Welcome to the iOS App FAQ Section! We strive to provide you with the best service possible, so we have compiled a list of questions we are frequently asked to better help you find what you're looking for! If there is anything you are looking for that is not on this list, please contact us and leave a suggestion!
Q1. Where can I download the HotWire Application for my iOS device?
A1. You can find the App on the Apple App Store.
Q2. Do I need to start up the HotWire App BEFORE connecting the HotWire/ESC??
A2. Yes, the app runs in DEMO mode at first startup, you will need to Bind to the HotWire 3.0 the first time only, then after that simply select ‘Connect’ when you want to make an adjustment. Important: The HotWire 3.0 must be plugged into the EZ Port (the data port on the top of the Tekin Electronic Speed Control (ESC)) and the ESC must have a charged battery connected with the ESC powered up and operational. Most important, the ESC must be running firmware version V255 or newer in order for the iOS app to connect.
Q3. Will the HotWire App work on my iPhone, iPad or Apple device?
A3. Yes, as long as you have an iPhone 4S or newer, or an iPad 2 or newer. Use this link to view the FAQ on HotWire for iOS for information on where to download.
Q4. Tekin has 3 different HotWire devices, which HotWire do I need to use the iOS App?
A4. To use the WIRELESS Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) connection, you will need a HotWire 3.0 and a mobile device that is BLE-capable.
Q5. Will the HotWire 3.0 that works with my iOS device ALSO work on my Android device?
A5. Yes, as long as your Android device supports Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) or USB OTG. The HotWire 3.0 will even allow users to connect over USB using a Windows PC, just like the original HotWire 1.0 & 2.0. Basically, the HotWire 3.0 does everything the HotWire 1.0 & 2.0 did, but it ADDS the ability to connect to iOS.
Q6. What is the range of the HotWire 3.0?
A6. The HotWire 3.0 range can vary quite a bit, for reasons that we do not control. Basically, the communication is in 2 directions, transmit and receive. The HotWire 3.0 transmits at a very long range, up to about 90 feet (30 meters). The device that is being transmitted to (iPhone or iPad) may not have the same ability to transmit BACK to the HotWire 3.0. If the HotWire 3.0 sends data and does not get a response within a short time, the connection is terminated. HINT: Try mounting the HotWire 3.0 in your chassis in different locations to maximize its ability to transmit and receive over a distance. Placing the HotWire 3.0 directly on a metal/carbon fiber surface (Servo or Chassis) can dramatically reduce the range. Experiment with different placements to get the maximum range. Another hint is to pay attention to how you hold your iPhone. Covering the phone with your hand can attenuate the range, and different orientations of the phone can affect the range as well. Once again, a little experimentation should help you to determine how you can best maximize your range.
Q7. Which Tekin ESCs can I program with the Android App?
A7. RSX, RX8 (GEN1, GEN2, GEN3), RS Series (GEN1 & GEN2), RS SPEC, RX4.
Q8. I have downloaded the App and installed successfully but my App only runs in Demo Mode.
A8. Go to your device’s Settings and make sure that Bluetooth is turned on. Next, make sure that your HotWire 3.0 is connected to the data port of the ESC and that the ESC has a charged battery connected and the power switch on the ESC is in the ‘On‘ position. Finally, perform the ‘Bind’ procedure according to the instructions, then try to connect to the ESC. Important: The ESC MUST be running Firmware Version 255 or newer in order to properly connect. If you are not sure which version your ESC contains, you will need to connect it to a Windows PC and download/run the Windows HotWire app found here. Update the ESC to the newest version then retry the connection to your iOS device.
Q9. Do I have to program my ESC through the EZ-Port?
A9. Yes. If your Tekin ESC does not have the data port on top, then it cannot be used with the HotWire 3.0 and the iOS App.
