The speculation surrounding how the DX8 looks and what features it has are no longer speculation. Read on for the full info from Spektrum RC.
All New Spektrum AirWare™ Software. Remarkably Easy to Use.
The DX8′s powerful new Spektrum AirWare software was developed exclusively by Spektrum from the ground up. This software includes all the programming functions an expert pilot could want, but you don’t have to be an expert to use them. The DX8′s intuitive Simple Scroll™ interface lets you “roll and click” your way between menus with ease. And all the information is presented in crisp, clear detail on a big, backlit LCD screen.
Enhanced Wing Type Programming
When selecting a wing type for an airplane, Spektrum AirWare graphically depicts the type you’ve chosen and will automatically configure the necessary mixes for the pilot. This saves time and reduces the chances for error when programming complex control surface configurations.
Active Gyro and Governor Trim
Fine tune rotor speed and gyro gain while in flight using trim switches you assign.
Electronic E-Ring™
When programming the cyclic and pitch mixing for a helicopter, it is possible for the sum of the two mixing values to exceed the mechanical travel limits of the servos. This can cause them to be overdriven into a locked position. Spektrum AirWare’s Electronic E-Ring prevents this by automatically limiting servo travel if the sum of the cyclic and pitch values exceeds servo limits.
Built-In Telemetry. Fly Smarter with Vital Model Feedback.
The DX8′s built-in telemetry feature gives you vital, real-time information about what’s happening with your model in flight; information that can prevent crashes and maximize performance. The telemetry data appears in an easy-to-read format on the large backlit LCD screen so you can reference it at a glance. You can also have the DX8 alert you with an audio or vibe alarm whenever any telemetry values exceed limits you define.
The DX8 will initially be able to track four key safety and performance factors:
Battery Voltage
Never again will you have to wonder whether or not you have enough voltage to keep flying. Being able to monitor voltage will also help you detect a worn out battery pack before it prematurely ends your flight. The telemetry module is plugged into the receiver and will automatically relay receiver voltage. A separate sensor for tracking main battery voltage in electric aircraft will be included.
Temperature
Is the engine running too lean? Is there enough airflow reaching an electric motor? Is my battery getting too hot? With the DX8, you will get real-time answers and be able to take action well before damage occurs. One temperature sensor is included. To learn more about how the DX8 and its Spektrum AirWare software is going to make your RC experience better than you ever thought possible.
Signal Quality
The telemetry module will keep tabs on the quality of the signal coming to the receiver and send this information back to the DX8 where it is represented on the LCD screen using a familiar “signal bar” scale.
RPM
Pilots can use the RPM telemetry data to check the effectiveness of new mixture settings, new battery packs, or perhaps a new propeller/motor combination. The RPM sensor is sold separately.
*full-range telemetry module included with DX8 system
Spektrum Data Interface. Share. Expand. Save.
Beyond new software and telemetry, the DX8 is also the first Spektrum radio to introduce the Spektrum Data Interface™. The SDI is designed for use with standard SD memory cards and adds a whole new level of flexibility and ease-of-use. With the SDI, you will be able to:
Share Model Setups
Share setups with other DX8 owners at the field or transfer them from your SD card to your PC and attach them to an e-mail. This makes it easy to gain from the experience of others or help others succeed.
Save More Models to Memory
The DX8 has enough on-board memory for up to 30 models before you even need to think about using the SDI. But with the SDI, memory for thousands of models could be stored on the SD card or transferred to a PC hard drive for backup.
Stay Up to Date
With the Spektrum Data Interface, you won’t have to send your DX8 into a service center to get the latest Spektrum AirWare enhancements. You can download them onto your SD card and upload them to the DX8 yourself.
Superior Ergonomics. Made to Fit the Way You Fly.
The DX8′s weight distribution and ergonomics have been optimized to fit the way you fly. The result is a sense of balance and comfort that perfectly complements the speed and precision of DSM2 technology. Some of the more notable features include:
Comfort Grips
Soft, no-slip rubber grips on the back and sides of the transmitter case naturally conform to your hands and make long flights much more comfortable.
Completely New Gimbal Mechanics
The DX8 is the first Spektrum radio to feature new gimbal mechanics. Each gimbal boasts the silky smooth precision of dual ball bearings on each axis. That’s four ball bearings per gimbal. They also feature adjustable spring tension and control stick length so you can fine tune the control feel exactly the way you want it.
User Adjustable Mode Configurations
The DX8 comes out of the box with a standard Mode 2 stick configuration. Its new software and gimbal mechanics, however, make it possible for you to change the stick setup to Mode 1, Mode 3 or Mode 4 in minutes.
User-Assigned Switch Functions
Every switch on the DX8 can be assigned a different function based on what is most intuitive for you. This is a luxury normally reserved for much more expensive radios and one you will wonder how you ever did without.
Large, Backlit LCD Screen
The generous proportions of the DX8′s backlit LCD screen make it easy to access and change programming settings in different lighting conditions without straining the eyes. It also makes it easy to read telemetry data at a glance during flight.
Global Smart Charging System
The ingenious on-board charging system can be powered by any 12V power source with a compatible 4mm barrel connector. This includes 12V DC power supplies, 12 volt batteries or even from the accessory jack in your vehicle for convenient charging at the field. The charger even detects the chemistry of the transmitter batteries you’re using (Li-Po or Ni-MH) and automatically adjusts the charge type and cutoff.
Source: Spektrum RC
Why do Jr and Spektrum continue to release radios that don't have the better response times like the DX7SE. Only that some pilots like finer radios like a 9503 or 12x. They lose money from people buying because of that factor. Me personally would love to have an 11x but the upgrade isn't worth it without better response times.