Spektrum SPMAR12020 User Manual
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EN
The AR12020 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.), perform the following test with
a voltmeter. The Hangar 9
®
Digital Servo & Rx Current Meter (HAN172) or the Spektrum
Flight Log (SPM9540) work well for this test.
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.
CAUTON: When charging Ni-MH batteries, make sure the battery fully charges.
Ni-MH batteries charged with peak detection fast chargers have a tendency to
false peak (i.e. not fully charge), which could lead to a crash.
QuickConnect™ With Brownout Detection (DSM2 Only)
Your AR12020 features QuickConnect with Brownout Detection.
• Should an interruption of power occur (brownout), the system will reconnect
immediately when power is restored (QuickConnect).
• The LED on the receiver will flash slowly indicating a power interruption
(brownout) has occurred.
• Brownouts can be caused by an inadequate power supply (weak battery or
regulator), a loose connector, a bad switch, an inadequate BEC when using an
Electronic speed controller, etc.
• Brownouts occur when the receiver voltage drops below 3.5 volts thus interrup-
ting control as the servos and receiver require a minimum of 3.5 volts to operate.
How QuickConnect With Brownout Detection Works
• When the receiver voltage drops below 3.5 volts the system drops out (ceases
to operate).
• When power is restored the receiver immediately attempts to reconnect to the
last two frequencies it was connected to.
• If the two frequencies are present (the transmitter was left on), the system
reconnects typically about 4/100 of a second.
QuickConnect with Brownout Detection is designed to allow you to fly safely through
most short duration power interruptions. However, you must correct the cause of these
interruptions before your next flight to prevent a crash.
CAUTION: If a brownout occurs in flight, determine the cause of the brownout
and correct it before attempting to fly again.
Flight Log (SPM9540 Optional)
The Flight Log is compatible with the AR12020. The Flight Log displays overall RF link
performance as well as the individual internal and external receiver link data. Additiona-
lly it displays receiver voltage.
Using the Flight Log
After a flight and before turning off the receiver or transmitter, plug the Flight Log into
the BIND/DATA port on the AR12020. The screen will automatically display voltage
e.g. 6v2= 6.2 volts.