World’s Most In-Depth RC Aircraft Magazine
RC Sport Flyer Magazine
Special 2012 Event Report!
Hitec Eclipse 7 Pro
Futaba bR-3000
Celectra chargers
Blade mQX
TP Lipo packs
PowerBox SRS Report
PRODUCT HOT PICKS FOR summer!
rc-sf.com
USA & Canada $6.49
july 2012 Volume 17 Issue 05
july 2012
See why Top Gun 2012 is the premier event for scale model airplane builders and pilots. Pg 22
Learn how you can get the competitive edge with the new PowerBox Competition SRS. Pg 88
Florida Jets 12 pg 50
Get an inside look at how the new, feature-rich Eclipse 7 Pro radio system uses telemetry.
pg 94
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RC SPORT FLYER — july 2012
DEPARTMENTS 10
leading edge
14
Hot Products
104
advertiser index
105
Mystery airplane
22
event
july 2012
top gun 2012 Rob shows you why only the bestof-the-best scale builders and pilots compete at Top Gun. By Rob Caso
pg 36
30
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Scale builder For scale modelers, it is the constant pursuit of realism that drives them. See why in this column. By Rob Caso
42
Soaring This month’s column shows you how to install servos securely in a large-scale Fox. By Wil Byers
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Cessna 170 Take a look at this 119-in. Cessna 170 plan to see if you want the challenge of building one. By Wendell Hostetler
50
pg 56
celectra chargers This three-in-one system will give you all the charge power you need. By Wil Byers
62
Futaba Analogs Why pay more for digital servos when these will work well? By Staff
64
anylink Start using your radio to fly any airplane in this lineup. By Staff
66
Futaba BR-3000 Here is a battery checker you’ll want to buy for your flightbox. By Jerry Smith
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Sky Limit When you start using Sky Limit, you’ll be ready for ALES. By Wil Byers
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scale instruments Give your model’s cockpit the finishing touch with these. By Staff
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Spektrum AR12120 This receiver will give your model two batteries instead of one. By Wil Byers
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Thunder Power Here are some new LiPo packs that deliver real power. By Wil Byers
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Blade mQx A new helicopter that doesn’t look like one, but is just as fun to fly. By Wil Byers
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Spektrum STi Mate the STi to your iPad to see real-time telemetery data now. By Wil Byers
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Power Box SRS The new SRS system supplies clean, reliable power to all servos. By Wil Byers
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eclipse 7 pro Get a great radio and telemetry in this affordable radio system. By Christian Belleau
BUILD
Wings Part 4a Jeff gives you the low-down on how to finish out a set of vintage scale wings like his Fokker Dr. I. By Jeff Troy
photos
florida Jets '12 Check out the afterburners on these beauties to see some of the action that happened this year. By Greg Wise
reviews
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RC-SF.COM
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Great Planes Dirty Birdy 60 ARF
Great Planes P.O. Box 9021 Champaign, IL 61821 Phone: 800-637-7660 greatplanes.com
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he classic Joe Bridi design that became a popular Great Planes kit is now a .60-size ARF! The Dirty Birdy accurately followed a pilot’s most intricate commands and the new ARF version combines that precision performance with ARF simplicity, easy sport flying and nostalgic pattern looks.
Bays are built into the ARF version to allow for optional retracts but they are covered to preserve the model’s looks should the modeler choose to install the included fixed landing gear. The painted fiberglass cowl is removable, making it for easier installation and setup of the engine. The Dirty Birdy accommodates a standard muffler or tuned pipe, with a wooden hard-point built into the wing for secure tuned pipe attachment. Removing the Dirty Birdy’s wing provides quick, easy access to on-board radio equipment.
Specifications
• All control surfaces have been hinged at the factory for fast final assembly
Wingspan
64.5 in. (1640 mm)
Wing Area
690 in.² (44.5 dm²)
Weight
7.5-8.5 lb (3400-3850 g)
Wing Loading
25.28 oz/ft² (76-85 g/ dm²)
Length
56 in. (1420 mm)
Engine
.60–.65 2-stroke (tuned pipe optional)
Radio
4-channel min
Servos
5–6 servos
Price (GPMA 1975)
$299.99
• The halves of the balsa-sheeted horizontal stabilizer slide onto carbon fiber tubes for perfect, secure alignment • Quick, easy access to radio equipment is provided through the removal of the Dirty Birdy’s wing • Pre-painted fiberglass fuselage
Habu 2 BNF Basic
Horizon Hobby 4105 Fieldstone Rd. Champaign, IL 61822 Phone: 217-352-1913 parkzone.com
L
ike the original ParkZone® Habu EDF, the Habu 2 is a full-throttle thriller that’s a blast to fly at any speed. At the heart of its exhilarating performance is the phenomenal power of an E-flite® BL15 DF 3200-kV brushless motor mated to an E-flite Delta-V® 15 ducted fan. The wide flight envelope and forgiving slow speed handling of the Habu 2 will reward anyone used to flying faster sport planes with pictureperfect landings. What’s new with the Habu 2 is a stunning USAF trim scheme and the option of adding functional flaps and E-flite electric retracts.
Servo pockets molded into the wings make adding the flaps easy, and the hardware is included. All you need to buy is a pair of ParkZone SV80 servos (PKZ1081—sold separately). Adding retracts is just as simple. The Habu 2 has been specifically designed for E-flite 10- to 15-size Tricycle Electric Retracts (EFLG110—sold separately), so installation is a breeze. Fixed landing gear with a steerable nose wheel is included. The Habu 2 is only available in a Bind-NFly® Basic version. Like a standard Bind-N-Fly® model, it’s designed for pilots who already own a compatible DSM2®/DSMX® transmitter. It comes with the servos, power system and a Spektrum DSM2/DSMX receiver installed, but it does not include the required 4S LiPo battery and charger. This allows owners of the original Habu BNF to step up to the Habu
Specifications Wingspan
36.3 in. (920 mm)
Length
43.3 in. (1100 mm)
Flying Weight
51.8 oz (1470 g)
Motor
Factory-installed E-flite BL15 DF 3200-kV brushless
Fan Unit
Factory-installed E-flite Delta-V 15 69 mm
ESC
Factory-installed E-flite 60A Pro Switch-Mode BEC
Servos
5 factory-installed digital
Receiver
Factory-installed Spektrum™ AR600 6-channel DSM2®/ DSMX®
Price
$299.99
2 without having to pay for items they don’t need. Completing the Habu 2 Basic requires a full-range 4+ channel DSM2/DSMX aircraft transmitter (6+ channel with flaps and retracts), a 4S 3000–3500-mAh 30C LiPo battery pack and a LiPo charger, all sold separately.
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RC SPORT FLYER — july 2012
HOT PRODUCTS
FUTABA S.Bus 2 Telemetry Sensors
Futaba 3002 N Apollo Drive, Suite #1 Champaign, IL 61822 Phone: 217-398-0007 futaba-rc.com
A
selection of telemetry sensors is now available for Futaba telemetry-capable transmitters and receivers. These new sensors are exceptionally light and compact and plug directly into the S.Bus 2 slot on any Futaba S.Bus 2-capable receiver. Due to the unique advantages of S.Bus 2, the sensors cannot be connected incorrectly. Any one or all of the sensors can be used with systems like the 18MZ to view data on user-customizable screens. Set audio and visual alerts for important information so
that you don’t have to look at the transmitter screen when flying. The SB5-01A Atmospheric Pressure Sensor (barometer) provides altitude readings and rates of climb/descent. This is ideal for competitive sailplane pilots, or anyone who needs this type of information. Audio and visual information is generated by the transmitter and delivered to you in real-time. The SBS-01RM Magnetic RPM Sensor is the perfect accessory for helicopters; the easily mounted pickup and magnet provide you with continuous data as you fly. The SBS-01RO Optical RPM Sensor mounts easily behind the propeller to optically measure the rpm. The SBS-01T Temperature Sensor monitors the temperatures of mufflers, motors, engines and battery packs—anything that radiates heat—with this sensor.
