FUTABA SKYSPORT-6A User manual

INSTRUCTIONMANUAL
D60506
FOREWORD
Thankyou forselecting the FutabaSKYSPORT-6A.
The SKYSPORT-6A isaneasy-to-use digital proportionalR/C
set forallclasses of R/C aircraft hobbyists, frombeginners to
advanced pilots.Ithas an outstanding array of functions
needed byallclasses of pilots.
To enjoy its functions to the fullest and to ensure safe flying,
please read this manual carefully before using your set.
Afterreading thismanual, store itina safe place. Ifyou encoun-
ter any difficulties while using your set, please refer to the ap-
propriate sections inthis manual.
Inaddition to this manual, please read allof the manualsin-
cluded with your airplane, engine and other flightrelated equip-
mentyou may use.
To help ensure safe use, pay particular attention to the precau-
tions printed throughout this manualand indicated byanexcla-
mation mark [!].
Futaba
DIGITAL PROPORTIONAL
RADIO CONTROL
FP-6VA
FM6 CHANNEL
AIRPLANE R/C SET
THE FOLLOWING STATEMENT APPLIES TO THE RECEIVER:
THIS DEVICECOMPLIES WITH PART 15 OFTHE FCC RULES. OPERA-
TION ISSUBJECT TO THE FOLLOWING TWO CONDITIONS:
(1)THISDEVICEMAY NOT CAUSE HARMFUL INTERFERENCE, AND
(2) THIS DEVICE MUST ACCEPTANYINTERFERENCE RECEIVED,
INCLUDING INTERFERENCE THAT MAY CAUSE UNDESIRED
OPERATION. (For U.S.A.)
1.Nopartofthismanualmaybereproducedinanyform withoutprior
written permission.
2.Thecontentsofthismanualaresubjecttochangewithoutprior
notice.
3.Thismanualhasbeencarefullywritten,butpleasefeel freetowrite
to Futabaifyoufindthatanycorrectionsorclarification'sthatshould
bemade.
4.Futabaisnotresponsiblefortheresultsoftheuseofthisproductby
thecustomer.
5.FutabaandSKYSPORTarea registeredtrademark.
ATTENTION
PRECAUTIONS
1.Application of Product
This product is not intendedfor useinany applicationother
than forthe control of models forhobby and recreational pur-
poses. This product issubject to regulations of the Ministry of
Radio/Telecommunications and isrestricted under Japanese
law to such purposes. The laws of other countries may simi-
larly restrict the use of this product. Futaba isnot responsible
for any use that isnotincompliancewith applicable law.
2.Exportation of Product
Ifthe product isexported from Japan, the priorapproval of
the Ministry of Radio/Telecommunications isrequired regard-
ingthe country of destination. Ifthis product isreexported
fromother countries, itmay besubject to restrictions on such
reexport and prior approval of government authorities may be
required.
3.Modification, Adjustment & Replacement of Parts
Futaba isnot responsible forany use of this product that is
not incompliance with applicable law and disclaims allre-
sponsibilityforanymodificationoralterationof the
product,including the incorporation of the product into other
products by third parties, that isnotincompliance with appli-
cable law.
ATTENTION:
The product that you have purchased contains a
rechargeable battery. The battery isrecyclable. At
the end of it's useful life, under various state and
local laws, itmay beillegal to dispose ofthis battery
into the municipal waste stream. Check with your
local solid waste officialsfor details in your area for
recycling options or proper disposal.
To use your R/C set safely, pleaseobserve the following pre-
cautions:
(Operating precautions)
[!]When powering upthe system, firstturn on the transmitter
power, then turn on receiver power. When powering down
the system,firstturn off the receiver power, then turn offthe
transmitter power. Ifthe power isturned on or offinthe re-
verseorder the control servos may move erratically causing
engines or electric motors to race unexpectedly and possibly
resulting inserious injury to the user or bystanders. Before
turning on the power, set the throttle stick to themaximum
slow position.
[!]Extendthe transmitter antennato itsfulllength.Iftheantenna
isnot extended fully,the transmitter output will drop and the
rangeof receivable transmission will beshortened.
[!]Never fly two ormore models on the same frequency atthe
same time. Before flight,use a frequency monitor or other
device to check that the frequency isnot inuse. Simulta-
neous flight on the same bandisextremelydangerous be-
cause itwill cause interference and loss of control. Differ-
ences inmodulation method or signal format (AM, FM,PCM,
etc.) does notmean that flightscan bemade on the same
band.
[!]Donotforget to recharge the Nicdbattery before each flight.
Needless to say, a dead battery willcause loss of control and
acrash. Always check the discharge time on the ground and
provide a margin of safetywhen determining the remaining
flight time. When recharging the Nicdbattery, observe the
charging current and charging time specified on the battery.
Charging the batteryata currentand time exceeding the
specified values will not only damage the battery byover-
charging, butwill also cause overheating and other danger-
ousconditions.
