Futaba R404SBS 4-Channel (PWM) Surface Receiver with S.BUS for Telemetry F-4G FUT05102702-3

Overview

The Futaba R404SBS 4-Channel (PWM) Surface Receiver with S.BUS for Telemetry F-4G is a professional-grade receiver designed specifically for surface RC models including RC cars, buggies, and trucks. This compact and lightweight receiver delivers exceptional performance for UK RC enthusiasts who demand reliability and precision in their radio control systems. Whether you're running a competitive RC buggy, a weekend basher RC car, or a high-performance RC truck, the R404SBS provides the advanced control and real-time telemetry feedback you need to optimise your model's performance on the track or off-road.

Built by Futaba, a name synonymous with quality radio control equipment since 1962, the R404SBS combines cutting-edge technology with proven reliability. This receiver is engineered for surface models that require fast, responsive control and telemetry data transmission. The F-4G high-speed response system ensures that every steering input and throttle command is executed with minimal delay, giving you the competitive edge you need whether you're racing competitively or enjoying casual RC driving. The inclusion of S.BUS2 telemetry capability means you can monitor vital system data in real-time, allowing for precision tuning and immediate feedback on your model's performance.

For serious RC car UK enthusiasts and competitive racers, the R404SBS represents the kind of professional-grade receiver that separates amateurs from experts. Its compact dimensions and lightweight construction make it easy to integrate into any surface model without compromising weight distribution or centre of gravity, critical factors in achieving peak performance.

Key Features

• F-4G High-Speed Response System — The F-4G protocol is specifically designed for surface models and delivers exceptionally fast command processing, ensuring that steering and throttle inputs are executed with virtually no lag, which is essential for competitive racing and precision control on RC cars and trucks.
• 4-Channel PWM Control — The receiver provides four independent PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) channels, offering flexible control options for steering, throttle, and two additional auxiliary channels that can be assigned to various functions such as braking systems, differentials, or electronic stability controls on your RC surface model.
• S.BUS2 Telemetry Capability — S.BUS2 telemetry allows real-time data transmission from your RC car back to the transmitter, enabling you to monitor system performance, battery voltage, signal strength, and other critical parameters whilst driving, facilitating on-the-fly adjustments and performance optimisation.
• 10-Channel S.BUS2 Expansion — Beyond the four dedicated PWM channels, the receiver supports up to 10 additional channels via S.BUS2, providing extensive control options for advanced surface models with multiple servo functions and electronic systems.
• Diversity Antenna Design — The diversity antenna system significantly improves signal reception and reliability by utilising dual antenna elements, reducing the risk of signal loss and ensuring consistent control even in challenging RF environments or when obstacles are present.
• Compact and Lightweight Construction — Measuring just 25.5 × 20.7 × 10.6mm and weighing only 5.7 grams, this receiver is small enough to fit into confined spaces within your RC model whilst maintaining a negligible impact on overall weight, crucial for maintaining optimal performance and handling characteristics.
• Wide Operating Voltage Range — Operating from 3.7V to 7.4V DC, the R404SBS is compatible with standard 2S LiPo batteries and single-cell lithium batteries, providing flexibility in power system selection for your RC surface model.
• Built-in Antenna — The integrated antenna design eliminates the need for external antenna connections, simplifying installation and reducing potential points of failure or signal degradation in your RC car setup.

Technical Performance

The Futaba R404SBS represents Futaba's advanced engineering approach to surface receiver design. With its F-4G protocol, this receiver delivers the rapid response characteristics demanded by competitive RC car racing and high-performance RC truck applications. The high-speed response system minimises servo lag to imperceptible levels, meaning your steering inputs translate into immediate model response, critical when navigating tight corners or executing precision manoeuvres on the track. The receiver's PWM channels provide clean, stable servo control signals with consistent refresh rates, whilst the S.BUS2 system offers both expanded channel capacity and real-time telemetry data feedback. The diversity antenna system employs intelligent antenna switching technology to ensure the strongest possible signal is always in use, providing reliable long-range control even in multi-model environments or areas with RF interference. The receiver is housed in a compact black plastic enclosure that's been engineered to be both durable and lightweight, protecting the sensitive electronics whilst contributing minimal weight to your RC car or truck. Operating voltage stability across the 3.7V to 7.4V range ensures consistent performance whether you're running on a fresh 2S LiPo battery at peak voltage or near the end of a run when battery voltage has naturally decreased. The 5.7-gram weight is negligible compared to modern brushless motors and LiPo battery systems, ensuring integration has virtually no negative impact on your model's performance characteristics.

