Radios - Revision history

RobotRobot: Link new pages: Troubleshooting, ESC Firmware, ExpressLRS and EdgeTX Setup, What Your First Robot Costs

2026-10-17T17:05:22Z

Link new pages: Troubleshooting, ESC Firmware, ExpressLRS and EdgeTX Setup, What Your First Robot Costs

RobotRobot: Link Failsafes page

2026-10-17T06:25:40Z

Link Failsafes page

← Older revision		Revision as of 06:25, 17 October 2026
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	''This section needs additional details.''		''This section needs additional details.''

	*'''Failsafe:''' What does your receiver do when it loses its signal? Some inexpensive radio systems will act unpredictably with signal loss, while other systems will continue on with their last good signal until they can reconnect. This 'continue' behavior can be useful for some RC systems but can be dangerous for robot combat. Check out the '''[[Radio List\|radio list]]''' for systems that can be set up to failsafe appropriately. If your radio system can't failsafe then most events will not allow it, especially for bots that have active weapons. It's important to remember that often the radio defaults will not work correctly and you will need to adjust them.		*'''Failsafe:''' What does your receiver do when it loses its signal? Some inexpensive radio systems will act unpredictably with signal loss, while other systems will continue on with their last good signal until they can reconnect. This 'continue' behavior can be useful for some RC systems but can be dangerous for robot combat. Check out the '''[[Radio List\|radio list]]''' for systems that can be set up to failsafe appropriately. If your radio system can't failsafe then most events will not allow it, especially for bots that have active weapons. It's important to remember that often the radio defaults will not work correctly and you will need to adjust them. See '''[[Failsafes]]''' for how to set up and test a failsafe on common radio systems.
	*'''Signal Loss / Intermittent Control:''' This problem is less common now, but if your receiver antenna is entirely within a metal robot chassis, or near a source of electrical noise, your bot may have trouble receiving your commands. Position the antenna close to the exterior of the robot, or provide a patch of UHMW or Lexan armor over an opening in the metal armor, with the antenna just inside. On some bots you could even have the antenna protrude from the body.		*'''Signal Loss / Intermittent Control:''' This problem is less common now, but if your receiver antenna is entirely within a metal robot chassis, or near a source of electrical noise, your bot may have trouble receiving your commands. Position the antenna close to the exterior of the robot, or provide a patch of UHMW or Lexan armor over an opening in the metal armor, with the antenna just inside. On some bots you could even have the antenna protrude from the body.
	*'''Not Binding / Connecting:'''		*'''Not Binding / Connecting:'''

