Author Topic: Corona 2.4Ghz DIY Module... I'm doing it... (Read 5731 times)

Pasty · « **on:** July 22, 2010, 12:33:36 PM »

Hey Chaps

Up until 5 minutes ago I had no plans to go 2.4...

5 minutes ago I was browsing Giant Cod, thought I'd check 2.4 prices... £23.18 for a DIY module and 8ch RX, cheapo chippo me thinks!

A little more reading shows people fitting these to Cockpit SX's... hmmm me thinks!

All reviews look good.... mmmmm hmmmm me thinks!

A couple of clicks later and I've ordered the module and RX plus an additional 8ch RX for less than 40 nickers.

Now I'm mainly flying mouldies and more fragile stuff (non foam) I thought it a good idea for when I'm out flying with others at Staggy and when I'm out gorilla flying.

Was this a good idea?... only time will tell.

I'll let you know how I get on as other may like this cheaper option of 2.4.

word out

Steve

http://www.giantcod.co.uk/corona-24ghz-module-dsss-ct8z-p-404735.html

gavin mack · « **Reply #1 on:** July 22, 2010, 12:38:25 PM »

Corona V2 is not CE approved; (in fact giant cod say experimental use) and I understand that your BMFA insurance is inavlid if non ce approved products are used

compact · « **Reply #2 on:** July 22, 2010, 12:52:57 PM »

CT8F module has FCC AND CE markings, thats not the problem with these modules.What is that when binding they sometimes dont bind correctly and push all your servos to there end points .Another prob it has that if the link is lost it will not always re bind, I have alot of experience with these and I wouldnt even trust them in a foamy, others have had better luck than me, even my uncle has used them with no issue apart from the servo end point prob.If you bind the rx then turn your tx of for a few seconds , thats it , it wont rebind untill you have turned the rx off and back on.The best is the v2 dsss module for range.But like iv said in my expierience there not reliable, infact after loosing a wizard compact I through mine in the bin.

Scott r

Pasty · « **Reply #3 on:** July 22, 2010, 12:58:16 PM »

Note to self....

Ask on here before getting carried away.

satinet · « **Reply #4 on:** July 22, 2010, 13:01:33 PM »

Pasty, I can see where you are coming from. My experience with multiplex m-link is that it is really great, but it is a kick in the wallet. 45 quid for an rx for your smaller models is pretty steep.

I don't know what the answer to it is. It seems like the FrSky stuff is getting some reasonable press?

jiberjaber · « **Reply #5 on:** July 22, 2010, 13:15:19 PM »

Thats no worse than a futaba receiver though...

In fact there was a time when Spectrum was cheaper than Futaba but last time I looked (about a month ago). Like for like the Futaba receivers were a little cheaper than the spectrum ones.

Pasty · « **Reply #6 on:** July 22, 2010, 13:17:30 PM »

Not wanting to dish out cash on a new TX just for 2.4 I thought the DIY module to be ideal for converting my SX, I saw the Frsky but it was out of stock then saw the even cheaper Corona diy hack and thought to give it a go... but if there are binding probs and possible probs in the air then its a no go.

I'll do some more reading and see if the binding issue is about set-up.

May well send it back $:-\$

Didnt take much time to see whether it was a good idea

Pasty · « **Reply #7 on:** July 22, 2010, 13:19:25 PM »

45 nickers or even 30 nickers for an RX is alot when you're used to spending a tenner on 8ch 35meg Corona's... especially as I've had nothing but faultless performance from them.

enginetorque · « **Reply #8 on:** July 22, 2010, 13:28:03 PM »

If you're using a module, you might want to check out my latest post re same (on the 2.4 thread)

Pasty · « **Reply #9 on:** July 22, 2010, 13:39:26 PM »

SX doesnt have a module, needs to be a cut and shut job.

satinet · « **Reply #10 on:** July 22, 2010, 13:40:15 PM »

Quote from: Pasty on July 22, 2010, 13:19:25 PM

45 nickers or even 30 nickers for an RX is alot when you're used to spending a tenner on 8ch 35meg Corona's... especially as I've had nothing but faultless performance from them.

indeed.

Geoff N · « **Reply #11 on:** July 22, 2010, 13:52:21 PM »

Just a tip when binding or turning on to fly with the corona module make sure there is at least 3 feet between the model and the transmitter, too close and they will not bind /connect

enginetorque · « **Reply #12 on:** July 22, 2010, 13:58:23 PM »

Oh yes - been there - wasn't that fun finding out for the first time (in the instructions now but wasn't then)!

