Update MX-12 to 2.4 GHz

I recently found my old Shockflyer RC-plane and decided to get it back in duty. Unfortunately the receiver seems to be broken and I had to get a new one. But the model was still using the analog 35 MHz technology and I don’t want to invest in this anymore. Should I buy a new transmitter?

I decided to save the 300 euros and tried to upgrade my old Graupner MX-12 to a 2.4 GHz system.

I know I’m a bit late to the party, but I’d like to share my experiences here.

I went for a FRSky module and receiver.

Original MX-12

I opened the MX-12 and removed the 35 MHz module. It is connected with 3 wires (GND, PPM, Positive).

MX-12 with 35 MHz Module

You have to determine which one of the wires is the PPM signal and connect all three wires to the FRSky module.

Removed the 35 MHz module

After that we need to find a place for the 3 way switch and the binding button + status LED. I decided to drill a hole for the 3 way switch and place the binding button into the old quartz-slot on the back.

new 3 way switch

binding button and 3 way switch

Oh, I nearly forgot the antenna. I placed the new one into the original slot and fixed it with hot glue.

new antenna

And there you go I got a 2.4 GHz remote control for approx. 30 euros and 2 hours work. I did a successful, simple test and everything worked well.

done!

Next is to replace the broken receiver with the new one and run a full range and control test with the R/C plane. Stay tuned….