EdgeTX for Beginners: A Comprehensive Guide

EdgeTX is a powerful open-source operating system for RC radio transmitters, widely used by RC and FPV enthusiasts. This guide provides a comprehensive foundation for using various radios, covering setup, configuration, customization, advanced features, and troubleshooting. While radio interfaces may vary (e.g., black and white vs. color screens), EdgeTX’s core functionality remains consistent. Refer to the official EdgeTX user manual and community forums for further learning.

1. Introduction

  • What is EdgeTX?
    EdgeTX is the operating system that powers RC radio transmitters, enabling precise control over aircraft and vehicles. Mastering its features enhances user competence and confidence, moving beyond basic tutorials.

  • Diversity in Radios
    Radios vary in form factor (e.g., Jumper T Pro, RadioMaster Boxer), with differences in screen type (black and white vs. color touchscreen) and navigation. However, EdgeTX’s core settings and functionality remain adaptable across models.

  • Resources
    The EdgeTX user manual provides detailed references, while this guide and the EdgeTX community offer practical insights and support.

2. Setting Up Your EdgeTX Radio

Proper setup is critical for safe and effective operation. Follow these steps to get started:

  • Install EdgeTX Firmware

    • Download the latest firmware for your radio model from edgetx.org.

    • Flash it using an SD card or USB connection, following your radio’s specific instructions.

  • Prepare Your SD Card

    • Format the SD card to FAT32.

    • Ensure key folders are present: /MODELS, /SOUNDS, /FIRMWARE, /IMAGES. These are typically included in the EdgeTX package.

    • Copy necessary files (e.g., sound packs, firmware) from the download.

  • Basic Configuration

    • Power on the radio and press the SYS (or equivalent) button to access SYSTEM settings.

    • Configure initial preferences like language, date, and time.

  • Set Up Models

    • Access the MODEL menu to create a new model.

    • Define the model name, type (e.g., fixed-wing, multi-rotor), and channel count.

    • Configure model-specific settings like switch mixes and endpoints.

  • Bind Receiver

    • Follow your receiver’s binding procedure (e.g., ExpressLRS, Crossfire). Ensure the radio’s RF module is set to the correct protocol.

  • Setup Controls and Mixes

    • In INPUTS, map physical controls (sticks, switches) to inputs.

    • In MIXES, define how inputs translate to channel outputs (e.g., elevon mixing for flying wings).

  • Check and Adjust Fail-safes

    • Set fail-safe settings in the receiver or radio to handle signal loss safely (e.g., throttle to zero).

  • Test Your Model

    • Perform ground tests to verify control responses.

    • Please conduct a cautious flight test to make sure it's proper.

  • Explore Advanced Features

    • As you gain experience, explore telemetry, logical switches, and special functions.

For model-specific details, you can just consult the user manual or community resources.

3. Understanding Key Concepts

  • Channel Values

    • Channels range from -100 to +100 (or 1000 to 2000 in PPM), representing control positions.

    • Use numerical readouts on the radio’s main screen to diagnose calibration or mapping issues.

    • Channel count varies by radio and receiver (e.g., 8–32 channels).

  • Safety Considerations

    • Ensure switches are in safe positions at startup (e.g., throttle down, landing gear up).

    • Tailor settings for multi-rotors vs. fixed-wing aircraft.

    • Monitor battery voltage and use alarms for critical thresholds.

  • Model Management

    • EdgeTX supports up to 60 models, each with unique settings.

    • Reuse models for identical aircraft; create new ones for distinct setups.

4. Radio Settings and Customization

The Radio Settings menu (accessed via SYS or CIS key) affects the entire radio, offering extensive customization options.

4.1 General Settings

  • Date and Time

    • Manually set in RADIO SETUP. Time may drift without regular updates.

    • Optional GPS sync (via telemetry) adjusts the real-time clock automatically if connected to a GPS-enabled aircraft. Set the correct GMT offset (e.g., GMT-5).

    • Accurate time is useful for SD card logging.

