Vortex V4 (M6), Doc. V4.00

	Live Status
• Live Status - This screen provides live status information about the Vortex operation. N, 1, 2, H: Indicate the currently selected flight mode. STK: The throttle stick is raised above the Stick On/Off value. GV: The governor is armed and will engage in flight. SEN: The governor sensor is detecting the magnet. R.ERR: The selected rotor RPM and gear ratio push the governor outside its operating range causing an RPM Error.
	About
• About - Documentation and configuration interface for the Spartan Vortex flybarless system. Spartan ©2004-present

	Agility
• Agility - This parameter controls the flip and roll speeds of the helicopter. Higher values will provide faster rotations.
	Style
• Style - When this value is set close to 0% the control is predominately based on flybar simulation. Higher values introduce more of the digital stabilisation algorithms. As a result the flight characteristics start to feel more locked in but also more artificial (also referred to as 'robotic').
	Rotor Gain
• Rotor Gain - Controls the amount stabilisation that is applied to the main rotor. If you experience main rotor oscillations on hard stop manoeuvres (for example at the end of rainbows) or porpoising during fast forward flight reduce this value.
	Mid-Stick Agility
• Mid-Stick Agility - Doubling this value has the same effect as halving the weight of the simulated flybar paddles thus making the helicopter more agile. At the same time the helicopter becomes less stable.
	Collective Boost
• Collective Boost - Increasing this value makes the collective feel crisper in manoeuvres like tic-tocs and rainbows.
	Pitch Up Compensation
• Pitch Up Compensation - Increase this value if the helicopter is pitching up in fast forward flight. Larger values may result to the helicopter feeling more 'robotic'; it is thus preferable to use the lowest value that solves the pitching up tendency.
	Elevator Pre-compensation
• Elevator Pre-compensation - Mixes a small amount of collective pitch to elevator. Some helicopters benefit from this adjustment in full collective fast-forward flight. However, if this parameters is set too high it is likely to affect the behaviour of the helicopter during pitch-pumping.
	Cyclic Response
• Cyclic Response - Controls how fast the helicopter responds to cyclic stick movement. Reducing this parameter makes the cyclic response more gradual as if the pilot is moving the cyclic more gently. If this parameter is set too low the cyclic response will feel delayed. Helicopters with soft head dampeners may benefit from slightly reduced cyclic response as higher values may result to vertical tail bounce during hard elevator stops.
	Cyclic Symmetry
• Cyclic Symmetry - Use this parameter to equalise the flip and roll speeds if they feel different. Use a positive value if the rolls feel faster than flips. Use a negative value if the flips feel faster than rolls.
	Cyclic Decay
• Cyclic Decay - Gradually reduces the cyclic rate as the pirouetting speed increases. As a result the helicopter feels more controllable in fast pirouetting manoeuvres.
	Cyclic Exponential
• Cyclic Exponential - Operates in a similar way as exponential on the radio and allows using a different value for each flight mode. Negative values make the control slower and more precise near the stick centre.
	Cyclic Deadband
• Cyclic Deadband - This adjustment creates a small range around the stick neutral where the helicopter is not affected by cyclic stick movement. The default value is negligible and primarily acts as a filter for minute variations when re-centring the cyclic stick.
	Pitch Curve
• Pitch Curve - With some radio systems it is possible to fly all your Vortex equipped models using the same transmitter program. Keep the curves of the radio system linear and adjust the equivalent curve of the Vortex to tune each model individually. The curves of the Vortex are linear by default and thus they will not interfere with the curves of the radio system if you chose to continue using them. It is advisable to avoid using the Vortex and radio system curves at the same time as the end result can be difficult to predict. Currently curve adjustment is only possible using a DataPod.
	Advanced PID Tuning
• Advanced PID Tuning - The PID gains will generally not require adjustment by the end user. Finding the right balance between them requires extensive experience. Setting these gains higher than the optimal value will have adverse affects and could result to severe oscillations. I Gain: Provides the primary source of stabilisation. Increasing it will make the helicopter feel more locked in and track better but it could also introduce bounce on elevator stops. P Gain: Dampens the rotor. Increasing it can improve elevator stop behaviour. Feed-Forward: This is the amount of cyclic that is passed direct from the stick to the swashplate. D Elevator: Helps eliminate vertical tail bounce on hard elevator stops. If adjustment is required increase it in steps of 5%. D Aileron: As above. Proceed in small increments of 1-2%.

