Spektrum DXS Transmitter and AR410 Receiver
This document provides comprehensive instructions for the Spektrum DXS 7-Channel transmitter and AR410 4-Channel receiver.
Product Overview
The Spektrum™ DSMX® DXS 7-Channel transmitter is available as a transmitter-only unit (SPMR1010) or packaged with a full-range Spektrum AR410 4-Channel receiver (SPM1010). Both the DXS transmitter and AR410 receiver are fully compatible with other Spektrum DSMX systems. The DXS transmitter is pre-configured to work with SAFE® technology, featuring a 3-position switch for Flight Modes on Channel 5 and a momentary switch on Channel 6 for Panic Mode.
Specifications
DXS Transmitter (SPMR1010)
Feature | Specification |
---|---|
Type | DSMX 7 CH Transmitter |
Auxiliary Switches and Buttons | 1 Momentary Button, 2 3-Position Switches, 2 2-Position Switches |
Channels | 7 |
Power Supply | 4 AA Batteries |
Control Mode | Mode 2 |
Telemetry | Flight Battery Voltage (Smart ESC required) |
Trainer | Wireless; Remote Receiver SPM9747 Required. Compatible with DSM2 or DSMX transmitters. |
Data Port | Serial adapter (SPMA3068) included for connection with the USB Programming Cable (SPMA3065, not included) |
Frequency | 2.4GHz |
Trim Programming | Servo Reversing |
AR410 Receiver (SPM1010)
Feature | Specification |
---|---|
Type | DSMX 4-Channel Sport Receiver |
Dimensions (L × W × H) | 45.2 x 20.0 × 13.9mm |
Antenna Length | Internal |
Channels | 4; Throttle Port Smart Compatible |
Weight | 7g |
Frequency | 2.4GHz |
Voltage Range | 3.5-9V |
Transmitter Diagram
The transmitter features an antenna, various switches (B, D, H, F), RGB LED, throttle/rudder gimbal, elevator/aileron gimbal, trim controls for aileron, elevator, throttle, and rudder, a power button, neck strap hook, and an integrated handle. The bottom of the transmitter has an A button, wireless trainer port, programming port, and battery holder.
Installing the Transmitter Batteries
- Remove the battery cover from the bottom of the transmitter.
- Install four AA batteries as shown.
- Install the battery cover.
CAUTION: NEVER remove transmitter batteries while the model is powered on. Loss of model control, damage, or injury may occur.
CAUTION: If using rechargeable batteries, charge only rechargeable batteries. Charging non-rechargeable batteries may cause batteries to burst, resulting in injury or property damage.
CAUTION: Risk of explosion if battery is replaced by an incorrect type. Dispose of used batteries according to national regulations.
Turning the Transmitter ON and OFF
Press and hold the power button to turn the transmitter ON. The RGB LED indicator will illuminate Orange when transmitting. To turn the transmitter OFF, press and hold the power button for 5 seconds.
Receiver Diagram
The receiver has ports for Battery (Channel 1 / Program Port - Throttle - Smart Compatible), Channel 2 (Aileron), Channel 3 (Elevator), and Channel 4 (Rudder). It also features a Bind Button.
IMPORTANT: When using Y-harnesses or servo extensions, do not use reversing harnesses, as this may cause erratic servo operation.
Receiver Installation
Install the receiver as recommended by your aircraft manufacturer, securing it with double-sided tape or foam. The AR410 has an internal antenna for easy installation. Most ESCs provide power to the receiver via the throttle connection (BEC). If not, connect a 3.5-9V power supply to the battery port.
Binding
Binding is the process of teaching the receiver the specific code of the transmitter for secure operation. Follow these steps:
- Push and hold the bind button on the receiver while powering it ON. Release the bind button once the orange LED flashes continuously (bind mode). The AR410 also enters bind mode if the bind button is pressed before the receiver connects to a transmitter.
- With the throttle low, push and hold the A button on the transmitter while powering it ON to enter bind mode.
- After setting up your model, always rebind to set desired failsafe positions.
