IOMICA Forum

I hope the CAN or USA sailors can help me here. I have a Futaba 3VC Tx and the FP-R113i Rx, on 40 MHz. The Tx uses an RF module (FP-TU-FM 40), so in theory I can plug in a 75 MHz module, and if I get a 75 MHz Rx, I can sail in the USA IOM Nationals in June

Those fine folks at Tower Hobbies tell me on their Web site that they have a 75 MHz Tx RF module, part number RF-PK-FM, but it isn't clear whether it will fit the 3VC. Not too surprising I guess, since the 3VC isn't on sale in America, but it does look to be the right size and shape. I also notice that their tech notes say the crystal is pre-installed... Does that mean I can't change the crystals of Tx and Rx to avoid a clash at the pond?

Has anyone any experience of changing their Futaba Tx RF module?

Hi Lester,
speak to Ken Binks, Ken sent me a 40mhz module to Australia, simply plug in the back of your trani and buy a 72mhz reciever and away you go.

I must Thank Ken for his excellent service I ordered the parts just a few days befor Xmas and they all arrived before New Year

Daniel Weizman

Lester, chances are very good that the module will fit. In europe, the same (or very similar) radios are marketed under different model #'s. I use JR, and the modules that the Euro radios have are the same casing as the ones in the US. I'd say order it and if it does not fit, Tower will accept a return.
If you cannot get yours converted, I have a spare JR that will easily program to your boat.
See you in June.

Lester. If you, or anyone else coming to the regatta from outside the US, have not resolved this issue, please let me or Jake Leo know. I also have a spare 75 Mhz JR radio, and between the rest of us, we will be able to hook you up and get you going!

Hi Lester I have done some reserch on this and have found the US equialent to be the 3PJ. This is a pistol grip version as that is what the car enthusiasts use. So providing the TX module fits this it should fit the 3VC.
Hope this is of some help.

Thanks for your replies! Ken Binks has explained to me that the "standard" Tx 75 MHz RF module is tuned to a specific spot frequency, and (unlike our 40 MHz band in GBR) if you need a different frequency spot in the 75 MHz band, you need another RF module... Makes it a rather expensive crystal! So I'm working on plan "B".

My Question is have the USA regatta management researched the possibility of a temperory dispensation to use selected 40 Mhz frequencys for the duration of the regatta? The argument that a transmitter of such low power in such a remote locatation will not impact on any other user may carry some weight. That is unless using 40 Mhz in the US may set off WW III.

I believe the organizer has contact the local air clubs and other frequencies can and will be used. If you're needing specific info contact Jake.

IanHB wrote: My Question is have the USA regatta management researched the possibility of a temperory dispensation to use selected 40 Mhz frequencys for the duration of the regatta? The argument that a transmitter of such low power in such a remote locatation will not impact on any other user may carry some weight. That is unless using 40 Mhz in the US may set off WW III.

I was checking into what the US was doing with 40 Mhz a couple years ago, and what I found was that it is assigned to "extra terrestrial communications research"....

e.t. phone home

Man its no wonder my boat has been doing strange things, those bloody aliens must be on my frequency. They are obviously rubbish sailors as they can`t win a race with my boat.

Lester:

I have a JR Radio X-756. The extra 75mhz module that I have will not be used at Nationals and so you are welcomed to use if it fits your radio equipment which it probably does. I will also have a 75mhz receiver available as well to go along with the module. Just let me know if needed.

I only have a few frequencies on 75mhz but I am sure that all who will be present we will come up with something.

Looking forward to seeing you again at Nationals. Also great to see that Graham has commited to join in on the fun. It will be my first opportunity to meet and sail with him in person.