FSS Synthesized Module / R309DPS Receiver FAQ

• How does the synthesized system work in the 9Z?
  
  
• If the transmitter is not on my desired frequency when I first turn it on, do I have to make sure no one else is on the channel the radio was last on? And how would I remember?
  
  
• If I change models does the radio automatically change frequencies?
  
  
• How do I change the frequency on the R309DPS?
  
  
• How can I check my R309DPS and my FSS module to ensure they are properly in tune?
  
  
• Do my synthesized module and receiver have any special tuning or care needs?
  
  
• Does my 9Z have any special needs when using the FSS module?
  
  
• Can the 9Z's synthesized module and receiver be used with non-synthesized modules and receivers?
  
  
• Adding FSS to a 9Z
  
  
• FSS and R309DPS and non-sythesized modules and receivers
  
  

I did not find the answer to my question here. How do I get further assistance?

The 9Z transmitter has special plugs in its module port which only the FSS module has pins to port into. The 9Z transmitters also have programming which checks for the synthesized module to be plugged in. When the module is plugged in, then FRQ programming becomes visible in the menus of the transmitter. The modeler selects the desired channel in the system menu. As soon as the modeler hits SET the system is now ready to transmit on that frequency.

No. By holding down either the A or R (top left or top right) screen buttons when turning on the transmitter, you instruct the 9Z to open the programming but not transmit. You can now safely select your desired frequency, then cycle the transmitter off and back on to make it now transmit. REMEMBER: if you're transmitting on one channel and go to FRQ and change channels as soon as you hit SET you are now transmitting on the new channel.

No. You must manually change the frequency. This is done so that you do not accidentally transmit on a different frequency when switching to another model, for example, to check the programming setups.

http://www.futabarc.com/faq/faq-9z-q180.html

The R309DPS has two dials, one for setting the 'tens digit' and one for setting the 'ones digit'. For example, channel 17 is set by turning the first dial to 1 and the second dial to 7. Note that you must power the receiver off and back on again for it to receive the new frequency.

Range check the radio on frequencies 11, 35, and 60. Your range should be identical or within 5% on all 3 frequencies. If it is not, please send both units in for a check up and tuning.

We recommend all radio equipment be checked over annually during your 'non-flying' season. Because of the selectability of the R309DPS this is particularly important for this receiver to ensure that the dials and tuning are still operating properly. The FSS is slightly more care-intensive than a standard module, so we do recommend sending it annually for a check up as well, even if you do not send your complete system.

Additionally, the FSS module is slightly more tempermental than other modules as far as tolerating improper RF exposure. You should ALWAYS extend your antenna at least the bottom or first segment when turning the radio on with a module in place. The FSS, if left in the radio with the radio on at your work area with the antenna collapsed for more than short intervals will see unnecessary strain and may shorten the life or even immediately damage the FSS module.

Only that you must take even more care to ensure that you extend your antenna at least the BOTTOM or first segment when working with the radio on and transmitting for more than a few minutes at a time. (NOTE: if you press the A or R key during boot up to turn off the transmission, or if you use the DSC cord, the transmitter is not transmitting and you do not need to extend the antenna.)

Any 9Z radio sold in the US has all of the programming and pins required to use an FSS synthesized module. Simply turn off the radio, unplug the old module and plug in the FSS module and the radio when turned on will now show the FRQ feature screen to select frequencies and function with the FSS.

The synthesized module may be used with any Futaba FM or PCM1024 receiver, it does not require the R309DPS. Similarly, the R309DPS may be used with any Futaba PCM1024 transmitter, including a 9Z with a normal module, an 8U, 6X, 4VF, etc.

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