Review: FrSky Tech Alert

Your Reviewer

My Credentials
So who's doing this reviewing then?

Well I've been building and flying or driving radio controlled models for over 40 years and during that time I like to think I've built up a reasonable amount of knowledge.

I'm also a qualified electronics engineer who has worked in radio frequency, analog, digital systems and software for more than three decades. In fact I designed and built my first RC set back in 1969.

For the past nine years I've also been involved in the design and manufacture of some rather sophisticated engine technology and UAV flight control systems.

So, chances are I've been there, done that and have a huge pile of tee shirts to prove it.

Right now I'm heavily into 3D flying and enjoy all aspects of the RC hobby. I may be old but I don't feel it.

In the Pipeline

Here's just a little bit of what's to come on this site...

RC explained: Demystifying terms such as PCM, PPM dual conversion, single conversion, full-range etc., this feature will explain it all.

Cheap Chinese Engines: Just how good are those cheap Chinese glow and gas engines that sell for half the price of their "brand-name" equivalent? I put several to the test.

Build your own radio gear?: Back in the old days, building your own RC gear was not uncommon and now the arrival of 2.4GHz has made it practical again.

ALERT: FrSky issues recommended "fix" for DIY kit

POTENTIAL PROBLEM FOR FRSKY DIY USERS

Updated: 31 Aug 2010

See the FrSky bulletin for details of the modification required

Despite the fact that thousands of satisfied FrSky DIY-kit users have been flying without problems for many months, the company has announced a tech-repair that will eliminate the risk that in some instances, one of the kit's components maybe operating beyond its rated specifications.

The problem relates to the interface between the transmitter's PPM (control) signal and one of the tiny microcontroller (computer) chips.

In some installations, the PPM signal may deliver too much voltage to the chip which can result in excessive current damaging the microcontroller chip.

FrSky have announced that they will be shipping upgrade parts (a small diode) to dealers for installation in DIY existing kits if people wish to ensure their systems are operating within the prescribed voltage and current limits. They also assure users that the problem does not affect their plug-in modules, although some people may opt to install the "fix" into them as well.

To the best of my knowledge, only two systems have actually been reported as sustaining damage from this potential problem and I believe FrSky are to be commended for rolling the fix out quickly.

Those DIY-kit users who feel handy with a soldering iron can stay tuned to these pages for a DIY version of the modifications which I'll endeavor to get online in the next few days.

It seems like you're nobody in the 2.4GHz market until you've had at least one product alert or recall these days.