Futaba 7C Transmitter Differences
 

How much of a difference is there between FM, PCM, and 2.4ghz. For a Futaba 7C with 4 S3151 servos: FM- $245, PCM- $280, 2.4ghz- $350.

I want to get this radio when i get my new plane, which could be as far away as in a year, but i dont know enough about the differences in FM, PCM, 2.4ghz to know if the cost differences would be worth it to me. So, im gonna tell you all about what i want, and hopefully you all can just give me your opinion.

Money- I would prefer cheaper options, because Im 16, and I only mow lawns. $100 receiver might be much. I would need only 1 extra.

Frequencies- Not to many people are ever at my field, so not being able to fly because someone else has you frequency is rare, yet happens.

Glitching interference- I don't think it happens that often. I haven't witnessed a crash due to interference on a 72mhz radio

Receivers- As i said before, I would need another $100 receiver if i got the 2.4ghz. If I get the PCM, then I think I would also need a new receiver, because the one of my trainer is FM. But I would only need 4 channels, but the cheapest PCM is 6-channel $80. However I read in the description of the 7CAP, that the radio can be switched from FM to PCM. Does this mean one model, I can use PCM, and another FM? Or is it I can use either, but only that? If I get FM, then i definitly don't need a new receiver.

Right now im thinking my best bet is PCM (as long as I can switch to FM, to fly my trainer, then switch back.) I dont think the extra cost of 2.4ghz is necessary, since 72mhz hasnt had any issues with glitching, and the frequency conflicts aren't bad. THanks in advance for your opinions.

RE: Futaba 7C Transmitter Differences
 

Another consideration is the type of planes you intend to fly. Do you need digital servos? You can save money there by going with 3004 servos if you don't need digitals in your next plane.

Spare RX?
R168DF FM = @$60 + $13 crystal = $73 total
R168DP PCM = @$60 + $13 crystal = $73 total
R607FS FASST = @$100 and no crystal needed
@ $27 higher than FM or PCM ready to fly

http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin...&I=LXSEJ8&P=SM
Futaba 7C 7-Channel 2.4GHz/4 S3004 Servos @$320

I don't see any use in buying the old tech at this point if you can swing buying the new stuff.

RE: Futaba 7C Transmitter Differences
 

The 7C, on 72 mhz, can be switched back and forth between PCM and PPM (what everyone calls "FM"). Download the manual from http://www.futaba-rc.com/manuals/manual-7c.html and see page 28.

I am not really on the 2.4 ghz bandwagon. I plan to keep my existing 72 mhz stuff as long as possible. But, I agree with Bruce. Do not buy an advanced 72 mhz system now. If you keep flying, you're likely to see the day that the 72 mhz frequencies are no longer available to RC operators. Depending on which rumor you listen to, that could be as few as 5 years away and some think it will never happen. Whether you end up with a 7C, DX7, or something totally different; make sure your new radio is not likely to be legislated out of existence.

Keep your existing combination intact and fly the wings off of your trainer. Do not switch it over to work with the new transmitter unless there is a compelling reason to do so; that's spending money you do not need to spend.

RE: Futaba 7C Transmitter Differences
 

I'm going to get the SIG 4* 60, as my next plane. Like I said, this could be awhile before i get it, so will have time to see where radio technology is going. Anyways for the 4* 60, are S3004 servos ok?

RE: Futaba 7C Transmitter Differences
 

They would be fine.

And then, down the line, if you go 3D or for some other reason need higher torque or more holding power for a future plane you can get them then. The 3004's would alwys be good for throttle or lesser torque purposes in those planes.

RE: Futaba 7C Transmitter Differences
 

The price difference between the FM (really ppm) version and the PCM version is nothing more than the cost of the reciever, the systems are otherwise identical.