Specifications SBS-01A Weight
0.95 oz (2.7 g)
Measurement Range
500-1100 hPa, which is equivalent to 5,000–50 meters (16,000–162 feet) of altitude
Price
$64.99 SBS-01RM
Weight
0.32 oz (9.0 g) with pickup attached
Measurement Range
360–50,000 rpm
Price
$52.99 SBS-01RO
Weight
0.17 oz (4.9 g)
Measurement Range
360–300,000 rpm
Price
$52.99 SBS-01T
The GuardianTM 2D/3D Stabilizer
B
Eagle Tree Systems, LLC 4957 Lakemont Blvd SE Suite C-4 PMB 235 Bellevue, WA 98006 Phone: 425-614-0450 eagletreesystems.com
ased on Eagle Tree’s proven inertial stabilization technology, the Guardian 2D/3D Stabilizer helps both novice and expert pilots fly with confidence. At only $74.99, the Guardian 2D/3D Stabilizer provides great protection for your investment, making it more fun to fly in 2D mode and easier to perform advanced maneuvers in 3D mode. To Stabilize Your Model
Weight
0.16 oz (4.6 g)
Range
-4 to -392° (-20 to -200° C)
Price
$74.99
Mount the Guardian in a level orientation Connect the Guardian to the servos and receiver, cable included Tune the Guardian to your airplane with a small screwdriver Set optional features with your transmitter sticks No additional equipment is required for stabilization In 2D mode, the guardian provides wing leveling stabilization and precise “fly-by-wire” control. In 3D mode, the Guardian becomes your acrobatic assistant. It can lock onto your present orientation, making it much easier to perform stunts. The Guardian has built-in USB for advanced configuration with Eagle Tree software and firmware updates. RC-SF.COM
15
BY Robert J. Caso
Top Gun 2012 Showcase
Master scale modeler Mark Frankel and his original-design, quarterscale T-34.
Best of the Best at Lakeland
The Robart retracts on both T-34s performed well during the weekend and were highly detailed.
C
ross another line item off the bucket list. I finally attended Frank Tiano’s Top Gun event. Perhaps next year I will have a “dress” to wear and actually compete in the event. But it is quite intimidating when you see the competitors’ models up close and speak to the builders and flyers. 22
RC SPORT FLYER — july 2012
Furthermore, while almost all of the models are true masterpieces, the pilots wrung them out in the air mercilessly. This is a Scale Masters level event, so it is aptly named Top Gun, as truly the best of the best scale modelers attend, including a number of international entries. If you’re a scale nut, as I am, and
haven’t been to Top Gun, what are you waiting for? This is a not-to-miss event! To try to cover in any detail the models of the ninety-plus attending pilots would fill RC Sport Flyer for the next year, so I am focusing on a few that caught my eye. Some of these didn’t place in the competition, but make no mistake; these are topnotch efforts, painstakingly built and detailed and expertly flown. Like I said, this is an intimidating event,
Top Gun 2012 Showcase
Although points are generally not awarded for internal cockpit detail, most builders include them. Mark’s cockpit is replete with detail emulating the full-scale aircraft.
Some of the amazing detail that Mark builds into his contest-winning airplanes, like his T-34.
Rod Snyder’s install of the big Zenoah GT-80 twin and related systems is neat and business like. Organized and accessible installations reduce the competition stress factor.
It will take you more than a single viewing session to find all the details on Mark’s T-34—all painstakingly built by hand.
The cockpit of Rod’s T-34 is amazing. The exterior finish is AZKO-Nobel automotive paint.
Mark and Rod’s T-34 sits on the flight line awaiting the next round of flying. Too bad there was no formation flying at Top Gun!
RC-SF.COM
23
By Jeff Troy
Wings Part 4a Balsa Continues to Fly on the Ziroli-Designed Fokker Dr.1 Triplane
1
2
3
The framed mid wing (1), upper wing (2) and lower wing (3) of my Nick Ziroli Fokker Dr.1 triplane as kitted by the now defunct Aeroplane Works. The same model is available in laser-cut versions by a variety of new kit producers. Contact Nick Ziroli Plans (ziroliplans.com) for plans, accessory parts and kit cutter recommendations. Begin installing the bottom sheeting on the lower wing by fitting the sheet against the trailing edge and marking a few rib locations with a soft pencil. Apply generous beads of gapfilling CA over the rib edges in the center section that will be inaccessible after the sheeting covers them. Align to the pencil marks to get the sheeting back into position, and hold the sheet securely but gently until the adhesive cures.
4
M
odelers who enjoy World War I airplanes are often partial to the Fokker Dr.1, and why wouldn’t they be? It’s instantly recognizable as the most infamous of all the early German fighters and is almost always associated with the equally infamous “Red Baron,” Manfred von Richthofen. Its short wingspan and tail moment make it a more maneuverable model than many other World War I aggressors. The Dr.1 I’m working on is a 1/4-scale design by Nick Ziroli. It’s one of five models I’m using to demonstrate dozens of construction methods, hints and tips in this ongoing “Building Model Airplanes” series for RC Sport Flyer. I constructed my triplane’s tail feathers for the series’ second installment (October 2011) and demonstrated the 30
RC SPORT FLYER — july 2012
hinging method for Robart Steel Pin Hinge Points in the following issue (November/December 2011). More recent issues addressed basic sanding techniques and framing the Dr.1’s three wings. Preparing the upper and lower sheeting for the Fokker was done when the wings were framed, and now that you’ve had a chance to see how I installed the center-section sheeting for my 108-in. Dallaire Sportster old-timer from Shive Specialties in the June 2012 issue, you’re probably more than ready to see how a more complex wing—or three in this case—can be sheeted quickly and efficiently. One important point to remember is that whenever possible, sheeting should be cut, fitted, glued together and sanded before it is installed. It’s okay to sand over edges
5 and joints after the sheeting is on the model, but hard sanding over those wide, flat areas with ribs, spars and other structural items underneath will result in less than smooth skin. The Dr.1’s upper wing has ailerons. The underside of the mid wing has a mounting block for the cabane struts, and there’s a full-depth cutout that runs from the rear spar to the trailing edge for clearing the cockpit area. The Dr.1’s bottom wing has no such extras, so its upper and lower sheeting is easiest to install. Because it’s easiest, the lower wing is the smart place to begin. Carefully inspect the framed wing. Look for any lumps, bumps, dips, valleys or other building errors that might keep the sheeting from lying flat over the structure. Have you sanded the wing-bolt blocks flush with the spars and trailing edge? Are
Wings Part 4 Flip the wing right side up and apply beads of gapfilling CA along all the joints between the wing structure and the lower sheeting.
6
Apply gap-filling CA to the sheeting where it will contact the main spar, then hold the wing down over the sheeting while the CA cures for a dead-flat sheeting-to-spar joint.
7
Use a bar sander with light pressure to sand all the joints in the wing structure. Note how all the ribs should be blended into the lower trailing edge sheeting.
8
Working only one rib at a time, hold the lower sheeting tightly against the forward edge of the rib and apply a bead of thin CA to the joint. Try not to get adhesive into the joint between the sheeting and the leading edge.
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When the lower sheeting is glued to the forward portion of all the ribs, note the gap between the lower sheeting and the lower face of the leading edge.
