FrSky TANDEM X18S 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)
FrSky Electronic Co., Ltd. www.frsky-rc.com Contact us: [email protected]
Add: F-4,Building C, Zhongxiu Technology Park, No.3 Yuanxi Road, Wuxi, 214125, Jiangsu, China Technical Support: [email protected]
Version
1.0
FrSky TANDEM X18 & X18S Manual
FrSky Electronic Co., Ltd. www.frsky-rc.com Contact us: [email protected]
Add: F-4,Building C, Zhongxiu Technology Park, No.3 Yuanxi Road, Wuxi, 214125, Jiangsu, China Technical Support: [email protected]
Version
1.0
FrSky TANDEM X18 & X18S Manual
FrSky Electronic Co., Ltd. www.frsky-rc.com Contact us: [email protected]
Add: F-4,Building C, Zhongxiu Technology Park, No.3 Yuanxi Road, Wuxi, 214125, Jiangsu, China Technical Support: [email protected]
Version
1.0
FrSky TANDEM X18 & X18S Manual
FrSky Electronic Co., Ltd. www.frsky-rc.com Contact us: [email protected]
Add: F-4,Building C, Zhongxiu Technology Park, No.3 Yuanxi Road, Wuxi, 214125, Jiangsu, China Technical Support: [email protected]
Version
1.0
FrSky TANDEM X18 & X18S 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(S) radio is an obvious appropriate choice.
The Tandem X18(S) 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(S) 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(S) 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!
Note: Please keep the aircraft in the optimal radiation range of the directional antenna at all times.
+X
+Y
+Z
SMA Connector
Infinity 24 Antenna
Recommended 2.4GHz optional
high-gain antenna for achieving
higher performance and further
range.
SMA Connector
Recommended 900MHz optional high-gain antenna for achieving
higher performance and further range.
Zipp9 (868MHz) / Zipp9 (915MHz) Antenna
+X
+Y
+Z
+X
+Y
+Z
SMA Connector
868MHz 915MHz
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
● Internal NAND FLASH: 128MB (X18) / 512MB (X18S)
●
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
● Supports motion sensing control (X18S)
- Integrated with 6-axis sensor unit
● All CNC High-Precision Hall-Sensor Gimbals with 10 Ball-Bearing (X18S)
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)
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
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 Port
ANT1
Ext. 2.4G Antenna
ANT2
Ext. 900M Antenna
Type-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.

FrSky Electronic Co., Ltd. www.frsky-rc.com Contact us: [email protected]
Add: F-4,Building C, Zhongxiu Technology Park, No.3 Yuanxi Road, Wuxi, 214125, Jiangsu, China Technical Support: [email protected]
Version
1.0
FrSky TANDEM X18 & X18S Manual
FrSky Electronic Co., Ltd. www.frsky-rc.com Contact us: [email protected]
Add: F-4,Building C, Zhongxiu Technology Park, No.3 Yuanxi Road, Wuxi, 214125, Jiangsu, China Technical Support: [email protected]
Version
1.0
FrSky TANDEM X18 & X18S Manual
FrSky Electronic Co., Ltd. www.frsky-rc.com Contact us: [email protected]
Add: F-4,Building C, Zhongxiu Technology Park, No.3 Yuanxi Road, Wuxi, 214125, Jiangsu, China Technical Support: [email protected]
Version
1.0
FrSky TANDEM X18 & X18S Manual
FrSky Electronic Co., Ltd. www.frsky-rc.com Contact us: [email protected]
Add: F-4,Building C, Zhongxiu Technology Park, No.3 Yuanxi Road, Wuxi, 214125, Jiangsu, China Technical Support: [email protected]
Version
1.0
FrSky TANDEM X18 & X18S 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).