FUTABA 3PM User manual

Thank you for purchasing a Futaba 3PM.
Before using your 3PM, read this manual carefully and use your R/C set safely.
After reading this manual, store it in a safe place.
Application, Export, and Modification
1. This product may be used for models only. It is not intended for use in any application other than the
control of models for hobby and recreational purposes. The product is subject to regulations of the
Ministry of Radio/Telecommunications and is restricted under Japanese law to such purposes.
2. Exportation precautions:
(a) When this product is exported from the country of manufacture, its use is to be approved by the laws govern-
ing the country of destination which govern devices that emit radio frequencies. If this product is then re-
exported to other countries, it may be subject to restrictions on such export. Prior approval of the appropriate
goverment authorities may be required. If you have purchased this product from an exporter outside your coun-
try, and not the authorized Futaba distributor in your country, please contact the seller immediately to determine
if such export regulations have been met.
(b) Use of this product with other than models may be restricted by Export and Trade Control Regulations, and
an application for export approval must be submitted. In the US, use of 72MHz (aircraft only), 75MHz (ground
models only) and 27MHz (both) frequency bands are strictly regulated by the FCC. This equipment must not be
utilized to operate equipment other than radio controlled models. Similarly, other frequencies (except 50MHz,
for HAM operators) must not be used to operate models.
3. Modification, adjustment, and replacement of parts: Futaba is not responsible for unauthorized
modification, adjustment, and replacement of parts on this product. Any such changes may void the
warranty.
Compliance Information Statement (for U.S.A.)
This device, trade name Futaba Corporation of America, model number R133F and R303FS comply
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.
The responsible party of this device compliance is;
Futaba Corporation of America
2865 Wall Triana Highway, Huntsville, Alabama 35824, U.S.A.
TEL (256) 461 - 7348
Battery Recycling (for U.S.A.)
The RBRCTM SEAL on the (easily removable) nickel-cadmium battery contained in
Futaba products indicates that Futaba Corporation of America is voluntarily participating
in an industry program to collect and recycle these batteries at the end of their useful
lives, when taken out of service within the United States. The RBRCTM program provides
a convenient alternative to placing used nickel-cadmium batteries into the trash or mu-
nicipal waste system, which is illegal in some areas.
You may contact your local recycling center for information on where to return the spent battery.
Please call 1-800-8-BATTERY for information on Ni-Cd battery recycling in your area. Futaba Cor-
poration of America's involvement in this program is part of its commitment to protecting our environ-
ment and conserving natural resources.
NOTE: Our instruction manuals encourage our customers to return spent batteries to a local recycling
center in order to keep a healthy environment.
RBRCTM is a trademark of the Rechargeable Battery Recycling Corporation.

Warning: This product contains a chemical known to cause cancer and birth defects (or other
reproductive harm).
•No part of this manual may be reproduced in any form without prior permission.
•The contents of this manual are subject to change without prior notice.
•This manual has been carefully written. Please write to Futaba if you feel that any corrections or clarifications
should be made.
•Futaba is not responsible for the use of this product.

4
For Your Safety As Well As That Of Others...........6
Explanation of Symbols ................................................................................ 6
High Response System (H.R.S) Precautions .............................................. 6
Operation Precautions .................................................................................. 7
NiCd Battery Handling Precautions ............................................................. 9
Storage and Disposal Precautions ............................................................ 10
Other Precautions ....................................................................................... 11
Table Of Contents
Before Using ...........................................................12
Features........................................................................................................ 12
Set Contents ................................................................................................ 14
Nomenclature (Transmitter/Receiver/Servo) ............................................ 15
Installation ..............................................................22
Receiver and Servo Connections .............................................................. 22
Installation Safety Precautions .................................................................. 23
Initial Set-Up ...........................................................24
Preparations (Transmitter) ......................................................................... 24
Functions ................................................................30
End Point Adjuster ...................................................................................... 30
Steering Speed ............................................................................................ 33
Steering EXP / Throttle EXP ....................................................................... 34
A.B.S. Function ............................................................................................ 36
Throttle Acceleration................................................................................... 38
Brake Mixing ................................................................................................ 40
Programmable Mixing ................................................................................. 41
Fail Safe/Battery Fail Safe (HRS System Only) ......................................... 42
Trim ............................................................................................................... 43
Steering D/R ................................................................................................. 44
ATL Function ............................................................................................... 44
Channel 3 Position ...................................................................................... 45
Subtrim ......................................................................................................... 46
Channel Reverse ......................................................................................... 47
Function Map ..........................................................28
(Function Selection) .................................................................................... 28