10 the ribs all sanded flush with the spars? When you’re satisfied with what you see, go one step further and try my “feel in the dark” method. Sorry, it isn’t about that exciting first date; it’s an easy and effective way to detect any irregularities in the model’s surface. Close your eyes. Concentrate. Block out everything else in the room and slowly run your fingertips over every square inch of the surface. Pay particular attention to every area where one piece of the model contacts another—ribs to spars, leading edges and trailing edges to ribs, blocks, sheer webs, dihedral braces—any and every joint. You’ll be surprised by how many slight
Turn the wing upside down and soak the forward few inches of the sheeting with water. Add ammonia if you like, or just spray the forward area of the sheeting with an ammoniabased glass cleaner. Let the sheeting soak for half an hour or longer until it’s soft enough to bend upward and meet the leading edge without cracking.
imperfections you can detect, and most would have been missed if you had relied on nothing more than eyeballing the structure. The wing sheets for all three wings have already been assembled and sanded, so flip the lower wing upside-down and lay the correct piece of prepared lower sheeting in position over the framework. Fit the rear edge of the center-section sheeting against the forward edge of the trailing edge, and center the sheet to fit equidistantly over the ribs from side to side. When it’s in the correct position, make light pencil marks on the sheeting over the outermost center ribs. This will ensure that the sheeting will be put
11 back over the wing in the proper position after the adhesive has been applied. If you’re a quick and competent builder, gap-filling CA is fine for installing sheeting. If you think you might need more time to get things right before the adhesive dries, you might consider using aliphatic resin— Titebond, Elmer’s or other white/ yellow woodworking glue—for any areas under the sheeting that will not be accessible once the sheet covers them. For the Ziroli Dr.1, the inaccessible areas are few, and are really only in the three or four bays at the center section of the wings that are covered by the sheets. I’m pretty quick, so all my RC-SF.COM
31
BY Robert J. Caso
Scale
It Is the Constant Pursuit of Realism
I
have always felt that scale modeling is the pinnacle of the RC hobby. Starting around age eight, when I was building profile controlline Hellcats and Mustangs, it was the constant pursuit of realism that kept me going. Now that I’m 56, it doesn’t seem that it has waned much. Quite the contrary—my techniques have gotten both more refined and, at the same time, more diverse. And my models have gotten better as a result. What makes scale modeling so difficult and yet so rewarding is that you have to be good at so many things aside from just merely being able to assemble something. It’s the constant challenge of solving strings of diverse problems that is representative of this aspect of the hobby and that makes it unlike any other. All with the lofty goal
My modified 1/12-scale Alfa Models 109G, refinished as “Black 6,” now in Hendon, UK.
of achieving realism. Often, time and resources require that these problems be solved without the help of anyone else, so, as a by-product, one becomes learned and self reliant. On the other hand, the Internet has connected scale modelers like never before, and the rapid expansion of technology, in terms of propulsion, materials and fabrication techniques, has helped us build more accurately and produce more realistic models. There has never been a better time to be a scale modeler. A great example of this is my selfdesigned 37-in. wingspan DeHavilland Mosquito. It wasn’t that long ago when my only propulsion option was a pair of glow-fuel-powered engines. Aside from ruining the look of the My hot setup for 90% of my airbrushing is a Badger “Velocity” dual action and my trusty single action Badger 200. Braided lines and quick disconnect fittings are a must.
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RC SPORT FLYER — july 2012
Scale model with all the nonscale holes I would have had to put in those slender cowlings, I still would have faced the very real possibility of coming back with “one turning and one burning” —if I came back at all. Then there are the fuel tanks, the mess and the vibration withering away all my scale details. As The spinning, scratch-built rotary engine on my An impressive Fokker DR1 at a recent Quakertown, PA a result, twin-engined 1/9-scale original design DH2. It has the valve warbirds meet. What caught my eye was the finish— adjusting nuts—paper, plastic, balsa and ply. most DR1s left the factory so appointed, not red! models for a long time for me were just an “I’d really like to do one someday” fantasy. Not anymore! A pair of powerful but efficient, brushless electric motors effectively solved all these problems overnight—technology, baby. Certainly, I am an “old school” model builder, still stinking up the place with nitrate My flying buddy’s son, Tom Droege, and I pose with My 1/9-scale original design Halberstadt CL.II, which dope and, occasionally, “White 7,” my refinished 1/12-scale Alfa Models FWis equipped with a scratch-built Mercedes six cylinder Ambroid glue. But this 190 F8. The prototype is at the Udvar Museum. dummy engine. stuff now sits right next ® to rolls of Kevlar fabric escape—scale modelers have to do it and carbon fiber rods that go into It’s amazing what a decent pilot, an all, and do it all well. my CAD-designed, laser-cut models. antenna or a good weathering job Yes, my serious efforts are still And I am right now working with an can do in these cases. So, I work with done in wood mostly, but I have been engineer that does 3D modeling and and embrace all aspects of the scale known to rearrange quite a few scale printing. The message here is that I model sector of the hobby. ARFs to fit my liking, many of which am a proponent of using whatever Over the next few issues, I am can be transformed into very nice works. Old school, new school—as planning on getting “into the weeds” scale models with a little extra effort. they say in South Philly, “It don’t with such subjects as scale selection matter.” I’ve learned how to make my own plugs for vacuum-forming canopies and cowlings, using them on the vacuum table that I built. I also do a lot of composite work, as a fiberglass part just looks better and is more durable and easier to work. Finish, color and markings? Scale effect and weathering? Now you’re talking my language. The painted finish is everything on a scale model. But remember, the finish on a scale model is the culmination of all building steps, not just a few at the end. There is no People still lose bets on whether my 33-in. original design of the Springfield Bulldog actually flies. This one flies so well at 18 oz, they even let ME fly it! RC-SF.COM
37
BY Wil Byers
Servo Install Capture Them to be on the Safe Side
I
continue to work on assembling my Valenta Models 1/3-scale Fox glider that I bought a few months ago from SoaringUSA.com. The glider is an easy build, but I’ve made a few build upgrades to mine to fit my preferences. This month, I’ll explain how I installed the servos in the wings and why I did it my way.
Modification
The Fox is getting equipped with Hitec HS-7954H digital servos to drive the ailerons. I chose them for several reasons. First, they are “stump pullers!” They deliver a whopping 403 oz-in. of torque when powered by a 7.4-volt LiPo battery. Second, their 1.57x0.78x1.45-inch size situates them ideally in the wings of the Fox. Third, I really like the servo arms that come with the servos—heavy duty! Fourth, they have a case that functions as a heat sink to keep them cool, which is nice when the servos are working hard. Fifth and finally, they were extremely affordable for this project! I had them in another model but opted to sell that model
I used a Porter Cable router to make servo bases inside the wings. You’ll want to protect the wing skins with blue masking tape as I’ve done on my Fox. It works exceedingly well!
minus the servos. Since the servos had been used for only one flight, out they came and into the Fox they went. I’m also using Spektrum A7030 servos to control the spoiler blades. The A7030s are high-voltage servos that deliver 49 oz-in. of torque, so they are a perfect fit for this application. They are thin and lightweight as well, so they don’t take up much room near the root of the wing. To install the 7954s in the Fox I opted to cut the male leads off and solder the servos’ leads to their respective servo extensions. I had previously fabricated the extensions from 22-gauge twisted wire that I purchased from servosandstuff. com. This type of install makes for a superb electrical connection that will not pull apart, but you must know it will void your warranty on This is the bit I used to cut the servo bases to the proper depth. It is a 3/4x1/2-in. carbide mortising bit, which runs at 27,000 rpm for a smooth, even cut.
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RC SPORT FLYER — july 2012
Servo Install the servos if you do so! Even so, I like making my connection in this manner on a large-scale glider such as the Fox. If you too opt to make my build modification and solder the extensions to the servo leads, I would recommend that you wait to make the electrical connections to the servos until after you’ve made the mod. Let me explain why.
I cut the servos’ male pigtails off and then soldered the wires directly to their extensions. This makes for a superb electrical connection, but be aware that it will void the servos’ warranty.
You can see how I had to run the wires under the blue masking tape because I decided to install the bases after I had already soldered the servo leads to their respective extensions.