	Pirouetting Rate
• Pirouetting Rate - Sets the maximum pirouetting speed in degrees per second when the rudder stick is at full deflection.
	Gyro Gain
• Gyro Gain - Sets the gain for the tail gyro. The optimal gain value is the highest value you can reach that does not cause tail wag at any time during flight.
	Acceleration
• Acceleration - Sets the acceleration rate of the tail thus reducing strain on the drive gears when the rudder stick is operated sharply.
	Deceleration
• Deceleration - Sets the deceleration rate of the tail thus reducing strain on the tail drive gears. Also, by matching the deceleration rate of the gyro with the mechanical capabilities of the heli fast stops will become crisper and reduce bounce back.
	CW Stop Gain
• CW Stop Gain - The stop gain parameters allow a different amount of gain to be used for stops and can be separately adjusted for clockwise and counter-clockwise rotations. If your helicopter does not wag in flight but is showing wag at the stops lower the stop gain of the corresponding direction that causes the wag. Similarly if the stop appears too soft increase the stop gain of that direction. Increasing the stop gain will make the stops sharper which can help in eliminating stop bounce.
	CCW Stop Gain
• CCW Stop Gain - As above.
	Rudder Exponential
• Rudder Exponential - Operates in a similar way as exponential on the radio and allows using a different value for each flight mode. Negative values make the control slower and more precise near the stick centre.
	Rudder Deadband
• Rudder Deadband - This adjustment creates a small range around the rudder stick neutral where the gyro is not affected by rudder stick movement. Some pilots prefer a moderate amount of deadband as this allows fast collective pitch changes without accidentally affecting the rudder. The default value is negligible and primarily acts as a filter for minute variations when re-centring the rudder stick.
	Gyro Type
• Gyro Type - Select the desired tail gyro mode. The options are Rate and AVCS (Heading Hold).
	Cyclic to Tail Mix
• Cyclic to Tail Mix - This parameter mixes a percentage of the cyclic pitch to tail rotor pitch, thus pre-compensating for any additional torque as a result of rapid cyclic inputs.
	Collective to Tail Mix
• Collective to Tail Mix - This parameter mixes a percentage of the collective pitch to tail rotor pitch, thus pre-compensating for any additional torque as a result of rapid collective inputs.
	Advanced PID Tuning
• Advanced PID Tuning - The PID gains will generally not require adjustment by the end user. Finding the right balance between them requires extensive experience and experimentation. Setting these gains at a wrong balance will have adverse affects in performance and could result to severe oscillations. PID theory states that the P Gain provides rapid corrections to external disturbances, I Gain is responsible for tightness in tail position and D Gain dampens overshoot and bounce back. In reality the correct balance between P and I is very critical to achieve good pirouetting constancy and tail holding power when the collective is punched. In the case of the Vortex, due to special handling of tail stops there is no significant benefit in using any D gain. The Feed-Forward (FF) passes an amount of of the pilot's rudder control direct to the tail servo. This increases the response and sharpness of the tail.

	Governor On/Off
• Governor On/Off - Selects if the governor is operational or not for each of the flight modes.
	Rotor RPM
• Rotor RPM - Selects the desired RPM for the main rotor. The selected value is used by the governor, rotor phase optimiser and vibration filtering algorithms. Set this parameter even if you are not using the built in governor. In this case the RPM value does not need to be precise and a best guess within +/- 100RPM would be acceptable.
	Governor Gain
• Governor Gain - If the motor/engine is hunting (rapidly revving up and down) reduce the gain until the hunting stops. Similarly, if the motor/engine responds too slowly to rapid changes of the collective pitch the governor gain will need to be increased. Electric helicopters require much lower gain than nitro; 20% is typical for electric and 50% for nitro.
	Soft Start
• Soft Start - The soft start operation executes a linear increase to 30% of the overall throttle range, then continues with spool-up gradually accelerating to the throttle stick position. The soft start time defines the interval for the first linear section. Soft start is available only in electric governor mode. To prevent abrupt motor starts set this value to 6.0s the first time you use it, then adjust for the desired response.
	Motor Start
• Motor Start - This parameter is used in combination with soft start. If there is a delay before the motor starts spinning increase the value of this parameter.
