Desert Rotor 12PCX HOTAS V2 User manual

12PCX HOTAS V2 Operating Manual - REV C
Desert Rotor, LLC. Scottsdale, Arizona !1
Commercial Ground Control Systems for Unmanned Vehicles
Operating Manual

12PCX HOTAS V2 Operating Manual - REV C
Desert Rotor, LLC. Scottsdale, Arizona !2
Our Philosophy - Offer products that are high quality, highly compatible and cost effective. Integrating
proven technology coupled with our innovative interfacing and design skills keeps costs down all while
offering countless unmatched features.
Our Skills - The Desert Rotor team has designed breakthrough ground control systems in the defense
sector. We bring that extensive knowledge and skill to our products, proudly designed and assembled in
Scottsdale, Arizona USA.
Flight Controls - Operate unmanned aerial vehicles the natural way using HOTAS (Hands on Throttle
and Stick). The gaming and defense industry utilizes this layout and truly is the simpler more professional
way to fly.
Compatible - We design our systems to be able to accommodate rapidly evolving technology. Use our
ground control systems with virtually any unmanned vehicle and autopilot system.
Your Business - Elevate your business by using and offering a ground control system that is cost
effective, easy to use and raises your professional brand. OEM available. Offer your own brand of ground
control system.

12PCX HOTAS V2 Operating Manual - REV C
Desert Rotor, LLC. Scottsdale, Arizona !3
INTRODUCTION - Page 4
•Terms & Conditions
•Support & Service
•Symbol & Word Definitions
•Specifications
•Regional Compliance Disclaimer
BEFORE USING - Page 8
•12PCX HOTAS Contents
•Lithium-Ion Batteries & Charging
•Power Supply
•Power Switch
•Cleaning
FEATURES & HARDWARE - Page 12
•Pelican 1510 Case
•Logic Supply™ ML100 Embedded PC
•LED 1200NIT LG Displays™
•12PCX HOTAS V2 Control Panel Layout
•Keyboard & Joystick Hatch
•PPM Out and 12V Out
OPERATING THE 12PCX HOTAS - Page 19
•GCS Smart View™ Interface
•Menu & Settings
•Aircraft & Autopilot Considerations
COMPLIANCE - Page 23
•Your Responsibilities and Liabilities
APPENDIX - Page 24
•Warranty/Repairs/Customer Service
•Schedule A - Specifications
TABLE OF CONTENTS

12PCX HOTAS V2 Operating Manual - REV C
Desert Rotor, LLC. Scottsdale, Arizona !4
INTRODUCTION
Welcome to the next generation of ground control system (GCS) technology. Designed and manufactured in Scottsdale,
Arizona. We are honored you decided to make the 12PCX HOTAS (Hands on Throttle and Stick) a key system in your
overall operations of unmanned vehicles. At Desert Rotor we strive for our products to be high quality, highly compatible
and cost eective. Our 12PCX HOTAS platform was designed to last. All components are highly accessible and easily
upgradable to future technological developments.
We designed the 12PCX HOTAS to be able operate most aircraft types and autopilot systems. We achieved this by
designing the Desert Rotor GCS Smart View™ interface. Within this interface you can assign functions and channels to
the various joysticks, buttons, switches and dials. The interface also allows you to save aircraft/autopilot settings and easily
switch to other aircraft profiles. There are infinite possibilities and configurations within the 12PCX HOTAS.
A key message we would like to deliver is the fact that flying unmanned aerial vehicles can be extremely dangerous and can
lead to criminal prosecution, destruction of property, injury, death of yourself and many others. It is your responsibility
that you check your country and regions regulations when operating the 12PCX HOTAS and all devices you are using. The
use and operations of the 12PCX HOTAS can be prohibited or even illegal in many countries and regions. It is entirely you
and your companies responsibility to check those laws and regulations.
The Desert Rotor team wish you a safe and prosperous future with the next generation of UAV flight control and
operations.