Router Work
You’re going to need to use a router for my build modification, so you don’t want any wires getting in the way of the router bit. In my case, I had planned to build the model per Valenta’s drawing, which has the servos attached to their respective covers that screw into their wing recesses. This method just didn’t turn me on—I Notice that I used blue LocTite on the screws that Here I’m pre-fitting the servo into the servo well prior felt the covers were not hold the arms to the servo. This will prevent them to gluing it in place on its base. Notice that I used a from backing out of the servo over time due to Dremel router to cut a little fiberglass away to let the rigid enough for highvibration and use. servo drop into place easily. speed maneuvering, and since I plan to slope soar this model, the servos will get Making the bases was pretty easy. the router’s face while it is moving a workout. Unfortunately, since I’d I cut them from five-ply plywood that over the wing. You’ll also want to already soldered the servo leads to was thick enough to position the protect the wing from scuffing on the their servo extensions I had to work servo in the wing as needed relative work bench. I protected my model’s around them. As you can see in the to the bottom wing skin. Once they wings from the work surface with photos, I pulled the wires out of the were cut to the proper size and test some bubble wrap material, but you way, and then I worked very, very fit, I glued them inside the wing. I could use towels or a blanket. Then carefully around them. recommend you use either Great I used blue, low-tack masking tape Let’s start by explaining my Planes® six-minute or 15-minute applied to the wing all around the modification to the install. I decided epoxy to get the needed working servo well openings to protect the to build a plywood base for the time. bottom of the wing from scuffing servos to mount on inside the wings. You’ll want to mix a little flocked by the router base. You’ll want to The servos would be glued to this cotton in with the epoxy. Also, if you look at the accompanying photos for base and then captured between the scuff the area where the bases get clarification. base and their servo covers. There glued to the wing skins with some The next step is the big one! Be are two reason to do this. One, it sandpaper, you’ll achieve a good very careful when using your router makes for very secure fits for the bond between the wood, glue and to cut the wooden bases to the servos in the wings, and two, it places composite material. proper depth. the servos, and importantly their Once the bases are glued in place, You’ll need a pretty good-sized arms, at equal distances relative to you will use a router to cut the wood router to do a proper job of cutting the wing skins, so that the control to a depth inside the wing so that the the wood smooth and even. I use a geometry remains the same for both servo fits flush with the servo covers’ Porter Cable® model 690, but I think ailerons’ (inner and outer) control recesses. You MUST protect the a better choice for this job might surfaces. wings’ surfaces from abrasion from be the Porter-Cable 450 Compact RC-SF.COM
43
BY Wendell Hostetler
Cessna 170 A Superb Follow-On to the Bird Dog
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endell Hostetler sent us a copy of his new Cessna 170 plans for you to examine. What a great looking plan it is too! This new Cessna 170 follows on the heals of Hostetler’s very successful Cessna L-19 Bird Dog. The 170 is similar to the Bird Dog in that both airplanes use the same wing
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RC SPORT FLYER — july 2012
and tail feathers. The fuselage on the 170 is wider because it was designed to accommodate side-by-side passengers. Also, the profile of the fuselage is somewhat different as well. Early models of the 170 used the same cowl as the Bird Dog, with later models using longer cowls to accommodate different
Cessna 170
engines. Wheel pants were also added to later models of the 170, so you can pick the option that fits your airplane preference. You can order directly from Wendell’s website. Just point your browser at hostetlersplans.com. Or you may contact Hostetler’s Plans at whplans@aol. com. Overseas plans are shipped folded. A wood kit and other accessories are available from third-party sources as well.
Specifications Scale
27%
Wingspan
118.84 in.
Wing Area
1800 in.2
Length
81 in.
Weight
20–22 lb
Power
38- to 62-cc
Distributor Wendell Hostetler Plans 545 Jerome Dr Orville, OH 44667 Phone: 330-682-8896 hostetlerplans.com
RC-SF.COM
49
All Photos BY Greg Wise
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very year in Lakeland, FL Frank Tiano Enterprises sponsors the four-day Florida Jets event. This year’s event was bigger and better than ever, with jets blasting off from one of the eight flight lines at Lakeland Municipal Airport’s model aviation airfield.
Greg was our photographer at the March 1–4 event. Greg is a resident of Florida and an avid aviation enthusiast. The following is a photo spread of just a few of the superb airplanes that were flown and shown at the Florida Jets, including a couple of full-scale jets.
Greg Wright flew this flawless Hawk many times. Unusual color scheme on this aircraft, which belonged to Johnny Hernandez, who left us three years ago.
Greg Wright flies his Hawk, with co-pilot keeping track of this high-speed jet. Greg is an excellent pilot and turns in good scores!
Franco DiMauro came in from Venezuela for his first time at Florida Jets. His outstanding performance with this Thunderbirds T-33 garnered him an invitation to Top Gun 2012.
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RC SPORT FLYER — july 2012
This full-scale MiG 17 in full afterburner was an added attraction twice per day. The Black Diamond Aerobatic Team stationed at Lakeland Airport gave us some demo flights with this bird and a few others.
This Turboprop Raven is the work of David Gaspari from Jupiter, Florida. There were three turboprop-powered airplanes at Florida Jets this year.
The Turboprop Raven smokes as crowds thrill. Look what that engine can do! It sounded really sweet too.
RC-SF.COM
51
BY Wil Byers
Celectra Charger Systems Put The Power of Blue in Your Box!
B
atteries, batteries, batteries … They’re all-important in our hobby! One cannot overemphasize their importance to having a safe, secure and optimally performing remote-control (RC) airplane. It almost goes without saying that if you “cheap out” in this area of the hobby, you are going to have major problems being a successful, long-term pilot. It is therefore advised that you buy the best batteries your budget can tolerate, and that you take good care of them. You must cycle them, monitor their performance and charge them well before each and every flight of your model airplane, helicopter or glider.
There are three components you can buy in the Celectra charger system—a power supply, an 80-watt charger and the 200watt charger.
When it comes to charging batteries, you are also advised to buy the best charger system your budget can tolerate. Do not be cheap about this buy, either, because there are significant differences in the quality of the chargers being sold. Typically, a cheap charger is built with cheap components, and cheap components mean inferior performance. Inferior performance means that the circuits built into the charger are not accurately measuring battery voltages and currents. If the pack under The 200-watt Celectra charger comes with an aluminum carrying case, a program disk for your PC and all the charge leads, balancing adapters and a USB cable.
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Celectra Charger Systems charge or discharge is not being monitored properly, it means reduced performance and even battery life. Now you tell me, do you want to fly an airplane when you don’t have a clue about the condition of the battery that is supplying voltage and current to the control system? I think not! Your alternative is to buy good gear that will give you reliable data about the battery charging and discharging. Then you’ll get the most out of your model and the enjoyment it gives you as its pilot. Blue Will Do E-flite has a combination of chargers that are just way-cool blue. Their Celectra chargers are superb quality. Importantly, they’ll charge your model’s battery packs reliably so that they perform at their optimum efficiency and so that you will also know their status. And they are affordable, which means you don’t have to go cheap. Celectra 15-VDC 250-W Power Supply Let’s start with the Celectra 15-volt direct current 250-watt power supply. This is a musthave purchase. You’ll want this for your shop for certain because you can just plug its input into a 120-volt alternating current (VAC) outlet, and it will deliver a clean, regulated 15 VDC output power to your E-flite battery chargers, or other chargers if you should use them. Features • Provides current to power a high-capacity battery charger or several small- to mediumcapacity battery chargers • Has an internal cooling fan to keep components operating optimally • Includes low-input voltage protection, over-current protection, over-temperature protection and short-circuit protection • Universal AC input voltage range
Specifications
The 80-watt Celectra charger comes with a excellent instruction manual, all the charge cable you’ll need for E-flite packs, and balacingInput adapters, plus a 120VAC wallVAC cord. Voltage 100–240 (50/60 Hz)
and detachable AC power cord • Chassis mount, rocker style, AC power switch • Power ON indicator light (red LED) • Color-coded, output banana jacks
Output VDC +/0.25VDC (redVoltage = positive, 15 black = negative) Output Current 16.5 amps Power
250 watts
Operating temperature
0–140˚ F (0–60° C)
Price (EFLC4010)
$149.99
Celectra 200-W DC MultiChemistry Charger This multi-chemistry type battery charger will pump some power—to
The 250-watt Celectra Power Station plugs into 120 VAC power and delivers 15 volts direct current at 16.5 amps output!
