HK-7X 2.4Ghz 7ch w/ 5 Model Memory TX & RX V2 (Mode 1)

Nikki,
Pardon the long post, but:
Trust me, you DO want a programmable radio. If you get a non-programmable radio like the Futaba 4YF, will not be able to set end points (EPAs). This means you will not be able to set the top speed on your motors through the speed controller by setting the radio, nor will you be able to adjust rudder throw or other servo throws, possibly resulting in damaged servos or other parts if you are not carefully mechanically set up. These are just a few of the things you want and need. Having Expo or dual rate can also be VERY helpful for a beginner, as there is frequently a tendency to over-control.
Again, it is strongly suggested that you learn as much as you can about the various features available, what they do, and how they work before you even consider buying a radio. Any local RC club (boat, plane, submarine, warship, car, etc.) will have gurus ready and willing to discuss the various features (and probably demonstrate them) if you do not want do do the googling to research it yourself. Likewise your local hobby shop.
A cautionary tale as to why I and several others have suggested you not worry about the radio until last. In the past 24 hours, I have come across 3 different solutions, ranging in price from $20 to $100 that allow you to use an IPhone or ITouch as the transmitter, the $100 one allowing you to use several different modules for compatibility with different receivers. Yes, some apparently allow you to tilt your phone forward to go forward, back to stop and back up, tilt it to the left to turn to port, etc.
And, I found an additional controller board for the basic generic $50-60 9X radio that, theoredtically at least, gives you up to 21 injputs mixed to up to 16 controll channels. For under $100. And some new internally programmable $30-$40 6 channel radios that are not yet in stock that I came across last week.
Hmmm. A 16 channel radio with inbuilt telemetry for under $200-$250. This part of the hobby is still in rapid (and perhaps accelerating) flux. I have also seen rumors that a major Chinese player is also coming up with a similar upgrade part to the Gruvin (the NTXBG battle radio under development is based on the Gruvin upgrade as of right now) and SKY-ER boards already out there.
And, no, they are so new, I have not had my hands on them, so cannot make recommendations.
Again, my .02:
First and foremost build your ship and get it ready - test with a borowed radio if necessary.
Second, in the meantime, learn as much as you can about such thinds as EPA, Dual Rates, Mixes, Subtrims, analog vs digital inputs, digital vs 3 position switches, Expos, etc. and how or if they can be used to help you run your ship. You might also want to learn the basics of how a servo or ESC and their subsystems actually work.
Then, once you have a ship and need a radio, and have assessed your needs, and your anticipated future needs for future ships, and know what features to look for, you will be well equipped to start shopping for what is currently then available to fit those needs.
Cheers,

 

Wreno,
Here the Info on the Radio: This is the 2.4GHz FHSS Futaba 4YF 4-Channel Radio System
with the R2004GF Receiver.
Transmitter and Receiver only, Servos not included

Features
FHSS (Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum) eliminates frequency pins
and signal interference-pushbutton transmitter/receiver linking
with no binding plugs
R2004GF receiver has coaxial antenna that can be positioned inside
model for optimum reception
Power Down Mode - reduces RF power for 90 seconds, simplifying ground
checks for interference
All-channel servo reversing for more installation options
Power and servo reversing switches are located down and out of the
way for convenience and to avoid accidental changes
Battery meter features one Green and one Red LED for easy-to-read
GO/NO GO status, does not have battery failsafe function
Elevon mixing
Gimbals have knurled tops for a better "feel" on the sticks and to
prevent finger slippage
One year limited warranty through Hobby Services beginning at date
of purchase

Includes
2.4GHz FHSS Futaba 4YF 4-Channel Transmitter
R2004GF Receiver, FUTL7617
On/Off Switch Harness
Neck Strap
Instruction Manual

Requires
AA Batteries: Four for transmitter
Receiver battery pack depending on application

Specifications
Transmitter;
Transmitting Frequency: 2.4GHz band
Power Requirement: Four AA cells
Current Drain: 90mA
Trainer Port: Micro
Receiver;
Power Requirement: 4.8 - 6V shared with servo
Current Drain: 30mA at no signal
Size: 1.54 x 1.02 x 0.39" (39 x 26 x 10mm)
Weight: 0.49oz (14g)

