4110 Mercury SRS en 01
4110 Mercury SRS en 01
4110 Mercury SRS en 01
mErcury SrS
Dear customer,
We are delighted that you have decided to purchase the PowerBox Mercury SRS po-
wer supply from our range.
We hope you have many hours of pleasure and great success with your PowerBox
Mercury SRS.
Product description
The PowerBox Mercury SRS is a new power management system which combines
all the experience and findings we have gained over the last few years, together with
customer requests, in a single compact unit. Never before has so much functionality
been crammed into such a small space! The Mercury SRS is ideal for any application
requiring an airborne system which provides an uncompromising level of high perfor-
mance. Integral iGyro, dual battery, dual receiving system, telemetry, door sequencer
and servo matching are just a few of the highlights which this small, lightweight device
provides.
Introduction
These instructions explain how to install the Mercury SRS in the model and set it up
with the help of the Assistants. Working through the individual steps in the Assistants
completes most of the programming for the model; all that remains is to set up the
auxiliary functions and fine-tune the servos using the servo-match function. Naturally
it is also possible to set up all the functions of the Mercury SRS manually, i.e. without
using the Setup Assistant. All the menu points are explained individually in the latter
part of these instructions.
Any pilot who has experience using a PowerBox will immediately feel ‘at home’ with
the method of operating the Mercury SRS. The device is operated in the usual way
with the help of a menu system displayed on the OLED screen, and the ON / OFF
switch.
The Mercury SRS must be screwed to a hard surface in the model, otherwise it is
possible that the integral iGyro will not work properly. If the mounting plate is large, it
must be stiffened by the addition of cross-struts. Please note that the Mercury SRS
must always be installed in the model at right-angles to the fuselage centreline. The
actual orientation of the Mercury SRS is unimportant: it can be installed in any location
which is at 90° to the direction of flight. The actual installed position is automatically
detected later when the Assistant is invoked.
The switch is mounted on the fuselage side. As is usual, the inside of the switch
opening should be stiffened by adding a hardwood doubler to prevent serious vibra-
tion from reaching the switch; this is particularly important if the fuselage is made of
GRP. In the case of scale models it is often undesirable to have an exposed switch
on the outside, and for such applications we offer the MagSensor or the Magic Jeti
Switch (only Jeti TX) as alternative methods of switching. Please note, however: the
SensorSwitch is essential for programming the unit, and should always be accessible.
The OLED screen can be installed in any location where it is clearly visible. If the stan-
dard cable (50 cm) is not long enough, we can supply extension leads.
1.2. Connections
The first step in operating the PowerBox is to connect two batteries to it; the two
packs should be of the same type and capacity. Connect the switch, the screen, both
receivers (Spektrum system: four satellites) and the optional GPS II sensor using the
patch-leads supplied in the set. The batteries can be either 2S LiPo, 2S LiIon, 2S LiFePo
or 5S NiMH types. We recommend the use of PowerPaks, which include integral elec-
tronic charge circuitry. If you intend to make up your own battery packs, please note
that correct polarity is vital, as the unit does not include reverse polarity protection in
order to avoid power losses.
Connecting a battery with reversed polarity - no matter how briefly - will instantly
destroy the voltage regulators in the PowerBox.
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1.3. Switching on
This is the procedure for switching the PowerBox on: hold the SET button pressed in,
and wait until the orange LED on the switch lights up. Continue to hold the SET button
pressed in while you briefly press buttons I and II; this completes the switching pro-
cess. The OLED screen now displays the following:
2. CONNECTIONS, CONTROLS
Battery input 1
OLED screen
Battery input 2
GPS
Telemetry and
USB-Interface Adapter/BlueCom Adapter
4 PowerBox-Systems − World Leaders in RC Power Supply Systems
3. MENU
Hold the SET button pressed in for two or three seconds to enter the menu system;
you can now move the cursor using buttons I and II. Hold the SET button pressed in
once you have selected a particular menu point; you can then adjust values and set-
tings using buttons I and II.
4. BASIC SETTINGS
The Mercury SRS must be informed which radio control system you wish to use, as
the bus systems of the various manufacturers differ very widely. You only need to
enter this information once.
The unit’s integral SRS system selects one receiver when switched on, and automati-
cally switches over to the second receiver if the signal is lost. Regardless of the type
of radio control system employed, the change-over process takes just a few millise-
conds, and is not noticeable to the pilot. The Mercury SRS can also be operated with
a single receiver.
