8 • TRAXXAS
TRAXXAS TQ
i
RADIO SYSTEM
Applying Decals
The main decals for your
model have been applied at
the factory. Additional decals
are printed on self-adhesive
clear mylar and are die-cut for
easy removal. Use a hobby
knife to lift the corner of
a decal and lift it from the
backing.
To apply the decals, place one
end down, hold the other end
up, and gradually smooth the
decal down with your finger
as you go. This will prevent air
bubbles. Placing both ends
of the decal down and then
trying to smooth it out will
result in air pockets. Look
at the photos on the box for
typical decal placement.
INTRODUCTION
Your model includes the latest Traxxas TQi 2.4GHz transmitter with
Traxxas Link
™
Model Memory. The transmitter’s easy-to-use design
provides instant driving fun for new R/C enthusiasts, and also offers
a full complement of pro-level tuning features for advanced users
– or anyone interested in experimenting with the performance of
their model. The steering and throttle channels feature adjustable
Exponential, End Points, and Sub-Trims. Steering and braking Dual
Rate are also available. Many of the next-level features are controlled
by the Multi-Function knob, which can be programmed to control
a variety functions. The detailed instructions (page 22) and Menu
Tree (page 25) included in this manual will help you understand and
operate the advanced functions of the new TQi radio system. For
additional information and how-to videos, visit Traxxas.com.
RADIO AND POWER SYSTEM TERMINOLOGY
Please take a moment to familiarize yourself with these radio and
power system terms. They will be used throughout this manual.
A detailed explanation of the advanced terminology and features of
your new radio system begins on page 22.
2.4GHz Spread Spectrum
– This model is equipped with the latest
R/C technology. Unlike AM and FM systems that require frequency
crystals and are prone to frequency conflicts, the TQi system
automatically selects and locks onto an open frequency, and offers
superior resistance to interference and “glitching.”
Balance Charger
– A LiPo battery contains individual cells. A balance
charger monitors the voltage of each cell and charges the cells
equally. This assures maximum performance and battery life by
preventing individual cells within the pack from over-charging.
Traxxas recommends the EZ-Peak Plus balance charger for Traxxas
Power Cell LiPo batteries.
BEC (Battery Eliminator Circuit)
- The BEC can either be in the
receiver or in the ESC. This circuit allows the receiver and servos
to be powered by the main battery pack in an electric model. This
eliminates the need to carry a separate pack of 4 AA batteries to
power the radio equipment.
Brushless Motor
- A D/C brushless motor replaces the brushed motor’s
traditional commutator and brush arrangement with intelligent
electronics that energize the electromagnetic windings in sequence
to provide rotation. Opposite of a brushed motor, the brushless
motor has its windings (coils) on the perimeter of the motor can and
the magnets are mounted to the spinning rotor shaft.
Charging bag
– A fire-retardant sleeve used to contain batteries
during charging. The charging bag is designed to mitigate
the effects of a fire or explosion due to the use of an incorrect
charger, charger setting, or a damaged battery. ALWAYS charge
LiPo batteries in a charging bag or other fire-containment vessel
designed for battery charging.
Cogging
- Cogging is a condition sometimes associated with
brushless motors. Typically, it is a slight stutter noticed when
accelerating from a stop. It happens for a very short period as
the signals from the electronic speed control and the motor
synchronize with each other.
Current
- Current is a measure of power flow through the
electronics, usually measured in amps. If you think of a wire as a
garden hose, current is a measure of how much water is flowing
through the hose.
Docking Base
– Accessory base for the TQi transmitter that permits
the installation of an Apple iPod touch
®
or iPhone.
®
See page 27 for
more information.
ESC (Electronic Speed Control)
- An electronic speed control is
the electronic motor control inside the model. Electronic speed
controls use power more efficiently than mechanical speed
controls so that the battery runs longer. An electronic speed
control also has circuitry that prevents loss of steering and throttle
control as the battery loses its charge.
4-channel radio system
- The TQi radio system, consisting of
the receiver, the transmitter, and the servo. The system uses four
channels: one to operate the throttle, one to operate the steering,
one to select the driving mode (Burnout, Stage, Race), and one to
operate the electronic Launch Control (on/off).
Frequency band
- The radio frequency used by the transmitter to
send signals to your model. This model operates on the 2.4GHz
direct-sequence spread spectrum.
kV Rating
- Brushless motors are often rated by their kV number. The
kV rating equals no-load motor RPM with 1 volt applied. The kV
increases as the number of wire turns in the motor decreases. As the
kV increases, the current draw through the electronics also increases.
LiPo
– Abbreviation for Lithium polymer batteries. This type of
battery chemistry provides the maximum possible performance
for your model. However, LiPo batteries are not for novice users
and require specific charging and handling to provide reliable and