-1-

[!]Donotfly on rainy days. Even ina drizzle, water can enter the
transmitter through the antenna and sticks and cause faulty
operation. The resulting loss of control may cause a crash or
the engine to race andisvery dangerous.
[!]When placing the transmitter onthe ground during flight
preparations, make certain that the transmitter cannot be
easily toppled bythe wind or other means. Ifittips over while
the engine isrunning and the throttle stick isinadvertently
moved to the high position as result, serious injury to the op-
erator or others could result.
[!]Always test your digitalproportional R/C set before flight. As
asimple testmethod, before starting the engine, retract the
transmitter antenna fullyand operate each servo froma dis-
tance of about 5m and check ifthe servos followthe move-
ment of their control sticks. Ifa servo does not followthe
movement of its control stick, extend the transmitter antenna
to its fulllength, increase the distance on the ground, and
repeat the test. Ifthe receiving range isstill short, discontinue
flight and check the set.
(Flying field)
[!]Ingeneral, when a modelisflown athighspeed and / or the
flyingrange islarge, even more caution isnecessary. A safe
method istoflyatanexclusiveflyingfield belonging to a club,
etc. However, the presence of spectators, wind direction, etc.
must beconstantly monitored. Inareas near high tension
lines, highbuildings, and communication facilities, consider-
ation must begiven not only to normal flight dangers, butalso
to possible loss of control caused byradio waveinterference.
Because R/C radio waves have a fairlylong range, a location
atleast 3 km / 2 miles fromother R/C flying fields andR/C
control circuits isnecessary.
SET CONTENTS
Set name
Transmitter
Receiver
Servos
Battery
(Transmitter)
Battery
(Receiver)
Battery charger
Others
SKYSPORT-6A
FP-T6VA
FP-R116FB, FP-R138DF, or FP-R127DF
FP-S3001x4orFP-S148x4
NT-8iB
NR-4J
x1
Receiver switch, Extension cord,
Servo horns, Flatscrewdriver
RATINGS
Transmitter FP-T6VA
Operating system:Two-stick,6 channels, w/airplane function
Transmittingfrequency:29, 35. 36, 40, 41,50, 60or 72MHz band
Modulation: FM(Frequency Modulation)
Power requirement: 9.6V Nicdbattery(NT-8iB)
Current drain:180mA
Receiver FP-R116FB
Receivingfrequency:29,35. 36.40, 41 or60MHz band
Intermediate frequency:455kHz
Power requirement: 4.8Vor 6V Nicdbattery(sharedwith servos)
Current drain: 22mA
Size: 33.4X50.4X20.5mm
Weight: 30g/1.06oz
Receiver FP-R138DF
Receiving frequency:35MHz band
Intermediate frequency:1st IF10.7MHz. 2ndIF455kHz
Power requirement: 4.8V or 6V Nicd battery (shared with servos)
Currentdrain: 12mA
Size: 65X36X21,5mm
Weight: 39g/1.38oz
Receiver FP-R127DF
Receiving frequency:50 or 72MHz band
Intermediate frequency: 1 st IF10.7MHz, 2nd IF455kHz
Power requirement: 4.8Vor 6V Nicdbattery (shared with servos)
Current drain: 10mA
Size: 64.3X35.8X21.0mm
Weight; 40.5g /1.43oz
Servo FP-S3001/FP-S148
Control system:Pulse width control
Operating angle: One side 45 degree min.(including trim)
Power requirement: 4.8V or 6V Nicd battery(shared withreceiver)
Currentdrain:8mA (atidle)
Output torque:3kg-cm / 42oz-in
Operating speed: 0.22 sec/60 degree
Size: 40.4x19.8x36mm
Weight: 45.1g / 1.59oz(S3001),44.4g/ 1.57oz(S148)
Nicdbattery NT-8JB
Voltage: 9.6V
Capacity:500mAh
Nicdbattery NR-4J
Voltage: 4.8V
Capacity: 500mAh
Dimensions: 51x58x15r
Weight; 95g/3.35oz
ProductSupport
(DoNotRemoveFromDepartment)
TRANSMITTER CONTROLS / OPERATION
-2-
This section describes how to operate the
transmitter. The numbers inthe textcor-
respond to the numbers inFIG.1.
For a definitionof specialterms,see
"GLOSSARY OF TERMS" on page 8.
Servos operation
1.|Aileron|2.[Elevator] 3.[Throttle|
4.[Rudder]
Servos trimming
5. Aileron trim lever 6.Elevator trim lever
7.Throttle trim lever with ATL
The throttle trim affects the throttle only
whenthethrottlestick is inthe low
range (engine isatlow speed). Linkage
adjustment forthe high range throttle
(engine isathighspeed) issimplified
since the throttle trim only affects the
low range of the throttle movement.
