Introduction to the Futaba Compatibility Chart
Futaba is one of the most trusted brands in the RC (Radio Control) hobby industry, known for its high-quality transmitters and receivers. Whether you are into RC cars, airplanes, boats, or drones, selecting the right combination of transmitter and receiver is crucial for optimal performance. This Futaba Compatibility Chart will help guide your choices.
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This guide aims to provide comprehensive insights into Futaba’s transmitters and receivers, ensuring you understand not only the compatibility but also the performance characteristics that make the right choice essential for your RC experience. By diving deeper into each technology and providing practical examples, we aim to enhance your understanding of the Futaba Compatibility Chart and facilitate better decision-making for your RC hobby.
To simplify this process, we have compiled a detailed Futaba Compatibility Chart showing which Futaba transmitters work with which receivers. You can also download the full PDF below for a more in-depth look.
Understanding Futaba’s Radio Systems
Understanding Futaba’s radio systems is key to maximizing your RC setup. Futaba offers multiple radio technologies, each tailored for specific applications ranging from casual hobbyists to competitive racers. Here’s a detailed breakdown of each technology, including practical applications and considerations to keep in mind.
FASST systems are particularly favored in competitive racing scenarios due to their reliability. For example, during high-speed races, the low latency of FASST can make the difference between winning and losing. It ensures that even the slightest steering adjustments are communicated to the receiver without delay.
1. FASST (Futaba Advanced Spread Spectrum Technology)
Technology Type: Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum (FHSS)
Key Features:
- Robust Signal Transmission: Uses adaptive frequency hopping across the 2.4 GHz spectrum, ensuring interference-free communication even in crowded environments.
- Ultra-Low Latency: Provides fast response times, making it ideal for competitive RC racing, aerobatic flying, and precision applications.
- Dual Antenna Diversity: Some Futaba receivers utilize dual antennas for enhanced signal reception and minimized dead zones.
- Compatibility: Works with FASST-compatible receivers, including 7-channel, 8-channel, and 14-channel variants.
- Lack of Telemetry Support: Standard FASST systems do not support telemetry, which means real-time feedback on battery voltage, temperature, and other parameters is unavailable.
Ideal For:
- Competitive RC car racing and aircraft pilots who prioritize low latency and reliable signal transmission over telemetry features.
2. FASSTest (Futaba Advanced Spread Spectrum Technology – Extended)
Technology Type: Enhanced FASST with Telemetry Support
Key Features:
- Telemetry Capable: Unlike standard FASST, FASSTest provides real-time telemetry feedback, relaying key flight data back to the transmitter.
- High-Channel Support: Supports up to 18 proportional channels, making it suitable for complex aircraft and scale-model helicopters with numerous servos.
- Full Duplex Communication: Bi-directional data transmission allows real-time monitoring of parameters such as:
- Battery voltage
- Signal strength
- Receiver temperature
- Motor RPM (when using compatible sensors)
- Secure Frequency Hopping: The system rapidly changes frequencies within the 2.4 GHz band, reducing the likelihood of interference.
Ideal For:
- Advanced pilots and professionals who need real-time telemetry feedback for critical flight information.
- Large-scale aircraft and high-end RC models requiring a large number of channels.
3. T-FHSS (Telemetry Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum)
Technology Type: Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum (FHSS) with Telemetry
Key Features:
- Telemetry Enabled: Provides real-time data feedback from the receiver to the transmitter, similar to FASSTest.
- Adaptive Frequency Hopping: Dynamically switches channels within the 2.4 GHz spectrum to maintain a stable connection and avoid interference.
- Compatibility: Works with various Futaba receivers, including T-FHSS SR (Super Response) models, which offer even faster response times for racing and precision control.
- SR Mode: The Super Response (SR) mode reduces latency significantly, making it a preferred choice for high-speed RC racing.
Ideal For:
- Drone pilots and FPV racers needing real-time telemetry (e.g., battery voltage monitoring).
- RC car racers who require SR mode for ultra-responsive steering.
- General sport flying and racing where telemetry adds value.
4. S-FHSS (Simple Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum)
Technology Type: Basic FHSS
Key Features:
- Budget-Friendly System: A cost-effective alternative to FASST and T-FHSS, suitable for hobby-grade RC models.
- Limited Channel Support: Supports up to 8 proportional channels, making it suitable for simple aircraft, trucks, buggies, and boats.
- No Telemetry Support: Unlike T-FHSS, S-FHSS lacks real-time telemetry feedback.
- Frequency Hopping: Uses rapid channel switching to prevent signal interference from other 2.4 GHz devices.
Ideal For:
- Hobbyists who need a reliable yet affordable radio system for entry-level RC planes, cars, and boats.
- Users who do not require real-time telemetry feedback.
5. FHSS (Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum)
Technology Type: Basic FHSS (Non-Telemetry)
Key Features:
- Entry-Level System: Aimed at beginners and casual users who need basic signal reliability without advanced features.
