Spectrum AR9000 User Manual

AR9000 User Guide
The AR9000 full range 9-channel receiver features DSM2 technology and is compatible with all
™
Spektrum ™ and JR ® aircraft radios that support DSM2 technology including JR12X, JRX9303,
Spektrum DX7, Spektrum DX6i, Spektrum DX5e, Spektrum Module Systems.
Note: The AR9000 receiver is not compatible with the Spektrum DX6 parkflyer transmitter.
Features:
• 9-Channel Full Range Receiver
• Patented MultiLink receiver technology with up to 4 receivers
™
• Includes two internal and one remote receiver
• Two type of failsafe SmartSafe and Preset Failsafe
™
• QuickConnect ™ with Brownout Detection
• Flight Log Compatible (optional)
Applications
Full Range Up to 9 channel aircraft Including:
All types and sizes of glow, gas and electric powered airplanes
All types and sizes of no-powered gliders
All types and sizes of glow, gas and electric powered helicopters
Note: Not for use in airplanes that have full carbon fuselages.
Specifications:
Type: DSM2 Full Range Receiver
Channels: 9
Modulation: DSM2
Dimension (WxLxH): 1.25 X 1.90 X .55 in (31 x 48.4 x 13.9mm)
Weight: .53 oz (15 g) main receiver
Input Voltage Range: 3.5–9.6V
Resolution: 2048
Compatibility: All DSM2 Aircraft Transmitters and Module Systems
Receiver
The AR9000 incorporates two internal receivers, and requires one external receiver (included)
offering the security of multi path RF redundancy. Two internal receivers are located on the main
PC board, while a third external receiver must be attached to the main board with an extension.
Additionally an optional fourth receiver can be added offering the ultimate in RF link security and
redundancy. By locating each receiver in slightly different locations in the aircraft, each receiver is
exposed 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 it's important that the antennas be mounted in an orientation that
allows for the best possible signal reception when the aircraft is in all possible attitudes and posi-
tions. This is known as antenna polarization. The antennas should be oriented perpendicular to each
other; typically vertical and horizontal and at different angles (see Receiver Installation below). The
remote receiver antenna should be mounted in a position perpendicular at least 2 inches away from
the main receiver's antenna using double-sided foam tape.
Receiver Installation in Aircraft
In gas and glow aircraft install the main receiver using the same method you would use to install a
conventional receiver in your aircraft. Typically, wrap the main receiver in protective foam and
fasten it in place using rubber bands or hook and loop straps. Alternately, in electric airplanes
or helicopters, it's acceptable to use thick double-sided foam tape to fasten the main receiver in
place. The AR9000 requires at least one remote receiver to operate. Mounting this remote receiver
in a slightly different location, even just inches away from the primary receivers, gives tremendous
improvements in path diversity. Essentially, each receiver sees a different RF environment and this
is key to maintaining a solid RF link, even in aircraft that have substantial conductive materials (e.g.
larger gas engines, carbon fiber, pipes, etc.), which can weaken the signal. Using servo tape, mount
the remote receiver keeping the remote antennas at least 2 inches away from the primary antennas.
Ideally, the antennas will be oriented perpendicularly to each other. In airplanes, we've found it best
to mount the primary receiver in the center of the fuselage on the servo tray and to mount the remote
receiver to the side of the fuselage or in the turtle deck. A fourth antenna can be added for additional
RF link security.
In helicopters, there is generally enough room on the servo tray to achieve the necessary separa-
tion. If necessary a mount can be fashioned using clear plastic to mount the external receiver.
Important: Y-Harnesses and Servo Extensions
When using a Y-harness or servo extensions in your installation, it' s important to use standard non-
amplified Y-harnesses and servo extensions as this can/will cause the servos to operate erratically
or not function at all. Amplified Y-harnesses were developed several years ago to boost the signal
for some older PCM systems and should not be used with Spektrum equipment. Note that when
converting an existing model to Spektrum be certain that all amplfied Y-harnesses and/or servo
extensions are replaced with conventional non-amplified versions.
Binding
The AR9000 receiver must be bound to the transmitter before it will operate. Binding is the process
of teaching the receiver the specific code of the transmitter so it will only connect to that specific
transmitter.
1. To bind an AR9000 to a DSM2 transmitter, insert the bind plug in the BATT/BIND port on the receiver.
Note: To bind an aircraft with an electronic speed controller that powers the receiver through the
throttle channel (ESC/BEC), insert the bind plug into the BATT/BIND port in the receiver and the
throttle lead into the throttle (THRO) port. Proceed to Step #2.
2. Power the receiver. Note that the LED on the receiver should be flashing, indicating that the receiver
is in bind mode and ready to be bound to the transmitter.
Shown using a separate receiver pack. Shown using an ESC/BEC and a flight pack.
(Battery can be plugged into any open port.)
3. Move the sticks and switches on the transmitter to the desired failsafe positions (low throttle and
neutral control positions).
4. Follow the procedures of your specific transmitter to enter Bind Mode, the system will connect
within a few seconds. Once connected, the LED on the receiver will go solid indicating the system
is connected.
5. Remove the bind plug from the BATT/BIND port on the receiver before you power off the transmitter
and store it in a convenient place.
6. After you've set up your model, it' s important to rebind the system so the true low throttle and
neutral control surface positions are set.
IMPORTANT: Remove the bind plug to prevent the system from entering bind mode the next time the
power is turned on.
Failsafe functions
The Powersafe features two types of failsafe: SmartSafe and Preset Failsafe.
SmartSafe
This type of failsafe is recommended for most types of aircraft. Here' s how SmartSafe works.
When the transmitter and receiver are turned on the receiver connects to the transmitter and normal
control of all channels occurs. If loss of signal occurs, SmartSafe drives the throttle servo only to its
preset failsafe position (low throttle) that was set during binding. All other channels hold their last
position. When the signal is regained, the system immediately regains control.
