Introduction - GRAUPNER mx-16 ifs Programming Manual

mx
-16 – the latest generation of radio control technology
2.4 GHz iFS technology (iFS = intelligent Frequency
Select) with bi-directional communication between
transmitter and receiver represents a further milestone in
radio control technology. Several years of development
and a comprehensive programme of testing have led to
the introduction of this new Graupner | iFS system. The
development phase was accompanied by intensive practi-
cal testing which has confi rmed the many advantages of
the overall design.
mc
The Graupner/JR -24 computer radio control system
mx
was introduced back in 1997, and the
many of its features, refi ned to meet the needs of the
mx
beginner. Although the -16iFS is intended primarily for
the inexperienced user, it is still capable of controlling all
current types of model, from fi xed-wing model aeroplanes
and helicopters to model boats and cars.
In the area of fi xed-wing models and helicopters it is
often necessary to employ complex mixer functions for
the control surfaces or the swashplate actuation system.
Computer technology enables you to activate a vast
range of functions to cope with special model require-
ments – just by pressing a button. With the
all you do is select the appropriate model type, and the
software then presents you automatically with the ap-
propriate mixer and coupling functions. This means that
the transmitter requires no additional modules in order to
implement complex coupled functions, and you can forget
all about old-fashioned mechanical mixers in the model.
mx
The -16iFS provides an extremely high level of safety
and reliability in use.
mx
The -16iFS offers twelve model memories, each of
which can store model settings for different fl ight phases.
Individual phases can be called up in fl ight simply by
operating a switch, so that you can try out various settings
6

Introduction

quickly and without risk. This can be for test purposes or
for varying parameters for different phases of fl ight.
The large graphic screen makes operating the transmitter
a simple, intuitive process. Mixers and other functions can
be displayed in graphic form, and this is extraordinarily
helpful.
The beginner soon becomes familiar with the wide range
of functions available thanks to the clear, logically ar-
ranged program structure. Adjustments are made using
just three buttons on the left, together with the rotary
-16iFS retains
cylinder to the right of the high-contrast screen, and in this
way you very quickly learn how to make full use of all the
options you need, according to your experience in han-
dling radio-controlled models.
The digital modulation of the "intelligent frequency select"
process provides the extremely high servo travel resolu-
tion of 65,536 steps, guaranteeing ultra-fi ne control. In
theory the Graupner | iFS system permits the simultane-
ous use of up to 120 models, although in practice the
mixed operation of different technical systems in the 2.4
GHz band – as required by the approval regulations – re-
mx
-16iFS
duces this number considerably. Generally, however, it will
always be possible to operate even more models simul-
taneously on the 2.4 GHz band than on the 35 / 40 MHz
frequency bands which we have used to date. However,
the actual limiting factor – as it has always been – is likely
to remain the size of the (air-) space available. The simple
fact that no frequency control procedure is necessary
equates to an enormous gain in safety, especially at fl ying
sites such as gliding slopes where groups of pilots may
be distributed over a large area, with nobody in overall
control.
The XZ-P1 iFS programming module, which is available
as an optional accessory, provides a simple method of
programming the iFS RF transmitter module and the
iFS receiver using a PC. Variable parameters include
the output power of the RF module, the receiver output
sequence and the Fail-Safe settings for each channel.
Alternatively these functions can be programmed using
push-buttons.
This manual describes each menu in detail, and also
provides dozens of useful tips, notes and programming
examples to complement the basic information. More
general modelling terms, such as Transmitter controls,
Dual-Rates, Butterfl y (Crow) and many others, are all
explained in the manual.
The Appendix contains comprehensive information on the
Trainer (teacher / pupil) system. The manual concludes
with a table of the transmitter output powers and national
receiver settings approved for use in individual European
countries, copies of the Conformity Declaration and the
transmitter's Guarantee Certifi cate.
Please read the safety notes and the technical informa-
tion. We recommend that you read right through the
instructions with great care, and check all the functions
as described in the text. This can be carried out simply by
connecting servos to the supplied receiver, and watching
their response as you program the transmitter. This is the
quickest method of becoming familiar with the essential
mx
procedures and functions of the -16iFS.
Always handle your radio-controlled model with a respon-
sible attitude to avoid endangering yourself and others.
All of us in the GRAUPNER team wish you every success
mx
and many years of pleasure with your
is an excellent example of the latest generation of radio
control systems.
Kirchheim-Teck, March 2009
-16iFS, which