RC Sport Flyer May 2013 (Vol 18-05)

14SG DELIVERS TELEMETRY PLUS GREAT RANGE PG 46

World’s Most In-Depth RC Aircraft Magazine

500 3D BNF HELI GETS YOU TO

A NEW LEVEL IN PERFORMANCE.

1/3-Scale ASK-18 Glider Build Series, Part I

SEE HOW!

See Why the New Flame Wheel F550 Multi-Rotor Will Put You in the Action!

LEARN HOW TO

MAKE SCALE PILOTS THE EASY WAY TELEMETRY SYSTEMS Like

MAY 2013

@

USA & CANADA $6.49

RC-SF.COM

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© 2013 Horizon Hobby, Inc. Blade, Scout CX, Serious Fun and the Horizon Hobby logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Horizon Hobby, Inc. The Red Bull name and likeness is used under license of Red Bull GmbH Austria. www.bladehelis.com

SERIOUS FUN ® 40457

Today’s helis and planes need a

BiG @$$ BeC inTRodUCinG

Talon 90 esC BEC: 20 amp peak with 9 amps continuous output.

ESC: 6S max input. 90 amp ESC. Applications: Ideal for powering motor and servos in 500, 550 and sport 600 helis, and 6S aerobatic ships too.

Full Castle programmable function set.* NOW SHIPPING!

Scan for more info on Talon ESCs

*Castle USB Link sold separately.

Known Around the World Order Only Lines: Tech Support: 1-406-259-9004 www.centralhobbies.com 1-800-723-5937 Prices subject to change without notice.

Mon-Sat: 10am to 6pm

Shipping charges additional.

Futaba 14SG

Futaba proudly introduces the 14SG, the only 14-channel system with revolutionary 2.4GHz FASSTest technology. It’s also compatible with Futaba FASST, S-FHSS and S.Bus2 protocols, so you can fly with virtually any 2.4GHz air receiver Futaba produces.

The 14SG can transmit and receive telemetry data. Install Futaba telemetry sensors (sold separately) to monitor flight data, receive alerts while in flight and more. Heli pilots will prefer the 14SG’s 3-axis gyro support — which makes the 14SG the perfect system for flybarless flight!

10 Character Model and user naming. 30 Model Memory. Sensor touch programming. Digital trims,. Airplane, Helicopter, Sailplane software.

99

$599

Central Hobbies Fuel Dots CHMFGAS for Gas $8.95 CHMFDOTS for Glow $8.95

TETRA Fuel T For Medium fuel line TET4302 $8.89

CHM CF Rod Sets with Titanium Ends CHMPRS24T2 24” long, 2-56 thread......$15.95 CHMPRS24T4 24” long, 4-40 thread......$15.95 CHMPRS24M2 24” long, 2mm thread.....$15.95 CHMPS24M25 24” long, 2.5mm thread..$15.95 CHMPRS24M3 24” long, 3mm thread.....$15.95 CHMPRS35T2 35” long, 2-56 thread.....$14.95 CHMPRS35M2 35” long, 2mm thread.....$14.95 CHMPS35M25 35” long, 2.5mm thread..$14.95 CHMPRS36T4 36” long, 4-40 thread.....$16.95 CHMPRS36T8 36” long, 8-32 thread.....$16.95 CHMPS36M25 36” long, 2.5mm thread..$16.95 CHMPS36M3 36” long, 3mm thread.....$16.95 CHMPS38T4 38” long, 4-40 thread.....$18.85 CHMPS38T6 38” long, 6-32 thread.....$18.85 CHMPS38TM3 38” long, 3mm thread....$18.85

CHS Fuel Filter Blue anodized aluminum For Medium glow fuel line CHS001F $2.49

CHM Titanium Ends for CHM Rods CHMPRE24T2 TIT ends, 2-56.. ..$8.97 CHMPRE24T4 TIT ends, 4-40. ..$8.97 CHMPRE24M2 TIT ends, 2mm....$8.97 CHMPE24M25 TIT ends, 2.5mm.$8.97 CHMPRE24M3 TIT ends, 3mm....$8.97 CHMPRE35T2 TIT ends, 2-56.....$8.75 CHMPE35M25 TIT ends, 2.5mm..$8.75 CHMPRE35M2 TIT ends, 2mm....$8.75 CHMPRE36T4 TIT ends, 4-40.....$8.97 CHMPRE36T8 TIT ends, 8-32.....$8.97 CHMPE36M25 TIT ends, 2.5mm.$8.97 CHMPRE36M3 TIT ends, 3mm....$8.97 CHMPRE38T4 TIT ends, 4-40.....$8.97 CHMPRE38T6 TIT ends, 6-32.....$8.97 CHMPRE38M3 TIT ends, 3mm....$8.97

Jeti a ESPRIT s u l e mod

www.ESPRITMODEL.com

(1) 321-729-4287

www.JetiUSA.com

DEPARTMENTS

BUILD

HOW TO

10 12 80 81

18

30

LEADING EDGE HOT PRODUCTS ADVERTISER INDEX MYSTERY AIRPLANE

26

PG 74

Discover why the Blade 500 3D BNF Basic makes a good pick for transition to flying 3D helis.

ASK-18 BUILD PART I Learn how to build a scale glider from scratch, starting with plans and some wood.

By Gene Cope

WEATHERING Follow these tricks and you’ll make your model look like the real thing.

By Anthony Richards

WILLIAM BROTHERS PILOT UPGRADES Give your model’s pilot a quick and easy upgrade using these building tips.

By Rob Caso

36

AEROBATICS PART 2 We tell you what airplanes make good 3D and Extreme aerobatic machines that you’ll want.

By Daniel Holman

PG 52 PG 56

The DX18 telemetry is easy to use and displays data in realtime.

6

RC SPORT FLYER — MAY 2013

See how the Hitec RCD Aurora 9 telemetry will work in your model airplanes.

MAY 2013

REVIEWS

64

FLYZONE ACRO-WOT Right out of the box this little indoor flyer delivers tons of fun.

See why you need one.

By Anthony Richards

68

DJI FLAME WHEEL F550 This hexa-copter takes you to the next level in multi-rotor performance and control.

By RC Staff

PG 68 A new hexa-copter you can program to fly hands off!

PG 30

74

BLADE 500 3D BNF BASIC Read this review to see why the new Blade 500 is a great choice for transitioning to 3D heli flying.

By Wil Byers

PG 60

Built from the ground up the new DC-16 has lots of telemetry features.

PG 46 Take a first look at the new Futaba 14SG w/ telemetry.

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @RCSPORTFLYER

PG 18 Part I of ASK-18 scale glider build shows you how to build from plans and wood.

RC-SF.COM

7

Editor in Chief:

Wil Byers

Assistant Editors:

Caroline Minard

wil@rc-sf.com assted@rc-sf.com

Bess Byers, Claire Schilperoort Don Porten, Anthony Richards

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Wil Byers Bess Byers

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RC Sport Flyer (ISSN: 1941-3467) is published monthly for $24.95 per year by Kiona Publishing, Inc., P.O. Box 4250, W. Richland, WA 99353-4004. Periodicals postage paid at Richland, WA and additional mailing offices.

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Contributions: Articles and photographs are welcome, but cannot be considered unless guaranteed exclusive. When requested we will endeavor to return all materials in good condition if accompanied by return postage. RC Sport Flyer assumes no responsibility for loss of or damage to editorial contributions received. Any material accepted is subject to possible revision at the discretion of the publisher. Publisher assumes no responsibility for accuracy of content. Opinions of contributing authors do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher.

RC Sport Flyer will retain author’s rights, title to and interest in the editorial contributions as described above in both print and electronic media unless prior arrangement has been made in writing. Payment for editorial materials will be made at our current rate. Submission of editorial material to RC Sport Flyer expresses a warranty by the author that such material is in no way an infringement upon the rights of others. The contents of this magazine may not be reprinted traditionally or electronically without permission of the publisher.

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RC SPORT FLYER — MAY 2013

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Contributing Editors: Don Bailey, Rob Caso, Gene Cope, Daniel Holman, Mike Hoffmeister, Richard Kuns, Bob McGowan, Joe Nave, Vincenzo Pedrelli, Steve Rojecki, Gary Ritchie, Mike Shellim, Jerry Smith, Jeff Troy, James VanWinkle

Copyright ©2011

8

graphics@rc-sf.com

Printed in the USA

WIL BYERS

I

enjoy this hobby/profession beyond words, and I do so for many reasons. For example, in this month’s issue I had the opportunity to fly the Blade 500 3D Bind-N-Fly helicopter, build and program the Flame Wheel F550 hexacopter, test some absolutely awesome telemetry systems as well as the new Futaba 14SG transmitter, and help my longtime friend, Gene Cope, test fly his scratch-built 1/3-scale ASK-18 glider. Talk about a fun job or what—it is a great gig!

Every year at this time, the flowers start to bloom, the birds sing and the events start to appear on our radar. Oh, and I start to preach about the benefits of attending them. The truth is they benefit you because you get to see models of every kind, see their construction, their radio control systems, and see how other pilots fly their models. It is an all-around great learning experience.

Here are just a few that I recommend you attend.

