OpenTX Helicopter Setup - Part 1 (No Internal Radio CCPM Mixing)

[@Rchelicopterfun]

Setup & Tips for Collective Pitch RC Helicopters eBook: www.rchelicopterfun.com/rc-helicopter-tips.html Part 2: OpenTX CCPM Template Setup: kzbin.info/www/bejne/d5KxqWBuaLx9m8k Example of using this OpenTX Helicopter Setup Foundation to setup a CP heli video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hWKvYaqur9Skhbc

[@fredaw61]

Thanks so much. I do have a question on part 1. On Inputs for Elevator on the 25% weight you have Expo of 25% and on Ail and Rotor you have no Expo 0%. Should Elevator at 25% weight should it be 25% Expo or 0% Expo?

[@mcnut1]

It took me 5 hours setting up the TX16S according to this video! My brain hurts 🙂. Yeah, I am slow and definitely not a computer nerd. Me pushing 70 years of age, might have something to do with it. Now, on to part 2 of this video, to get an older T-Rex 450 (with fly-bar, 120 swash plate) flying. Thank you John, for producing this video. Greetings from Steve in Surrey BC.

[@hulkgqnissanpatrol6121]

I'm only 38yo, I've spent days just trying to work out what the mechanical swashplate is called? 🤔 90? 120? 140? Or select variable and do mixing on the receiver? And now my escape is overheating! 😥 Something so simple and my brain can't grasp it 😔

[@madvette74]

John thank you. I tried to follow another members step by step, spent many hours going over and over his video, I went to this video followed along with you, and got my heli back in the air, the first try.. I always enjoyed your vids, thank you

[@Rchelicopterfun]

Glad it helped

[@TechNoPhobiaGirl]

Thx a million, John! I gleaned all this info from your Heli 101 vid, but it's really nice to get a refresher. As I get older I need more and MORE 'refreshing!' What I *REALLY* need, tho, is your eCCPM vid cuz I have a Trex 450 SE that I want to setup with Open TX and I'm scared to death to even ATTEMPT it! I've watched several vids; one was spot-on and the second one just confused the hell out of me. I TRUST your advice and experience so I'm going to follow YOUR vid! Cheers!

[@alcan466]

Thnx John I appreciate the response. Lastly, I watched your video of the your old Rotary Magazine and your first Heli. Brought back memories. My first heli was a KYOSHO Concept 60 1992. Hovered for approximately 30 sec before a crash. Put it back together haven’t flown since. Kids sport activities. Thnx again!

[@takakazushi6703]

Let me join the chorus of praise & thanks. This is helpful beyond belief. Read many OpenTX “how to’s“… But this was by far the clearest. 60+ years old so have been exposed to a lot of instructors over the years. You are the MOST talented instructor I’ve ever had. Happy I can comprehend what you are teaching… but remiss my limited intellect is not able to understand OpenTX without your help. Can’t wait for your “old-school” fly barred OpenTX set up video where the CCPM mix is done in the radio.

[@zmanphx]

On brand new flybarless build, I set 3 initial gyro rates on a switch. I then fine tune the gain using S2 turn nob to add or subtract a global variable to the gain to get the sweet spot for tail hold and stops.

[@canadiandronepilot7535]

Brilliantly Done ! Bravo ! Been waiting a long time for someone to take this from A-Z in a sequence that makes sense !

[@Rchelicopterfun]

Glad it makes sense 🙂

[@adrianhawley4909]

Saint John we will call you now. Been waiting for years for this. Thank you!

[@Rchelicopterfun]

Sorry it took so long 🙂 Part 2 will be up tomorrow.

[@adrianhawley4909]

I brought one of the very first Jumper T18’s, wished I hadn’t sold it now!!

[@fuzzy_bear]

Thank you so much for this. got my RM TX16S Max V2 on Saturday, You have no Idea how much you've saved me in terms of time and torture. Brilliant video. I probably would have left my 450 on the shelf as a show piece for another 3 years if not for you.

[@Rchelicopterfun]

Glad it helped 🙂

[@trashynoobgears5player48]

Thanks John for taking the time to make this video. even thought i dont have an opentx. I have a deviation devo 10. I now better understand programing. And now feel confident making my own model files.

[@WaynesWorld69]

I am so glad I found your channel. Found it recently and have learnt so much. This is the video I've been needing as DeviationTX is very different. Much appreciated and looking forward to the internal ccpm video.

[@Rchelicopterfun]

Glad it's been helpful - thanks for the support 👍

[@SemteVruchte]

Yes! I was waiting for this for so long

[@vladandronie]

Fantástica explicación sobre la programación de la Emisora TX16S y sus grandes posibilidades y elevada potencia. Haces lo que quieres con ella. La mejor del mercado por la versatilidad del OPEN TX. Sigue así JOHN

[@JamesLewis-mp9zn]

Great job John, learn something new that I never thought of.

[@andrewy1983]

Amazing Video - i have a number of helis i am converting over from Spectrum DX7 to TX16S - THis is invaluable as i have been out of the loop for a number of years and this transmitter is absolutely amazing the functionality.

[@ThePIPER02]

In one word PERFECT !!!! As they say in the Netherlands : toppertje 👍👍

[@ianbrown7610]

At last a video I could follow.Very well explained.Thank you.