5
Model Select ...................................................................................... 48
Timer................................................................................................... 49
(System Functions)
Frequency Selection (T3PM-FS only) .............................................. 51
Model Copy ........................................................................................ 51
Model Reset ....................................................................................... 52
Model Name ....................................................................................... 52
HRS/PPM Select ................................................................................ 53
Function Select Switch ..................................................................... 54
Function Select Lever ....................................................................... 55
Condition 2 Selection........................................................................ 56
LED Mode Selection .......................................................................... 56
For Your Safety
As Well As
That Of Others
Before
Using
Installation
Initial
Set-Up
Function
Map
Functions
Reference
Reference .........................................................57
Ratings ............................................................................................... 57
Optional Parts .................................................................................... 58
Troubleshooting ................................................................................ 59
Error Displays .................................................................................... 60
When requesting repair .................................................................... 61

6
For Your Safety As Well As That Of Others
For Your Safety As Well As That Of Others
Use this product in a safe manner. Please observe the following safety precautions at
all times.
Explanation of Symbols
The parts of this manual indicated by the following symbols are extremely important
and must be observed.
Danger
Indicates a procedure which could lead to a dangerous situ-
ation and may cause death or serious injury if ignored and
not performed properly.
Warning Indicates procedures which may lead to dangerous situa-
tions and could cause death or serious injury as well as su-
perficial injury and physical damage.
Caution Indicates procedures that may not cause serious injury, but
could lead to physical damage.
Symbols: ; Prohibited ; Mandatory
Symbols Explanation
In case of the High Response System (H.R.S) receiver R203HF, always use only the
following conditions:
Servo; 6V type Digital Servo only
Power supply; 6V Nicd battery
Transmitter setting; "HRS" mode
If the conditions are different, control is impossible.
And Fail Safe Unit (FSU1) is not available.
Caution
High Response System (H.R.S) Precautions
Mandatory Procedures
(Only when R203HF is used)

7
For Your Safety As Well As That Of Others
Operation Precautions
Warning
Prohibited Procedures
Do not operate two or more models
on the same frequency at the same
time.
Operating two or more models at same time on the
same frequency will cause interference and loss of
control of both models.
AM, FM (PPM) PCM and HRS are different
methods of modulation. Nonetheless the same fre-
quency can not be used at the same point in time,
regardless of the signal format.
Do not operate outdoors on rainy
days , run through puddles of water or
when visibility is limited.
Should any type of moisture (water or snow) enter any
component of the system, erratic opreation and loss
of control may occur.
Do not operate in the following
places.
-Near other sites where other radio control
activity may occur.
-Near people or roads.
-On any pond when boats are present.
-Near high tension power lines or communi-
cation broadcasting antennas.
Interference could cause loss of control. Improper in-
stallation of your Radio Control System in your model
could result in serious injury.
Do not operate this R/C system when
you are tired, not feeling well or under
the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Your judgment is impaired and could result in a dan-
gerous situation that may cause serious injury to your-
self as well as others.
Mandatory Procedures
Extend the transmitter antenna to its
full length.
If the transmitter antenna is not fully extended the op-
erating range of the radio will be reduced.
Check the transmitter antenna to be
sure it is not loose.
If the transmitter antenna works loose, or is discon-
nected while the model is running signal transmission
will be lost. This will cause you to lose control of the
model.
Always perform an operating range
check prior to use.
Problems with the radio control system as well as im-
proper installation in a model could cause loss of con-
trol.
(Simple range test method)
Have a friend hold the model, or clamp it down or
place it where the wheels or prop can not come in
contact with any object. Walk away and check to
see if the servos follow the movement of the con-
trols on the transmitter. Should you notice any ab-
normal operation, Do not operate the model. Also
check to be sure the model memory matches the
model in use.

