Spektrum SPMAR6200 - Manual

antennas will be oriented perpendicularly to each other. In airplanes, we’ve found it best to mount the
primary receiver in the center of the fuselage on the servo tray and to mount the remote receiver to the
side of the fuselage or in the turtle deck. A fourth antenna can be added for additional RF link security.
In helicopters, there is generally enough room on the servo tray to achieve the necessary separation.
If necessary a mount can be fashioned using clear plastic to mount the external receiver.
Important: Y-Harnesses and Servo Extensions
When using a Y-harness or servo extensions in your installation, it’s important to use standard non-
amplified Y-harnesses and servo extensions as this can/will cause the servos to operate erratically
or not function at all. Amplified Y-harnesses were developed several years ago to boost the signal
for some older PCM systems and should not be used with Spektrum equipment. Note that when
converting an existing model to Spektrum be certain that all amplfied Y-harnesses and/or servo
extensions are replaced with conventional non-amplified versions.
Binding
The AR6200 receiver must be bound to the transmitter before it will operate. Binding is the process
of teaching the receiver the specific code of the transmitter so it will only connect to that specific
transmitter.
1. To bind an AR6200 to a DSM2 transmitter, insert the bind plug in the BATT/BIND port on the receiver.
Note: To bind an aircraft with an electronic speed controller that powers the receiver through the
throttle channel (ESC/BEC), insert the bind plug into the BATT/BIND port in the receiver and the
throttle lead into the throttle (THRO) port. Proceed to Step #2.
2. Power the receiver. Note that the LED on the receiver should be flashing, indicating that the receiver
is in bind mode and ready to be bound to the transmitter.
AR6200 User Guide
The AR6200 full range 6-channel receiver features DSM2 ™ technology and is compatible with all
Spektrum ™ and JR ® aircraft radios that support DSM2 technology including:
JR12X, JRX9303, Spektrum DX7, Spektrum DX6i, Spektrum DX5e, Spektrum Module Systems.
Note: The AR6200 receiver is not compatible with the Spektrum DX6 parkflyer transmitter.
Features:
• 6-Channel Full Range Receiver
• Patented MultiLink ™ receiver technology
• Includes one internal and one remote receiver
• SmartSafe ™ failsafe system
• QuickConnect ™ with Brownout Detection
Applications
Full Range Up to 6 channel aircraft Including:
All types and sizes of glow, gas and electric powered airplanes
All types and sizes of no-powered gliders
All types and sizes of glow, gas and electric powered helicopters
Note: Not for use in airplanes that have full carbon fuselages.
Specifications:
Type: DSM2 Full Range Receiver
Channels: 6
Modulation: DSM2
Dimension (WxLxH): .85 x 1.19 x .48 in (26.6 x 30.1 x 12.3mm)
Weight: .35 oz (10 Grams main receiver)
Input Voltage Range: 3.5–9.6V
Resolution: 1024
Compatibility: All DSM2 Aircraft Transmitters and Module Systems
Receiver Installation
The AR6200 incorporates dual receivers, offering the security of dual path RF redundancy. An
internal receiver is located on the main PC board, while a second external receiver is attached to the
main board with a 6-inch extension. By locating these receivers in slightly different locations in the
aircraft, each receiver is exposed to its own RF environment, greatly improving path diversity (the
ability for the receiver to see the signal in all conditions).
Antenna Polarization
For optimum RF link performance it’s important that the antennas be mounted in an orientation that
allows for the best possible signal reception when the aircraft is in all possible attitudes and posi-
tions. This is known as antenna polarization. The antennas should be oriented perpendicular to each
other; typically vertical and horizontal and at different angles (see Receiver Installation below). The
remote receiver antenna should be mounted in a position perpendicular at least 2 inches away from
the main receiver’s antenna using double-sided foam tape.
Receiver Installation in Aircraft
In gas and glow aircraft install the main receiver using the same method you would use to install a
conventional receiver in your aircraft. Typically, wrap the main receiver in protective foam and fasten
it in place using rubber bands or hook and loop straps. Alternately, in electric airplanes or helicop-
ters, it’s acceptable to use thick double-sided foam tape to fasten the main receiver in place. The
AR9000 requires at least one remote receiver to operate. Mounting this remote receiver in a slightly
different location, even just inches away from the primary receivers, gives tremendous improve-
ments in path diversity. Essentially, each receiver sees a different RF environment and this is key to
maintaining a solid RF link, even in aircraft that have substantial conductive materials (e.g. larger gas
engines, carbon fiber, pipes, etc.), which can weaken the signal. Using servo tape, mount the remote
receiver keeping the remote antennas at least 2 inches away from the primary antennas. Ideally, the
Shown using a separate receiver pack. Shown using an ESC/BEC and a flight pack.
