Topic: Multiplex Evo 9

I finally made a decision to upgrade my TX to 1 that can handle full house gliders and managed to bag 1 of these today. It's the 35mhz version, and TBH I know very little about 35mhz. Came into the hobby just under 3 years ago and went 2.4g on the LHS recommendation.

Which Multiplex 2.4g module would I need to make the switch over (I do like the no worries of 2.4), and which FM rx's can be used with this TX?

Any info would be great, cheers.

35meg - you can basically use any receiver that isn't pcm. Jr/futaba/hitec/schulze anything.

 There is an m-link module for the Evo which will covert it to 2.4 although you need to have to software updated to Pro (free I think). Modules at Modelspot.com - Uk No1 dealer for Multiplex Radios and Aircraft Kits

Can I use other modules too (Spektrum, Assan?) Probabaly won't but would like to know....

Software has already been upgraded for 2.4. It currently has a 35mhz Synth module so does the rx info still apply? And if I use the MPX module can I switch between 35 and 2.4 or is it permanently 1 or the other?

I'm presuming (read as hoping) that the £140 module with 7ch light rx will do the job? I don't need the telemetry version. I was going to phone Modelspot tomorrow but I'm all excited now, trying to 'cram' info so I come across as knowing what I'm after...LOL

Probabaly won't need the 9ch of the Evo but wanted the programming features of the Evo over the SX, which I think you helped in converting me, but would have to go back and check 

I converted my EVO 9 to 2.4 with a Jeti module.  This simply plugs in place of the 35MHz module and the antenna fits where the original was.    On my EVO 12 I used the earlier version that is not EVO specific, and it does not look as neat.

All the Jeti 2.4 Rx are duplex, whereas the Multiplex ones are a lot more money than the "standard" 2.4 Rx

Jeti Duplex Rx can be programmed to have slave and mixed channels, so you could drive a model with (for instance) 14 servos.  Again, you need the Jeti box to do the programming.

Many Jeti feedback modules are available now.   (Altitude, amps, volts, RPM, temperature etc.. )   Rx voltage and signal strength feedback standard on all Rx

But I have to use the Jeti box to see the setting in the Rx and altitude etc.. from the sensors, and this sits on top of my tray rather than having the data display on the Tx integral display.  Audible Tx module alarms can be set on the sensor readings, so you do not need to fly with the JetiBox fitted.

Not everybody needs telemetry, but being able to see Rx voltage or Rx signal strength while flying is VERY helpful.

I decided on Jeti as it was available before Multiplex 2.4, and converting 30 models or so was far less expensive the Jeti way than Multiplex.   You do not need to have the Tx upgraded if you go Jeti, but for Multiplex you must.

Why Multiplex have to charge so much more just so you can see the Rx voltage etc. is not clear to me.  I understand the hardware that both Jeti and Multiplex use is based on the same chip set.

If I had lots of time and load of money I would probably go Multiplex, but I had neither, hence Jeti 2.4.

synth just means you can change channels more easily. It doesn't make any difference otherwise.

Rx cost is not overly important as I'm not going to switch my models over to MPX. My current models can stay on the Spektrum. Only my planes with flaps, which at the moment is only 1 ( but looking at getting a composite sloper as soon as  possible) and maybe my Bandit, will get the switch to the Evo, so although rx cost is a factor whenever I build a new plane, I'm not faced with a high cost of say 10 rx's (thank God!)

I was slightly scared when I checked out some 35mhz rx's on Modelspot, £104 for a 7ch!! Might not be the one's I need but still expensive as you said. I think I can stomach £80 for a 7ch light on 2.4g every now and then.

If you've never used 35 MHz I wouldn't start now - it has no significant advantages (other than cheap Rx's coming onto the market).

The £140 Mpx module + Rx will give you the basis of a solid system in case you want to expand later.

But as you have some Spektrum receivers you might want to consider fitting a Spektrum module to the Evo. This would immediately allow the Evo to be used for all your existing Spektrum-equipped models. Unfortunately Spektrum sell this module (which is specially for the Evo) as a combo with their 12-channel Rx, which puts the cost up tp about £175-180, about 65 percent of which is the cost of the Rx. Maybe you could find a dealer who would split the module out for a reasonable sum.

A further thought - the Evo's software version must be less than v 3.3 if a non-Mpx module is to be used.

Brian

On the subject of telemetry, anyone know what transmitting power the receiver uses when sending telemetry information?.