[@Rchelicopterfun]

Glad it helped

[@williamgleason7867]

Terrific, I needed this!

[@Rchelicopterfun]

Hope it helps 🙂

[@merlavery5057]

Love your videos John , very informative. A wealth of information.

[@Rchelicopterfun]

Thanks mate 🙂

[@longyang-funvideo]

Super helpful, not boring at all. I followed your video step by step, and get my radio setup done. Thank you very much!

[@Rchelicopterfun]

Great to hear 🙂👍

[@amitm5517]

Thank you John for this. Your videos r really worth a lot. ...

[@HayabusaGSXR-cv6ig]

John Salt that tutorial is excellent 👌 thank you

[@Rchelicopterfun]

Very welcome

[@boeing747400ifly]

Great video! I've been delaying setting up my Tarot 450 with ZYX S2 FBL unit on my RM TX16S because I could not find any good reference videos..Looking forward to the Internal radio CCPM mixing video.

[@Rchelicopterfun]

Glad you found it useful - internal CCPM one hopefully coming next week.

[@orifitoussi7260]

Thanks for the info ! bought the ebooks love it .

[@Rchelicopterfun]

Thank you for the patronage 🙂👍

[@bisarowood]

nice! after being out of the hobby for a while I totally forgot how to work this open TX , I think I got it thanks

[@Rchelicopterfun]

Great to hear

[@Dcscockpit]

Can I tell you I was on the fence about switching to this radio strictly because of my helicopter setup but you have made this so nice and easy to understand

[@Rchelicopterfun]

👍

[@HeliZero]

Big thank you for this great video ! With this i feel confident to try to migrate my helis from my DX9 to my TX16S.

[@Rchelicopterfun]

Good success with the migration. 👍

[@HeliZero]

@@Rchelicopterfun Hello again. It is going very good - the TX stuff was surprisingly easy - i have one Cut switch and a one Flightmode switch and also a switch to change banks (MSH Brain and iKON) and 2 point switch to change from rate to Heading Hold on the gyro. You made it easy to make the this regarding curves and expo - thanks again. All the rest is done on the controller. Soon OpenTX 2.3.15 is ready and it has a wizard for both external and internal CCPM mixing. That is great support from the devs. I do have another TX16S that runs Edge but its still only half-baked so i wait until it matures a little more but i do love the touch-keyboard.

[@TheDigitalAura]

Fantastic. Thank you so much for taking the time to do this.

[@Rchelicopterfun]

Most welcome

[@MangGai168]

Great share of this Thank you 👍

[@1974dragonkiller]

ty so much for this video it has made my setting up heli's easier as i was struggling with comprehension of the written format on the opentx website and your ebook that i own

[@Rchelicopterfun]

Glad it helped a bit 🙂

[@heliman9552]

this is really interesting and well done for posting this, but it hink I will stick to my vcontrol for now, but very fascinating indeed

[@egertkabilattekivi2496]

Very helpful for me.I use still open tx on my tx16s mk2.

[@Rchelicopterfun]

Glad it helped; and it's exactly the same template/steps if/when you change to Edge.

[@jazroT]

Thank you for the excellent tutorial!

[@Rchelicopterfun]

You're very welcome & thanks for watching🙂

[@simonsutherland814]

Hi John, happy new year, love your vids, I just picked up an M2 and a TX16s I've swapped it to mode 1, what settings should I look out for when setting it up? Cheers Simon New Zealand

[@Hitman-md5ie]

Great video John thanks for this really helpful, quick question if using multi protocol module to fly specktrum do you use futaba settings

[@Rchelicopterfun]

You would use the order the specific receiver is expecting to see, so in the case of Spektrum that is Ch1 Throttle, Ch2 Aileron, Ch3 Elevator, Ch 4 Rudder. TAER

[@TheCreat]

Well, if you set your channel order to what you prefer in your radio, and set it to the same in the multiprotocol module (by flashing the firmware with the correct/same channel order), it will actually do that for you. It will remap whatever you have as outputs to the "expected" order. As far as I know, that's the only reason to even have a "default" channel order, as functionality goes (and not just preference).

[@fermars1]

Hi John, thank you for your video. Good to see you got the Nasa's ingenuity helicopter model in the background. I was very surprised. Is it a home made model or comercial one? Good job!

[@Rchelicopterfun]

Made it: kzbin.info/www/bejne/i6C3qId7hZWlba8

[@kiwicraigKTM505]

Many thanks John that helped allot.

[@adolfredohernandez9439]

Nice Bell 206 model!!!

[@jac_pilot_theam_VH]

Congratulations, you clear up my doubts. I'm about to buy a radio and I know where to start thanks to you I have a heli with vstabi I imagine that this configuration applies greetings and thanks

[@fredaw61]

I am following along and creating this template on my TX16S.

[@kensteltzner7879]

followed t=you and other peoples channel to get stabalization to work on a spektrum. Tried it and it didn't work. got out the omp radio that the heli had been bound to. the heli flew great with it. rebound to it and stab. didn't work.turned off hold switch. main blades started. Scarred of my mind.l Hit hold mode. tried stab.and it worked, tried spektrum radio. tried throttle it worked then tried stab. it worked. some how it locked stab. from being bount to omp radio. M2 V2 now flys like a dream with spektrum. keep up the good work.