8.Rudder trim lever

Switches andknobs
9.Elevator -> flap mixing switch (ELV -> FLP)
When this switch ifpulled forward,the mixing function is
turned on and the flaps are linked with elevator operation.
However, this switch iseffectiveonly when elevator -> flap
mixing isactive (ACT).
10. Flapknob (FLAP)
Normally, this knob isused as CH6. When flaperon mixing is
active (ACT), this knob acts as the flap trimmer.
11.aileron dual rate switch (AILERON D/R)
Thisswitchtogglestheaileronservotravel(RATE1,
RATE2). RATE1; upperposition RATE2; down position
12.Elevator dual rate switch (ELEVATOR D/R)
This switchtogglestheelevatorservotravel(RATE1,
RATE2). RATE1; upper position RATE2; down position
13.Landinggear switch (GEAR)
This switch activates the landing gear channel. (CH5 switch)
14. Power switch
The transmitter isturned on when this switch issetto the
upperposition.
15.Trainer switch (TRAINER)
This switch isturned on when set to the pulledforward posi-
tion(spring-loadedtype).
Others
16.Level meter
[!]This meter indicates the transmitter power supply voltage.
When the needle deflects to the boundary between the silver
and red ranges, recharge the Nicdbattery.
17. Hook
Hookforneckstrap.
18. Antenna
[!]When usingthe transmitter, extend theantenna to itsfull
length.
19. Carryingbar
Usethis handleto carry the transmitter.
20.Battery cover
Open this cover when adjusting the trimmers onthetrimmer
panelandwhen changing the Nicd battery.
21.Charging jack
This isthe transmitter Nicd battery charging jack.
(Chargingthe Nicdbattery)
[!]Never tryto charge a dry cell battery. Itwill cause the battery
to overheat or explode and isverydangerous.
[!]Always charge the Nicdbattery before using your R/C set.
Connect the charger'stransmit-
terand receiverconnectorsto
the transmitterchargingjackand
receiverservoNicd batteryas
shown inthe figure(FIG.2).The
charging LEDs light to show that
the battery isbeing charged.
*Thenormalchargingtimeis
about 15 hours. When you have
not used your R/C set forsome
time, repeatedly charge and dis-
charge the batteries two or three
times before use.
*The transmitter and receiver Nicd batteries can becharged
simultaneously or independently.
(Non-slipadjustableleverhead)
Thelength of the lever head
of the sticks can beadjusted
as desired.Adjustthestick
length tofityourhand. (FIG.3)
1)Unlock lever heads A and B
byturning them inthe direc-
tions shown bythe arrows.
2)Adjust the stick to the most comfortable lengthand lockitby
turning head B inthe directions opposite that shown by the
arrow.
(Stickleverspringtensionadjustment)
The stickleverspring
tension can beadjusted
by removingthetrans-
mitterbackcoverand
turningthescrewfor
each stickas shownin
the figure (FIG.4).Adjust
the spring tension forthe
best stick feel.When ad-
justing the stickspring,
set the throttle stick to the
center.
(Trimmer panel)
a.Servo reversing switch (SERVO REVERSER)
The servo reversing switches reverse the direction of travel of
the servos.The lower position isthe normal position.
(Channels 1 to 6) (DIP switch Nos. 1 to 6)
b.Mode switches
1.Elevator -> flap mixing ACT/INH switch
To activate the mixing function, set this switch to the ACT
(upper) position. To deactivate the mixing function,set this
switch to the INH(lower)position. (DIP switch No.7)
2.Flaperon mixing ACT/INH switch
To activate the mixing function, set this switch to the ACT
(upper) position. To deactivate the mixing function,set this
switch to the INH(lower)position. (DIP switch No.8)
3.Rudder AST function ACT/INH switch
To activate the rudder and throttle AST functions, set this
switch to theACT (upper) position. The throttleATVfunc-
tion can beactivatedby settingthis switchto the INH
(lower) position. Select the desired function.
c. Aileron dual rate trimmer (AIL D/R)
This trimmer sets the rate corresponding to both directions of
the ailerondual rate switch.(RATE1,RATE2)
When itisturned clockwise, the servo travel increases.
d.Elevator dual rate trimmer (ELV D/R)
This trimmer sets the rate corresponding to both directions of
the elevator dual rate switch. (RATE1,RATE2)
When itisturned clockwise, the servo travelincreases.
e. Throttle AST trimmer (TH.AST) or throttle ATV trimmer
(TH.ATV) H side
This trimmer adjusts the servo travel of the selected function.
When itisturned clockwise, the servotravel increases.
f.Rudder AST trimmer (RUD.AST) or Throttle ATVtrimmer
(TH.ATV) L side
This trimmer adjusts the servo travelof the selectedfunction.
