RadioLink T12D Instruction Manual
12 Fully-proportional Channels Transmitter
Chapter 1 T12D Remote Control System
1.1 Safety Precautions
- Do not operate outdoors on rainy days, run through puddles of water, or use when visibility is limited. Should any type of moisture (water or snow) enter any component of the system, erratic operation and loss of control may occur.
- Do not operate in places that near people or roads.
- This product is not a toy and is NOT suitable for children under the age of 14. Adults should keep the product out of the reach of children and exercise caution when operating this product in the presence of children.
- Please strictly abide by local laws and regulations when flying to ensure safe flight!
- Make sure the throttle stick and trim button are set at the lowest end before turning on. Then turn on the transmitter and check whether the power supply is sufficient, and turn on the receiver!
- Check whether the various actions of servo are consistent with the direction of the corresponding joystick before operating the model. If they are inconsistent, please adjust before using!
- Please turn off the power supply of the receiver and controlled equipment first, and then turn off the transmitter. If the operation is reversed, it may cause loss of control and cause an accident!
1.2 T12D Introduction
1.2.1 Specifications
Dimension | 174.3*206.9*106.9mm (6.86"*8.15"*4.21") |
Battery Case Dimension | 114.4*35.4*32mm (4.5"*1.39"*1.26") |
Antenna Length | 90mm (3.54") |
Weight | 536g (18.9oz) |
Channels | 12 fully proportional channels, 5-12 channels can be programmed |
Output Frequency | 2.4GHz ISM band (2400MHz~2483.5MHz) |
Spread Spectrum | FHSS 67 channels pseudo-random frequency hopping |
Signal Output | PWM&SBUS&PPM&CRSF |
Operating Systems | freeRTOS+LVGL GUI |
Long-range Module | It fully supports ELRS, TBS Crossfire, and other mainstream long-range modules |
Menu Customized | Setting Menu, font, desktop, system theme, etc., can be customized |
Response Latency | 3ms, 4ms, 14ms can be selected |
Channel Resolution | 4096 with regular jitter of 0.5us |
Modulation Mode | GFSK |
Channel Band Width | 400KHz |
Channel Pacing | 1200KHz |
Transmitter Power | <100mW (20dBM) |
Adjacent Channel Rejection | >36dBM |
Transmission Rate | 38kbps |
Reception Sensitivity | -104dBM |
PWM Output Range | 1.0ms~2.0ms |
Cycle | 15ms/per frame |
Operating Voltage | 7.4-18.0V (8pcs AA battery, a 2S-4S LiPo or 18650 Lithium battery. When external module is connected, please make sure the power supply voltage cannot exceed the working voltage of the module) |
Type-C Port Voltage and Current | Input Voltage: 5V (T12D also can be powered by computer or mobile power bank via Type-C cable) Input Current: 500mA Output Voltage: 4.6V-5.0V Output Current: Maximum 1A |
Operating Current | 100mA (±10mA)@8.4V DC |
Control Distance | Internal RF: 4000 meters in the air (Maximum range is tested in an unobstructed area free of interference) External RF: Depends on the RX and TX of the long-range module |
Adaptable Models | Rotary Wing/Fixed-wing/Glider/Multicopter/Car/Boat/Robot |
Low Voltage Alarm | Low transmitter voltage, low receiver voltage, low model battery voltage, or low RSSI alarm can be customized |
Storage Model Quantity | 100 |
Subsidiary ID Quantity | 15 |
Simulator Mode | Yes |
Trainer Function | Support |
Screen | 2.8 inches 16 colorful screens, 320*240 pixels |
Compatible Receivers | R16F(Std), R8EF, R8FM, R8SM, R8XM, R8FGH, R8FG, R7FG, R6FG, R6F, R4FGM, R4F |
Operating Temperature | -30° to 85° C |
Compatible Control Board Hardware Models | Ardupilot, pix4, beta, Arduino, and Raspberry Pi, can be connected with SBUS signal |
Water Splash Proof | The waterproof grade is IPX4 |
Compatible transmitter | T16D/T12D/T8FB/T8S/RC8X/RC6GS V3/RC4GS V3/RC6GS V2/RC4GS V2/RC6GS/RC4GS |
1.2.2 Packing List
The package includes:
- T12D Transmitter x1
- R16F Receiver x1
- Type-C Cable x1
- Hook and Spring x1
- Instruction Manual x1
- Packing Box x1
1.2.3 T12D Overview
The T12D transmitter features various controls and indicators. Taking Mode 2 as an example:
- Antenna: Located at the top for signal transmission.
