Showing posts with label _toc:Turnigy 9XR. Show all posts
Showing posts with label _toc:Turnigy 9XR. Show all posts

Tuesday, January 21, 2014

Using the Spektrum DM9 module with Taranis and Turnigy 9xr

Daedelus66 notes that these settings work when using a DM9 in a Taranis (and presumably other {er,open}{9x,tx} radios):

  • polarity set to +, rather than the default - (which works with the Orange module).
  • preferable but not required to set PPM to 400u instead of the default 300u. ensures neutral remains at 1.5ms -- if left on 300u it will be significantly shifted and require recentering servos.
  • DM9 uses only the three basic pins: signal #1, positive #3, and ground #4. Pins 2 and 5 are unused, so no problem there.
  • model match not supported.
  • rebind by holding the module button while powering up.


Sunday, January 19, 2014

Taranis Module Pin-Out


Courtesy of RCG user smoothvirus, here's two shots showing the pinout for JR-style modules.  The first is an actual JR radio, the second is the motherboard on the Taranis.

This should be the same for 9x and 9xr as well.

It was suggested that it would be useful to measure the voltage under load from the module connectors when calibrating the voltage.


Monday, February 4, 2013

Turnigy 9XR Programming Cable

Here's the programming cable you need to hook up your 9XR to your computer's USB port.  It's actually called an "AVR programmer" and can be useful for other things -- some quadcopter boards and microcontrollers will use this instead of USB.

USBasp AVR Programming Device for ATMEL proccessors

Sunday, February 3, 2013

er9x: uploading firmware

Here's how to flash the er9x firmware to your Turnigy 9XR.  Basic steps:

(note: after you write the firmware, you will get a throttle alert message.  this is normal, since the calibration settings have been cleared from writing the new firmware.  recalibrate your sticks and all will be well.)

  • attach data cable.  You might need to download some drivers -- some notes on this are upcoming.
  • download a copy of the firmware from this page: http://code.google.com/p/er9x
  • download and install the eepe software on your computer: http://code.google.com/p/eepe
  • in eepe, use the "write flash firmware to transmitter" option
  • reformat eeprom memory (radio does this automatically)
  • recalibrate your sticks and voltage meter



Monday, January 28, 2013

Turnigy 9XR: Radio Calibration

You need to calibrate two things when you're setting  up your 9XR -- sticks and voltmeter.

Both are in the radio setup menu -- Click the left arrow to get there

Sticks and Pots  -- setup menu 5 will give you a three-step process to calibrate the sticks and pots.  Don't over-stretch the sticks, just move them along the axes for the full range of motion. Be sure and center the pots by moving the blue notches to the topmost position.

Battery Voltage -- if you have a multimeter, you can calibrate the radio voltage display on setup menu 4. Most of the screen displays internal register settings and is used for debugging, but the bottom item is used to calibrate the voltage.  Attach a voltmeter to your battery, and match the radio's voltage level to that of you voltmeter.  Back on setup screen 1, you can see the voltage alarm level.  For LiPo batteries, 9.6 is a good value.



Friday, January 11, 2013

Turnigy 9XR with modules

Here's some quick pictures showing how my current 9x modules fit into the 9xr.  This is the FrSky module with whip antenna.  This is the module that I anticipate using the most, so I'm happy to report that it's a perfect fit and the antenna is nicely positioned.  Laying the radio down flat isn't a problem.
 Here's the original FlySky module, the one you have to unsolder from the 9x when you first get it.  Case fit is good.  As with the 9x, it's painful to see the weight of the case resting on the antenna, although as a practical issue it doesn't seem to present a real problem.  I used enough epoxy to patch a battleship, so I'm not too worried about it.  I possibly might replace this module with a store-bought FS TM002 module, which has a profile similar to the FrSky module.
 Here's the FrSky with the patch antenna.  Super-happy with how it contours to the case.
The odd duck in the bunch is the OrangeRX DSM module.  It's a tight fit in the case, so I use my pocketknife screwdriver to release one of the tabs (update: fit has loosened up, so no problem now).  The module align properly, so there's no stress on the Tx pins.
I'm not sure why HK positioned the antenna connector the way they did, but it's not in a good position.  The radio basically pivots on the antenna.  I'm not too concerned about this, since I plan on getting the 9xr DSM module whenever it comes out. (update: I'm still using the module, and it's continuing to work well. No problem with the odd antenna position!)

Saturday, December 29, 2012

er9x Tutorial: Mixing (good for Turnigy 9xr)

Here's some notes to go along with the tutorial/video for er9x mixing.  Some people have said that they thought er9x was more complicated than traditional Tx software, but in many ways I think it's simpler.