RC-SF.COM
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BY Staff
Analogs An Affordable Option for Budget-Minded Modelers
S
ervos are the workhorses of our model airplanes. They push control surfaces around with more precision and power than ever. Moreover, servos have become extremely reliable, working flight after flight after flight without problem. It is fair to say that we pretty much take their performance and reliability for granted in this time of 2.4-GHz radios and new telemetry systems. However, when you are talking digital servos, price is a different story. The “hotrod” digitals can make a serious dent in your wallet, with some of them costing $200 to $250 a piece. If you multiply that price by eight or ten servos, you start talking real money, even considering that they are super performers. If, on the other hand, you don’t need to buy digitals for your next model, there are some absolutely excellent buys in the analog servo market. The main difference between a digital servo and an analog servo is the way the servo’s motor is controlled by the circuitry. In an 62
RC SPORT FLYER — july 2012
analog servo, the maximum voltage is pulsed on/off at a fixed rate of 30 cycles per second. In a digital servo, the signal is sent at a significantly higher frequency, which could be as high as 300 cycles per second. By increasing the cycle frequency, the digital servo can deliver its power much more quickly, and with less deadband (we’ll get into this more next month.) For a complete explanation, go to futaba-rc.com/ servos/digitalservos.pdf.
Futaba analog servos are very affordable and will deliver the performance you’ll need for almost all your sport models. The Futaba S3115 is a micro-sized precision servo that delivers 39 oz-in. of torque. They sell for only $19.99 each.
Check out these little S3114 micro servos. They will deliver 26 oz-in. of torque on six volts, and they cost just $14.99 each.
Futaba Analogs
Analogs
Analog servos use the same motors as digital servos, have a potentiometer like them, use the same battery voltage and have pretty much the same gear trains. They do have more deadband (response time), but for many, many model airplane applications you just don’t need digital servos. And, since analogs are typically priced very affordably, you can outfit your model for much less money than if you used all digitals. Now, let’s take a look at some of Futaba’s analog servos and their price as offered at towerhobbies.com. Number Torque (oz-in.) S3004
57 (6 volts)
Kind
Price
Standard
$13.99
S3114
24 (6 volts)
Micro
$14.99
S3115
39
Micro Precision
$19.99
S3306
333 (6 volts)
High-Torque
$39.99
S9405
100 (6 volts)
High-Torque
$64.99
Pushing Them
As you can see, we’re pushing the analog servos as an affordable alternative to the digital servos. Their specs show they can do the job for most control needs. There’s no doubt, however, that when you need real horsepower and precision to drive large control surfaces on a large airplane, digital servos may be the best investment for your model.
Futaba’s S3006 is a hightorque, metal-geared servo that delivers 333 oz-in. of torque on six volts, and it only costs $39.99.
Remember though, that analog servos are very reliable, deliver good performance and power and are also usually priced much more affordably, which should keep the war department in check, right?
The S9405 is a standard-size servo that pumps out 100 oz-in. of torque on six volts. It will cost you only $64.99 a piece.
Distributor Futaba 3002 N Apollo Drive, Suite #1 Champaign, IL 61822 Phone: 217-398-0007 futaba-rc.com
RC-SF.COM
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BY Staff
AnyLink
™
Get Connected with Your Models
T
he 2.4-GHz radio system wave came crashing in on many a modeler about five years ago. It was a change for the better! Now, RC pilots no longer have to yell out their radio system frequency, take a frequency pin or walk around the airfield checking to make certain no other pilot is using the same radio frequency in their system to control their model. However, the drawback is that radio manufacturers are using a few different 2.4-GHz protocols. No longer can you use one brand of radio to communicate with a different brand of radio receiver. It turns out that you are mostly committed to whatever brand of radio system you choose, and that includes the receivers. There is a fix to this problem for some airplanes now being introduced by Great Planes. It is the AnyLink system. AnyLink is a “black box” system that turns your radio into a 2.4-GHz system that can communicate with any of the Tx-R™ aircraft. It enables your transmitter, no matter the brand, to control any Transmitter-Ready™ aircraft. The AnyLink systems is a compact and lightweight unit that installs in seconds and is compatible with virtually
any transmitter, regardless of brand, band or modulation. Once in place, AnyLink gives your transmitter the ability to: • Fly all Tx-R™ aircraft • Fly any plane with a Tactic 2.4-GHz SLT™ receiver • Fly airplanes using a 2.4-GHz frequency-hopping, spreadspectrum system AnyLink is only $24.99, too! AnyLink is designed to interface with Futaba®, JR®, Hitec®, Spektrum® and other popular radios. This system worked well with all the models that we had to fly. It was virtually invisible to our feel!
Some of the models that work with AnyLink FLZA3003
Flyzone Calypso EP Glider
GPMA1771 Great Planes F-86 Sabre EDF HCAA2555
Flyzone Fokker Dr.1
HCAA2556
Flyzone Super Cub
HCAA2557
Flyzone Albatros
HCAA2558
Flyzone Playmate™
HCAA2520
Flyzone Select Scale Cessna® 182 Skylane®
HCAA2526
Flyzone Select Scale Super Cub
HCAA2529
Flyzone Switch™
HCAA2532
Flyzone Select Scale Cessna® 350 Corvalis®
Distributor Great Planes P.O. Box 9021 Champaign, IL 61821 Phone: 800-637-7660 greatplanes.com www.Tx-Ready.com
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1815 South Research Loop Tucson, Arizona 85710 Phone: (520) 722-0607 E-mail: info@desertaircraft.com Web Site: desertaircraft.com
DA-200
Price $2795
Displacement: 12.20 cin (200 cc) Output: 19 hp Weight: 10.95 lb (4.95 kilos) Length: 9.625 in. (244 mm) Warranty: Two Years
DA-150
Price $1395
Displacement: 9.15 ci (150 cc) Output: 16.5 hp Weight: 7.96 lb (3.61 kilos) Length: 7.67 in. (195 mm) Warranty: Three year
DA-100L
Price $999
Displacement: 6.10 ci (100 cc) Output: 9.8 hp Weight: 5.57 lb (2.53 kilos) Length: 6.5 in. (162.5 mm) Warranty: Three year
DA-50-R
Price $595
Displacement: 3.05 ci (50 cc) Output: 5.0 hp Weight: 2.94 lb (1.33 kilos) Length: 6.7 (170 mm) Warranty: Three year
DA-170
Price $1695
Displacement: 10.48 ci (171.8 cc) Output: 18 hp Weight: 8.05 lb (3.56 kilos) Length: 7.67 in. (195 mm) Warranty: Three year
DA-120
Price $1199
Displacement: 7.4 ci (121 cc) Output: 11 hp Weight: 4.95 lb (2.25 kilos) Length: 6.25 in. (159 mm) Warranty: Three year
DA-85
Price $795
Displacement: 5.24 ci (85.9 cc) Output: 8.5 hp Weight: 4.3 lb (1.95 kilos) Length: 5.9 in. (150 mm) Warranty: Three year
BY Wil Byers
Sky Limit
Throw Away the Winch. Start Flying ALES!