(Battery can be plugged into any open port.)
3. Move the sticks and switches on the transmitter to the desired failsafe positions (low throttle and
neutral control positions).
4. Follow the procedures of your specific transmitter to enter Bind Mode, the system will connect
within a few seconds. Once connected, the LED on the receiver will go solid indicating the system
is connected.
5. Remove the bind plug from the BATT/BIND port on the receiver before you power off the transmitter
and store it in a convenient place.
6. After you’ve set up your model, it’s important to rebind the system so the true low throttle and
neutral control surface positions are set.
IMPORTANT: Remove the bind plug to prevent the system from entering bind mode the next time the
power is turned on.
SmartSafe Failsafe
The AR6200 features SmartSafe failsafe. SmartSafe is ideal for most types of aircraft. With SmartSafe,
when signal is lost the throttle channel only is driven to its preset failsafe position (normally low
throttle) while all other channels hold last command.
• Prevents unintentional electric motor response on startup.
• Eliminates the possibility of over-driving servos on start-up by storing preset failsafe positions.
• Establishes low-throttle failsafe and maintains last-commanded control surface position if the RF
signal is lost.
Receiver Power Only
• When the receiver only is turned on (no transmitter signal is present), the throttle channel has no
output, to avoid operating or arming the electronic speed control.
• All other channels are driven to their preset failsafe positions set during binding.
Note: Some analog servos may coast slightly even though no signal is present. This is normal.
After Connection
• When the transmitter is turned on and after the receiver connects to the transmitter, normal control
of all channels occurs.
• After the system makes a connection, if loss of signal occurs SmartSafe drives the throttle servo only
to its preset failsafe position (low throttle) that was set during binding.
• All other channels hold their last commanded position. When the signal is regained, the system
immediately (less than 4ms) regains control.
Plugging in the Leads
Plug the servo leads into the appropriate servo ports in the receiver noting the polarity of the
servo connector.
Range Testing
Before each flying session and especially with a new model, it is important to perform a range check.
All Spektrum aircraft transmitters incorporate a range testing system which, when activated, reduces
the output power, allowing a range check.
Pull and hold the Trainer Switch
30 paces (90 feet/28 meters)
1. With the model restrained on the ground, stand 30 paces (approx. 90 feet/28 meters) away from the model.
2. Face the model with the transmitter in your normal flying position and place your transmitter into
range check mode.
3. You should have total control of the model with the button depressed at 30 paces (90 feet/28 meters).
4. If control issues exist, call the Spektrum Service Center in the U.S. at 1-877-504-0233 for further
assistance. In the UK or Germany use one of the following addresses.
European Union: +49 4121 46199 66 (Deutschland)
or email [email protected]
+44 (0) 1279 641 097 (United Kingdom)
or email [email protected]
Receiver Power System Requirements
Inadequate power systems that are unable to provide the necessary minimum voltage to the receiver
during flight have become the number one cause of in-flight failures. Some of the power system
components that affect the ability to properly deliver adequate power include:
• Receiver battery pack (number of cells, capacity, cell type, state of charge)
• The ESC’s capability to deliver current to the receiver in electric aircraft
• The switch harness, battery leads, servo leads, regulators etc.
The AR6200 has a minimum operational voltage of 3.5 volts; it is highly recommended the power
system be tested per the guidelines below.
Recommended Power System Test Guidelines
If a questionable power system is being used (e.g. small or old battery, ESC that may not have a BEC
that will support high current draw, etc.), it is recommended that a voltmeter be used to perform the
following tests.
Note: The Hangar 9 Digital Servo & Rx Current Meter (HAN172) or the Spektrum Flight Log
(SPM9540) is the perfect tool to perform the test below.
Plug the voltmeter into an open channel port in the receiver and with the system on, load the control
surfaces (apply pressure with your hand) while monitoring the voltage at the receiver. The voltage
should remain above 4.8 volts even when all servos are heavily loaded.
Note: The latest generations of Nickel-Metal Hydride batteries incorporate a new chemistry mandated
to be more environmentally friendly. These batteries when charged with peak detection fast chargers
have tendencies to false peak (not fully charge) repeatedly. These include all brands of NiMH batteries.
If using NiMH packs, be especially cautious when charging, making absolutely sure that the battery
is fully charged. It is recommended to use a charger that can display total charge capacity. Note the
number of mAh put into a discharged pack to verify it has been charged to full capacity.
QuickConnect ™ With Brownout Detection
Your AR6200 features QuickConnect with Brownout Detection.
• Should an interruption of power occur (brownout), the system will reconnect immediately when
power is restored (QuickConnect).