  • Battery Range and Calibration

    • Adjust battery range (e.g., 6.4V–8.4V for 2S LiPo) to match your battery’s voltage.

    • Calibrate using a multimeter if readings are inaccurate. Avoid setting the minimum too low (e.g., <6.0V) to prevent radio shutdown.

  • Sound and Volume

    • Choose from four modes: "All" (beeps for all actions), "No Key" (alerts only), "Alarm" (alarms only), "Quiet" (minimal sound).

    • Adjust master volume, beep volume, and beep length. On color radios, tweak wave and background music volume (e.g., for custom SD card audio).

  • Haptic Feedback

    • Enable vibration for notifications (e.g., alarms, jog wheel use).

    • Customize intensity and duration. Combine with audio for enhanced alerts.

  • Alarms

    • Configure alarms for low battery (match to battery range minimum), inactivity, low memory, sound off, and RSSI shutdown.

    • RSSI shutdown warns if a receiver is connected, requiring confirmation to power off (can be disabled).

  • Backlight Settings

    • Set triggers: "Keys" (buttons/jog wheel), "Controls" (sticks), "Both," or "On" (always on). "Off" is unavailable on color radios.

    • Adjust brightness, duration, and inactivity timeout (e.g., 5 seconds). For power saving, use "Keys only" on color radios during flight.

  • Splash Screen and Power On/Off Delay

    • Customize splash screen duration (e.g., 0–10 seconds) and startup sound (e.g., "Welcome to EdgeTX").

    • Set power on delay (0–3 seconds) to prevent accidental startups. Power off delay (e.g., 1 second) avoids unintended shutdowns.

  • GPS Options

    • Enable "Adjust RTC" and set time zone for GPS-based clock updates via telemetry.

  • Voice Language

    • Select a language for voice alerts (e.g., "Battery Low"). Ensure the matching language pack (e.g., "en" for English) is on the SD card.

  • Units and PPM Units

    • Choose metric or imperial units.

    • Adjust PPM precision (e.g., add decimals like 2.3 instead of 2) for finer channel readings.

  • USB Mode

    • Set default behavior: "Ask" (prompts on connection), "Joystick" (simulator use), "SD Card" (file access), or "VCP" (if supported).

    • Ideal for simulator use or file transfers.

  • Default Channel Order

    • Define the order for new models (e.g., AETR: Aileron, Elevator, Throttle, Rudder). Match your flight controller (e.g., Betaflight).

  • Rotary Encoder and Stick Mode

    • Invert jog wheel direction if needed.

    • Set stick mode (e.g., Mode 2: throttle/yaw left, pitch/roll right). Mode 2 is recommended for compatibility.

  • Enabled Features

    • Toggle features like global functions, trainer mode, heli setup, or special curves. Disable unused features to simplify menus.

5. Model Setup and Management

Efficient model management allows one radio to control multiple aircraft seamlessly.

5.1 Creating and Managing Models

  • Creating a New Model

    • In the MODEL menu, select an empty slot and choose "Create Model" or use the setup wizard (color/B&W radios).

    • Specify model type (e.g., multi-rotor) and configure settings.

  • Copying a Model

    • Duplicate an existing model for similar aircraft. Adjust as needed.

    • On B&W radios, use "Copy Model"; on color radios, long-press and copy.

  • Model Labels and Templates (Color Radios)

    • Tag models with labels (e.g., "Drones," "Favorites") for organization. Use single or multi-select with "match any/all" logic.

    • Save models as templates for quick setup of similar aircraft.

  • Model Images (Color Radios)

    • Add PNG images (192x144 pixels, <9-character filenames) to the SD card’s /IMAGES folder. Assign via MODEL SETUP or SD card contents menu.

  • Backup and Restore Models

    • Backup models to SD card as .yml files. Restore from backups to recover settings or transfer between identical radios.

5.2 Model Setup Screen

The Model Setup screen centralizes settings affecting EdgeTX’s handling of each model.