8
For Your Safety As Well As That Of Others
Caution
Prohibited Procedures
Mandatory Procedures
Do not touch the engine, motor, speed control or any part of
the model that will generate heat while the model is operating
or immediately after its use.
These parts may be very hot and can cause serious burns.
(Turning on the power switches)
Always check the throttle trigger on the transmit-
ter to be sure it is at the neutral position.
1. Turn on the transmitter power switch.
2. Turn on the receiver or speed control power switch.
(Turning off the power switches)
Always be sure the engine is not run-
ning or the motor is stopped.
1. Turn off the receiver or speed control power switch.
2. Then turn off the transmitter power switch.
If the power switches are turned off in the opposite order the
model may unexpectedly run out of control and cause a very
dangerous situation.
When making adjustments to
the model do so with the en-
gine not running or the motor
disconnected.
You may unexpectedly lose control and
create a dangerous situation.
When operating your model
always display a frequency
flag on your transmitter an-
tenna.
(Fail safe function) ---H.R.S mode only
Before running (cruising), check the fail safe function.
Check Method;
Before starting the engine, check the fail safe function as follows:
1) Turn on the transmitter and receiver power switches.
2) Wait at least one minute, then turn off the transmitter power switch. (The transmitter automatically transfers the fail
safe data to the receiver every minute.)
3) Check if the fail safe function moves the servos to the preset position when reception fails.
The fail safe function is a safety feature that minimizes set damage by moving the servos to a preset position when
reception fails. However, if set to a dangerous position, it has the opposite effect.
Setting example: Throttle idle or brake position

9
For Your Safety As Well As That Of Others
NiCd Battery Handling Precautions
(Only when NiCd batteries are used)
Warning
Mandatory Procedures
Always check to be sure your batter-
ies have been charged prior to oper-
ating the model.
Should the battery go dead while the model is operat-
ing, loss of control will occur and create a very dan-
gerous situation.
To recharge the transmitter NiCd, use
the special charger made for this pur-
pose.
Overcharging could cause the NiCd battery to over-
heat, leak or explode. This may lead to fire, burns,
loss of sight and many other types of injuries.
Caution Prohibited Items
Do not use commercial AA
size NiCd batteries.
Quick charging may cause the
battery contacts to overheat and
damage the battery holder.
Do not short circuit the NiCd battery
terminals.
Causing a short circuit across the battery terminals
may cause abnormal heating, fire and burns.
Do not drop the NiCd battery or ex-
pose it to strong shocks or vibrations.
The battery may short circuit and overheat, electrolyte
may leak out and cause burns or chemical damage.
When the model is not being used,
always remove or disconnect the
NiCd battery.
Should the battery be left connected this could create
a dangerous situation if someone accidentally turns
on the receiver power switch. Loss of control would
occur.
Special
Charger
Shock
Prohibited
NiCd AA size
batteries.
Use
prohibited

10
For Your Safety As Well As That Of Others
Storage and Disposal Precautions
Warning
Prohibited Procedures
Do not leave the radio system or
models within the reach of small chil-
dren.
A small child may accidentally operate the system.
This could cause a dangerous situation and injuries.
NiCd batteries can be very dangerous when mis-
handled and cause chemical damage.
Do not throw NiCd batteries into a
fire. Do not expose NiCd batteries to
extreme heat. Also do not disas-
semble or modify a NiCd battery
pack.
Overheating and breakage will cause the electrolyte
to leak from the cells and cause skin burns, loss of
sight as well as other injuries.
Mandatory Procedures
When the system will not be used for
any length of time store the system
with batteries in a discharged state.
Be sure to recharge the batteries prior
to the next time the system is used.
If the batteries are repeatedly recharged in a slightly
discharged state the memory effect of the NiCd bat-
tery may considerably reduce the capacity. A reduc-
tion in operating time will occur even when the batter-
ies are charged for the recommended time.
<NiCd Battery Electrolyte>
The electrolyte in NiCd batteries is a strong alkali. Should you get even the
smallest amount of the electrolyte in your eyes, DO NOT RUB. Wash immedi-
ately with water and seek medical attention at once. The electrolyte can cause
blindness. If electrolyte comes in contact with your skin or clothes, wash with
water immediately.
Caution
Prohibited Procedures
Do not store your R/C system in the
following places.
- Where it is extremely hot or cold.
- Where the system will be exposed to direct
sunlight.
- Where the humidity is high.
-Where vibration is prevalent.
-Where dust is prevalent.
-Where the system would be exposed to
steam and condensation.
Storing your R/C system under adverse conditions
could cause deformation and numerous problems
with operations.
Mandatory Procedure
If the system will not be used for a
long period of time remove the batter-
ies from the transmitter and model
and store in a cool dry place.
If the batteries are left in the transmitter electrolyte
may leak and damage the transmitter. This applies to
the model also. Remove the batteries from it also to
prevent damage.
<NiCd Battery Recycling>
A used NiCd battery is valuable resource. Insulate the battery terminals and dis-
pose the battery by taking it to a battery recycling center.