12PCX HOTAS V2 Operating Manual - REV C
Desert Rotor, LLC. Scottsdale, Arizona !5
Terms & Conditions
PRODUCT USAGE. The 12PCX is a GCS for unmanned aerial vehicles. The product serves as transmitter controls, field
computer and wireless video/data communications system. The 12PCX has a wide variety of applications and uses.
DESERT ROTOR is not liable for uses within research & development and outside of its primary functions and
applications. DESERT ROTOR is not able to conduct tests based on all possible combinations of software and hardware
environments. Therefore, DESERT ROTOR is unable to promise nor warrant that there will be absolutely no risk of loss
or damage of information, or any other kind of loss, during operating, piloting and/or execution of any of the functions
or components.
LIMITATION OF LIABILITY. The software and hardware was designed following careful development and testing by
DESERT ROTOR, but DESERT ROTOR is not able to conduct tests based on all possible combinations of software and
hardware environment. Therefore, DESERT ROTOR is unable to promise nor warrant that there will be absolutely no risk
of loss or damage of hardware, property, information or any other kind of loss, during operating, piloting and/or execution
of any of the functions or components. Customer must be fully aware of risks using the 12PCX as the system can be used
with countless hardware components that were not tested alongside the 12PCX.
DESERT ROTOR LLC does not warrant that the software and hardware included in 12PCX units contain no defects or
errors. DESERT ROTOR LLC IS NOT LIABLE FOR ANY INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL LOSS OR CONSEQUENTIAL
DAMAGES ARISING FROM THE 12PCX, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO LOSS OF PROFITS, DAMAGE
TO BUSINESS, CESSATION OF WORK, HARDWARE MALFUNCTION OR DAMAGE, OR ANY OTHER
COMMERCIAL DAMAGE, PERSONAL INJURY, LOSS OR DEATH ARISING FROM USE OF THE 12PCX.
REGARDLESS OF WHETHER SUCH CLAIM IS BASED IN CONTRACT, WARRANTY, TORT, NEGLIGENCE,
STRICT LIABILITY OR ANY OTHER THEORY OF LIABILITY, EVEN IF DESERT ROTOR HAS BEEN ADVISED
OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES.
Further, in no event shall the liability of DESERT ROTOR exceed the individual price of the 12PCX on which liability is
asserted. As DESERT ROTOR has no control over use, setup, assembly, modification or misuse, no liability shall be
assumed nor accepted for any resulting damage, injury or death. By the act of use, setup or assembly, the user accepts all
resulting liability. If Customer and/or End User are not prepared to accept the liability associated with the use of the
12PCX, Customer is advised to seek an alternative GCS solution.

12PCX HOTAS V2 Operating Manual - REV C
Desert Rotor, LLC. Scottsdale, Arizona !6
Support & Service
We strive for not only world class ground control systems but world class support as well. As a company we are dedicated
to developing our distribution channels to fully understand and support the 12PCX platform along with the highly
knowledgeable Desert Rotor team.
We designed the 12PCX platform for anyone to be able to work on and troubleshoot. Due to the incredible demand
Desert Rotor has strategically positioned support to be available from our distributors as well. We do ask you contact the
seller of your system in the event you need technical support. Though we do have resources available for the end users.
E-mail : [e-mail]
Phone : [phone]
Website: www.desertrotor.com
Symbol & Word Definitions
HOTAS - Hands On Throttle And Stick
GCS - Ground Control System
Li-ION - Lithium Ion
NUC - Embedded PC
FPV - First Person View
STOP & THINK
WATCH OUT
BODILY HARM
CAUTION
ELECTRICITY WARNING
SHOCK WARNING
BATTERY
WARNING
FIRE
HAZARD

12PCX HOTAS V2 Operating Manual - REV C
Desert Rotor, LLC. Scottsdale, Arizona !7
Specifications
FCC/CE Compliance Tested w/Accredited Compliance Testing Center
Compliance Testing, LLC
Mesa, Arizona
Regional Compliance Disclaimer
The 12PCX HOTAS V2 can be configured in infinite ways with countless types of components. It is
ENTIRELY up to you to determine the compliance of these components in your region. Some of the
components require HAM radio licenses and/or even completely prohibited. The 12PCX HOTAS could
be restricted and not allowed in certain countries and regions. Desert Rotor, LLC is not liable for
misuse or user not being compliant to their area, region or country.