Southeast Electric Flight Festival - April 22–28 This is a mega event for electric-powered aircraft. It has been held in Georgia since 2002. Now it is hosted at Hodges’ Field in Americus, Georgia. This is one of the most well run, well organized events you will ever have the opportunity to attend. To say you are going to have a good time at this event is definitely an understatement. It is a blast, and the food is good too. fayetteflyers.com Joe Nall Week - May 11–18 This a truly monumental event. It is now the largest gathering of model airplane enthusiasts in the world. Attendees can fly anything from a 3D airplane to a float plane. The real draw for many modelers is, however, the huge number of scale airplanes that are shown and flown at Joe Nall. Note too, Pat Hartness has been making improvements to the flying site that will make flying at this site better than ever. Don’t miss it! tripletreeaerodrome.com International Slope Race - May 18–19 The ISR group is hosting what has been a legendary slope race in Davenport, California, this spring. It will be held at the site of Big Creek Lumber on the bluffs that overlook the Pacific Ocean. It is a unique glider race in that pilots compete with each other in man-on-man fashion, which makes for some exciting action in the turns and down the straights. I’m planning to attend this annual event because it has no equal. I hope I’ll see you there. davenportisr.com/index2.html Northwest RC Seaplane Champs - July 13 – 14 If you live on the West Coast and you like flying or watching seaplanes fly, you must not miss this annual event at Pine Hollow, Oregon. This event is held at one of the best float fly lakes you will find anywhere, which is at Wamic, Oregon. The organizers have been putting this event on for a number of years now and now want you to know about it. So, dig out your float plane, or put a set of floats on one of your models, and attend this fun competition. You’ll be glad you made the trip. sky-knights.org.

F3B World Champs - August 1–11 Glider pilots may want to consider taking a summer vacation in Dresden, Germany. They will have the opportunity to see the world’s best glider pilots go head to head in an F3B competition. For those who don’t know, F3B is comprised of three tasks: speed, distance and duration. The competition is designed to test both the pilot’s skill as well as the overall performance of the glider. Learn more at teamusaf3b.com.

Cubs N’ Cousins - August 23–25 If you are a Cub nut like many of us are, you must not miss this huge, fun fly event. It is hosted in Othello, Washington, at one of the best flying sites you will find anywhere. It is super affordable too at only $15 a day. What makes this event super, however, is that it is all about Cubs and airplanes that are considered cousins of the Cub. Talk about a fun event. rc-cubsncousins.com Until next month, keep your batteries charged and propellers balanced.

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

10

RC SPORT FLYER — MAY 2013

1222 Harter Ave., Woodland, CA 95776 (530) 661-0399 est. 1989 by Mr. Fred Burgdorf

14SG

14-Channel 2.4GHz Computer Radio System

Everything you want…and more.

The 14SG makes 14-channel control more affordable – and easier to enjoy – than ever before. All the features that today’s pilots want most are built-in, like innovative 2.4GHz FASSTest technology.

Since the 14SG is compatible with FASST and S-FHSS protocols, users can fly with virtually any Futaba 2.4GHz air receiver. Futaba telemetry sensors (sold separately) let the 14SG transmit and receive telemetry data, including real-time vibration alerts.

Flybarless gyro support makes the 14SG perfect for heli pilots. Rubber hand grips and adjustable dual bearing gimbals provide superior in-flight “feel.” Pilots can even download free online software updates using SD or SDHC cards.

We’re just scratching the surface.

For the full scoop on the 14SG, visit futaba-rc.com!

™

®

futaba-rc.com/118a

™

™

© 2012 Hobbico, Inc. All rights reserved. 3137327

Aeroworks 30-CC Ultimate 20-300 ARF-QB

AeroWorks 4903 Nome Street Denver, CO 80239 Phone: 303-371-4222 aero-works.net

B

ased on the 150-cc Ultimate 20-300 designed by Jason Noll, the new 30-cc Ultimate 20-300 is sure to impress even the most demanding pilot. Designed for both precision and 3D-style flying, the 30-cc Ultimate 20-300 is sure to outperform any other Ultimate on the market, with minimal mixing and aileron differential required to achieve perfect flight. The compact size the 30-cc Ultimate offers is perfect for transportation, allowing it to be left fully assembled when transported in a normalsize truck! If a smaller transportation option is required, the wings and stabs can be easily removed for a truly compact footprint. The 30cc Ultimate is a true QB offering high-quality, lightweight construction and the fastest build

Captron HeliCommand Hush Kit

• Complete and detailed instruction manual on CD • Painted and premounted 7075 aluminum landing gear • Complete high-quality SAE hardware package included • Adjustable pushrods with centering nut • One-piece wing design increases strength and speeds assembly • Preinstalled center cabane • 6061 T-6 anodized aluminum stab tube • Professionally covered in UltraCote™ with extra covering provided for repairs • Prehinged from factory • One-servo wing

powered helicopters.

Esprit Model 1240 Clearmont St NE, Unit 12 Palm Bay, FL 32905 Phone: 321-729-4287 espritmodel.com

T

he HeliCommand Hush Kit is a great addition to protect your HeliCommand.

Made of integrated foam, this ultraacoustic suppression hood can save your HeliCommand stabilization system from functioning incorrectly when used in turbine-

12

time possible.

With the Ultimate’s unbeatable stability and precision flight characteristics, it is certain to please both the beginner as well as the advanced competitor. The Ultimate was designed from the ground up to be a topperforming aircraft. Generous control surfaces and an awesome power-to-weight ratio make this a plane you’ll want to fly every visit to the field!

RC SPORT FLYER — MAY 2013

Price: $37.50

Specifications Wingspan

60 in.

Wing Area

1320 in.2

Length

69 in. (Rudder to Front of Cowl) 71.5 in. (Rudder to Front of Spinner)

Cowl Width

9.5 in.

Weight

12–13 lb

Engine

30–35 cc

Radio

6 channel minimum

Price

$499.95

• Large control surfaces, double-beveled for maximum throw • Premounted fiberglass cowl, wheel pants and tinted canopy • Preinstalled and fuel-proofed engine box • Laser-cut, engine-mounting templates provided • 8 to 10 hours assembly time

HOT PRODUCTS

SR Pro Micro XL- Camera Gimbal System

Atlanta Hobby 6110 Parkway North Drive Cumming, GA 30041 Phone: 678-513-4450 atlantahobby.com

T

he new SR Pro Micro “XL” Stabilized Gimbal/ Landing Gear System is now available.

This system was born out of the SR Micro Pro Gimbal—the perfect solution for the DJI 450 and 550, and can be easily fitted to many other multi-rotor copters that want to carry larger cameras such as the Soney NEX5 or NEX7.

The unit is manufactured in the USA with the highest-quality aircraft components available, while still maintaining a lightweight yet incredibly strong design. The SR Pro Micro “XL” Stabilized Gimbal weighs in at only 526 grams. Built from lightweight but

strong 6061-T6 aircraft aluminum, carbon fiber skids, and rails. It also incorporates space-age polymers, genuine Teflon bushings, and Titanium screws, which all work together for the best in aerial photo and video.

The built-in battery balance system helps dial in the perfect balance of your multi rotor for longer flight times as well as less wear and tear on its motors. The extreme ease and functionality is due to the direct-drive, two-axis servo control (two Hitec HS-5245 digital servos are included), producing fluid and smooth dynamic video footage. A unique vibration dampener system is also available as

Stock #

Futaba S.Bus2 Servos

Futaba 3002 N Apollo Dr, Ste. 1 Champaign, IL 61822 Phone: 217-398-0007 futaba-rc.com

T

oday’s pilot demands more, and these S.Bus2 servos deliver more! They can handle up to 2S LiPo power, making them ideal for powering functions on large-scale airplanes and competition helis. There is a wide array of S.Bus2 servos to choose from— including some with ultra-high torque ratings of 514 oz-in. S.Bus2 servos are the innovative way to unleash a flight system’s full potential!

• These servos can handle up to 2S LiPo packs—the popular choice for powering larger aircraft

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @RCSPORTFLYER

an optional upgrade.

Finished in stealth-black electrostatic thermal powdercoat for a non-scratch super tough finish, the end product look is amazing.

Description

Price

FUTM0125

S3172SV Glider SBus2 HV programmable servo

$54.99

FUTM0133

S9170SV Air SBus2 HV programmable servo

$119.99

FUTM0135

BLS171SV SBus2 HV HT programmable MG servo

$149.99

FUTM0136

BLS172SV SBus2 HV UHT programmable MC servo

$219.99

FUTM0138

BLS174SV SBus2 HV HT programmable aileron servo

$149.99

FUTM0139

BLS175SV SBus2 HV HT programmable MG MC servo

$169.99

FUTM0141

BLS177SV SBus2 HV UHT programmable MC servo

$239.99

FUTM0145

BLS272SV SBus2 HV HS programmable servo

$169.99

• All are programmable and can be used in S.Bus as well as S.Bus2 applications • BLS servos feature brushless motors • S3172SV is ideal for gliders and smaller aircraft • All are dual, ball-bearing supported

RC-SF.COM

13

Jeti Mezon 135 RPM ESC

Esprit Model 1240 Clearmont St NE, Unit 12 Palm Bay, FL 32905 Phone: 321-729-4287 espritmodel.com

cell voltage but also on overall battery pack capacity. This function, combined with the Jeti Duplex system, offers you full telemetry capabilities with the possibility of saving your data for further analysis. The Mezon 135 Brushless BEC comes with RPM output lead supporting the external governor.

Specifications Dimensions

110 x 35 x 25 mm

Weight

135 g

Voltage

5–51 V

Price

$340.00

T

he brand new line of Jeti Mezon ESCs targets mainly professionals and pilots looking for uncompromised precision and quality. The Mezon ESCs combine new, revolutionary design with Jeti’s state-of-theart manufacturing capabilities.