- VRB Knob: A control knob on the top right.
- SWC (Three-way Switch): A switch on the top right.
- SWD (Two-way Switch): A switch on the top right.
- RF LED: Indicates RF status.
- Aileron/Elevator Stick: The right control stick.
- Power Switch: Turns the device on/off.
- Elevator Trim Lever: Trim control for elevator.
- Aileron Trim Lever: Trim control for aileron.
- Push Button: Used for navigation and confirmation.
- Dial: A rotary dial for adjustments.
- LCD Panel: Displays information and menus.
- VRA Knob: A control knob on the top left.
- SWB (Three-way Switch): A switch on the top left.
- SWA (Three-way Switch): A switch on the top left.
- Power LED: Indicates power status.
- Rudder/Throttle Stick: The left control stick.
- Throttle Trim Lever: Trim control for throttle.
- Rudder Trim Lever: Trim control for rudder.
- Mode Button: Navigates through menus.
- End Button: Returns to the previous menu or monitor interface.
- Hook: A physical hook for attachment.
The LCD screen displays model information, flight mode, timer, signal strength (RSSI), receiver voltage, and external voltage.
1.2.4 Transmitter Basic Operation
Powering On: Long press the power button to turn on the T12D.
Navigation:
- Press the Mode Button to enter the MAIN MENU.
- Use the Push Button (rotate) to move the cursor or modify parameter values.
- Press the Push Button to confirm selections.
- Press the End Button to go back to the previous menu. On the main interface, pressing End switches to the MONITOR interface.
1.2.5 Power on T12D
To power on the T12D, use 8pcs AA batteries or a 2S-4S LiPo battery. Ensure the power supply voltage does not exceed the module's working voltage when an external module is connected.
The power-on screen displays:
- Model Name: Current model selection (up to 20 models can be stored).
- Module Selection: 'IN' for internal module, 'EX' for external module.
- Signal Tower Logo: Indicates signal strength after successful binding.
- Transmitter Battery Voltage: Displays the transmitter's battery level.
- Current Power Display: Shows current power status.
- Current Flight Mode: Displays the active flight mode.
- Timer 1 and Timer 2: Can be started, stopped, or reset using the Push button.
- Received Signal Strength Indication (RSSI): 'NULL' indicates no signal. Values closer to 0 indicate stronger signal.
- Receiver Voltage: Displays the voltage of the receiver.
- External Voltage: Displays the voltage of the model's battery (requires telemetry function and connection).
Screen Lock: Long press the Push button to lock/unlock the screen. A red lock icon indicates the screen is locked. While locked, End button can be used to view the monitor interface.
Trim Levers: For fixed-wing models, trim levers adjust aileron, elevator, throttle, and rudder. Use with caution during initial flights for fine-tuning.
1.2.6 Language Select
The T12D supports multiple languages including Chinese, English, German, French, Russian, Japanese, Spanish, Korean, and Thai. English is the default. To change the language, navigate to MAIN MENU > Transmitter Settings > SYSTEM SETTING > LANGUAGE.
1.2.7 Transmitter Low Voltage Alarm
The default low voltage alarm is set at 6.6V. An audible alarm sounds when the transmitter battery drops below this threshold. The alarm voltage can be customized based on the battery type used (e.g., 7.4V for 2S LiPo, 11.1V for 3S LiPo).
1.3 R16F Introduction
1.3.1 Features of R16F
The R16F is a 16-channel receiver compatible with the T12D. It supports model voltage telemetry, 2.4GHz FHSS spread spectrum, and 67-channel pseudo-random frequency hopping for excellent anti-interference. It offers three signal outputs: PWM, SBUS, and CRSF.
R16F Receiver Diagram:
- Antenna: For signal reception.
- Coaxial cable: Connects antenna to receiver.
- Binding Button (ID SET): Used for binding the receiver to the transmitter.