[@Rchelicopterfun]

Glad to hear you got it sorted.

[@RCCopterLove]

Hi John, I just bought a Radiomaster TX12 MkII with Edge TX on board. A friend of mine helped me to write files for all my 4 OMP M2's and 3 M1's of all generations. Now I built the OMP M4 and have to write the Edge TX file by myself... Can I use your Setup instructions for Open TX in Edge TX or does it work fundamental different? Thanks in advance for at tip!

[@Rchelicopterfun]

The exact same basics apply.

[@RCCopterLove]

@@Rchelicopterfun Thank you John! You helped me in March 2021 via email exchange when I started to fly CP helis with a Bade 230 S V2... now I have reached the OMP M4 and the 380 class! Thanks, I will never forget your great advise to leave "self level" as soon as possible alone. For me it's now a kind of "unsafe mode" - I never touched self level again and disabled this funtions in my RX setup!! Best greetings, Matthias!

[@garymurphy5133]

Just got this heli and will use the tx16s also. can i ask how you would set the gyro up? the supplied TX has a 2 way switch. for stability and idle up,not sure about a rescue,thanks

[@traileater]

Nice video! I have my gyro gain setup the same way. I noticed when the switch is in the center position, there is no gyro! I dont want it set like this, I dont want to accidently have no gyro. How would one fix this? I dont mind having the same rate on 2 of the 3 switch positions. I agree with you on the hold switch, I might just buy another 2 position switch and install it. EDIT, i figured it out, heres how, go to mixes, scroll to ch5, edit. Set source to MAX, weight to 100 (for HH mode) Set switch to *SC. Move switch to UP arrow. Press RTN to mix menu. Press scroll wheel, a new mix will appear below. Edit and do the same thing as above, set weight to desired setting and switch to neutral pos. Go back to mix menu, press scroll wheel, again a new mix will appear, now edit it again, set weight to same pos as neutral, now select down arrow. RTN. Now you should have 2 switch positions with same gain setting and up position with %100/HH mode. Now you wont accidently fly with no gyro correction *SC or desired switch

[@RC-Heli835]

I was wanting a JR radio and then Taranis X9D+ came out and much cheaper so I had to have one. Glad I did I love Open TX and especially being able to have switches where you want them and countless other options. My DX7 Airplane radio had gear where SC is which I used as throttle hold and Idle up was where SG is so that's where I like them today because I had so many hours flying like that. Gyro was SE position I believe on that DX7 but I use SA for gyro and SB for bank switching. Thanks for making the video man! That TX16 looks like a very nice radio as well.😃 Love the scroll wheel! Hey when assigning inputs I notice there are a 2nd set of ail, thr, ele and rudder option without the brackets. What are they used for?

[@abuzubair4086]

Very good

[@Rchelicopterfun]

Thanks

[@rayhenderson9661]

Hi great video, only problem I have is Swash moves in the opposite direction to most helis (with throttle down the swash is all the way up!) It's a JR Propo NEX E6. Is there an easy way to alter this with your setup? Thanks for any info you or anyone else can give.

[@Rchelicopterfun]

Reverse the collective channel during final setup.

[@rayhenderson9661]

@@Rchelicopterfun Thank you

[@garyowen3743]

Excellent well presented video John.......how would I set a switch for Heading Hold and Rate mode please

[@Rchelicopterfun]

Totally depends on the flybarless system. In short, follow the recommendation in your FBL setup instructions or setup wizard for starting values for both rate mode gain and HH mode gain; along with what channel that selection is mapped out to in your FBL unit (most are CH 7, but not all). Then assign whatever toggle you want to use for that selection to that gain channel in your mix menu and either set the high & low output endpoints to the recommended starting gain values for both rate & HH or make a stepped gain curve and use the curve in that channel mix.

[@garyowen3743]

@@Rchelicopterfun This is the only video on KZbin I feel I have learned something from programming a Opentx radio, instead of someone just flicking through the settings with no explanation, I would not of known about the replace function. Thank you John a very well presented video. The only thing I am unsure about is if the channel order is different in the Rx or FBL system, is there a quick way to reassign the channels

[@Rchelicopterfun]

@Gary Owen, not sure I understand your question about channel order; are you asking if you can move the order in the FBL unit, the RX, or the radio? If in the radio, you can assign any channel output to any input you want in the Mix menu. RX channel output is fixed. FBL channel output is also fixed for the most part. There are a few FBL systems where you can change channel mapping however for the AUX channels in such as the Bavarian Demon.

[@stefannieuwoudt534]

Please help. It doesnt work for my flybarless heli. It only allows for 1 servo to move at a time. Example all 3 servos must work together when going up

[@EddieSlowhands]

Hello again John - Eddie in the UK here. I've watched your video on open tx but can't see how to set up a Heli on my Taranis Q7. Any chance you can help please John ? Best Regards . . . . Eddie

[@billfrost4425]

Great videos. Just learning Open TX and setting up my Radiomaster TX 16s for my OMP M2. Rookie question. How do you know if the swash mixing is done in the radio or in the heli? For example the OMP M2, is the mixing done in the radio or in the heli? I listened to your explanation at least twice, and I get what you’re driving at, but not sure how to determine if the fly bar less system manages the swash mixes or the radio itself. Have your books as well and they have been very helpful.