Chklnk: /* Common problems */ Antenna placement rewrite

2023-12-17T11:58:47Z

Common problems: Antenna placement rewrite

← Older revision		Revision as of 11:58, 17 December 2023
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	*'''Failsafe:''' What does your receiver do when it loses its signal? Some inexpensive radio systems will act unpredictably with signal loss, while other systems will continue on with their last good signal until they can reconnect. This 'continue' behavior can be useful for some RC systems but can be dangerous for robot combat. Check out the '''[[Radio List\|radio list]]''' for systems that can be set up to failsafe appropriately. If your radio system can't failsafe then most events will not allow it, especially for bots that have active weapons. It's important to remember that often the radio defaults will not work correctly and you will need to adjust them.		*'''Failsafe:''' What does your receiver do when it loses its signal? Some inexpensive radio systems will act unpredictably with signal loss, while other systems will continue on with their last good signal until they can reconnect. This 'continue' behavior can be useful for some RC systems but can be dangerous for robot combat. Check out the '''[[Radio List\|radio list]]''' for systems that can be set up to failsafe appropriately. If your radio system can't failsafe then most events will not allow it, especially for bots that have active weapons. It's important to remember that often the radio defaults will not work correctly and you will need to adjust them.
	*'''Signal Loss:''' ~~With modern radios~~, ~~signal loss isn't a common problem~~ but ~~there are steps you can take to ensure your radio signal stays strong. If~~ your receiver ~~has an~~ antenna, ~~position it as~~ close to the exterior of the robot~~. The most effective way to improve signal strength is to place the radio receiver next to~~ a ~~non-metalic section of the robot's exterior. Having a small panel~~ of UHMW or Lexan ~~plastic will reduce~~ the ~~liklihood of your radio signal not reaching~~ the ~~receiver~~.		*'''Signal Loss / Intermittent Control:''' This problem is less common now, but if your receiver antenna is entirely within a metal robot chassis, or near a source of electrical noise, your bot may have trouble receiving your commands. Position the antenna close to the exterior of the robot, or provide a patch of UHMW or Lexan armor over an opening in the metal armor, with the antenna just inside. On some bots you could even have the antenna protrude from the body.
	*'''Not Binding / Connecting:'''		*'''Not Binding / Connecting:'''
	*'''Compatibility:''' There are several radio protocols and some specific radio-brand differences which make even Rx and Tx combos on the same protocol incompatible. Your only real option in these situations is to find a receiver that is compatible.		*'''Compatibility:''' There are several radio protocols and some specific radio-brand differences which make even Rx and Tx combos on the same protocol incompatible. Your only real option in these situations is to find a receiver that is compatible.
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	*'''Controls Reversed:''' The 'channel mixing' that allows a single transmitter stick to control forward/reverse motion as well as left/right rotation involves the coordination of multiple robot components. Errors in mixing set-up are common and may result in the robot failing to respond to stick inputs in the expected manner. These set-up errors can be difficult to identify and correct. The '''[http://runamok.tech/RunAmok/mixfix4.html Team Run Amok Mixer Fixer]''' will sort out your response symptoms and provide specific instructions to restore correct stick response.		*'''Controls Reversed:''' The 'channel mixing' that allows a single transmitter stick to control forward/reverse motion as well as left/right rotation involves the coordination of multiple robot components. Errors in mixing set-up are common and may result in the robot failing to respond to stick inputs in the expected manner. These set-up errors can be difficult to identify and correct. The '''[http://runamok.tech/RunAmok/mixfix4.html Team Run Amok Mixer Fixer]''' will sort out your response symptoms and provide specific instructions to restore correct stick response.
	*'''Only one motor responds:'''		*'''Only one motor responds:'''
	*'''Robot hums or whines:''' The ESC neutral position and your radio's neutral position aren't always the same. Although some ESCs can be calibrated to set the neutral position, some don't have this functionality. When this mis-match happens, the robot doesn't get enough signal to move but will hum or whine. This can usually be fixed by adjusting the ~~tri~~ setting on the transmitter. It can take some fiddling to get the trim set properly, especially if both the throttle and steering trims need to be adjusted. Additionally, the issue can be worse with a freshly charged battery which can mean the robot will hum or whine when it is initially turned on, even after the trims have been adjusted.		*'''Robot hums or whines:''' The ESC neutral position and your radio's neutral position aren't always the same. Although some ESCs can be calibrated to set the neutral position, some don't have this functionality. When this mis-match happens, the robot doesn't get enough signal to move but will hum or whine. This can usually be fixed by adjusting the trim setting on the transmitter. It can take some fiddling to get the trim set properly, especially if both the throttle and steering trims need to be adjusted. Additionally, the issue can be worse with a freshly charged battery which can mean the robot will hum or whine when it is initially turned on, even after the trims have been adjusted.