Jeti Mezon ESC’s advanced design and software are capable of unmatched precision and efficient motor management. With Duplex integration, all data is measured in real time. Mezon ESCs were designed with a revolutionary BEC circuit capable of measuring the exact battery capacity used and lets you set up a motor cutoff point based not only on

Jeti R4US– R11US Receiver Firmware Update

Esprit Model 1240 Clearmont St NE, Unit 12 Palm Bay, FL 32905 Phone: 321-729-4287 espritmodel.com

V

ersion 3.07 is now available for R4US, R5US, R6US and R7-9-11US. With this update, receivers can now:

Futaba R7003SB BiDirectional FASSTest Receiver

Futaba 3002 N Apollo Dr, Ste. 1 Champaign, IL 61822 Phone: 217-398-0007 futaba-rc.com

F

utaba leads the way in stick-to-servo response, and FASSTestTM technology continues to change the way 2.4-GHz systems are designed. The high-voltage R7003SB offers modelers unparalleled flexibility, with bidirectional capability to support a broad range of telemetry functions.

• Up to two S.Bus ports and S.Bus2 ports; up to three PWM ports • 11 different programmable port configurations including assignable PWM

14

RC SPORT FLYER — MAY 2013

• Be used in either PPM or Servo output mode • Be used in Clone, Normal or Telemetry Only modes • Allow failsafe programming for all 16 channels of PPM output To install this update, point your browser at espritmodel. com/jeti-firmware-updates. aspx.

outputs • High-voltage capable (2S LiPo) • Small and lightweight with proven FASST full-range performance • Compatible with an impressive array of Futaba telemetry sensors

Specifications Dimensions

0.89 x 1.47 x 0.37 in.

(22.5 x 37.4 x 9.3 mm)

Weight

0.25 oz (7.2 g)

Power requirement

3.7–7.4 V

Price

$109.99

Stock #

FUTL7672

HOT PRODUCTS

Secraft Extended Brackets for Transmitter Trays

Esprit Model 1240 Clearmont St NE, Unit 12 Palm Bay, FL 32905 Phone: 321-729-4287 espritmodel.com

T

hese anodized aluminum brackets made

by Secraft give you great support for various styles of equipment. With a better center of gravity, you no longer have to battle top-heavy radio systems. This provides a great solution to FPV system hassles. Simply install these brackets on your Secraft Transmitter Tray and go!

Price: $35

Xoar ThreeBlade and White Propellers

Esprit Model 1240 Clearmont St NE, Unit 12 Palm Bay, FL 32905 Phone: 321-729-4287 espritmodel.com

T

hese handcrafted props are designed for the best performance and efficiency in both gas and electric applications. Made from superior German beechwood, manually prebalanced and digitally CNC-machined for precision, a Xoar propeller screams perfection.

With two layers of primer coating as well as two layers of a glossy protection coating, not only will your propeller weather those not-so-perfect flight conditions, it will gleam in the air.

Size: 10 x 5 to 32 x 12 Price: $43–199 • Three-Blade Glow/Gas (PJI) Size: 14 x 5 to 32 x 12 Price: $49–145 • Electric White (PJN-W) Size: 10 x 4 to 28 x 12 Price: $13–78

• Three-Blade Electric (PJI-E)

Futaba CGY750 1.3X 3-Axis Flybarless Gyro & Governor

Futaba 3002 N Apollo Dr, Ste. 1 Champaign, IL 61822 Phone: 217-398-0007 futaba-rc.com

H

ailed as RC’s most advanced three-axis flybarless system when it was introduced in 2011, the CGY750 now features updated software that delivers incredible flight performance. The gyro and governor are combined into one compact unit, with an easy-to-read OLED. Setup is easier than ever, FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @RCSPORTFLYER

and the dynamic gyro response range is an amazing +/- 1200 degrees per second.

• New version 1.3x software improves flight performance through higher cyclic gains, better piro compensation and greater rate control and consistency • Collective to cyclic interaction is virtually eliminated • Phase sensor support • Simpler, faster setup • Compact design fits into virtually any size machine

• Weighs only 13 g Price: $319.99 #FUTM0835

RC-SF.COM

15

Tactic TTX650 6-Channel Radio

Great Planes P.O. Box 9021 Champaign, IL 61821 Phone: 800-637-7660 greatplanes.com

E

ngineered to appeal to intermediatelevel sport modelers, the TTX650 has the features needed to fly almost any airplane or helicopter. Generous 20-model memory sets this radio apart from comparable systems, and the intuitive programming is as easy as pushing a button. The large LCD screen offers graphing capability with adjustable contrast for easy viewing. With its advanced functionality and budget-friendly price, the TTX650 is a remarkable value—and the perfect radio for anyone entering the everexpanding world of Transmitter-Ready (Tx-R™) aircraft!

Thunder Power G8 Chemistry Air Batteries

Thunder Power 4720 W University Avenue Las Vegas, NV 89103 Phone: 702-228-8883 thunderpowerrc.com

T

he all-new and exclusive G8 chemistry delivers the smallest and lightest combined footprint—up to 10% smaller and 5% lighter than previous-generation batteries. G8 batteries offer the highest energy and power density in LiPos with a high discharge rate.

This series of LiPo batteries also boasts the highest charge rate capability in the industry, charging at rates up to 12C for charge times

AutoWinder

RC-Bling USA rc-blingusa.com icare-rc.com Iflytailies.com espritmodel.com soaringusa.com

T

he new AutoWinder is a fully automatic towline retriever system that insures safe and stress-free aerotow operation.

Installed in 1/4-scale and larger tow planes, the AutoWinder automatically rewinds the towline and prevents the line snagging on tree branches and ground vegetation.

The tow pilot simply flips a switch on his transmitter, the AutoWinder retrieves the

16

RC SPORT FLYER — MAY 2013

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

20-model memory Easy-to-use pushbutton programming Airplane and helicopter programming Dual rates and exponential for aileron, elevator and rudder Digital trims with slow/fast adjustment User-selectable switch assignments Reversing endpoint adjustment and subtrim on all channels Wireless trainer system Large, easy-to-read graphing LCD screen Up/down and battery timers Charge jack for optional NiCd/NiMH packs Low-voltage alarm Quad-bearing gimbals Adjustable stick lengths and tension External antenna that rotates and folds for easy storage Four alkaline batteries Compatible with all SLT receivers and Tx-R aircraft

Price: $149.97 #TACJ2650

of five minutes or less. Pilots will also benefit from higher retained initial voltage resulting in more sustained power and punch.

The G8 Pro Lite+ 25C batteries are the smallest by volume, 3% lighter than previous versions and capable of 5C charge rates.

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matched, assembled and supported in the USA and backed by an industry-leading, full, two-year warranty with 50% off damaged battery replacement program coverage.

towline and automatically stops it when the line is fully rewound. A custom, currentlimiting safety circuit stops the AutoWinder if the towline snags or tangles during retraction.

The retriever system powers on and off automatically with your receiver. No additional switches or special wiring are needed.

The AutoWinder is a complete turnkey system and includes precision CNC aluminum components, a high-torque brushless motor, custom electronics, a Hitec HS-985MG towline release servo, a fuselage-mounted towline guide and all mounting hardware. Not included is a 2-cell LiPo or LiFe battery that is required to power the system.

The AutoWinder lists for $595 and is being introduced at the Toledo Show for $495. The

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y upgrading a few essential parts, the E360 Conversion Kit stretches the Mini Titan E325 V2 heli into a larger machine. The kit utilizes a larger canopy and longer tail boom, allowing the heli to use a 4S LiPo battery and 360-mm main rotor blades. Modelers will easily see the benefits of this transformation, which include better wind resistance, more stable hovering, and quick response to pitch controls when performing aerobatic maneuvers.

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• Allows modelers to equip the Mini Titan E325 V2 with a 4S LiPo battery and the bigger main rotor blades for increased performance • Basic Kit includes a larger, preprinted PVC canopy, longer tail boom, tail pushrod and reinforced servo tray • Standard Kit has the Basic Kit components plus gear sets and other parts to convert from a belt-driven tail rotor to one Stock # that’s torque-tube driven TTRE0035 • Plus Kit includes all components of the Basic and Standard Kits, as well TTRE0036 as a pair of 360-mm carbon fiber TTRE0037 main rotor blades • Complete Kit comes with all of TTRE0038 the above, along with a 3000-kV brushless motor and ESC to handle the 4S LiPo battery’s power

profile • Lightweight, rigid one-piece metal main rotor hub • Metal tail-blade grips with dual radial bearings and one thrust bearing • Large battery bay that accommodates 8–12S LiPo batteries • Titanium turnbuckle pitch linkages • V2 carbon fiber main blades

ith flybarless technology, a torque-tubedriven tail, 120° CCPM control system and so much more, the Titan X50EF has the ability to make 3D look effortless. Add to that the convenience of an included brushless electric motor, and this exceptional machine is one of the most eagerly anticipated heli models Thunder Tiger has ever introduced.

