FrSky TANDEM X18 User manual
DISP
MDL
S1 S2
T1
T2T3
T4 T5 T6
Introduction
Note: 1. Charge the battery with the USB adapter (Voltage: 5V+0.2V Current:＞2.0A) when you use the
USB charging function.
2. The lower the initial charging voltage, the better the charging effect is when the voltage
difference cells exceed 50 mV between the two.
2S Li-battery balance charging via USB-C:
The Green LED indicator states:
Led on: in Charging/Led off: end of charge/flash: charge fault
Battery compartment size: 87*41*19.5mm (L*W*H)
Add: F-4,Building C, Zhongxiu Technology Park, No.3 Yuanxi Road, Wuxi, 214125, Jiangsu, China Technical Support: [email protected]
01140205
Version
1.0
FrSky TANDEM X18 Manual
Add: F-4,Building C, Zhongxiu Technology Park, No.3 Yuanxi Road, Wuxi, 214125, Jiangsu, China Technical Support: [email protected]
01140205
Version
1.0
FrSky TANDEM X18 Manual
Add: F-4,Building C, Zhongxiu Technology Park, No.3 Yuanxi Road, Wuxi, 214125, Jiangsu, China Technical Support: [email protected]
01140205
Version
1.0
FrSky TANDEM X18 Manual
Add: F-4,Building C, Zhongxiu Technology Park, No.3 Yuanxi Road, Wuxi, 214125, Jiangsu, China Technical Support: [email protected]
01140205
Version
1.0
FrSky TANDEM X18 Manual
When you are investing in a new radio and considering what requirements are important to you, if weight and
comfort are primary considerations, followed by the benefit of the excellent system features of ETHOS, then the
FrSky Tandem X18 radio is an obvious appropriate choice.
The Tandem X18 dual-band telemetry radio benefits from an enhanced ergonomic design with rounded and more
comfortable hand grips, along with an improved case design to make the radio fully stable when standing. The radio
includes easy-to-reach sliders and switches, 4 standard stick trims with additional 2 extra trims added to provide
more flexibility with flight attitude adjustments while operating the radio. The X18 includes further enhancements
with integrated flash storage which improves and simplifies storage operation and use, and the interior of the radio
has been designed with space and weight in mind, while still keeping all ETHOS setting and control features for the
pilot to enjoy.
Internal 900MHz/2.4GHz Dual-Band & External Module Bay
The TD dual-band RF system combines both the features and advantages of FrSky 900MHz and 2.4GHz RF
together in one system. The TD features real simultaneous dual-band longrange control with telemetry that
achieves reliable end-to-end 4ms latency while maintaining a robust and high-quality signal link. The entire range of
TD, ACCESS & ACCST D16 receivers are supported. The built-in TANDEM RF System supports ACCESS and
ACCST D16 protocols.
In addition, the Tandem X18 includes a rear Lite version module bay to offer more options to connect external
devices. FrSky welcomes working compatibility with the 3rd party products with their own developed technology
following FrSky verified 3rd party compatibility-testing program.
ETHOS Operating System
ETHOS is a thoroughly new operating system, designed from the ground up by RC experts, providing users a
powerful, intuitive, and flexible experience that can maximize the fun of RC Hobby!
Specifications
● Dimension: 200*192*95mm (L*W*H)
● Weight: 687g (Battery Excl.) / 820g (Battery Incl.)
● Operating System: ETHOS
● Internal RF Module: TANDEM
● Number of Channels: Up to 24 channels
● Operating Voltage Range: 6.5~8.4V (2S Li-battery)
● Operating Temperature: -10°C~60°C (14°F~140°F)
● Operating Current: [email protected] (typ.)
