Dumb question about running at a track
 

I've never raced before or even driven on a track, and I had a question about radios. How do people manage not to interfere with each other on the same channel? I know/think there is a board with tags for each channel, and if a certain channel is missing, it's in use, but how do you test/work on things in the pits if you can't even turn your radio on? I just don't see how this works.

At the tracks I've driven at, we only turn on the radio on a certain frequency if we have the frequency stick for it. The frequency sticks are little tags or sticks with a marked frequency. If it is gone from the wall, then you know someone is on it, if its not, then feel free to use it.

I find the best way is to use Spektrum, as there is no chance for interference.

A lot of tracks have a frequency board, with all the frequencies listed and a clothes pin attached to each one. you grab the pin that is next to your frequency and attach it to your antenna while you run, when done you put clip back on the freq. you got it from and leave your radio off till you are ready to run again. Some tracks have a radio impound and hold your radio till you race as well

That's what I figured, but how do you work on your car and test it out if you have to give up the tag when you are done running? I know systems like the spektrum are the easiest, but I've invested some money in a Futaba FM with a bunch of recievers. Also I like having the 10 model memory.

Most of the higher end radios have a cord available that you can plug into the radio and into the receiver so you can check all you functions/settings without broadcasting an actual signal. You might check to see if there is one available for your radio.

Interesting, thanks I'll look into that.

The Spektrum doesn't have this cable does it?

Spektrum doesn't need it. Here is a futaba one listed on towerhobbies
http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin...?&I=LXH457&P=7

I have one of those cables for my M8 but i've never used it LOL.