RadioMaster R86C V2: 6 PWM Channels, 8CH SBUS and a Range Over 1 km

The RadioMaster R86C V2 is a 2.4 GHz RC receiver with six PWM outputs for servos and an eight-channel SBUS output. The manufacturer claims a range of more than 1 km and a 4.5–8.4 V supply range; for SBUS, it lists a narrower range of 4.5–6.6 V.

The receiver supports FrSky D8, D16 and Futaba SFHSS protocols. It is primarily intended for transmitters with a multiprotocol module, not necessarily every transmitter associated with those protocol names.

Six PWM outputs for conventional models

Servos or an electronic speed controller (ESC) can connect directly to the six PWM outputs. In an airplane, the channels could control the motor via an ESC, ailerons, elevator, rudder, flaps and an auxiliary function. The receiver is also suitable for cars and boats.

With this setup, you don't need a flight controller or a separate decoder to operate the servos. The number of available functions depends on how many channels the particular setup uses.

Eight channels via SBUS

SBUS carries up to eight channels over one signal wire to a compatible flight controller or stabilization unit. This replaces multiple separate signal connections from the PWM outputs. The devices still need a suitable power supply and a common ground, however; the signal wire alone is not enough.

Transmitter compatibility

RadioMaster lists support for D8, D16 and SFHSS, but also describes the receiver as intended for MPM, or multiprotocol, radios. That does not mean it is automatically compatible with every original FrSky transmitter.

Before buying, check the specific transmitter, its module and the supported mode. The R86C V2 is not an ExpressLRS receiver, so ExpressLRS support alone is not enough to use it.

Power supply and servos

The stated receiver supply range is 4.5–8.4 V. For SBUS, the manufacturer lists a narrower range of 4.5–6.6 V, but it is unclear whether this limit applies to the receiver's supply voltage when using SBUS or to another part of the setup. Before connecting a 2S receiver battery in an SBUS setup, verify what the limit means.

Regardless of SBUS, the supply voltage must be suitable for every connected component. The fact that the receiver can handle 8.4 V does not mean the servos can handle the same voltage.

Range and antenna placement

The claimed range of more than 1 km is a guideline. Actual range is affected by antenna position, interference in the 2.4 GHz band, transmitter power and the environment. A carbon-fiber fuselage, for example, can shield the signal.

The receiver uses an antenna approximately 15 cm long. Keep its active section away from the ESC, motor wires, large metal parts and carbon-fiber frames. In an airplane, position it away from power cables and shielded sections of the fuselage. Before the first flight, perform a range test using the procedure for your transmitter.

R86C V2 or R86 V2?

RadioMaster also offers the smaller R86 V2, which focuses on six PWM channels. The R86C V2 adds SBUS and has a larger case. If you only need conventional servo outputs, the R86 may be the more compact choice; if you want to send channels to a flight controller via SBUS, the R86C is more practical.

Setting up failsafe

If the signal is lost, the model should enter a safe state. The appropriate setting depends on the model: for an airplane, it may include stopping the motor and setting suitable control-surface positions; for a car, it might mean zero throttle. Verify the setting with a safe test following the procedures for your transmitter and receiver. The claimed range is no substitute for a properly configured failsafe.

Key specifications

Who is the R86C V2 for?

The R86C V2 makes sense if you have a compatible multiprotocol transmitter and want to connect servos directly via PWM or send eight channels via SBUS to another unit. Before buying, check compatibility with your specific radio. Before wiring an SBUS setup, also verify what the stated voltage limit applies to.