Add support for DSM2 (spektrum) TX boards

GoogleCodeExporter commented 9 years ago

What new feature/ability do you want?

Please add ability to communicate directly with DSM2 boards through a simple 
serial output

What is the expected output?

The output would be a short string of bytes on the UART that represent the PPM 
channel and position. The details of the protocol are here:
http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showpost.php?p=7925933&postcount=8

What version of the product are you using?

I currently use just the plain vanilla version. Willing to use whatever version 
this fits best in.

Please provide any additional information below.

Current spektrum-compatible modules are expensive, and inefficient. They must 
read the ppm signals, encode it in a serial string, output to the RX and 
deconstruct to PPM. 

Bare-pcb tx modules can be removed from inexpensive TX's. These modules speak a 
simple serial protocol that could easily be output by the AVR on and available 
UART. These modules are small enough that they could be embedded into a 9X 
controller and be used for small heli's and such. It would provide support for 
most bind-and-fly RX's. Because it bypasses ppm altogether, it would be faster 
and more efficient than current spektrum modules.

Original issue reported on code.google.com by nathan.b...@gmail.com on 9 Oct 2011 at 4:16

GoogleCodeExporter commented 9 years ago

Dsmx is another protocol, which neither th9x or er9x support. Also, I do 
believe that Dsmx radio need to switch between the two (and you start up in 
either mode), they don't both at the same time, that could be a challenge for 
integrating the module within the radio. Cheers.

 I want to get this silly module running, it's the one pin the needs to be somewhere.. ah well, I'll trace the eflight motherboard to see where it goes, maybe that will give me an idea to be able to enable the module properly...

Original comment by cr8tive...@gmail.com on 23 Nov 2011 at 12:13

GoogleCodeExporter commented 9 years ago

Just looked at the manual for the newer DX5e and while there is a Mode select 
using Trainer and Elevator trim together, seems default is DSMX mode which will 
bind both DSMX and DSM2. The DSM2/DSMX Mode Select is for high speed 11ms 2048 
DSM2 RX which won't bind in DSMX Mode. But like you said it's a different 
protocol that would have to be figured out and added probably. Hope you have 
luck figuring out the DX6i Module wiring cause it seems my only options for now 
is to use 2 radios. Unless the newer DSMX modules get added, you get the DX6i 
Module working, or the JR modules become available again soon.

Wish I could help you out with the DX6i stuff, unfortunately while I'm good 
with a iron and capable of simple projects, this stuff I admit is over my head. 
BTW was your module from a DX6i or some thing else. I ask cause if it was from 
a non DX6i I would be willing to take photos of all the boards and wire layout 
of my DX6i if you think it would help you trace it down.

Original comment by Kiyo_O...@hotmail.com on 23 Nov 2011 at 8:31

GoogleCodeExporter commented 9 years ago

The AMTX11 module from DX4e DSM2/DSMX Tx works fine (in DSM2 mode)

Original comment by g6...@talktalk.net on 29 Nov 2011 at 8:30

GoogleCodeExporter commented 9 years ago

[deleted comment]

GoogleCodeExporter commented 9 years ago

Cool, is there a channel limit to using the dx4e module or is the limit set by 
the firmware and RX. Reason I ask about the channel limit is if there is, I'll 
probably try a dx5e since I prefer to have separate channels for dual Aileron 
setups. Also was there any thing special you had to do to get it in DSM2 mode 
or do you just wire it up normal and hold the switches like the manual says.

Original comment by Kiyo_O...@hotmail.com on 29 Nov 2011 at 11:56

GoogleCodeExporter commented 9 years ago

You get six channels. The module says DX5e on it by the way, 19.37dbm (Just 
short of
100mW

Original comment by g6...@talktalk.net on 1 Dec 2011 at 12:35

GoogleCodeExporter commented 9 years ago

Good to know means I can probably go with the dx5e for $60 instead of the dx4e 
at $70.

Original comment by Kiyo_O...@hotmail.com on 1 Dec 2011 at 12:43

GoogleCodeExporter commented 9 years ago

Only snag (I was going to use DX5e as I had one) with mine, it's only 12.17dbm, 
16mW
The DX4e has 19.4dbm, 100mW. Seems strange I know!

Original comment by g6...@talktalk.net on 2 Dec 2011 at 10:07

GoogleCodeExporter commented 9 years ago

odd, maybe it wasn't a full range version like what is available now. still 
even if it is lower power it should be good enough for the park flyers I use 
DMS2 for. Any thing I need long range or stability for I have my FrSky module 
for.

Original comment by Kiyo_O...@hotmail.com on 3 Dec 2011 at 2:30

GoogleCodeExporter commented 9 years ago

My DX5e is quite new U.K model, though not DSMx. The MLP4DSM module also gives 
six
channels.

Original comment by g6...@talktalk.net on 5 Dec 2011 at 12:59

GoogleCodeExporter commented 9 years ago

Yea just got a DX5e DSMX version yesterday day for $50. Module is listed at 
18.4dbi just got to find a wiring diagram and pinout for it. Also just 
wondering if the module is required to use the rest of the radio as a slave 
box. Hoping I can use it with my 9x for training so I don't have to worry about 
a more expensive radio getting damaged or lost. If not then I guess I got spare 
parts.