	*'''Robot won't stop moving:''' Similar to the Robot Hums or Whines problem, this problem happens when the neutral point on your radio is misaligned with the neutral point on your ESC. Adjust the throttle and steering trims to address the issue. You'll need to redo your fail-safe configuration after adjusting your trims to make the fail-safe work properly.		*'''Robot won't stop moving:''' Similar to the Robot Hums or Whines problem, this problem happens when the neutral point on your radio is misaligned with the neutral point on your ESC. Adjust the throttle and steering trims to address the issue. You'll need to redo your fail-safe configuration after adjusting your trims to make the fail-safe work properly.

User: /* Common problems */ - Added details to Problems Section

2021-12-05T18:17:34Z

Common problems: - Added details to Problems Section

← Older revision		Revision as of 18:17, 5 December 2021
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	*'''Failsafe:''' What does your receiver do when it loses its signal? Some inexpensive radio systems will act unpredictably with signal loss, while other systems will continue on with their last good signal until they can reconnect. This 'continue' behavior can be useful for some RC systems but can be dangerous for robot combat. Check out the '''[[Radio List\|radio list]]''' for systems that can be set up to failsafe appropriately. If your radio system can't failsafe then most events will not allow it, especially for bots that have active weapons. It's important to remember that often the radio defaults will not work correctly and you will need to adjust them.		*'''Failsafe:''' What does your receiver do when it loses its signal? Some inexpensive radio systems will act unpredictably with signal loss, while other systems will continue on with their last good signal until they can reconnect. This 'continue' behavior can be useful for some RC systems but can be dangerous for robot combat. Check out the '''[[Radio List\|radio list]]''' for systems that can be set up to failsafe appropriately. If your radio system can't failsafe then most events will not allow it, especially for bots that have active weapons. It's important to remember that often the radio defaults will not work correctly and you will need to adjust them.
	*'''Signal Loss:'''		*'''Signal Loss:''' With modern radios, signal loss isn't a common problem but there are steps you can take to ensure your radio signal stays strong. If your receiver has an antenna, position it as close to the exterior of the robot. The most effective way to improve signal strength is to place the radio receiver next to a non-metalic section of the robot's exterior. Having a small panel of UHMW or Lexan plastic will reduce the liklihood of your radio signal not reaching the receiver.
	*'''Not Binding / Connecting:'''		*'''Not Binding / Connecting:'''
	*'''Compatibility:'''		*'''Compatibility:''' There are several radio protocols and some specific radio-brand differences which make even Rx and Tx combos on the same protocol incompatible. Your only real option in these situations is to find a receiver that is compatible.
	*'''Too Responsive:'''		*'''Too Responsive:''' Most radios have settings that can be adjusted to set the robots responsiveness to where you want it. The two main settings are end-points and the exponential curve. Typically end-points are set to +/- 100% but they can be reduced to make full-position control on your transmitter result in reduced output on the bot. A common strategy is to reduce steering end-points to make controlling the robot easier, while keeping the throttle end-points at 100% so maximum speed isn't affected. The exponential curve setting is set to linear by default, which means that the signal set to the receiver is proportional to what you do on the transmitter. The curve can be adjusted to make it more (or less) responsive at the begining of the tranmitter control movement.
	*'''Controls Reversed:''' The 'channel mixing' that allows a single transmitter stick to control forward/reverse motion as well as left/right rotation involves the coordination of multiple robot components. Errors in mixing set-up are common and may result in the robot failing to respond to stick inputs in the expected manner. These set-up errors can be difficult to identify and correct. The '''[http://runamok.tech/RunAmok/mixfix4.html Team Run Amok Mixer Fixer]''' will sort out your response symptoms and provide specific instructions to restore correct stick response.		*'''Controls Reversed:''' The 'channel mixing' that allows a single transmitter stick to control forward/reverse motion as well as left/right rotation involves the coordination of multiple robot components. Errors in mixing set-up are common and may result in the robot failing to respond to stick inputs in the expected manner. These set-up errors can be difficult to identify and correct. The '''[http://runamok.tech/RunAmok/mixfix4.html Team Run Amok Mixer Fixer]''' will sort out your response symptoms and provide specific instructions to restore correct stick response.
	*'''Only one motor responds:'''		*'''Only one motor responds:'''
	*'''Robot hums or whines:'''		*'''Robot hums or whines:''' The ESC neutral position and your radio's neutral position aren't always the same. Although some ESCs can be calibrated to set the neutral position, some don't have this functionality. When this mis-match happens, the robot doesn't get enough signal to move but will hum or whine. This can usually be fixed by adjusting the tri setting on the transmitter. It can take some fiddling to get the trim set properly, especially if both the throttle and steering trims need to be adjusted. Additionally, the issue can be worse with a freshly charged battery which can mean the robot will hum or whine when it is initially turned on, even after the trims have been adjusted.
	*'''Robot won't stop moving:'''		*'''Robot won't stop moving:''' Similar to the Robot Hums or Whines problem, this problem happens when the neutral point on your radio is misaligned with the neutral point on your ESC. Adjust the throttle and steering trims to address the issue. You'll need to redo your fail-safe configuration after adjusting your trims to make the fail-safe work properly.