T
here is a new way to get your limited motor run (LMR) glider to altitude! It is the Sky Limit from Winged Shadow Systems. This is a fantastic unit designed for AltitudeLimited Electric Soaring (ALES). Shawn Plummer (Hacker USA) and I came up with the concept for F5J soaring 12-plus years ago. F5J is a man-on-man contest similar to F3J, but the model is an electric-powered glider that uses the motor to climb to altitude. The task typically lasts, say, 10 minutes, and finishes with a large spot landing. You can get the provisional rules at fai.org. Shawn even hosted the first contest in Phoenix, AZ. At that point, the F5J’s task limited the model’s climb to altitude by the length of time the motor ran. If your model had a hot motor and battery combination, it would often fly out of sight during the climb time, which meant a super high launch. The glider could basically just glide for an unbelievable time. Then Bill Parry of Eagle Tree Systems designed a system whereby the model’s motor-on time was monitored. In that case, the pilot who could run his model’s motor the least during the working time and get the maximum flight time would get the best F5J score. Again, Shawn Plummer was behind this movement, sponsoring the only cash prize contest in the nation for this type of event. There were a few attempts at limiting the model’s altitude for F5Jtype flying, but they weren’t all that successful and never really took off. Now, however, there is a device that has given ALES- and F5J-type flying a real opportunity for growth. It is the new Sky Limit system from Winged Shadow Systems. Here is what Sky Limit is capable of doing once installed in your electric-powered glider or airplane. It monitors the airplane’s altitude and/ or flight time. Consequently, when the airplane reaches the specified limit you’ve programmed into Sky Limit, the unit reduces the throttle
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The Sky Limit package comes with the programmer and the airborne Sky Limit, plus userfriendly instruction manuals for both.
to a preset level, which in the case of F5J can be zero or motor off. What is outstanding about this unit is that it is extremely small and lightweight. It will fit into every airplane/glider you can imagine, including a small electric-powered, hand-launched glider or discuslaunched glider. It can also be programmed for different altitudes or motor run settings, which could even be done right at the airfield for different contest tasks. As such, you could select altitude, time or a combination of both. Additionally, you can even program the unit to prohibit in-air restarts once the glider has reached a specified altitude. Think about it! You could have a contest where the models are only allowed to climb to, say, 500 feet. Then the motor could not be restarted until you’ve reset the unit on the ground. This is sounding like a ton of fun to me! It also sounds like the beginnings of a real, honest-togoodness F5J contest that Shawn and I thought about so long ago. Here is what Winged Shadow
Systems writes on their website: • Cuts the throttle at your specified altitude or time • Works with electric-, gas- or glow-powered models • Settings for ALES* and F5J* sailplane competitions • Adjustable idle level, restart and anti-zoom settings • Bonus Features: Peak & “Launch” Altitude Capture; Limit Cause Indicator (Altitude or Time); Elevator Mode *Fine print for electric sailplane competitors: ALES—The Sky Limit is approved for League of Silent Flight LSF/AMA Altitude-Limited Electric Soaring (ALES) contests. F5J—The CAIM/FAI F5J Working Group recently created a detailed specification for F5J altimeter/ timer devices. Once formally adopted, only devices meeting this specification will be allowed in official FAI competitions. An important requirement in the specification is that devices have no configurable settings or adjustments. This means that the device cannot have any other
Sky Limit capabilities or features. The Sky Limit is designed to be useful in a wide variety of applications and has many features and adjustments. Therefore, while the Sky Limit can be used in casual F5J-type contests and practice, it will not be approved for future FAI-listed events. The unit is quick and easy to set up. It is also a very
You’ll need to buy compact package, so it will fit in any model. both the programmer and the airborne unit, but the programmer can be used and the airborne unit. with multiple airborne units. Now I’m waiting for Shawn to host another contest!
Conclusion
What are you waiting for? Get a Sky Limit today and start flying ALESor F5J-type contests tomorrow. You’ll have a ton of fun search for thermals. Moreover, you’ll be testing your piloting skills against all your fellow pilots. This a bargain-basement buy at only $54.90 for both the programmer
Distributor Winged Shadow Systems P.O. Box 432 Streamwood, IL 60107 Phone: 630-837-6553 Wingedshadow.com
Sky Limit is so small and lightweight that it will even fit into a small, hand-launched type model.
Specifications Airborne Weight
3.6 g
Transmitter
Works with any brand
Altitude
50 to 9999 ft (15 to 3050 m)
Units
Feet/Meters selectable
Timer
5 to 9999 sec
Programmer & Sky Limit
$54.90
Sky Limit
$38.90
Programmer
$24.90
The 6J. Blazing Speed. Red-hot Value. With a frame rate of 6.8ms, the Futaba 6J is a hot buy for response speed alone. But add 6J value, and things only get hotter. It’s priced to make high-end features affordable: electronic swash ring and 4 swash types for helis, 5-point throttle and pitch curves for helis and airplanes and a variable rate knob, 15-model memory and more for good measure. Programming is easy, too, and you can navigate it forward and backward. ™
Get today’s hottest deal in 6-channels: Futaba 6J.
®
futaba-rc.com/102r © 2011 Hobbico®, Inc. All rights reserved. 3137278 The Futaba® logo and name are registered trademarks of Futaba Corporation. Futaba is distributed by Great Planes Model Distributors®, Champaign, IL, 61826, U.S.A.
BY Staff
Cockpit Instruments Give the Pilot some Instruments To Use
W
hen your next model is nearly complete, don’t forget to finish the job with a set of instruments in the cockpit for the pilot to use. After all, if the clouds drop, your pilot will need to use instrument flight rules (IFR) to get out of the fog and down to a safe landing. Or maybe you’re more realistic about the fact that you’re flying an RC airplane and just want the cockpit to look cool when others admire it. Whatever your reasoning, you’ll want to check out the instruments that are sold by JTEC Radiowave. We saw these instrument packs at the Toledo trade show. They are quite nice and are certainly affordable as compared with some of the imports we’ve seen. JTEC Radiowave offers eight instrument packages. They come either in black and white or in color. Each instrument kit includes 83 different gauges, plus the pack includes two sheets of Lexan material. You’ll want to use the Lexan to cover the instruments once you’ve got them into their bezels or into the dashboard. Also, JTEC includes
Distributor JTEC Radiowave 129 Loc Doc PL, Unit B Mooresville, NC 28115 Phone: 704-799-1658 Jtecrc.com
a complete instruction sheet that explains how best to use and install the instruments. So, now you can complete the cockpit of your next model airplane with some instruments that will give the model that realistic and finished look. Price: 1/3-scale color $13.99, B&W $9.99. Each sheet of instruments comes as a trifold package with instructions.
There is just about any instrument you could possibly want in the JTEC Radiowave package. This one is for 1/3-scale size airplanes.
Inside the package you get a set of instructions and some Lexan you can use to cover the instruments on the panel.
APC Competition propellers for the intermediate and
advanced sport flyer as well as the competition community. Over 400 pitch/diameters available ranging from slow-flyer electric to High performance Giant Scale Racers.
Visit the APC Prop Website for product selection and detailed information on product design and features.
LANDING PRODUCTS All propellers are in stock and overnight delivery is available. Proudly made in the USA
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RC SPORT FLYER — july 2012
1222 Harter Ave., Woodland, CA 95776 (530) 661-0399 est. 1989 by Mr. Fred Burgdorf
Hot New Gliders From Competitive Pricing • Superb Service & Support
Online & Phone Ordering • World-Wide Shipping
NAN Xplorer 4.0
FOSA F3B
Valenta 1/3 Fox
Orion F5J/ALES/LMR Stobel V3 DHLG
AUTHORIZED DEALER FOR:
(626) 967-6660 Monday - Friday 9am - 4pm, PST E-Mail: info@soaringusa.com
BY Wil Byers
Receiver
AR12120
Two Batteries are Better Than One
W
hen you are sitting back, looking at your nearly finished model perched on the workbench, envisioning what it is going to fly like and how much fun it is going to be to control, you almost never see it crashing in your mind! Crashes are, however, a reality of the hobby of flying remote-controlled (RC) aircraft. Underscore—model airplanes do sometimes crash! If you fly large-scale airplanes or gliders or expensive scale helicopters, crashes are a very scary thought because they have the potential to harm you or the people around you. So, SAFETY is a major concern, as it is with any model airplane! If you ask RC pilots who have been involved in the hobby for any length of time what the cause of most crashes is, they will tell you that it is loss of battery power. Even the most experienced pilot will at some point forget to charge their model’s battery. Or they will not maintain the battery properly. Or they’ll just fly their model too long over the course of the day. And too, battery packs
Your Spektrum AR12120 will come with two input leads and four satellite receivers. You can use battery packs with an output voltage of up to 10 volts.
do fail. When these things happen, it is rare, very rare, that the model will “land” without inflicting damage on itself—major damage! What you absolutely do NOT want is for it
The AR12120 that I’m putting in my FOX uses DSMX technology. It has four input ports for the satellite receivers. As you can see, it comes in a very compact plastic case.
