PowerBox Pioneer User Manual

Introduction

Congratulations on your decision to use a PowerBox Pioneer in your model. This integrates the most advanced power management system currently available on the market. In addition to powerful power supply with electronic switches, the Pioneer offers full telemetry capability. Furthermore, in conjunction with an iGyro SAT, the Pioneer represents a last-generation gyro system. Nine gyro axes can be set up in minutes and perfectly adapted to personal preferences with numerous expert settings.

We wish you much enjoyment and success with the PowerBox Pioneer!

Features

• 14 Channels
• Powerful battery distributor with high continuous load capacity
• Consistently dual-redundant power electronics
• Redundant electronic switch
• Full operability from the transmitter for PowerBox and Jeti
• Operation via PowerBox USB Interface Adapter for all systems
• Latest iGyro technology integrated, with the iGyro SAT as gyro sensor
• 9 independent gyro outputs for: 3x Aileron, 3x Elevator, 3x Rudder
• Special control algorithm for model aircraft
• Recognition of all mixers in the transmitter
• Easiest gyro programming in minutes
• Optional with GPS for speed-dependent gyro compensation
• Telemetry data for PowerBox P²BUS, Futaba S.BUS2, Jeti Ex-BUS, and Spektrum SRXL2
• Transmission of voltage, current, capacity, lost frames, and holds
• Adjustable servo frame rate: 10 ms, 12 ms, 14 ms, 16 ms, 18 ms
• Suppression of servo feedback currents
• State-of-the-art 32-bit microprocessor for fast and precise signal processing
• Optimized heat dissipation via the elegant, milled, and anodized aluminum housing
• Switch housing made of milled and anodized aluminum
• Space-saving, flat design
• Extremely lightweight construction

1. Installation and Connections

To keep the overall size as small as possible, mounting tabs have been omitted. The Pioneer is installed using the supplied adhesive pad. Due to its low weight and compact design, this ensures excellent mounting security.

The Pioneer can be used with three remote control systems: PowerBox P²BUS, Futaba S.BUS2, Jeti EX-BUS, and Spektrum SRXL2. All four systems have one thing in common: servo signals and telemetry data run on a single bus line. This eliminates the need for a second patch cable for telemetry data, which was necessary with older systems.

The Pioneer automatically detects the connected system – the first time it is plugged in, it may take a few seconds for the system to be clearly identified. Once recognized, the system type is saved and starts without delay on the next power-up.

Thus, the system is Plug & Play. If no iGyro SAT is installed, no further settings are necessary for operation, unless you wish to change the frame rate or the channel for capacity reset.

For PowerBox and Jeti users, all settings can be made from the transmitter. Alternatively, for Futaba/Spektrum pilots, a USB adapter is necessary.

Connecting Receivers

PowerBox ATOM/CORE

Connect one or two receivers to RX1 and RX2 using the P²BUS output. If only one receiver is connected, it must be connected to RX1 for telemetry transmission. If you have also connected a GPS-V to the FastTrack input, the Pioneer will also provide GPS information to the transmitter.

Jeti EX-BUS

For the receivers to be used, set an output to EX-BUS. The frame rate should be set to 10 ms, and the Failsafe function must be set to OFF. If only one receiver is connected, it must be connected to RX1 for telemetry transmission. If you have also connected a GPS-V to the FastTrack input, the Pioneer will also provide GPS information to the transmitter.

Futaba S.BUS2

Connect one or two receivers to RX1 and RX2 using the S.BUS2 output. If only one receiver is connected, it must be connected to RX1 for telemetry transmission. This receiver must also be set as a telemetry receiver in the transmitter.

To receive telemetry data, perform a "New Load" operation in the transmitter's Telemetry Sensor menu. This will completely clear the sensor list. In the sensor list, navigate to Slot 16 and select PowerBox. The telemetry data will now appear starting from Slot 16. If you have also connected a GPS-V to the FastTrack input, the Pioneer will also provide GPS information to the transmitter.

Spektrum SRXL2

Connect one or two SPM4651T satellites with the optionally available adapter cable set (#9192) to the Pioneer. If only one receiver is connected, it must be connected to RX1 for telemetry transmission. In the transmitter, you will now see the battery data displayed under the PowerBox Sensor. If you have also connected a GPS-V to the FastTrack input, the Pioneer will also provide GPS information to the transmitter.

The Pioneer operates by default in DX18 compatibility mode. The DX18 and DX20 modes can be selected via the USB adapter in the Terminal.

Connecting Batteries

Ideally, connect two batteries of the same type and capacity to the Pioneer. Ensure correct polarity. Batteries of different capacities can also be connected, but this will result in the larger battery being generally more heavily loaded. Select the battery size such that it is capable of reliably supplying power to the model on its own.

Connecting the Switch

Plug the switch into the designated socket. The Pioneer is supplied with either a push-button switch or a MicroMag magnetic switch.