	=Radio features and their uses=		=Radio features and their uses=

Chklnk: /* Radio features and their uses */ Some word choices

2021-07-18T07:25:26Z

Radio features and their uses: Some word choices

← Older revision		Revision as of 07:25, 18 July 2021
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	*'''Trim''' adjusts the center point of controls. In particular, when a joystick is released and springs back to the center position, proper trim means that the Tx will send a neutral signal.		*'''Trim''' adjusts the center point of controls. In particular, when a joystick is released and springs back to the center position, proper trim means that the Tx will send a neutral signal.
	*'''Sub trim''' adjusts the center point of receiver outputs. You might need that to make sure ESCs shut off when the Tx sends a neutral signal, or to set a default weapon position.		*'''Sub trim''' adjusts the center point of receiver outputs. You might need that to make sure ESCs shut off when the Tx sends a neutral signal, or to set a default weapon position.
	*'''Dual rate (rate limit)''' lets you switch on or off a lower-speed, more sensitive motion mode. This could be used to set a speed limit on a "hot" high-speed bot, but still allow a skilled driver to ~~push it to the limit~~.		*'''Dual rate (rate limit)''' lets you switch on or off a lower-speed, more sensitive motion mode. This could be used to set a speed limit on a "hot" high-speed bot, but still allow a skilled driver to access its maximum performance.
	*'''End point adjust''' sometimes called 'ATV' or 'Travel Adjust' - sets travel maximums for a servo or limits an ESC speed output. Examples: can set the perfect level for the tip of the lifter to glide across the arena floor, or reduce a motor speed a bit to match the motor on the other side.		*'''End point adjust''' sometimes called 'ATV' or 'Travel Adjust' - sets travel maximums for a servo or limits an ESC speed output. Examples: can set the perfect level for the tip of the lifter to glide across the arena floor, or reduce a motor speed a bit to match the motor on the other side.
	*'''Exponential rate (expo)''' changes the response curve of your joysticks. Changing from linear to exponential response could help you move or steer with precision using short joystick actions, with rapidly increasing speed the farther you push the joystick.		*'''Exponential rate (expo)''' changes the response curve of your joysticks. Changing from linear to exponential response could help you move or steer with precision using short joystick actions, with rapidly increasing speed the farther you push the joystick.
	*'''Telemetry''' lets the transmitter receive data from the receiver, and display it or give an audio signal. The most advanced combat robots report things like battery status, overheating parts, electronic overload, and other useful info from the bot to help the team shape their strategy during a fight.		*'''Telemetry''' lets the transmitter receive data from the receiver, and display it or give an audio signal. The most advanced combat robots report things like battery status, overheating parts, electronic overload, and other useful info from the bot to help the team shape their strategy during a fight.
	*'''Trainer''' features let you link two transmitters together. This was originally designed to allow for a pilot and ~~his~~ instructor to share the task of flying aircraft. In combat robotics, the trainer feature ~~could~~ be used to let two people control a bot with different roles (e.g., driver & weapon) using two transmitters. (While some bot teams use trainer features, others have two or more separate, non-linked sets of transmitters and receivers for the same purpose.)		*'''Trainer''' features let you link two transmitters together. This was originally designed to allow for a pilot and an instructor to share the task of flying aircraft. In combat robotics, the trainer feature can be used to let two people control a bot with different roles (e.g., driver & weapon) using two transmitters. (While some bot teams use trainer features, others have two or more separate, non-linked sets of transmitters and receivers for the same purpose.)

