WHAT IS SPEKTRUM TECHNOLOGY

While in development, Spektrum engineers sought to create a radio system that provided the end user with the same locked-in feel as a crystal-based radio while eliminating interference and glitching. Spektrum engineers sought to improve both the modeling experience and safety all at the same time. Just a few years ago, the thought of eliminating crystals and frequency control was not even on the horizon. Now, thanks to Spektrum Technology, this is not only a possibility, its a reality.

WHY USE DIRECT SEQUENCE SPREAD SPEKTRUM

There are two main broadcast methods that spread spectrum manufacturers can utilize. One format is called Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum (FHSS). With an FHSS system, the transmitter transmits a narrow band signal and rapidly jumps from one frequency to the next, spending a few milliseconds on each frequency. Originally, Spektrum engineers started their development with FHSS-based systems because they were relatively easy and inexpensive to develop. However, they soon discovered that FHSS had several limitations that would prevent it from being the optimal solution for RC. While more difficult and costly to develop, our engineers began experimenting with Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum (DSSS) and optimized the modulation scheme to overcome critical response and re-link issues. DSSS systems transmit on a single selected frequency but on a very wide band. Only a small portion of that band is used for specially encoded information. In addition, DSSS offers an increase of processing gain for significant improvements in range. With years of development and testing, the DSSS modulation scheme was optimized for RC car and airplane use, and Spektrum´s DSM 2.4GHz Spread Spectrum Technology was born. DSSS provided engineers and hobbyists with the safety, security, and locked-in feeling that is necessary to maintain total and complete control in any vehicle or aircraft.

DSM2 TECHNOLOGY

Above and beyond the basic features of DSM, there has been a technological breakthrough for both air and surface applications thanks to Spektrum. An updated version of DSM technology referred to as DSM2 (second generation protocol) makes it possible to fly any size model with the convenience, safety, and peace of mind of Spektrum. With DSM2, the total latency of your radio system has been greatly reduced, while the bit-rate has been increased. When combined, these improvements provide hobbyists with a faster and more locked-in feeling when compared to traditional 27MHz, 72MHz, or 75MHz radio systems. DSM2 also provided a new opportunity when separating the two receivers. By providing superior path diversity, the DSM2 receiver can now see a broader RF environment.

WHAT DOES LATENCY MEAN TO THE END USER?

Spektrum Radio Systems are designed not only for ease of use and strength of signal, but also consistent, reliable control that you can count on. And consistency can make all the difference, particularly in competition. Thats why Spektrums DSM2 surface systems are engineered to have the most consistent latency and lowest response variance of any radio system. Most radio systems establish a limit for the maximum response time or latency between your control input and the reaction of the vehicle. And while these limits ensure that you will be in control of your vehicle, they allow for the response time to vary across a broad range. This means that while taking a corner, your control input may have a short delay, causing a sharp (possibly sharper than expected) turn, or the delay may be longer, causing you to shoot too high into a turn and lose valuable lap time. Spektrum systems not only offer faster response time, meaning an immediate reaction to your input, but also have the most consistently narrow latency range. That narrow variance in the latency of the system ensures that your input will happen exactly when you expect it to, which keeps you in control and lets you hit your mark every time.

UNDERSTANDING RESOLUTION

The resolution of a radio system can be one of the most over-hyped and misunderstood terms out there. Resolution refers to the number of steps your radio has in its range of motion. A higher resolution means that your radio has more steps in its range of motion. One would naturally think that the higher number would be better, but there comes a point where the numbers lose relevance. Yes, a higher resolution number is better, but there comes a point where the resolution of a radio surpasses the resolution of the servos or ESC, making incredibly high resolution claims irrelevant. In other words, resolution is only one element in a series of events that have to happen; the system will only ever be as fast as its weakest link.

ADVANCED SPEKTRUM SURFACE FEATURES

Spektrum Pro Series modules and receivers offer performance enthusiasts the speed, durability, and precision that is necessary to win at all levels. A special conformal coating, called ReliaKote, has been designed for the receivers, along with all-new cases. These updates make Spektrum Pro Series receivers both water and fuel resistant. Another update that debuted in the Pro Series receivers and that since has been incorporated into the Original Series receivers is updated firmware that eliminates the possibility of an Electro-Static Discharge (ESD), sending the receiver into Fail-Safe mode when racing on carpet. Finally, for those looking for the smallest receiver possible, a new SR3500 Micro Receiver has been developed. Weighing in at a scant 6.5 grams and measuring just 1.06 x .78 x .48 inches, the SR3500 is perfect combination of performance and reliability in a miniscule package. All the SR3500 Micro Receiver's features are identical to the Spektrum Pro series receivers, minus telemetry capability.

Racers who equip their vehicles with Spektrum equipment can take advantage of real-time telemetry for the ultimate competitive edge. With Spektrum Telemetry Modules, racers can keep track of RPM, voltage, signal strength, and temperature all from the convenience of the hand-held unit. The addition of the Telemetry modules to any racecar will make testing even more valuable and provide more relevant data. For nitro racers, your pit man can now make the appropriate carburetor changes on the fly thanks to knowing exactly what the running temperature of the head is.

GLOSSARY OF TERMS

Analog

Binding Process

Channel

Collision Avoidance

Conformal Coating

Crystal

Digital

Dipole

DSM

DSM2

DSSS

Dual Link

ESD

Fading

Failsafe

FHSS

Frame Loss

Frame Rate

Frequency

GHz

GUID

ISM

Latency

MHz

Module

Monopole

Packets

PCM/PPM

Pro Series

Receiver

Resolution

Servo