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to damage someone or someone’s property in the process. Then too, there is the fact that large-scale airplane control systems suck large amounts of electrical
The receiver uses dual 16-AWG battery leads with pre-wired E-flite® EC3™ connectors, so you can just buy a couple of E-flite LiPo packs, plug them in and be ready to run.
Spektrum AR12120 Receiver current and do so at high rates, so they can eat up a battery’s capacity in a rather short period of time. Fortunately, battery packs typically fail at different rates or lifespans. So, my recommendation (and that of industry insiders) is that you power your model’s control systems with more than one battery pack. That way if one battery fails, you may have just enough battery power left in the other to land the model while you are still in control. It is a simple redundancy, but better than none. The solution I’ve chosen for my big, 1/3-scale Fox glider is the new Spektrum AR12120X receiver. The AR12120 is a PowerSafe® receiver that lets you connect a battery pack to each of its two input ports. The packs then provide power to the AR12120’s built-in DSMX receiver. A super nice feature is that the battery packs can have output voltages of up to 10 volts. The AR12120 can therefore accept input voltages from a two-cell LiPo pack without worry of creating an overvoltage condition for the receiver. The AR12120 will also then drive high-voltage servos and deliver their needed current. Additionally, the AR12120 is a 12-channel receiver with the connection option of a new Spektrum Plus8™ 8-channel expander to its SRXL port. In this case you can control additional channels, such as you might find on a scale airplane, glider or helicopter. If you opt to use the AR12120,
Your receiver will come packaged well to avoid any damage that might occur during shipping. It will also include an excellent User’s Guide.
you won’t have to worry about signal loss either because it uses a patented DualLink® technology. The unit is therefore built to interface with up to four remote receivers that you can place throughout the airplane to guarantee that the airplane’s receivers capture every frame of data that is sent to them by the 2.4-GHz DSMX transmitter. If you have a model with lots of carbon fiber content, Spektrum also offers the SPM9646 DSMX Carbon Fiber Remote Receiver, which is compatible with the AR12120. One of the main reasons I’m using the Spektrum AR12120 PowerSafe receiver is for the current-carrying
This is a bus you’ll want to get on! It will deliver 35 amps of continuous current and 50 amps of burst. That means your servos are not going to “starve” for juice when they need it.
capacity on its bus. Large-scale airplanes typically use high-powered servos such as the JR 8711HV, Hitec 7954 or Futaba BLS152s. When the airplane is maneuvering hard or being subjected to heavy flight load, the servos can and will swallow large currents as their motors work hard to control the flight surfaces. If, however, the receiver’s bus voltage sags because too much current is flowing through it or any node on it (remember Kirchhoff ’s Law), then the other servos will not have the voltage and current to deliver their optimal performance. Spektrum’s AR12120 receiver bus, however, delivers 35 amps of
On the other side of the AR12120X receiver are two additional ports for satellite receivers, which will make for a very secure link between your transmitter and this receiver system! RC-SF.COM
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STi
The Next Big Leap is in the Cockpit
BY Wil Byers
The graphic user interface (GUI) that is built into this app is outstanding. You can see at a glance exactly what the sensor values are by way of the dials.
I
t was not long ago that I was having dinner with friends. We were of course chatting about RC models and what’s new in the industry. The question came up about what would be the next big thing in RC. When the dust of the argument settled, most of us agreed that it would be telemetry. We reasoned that it would be telemetry because adding telemetry systems to our models would allow us to analyze airplane performance. With telemetry onboard, it is possible to know airspeed, engine rpm, motor rpm, altitude, ground speed, GPS location, airspeed, Rx battery voltage, motor battery voltage, current, etc. And, with the technology in telemetry just coming to the forefront in the hobby, the future of telemetry systems seems very bright indeed. Think about what is possible with telemetry. You can know the airspeed of your airplane in all attitudes. You can adjust its center of gravity based on airplane performance and decal scheme. Here I’m specifically talking about sailplanes and gliders where you will be able to adjust the center of gravity and elevator incidence in combination. You can then really start to know the glider’s sinking speed and even lift-over-drag ratios. You can know the ground speed for pattern maneuvers. You can know the gravitational forces on the airplane. You can know how high the airplane is flying, so that you can repeat that altitude maneuver after maneuver. You can even optimize the engine’s rpm based on the type of flight you want from the airplane or the altitude that the engine must run at. Really, using telemetry is like climbing into the cockpit and getting real feedback from the airplane and its instruments.
STi
Using STi (Spektrum Telemetry
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These are the heart of the system: a TM1000 telemetry module that communicates with the TR1000 STi unit, which ports the data to the iPod Touch, iPhone or, in my case, iPad.
Interface) makes it that much easier to get this type of data. With STi you can get telemetry data on an iPod Touch®, iPhone® or iPad®. As
a result, your copilot (you should use one) can monitor the airplane’s performance and parameters as you pilot it. STi also captures the data for
Spektrum STi
Antenna Here is how the TM1000 telemetry system is configured for the airborne side of the system. It is easy and quick to set up this sensor system, even if you are beginner.
analysis after the flight has ended. Now, with STi it is oh-so-easy to do! You simply plug STi into your Apple iPod Touch, iPhone or iPad. You download the app from the iTunes store. It will install automatically on your device. Then you bind the STi to your TM1000 telemetry module and transmitter, and you are up and running. You’ll obviously need to configure the app for the telemetry devices that you’ve installed in your model. That will take only about 10 minutes because the user interface of the app is exceptionally intuitive and easy to use. Configuring it lets you decide what telemetry data you want to display on your iPod Touch, iPhone or iPad. You can turn the gauges off or on. You can view the data in either landscape or portrait modes. You can have different models that you monitor and include a photo of each model. You can turn off or on the speech function in your device. You’ll be able to auto-log data. You will also be able to look at the statistics from the flight data. Also, I think you’re going to like the graphics and the user interface. The graphics really make sense, while the graphic user interface provides easy navigation within the app. Once you start using STi and its app, you’ll discover that the app provides clear, concise information about the data that the sensors gather. You won’t be guessing at what is happening with your model. The information will be displayed on your
Bind Stylus Bind Button
X-Bus (for future telemetry options) RPM Port Optional RPM Sensor (nitro) OptionalElectricRPM Sensor (not attached)
The iPhone’s GUI is nearly identical to the iPad’s. It is just smaller so you’ll not be able to display as many sensor gauges as you would on the iPad.
Data Port with Data Lead Temp/Volt Port withY-Harness Temperature Lead Voltage Lead
There are no sensors connected to the TM1000 for this photo, but you still see how the gauges would display the information from the airborne system.
This is what the landscape mode looks like on the iPhone. You can see you have three gauges and switches for choosing which gauges to display. This is the setup screen that you’ll use to enter the sensors that you want to monitor. You’ll even be able to load a photo of your model to display.
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BY Wil Byers
It’s All About Power Output
I
t is! It’s all about the power output for the PowerBox system. It is about maintaining the output voltage and current for the control systems that today’s generation of large-scale airplanes, sailplanes, jets and scale helicopters use. The PowerBox system is about getting the most performance out of your aircraft by guaranteeing that all servos, receivers and telemetry get clean, steady and reliable power. It is why so many championship RC pilots are now fitting their models with PowerBox power supply systems. I first started using a PowerBox Royal power supply in my models about five years ago. It was after reading a report about what the PowerBox system does for supplying voltage and current to the servo systems. It was also after witnessing a couple of very scary crashes where the new generation of high-powered servos had consumed the aircraft’s battery capacity in a short period of time, which resulted in the airplane losing control.