	Autorotation Abort
• Autorotation Abort - When aborting an autorotation there is often a sudden jump of throttle as the flight mode is changed from Hold to Idle-Up. This can cause the blades to fold. To prevent this the autorotation abort function provides a gradual increase of throttle over a set time which is adjusted in this menu. The activation mechanism for this feature varies depending if soft start is enabled. Note that soft start is unavailable in nitro mode and thus it should be considered disabled. Bench test without main and tail blades to confirm correct operation.When using the inbuilt soft-start: Set the transmitter throttle hold so that 10-12% throttle is displayed in Setup-Transmitter. This will allow the Vortex to differentiate between autorotation abort and soft start.When not using the inbuilt soft-start: Set throttle hold to a value less than 15% as displayed in Setup->Transmitter. Auto abort is activated when the throttle is less than 15% and suddenly jum
	Engage Ramp
• Engage Ramp - The governor engages when the actual rotor RPM is over 75% of the programmed RPM. For example, when this parameter is set to 3.5s and the head speed is set to 2000RPM the governor will engage at 1500RPM and will ramp up to 2000RPM over the next 3.5 seconds. This parameter also affects the transition time between different RPM selections when changing flight modes.
	Minimum Throttle Limit
• Minimum Throttle Limit - The governor throttle range is limited by this parameter. The governor will never drive the throttle below this point. Higher values provide faster power recovery when exiting prolonged unloaded manoeuvres, for example pogo or overspeed. If this parameter is set too high the governor may be unable to reach and regulate low head speeds. When bench testing the governor without blades lower this parameter to 15%.
	Stick On/Off Point
• Stick On/Off Point - The governor is armed when the throttle stick is higher than this value. It disarms at 5% less. For example if this adjustment is 20% the governor will arm when the throttle stick is over 20% and will disarm when the throttle stick comes down to below 15%.
	Cyclic to Throttle Mix
• Cyclic to Throttle Mix - Mixes cyclic to throttle thus enabling the engine to provide the additional power needed for large cyclic movements. This process eases the workload of the governor and helps maintain more consistent RPM. Large .120 size nitro engines may slightly overspeed during rolls with the default value which will need to be reduced.
	Collective to Throttle Mix
• Collective to Throttle Mix - Mixes collective pitch to throttle thus enabling the engine to provide the additional power needed for large collective movements. This process eases the workload of the governor and helps maintain more consistent RPM.
	Collective to Throttle Boost
• Collective to Throttle Boost - The boost process monitors the manner in which the collective stick is operated to predict if more throttle will be needed in the near future. This process allows the engine to pre-compensate with additional power before it is bogged down by the increase in collective pitch.
	Throttle Curve
• Throttle Curve - With some radio systems it is possible to fly all your Vortex equipped models using the same transmitter program. Keep the curves of the radio system linear and adjust the equivalent curve of the Vortex to tune each model individually. The curves of the Vortex are linear by default and thus they will not interfere with the curves of the radio system if you chose to continue using them. It is advisable to avoid using the Vortex and radio system curves at the same time as the end result can be difficult to predict. Currently curve adjustment is only possible using a DataPod.
	Advanced PID Tuning
• Advanced PID Tuning - For detailed advice on governor tuning please see knowledge base topic 176 on the Spartan website. The P Gain translates to power response. Higher values will provide more power when the collective is punched. The I Gain translates to tightness in RPM control. Higher values will keep the RPM variations to an narrower band. The D Gain controls the RPM settling time and stability. Higher D Gain values can potentially allow a higher P Gain to be used before RPM instability is seen. The Feed-Forward (FF) controls how much of the transmitter throttle curve is passed direct to the throttle output. This is a preemptive throttle control that delivers instantaneous power from the throttle curve. The governor then has to bridge a smaller gap to the ideal throttle point making the overall response faster.

	Flight Log
• Flight Log - During operation the Vortex continuously monitors its internal systems, supply voltage and receiver interface. When noteworthy events occur, for example interruption of receiver signals, it creates a new entry to its internal event log. The log holds just over 2000 events at which point the oldest information gets automatically overwritten. There is no requirement or provision for the user to empty the log memory manually. After downloading the log the oldest information will appear at the top with the start of subsequent flights clearly marked. Keep in mind that the oddest flight at the top of the log will most likely be truncated due to the circular overrating process. Downloading and viewing the log is only possible using the PC configuration software.