● Charging Current: ≤1A ±200mA
● USB Adaptor Voltage: 5V+0.2V
● USB Adaptor Current: >2.0A
● Backlit touchable LCD resolution: 480*320
● Compatibility: ACCST D16 & ACCESS & TD receivers
● RF parameters:
2.4ghz & 900M/868Mhz ISM
Power 100mw for 2.4gHZ
25mw/200mw/500MW for 868MHZ or up to 1W for 900Mhz
ETHOS System
●
Clear and Intuitive UI Design
●
Supports Dual Operation Modes of Radio Display (Touch and Non-Touch)
●
Supports Multi-Language Switching
●
Hardware/Software Version and Factory Version Detection
●
Supports running LUA Scripts
●
Haptic Vibration Alerts and Voice Speech Outputs
●
Supports Recharge System for 2S Li-ion Battery (USB Type-C Interface)
●
High-speed PARA Wireless Training System
TD-ISRM RF Module
●
Built-in TD 900M/2.4G Dual-Band Internal RF Module Supports Multiple Working Modes
- 2.4G ACCST D16 Mode (Compatible with ACCST Receivers with D16 V2 or later FW)
- 2.4GACCESS Mode (Compatible with ACCESS Receivers)*
- 900M ACCESS Mode (Compatible with ACCESS R9 868/915MHz Receivers)*
(*Capable of simultaneous working under ACCESS mode)
- 2.4G & 900M TD Mode (Compatible with TD Receivers)
●
Long-range control and super-low latency with telemetry
(*Up to 50 to 100KM range and down to 4ms end-to-end latency)
Features
Hardware
●
Enhanced ergonomic designed case with comfortable rounded hand grips
●
4 Standard Trims with additional 2 extra trims
● Integrate flash storage but also keep the internal TF card slot
●
Easy-to-reach top switches and sliders
●
With a flat base to improve stability when standing the radio
●
Color Touch-Screen Displays
●
High-Precision Hall-Sensor Gimbals with a Metal Panel
●
6 Quick-Mode Custom Buttons (Front) and 2 Momentary Buttons (Rear)
●
Lite Type External Module Bay
Earphone Port
Training port
Micro SD Card Port
Smart PortType-C USB Port
Carrying Bar
SliderSlider
900M Internal
Antenna
Module
Bay
Battery
Cover
SWJ
SWI
Layout
Switch
● SA: 3 positions; Short Lever
● SB: 3 positions; Long Lever
● SC: 3 positions; Long Lever
● SD: 3 positions; Short Lever
● SE: 3 positions; Short Lever
● SF: 2 positions; Long Lever
● SG: 3 positions; Short Lever
● SH: 2 positions; Momentary, Long lever
You can choose the Switch and define its
position in the HARDWARE menu.
1. Micro SD card is not provided with shipment.
2. USB port is for upgrading, reading/writing
Micro SD cards and internal memory of radio
contents and charging.
3. Smart Port is for firmware upgrade for all
FrSky S.Port devices.
SD
SC
SG
SH
SA
SB
SE
SF
Power
Switch
Display Screen
SYS,
MDL,
DISP,
RTN
2.4G Internal Antenna
Custom button
Hook
StickStick
Speaker
Navigation Controls
The left navigation control does RTN, SYS, MDL, DISP, and Page UP/Down. The right navigation control
does scroll and enter. Both navigation controls and touch screen can be used to control the system.
DISP
MDL
S1 S2
T1
T2T3
T4 T5 T6
Note: To use the Ethos Suite application with a FrSky radio, the radio bootloader must be version 1.2.0
or newer.
Create the model
Step 1:
First go to System Settings, then click Model Select to select the model type.
ETHOS Operating System
Step 2:
Configure the model channel and create the model name.
Model Setup Procedure-Internal Module
Step 1:
Touch the screen or use the navigation keys to enter the
RF system menu.
Ethos Suite
With Ethos Suite,you can update the radio bootloader, firmware, SD card, flash, and also convert image
format and audio format. Find and download the ETHOS Suite at www.frsky-rc.com.
Add: F-4,Building C, Zhongxiu Technology Park, No.3 Yuanxi Road, Wuxi, 214125, Jiangsu, China Technical Support: [email protected]
01140205
Version
1.0
FrSky TANDEM X18 Manual
Add: F-4,Building C, Zhongxiu Technology Park, No.3 Yuanxi Road, Wuxi, 214125, Jiangsu, China Technical Support: [email protected]
01140205
Version
1.0
FrSky TANDEM X18 Manual
Add: F-4,Building C, Zhongxiu Technology Park, No.3 Yuanxi Road, Wuxi, 214125, Jiangsu, China Technical Support: [email protected]
01140205
Version
1.0
FrSky TANDEM X18 Manual
Add: F-4,Building C, Zhongxiu Technology Park, No.3 Yuanxi Road, Wuxi, 214125, Jiangsu, China Technical Support: [email protected]
01140205
Version
1.0
FrSky TANDEM X18 Manual
FrSky is continuously adding features and improvements to our radio systems. Updating (via USB Port or the Micro
SD card) is easy and free. To get the most from your new transmitter, please check the download section of the
FrSky website for the latest update firmware and guide for adjusting your sticks. (www.frsky-rc.com)
Updates
Make sure your transmitter can’t tip it over. If it is knocked over, the throttle stick may be accidentally moved,
causing the engine to speed up. Also, damage to your transmitter may occur.