BIND Status | DXS and AR410 |
---|---|
Ready to Bind | Flashing Orange LED |
Bind Complete | Solid Orange LED |
Transmitter Setup
Trim Programming
Trim programming is a special mode entered at power-up for reversing channels. The transmitter does not emit a signal during this mode to prevent accidental operation. Normal operation resumes after powering the transmitter OFF and ON again.
- Confirm the channel numbers needing reversal.
- Power OFF the transmitter and receiver. Keep the aircraft powered OFF.
- To enter trim programming, push and hold the elevator and throttle trim buttons up while powering ON the transmitter. The RGB LED will illuminate green, indicating trim programming mode.
- The flashing green LED indicates the selected channel (Channel 1 - Throttle is selected first). To reverse a channel, press the right vertical trim (Elevator trim in Mode 2) up. To confirm the direction, press and hold the A button. The setting is saved, and the next channel is selected. Repeat for the first four channels.
- Channels 5 through 7 are indicated by LEDs. Reverse and confirm channels as needed using the same process.
- After confirming the last channel, power OFF the transmitter to save settings and exit trim programming. The system will automatically shut off after confirming all 7 channels with button A.
*Throttle Reversed Warning: The transmitter will emit a warning tone and flashing LEDs upon reversing the throttle. Press and hold the bind button/switch A to accept and clear the warning.
Factory Reset: Power on the transmitter while holding the sticks down and outward. The transmitter will beep and revert to factory settings. This will erase all programmed settings.
Setting Failsafe On The AR410 Receiver
Failsafe positions are set during binding. If the radio link is lost, the receiver moves servos to pre-programmed failsafe positions. A brownout (power supply below 3.5V) will disable failsafe.
SmartSafe + Hold Last
If signal is lost, the throttle channel moves to the preset failsafe position (low throttle), and other channels hold their last position. Normal operation resumes when signal is restored.
Steps for SmartSafe + Hold Last:
- Lower the throttle on the transmitter.
- Push and hold the bind button on the AR410 and power it ON.
- Release the button once the LED begins to flash.
- Press the A button on the transmitter and power it ON.
Preset Failsafe
Ideal for sailplanes, Preset Failsafe moves all channels to their preset positions if the signal is lost, preventing flyaways. Normal operation resumes when signal is restored.
Steps for Preset Failsafe:
- Move all sticks and switches on the DXS to the desired failsafe positions.
- Push and hold the bind button on the AR410 and power it ON.
- Release the button once the LED begins to flash.
- Push and hold the Bind Button on the receiver during the rest of the bind process.
- Press the A button on the transmitter and power it ON.
Smart Telemetry and LED Indicators on the DXS
The four green LEDs on the DXS transmitter display aircraft battery voltage when using Smart telemetry. When paired with a Spektrum Smart ESC and compatible receiver, the LEDs indicate battery status: one LED for low battery, two for half charged, three for between half and full, and four for fully charged.
IMPORTANT: The green LEDs do not indicate the AA battery voltage. The transmitter will indicate low AA batteries with a repeating warning tone and a flashing red RGB LED when voltage drops below approximately 4.7V.
LED Smart Battery Usage
LED Smart Battery voltage indication is based on current voltage and changes with throttle/power usage. Higher throttle means lower voltage indication, and lower throttle means higher voltage indication.
The Smart Battery low voltage alarm sounds when the ESCs approach low voltage cutoff and lasts for 25 seconds. Lowering the throttle may stop the alarm early. Land the aircraft when the alarm sounds.
After landing, reset the Smart Battery low voltage warning by either powering cycling the DXS transmitter or disconnecting the aircraft battery for more than 15 seconds.
Wireless Trainer
The DXS can function as an Instructor transmitter for training. A remote receiver (SPM9747, optional) is required. To give the student control, bind the student transmitter to the remote receiver installed inside the DXS and press and hold the A button.
Remote Receiver Installation:
- Open the battery door.
- Connect the remote receiver cable to the wireless trainer port.
- Install the remote receiver in the cavity behind the battery door with double-sided tape.
Binding the Student Transmitter:
- Press and hold the bind button on the remote receiver.
- Power the DXS ON; the orange LED on the remote receiver will flash, indicating bind mode. Release the bind button.