Original comment by Kiyo_O...@hotmail.com on 5 Dec 2011 at 8:09

GoogleCodeExporter commented 9 years ago

It's here http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showpost.php?p=18802050&postcount=258

Original comment by g6...@talktalk.net on 5 Dec 2011 at 8:22

GoogleCodeExporter commented 9 years ago

Ok, successfully implanted a dx5e TX module (20.5dbm) taken from a dx4e.
Now what about DSMX? Did anyone try to figure it out yet?
Did anyone try to read out and reverse the firmware from a dx4e atmega or
is it locked?

Original comment by kess...@nscit.com on 10 Dec 2011 at 7:01

GoogleCodeExporter commented 9 years ago

I made a comment a week ago but see that it didn't make it. So I am going to 
summarize. In response to comment 49...I was able to successfully install the 
x1txn (AMTX10?) module from a HP6DSM full range transmitter.

The pin out is as you wrote. I only had to use pin 1,2,6. Everything works fine 
so I  hope you figure out the issue on your end.

Here's a relevant post I just made: 
http://www.hacksmods.com/2011/12/spektrum-dsm2-module-from-hp6dsm/

Original comment by dazex...@gmail.com on 13 Dec 2011 at 4:37

GoogleCodeExporter commented 9 years ago

Well, it seems that DSMX is no miracle either.
I've captured the serial data from my DX4e going through all
possible modes:

DSMX mode:                  18 00 00 8A 05 C0 09 F5 0D F6 13 54 14 AA
DSMX mode, range test:      38 00 00 8B 05 C0 09 F5 0D F9 13 54 17 54
DSM2 mode:                  10 00 01 F0 05 C0 09 F6 0D EC 13 54 14 AA
DSM2 mode, range test:      30 00 00 8A 05 C5 09 F5 0D F6 13 54 17 54
France mode:                00 00 03 4E 06 01 09 FC 0D EE 13 54 14 AA
France mode, range test:    20 00 00 8A 05 D1 09 F9 0D F7 13 54 17 54

I will open up a new feature request i think.

Original comment by kess...@nscit.com on 15 Dec 2011 at 11:28

GoogleCodeExporter commented 9 years ago

Feature request has been posted: 
http://code.google.com/p/er9x/issues/detail?id=346

Original comment by kess...@nscit.com on 15 Dec 2011 at 11:34

GoogleCodeExporter commented 9 years ago

So I may be the only one that still has boot loop issues.  But I also get the 
same thing using TH9x.  I have tried multiple firmwares and two different x1txn 
modules and I get the same either way.  On another note.  I used a FUT MZ DM9 
Module wired for the correct pins and PPM output and it started to do the same 
thing as soon as I got it to bind with my MSR.  Any one have any thoughts?

Hardware:
New Turnigy 9x from HK with V1 board.
SmartieParts programmer with the 1 lead that had to be soldered because of the 
board incompatibilities.
x1txn from DX5e
x1txn from FUT MZ module

Original comment by richardm...@gmail.com on 17 Dec 2011 at 7:25

GoogleCodeExporter commented 9 years ago

@67: Without knowing more about your setup, did you check the power supply?
When first connecting the dx5e module to the 3v3 as suggested at 
http://www.hacksmods.com/2011/11/turnigy-9x-3-3v-location/
the atmeage ran into brown-out reset.
So i had to add a separate regulator to power the module directly from the
lipo.

Original comment by kess...@nscit.com on 17 Dec 2011 at 9:55

GoogleCodeExporter commented 9 years ago

Yup, same here. The MLP4DSM used the 3.3v pad on the main board just fine. 
However, when I modded another 9x with a HP6DSM full range module, it had brown 
out. I solved it by giving the module it's own 3.3v regulator I took from the 
MLP4DSM transmitter.

Original comment by dazex...@gmail.com on 17 Dec 2011 at 11:10

GoogleCodeExporter commented 9 years ago

@ Richard, no you weren't the only one. I had the same issue, it was fun 
watching the voltage readout climb up, then reset, climb up, and reset, this 
only happened when the 4.7k resistor was attached. Figured it was browning out 
so I stuck a HK 3.3v bec on the battery pad and gnd, then hooked it up as in 
the lp4dsm schematic, with diode and 4.7k resistor, and worked like a charm. 
The LED didn't work well at all, so the diode replacement was the perfect fix. 
The HP6dsm module can handle higher input voltages too, *this is from the data 
sheet/manual)

200mA operating current
• Transmit power - 200mW EIRP
• Receive sensitivity up to -95dBm
• DSSS data rates up to 250kbps
• 1 mile operating range
• Full packet assembling and disassembling
• Auto transaction sequencer
• Fully buffered digital interface with high voltage tolerant inputs

VDD 2.4 to 3.6 Volts
Receive Sensitivity -95 dBm
Transmit power (conducted) 21 dBm MAX
Transmit power (radiated) 23 dBm MAX
Idle current 1 mA
Receive current 22 mA
Transmit current 200 mA

The hp6dsm module is a nice beast. I've had much success with range tests and 
flying fpv with it all hooked up, very pleased with it.

