Futaba flagship of surface radios, the 4PK, is an impressive looking and high performing native 2.4GHz spread spectrum system. That means there are no modules to worry about because it's all contained inside. Those familiar with the 3PKS 2.4GHz will recognize the 4PK's interface, but with a few added features. One of my favorite "features" is the reduction in weight when compared to the 3PK. Add in a 40-model memory and all the benefits of futaba FASST system technology and you've got a radio system that will be the bane of the competition.
Everyone from racers to those who drive for fun will benefit from the 4PK's laundry list of functions as well as it's easy to navigate menus. And if thats not enough, you can even change the color of the pilot lamp 7 different ways, record your best lap times and averages, control sliding with A.B.S. controlled braking, and even switch over to boat mode for outboard tilt control.
In this review, I will cover the main features of the 4PK and briefly touch on it's functions. The detailed instruction manual is required reading when it comes to fully understanding the potential of the 4PK and I'll leave that up to you.
The 4PK is an impressive transmitter to say the least. The screen is easy to read while operating your car, truck, or boat and the buttons are setup in a no nonsense manner. Once you familiarize yourself with the button functions, you can easily navigate throughout the 4PK's interface at blistering speed, and almost every function included in the 4PK can be accessed with just a few actions.
Lets say you want to change from your car to boat, just press the jog button to enter the menu, then scroll over to M-SEL to select your model and press the center of the jog button, which serves as the enter button. Choose your model and press the + and - at the same time to confirm, and your done. It doesn't get any easier with a high-tech computer radio and every function on the 4PK can be accessed in the same manner. Now, I would like to briefly touch on some of the great features the 4PK has:
FEATURES
2.4GHzSS (Spread Spectrum) radio communication system. Frequency channel setting is unnecessary. Channel shifting takes place within the 2.4GHz band automatically and minimizes interference from other 2.4GHz systems.
40 model memory. Model names can use up to 10 letters, numbers, and symbols. A model memory with different setups can be created by using the model copy function.
Menu customizing. Function menus can be customized as desired.
Brake mixing for large cars (BRAKE). Brake mixing of the front and rear wheels of 1/5 scale and other large vehicles can be adjusted independently.
Anti-skid braking system (A.B.S.). This function applies the brakes so that the tires of gasoline engine cars, etc. don't lose their grip on the road even when braking at corners.
Throttle acceleration (ACCEL). Gasoline engine cars have a time lag before the clutch and the brake become effective. The TH-ACCEL function reduces this time lag.
Start function (START). Sudden trigger operation on a slippery surface will only cause the tires to spin and the model not to accelerate smoothly. By setting the throttle speed function, operation can be performed smoothly and easily. It also suppresses battery consumption.
Steering speed (STSPD). When you sense that the steering servo is too fast, etc., the servo operating speed can be adjusted.
racing timer (TIMER). The lap timer can record 99 laps, total time, and average lap time. it can be started automatically by trigger operation or assigned to any button. The race time and audible alarm can be set. Target laps and refueling times can be indicated by the audible alarm.
Digital trim with reset function. The current trim position is displayed on the LCD screen. Trim operation has no affect on maximum travel of the steering and throttle servos.
Function select dial function (DIAL). This function assigns functions to dials (digital trim, grip dial, knob). The step amount and operating direction can be adjusted.
Function select switch function (SWITCH). This function assigns functions to 3 switches. The operating direction can also be set.
Wheel and trigger position can be changed. The wheel position can be offset by using an optional APA wheel position offset adapter. The wheel angle can also be adjusted. The position of the throttle can be moved forward or backward up to 7mm for the most comfortable feel.
Left-handed support. The left and right installation direction of the wheel selection can be reversed.
Tension adjustment function. The tension of the steering wheel and throttle trigger springs can be adjusted from the outside. The throttle position can be moved foreward or back up to 7mm for comfort.
Vibrator build into the grip. The vibrator can be operated at racing timer lap navigation, time-up, and low battery alarm.
7-color LED pilot lamp. Your favorite color can be selected.
The 4PK includes the R604FS 4-channel receiver. If you've ever owned a 2.4GHz system, the first thing you'll notice is the small antenna wire. It's only about 4-inches long and can be slid in a small antenna tube or run without one, but it is recommended to use a tube to protect it from damage. The R604FS receiver must be bound to the transmitter before initial use. Once it it bound, it will remain bound until unbound. To bind the receiver with the 4PK, bring them close to each other, turn on the transmitter, then turn on the receiver. Next, push the tactile switch on the receiver and wait for the LED to turn solid green. Your system is now bound and ready for use.
The 4PK is a computer radio with some serious capabilities. There are many features and functions of the 4PK that were created with the racer in mind, but it's easy to navigate interface makes it beginner friendly as well; only after a few days of use was I able to navigate confidently through the 4PK's menus and know what I was doing every time. It's light weight, long battery life and unsurpassed 2.4GHzSS technology make the 4PK the best choice on the market for the racer, boater,or backyard basher. Thanks for reading my review of the Futaba 4PK.
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