FUTABA Mega Tech 3PK User manual

RR
Digital Proportional R/C System
1M23N11002

2
Thank you for purchasing the Futaba 3PK.
Prior to operating your 3PK, please read this manual thoroughly and use your
system in a safe manner.
After reading this manual store it in a safe place.
Application, Export and Reconstruction
1. Use this product in surface models only.
The product described in this manual is subject to regulations of the Ministry of
Radio/Telecommunications and is restricted under Japanese law to such pur-
poses.
2. Exportation Precautions
(a) When this product is exported from Japan, its use is to be approved by the
Radio Law of the country of the destination.
(b) Use of this product with other than models may be restricted by Export and
Trade Control Regulations. An application for export approval must be submit-
ted.
3. Modification, adjustment and replacement of parts.
Futaba is not responsible for unauthorized modification, adjustment and re-
placement of parts of this product.
THE FOLLOWING STATEMENT APPLIES TO THE
RECEIVER (FOR U.S.A.)
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions.
(1) This devise may not cause harmful interference, and
(2) This devise must accept any interference received, including interference
that may cause undesired operation.

3
THE RBRCTM SEAL (FOR U.S.A.)
The RBRCTM SEAL on the (easily removable) nickel-cadmium battery con-
tained in Futaba products indicates that Futaba Corporation of America is vol-
untarily participating in an industry program to collect and recycle these batter-
ies 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 municipal waste which is illegal in
some areas.
Futaba Corporation of America's payments to RBRCTM makes it easy for you to
return the spent battery to Futaba for recycling purposes. You may also 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 Corporation of America's involvement in this program is part
of its commitment to protecting our environment and conserving natural re-
sources.
RBRCTM is a trademark of the Rechargeable Battery Recycling
Corporation.
-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 clarifica-
tions should be made.
-Futaba is not responsible for the use of this product.

4
For Your Safety As Well As That Of Others .........
Explanation of Symbols ...................................................................................
High Response System (H.R.S) Precautions .................................................
Operation Precautions ....................................................................................
Nicad Battery Handling Precautions..............................................................
Storage and Disposal Precautions ................................................................
Other Precautions..........................................................................................
Table Of Contents
Before Using ............................................................
Features...........................................................................................................
Set Contents ...................................................................................................
Nomenclature.................................................................................................
Installation................................................................
Receiver and Servo Connections ..................................................................
Installation Safety Precautions .....................................................................
Initial Set-Up............................................................
Preparations (Transmitter) ..........................................................................
Functions ..................................................................
End Point Adjuster .........................................................................................
Steering EXP ..................................................................................................
Steering Speed................................................................................................
Throttle EXP ..................................................................................................
Throttle Speed ...............................................................................................
A.B.S. Function ...............................................................................................
Throttle Acceleration ....................................................................................
Start Function / Engine Cut ..........................................................................
Brake Mixing ...................................................................................................
Idle-Up .............................................................................................................
Timer ...............................................................................................................
Lap List ............................................................................................................
Programmable Mixing 1/2 .............................................................................
Boat Mode .......................................................................................................
Function Map ...........................................................
Menu Selection ...............................................................................................
Direct Selection..............................................................................................

5
Subtrim .................................................................................................
Channel Reverse ..................................................................................
Fail Safe/Battery Fail Safe (HRS/PCM Mode Only) ..........................
Model Select .........................................................................................
Model Reset ..........................................................................................
Model Copy...........................................................................................
Model Name .........................................................................................
Function Select Dial ............................................................................
Function Select Switch ........................................................................
Dual Rate/Second Dual Rate ..............................................................
ATL Function .......................................................................................
Channel 3 Position ...............................................................................
HRS/PCM/PPM Select .........................................................................
Level Select ..........................................................................................
System functions ..................................................................................
Direct Selection Button ......................................................................
Servo View............................................................................................
HRS ESC Set Up ..................................................................................
Adjuster ................................................................................................
For Your Safety
As Well As
That Of Others
Before
Using
Installation
Initial
Set-Up
Function
Map
Functions
Reference
Reference ........................................................
Ratings.................................................................................................
Optional Parts ....................................................................................
Troubleshooting.................................................................................
Error Displays.....................................................................................
When requesting repair ..............................................
Glossary ..............................................................................................
Glossary (LCD Display) .....................................................................
3PKData Sheet......................................................................

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
FCC Compliance Statements:
Any adjustment or modification to the device not expressly authorized by the party responsible for
compliance could result in a violation of the FCC Rules and void the users authority to operate the
equipment.