Preset Failsafe
Preset failsafe is ideal for sailplanes and is preferred by some modelers for their glow- and gas-
powered aircraft.
When the transmitter and receiver are turned on and the receiver connects to the transmitter normal
control of all channels occurs. If loss of signal occurs Preset failsafe drives all servos to
their preset failsafe positions. For sailplanes it' s recommended that the spoilers/flaps deploy to de-
thermalize the aircraft, preventing a flyaway. Some powered modelers prefer to use this failsafe system
to program a slight turn and low throttle to prevent their aircraft from flying away. When the signal is
regained, the system immediately regains control.
Programming SmartSafe
During the binding process the bind plug is left in throughout the process and is removed only after
the receiver connects to the transmitter. After the connection is made, confirmed by operating the
servos, the bind plug can be removed. The receiver is now programmed for SmartSafe.
Programming Preset Failsafe
During the binding process the bind plug is inserted in the bind port, then the receiver is powered
up. The LEDs in each receiver should blink, indicating that the receiver is in bind mode. Now before
binding the receiver to the transmitter and with the receiver in bind mode, remove the bind plug. The
LEDs will still be blinking. With the control sticks and switches in the desired failsafe positions, bind
the transmitter to the receiver. Follow the procedures of your specific transmitter to enter Bind Mode.
The system should connect in less than 15 seconds. The receiver is now programmed for preset
failsafe.
Note: Failsafe positions are stored via the stick and switch positions on the transmitter during binding.
Receiver Power Only
• With SmartSafe or Preset Failsafe, when the receiver only is turned on (no transmitter signal is
present), the throttle channel has no output, to avoid operating or arming the electronic speed control.
• All other channels are driven to their preset failsafe positions set during binding.
Note: Some analog servos may coast slightly even though no signal is present. This is normal.
Plugging in the Leads
Plug the servo leads into the appropriate servo ports in the receiver noting the polarity of the
servo connector.
Range Testing
Before each flying session and especially with a new model, it is important to perform a range check.
All Spektrum aircraft transmitters incorporate a range testing system which, when activated, reduces
the output power, allowing a range check.
30 paces (90 feet/28 meters)
Pull and hold the Trainer Switch
1. With the model restrained on the ground, stand 30 paces (approx. 90 feet/28 meters) away from
the model.
2. Face the model with the transmitter in your normal flying position and place your transmitter into
range check mode.
3. You should have total control of the model with the button depressed at 30 paces (90 feet/28 meters).
4. If control issues exist, call the Spektrum Service Center in the U.S. at 1-877-504-0233 for further
assistance. In the UK or Germany use one of the following addresses.
European Union: +49 4121 46199 66 (Deutschland)
or email service@horizonhobby.de
+44 (0) 1279 641 097 (United Kingdom)
or email sales@horizonhobby.co.uk
Advanced Range Testing
For sophisticated models that have significant conductive material in them, the Advanced range test
using a flight log is recommended. The advanced range check will confirm that the internal and remote
receivers are operating optimally and that the installation (position of the receivers) is optimized for
the specific aircraft. This Advanced Range Check allows the RF performance of each receiver to be
evaluated and to optimize the locations of the remote receiver.
Advanced Range Test
1. Plug a Flight Log (SPM9540 - optional) into the data port in the AR9000 and turn on the system
(Tx and Rx).
2. Advance the Flight Log until F- frame losses are displayed by pressing the button on the Flight Log.
3. Have a helper hold your aircraft while observseving the Flight Log data.
4. Standing 30 paces away from the model, face the model with the transmitter in your normal flying
position and put your transmitter into range test mode. This causes reduced power output from the
transmitter.
5. Have your helper position the model in various orientations (nose up, nose down, nose toward the
Tx, nose away from the Tx, etc.) while your helper watches the Flight Log noting any correlation
between the aircraft' s orientation and frame losses. Do this for 1 minute. The timer on the transmitter
can be used here.
Receiver Power System Requirements
Inadequate power systems that are unable to provide the necessary minimum voltage to the receiver
during flight have become the number one cause of in-flight 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 AR9000 has a minimum operational voltage of 3.5 volts; it is highly recommended the power
system be tested per the guidelines below.
Recommended Power System Test Guidelines
If a questionable power system is being used (e.g. small or old battery, ESC that may not have a BEC
that will support high-current draw, etc.), it is recommended that a voltmeter be used to perform the
following tests.
Note: The Hangar 9 Digital Servo & Rx Current Meter (HAN172) or the Spektrum Flight Log
(SPM9540) is the perfect tool to perform the test below.
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.
Note: The latest generations of Nickel-Metal Hydride batteries incorporate a new chemistry
mandated to be more environmentally friendly. These batteries when charged with peak detection
fast chargers have tendencies to false peak (not fully charge) repeatedly. These include all brands
of NiMH batteries. If using NiMH packs, be especially cautious when charging, making absolutely
sure that the battery is fully charged. It is recommended to use a charger that can display total charge
capacity. Note the number of mAh put into a discharged pack to verify it has been charged to full
capacity.
QuickConnect ™ With Brownout Detection
Your AR9000 features QuickConnect with Brownout Detection.
• Should an interruption of power occur (brownout), the system will reconnect immediately when
power is restored (QuickConnect).
• The LED on the receiver will flash slowly indicating a power interruption (brownout) has occurred.
• Brownouts can be caused by an inadequate power supply (weak battery or regulator), a loose
connector, a bad switch, an inadequate BEC when using an Electronic speed controller, etc.
• Brownouts occur when the receiver voltage drops below 3.5 volts thus interrupting control as the
servos and receiver require a minimum of 3.5 volts to operate.