The function of the push-button switch is the same as with all PowerBox systems: Press the button until the LED flashes green rapidly. Briefly release the button and press it again briefly. The LED indicates the switched-on state with a solid green light.

The procedure is the same for switching off.

With the MicroMag switch, hold the magnet on the switch until the Pioneer is switched on. As soon as a magnet is registered, the LED turns blue. The end of the switching process is signaled by the LED turning red. The LED then indicates the switched-on state with green.

Connecting an iGyroSAT

If an iGyro SAT is to be installed to utilize the Pioneer's gyro functionality, ensure it is installed at a right angle in the model. For turbine-powered models, the iGyro SAT should be placed as far away from the turbine as possible to avoid the influence of turbine noise on the sensor. The iGyro SAT cable can be extended as needed. Connect the iGyro SAT to the FastTrack input of the Pioneer.

Connecting GPS for Gyro

Connect the GPS-V together with the iGyro SAT to the FastTrack input using a V-cable. The GPS-V automatically detects that it is plugged into a FastTrack input. The GPS-V has two functions when plugged into the Pioneer:

1. The iGyro operates with speed compensation. This means the gyro gain is adjusted for all axes based on flight speed. This increases gyro sensitivity when the model flies slowly, making it significantly more stable.
2. For all systems, the GPS telemetry data is sent to the transmitter.

2. Basic Settings

With the PowerBox Pioneer, only a few settings need to be made if the iGyro is not used. You can find all settings either in the transmitter menu (PowerBox, Jeti) or in the mobile app and PC program.

To access the menu on the PowerBox ATOM/CORE, place any telemetry widget of the Pioneer. You will find the menu button in the widget.

For Jeti, go to "Additional Functions" and select "Jetibox". Select this and tap all the way to the right to MX. If you now tap downwards, you will find yourself in the Pioneer menu.

a) Framerate

This sets the impulse repetition rate to the servos. For older analog servos, use the 18 ms setting. For newer digital servos, the 12 ms setting can be chosen. The default setting is 16 ms.

b) Channel Reset Capacity

This function allows you to select a channel for resetting the consumed capacity. Channel 16 is set by default. This channel resets the consumed capacity as soon as more than 100% travel is commanded. You can use a switch or button for this and reset the capacity after charging the batteries.

c) Reset Gyro

Selecting this function will reset all gyro settings.

ATTENTION: This function does not have a further safety confirmation!

d) Failsafe

In this menu, you can select an output that should move to a specific servo position in case of signal loss. It is essential to use this function for the throttle, as it is a legal requirement in many countries!

Select the desired output and set the Failsafe Mode to Failsafe. With the Teach Button, the current servo positions are adopted for all outputs where Failsafe is set.

3. Gyro Settings

All iGyro settings only function with an iGyro SAT connected. Depending on whether the model has already been flown without a gyro or is new, there are different procedures:

a) A New Model

• Create all model functions, including a channel for sensitivity
• Set all model functions (travel, center, expo, etc.)
• Fly in the model, including trim, differential, etc.
• Assign gyro outputs
• Learn installation position
• Learn center and endpoints
• Set the iGyro in flight using the gain controller
• Readjust individual axes if necessary
• Save the flown gain value to a switch

b) An Already Flown Model

• Assign gyro outputs
• Learn installation position
• Learn center and endpoints
• Set the iGyro in flight using the gain controller
• Readjust individual axes if necessary
• Save the flown gain value to a switch

As you can see, for a new model, no settings are necessary in the iGyro SAT or the Pioneer to perform basic setup in the model or to fly the model without a gyro.

Therefore, we will start with the setting for assigning the gyro outputs in the menu.

Note: The menus for PowerBox and Jeti are identical in structure and only differ in display or operation via touchscreen or buttons.

The gyro functions in the Pioneer are identical to the settings in the PowerBox PBR receivers with an iGyro SAT connected. The only difference is that the Pioneer has nine gyro axes available, while the PBR receivers have six.

Start with the iGyro settings as described in the iGyro SAT manual from section 3.2.

4. Menu Structure

The menu structure is organized into four main categories: General Settings, Fine Tuning, Input Mapping, and Gyro Setup. Each category contains several sub-options:

• General Settings: Firmware Version, Framerate, CH Reset Cap., Reset Gyro.
• Fine Tuning: Axis Selection, Range Selection, Gain, Attitude Assist, Characteristic, Stick Priority, Lock Feel, Airspeed Factor.
• Input Mapping: CH Aileron A, CH Aileron B, CH Aileron C, CH Elevator A, CH Elevator B, CH Elevator C, CH Rudder A, CH Rudder B, CH Rudder C, CH Gain.
• Gyro Setup: Teach Mounting Pos., Teach Stick Endpoints.