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Specifications Main rotor diameter

53 in. (1345 mm)

Main rotor blade length

23.6 in. (600 mm)

Tail rotor blade length

3.74 in. (95 mm)

Length

47.25 in. (1200 mm)

Weight

6.06 lb (2748 g)

Price

$579.99

Stock #

TTRE0055

• Powerful 50/06-50H brushless motor • Precision CNC-machined aluminum flybarless rotor head • One-piece carbon main frame with a slim

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T

he new Evolution .91NX single-cylinder, 2-stroke, glow-powered engine is revolutionary in that it is for modelers FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @RCSPORTFLYER

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RC-SF.COM

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By Gene Cope

ASK-18 BUILD PART 1 A DECADE OF PLANNING THAT PAYS OFF IN GREAT GLIDES

My ASK-18 sits next to a fullscale Cessna 150 at the Richland, Washington airport for a size comparison.

A few hundred hours of scratch building are rewarded with this shot of my 1/3-scale ASK-18 in flight over the Horse Heaven Hills.

1 The rudder’s center plate is marked for hinge and control horn locations, along with the rudder post template.

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RC SPORT FLYER — MAY 2013

ASK-18 BUILD PART 1

I

n the early 2000s I purchased a Rosenthal 1/3-scale ASK-18 fiberglass fuselage, canopy and wing rod as a starting point for a scratch-building project. The parts collected dust in my workshop for several years before I gathered the documentation for the wings, rudder and stabilizer. It was just one of those projects that kept getting put on the back burner. Then too, I had to decide how I would build the flying surfaces—foam core or open structure, built up. It took time to gather my thoughts and make the final decision to start the project.

Earlier I had assembled a Flair Ka8b. In reviewing its instructions and plans, I decided to build my ASK-18 in a similar fashion. So, a plan of action was put into place in the early stages of the project.

Subsequently, the wing, horizontal

2 A 1-1/2-in.-diameter cut-off wheel was used to cut slots for the 1/16-in.-diameter music wire hinge pins.

stabilizer and rudder were then drafted to size in a solid modeling program and converted to a format acceptable to a CNC machine. A friend then cut the wing parts out

3

of 3/32-in. plywood on his machine.

The washout, wing dihedral and construction tabs were designed into the wing ribs before they were cut.

The center plates for the rudder,

4 After the rudder is notched and the hinge pin in position, the control horn is positioned and marked for future assembly.

5

The leading edge of the rudder was made from two 3/8- x 1-in. balsa laminated and cut to the vertical fin profile.

6 Hinge notches are cut into the rudder leading edge before being glued to the 1/16-in. rudder center plate.

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The rudder half is shown complete with ribs. Note the notch for the control horn to be placed on the lower hinge center.

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7

8 Facets were sanded on the rudder leading edge to near round before the final rounding with sandpaper.

The rudder is shown here with rib gussets. It is ready for the control horn and its lower sheeting material.

pieces as well. I hope you enjoy the series. I’m happy to answer questions too. My e-mail address is gliderflyer@ gmail.com.

SCRATCH YOUR HEAD ...

Scratch building is not difficult, but it does take time and some planning—let’s call it scratching your head. A few hours in the workshop a day can get a lot of building done.

Note: You will want to follow the photos closely as I document this build to understand my processes and procedures.

9 Here is the finished rudder assembly, ready for final sanding and covering. I recommend sanding with 400-grit wet-and-dry sandpaper at this point.

10 Two 1/32-in. plywood parts and one 1/8-in. balsa part make up the rudder post, which is a laminated part.

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RC SPORT FLYER — MAY 2013

elevator and horizontal stabilizer were cut from 1/16-in. plywood. Sixfoot-long Sitka spruce spar material was purchased from Aircraft Spruce & Specialty Co., while the 3- x 48- x 3/32-in. balsa sheeting was purchased from Balsa USA. At this stage of the build, everything was set aside and again collected dust for a few more years.

Your RC Sport Flyer editor, Wil, has been a good friend of mine for 20 plus years. He finally talked me into just building it as a flyer, rather than one of my normal three-year scale projects. He wanted me to share some of my scratch-building techniques with you in the hopes of seeing more unique scale gliders appear at aerotow and slope soaring events. So, I’m going to share my build with you in a five-part series, with maybe a couple of short special build

Rudder I suggest you start with the rudder first. It is the smallest part and the least expensive to redo, should you make a mistake at the get-go. Also, it will prime you for building the horizontal stabilizer, which is very similar in construction.

I started by marking the 1/16-in. plywood center for the pivot pins and control horns (photo 1). A 1-1/2-in.-diameter cut-off wheel was used to cut the pivot rod slots in the plywood (photo 2). Holes were then drilled where the control horns would mount to provide a bond between the control horns (photo 3). Thirty-minute epoxy secured the 1/16-in.-diameter music wire pivot pins in the slots in the wood.

The leading edge of the rudder consisted of laminating two 3/8-in. balsa together (photo 4), which was profiled to the taper of the rudder post. These edges were then glued to

ASK-18 BUILD PART 1

11

12 The 1/32-ply, 1/8-balsa, 1/32-ply rudder post was glued with 30min. epoxy and then clamped. Recheck for straightness as it cures.

13 I used 4-oz, S-type fiberglass cloth laid in on the bias to reinforce the rudder post inside the fuselage.

the rudder’s plywood backbone using Elmer’s® Carpenters’ Wood Glue Max (photo 005). This glue provides an excellent bond between plywood and balsa. A strong, waterproof bond with fast setting properties is ideal for wood construction. This glue, however, provides enough time to work with the parts before it sets. A 1/16- x 1/4-in. balsa strip was glued to the trailing edge on both sides to provide a good bond area for the covering material. Balsa triangles, cut roughly to shape, were glued to form the ribs of the rudder. Using a large, 1/2-sheet sanding block, I carefully sanded these down to the surfaces of the rudder leading and trailing edges (photo 8). The leading edge was then faceted to a nearly round profile before it was sanded round to make the leading edge of the rudder. The

14 This is the bottom center section of the horizontal stabilizer with an MKS servo fitted in position, before top sheeting.

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The rudder post is complete with hinges, hinge support blocks and a tapered wooden dowel lower hinge support.

control horns were then positioned on both sides of the rudder and backed with retaining blocks. I used 3/32-in. balsa sheeting to complete the rudder bottom. Also 3/32- x 1/4x 3/8-in. gussets were fitted on each side of the rudder’s ribs, which adds scale detailing (photo 9).

The fuselage’s rudder post was made of 1/32-in. plywood and 1/8-in. balsa sheets that were laminated.

I had planned to use liteply for the rudder post, but Midwest no longer supplies this material, so my lamination was used (photo 10 & 11). Fourmost Snap Tight large hinges were used for the rudder and elevators. However, the centerline of the lower rudder’s hinge point was too far from the fuselage’s rudder post for a strong support of the hinge. As a result, I used a 7/16-in.diameter wooden dowel—that I cut a 3/8-in. taper into—to extend the hinge point’s position from the rudder post. The dowel was glued through both the rudder post and rear support blocks (photo 12).

Once the rudder post was fabricated, it was installed into the fuselage with epoxy along its sides. Once the epoxy had cured, I reinforced the rudder post’s install with 4-oz, S-type fiberglass cloth. The cloth was laid in on its bias. Then a 1-in.-wide paintbrush was used to brush aircraft-grade slow-cure epoxy into the cloth. When you are doing this, you want make certain you create sharp, tight corners where the fiberglass meets the edges of RC-SF.COM

21

the fin and rudder post (photo 13).

Once the epoxy goes green (a term for when the epoxy is set but not fully cured), the fiberglass cloth gets trimmed to the fin’s trailing edge.

Trimming after the epoxy has fully cured is much harder.

Horizontal Stabilizer Before I started the build of the horizontal stabilizer assembly, the elevator hinge points were located on the 1/16-in. plywood center and cut to the width of the Fourmost hinges—very much like was done for the rudder. Later the plywood spars were drilled for hinges at these locations. Also, the location of the elevator servo must be positioned and cut from the wood before assembly.

The horizontal stabilizer and elevators are constructed in the same manner as the rudder. The exception here was the horizontal spars at the rear. They were cut from 1/4-in. Meranti Marine plywood. It is lightweight and strong, which is what a horizontal spar requires.

The leading edge material was cut from 1/2- x 3/8-in. balsa that tapers with the stabilizer ribs from root to tip. Tip blocks were also made of balsa. The center section ribs required notching for the servo mount and were then glued to the bottom side of the plywood center section. Once the adhesive on all the ribs, leading edge and spar was cured, the leading edge and tip blocks were sanded to shape. Then 3/32-in. balsa sheeting was laminated to cover the

15

bottom of the horizontal stabilizer, which was done in one step. Note that you’ll need lots of little clamps.

When the sheeting’s adhesive has cured, the slot locations for the mount bracket were calculated and cut into the wood (photo 14). Then they were transferred to the fuselage.

To do so, I positioned the stabilizer on the fuselage and measured it for squareness relative to the fuselage, then double- and triple-checked it.

After the location on the fuselage was determined, I cut the bracket slots in their respective locations in the fuselage (photo 15).

Next, I had to fabricate two 1/8-in. aluminum horizontal stabilizer mount brackets. They were then inserted from the top of the stabilizer’s 1/16in. plywood center section—the

16 Slots cut in the horizontal stabilizer saddle allow the aluminum mount brackets to drop in and slide back to lock the stabilizer in.

The center slot is cut to provide clearance for the elevator halves’ control rod.

17

Two 1/8-in.-thick aluminum mount brackets protrude from the bottom of the horizontal stabilizer. They mate to the stabilizer retainer mount that gets glued into the fuselage, just under the mount area for the horizontal stabilizer.

18 Horizontal stabilizer retainer mount layout is shown here. As the screw tightens, the bevel on the aluminum bracket wedges into the bevel of mount plates, making for a tight, secure fit.

