Spektrum Overview
• Spektrum is a newly developed Horizon Hobby proprietary brand that is dedicated to the development of highly-advanced RC electronics that are light-years ahead of anything else.
• Spektrum's first release is the DSM (Digital Spectrum Modulation) System.
• The DSM system is based on combining several forms of Spread Spectrum technology to achieve an optimized system for R/C car use.
• The DSM system includes a DSM Module and transceiver that replaces the module and receiver in most popular 3-channel module-based surfaces transmitters.
• No crystals or complex modifications are necessary. Racers simply plug the DSM module into their Tx and install the .4 oz transceiver in their car. After installation all that’s required is a few seconds of setup to “bind” the transceiver to the module.
• Compatible radios include:
Airtronics- M-8
JR- R1
Futaba- 3PK
HiTec- Aggressor CRX
KO- Helios
• Built into the DSM system is the ability for the transceiver to send data back to the user via the same digital RF link used to control the car. Shortly telemetry modules will be available that plug into the DSM transceiver and give racers real time monitoring of engine temperature, speed, rpm, signal strength, battery condition, lap times and more. The data can be view on a hand held unit or uploaded to a PC. More modules will be added in the future that offer even more telemetry options.
Introduction
Spektrum's DSM system offers the ultimate in radio link security. No longer do you have to worry about transmitters being turned-on on your frequency, waiting for the frequency clip to practice or interference caused from noisy motors, speed controllers or other interfering sources. The DSM system utilizes Digital Spread Spectrum Modulation technology to provide an almost impenetrable digital RF link between the racer and their car.
The DSM System operates in the 2.4GHz band (that's 2400MHz). This high frequency is well out of the range of virtually all model-generated (motor and ESC noise) and conventional radio interference. All the usual glitches that plague 27 and 75mhz radios are simply eliminated with the DSM System. In addition, each DSM module is factory programmed with it's own unique GUID (Global Unique Identifier). Once a DSM transceiver is “bound” to a specific DSM module it will only recognize signals from that module. With over 4 billion possible GUID codes, it's virtually impossible for a DSM transceiver to mistake another signal source for its DSM module.
DSM uses Direct Sequencing Spread Spectrum modulation to generate a wide signal on a single frequency. The FCC requires that these systems incorporate “collision avoidance” technology. When the DSM System is switched on, it will scan the 79 channels available to it for a free one. When it finds one, the DSM transceiver, which “listens” for the modules distinct GUID, will lock on to it. In the unlikely event that the DSM channel spectrum is full, the 80th system will not connect or cause any interference, going into “hold scan” until a channel is free.
Summary of Benefits
• The Spektrum DSM System provides an impenetrable digital RF link between a racer and their car that is impervious to all types of interference including other radio systems, model generated interference or environmental interference from pagers, cell phones, etc.
• Collision Avoidance- The DSM system scans the 2.4Ghz band looking for an open channel. When an unused channel is found the system locks on that channel and transmits providing the following benefits:
No more waiting for an open frequency
No need to impound the radio
Eliminates the need for a frequency board and frequency clips
Interference for other radios is a thing of the past
No crystals are needed
• 2.4ghz worldwide band is approved for international use. No need to change frequencies when traveling abroad
• Built-in failsafe drives the servos to a preset position (usually full brakes) in the unlikely event of radio interference
• The DSM system literally plugs into popular module based 3-channel transmitters allowing most racers to convert to DSM technology right away.
• Short 8" receiver antenna is easy to mount
• The soon-to-be-released DSM telemetry module will allow real time monitoring of head temperature, rpm, speed, battery voltage, lap time, etc.
• No maintenance or tuning required (always stays in tune)
• Up to 79 users can simultaneously operate DSM systems
Spektrum Website
http://www.spektrumrc.com/
DSM System Specifications
• Frequency Band 2.400-2.4835 GHz
• Channels 79
• Channel Spacing 1 MHz
• DSSS Coding Gain 18 dB
• Bitrate 15.626 kbps
• Range 3000 ft
• Latency 7.4 Ms
• Resolution/Channel 4096 steps
DSM Transceiver Specifications
• Weight .40 oz/11.3g
• Dimensions (LxWxH) 1.62x1.06x.57in (41.2x27.0x15.3mm)
• Input Voltage 3.2 – 9.6V
• Sensitivity -98 dBm BER 1E-3
• RC Channels 3
• Current 40 mA @ 4.8V
• Antenna length 8.5 in
Frequently asked questions
Q: What is DSM?
A: DSM or Digital Spectrum Modulation is a form of digital spread spectrum modulation that had been developed and optimized for R/C use.
Q: What channel will I be on?
A: The DSM system scans the 2.4GHz band and finds a channel that is not being used. Once an open channel is found the transmitter begins transmitting on that unused channel. The DSM System has an available spectrum of 79 channels. In the unlikely event that the spectrum is full, the 80th system will not connect or cause any interference, going into “hold scan” until a channel is free.
Q: Won't other 2.4Ghz devices like phones and wireless computers cause interference?
A: No, the FCC requires that all 2.4Ghz DSS devises be "smart"- incorporating collision avoidance such that when any DSS system is turned on, it scans the 2.4GHz band until a channel that is not being used is found then begins transmitting on that unused channel.
Q: What is the range?
A: Typical range is about 3000ft. depending on conditions.
Q: I understand that Spread Spectrum has a slow response time.
A: Spectrum's DSM system is optimized to give the fastest possible response time of 5.6ms. Typical FM systems offer a response time of 12 to 18ms.
Q: Will the DSM system affect or be affected by other transmitters on 27 or 75mhz or lap counting systems?
A: No. The DSM system operates in the 2.4Ghz ISM band and is well above the range of any equipment including lap-counting systems presently in use.
Q: What type of telemetry will be available?
A: The first optional telemetry module will include the ability to monitor Real-time engine temperature, engine rpm, speed in mph or kph, battery voltage, signal strength and individual lap times. We hope have this telemetry module available in early spring.
Q: So I can just turn on my radio any time with out worry of getting or causing interference?
A: Exactly!
Spektrum is exclusively distributed by:
Horizon Hobby, Inc.
4105 Fieldstone Rd.
Champaign, IL 61822
217-352-1913
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