Actually, it's quite easy to program and the instruction manual is well written, In addition, Futaba has a Web Site for 9C users that covers complex programming and other user questions.
I've heard that from 9C owners as well, but that's sort of the territory that comes with computer radios. There's a "new kid on the block" however that looks promising. The Tracker II from Polk's Hobby. It's an 8 channel computer radio but programming is simpler than most. On top of that, it's only $275 for a radio that comes standard with a synth module, AND channel scanner, AND a synth receiver.
MJC
I just want to add that I just sent my old 7UAF into the Futaba Service center and got it back in 8 days, which I think is pretty dam impressive considering that it probably spent half those days on US mail and then Fed Ex trucks. Add the weekend in there and they turned it around in two days, and probably in their busiest part of of the year. So thanks Wayne at Futaba tech! I wish they could certify my old 7FGK! Daze
I'm sure like other higher end radios, there is a learning curve. My 9C is my first computer radio, had it a few months, and am quite comfortable with the basic programming features I use, including use of flaperons, ailevator, triple rates with/without expo etc.
My buddy has a JR and a Multiplex radio, and he curses about programming about the same amount I do. We both seem to manage okay.
- Mike D
That's odd . . . my 7FGK units are certified narrow band.
Didja lookit the FAQ at the Futaba web site ?
Cheers, Fred McClellan the dash plumber at mindspring dot com
I've had my 9C for about 6 months and have 2 planes programmed into it (also my first computer radio). I'll agree that there's a fairly steep learning curve in first trying to program more than the basics into it, especially if you don't have anyone local you can ask for help. For basic things, it's fairly intuitive, but when you start getting into coupling one channel to another it can be "challenging" if you've never done it before.
Futaba's online FAQ for the 9C provides a lot of help in the "how to" category. Spending time at home just messing with it to see what changing each parameter does (and writing it down) it'll get to the point where it's not so confusing.
I've got an Ultra Stick 120 with flaps and have managed to set up crow configuration, coupling ailerons and flaps for high roll rates, coupling flaps and elevator for tighter loops, flaps down for short takeoffs, and snap rolls programmed in and now feel "comfortable" with it.
But once you're comfortable with it, you'll likely love it.
Jim
Many folks have complained that programming a Futaba radio is difficult. In the past, this was due mainly to the poor quality of the manuals. However, once you get used to programming one of them, the more complex ones actually seem easier.
IMHO, the 9C is the easiest and most flexible to program controller that they have produced. The flexibility does give you more chances to shoot yourself in the foot, tho. Since most functions can be assigned to any switch, it takes a great deal of planning to come up with a scheme that is easy to remember. If you use too many variations, you can easily forget which switch does what.
Jim - AMA 501383
gord wrote:
What he said. I learned early on that switch assignments add another dimension to your flying, but you better try for some standardization. Try to put the common functions on the same switches for all planes. It is a really good idea to check the function of all the controls, flaps, retracts, throttle cut etc. on each plane before flying it. You don't want to be in the air, flying a plane that needs flaps to land and think "Now, just where did I put the flap switch?" Don't ask me how I learned that! ;>) Bill
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