When itisturned clockwise, the servotravelincreases.
g.Aileron differential trimmer (DIFF.RATE)
This trimmer adjusts the aileron differential amount when the
flaperon mixing function isactive.
h.EIevator -> flap mixing trimmer (ELV->FLP)
This trimmeradjusts the mixing operation direction and
amount.
i.Flaptrimming function trimmer (FLP.TRIM)
This trimmer adjusts the flap trimming operation direction and
variation width when theflaperon mixing function isactive.
-3-

CONNECTION OF RECEIVER, SERVOS, ETC.
FIG.9
(Installation precautions)
When installing the receiver, servos, and other partsto the fu-
selage, observe the following precautions:
Servo travel
Operate each servo horn over itsfull travel andcheck that the
pushrod does not bind and or isnot too loose. Unreasonable
force appliedto the servo horn will adversely affect the servo
and drain the battery pack veryquickly. Make sure that the
freetravelrange ofeach controlsurfaceor mechanism
somewhat larger than the fullcontrol travel(including trim) of
the servohorn. Adjust the servohorns so that they move
smoothly even when the trim lever and stick are operated si-
multaneously inthe same direction.
Servo installation
Install the servoswith therubber
grommets and eyelets supplied with
the set. (FIG.8) Do not tighten the
screws too tight. Ifthe servo case di-
rectly contacts the fuselage, the rub-
ber bushing will not serve its pur-pose.
Receiver power switch installation
When installing the switch harness to the fuselage, cuta rect-
angular hole slightly larger than the fulltravel of the switch in
the fuselage and install the switch so that itmoves smoothly
fromON to OFF. Also install the switch where itwill not be
exposed to engine oil or dust and dirt. Generally, install the
receiver switch on the opposite side of the muffler exhaust.
Receiver antenna
Althoughthe receiver
antenna may appear to
betoo long, do not cut it
orfoldit back. Chang-
ingthe length of the re-
ceiverantennawill
lower the receiving sen-
sitivity and shorten the
flight range. Generally,
"Install the antenna bystretching
itslightlywith a rubberband,etc.
the antenna can bestrung outtowards andattachedto the
vertical stabilizer. (FIG.9)
Receiver vibration and water proofing
The receiver contains precision electronic parts. Besides be-
ingsusceptible to vibration and shock, the entry of water will
also cause erroneous and dangerous results and has been
associated with crashes and other accidents. Wrap the re-
ceiver infoam rubber or take other vibration countermea-
sures. Also waterproof the receiver by placing itina plastic
"Usea rubberbushingso that the antenna
will not bebroken byabrasion where it
comes through the fuselage and always
knot itinside the fuselage so that itwill
not come out.
-4-
bagand securing the open end of the bag with a rubber band.
Dothe same with the receiver and servo battery.
Servo horns
Spare hornsare supplied.Usethem asneeded.
Extension cord
Usethe servo extension cord ifneededfor your particular
fuselage.
DigitalProportional Frequencies ForU.S.A.
•The frequencyof Futaba digital proportional sets can be
changed within their own band. There are 2 different bands
for you to choose from(27 MHz and 72-75 MHz). Please see
chart listed below forspecific frequency and its intended use.
Please note there are specific frequencies allocated forair-
craft only and surface only use.
•The frequencycan bechanged within the same BAND. How-
ever,Futaba recommends that you return your system to our
factoryservicedepartment forfrequency changing, as tuning
may benecessary forproper operation. Changing frequency
from one band to another isNOT possible.
Alwayschange frequency flag when frequency ischanged.
The frequency flag isto beattached to the top of antenna and
the channel designation to the base. (See Drawing)
•Itisillegal to change crystalson 72-75 MHz bands inthe
U.S.A. unless performed bya licensed technician.
Antenna Frequency Flag
Theflag can beattached to.
andremoved from.the
antennawith one touch.
Attachthe frequency flagtothe flag
holder as shown inthe figure.
1Slickthe channel No.sticker
onthe flag board.
2Attachthe flagboard tothe
antenna as shown inthe
figure
Frequency,ChannelNo.FlagColorForU.S.A.
26-27 MHz-Aircraft/car/boat
Color
26.995Brown
27.045 Red
27.095 Orange
27.145 Yellow
27.195Green
27.255Blue
50/53MHz-Aircraft/car/boat-Fcc Amature Licencerequired (2
and3 channels not produced on these frequencies).