11
For Your Safety As Well As That Of Others
Other Precautions
Caution
Prohibited Procedures
Do not expose plastic parts to fuel,
motor spray, waste oil or exhaust.
The fuel, motor spray, waste oil and exhaust will pen-
etrate and damage the plastic.
Always use only genuine Futaba
transmitters, receivers, servos, FET
amps (electronic speed
controls),NiCd batteries and other op-
tional accessories.
Futaba will not be responsible for problems caused by
the use of other than Futaba genuine parts. Use the
parts specified in the instruction manual and catalog.
Mandatory Procedures

12
Before Using
- PLL Synthesizer System (Transmitter T3PM-FS and Receiver R303FS only)
3PM PLL synthesizer system is easy to change the frequency only by selecting a
desired frequency on a transmitter LCD screen and adjusting the two dials equipped
on a receiver respectively.
- High Response System (H.R.S.) (Receiver R203HF only)
When used with the H.R.S. system, a speed of triple that of an FM system at average
response is realized. (Comparison with other Futaba products)
- Simple segment type LCD display and four edit keys for easy data setup
- 10 models memory
Model names can use up to 3 letters, numbers, and symbols so that easily understood
names can be set. Model copy function simplifies creation of a model memory with
different fine setups.
- Two function groups: Frequently used functions / System functions
Frequently used functions can be easily called from the initial screen with Select Key
(SEL).
- Brake mixing for large cars (BMX)
Brake mixing of the front and rear wheels of 1/5GP cars, etc. has balance adjustment
functions.
- Steering dual rate (D/R-ST)
Steering angle can be adjusted with digital trim lever.
- Anti-skid Braking System (ABS)
This function applies the brakes so that the tires of gasoline engine cars, etc. do not
lose their grip on the road even when braking at corners.
- Throttle acceleration (ACC)
Gasoline engine cars have a time lag before the clutch and brakes are connected. The
ACC function minimizes this time lag.
- Steering speed (SPD)
When you sense that the steering servo is too fast, etc., the servo operating speed
(direction that suppresses the maximum speed) can be adjusted.
- Racing timer (TIMER) : Up timer or Down timer can be selected.
A lap time can record 100 lap times and the total time. The timer can also be started
automatically by trigger operation. The race time can be set.
- Digital trim: Steering trim, Throttle trim, Steering D/R
The current position is displayed on the LCD screen for about three seconds when
each digital trim is operated.
- Function select lever function (FNC-DT1/DT2/DT3/DT4)
This function assigns a function to levers (digital trims, grip levers). Trim positioning
at each model call is unnecessary because all the levers are digital.
Before Using
Features

13
Before Using
- Function select switch function (FNC-SW1/SW2)
This function assigns a function to the two installed switches.
- Condition 2 Selection
In specific functions, two rates can be set up, and switched with SW1 switch simulta-
neously during a run.
- NEW design considers operability and weight balance
- Tension adjustment function
The wheel tension can be adjusted from the outside.
- Trigger stopper function (Mechanical ATL)
- High luminosity blue LED pilot lamp
You can select your desired brightness of the pilot lamp. (Four steps)