22

RC SPORT FLYER — MAY 2013

Prior to installing the mount plates inside the fuselage, the locking system was checked one more time for fit. The clamps are inexpensive but invaluable for this type of work.

ASK-18 BUILD PART 1

19 The horizontal stabilizer is shown here firmly locked in position by way of one 8-32 x 1-in. hexhead cap screw.

20

21

The elevator throw was checked several times during construction to make certain that no binding occurred between parts.

This is what the finished empennage looked like ready for rudder markings, prior to the ASK-18’s test flight on March 3, 2013.

top half is built after this step. The brackets will extend through the bottom of the horizontal stabilizer’s sheeting. (photo 14). After each bracket was mounted and alignment rechecked, it was secured in position with 30-minute epoxy (photo 16).

Next I fabricated the fuselage’s Meranti Marine plywood horizontal stabilizer mount plates (photo 17).

Then the aluminum mount bracket was coated with petroleum jelly as a release agent. The horizontal stabilizer was then positioned on the bracket, and the aluminum mount was pushed tight against the mount bracket (photo 18). The

plywood mount bracket was then secured to the inside walls of the fuselage with aircraft-grade epoxy and clamped in position (photo 19).

I checked the horizontal stabilizer for squareness, making adjustments as necessary before letting the epoxy go green. In the epoxy’s green state, the horizontal stabilizer was carefully moved forward so as not to disturb the mount plates, and to make certain the stabilizer did not get inadvertently attached to the fuselage. Any epoxy residue was then removed from the aluminum bracket.

Once the epoxy cured on the mount plates, the forward mount

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block was epoxied in place. Bass wood measuring 1/2 x 1/2 x 3/4 in. was cut at an angle to accept the 8-32 blind nut set, as flat as possible against the surface. When the epoxy fully cured, the horizontal stabilizer was remounted and checked for squareness.

With a 0.140-diameter drill bit, a hole was drilled on center through the horizontal stabilizer, fuselage and forward mounting block—at a slight angle back toward the tail. The reason for not drilling straight down is that when the mount screw is installed at an angle, it causes force to push the aluminum mount bracket back into the angles of the mount plates (photo 20). The horizontal stabilizer mount will then lock in position and will not loosen as it wears.

Next I used a drill bit the diameter of the blind nut shank to run through the hole in the fuselage and the forward mount block. Using a long 8-32 cap screw coated in petroleum jelly, I fastened a blind nut inside the fuselage to the bottom of the cap screw. A small amount of 30-minute epoxy was applied to the blind nut flange before the 8-32 cap screw was tightened to pull the blind nut flange flush with the surface of the forward mount block. The 8-32 cap screw was then removed while the epoxy cured.

The elevator was then finished in the same manner as the rudder.

Hinge locations were marked on the back face of the horizontal stabilizer spar. Then I used a drill bit slightly larger than the threaded section of the hinge to drill holes on center with the spar. The notches in the plywood for hinges make it much easer to drill the hinge holes straight.

With the Fourmost hinges snapped onto the finished elevator, less the covering material and the threaded section coated in petroleum jelly, it’s ready to mount to the horizontal elevators. Using 30-minute epoxy and flocked cotton, a wet paste is made. It gets pushed into the hinge holes of the horizontal stabilizer using a kabob skewer. The hinges are then recessed into the holes, taking care to remove any excess epoxy if it appears. The elevators are spaced about 1/64-in. from the spar RC-SF.COM

23

ASK-18 BUILD PART 1 I’m double-checking my model’s controls and Wil checks the model’s trim as the model “flies” in a 10mph wind at Kiona Butte, WA.

face, with the upper and lower surfaces flush to each other. The horizontal stabilizer was then supported leading edge down, with its spar level to the working surface until the epoxy cures. The stabilizer was then carefully snapped off its hinges. A 1/4-in. triangular stock was used to fill the gap between the horizontal stabilizer and the elevator. To adjust the fit properly, the elevators were remounted and two business cards used to space the triangular stock from the elevator as it is attached to the spar face of the horizontal stabilizer. Sanding the triangle stock flush with the upper and lower surfaces finishes the assembly.

Final sanding and covering was then done (photo 21).

Wil takes off to give the ASK-18 a good running throw but unfortunately trips doing so. Here he is going down on his knees.

It is glider before bodily injury in this shot as Wil throws the glider forward with all his might to get it flying before eating dirt!

24

RC SPORT FLYER — MAY 2013

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BY Rob Caso

WILLIAM BROTHERS PILOTS HOW TO GIVE YOUR PILOTS A LIFELIKE LOOK

W

e’ve all seen the bug-eyed, scared-out-of-his-mind Williams Brothers (WB) pilot stuck on a balsa plate in a cockpit. With their somewhat comical “thousand yard” stare, WB pilots have accrued their share of derision,

although perhaps undeservedly. With a little effort, a WB pilot can be made to look the part by making a few simple adjustments and additions.

I needed a crew for my recent 33-in., 1/15-scale Dauntless refinish, and there are not many small-scale

pilots available. On top of this, what I needed was more than just a bust, since a lot of the crew can be seen in the Dauntless’s greenhouse.

Since the WB pilots are a rather truncated representation of the human figure, having only the very

Sanding blocks and grits of various grades, razor saws and a long blade knife are what is needed to work the foam.

I sanded each half of the pilot figure on sandpaper affixed to a piece of glass. Liquid plastic cement is used to join the halves.

I primed the figure and sanded the joint. Then I primed my model’s pilot again.

Here I epoxied the torso to the bust and rounded all the corners as needed to bring it into shape.

26

RC SPORT FLYER — MAY 2013

WILLIAM BROTHERS PILOTS

The front view shows the space left for the upper arms, which you’ll add in a few more steps.

top of the shoulders and a head, I often modify these figures by adding a partial or full torso, using foam as the medium. For this build I was not going for ultra scale precision; what I needed was something in the cockpit that was reasonably correct and in proportion to the aircraft. A plus here is that Navy pilots wore a yellow “Mae West” life jacket over their flight suits—this would cover any imperfections in the bust. Note that the 1/12-scale WB pilot is really closer to 1/15, so keep this in mind when recruiting pilot figures.

Attach the legs and apply a filler coat. Be careful with the angle of the legs to the torso.

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A single block of foam cut to the right length and width was used for the legs. I rarely model the lower legs, as they’re typically not seen.

As with all cockpit details, the most important thing to do is to get the proportions correct. For this, I simply took measurements of myself and divided by 15. Leaving a little room at the shoulders for the arms, I first cut a torso from blue insulation foam and epoxied it to the bust. While foam-safe CA can be used, I like epoxy, as its setting time provides a good grip on the foam. Next, I rounded the torso everywhere except where the legs would go. I then cut a block of foam in the proper proportion and shaped the legs (only to the knees)—hacking out both on the same block of foam. I found that 100-grit sandpaper works the best for rough shaping; anything

more aggressive will result in chunks of foam being removed. Watching the angles, I glued the legs to the torso and then fine-sanded it all to remove corners and ridges and to blend the foam with the bust—humans don’t have corners! I brushed on a filler mix of vinyl Spackle and Polycrylic Satin water-based varnish over all the foam areas and sanded it in when dry.

I wound up making some adjustments with the sandpaper after seeing everything in one color and reapplied the filler mix to these areas.

The arms are probably the toughest part to get right. For the upper forearm, I used oversized blocks of foam that were correct in length down to the elbow and

The upper arms are modeled with rough-cut blocks of foam the correct length to elbows.

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then shaped them after they were affixed to the figure. I brushed on more filler mix and also troweled in filler for any gaps at the shoulder and sanded it all down. It’s easier to make adjustments to the figure before doing the forearms, so at this point I sat back and evaluated my work. The figure should now start to come into focus. If it looks wrong, but you cannot determine why, take some more measurements of yourself and compare these to the figure, particularly the width of the shoulders. Measurements don’t lie!

Sand off any offending material slowly, and it will start to look right. When you think you’ve got it, apply more filler mix, sand the figure, apply some

straight Polycrylic and then prime the figure. The Polycrylic will protect the foam from the primer’s solvents. One thing to keep in mind, if you really don’t like what you have so far, is that you can always hack it off and start over—it’s only foam.

For a forearm, I cut a rectangular strip of foam, tapered it into a shallow cone and severed a piece the correct length—about an inch on my figure. I then sanded the large end concave to match the contour of the upper arm and affixed the forearm with epoxy and a length of toothpick.

And yes, now is the time for more filler mix. The forearm might look a bit short, but don’t forget it still needs a hand.

Even at this scale, I felt a wire armature was the way to go for the hands; thin strands of solder, however, would also work. I described this process more fully in the August 2012 issue of RC Sport Flyer. Once the hands were installed, it was on to painting and a few other details. I made the Mae West life jacket from two layers of facial tissue to which I applied Polycrylic and painted yellow.

I simply cut out the correct shape and cyanoacrylate (CA) glued it to the figure. Adding this detail hid all my mistakes! Although I painted the figures reasonably accurately, I cut a few corners by not doing my usual airbrush shadowing and highlighting. The most important

At this point, more filler mix has been applied after the upper arms are shaped.

Earphones are simply a couple of slices of plastic rod of different diameters attached to the head.

Toothpicks should be used to strengthen the forearms, especially if they will not be resting on the legs.

After filling/priming the forearms, I cut off the figure’s head and inserted a balsa support when I reattached it in a more realistic pose.

