RE: loosing signal
I just want to add again there are many many threads about the DX8 and similar issues. there are many threads about all radios and similar issue but the DX8 for its short lifetime has many more.
I had problems in my area. 1 out of 20 flights there was an issue with a "hold". 3 of my jets came back so I made excuses for it, bad servos, brownouts, ok that was a glitch. The final "glitch" caused a hold that sent my jet into some trees at WOT. Sold the radio that night.
It is possible its your area, and my area, that the Dx8 has issues.
I had lots of problems with it an dsm2 rx. Try getting a DSMx Rx and see if that helps.