[@Rchelicopterfun]

@Bill Frost, As I mentioned in the video, most FBL systems do the CCPM mixing (so external / on the heli) - including the OMP's. 🙂

[@MrVanBelt]

Have you tried rotorflight? Managed to give my old blade 230s v1 and 180 cfx a new life with this software : -) Had old f4 flight controllers and esc's in my bin an tryed it. After some tuning it was a norther breed! No mixing or anything else. Everything is done via pc or Lua scripts on the tx. Would be great if you could do a video and compare the system to other fbl units. Keep up your great work! You helpt me a lot!

[@Rchelicopterfun]

No desire to, no time to 🙂 The great thing with the hobby, is we have lots of options based on what is important to individual's specific needs. Glad to hear you enjoy RF on your birds.

[@alcan466]

Hi John Had a question. I used this video to set up a template onto my TX16s. I used the template to set up my OMP M2 V2, along with your other video hat detailed using the OMP protocol. The heli worked great! Except I’m having trouble issues with the gyro settings. I have the gyro set to the SC switch, but I only get the normal mode and not the leveling mode. I searched everywhere on how to get the switch to operate both Normal mode and Leveling mode. Can you help? By the way, you’re doing a great job with us notice flyers! Thnx

[@Rchelicopterfun]

@al can - This is somewhat dependent on the RX you are using. Presuming you are running either external DSM or S-BUS, stabilization mode selection is mapped to channel 5 output. So you would simply assign the SC toggle to channel 5 output. If you are running OMP protocol, channel mapping for the stabilization mode is on channel 7. Regardless of what protocol you use, stabilization mode selection on the M2 like most small/micro helis is a two position switched output selection only. There is no gyro gain associated with it therefore the output doesn't have to be proportional; it's either on or off (normal gyro mode or auto level mode). So the output value for channel 5 (or 7) in either direction is not critical, it just needs to be on one side of center in one toggle position and the other side of center in the other. I just set it to the default/normal -100 to +100 % travel range (about 1000us to 2000us). Confirm your channel 5 is outputting correctly of course in your channel monitor menu and the RED LED on the control board is flashing in one stabilization mode and solid in the other when you toggle the switch. If your switch activation is backwards from how you want it to behave, just reverse channel 5 output. Because it's a 3 position toggle switch it has to be either full down or full up as center would give you a mid 0% (1500us) output value. There are of course ways to get a 3 position toggle to act like a two position in open/edgeTX with either a stepped output curve programed for that channel or a logical switch activation.

[@NobsK86]

very nice explanation. It´s help me so much. THX

[@Rchelicopterfun]

Glad it helped 🙂

[@vaamorais]

Hey there! Great video and really helpful for someone like me who is just starting to learn Open TX, how to properly setup a new helicopter and learn how to fly them. In fact these videos in combination with your website and e-books are a true god send for someone that does not have access to a local instructor in person. A newbie question if I may, when I start setting the pitch curves with 2 points, I notice the curve (or the line in this case) does not pass through the origin. Later on when I am trying to tune the angle of the blades with a pitch gauge to achieve a zero degrees around mid stick, is it on this menu that I need to create a third point and tune that point up or down to achieve that zero degrees? Thanks

[@Rchelicopterfun]

@Vito Morais - If you want a text book swash setup with symmetrical collective range with a symmetrical pitch curve, you need to either adjust the swashplate height mechanically (pushrod adjustment) or electronically, collective pitch channel centering & travel output as covered in my setup & tips ebook.

[@geoffclaffey3648]

Hi John Thanks for the video, very clear and informative. Instead of setting curves for throttle hold I setup a special function to override the throttle channel to -100 set to the TH switch. Do you see any issues with this approach. Kind Regards

[@Rchelicopterfun]

@ Ceoff Claffey Nothing wrong with your method - makes perfect sense. 👍 I suppose the only thing I can think of is not having a dedicated hold pitch curve as well, but perhaps you have it setup to have a hold pitch curve enabled with the special function -100% throttle channel activation? I personally would be lost without a dedicated hold pitch curve. I've setup throttle hold throttle output to a curve because that's what I'm most used to from previous radios, and I do find that I use my hold throttle curve as a diagnostic/test tool. This way I can test the throttle signal outputs going to my ESC, throttle servo or FADEC. I find it especially helpful when re-setting the carburetor linkages on nitros. I don't have to mess up one of my main throttle curves, I can just play with the hold curve, get everything setup correctly, and then reset it to -100% or in the case of nitro & turbine, some low value that puts the engine into idle but doesn't shut it down. Having a dedicated diagnostic/setup throttle curve would be another way to address that of course in OpenTX, but we never had that option on traditional computerized radios in the past so I just kept it to what I'm familiar with and have been doing for years. At the end of the day, as long as you have your radio configured so it properly outputs the correct control commands to your birds so they do all the things you need them to, that's all that matters 🙂

[@JHONNY徐杰尼]

hermoso.........................................................