- Signal LED: Indicates receiver status.
- Telemetry Port: For connecting telemetry data cables.
- Type-C Port: For firmware updates.
- Channel Ports (1-16): For connecting servos and other components.
- SBUS/CRSF/PWM Output: Indicates the type of signal output.
Safety Check Before Operating:
- RSSI Test: Refer to section 1.3.7 for testing Received Signal Strength.
- Antenna Inspection: Ensure the coaxial cable and antenna are intact. Damage can affect control distance.
1.3.2 Binding
The T12D and R16F are bound by default. If binding is lost or a new receiver is used, follow these steps:
- Place the transmitter and receiver close to each other (approx. 60 cm).
- Turn on both the transmitter and receiver. The R16F's LED will flash slowly.
- Press and hold the binding button (ID SET) on the receiver for over 1 second. The LED will flash quickly, indicating binding is in progress.
- When the LED stops flashing and remains solid, binding is complete. A signal tower icon will appear on the transmitter's LCD.
1.3.3 Receiver Connection
1. Connect Cable:
Servo cables typically use white/red/black or yellow/red/brown wires. The light-colored wire is for signal, dark-colored for ground, and the middle wire is for 5V power. RadioLink receivers have anti-polarity protection, but connecting a servo with reversed polarity can damage the servo.
2. Telemetry Connection:
Connect the telemetry cable from the R16F's telemetry port to the ESC to transmit model battery voltage, receiver voltage, and RSSI data.
Diagram Description (Battery voltage telemetry cable):
- The receiver (RadioLink R16F) connects to servos (Aileron, Elevator, Rudder) and the ESC.
- The ESC connects to the Motor.
- The Battery connects to the ESC.
- The telemetry cable connects the receiver's telemetry port to the ESC.
Attention:
- Reverse polarity protection is designed for all 16 channels. However, the JST connector for battery connection cannot be reversed; doing so may lead to incorrect voltage telemetry.
- The telemetry port is solely for model voltage telemetry and cannot power the receiver.
1.3.4 Working Modes
The R16F supports three signal output modes:
- PWM working mode: Red LED is always on. Outputs PWM signals on all 16 channels.
- PWM+SBUS working mode: Red and blue LEDs are always on. Channels 1-15 output PWM signals, and Channel 16 outputs SBUS signal.
- PWM+CRSF+SBUS working mode: Red, green, and blue LEDs are always on. Channels 1-13 output PWM signals, Channels 14-15 output CRSF protocol, and Channel 16 outputs SBUS signal.
Working mode switch: Short press the binding button to cycle through working modes.
1.3.5 Receiver Firmware Update
To update the R16F firmware:
- Connect a Type-C cable to the R16F's Type-C port.
- Press and hold the binding button on the R16F.
- Connect the other end of the Type-C cable to a computer and release the binding button.
- The receiver's blue LED will stay on, and a USB flash drive will appear on the computer.
- Copy the new firmware file (e.g., MH_T12D.mac) to the USB flash drive.
1.3.6 Installment of Receiver Antenna
Correct antenna installation is crucial for signal quality. Common mistakes to avoid:
- Do not overlap antennas; keep them at a 90-degree angle to each other.
- Avoid placing antennas near metal objects, as reflections degrade the signal.
- Do not keep antennas parallel to the ground; position them vertically.
- For models with large metal parts, position antennas on opposite sides.
- Keep antennas at least half an inch away from metal conductors and carbon fiber, and avoid sharp bends.
- Keep antennas away from motors, ESCs, and other interference sources.
- Use vibration-proof materials like foam or rubber cloth for mounting.
- Handle the receiver with care, as it contains high-precision components sensitive to vibration and high temperatures.
- A sealed plastic bag can protect the receiver from humidity and dust.
For antenna installation guidance, visit: https://www.radiolink.com/newsinfo/886600.html
1.3.7 RSSI Testing
To test signal strength (RSSI) and troubleshoot issues:
- Turn on the transmitter and receiver. The signal tower icon on the transmitter indicates a successful connection. The RSSI value will be displayed and change based on distance.
- Position the transmitter and receiver antennas parallel, about 60 cm apart. A normal RSSI value is between 0 and -30dBm; values closer to 0 are stronger.
