The 0.6.1 Firmware for the Flysky GT3B and Flysky GT3C is an open source firmware written by psx, a member of the RCTech forum. This firmware has been through numerous revisions. The original intent of the firmware was to fix the bugs the stock firmware has, an example of a bug is the exponential function doesn't function like the traditional expo setting on other transmitters. Over time the firmware was completely rewritten to add functionality well beyond what is traditionally offered in any budget pistol grip radio. Some of these additional features are:
- 2-8 Channels
- 60 Model Memory
- Key Mapping (Assign ANY key to operate ANY function)
- Timers
- Adjustable Inactivity and Low Voltage Alarms
- Dual ESC Mixing for MOA Crawlers, Tanks, Boats, Robots....
- 4WS Mixing for RC vehicles that have front and rear axle steering
- Channel Turn and Return Speed
- AND MORE! Read the rest of the articles in this knowledge base to discover the possibilities!
While all this extra functionality sounds amazing, there are some downfalls to consider. The first downfall, is that someone has to actually install this firmware to the radio. One can't just wiggle their nose and twiddle their thumbs and get an instant upgrade. The install process requires buying programmers, opening up the radio, connecting the circuit board to a computer...lots of patience for the average joe. Another downfall is that this firmware is for a budget radio with a rather low build quality. The budget part of the equation is great but as the radio's operator becomes more of a "pro", then a high end radio like a Futaba 4PKS or Airtronics M12 may become more desirable. This is because they have a much better build quality and a more reliable, faster connection between the transmitter and receiver. However, this new 0.6.1 firmware can offer more functionality than those premium radios, so is it an "upgrade" if functionality is lost and build quality is gained? That can have many answers, but should be a consideration when comparing which radio to get. The other major downfall with this new firmware is complicated setting adjustment. The Flysky GT3B/GT3C has a very rudimentary LCD offering some graphics, and 7-segment display, and a 3 character dot display. So in order to offer all these settings, a lot of abbreviations and "hidden" menu's were created. However, psx did a excellent job at organizing this into a very manageable user interface that can easily be navigated with the firmware manual and after enough time in the menu's, the abbreviations are recognizable.
However, OverkillRC has taken the Flysky GT3B/GT3C under their wings and turned these downfalls into something more tolerable. Let's go through each downfall listed above.
Programming:
Since close to the beginning, OverkillRC has been offering Firmware Mod Kits. These kits offer all the essentials for flashing the new firmware onto the Flysky GT3B/GT3C. The programming boards are pre-modded to work out of the box, A-B usb cable is supplied, 4 pin/conductor cable is pre-made ready for use, and the correct header is include for optimal aesthetics and upgradeability. Also, OverkillRC provides indepth install instructions, FAQ, and email support for the entire install process. Some reading and patience, the firmware install is very manageable for the average joe that has basic tool skills.
Also, OverkillRC offers Flysky GT3B/C's already flashed with the firmware and/or upgraded with other mods listed below. So chip flashing or dealing with code is never an issue.
Build Quality:
Originally we only had the Flysky GT3B. The Flysky GT3B is ugly, heavy, and not ergonomic; the build quality is quite low also. However, OverkillRC offers many "Upgrades" for the GT3B. One of the main upgrades is the Voltage Regulator (VR) mod. The stock VR is an generic old school linear regulator. It took the 12 volt power from the battery and turned it into 5 volts by wasting voltage as heat. This causes reliability issues with long run times and the use of a 3s LiPo battery instead of the AA's. The new VR that OverkillRC offers is a high quality switching regulator. So what it does is rapidly turn the high voltage on and off to lower the voltage down to operating voltage (5v). The new VR doubles battery life and increases long term reliability. Also, OverkillRC offers a steering wheel bearing mod. Adding this bearing will eliminate steering wheel wobble and sticky spots. There is also mods which change out the buttons for ones that are more easier to use, such as the OverkillRC Hi-Pro switch. It replaces the stock plastic trim rockers that are mostly flush with the housing with a rocker that extrudes beyond the housing and offers optimal grippage for quick function actions (DIG, channel position, expo, trim, etc). At time of writing this article, there are many other upgrades on the roadmap, so stay tuned.
Although all these mods are great, there is only so much a turd can be polished. Fortunately, Flysky released the GT3C. The GT3C is leaps and bounds ahead of the GT3B. The two radios have the same screen, firmware, and 2.4GHz module. But the GT3C has a slightly better build quality and the plastic housing has a much better design. It comes with a rechargeable battery, silicone hand grip, a bearing already installed in the steering wheel assembly, and more. The GT3C is light, comfortable to hold for long periods, and doesn't feel or look as "cheap" as the GT3B does; and it only costs a little bit more. OverkillRC doesn't have very many mods currently offered for the GT3C but there are MANY mods on the roadmap. OverkillRC's long term goal is to offer a GT3C variant that can give any pistol grip radio a run for it's money.
Ease of use:
While psx has done an excellent job at creating a good user interface, many people have issues using the supplied Manual. For years OverkillRC has been offering personalized email support and actively follows/supports the MASSIVE Flysky thread(s) on the RCCrawler Forum and occasionally the RCTech Forum. However, these knowledgebase articles have been written by OverkillRC in the attempt to greatly increase the ease of use for the 0.6.1 firmware. OverkillRC has years of experience explaining, programming, and using the new firmware; So hopefully this guide is very useful and uncomplicates radio setup. Every single menu, setting, and parameter will be thoroughly explained and documented. There will also be many "templates" provided for the more common setting adjustments. The goal is to make it all organized and laid out rather well. But the search bar works rather good for finding certain settings. If all else falls, OverkillRC offers email support.