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*Airtronics RD8000 2.4 GHz*

Old 10-29-2007, 10:39 AM
  #51  
TLH101
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Default RE: *Airtronics RD8000 2.4 GHz*


ORIGINAL: blkbird68

and it still won't have all of the RD8000's features.
really??? since when did the RD8000 get the basic function of dual rate on the rudder???? Something that even the most basic computer radio should have.
Why do you need dual rate on a rudder? Aileron and elevator yes. Rudder, not needed. Rudder throw is always"all you can get".
Old 10-29-2007, 01:18 PM
  #52  
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Default RE: *Airtronics RD8000 2.4 GHz*

Rudder is typically coupled to the nose wheel. I personally find it handy to taxi/fly at full/high rate and takeoff/land at low rate. Helps to avoid oversteering on takeoff. My 7UAFS had seperate switches for each and that was a nice touch IMO. It's a persoanal preference thing. Need it? No. Like it? YES!
Old 10-29-2007, 02:09 PM
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Default RE: *Airtronics RD8000 2.4 GHz*

Why not keep full throw on the rudder and add a generous helping of expo
Pete
Old 10-29-2007, 02:16 PM
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Default RE: *Airtronics RD8000 2.4 GHz*

Why not keep full throw on the rudder and add a generous helping of expo
Pete
the RD8000 doesn't have expo on rudder either.....sorry, but as far as "computer" radios go...the RD series stinks IMO

I love my Stylus, but even it can't do something as simple as crow on a powered plane unless you feel like jumping through a bunch of hoops.
Old 10-29-2007, 02:34 PM
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Default RE: *Airtronics RD8000 2.4 GHz*

Well, from a packaging point of view I was glad to see they left the servos out. The only package I have seen of the RD8000 has standard size 94322 servos,which are big and heavy, and a large receiver.

This leads me to believe it is targeted at the glow camp. This is one reason I have not been recommending it to our members. I am part of a sailplane and small electric club. Virtually all of our planes take micro or sub micro servos, so standard size servos are only good for ballast. Most of my receivers are mini or micro receivers too. I only have 3 of 13 that are over .7 ounces. Why pay for servos and a big receiver you don't want.

Hitec, JR and Futaba systems have been available without servos either directly or from resellers who will break them up. Or they come with small servos and receivers in some of the packages. These have been getting the recommendation for new radio purchases.

I like that more and more of the radio systems can be purchased without servos. Good move on the packaging of the new system. If you want to motivate people to buy Airtronics servos, put a cupon in the radio package for a discount on servos that would be comparable to what they would have been in the package. Then we can get the size we need.
Old 10-29-2007, 04:52 PM
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Default RE: *Airtronics RD8000 2.4 GHz*


ORIGINAL: pilotpete2

Why not keep full throw on the rudder and add a generous helping of expo
Pete
I don't care for the feel of expo. Again, a personal opinion.
Old 10-30-2007, 06:51 PM
  #57  
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Default RE: *Airtronics RD8000 2.4 GHz*

We do offer the original RD8000 and VG6000 in the 72mhz range without servos as well. I know the stock receiver is not perfect for all applications, but it works for many and with the case removed is a fairly light way for a flyer to get a full function receiver. For those who need "ligther" we have a 5 channel that also has the option of having the case removed and then it is very light too (and smaller for those smaller indoor planes).

There's no way to please everyone all the time, but we do recognize many people do not need qty 4 94322Z servos in their radio so we offer them an option if they want it.

The receiver for the RDS8000 is well under an oz stock and will most likely be close to 1/2 ounce with the case removed (I'll have exact specs and pricing in a few weeks).

I think overall pilots will be pleased with this first step for Airtronics to truly get back into the Aircraft market.

Mike Greenshields
Product Manager
Global/Airtronics
Old 10-30-2007, 07:09 PM
  #58  
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Default RE: *Airtronics RD8000 2.4 GHz*

Sounds good Mike.
Old 10-31-2007, 08:41 PM
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Default RE: *Airtronics RD8000 2.4 GHz*


ORIGINAL: MikeGreenshields

We did already announce the price at the Chicago Show. Consumer price is about $229.99
That is a TX with rechargeables and a matching receiver. No servos because we felt we shouldn't force customers to buy servos they are never going to use.