14
Before Using
Set Contents
After opening the box, first check if the contents conform to the following. The con-
tents depend on the set as shown below.
- If any of the set contents are missing, or you have any questions, please contact the
dealer where the unit was purchased.
Transmitter T3PM-FM
Receiver R203HF
Servo
Miscellaneous
Receiver switch and Battery holder (w/servo set only)
Servo mounting hardware and servo horns (w/servo set only)
Instruction manual
Always use only genuine Futaba transmitter, receiver, FET amp, NiCd battery and other
optional parts.
Futaba will not be responsible for damage caused by other than genuine Futaba parts and components. Use only
the genuine Futaba parts and components listed in the instruction manual and catalog.
Caution
In case of the High Response System (H.R.S) receiver R203HF, always use only the
following conditions:
Servo; 6V type Digital Servo only
Power supply; 6V Nicd battery
Transmitter setting; "HRS" mode
If the conditions are different, control is impossible.
And Fail Safe Unit (FSU1) is not available.
Caution
3PM HRS system 3PM FM system 3PM Synthesizer
system
T3PM-FS
R133F R303FS
----- ----- S3003x2
or
S3305x1
----- S3003x2
or
S3305x1

15
Before Using
Transmitter T3PM
Nomenclature
Throttle trim (DT2)
Edit keys
LCD screen
Pilot lamp
CH3 switch ( SW2)
(See page 16 for the operating
instructions.)
Steering dual rate
lever (DT3)
(See page 16 for the operating instructions.)
ATL lever (DT4)
(See page 16 for the operating instructions.)
Antenna
Power switch
Steering trim (DT1)
(See page 16 for the operating instructions.)
Mechanical ATL
adjusting screw
(See page 17 for the
adjustment instructions.)
Steering wheel
Throttle
trigger
Grip Handle
Push switch (SW1)
Crystal
Cover
*The switches and levers in the figure are
shown in the initial setting position.
Precautions when turning the power
switch on and off.
When the data was changed using the edit
keys or trim levers, wait at least two seconds
before turning off the power. If the power is
turned off within two seconds after the data
was changed, the new data will not be written
to memory.

16
Before Using
Digital Trim Operation
(Initial settings: DT1: Steering trim, DT2: Throttle trim)
Push the lever to the left or right (up or down).
The current position is displayed on the LCD screen for about three seconds when
each digital trim is operated.
Steering trim
position
Throttle trim
position
- Each step is indicated by a tone.
- When the trim exceeds the maximum trim adjustment
range, the tone will change pitch and the lever will not
move any farther.
Trim Operation
With the digital trim feature, trim adjustments have no effect on the maximum servo
travel. This prevents the linkages from binding when adjustments are made.
DT2
DT1
Grip lever operation
(Initial settings: DT3=Steering D/R, DT4=Throttle ATL)
Push the lever to the left or right. The current set value is displayed on the LCD
screen for about three seconds when each lever is operated.
DT3
DT4
- A click sound is made at each step.
- When the maximum position is reached at each side,
the tone of the click changes. Thereafter, the set value
does not change.
ATL position
Steering D/R rate

17
Before Using
Mechanical ATL Adjustment
Mechanical ATL
adjustingscrew
Adjustment
Using a Phillips screwdriver, adjust the trigger
brake (reverse) side stroke by turning the
screw through the adjusting hole indicated by
the arrow in the figure. (The screw moves the
throttle trigger stopper.)
- When the adjusting screw is turned clockwise, the
stroke becomes narrower.
Make this adjustment when you want to make the throttle trigger brake (reverse) side
stroke narrower.
Caution
When the stroke is adjusted, the throttle servo travel must be adjusted by data setting.
Wheel Tension Adjustment
Make this adjustment when you want to change the steering wheel spring tension.
Adjustment
Turn the screw inside the adjusting
hole using a Phillips screwdriver.
Caution
If turned too far counterclockwise, the adjusting screw may fall out.
Tension adjusting screw
- Turning the adjusting screw
clockwise increases the spring
tension.