	Flight Stats
• Flight Stats - Provides access to noteworthy information of the last flight such as how many times the Vortex switched between satellite receivers or the minimum voltage encountered in flight when the battery/BEC was under load. These data are cleared when the Vortex is powered off; as such, they must be reviewed at the end of the flight.
	Trim Flight
• Trim Flight Results - Swash trim offers some benefits when the helicopter is flying upright but it has a negative effect when flying inverted. Since V4 the swash results of the trim flight are no longer applied to the servos and should only be used to assess the helicopter's mechanical setup. The function of the tail trim remains unchanged and it can greatly improve tail stop quality and symmetry. Effectively it automatically achieves the same as mechanically trimming the tail in rate mode. Wind gust will affect the accuracy of the trim flight, thus it should only be performed in calm conditions. Swash angles over 0.5 degrees are typical when the airframe is misbalanced or the swashplate is not accurately level. We recommend that the cause of such high readings is investigated and rectified. To erase the trim flight results start a new trim flight and then cancel it via the DataPod or simply power off before the trim flight is completed. Note for DataPod users: The letters F, B, R, L indicate the direction in which the Vortex needed to move the swash in order to maintain drift free hover (front, back, right and left respectively).
• Start Trim Flight? - To perform a trim flight activate this function and hover the helicopter. Once it is safe to do so, try not to touch the sticks for 5 seconds. Each time you move the sticks the 5 second interval will restart. It is not necessary for the helicopter to remain perfectly stationary as long as it is only moving very slow. Completion of the trim flight is indicated by the Vortex gently stepping up the collective thus causing the helicopter to slightly rise. Wind gust will affect the accuracy of the trim flight, thus it should only be performed in calm conditions.
• Trim Flight Aborted - The trim flight function was not activated. However, if it was already running it has remained active. To cancel the trim flight simply power off the Vortex. DataPod users can also cancel the trim flight by pressing the [S] button on the HOVER NOW screen.
• Trim Flight Active - The trim flight is now active and the Status light on the Vortex should be flashing rapidly blue. Hover the helicopter as instructed in the previous page. You can now disconnect the DataPod or USB cable. Once the trim flight is competed you can return to this menu to view the results.
	Vibration Analysis Plot
• Vibration Analysis Plot - Vibration Analysis is currently available only on Vortex units with remote sensor and can only be displayed on the DataPod. Vibration Analysis provides a frequency vs magnitude plot of the vibrations present on the helicopter. Use the [+] and [-] buttons to position the cursor. The plot freezes whilst the cursor is active thus allowing to examine any areas of interest. At the bottom of the screen the frequency that corresponds to the cursor position is displayed in RPM and Hz. The corresponding vibration magnitude is shown at the bottom right corner.
	Vibration Analysis Hold
• Vibration Analysis Hold - Vibration Analysis is currently available only on Vortex units with remote sensor and can only be displayed on the DataPod. This parameter is used in combination with the Vibration Analysis Plot. If 'Never' is selected the vibration plot always runs live. When a time interval is selected the plot will freeze after the specified time has lapsed. This delay makes it possible to capture vibration data whilst the helicopter is in flight.
	Throttle Failsafe
• Update Throttle Failsafe? - Set the throttle to the desired failsafe position and confirm that you wish to update. The inbuilt failsafe operates on the Vortex's throttle output; as such it is not possible to monitor its function in the Transmitter Live Controls menu which displays inputs to the Vortex. It is only possible to verify the correct operation of the inbuilt failsafe by observing a servo connected to the throttle output of the Vortex. The inbuilt failsafe takes effect when the Vortex stops receiving updates of the throttle stick position. When using Spektrum satellites or receivers without their own failsafe feature the inbuilt failsafe becomes the primary failsafe. If your receiver offers a failsafe function it should be programmed in addition to the inbuilt one.
• Throttle Failsafe Updated - The new failsafe position is now effective.
	Aux/3 Control Channels
• Aux1 Input Channel - When the AUX/3 port is not used for receiver signal inputs it can drive RC accessories like retract, night lights or glow igniters. This menu option selects which transmitter channels are routed to the spare pins of the AUX/3 port. See knowledge base topic 140 on the Spartan website for details on how to connect servos or RC accessories to the AUX/3 port. The AUX/3 port is not available in the Vortex Pico.
• Aux2 Input Channel - As above.
• Aux3 Input Channel - As above.