Select the GENERAL SETTINGS point at the main menu, then press the SET button; the
following screen display appears:
At this point please select the radio control system you wish to use. With most recei-
vers it is necessary to activate the Bus output, and / or set the correct operating mode.
Bear in mind the following points:
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- PowerBox P²BUS
Connect a receiver to the P²BUS output on RX1 and RX2.
Other receivers with an S-BUS output can also be used; please refer to the set-up
notes included in the instructions supplied with the receiver.
Telemetry: if you wish to use telemetry, you will need the PowerBox Teleconverter,
which is available as an optional extra. This is used to connect the TELE output on
the PowerBox to the S-BUS 2 input of your receiver.
Telemetry: if you wish your transmitter to receive telemetry data, you will need the
Spektrum TM1000. Connect the three-pin TELE output of the PowerBox to the DATA
input of the TM1000. Connect the four-pin TELE output of the PowerBox to the
X-BUS input of the TM1000.
- Jeti
With a Jeti system it is only necessary to set one SAT or EXT output (depending on
the particular receiver) to UDI 16. The remaining adjustments are carried out using
the transmitter’s device manager: Serial output: UDI
Primary settings:
• Signal speed: 10 ms
• PPM settings: Direct
• Failsafe: Inactive (if two receivers are in use; otherwise any setting)
6 PowerBox-Systems − World Leaders in RC Power Supply Systems
Telemetry: if you wish your transmitter to receive telemetry data, connect the TELE
output of the PowerBox to the EXT input of your satellite.
- Graupner HoTT
When a HoTT system is used, the receivers should first be bound; adjustments can
then be carried out in the Telemetry menu. All receivers require the CH-OUT-TYPE to
be set to SUMD-OF-16.
• SUMD-OF-16 is present at Output 8.
• GR32: SUMD-OF-16 is present at Output S.
Telemetry: if you wish your transmitter to receive telemetry data, connect the TELE
output of the PowerBox to the T input of your receiver.
- Multiplex M-LINK
If you are using a Multiplex system, the B/D output at the receiver must be set to
Serial Servo Data SRXL. This can be accomplished using the USB lead and the MPX
Launcher PC program. If you connect two receivers, the following settings must also
be entered: max. hold duration: 0.2 s and max. Failsafe duration: 0.0 s.
Telemetry: if you wish your transmitter to receive telemetry data, connect the TELE
output of the PowerBox to the SENSOR input of your receiver.
- JR DMSS
For a JR DMSS system you need receivers with an X-BUS output, e.g. RG731BX.
The receiver or receivers are first bound, then set to MODE A at the transmitter. The
X-BUS output now generates sixteen channels, which are accessible from the iGyro
SRS.
Telemetry: if you wish your transmitter to receive telemetry data, connect the TELE
output of the PowerBox to the SENSE input of your receiver.
4.2. Framerate
At this point you can set the servo frame rate (signal repeat rate). If you are using
modern digital servos, you can set a frame rate of 12 - 15 ms, whereas older analogue
servos may only work properly with a setting of 21 ms. If the frame rate is too low, you
will notice that the servos jitter, or have no holding power at the centre position.
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4.3. Battery type
The battery type you wish to use is also determined in the GENERAL SETTINGS menu.
This setting is important, otherwise the battery display will not be correct.
This is where you set your preferred output voltage: the available options are a regula-
ted output voltage of either 5.9V or 7.4V. If you intend to use the 7.4V option, please
ensure that all servos, switches and valves connected to the system are HV types, as
the voltage is the same at all outputs.
5. SETUP ASSISTENT
Once the basic settings are complete, you can move on immediately to the Setup
Assistant, which can be found on the second page of the main menu.
Start the Setup Assistant and follow the instructions on the screen. When you have
concluded the settings on each screen display, press the SET button twice to move on
to the next step. A single press of the SET button allows you to select BACK and return
to the previous screen.
You will find the following screen displays in the SETUP ASSISTANT and also in the
GENERAL SETTINGS menu under SET ORIENTATION:
1. At the first screen you are requested to raise or lower the model’s tail. You can im-
mediately determine whether the correct axis is selected by observing the elevator’s
response. If the elevator does not deflect, briefly jerk the model’s tail up or down
once. The PowerBox detects this movement, causing the sensor to switch to the
2. At this point you are requested to swing the model’s tail to left or right: the rudder
should immediately deflect in response to this movement. Here again: if the rudder
does not respond, briefly jerk the model’s tail once to left or right, so that the sensor
switches to the correct axis.