12PCX HOTAS V2 Operating Manual - REV C
Desert Rotor, LLC. Scottsdale, Arizona !8
BEFORE USING
12PCX HOTAS Base Contents
1) 12PCX HOTAS Ground Control System
2) 12PCX HOTAS Dual Screen Protection Pad
3) 12PCX HOTAS Dust Protection Grommet Set
4) 12PCX HOTAS PPM Transmitter Signal Cable
5) 12PCX HOTAS Operating Manual
6) 14.8V/1.8A -UL & CE Certified Li-Ion Charger
7) 18V/6A -UL & CE Certified Power Supply
8) 4S 5200mAh LI-ION Battery
9) Desert Rotor Decal Set
10) Desert Rotor Microfiber Cleaning Cloth
11) 3M™ Transmitter Mounting Velcro
Depending on the configuration requested or the version our distributors sell may vary on the contents received.
Lithium-Ion Batteries & Charging
The Lithium-Ion pack we oer is a 4S 5200Mah pack with Anderson Connectors. The pack has internal circuits
that protect it from various extreme scenarios.
Battery Pack Protection Circuits

12PCX HOTAS V2 Operating Manual - REV C
Desert Rotor, LLC. Scottsdale, Arizona !9
Li-ion Battery Pack
NOTE: LITHIUM-ION PACKS AND CHARGER HAVE ANDERSON 30AMP CONNECTORS
Charger - Smart Charger (1.8A) for 14.8V Li-ion/Polymer Rechargeable Battery Pack
Simple plug and play charger is included. You have the option to plug it into the 12PCX HOTAS in the Charging
Port on the switch panel. Then push main power switch on the to the “CHARGE” position.
You also have the option to take the Lithium-Ion battery packs out of the 12PCX HOTAS and plug them directly
into the charger. There are no buttons on the charger.
Charger Light GREEN - Pack is finished charging
Charger Light RED - Pack is charging
NOTE: NEVER LEAVE PACKS UNATTENDED WHILE CHARGING - LITHIUM BATTERIES CAN START
FIRES THAT WILL DESTROY EVERYTHING YOU HOLD DEARLY. THEY BURN HOT, QUICK AND
HAVE CAUSED SERIOUS INJURY INCLUDING DEATH. BE SMART. HANG OUT WHILE ITS
CHARGING.

12PCX HOTAS V2 Operating Manual - REV C
Desert Rotor, LLC. Scottsdale, Arizona !10
Power Supply
Each 12PCX HOTAS V2 comes with a power supply that is 18V/6AMP. It is rated for 120volts to 220volts
incoming AC voltage. Depending on the region, you may need a travel adapter to plug into the wall to use the
power supply. The power supply uses a 4 PIN DIN configuration.
(note: Some 12PCX units came with an adapter that converts the smaller 4 PWR DIN connector to a larger 4
DIN connector before it connects with the 12PCX switch panel. Adapter shown below)
The power supply works independent from the included charger. The power supply can not, and does not charge
the provided Lithium-Ion packs.
NOTE: NEVER LEAVE THE 12PCX HOTAS V2 WHILE RUNNING OFF THE POWER SUPPLY AND/OR
LITHIUM PACKS. THE SYSTEM IS COMPATIBLE WITH COUNTLESS OFF-THE-SHELF HARDWARE
THAT MAKES IT IMPOSSIBLE TO TEST EVERY CONFIGURATION. THE SYSTEM HAS BUILT IN FUSE
AND POWER PROTECTION THOUGH WE ADVISE TO TURN EVERYTHING OFF BEFORE LEAVING
IT UNATTENDED
Approvals
UL/CUL, TUV, CE, CB, CCC, EK, PSE, ROHS, WEEE, CEC compliant