Channel
No. Color
50.800 RCOO 53.100 Black-Brown
50.820 RC01 53.200 Black-Red
50.840RC02 53.300 Black-Orange
50.860RC03 53.400 Black-Yellow
50.880RC04 53.500 Black-Green
50.900RC0553.600 Black-Blue
50.920RC0653.700 Black-Violet
50.940RC07-53.800 Black-Gray
50.960RC08
50.980RC09
72MHz-Aircraft only
72.010 11 72.210 21 72.410 3172.6104172.81051
72.0301272.230 22 72.430 32 72.630 42 72.830 52
72.0501372.250 23 72.450 33 72.650 43 72.850 53
72.0701472.270 24 72.470 34 72.670 44 72.870 54
72.0901572.290 25 72.490 35 72.690 45 72.890 55
72.1101672.310 26 72.510 36 72.710 46 72.910 56
72.1301772.330 27 72.530 37 72.730 47 72.930 57
72.150 1872.350 28 72.550 38 72.750 48 72.950 58
72.1701972.370 29 72.570 39 72.770 49 72.970 59
72.190 20 72.390 30 72.590 40 72.790 50 72.990 60
75MHz-Car/boat only
75.4106175.6107175.810 81
75.4306275.63072 75.830 82
75.4506375.6507375.850 83
75.47064 75.670 7475.870 84
75.4906575.6907575.890 85
75.5106675.7107675.910 86
75.5306775.7307775.930 87
75.5506875.750 7875.950 88
75.5706975.7707975.970 89
75.5907075.790 8075.990 90

ADJUSTMENTS
1.General fuselage adjustments
Make the basic fuselagelinkage connections and adjust-
ments specified inthe fuselagemanufacturer'sassembly
manual. Inparticular, check that the center of gravity iswithin
the specified range.
Also make the receiver, servo,and battery connections inac-
cordance with"CONNECTION OF RECEIVER, SERVOS,
ETC." instructions on page 4.
[!]Besure to read and follow allofthe "(Installationprecau-
tions)".
Before starting adjustment, carefully read the "Transmitter
Operation and Control Surface Movement" section below.
(Transmitter Operation and Control Surface Movement)
The following descriptions assumethatthe transmitter isheld
inthe hands inthe normal position.
a)Whenthe aileron stickis moved to the right, the right wing
aileron israised, the leftwing aileron islowered, and the
plane will bank to the right. When the stick ismoved to the
left,the reversemaneuvers are performed.
b)When theelevatorstickis pulled back. theelevatoris
raised and the airplane climbs (Up operation). When the
elevator stick ispushed forward,the elevator islowered
and the airplane dives(Down operation).
c)Whenthe throttlestick ispulled back, the engine throttle
lever arm moves to the slow (lowspeed) side. When the
throttlestick ispushed forward,the engine throttlelever
arm moves to the high (high speed) side.
d)Whenthe rudder stick ispushed to the right, the rudder is
deflectedto the right and the nose of the airplane turns to
theright. When the rudder stick is pushed to the left,the
rudder isdeflected to the leftand the nose of the airplane
turnsto the left.
(Adjustment procedure)
1)Initial trimmer and switch setting
Before makinganyadjustments,openthe batterycover atthe
backofthetransmitter andsetthe trimmers andDIPswitches on
thetrimmerpaneltotheinitialstateshownbelow.
*Turn all nine trimmersfullyclockwise (to the number 10)
with the miniature screwdriver supplied.
*Set allthe switches (DIP switch No.1 to 9)to the lower
position.
(Turn on the transmitterand receiverpower switches
and make the adjustments described below.)
2)Make the basic adjustments (deflection angle) specified in
the airplane design drawings or instructionmanual.
3)Check the direction of operation of each servo.
Ifa servo moves inthe wrong direction, switchits reversing
switch.(Inthiswaythedirectionof operationcan be
changed without changing the linkage.)
[!]Beespecially careful of the direction of operation ofthe ai-
leron servos.
Servo reversing switch
(Setting)
The servoreversing switches (SERVOREVERSER)
(DIP switchNos. 1 to 6)on the trimmer panelcan beset
for each channel.
The lower (NOR) position isthe normal position andthe
upper (REV)position isthe reverseposition.
4)Check the neutral adjustment and left andright(upand
down) travelof each servo.
Ifthe neutral position has changed, or the travelisincor-
rect, readjust itby changing the servo horn position on the
splined shaftor by changing the hole position on the servo
horn. (Adjustthe neutral position by servo horn position
when the transmittertrimmer isat the center.)
5)Checkthe engine throttlelinkage.
The throttleisopened fullywhen the throttle stick issetto
the high position (pushed forward)and isclosed fully when
the throttlestick isset to the maximum slow position (pulled
back).
6)The throttle or rudder servo travel can betrimmed with the
followingthrottleATVor throttleAST/rudder AST function.
Select the function you want to use.
ThrottleATV functioni
(Function)
The high and low throttle servo travel can beadjusted
independently.Use thisfunctiontocompensatefor
throttlelinkage variations.The travelrate can be ad-
justed from30% to 100% of the total servotravel(each
side) as shown inthe figure.
(Setting)
To activate the throttleATVfunction, set the rudder AST
(RUD.AST)ACT/INH switch(DIPswitch No. 9) on the
trimmer panel to the INH(lower)position. (Be aware that
the rudder AST functionand throttle ATVfunction cannot
beused simultaneously.)