In order to maintain complete control of your aircraft it is important that it remains visible at all times. Flying
behind large objects such as buildings, grain bins, etc. must be avoided. Doing so may interrupt the radio
frequency link to the model, resulting in loss of control.
Do not grasp the transmitter's antenna during flight. Doing so may degrade the quality of the radio frequency
transmission and could result in loss of control.
As with all radio frequency transmissions, the strongest area of signal transmission is from the sides of the
transmitter's antenna. As such, the antenna should not be pointed directly at the model. If your flying style creates
this situation, easily move the antenna to correct this situation.
Don’t fly in the rain! Water or moisture may enter the transmitter through the antenna or stick openings and
cause erratic operation or loss of control. If you must fly in wet weather during a contest, be sure to cover your
transmitter with a plastic bag or waterproof barrier. Never fly if lightning is expected.
To ensure the safety of yourself and others, please observe the following precautions.
Have regular maintenance performed.
Although your
TANDEM X18
protects the model memories with non-vol-
atile EEPROM memory (which does not require periodic replacement) and of a battery, it still should have regular
check-ups for wear and tear. We recommend sending your system to your FrSky Service Center annually during your
non-flying-season for a complete check-up and service.
FLYING SAFETY
Warning:
At the flying field
To prevent possible damage to your radio gear, turn the power switches on and off in the proper sequence:
1. Pull throttle stick to idle position, or otherwise disarm your motor/engine.
2. Turn on the transmitter power and allow your transmitter to reach its home screen.
3. Confirm the proper model memory has been selected.
4. Turn on your receiver power.
5. Test all controls. If a servo operates abnormally, don’t attempt to fly until you determine the cause of the problem.
6. Start your engine.
7. Complete a full range check.
8. After flying, bring the throttle stick to idle position, engage any kill switches or otherwise disarm your motor/engine.
If you do not turn on your system on and off in this order, you may damage your servos or control surfaces, flood your
engine, or in the case of electric-powered or gasoline-powered models, the engine may unexpectedly turn on and
cause a severe injury.
Where to Fly
We recommend that you fly at a recognized model airplane flying field. You can find model clubs and fields by asking
your nearest hobby dealer.
Stop flying long before your batteries become over discharged. Do not rely on your radio’s low battery
warning systems, intended only as a precaution, to tell you when to recharge. Always check your transmitter
and receiver batteries prior to each flight.
Using a fully charged battery (DC 6.5~8.4V). A low battery will soon die, causing loss of control and a crash. When
you begin your flying session, reset your transmitter’s built-in timer, and during the session pay attention to the
duration of usage. Also, if your model used a separate receiver battery, make sure it is fully charged before each
flying session.
Battery
Always pay particular attention to the flying field’s rules, as well as the presence and location of spectators,
the wind direction, and any obstacles on the field. Be very careful flying in areas near power lines, tall buildings, or
communication facilities as there may be radio interference in their vicinity.
CE
The product may be used freely in these countries: Germany, Italy, Spain, Belgium, Netherlands, Portugal,
Greece, Ireland, Denmark, Luxembourg, Austria, Finland, Sweden, Norway, France and Iceland.
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part
15 of the FCC Rules
FCC
Step 7:
Range
Range refers to TANDEM X18 range check mode. A pre-flight range check should be done before each flying
session. Move the cursor to “Set”, scroll the Encoder to select “RANGE” mode and press Encoder. In range check
mode, the effective distance will be decreased to 1/30. Press the Encoder again, turn to normal state.
Step 4 :
Registration
In ACCESS model, select the STATE [Register] into Registration status on radio side. Then Press the F/S button
and power on your receiver, and select the “RX Name XX” and [REGISTER] to complete the Registration process
then power down the receiver.
Step 3:
Set the Receiver Number
The system will assign you the receiver a number
automatically, when you create a new model, and this
can be easily changed. The range of the Model ID is
00-63, with the default number being 01. Once the
receiver is set to the desired number and is bound to the
TANDEM X18, the bind procedure will not need to be
repeated unless the receiver number is changed. At this
point, set the receiving number to your preferred
number and repeat the binding operation.
Step 6:
Set Failsafe mode
There are 3 failsafe modes when enable: No Pulse, Hold, Custom.
●
No Pulse: on loss of signal the receiver produces no
pulses on any channel. To use this type, select it in the
menu and wait 9 seconds for the failsafe to take effect.