Rx cost is not overly important as I'm not going to switch my models over to MPX. My current models can stay on the Spektrum. Only my planes with flaps, which at the moment is only 1 ( but looking at getting a composite sloper as soon as  possible) and maybe my Bandit, will get the switch to the Evo, so although rx cost is a factor whenever I build a new plane, I'm not faced with a high cost of say 10 rx's (thank God!)

I was slightly scared when I checked out some 35mhz rx's on Modelspot, £104 for a 7ch!! Might not be the one's I need but still expensive as you said. I think I can stomach £80 for a 7ch light on 2.4g every now and then.

Why are you worrying about 35 meg when you are already well down the 2.4 road?  There is nothing wrong with 35 meg, but seeing as you are starting out essentially from fresh (i.e nothing to change over), just keep buying 2.4. as you say the costs of the really good 35 meg RXs (e.g. multiplex ipd) is the same or more than the cost of a 2.4ghz RX, for no real advantage other than they are easier to use in carbon fuselages. 

Jeti quote two figures for Rx transmission power, one for "indoor" Rx and the other for full range Rx.  I do not fully understand the specs, but at first glance the power output of the full range Rx appears the same as the Tx modules.  However that does not tally with my operating experience, as the down link breaks more easily than the up link.  i.e.  I have sometimes lost the maximum altitude reading from the sensor, which appears to happen only when the range is "stretched".

I'm not sure that 2.4 Rx are more or less difficult in carbon fuselages, just different.  With 35MHz trailing ariels are common, on 2.4 "whiskers" are used.

Jeti quote two figures for Rx transmission power, one for "indoor" Rx and the other for full range Rx.  I do not fully understand the specs, but at first glance the power output of the full range Rx appears the same as the Tx modules.  However that does not tally with my operating experience, as the down link breaks more easily than the up link.  i.e.  I have sometimes lost the maximum altitude reading from the sensor, which appears to happen only when the range is "stretched".
I'm not sure that 2.4 Rx are more or less difficult in carbon fuselages, just different.  With 35MHz trailing ariels are common, on 2.4 "whiskers" are used.

Graham, thanks for that -
Anyone know if the rxs frequency hop when transmitting?

Jeti quote two figures for Rx transmission power, one for "indoor" Rx and the other for full range Rx.  I do not fully understand the specs, but at first glance the power output of the full range Rx appears the same as the Tx modules.  However that does not tally with my operating experience, as the down link breaks more easily than the up link.  i.e.  I have sometimes lost the maximum altitude reading from the sensor, which appears to happen only when the range is "stretched".

I'm not sure that 2.4 Rx are more or less difficult in carbon fuselages, just different.  With 35MHz trailing ariels are common, on 2.4 "whiskers" are used.

in terms of carbon glider fuselages, 35 meg is a lot easier as you can extend and add to the aerial to get it away from the "danger" zone. A favourite solution on moulded gliders is to have an aerial in each half of the v-tail. you can also extend the aerial out the back of the model so it is away from the carbon all together (or do both). 

Why are you worrying about 35 meg when you are already well down the 2.4 road?  There is nothing wrong with 35 meg, but seeing as you are starting out essentially from fresh (i.e nothing to change over), just keep buying 2.4. as you say the costs of the really good 35 meg RXs (e.g. multiplex ipd) is the same or more than the cost of a 2.4ghz RX, for no real advantage other than they are easier to use in carbon fuselages. 

Still need the 2.4g module tho...

Was just a thought that if I could get a 35 rx I could get the Gem up and running sooner. But I'm going to wait and get the module on 2.4

Your 2.4G options depend on which software you have in the Tx. The later versions will not work with a specky module because multiplex implemented a fully digital interface between the transmitter logic and the RF module to get the latency down, and the only 2.4G modules that work with this software are the multiplex M-link ones. For this reason I'd suggest that you may be limited to using the multiplex system, although there are ways of getting a specky module to operate from the buddy-box port so that the Tx is switchable between M-link and specky to use your existing receivers. I'm currently working on this so that I can fly my bind-n-fly toys (blade mSR and micro-p51) with my Evo Tx, but I haven't finished it yet. There are threads on RCG that show how to do this.

I can't remember of the top of my head which was the last version of the Evo software that could work directly with a specky module, but if you PM Andy Sayle he will be able to give you the full story.