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RC SPORT FLYER — MAY 2013

WILLIAM BROTHERS PILOTS

The effect achieved by repositioning the head is striking, as it implies action instead of a blank stare straight ahead—easy to do!

The hands were made with a wire armature and body filler, and the earphone jacks with solder wire. The finished pilot really looks the part.

adjustment I made to the figures was simply turning their heads, which transformed them into a crew that looks like it’s actually doing something. It’s amazing what this single and easy adjustment makes to a figure. A truncated control stick and earphone jacks add just enough additional detail at this scale, but I could have kept going.

I am really hoping that this article reduces the number of “pilots on a plate” out at the airfield and shows you that it’s really not that difficult to transform an average figure into the focal point of your model.

The new recruits are shown installed in my 33-in.-wingspan Dauntless. It makes for a nice touch of realism.

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RC-SF.COM

29

BY Anthony Richards

WEATHERING MAKE A TERRIFIC WWI WARBIRD LOOK EVEN BETTER

I

recently built an E-flite® Albatros D.Va 25e almostready-to-fly (ARF) model.

This airplane exhibits exceptional scale fidelity to outline, with very good detailing. The finishing touches, such as the scale cockpit gauges and pilot seat, windshield, flying wires strung between the wings and exposed mock Mercedes engine between two wooden Spandau machine gun replicas, make this model nearly identical to that of the full-scale Albatros. For most modelers, this level of scale detailing is above and beyond their standards, but some prefer that their aircraft appear as if it had just returned from a flight over No Man’s Land.

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RC SPORT FLYER — MAY 2013

The overall scale appearance of your E-flite® Albatros D.Va 25e will double with these added details. The work is worth the payout.

From tip to tail you will be adding little details and bits of weathering. You can clearly see the dusted weathering along the wing spars from this angle.

WEATHERING

Laid out here are the tools and materials you will need for the job.

You can find these at your local hobby and craft stores.

For a credible resource on warbird detailing, you cannot go wrong with a Squadron/Signal or Osprey Publishing book.

While completing a build article on the Albatros for this magazine, I was inspired by a two-part video series on how to weather the aircraft.

It was done by John Redman and is found on Horizon Hobby’s product page. I took some pointers from the video and some of my artistic and aviation background knowledge to put together this how-to article.

To start my weathering project, I ordered the Osprey Publishing book Jasta 18: The Red Noses. I also purchased a book from Squadron/ Signal Publications’ Albatros Fighters In Action. I wanted them to give me more information on the aircraft and the unit that it was flown in during the War. The Osprey book proved to be extremely helpful in detailing and weathering, while the Squadron/Signal

book provided plenty of photographs and a good-sized sketch of where the panel lines were located on the D.Va’s fuselage.

Then the only thing I needed was to gather supplies for the project.

NEEDED TO COMPLETE

• Spray paint Model Master 3-oz Lusterless lacquer • Paint bottles Model Master Rust/chrome/ leather/flat black, 1/2 oz • Material 12 color soft pastel pack • Glue Pacer® Formula 560 canopy • Tools Monoject 412 syringe, precision glue tip, masking tape, pencil

I’ve finished applying fresh strips of canopy glue to the upper wing with my syringe and am beginning to add more to the next spar down.

Once dry, they will look like fabric stitches.

You can see the mock wood texture from my painting of the APC propeller as the light shines across it.

Long, single-stroke brushes are the trick behind the effective illusion.

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Strips of half-round and circle-cut sheet styrene add cover and vent details to the nose of the Albatros.

Buttons of canopy glue and some weathering complete the cowl.

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OPTIONAL

• Salmon strips 1/16-in striping tape, Model Master 1/2-oz Skintone paint • Light blue strips Hangar 9® 1/16-in. Sky blue UltraStripe • Nose details Model Master Flat red, 1/4-oz; Evergreen 224, .125-in. half round strip styrene, Evergreen 9015 .015-in. sheet styrene, thin ZAP cyanoacrylate (CA), circle cutter • Gun details Permanent marker, black

WEATHERING

you dropped your aircraft into a mud pit. Rather, you want to create softer stains and marks that are better seen up close—they’ll replicate wear and use over time.

After your model’s fuselage has been dirtied, you’ll want to remove its battery hatch and start weathering the Mercedes D.IIIaü engine. To simulate the oil spatter over the rocker arms and the engine shaft, you must wet a paintbrush with the flat black paint and brush it over a paper towel to dry it a bit. Don’t completely clean the brush; just get it to where there is some paint still left on it. In so doing, you can create small streaks and lines. Then use the paintbrush to streak the engine’s rocker arms, where the center shaft meets the rocker cases, and down the arm in easy sweeping motions to get that natural oil stain and drip look.

War is not a clean affair. Neither is aviation, especially in the early 20th century. You won’t see aircraft roll off the factory assembly line, fly to their station, go to battle and come back still looking brand new. Keeping that in mind as you go along will help you when applying your brush to the aircraft.

I began weathering my Albatros D.Va the same way John did by spraying over the glossy covering with a lusterless flat lacquer from Model Master. This replicates the matte finish of the fabric covering used on the full-scale aircraft.

Next, the bottom of the aircraft needs The completed stitches and subsequent weathering a good wash with a with the pastel powder finish off the top wing for an attractive scale appearance both up close and from colored powder to afar. give it the appearance of operating from the muddy grass strips of early Spring Lomme Aerodrome. You’ll want to grind up about a third of your brown soft pastel into a fine powder and use a brush or your fingers to apply it to the fuselage. Streak it from front to back in long sweeps to give it a proper blend. Again, subtlety is a big part in weathering. You don’t The engines often spat oil and grease during want to paint your operation, spattering the windshield in flight. That detail is simulated here with very light dabs of black details in thick, bold paint. colors that look like 32

RC SPORT FLYER — MAY 2013

I may have been too generous with the silver, but the light vertical strokes over the engine give it a worn and used look. Notice the black “oil” stains along the rocker arms.

Opting to draw instead of carve for a perfect scale detail, I used a fresh black permanent marker to add the cooling jacket pattern to the barrel of the Spandau machine guns.

The eight symmetrical bolts along the wheels were made with buttons of canopy glue and dusted with brown pastel grounds. Naturally, the wheels were the dirtiest feature!

WEATHERING The engine exhaust pipes experienced a fair amount of wear in service, so apply light vertical streaks of dried chrome paint along the outer edges to help replicate aging.

Additionally, you can smear a few spots of the brown pastel powder along the pipes to give them a bit of rust coloring. Also, Using images from the books and the Internet, I later The soft pencil sketches over the fuselage create oil had a tendency to went over the wheel nuts with black to simulate the subtle yet noticeable panel lines that look natural. black bolt that held the wheels to the axles. The full Note the weathering below the cockpit from the spatter against the scale bolts were recessed into the hub. pilot’s entering and exiting the aircraft over time. windshield and slightly obscure the pilot’s visibility. To simulate these small details that will make your Albatros smaller panel lines along the fuselage. spatters, delicately apply dried black truly impressive.

Next you will want to tackle paint in a few spots around the one of the most tedious parts of front of the windscreen with the DETAILING the detailing—the fabric stitching. paintbrush. You can also use a sponge If you refer to the illustrations To create the airplane’s stitches, you over a brush to get the same effect. in the books I referenced, you will must put the precision applicator tip That will complete the major find that a lot of the panel lines over the end of the syringe and fill weathering to this point. More will are already well replicated on the it about a one-quarter full of canopy be done after a few details are added model. E-flite did a tremendous job glue. Carefully create small, thin later. For now though, you will want of covering the aircraft in layers that strips of glue across the wing spar to progress to adding the scale used the edges to faintly outline and down it, one after the other with where the panels were fit. fairly tight spacing between each. Be This is especially present very careful not to apply too much on the white half of the glue in your streaks to avoid the fuselage. However, there aircraft looking like its canvas was is a centerline that halves woven together with shipping rope. the aircraft from the This step is time consuming, but cowl to the horizontal you will love how the Albatros’ wing stabilizer and a few other turns out afterwards. Once the glue panel lines that will need has dried completely, you will very to be penciled in. lightly brush over these “stitches” With the book with the black pastel powder again to illustrations as a guide, give them a little more definition. use masking tape to tape The syringe will still have plenty off the panel lines. You’ll of glue left in it after you finish with use the edge of the tape the stitches. You will use the glue to trace the line. Once to add the cowling and wheel bolt/ it’s taped, use a dulled #2 screw details. Again, using the books’ pencil to draw a straight illustrations as a guideline, place and dull line down the small globs of the canopy glue where tape edge. Remove the there appear to be screws or bolts tape carefully, and you will along the nose and the wheels of the be left with an authenticaircraft. The wheels have a series of looking panel line. Repeat eight bolts that hold it together. For the process for the other, the nose and cowling screws, try to estimate about where they should be by guiding off the wing struts and the engine cylinders. Again, E-flite From behind the wheels to the has built a lot of scale detail into this rear of the tail, the bottom of the Albatros is rubbed down aircraft already, so where the cabane with brown pastel grounds to spars meet the fuselage should be simulate dirt and mud that would be kicked up. within inches of where they were FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @RCSPORTFLYER

RC-SF.COM

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WEATHERING Once you’ve finished with that, you can opt to add the engine and cowl covers by using a circle cutter and styrene sheets. These scale covers are positioned in their respective places by adhering to the illustrations in the Squadron/Signal book. These add a three-dimensional detail that can really make your Albatros look fantastic. The .125-in. half-round styrene strips can be cut into 3/4-in. lengths and painted red, which will then simulate the cooling vents. These detail items are mounted to the airframe using either the canopy glue or thin CA.