Now hold the model’s tail far enough to left or right to cause the bar to move to full
deflection, and wait until the rudder jumps back to the neutral position. This conclu-
des the procedure, and the following screen display appears:
You can install the Mercury SRS in any position, provided that the case is at right-
angles (90°) to the fuselage centreline.
The next step is to select the model type which is the closest match to your aircraft.
The main effect of your choice at this point is the assignment of the outputs. Take a
look at the table below and decide which output assignment suits your model best:
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Explanation of terms:
DS 1 – 5: Door sequencer
VT: Vector thrust: thrust vector control
The two model types Normal+VT and Delta+VT include a special feature as standard:
in both cases the VT-RUDDER and VT-ELEVATOR outputs are switched off in flight
modes 1 and 2. This allows you to control a jet with thrust vector control using only
three channels, without having to set up mixers at the transmitter. You only need to set
up aileron, elevator and rudder at the transmitter; thrust vector control is then switched
on in flight mode 3.
All outputs which are not assigned by the Assistant are marked “-”, indicating that they
are free for use with other functions.
As of Version V07 it is also possible to assign a Gain channel to individual axes, and
fine-tune the gain of that axis in flight. You will find more information on this under
Input Mapping.
- RATE MODE: The iGyro operates in Normal mode on all control surfaces.The gyro
simply compensates for gusts of wind.
- TORQUE ROLL:
In this mode the iGyro is capable of maintaining a model’s attitude once it is brought
into the vertical position. When this option is selected, all three gyro axes are turned
up to 100%, and Heading mode is active. This flight mode must not be selected un-
less the model’s forward speed is already close to zero. The torque roll is initiated as
follows: you approach the manoeuvre by slowing the model down. The model is then
rotated to the vertical position, and you activate the TORQUE ROLL option using the
flight mode switch (usually FM3); you then adjust the throttle to maintain the model’s
height. The other control functions should be left untouched. If you now wish to ro-
tate the model around the roll axis, you can do that by giving an aileron command,
taking care not to touch rudder and elevator at the same time. When you wish to
terminate the manoeuvre, remember to disable the TORQUE ROLL option using the
flight mode switch before opening the throttle.
- VECTOR THRUST:
This option is specially tailored to suit model jets with thrust vector control. This flight
mode option has several aspects:
• All gyro outputs including vector control are set to 100% gain.
• Attitude Assist is disabled. This is important with a jet, because there is no pro-
pwash over the control surfaces.
• The control functions for the assigned vector outputs (these are established later as
part of the Assistant procedure) are activated. This means that rudder and elevator
mixers must not be set up at the transmitter, as the Mercury SRS carries out these
functions. When the flight mode option is disabled again, thrust vector control is
restored to the neutral position which was detected when the PowerBox was first
switched on.
• The Airspeed factor is set to a value of 5; this provides more time to switch flight
modes as the model approaches and leaves the hover, without a tendency for the
model to oscillate due to the high gain setting.
The function is set up by accessing the appropriate flight mode using the flight mode
switch, and selecting the desired function using buttons I and II on the SensorSwitch.
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5.6. Teaching the aileron, elevator, rudder, landing flap and throttle
functions
During the following sequence of queries the Assistant assigns the channels to the
appropriate functions as they arrive from the transmitter. The left-hand column shows
the detected channel; in the centre is the function; the right-hand column shows the
associated output of the Mercury SRS. You can immediately plug in your servos and
check their operation. The Mercury also detects whether you are using, say, one or two
channels for aileron or elevator. The outputs are assigned correctly according to the
model type you selected earlier.
In the next two screen displays the gyro sensitivity (gain) is automatically set to ma-
ximum. You can now check the direction of effect of the gyro very simply by moving
the model, and reverse the directions if necessary. The control surface must always
deflect in the direction in which that part of the model is moved.
Examples:
- If you raise the tailplane, both elevators must deflect up.
- If you raise the right-hand wing, the right-hand aileron must deflect up.
- If you move the fin to the left, the rudder must deflect to the left.
If you need to reverse the direction of gyro effect, move the cursor to the appropriate
control surface and press the SET button.
6. OUTPUT MAPPING
As can be seen in the screen-shot above, the left-hand column shows the output letter;
the centre lists the assigned function or the transmitter channel; and the right-hand
column is used to set each output to Hold or Failsafe if the radio link should fail.
