnings in the manual, prior to assembly, setup or use, in order to operate correctly and avoid damage or serious injury.

WARNING AGAINST COUNTERFEIT PRODUCTS

Thank you for purchasing a genuine Spektrum product. Always pur-

chase 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.

WARRANTY REGISTRATION

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

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

Spektrum launched the 2.4GHz RC revolution with DSM2™ technology. Since then, millions of hobbyists the world over have come to embrace 2.4 GHz as the way to ﬂy. Spektrum leads the way yet again with DSMX® technology; the world’s ﬁrst wideband, frequency-agile 2.4GHz signal protocol.

How Does DSMX Work? DSMX combines the superior data capacity and interference resistance of a wideband signal (like that used in DSM2) with the agility of frequency shifts.

Compared to the wideband signal of DSMX, the narrow band signal of other frequency hopping 2.4 GHz transmitters are more likely to suffer data loss in the event of on-channel interference. Think of it as a river vs. a stream. It takes more interference to dam a river than it does a stream.

As more and more 2.4 GHz transmitters vie for the same number of available channels, there is more interference and more of a risk for data loss. By adding the agility of frequency shifts to the superior interference resistance of a wideband signal, DSMX technology is far less likely to suffer signiﬁcant data loss from onchannel interference. The result is quicker connection times and superior response in even the most crowded 2.4GHz environment.

DSMX Operational Differences

DSMX transmitters and receivers function nearly identically to Spektrum™ DSM2 systems. Binding, setting the failsafe, recording ﬂight log data, as well as general use of the system is no different than using any current Spektrum system.

Brownout Detection—Not Available on DSMX Receivers

DSM2 receivers feature Brownout Detection that causes the receiver’s LED to ﬂash if a power interruption occurs. While DSMX receivers have QuickConnect™ and recover instantly from a power interruption, the architecture of DSMX prevents Brownout Detection when operating in DSMX mode.

Flight Log Recording—Fades Higher than DSM2 DSMX uses frequency shifts through the band while DSM2 ﬁnds two quiet channels and remains on those channels. Consequently, because DSMX operates on quiet and noisy channels, it’s common to have more Antenna Fades than when using DSM2 in busy 2.4GHz environments. When taking ﬂight log data readings, the Frames and Hold Data are important and should be used as a reference, while Fades are insigniﬁcant due to the nature of frequency agile systems. A 10-minute ﬂight will typically result in less than 50 Frame Losses and no Holds.

Just How Good is DSMX?

In multiple tests, 100 DSMX systems were operated simultaneously for extended periods of time. During these tests, each of the 100 systems was monitored in ﬂight and on the ground. In every test, not a single case of RF link loss, latency increase or control degradation was experienced or recorded.

Is DSMX Compatible with DSM2?

Yes. DSMX is fully compatible with all DSM2 hardware. In fact, many pilots may ﬁnd the DSM2 equipment they have now is all they will ever need. Even if a new DSMX transmitter eventually comes along, all the DSM2 receivers they have now will work with it.

It is important to note, however, that while DSMX is compatible with DSM2, the only way to experience the full beneﬁts of DSMX in a busy 2.4 GHz environment is by pairing a DSMX transmitter with a DSMX receiver.

Are DSM2 Transmitters Eligible for a DSMX Add-on? Yes. DX8 owners can simply download Spektrum AirWare™ v2.0 software from spektrumrc.com and update the ﬁrmware using their SD card. All DSM2 transmitters, except the DX5e, are eligible for the add-on for $75 by sending them to the Horizon Hobby service center. DSM2 receivers and transmitter modules are not eligible for the DSMX add-on.

Does DSMX have ModelMatch™ and ServoSync™ Technology? Yes. DSMX will provide you with these and other exclusive Spektrum advantages that you already enjoy with DSM2.

Want to know more about DSMX? Visit spektrumrc.com for complete details on this as well as the many other reasons Spektrum is the leader in 2.4 GHz.