	=Programming a radio=		=Programming a radio=

Satchmo: Added synonyms for End Point Adjust and gave a second example.

2021-07-18T01:07:11Z

Added synonyms for End Point Adjust and gave a second example.

← Older revision		Revision as of 01:07, 18 July 2021
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	*'''Sub trim''' adjusts the center point of receiver outputs. You might need that to make sure ESCs shut off when the Tx sends a neutral signal, or to set a default weapon position.		*'''Sub trim''' adjusts the center point of receiver outputs. You might need that to make sure ESCs shut off when the Tx sends a neutral signal, or to set a default weapon position.
	*'''Dual rate (rate limit)''' lets you switch on or off a lower-speed, more sensitive motion mode. This could be used to set a speed limit on a "hot" high-speed bot, but still allow a skilled driver to push it to the limit.		*'''Dual rate (rate limit)''' lets you switch on or off a lower-speed, more sensitive motion mode. This could be used to set a speed limit on a "hot" high-speed bot, but still allow a skilled driver to push it to the limit.
	*'''End point adjust''' sets travel maximums for ~~servos. For example, if your bot has~~ a servo~~-operated long-arm lifter, this could be used to~~ set the perfect level for the tip of the lifter to glide across the arena floor.		*'''End point adjust''' sometimes called 'ATV' or 'Travel Adjust' - sets travel maximums for a servo or limits an ESC speed output. Examples: can set the perfect level for the tip of the lifter to glide across the arena floor, or reduce a motor speed a bit to match the motor on the other side.
	*'''Exponential rate (expo)''' changes the response curve of your joysticks. Changing from linear to exponential response could help you move or steer with precision using short joystick actions, with rapidly increasing speed the farther you push the joystick.		*'''Exponential rate (expo)''' changes the response curve of your joysticks. Changing from linear to exponential response could help you move or steer with precision using short joystick actions, with rapidly increasing speed the farther you push the joystick.
	*'''Telemetry''' lets the transmitter receive data from the receiver, and display it or give an audio signal. The most advanced combat robots report things like battery status, overheating parts, electronic overload, and other useful info from the bot to help the team shape their strategy during a fight.		*'''Telemetry''' lets the transmitter receive data from the receiver, and display it or give an audio signal. The most advanced combat robots report things like battery status, overheating parts, electronic overload, and other useful info from the bot to help the team shape their strategy during a fight.

Chklnk: /* Common problems */ more bold

2021-07-07T16:23:30Z

Common problems: more bold

← Older revision		Revision as of 16:23, 7 July 2021
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	=Common problems=		=Common problems=
	Since the radio receiver passes signals to the robot's [[ESCs\|Electronic Speed Controllers]] to drive the robot's functions, it can sometimes be difficult to determine if the problem is with the radio or the ESC. To make troubleshooting easier, solutions to common problems that affect the whole system are described here.		Since the radio receiver passes signals to the robot's '''[[ESCs\|Electronic Speed Controllers]]''' to drive the robot's functions, it can sometimes be difficult to determine if the problem is with the radio or the ESC. To make troubleshooting easier, solutions to common problems that affect the whole system are described here.

	Team Run Amok's ~~<Strong>~~[http://runamok.tech/AskAaron/radio_guides.html Ask Aaron]~~</Strong>~~ site is a good resource for additional information and troubleshooting.		Team Run Amok's '''[http://runamok.tech/AskAaron/radio_guides.html Ask Aaron]''' site is a good resource for additional information and troubleshooting.

	''This section needs additional details.''		''This section needs additional details.''

