Sanwa MX-6 3-Channel 2.4GHz Radio System User's Guide

Introduction

Congratulations on your purchase of the SANWA MX-6 3-Channel 2.4GHz FHSS-E radio control system. This User's Guide is designed to familiarize you with the many unique features of your new radio control system. Please read this guide carefully to ensure maximum success and enjoyment from operating your new radio control system.

The MX-6 3-Channel 2.4GHz FHSS-E radio control system is designed for entry-level users, yet it retains the easy programming, precise control, and ergonomic layout found in higher-end systems. The MX-6 is suitable for use with cars, trucks, and boats.

Additional SANWA 2.4GHz receivers can be purchased and paired with the MX-6 transmitter. Please note that due to differences in the implementation of 2.4GHz technology among different manufacturers, only SANWA brand 2.4GHz FHSS-E surface receivers are compatible with your radio control system. For more information, please visit your local SANWA dealer or the website at www.sanwa-denshi.com.

Packaging

The packaging for your MX-6 3-Channel 2.4GHz FHSS-E radio control system is designed for safe transportation and storage. Do not discard the packaging materials after unpacking. Save them for future use if you need to send your radio control system for service or if you plan to store it for an extended period.

Service and Support

This product is warranted against manufacturer defects in materials and workmanship from the original date of purchase. The warranty does not cover components worn by use, damage caused by improper voltage, tampering, modification, misuse, abuse, improper wiring, reverse polarity, moisture, or use outside its intended scope.

Warranty terms may vary by region. Please refer to the warranty card included with your radio control system for specific warranty information.

If you have any questions or concerns, please consult the Troubleshooting Guide on Page 19. For further assistance or technical questions, contact a SANWA service center in your region.

For a complete list of distributors in your region, please visit www.sanwa-denshi.com/rc/distributors.html.

For Service In North America:
Serpent America
5121 NW 79 Ave. Unit 03,
Doral, Florida 33166 USA
Telephone: (305)-677-3253
Fax: (305)-675-0415
Email: info@serpentamerica.com

Factory Service:
Sanwa Electronic Instrument Co Ltd
1-2-50 Yoshida-Honmachi
Higashiosaka, Osaka, 578-0982 Japan
Telephone: 81-729-62-1277
Fax: 81-729-64-2831
Email: rcintl@sanwa-denshi.co.jp

Product features and specifications may vary by region. Not all products are legal for use in all regions.

Note: Products purchased outside of North America cannot be serviced under warranty by Serpent America. Repairs for products purchased outside North America may be available at applicable repair costs and shipping charges. For warranty claims outside North America, please contact the service center in your region.

Safety

This is a high-output, full-range radio control system designed to exceed the range needed for most surface models. For safety, perform a range test in the intended operating area to ensure the system maintains complete control of the model at all distances. It is recommended to have a helper walk the model to the farthest operational distance while you test for proper operation.

• Read this User's Guide in its entirety.
• Prioritize safety for yourself, others, and your equipment.
• Observe all rules of the field, track, or lake where you operate your radio control equipment.
• If you experience erratic operation or abnormality at any time, stop operation immediately and safely. Do not operate the model again until the problem is confirmed to be corrected. Take no chances.
• Your model can cause serious damage or injury. Exercise caution and courtesy at all times.
• Do not expose the radio control system to water or excessive moisture.
• For R/C model boats, waterproof the receiver and servos by placing them in a water-tight radio box.
• If you are new to operating R/C models, seek assistance from an experienced modeler or your local hobby shop.
• The Low Voltage Alarm will sound when the transmitter battery voltage drops to a minimum threshold of 4.6 volts. Stop using the transmitter as soon as safely possible and replace the batteries.
• This radio control system operates on the 2.4GHz frequency band. The connection is determined by the transmitter and receiver pair. Unlike crystal-based systems, your model can be used without frequency control.

FCC Compliance Statement

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the operating instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation.

If this equipment causes harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment OFF and ON, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules and with RSS-210 of Industry Canada. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

1. This device may not cause harmful interference, and...
2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

Note: Changes or modifications made to this equipment not expressly approved by Airtronics may void the FCC authorization to operate this equipment.

RF Exposure Statement: This transmitter has been tested and meets the FCC RF exposure guidelines when used with Airtronics accessories supplied or designated for this product, and provided at least 50mm separation between the antenna and the user's body is maintained. Use of other accessories may not ensure compliance with FCC RF exposure guidelines.

2.4GHz Frequency Band Precautions

• The 2.4GHz frequency band may be used by other devices, and interference may occur in the immediate area. Always conduct a bench test before use to ensure proper servo operation. Test with the transmitter as distant as possible from your model.
• The response speed of the receiver can be affected if multiple 2.4GHz radio controllers are used simultaneously. Check the area before use. If response seems slow, stop your model immediately and discontinue use.
• If the 2.4GHz frequency band is saturated (too many radio controllers active), the system may not bind as a safety precaution. This prevents interference. Once frequencies are clear or saturation drops, the system should bind without issue.

Transmitter Precautions

• To prevent servo damage or model runaway, turn the transmitter ON first, then the receiver ON. When finished, turn the receiver OFF first, then the transmitter OFF.
• Before use, double-check that the transmitter and receiver batteries have sufficient power.
• The transmitter has an internal antenna located in the front portion. Do NOT cover the front of the transmitter during use, as this can block the RF signal and lead to loss of control.
• Hold the transmitter vertically for the best RF signal between the transmitter and receiver. Avoid 'following' your model with the transmitter, as this can weaken the RF signal.
• Do not expose the transmitter or components to excessive heat, moisture, fuel, or exhaust residue.
• Do not press the Bind Button during use, as this interrupts the signal. It may also take time to restore the signal after releasing the button, which can be dangerous.
• If the outer case becomes dirty, clean it with a soft dry cloth. For stubborn dirt, use a damp cloth with liquid detergent. Do not use solvents, as they can damage the finish.