	DataPod Control Channel
• DataPod Control Channel - This parameter selects a spare channel of your radio system to be used for the DataPod Remote Adjust function.
	Battery Alarm
• Battery Alarm - When the receiver battery voltage is below the alarm voltage the Vortex will not confirm that it has completed initialisation by zipping the swashplate up and down. The pilot should treat this as an indication that it is not safe to fly. However, the Vortex remains operational and is able to fly.
	System Information
• System Information - Displays the Vortex firmware version.
	Factory Reset
• Load Factory Defaults? - You will be promoted to confirm your selection. Once 'Yes' is selected the factory default values are loaded to all configuration parameters.
• Factory Defaults Loaded - The factory default values are loaded and are now effective.

	Read Me Now
• Read Me Now - The setup menu constitutes the installation wizard for the Vortex. Walk through the menu from the first option to the last in the order that they are listed. Complete all steps even if some do not appear to be applicable to your requirements. When you reach the end of the Setup menu most helicopters should be ready to fly. However, pay particular attention to the Your First Flight section of the Vortex User Guide for additional advice. ATTENTION To aid adjustment of certain parameters the setup process will override the pilot's controls. i. Switch off the engine and disconnect electric motors before accessing setup menu options. Some steps of the setup process may cause the throttle signal to change activating the motor without notice. ii. Do not disconnect the DataPod or PC / smartphone / tablet configuration app whist Setup menu adjustments are active as this may leave servo override functions enabled. iii. Do not attempt to fly the helicopter whist Setup menu adjustments are active. Always confirm that that collective pitch, cyclic, rudder and throttle controls operate properly before takeoff.
	Receiver
• Receiver Type - Select the receiver type that you are using. 'Std' stands for standard RC receiver with individual wire connections for each channel. Use the UDI option for JR XBUS (Mode B), Graupner SUMD and SRXL receivers. Use the DMSS option for the Align/JR RJ01 satellite. If you are using Spektrum satellites select the type of satellite (DSM2 or DSMX), not the capability of your transmitter. The 'Std' option is not available in the Vortex Pico.
• Standard Receiver Connections - Use the supplied wires to connect the Vortex to the receiver as shown below. Pay attention to the specific channel order of your receiver as it may differ from the illustrations. Due to the absence of AUX/3 port it is not possible to connect the Vortex Pico to a standard receiver.
• One Wire Receiver Connections - Use the supplied heavy duty Male-to-Male servo cable to connect the Vortex to the receiver as shown below.
• Satellite Receiver Connections - Connect the satellite receivers as shown below. Spektrum satellites must be of the same type; either both DSM2 or both DSMX. Follow the radio manufacturer's recommendation regarding the number of receivers needed for a particular model. If you are using only one, it must be connected to SRX1. The Vortex Pico supports one satellite receiver only. Currently only one JR DMSS satellite is supported on all Vortex variants.
• Bind Sat RXs Now? - You must bind the satellite receivers via the Vortex at least once even if they have been previously bound to the radio. The bind process also configures the Vortex for the number of satellite receivers you will be using.
• Bind TX Now - If you chose to bind the satellite receivers they should now be flashing. Please complete the bind process using your radio. When the lights on the receivers are lit constantly click next.
• Aileron Channel - Choose which channel of your radio system is assigned to each control. For example, on Futaba radios the aileron is operated by channel 1, elevator by channel 2, etc. If you are unsure check the order that channels are listed in the servo monitor menu of your radio or its user guide. This channel assignment is not applicable when using standard receiver.
• Elevator Channel - As above.
• Rudder Channel - As above.
• Pitch Channel - As above.
• Throttle Channel - As above.
• Gyro Channel - As above.
• Complete - The receiver setup is now complete. Please proceed to the transmitter setup.
	Transmitter
• Use flight modes? - In a similar way to your RC radio system the Vortex offers four flight modes (N, 1, 2 and H) so its behaviour can be altered for different types of flying. Depending on your flying style you may or may not find this feature essential. You should however select 'Yes' if you wish to use the internal governor of the Vortex with more than one RPM selection. If you chose 'No' mode N will always be active and settings for 1, 2 and H are ignored.
• Transmitter Live Controls - This screen shows a live representation of the transmitter controls. You must adjust your transmitter so all controls read 0% when the sticks are centred and barely reach 100% when the sticks are at full deflection. Before you start make sure your transmitter is set to '1 servo' , S-1 or H-1 swashplate type and that the trims remain zeroed in all flight modes. Start by adjusting the transmitter's channel reversing, then sub-trims and finally end-points.