● Hold: the receiver continues to output the last
positions before signal was lost. To use this type, select
it in the menu and wait 9 seconds for the failsafe to take
effect.
● Custom: pre-set to required positions on lost signal.
Move the cursor to the failsafe mode of channel and
press
Encoder, then choose the Custom mode. Move the
cursor to the channel you want to set failsafe on, and
press Encoder.
Then rotate the Encoder to set your failsafe for each channel and short press Encoder to finish the setting. Wait 9
seconds before the failsafe takes effect.
Notice:
● When failsafe is disabled on TANDEM X18 side, the failsafe set on receiver side will be used.
● SBUS port does not support the No Pulse failsafe mode and always outputs. Set “Hold” or “Custom” for SBUS
port.
Step 2:
Set the Channel Range
The TANDEM RF module supports 24 channels, the channel range is configurable, and it needs to be double
checked before use.
Model Setup for TANDEM X18 External RF Module
The external RF module can be powered on or off by
software. The setup process is the same as that for the
internal RF. External modules should be closed when
not in use.
Step 5:
Automatic binding (Smart Match )
Move the cursor to Rx1[BIND],and select it, power your receiver, select the RX, and complete the process, the
system will confirm "Bind succeed". (Pressing the "F/S" button is not required in ACCESS to Bind. Please refer to
the receivers manual for details).
Choose the INT MODULE. Then turn ON INTERNAL RF, select the OUTSIDE or INSIDE ANTENNA.
Set the Mode for TANDEM X18 internal RF corresponding to your receiver (ACCESS, ACCST D16).
FCC STATEMENT:
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
(1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference
received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
Any Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could
void the user's authority to operate the equipment.
Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device,
pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection
against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates uses and can radiate
radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause
harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not
occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television
reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to
correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
-Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
-Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
-Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
-Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
INDUSTEY CANADA STATEMENT:
This device complies with Industry Canada licence-exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is subject to the
following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must
accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the
device. In additional, this device complies with ICES-003 of the Industry Canada (IC) Rules.
Any Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could
void the user's authority to operate the equipment.
Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device,
pursuant to Industry Canada licence-exempt RSS standard(s). These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates
uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the
instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee
that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful
interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and
on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
-Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
-Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
-Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
-Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
INDUSTEY CANADA STATEMENT(French):
Cet appareil est conforme aux normes RSS exemptes de licence d'Industrie Canada. Son
fonctionnement est soumis aux deux conditions suivantes : (1) Cet appareil ne doit pas causer
d'interférences nuisibles et (2) cet appareil doit accepter toute interférence reçue, y compris les
interférences susceptibles de provoquer un fonctionnement indésirable de l'appareil. De plus, cet
appareil est conforme à la norme ICES-003 des règles d'Industrie Canada (IC). Tout changement ou
modification non expressément approuvé par la partie responsable de la conformité pourrait annuler
l'autorité de l'utilisateur à faire fonctionner l'équipement. Remarque : cet équipement a été testé et
déclaré conforme aux limites d'un appareil numérique de classe B, conformément aux normes RSS
exemptes de licence d'Industrie Canada. Ces limites sont conçues pour fournir une protection
raisonnable contre les interférences nuisibles dans une installation résidentielle. Cet équipement génère
des utilisations et peut émettre de l'énergie de radiofréquence et, s'il n'est pas installé et utilisé
conformément aux instructions, peut causer des interférences nuisibles aux communications radio.
Cependant, il n'y a aucune garantie que des interférences ne se produiront pas dans une installation
particulière. Si cet équipement cause des interférences nuisibles à la réception radio ou télévision, ce
qui peut être déterminé en éteignant et en rallumant l'équipement, l'utilisateur est encouragé à essayer
de corriger l'interférence par une ou plusieurs des mesures suivantes : -Réorientez ou déplacez
l'antenne de réception. -Augmenter la distance entre l'équipement et le récepteur. -Connectez
l'équipement à une prise sur un circuit différent de celui auquel le récepteur est connecté. -Consultez le
revendeur ou un technicien radio/TV expérimenté pour obtenir de l'aide. Cet équipement est conforme
aux limites d'exposition aux rayonnements RSS-102 établies pour un environnement non contrôlé. Cet
équipement doit être installé et utilisé avec une distance minimale de 2. Cet appareil est conforme aux
normes RSS exemptes de licence d'Industrie Canada. Son fonctionnement est soumis aux deux
conditions suivantes : (1) Cet appareil ne doit pas causer d'interférences nuisibles et (2) cet appareil
doit accepter toute interférence reçue, y compris les interférences susceptibles de provoquer un
fonctionnement indésirable de l'appareil. De plus, cet appareil est conforme à la norme ICES-003 des
règles d'Industrie Canada (IC).
