Futaba 6EX Exchange Programme

Ripmax are pleased to announce that with immediate effect we are instigating a full exchange programme for all early 6EX 2.4GHz transmitters. As we have widely publicised, a small number of early 6EX 2.4GHz transmitters had been incorrectly coded, which could have caused problems if two of these sets had been in operation together. The actions we took at the time meant that any potential issues were resolved, however we have taken the decision that the only 100% secure course of action long term is to remove all of the early transmitters from the market and replace with updated transmitters.

IMPORTANT NOTE

6EX transmitters bought more recently will be of the new type, and are identical to the new replacement transmitters now being sent out. To identify if your transmitter is of the old or new type please compare the images, where you will see that the new type carry an “I” sticker – the old type do not have this sticker, and should be returned for replacement.

1. The online form has now been de-activated as we are now over 6 months into the exhange program so please follow the instructions below.
2. Click on the link further down the page to send an email requesting the exchange.
3. Please include your details (name, address, TX Serial etc.) and those of your set (serial numbers, mode).
4. Within One Week of recieving your email we aim to process your application and send you an e-mail with the details of where to send your transmitter.
5. Upon receiving your new transmitter you will need to re-bind your existing receivers to your new transmitter. This is fully explained in your transmitter manual.

Futaba 6EX and TM-7 Important Notification

This notification affects only owners of the Futaba TM-7 module and 6EX FASST systems. Each FASST transmitter contains a unique eight digit identification code, programmed at the factory to identify the respective transmitter and to allow a receiver to be paired only to that radio's signal. Recently we have learned that a very small number of the TM-7 modules, and 6EX FASST systems were incorrectly coded with a common code number during the manufacturing process. These units were subsequently sold prior to our awareness of the situation.

If two or more units using this common identification code were to be in use simultaneously, they may cause interference with one another. Please note: Units which use the correct identification code will not be affected by these units.

We're extremely confident that this is not a widespread problem. However, to give you peace of mind that your system is not affected, we will soon be setting up test points at participating model shops throughout the country where you will be able to go to determine -- within a matter of seconds -- whether or not your transmitter is affected, at no charge to you. (We anticipate that all shops will have been advised and that this testing system will be starting in participating shops very shortly, so please contact your local shop to arrange testing.)

Precautionary Measures and Information (Revised 22-1-2008)

1) As with all radio control equipment, we strongly suggest that you pre-flight your aircraft thoroughly prior to flying. When flying at a location with other FASST owners, particularly prior to all units having been checked, we suggest that prior to flying all models are turned on, then each transmitter is turned on (one at a time) to check for correct operation. If any interactions should occur, do NOT fly. Please return the transmitter/module to the Ripmax Futaba Service Centre immediately.

2) If other FASST owners arrive at the site, then they should turn their model on and ask each of the existing FASST owners to turn on their transmitters to confirm that none of the already tested transmitters operate the model. Once it has been confirmed that none of the other transmitters operate the model, it can be assumed that this transmitter will not interact with any other models either.

3) Each time that your transmitter is turned on, it is imperative that you allow the FASST system an adequate amount of time to thoroughly boot-up completely before shutting down the transmitter. The system requires at least five (5) seconds boot up time prior to turning off the power to the transmitter.

4) If the transmitter and receiver have lost their binding which required them to be re-linked, we recommend returning them to the Ripmax Futaba Service Centre for analysis. This is not expected behaviour and should be investigated accordingly.