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Introduction:
The Airtronics RDS 8000 2.4GHz FHSS
is an 8-channel radio system designed for both helicopters and fixed-wing model
aircraft. It can be configured as a basic transmitter to fly simple three or
four-function models or as a more advanced programmable transmitter with features
such as different helicopter flight modes or complex aileron and flap mixture
combinations. This versatility is a feature of the RDS 8000 FHSS.
The transmitter and receiver are
sold either as a unit for ~ $150 or as a transmitter and two receivers for ~$230. You supply your own servos. This is the
best way since many 2.4 Ghz systems are being purchased as direct replacements
for older 72 MHz systems already in place inside an aircraft. In this way Airtronics
makes updating your aircraft, even advanced aerobatic airplanes and
helicopters, more cost efficient this way. And since the system is made by
Airtronics, one of the oldest and most trusted manufacturers of RC radio
systems, this is a double value.
 
The RDS 8000 uses Airtronics' FHSS
2.4GHz communications frequency hopping technology and is designed not to interfere
with other 2.4GHz systems so you never have to worry about other fliers being
on your frequency. No more accidental "shoot downs".
The RDS 8000 does require some
programming to get it to do what you want. Computer radio manuals tend to be
organized by technical features rather than how a new user would approach the radio
for the first time. The RDS 8000 manual is pretty good if you already know something
about computer radios.
This article is written in such a
way that it takes into consideration that Model Aviation's Sport Aviator is dedicated to
helping new R/C airplane pilots succeed. The flavor of the review will
therefore be both an evaluation and an explanation at the same time.
Located throughout the body of
this review you will find short video clips that are intended to provide a more
visual explanation of how to navigate and program the functions.
Description:
This review of the RDS 8000 has
tried to avoid the natural temptation of being just a parody of the manual. Instead,
the capabilities have been divided into new categories that build from the simpler
new user view through to the more functionally complex:
GENERAL
FEATURES--covers the physical layout and operational principles.
PRIMARY CONTROLS AND BUTTONS--shows
the radio configuration and communications with the programming.
DISPLAY
& AUDIO COMMUNICATIONS--How the radio "talks" to you.
INITIAL
NAVIGATION--How to work your way around this computer transmitter
BINDING TO
THE RECEIVER--A fundamental process of the new 2.4GHz radio frequency
usage.
RDS 8000
HIERARCHY OF OPTIONS--How the RDS 8000 functions are structured.
BASIC & ADVANCED FUNCTIONS--Programming levels that range from
the primary radio to the features that are nice to have or essential when doing
complex installations, such as crow-flap and aileron deployment with auto-compensating
down-elevator.
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