Mike Greenshields
Global Hobby/Airtronics
Product Manager
MikeGreenshields,

Are there any pics of this new TX? Is there any new added features.
Old 11-01-2007, 08:05 AM
  #60  
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Default RE: *Airtronics RD8000 2.4 GHz*

Her is a pic of a black version:

[link]http://www.modelairplanenews.com/ME2/dirmod.asp?sid=&nm=&type=news&mod=News&mid=9A02E3B96F2A415ABC72CB5F516B4C10&tier=3&nid=431262E579C24338A32F40B2242E42A4[/link]

Looks very nice. You are lucky in the U.S.

@Mike
Any info if Sanwa is going to make a european model ?
I have an RD8000 today an I am very happy with it. So Of course I would like a 2.4 GHz version. Especially at the price announced.

Bye the way is it you on the pic with the RDS8000? :-)
[link]http://mikegoesflying.wordpress.com/2007/10/12/my-first-real-post/[/link]
Old 11-01-2007, 01:32 PM
  #61  
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Default RE: *Airtronics RD8000 2.4 GHz*

I can't answer for Europe. Yes Sanwa is working on getting the radio for Europe through their agents such as Ripmax. But since CE and FCC regs are different, I'm not sure of the timeline, etc.

Sorry

Mike
Old 11-01-2007, 02:49 PM
  #62  
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Default RE: *Airtronics RD8000 2.4 GHz*

Mike,
Have you ever considered setting up aa Airtronics Direct Support Forum on RCU, like Futaba, JR and Hitec have done?
I think a lot of Airtronics owners would like to see one.
Old 11-01-2007, 04:12 PM
  #63  
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Default RE: *Airtronics RD8000 2.4 GHz*

We have a service forum linked to the www.airtronics.net website

The main service website
http://globalservices.globalhobby.com

The Airtronics
http://globalservices.globalhobby.co...e19c92bb07f846

http://www.airtronics.net/Airtronics_Contact.asp
For those customers with Airtronics technical and setup questions
Airtronics offers a toll-free help line.
You can reach an Airtronics expert at 1-800-262-1178 Monday through
Friday 12pm to 4pm Pacific Time.

Airtronics is easy to reach and already online with a forum and service info.

Mike

Old 11-01-2007, 04:55 PM
  #64  
RCKen
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Default RE: *Airtronics RD8000 2.4 GHz*

I've been using Airtronics radios for 11 years and I can tell you that their service has always been first rate. All of my questions to them have been answered with easy phone calls, and all repairs made have always been done in a fast, friendly, and professional manner. What I really like about the service is they keep the end user in mind, and many times do extra work to help service their customers. There have been several times that they have made small repairs on things that they found after having the radio at little or no charge to me for those additional repairs. They get top marks in my book for their service center.

Ken
Old 11-02-2007, 10:19 AM
  #65  
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Default RE: *Airtronics RD8000 2.4 GHz*

Hi Mike.

I was just wondering if the RD 8000 2.4 would be OK to use in a 35% size plane. Could the receiver handle the higher current loads, and so on. Looks interesting!
Old 11-03-2007, 12:49 PM
  #66  
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Default RE: *Airtronics RD8000 2.4 GHz*

I would think there are many people who like the Futaba Fasst system but would be much happier with a receiver that is MUCH smaller like the Spektrum 6100. Don't know if this is doable, but I would think this would help you get some of the huge small plane market. Another radio with a larger receiver would put you squarely against the Fasst , which has already gained a great reputation for reliability, but it's receiver size makes it a non-starter for the small plane crowd. I've been Airtronics loyal and I am hoping the RDS-8000 will up the ante in 2.4 technology, I've been using an RD-6000 and dual conversion receivers in boats now for many years and have been very pleased by the blue dual conversion receivers, not so impressed by the single conversion in boats. The Fasst systems seem to be the only really good choice for boats, yes, some are making Spektrums work in boats, but the feedback has also had just as many bad experiences. Unfortunately I'm not hearing great feedback on the Airtronics 2.4 surface systems except from Factory drivers (in boats). Yes, I know boats are a puny market, and I know it's difficult to be all things to all people, but my .02.
Old 11-03-2007, 02:08 PM
  #67  
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Default RE: *Airtronics RD8000 2.4 GHz*

There are many 2.4GHz products in development from Airtronics. The RDS8000 receiver will be an 8 channel, thus it will have 8 plug ins. That makes it a full-size 8 channel receiver. It is fairly light and our pilots are using them in indoor stuff, but it is bigger (obviously).