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) and PCM are different methods
of modulation. Nonetheless the same frequency
can not be used at the same point in time, regard-
less 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
compoent 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 rowboats 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
yourself as well as others.
Mandatory Procedures
Extend the transmit-
ter antenna to its full
length.
If the transmitter antenna is not
fully extended the operating
range of the radio will be re-
duced.
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 a 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
transmitter 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
running 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.
When adjusting the transmitter on land while preparing to run (cruise), take measures
so that the wind will not knock over the transmitter.
If the transmitter is knocked over, the throttle stick may be accidentally set to the operating position and you may
lose control.
(Fail safe function) ---H.R.S or PCM 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. When the reverse function was used
to change the operating direction of a servo, the fail safe function must be reset.
Setting example: Throttle idle or brake position

9
For Your Safety As Well As That Of Others
Nicad Battery Handling Precautions
(Only when Nicad 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 danger-
ous situation.
To recharge the transmitter Nicad ,
use the special charger made for this
purpose.
Overcharging could cause the Nicad battery to over-
heat, leak or explode. This may lead to fire, burns,
loss of sight and many other type's of injuries.
Caution Prohibited Items
Do not use commercial AA
size Nicad batteries.
Quick charging may cause the
battery contacts to overheat and
damage the battery holder.
Do not short circuit the Nicad battery
terminals.
Causing a short circuit across the battery terminals
may cause abnormal heating, fire and burns.
Do not drop the Nicad 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
Nicad 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
Nicad AA size
batteries.
Use
prohibited
Shock
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.
Nicad batteries can be very dangerous when mis-
handled and cause chemical damage.
Do not throw Nicad batteries into a
fire. Do not expose Nicad batteries to
extreme heat. Also do not disas-
semble or modify a Nicad 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 nicad 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.
<Nicad Battery Electrolyte>
The electrolyte in Nicad 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, seek medical attention at once. The electrolyte can cause blind-
ness. 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 opreation.
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.
<Nicad Battery Recycling>
A used Nicad battery is valuable resource. Insulate the battery terminals and
dispose 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),Nicad batteries and other
optional 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
- High Response System (H.R.S. system)
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) The T3PK transmitter
is
compatible with the H.R.S. system, PCM1024 system, and PPM (FM) system.
- 128x64 dot large graphic LCD/with backlighting
EXP curve, throttle curve, servo view, and other graph display and function selection
can batch display simple menus and function setup items, and data setup is easy.
Backlighting that can be turned ON/OFF also improves recognition at indoor cir-
cuits,
etc.
- 10 models memory/+ 10 models by using a data pack
Model names can use up to 10 letters, numbers, and symbols so that easily under-
stood
names can be set. Model copy function simplifies creation of a model memory with
different fine setups. An additional 10 models memory can be added by using the
optional data pack (DP-16K).
- Two function selection modes: Menu selection and direct call
Setup screens are called from a menu screen. The menu screen can be selected from
among 3 levels (LV1/LV2/LV3) to match the level of use.
Frequently used (high urgency) functions can be quickly called by assigning them to
direct call buttons. (6 functions)
- Brake mixing for large cars (BRAKE-MIX)
Brake mixing of the front and rear wheels of 1/5GP cars, etc. has delay and balance
adjustment functions.
- Second dual rate (2ND D/R)
Steering angle can be switched with one touch while running.
- Anti-skid Braking System (A.B.S.)
This function applies the brakes so that the tires of gasoline engine cars, etc. do not
their grip on the road even when braking at corners.
- Throttle acceleration (TH-ACCEL)
Gasoline engine cars have a time lag before the clutch and brakes are connected. The
TH-ACCEL function minimizes this time lag.
- Throttle speed (TH-SPEED)
Sudden trigger operation on slippery roads only spins the wheels unreasonably and
does not accelerate smoothly. Setup the throttle speed function allows smooth and
enjoyable operation while at the same time reducing battery consumption.
Before Using
Features

13
Before Using
- Start function (AT-START)
When the throttle trigger is set to full throttle simultaneously with starting on slippery
roads, the wheels spin and the vehicle does not accelerate (start). Setup the start
function allows smooth starting.
- Steering speed (ST-SPEED)
"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)
A lap timer can record 99 lap times and the total time. The timer can also be started
automatically by trigger operation. The race time and an audible alarm can be set. A
navigation timer effective during training runs is provided. Target lap and refueling
time can be indicated by audible alarm. Other timers are an up timer and a down
timer.
- Digital trim w/reset function
The trim position is constantly displayed on an LCD screen. The operation amount of
1
step can also be adjusted. Steering and throttle trim operations have no on the
maximum steering position.
- Function select dial function (FUNC-DIAL)
This function assigns a function to dials (digital trim, grip dial, knob). The step size
and operating direction can also be adjusted. Trim positioning at each model call is
unnecessary because all the dials are digital.
- Function select switch function (FUNC-SW)
This function assigns a function to the three installed switches. The operating direc-
tion
can also be set.
- Wheel position can be changed.
The wheel position can be changed by using the offset adapter (supplied). The angle
can also be adjusted.
- Adaptable for left-handed operators
The wheel section left and right mounting direction can be reversed.
- Black antenna
- NEW design considers operability and weight balance.
- Tension adjustment function
The wheel tension can be adjusted from the outside.
- Trigger stopper function (Mechanical ATL)
- Display switch
Functions can be set without emitting radio waves.
- Receiver w/DSC is standard equipment (Connection cord is option.)
HRS system: R203HF, PCMN type: R113iP
- 7-color LED pilot lamp
You can select your favorite color.