	*'''Failsafe:''' What does your receiver do when it loses its signal? Some inexpensive radio systems will act unpredictably with signal loss, while other systems will continue on with their last good signal until they can reconnect. This 'continue' behavior can be useful for some RC systems but can be dangerous for robot combat. Check out the [[Radio List\|~~<strong>~~radio list~~</strong>~~]] for systems that can be set up to failsafe appropriately. If your radio system can't failsafe then most events will not allow it, especially for bots that have active weapons. It's important to remember that often the radio defaults will not work correctly and you will need to adjust them.		*'''Failsafe:''' What does your receiver do when it loses its signal? Some inexpensive radio systems will act unpredictably with signal loss, while other systems will continue on with their last good signal until they can reconnect. This 'continue' behavior can be useful for some RC systems but can be dangerous for robot combat. Check out the '''[[Radio List\|radio list]]''' for systems that can be set up to failsafe appropriately. If your radio system can't failsafe then most events will not allow it, especially for bots that have active weapons. It's important to remember that often the radio defaults will not work correctly and you will need to adjust them.
	*'''Signal Loss:'''		*'''Signal Loss:'''
	*'''Not Binding / Connecting:'''		*'''Not Binding / Connecting:'''
	*'''Compatibility:'''		*'''Compatibility:'''
	*'''Too Responsive:'''		*'''Too Responsive:'''
	*'''Controls Reversed:''' The 'channel mixing' that allows a single transmitter stick to control forward/reverse motion as well as left/right rotation involves the coordination of multiple robot components. Errors in mixing set-up are common and may result in the robot failing to respond to stick inputs in the expected manner. These set-up errors can be difficult to identify and correct. The ~~<Strong>~~[http://runamok.tech/RunAmok/mixfix4.html Team Run Amok 'Mixer Fixer]~~</Strong>~~ will sort out your response symptoms and provide specific instructions to restore correct stick response.		*'''Controls Reversed:''' The 'channel mixing' that allows a single transmitter stick to control forward/reverse motion as well as left/right rotation involves the coordination of multiple robot components. Errors in mixing set-up are common and may result in the robot failing to respond to stick inputs in the expected manner. These set-up errors can be difficult to identify and correct. The '''[http://runamok.tech/RunAmok/mixfix4.html Team Run Amok Mixer Fixer]''' will sort out your response symptoms and provide specific instructions to restore correct stick response.
	*'''Only one motor responds:'''		*'''Only one motor responds:'''
	*'''Robot hums or whines:'''		*'''Robot hums or whines:'''

User: Punctuation Fix

2021-07-02T03:53:13Z

Punctuation Fix

← Older revision		Revision as of 03:53, 2 July 2021
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	*'''Safety:''' Runaway robots can be dangerous, so it is critical that your radio system properly handles what is known as a '''Failsafe''' situation. When the robot loses signal from the transmitter, the receiver must stop all movement and turn off weapons. (Many events require that the radio be turned off while people are in the arena to insure that the robot isn't moved accidentally by a person.) Not all radios have a failsafe feature, and many must be set up or programmed for the correct behavior. For instance, aircraft receivers may continue flying or attempt to land if the transmitter signal is lost.		*'''Safety:''' Runaway robots can be dangerous, so it is critical that your radio system properly handles what is known as a '''Failsafe''' situation. When the robot loses signal from the transmitter, the receiver must stop all movement and turn off weapons. (Many events require that the radio be turned off while people are in the arena to insure that the robot isn't moved accidentally by a person.) Not all radios have a failsafe feature, and many must be set up or programmed for the correct behavior. For instance, aircraft receivers may continue flying or attempt to land if the transmitter signal is lost.
	*'''Form factor:''' You may have a preference on the form factor of your radio transmitter. The pistol-grip types have a throttle trigger and steering wheel, and may be easier to learn, though some people feel they lack fine control. Dual-stick radios are generally the most flexible and often have switches which can be programmed for special operations. Transmitters in the shape of game controllers are increasingly common; you may find this type to be more familiar to operate, and the controls may require very short movements. With time and enough practice, the differences between types may become insignificant. See also: '''[http://runamok.tech/RunAmok/pistol.html Using Pistol Grip Transmitters with Robot Speed Controllers]'''		*'''Form factor:''' You may have a preference on the form factor of your radio transmitter. The pistol-grip types have a throttle trigger and steering wheel, and may be easier to learn, though some people feel they lack fine control. Dual-stick radios are generally the most flexible and often have switches which can be programmed for special operations. Transmitters in the shape of game controllers are increasingly common; you may find this type to be more familiar to operate, and the controls may require very short movements. With time and enough practice, the differences between types may become insignificant. See also: '''[http://runamok.tech/RunAmok/pistol.html Using Pistol Grip Transmitters with Robot Speed Controllers]'''
	*'''Functionality:''' Each robot's requirements are different. A simple wedge robot may only need two channels with a third channel enabling a weapon, but some robot designs need even more channels or other radio programming features. If your ESC doesn't have built-in mixing you'll need to find a radio that can do tank-steering [[Radios/Mixing\|Mixing]].See also: '''[http://runamok.tech/RunAmok/radio_func.html Combat Robot Radio Systems - what functions do you actually need?]'''		*'''Functionality:''' Each robot's requirements are different. A simple wedge robot may only need two channels with a third channel enabling a weapon, but some robot designs need even more channels or other radio programming features. If your ESC doesn't have built-in mixing you'll need to find a radio that can do tank-steering [[Radios/Mixing\|Mixing]]. See also: '''[http://runamok.tech/RunAmok/radio_func.html Combat Robot Radio Systems - what functions do you actually need?]'''

	If you are looking to purchase a radio, take a look at the '''[[Radio List\|list of radios]]''' that are known to be suitable for robot combat.		If you are looking to purchase a radio, take a look at the '''[[Radio List\|list of radios]]''' that are known to be suitable for robot combat.