[@francescolocorriere]

we connect a flybarless, but I would like to understand... why pitch curve is associated only at channel 6 ?

[@Rchelicopterfun]

Because that is the collective channel (presuming of course your radio/RX is mapping your collective to channel 6 which is the most common).

[@francescolocorriere]

@@Rchelicopterfun but if aileron move servo left other channel pitch move servo right is exact ? You have connect one flybarless with tx16s ?and in this case you have associated pitch curve only at channel 6? Which flybarless you have used ?

[@Rchelicopterfun]

Many different ones (Bavarian Demon, Ikon/Brian, Beast/Spektrum, Vbar, Futaba, MAXX, Spirit) basically every single FBL system that does the eCCPM mixing internally in the FBL system uses this Open/Edge TX foundation setup. Exactly the same reason why you don't turn on any eCCMP swash mixing in a conventional computerized radio with these systems. The ONLY FBL systems that don't work this way as I stated in the video, are the original Align 3G and 3GX units that don't have built in eCCPM mixing and thus the CCPM mixing still has to be done within the radio system. Actually, I think the Captron Heli Command Rigid might be that way too, but don't quote me on it. Been a long time since I setup a Heli Command system for a client.

[@johncarroll2638]

Hi John I have subscribed to your channel and bought your book and now I am considering changing from RTF models to buying a Tx, I am considering the radio master TX16 mark11 max or the Spectrum NX8 do you have any comments on these choices. Your advice would be much appreciated thanks in advance John Carroll

[@Rchelicopterfun]

Hi John, Both good choices - totally depends on your preference. If you like options, open source flexibility/versatility, and lots of usable protocols, going with an Open/Edge TX radio with a built in multi-protocol module is the obvious choice; with the caveat you are up for the associated steep learning curve involved. If you want to be locked into Spektrum's proprietary system and can only see yourself flying mostly or at least a good number of Horizon Hobby BNF aircraft with their proprietary SMART components down the road, then the Speky has merit.

[@donaldcoburn1576]

What is a good brand of lipo battery tester, I'm a new guy.

[@LuisTorres-tm2jc]

Hello mr salt I thank you for ur videos there very helpful I have a question and need ur expert advice I’m looking for a new transmitter should I buy the radiomaster tx16s or the new spectrum ix14?

[@Rchelicopterfun]

I don't know a thing about the ix14 so I'm not the person to ask about it. As for the TX16S, I personally now love Open/Edge TX (the operating system the TX16S uses), but many don't. You really have to understand the learning curve associated with Open/Edge TX to make this decision. Your question between these two is similar to asking if it's better to get an Apple, Windows, or Linux based computer. I do have a video regarding the OpenTX learning curve and the resources that helped me the most: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rWSWpKyemLymfq8

[@stevealoia]

Hey John on your Xcel 60 is the swashplate is that a 90 degree or still a 120 . Been out of the flying for a while. Just got the Radiomaster X16s . Looking to setup my Xcel thank you

[@Rchelicopterfun]

There is no internal radio mixing done with mechanical CCPM (covered at 3:07).

[@stevealoia]

@@Rchelicopterfun yeah I got about CCPM. My Alin 450 is 120 on the swashplate and was asking what the swashplate on the Xcel is but figured it out is a 90 .each point is at 90 degrees to each point . Thanks for the great videos

[@artpam]

Thanks so much!👍

[@Rchelicopterfun]

You bet

[@blooskyy7]

I'm interested to know if current quadcopter flight controllers, using Betaflight, can be used with helis? I haven't flown helis for a few years and there doesn't appear to be as many flybarless gyro options as there we in the past. Thanks

[@Rchelicopterfun]

Nope, totally different aircraft. Lot's of very good FBL systems on the market still. Bavarian Demon, BeastX, Ikon, Spektrum, Futaba, MAXX, Spirit, V-Bar, H1, along with a fair number of low cost/no name/clones.

[@oded_10]

Nice video, question: How do you program in TX16S SAFE SWITCE for a helicopter?

[@Rchelicopterfun]

As I said in the video - stabilization type activation (self level, rescue, SAFE, horizon mode or whatever marketing of the day wants to call it) is generally activated through channel 5; but it depends on the helicopter and/or flybarless system. Some FBL units have self level or rescue activation through channel 7 and some can be even mapped to different channels. All the low cost micro stuff however is almost always on channel 5.

[@fredaw61]

John, on your dual rates you have 25% expo on Elevator in low rates. Was that supposed to be 0% expo like in Ailerons low rate?

[@Rchelicopterfun]

Yes.

[@kd7126]

Hey John, I need a little advice I am looking to buy a new transmitter to fly 700 size scale with. Have a NX10 but been looking at the open TX stuff. Torn between Jeti, Frsky and Radiomaster tx16s max. What would you recommend as far as reliability, good tech support and over feel? Thanks

[@Rchelicopterfun]

With all Open/EdgeTX radio's regardless of brand, tech support is non-existent. You & your search engine skills are the tech support team; along with the massive OpenTX/Edge TX & Multi-Module online community. If you are looking for good personalized tech support, cross all Open/EdgeTX radios off your list. If you are looking for best bang for the buck, multi-protocol, and enjoy nerding out and problem solving - put them back on your list. Jeti does not run Open/Edge TX, they have their own operating system & proprietary protocol. Jeti's OS like Open/EdgeTX is also massively configurable with input/mix/output programming. I have no first hand experience with Jeti, it's way out of my pay scale, so can't offer any feedback. Jeti apparently has top notch tech support going by the anecdotes from the few I know who fly with Jeti.