• Transmitter Live Throttle - If you intend to use the built in governor of the Vortex adjust your transmitter's throttle endpoints so the control barely reaches 100% when the stick is at full deflection. If you however wish to use the governor built in to your ESC there is no need to do any throttle adjustments at this time. You will be able configure your ESC after completing the Vortex setup. Simply confirm that the throttle signal is moving in response to the throttle stick.
• Link Flight Modes - We make use of the transmitter's gyro gain menu as a means of linking the flight modes of the transmitter with the flight modes of the Vortex. Set your transmitter to Norm mode and adjust the gain value so the corresponding flight mode is detected by the Vortex and displayed on the screen. Repeat for Idle1, Idle2 and Hold. Specific advice for popular radios can be found in knowledge base topic 138 on the Spartan website.
• Complete - As you exit transmitter setup the Vortex will calibrate the cyclic and rudder neutral positions. Make sure they are both left centered. When ready press the button to confirm, then proceed to the sensor setup.
	Sensor
• Sensor Preparation - If your Vortex has a remote sensor you can connect it to the IMU port of the flight computer now.
• Mounting and Wire Exit - Select the mounting orientation. The first two letters denote how the unit is mounted on the helicopter and the remaining two the direction that cables exit from the unit. For example 'UpBk' means upright (Up) and the cables or connectors are towards the back (Bk) of the helicopter. Similarly, front (Fr), inverted (In), left (Lt), right (Rt). Here are some examples:
• Sensor Live View - The bar graphs display live measurements from the gyro sensors. Rotate the helicopter in the pitch, roll and yaw axis and verify each sensor is reading the correct axis and direction.
• Complete - The sensor setup is now complete. Please proceed to the swashplate setup.
	Swashplate
• Swashplate Servo Type - Select if you are using analog or digital swashplate servos.
• Swashplare Type - Plug the swashplate servos to the Vortex and select the swashplate type that matches your helicopter. See knowledge base topic 140 on the Spartan website for advice on connecting the fourth swash servo (SV6).
• Swash Servo Trim (x3) - Trim each swash servo to aid with optimal linkage geometry. When the trim menus are active the servos are driven to 0 degrees collective and neutral cyclic. If you are using a digital pitch gauge it should be reading zero. Leave it powered on for later swash setup steps.
• Swash Servo Trim (x4) - As above.
• Swash Servo Match (x3) - Operate the collective stick and select the option that makes the swashplate remain level as it travels up and down. Do not worry if the direction of travel is correct at this time. This setup step is applicable to CCPM swashplates only.
• Swash Servo Match (x4) - As above.
• Collective Pitch Direction - Operate the collective stick and select the option that makes the collective pitch move in the right direction.
• Zero Pitch Gauge - Align the blades with the helicopter boom. Zero the pitch gauge by placing it on a flat surface of the helicopter frame and then fit it to the blades.
• Collective 0 Degrees Trim - This option allows slightly raising or lowering the swashplate to set 0 degrees collective pitch. The best practice is for this to be done mechanically by adjusting the linkage lengths. However, use of this parameter may be needed for helicopters with an A-arm and DFC head.
• Max Positive Collective - Adjust this value so that the desired maximum collective pitch is reached.
• Max Negative Collective - Adjust this value so that the negative collective pitch is equal to the positive set in the previous step. If your skill level or flying style requires less negative collective you can adjust the pitch curve on your transmitter after you have completed setup.
• Cyclic Direction - Operate the cyclic stick and select the option that makes the swashplate move the correct way.
• Aileron 8 Degrees - Use a pitch gauge and adjust this value so that 8 degrees pitch on the main blades is reached. Keep it below 120% if possible and adjust the servo ball link if necessary to achieve it.
• Rotate Blades - Place the blades perpendicular to the helicopter boom. Zero your pitch gauge. You can do that whilst it remains on the blades. There is no need to zero it on the helicopter frame.
• Elevator 8 Degrees - Use a pitch gauge and adjust this value so that 8 degrees pitch on the main blades is reached. Keep it below 120% if possible and adjust the servo ball link if necessary to achieve it.