- DIRECT 1 to 18:
Depending on your radio control system, channels 1 to 18 can be output directly, as
they arrive from the transmitter.
Example: at your transmitter the wheel brakes are assigned to channel 9, and you
wish to connect the brakes to output E. Move the cursor to E and confirm your choice
by pressing the SET button. Set the following at E: DIRECT 9. The servo connected to
output E now follows commands from channel 9 at your transmitter 1:1 - unless, that
is, you have made adjustments using the servo-matching facility.
Each of these axes is individually variable for gain, direction of effect and gyro function.
Example:
a) The right-hand aileron is connected to GY AILE-R, the left-hand aileron to GY AILE-L.
b) The rudder is connected to GY RUDD-A, the steerable nosewheel to GY RUDD-B.
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- DOORS. 1 to 5:
If you select one of these functions, the appropriate output is linked to the door se-
quencer. Which wheel door or valve is controlled by which door sequencer output is
left entirely up to you, but we recommend using the Door Sequencer Assistant for the
set-up process, as this will assign the outputs correctly.
HD/FS:
- FS (Failsafe):
If a complete loss of signal occurs, affecting all receivers connected to the system,
this output moves to a previously determined position. If you wish one or more out-
puts to take up a pre-determined position if the radio link fails, select the FS option
for that output.
At this point you should leave the OUTPUT MAPPING menu and select the GENERAL
SETTINGS menu, where you will find the TEACH FAILSAFE POSITIONS menu point.
Now use the transmitter controls to move all the control surfaces, the undercarriage
and the throttle to the positions you want them to assume if a failsafe event is trig-
gered, then press the SET button; this action stores the positions. You can test this
setting simply by switching the transmitter off: the servos will immediately move to
the positions you have just established.
- HD (Hold):
If a complete loss of signal occurs, affecting all receivers connected to the system,
this output remains in the last “good” (known) position.
7. SERVOMATCHING
The Servo-Match function provides the facility for adjusting the centreposition and
end-points of the servos connected to the backer. If you have a model aircraft with
more than one servo per control surface, this makes it possible to set up multiple
servos to move to identical positions at identical times. Since this ensures that the
servos do not work against each other, their effective life is increased, and more power
is available to move the control surfaces; matched servos also draw lower current. It
is also possible to reverse the direction of rotation of individual servos. This function is
useful if you wish to employ fewer channels at the transmitter. For example, the right
and left elevators, or the right and left landing flaps, can be controlled using only one
radio channel. In models such as jets and warbirds, which by their nature have a large
number of working systems, this feature can be very important, but it can also make
transmitter programming much easier with other types of model.
To ensure accurate servo matching, the output to be adjusted must first be initialised.
Leave the associated transmitter stick at centre. Move the cursor to INIT OUTPUT and
press the SET button. Now move the transmitter stick to both end-points. The graphic
display shows the movement of the upper arrow, which indicates the input signal. The
bar inside the box shows the movement of the output. The three lower arrows indicate
the centre and end-point positions which are ‘learned’ in this process.
Note: if the channel has not yet been initialised, it is not possible to select the
START and REVERSE SERVO points.
The following examples illustrate the correct procedure for the Servo-Match function:
- Disconnect the linkages from the unmatched servos, as they may exert damaging
forces during the adjustment procedure!
- First adjust the mechanical linkage of one servo (generally the inboard one,
i.e. closer to the fuselage, connected to OUTPUT A), then - if necessary -
adjust it at the transmitter, until the centre position and maximum end-points are as
you require.
- Now select the channel to be fine-tuned in the servo-matching menu. In this example
it is OUTPUT B.
- Leave the corresponding transmitter stick at the centre position.
- Now select: INIT CHANNEL
- Initialise the output by moving the transmitter stick to both end-points in turn.
-M ove the cursor to START SERVOMATCHING but do not press the SET button at
this stage!
- At the transmitter, move the aileron stick to the position to be adjusted, then press
the SET button.
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- You can now release the aileron stick: the PowerBox maintains this position. You now
have both hands free, and can adjust the position accurately with one hand, using
buttons I and II, whilst checking the length (matching) of the disconnected ball-link at
the horn with the other hand.
- Press the SET button again to conclude this adjustment.
- Complete the set-up procedure for the centre position and both end-points before
re-connecting the servo linkage.
- If you need to carry out further adjustments to another end-point or centre position,
move the aileron stick in the desired direction again, and press the SET button again
to start the procedure.