5. Technical Data

6. Dimensions

Diagrams illustrating the physical dimensions of the PowerBox Pioneer unit and its associated switch. The main unit is shown from the side, top, and front, with dimensions indicated: 63.50 mm length, 43.40 mm width, and 11.80 mm height. The switch component is shown from the front and side, with dimensions: 35.50 mm length, 15.40 mm width, and 6.80 mm height. A separate diagram shows the switch housing with dimensions 13.40 mm and 21.40 mm.

7. Package Contents

PowerBox Pioneer with MicroSwitch

• PowerBox Pioneer
• PowerBox MicroSwitch
• 2 Patch cables (22 cm)
• 2 Mounting screws
• Adhesive pad
• User manual in English and German

PowerBox Pioneer with MicroMag

• PowerBox Pioneer
• PowerBox MicroMag
• Magnet
• 2 Patch cables (22 cm)
• 2 Mounting screws
• Adhesive pad
• MagSensor sticker
• Keychain
• User manual in English and German

8. Service Hint

To provide customers with good service, a support forum has been established for all questions concerning our products. This greatly relieves us from having to answer frequently asked questions repeatedly, and gives you the opportunity to receive quick help around the clock and on weekends. The answers are provided by the PowerBox Team, which also guarantees the accuracy of the answers.

Please use the support forum before contacting us by phone.

You can find the forum at the following address: www.forum.powerbox-systems.com

9. EU Declaration of Conformity

This device complies with the essential requirements and other relevant provisions of Directives 2011/65/EU + 2015/863/EU (RoHS) and 2014/30/EU (EMC). The EU Declaration of Conformity for the PowerBox Pioneer can be found at the following link: www.powerbox-systems.com/de/content/zertifikate

10. Warranty Provisions

PowerBox-Systems places great importance on the highest quality standards in the development and manufacturing, guaranteeing "Made in Germany"!

We therefore grant a 24-month warranty on the PowerBox Pioneer from the date of sale. The warranty covers the free rectification of proven material defects by us. We kindly point out that we reserve the right to replace the device if repair is not economically feasible.

Any repairs carried out by us in our service department do not extend the warranty period. Improper use, e.g., due to reverse polarity, very strong vibrations, excessively high voltage, moisture, fuel, short circuits, voids warranty claims. This also applies to defects resulting from particularly heavy wear. Further claims, e.g., for consequential damages, are excluded. Liability arising from the device or its use is also excluded.

For transport damage and loss of your shipment, we cannot assume liability. In case of warranty, please send the device along with the proof of purchase and a description of the fault to the following address:

SERVICE ADDRESS
PowerBox-Systems GmbH
Dr.-Friedrich-Drechsler-Str. 35
86609 Donauwörth
Germany

11. Safety Information for Intended Use of PowerBox Systems

a) Intended Use

• The PowerBox Pioneer is exclusively intended for use in remote-controlled model building applications – particularly in the field of model aircraft. It is not intended for manned aviation, safety-critical, or medical applications. Use must be carried out exclusively by qualified persons.

b) General Safety Instructions

• Before commissioning, be sure to read the complete user manual.
• Installation and connection must only be performed with the system switched off.
• Always ensure a secure power supply and correctly polarized connections. There is no polarity protection – incorrect polarity will permanently damage the integrated voltage regulators.
• Each battery must be capable of reliably powering the model independently; redundancy through two independent power sources is recommended.
• Keep all components dry and dust-free.

c) Commissioning and Operation

• A complete range test must be performed before the first flight.
• Check the function of all channels and telemetry data before each use.
• Use only approved batteries and observe the permissible voltage ranges.
• Mount the unit in the model mechanically stress-free and vibration-damped.
• The use of two receivers is strongly recommended to ensure operational reliability. Position receivers as far apart as possible.
• Activate both batteries separately and check voltage values before each flight.
• Place only in dry environments – never bring into contact with water, moisture, or fuel.
• Check all connections, cables, and telemetry data before each flight.
• Never open the device – this will void the warranty.

d) Approval Information

This device complies with the requirements of 2011/65/EU + 2015/863/EU (RoHS) and 2014/30/EU (EMC). When operating in other countries, country-specific approvals and regulations must be observed.

e) Disposal

This product must not be disposed of with household waste. Hand it in for proper disposal at an appropriate collection point (observe WEEE directive).

12. Disclaimer

Neither adherence to the installation instructions nor the operating conditions of the PowerBox Pioneer, nor the maintenance of the entire remote control system, can be monitored by us.

Therefore, we assume no liability for losses, damages, or costs that arise from the application and operation of the PowerBox Pioneer or are related to it in any way. To the extent permitted by law, the obligation for compensation, for whatever legal reason, is limited to the invoice amount of the products from our company involved in the event.

We wish you every success with your new PowerBox Pioneer!

Donauwörth, July 2025