- No Telemetry Support: Lacks real-time feedback capabilities like FASSTest or T-FHSS.
- Decent Latency: While not as fast as FASST or T-FHSS SR, it provides a stable connection for general use.
- Low-Cost Implementation: Found in many budget transmitters and receivers for simple RC applications.
Ideal For:
- Beginners and casual users looking for a basic, reliable RC system.
- Small-scale RC models where low cost is prioritized over advanced features.
Comparison Table: Futaba Radio Protocols
| Protocol | Telemetry Support | Channel Support | Best For | Latency | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FASST | ❌ No | 7-14 | Competitive racing, pro RC pilots | Ultra-low | $$$ |
| FASSTest | ✅ Yes | Up to 18 | Advanced pilots, large aircraft, helicopters | Low | $$$$ |
| T-FHSS | ✅ Yes | 8-18 | FPV drones, high-speed racing | Low (SR Mode available) | $$$ |
| S-FHSS | ❌ No | Up to 8 | Hobbyists, sport-grade RC models | Moderate | $$ |
| FHSS | ❌ No | 4-6 | Beginners, casual users | Moderate | $ |
Conclusion
Futaba’s spread spectrum technologies cater to different segments of the RC community, from high-performance racing to budget-friendly hobby-grade applications. When choosing a Futaba system, consider:
- Do you need telemetry? → Go for FASSTest or T-FHSS.
- Is ultra-low latency critical? → FASST (for competition) or T-FHSS SR (for high-speed racing).
- Are you looking for a budget-friendly system? → S-FHSS or FHSS.
By selecting the right system based on telemetry needs, latency, and channel count, RC enthusiasts can maximize performance and reliability in their models. 🚀
Futaba Transmitter & Receiver Compatibility Chart
Below is an overview of popular Futaba transmitters and their compatible receivers. The full chart is available in the PDF link above.
| Transmitter | Compatible Receivers |
|---|---|
| 4YF | R2004GF (S-FHSS) |
| 6J | R2006GS, R2008SB (S-FHSS) |
| 6K | R3001SB, R3006SB, R3008SB (T-FHSS) |
| 7C (2.4G) | R617FS (FASST) |
| 8FG/S | R6208SB, R6303SB (FASSTest) |
| 10J | R3001SB, R3008SB (T-FHSS) |
| 14SG | R7003SB, R7008SB (FASSTest) |
| 16IZ | R7003SB, R7008SB, R7108SB (FASSTest) |
| 18MZ | R7003SB, R7008SB (FASSTest) |
| 32MZ | R7003SB, R7008SB (FASSTest) |
For surface transmitters like the 3PV, 4PM, and 7PX, different receivers such as R203GF, R334SBS, and R614FF-E are recommended.
How to Choose the Right Futaba Transmitter and Receiver
When selecting a Futaba transmitter and receiver, consider the following:
- Do you need telemetry?
- Choose T-FHSS or FASSTest for telemetry-enabled applications.
- How many channels do you need?
- Entry-level models like the 6J or 6K offer 6 channels, while high-end models like 18MZ support 18 channels.
- Are you using digital servos?
- FASSTest and some FASST receivers only work with digital servos.
- Surface vs. Air Receivers
- Some receivers are specifically designed for RC cars (e.g., R334SBS) or aircraft (e.g., R7008SB).
Conclusion
For users looking for budget-friendly options, S-FHSS provides a reliable introduction to the world of RC without sacrificing essential features. Many beginners start with the 6J or 6K models paired with S-FHSS receivers for uncomplicated setups that meet their needs.
Moreover, the choice of transmitter and receiver can significantly impact your RC hobbyist experience. For instance, using a 7C transmitter with a basic receiver can limit your ability to incorporate advanced features like dual rates or mixing. Therefore, it’s crucial to invest in a compatible and capable pairing to ensure your setup can grow with your skills.
Futaba offers an extensive range of transmitters and receivers for all levels of RC enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking for a basic setup for a beginner RC car or a high-end system for competitive drone racing, Futaba has a solution.
Choosing the right Futaba transmitter and receiver involves understanding your specific needs and how you plan to use them. For example, if you’re primarily into racing, opting for a system like FASST with its emphasis on low latency will serve you better than a basic FHSS setup. Conversely, if you’re flying leisurely and don’t require telemetry, simpler options may suffice.
If you have any questions about Futaba systems or need help selecting the right transmitter/receiver combo, feel free to leave a comment below! 🚀
In conclusion, selecting the right Futaba setup not only enhances your RC experience but also ensures that you can fully enjoy the capabilities of your models. Whether you are a novice or a seasoned racer, understanding the nuances of compatibility and technology will empower you to make informed choices that elevate your hobby.
Feel free to share your experiences or ask any questions related to Futaba systems. The RC community thrives on shared knowledge, and your insights can help others make better-informed decisions too!
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