Futaba 6EX 2.4GHz Digital Proportional R/C System

[Vinnie BraniganParticipant @vinniebranigan92297]

Dave Brumstead reviews this new r/c system and its suitability for model boats.

Vinnie

[Neil TraylenParticipant @neiltraylen90969]

Hi,

I commented on this article (in Feedback forum) when it came out in the magazine.  My main point at the time, which I think still stands, is that whilst it is an article describing the kit, it does not in any way shape or form address the equipment ‘s ‘suitability for model boats’.  I would have expected some information on range, location of aerials and other elements of this exciting new kit – i.e. it suitability for model boats.   There is a lot of uninformed speculation about this kit which I would hope that your august publication would cast some authoritative light on.  Not just a precis of the operating manual.  Please see my previous posting for details.

Regards

Neil

[Terry BurnettParticipant @terryburnett86686]

Might be useful information.

I fly aircraft as well as sail boats, and have purchased a Futaba 6EX 2.4 gig set for boat use which is fine if you spit the aerials into two routes, If a GRP hull is used keep the aerials just below the deck, or preferably above, they are only about 100mm long.

There are concerns with respect to the transmitter on/off switch on the 6EX. If the switch is operated on/off quickly in succession an RF signal may be generated which may reduce the coding link between the RX/TX to all zero’s which in turn may introduce the REMOTE possiblity of meeting a modeller who has done the same…..you are both then on the same frequency. (5 Seconds between switches are required) This is in addition to the coding problem which has been addressed by all Ripmax distributors. There is a note from Ripmax Futaba with respect to the above, Ripmax are a most responsible distributor,however the British Model Flying Association (BMFA) are extremely concerned as to Futaba’s response to the issue. It is so much easier with boats though just check out with any other modeller on 2.4 EX

Just a personal opinion with respect to 2.4 gig, take advice from a model aircraft retailer as well as a boat retailer, it has to be said the aircarft bods are very cautious due to the dangers and complexity of RC applications.

Although I have a 6EX (£149) and am delighted with the kit the general opinion is the Spektrum range is superior (£260) complete with digital servo’s however is this really needed fot a boat application?

Beware of importing a 2.4 gig radio from the USA, this is an attractive option as a Spektrum may be purchased for the price of an 6EX (if you avoid customs) however the power output from USA models is higher than UK models and is therefore illegal, I am advised the power can be reduced by a specialist in the UK at no cost.

 Contact Steve Webb models for advice.

Hope this helps

[subhunterParticipant @subhunter]

With the futaba 6x does anyone know if it has servo reverse facility thanks in advance          Subhunter

[Terry BurnettParticipant @terryburnett86686]

Yes the 6X 2.4 has servo reverse on all channels and end point adjustment (this limits the servo travel on a % basis in both directions, most useful for the rudder.

Hope this helps

[Chris HeapeParticipant @chrisheape54141]

Is it the case that there can be several models, each with thier own recievers, linked to ‘model memory’ on the transmitter, up to the limit of the transmitter? rather than having one reciever wich has to be moved from model to model. Chris………………..

[Terry BurnettParticipant @terryburnett86686]

As far as I am aware you can re code the additional receiver/s. The transmitter  (TX) holds the master (ID) code and the receiver (RX) is coded to the TX  using the ‘Link Procedure’ As far as I am aware you can have as many RX’s assigned to the TX as you wish. Please check this out with an aircraft specialist store such as Steve webb’s. Terry

[Chris HeapeParticipant @chrisheape54141]

Thank you Terry, I will continue! Perhaps with the 607 recievers if I can find them. Chris……………..

[Chris HeapeParticipant @chrisheape54141]

Have bought from Steve Webb, with 606’s, exelent service!

[Vinnie BraniganParticipant @vinniebranigan92297]

REVIEW

[Author]

Posts