380/420 ALZRC380 Rx

[Harford]

I have a good range of Align helis all of which have been a good experience. Just to try something new, I have a ALZRC 380 which I am now constructing. A few small issues but by and large I think it is a superb kit and have read nothing but positive comments about them. I am assuming I can use a single Spektrum satellite for the RX (as I do for Trexs' 450 & 470). For me gentle flying only (no 3D). Does anyone think this RX set up is inadequate ?

 

[Admiral]

No a single Sat should work OK on anything under 500, but two is probably safer.

 

[Smoggie]

Depends what FBL you are using but traditional satellites are a bit 'old hat'. A serial receiver like the AR4651T is a better option these days. They have dual diversity antenna, telemetry and FBL integration capabilities, all of which are lacking in a standard satellite.

If using a standard sat installation, personally i'd use two.

 

[Harford]

Many thanks for the replies. I will be using a Spirit 2 FBL. I have a SPM4649T on a 700E and can see the SPM4651T is a successor to that. I have just ordered one and as it is local will see it tomorrow. If I understand correctly, I can use the 4651 in isolation ? - no need for a satellite (although I do have a spare 9645 lying around)

 

[Smoggie]

If I understand correctly, I can use the 4651 in isolation ? - no need for a satellite (although I do have a spare 9645 lying around)

For a 380 heli the 4651T with it's dual diversity antenna will be fine on it's own, but the Spirit does give you the option to run a satellite as a redundant backup for an extra level of safety.

 

[Harford]

Thank you. Based on what you say, I will save the SPM9645 for another project. I will not be extending the 380 to it’s limits.

 

[Harford]

I received the SPM4651T today and at the same have researched the wiring requirement. I understand I need a SRXL2 adapter cable, which I have now ordered. I can see that the receiver connects to the Spirit using the RUD and ELE/PIT/AIL ports. I am just not sure about the reference in the Spirit System manual (online) to Throttle output - effectively stating with a SRXL2 satellite receiver, set up Throttle Output from the unit at (AUX/AUX1 ports) and assign Throttle channel in the General/Channels at Channel 1.
I am assuming the ESC plugs into the AUX 1 port on the unit but confused about the throttle assignment instruction above . Is this something I need to do on the software Receiver channel mapping tab ?
Any help would be much appreciated.

 

[Smoggie]

The cables are easy to make if you have a crimper, if not then yes, you need to buy one. Throttle assignment is the same as if you were using a standard satellite receiver, no different at all.

 

[Harford]

I do have a crimper - good suggestion, thank you. When setting up my 470L using a Spirit 2 and satellite, I didn't do anything regarding throttle assignment and everything works as it should. Therefore guessing no action required. Thanks again.

 

[Smoggie]

just make sure when you do the setup that in the Spirit channel assignment 'Channel 1' is assigned to throttle. It can default to 'unassigned' on a new setup.

 

[Harford]

Understand : General tab- Receiver-Channel - Receiver Channel mapping. Throttle must be assigned to Channel 1. I don't think I have ever done anything here when setting up a Spirit but I will ensure it is not 'Unassigned' . Thank you for this advice.