RadioMaster TX16S MKII Carbon Fiber Black 2.4GHz 16CH EdgeTX OpenTX Hall Gimbals Remote Control Radio Transmitter (ELRS)

Introduction

The RadioMaster TX16S Mark II Carbon Fiber Edition is a sophisticated 2.4GHz 16-channel remote control radio transmitter designed for advanced hobbyists and professionals. It features V4.0 Hall gimbals, an internal ELRS module, and runs on EdgeTX firmware, offering extensive customization and control for various remote-controlled models.

This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting your TX16S MKII transmitter to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Figure 1: Front view of the RadioMaster TX16S MKII Carbon Fiber ELRS radio transmitter, showcasing its carbon fiber pattern, dual gimbals, switches, and central display.

Safety Information

Please read and understand all safety warnings before operating your RadioMaster TX16S MKII. Failure to do so may result in injury or damage to the product.

• Battery Polarity: Ensure cells are installed with the correct polarity. Incorrect polarity will damage your radio.
• Operating Environment: Do not operate the transmitter in wet conditions, near water, or in extreme temperatures.
• Interference: Be aware of potential radio interference from other devices. Always perform range checks before flight.
• Children: This product is not a toy. Recommended for ages 14 years and up. Keep out of reach of small children.
• Modifications: Do not attempt to modify the transmitter. Unauthorized modifications may void your warranty and compromise safety.

Setup

1. Unboxing and Initial Inspection

Carefully unpack all components from the box. Verify that all items listed below are present and undamaged.

Figure 2: Contents of the TX16S MKII package. Includes the radio controller, battery tray, USB-C cable, additional grips, and user instructions.

In the Box:

• TX16S MKII Radio Controller
• Battery Tray (18650 Cells Sold Separately)
• USB-C Cable
• Additional Grips
• User Manual and Accessory

2. Battery Installation and Charging

The TX16S MKII uses 18650 Li-ion cells (not included). Insert the cells into the provided battery tray, paying close attention to the polarity markings. Incorrect polarity will damage the radio.

Figure 3: Rear view of the TX16S MKII, highlighting the removable battery cover and JR compatible module bay.

Once batteries are installed, connect the supplied USB-C cable to the transmitter's charge port and to a suitable USB power source. The optimized charge IC allows up to 2.2A internal USB-C charge current. The display will indicate charging status.

3. SD Card Insertion

The transmitter comes with a 256MB SD card by default, supporting up to 8GB. The SD card is crucial for firmware, model settings, and sound files. Carefully insert the SD card into its slot. Ensure it is properly seated to avoid it falling into the internal compartment.

4. Gimbal Adjustment

The V4.0 Hall Gimbals feature external adjustments for stick travel, self-centering, and stick tension. Refer to the detailed instructions in the EdgeTX manual for precise calibration and adjustment procedures to suit your preference.

Operating Instructions

1. Powering On and Display Navigation

Press and hold the power button to turn on the transmitter. The 4.3-inch TFT full-colour touch display (480x272 resolution) provides access to all settings. Navigate menus using the touch screen or the scroll wheel and buttons.

Figure 4: Angled view of the TX16S MKII, highlighting the display and the arrangement of switches and gimbals.

2. Firmware and Module Selection

The TX16S MKII runs on EdgeTX radio firmware. This version is equipped with an internal ELRS (SX1280) module. You can switch between internal RF and external modules (if installed in the JR compatible module bay) via software settings.

The external module bay natively supports Team Black Sheep MicroTX modules in CRSF mode with LUA scripts, allowing for seamless integration without needing to remove the internal module.

3. Model Setup and Binding

Use the EdgeTX interface to create new models, configure channels (up to 16 channels depending on the receiver), and set up mixes. Refer to the comprehensive EdgeTX documentation for detailed model setup procedures and binding instructions for your specific receiver type.

4. Audio Features

The transmitter includes a 3.5mm audio headphone jack and built-in dual speakers, providing versatile audio feedback options for telemetry, voice alerts, and more.

Maintenance

1. Cleaning

Wipe the transmitter's exterior with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could damage the finish or screen. Keep the gimbals free of dust and debris.

2. Storage

Store the transmitter in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. If storing for extended periods, remove the batteries or ensure they are at a storage voltage (around 3.8V per cell) to prevent degradation.

3. Firmware Updates

Regularly check for firmware updates for both EdgeTX and the internal ELRS module. Updates can be performed via USB-C online or by copying files to the SD card offline. Refer to the official EdgeTX and ExpressLRS websites for the latest firmware and update procedures.

Troubleshooting

• Transmitter Not Powering On:
  • Check battery installation and polarity.
  • Ensure batteries are charged.
  • Verify battery tray connection.
• Battery Indication Inaccurate:
  • Some users report the battery indication bar may not be perfectly accurate. Rely on actual voltage readings if available or charge regularly.
• SD Card Not Detected / SD Card Falls Inside:
  • Ensure the SD card is inserted correctly and fully seated in its slot.
  • If the SD card falls into the casing, carefully open the transmitter (refer to online guides if necessary) to retrieve it and ensure proper re-insertion.
• No Control Response:
  • Verify that the transmitter is bound to the receiver.
  • Check model settings and channel assignments in EdgeTX.
  • Ensure the correct internal or external RF module is selected.
• Cannot Use in Simulator Without Battery:
  • The TX16S MKII typically requires a battery to be installed even when connected via USB for simulator use. This is a design characteristic.
• Display Issues:
  • Adjust display brightness in settings.
  • If the screen is unresponsive, try restarting the transmitter.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

Warranty Information

Specific warranty details for the RadioMaster TX16S MKII are typically provided by the manufacturer, RadioMaster, or the authorized seller, RotorLogic. Please refer to the documentation included with your purchase or contact the seller directly for comprehensive warranty terms and conditions.

Note: Unauthorized modifications or improper use may void the product warranty.

Customer Support

For technical assistance, troubleshooting, or general inquiries regarding your TX16S MKII, please contact:

• RotorLogic (US Dealer): As the seller, RotorLogic can provide direct support for your purchase. You can find their contact information on the Amazon product page or your order details.
• RadioMaster Official Resources: Visit the official RadioMaster website for the latest firmware, detailed manuals, FAQs, and community forums. These resources are invaluable for advanced configurations and troubleshooting.
• EdgeTX Community: Since the radio runs EdgeTX, the EdgeTX project website and community forums are excellent resources for software-related questions and support.