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 you
dealer.
Transmitter T3PK
RF module PK-FM
Receiver R203HF(HRS-FM) or R113iP(PCM)
Servo
Miscellaneous
Transmitter Ni-cad battery pack NT8F700B
or Battery box
*Installed in transmitter.
Receiver switch
Wheel position offset adapter(A.P.A.)
Instruction manual
*Installed in transmitter.
Always use only genuine Futaba transmitter, receiver, FET amp, Ni-cad 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

15
Before Using
Transmitter T3PK
Nomenclature
Antenna
Throttle trim
(DT2)
Edit buttons
Steering wheel
Steering trim (DT1)
LCD screen
Push switch 1 (PS1)
Power
switch
Digital trim 3 (DT3)
Pilot lamp
CH3 knob
( DL3)
Mechanical ATL
adjusting screw
Throttle
trigger
(See page 16 for the operating
instructions.)
(See page 16 for the operating instructions.)
(See page 17 for the
adjustment instructions.)
(See page 16 for the operating
instructions.)
Grip Handle
Push
switch 3
(PS3)
Crystal
Display
switch
Steering dual rate dial (DL1)
(See page 16 for the operating instructions.)
Push switch 2 (PS2)
ATL dial (DL2)
(See page 16 for the operating instructions.)
*The switches, knobs, and trimmers 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.
Sound port
- Use a commercial earphone.
(Use a radio earphone with a 3.5mm di-
ameter plug.)
- When the surroundings are noisy during
races, etc., you can listen to the alarm
tone using an earphone. The alarm tone
can also be heard from the transmitter.

16
Before Using
Digital Trim Operation
(Initial settings: DT1: Steering trim, DT2: Throttle trim, DT3: -------)
Operating by the lever: Push the lever to the left or right (up or down).
Operating by push button switch: Press the push button switch in the desired direc-
tion. The current position is displayed on the LCD screen.
Steering trim display
Throttle trim display
- 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.
- Return to the neutral position (center) by pressing both
the push button switches simultaneously for about one
second.
Trim Operation
With the center trim feature, trim adjustments have no effect on the maximum servo
travel. This prevents the linkages from binding when adjustments are made.
DT2
DT1 Lever
Push button switch
DT3
Grip dial operation
(Initial settings: DL1=Steering D/R, DL2=ATL)
Operate the dials by turning them. The current set value is displayed on the LCD
screen.
DL1
DL2
- 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 display
Steering D/R display

17
Before Using
Mechanical ATL Adjustment
Adjustment
Using a Phillips screwdriver, adjust the
trigger brake (back) side stroke by turning
the screw through the adjusting hole indi-
cated 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 (back) side
stroke narrower.
Mechanical ATL
adjusting screw
Caution
When the stroke was adjusted, the throttle servo travel must be adjusted by data set-
ting.
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 1.5mm hex wrench.
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 Ni-cad battery system
The Ni-cad battery is connected by a connector so that it can be removed when you
will not be using the transmitter for a long time, or when replacing a dead battery with
a spare battery.
- Always use an NT8F700B Ni-cad battery.
For dry cell battery system
Load the eight batteries in accordance with the polarity markings on the battery
holder.
-Dry cell battery (x8)
Battery Replacement
Battery cover
While pressing this part.
1. Slide the transmitter battery
cover in the arrow direction while
pressing the part shown in the
figure.
2. Replace the Ni-cad battery pack
or Dry cell batteries.
3. Slide the battery cover back onto
the transmitter.
Charging jack
(Interior)
Cover
Ni-cad battery
NT8F700B

19
Before Using
Charging the Ni-cad Battery
Charging
1. Plug the transmitter cord of the
special charger into the charg-
ing jack on the rear 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 transmit-
ter charging jack
When charging the NT8F700B Ni-cad 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
(1.5A). If the battery is charged with a quick charger for other than digital propor-
tional R/C sets, it may not be fully charged.
Always use the special charger or a quick charger for digital pro-
portional R/C sets to charge a digital proportional R/C set Ni-cad
battery.
Overcharging a Ni-cad 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 you hands are wet.
It may cause an electric shock.
Warning
Use the
special
char
g
er.
AC outlet

20
Before Using
Handling the RF module
Removing the RF module
1 Remove the RF module cover by slid-
ing it in the arrow direction.
2.Pull the module upward while pushing
the left and right claws to the inside.
Inserting the RD module
1 Insert the module while being careful
that the transmitter side connector
pins are not bent.
2 Push in until the claws lock with a
"click".
3 Install the RF module cover by sliding
it.
- Crystal can be changed without removing the
RF module.
- See page for the crystals that can be used.
RF module temperature rise
When the transmitter is in use, the RF module temperature will rise slightly. This is
normal.
Handling the data pack
With the 3PK transmitter, the setup data of 10 models can be stored in the transmitter
itself and the setup data of 10- models can be stored in a DP-16 removable data pack
(Option).
DP-16K data
pack (Option)
RF module cover
Data pack insertion hole
- Hold the dust cap and insert the data
pack in all the way.