Editors note: First, just a quick not to say I started writing this post (and then forgot about it) about a month ago and have re-written it to cover the change of path that the project has taken.
The Radiomaster MT12 has a lot of configurability, but has been deservedly been criticised for not being especially easy to use or particularly friendly for surface radio users, who often use different terminology for various radio functions as they relate to surface operation rather than flight.
This has led one Thomas Nagel to create a new UI-modifying LUA script for the MT12. A full reimagining of the user interface with specific regard to how it gets used by track racing users, adding functionality in a way that circumvents users having to navigate the complex menus of the EdgeTX operating system.
In Thomas's words:
"RadioMaster MT12 is a serious surface radio. EdgeTX still thinks like planes."
"MT12 Race Lua is the car layer on top:
- Race home (pack/cell, LQ/SNR, laps, heat timer)
- Drive aids: ABS, soft launch, SSTC, CBC, DSR
- Tune on the radio screen — no laptop"
It was originally available here (buymeacoffee.com) and directly purchasable from Thomas, but it then was mysteriously taken down with broken links everywhere on that site.
Thomas had stated in Facebook group chats that he was looking into seeing if Radiomaster themselves would want to take it on and make it an official update/release for the MT12. Something that would no doubt set them up for a revival of their surface project, which has been laying quietly dormant since the MT12 came out; even with relatively few updates to the receiver hardware despite new tech coming to market that would improve the offering.
The future could be bright for this range and with the Race LUA it could genuinely take off if we see a new model of surface controller.
Anyway, I paid for the LUA from Thomas, and have it installed on my handset. It's a nice interface and takes a lot of the guesswork (and just general work) out of making new functions in EdgeTX.
- ABS; which feathers the brakes (and is not advised for electric vehicles apparently)
- Traction Control; which effectively puts a limit on the speed you can pull the power up.
- Throttle based steering limiting; when your going fast your steering angle is limited.
- Steering based throttle reduction, as you turn your maximum throttle is decreased.
I appreciate some of these things might not be allowed/advised on certain competitive circuits but they'll certainly aid a few people who just want to have a play and see what can be done with an EdgeTX remote.
I hope Radiomaster take it on and do the MT12 justice with dedicated surface UI support.
