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By that, I mean the leds on the Spektrum receivers. I don’t know about anyone else, but I can’t possibly mount my main and satellite receivers in such a way as to be able to be seen from the outside of the aircraft. Especially, on an aircraft without a clear canopy, like my recently resurrected NexSTAR which I have renamed WaveSTAR. But, that’s another story.

Anyway, I was trying to come up with a way to see the leds, when I powered on the plane, and also when I retrieve it, to verify there were no “brown-outs”. Since the insides are completely not visible when flight ready, I thought of the idea some guys are using for flying lights, Fiber Optic Cable. After all the positive response I received after I showed off my idea at a club meeting, I decided to share it with everyone. So here goes…

For my example I’m using a Spektrum AR7000, which by no means is the only possible setup this might work with.

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The yellow circle on the main receiver…

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and the satellite receiver…

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shows the location of the led.
I used a small finger tip drill, to be as accurate as possible. And, to keep from running into the led, on the circuit board below.

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As you might expect, this operation is completely at your own risk. And, would probably void any warranty. So, don’t attempt it, unless you’re prepared to pay the price.

I used a drill size that would allow a relatively snug fit for the fiber cable. I used 1mm cable, that I picked up off Ebay, cheap.

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Also, I put a dab of canopy glue at the point where the cable entered the receiver’s plastic shell. Depending on the location of each receiver, use enough cable to keep bend radii to a wide sweep and avoid kinks.

With my main rx mounted on one side of the fuse…

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and the satellite rx on the other…

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the cable has an opportunity to make wide turns before exiting the side of the fuse.

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The cable ends are flush with the fuse, and, again, I used a couple drops of canopy glue to keep the cables in place.
Even in the brightly lit meeting room, the club members in the back of the room could still see the lighted cable end. Up close, outside, there’s no problem seeing the light. Now, after checking for any abnormal lights, I can safely turn off the switch, knowing all was well on that flight.


Remember: You are making changes to a piece of equipment that is not sanctioned by the manufacturer, and will probably void the warranty. Attempting this operation, is at your own risk. I cannot be responsible for your ability to complete the operation safely.

However, if you do try it, let us know how yours goes. Mine works fine.

Good luck,
EJ

Bundubasher

Maybe an idea for JR/Spektrum to factory fit these optic cables. I guess one don't need to cut it shorter, just loop it in the fuse... just a thought.