There is another downside to the Corona system - fly too close and it stops working (no good for indoor flying for example)!

There have been several versions released over the years and things are improving - if anyone wants a module (Hitec Futaba pin pattern) and a couple of receivers - I have some going 'cheep cheep'

Pasty · « **Reply #13 on:** July 22, 2010, 14:04:47 PM »

I cant be throwing anything off a coastal cliff with doubt in the back of my mind so I cancelled the order.

I'll will wait for the Frsky hack to come back in stock or just wait a bit longer before I get into this 2.4 lark.

A deflated me.....out

enginetorque · « **Reply #14 on:** July 22, 2010, 15:30:31 PM »

Quote from: Pasty on July 22, 2010, 14:04:47 PM

I cant be throwing anything off a coastal cliff with doubt in the back of my mind so I cancelled the order.

I'll will wait for the Frsky hack to come back in stock or just wait a bit longer before I get into this 2.4 lark.

A deflated me.....out

I can heartily recommend the Assan system - have a look on Ebay for a HK seller - cheap as chips and a really solid link - simple receivers and no issues at all, save for 'dodgy' old transmitter module connectors - can't blame Assan for that!

They've a great website btw with all the info and downloads you need for manuals or whatever!

Easy to bind - failsafe is a snap (just move the controls to where you want and turn off..) - you can get a 'hack module' which is a PCB based effort for building into your tx

Pasty · « **Reply #15 on:** July 22, 2010, 15:33:47 PM »

coolo, will take a look

ta

2.4G Shaun · « **Reply #16 on:** July 22, 2010, 15:56:22 PM »

Quote from: compact on July 22, 2010, 12:52:57 PM

CT8F module has FCC AND CE markings, thats not the problem with these modules.What is that when binding they sometimes dont bind correctly and push all your servos to there end points .Another prob it has that if the link is lost it will not always re bind, I have alot of experience with these and I wouldnt even trust them in a foamy, others have had better luck than me, even my uncle has used them with no issue apart from the servo end point prob.If you bind the rx then turn your tx of for a few seconds , thats it , it wont rebind untill you have turned the rx off and back on.The best is the v2 dsss module for range.But like iv said in my expierience there not reliable, infact after loosing a wizard compact I through mine in the bin.

Scott r

Patsy,

I have been using the Corona V2 modules in my indoor models ( shockies and helis) for over a year now.. Never had a glitch, never lost bind, never had the endpoint trouble. Just total reliability. I have flown it in the evening with 15 other models on 2.4g flying at the same time in the field.. totally reliable. Would I use it in my 1/3rd scale and 1/4 scale models...no because I have invested heavily in Spektrum, but for indoor, park fly and low inertia gliders and slope soarers it represents real value for money and has been 100% reliable.

Using the hack module, problems can be experienced if the Tx aerial lead is damaged when soldering and it needs the inner and the outer coax soldering to the pads. Extreme care is the watchword.

Re approvals, as Giant Cod is the importer, it is GC's responsibility to ensure it is compliant with the UK standards and would ultimately be there liability in case of a claim..

The binding is a bit wierd in that the Rx needs powering up first , then turn on the Tx and very occasionally , I need to power off the Rx and start again...

Shaun

sorry · « **Reply #17 on:** July 22, 2010, 16:45:58 PM »

We can only speak as we find of course but :-

I have been flying using a corona module plugged into a futaba tx for about 18 months now. I have about 20 receivers, both 8 channel and 4 channel.

I switch the tx on then the rx. It binds straight away. Never a problem. Flown as far as I can see in all sorts of models.

Never had any of the problems mentioned here.

Robert

aV8er · « **Reply #18 on:** July 22, 2010, 16:46:19 PM »

I'm just experimenting with one of these (V2) and two receivers. I read the instructions to say that you have to switch on the Rx before the Tx as a one off final step in the binding process. After that has been completed, every time I switch Tx on first and then the Rx, it always seems to bind first go. Well it has so far...

cliffhanger · « **Reply #19 on:** July 22, 2010, 17:04:39 PM »

Stevo- went Corona 2.4 a month or so ago with my JR 9XII.

Never a glitch, really.

I've found that, like Geoff N, the Tx needs to be a couple of feet away from the Rx to bind first time.

I'vd done some bench trials when I've turned off my Tx to simulate loss of signal, turned it back on after 3-4 secs and got control back immediately.

I'm well pleased with the system- ok no fail safe, but I never had that anyway.

AS a retired guy with limited cash, I would not be jeopardising my hard won models.

Ok I know people here rubbish cheap Chinese stuff, but similar to the Corona 35meg Rx you've used a lot of, their 2.4 meg, for me, performs faultlessly.