NOTICE: While DSMX allows you to use more than 40 transmitters simultaneously, when using DSM2 receivers, DSMX receivers in DSM2 mode or transmitters in DSM2 mode, do not use more than 40 transmitters simultaneously.

Spektrum AR12200

The Spektrum AR12200 Cockpit is an advanced, 12-channel receiver system that offers the ultimate solution for powering high-current draw radio systems. It features a freely programmable gear and door sequencer for up to 6 servos with up to 12 programmable tasks for retracting the gear and another 12 tasks per servo for extending the gear.

The Cockpit features an integrated servo matching system for up to 4 different dual channels, perfect for giant-scale aircraft using ganged servos on a surface. The Spektrum Cockpit eliminates the need for external voltage regulators, gear door sequencers, and servo matchers.

In aircraft with multiple high-current draw servos (e.g. giant-scale aircraft, jets, etc.), the Cockpit can provide constant current of up to 20 amps. Each battery input is regulated independently to 5.9 or 7.4 volts and each regulator is capable of handling 10 amps (2 x 10 A). This offers true dual battery redundancy and a fail-on SensorSwitch for the ultimate in reliability. By locating four remote receivers throughout the aircraft, the RF link can be optimized in even the most demanding aircraft installations that have signiﬁcant conductive materials like carbon, stainless steel bypass tubes, tuned exhausts, etc.

The Spektrum Cockpit main unit is not a receiver. The Spektrum Cockpit’s main unit is a power distribution center that provides up to 20 amps of current to power your integrated gear and door sequencer and servo matching system. Through extensive testing, our engineers discovered that mounting the unit in the typical location in a sophisticated aircraft (an aircraft with many high-current draw servos and/or conductive materials) at the end of the servo and battery leads is not the optimum location to provide the clearest RF signal. The Spektrum Cockpit uses four remotely mounted receivers that can be optimally placed in your aircraft to provide the best possible RF link.

Speciﬁcations

Cockpit Main unit

Voltage input: 6.0 to 9.0 volts

Minimum operational voltage: 3.5 volts Peak current: 20 amps

• Each battery input is regulated to 5.9 or 7.4V, and are each capable of 10 amps output (20 amps combined)

Resolution: 2048 Main unit Dimensions LxWxH: 4.35 x 2.88 x .78 in (110.5 x 73.1 x 19.9mm)

• Includes mounting lugs and base plate

Main unit Weight: 4.0 oz (113.4 grams) Connector type: MPX (MPX to EC3™ connector and MPX to Deans Ultra

connector adapters are available separately (SPM6828 and SPM6829)). Regulator: Dual isolated 10-amp, 5.9 or 7.4V regulators

Remote Receiver

Remote Receiver Dimensions LxWxH: 1.02 x .80 x .27 in (25.8 x 20.2 x

6.8mm) Remote Receiver Weight: 0.2 oz (3 g)

SensorSwitch

SensorSwitch Dimensions LxWxH: 2.55 x .91 x .71 (65 x 23 x 18.1mm) Includes mounting base. SensorSwitch Weight: 0.7 oz (19.8 g)