[@zmanphx]

I learned OTX in 2020. I set up my FBL helicopters following a British guy on you tube. He uses logical switches to assign to flight mode. Then in inputs assign to the flight mode instead of switch. Other youtuber Alishanmao uses the inputs to assign flight mode to switch position. Here you use are using mixes to assign flight mode to switch position. I wondering which is one is better or more efficient for the radio CPU processing power, mixes vs inputs to assign flight modes? All three methods accomplish the same thing , flight mode by switch position. Does one take more cpu processing over the other?

[@Rchelicopterfun]

@zmanphx - Setup your Open/EdgeTX operating system the way that makes the most sense to you and is able to achieve the specific collective pitch heli functions you want. For me - that's OpenTX University's method by emulating exactly how traditional computerized radios have their heli programming layout which I've been using for many years - exactly like I stated in the video. Nothing else seems as intuitive or logical, but that is because it's what I'm used to. I don't know, nor do I care which is more processor heavy. Logically, the more complicated the task, the more heavy the load (ie logical switch programming). At the end of the day, all that matters is the radio transmits a solid RF signal to the RX onboard the aircraft.

[@logo8009]

Question. I just started watch you channel and used to fly Helicopter and switched to quads. I'm getting back into Heli's and own a frSky Taranis X9d with tbs crossfire . Can I run crossfire on a helicopter setup? I Great channel BTW looking forward to your content in the future.

[@Rchelicopterfun]

@Logo 800 - I'm not that familiar with TBS other than knowing it operates at 900 MHz. No issue there other than the larger antenna on the aircraft which isn't an issue on lager helis. My concern would be receiver options. I don't know what RX options TBS has, but most helicopter FBL (flight controller) systems these days require either conventional PWM channel inputs from the RX or a standardized digital protocol input such as SBUS or DSM. Likewise, if you fly with a mechanical flybar (yes some still prefer it), then definitely you need an RX with conventional PWM channel outputs to plug the servos directly into. I cover FBL receiver connectivity options in more detail on my FBL page on my website if you are a bit unsure of this topic: www.rchelicopterfun.com/flybarless.html Anyway, if there are TBS receivers that have SBUS or conventional PWM servo outputs and are 7 channel or better, I can't see there being any connectivity issues for most helis on the market.

[@logo8009]

@@Rchelicopterfun The TBS crossfire run SBUS and I run FBL system. The only thing I'm not sure of is Lua scripts have been installed on my radio and not sure if that could be compatible or not. Thanks so much for the fast reply.

[@stefanklaus5026]

Hello John, i know its long time ago since your video, but if i set dual rate the stickpoint is not on curve its is on horizon. I don't know what is wrong. Can you help me?

[@Rchelicopterfun]

Long time? It was just last July, not even a year old. Regardless, I don't understand your question and need more clarification and specificity. Please contact me through my website ( www.rchelicopterfun.com/contact.html ) as that is where I deal with technical question such as these.

[@raymhuang]

Thanks. So helpful.

[@Rchelicopterfun]

Glad to hear it

[@leyo300]

Would you fly one of the big very expensive helis with the radiomaster? And why?

[@Rchelicopterfun]

Yes - why not? RF is as robust as anything else out there. Certainly way better than when I got into the hobby over 30 years ago.

[@diazg4468]

Hello John. I’m trying to set my Nitro heli governor using a separate switch on Tx16S. I’m using Microbeast Plus which assigned CH 8 for GOV. Can you walk me through this setup on the TX16S?

[@Rchelicopterfun]

Sorry, never done a beastX nitro governor setup so don't know what's involved.

[@craigcolley36]

great video

[@Rchelicopterfun]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@JustinKoenigSilica]

Hey John, having a lot of trouble setting my helicopter up. Using a 3GX fbl and AR620, of course with the tx16s. Does the template apply to that? Having so much trouble setting it up, and this is my first time doing smthing like that.

[@Rchelicopterfun]

As I stated in the video, some FBL units don't do the CCPM mixing internal and I mentioned both the 3G & 3GX being two of them. So the next video I make on internal CCPM mixing within the radio will cover the base foundation for those or any flybared heli that used electronic swash mixing over mechanical swash mixing. This initial foundation in part 1 is still used, but the CCPM mixing interactions are added into the 3 swash channels. My eBook on swashplate setup will also be a valuable resource to use in combination with that video to fully understand the eCCPM mix percentage values in how they affect the servo interactions. www.rchelicopterfun.com/swashplate-setup.html

[@JustinKoenigSilica]

@@Rchelicopterfun Thank you! can't wait for it. Thank you for providing these videos for free, it really is a blessing!

[@sandyjohnston9457]

Rust getting inti rotary wings - be kind. Would any or this help in setting up a manual autogyro machine?