The new PowerBox Competition SRS includes inputs for two battery packs, heat sinks, four ports for remote receivers and a 128 x 64 OLED display.
This is the package that I purchased. It includes two 2800-mAh 7.4-volt LiPo battery packs, a switch, cables and the Competition SRS power supply.
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PowerBox Competition SRS It was, however, only after installing the PowerBox system in my model that I was truly sold on the power supply system. What I learned was that the PowerBox delivers clean, steady, and importantly, isolated power to each of my aircraft’s servos. Unlike a typical receiver that has a common power bus (where all positive terminals and all negative terminals share a common wire), the PowerBox system uses field effect transistors (FET) to isolate the positive and negative leads for each servo’s output. It also uses a pulse width modulation (PWM) for the power conversion and power output, which makes for very clean, steady and reliable power. However, the important thing is that the outputs are isolated from each other so that no matter what is happening to a servo on one channel, it won’t affect the servos on the other channels. That was a very fundamental explanation, so let me explain it another way. Let’s look at the case of a new high-voltage, high-powered digital servo. This particular servo will deliver 403 oz-in. of torque when you supply it with 7.4 volts. Its rotational speed is 0.12 seconds on
7.4 volts too. However, the torque drops to only 333 oz-in. when it is supplied with 6.0 volts, and the speed then drops to 0.15 seconds. The reduction in torque from 7.4 volts to 6.0 volts is 17 percent, while the reduction in speed is 25 percent. So, consider that the bus of a typical receiver is common to all servos, and then consider that during any flight,
This is the magnetic switch that you can install in your model for turning the PowerBox on and off, which means you won’t need an external switch.
PowerBox provides you with lots of input leads for using battery packs to power their power supply, so you can use NiCd/ NiMH, LiFe or Li-Ion packs.
This 12-volt car charger is designed to charge both battery packs at the same time. You just plug it straight into the packs. It includes a nice, long extension cable.
The 120/240 VAC wall charger is also designed to charge both PowerBox LiPo packs at the same time. Mine came with the plug used in Germany, which I changed out for a U.S. type.
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BY Christian Belleau
This Seven Brings You Luck
H
itec RCD keeps packing more outstanding control and flight information features into each new radio system they introduce! And, today is your lucky day because their new Eclipse 7 Pro 2.4-GHz seven-channel, AFHSS (Adaptive Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum) transmitter provides more power and performance than any previous model. Moreover, Hitec has priced their new Eclipse 7 Pro at just $299.99 (horizonhobby.com), with the package including two Optima 7 receivers, a 7.2-volt NiMH 1300-mAh battery pack and wall charger. Plus, the unit comes with a 64-page manual that provides an easy-to-understand set of programming instructions. What you get in the Eclipse 7 Pro is a new ergonomically designed case that includes a white light, high-intensity backlit LCD screen, two back-panel slider controls (VR1 and VR2), ultra-smooth quadball-bearing gimbals, user-friendlypositioned control switches and easy-to-access programming switches. The transmitter also provides programming for Aircraft, Glider and Helicopter modes. It includes sevencharacter naming for its 16-model memory locations and telemetry functions for sensor monitoring. The unit also provides deluxe control sticks that offer adjustable lengths and tension, so you can customize the transmitter for the control feel you like best. As you’d expect with any Hitec transmitter, it provides for an optional training cord too. The case layout is pretty typical. There are of course the two control sticks with their adjoining digital trim switches. The digital trims provide an audible beep when they reach zero as you’d likely expect. In both the upper left and upper right corners of the case are short, two-position dual rate switches—one for the elevator and one for the ailerons. In the upper left there is a long, two-position dual-rate 94
RC SPORT FLYER — july 2012
switch for rudder. In the upper right you’ll find a channel 7, three-position switch. In the top left corner there is a short three-position flight mode switch, with a long, spring-loaded trainer switch behind and a bit to the right. On the top right side of the case there is a short, two position switch for gear (SW6), and a long flight condition switch behind it and just to the left a bit. And, on the back of the case you will find both a trainer cord port and a data port for firmware upgrades to the transmitter. It is a very well-laid-out design. What makes this transmitter/
Holly Stewart models with the new Eclipse 7 Pro that will soon be used in Christian’s airplanes.
Hitec Eclipse 7 Pro receiver combination really ROCK is the telemetry system that comes with it when using the Optima 7 receivers. Using this Tx’s feature, you can monitor your model’s systems such as receiver battery voltage, engine/motor rpm, temperature, current, ground speed (GPS), altitude, airspeed and even fuel level. It is easy to set up this system and sensors too, which definitely lowers the programming “intimidation” level significantly.
Basic Features
• 7-Channel 2.4-GHz Telemetric System • 3-model type (ACRO/GLID/HELI) programming
ECLIPSE 7 PRO MODE 2 TYPE SWITCH CONFIGURATION LIST FRONT
Flight Mode Switch
Condition 3 Trim, D/R, Exp (Ail, Elev, rudd)
Condition Mix 1 Trim, D/R, EXP Nomal Trim, D/R, EXP Condition Mix 2 Trim, D/R, EXP Landing Mix
Glider P-Mix 5 ON/OFF
Condition 3 Trim, D/R, Exp (Ail, Elev, rudd) 4-wing Aileron to Flap Coupling Mix
Glider Condition Mix 1
HELI
4-Wing Speed Flap Trim Offset 1 Elevator to Flap Mix Normal Trim, D/R, EXP Condition Mix 2 4-Wing Speed Flap Trim Offset 2
HELI
Throttle Hold Condition 3 Trim, D/R, Exp (Ail, Elev, rudd) Gyro Gain Hold Pitch Curvo
Gear
Rudder to Throttle Mix Nomal Trim, D/R, EXP, Gyro Gain ldle UP 1 Trim, D/R, EXP, Throttle Curve ldle UP 2 Trim, D/R, EXP, Pitch Curve
ACRD Landing Gear
HELI
Elev. D/R ACRD Elevator D/R
Elevator D/R Motor ON/OFF Elevator D/R
ON/OFF ON/OFF ON/OFF ON/OFF
P-Mix3
Glider P-Mix3
Crow Mix P-Mix 1
Elev. D/R CH3
ACRD/Glider/HELI
Aileron D/R
Rudder D/R
CH7 Switch
ACRD P-Mix 4 ON/OFF
ACRD P-MIX 1 ON/OFF
Aileron to Rudder Mix On/OFF Rudder D/R
P-MIX 2 ON/OFF
Glider P-MIX 1 ON/OFF
Glider P-Mix 4 ON/OFF
P-MIX 2 ON/OFF Flap to Aileron Mix Flap to Elevator Mix
Aileron to Rudder Mix Rudder D/R
HELI
P-Mix 2 ON/OFF Rudder D/R
HELI
ACRD/HELI Throttle Trim Glider Flap Trim
CH 7 Control (Heading lock ON/OFF)
Elevator Trim
Rudder trim
The ergonomic design of the new Hitec RCD Eclipse 7 Pro is well done, with excellent balance and easyto-access trims, switches, buttons and sliders.
Flight Condition Switch ACRD P-Mix 5 ON/OFF
ACRD Elevator to Flap Mix
Aileron Trim
Select to Voltage
Integral Timer Data Reset
Trim Data Model Name
Acro/HELI Engine Low Position Hold Glider X
Acro/HELI Engine Cut off Glider X
The above diagram provides a clear understanding of all the options and features that come built into this $299.99 radio package, which includes two Optima 7 receivers—super value!
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
7-character model naming 16-model memory Model copy 5 programmable mixes Ultra-smooth 8-ball-bearing gimbals Stick mode change 2 back-panel sliders Digital trims Sub trims Easy-to-read backlit LCD screen Range-check mode Auto-assignable control switch Sensor monitoring and Rx lowbattery warning Three-conditional mixes per model Two flight timers End-point adjustments (EPA) Servo reversing Dual-rates on channel 1, 2 and 4 Exponential-rates on channels 1, 2 and 4 RC-SF.COM
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