What's in the Box

• Futaba R404SBS 4-Channel (PWM) Surface Receiver with S.BUS for Telemetry F-4G
• Built-in diversity antenna
• Product documentation and manual

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is the Futaba R404SBS compatible with my existing Futaba transmitter? — The R404SBS is compatible exclusively with Futaba transmitters using the F-4G protocol. It will not work with other protocol systems such as FHSS or earlier Futaba systems. You must verify that your transmitter supports F-4G before purchasing this receiver. Compatibility questions should be directed to your transmitter's manual or Futaba's UK distributor, J Perkins.
• What battery voltage should I use with this receiver? — The R404SBS operates optimally with battery voltages between 3.7V and 7.4V DC. This makes it perfectly suited to 2S LiPo batteries (which provide 7.4V nominal voltage) or single-cell lithium batteries. Standard NiMH batteries can be used if they fall within the voltage range, but lithium batteries are recommended for optimal performance and longevity.
• Can I use this receiver in brushless RC car systems? — Yes, the R404SBS can be used in any RC car or surface model system, brushless or brushed, as the receiver simply processes radio signals and sends control commands to servos and speed controllers. The receiver itself is protocol-agnostic regarding motor type; it works equally well with brushless and brushed ESCs.
• What is S.BUS2 telemetry and why should I care? — S.BUS2 telemetry is a digital data protocol that allows your RC receiver to send real-time information back to your Futaba transmitter during operation. This might include battery voltage, receiver signal strength, servo positions, and other system data depending on your specific equipment. For competitive RC car racers, this data is invaluable for understanding your model's behaviour and optimising setup between runs.
• How many servos can I connect to this receiver? — The R404SBS provides four dedicated PWM channels, each capable of controlling one servo. Additionally, the S.BUS2 protocol supports up to 10 channels total, meaning if your servos and other devices support S.BUS2 digital control, you can expand to significantly more control functions using a single S.BUS2 port, though only four PWM channels are physically available.
• Is this suitable for beginners to RC car UK hobby? — Whilst the R404SBS is an excellent receiver, it is primarily designed for intermediate to advanced users who already own compatible Futaba F-4G transmitters. Beginners should ensure they already have a compatible transmitter before purchasing, as receivers alone cannot control an RC model without a matching transmitter system.
• How does the diversity antenna improve performance? — The diversity antenna system constantly monitors signal strength from two separate antenna elements and automatically switches to whichever antenna is receiving the stronger signal. This redundancy dramatically improves reliability in areas with RF interference, around obstacles, or when signal paths are marginal, ensuring your RC car maintains consistent control even in challenging environments.
• What is the difference between this R404SBS and other Futaba surface receivers? — The R404SBS specifically includes S.BUS2 telemetry capability and the F-4G high-speed response system optimised for surface models. Other Futaba receivers may lack telemetry, use different protocols, or be optimised for aerial applications rather than surface vehicles. The R404SBS represents a professional-grade offering with advanced features for serious RC car enthusiasts.

Why Buy from RC Model Shop?

RC Model Shop is a trusted UK RC retailer and authorised dealer for all the brands we stock, including Traxxas, ARRMA, Losi, FTX, Hobbywing, Spektrum and more. Based in Walsall, we have a physical store where customers are welcome to come in, view products and purchase in store. Whether you are a seasoned competitor, a weekend basher, or just discovering the world of RC for the first time, our team of experienced RC enthusiasts is here to help you find the perfect setup and provide ongoing support. Order the Futaba R404SBS 4-Channel (PWM) Surface Receiver with S.BUS for Telemetry F-4G today with confidence, knowing you are buying from an authorised retailer with genuine products, expert knowledge and a commitment to customer satisfaction. Shop online or visit us in Walsall — we look forward to helping you get the most out of your RC experience.