Here's a few examples that should cover most of what you need to know to make good use of the mix screen, with accompanying video tutorial. (longer version to be uploaded later)


Mixing a Stick to a Channel


This is the simplest mix you can make.  Here's Channel 1, mapped 100% from the rudder (the "source").  The "+" is just a redundant note that  it's positive 100%; all percentages are shown with the sign.
  • CH01 +100%RUD 
Set this up, and you'll see the servo attached to channel 1 moves with the rudder stick.

The default 4-channel model definition is nothing more than the four sticks mixed to the first four channels.:
  • CH01 +100%RUD 
  • CH02 +100%ELE 
  • CH03 +100%THR 
  • CH04 +100%AIL

Mixing a Stick to Two Channels


Now let's do something that's not especially useful in a practical sense, but will be handy for this tutorial.  We'll map the rudder stick to two output channels.
  • CH01 +100%RUD
  • CH02 +100%RUD 
Moving the rudder stick now moves the two servos attached to channels 1 and 2.  In some of the following examples, we'll modify channel 2 and leave channel 1 unmodified as a reference.


Reversing


There's a reversing option on the Limits menu, but it's not really necessary.  We'll reverse channel 2 by changing the +100% to -100%.
  • CH01 +100%RUD
  • CH02 -100%RUD 
Now the two servos move in opposite motion.


Reducing Rates


Change channel 2 to +50%.
  • CH01 +100%RUD
  • CH02  +50%RUD 
Now the two servos move in the same direction again, with channel 2 at 50%.  Of course, you could have a reversed lower rate throw by making the percentage negative.


HALF and FULL: Confusing yet Powerful Switch Controls


In order to do anything with switches, we'll use the HALF and FULL inputs.  By themselves, they don't do much of anything.  Let's channels 1 and 2 to to the sources HALF and FULL, respectively:
  • CH01 +100%HALF
  • CH02 +100%FULL 
This results in both channels 1 and 2 being output at a value of 100%.  Not particularly useful, so let's mix in the GEAR switch to both of these.  Keep the default Multiplex setting of ADD.

  • CH01 +100%HALF Switch(GEA)
  • CH02 +100%FULL Switch(GEA)

Now we see the channels acting like switches.  As we toggle the GEAR switch, we see channel 1 switching between 0% and 100%; channel 2 switches between -100% and 100% (just as we typically want most switches to behave for real).

So, what's happening?  Unlike a stick which varies smoothly from -100% to 100%, HALF returns either 0% or +100%, depending on the switch.  Likewise, FULL returns either -100% or 100% (the exact value can be modified by the Weight: parameter, but we'll just use 100% to keep things simple).

So, with the GEAR switch specified, the channels output -100% and 0% respectively when the switch is off, and both output 100% when the switch is on.  To reverse any of the switches, just select the switch name that starts with "!", such as "!GEA".


Setting up a Switch


So, the standard way to set a simple on/off toggle switch is to use the FULL input.  For example, to map the GEAR switch to channel 5, we would do this:
  • CH05  +100%FULL Switch(GEA) 
Note that you can specify a delay and a speed in seconds.  The speed is especially nice for things such as flaps and landing gear, since you can get a smooth scale operation.


Mixing a Stick and a Switch ("throttle enable")


Now let's mix a stick and a switch.  As a practical example, we'll set up the THR switch to enable the throttle stick.  If the THR switch is off, the throttle stick is ignored. This is a good safety feature; when you're plugging in your batteries or carrying the model before you've unplugged your batteries, you won't have to worry that the radio will bump your chest and spin up the prop.

To do this:
  • Map the throttle stick to the output channel, as covered above.
  • Specify the THR switch.
  • Set the Multiplex parameter to REPLACE
The Multiplex parameter can be one of ADD, MULTIPLY, or REPLACE.  We specify REPLACE so that when the THR switch is off the output value which would normally be specified by the stick position is replaced by -100%.  So, no matter what the stick position, the throttle can't be activated.
  • CH03   +100%THR
  •      R -100%FULL Switch(!THR)
Combining Multiple Mixes ("dual rates")


Finally, let's look at what we need to do to set up dual rates.  This is pretty simple.  You can add multiple mixes to the same channel.  The switch specifies which mix takes effect (it can actually be a lot more sophisticated, but we'll cover that later).  So, this mix:
  • CH01 +100%AIL Switch(AIL)
  •       +80%AIL Switch(!AIL)
follows this logic:
  • If the AIL switch is in the normal position, map the AIL stick at 100% to channel 1.
  • If the AIL switch is in the toggled position, map the AIL stick at 80% to channel 1.
The nice thing about er9x is that you can use a single dual rate switch to manage multiple channels.  You could repeat the above lines for the elevator and rudder channels, both of them specifying the AIL switch.


But Wait, There's More!