- Put the student transmitter into Bind mode. The orange LED on the remote receiver will remain lit when bound.
- Replace the battery door after binding.
Range Test
Perform a range test to ensure proper system operation:
- Power on the transmitter for at least five seconds with the throttle stick and trim low.
- Press and hold switch A (Bind button) and toggle switch F four times within 10 seconds. The transmitter LEDs will flash orange, and an alarm will sound, indicating range check mode. Keep the bind button pressed until the range check is complete.
IMPORTANT: You must hold the BIND/Panic button during the entire range check process. Releasing the button will exit range check mode.
Changing the Throttle Ratchet
Adjust the throttle ratchet for desired feel:
- Remove the transmitter batteries.
- Remove the six Phillips head screws securing the rear transmitter case half.
- Place the transmitter face down on a soft surface and remove the rear case.
- Locate the silver throttle friction straps (A) on both gimbals. One strap engages the serrated section for a ratcheted throttle; the other engages the smooth section.
- To change the ratchet, loosen the throttle strap so it doesn't touch the gimbal. Tighten the opposite strap to engage the desired throttle ratchet.
NOTICE: Do not pull or disconnect wires attached to the back transmitter half, as damage may result.
Adjust Stick Tension
Adjust stick tension for optimal control:
- Disconnect the battery holder or optional battery.
- Remove the six Phillips head screws securing the rear transmitter case half.
- Place the transmitter face down on a soft surface and remove the rear case.
- Tighten or loosen the screws (B) slightly with a Phillips screwdriver.
NOTICE: Always test stick tension while adjusting to ensure it is not too loose or too tight. Overtightening can damage a spring; loosening too much can cause a spring to fall off and short-circuit the transmitter.
CAUTION: Always power off the transmitter and disconnect the battery before adjusting stick tension or friction straps to prevent property damage or injury.
Troubleshooting Guide
Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
---|---|---|
Aircraft will not respond to throttle but responds to other controls | Throttle not at idle and/or throttle trim too high | Reset controls with throttle stick and throttle trim at lowest setting. Make sure throttle servo travel is 100% or greater. |
Throttle channel is reversed | Reverse throttle channel on transmitter. | |
Motor disconnected from ESC | Ensure motor is connected to the ESC. | |
Aircraft will not Bind (during binding) to transmitter | Transmitter too near aircraft during binding process | Move transmitter a few feet from aircraft, disconnect and reconnect flight battery. |
Aircraft or transmitter too close to large metal object, wireless source, or another transmitter | Move aircraft and transmitter to another location and attempt binding again. | |
Bind plug not installed correctly in bind port | Install bind plug in bind port and bind the aircraft to the transmitter. | |
Flight battery/transmitter battery charge is too low | Replace/recharge batteries. | |
Bind button not held long enough during bind process | Power off and repeat bind process. | |
Aircraft will not connect (after binding) to transmitter | Transmitter too near aircraft during connecting process | Move transmitter a few feet from aircraft, disconnect and reconnect flight battery. |
Aircraft or transmitter too close to large metal object, wireless source, or another transmitter | Move aircraft and transmitter to another location and attempt connecting again. | |
Bind plug left installed in bind port | Rebind transmitter, remove bind plug before cycling power. | |
Aircraft bound to different model memory. | Select correct model memory on transmitter. | |
Flight battery/Transmitter battery charge is too low | Replace/recharge batteries. | |
Transmitter may have been bound to a different aircraft using different DSM protocol | Rebind aircraft to transmitter. | |
Control surface does not move | Control surface, control horn, linkage, or servo damage | Replace or repair damaged parts and adjust controls. |
Wire damaged or connections loose | Perform a check of wires and connections, connect or replace as needed. | |
Transmitter is not bound correctly or incorrect model selected | Rebind or select correct airplane in transmitter. | |
Flight battery charge is low | Fully recharge flight battery. | |
BEC (Battery Elimination Circuit) of the ESC is damaged | Replace ESC. |
1-Year Limited Warranty
Horizon Hobby, LLC warrants the original purchaser that the product will be free from defects in materials and workmanship for 1 year from the date of purchase.
