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TRAXXAS TQ
RADIO SYSTEM
i
INTRODUCTION
Your model includes the latest Traxxas TQi 2.4GHz transmitter with Traxxas
Link
Model Memory. The transmitter's easy-to-use design provides instant
™
driving fun for new R/C enthusiasts, and also offers a full complement of
pro-level tuning features for advanced users – or anyone interested in
experimenting with the performance of their model. The steering and
throttle channels feature adjustable Exponential, End Points, and Sub-
Trims. Steering and braking Dual-Rate are also available. Many of the
next-level features are controlled by the Multi-Function knob, which can
be programmed to control a variety of functions. The detailed instructions
(page 31) and Menu Tree (page 34) included in this manual will help you
understand and operate the advanced functions of the new TQi radio
system. For additional information and how-to videos, visit Traxxas.com.
RADIO AND POWER SYSTEM TERMINOLOGY
Please take a moment to familiarize yourself with these radio and power
system terms. They will be used throughout this manual. A detailed
explanation of the advanced terminology and features of your new radio
system begins on page 31.
BEC (Battery Eliminator Circuit) - The BEC can either be in the receiver or in
the ESC. This circuit allows the receiver and servos to be powered by the
main battery pack in an electric model. This eliminates the need to carry a
separate pack of 4 AA batteries to power the radio equipment.
Current - Current is a measure of power flow through the electronics,
usually measured in amps. If you think of a wire as a garden hose, current
is a measure of how much water is flowing through the hose.
ESC (Electronic Speed Control) - An electronic speed control is the
electronic motor control inside the model. The XL-5 HV uses MOSFET
power transistors to provide precise, digital proportional throttle control.
Electronic speed controls use power more efficiently than mechanical
speed controls so that the batteries run longer. An electronic speed control
also has circuitry that prevents loss of steering and throttle control as the
batteries lose their charge.
Frequency band - The radio frequency used by the transmitter to send
signals to your model. This model operates on the 2.4GHz direct-sequence
spread spectrum.
LiPo - Abbreviation for Lithium Polymer. Rechargeable LiPo battery packs
are known for their special chemistry, which allows extremely high energy
density and current handling in a compact size. These are high performance
batteries that require special care and handling. LiPo battery packs are for
advanced users only.
mAh – Abbreviation for milliamp hour, a measure of the capacity of the
battery pack. The higher the number, the longer the battery will last
between recharges.
Neutral position - The standing position that the servos seek when the
transmitter controls are at the neutral setting.
NiCad - Abbreviation for nickel-cadmium. The original rechargeable hobby
pack, NiCad batteries have very high current handling, high capacity,
and can last up to 1000 charging cycles. Good charging procedures are
required to reduce the possibility of developing a "memory" effect and
shortened run times.
NiMH - Abbreviation for nickel-metal hydride. Rechargeable NiMH batteries
offer high current handling and much greater resistance to the "memory"
effect. NiMH batteries generally allow higher capacity than NiCad
batteries. They can last up to 500 charge cycles. A peak charger designed
for NiMH batteries is required for optimal performance.
Receiver - The radio unit inside your model that receives signals from the
transmitter and relays them to the servos.
Resistance - In an electrical sense, resistance is a measure of how an
object resists or obstructs the flow of current through it. When flow is
constricted, energy is converted to heat and is lost.
Servo - Small motor unit in your model that operates the steering mechanism.
Transmitter - The hand-held radio unit that sends throttle and steering
instructions to your model.
Trim - The fine-tuning adjustment of the neutral position of the servos,
made by adjusting the throttle and steering trim knobs on the face of the
transmitter. Note: The Multi-Function knob must be programmed to serve as
a throttle trim adjustment.
Thermal Shutdown Protection - Temperature sensing electronics are
used in the ESC to detect overloading and overheating of the transistor
circuitry. If excessive temperature is detected, the unit automatically shuts
down to prevent damage to the electronics.
2-channel radio system - The TQ radio system, consisting of the receiver, the
transmitter, and the servos. The system uses two channels: one to operate
the throttle and one to operate the steering.
2.4GHz Spread Spectrum – This model is equipped with the latest R/C
technology. Unlike AM and FM systems that require frequency crystals
and are prone to frequency conflicts, the TQi system automatically selects
and locks onto an open frequency and offers superior resistance to
interference and "glitching."
Voltage - Voltage is a measure of the electrical potential difference between
two points, such as between the positive battery terminal and ground.
Using the analogy of the garden hose, while current is the quantity of
water flow in the hose, voltage corresponds to the pressure that is forcing
the water through the hose.
550 and 540 - These numbers refer to the size of the motor. 550 motors have
armatures that are 30% longer than 540 motors.
Applying the Decals
The main decals for your
model have been applied at
the factory. Additional decals
are printed on self-adhesive
clear mylar and are die-cut
for easy removal. Use a
hobby knife to lift the corner
of a decal and lift it from the
backing.
To apply the decals, place one
end down, hold the other end
up, and gradually smooth the
decal down with your finger
as you go. This will prevent air
bubbles. Placing both ends
of the decal down and then
trying to smooth it out will
result in air pockets. Look
at the photos on the box for
typical decal placement.
8 8
TRX-4 • 11
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