*High side traveladjustment:
Adjust the high side travelwith the high side trimmer (H)
-5-

of the TH.ATV trimmers on the trimmer panel.Adjust the
highside travel to between high sidetrimmer positions 0
(30%) and 10(100%).
*Lowside travel adjustment:
Adjust the low side travel withthe low side trimmer (L) of
the TH.ATV trimmers on the trimmer panel. Adjust the
low side travelbetween low side trimmer positions 0
(30%)and10(100%).
Throttle AST function
(Function)
This functionsets the throttle servo travel. Inthis case,
the high side and low side can be adjusted simulta-
neously. Use this functionto compensate forthrottle
linkage variation. The travelrate can beadjusted from
30% to 100% of the total servo travel as shown inthe
figure.
(Adjustment)
To activate the throttle AST function, set the rudder AST
(RUD.AST) ACT/INH switch (DIP switch No.9) on the
trimmer panel to the ACT (upper) position. (The rudder
ASTfunction can beused simultaneously, but the throttle
ATVfunction cannot beused simultaneously.)
*Travel adjustment:
Adjust the servo travelwith the TH.AST trimmer on the
trimmer panel. Adjust the travelrate between throttle
AST trimmer positions 0 (30%) and10(100%).
Rudder AST function
(Function)
This function adjusts the rudder servo travel. Inthis case,
the leftand right travels can beadjusted simultaneously.
Usethisfunction inrudder linkage correction.The travel
rate can beadjusted from30% to 100% of the total servo
deflection angle as shown inthe figure.
(Adjustment)
To activate the rudder AST function, set the rudder AST
(RUD.AST) ACT/INH switch on the trimmer panel to the
ACT position. The throttleAST function can be used si-
multaneously, but the throttleATV function cannot be
used simultaneously.)
*Travel adjustment:
Adjust the servotravel with the RUD.AST trimmer on the
trimmer panel. Adjust the travelto between rudder AST
trimmer positions 0 (30%)and10(100%).
Throttle trim lever with ATL function
(Function)
As shown in the figure,when the throttle stick issetto the
maximum slow side, the throttletrim influence isalso at
it'smaximum. When the throttle stick isinthe high side
the throttle trim has noinfluence. This greatly simplifies
throttlelinkageadjustment.(The high sidelinkage
should beset first.)
7)Afterconnecting the linkages and checking the operating
directions and amounts, start the engine and adjust the
engineneedle,then flythe airplane andtrim the servos.
2.Aileron/elevatordualrate(D/R) function
(Function)
The maximum travelof the aileron and elevator servos can
bealtered byoperating their respective dual rate switch.
Forinstance, when the switch isinthe down (RATE2)posi-
tion,thedeflectionangle is the normal deflectionangle.
When the switch isset to the upper (RATE1)position, spins,
snap rolls,and other aerobatics that require a maximum de-
flection angle can beperformed byadjusting the deflection
angle to an angle greater than the normal deflectionangle.
Since the respectiverates can beadjusted by setting the
switch to the upper and down positions, the direction of the
switch can beset as desired.
(Switch operation)
The aileron dual rate switch(AILERON D/R) is atthefronttop
right side ofthe transmitter.The upper position isRATE1 and
the down position isRATE2.
The elevator dual rate switch (ELEVATOR D/R) isatthe front
top left side of the transmitter. The upper position isRATE1
and the down position isRATE2.
(Rate adjustment)
Eachratecanbeadjustedwith theRATE1 andRATE2 trimmers
onthetrimmer panelbehindthe batterycover atthe backofthe
transmitter.The ratecanbeadjusted from 30%(position0)to
100%(position10)ofthemaximumdeflectionangle.
(Setting procedure)
1)Turnonthetransmitterandreceiverpower.
2)Switchthedualrateswitch ofthechannelyou wanttotheposi-
tionforthe ratethat you want to set.
3)Setthe stickto the maximum travel ineither direction.
4)Usingthetrimmer,adjusttheservohorntothedesiredangle.
(Adjust each rate by repeating steps 1 through 4.)
*When not using the dual rate function,set the RATE1 and
RATE2 trimmers to 100%(fully clockwise).
3.Flaperonmixing
(withailerondifferentialfunction)
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(Function)
This function lets you mixtheflap andaileronfunctions by
using the same control surfaces (ailerons) and servos for
bothcontrols. Two aileron servos are mounted inthe wing.
Aileron operation isaccomplished normally, i.e.leftand right
ailerons moved upand down inopposite directions. Flapop-
eration isaccomplished bymoving the left and right ailerons
inthe same direction. (Flap operation can beperformed with-
out the need forseparate flap surfaces.)
*With this function the leftand right ailerons can beoperated
differentially. (Aileron differential function).Roll axis can be
compensated inthis way. With aileron differentialthe aileron
down deflection angle istypically smaller that the upangle.