Using it in 35% planes is fine. You'd use it just as you'd use any other receiver. There are two issues....

1. If the plane is all carbon fiber, the antennas will have to be placed outside of the fuselage.
2. If you're running very high current servos, etc, just as you would with 72mhz, you'll need a more advance power system.

But, this receiver will handle just as much current as our 72mhz stuff.

Mike
Old 11-03-2007, 04:43 PM
  #68  
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Default RE: *Airtronics RD8000 2.4 GHz*

MikeGreenshields,

Is the receiver going to be a single unit or two receivers like the DX ? I'd like to see the spec's as to what is available on the new radio.
Old 11-03-2007, 06:42 PM
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Default RE: *Airtronics RD8000 2.4 GHz*

It is a single receiver.
Old 11-03-2007, 07:20 PM
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Default RE: *Airtronics RD8000 2.4 GHz*


ORIGINAL: RCAddiction

It is a single receiver.
Are there any pics available of the receiver? I didn't like the looks of the black version TX, not very appealing.
Old 11-03-2007, 07:26 PM
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Default RE: *Airtronics RD8000 2.4 GHz*

The new receiver I saw at the Hobby Show was blue. In person, the all-black transmitter looked quite nice, and more contemporary than the current RD series, in my opinion. On the other hand, I am not sure I care a ton about how a radio looks. It's a consideration, but not my highest one. I do care that it is well built, controls are logically located and fall quickly to hand. I don't know about you, but I can't actually see the radio when I'm flying with it (grin). I'm much too busy looking at the sky.
Old 11-03-2007, 07:33 PM
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Default RE: *Airtronics RD8000 2.4 GHz*


ORIGINAL: RCAddiction

The new receiver I saw at the Hobby Show was blue. In person, the all-black transmitter looked quite nice, and more contemporary than the current RD series, in my opinion. On the other hand, I am not sure I care a ton about how a radio looks. It's a consideration, but not my highest one. I do care that it is well built, controls are logically located and fall quickly to hand. I don't know about you, but I can't actually see the radio when I'm flying with it (grin). I'm much too busy looking at the sky.
RCAddiction,

You have a point there but I still like a TX to have a good look to it. It's all about prestige.
Old 11-03-2007, 07:41 PM
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Default RE: *Airtronics RD8000 2.4 GHz*

To each his own. If you want prestige, there are many, many fine radios that cost $500-$1,000 and up. I've owned a $2200 Futaba 14MZ (which I later sold) as well as an $800 Royal Evo 12 synth (also sold). Both looked cool.

For what it's worth, there have been a lot of top pilots flying the DX7 on 35-40% planes to showcase 2.4 for Horizon. In my opinion, while the DX7 is surely a good radio, and I've played with one, it looks a bit toy-like and cheap to my eyes compared to a 9303 or 10X, for example. However, I don't think those top pilots fly any less well or are judged any less critically because of how that radio happens to look.
Old 11-03-2007, 10:11 PM
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Default RE: *Airtronics RD8000 2.4 GHz*

This system looks good, if available in feb then its plenty in time for the flying season. Ideas on how much the recievers are going to cost?
Can you fly planes in heli mode to get the rudder dual rate and expo (this should be included in the Aero menu IMO).
Old 11-04-2007, 06:18 AM
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Default RE: *Airtronics RD8000 2.4 GHz*


ORIGINAL: RCAddiction

To each his own. If you want prestige, there are many, many fine radios that cost $500-$1,000 and up. I've owned a $2200 Futaba 14MZ (which I later sold) as well as an $800 Royal Evo 12 synth (also sold). Both looked cool.

For what it's worth, there have been a lot of top pilots flying the DX7 on 35-40% planes to showcase 2.4 for Horizon. In my opinion, while the DX7 is surely a good radio, and I've played with one, it looks a bit toy-like and cheap to my eyes compared to a 9303 or 10X, for example. However, I don't think those top pilots fly any less well or are judged any less critically because of how that radio happens to look.
Like you said, "to each his own".

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