PDR

I think I'm going to stick with the Multiplex 2.4g module. Tx has had software update, not sure which version but I can see this leading to more headaches if I'm not careful. I'd hate to spend £170+ on a Spektrum module to find it won't work. I'm quite happy to carry on with my DX6i for my park fly stuff and I even managed to put reflex and camber on my Bandit. The MPX is for full house planes only really. I may get some MPX 5ch for the others later, if they get damaged etc, but Horizons customer service simply replaces the Spektrum rx's free of charge so far.

the Evo handles 4 servos wings quite easily. Once you understand it it's quick and easy to set programme models. The 2 rotary adjustors make setting up things like elevator compensations easy in flight. The trims are a bit randomly placed but you can get used to it.

Feefo

You will need the Evopro module plus RX7 DR Light receiver, the cost is £139.99 for the package. I suggest you speak to a supplier such as Punctilio Modelspot   Modelspot.com - Uk No1 dealer for Multiplex Radios and Aircraft Kits    They will advise further.

You will probably also need to upgrade your Evo to enable it to operate using the M-Link 2.4ghz system. Don't panic though, because the upgrade is free from the UK Multiplex service agent Mike Ridley. Mike's site and details are here....   Home - Model Radio Workshop  Mike will also be able to advise, either by phone or e mail.

Any more questions, just ask.....

For general info the Evo will still deliver PPM on the RF module connector for firmware versions 3.30 & 3.41, but ONLY if the module replies with a suitable identification string at switch on. Naturally this rules out current 3rd party modules unless a PIC/Atmel or similar chip programmed to supply this identification is added. Then the Evo will happily generate PPM as before, as the old 35MHz synth module still uses this method of communication.

Steve

Of course a possible further option for Feefo would be the HFMx module + receiver. This would allow either 2.4ghz or 35mhz operation at the flick of a switch, without any modification whatsoever to his Evo. Although the actual installation isn't fully internal and might be seen as a little untidy by some.

Feefo

You will need the Evopro module plus RX7 DR Light receiver, the cost is £139.99 for the package. I suggest you speak to a supplier such as Punctilio Modelspot   Modelspot.com - Uk No1 dealer for Multiplex Radios and Aircraft Kits    They will advise further.

You will probably also need to upgrade your Evo to enable it to operate using the M-Link 2.4ghz system. Don't panic though, because the upgrade is free from the UK Multiplex service agent Mike Ridley. Mike's site and details are here....   Home - Model Radio Workshop  Mike will also be able to advise, either by phone or e mail.

Any more questions, just ask.....
[/quote

Yep, that's the module I'll go for.  TX has been upgraded for 2.4g but not sure if it's the v3 or not. Not a prob getting that sorted tho. I'll forget using 35mhz, probabaly not complicated to you guys that have used it for a while, but it's seeming so much easier to stay with 2.4g. i have suffered glitching on a basic 35mhz system and it put me off. I know I got what I paid for etc., but once burned....


p.s. why doesn't my message box scroll and stay at the bottom when I'm posting, it's driving me crazy

Hi Feefo

I sent the older of my two Evos to Mike Ridley to be upgraded to M-Link capability, but I later decided to purchase a dedicated M-link version hence I now have two of them. I'll now leave the older set on 35mhz specifically to cater for the numerous 35mhz receivers I have. Although this older set is now 2.4ghz capable, it still retains version 2.62 firmware. It won't actually matter about having the most up to date firmware to operate with basic M-Link capability, but if the newer features such as telemetry are required, then a minimum of version 3.41 firmware will be necessary.

It does sound like you'll be able to pop the module/aerial straight in once you get it, and all will be fine.    

Or there again pop a Jeti module on and be and be able to switch between 35 and 2.4 if you add a changeover switch, with the option of telemetry and programmable Rx too for less money, or without a changeover switch unplugging the Rf modules when they are not needed.  I would rather have to unplug the modules than risk using 35MHz in error.

I would rather have to unplug the modules than risk using 35MHz in error.

I wouldn't. The module connectors are not designed/specified for frequent removals, and I don't like taking the back off the Tx at the field.

PDR

I wouldn't. The module connectors are not designed/specified for frequent removals, and I don't like taking the back off the Tx at the field.

PDR

do gremlins jump in? 

Probably not satinet, but it's a fact that with anything like radios or engines dirt on the outside soon becomes dirt on the inside given the slightest chance.......

I'm with PDR here, and never did like the idea of frequent module changes. I just don't feel the pins/contacts will stand it for too long.