-R epeat the procedure with all the servos connected to the same control surface.
Note: if your model is fitted with very large ailerons, it can be advantageous not to
match the servos with 100% accuracy. If the servos are precisely matched, gear-
box play may allow aileron flutter to develop. You can eliminate this risk as follows:
first match the servos exactly to each other, and then press buttons I or II two or
three times to reduce the effect of lost motion in the servo gears to a controlled
extent.
- Disconnect the linkage to the left-hand landing flap, to avoid the servo being subjec-
ted to severe forces during the adjustment procedure.
- The right-hand landing flap servo is connected to OUTPUT E; carry out the mecha-
nical adjustment, then fine-tune it using the transmitter until the centre position and
maximum end-points are correct.
-N ow select the channel to be matched in the servo-matching menu. In this example
it is OUTPUT K.
- Move the landing flap switch to the center position - not one end-point!
- Now select: INIT OUTPUT
- The output is initialized by moving the switch on your transmitter to both end-points.
If you have set up a delay at the transmitter, wait until the end-point has been reached.
- Use the SET button to select REVERSE SERVO. A tick appears after the function, and
the left-hand landing flap servo now operates in the correct direction.
- Move the cursor to START and press the SET button.
-U se button I or II to adjust the center position of the left-hand landing flap to the exact
position required, then press the SET button.
Select the SEQUENCER point at the main menu; this takes you to the following screen
display:
The SETUP ASSISTANT helps you to adjust the gears and doors in a few minutes.
The EXPERT MENU provides a very powerful programming interface, with which you
can program highly individual sequences, or alternatively expand the settings previ-
ously entered using the SETUP ASSISTANT. More on this later.
The SETUP ASSISTANT guides you through the settings: on-screen instructions de-
scribe everything that you have to do. These instructions simply provide supplemen-
tary information which cannot be supplied by the PowerBox itself simply due to the
size of the screen.
The recommended programming procedure is as follows: first enter the basic settings
using the SETUP ASSISTANT. At this point the system setup will be complete for 90%
of all models. If you wish to add more wheel doors or adjust the sequence to cater for
other details, this can be carried out in the EXPERT MENUE.
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Access the PowerBox’s Door Sequencer menu, and select the SETUP ASSISTANT
point. You will now see the following screen display:
Operate the appropriate transmitter switch, and the PowerBox automatically detects
it as the switch which you have assigned to the retract system. The on-screen arrows
should now be located in front of UP/DOWN. If you find that your retract switch works
in the wrong “sense” (direction), correct it by reversing that output at the transmitter.
Press the SET button again to proceed.
Mode 1:
Extend undercarriage:
Open wheel doors extend undercarriage
Retract undercarriage:
Retract undercarriage close wheel doors
Mode 2:
Extend undercarriage:
Open nosewheel doors extend nosewheel
Open main wheel doors extend main undercarriage close main wheel doors
Mode 3:
Extend undercarriage:
Open nosewheel doors extend nosewheel close nosewheel doors
Open main wheel doors extend main undercarriage close main wheel doors
Retract undercarriage:
Open nosewheel doors retract nosewheel close nosewheel doors
Open main wheel doors retract main undercarriage close main wheel doors
Move the cursor to the appropriate mode, and press the SET button to confirm your
choice. Select OK to move on to the next screen display:
Connect your retract system valve to output C. One of the following will now occur,
depending on the way your valve is programmed:
a) V
alve is triggered, and the undercarriage retracts. Press button II on your SensorS-
witch, and hold it pressed in until the undercarriage extends again.
b) Valve is not triggered, and the undercarriage remains in the extended state.
Press the SET button twice to move to the next screen display:
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The undercarriage should now retract. If not, hold button I pressed in until the valve is
triggered, and the undercarriage retracts. Press the SET button to move on to the next
stage of the procedure:
Connect the servo for the first nosewheel door to output F. Use the SET button to close
the first nosewheel door, then confirm by pressing the SET button. In the next screen
display open the first nosewheel door again.
The next steps are used to set up the second nosewheel door and the two rear wheel
doors. The procedure is identical to that described for the nosewheel doors.
Note: if you are only using one valve for all the wheel doors, you can skip the doors
not required by selecting OK.
Caution: the Door Sequencer Assistant overwrites the Output Mapping! Depending
on the number of doors in your system, outputs C, F, I, L and O will be overwritten
with door sequencer functions.