Abnormal signal strength solution: Check for damaged antennas. If damaged, replace them. If no damage is found, test with a different receiver. If problems persist, contact support at after_service@radiolink.com.cn.
Chapter 2 General Settings
This chapter covers functions within the [Main Menu] > General Settings.
2.1 MONITOR
Displays the real-time output status of all channels. Pressing the End button on the main interface quickly accesses the channel monitor.
2.2 REVERSE
Allows reversing the output direction of a channel's signal. This is useful for debugging if a model's controls are operating in the opposite direction. Select a channel and press the Push button to toggle between NOR (Normal) and REV (Reverse).
2.3 END POINTS
Adjusts the travel amount (HIGH, LOW, SUBTRIM) for each channel's servo output. This allows fine-tuning the range of motion to match model design or user preference. Values can be set from 0 to 120.
2.4 CH SPEED
Adjusts the output speed of specific channels. For example, it can slow down the retraction speed of landing gear. A switch can be assigned (SWA, SWB, SWC, SWD) to control this function. 'NULL' means no switch is assigned. 'INH' means the function is not enabled.
2.5 AUX CH
Assigns control switches (SWA, SWB, SWC, SWD, VRA, VRB, VRC, VRD) to auxiliary channels (CH5 to CH12). 'NULL' means no switch is assigned.
2.6 TRIMS
Corrects mechanical errors and adjusts the neutral position of each channel. Trims can be set from -100 to 100, with a default of 0.
2.7 PROG.MIX
Provides up to 8 groups of mixing, allowing simultaneous control of two channels with one switch. Users can assign switches (SWA, SWB, SWC, SWD) to control mixing groups. 'INH' means mixing is not enabled. 'ON/OFF' enables/disables mixing. The 'TYPE' can be EXP, VTR, or CRV. 'NOR' adjusts the end point ratio of the slave channel. 'REV' adjusts the left side end point ratio. 'RATE' sets the curve rate. 'OFFSET' sets the central point. 'MASTER' is the controlling channel, 'SLAVE' is the controlled channel. 'LINK' determines if master channel functions affect the slave channel. 'TRIM' determines if the master channel's trim affects the slave channel.
Chapter 3 Advanced Settings
This chapter covers advanced functions like TYPE SELECT, FLIGHT MODE, CONDITIONS, RATE/CURVE, THROTTLE CURVE, THROTTLE HOLD, GYROSCOPE, etc. Available functions depend on the selected model type.
3.1 TYPE SELECT
Selects the model type (e.g., fixed-wing, delta wing, multi-rotor, helicopter, car, boat, tank, robot). Selecting a type enables specific advanced settings.
3.2 FLIGHT MODE
Sets and switches between different flight modes (e.g., NORMAL, ATTI, GPS, HOVER, F/S, AUX, ARCO, AUTO, CIRCLE, DRIFT, GUIDED, P.HOLD, RTL, SIMPLE, SPORT, STABL., LAND - 17 modes total). This function works with the flight controller. Switches (SWA, SWB, SWC, SWD) can be assigned to select flight modes. Two switches can manage up to 9 flight modes.
The output channel for flight mode can be set from channel 5 to 12. The 'Ratio' determines the output value for each posture when switching modes. It's recommended to set distinct ratios to ensure accurate identification by the flight controller.
3.3 CONDITION
Allows setting up to three conditions that can be switched using switches (SWA, SWB, SWC, SWD). These conditions can enable/disable functions like END POINTS, CHANNEL SPEED, RATE/CURVE, THROTTLE CURVE, GYRO SENSE, V-TAIL, DELTA-WING MIX, PITCH CURVE, TRACK MIX, and RF SETTINGS. Ensure the desired functions are enabled on this interface for conditional switches to work.
Example: To control 3 throttle curves with one switch (SWC), set CONDITION 1 to SWC_UP, CONDITION 2 to SWC_MID, and CONDITION 3 to SWC_DOWN. Then, enable THROTTLE CURVE and set each curve in its respective condition.
3.4 RATE/CURVE
Adjusts servo sensitivity for linear or non-linear action. Channels 1, 2, and 4 can be configured. Types include EXP, VTR, and CRV.