Brian there's your problem. Engines. Tut tut and you call yourself a multiplex owner!

My problem?

But I very rarely find any engine I own gives me a problem. Buying the right brands helps tremendously in that respect of course.

Thinking about it, I'd say you had the bigger problem. You have to find the "right" hill for the wind direction on the day you choose to fly. I simply stand in the field and turn through 90 degrees until I'm facing into wind, then I take off..........

mds? 

Actually I did buy one, simply to see what they were like. I ran it and sold it on rather quickly....

I agree frequent module changes are not a good idea.  But fitting a two position switch to go between 2.4 and 35 also has it's risks, both from a wiring perspective and once fitted to the chance of it being put in the wrong place at the wrong time.

If (as in my usage) 35 is almost never used, swapping the module is less risk than the switch.  Once the joy of 2.4 has been experience, I do not want to go back to 35 pain.  As it happens on Monday I am going to the event we were shot down at last year.

I also had the "pleasure" of several Fleet 35MHz outfits, and experience the trials and tribulations of their connectors being less than perfect, so I am fully aware of the possibilities of poor connectors from that, plus many years in the aviation and automotive industries where differences in connector technology was a major factor in differing reliability.


I suspect the vast majority of folk that more to 2.4 find it superior to 35 and won't want to go back given a choice.

no they won't.

The only problem with m-link that I have is that there aren't any cheap receivers. 45 quid for the 5 channel single circuit one is a bit steep for a foamie like an easy glider or weasel (gliders Brian!). Non of my cheap 35meg rxs are worth anything.

I also noticed that fast response mode does indeed not work with non digital servos. Nearly all my servos are digi though but it further alienates the likes of the easy glider.

For fancy pants models the rxs are the same as they were price wise, pretty much.

 I do think voltage telemetry should be standard though.

But it is standard on the DR7 receiver upwards.

You have to remember, the cheaper receivers are just that, cheaper receivers. The majority of Mpx M-Link Rx's are dual circuit though, whereas most of those offered by the competition are not. I don't need to bang on about getting what you pay for. You're a Multiplex user, so I'm sure you know what I mean.

I think it's worth comparing with Jeti, as even the hardware uses the same chips.  And Jeti telemetry is standard even on the smallest, lightest indoor Rx, though the price of that is still more than I think it should be.  On the Jeti system any Rx can be configured to be driven by any channels, so having an extra 4 or 5 channel Rx in the wing might be a simple answer on a bigger model.  I appreciate that is a bit OTT for most of us, but it does illustrate how flexible the Jeti Rx are.

I am surprised Multiplex haven't copied the Jeti concepts, perhaps patents prevent that.  It's a shame if that is the case.

Well thanks to a nice fella who doesn't want an Evo module he's decided not to use, I'll be up and running on MPX 2.4g by next weekend. Feel like a dog with 2 ......  

I was about to commit buying new so I've said a bit of cash, so....anyone selling a RCRCM Typhoon   Doubtfull off what I've read but GOTTA be worth a try.......

no i think it's just a business/marketing decision. It's still early days for m-link so things might change down the line.

The problem with the pricing policy is that in 35meg you had the choice of different rxs but with 2.4 you are locked in to one brand and the lack of a cheap rx is going to be offputting for many.

Especially as with the cockpit sx you need the 7 channel rxs more as it doesn't have channel assignability like evos and profis.

The newer M-Link Sx isn't quite as handicapped in that respect as the older 35mhz version was satinet. On the 2.4ghz Sx you can at least assign channel 5 to be whatever you'd like it to be, meaning a 5ch M-Link Rx (£45?) is the minimum required for that degree of flexibility.

As you've mentioned, it's early days. I imagine there could well be M-Link Rx's under 5 or 6 grams with telemetry sooner rather than later.

yeah but if you have a 4 servo wing glider you can use the 6 channel with an evo or profi but you need a 7channel with an sx

A fair point, but surely not that many prospective flyers of 4 servo wing gliders will plump for an Sx anyway? Wouldn't they go straight for the Evo?

well the cockpit sx is recognised as the daddy of 7ch/budget sets for gliderists. It's very very good for what it is.

I remember when they were 120 quid. That was a bargain!

If I han't have managed to get a 2nd hand Evo, the Sx (new) would have been my choice. But purely on budget reasons. That's why I'm so pleased to have got the Evo 9, with a 2.4 module for less than a new SX 2.4.