What is Not Covered: Cosmetic damage, acts of God, accident, misuse, abuse, negligence, commercial use, improper use/installation/operation/maintenance, modifications, unauthorized service, products not purchased from an authorized dealer, non-compliance with technical regulations, or violation of laws. Horizon disclaims all implied warranties, including warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose.
Purchaser's Remedy: Horizon will, at its option, service or replace any defective Product. Proof of purchase is required. Service or replacement decisions are at Horizon's sole discretion.
Limitation of Liability: Horizon shall not be liable for special, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages, loss of profits or production, or commercial loss, regardless of the theory of liability. Horizon's liability shall not exceed the individual price of the Product. The user accepts all liability associated with the use of the Product.
Governing Law: Illinois law governs these terms. This warranty grants specific legal rights, which may vary by state.
Warranty Services: For questions, assistance, or service, contact your local hobby store or Horizon Hobby directly. Visit www.horizonhobby.com for support inquiries or call the provided toll-free number.
Inspection or Services: For inspection or service, use the Horizon Online Service Request process or call Horizon for an RMA number. Ship the product securely in a shipping carton. Include your RMA number, a list of included items, and a brief problem summary. A copy of the original sales receipt is required for warranty consideration.
Non-Warranty Service: Service not covered by warranty will be completed upon payment. Service estimates are available upon request. Horizon accepts money orders, cashier's checks, Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover cards.
ATTENTION: Horizon service is limited to products compliant in the country of use. Non-compliant products will not be serviced and will be returned at the sender's expense. Horizon will hold non-compliant products for 60 days from notification before discarding them.
Warranty and Service Contact Information
Country of Purchase | Horizon Hobby | Contact Information | Address |
---|---|---|---|
United States of America | Horizon Service Center (Repairs and Repair Requests) | servicecenter.horizonhobby.com/RequestForm/ productsupport@horizonhobby.com websales@horizonhobby.com 877-504-0233 800-338-4639 | 2904 Research Rd. Champaign, Illinois, 61822 USA |
EU | Horizon Technischer Service | service@horizonhobby.eu +49 (0) 4121 2655 100 | Hanskampring 9 D 22885 Barsbüttel, Germany |
Compliance Information for United States
FCC Information:
DXS Transmitter FCC ID: BRWKATY1T
AR410 Receiver FCC ID: BRWTASPMAR410
NOTICE: Modifications to this product will void the user's authority to operate this equipment.
This product contains a radio transmitter tested and found compliant with regulations for 2.400GHz to 2.4835GHz frequency range. Maintain at least 20 cm separation between your body and the antenna to meet RF exposure safety requirements.
Supplier's Declaration of Conformity: Spektrum DXS Transmitter and AR410 4-CH Receiver: SPM1010. Spektrum DXS Transmitter only: SPMR1010.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to two conditions: (1) no harmful interference, and (2) acceptance of any received interference.
CAUTION: Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.
NOTE: 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 provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. If interference occurs, try to correct it by reorienting/relocating the antenna, increasing separation, connecting to a different circuit, or consulting a dealer or technician.
Horizon Hobby, LLC
2904 Research Rd., Champaign, IL 61822
Email: compliance@horizonhobby.com
Web: HorizonHobby.com
Compliance Information for Canada
IC Information:
DXS Transmitter IC: 6157A-KATY1T
AR410 Receiver IC: 6157A-TASPMAR410
CAN ICES-3 (B)/NMB-3(B)
This device complies with ISED Canada license-exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is subject to two conditions: (1) no harmful interference, and (2) acceptance of any received interference.
Compliance Information for the European Union
Horizon Hobby, LLC declares this product complies with the essential requirements and relevant provisions of the RED Directive. A copy of the EU Declaration of Conformity is available at: http://www.horizonhobby.com/content/support-render-compliance. Frequency Band: 2402 - 2478 MHz. Max EIRP: 20dBm.
Instructions for Disposal of WEEE by Users in the European Union: This product must not be disposed of with other waste. Users must dispose of waste equipment at designated collection points for recycling of electrical and electronic equipment to conserve natural resources and protect human health and the environment. Contact local authorities for recycling information.