All the settings are now complete, it will now take a few moments for the Assistant
to create the necessary tasks, and move the doors to the correct position without any
fouling or jamming.
The tasks created by the Assistant are described in detail under Point 9.4. If the timing
(pauses, opening times and closing times) is not exactly as you wish, you can change
the settings manually at any time. You will find a range of examples of settings in our
PowerBox Forum under FAQ.
Once you have completed all the points listed above, it is time to carry out test-flights
with the iGyro. Even though the Mercury version of the iGyro only requires one rotary
knob or slider for the adjustment process, we recommend carrying out the procedure
on the ground several times until you are confident that you know how to complete
the process. Note that previous settings are overwritten every time you carry out this
point. Just to be sure, please check the direction of effect of the gyro functions once
more before you fly the model.
From the main menu select the TEST FLY ASSISTANT point.
The Mercury SRS carries out a self-calibration of the gyro sensors, and resets the ma-
ximum permitted control surface travels. In the next screen display you are requested
to move all the transmitter sticks to both end-points. When you have done this, confirm
by selecting OK.
At the next screen you must move the flight mode switch to FM2, and set the gain
control to 0%.
As soon as you have done this, the Mercury SRS skips to the set-up screen display.
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Launch the model and fly at half-throttle parallel with the landing strip. Increase gyro
gain until the aircraft just starts to oscillate around one axis. At this point reduce gain
slightly until the model shows no sign of oscillating in any speed range.
Note: if you are using the Mercury SRS without GPS II, it is vital to ensure that the
gain you set does not allow the model to oscillate even at full-throttle.
Please take your time to complete this step properly! If the first level pass is too short
to enable you to turn up the gain as far as you would like, simply carry out another
pass. If you are not confident of doing this, ask a friend to adjust the gyro gain setting
for you.
If there is no wind at all when you carry out the set-up flights, it can be helpful to give
the gyro a little “work” to do: briefly move the sticks away from centre to check that the
model maintains its heading accurately, without any tendency to over-correct.
The ideal test: set the model in the knife-edge attitude and adjust the rudder on its own
to maintain a steady height; leave the aileron and elevator sticks alone. The model
should now fly exactly straight, without any hint of oscillation.
This final test is by no means essential, but it does provide a very clear demonstration
of how effectively the iGyro does its job!
When you are sure that gyro gain is set correctly, move the flight mode switch to select
FM1. This causes the iGyro to adopt the previously selected gain setting, and also
immediately adjusts your pre-defined iGyro flight modes. Once you have done this, you
are free to activate the flight mode you wish to use.
Example: gain setting established during the set-up flight: 37%. These values are ad-
opted for flight mode 2, while flight mode 1 and flight mode 3 are automatically adjus-
ted by the Assistant based on your earlier inputs.
The model’s set-up is now complete, although manual fine adjustment is still possible
at any time: either by manual intervention in Gyro Settings, or by assigning a Gain
channel for individual axes. The latter enables you to fine-tune individual axes accura-
tely in the air.
You can access the RF-Flight recorder display by briefly and simultaneously pressing
buttons I and II on the SensorSwitch:
ANT. FADES: this item displays the lost data packets for the individual receivers or
satellites.
LOST FRAMES: this value shows the occasions when none of the receivers connected
to the system was able to deliver a valid data packet.
HOLDS: this value is incremented when none of the receivers connected to the system
was able to supply a valid signal for a period longer than 250 ms. In this case the ser-
vos move to the Hold or Failsafe positions set in the PowerBox.
The main screen displays the elapsed flight time. You can use this timer to keep track
of the power-on time, and reset it every time you recharge the batteries. The time is
reset by simultaneously pressing buttons I and II on the SensorSwitch; hold both but-
tons pressed in until the screen displays the message RESET.
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10.3. Gyro Settings
The Gyro Settings menu permits you to adjust the gyro values manually. We recom-
mend that you set up the iGyro using the Setup Assistant and test-fly the model using
the Testfly Assistant; in the majority of cases it is likely that no further fine-tuning will
be required. However, the following section describes the individual points in case you
ever need to adopt non-standard settings.
- AXIS: at this point you select the axis which is to be adjusted. The Mercury SRS of-
fers six axes: Aileron-R, Aileron-L, Elevator-R, Elevator-L, Rudder-A and Rudder-B.
- FM: here you select the flight mode which you intend to alter. The flight mode is
selected using the transmitter switch you have already assigned (Input Mapping).