Original comment by cr8tive...@gmail.com on 19 Dec 2011 at 1:55

Attachments:

GoogleCodeExporter commented 9 years ago

Yup you guys were right the TX was browning out and causing it to reboot loop.  
My 3.3 regs came in yesterday and a quick wiring job got it powered up. 
Verified the reg was outputting 3.3v, gave power to the RF module and bam bound 
to the model instantly.   Had to fix the channel order and then everything 
seemed great.  I will do some range tests later today with it.  Thanks 
everyeone.

Original comment by richardm...@gmail.com on 24 Dec 2011 at 9:24

GoogleCodeExporter commented 9 years ago

Helo guys! 
I am electronic amateur, so I have to write this post.

Please, can anybody tell me: 
1) Which type of LED should I connect between TX PPM and MLP4DSM module? 
2) How can I switch between NORMAL and DSM when starting my ER9X? 
3) How can I make any binding/range test with this module built in

THANKS A LOT LOT LOT FOR ANSWER!!!!!

Original comment by cja...@gmail.com on 1 Feb 2012 at 10:33

GoogleCodeExporter commented 9 years ago

http://9xforums.com/forum/index.php 
is your best source for quick answers.

 http://code.google.com/p/er9x/wiki/HardwareGuides

Read the diy there for installing the mlp4dsm, it lists all the parts you need 
on the first page. (everything you ask is easily found.

Hold the trainer switch on power up to bind. and boththe trainer and rudder to 
range test (if I remember correctly)

Original comment by cr8tive...@gmail.com on 2 Feb 2012 at 12:27

GoogleCodeExporter commented 9 years ago

Thanks a lot Cre8tive, 

ad 1) there is no led in MLP4dsm installing manual. There is normal diode, is 
there any difference pleas? 

ad2) I didnt found, how to choose DSM option in 9x:((( 

3) I will try today and write a report;)

THANK YOU !!!

Original comment by cja...@gmail.com on 2 Feb 2012 at 11:01

GoogleCodeExporter commented 9 years ago

1) A regular diode is better imho. The only advantage of using an led is you 
'see' the ppm signal is on. (working) A LED for me was too susceptible to 
'noise' or vibration, and didn't always work, with a diode, no problems or 
issues.

2) Under the model settings, (long press right of the menu button) You will see 
an option to choose protocol, default is ppm. just select it, an change ti to 
the protocol you need.

3) Best way to find things out , just play, you really can't hurt anything. 

Cheers.

Original comment by cr8tive...@gmail.com on 2 Feb 2012 at 2:54

GoogleCodeExporter commented 9 years ago

YEAH!!!!!! IT WORKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! THANKS A LOT 
GUYS!!!!!!!!! Now I am happy:) 
Bounded with my MSR:)

But!!! how to configure TX? I didnt find any manual:( Or should I use any of 
templates? 

Ondrej

Original comment by cja...@gmail.com on 2 Feb 2012 at 7:25

GoogleCodeExporter commented 9 years ago

9x forums, best place to find help on programming your radio.

Glad it all worked out.

Original comment by cr8tive...@gmail.com on 2 Feb 2012 at 8:57

GoogleCodeExporter commented 9 years ago

I didnt find any thread about programming ER9X for msx. Just this one, but I 
dont understand chineese:)

http://tiger22618.blog104.fc2.com/blog-category-30.html 

There are lot of words, not only pictures. Today, i spent cca 7 hours time with 
the configuration, but no success... 

If there is anybody who knows this settings, please please!
Thanks guys and wish nice programming:)

Original comment by cja...@gmail.com on 4 Feb 2012 at 3:49

GoogleCodeExporter commented 9 years ago

9xforums.com is the best place to go, i know some guys there have templates you 
can use.
I have some settings in my radio i can upload too, but after work.
Goto 9x forums, and you'll get a lot of help there.

Original comment by cr8tive...@gmail.com on 4 Feb 2012 at 3:57

GoogleCodeExporter commented 9 years ago

Hi Guys! My MSR is running super with MLP4DSM'! What do you think?
- can I change the module antena with another one 2,4 ghz with same connector? 
I have one from JR Dsm2 module... 
Thanks! Ondrej

Original comment by cja...@gmail.com on 21 Feb 2012 at 5:31

GoogleCodeExporter commented 9 years ago

Any 2.4ghz antenna will work, as long as it is the same connector. 
You can find higher gain antenna too.

Original comment by cr8tive...@gmail.com on 21 Feb 2012 at 5:37

GoogleCodeExporter commented 9 years ago

THX cr8tive! going to try! ;)

Original comment by cja...@gmail.com on 22 Feb 2012 at 7:31

GoogleCodeExporter commented 9 years ago

Hey Carlos,
I was looking at your post #44 and I am experiencing the same problem. did you 
ever get it resolve? if so how?

Danny

Original comment by dannyper...@gmail.com on 20 May 2013 at 6:36

negativerad / er9x

Add support for DSM2 (spektrum) TX boards #330