Comments
2.4GHz FHSS is not compatible with FASST systems, and the R2004GF
receiver is compatible only with electronics created specifically
for 2.4GHz FHSS systems.
Can be used in a Trainer configuration as the Student only.
***** This does require a special Mini Charge Plug if you are going
going to use NiCd batteries. You can purchase this from
your local Great Planes authorized hobby store. Or directly
through Futaba Services by calling 217-398-8970 opt 2.
The part numbers and prices that you require are;
HSP29615 FUTABA MINI CHARGE PLUG W/LEAD retail price $5.79
Features
• FHSS (Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum) eliminates frequency pins and signal interference-pushbutton transmitter/receiver linking with no binding plugs
• R2004GF receiver has coaxial antenna that can be positioned inside model for optimum reception
• Power Down Mode - reduces RF power for 90 seconds, simplifying ground checks for interference
• All-channel servo reversing for more installation options
• Power and servo reversing switches are located down and out of the way for convenience and to avoid accidental changes
• Battery meter features one Green and one Red LED for easy-to-read GO/NO GO status, does not have battery failsafe function
• Elevon mixing
• Gimbals have knurled tops for a better "feel" on the sticks and to prevent finger slippage
• One year limited warranty through manufacturer beginning at date of purchase
Includes
2.4GHz FHSS Futaba 4YF 4-Channel Transmitter
R2004GF Receiver, FUTL7617
On/Off Switch Harness
Neck Strap
Instruction Manual
You Will Need
AA Batteries: Four for transmitter
Receiver battery pack depending on application. http://secure.hobbyzone.com/FUTK4200.html .. I hope your not mad at me??

 

Dear Nikki,

Yes, I read the specs of that before I wrote my post. You will note it says nothing about end-point adjustments, and only has elevon mixing, thus, IMHO is is not well suited for our hobby for the reasons given in my earlier post. By the way, not a lot of elevon mixing seen in our hobby 9at least that I have seen - would love to know if anyone is using it effectively and how it it is being used), but, if you do figure out a use for it, you can get dandy stand-alone elevon mixers that would fit in the ship for under $15. Of course, most, if not all, of the programmable radios offer this as well with no extra module.

I am curious as to why you keep asking if I am mad at you? I am just trying to give as good advice as I can. Again, I suggest you learn what all the possible various features actually are and what they will do for you, and whether you want/need them. I have given you a list if the various features, but there are tons of discussions about what EPAs, Dual Rates, etc. are and how they work on the web already, and there is no reason to reinvent the wheel here. I find EPA's hightly desirable, and should probably use DR and Expo's, but suffer through without using them so far 9though I have them available, and have set up DR for some things on the Dunk). Also, as noted earlier, it is far easier to learn these things face-to-face at the hobby shop or with an airplane or car or boat club meeting than through e-mails or forums if you do not want to take the time to do research.

Cheers,

 

Hey Wreno,
I also, for the Moment have a 2-channel Futaba, That I can use As well!! But That just til i get the Money I need for the Programmable Radio, What do you thing??
Nikki

 

Dear Nikki,

If it is 27mHz, 75mHz, or 2.4 gHz, it would be fine to start with - throttle and rudder only take 2 channels. If it is from a plane and is 72mHz, it is illegal for surface use. Using what you already have is usually a good start. However, if it is a car radio with a wheel and trigger instead of joysticks, you will have some relearning to do when you change.

Cheers,

 

Wreno,
Its a 75Mhz surface Radio. But Its got a lone antenna,and I've poked myself in the eye with it, But its Only a two Channel, Til i can same up for a programmable Radio!!
Nikki

 

Nikki,
Sounds like a good plan for now. A couple to keep your eye out for if you do end up needing need one in the near future (they are currently our of stock) are the www.hobbypartz.com/exceedrc-24ghz-6ch-tx-lcd-2602.html or the http://www.hobbypartz.com/79p-t6-6ch-radio-lcd.html.
I have not used them, and thus cannot really recommend them, but I have sed the underlying radio system for years and thus expect it to be decent.
Also keep you eye on Hobbyking for the upcoming Turnigy 9X-R or 9R. Supposed to be in the $50 range and is 8 channels with more bells and wihistles than you can imagine. Hobbyking should also be carrying the flysky radio listed above under the HobbyKing brand eventually.
Again, neither is quite available yet, but may be (and there may als be even better/less costly alternatives) once you DO need to replace your 2 channel. Also, since they are not available, I canno actually recommend them, but, having used their predecessors, do have high hopes.
Cheers,

 

Wreno,
This is one of the other Radio That I'm Looking at: http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__19673__Turnigy_9X_9Ch_Transmitter_w_Module_8ch_Receiver_Mode_2_v2_Firmware_USA_Warehouse_.html

 

Dear Nikki,
I own two of those radios. Were I you, I would wait (and am waiting) on the new and improved version of that radio, the 9X-R or the 9R. It is due out later this month or sometime next month.
But, once again, I suggest you wait until you need one before you start shopping (i.e. finish the ship). Once you have your ship ready, then that radio will probably be out and battle tested. In fact, by the time you get your ship ready, there may be new, betterr, less costly, or more effective radios. Which is why I and others have tried to suggest that you to wait until you get your ship done to go radio shopping. The advice from today may obsolete or totally invalid tomorrow.
To try and narrow down choices at this stage is just spending your time and energy better spent on shipbuilding and learning what the various features are so you can make an informed decosion.
Cheers,

 

wernow,
The Ship the Radio is going to is about 75% Finish, at the moment - the SS!! This is the other one i was looking at: http://www.servocity.com/html/optic_6_sport_2_4ghz_system.html ..
Nikki