- GAIN: this point displays the gain setting, which can be adjusted individually for each
axis and each flight mode. If you find that gyro gain on one or other of the axes needs
to be increased or reduced, you can simply fine-tune the value at this point using
buttons I and II on the SensorSwitch.
- ATT. ASSIST: Attitude Assist refers to “Heading” mode or “Hold” mode, as described
earlier. It is possible to switch Attitude Assist on or off separately for each gyro axis.
- DIRECTION: this item refers to the direction of effect of the gyro axis. If you are a
newcomer to gyros, please note: the control surface must respond in the same direc-
tion as the part of the model which is moved. For example: if you raise the right-hand
wing, the right-hand aileron must also deflect up.
Caution: please don’t confuse this with the direction in which the transmitter cont-
rols operate! It is vital to check the direction of gyro effect very carefully every time
you make any adjustments to the iGyro.
10.4. DOORSEQUENZER
The door sequencer in the Mercury SRS provides completely unrestricted facilities
for implementing control systems for retractable undercarriages and canopies. All se-
quences are controlled by means of “TASKS”.
- SETUP ASSISTANT
We recommend that you start the adjustment process using the SETUP ASSISTANT.
This step-by-step guide to setting up the system presents the tasks in the appropri-
ate order, automatically locates the channel for the retract switch, and assigns the
door sequencer outputs in OUTPUT MAPPING. The SETUP ASSISTANT is described
under Point 5.
- EXPERT MENUE
If you work through the Assistant procedure and then find that some fine-tuning is
desirable - perhaps in the timing of the sequence - you can make these changes in
the EXPERT MENU:
The TASK is the key to all adjustments. A Task can be defined as the movement of
one servo from the start position to the stop position, with defined start and stop
times. Twelve tasks are available for the retraction process, and a further twelve
tasks for the extension process. This means that it is possible to program 24 diffe-
rent movement sequences.
www.powerbox-systems.com 27
A single Task contains the following information:
Value Range
Task number 1 - 12
Extend or retract undercarriage UP » DOWN / DOWN » UP
Servo number 1–6
Servo START position 700µs – 2300µs
Servo STOP position 700µs – 2300µs
Start time 0 – 25.0s
Stop time 0 – 25.0s
UP » DOWN: all the tasks which you set up with this direction are carried out when the
retract switch on the transmitter is moved to the “Extend” position.
In our example we have selected door sequencer output 3. The servo runs from
the START POSITION: 1152µs (right-hand servo end-point) to the STOP POSITION:
1830µs (left-hand servo end-point).
The servo only starts moving 1.0 seconds after the switch is operated, and the transit
time is 3.0s (difference between 1.0s and 4.0s).
DOWN » UP: all the tasks which you set up with this direction are carried out when the
retract switch on the transmitter is moved to the “Retract” position.
In this example the servo immediately starts moving when the switch is operated (start
time 0.0s), and moves from the left servo end-point (1830µs) to the right end-point
(1152µs) within 3.0 seconds.
28 PowerBox-Systems − World Leaders in RC Power Supply Systems
The positional values vary according to your linkages, and must therefore be set indi-
vidually to suit the specific model. It is important to ensure that the wheel doors do
not jam mechanically. The times stated in our example are also just an illustration, and
need to be set to suit your preference.
The timing of the tasks does not need to coincide with the task numbering. For examp-
le: it is permissible for Task 5 to occur before Task 2.
Our example clearly shows how the function is built up. Additional movements or in-
tervals between opening or closing the wheel doors can be inserted at any time; all you
have to do is set up a new free task. This freedom is intended to remove all restrictions
which might otherwise prevent the model’s undercarriage retracting and extending in
the exact scale manner.
Important: the first START POSITION in the UP » DOWN sequence must always
coincide with the last STOP POSITION in the DOWN » UP sequence. This means:
intermediate steps can be made individually, but the final task must always take
the servo back to its starting position!
Caution: once you have completed the set-up procedure, it is important to check
all the model’s control surface systems with the undercarriage both retracted and
extended. For example, if you were accidentally to assign the GEAR UP – OUTPUT
OFF function to the elevator output, then your model would surely be wrecked im-
mediately after take-off!
www.powerbox-systems.com 29
10.5. Input Mapping
Modern SRS bus technology makes it possible to assign channels for particular fun-
ctions without restriction. The quickest method of assigning the Input Mapping fun-
ctions is to use the Setup Assistant, but it is also possible to assign them manually
at this point.
