Futaba SBUS & SBUS2
SBUS was one of the first serial data signal protocols. The receiver sends out control signals from the radio in data packets which the flybarless system can decode and use as control commands. This protocol is so popular that other manufacturers are using it as well, i.e. FRSKY receivers. So you don't need to have a Futaba radio system for using SBUS. Please note that the channel assignment of your radio can be different to the Futaba standard though. In this case you must teach a user defined channel assignment during in the BEASTX receiver menu later.
SBUS2 is the successor of SBUS. Basically it is the same protocol as SBUS but enhanced by bi-directional telemetry communication. With the BEASTX devices you can connect the SBUS2 port to the same port as SBUS. The system will accept this signal as well. Using MICROBEAST ULTRA you can take advantage of bi-directional communication. Here you must connect the SBUS2 signal to one of the bi-directional ports: DI2 or SYS.
Connection scheme
| Signal | Port | Telemetry |
|---|---|---|
| SBUS | DI1 | no |
| SBUS2 | DI1 | no |
| SBUS2 | SYS | yes (only MB ULTRA) |
| SBUS2 | DI2 | yes (only MB ULTRA) |
SBUS / SBUS2 - control only
Using SBUS/SBUS2 to control your helicopter is possible with any of the BEASTX devices. Connect the SBUS/SBUS2 port of your receiver with the DI1 port of your BEASTX system using one of the provided standard servo wires.
The ESC or throttle servo is connected at CH5 / IO2 output on MICROBEAST PLUS / ULTRA. NANOBEAST uses CH1 port for throttle.
SBUS2 - control and telemetry
For bi-directional telemetry connect your SBUS2 signal wire either to the SYS port or to the DI2 port of your MICROBEAST ULTRA. In both cases it is mandatory to add a pull-down 4,7kOhm resistor between signal line and ground (minus). When using the DI2 port, also you need an adapter from standard servo connector to 5-pin JST as shown below.
The ESC or throttle servo is connected at IO1 port. If needed, the telemetry data line from the ESC is connected to IO2 port.
BEASTX setup
In order to use your SBUS / SBUS2 receiver you have to scan the input type in the RECEIVER MENU of your BEASTX device and set the correct channel ordering
for your radio system. By default the BEASTX system has a preset channel order that fits to most FUTABA radios. If needed you can change the channel ordering in RECEIVER MENU of the BEASTX system.
| Channel | Function |
|---|---|
| CH1 | Roll / Aileron |
| CH2 | Pitch / Elevator |
| CH3 | Throttle |
| CH4 | Rudder |
| CH5 | Gain |
| CH6 | Thrust / Collective |
| CH7 | AttitudeControl (optional) |
| CH8 | Governor (optional) |
| CH9 | Aux channel (optional) |
(The optional functions are described in the section Optional features.)