Tout changement ou modification non expressément approuvé par la partie responsable de la
conformité pourrait annuler l'autorité de l'utilisateur à faire fonctionner l'équipement.
Remarque : cet équipement a été testé et déclaré conforme aux limites d'un appareil numérique de
classe B, conformément aux normes RSS exemptes de licence d'Industrie Canada. Ces limites sont
conçues pour fournir une protection raisonnable contre les interférences nuisibles dans une installation
résidentielle. Cet équipement génère des utilisations et peut émettre de l'énergie de radiofréquence et,
s'il n'est pas installé et utilisé conformément aux instructions, peut causer des interférences nuisibles
aux communications radio. Cependant, il n'y a aucune garantie que des interférences ne se produiront
pas dans une installation particulière. Si cet équipement cause des interférences nuisibles à la réception
radio ou télévision, ce qui peut être déterminé en éteignant et en rallumant l'équipement, l'utilisateur
est encouragé à essayer de corriger l'interférence par une ou plusieurs des mesures suivantes : -
Réorientez ou déplacez l'antenne de réception. -Augmenter la distance entre l'équipement et le
récepteur. -Connectez l'équipement à une prise sur un circuit différent de celui auquel le récepteur est
connecté. -Consultez le revendeur ou un technicien radio/TV expérimenté pour obtenir de l'aide.
Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) Information:
This Tandem digital radio system meets government requirements for exposure to radio waves. Guidelines are based on standards
developed by independent scientific bodies Evaluate the organization through regular and thorough scientific research. These
standards include substantial safety margins designed to keep everyone safe Regardless of age or health.
FCC Radio Frequency Exposure Information and Statement:
The SAR in the United States (FCC) is below the limit of 1g 1.6 W/kg. Device Type: Smart Handheld Terminal (FCC ID: XYFTDX18HDSP,
IC: 23846-TDX18HDSP) has also been tested against this SAR limit. During product certification, when properly worn on the body,
the maximum SAR value reported in accordance with this standard is less than 1.6 W/kg. The device has been tested for typical body
-worn operation and has a back
The Tandem digital radio system is kept 0 cm from the body. To maintain compliance with FCC RF exposure requirements, use
accessories that maintain a 0 cm distance between the user's body and the back of the Tablet PC. The use of belt clips, holsters
and similar accessories should not include metal parts in their assembly. Use of accessories that do not meet these requirements
may not meet FCC RF exposure requirements and should be avoided.
Informations sur le débit d'absorption spécifique (DAS):
Ce Tandem digital radio system répond aux exigences gouvernementales en matière d'exposition aux ondes radio. Les lignes
directrices sont basées sur des normes élaborées par des organismes scientifiques indépendants Évaluer l'organisation par des
recherches scientifiques régulières et approfondies. Ces normes comprennent des marges de sécurité substantielles conçues pour
assurer la sécurité de tous, indépendamment de l'âge ou de la santé. Informations et déclaration de la FCC sur l'exposition aux
fréquences radio : Le DAS aux États-Unis (FCC) est inférieur à la limite de 1g 1,6 W/kg. Type d'appareil : Terminal portatif
intelligent (ID FCC : XYFTDX18HDSP, IC :23846-TDX18HDSP) a également été testé par rapport à cette limite SAR. Lors de la
certification du produit, lorsqu'il est correctement porté sur le corps, la valeur DAS maximale signalée conformément à cette
norme est inférieure à 1,6 W/kg. L'appareil a été testé pour un fonctionnement typique porté sur le corps et dispose d'un dos Le
Tandem digital radio system est maintenu à 0 cm du corps. Pour maintenir la conformité aux exigences d'exposition RF de la FCC,
utilisez des accessoires qui maintiennent une distance de 0 cm entre le corps de l'utilisateur et l'arrière de la tablette PC. L'
utilisation de clips de ceinture, d'étuis et d'accessoires similaires ne doit pas inclure de pièces métalliques dans leur
assemblage. L'utilisation d'accessoires qui ne répondent pas à ces exigences peut ne pas répondre aux exigences d'exposition RF de
la FCC et doit être évitée.
Other FrSky Radio manuals