*The flap control knob rate can beadjusted.
(Adjustment)
Connect the aileron servosto receiver output channels 1 and
6.Adjustment when CH1 isconnected to the right wing and
CH6 isconnected to the left wing isdescribed below. (The
trimmer adjustment direction may bereversed, depending on
the servo mounting direction and linkage method.)
1)Activate mixing:
To activateflaperonmixing, set the flaperon ACT/INH
switch (DIP switchNo.8) on the trimmer panel behind the
battery cover at the back of the transmitterto the ACT (up-
per) position. To deactivate flaperon mixing, set the switch
to the INH(lower) position.
2)Ailerondifferentialadjustment:
Adjust the aileron differentialwith the DIFF.RATE trimmer
on the trimmer panel.
First set the DIFF.RATE trimmer fullyclockwise (to number
10) so that differential isnot applied. When the roll axis
must becompensated after test flying,make the adjust-
ments described below. However, the trimmer adjustment
position depends on the direction inwhich the deflection
angle decreases.
*Applyingdifferentialbyreducingthelowsideoftheaileron:
Adjust between DIFF.RATE trimmer positions 0 and 10
(right half of trimmer). Atposition 10,differentialisnot ap-
plied. At position 0 (trimmer center), the reducing amount is
maximum.
*Applyingdifferentialbyreducingthehighsideoftheaileron:
Adjust to between DIFF.RATE trimmer positions 0 to -10
(left half of trimmer). At position -10, differential isnot ap-
plied. At position 0 (trimmer center), the reducing amount is
maximum.
3)Flapcontrol knob rate adjustment
Adjust the flap control knob rate with the FLP.TRIM trimmer
on the trimmer panel. The flap control knob operating direc-
tion can beset at the same time.
*Loweringtheflapsbyturningtheflapknobclockwise(CW):
Adjust the flap control knob to between FLP.TRIM posi-
tions 0 and 10(right half of trimmer).
*Loweringtheflaps byturningthe flapknobcounterclockwise
(CCW):
Adjust to between FLP.TRIM trimmer positions 0 and-10
(left half of trimmer).
Inboth cases the deflection angle decreases as the knobis
turned toward position 0 (trimmer center).
4. Elevator -> flap mixing
(Function)
This function isused when the aircraft has flaps or isusing
the flaperon mixing function.This can beused, forexample,
to deploy flaps when pulling upelevator. Cleaner loops and
other aerobatic maneuvers can beperformed using thisfunc-
tion. Adjust the mixing amount to the optimal positions for
your model.
(Operation)
The elevator -> flap mixing ON/OFF switch isatthe right side
of the transmitter. Itisturned on when pulledforward.
(Adjustment)
1)Activatethe mixing function:
To activate the elevator -> flapmixing function, set the el-
evator -> flapmixing ACT/INH switch (DIP switch No.7) on
the trimmer panel to the ACT (upper) position. To deacti-
vate the mixingfunction,set the ACT/INH switch to the INH
position.
2)Mixing amount adjustment:
Adjust the mixing amount with the ELV.->FLP trimmer on
the trimmer panel. The adjustment range is-100to +100%
(positions-10to +10). The mixing direction can beadjusted
atthe same time.
*Applying mixing which lowers the flaps when the elevator is
raised:
Adjustbetween ELV->FLP trimmerpositions0 and 10
(right half of trimmer). At position 10, the mixing amount is
maximum and atposition 0, the mixing amount becomes 0.
Adjust the mixing amount to theoptimal position foryour
aircraft.
*Applying mixing which raises the flaps when the elevator is
lowered:
Adjust between ELV->FLP trimmer position 0 and -10 (left
half of trimmer).At position -10,the mixingamount ismaxi-
mum and atposition 0, the mixing amount becomes 0.Set
themixingamountto the optimalpositionfor your aircraft.
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5.Usingthe trainer function
You can practice flying with the aid of another pilot or help
another pilotflybyconnecting the SKYSPORT-6Atransmit-
ter to another SKYSPORT-6A, PCM1024Z, 7UA, or5UA
Series with a special trainercable (sold separately).
(Use)
The model iscontrolled by the instructor transmitter when the
trainer switch isOFF and iscontrolled bythe student trans-
mitter when trainer switch to ON.
(Usage precautions)
*Never turnon the student transmitter power switch.
*Make thestudent transmitter andinstructor transmitter set-
tings the same.
*Make sure the modulation method of the other transmitter
isFM(PPM).
GLOSSARY OF TERMS
The abbreviations used withthe SKYSPORT-6A are defined
below inalphabetical order.
ACT (activate)
Means that a function isturned on.ItsoppositeisINH(in-
hibit).
To activate a function, itsACT/INH switch is set to the ACT
position. Ifthe switch isnotinthe ACT position, the function is
notactivated^
AILERON/AIL.