ADMIRE IT

The distinctive lozenge striping is done in a salmon color, used on D.Vas built by Albatros Flugzeugwerke GmbH. Light blue striping was used by subsidiary Ostdeutsche Albatros Werke.

located on the full-scale Albatros.

Allow those to set overnight.

Pop off the propeller and use the rust and leather paints to make it look like a wooden propeller. Make long strokes with the paintbrush from the center of the propeller out to the tip. This will make small grooves and lines that will simulate a wooden texture, which gives it that added realism you are looking for in your model. Use the leather as a base and go over it with a dry brush of the rust mixed with a minute drop of black to add darker lines of simulated wood grain.

Finally, you are ready to add what is in my opinion the coolest part of the details—the lozenge striping.

During the war, the Germans mainly used two different patterns of fivecolor lozenge camouflage patterns on their aircraft. These fabric patterns were stitched in thin sections spanning from the leading to trailing edges of the wing. These sections were taped off and stitched together with strips of colored fabric atop the seams.

As pointed out by John in his tutorial video, there were two colors used for this. One was a light blue color, and the other was closer to a salmon pink color. For salmoncolored stripes, you will use 1/16-in. striping tape and paint it with the 34

RC SPORT FLYER — MAY 2013

Model Master Skintone paint. The 1/16-in. tape is recommended for a truly scale appearance, but if you made your stitches on the top of the wings a little too big like I did, you can opt for the 1/8- or 1/4-in. striping tape too. This process of painting and striping takes a long time, so unless you’re a diehard for the lozenge being striped in salmon, you’re best off using the light blue UltraStripe for a quicker detailing procedure.

Once you’re finished, step back and look over your stunning Albatros.

It may just leave you awed. While there are many details that will look impressive up close, in the air they will show your Albatros’ beauty overall. Your hard work will pay off on that certain pass where the light reflects off of its wings and fuselage— to the point where you almost believe you are seeing the full-scale WWI airplane flying off to a little sortie.

I used my spare sheet of styrene to add the two covers found on the bottom of the D.Va and added a little more oil weathering than I intended. It still makes for a good scale addition.

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BY Daniel Holman

AEROBATICS PART 2

PICKING THE PERFECT AEROBATIC AIRPLANE

3D Hobby Shop® 57-in. Extra 330SC

O

kay, who has done their homework and been practicing on the simulator?

In the first part of this aerobatics series we went through the importance of using a good simulator and some of the beneficial techniques that help lay a solid foundation for your aerobatic piloting. Learning to precisely control the airplane and put it right where you want it, when you want it, is not something that comes overnight. Now that you have begun working toward that on the simulator, it’s time to get you out to the airfield with a high-end, quality aerobatic airplane that will aid you on your journey of learning to fly all types of aerobatics. Choosing the right airplane for your needs is a very crucial part of this process because it can make a huge difference in your progress. With today’s technology, there are many excellent airframe and equipment manufacturers, but care still must be taken in the quest to find your perfect airplane. Over the past nine years, I have flown a little bit of everything and have experience 36

RC SPORT FLYER — MAY 2013

with all of the major and most of the minor airframe manufacturers. I will help point you in the right direction for this next exciting step!

3D Hobby Shop 87-in. Extra 300SHP

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

In this issue, I will present you with a list of my favorite airplanes in different size categories, but first I want to go over the “Why” factor.

AEROBATICS PART 2 The airplanes in the following list aren’t there because I like the way they look or how they fly for their manufacturer, or because I want to see more of them at the airfield.

Rather, I selected them for their excellent flight performance and their ability to perform 3D, IMAC and extreme aerobatics (XA) with precision and class.

Extra, Edge, MXS, Cap, Laser, Raven, Yak, Sukhoi … They’re all the same, right? No. I’ve heard from many guys that all aerobatic airplanes look the same, but that’s like saying that all Formula 1 cars look the same. First, there are many qualities that they all must retain to perform well in all types of aerobatics. While there are some biplanes that perform very well in these three types of aerobatics such as the Hangar 9® 100-cc Beast, I will focus on monoplanes because they really have the edge, especially in precision aerobatics.

Extras, Edges, Yaks and Sukhois are the most common airframes in competition aerobatics for many reasons and will be my focus for now. Apart from the differences in the cowlings, the overall layout of the airplanes looks similar, but here are the predominant aerodynamic differences: The Extra, Yak and Sukhoi all feature a symmetrical airfoil on the Extreme Flight® 60-in. Extra 300 EXP

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DW Foamies 40-in. Extra 300 wing, and the wing has a tapered leading edge. The Edge 540’s wing has a fully symmetrical airfoil as well, but it has a perfectly straight leading edge. The tapered leading edge of the Extra, Yak and Sukhoi lends itself more to precision and extreme aerobatics because the taper allows the pilot to stall one wing before the other. A well-designed airplane will stall straight forward without dropping a wing, but the tapered leading edge allows the pilot to choose which wing he wants to stall

such as in a snap roll or precision spin. Because of this, these airplanes are better choices for precision aerobatics.

The straight leading edge of the Edge 540’s wing lends itself to 3D aerobatics and is extremely stable in all attitudes. The fact that both wings always want to stall together is somewhat of a hinderance in precision aerobatics but can be helpful in some 3D maneuvers.

The tail moment is another factor that should be considered when selecting the airframe. This is the distance from the wing’s center of pressure to that of the horizontal stabilizer’s. The longer this is, the easier it will be to draw perfectly straight lines, while a shorter tail moment will produce more control authority in pitch and yaw.

In general, the Extra 300 has the longest tail moment, but almost all modern remote control aerobatic airframes are stretched slightly to yield smoother and more precise flight characteristics, while the control surfaces have been enlarged to produce the insane control authority that is required in 3D and XA aerobatics. The best aerobatic airplanes are almost as long as their wingspan.

All of these airplanes have a different wing placement, each lending itself to different maneuvers better than others. The Edge’s wing RC-SF.COM

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Extreme Flight® 104-in. Extra 300 is shoulder mounted right below the canopy and is very high on the fuselage. This position makes upright harrier flight very stable and easy but is not quite as good in precision aerobatics. The Extra 300 mid-wing is my all-time favorite airplane and feels extremely neutral in all types of aerobatics due to its wing being in the center of the fuselage. This position is the best of both worlds and is excellent in all types of aerobatics. Most models of the Yak-54 share this approximate wing position.

The Sukhoi has a low wing, which is not bad in any type of aerobatics but is not ideal either. Most models of the Sukhoi have a slightly raised wing that helps aerodynamically. Different models of the Extra also have a lower wing position.

There are other small differences between these types of airplanes, Extreme Flight® 110”Yak-54

38

RC SPORT FLYER — MAY 2013

but the ones addressed above are the most significant. Each airframe manufacturer has its own techniques for tweaking these designs to perform better as RC models, and I have a couple of things to mention about these.

• Wing Loading: There is a huge misconception I want to put straight. An airplane with a lighter wing loading does not immediately fly better. There are some companies that focus on building extremely light 3D airplanes with oversized wings to reduce wing loading. These airplanes hover and harrier very easily, but their weight severely limits the pilot in precision and XA aerobatics.

The floaty feeling comes at a cost, and I would advise you to steer clear of these airframes, as they will teach you some bad habits.

An overly high wing loading is also undesirable, but you want to have enough weight behind the airplane to yield the inertia required to carry it through different maneuvers. For the best results, you need to start with a well-designed all-around aerobatic airplane.

• Side Area: Most of the good aerobatic airframes today have fuselages with lots of side area.

This helps in many aspects and makes the rudder more effective.

Some designs have the canopy slightly forward of the scale location, which also helps put more side lift forward of the center of gravity. Side Force Generators (SFGs) are becoming very common and help in the same way.

SIZE

Now that you have a basic understanding of what we’re looking at in airframe designs, it’s time to decide how big you want to go. For beginner aerobatic pilots, I strongly encourage buying a profile 3D foamy.

A good foamy, coupled with a good simulator, is the best way to learn this type of flying. Well-designed foamies are more forgiving and easier to fly than a built-up aerobat, but they still allow you to practice all the new extreme maneuvers. Regardless of the size of aerobatic airplane you fly, I highly recommend getting a good foamy as a Guinea pig, as they are much easier to repair than a high-end aerobatic airplane.

Extreme Flight® 125-in. Extra 300

AEROBATICS PART 2

Extreme Flight® 60-in. Edge 540T EXP

BIGGER IS BETTER

Well, at least to an extent. When learning aerobatics, it is easier on the mind to fly an inexpensive airplane, but the larger the airplane is (within reason), the easier it is to fly. For instance, a 40%-scale airplane is almost as easy to 3D as a foamy, and it’s even easier to practice precision flight. I do not recommend starting with an airplane this size, but the larger airplanes are used in competition for a reason, and it’s not because they’re harder to fly!

My favorite size to fly for fun is a 60-in. electric-powered airplane.

It’s just big enough to feel light and precise but isn’t too hard on the pocketbook. After mastering a 60in. airplane, jump to a 50- to 60-cc airplane. This jump is very substantial, but you will be amazed by how easy a high-end, giant-scale aerobatic airplane is to fly! Everything seems to happen in slow motion as compared with the smaller airplanes—wind is fought off like nothing, and the wing loading is light, due to the large size.