- EXP: Adjusts joystick sensitivity at the ends and center. Negative values decrease center sensitivity and increase end sensitivity; positive values do the opposite. Range: -100 to +100.
- VTR: Sets the output range for the first half of the stroke. The second half is calculated as 100/-100 minus the set value. 'POINT' sets a critical point for the VTR curve. Range: -100 to +100.
- CRV: Defines a 9-point curve from lowest to highest point, allowing custom response curves.
3.5 THROTTLE CURVE
Makes throttle operation smoother or more sensitive during acceleration and braking. Types include EXP and CRV.
- EXP: Adjusts throttle sensitivity from the center to the high point. Negative values decrease sensitivity at 50% throttle and increase it at low/high points; positive values do the opposite. Range: -100 to +100.
- CRV: Defines a 9-point curve for throttle, similar to RATE/CURVE.
3.6 THROTTLE HOLD
Locks the throttle output to a fixed value, useful for cruise control. A switch can be assigned to activate it. 'THRO' sets the fixed output value (0-100, corresponding to -100% to 100%). 'STATE' indicates if throttle hold is active (white dot on black = off, white dot on red = on).
3.7 V_TAIL (Fixed-wing)
Performs mixing control for V-tail aircraft. 'STATE' turns the function on/off. 'CH2' and 'CH4' values determine the range and direction of elevator/rudder servo movement.
3.8 DELTA-WING MIX (Delta-wing)
Also known as elevon mix, used for delta-wing aircraft. Two servos independently control surfaces that act as both ailerons and elevators. 'STATE' turns the function on/off. 'CH1' and 'CH2' values determine the range and direction of aileron/elevator servo movement.
3.9 GYROSCOPE
Adjusts gyroscope sensitivity. Ensure the receiver has a built-in gyroscope and it's enabled. 'GYRO SENSE' sets sensitivity from 1% to 100% (100% is strongest). 'OFF' disables the gyroscope.
3.10 PITCH CURVE (Helicopter)
Adjusts the helicopter's pitch motion curve to match throttle output for optimal flight. 'OUTPUT CHANNEL' can be set from 5 to 12. 'POINT' allows setting 9 points for the curve, with parameters from -100 to +100.
3.11 HELICOPTER SETTINGS (Helicopter)
Sets mix control for helicopter servos (aileron, elevator, pitch) for optimal flight effect. Options include SWASHPLATE FIXED and SWASHPLATE VARIABLE, with adjustable percentages for Aileron, Elevator, and Pitch.
3.12 TRACK MIX
Used for models like tanks or excavators to control two tracks independently or together. 'STATE' turns the function on/off. Channels 1-12 can be selected. 'FORWARD RATIO' and 'BACKWARD RATIO' control forward/backward movement. 'LEFT RATIO' and 'RIGHT RATIO' control turning.
Chapter 4 Transmitter Settings
This chapter covers MODEL, SYSTEM SETTING, STICK MODE, TRAINER, TIMERS, SWITCHES SETTINGS, BOOT SETTING, and ABOUT.
4.1 MODEL
Manages model data, including selecting, typing, copying, pasting, renaming, and resetting models. Up to 100 models can be stored.
4.1.1 Model Select
Choose from stored model data.
4.1.2 Model Type
Select from eight model types: fixed-wing, delta wing, multi-rotor, helicopter, car, boat, tank, and robot.
4.1.3 Model Copy/Paste
Copy settings from one model to another. Useful for similar models.
4.1.4 Model Rename
Change the name of a selected model.
4.1.5 Model Reset
Resets the current model's settings to default values.
4.2 SYSTEM SETTING
Configures system parameters: LANGUAGE, SOUND, VOLUME, IDLE ALARM, VIBRATION, VIBRATION INTENSITY, BATTERY TYPE, BATTERY ALARM, CALIBRATION VOLTAGE, BRIGHTNESS, BRIGHTNESS TIME, and AUTO SHUTDOWN.
- LANGUAGE: Select interface language.
- SOUND: Set system and alarm sounds (alarm only, key only, key plus alarm).
- VOLUME: Adjust volume level (mute, 25%, 50%, 75%, 100%).
