Getting Started – EwingVTX
The Ewing Aerospace EwingVTX is a high-power analog video transmitter designed for professional unmanned systems integration. This guide walks through basic setup, LED indicators, button operation, and common configuration tasks.
Overview
- Channels: 80
- Frequency Range: 4.9 GHz – 6.0 GHz
- Power Levels: PIT / 25 mW / 200 mW / 500 mW / 1.5 W / 2.5 W
- Control Methods:
- On-board button
- Tramp protocol (via flight controller)
LED Indicators
The EwingVTX uses three LEDs to indicate its current configuration state.
| LED Color | Function |
|---|---|
| Red | Power level |
| Green | Channel |
| Blue | Band |
When entering a configuration mode, the corresponding LED will illuminate and flash.
Button Operation
The EwingVTX includes a single multi-function button labeled KEY.
Short presses and long presses are used to enter different configuration modes.
Channel Selection Mode
- Short press the KEY button once.
- The Green LED will turn on and flash.
- Each short press increments the channel.
- After several seconds of no input, the selection is saved automatically.
Band Selection Mode
- From normal operation, press and hold the KEY button for approximately 3 seconds.
- The Blue LED will turn on and flash.
- Use short presses to cycle through available bands.
- Release the button and wait for the setting to save.
Power Level Selection Mode
- From Band Selection mode, continue holding the KEY button for another ~3 seconds.
- The Red LED will turn on and flash.
- Use short presses to cycle through power levels.
- Release the button and wait for the setting to save.
Power Levels
| Mode | Description |
|---|---|
| PIT | Ultra-low output for bench testing |
| 25 mW | Low-power operation |
| 200 mW | Medium-power operation |
| 500 mW | High-power operation |
| 1.5 W | Very high-power operation |
| 2.5 W | Maximum output power |
⚠️ High-power modes require adequate airflow.
Unlocking Frequencies and Power Levels
The EwingVTX may ship in a locked state depending on configuration.
Unlock Procedure
- Press and hold the KEY button.
- Observe the Red LED (Power) behavior:
- Red LED turns on → off → on
- Release the button.
LED Status Meaning
| Red LED State | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Solid ON | Locked |
| Flashing | Unlocked |
When unlocked, all supported frequencies and power levels are available.
PIT Mode (On / Off)
PIT mode allows the VTX to transmit at extremely low power for setup and bench testing.
Toggle PIT Mode
- Double-click the KEY button.
PIT Mode Indication
| Red LED State | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Red LED OFF | PIT mode ON |
| Red LED ON | PIT mode OFF |
Tramp Control Behavior
When a Tramp control cable is connected to a flight controller:
- The on-board KEY button is disabled
- Frequency, band, and power are controlled entirely by the flight controller
- OSD or ground-station software takes precedence
This prevents configuration conflicts during flight.
Integration Notes
- Ensure a proper antenna is connected before powering the VTX.
- Do not operate at high power without airflow.
- Some flight-controller firmware may support fewer than 80 channels; verify channel mapping.
- Operation must comply with applicable RF regulations and authorization requirements.
Safety Notice
The EwingVTX is intended for professional unmanned systems integration. Improper configuration or unauthorized operation may result in RF interference, system damage, or regulatory violations.
Always follow applicable regulations, spectrum authorization rules, and program-specific requirements.
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