  • ADC Filter

    • Filters gimbal noise. Options: "Off," "On," "Global" (follows radio-wide setting).

    • Turn off for Betaflight (has built-in filtering); enable for servos or older flight controllers.

  • Internal and External RF

    • Set protocol (e.g., Crossfire for ExpressLRS, Multi for 4-in-1 modules).

    • Adjust baud rate (e.g., 5.25M for modern radios) to minimize latency. Turn off RF to save power during simulator use.

  • Channel Range

    • Define output channels (e.g., 1–16). Supports up to 32 internally, though receivers typically handle 8–16.

  • Timers

    • Set timers for flight duration, battery use, or fuel tracking. Options: "On," "Switch," "Throttle," "Throttle %."

    • Configure start value, countdown mode (Remain/Elapse), and alerts (beep, voice, haptic). On color radios, add timer widgets.

  • Pre-Start Checks

    • Enable switch position warnings or interactive checklists (via SD card text files) to ensure safe startup.

  • Trims and Subtrims

    • Adjust trim step (e.g., fine, coarse) and enable extended trims for full range.

    • Use subtrims for permanent center adjustments; throttle trim can adjust idle for fuel engines.

  • USB Joystick Mode

    • Choose "Classic" (plug-and-play) or "Advanced" (custom mappings) for simulator use.

  • Trainer Mode

    • Set up buddy boxing for training, linking two radios to share control.

6. Advanced Features

6.1 Mixes and Inputs

  • Mixes Screen

    • Maps physical controls to channels. Add multiple lines per channel with operators (e.g., "Add," "Replace").

    • Use switches to activate/deactivate lines (e.g., dual rates) and adjust weight (e.g., 75% for reduced rates).

  • Inputs Screen

    • Shapes control inputs before mixing (e.g., adjust stick travel to 75%).

    • Ideal for applying consistent logic (e.g., dual rates) across multiple channels. Uses "replace" logic—only one line is active.

6.2 Outputs Screen

  • Adjusting Endpoints

    • Set Min/Max values (e.g., 1000–2000 for Betaflight) to limit servo travel or match flight controller expectations.

    • Enable extended limits (up to 150%) for servos needing extra range.

  • Subtrims and Trims

    • Use trims for temporary centering; subtrims for permanent adjustments. "Add Trims to Subtrims" locks trim values.

    • Subtrim modes: "Center Only" (shifts center), "Symmetrical" (shifts range).

  • Inverted Channels

    • Reverse channel direction (e.g., for servos or bind-and-fly vehicles). Alternatively, use negative weight (-100) in mixes.

6.3 Timers and Alerts

  • Setting Timers

    • Track flight time, battery usage, or fuel levels. Trigger via switches, throttle, or manual reset.

    • Customize start values and expiration alerts (haptic, audio, voice).

  • Alerts

    • Enable critical alarms (e.g., low battery, RSSI shutdown) to ensure safety.

7. Maintenance and Troubleshooting

  • Firmware Updates

    • Check edgetx.org for updates. Use EdgeTX Buddy for streamlined flashing.

  • SD Card Management

    • Regularly back up models and settings. Replace low-quality SD cards with reliable brands.

  • Common Issues

    • Radio not detected: Use a data USB cable and install ImpulseRC Driver Fixer.

    • SD card errors: Verify FAT32 format and sufficient space.

    • Time drift: Set manually or use GPS sync.

    • Firmware mismatch: Ensure firmware matches your radio model.

8. Tips and Best Practices

  • Navigation

    • Master jog wheel (B&W) and touchscreen (color) methods for flexibility.

  • Safety

    • Conduct pre-flight checks, set fail-safes, and monitor battery levels.

  • Customization

    • Tailor settings to your flying style. Use templates and labels for efficiency.

  • Community

    • Engage with the EdgeTX community for support and advanced tips.

Following this guide will give you the confidence to leverage EdgeTX’s full potential for safe and enjoyable RC experiences. Dive deeper with the EdgeTX community and its resources.