FATFISH F16 Quick Start Guide

Brand: FATFISH

Model: F16

Document Type: Quick start guide

Website: WWW.FATFISHFPV.COM

Introduction

Thank you for purchasing the FATFISH F16 Multi-protocol radio system. FATFISH is proud to bring this ground-breaking product to the market and would like to thank customers just like you and the community for making this dream possible. The F16 version has had several improvements thanks to feedback from users like you. Please take a moment to read this quick start reference before using your new F16 radio.

Safety & Precautions

Many radio control models are equipped with powerful motors and sharp spinning propellers. Please exercise caution when working on models. Ensure power is disconnected from your models and remove propellers when performing maintenance.

Do not operate the F16 radio system under the following conditions:

• During bad weather or high wind conditions such as rain, hail, snow, storms, or electromagnetic events.
• Under limited visibility.
• In areas where people, property, powerlines, roads, vehicles, or animals may be present.
• If you are feeling tired or unwell or under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
• If the radio or model appear to be damaged or not functioning correctly.
• In areas of high 2.4GHz interference or in locations where use of 2.4GHz radios is prohibited.
• When the battery in the F16 or the model is too low to function.

Manuals and Firmware Downloads

The F16 is shipped with EdgeTX software installed as standard. To download the latest software and manual, please visit https://www.fatfishfpv.com.

Further firmware information:

• EdgeTX: http://edgetx.org
• ExpressLRS: https://www.expresslrs.org/3.0/
• Multi Protocol Module: https://www.multi-module.org/

CAUTION!

The F16 is shipped with the most stable firmware at the time of manufacture. Please only update firmware if you are experienced and confident in updating system firmware. Incorrect updates may render the radio inoperable.

DO NOT charge 6.6v LiFE battery packs or Li-ion 18650 cells with a nominal voltage of 3.6v. Incorrectly charging the wrong battery type may lead to damage of the radio or fire.

Antenna Separation Distance

When operating your FATFISH transmitter, please be sure to maintain a separation distance of at least 20 cm between your body (excluding fingers, hands, wrists, ankles, and feet) and the antenna to meet RF exposure safety requirements as determined by FCC regulations.

Regularly check the health and condition of your batteries and never leave your radio charging unattended. Always charge in a safe area away from combustible materials and surfaces. Do not charge if your radio becomes wet or damaged in any way. FATFISH does not accept any liability for the use or misuses of this product.

Power Requirements

The F16 has built-in USB-C charging for 3.7v Lithium cells. The charging circuit is designed for 2x 3.7v Li-ion 18650 unprotected cells or 2x 3.7v Li-poly cells (2s 7.4v LiPO pack) only, with a nominal cell voltage of 3.7v and maximum charge capacity of 4.2v.

Model and Protocol Selection (ExpressLRS)

The radio supports model setup and protocol selection, including ExpressLRS (ELRS). Key settings include Mode (e.g., CRSF), Status (e.g., 250 Hz), Channel Range, Packet Rate, and Telemetry Ratio.

Example Model Setup Screen:

The screen displays options like Mode, Status, Channel Range, Receiver ID, Packet Rate, Telemetry Ratio, Switch Mode, Model Match, TX Power (e.g., 50mW), VTX Administrator, WiFi Connectivity, and Backpack options.

Bind Method

1. Turn off the radio.
2. Cycle power to the receiver 3 times; the receiver LED will start blinking, indicating it's in bind mode.
3. Turn on the radio, enter the ExpressLRS LUA, and select Bind.
4. The receiver LED will now stay illuminated, signaling a successful bind process.

Support

Warranty and Repairs

Please retain your proof of purchase and contact the retailer you purchased your F16 from, should you experience any problems with your radio hardware. Warranty is valid for one year from the date of purchase.

Switch Between Remote Control Display and Video Transmission Display

The radio allows switching between the remote control display and video transmission display. This can be configured in the special function setting menu, where any switch channel can be defined as a display toggle switch.

Example Special Functions Screen:

The screen shows options like SF1 (SC: LCD to Radio) and SF2 (SC: LCD to Video), with a '+' button for adding functions.

F16 Radio Overview

The FATFISH F16 radio controller features a comprehensive layout of controls and displays. The top panel includes:

• S1, S2 Dial: Rotary encoder for menu navigation and selection.
• SF 2 Position Switch
• SE 3 Position Switch
• SA 3 Position Switch
• SB 3 Position Switch
• LS Slider Pot: Left Slider Potentiometer.
• Speaker
• SH Momentary Switch
• SG 3 Position Switch
• SD 3 Position Switch
• SC 3 Position Switch
• RS Slider Pot: Right Slider Potentiometer.

The front panel includes:

• Left Gimbal: Control stick for primary movement.
• T1-T6 Trim Buttons: Trim adjustment buttons for gimbals.
• SYS Button
• MDL Button
• PAGE< Button: Navigate previous page.
• PAGE> Button: Navigate next page.
• TELE Button
• Power Button
• Right Gimbal: Control stick for secondary movement.
• Power LED: Indicator for power status.
• Lanyard Loop: For attaching a neck strap.
• RTN Button: Return to previous menu.
• 6 Pos Buttons: Six-position switch.
• Menu Wheel: Navigation wheel for menus.
• 4.3" Color Screen: Touch-sensitive display with 480*272 resolution.

The bottom/rear panel features:

• Charge port: USB-C port for charging.
• SD CARD slot: For firmware updates and model storage.
• 3.5mm Audio out: For audio output.
• Coach Port (Page 7): For buddy-box functionality.

Specifications

Battery Compatibility

Approved for Use

• 2 x 3.7v Li-ION 18650 cells (7.4v using supplied tray)
• 2 x 3.7v Li-ION 21700 cells (Assembled as 7.4v 2s Battery pack)
• 2 x 3.7v Lithium-polymere cells (Assembled as 7.4v 2s Battery pack)

DO NOT Use

• 3.6v Li-ION cells
• 2S 6.6v LiFE Battery packs
• LiFEP04 cells

Important Note: Do not use 2s 6.6v LiFE battery packs, 18650 lithium-ion cells with a nominal voltage of 3.6v, or LiFEP04 18650 Round cells. Using the built-in USB charger with incorrect battery types and voltage may cause damage to the remote control or fire.

Check the health and condition of the batteries regularly. Do not use damaged cells. Never charge your device unattended. Always charge in a safe area away from combustible materials and surfaces. Do not charge if your radio becomes wet or damaged in any way. FATFISH does not accept any liability for the use or misuses of this product.

Manufacturer

Shenzhen FATFISH Co., Ltd

Nanshan Yungu Nanfeng Building, Nanshan District, Shenzhen City, Guangdong Province, China