Futaba 6EX, 7C and TM-7 Service Advisory

This service advisory affects only owners of the Futaba TM-7 module and 6EX and 7C 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. We have learned that a very small number of the TM-7 modules, and 6EX and 7C 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, utilizing this common identification code, were to be in use simultaneously, they may cause interference with one another. Please note: Units which utilize correct identification codes will not be affected by incorrectly coded units.

There is a very remote chance, through improper operation of the transmitter within a specific scenario, that the unique identification code may be forced to this default code. Despite countless hours of testing and evaluation under normal scenarios (e.g., turning the transmitter on/off in a typical manner, cycling batteries, etc.) we've not been able to eliminate this unique identification code. However, your confidence and satisfaction with the system is very important to us. As such, Futaba's engineers have developed updated software to prevent this from occurring in the future. In fact, it has been incorporated into the subsequent production of these units. If the serial number of your transmitter, or TM-7 module begins with an 'A8', '08' or the serial number begins with an 'A7' or '07' serial number and includes the "I" sticker, the updates have already been included.

Again, the likelihood of encountering this difficulty is extremely minimal and is avoidable by simply allowing the transmitter to power up completely in a normal manner prior to shutting the unit off. If, you would like for us to do so, and your transmitter or TM-7 module do not include the 'A8', '08' or an 'A7' '07' with an "I" sticker, we would be glad to update or replace them accordingly.

Again, we're extremely confident that this is not a widespread difficulty. However, to catch any possible incorrectly coded units in the field and to give you peace of mind that your system is not affected, we have set up test stations at participating hobby shops throughout the country where you will be able to determine -- within a matter of minutes -- whether or not your transmitter is affected, at no charge to you. Please see below for a listing of these testing stations.

If you have questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact our Futaba Service Center at: 217-398-0007 or via email at: service@futaba-rc.com. Our staff is available to you Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm U.S. Central Standard Time.

Precautionary Measures and Information-

It is important to note that the precautionary measures are relevant only to the Futaba FASST items with serial numbers as described below. To determine if your transmitter might be affected, look on the bottom of the transmitter case. If using the TM-7 module, the serial number is located on the inside portion of the module:

6EX: A7xxxxxxx without the "I" (Inspected) sticker
7C 07xxxxxxx without the "I" (Inspected) sticker
TM-7 07xxxxxx without the "I" (Inspected) sticker

The precautionary measures do not apply to systems that utilize a serial number as noted below:
6EX ALL A8xxxxxxx or systems with the A7xxxxxxx serial number which include the "I" (Inspected) sticker
7C ALL 08xxxxxxx or systems with the 07xxxxxxx which include the "I" (Inspected) sticker
TM-7 ALL 08xxxxxx or modules with the 07xxxxxx which include the "I" (Inspected) sticker

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, prior to flying we suggest that all pilots briefly activate their systems simultaneously to check for any interaction between units. If any interactions should occur, do NOT fly. Return the unit to the Futaba Service Center for immediate replacement.
   
   
2. 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. After the battery voltage appears on the LCD, we recommend allowing the system to remain on at least one (1) additional second prior to turning off the power to the transmitter.
   
   
3. If the transmitter and receiver have lost their binding which required them to be re-linked, we recommend returning them to the Futaba Service Center for analysis. This is not expected behavior and should be investigated accordingly.

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