18
Before Using
For dry cell battery system
Load the eight batteries in accordance with the polarity markings on the battery
holder. (8 AA Size Batteries)
Battery Replacement
(Battery Replacement Method)
1Remove the battery cover from the
transmitter by sliding it in the direc-
tion of the arrow in the figure.
2Remove the used batteries.
3Load the new AA size batteries . Pay
very close attention to the polarity
markings and reinsert accordingly.
4Slide the battery cover back onto the
case. Check:
Turn the power switch on the trans-
mitter to the ON position. Check the
battery voltage display on the LCD
screen.
If the voltage is low, check the batter-
ies for insufficient contact in the case
or incorrect battery polarity.
Caution
Always be sure you reinsert the bat-
teries in the correct polarity order.
If the batteries are loaded incorrectly, the
transmitter may be damaged.
When the transmitter will not be
used for any short or long period of
time, always remove the batteries.
If the batteries do happen to leak, clean the
battery case and contacts thoroughly. Make
sure the contacts are free of corrosion.
Low Battery Alarm:
If the transmitter battery voltage
drops below 8.5V an alarm will sound
and "LOW BT" will be displayed on
the LCD screen.
The low battery alarm is meant to be a
safety feature only. Do NOT operate
your radio below 9V. Always shut
your radio off as soon as possible af-
ter the low battery warning tone to
avoid loss of control.

19
Before Using
For NiCd battery system
The NiCd battery is connected by a connector so it can be easily removed when the
transmitter is not being used for an extended amount of time.
- Always use an NT8F700B NiCd battery.
NiCd battery
NT8F700B
Charging the NiCd Battery
Charging
1. Plug the transmitter cord of the
special charger into the charg-
ing jack on the side of the trans-
mitter.
2. Plug the charger into an AC out-
let.
3. Check that the charging LED
lights.
Charger
Transmitter charging
LED
Cord to transmitter
charging jack
When charging the NT8F700B NiCd battery with the special charger, allow about 15
hours for charging. If the transmitter has not been used for some time, cycle the
battery by charging and discharging it two or three times.
Over current protection
The transmitter charging circuit is equipped with an over current protection circuits.
If the battery is charged with a quick charger for other than digital proportional R/C
sets, it may not be fully charged.
AC outlet
Charging jack

20
Before Using
Always use the special charger or a quick charger for digital pro-
portional R/C sets to charge a digital proportional R/C set NiCd
battery.
Overcharging a NiCd battery can result in burns, fire, injuries, or loss of sight due to
overheating, breakage, or electrolyte leakage.
Never try to recharge a dry cell bat-
tery.
The transmitter may be damaged or the battery
electrolyte may leak or the battery may break.
When the charger is not in use, dis-
connect it from the AC outlet.
Do this to prevent accidents and to avoid overheat-
ing.
Caution
Never plug it into an outlet other
than indicated voltage.
Plugging the charger into the wrong outlet may re-
sult in an explosion, sparking, or fire.
Do not insert and remove the
charger when your hands are wet.
It may cause an electric shock.
Warning
Use the
special
char
g
er.
Receiver
Nomenclature
Set data backup
The set data of each function of the 3PM transmitter is stored in a memory element
that does not require a backup battery. Therefore, the 3PM transmitter can be used
without paying attention to the backup battery life.
Antenna
Connectors
3: CH3 servo (CH3)
2: Throttle servo (CH2)
1: Steering servo (CH1)
B/C: Power connector/DSC connector
R133F
receiver
When changing the frequency, use the
specified Futaba crystal set.
Crystal

21
Before Using
Connectors
1: Steering servo (CH1)
2: Throttle servo (CH2)
3: CH3 servo (CH3)
B/C: Power connector/DSC connector
R303FS
receiver
For the receiver, servos, and other connections, see page 22.
Servo lead
Servo horn
Mounting flange
<Accessory>
The following items are provided for setting:
- Spare servo horn
- Parts for servo installation
(For the installation precautions, see page 23.)
Crystal
When changing the frequency, use the
specified Futaba crystal set.
Antenna Connectors
1: Steering servo (CH1)
2: Throttle servo (CH2)
3: CH3 servo (CH3)
B/C: Power connector/DSC connector
R203HF
receiver
Servo
Nomenclature
Antenna
Channel Selection
When changing the frequency, adjust the two dials on R303FS.
Refer to the channnel - frequency table attached.