[@Rchelicopterfun]

This template is best suited for collective pitch helicopters. Certainly the basics of OpenTX setup would still apply (programming your stick inputs and mixing them to the correct output channels), but there would be no pitch or throttle curves to worry about. In short, a basic fixed wing OpenTX template would likely work better with an auto-gyro, but since I've never flown or set one up, that is just an educated guess going by what little I know about a basic 4 channel RC auto-gyro control system.

[@Darediver100]

Dear John, I began flying big helicopters using your Set Up tips for electric collective pitch heli manual and It taught me a lot. I recently purchased this Radiomaster TX16S and bounded to a Blade 200SRX heli, It bounded but transmitter looses signal when heli flies beyond 40 to 50mts. and I can´t fly It beyond that distance. Can you give me a clue what´s wrong?. I´ll thank any help.

[@Rchelicopterfun]

@Helicopterer. I would really have to see everything in person in order to diagnose something like this - there are many variables. Almost sounds like your range checking is permanently turned on, but you would know that as it beeps at you the whole time. Speaking of range checking, how is your range checking? What kind of distance are you getting and is it passing range checking. Range checking is the single most important process to find issue like this, long before even spooling up the aircraft. Regardless, range checking procedure should be done every day before you go flying every model at least once. Frequency fine tuning might be required (can't remember if FFT is required with DSM since I haven't set up any DSM protocol aircraft recently). Try a different DSM protocol option (ie. switch to DSM2 over X and see if that has any impact). Antenna orientation. Reflash Multi-Module firmware. I think there is a reduced power output setting option as well in the Multi-Module firmware options? Look in the Multi-Module site for lots of helpful information, in their Forum for other possibilities or in their issues section @ GitHub. All things to check/try.

[@Darediver100]

@@Rchelicopterfun Mr.Salt: thanks for your fast and wothy reply, I searched in TX16S menus about range checking, is It the one is beside binding button?, about rest of options I already tried them, exept updating DSMX protocol, I´ll keep in touch.

[@andrewpirus2159]

Hi John, I find it very confusing as I’ve only just got open tx and only used spektrum. Are you able to send me your template so I could just load it onto my tx16s?

[@Rchelicopterfun]

Give a man a fish you feed him for a day, teach him to fish, you feed him for life. I've taken the time to give all the settings showing exactly how to configure an OpenTX radio for a collective pitch heli. Building your own configuration is the only way to correctly learn OpenTX.

[@rhipp100]

Evening I have watched part 1 and part two of this video, and have set my Radio Master TX16 up using your foundation. I am setting the Trex 550X heli up with this radio. Just as I was going to set up the Beast X ver 5.2 up the radio prompted an update on the internal module which I performed along with the receiver firmware updates. I now have Multimodule Version V 1.3.3.0 installed and now I can not bind either the S8R or the RX8R pro to the radio, any ideal what went wrong? I have the system now setup on the Taranis but would really like to use the Radiomaster radio. Thank you.

[@Rchelicopterfun]

Sorry, no idea. There are so many protocol variations, it's impossible to keep to track of it and what version of firmware works with what RX firmware version. I ran into this very issue last month with a brand new FrSky X8R RX that I purchased. I had to flash older firmware into that RX to get it to bind to my Hours because they changed the RF protocol algorithm dirty buggers! RX & Multi-Module support question like this are best asked Multi-Module's forum or the info may even be listed their site under all the different protocol notes.

[@rhipp100]

@@Rchelicopterfun Thanks John I will look for the Multimodule forum I did not know one existed and look around there appreciate the help. Working it out in my Taranis now if I get the TX16s sorted will go back to it.

[@JeffreyGreenbaum-hi8hx]

Can you do this with an RC ERA heli with the tx16s?

[@Rchelicopterfun]

Do what? Bind a ERA model to a multi-protocol radio running Open/Edge TX? If so, I have no idea because I don't know what protocol ERA uses. If it's some obscure proprietary protocol, then no, there is no way you could bind it to a multi-protocol radio. You would have to find out what RF protocol ERA uses and then see if it's a supported protocol on Multi-Modules website: www.multi-module.org/

[@bobwatson6558]

Would there be an opportunity for you and I to talk. I have a radio master tx16s radio and have on it edge TX setup with the touch screen.

[@Rchelicopterfun]

I can be contacted through the contact page on my website (link in the KZbin channel contact information) but here it is: www.rchelicopterfun.com/ Incidentally, there is no difference between setting up the heli templates in Open or Edge - exactly the same process.

[@CRUZROYHelicopters]

john please update to ETHOS we all need help on heli setup

[@Rchelicopterfun]

Pretty much all covered in my Setup & tips ebook since ETHOS is a preconfigured menu layout with all the usual heli specific fields (in short, easier than OpenTX). And no I will not be switching to ETHOS after investing so much time into OpenTX and the flexibility is offers 🙂

[@DYLANNGUYEN68]

Jr 9 channel is it okay for all helicopter Sir? And I have spectrums 8 channel

[@Rchelicopterfun]

Any 6 channel or higher computerized radio with heli programming will work for a collective pitch RC helicopter. I cover # of channels in detail on my "RC helicopter radio how many channels" article on my website: www.rchelicopterfun.com/helicopter-radios.html

[@jjchambers350z]

John, What is the second setting for pitch hold?