Since V07 this facility also includes Gain channels for adjusting the gain of the indivi-
dual gyro axes. If you wish to adjust an individual axis in flight, assign a rotary or slider
control at the transmitter which can be adjusted over the range -100% to +100%. This
ensures that any gain adjustment you make only affects the flight mode which is cur-
rently selected. For example, if you assign a gain control to Aileron A, and Flight Mode
2 is selected, you can adjust the gain for Aileron A in flight mode 2. You can also see
this in the Gyro Settings menu.
As with the iGyro 3e, the slider’s travel is divided into two ranges:
- In the range -100% to 0% Attitude Assist is active
- In the range 0% to +100% the adjustment affects Rate Mode only
The gain settings for this axis and this flight mode are saved when you disable the
Gain channel again in Input Mapping.
To assign a channel, use the SET button to select the appropriate function, then move
the transmitter stick, rotary knob or switch which you wish to assign.
Note: if more than one channel is assigned for a particular transmitter control (e.g.
channels 2 and 6 for the ailerons), move the stick repeatedly away from centre and
back again until the appropriate channel is selected. An alternative method is to
assign the functions using buttons I and II.
Most of the points in the General Settings menu have already been explained in Point
4. Those not previously covered are explained below:
30 PowerBox-Systems − World Leaders in RC Power Supply Systems
- SET ORIENTATION: this is the point where the installed position of the Mercury SRS
in the model is established. As in the Setup Assistant, all you have to do after selec-
ting this menu point is raise or lower the model’s tail. The on-screen bar shows when
the angle of tilt is sufficient. Once the bar has filled to the right, you need to hold the
model motionless; the process ends automatically once the PowerBox has unambi-
guously detected the unit’s installed orientation.
- Aircraft Type: this point is also normally carried out as part of the Setup Assistant
process. Carrying it out in the General Settings menu resets the Output Mapping,
which then reverts to the arrangement shown in the table in section 6.
- GYRO SENSE x4: This option quadruples the gyro effect; this is often necessary with large,
sluggish models in order to obtain the optimum stabilizing effect.
Caution: Select this option only if 100% gyro effect is inadequate! Selecting this
option resets all gain settings to 0%!
Re-start the Testfly Assistant, and fly the model again to establish the optimum valu-
es.
This option can be selected if you wish to reset the Mercury SRS to the factory default
settings. You will see a security query whose purpose is to prevent an accidental reset.
10.8. PC-Control
The PC-CONTROL option permits the Mercury SRS to be connected to a PC, a tablet
or a mobile telephone. In this way you can load updates into the Mercury SRS to en-
sure that it constantly reflects the latest state of development. The following methods
are available:
a) Using the BlueCom Adapter (iOS: 9021, Android: 9022), a mobile telephone and
the free PowerBox Mobile Terminal App. You will find the Mobile Terminal App in
your App Store.
www.powerbox-systems.com 31
b) Using the USB Interface Adapter (9020), a PC and the PowerBox Terminal pro-
gram. The PowerBox Terminal software is available as a free download from our
website.
Connect the BlueCom Adapter or the USB Interface Adapter to the Tele-Input.
11. SPECIFICATION
www.powerbox-systems.com 33
13. SET CONTENTS
We make every effort to provide a good service to our customers, and have now esta-
blished a Support Forum which covers all queries relating to our products. This helps
us considerably, as we no longer have to answer frequently asked questions again
and again. At the same time it gives you the opportunity to obtain assistance all round
the clock, and even at weekends. The answers come from the PowerBox team, which
guarantees that the answers are correct.
SERVICE ADDRESS
PowerBox-Systems GmbH
Ludwig-Auer-Straße 5
D-86609 Donauwoerth
Germany
We are not in a position to ensure that you observe our instructions regarding instal-
lation of the PowerBox Mercury SRS, fulfil the recommended conditions when using
the unit, or maintain the entire radio control system competently.
For this reason we deny liability for loss, damage or costs which arise due to the use or
operation of the PowerBox Mercury SRS, or which are connected with such use in any
way. Regardless of the legal arguments employed, our obligation to pay compensation
is limited to the invoice total of our products which were involved in the event, insofar
as this is deemed legally permissible.
www.powerbox-systems.com 35
12/2020
PowerBox-Systems GmbH
Ludwig-Auer-Straße 5
D-86609 Donauwoerth
Germany
+49-906-99 99 9-200
+49-906-99 99 9-209
www.powerbox-systems.com