Converting Hitec 40MHz FM radio to 2.4 GHz
Posted: Fri Jan 07, 2022 5:52 am
In the late 2000s I bought a Hitec Eclipse Pro Car 3-channel programmable FM transmitter to run all of my faster RC cars (well, the ones that actually saw a track... 
). Now I would like to convert it to 2.4 GHz by swapping the module.
Looking at the options for modules, it seems that certain modules for Futaba are compatible with Hitec (and the other way around). I would prefer a module with the antenna mounted to the module, as to not have to swap the antenna the whole time when switching from 40 MHz FM to 2.4 modules.
So it seems I could get a Spectrum module for Futaba (DSM2), or go with one of Hitec's own modules, like the Spectra 2.4DS.
However, I am a bit rusty on what 2.4 versions are current and what is compatible with each other. Assuming that the modules I can use are all somewhat older, what would be the best choice for maximum compatibility?
The current module on the back of the radio is a HP-MIC module that attaches with a 5-pin connector.
Or can I better buy a brand new system?
Edit: after some more research, I think I have the following options:
- Spectrum module for Futaba radios, for old large module style (discontinued)
- Hitec's own modules, Spectra 2.4DS + compatible RX, still in production, but cannot find it in my own country anymore (seems Dutch shops only sell Hitec servos these days)
- Futaba module for old large module style, provided I find the correct one because not all encoding systems work with a Hitec TX (possibly discontinued)
- FrSky module for Futaba/Hitec radios, for old large module style (discontinued)
- Corona Chinese cheap module, but just looking at the threads with stupid problems makes me want to skip it. Also possibly discontinued.
- Maybe a Multiplex module? Unfortunately their German site (which is also the Hitec Europe site) appears to be a mess...
). Now I would like to convert it to 2.4 GHz by swapping the module.Looking at the options for modules, it seems that certain modules for Futaba are compatible with Hitec (and the other way around). I would prefer a module with the antenna mounted to the module, as to not have to swap the antenna the whole time when switching from 40 MHz FM to 2.4 modules.
So it seems I could get a Spectrum module for Futaba (DSM2), or go with one of Hitec's own modules, like the Spectra 2.4DS.
However, I am a bit rusty on what 2.4 versions are current and what is compatible with each other. Assuming that the modules I can use are all somewhat older, what would be the best choice for maximum compatibility?
The current module on the back of the radio is a HP-MIC module that attaches with a 5-pin connector.
Or can I better buy a brand new system?
Edit: after some more research, I think I have the following options:
- Spectrum module for Futaba radios, for old large module style (discontinued)
- Hitec's own modules, Spectra 2.4DS + compatible RX, still in production, but cannot find it in my own country anymore (seems Dutch shops only sell Hitec servos these days)
- Futaba module for old large module style, provided I find the correct one because not all encoding systems work with a Hitec TX (possibly discontinued)
- FrSky module for Futaba/Hitec radios, for old large module style (discontinued)
- Corona Chinese cheap module, but just looking at the threads with stupid problems makes me want to skip it. Also possibly discontinued.
- Maybe a Multiplex module? Unfortunately their German site (which is also the Hitec Europe site) appears to be a mess...