An auxiliary airfoil atthe left and right wings of an airplane to
control its rolling.
AST (Adjustable Servo travel)
This feature allows adjustment of the travel of the servo ofa
certain channel. Itisused when setting upthe linkages.
ATL (Adjustable Throttle Limit)
Thisfeature allows movement of the throttletrimlever that
operates only when the throttle stick isinthe SLOW position.
Itisconvenient because itdoes not affect the HIGH side of
the throttle.
ATV (Adjustable Travel Volume)
This featureallows independent adjustment of the servo
travelineach direction. Itisconvenient whensetting upthe
linkages.
D/R (Dual Rate)
This function allows switching to one of two deflection angles
while flying.The deflectionangle best forthe aircraftcan be
set forone switch position and spins, snap rolls, and other
aerobatics that require a maximum deflection angle can be
performed easily bysetting upmaximum deflection forthe
other switch position.
DIFF. (aileron differential)
This feature allows application of a differential to the right
wing aileron and left wing aileron when the wing has two aile-
ron servos.Itisused to correctundesirable tendencies and to
compensate the rollaxis.
ELV.->FLP. (elevator->flap mixing)
This feature applies mixing fromthe elevators to the flaps
when the fuselagehas flaps. When mixing isapplied so that
the flaps are lowered when the elevators are raised, loops
and other aerobatics can beperformed cleanly.The mixing
amount should beadjusted optimally forindividualaircraft.
ELEVATOR / ELV.
Ahorizontal airfoil formaking anairplane goupor down.
FLAPERON
This isa mixing function that gives the ailerons a flap func-
tion.
Itisa convenient method of mixing aileron operation and flap
operation using only two aileron servos atthe wings. (Flap
operation can beperformed without the needfor separate
flap surfaces.)
FLP.(Flap)
Amovable auxiliary airfoil attached to the center of a wing to
increase the lift at slow speed when taking offand landing.
With models itcan also bemixed with the elevator and used
incircular aerobatics.
FLP.TRIM (Flaptrim)
This feature switches the flap servo deflection anglebetween
normal operating angle and trim angle. Itisconvenient when
mixing the flaps with other channels.
GEAR (Landing gear)
This isforairplane landing gear.
Since the landing gear isnormally extended or retracted, this
channelcan only beturned fully on or off.Itcannot be
stopped midway.
INH(Inhibit)
Means that the function isturned off (stopped). Itisthe oppo-
site of ACT (activate).When a function isnot used, itsACT/
INHswitchisalwaysset to the INHposition.
NOR(Normal)
Used to represent the default or normal state of a function.
Forexample, the servo reversing function hasa normal side
and a reverse side.
RATE
Inthe dual rate function forexample, this isthe rate of servo
travel inpercentage relative to the normal servo travel. The
rate isadjusted with a trimmer foreach function.
REV (Reverse)
Represents the servo reversing function that lets you reverse
the normal direction of servomovement, or the setting posi-
tion of a switch(reverseposition). Itisused whenthe direc-
tion of the transmitter stick and the direction of servo move-
ment are opposite of the desired movement afterthe servos
are mounted inthe fuselageand each airfoil and servo are
connected bypushrods, etc. The direction of movement can
becorrected without changing the linkage.
RUD (Rudder)
Ahinged directional surfaceattached to the vertical trailing
edge of the tail of anaircraft.
TH (Throttle)
Used to controls the fuel atthe intake of anengine.When itis
opened, a large amount of fuelisdrawn into the engine and
the engine speedincreases. When itisclosed, theengine
speed slows.
TRIM
Afineadjustment device that sets the deflection angleof
each airfoil for stable flight.
(OTHERS)
Mixing
Afunction that allows two ormoredifferent channels to be
operated together ina linked or dependent manner.
Forexample, when mixing isapplied fromelevators to flaps,
the elevator servoand flap servocan beoperated simulta-
neously byoperation of the elevator stick.
REPAIR SERVICE
Before requesting repair, please referto this instruction manual
again and verifyyoursettings.If youare still experiencing
trouble, pleaserequest service asfollows:
Address
Your nearest Futabadealer.
Repair information
Describe the trouble inas much detail as possible.
1)Symptom: Including the state of the set when the trouble
occurred.
2)Digital proportional set used: Transmitter, receiver, and
servo model numbers.
3)Fuselage: Fuselage name and mounting conditions.
4)Your name, address, and telephone number.
Warranty contents
Read the warranty card supplied with your set.
*The warranty contents differwith geographic locations.
FUTABACORPORATION
MakuhariTechno Garden BIdg.. B6F I-3 Nakase. Mihama-ku. Chiba 261-01.Japan
Phone: [phone] Facsimile: [phone]
FUTABACORPORATIONOF AMERICA
4Studebaker.IrvineCalifornia92718, U.S.A.
Phone:[phone]Telex: 23-0691227Facsimile:714-455-9899
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