PS mind you, my module was Corona built bespoke for a JR Tx. Dunno if I'd trust my soldering expertise in building the DIY version.

compact · « **Reply #20 on:** July 22, 2010, 17:19:42 PM »

As I mentioned some people have had no issues, my son is one of them he has used v2 dsss for well over a year with no probs in a foamy. but and its a big but im not the only one to expierience the faults with v2 dsss ie loss of link.I suppose its down to what your going to be flying.I used dif rxs and dif modules and I lost link 7 times in three months, I then decided enough is enough time to change brands.

Scott r

cliffhanger · « **Reply #21 on:** July 22, 2010, 17:26:06 PM »

Well I fly 3-4 times a week using both their little 4 ch Rx in small foamies and the 8ch Rx in up to 2.5m f/g models.

Never had a problem. Flew it extensively in my Wasabi before taking the plunge to do a complete change over.

Adam Richardson · « **Reply #22 on:** July 22, 2010, 17:27:22 PM »

You could always buy it, and then not have the worry about what material to make model bags from?

Geoff N · « **Reply #23 on:** July 22, 2010, 17:29:47 PM »

Quote from: adam_lambretta on July 22, 2010, 17:27:22 PM

You could always buy it, and then not have the worry about what material to make model bags from?

?

cliffhanger · « **Reply #24 on:** July 22, 2010, 17:33:10 PM »

I think he means that first time out it's gonna end up in a zillion pieces, hence no need for wing bags (except to take all the bits off the slope!

RobC · « **Reply #25 on:** July 22, 2010, 17:36:14 PM »

When the V2 corona appeared they did have the faults listed above, but ones I bought a few months ago seem to have been improved beyond recognition. They now link easily on switch-on, reconnect within a second or two if the signal is blocked for any reason and generally behave quite well. I never had any problem with range using them, even the 4 channel supposed 'park fly' ones.

cliffhanger · « **Reply #26 on:** July 22, 2010, 17:54:18 PM »

+1.

I've got the 4ch Rx in my Speedo and have flown it almost out of sight with no problems.

marcellus · « **Reply #27 on:** July 22, 2010, 18:01:22 PM »

Quote from: Pasty on July 22, 2010, 14:04:47 PM

I cant be throwing anything off a coastal cliff with doubt in the back of my mind so I cancelled the order.

I'll will wait for the Frsky hack to come back in stock or just wait a bit longer before I get into this 2.4 lark.

A deflated me.....out

click on the link which sends you an email when it comes back in stock...

compact · « **Reply #28 on:** July 22, 2010, 20:05:43 PM »

Oh and another thing I couldnt get it to stop doing was when full ch2 deflection was imputed it slightly moved one of my ailerons, think on channel 5, I flew it like that and to be honest it wasnt such a problem, but certainly not rite.Like I said works for some just not me.

EricF · « **Reply #29 on:** July 22, 2010, 20:30:39 PM »

I've got the Version 2 DSSS Tx module in my Robbe Futaba FC-18 with one 4 channel and two 8 channel receivers in a Wildthing, Blizzard and 2.5 metre Algebra. Never had any trouble with the system and the link is rock solid with out of sight range.

I note that a number of people in Germany are using them in their FC-28s so as a test I popped the Tx module into my FC-28 and it worked absolutely perfectly.

Just about to order a couple more receivers.

DelUK · « **Reply #30 on:** July 22, 2010, 21:54:10 PM »

Like Eric I too have had faultless performance with my Corona v2 DSSS JR tx module and rx's. Been using it for over 6 months now and wouldn't hesitate to order more receivers.

Mind you I don't know about the DIY version and wouldn't trust my soldering skills !

compact · « **Reply #31 on:** July 22, 2010, 21:57:44 PM »

Well lads all I can say is it works perfectly, rite upto the point it doesnt, but doesnt everything.

good luck Scott r

bugsb · « **Reply #32 on:** July 22, 2010, 22:09:38 PM »

i 2nd the ASSAN 2.4 v1 been in use for over 2 years on an electric heli with no faults at all
next will be the v2 internal hack for the sx add a sw and you can use 35mhz or 2.4g

there was a big thread with an assan member on the forum before the crash also on many other forums
Ron

Pasty · « **Reply #33 on:** July 23, 2010, 08:31:34 AM »

Word up Scott, did a Corona 2.4 module alsorun over yor dog or something, you're certainly reinforcing your messege of dislike