Receiver Precautions

• The antenna wire is delicate; handle with care and do not pull on it.
• Do not cut or extend the antenna wire.
• The antenna wire can be bent into gentle curves, but avoid acute bends or repeated bending, which can damage it.
• Install the antenna wire vertically into a plastic tube as per your model's assembly instructions. Keep the antenna as far away from the motor, battery, and ESC as possible.
• Ensure receiver, servo, and switch connectors are securely fitted to prevent them from shaking loose during use, which could cause runaway operation.
• The receiver is susceptible to vibration, shock, and moisture. Take appropriate measures to protect it. Wrapping the receiver in shock-absorbing foam or securing it with double-sided foam tape is recommended.
• When installing the receiver and routing the antenna, avoid contact with carbon or metal chassis components. Contact with metal parts can cause electrical noise, affecting receiver performance and potentially leading to runaway operation or model damage.
• For electric-powered models, ensure any brushed motors are fitted with a noise suppression capacitor. Without one, excessive electrical noise can cause runaway operation or damage.
• The receiver does not have BEC circuitry. If using an electronic speed control, verify that it features BEC circuitry to drop the receiver voltage between 4.8v and 7.4v.

Servo Connectors

The included receiver uses SANWA 'Z' connectors, which are electronically compatible with servos from other radio control system manufacturers. The connectors are rugged but should be handled with care.

Connector Polarity:

• Negative (Black)
• Positive (Red)
• Signal (Blue)

Note: If using a servo from another brand, double-check the polarity of the servo connector before plugging it into the receiver. When unplugging a servo connector, grasp the plastic connector itself, not the wire, to avoid damaging the servo wire pins.

System Features

• 3-Channel Full-Range 2.4GHz FHSS-E Digital Proportional Computer Radio for Cars, Trucks, and Boats
• Compatible with all SANWA 2.4GHz FHSS-E Surface Receivers
• 4-Cell Battery Holder for Lighter Weight and Improved Balance
• Easy-to-Read LCD Screen
• 10 Model Memory
• Servo Reversing for All Channels
• Dual Rate Steering
• End Point Adjustment for All Channels
• Exponential Steering and Throttle
• Anti-Lock (ABS) Braking
• Digital Trim Display
• Servo Sub-Trim for Steering and Throttle
• 3-Character Model Naming
• Battery Voltage Monitor
• Ergonomic, Comfortable Feel
• Textured grip to prevent slipping
• Battery-Less Memory Retention
• Throttle Fail Safe
• Low Voltage Alarm
• Over 600 Foot Range
• Compatible with Analog or Digital Servos

System Specifications

Transmitter:

• Model: MX-6
• Power Supply: DC 6V from 1.5V x 4 'AA' alkaline batteries
• Dry Weight: 290gr
• Frequency: 2405.5-2447.5 MHz

Receiver:

• Model: RX-391WP
• Weight: 9.5gr
• Dimensions: 24.0 x 37.0 x 18.2mm
• Frequency: 2405.5-2447.5 MHz
• Fail Safe Support: Yes (Throttle)
• Nominal Input Voltage: 4.8v ~ 7.4v

Servo Recommendations

SANWA brand servos are recommended for the MX-6 3-Channel 2.4GHz FHSS-E radio control system. The following are some popular servo options. Visit your local SANWA dealer or www.sanwa-denshi.com for pricing, availability, and more selection.

Both analog and digital servos are compatible. For optimal performance, digital servos are recommended.

PGS-CX Programmable High-Power Digital Dual Ball Bearing Servo

• Torque: 26.4kg.cm@7.4V / 23.3kg.cm@6.0V
• Speed: 0.11sec/60°@7.4V / 0.13sec/60°@6.0V
• Dimensions: 40.5x20.5x37.2mm
• Weight: 62gr

ERS-XT High-Power Digital Dual Ball Bearing Servo

• Torque: 35.3kg.cm@7.4V / 26.2kg.cm@6.0V
• Speed: 0.11sec/60°@7.4V / 0.14sec/60°@6.0V
• Dimensions: 40.3x20.2x35.9mm
• Weight: 57gr

PGS-CL Programmable Low-Profile Digital Dual Ball Bearing Servo

• Torque: 16.6kg.cm@7.4V / 14.7kg.cm@6.0V
• Speed: 0.08sec/60°@7.4V / 0.10sec/60°@6.0V
• Dimensions: 40.5x20.5x26.5mm
• Weight: 62gr

ERS-971 Low-Profile Digital Dual Ball Bearing Servo

• Torque: 9.2kg.cm@6.0V
• Speed: 0.09sec/60°@6.0V
• Dimensions: 40.8x20.2x25.5mm
• Weight: 44.5gr

Transmitter Battery Recommendations

The transmitter's operating voltage range is 4.0 ~ 9.6 volts, allowing for various battery options. The default configuration uses four 'AA' Alkaline batteries for a lightweight and balanced feel.

Ni-Cd/Ni-MH: Rechargeable Ni-Cd or Ni-MH batteries can be used. They are more convenient and cost-effective in the long run, and higher capacity batteries offer longer usage time.

Li-Po or Li-Fe: A 2-cell Li-Po or Li-Fe battery pack cannot be used to power the transmitter.

Note: Rechargeable batteries require a dedicated charger. Transmitter power output, range, and speed remain consistent regardless of battery voltage or type. Observe warnings in the Battery Installation section (Page 7) when using Li-Po or Li-Fe batteries.