12PCX HOTAS V2 Operating Manual - REV C
Desert Rotor, LLC. Scottsdale, Arizona !11
Power Switch
Cleaning
Use a damp rag or included Desert Rotor microfiber cloth to wipe down the unit. Please ensure unit is turned o
to avoid the risk of shock and/or electrocution. Do not use cleaning chemicals as it could damage components and
finish of the 12PCX HOTAS. A mild soft dishwashing detergent is so as long as it’s lightly damp on a rag.

12PCX HOTAS V2 Operating Manual - REV C
Desert Rotor, LLC. Scottsdale, Arizona !12
FEATURES & HARDWARE
Pelican 1510 Case
• FAA Carry-on size approved
• Strong polyurethane wheels with stainless steel bearings
• Crush-proof, and Dust-proof
• Automatic Pressure Equalization Valve - balances interior pressure, keeps water out
• Comfortable rubber over-molded top and side handles
• Easy open double throw latches
• Lifetime Pelican Guarantee of Excellence
• O-ring seal
• Open cell core with solid wall design - strong, light weight
• Retractable extension handle
• Stainless steel hardware and padlock protectors
Note: The 12PCX is NOT waterproof. It is only weather resistant when case is closed. Do not operate the 12PCX
when it is raining, snowing or in questionable weather. If you can not operate a standard laptop computer in the
weather situation you are in you can not operate the 12PCX in the same weather.

12PCX HOTAS V2 Operating Manual - REV C
Desert Rotor, LLC. Scottsdale, Arizona !13
Logic Supply™ ML100 Embedded PC
The 12PCX has an integrated Logic Supply™ ML100 Embedded PC with Intel™ microprocessor. The 12PCX has
an integrated power switch on the switch panel. When turning the 12PCX on, the PC system does not turn on
until you press the PC on button shown in illustration
Note: When turning othe 12PCX, ALWAYS turn the PC ofirst. If you press the 12PCX power switch to
“O” it will “hard shutdown” the PC (as if you just pulled the plug on a running desktop computer. ALWAYS
PRESS THE ‘PC POWER’ TO TURN OFF PC FIRST, THEN TURN 12PCX POWER SWITCH TO OFF.

12PCX HOTAS V2 Operating Manual - REV C
Desert Rotor, LLC. Scottsdale, Arizona !14
LED 1200NIT LG Displays™
The 12PCX has two sunlight viewable screens. The screens comes defaulted at 50% brightness/contrast. The
displays have their own menu and settings independent of each other. The buttons are located below on the front
panel.
The left screen is dedicated to the embedded PC, though can be switched to receive video on the VGA input
setting. There is a composite Video In jack on the switch panel and connected to the left screen.
The right screen is dedicated to FPV (first person view) of the unmanned vehicle. The GCS SmartView OSD
Menu/Settings is also projected on this screen.

12PCX HOTAS V2 Operating Manual - REV C
Desert Rotor, LLC. Scottsdale, Arizona !15
12PCX HOTAS V2 Control Panel Layout
Transmitter Controls
The control/transmitter interface is highlighted above. The GCS SmartView™ interface allows the end-user to
assign channels and functions to the various highlighted hardware. If necessary there are trim buttons to the left of
the flight control stick. Note the throttle trim above the throttle slide.
Note: ALWAYS ENSURE AND CHECK ALL CONTROLS AND FUNCTIONS ARE GOING THE
CORRECT DIRECTIONS IN THE AUTOPILOT SOFTWARE.
ALWAYS ENSURE BEFORE EVERY FLIGHT THAT YOUR FAILSAFE FUNCTIONS OF
YOUR AUTOPILOT ARE ENABLED AND PROPERLY ENABLED ON ONE OF THE
SWITCHES ON THE 12PCX.