- IDLE ALARM: Set an alarm for inactivity to prevent battery over-discharge.
- VIBRATION: Enable/disable vibration for system and alarms.
- VIBRATION INTENSITY: Adjust vibration strength (0-100%).
- BATTERY TYPE: Select battery type for accurate capacity display.
- BATTERY ALARM: Set the voltage threshold for battery low-voltage alarms.
- CALIBRATION VOLTAGE: Adjust displayed voltage to match actual battery voltage (-5V to +5V).
- BRIGHTNESS: Adjust screen brightness.
- BRIGHTNESS TIME: Set backlight duration.
- AUTO SHUTDOWN: Set automatic transmitter power-off time.
4.3 STICK MODE
Provides four stick modes (Mode 2 is default). Includes joystick calibration steps to ensure accurate input. Calibration involves moving sticks to extreme positions and then to the center.
Chapter 5 Receiver Settings
This chapter covers RF SETTINGS, SUBSIDIARY ID, SENSOR, FAILSAFE, and EXT RF SETTINGS.
5.1 RF SETTINGS
Module Selection: Choose between Internal or External RF modules. 'IN' is displayed for internal, 'EX' for external.
PROTOCOL: Select FHSS V1 (2048 resolution) or FHSS V2 (4096 resolution) for compatible receivers. T12D supports CRSF protocol modules like TBS and ELRS.
SERVO SPEED: Select response speed (14ms for analog servos, 4ms/3ms for digital servos). Ensure your receiver supports digital servos.
5.2 SUBSIDIARY ID
Allows binding multiple receivers. When Subsidiary ID is off, T12D can control multiple devices simultaneously. When Subsidiary ID is on, T12D controls a specific device based on the selected ID (16 groups available). This is useful for controlling different models or functions independently.
5.3 SENSOR
Sets alarms for RSSI, receiver voltage, and external battery voltage. Alarms can be customized with intervals and threshold values.
- RSSI ALARM: Enable/disable RSSI alarms. Default value is -80dBm, adjustable up to -100dBm.
- RX VOLTAGE ALARM: Enable/disable receiver voltage alarms. Minimum alarm value is 3V, maximum is 12V (default 4.2V).
- EXT VOLTAGE ALARM: Enable/disable external battery voltage alarms. Minimum alarm value is 3V, maximum is 60V (default 6.6V).
Note: Ensure alarm sound or vibration is enabled in System Settings.
5.4 FAILSAFE
A safety feature that sets output values for each channel when the signal is lost. All channels default to 0% and can be customized.
5.5 EXT RF SETTINGS
Configures external RF modules. Options include PROTOCOL (ELRS, CRSF V2), BAUD RATE, Pkt Rate, TLM Ratio, TX Power, Bind, and WIFI Mode.
Chapter 6 Firmware Update
Keep the T12D firmware updated for new features and optimizations. Visit www.radiolink.com for the latest firmware.
Firmware update steps:
- Download firmware: Download the latest firmware file (e.g., MH_T12D.mac) from https://www.radiolink.com/t12d_firmwares.
- Prepare the transmitter: Connect the battery, power off the transmitter. Push both TRIM buttons to the middle and long press the power button until a 'D' sound is heard.
- Enter USB mode: Select "USB MODE" on the BOOT MODE interface and press Push. The transmitter enters USB mode, and the computer will recognize it as a USB flash drive.
- Copy the firmware: Copy the downloaded firmware file into the 'firmware' folder on the T12D's removable disk.
- Enter Upgrade mode: Short press the End button to exit USB mode. On the BOOT MODE interface, select "Upgrade" and press Push.
- Upgrade firmware: Select "YES" on the Upgrade MODE interface and press Push. The transmitter will begin upgrading, showing the progress percentage.
- Firmware upgrade successful: A confirmation message will appear. Press the END key to exit.
- Exit upgrade mode: Short press the End button. Long press the power button to use the transmitter normally. Check the firmware version in Transmitter Settings > ABOUT to confirm the update.
Technical Support:
- Contact RadioLink RL via Facebook Messenger.
- Email technical support at after_service@radiolink.com.cn.
- Download the latest manual from https://www.radiolink.com/t12d_manual.
Thank you for choosing RadioLink product.