Spektrum SPMAR8000 - Manual (Page 7)

EN
Receiver Power System Requirements
Inadequate power systems that are unable to provide the necessary minimum voltage to the
receiver during flight have become the number one cause of in-flight failures. Some of the
power system components that affect the ability to properly deliver adequate power include:
• Receiver battery pack (number of cells, capacity, cell type, state of charge)
• The ESC’s capability to deliver current to the receiver in electric aircraft
• The switch harness, battery leads, servo leads, regulators etc.
The AR8000 has a minimum operational voltage of 3.5 volts; it is highly recommended the
power system be tested per the guidelines below and in the Flight Log section.
Recommended Power System Test Guidelines
If a questionable power system is being used (e.g. small or old battery, ESC that may not have
a BEC that will support high-current draw, etc.), it is recommended that a voltmeter be used to
perform the following test.
Note: The Hangar 9 Digital Servo & Rx Current Meter (HAN172) or the Spektrum Flight Log
(SPM9540) are the perfect tools to perform the test below.
Plug the voltmeter into an open channel port in the receiver and with the system on, load the
control surfaces (apply pressure with your hand) while monitoring the voltage at the receiver.
The voltage should remain above 4.8 volts even when all servos are heavily loaded.
Note: The latest generations of Nickel-Metal Hydride batteries incorporate a new chemistry
mandated to be more environmentally friendly. These batteries when charged with
peak detection fast chargers have tendencies to false peak (not fully charge) repeatedly.
These include all brands of NiMH batteries. If using NiMH packs, be especially
cautious when charging, making absolutely sure that the battery is fully charged. It is
recommended to use a charger that can display total charge capacity. Note the number
of mAh put into a discharged pack to verify it has been charged to full capacity.
QuickConnect With Brownout Detection
Your AR8000 features QuickConnect with Brownout Detection.
• Should an interruption of power occur (brownout), the system will reconnect immediately when
power is restored (QuickConnect).
• The LED on the receiver will flash slowly indicating a power interruption (brownout) has occurred.
• Brownouts can be caused by an inadequate power supply (weak battery or regulator), a loose
connector, a bad switch, an inadequate BEC when using an electronic speed controller, etc.
• Brownouts occur when the receiver voltage drops below 3.5 volts thus interrupting control as the
servos and receiver require a minimum of 3.5 volts to operate.
How QuickConnect ™ With Brownout Detection Works
• When the receiver voltage drops below 3.5 volts the system drops out (ceases to operate).
• When power is restored the receiver immediately attempts to reconnect to the last two
frequencies that it was connected to.
• If the two frequencies are present (the transmitter was left on) the system reconnects
typically within one second.
QuickConnect with Brownout Detection is designed to allow you to fly safely through most short
duration power interruptions, however, the root cause of these interruptions must be corrected
before the next flight to prevent catastrophic safety issues.
Note: If a brownout occurs in flight it is vital that the cause of the brownout be determined
and corrected.
Flight Log (SPM9540 Optional)
The Flight Log is compatible with the AR8000. The Flight Log displays overall RF link
performance as well as the individual internal and external receiver link data. Additionally it
displays receiver voltage.
Using the Flight Log
After a flight and before turning off the receiver or transmitter, plug the Flight Log into the Data
port on the AR8000. The screen will automatically display voltage e.g. 6v2= 6.2 volts.