• Cyclic Limit - Adjust this value to set the maximum cyclic that the Vortex is allowed to use whilst preventing mechanical binding. This will typically be in the range 9-12 degrees. Cyclic angles over 12 degrees are likely to create blade flutter and loss of performance. Due to geometry of the swashplate and head linkages there may be small variations between the displayed and measured values. This is not a problem nor will it affect the way the helicopter is flying. Also, ensure that collective pitch is set to perfect 0 degrees whilst measuring cyclic pitch.
• Cyclic Ring Taper - This parameter reduces the cyclic ring size by the set percentage at maximum positive and negative collective. You can use this parameter to eliminate binding of the head linkages when both full collective and full cyclic are preset.
• Complete - The swash setup is now complete. Please proceed to the rotor setup.
	Rotor
• Main Rotor Blades - Set the number of main rotor blades. This parameter is also taken into consideration via the Heli Wizard to select an appropriate initial rotor gain.
• Rotor Direction - Select if the main rotor blades spin clockwise or counter-clockwise.
• Rotor Phase - Used to set the correct phase in some scale multi-bladed rotor heads. It is not needed for the popular 3D helicopters and should remain at 0 degrees.
• Complete - The rotor setup is now complete. Please proceed to the tail setup.
	Tail
• Tail Servo Type - Select the tail servo type you are using. Once the correct servo type is selected you may plug the tail servo to the SV4 port of Vortex.
• Tail Servo Trim - Adjust this value to achieve 90 degrees angle between the tail servo horn and linkage.
• Tail Servo Direction - Operate the rudder stick and check if the tail rotor pitch moves the correct way. Reverse this parameter as needed.
• Tail Servo CW Endpoint - Adjust the servo travel so it reaches maximum tail rotor pitch without binding. If the helicopter manufacturer provides a recommender travel distance or tail pitch range use that instead. For optimal performance the sum of CW+CCW endpoints should be greater than 200%. If the sum is less, move the servo ball link inwards to reduce the tail's mechanical gain.
• Tail Servo CCW Endpoint - As above.
• Complete - We highly recommend that a Trim Flight is performed at the first opportunity. The Trim Flight aids with better tail symmetry and stop characteristics; it is accessible via the System menu. The tail setup is now complete. Please proceed to the governor setup.
	Throttle
• Throttle Servo Type - Select the option that matches the throttle servo or ESC. Once the correct option is selected the throttle servo can be plugged to the SV5 port of the Vortex. Before an ESC with BEC function is connected to the Vortex disconnect any other power source that was previously used during setup. Some ESCs may fail if external power is applied to their output. Note on KBUG: The BEC in Kosmik ESCs shuts down and power cycles continuously if a throttle signal is not provided within a few seconds. However, some RC receivers do not always link fast enough. The KBUG option bypasses this issue by providing failsafe throttle level to the ESC until the receiver has linked. Ensure that you have programmed the Vortex's inbuilt failsafe to motor off when using this option.
• Governor Type - When 'Inhibit' is selected the governor function is disabled and the transmitter throttle signal is channelled to the SV5 servo output. Select this option when using the governor inside your ESC.
• Connect RPM Signal - Compatible Phase Sensors can be connected direct to the RPM port of the Vortex. Castle and HobbyWing ESCs with RPM output can be connected direct to the Vortex. If the RPM plug of the ESC has a middle/red wire this must be removed from the plug before it is connected to the Vortex. The RPM output of your ESC may need to be enabled by configuring the ESC. Scorpion ESCs require a Scorpion Opto-isolation cable between the ESC and the flybarless sysyem. Some YGE ESCs support RPM output. This usually requires an adapter lead between the ESC and the flybarless sysyem. Consult the ESC's user manual for details. More info: See knowledge base topic 151 on the Spartan website.
• Connect RPM Sensor - We recommend using a Spartan RPM sensor (Part no: SRC-RPM or SRC-RPMK including engine mounting brackets) which is designed to work with your Vortex. Some 3rd party RPM sensors may also work. See knowledge base topic 151 on the Spartan website for details.
• Motor Poles - Set the number of motor poles as stated by the motor manufacturer. This value must be exact and not a best guess as this would result to wrong head speed.
• Sensing Magnets - Set the number of magnets on the engine fan, counting only the ones that activate the RPM sensor. If you are using RPM signal from the engine ignition system of a gasser set this to 1.
• Gear Ratio - This is the gear ratio between the engine and the main rotor. If you are unable to find this information in the helicopter's user guide you can calculate it by dividing the number teeth of the main gear by the number of teeth of the pinion gear.