Satchmo: /* Choosing a Radio */ Added liknk to article: adapting pistol grip transmitters to robot ESCs

2021-07-02T00:02:14Z

Choosing a Radio: Added liknk to article: adapting pistol grip transmitters to robot ESCs

← Older revision		Revision as of 00:02, 2 July 2021
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	When choosing a radio there are many things to consider but there are three fundamental things that will drive your choice.		When choosing a radio there are many things to consider but there are three fundamental things that will drive your choice.
	*'''Safety:''' Runaway robots can be dangerous, so it is critical that your radio system properly handles what is known as a '''Failsafe''' situation. When the robot loses signal from the transmitter, the receiver must stop all movement and turn off weapons. (Many events require that the radio be turned off while people are in the arena to insure that the robot isn't moved accidentally by a person.) Not all radios have a failsafe feature, and many must be set up or programmed for the correct behavior. For instance, aircraft receivers may continue flying or attempt to land if the transmitter signal is lost.		*'''Safety:''' Runaway robots can be dangerous, so it is critical that your radio system properly handles what is known as a '''Failsafe''' situation. When the robot loses signal from the transmitter, the receiver must stop all movement and turn off weapons. (Many events require that the radio be turned off while people are in the arena to insure that the robot isn't moved accidentally by a person.) Not all radios have a failsafe feature, and many must be set up or programmed for the correct behavior. For instance, aircraft receivers may continue flying or attempt to land if the transmitter signal is lost.
	*'''Form factor:''' You may have a preference on the form factor of your radio transmitter. The pistol-grip types have a throttle trigger and steering wheel, and may be easier to learn, though some people feel they lack fine control. Dual-stick radios are generally the most flexible and often have switches which can be programmed for special operations. Transmitters in the shape of game controllers are increasingly common; you may find this type to be more familiar to operate, and the controls may require very short movements. With time and enough practice, the differences between types may become insignificant.		*'''Form factor:''' You may have a preference on the form factor of your radio transmitter. The pistol-grip types have a throttle trigger and steering wheel, and may be easier to learn, though some people feel they lack fine control. Dual-stick radios are generally the most flexible and often have switches which can be programmed for special operations. Transmitters in the shape of game controllers are increasingly common; you may find this type to be more familiar to operate, and the controls may require very short movements. With time and enough practice, the differences between types may become insignificant. See also: '''[http://runamok.tech/RunAmok/pistol.html Using Pistol Grip Transmitters with Robot Speed Controllers]'''
	*'''Functionality:''' Each robot's requirements are different. A simple wedge robot may only need two channels with a third channel enabling a weapon, but some robot designs need even more channels or other radio programming features. If your ESC doesn't have built-in mixing you'll need to find a radio that can do tank-steering [[Radios/Mixing\|Mixing]]. See also: '''[http://runamok.tech/RunAmok/radio_func.html Combat Robot Radio Systems - what functions do you actually need?]'''		*'''Functionality:''' Each robot's requirements are different. A simple wedge robot may only need two channels with a third channel enabling a weapon, but some robot designs need even more channels or other radio programming features. If your ESC doesn't have built-in mixing you'll need to find a radio that can do tank-steering [[Radios/Mixing\|Mixing]].See also: '''[http://runamok.tech/RunAmok/radio_func.html Combat Robot Radio Systems - what functions do you actually need?]'''

	If you are looking to purchase a radio, take a look at the '''[[Radio List\|list of radios]]''' that are known to be suitable for robot combat.		If you are looking to purchase a radio, take a look at the '''[[Radio List\|list of radios]]''' that are known to be suitable for robot combat.

Satchmo: /* Choosing a Radio */ added link to explanation of radio features

2021-07-01T23:58:29Z

Choosing a Radio: added link to explanation of radio features

← Older revision		Revision as of 23:58, 1 July 2021
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	*'''Safety:''' Runaway robots can be dangerous, so it is critical that your radio system properly handles what is known as a '''Failsafe''' situation. When the robot loses signal from the transmitter, the receiver must stop all movement and turn off weapons. (Many events require that the radio be turned off while people are in the arena to insure that the robot isn't moved accidentally by a person.) Not all radios have a failsafe feature, and many must be set up or programmed for the correct behavior. For instance, aircraft receivers may continue flying or attempt to land if the transmitter signal is lost.		*'''Safety:''' Runaway robots can be dangerous, so it is critical that your radio system properly handles what is known as a '''Failsafe''' situation. When the robot loses signal from the transmitter, the receiver must stop all movement and turn off weapons. (Many events require that the radio be turned off while people are in the arena to insure that the robot isn't moved accidentally by a person.) Not all radios have a failsafe feature, and many must be set up or programmed for the correct behavior. For instance, aircraft receivers may continue flying or attempt to land if the transmitter signal is lost.
	*'''Form factor:''' You may have a preference on the form factor of your radio transmitter. The pistol-grip types have a throttle trigger and steering wheel, and may be easier to learn, though some people feel they lack fine control. Dual-stick radios are generally the most flexible and often have switches which can be programmed for special operations. Transmitters in the shape of game controllers are increasingly common; you may find this type to be more familiar to operate, and the controls may require very short movements. With time and enough practice, the differences between types may become insignificant.		*'''Form factor:''' You may have a preference on the form factor of your radio transmitter. The pistol-grip types have a throttle trigger and steering wheel, and may be easier to learn, though some people feel they lack fine control. Dual-stick radios are generally the most flexible and often have switches which can be programmed for special operations. Transmitters in the shape of game controllers are increasingly common; you may find this type to be more familiar to operate, and the controls may require very short movements. With time and enough practice, the differences between types may become insignificant.
	*'''Functionality:''' Each robot's requirements are different. A simple wedge robot may only need two channels with a third channel enabling a weapon, but some robot designs need even more channels or other radio programming features. If your ESC doesn't have built-in mixing you'll need to find a radio that can do tank-steering [[Radios/Mixing\|Mixing]].		*'''Functionality:''' Each robot's requirements are different. A simple wedge robot may only need two channels with a third channel enabling a weapon, but some robot designs need even more channels or other radio programming features. If your ESC doesn't have built-in mixing you'll need to find a radio that can do tank-steering [[Radios/Mixing\|Mixing]]. See also: '''[http://runamok.tech/RunAmok/radio_func.html Combat Robot Radio Systems - what functions do you actually need?]'''

