CREATING THE FUTURE
To get the inside scoop on the development of the iX12 radio, we talked to Spektrum director Dustin Buescher:
Model Airplane News: Were you and the Horizon team involved with creating some of the new features on the iX12?
Dustin Buescher: The radio has been developed by the entire Spektrum development team—more than 30 developers, engineers, and coders—over the last year or so. There were many challenges that needed to be overcome integrating this technology into an RC transmitter. Most challenging probably was creating the link between the user interface and the processor that sends out the RC commands. I knew the result was worth the time spent when I heard a quote from one of our beta testers, “I’m going to find it very difficult to go back to my other radios!”
MAN: What are your personal favorite new features of this radio, and why?
DB: The user interface developed for the color touchscreen really makes setting up and adjusting models easy and intuitive. Much of the actions and methods we are used to with our smartphones are used on this radio. I really enjoy creating unique custom flight-mode names using the Audio Events menu. This makes it easy to remember what each switch on a complex model operates. Also, uploading or selecting an image of my model is pretty cool and finishes off the model program to make it uniquely mine.
MAN: What’s your favorite app to use on the iX12, and why?
DB: Currently, I am using the PowerBox app to update and configure the iGyro 3e, the Jet Central and Xicoy Bluetooth apps to replace the handheld data terminal for my jets, and the Immersion lapRF for Inductrix Plus races at home.
MAN: What do you think is the feature that RC pilots didn’t even know they needed or wanted that really stands out with the iX12?
DB: The feature that really stands out is the fact the radio is so connected. Now, I can easily register and update the radio, virtually seamlessly through the AirWare app and Google Play. Being able to share model files via Bluetooth and email is so much easier and faster than the traditional SD card. Also, the ability to download and select the entire list of model setup files for E-flite and Blade from the Spektrum RC website really speeds up the box-to-flight time on models from these brands.