There's quite a bit more that can be done with er9x mixing, but this covers most of what you need to know.  If you're interested in seeing some more, drop me a line!

Monday, July 9, 2012

Interesting stuff on Turnigy 9XR (updated 12/24)

And it's here!

Turnigy 9XR Transmitter Mode 2

Turnigy 9XR Transmitter Mode 1








Modules and Receivers:

  • top row: FrSky (non-telem), SuperMicro, RMILEC, Assan, 
  • bottom row: Corona, DSM2/X (two flavors), FrSky (telem)

Accessories




A


  • New site has gone online: http://turnigy9xr.com/
  • Suggested retail price: $49.99
  • ball bearing gimbals!
  • Sounds like customized er9x firmware





Update: New Pic!

[Reserved for the HK link]









random stuff the internet thinks regarding the new Turnigy Tx...


Hi guys, 
Sorry I have not been here a lot lately. With 2 small children and some important changes coming up in H-King (ERP & HobbyKing V2) it's difficult to make time to chat with you all. 


Today I was talking with the lead engineer on the project and he said that tomorrow he should have the final version of the plastics from the injection factory. Once he gets them he will begin final test fit and QC before production. 
He also said that mass production starts in August, but I'm not going to promise you that. 


All pricing is still on track and it's still totally open source and module based. 


Anthony.

Module Update: Anthony writes:

the 9XR has an inbuilt antenna and comes with a DSMX/DSM2 module which uses the inbuilt antenna. You can also plug your own JR module in and use an external antenna.
We have given the 3D files of the module antenna system to some vendors like ImmersionRC so they can make modules for the radio 433Mhz etc.


http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=28792&PN=47



  •   " module based with inbuilt 2.4 antenna plus options for FASST, DSMX & long range 433mhz plus it looks & feels much nicer."
  •    " 9X will be replaced by 9XR later this year (worth the wait, trust me)"
  •    " its been 18 months in the making. I should have more information soon. - Anthony"
http://txrxnews.blogspot.com/2012/04/new-turnigy-9xr-confirmed.html


  • - The 9XR has a pin-out in the battery compartment for easier custom firmware flashing without needing to open the case.
  • - It will use the atmega chip and can be flashed with your existing customised software. In fact, it comes standard with a similar rom to ER9x. 
  • - Backlit screen
  • - Has inbuilt and module based antenna system
  • - Spare parts available
  • - Improved switch and pot quality
  • - The 9XR will be $50.00 
  • - We're working with Frsky on a module for the 9XR


@numanair module based with inbuilt 2.4 antenna plus options for FASST, DSMX & long range 433mhz plus it looks & feels much nicer.
https://twitter.com/hobbykinglive/status/189780311134060544



From the official HK Forum - Anthony's (HobbyKing_Admin) posts:
http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/f...TID=28792&PN=1


Posted: 11 Apr 2012 at 10:35pm
The 9XR is designed and built completely in-house (my back pocket reminds me of this every day).
It will use the atmega chip and can be flashed with your existing customised software. In fact, it comes standard with a similar rom to one you have mentioned.


We wont be sending out eval units because we have done alot of testing in house already and its unfair to make customers wait for further evaluations.


Anthony. 


Posted: 12 Apr 2012 at 9:38pm
Quote: How many channels Anthony, and will it hold genuine CE certification?
All our CE certs are genuine from Genuine testing companies.
Unfortunately competitors like to contest those certs by retesting and making comments to undermine their legitimacy.


Just to keep the critics quiet we will be using TUV to test.


Posted: 13 Apr 2012 at 6:02pm
The 9XR has a pin-out in the battery compartment for easier flashing without needing to unscrew the case.
We are taking care of the customers that like to fiddle, don't worry about that.


Posted: 15 Apr 2012 at 12:30am
Want a 433 LR module for the new 9XR?
You're going to be a happy chappy..... 


Posted: 15 Apr 2012 at 12:37am
Backlight is standard
Has inbuilt and module based antenna system
Button config makes sense
Spare parts avail from the start
Switch and pot quality far better than previous version. 


Posted: 15 Apr 2012 at 10:21am
The 9XR will be $50.00 and targeted at the standard user that likes flying, not fiddling with his radio or looking for a shady spot to see his LCD.
I like that radio and we're working on something similar (android based) but it wont have the takeup that the 9XR does.


I think Futaba, JR and Spektrum are about to get a hard kick in the nuts


Posted: 15 Apr 2012 at 11:17am
Quote: Would be good if you could make them already flashed with the frsky 2.4 telementry already installed
We're working with them on a module for the 9XR.


Posted: Today at 10:56am
I saw T2 plastics today, they looked good but work was still needed.
I would say we're 3 months out from release. (A GUESS!)


http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showpost.php?p=21354471&postcount=25