	If you are looking to purchase a radio, take a look at the '''[[Radio List\|list of radios]]''' that are known to be suitable for robot combat.		If you are looking to purchase a radio, take a look at the '''[[Radio List\|list of radios]]''' that are known to be suitable for robot combat.

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	Since the radio receiver passes signals to the robot's '''[[ESCs\|Electronic Speed Controllers]]''' to drive the robot's functions, it can sometimes be difficult to determine if the problem is with the radio or the ESC. To make troubleshooting easier, solutions to common problems that affect the whole system are described here.		Since the radio receiver passes signals to the robot's '''[[ESCs\|Electronic Speed Controllers]]''' to drive the robot's functions, it can sometimes be difficult to determine if the problem is with the radio or the ESC. To make troubleshooting easier, solutions to common problems that affect the whole system are described here.

	Team Run Amok's '''[http://runamok.tech/AskAaron/radio_guides.html Ask Aaron]''' site is a good resource for additional information and troubleshooting.		Team Run Amok's '''[http://runamok.tech/AskAaron/radio_guides.html Ask Aaron]''' site is a good resource for additional information and troubleshooting. For a symptom-by-symptom guide covering radio, ESC, motor and battery faults, see '''[[Troubleshooting]]'''.

	''This section needs additional details.''		''This section needs additional details.''
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	*'''Failsafe:''' What does your receiver do when it loses its signal? Some inexpensive radio systems will act unpredictably with signal loss, while other systems will continue on with their last good signal until they can reconnect. This 'continue' behavior can be useful for some RC systems but can be dangerous for robot combat. Check out the '''[[Radio List\|radio list]]''' for systems that can be set up to failsafe appropriately. If your radio system can't failsafe then most events will not allow it, especially for bots that have active weapons. It's important to remember that often the radio defaults will not work correctly and you will need to adjust them. See '''[[Failsafes]]''' for how to set up and test a failsafe on common radio systems.		*'''Failsafe:''' What does your receiver do when it loses its signal? Some inexpensive radio systems will act unpredictably with signal loss, while other systems will continue on with their last good signal until they can reconnect. This 'continue' behavior can be useful for some RC systems but can be dangerous for robot combat. Check out the '''[[Radio List\|radio list]]''' for systems that can be set up to failsafe appropriately. If your radio system can't failsafe then most events will not allow it, especially for bots that have active weapons. It's important to remember that often the radio defaults will not work correctly and you will need to adjust them. See '''[[Failsafes]]''' for how to set up and test a failsafe on common radio systems.
	*'''Signal Loss / Intermittent Control:''' This problem is less common now, but if your receiver antenna is entirely within a metal robot chassis, or near a source of electrical noise, your bot may have trouble receiving your commands. Position the antenna close to the exterior of the robot, or provide a patch of UHMW or Lexan armor over an opening in the metal armor, with the antenna just inside. On some bots you could even have the antenna protrude from the body.		*'''Signal Loss / Intermittent Control:''' This problem is less common now, but if your receiver antenna is entirely within a metal robot chassis, or near a source of electrical noise, your bot may have trouble receiving your commands. Position the antenna close to the exterior of the robot, or provide a patch of UHMW or Lexan armor over an opening in the metal armor, with the antenna just inside. On some bots you could even have the antenna protrude from the body.
	*'''Not Binding / Connecting:'''		*'''Not Binding / Connecting:''' First check that the receiver is actually getting power, since some ESCs don't have a BEC to supply it. Then follow the bind procedure for your exact receiver, and make sure the right model memory is selected on the transmitter. With ExpressLRS, the transmitter module and receiver need the same major firmware version (3.x with 3.x, for example) and the same binding phrase, and the receiver's LED tells you whether it's in bind mode, waiting, or connected. See '''[[Troubleshooting]]''' for more checks.
	*'''Compatibility:''' There are several radio protocols and some specific radio-brand differences which make even Rx and Tx combos on the same protocol incompatible. Your only real option in these situations is to find a receiver that is compatible.		*'''Compatibility:''' There are several radio protocols and some specific radio-brand differences which make even Rx and Tx combos on the same protocol incompatible. Your only real option in these situations is to find a receiver that is compatible.
	*'''Too Responsive:''' Most radios have settings that can be adjusted to set the robots responsiveness to where you want it. The two main settings are end-points and the exponential curve. Typically end-points are set to +/- 100% but they can be reduced to make full-position control on your transmitter result in reduced output on the bot. A common strategy is to reduce steering end-points to make controlling the robot easier, while keeping the throttle end-points at 100% so maximum speed isn't affected. The exponential curve setting is set to linear by default, which means that the signal set to the receiver is proportional to what you do on the transmitter. The curve can be adjusted to make it more (or less) responsive at the begining of the tranmitter control movement.		*'''Too Responsive:''' Most radios have settings that can be adjusted to set the robots responsiveness to where you want it. The two main settings are end-points and the exponential curve. Typically end-points are set to +/- 100% but they can be reduced to make full-position control on your transmitter result in reduced output on the bot. A common strategy is to reduce steering end-points to make controlling the robot easier, while keeping the throttle end-points at 100% so maximum speed isn't affected. The exponential curve setting is set to linear by default, which means that the signal set to the receiver is proportional to what you do on the transmitter. The curve can be adjusted to make it more (or less) responsive at the begining of the tranmitter control movement.
	*'''Controls Reversed:''' The 'channel mixing' that allows a single transmitter stick to control forward/reverse motion as well as left/right rotation involves the coordination of multiple robot components. Errors in mixing set-up are common and may result in the robot failing to respond to stick inputs in the expected manner. These set-up errors can be difficult to identify and correct. The '''[http://runamok.tech/RunAmok/mixfix4.html Team Run Amok Mixer Fixer]''' will sort out your response symptoms and provide specific instructions to restore correct stick response.		*'''Controls Reversed:''' The 'channel mixing' that allows a single transmitter stick to control forward/reverse motion as well as left/right rotation involves the coordination of multiple robot components. Errors in mixing set-up are common and may result in the robot failing to respond to stick inputs in the expected manner. These set-up errors can be difficult to identify and correct. The '''[http://runamok.tech/RunAmok/mixfix4.html Team Run Amok Mixer Fixer]''' will sort out your response symptoms and provide specific instructions to restore correct stick response.
	*'''Only one motor responds:'''		*'''Only one motor responds:''' This is usually a mixing problem: either mixing is turned off, so each stick direction drives only one side, or it's turned on in both the transmitter and the ESC. Some dual ESCs ship with their own mixing disabled, so check the manual. If the same motor responds to every stick input, check that the ESCs are in the correct receiver ports, then swap the motors' leads to see whether the fault follows the motor or stays with the ESC. The '''[http://runamok.tech/RunAmok/mixfix4.html Team Run Amok Mixer Fixer]''' and '''[[Troubleshooting]]''' can help narrow it down.
	*'''Robot hums or whines:''' The ESC neutral position and your radio's neutral position aren't always the same. Although some ESCs can be calibrated to set the neutral position, some don't have this functionality. When this mis-match happens, the robot doesn't get enough signal to move but will hum or whine. This can usually be fixed by adjusting the trim setting on the transmitter. It can take some fiddling to get the trim set properly, especially if both the throttle and steering trims need to be adjusted. Additionally, the issue can be worse with a freshly charged battery which can mean the robot will hum or whine when it is initially turned on, even after the trims have been adjusted.		*'''Robot hums or whines:''' The ESC neutral position and your radio's neutral position aren't always the same. Although some ESCs can be calibrated to set the neutral position, some don't have this functionality. When this mis-match happens, the robot doesn't get enough signal to move but will hum or whine. This can usually be fixed by adjusting the trim setting on the transmitter. It can take some fiddling to get the trim set properly, especially if both the throttle and steering trims need to be adjusted. Additionally, the issue can be worse with a freshly charged battery which can mean the robot will hum or whine when it is initially turned on, even after the trims have been adjusted.
	*'''Robot won't stop moving:''' Similar to the Robot Hums or Whines problem, this problem happens when the neutral point on your radio is misaligned with the neutral point on your ESC. Adjust the throttle and steering trims to address the issue. You'll need to redo your fail-safe configuration after adjusting your trims to make the fail-safe work properly.		*'''Robot won't stop moving:''' Similar to the Robot Hums or Whines problem, this problem happens when the neutral point on your radio is misaligned with the neutral point on your ESC. Adjust the throttle and steering trims to address the issue. You'll need to redo your fail-safe configuration after adjusting your trims to make the fail-safe work properly.
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	=Programming a radio=		=Programming a radio=

			*'''[[ExpressLRS and EdgeTX Setup]]''' – step-by-step setup for ELRS radios running EdgeTX (RadioMaster Pocket, Zorro, Boxer, etc.)

	*'''[http://runamok.tech/RunAmok/flysky_i6.html Programming the FlySky FS-i6 Transmitter for Combat Robotics]'''		*'''[http://runamok.tech/RunAmok/flysky_i6.html Programming the FlySky FS-i6 Transmitter for Combat Robotics]'''

	*'''[http://runamok.tech/RunAmok/taranisQX7.html Programming the Taranis Q X7 Transmitter for Combat Robotics]'''		*'''[http://runamok.tech/RunAmok/taranisQX7.html Programming the Taranis Q X7 Transmitter for Combat Robotics]'''