12PCX HOTAS V2 Operating Manual - REV C
Desert Rotor, LLC. Scottsdale, Arizona !16
12PCX HOTAS V2 Control Panel Layout
Remaining Components/Features
The 12PCX was designed to work with your existing ground components and future UAV technology. Everything is
strategically laid out for easy/quick access. As with any new component it is best to rigorously test before
performing critical flights/missions.
We love feedback. If you feel the layout could be better optimized to your needs please shoot us a note
[e-mail].
Note: The 12PCX is NOT waterproof. While highly durable and fairly weather resistant it should not be used
while raining and snowing without proper overhang protection.

12PCX HOTAS V2 Operating Manual - REV C
Desert Rotor, LLC. Scottsdale, Arizona !17
Keyboard and Joystick Hatch
When you give the wing-nut connector a 1/2 turn it will release the joystick into the joystick bay. This needs to
happen for the case to be able to close.
The Keyboard hatch allows you to access:
•Battery Packs and Parallel Anderson Plugs
•Fuse Blocks. There are two 10A fuses and one 15A fuse.
•Auxiliary Bay # 2 (Default Cables) - 12V Power / 2 SMA Antenna / LAN Cable
Note: The system was designed to be able to “Hot Swap” battery packs while in use. This allows you to
continue on long-endurance flights and missions. This is when you take one of the two packs out and replace it
with a fresh pack. You will see the battery meter automatically increase.
While it is possible to “Hot Swap” we highly advise alternative solutions such as plugging the power supply in
from a AC Main wall outlet/generator. Or turning othe 12PCX when swapping out batteries.

12PCX HOTAS V2 Operating Manual - REV C
Desert Rotor, LLC. Scottsdale, Arizona !18
PPM Output & 12V Out
The GCS SmartView interface creates a PPM Out signal that can interface with most o-the-shelf transmitter
modules. The connector is a Mono plug. We recommend using a transmitter module like *DragonLink™ UHF or
the *TBS Crossfire Long-Range RF module. The 12PCX can interface with other modules. You may have to build a
PPM Out cable for the transmitter module (one is included, specify when ordering). For 12V power use a DC
barrel plug to whatever connector is needed on the transmitter module.
Note: *Check You Local Laws & Regulations as some regions may not allow the use or require a HAM radio
license to operate the various oered transmitters and/or along with the 12PCX!

12PCX HOTAS V2 Operating Manual - REV C
Desert Rotor, LLC. Scottsdale, Arizona !19
OPERATING THE 12PCX HOTAS
GCS Smart View™ Interface
GCS SmartView is the interface you will be using to “dial-in” your unmanned aircraft. It is a very simple On Screen
Display overlay on the FPV screen (right screen). When developing the interface of the GCS we wanted to oer
something very simple yet has all the transmitter functions you need for all aircraft types and most autopilot
systems.
Note: It is prudent to restart/cycle the 12PCX power if system has been on for extended periods of time. Similar
to a computer or mobile device. When switching out components such as video receivers, modems, radios, any
axillary devices please turn othe 12PCX before installing and then turn on.

12PCX HOTAS V2 Operating Manual - REV C
Desert Rotor, LLC. Scottsdale, Arizona !20
MENU & SETTINGS
GCS SmartView Main Points:
Assigning Hardware to Channels
Main Screen (default) -> Press Right for Channel Settings & Assignment
The “Control” line item is where you assign the hardware to that Channel. It takes you to a screen called
“Edit Assigned Control”
Changing Model Memory and Name
Main Screen (default) -> Press Right until you get to “Model Settings”.
Under Modem ID you select and change the number between 1 through 5. The system can save 5 aircraft
profiles.
Removing GCS SmartView oDisplay
Main Screen (default) -> Press Middle Button OSD will turn o