[@Rchelicopterfun]

Not sure I understand what you are referencing? I have 4 pitch curves, normal, st1, st2, and hold. Hold is the 4th, not the second. I cover all that in the part 1 OpenTX for heli video.

[@124MPH]

I noticed you've got the Rudder Rate the other way round any reason for this?

[@Rchelicopterfun]

@124MPH For rudder/tail rotor toggle I want my lowest dual rate with the toggle in the back position (arrow showing pointed up during programming) and my highest dual rate output with the toggle pulled forward (arrow showing pointing down). It's not really the other way around in terms of toggle position (toggle back is logically low, at least with my logic and the way all my other radios have functioned over the years); it's just the way OpenTX indicates toggle position on the upper toggles in the programming screens. I agree, it's not logically intuitive since one would think the toggle pulled forward would be indicated with an up arrow on the display, but you would have to take that up with the OpenTX development team. 🙂

[@124MPH]

@@Rchelicopterfun ok thanks for reply John, love your videos and book.

[@endyX286]

sir, is the program same as taranis x9d plus?

[@Rchelicopterfun]

This applies to all radios running Open or Edge TX operating system. If your X9D is running that OS, yes it applies.

[@choisonhong]

感謝

[@orifitoussi7260]

Friend its me again . Where is the end point in this tx ( not subtrim for final adjustments

[@Rchelicopterfun]

Outputs - time index 30:50

[@orifitoussi7260]

Ill check thnx alot

[@trondyne3513]

I don't have any of these menus for Heli stuff, at least that I see... What's wrong?

[@Rchelicopterfun]

You likely didn't uncheck NoHeli in the build options (OpenTX Companion) which I do mention in the video @4:48

[@trondyne3513]

@@RchelicopterfunIn first build it was checked.. Redid the entire build with no check and still no heli options. Doesn't matter I don't think I need internal mixing... You went too fast (for me) on the mixing menu...stuck there...going back over it. I don't need multiple rates I just want expo, throttle hold and gyro... I lost all my radio stuff in a fire and this new OpenTX stuff is a royal pain, not very intuitive for me and I have no patience for it.

[@cyberneticinterfacemodular3996]

Do u use crossfire.

[@Rchelicopterfun]

Nope.

[@brandonsheets5146]

Hey John I have a vintage hirobo helicopter you might be interested in. Please comment back

[@Rchelicopterfun]

@Brandon Sheets - one vintage heli in the fleet is more than enough 😄

[@ErronKebabb]

+1

[@gopalanallan4074]

I need rc airwolf anybody got sale?

[@rmiklosh]

Hello John. I have a question. I got an old Spektrum DX7 DSM2 radio and recently bought Skyzone 04X goggles for heli fpv setup. These goggles have a headtracker function. I figured if I have an extra 7th cnanel on my radio, I can use it to control a servo for camera panning on the heli via Trainer mode (signal should come from Skyzone), but can't figure out how to set it up If it is possible at all. Guys from Spektrum support told me I can't. If you ever used it, do you have an idea?

[@Rchelicopterfun]

Sorry, no idea.

[@rmiklosh]

Hello John. I got a question. I have Spektrum DX7 DSM 2 and now I got Radiomaster TX16S Mark 2. I feel comfortable flying with Pitch and Throttle curves on old DX7. What is the best way to transfer those curves to TX16S, considering that DX7 has values from 0 to 100 and TX16S has values from -100 to +100? Do I have to somehow recalculate percentages for every point (5 of them) or/and use pitch gadge for every position and match it with TX16S position points? Sorry for anoying question)

[@rmiklosh]

Just want to transfer same feeling for sticks from DX7 to Radiomaster for controlling helicopter.

[@Rchelicopterfun]

Hi Roman, If you have my Setup & Tips for Collective Pitch RC Helicopters eBook, I go over the conversion formula in Chapter 2 on pages 29&30 (basically double the value and subtract 100). www.rchelicopterfun.com/rc-helicopter-tips.html Of course, always use a pitch gauge after you convert and transfer your pitch curve values over to confirm the correct/same collective range.

[@rmiklosh]

Why do you need 16 chanels for anyway? To control aircraft, dish washer, garage door and laundry at the same time?))

[@Rchelicopterfun]

Large scale helicopters and airplanes use up lots of channels - so do robots.

[@rmiklosh]

@@Rchelicopterfun Agree. I guess it is kind of futureproof radio. You never know where rc will take you.)

[@rmiklosh]

@@Rchelicopterfun John. I was wondering is there is any difference between cheap chinese servos for 15 bucks vs Savox or Futaba for 50 - 150 bucks, besides the price tag)? I use 20 bucks JR servos for more then 4 years and had no problems. Do you get finer behavior of a helicopter in the air for instanse from Savox servos or It is just a name you pay for? For example I used to fly cheap Gartt blades (12 bucks) and recently bought Gartt Hobbystar blades for 25 bucks there was a noticable difference in performance. As far as quality, no balancing was required and they are wider and heavier. There reason I am asking, I have 10 years old electronics installed (except for servos) and should I renew ESC, motor?

[@worachart111]

Great video

[@Rchelicopterfun]

Glad you enjoyed it