Hey Ron

The Assan system is on the cards to, just depends on what I can get my mitts on... Assan or Frsky... I see that Frsky is more available in the UK unless I've missed a supplier, not that I'm bothered about having to import but I like some availability for when you need something at short notice.

bugsb · « **Reply #34 on:** July 23, 2010, 08:48:13 AM »

biggest problem with assan they cant keep up HK got 500 rx's in 3 days and they are all gone if you look on there web site you will get a link for a uk supplier
i do remember some one tested a park flier rx way past the height you will take any glider that was V1 the V2 is said to be evan better
as they had all the certs done 2-3 years ago i and others used it at the fly in 2 years ago at old warden
Ron

Pasty · « **Reply #35 on:** July 23, 2010, 08:50:56 AM »

Quote from: cliffhanger on July 22, 2010, 17:04:39 PM

Stevo- went Corona 2.4 a month or so ago with my JR 9XII.

Never a glitch, really.

I've found that, like Geoff N, the Tx needs to be a couple of feet away from the Rx to bind first time.

I'vd done some bench trials when I've turned off my Tx to simulate loss of signal, turned it back on after 3-4 secs and got control back immediately.

I'm well pleased with the system- ok no fail safe, but I never had that anyway.

AS a retired guy with limited cash, I would not be jeopardising my hard won models.

Ok I know people here rubbish cheap Chinese stuff, but similar to the Corona 35meg Rx you've used a lot of, their 2.4 meg, for me, performs faultlessly.

PS mind you, my module was Corona built bespoke for a JR Tx. Dunno if I'd trust my soldering expertise in building the DIY version.

Hey Rog

It was infact seeing you using the corona system that inspired me to have a look at it and when I saw the price I thought what the hell.

Can I trust the Corona hack module after reading some of these report? I dunno.

Was it that people had a bad install or had bad early versions? I dunno

One thing I do know is that I'm not a brand monkey and I'm happy to go with the cheaper chinese stuff... As you well know its about buying the right stuff not just labeling it all as cheap tat.

I'll get my research hat on over the weekend and find out the shizzle.

DelUK · « **Reply #36 on:** July 23, 2010, 09:09:06 AM »

Why not buy a secondhand 35Mhz tx that has a module port ? Loads of these going relatively cheaply now everyone is flogging their old tx's and buying 2.4 dedicated stuff.

I suppose the SX is hard to beat though in it's price range granted....

2.4G Shaun · « **Reply #37 on:** July 23, 2010, 11:13:51 AM »

Quote from: Pasty on July 23, 2010, 08:50:56 AM

Hey Rog

Can I trust the Corona hack module after reading some of these report? I dunno.

Was it that people had a bad install or had bad early versions? I dunno

Hi Patsy, there is nothing wrong with the Corona V2 hack module, the only issue is, can you solder the aerial coax to the pads on the motherboard successfully without damaging the board or the aerial wire? This needs to be done with care and precision. As is usually the case with this type of item..the problems are customer induced, not the tech !
You also need to check that it is compatable with the PPM stream from the encoder ( positive or negative going)

Phil-G and myself use these modules in our 2.4g single channel sets.

Check out Phil-G's posts re the Frsky, he has done a lot of eval work on them if you want further info on them.

Shaun

Pasty · « **Reply #38 on:** July 23, 2010, 13:05:27 PM »

Quote from: DelUK on July 23, 2010, 09:09:06 AM

Why not buy a secondhand 35Mhz tx that has a module port ? Loads of these going relatively cheaply now everyone is flogging their old tx's and buying 2.4 dedicated stuff.

I suppose the SX is hard to beat though in it's price range granted....

No spondoolacks for another tx, unless one was crazy cheap...

Pasty · « **Reply #39 on:** July 23, 2010, 13:10:16 PM »

Quote from: 2.4G Shaun on July 23, 2010, 11:13:51 AM

Hi Patsy, there is nothing wrong with the Corona V2 hack module, the only issue is, can you solder the aerial coax to the pads on the motherboard successfully without damaging the board or the aerial wire? This needs to be done with care and precision. As is usually the case with this type of item..the problems are customer induced, not the tech !
You also need to check that it is compatable with the PPM stream from the encoder ( positive or negative going)

Phil-G and myself use these modules in our 2.4g single channel sets.

Check out Phil-G's posts re the Frsky, he has done a lot of eval work on them if you want further info on them.

Shaun

Hey Shaun

Thanks for the info, I'm not sure what I'm going to do now. Probably forget about 2.4 for a while.

Having said that, any leccy guys who wonna install a hack module for me?

Author Topic: Corona 2.4Ghz DIY Module... I'm doing it... (Read 5731 times)

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