Items Included

• Spektrum Cockpit Main Unit—SPMAR12200

• Four Remote Receivers—SPM9645

• SensorSwitch—PBS9050

• One 36” Remote Receiver Extension—SPM9014

• One 24” Remote Receiver Extension—SPM9013

• One 12” Remote Receiver Extension—SPM9012

• One 9” Remote Receiver Extension—SPM9011

• Instruction Manual

Optional Items

• 2150mAh 6.0V NiMH Receiver Pack—SPMB2150NM

• 2700mAh 6.0V NiMH Receiver Pack—SPMB2700NM

• 4500mAh 6.0V NiMH Receiver Pack—SPMB4500NM

• 1350mAh—SPMB1350LP LiPo Receiver pack

• 2000mAh—SPMB2000LP LiPo Receiver Pack

• 4000mAh—SPMB4000LP LiPo Receiver Pack

• 6000mAh—SPMB6000LP LiPo Receiver Pack

• 6” Remote Receiver Extension—SPM9010

• 9” Remote Receiver Extension—SPM9011

• 12” Remote Receiver Extension—SPM9012

• 24” Remote Receiver Extension—SPM9013

• 36” Remote Receiver Extension—SPM9014

• 12” EC3 Extension—SPMEXEC312

• 24” EC3 Extension—SPMEXEC324

• EC3 Battery Connector, Female (2)—EFLAEC302

• MPX to EC3 adapters—SPM6828

• MPX to WS Deans Ultra Adapter—SPM6829

Battery Requirements

Using One Battery

The Spektrum Cockpit allows the option of using one or two battery packs. When using one battery, simply connect the battery into either of the two battery connectors (BATT 1 or BATT2).

Using Two Batteries

The Spektrum Cockpit offers a true redundant dual battery system with builtin dual voltage regulation. When using two battery packs, each pack functions independently and is isolated from the other so that if one pack should fail (open circuit, short circuit or become discharged), the other battery will provide power to operate the system.

When using dual batteries, it’s important that both batteries be of the same capacity, number of cells and ideally of the same age and condition. Keep in mind, however, that it’s normal for one battery to discharge slightly more than the other. This is the nature of an isolated battery system. The battery that has the higher voltage or lower internal resistance will discharge at a faster rate. Generally, the difference is negligible (less than 10%).

When using two batteries, the total available capacity equals the sum total of both batteries, for example, BATT1 (2000mAh) + BATT2 (2000mAh) = a total capacity of 4000mAh.

Battery Capacity

It’s important to select a batteries that have more than adequate capacity to provide the necessary ﬂight time. Current draw varies depending on your servos, installation and ﬂying style.

40–45% aerobatic aircraft with 9–12 high-current servos: 4000–8000mAh 33–35% aerobatic aircraft with 7–10 high-current servos: 3000–6000mAh 25% quarter scale aerobatic aircraft with 5–7 high-current

servos: Jets–BVM Super BANDIT, F86, Euro Sport, etc.: 3000–6000mAh Giant-scale jets–BVM Ultra Bandit: 4000–8000mAh

Recommended Guidelines for Battery Capacity

Scale aircraft—The varieties of scale aircraft and the accessories they use vary

tremendously, making it difﬁcult to give capacity recommendations for these types of aircraft. Using the previously mentioned aerobatic guidelines, relative to the size and number of servos used, will provide a conservative capacity for your scale aircraft. As always, check the battery charge condition before each ﬂight.

Battery Voltage

CAUTION: D0 NOT use a 4-cell, 4.8-volt battery to power the Spektrum

Cockpit. Four-cell, 4.8-volt batteries do not provide enough voltage headroom (additional margin needed) necessary to power the system when heavily loaded. Under load, the system voltage can drop below the voltage system’s minimum operating voltage threshold (3.5 volts) and cause loss of control.

The Spektrum Cockpit is capable of handling voltages from 6.0 to 9.0 volts. The voltage limitations are generally the servos. The output voltage of the servos are regulated to 5.9 or 7.4V. Each voltage regulator is capable of handling 10 amps for a total of 20-amp continuous current capability.

CAUTION: NiMH batteries have a tendency to false peak when being fast

charged. Always make sure NiMH batteries are fully charged and have not false peaked during charging.

2000–4000mAh

Many pilots use 2-cell LiPo batteries to power their aircraft. LiPo batteries offer greater capacity for their size and weight and are easier to manage when charging.

CAUTION: When not in use, always disconnect the battery from the Spektrum

Cockpit to prevent over-discharge. Batteries discharged below recommended voltage may become damaged, resulting in loss of performance and potential ﬁre when batteries are charged.

