SPARTAN • 9
TQ
i
RADIO SYSTEM & BRUSHLESS POWER SYSTEM
INTRODUCTION
Your model includes the latest Traxxas TQi 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 compliment 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 25)
and Menu Tree (page 27) 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 25.
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.
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.
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 VXL-6s Marine
electronic speed control uses advanced circuitry 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.
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. Rechargeable LiPo battery
packs are known for their special chemistry that 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.