 

UPDATE: The Turnigy 9XR is out and in the wild (I have one and am just beginning to experiment on it). FWIW, I like the FRSky module, but from ALOFThobbies, as the version from HK does not come with the telemetry capable RX. The basic radio without the RF module or battery (It takes a 3S) is $49.95 as promised. Not sure whether a tricked out 9X is perhaps not a better battle radio than the base 9XR, but time will tell. Both are incredibly capable, though, with programmable(logic or condition based) softswitches, curves, lots of mixes, etc. I think both will put out 16 channels, but have not tested the 9XR on this.
New 3/27/2013 - I have been experimenting with various ways to implement roughly-converging fire with the stock mixes and curves on the stock Turnigy 9XR factory firmware with some decent success. The hardware ship emulator is under construction for fine-tuning and demonstration. One turret and two servos are already mounted. Since the base is aluminum, I want to build a radio platform in the "superstructure" area to minimize possibility of shorts and RF issues. I have done the quick and dirty figuring in EEPE and then programming the radio from the built-in interface - not flashing the firmware. Once you get id down, it is pretty easy, though not as easy as it would be if I used the computer and simply flashed it.

Segue: You might wonder why you would want so many output channels. In Big Gun, it would be nice to have each turret independently controlled so that when you designate a target, all turrets that can come to bear do so and are armed for firing. Also, you want to set up no-fire and lift guns ares for superfiring turrets and such. If you can do all this with 2 controls on the radio (azimuth and range) and it can send the correct signals to each turret for its individual azimuth and depression for converging 9or near converging) fire, you have improved deadliness with a good eye for firing solutions. But this requires, at optimum, 3 channels per turret (azimuth, depression, and firing). A 4 turret ship would thus require 12 channels for the guns, and with helm and throttle taking two, you need a minimum of 14. One of the reasons this has not been implemented in this fashion is the $,$$$$.$$ of the radios capable in the past, so ganging them together in one or two groups, all with the same elevation, has been the norm (a 6 channel radio will often work if you do it that way). In Small/Fast Gun style, probably not so much an issue.

As fro the upcoming FRSky- X9DA radios, the beta versions are is in their second (at least) revision, and the release date appears to be pushed back to March or April, as best as I can tell. I have expectation that the second gen beta will be out shortly, but have not seen hard evidence of it yet. Based on my limited understanding of the capabilities, the sweet spot of radios available now is either a maxed our 9X, or, perhaps a 9XR, but the FRSky may change that shortly. Stay tuned.
Latest news as of March 27 on the FRSky-X9DA. It is now due to be released as the FRSky Taranis (makes sense to drop ght whole "9" thing since it has various ways to have well over 9 channels). If you want a peek: www.frsky-rc.co.uk/frsky-news-frsky...ry-modules eith more info here: www.microtechnics.eu/liste.php

Again, the advice is "buy your radio last," as what the advice is today may bear no relation to the advice given as early as tomorrow.

Cheers,

 

Additional update. By hooking up a Tactics Anylink to the Futaba trainer port on the Turnigy 9XR and adjusting the settings, I now have a 14 channel radio working (1-8 are FRSky protocal with a FRSky TX module in the bay, 9-14 are the Tactic). Yep, different controls control each channel. So I have a $50 Turnigy 9XR radio running 14 channels through 2 different protocols by 2 different manufacturers to 2 different RXS, one of which handles 1-8 and the other 9-14. With an 8 ch TX module system plugged into the trainer port, it is supposed to be able to handle 16 discrete outputs. Haven't tried it yet, though.

Cheers,

 

Good idea, Greg,
In fact, it is the plans once I get the Taranis in hand and do a bit more testing with some other modules I have is stock:
A side-by side comparision of the 9x, 9XR, and Taranis with features etc.
A simplified tutorial of how you accomplish this on each.
Also, after further testing, a tutorial on concentrating fire with the mixes/curves, etc. on my fire concentration system.
Just occurred to me this morning that that might be a good way to distinguish what I am working toward (more of a "shotgun" or "closeology" approach than a true "converging fire" system. Just call it a fire concentration system (i.e., getting more rounds in the same general area). Are you good with that distinction in terminology? FCS for what I am doing vs CFS or CF for your approach for short?
Cheers,

 

That is one of the reasons I am finishing up my hardware ship turret system simulator. To debug collisions, firing into the backs of things, etc. it can currently handle turrets space as far as about 47" center-center. I expect it to look cool when B turret automatically un-depresses to level to pass over A turret on the Missouri setup I am currently using as a test subject.
Cheers,

 

Guys,
I have an Update on the Radio! I got at Futaba 6EX 2.4Ghz FASST Radio.
Nikki

 

Nice radio, Nikki. I have one. It will probably serve you well for a while.
Cheers,

 

Wreno,
The Nice thing with it, Its doesn't have the long antenna, so No chance of poking myself in the Eye , But its going to take me a while to learn to use it!!
Nikki