CAUTION: When charging any brand of NiMH battery pack, make sure the

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

Installation

The Spektrum Cockpit requires a minimum of three remote receivers to be plugged in for the system to operate. Each receiver functions independently and offers a more secure RF link in difﬁcult environments. The added security of redundancy, should a failure occur, outweighs the additional weight and cost penalties.

Installing the Spektrum Cockpit Main Unit and SensorSwitch

1. Using the 4 included screws, drill 4, 1/16” pilot holes into a plywood or hardwood

mount. Secure the main Cockpit unit in the position desired.

2. Mount the switch on the side of your aircraft and insert the switch plug in the SensorSwitch port in the Cockpit unit. Make sure to install the connector with the ribbon cable facing up. In models with severe vibration, secure the ribbon lead by at least one additional point to prevent the connector from coming loose. If the connector falls out in ﬂight, you will need to connect the SensorSwitch again to power off the Cockpit.

NOTICE: The Spektrum Cockpit uses a speciﬁcally designed switch. Conventionally wired switches are not compatible with the Spektrum Cockpit.

3. To power on the Spektrum Cockpit with the SensorSwitch, press and hold the SET button on the SensorSwitch until the central LED glows red. Press buttons I and II separately to turn each battery on. If you have only 1 battery installed, you only need to press the button for that battery.

4. To power off the Spektrum Cockpit with the SensorSwitch, repeat the procedure for turning the unit on in reverse order. Intermittent contacts or interruptions in the battery power cannot power off the Spektrum Cockpit.

Installing the Batteries

Using the guidelines mentioned earlier, select the battery system that best ﬁts your application and install the battery(s)/regulator(s) in your aircraft. Connect the battery to the Spektrum Cockpit. Spektrum PowerSafe™ batteries are pre-wired with an EC3 connector and require an EC3 to MPX adapter to connect to the Spektrum Cockpit. It is essential to maintain the correct polarity as connecting a battery with reversed polarity will instantly damage the Spektrum Cockpit’s internal regulators and will prevent the Spektrum Cockpit from working. The default battery type setting is for Lithium Polymer (LiPo) 2-cell packs. If you wish to use other battery types, the speciﬁc battery type must be set using the Power Manager feature described later.

Patented MultiLink™ Receiver Technology

The AR12200 supports four receivers, offering the security of multiple path RF redundancy. External receivers attach to the main unit using extensions. Installing these receivers in different places in the aircraft exposes each receiver to its own RF environment, greatly improving path diversity (the ability for the receiver to see the signal in all conditions).

Antenna Polarization

For optimum RF link performance, mount the remote antennas in an orientation that allows for the best possible signal reception when the aircraft is at all possible attitudes and positions. This is known as antenna polarization. Mount one antenna vertically, one horizontally in-line with the fuselage and one horizontally perpendicular to the fuselage. Installing antennas in this pattern offers optimum cross-section visibility.

Receiver Installation

While Spektrum 2.4 GHz systems are far more resistant to interference caused from internal RF generating sources, the remote receivers should be mounted as far

away as practical (typically 4” or greater, if possible) from the following:

• Ignition systems

• Ignition batteries

• Ignition switches

• Engines

• ECUS pumps

• Electric motors

• Receiver batteries

• Fuel tanks

• Metal bypass tubes

• High-temperature components like exhaust systems

• Any signicant metallic conductive components

• High-vibration areas

Mount the remote receivers a minimum of at least 2” apart from each other as

greater antenna separation gives improved path diversity (RF link performance) in critical environments. In large aircraft where space is not an issue, mount the antennas throughout the aircraft as illustrated below. Spektrum offers remote

receiver extensions ranging from 6” to 36” to ensure the receivers can be mounted

in the most optimum locations throughout the aircraft. Using double-sided foam tape and tie wraps, mount a minimum of 3 remote

receivers in your aircraft and connect the receivers to the receiver ports of the Spektrum Cockpit. The following illustrations show typically recommended installations. Note the remote receiver orientation.

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