10 • TRAXXAS
Applying the Decals
The main decals for your
model have been applied at
the factory. Additional decals
have been 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.
TRAXXAS TQ 2.4GHz RADIO SYSTEM
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 of functions. The detailed instructions (page 30) and Menu
Tree (page 33) 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 30.
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.”
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.
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.
ESC (Electronic Speed Control)
- An electronic speed control is
the electronic motor control inside the model. The XL-5 uses
MOSFET power transistors to provide precise, digital proportional
throttle control. Electronic speed controls use power more
efficiently than mechanical speed controls so that the batteries
run longer. An electronic speed control also has circuitry that
prevents loss of steering and throttle control as the batteries lose
their charge.
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.
LiPo
- Abbreviation for Lithium Polymer. Rechargeable LiPo
battery packs are known for their special chemistry, which
allows extremely high energy density and current handling in a
compact size. These are high-performance batteries that require
special care and handling. For advanced users only.
mAh
– Abbreviation for milliamp hour, a measure of the capacity of
the battery pack. The higher the number, the longer the battery
will last between recharges.
Neutral position
- The standing position that the servos seek when
the transmitter controls are at the neutral setting.
NiCad
- Abbreviation for nickel-cadmium. The original
rechargeable hobby pack, NiCad batteries have very high current
handling, high capacity, and can last up to 1000 charging cycles.
Good charging procedures are required to reduce the possibility
of developing a “memory” effect and shortened run times.
NiMH
- Abbreviation for nickel-metal hydride. Rechargeable
NiMH batteries offer high current handling and much greater
resistance to the “memory” effect. NiMH batteries generally
allow higher capacity than NiCad batteries. They can last up to
500 charge cycles. A peak charger designed for NiMH batteries is
required for optimal performance.
Receiver
- The radio unit inside your model that receives signals
from the transmitter and relays them to the servos.
Resistance
- In an electrical sense, resistance is a measure of how
an object resists or obstructs the flow of current through it. When
flow is constricted, energy is converted to heat and is lost.
Servos
- Small motor units in your model that operate the steering
and throttle mechanisms.
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