Using ExpressLRS with a Basic PWM Receiver on a Wing

Question: Can I run ExpressLRS with a cheap PWM receiver on a wing?

Answer: ExpressLRS is designed primarily for modern digital protocols like CRSF (Crossfire) and ELRS itself, which use serial communication rather than traditional PWM signals. Cheap PWM receivers typically output individual servo-style PWM signals for each channel and do not support the digital telemetry and low latency features of ExpressLRS. To use ExpressLRS, you need a compatible ELRS receiver that communicates via the ELRS protocol, usually over a single serial line. If your wing only has a cheap PWM receiver, it won't directly work with ExpressLRS. However, if your flight controller supports it, you can connect an ExpressLRS receiver to the FC via UART and configure it accordingly, while still using the PWM receiver for legacy purposes, but this is uncommon and adds complexity. For best results, replace the cheap PWM receiver with an affordable ELRS receiver module designed for wings. These are often lightweight and compact, ideal for fixed-wing models, and will give you full access to ExpressLRS features including telemetry, low latency, and long range.