• Auto Abort Detection - The inbuilt soft-start and autorotation abort functions of the Vortex are enabled by default. In order for them to operate correctly the equivalent functions of the ESC must be are turned off. If this is not possible the inbuilt soft-start and autorotation abort will need to be disabled via the Governor menu so the don't interfere with the equivalent functions of the ESC. In order for the Vortex to recognise when autorotation abort is needed the transmitter's throttle hold parameter or H mode curve need to be set to a specific value. Adjust your transmitter so that 11% (+/-3%) is displayed at the bar. With this mechanism autorotation abort will activate when the throttle signal steps from hold to a higher value. Soft-start will activate when the throttle is below 7% and then increased above hold.
• Throttle Servo Direction - Operate the throttle stick and observe the servo moves the correct way. Reverse as required. Most ESCs do not require reversing.
• ESC Calibration - The throttle range of the Vortex and ESC need to be matched. This is necessary even if it was previously done with the ESC connected directly to the receiver or to the Vortex without using the governor. Follow the advice in the user guide of your ESC but when asked to adjust the radio system endpoints, adjust the throttle endpoints of the Vortex instead. There are two common paths which we summarise here: 1) Most ESCs are designed to match the throttle range of the radio system. Typically the stick is placed to full throttle and then the ESC is powered on. After the ESC emits a confirmation tone the the stick is pulled to the lowest position. The ESC emits one more confirmation tone and the process is complete. If the ESC does not emit confirmation tones the throttle endpoints of the Vortex may need to be adjusted to a higher value. 2) Some ESC use fixed endpoints which the radio system needs to match. Typically both max and idle throttle endpoints of the Vortex are reduced to 30%, the stick is placed at full throttle and then the ESC is powered on. The max throttle endpoint of the Vortex is slowly increased until the ESC emits a confirmation tone. The stick is then placed at the lowest point and the idle endpoint is slowly increased until a second confirmation tone is heard. The process is complete.
• Throttle Max Endpoint - Adjust the throttle servo endpoint so the carburettor reaches the fully open position.
• Throttle Idle Endpoint - Adjust the servo endpoint for the approximate idle position.
• Complete - The throttle setup is now complete. Please proceed to the heli wizard.
• Complete - Regardless if the helicopter is nitro, gasser or electric set the throttle curves of the Idle-1/2 to 100-60-100% or 90-50-90% for overpowered setups. Ideally the throttle curve should be tuned to roughly produce the desired rotor RPM however these recommended curves will usually suffice. The Vortex monitors the output of these curves to anticipate power demand. Set the the throttle curve of the Normal flight mode to 0-50-100%. When the electric governor is used this will instruct the Vortex to do a soft-start when the throttle stick is raised above 15% or when switching from Normal to an Idle-Up. If you wish to bench test the governor without blades lower parameter Minimum Throttle Limit in the Governor menu to 15%. The default value of this parameter works well in flight but it will cause overspeed when no blades are installed. The throttle setup is now complete. Please proceed to the heli wizard.
	Heli Wizard
• Load Heli Preset? - This wizard initialises a number of configuration parameters based on the option that best describes your helicopter blade size in millimetres. Select the range, not the closest size. This means that if your helicopter uses 610mm blades it belongs in the 550+ range and not in the 630+. The Heli Wizard also takes into consideration your previous choices of governor type (electric, nitro, gasser) and number of main rotor blades to select initial gains for the main rotor, tail rotor and governor. The preset should be seen as a starting point and in some cases further tuning may be required for optimal results. This 'Wizard' is not a configuration parameter itself and your exact selection is not stored. Instead a number of other configuration parameters are adjusted based on your selection.
• Complete - The heli wizard is now complete. Please proceed to the style wizard.
	Style Wizard
• Load Style for Mode N? - This wizard adjusts the flying characteristics of the Vortex based on your flying style selection. Each of the four flying modes (N,1,2,H) can be configured separately. This 'Wizard' is not a configuration parameter and your exact selection is not stored. Instead a number of other configuration parameters are adjusted to achieve the desired result. You may imagine the wizard similar to asking a friend 'Can you configure my Vortex for 3D?'
• Load Style for Mode 1? - As above.
• Load Style for Mode 2? - As above.
• Load Style for Mode H? - As above.
• Complete - The style wizard setup is now complete.

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