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Some pilots who aren’t concerned with the price tag jump straight into a 50- to 60-cc airplane after mastering their foamy, and if you are confident

enough, I would not discourage you.

It is however, a notable investment.

Here is a list of my two or three favorite airplanes in each size:

Extreme Flight® 60-in. Extra 300 EXP

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Extreme Flight® 88-in. Edge 540T

FOAMIES

I recommend setting these airplanes up in a completely stock configuration, as is recommended by the manufacturer’s websites.

• DW Foamies 40-in. Extra 300 and Yak-54 DW Foamies are the most precise outdoor foamies available and closely emulate the flight characteristics of a full-fuselage, built-up aerobat.

• Twisted Hobbys 32-in. Crack Yak This little animal is the most

Extreme Flight® 91in. Extra 300 EXP

capable EPP foamy that I have flown and can really take a beating, making learning new maneuvers less stressful.

MIDSIZED ELECTRIC POWER

• My Preferred Setup Extreme Flight® Torque 4016T/500 MKII motor Airboss 80-A Elite ESC Falcon® 16x8E propeller 6-cell, 22.2-V, 3,000–4,000-mAh LiPo battery 4x JR® DS3421 servos Spektrum® AR-6210 receiver

Hangar 9® Carden Edition 89-in. Extra 300 Mid-Wing

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RC SPORT FLYER — MAY 2013

• Extreme Flight® 60-in. Extra 300 EXP This is—in my opinion—the best midsized electric-powered airplane available. It is my favorite airplane below my Extreme Flight 104in. Extra 300, which is what I use for competition flying. Combining the best precision characteristics with excellent stability in 3D and unmatched XA capabilities, this is the best all-around aerobatic airframe.

• Extreme Flight® 60-in. Edge 540T EXP This airplane is the most stable

AEROBATICS PART 2 Hangar 9® Composite QQ Yak 54 2.6 m

Hangar 9® 3.1M Sukhoi 26MM

• Extreme Flight® 91in. Extra 300 EXP This airplane is the epitome of XA and is the most capable and crazy giant-scale airplane available! All of its control surfaces are oversized, giving the pilot insane control authority at all airspeeds. With the long tail moment, this airplane also excels in precision and extreme aerobatics and is an excellent all-around airplane.

• Extreme Flight® 88-in. Edge 540T If you want an airplane to really beat on, the Extreme Flight Edge 540T is your machine! This airplane is built for aggressive 3D and XA flying and is extremely stable in high-alpha flight. While it is the best-designed Edge on the market, precision aerobatics are not quite up to par with the Extreme Flight Extra 300 but are still very good. This airplane loves to tumble and will wad up so tight that your head will spin with it!

• 3D Hobbyshop 87-in. Extra 300SHP This airplane is one of the smaller 50- to 60-cc-class airframes, but it still has a great flight envelope. It is optimized for 3D and loves low and slow flying. It is more of a purposebuilt 3D airplane but would be fine through the lower classes of IMAC.

100- TO 120-CC SIZE (≈35% SCALE)

midsized electric airplane at slow speeds and is the best choice for pilots wanting to learn 3D. It is very capable in XA and precision aerobatics as well, but 3D is where it truly shines!

• 3D Hobby Shop® 57-in. Extra 330SC 3D Hobby Shop has made this Extra very lightweight, which makes many 3D maneuvers feel like they are in slow motion. It is also a good airplane for learning 3D, but it is not as capable in precision and extreme aerobatics.

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50- TO 60-CC SIZE (≈30% SCALE) • My Preferred Setup Desert Aircraft® DA-60 engine KS-1060 tuned pipe or Desert Aircraft® stock muffler Vess® 24B Stealth propeller (5) JR® 8911HV servos (1) JR® 8917HV servo (Throttle) Spektrum® AR-9110 PowerSafe receiver (2) Fromeco® 2-cell, 7.4-V, 2600mAh Li-Ion Rx battery (1) Taildragger RC® 2-cell, 6.6-V, 1100-mAh A123 ignition battery (1) Fromeco® Badger switch

• My Preferred Setup Desert Aircraft® DA-120 engine Desert Aircraft stock mufflers, or MTW® RE-2 tuned pipes Vess® 28B Stealth, or Falcon® carbon Fiber 27x11 (If using mufflers) propeller (7) JR® 8911HV servos (1) JR® 8917HV servo (Throttle) Spektrum® AR-12200 Cockpit receiver (2) Fromeco® 2-cell, 7.4-V, 5200mah Li-ion batteries (Rx power) (1) Fromeco® 2-cell, 6.6-V, 2300mah A123 battery (Ignition power) (1) Fromeco® Badger switch • Extreme Flight® 104-in. Extra 300 Since this is my all-time favorite airplane, it’s hard to make this RC-SF.COM

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description short. Extreme Flight’s Extra 300 is the most precise, most aggressive and most capable airplane in all forms of aerobatics and is the best competition airframe available in its class!

Hangar 9® 35% Extra 300

• Hangar 9® 35% Extra 300 Mike McConville did an excellent job designing Hangar 9’s 35% Extra 300. I consider it the second-best all-around airplane. It is very precise, aggressive, stable and true, and it is a very good competition platform for IMAC and freestyle.

• Extreme Flight® 110” Yak-54 Extreme Flight’s Yak-54 is a true masterpiece that captures the look and feel of the huge Russian-built aerobat. This airframe was tweaked extensively to produce excellent precision aerobatic capabilities while maintaining the awesome 3D characteristics of a Yak. Its wing loading is very light, rolls are perfectly axial and control authority is very smooth in all flight conditions, making it a great competition airplane.

150- TO 170-CC (≈40% SCALE)

• My Preferred Setup Desert Aircraft® DA-170 engine MTW® RE-3 tuned pipes

Falcon® carbon Fiber 30x13 propeller (10) JR® 8711HV, or 8911HV servos (1) JR® 8917HV throttle servo Spektrum® AR-12200 cockpit receiver (2) Fromeco® 2-cell, 7.4-V, 5200mAh Li-Ion Rx batteries (1) Fromeco® 2-cell, 6.6-V, 2300mAh A123 ignition battery (1) Fromeco® Badger switch

Hangar 9® 3.1M Sukhoi 26MM

• Extreme Flight® 125-in. Extra 300 As the bigger brother of Extreme Flight’s 104-in. Extra 300, this is in my opinion the most capable and precise IMAC airframe in the ARF world! Extreme Flight worked very meticulously for many years to perfect this airplane, and it will stay with you through the top levels of precision and freestyle aerobatic competition. Its long tail moment allows you to draw laser-straight lines effortlessly, making this the ideal IMAC machine!

• Hangar 9® 3.1-M Sukhoi 26MM Hangar 9’s big Sukhoi is another of Mike McConville’s excellent designs and is another great all-around airplane, capable of low and slow 3D, IMAC and everything in between. The big round cowl helps keep a fairly slow and constant airspeed and looks great too.

• Performance Aircraft Unlimited 123-in. Extra 300SP If you like scale airplanes that fly well, you will like the PAU Extra 300SP. This airframe is extremely close to perfect scale and performs beautifully. Although not as optimized for IMAC as the Extreme Flight Extra 300, this airplane is very capable

42

RC SPORT FLYER — MAY 2013

AEROBATICS PART 2 in precision aerobatics and is very predictable and easy to 3D.

OVERALL

This list represents what are—in my honest opinion—the best ARF aerobatic airplanes on the market in these size categories. As you probably noticed, the list is comprised of almost 50% Extreme Flight® airplanes.

I have flown these airframes from my first competition until now, and I think they are the most welldesigned, all-around 3D, IMAC and XA aerobatic airplanes available. Their flight performance is unmatched, and their quality is second to none. They have many more airframes that my list was too short to include, but you will be “golden” flying any of their airplanes. They will stay with you all the way to the top of the most demanding aerobatic competition flying. My competition model and absolute favorite airplane of all times is my Extreme Flight® 104-in. Extra 300, which I am again preparing to compete with in the 2013 Extreme Flight Championships.

Hangar 9® has also recently come out with some amazing airplanes. I have a lot of experience with them, and they have my full endorsement as machines that will do well in this arena.

I believe that the best progression of airframe sizes for someone wanting to get into aerobatics is to start with a foamy. Once the foamy Performance Aircraft Unlimited 123-in. Extra 300SP

Twisted Hobbys 32-in. Crack Yak is mastered, move up to a 60-in.-size electric-powered Extra 300 or Edge 540 and then jump up to a 50- to 60-cc-size, giant-scale aerobatic airplane.

You will truly be amazed by the performance of these airplanes as soon as you fly a giant-scale aerobat.

Although landing takes some skill in a tight space, these are the easiest non-trainer airplanes to fly. When you put them on a line, they stay on that line until you command otherwise.

They fly what you command them to fly—no more, no less. It is truly a one-of-a-kind experience that makes you realize that you, the pilot, are the

only limiting factor to the maneuvers that are possible!

Well there you have it. Make the decision about what size aerobat is right for you and go ahead and purchase it. In the next issue of RC Sport Flyer magazine, I will help you set up the airplane in such a way that it will aid you along the journey of learning aerobatic flight, and at the same time be a competition-worthy machine.

Until next time, practice, practice, practice!

Photo credits Jerry Smith, Wil Byers, Tom Seres, Jim Smith, Higher Plane Productions

References Extreme Flight RC Phone: 770-887-1794 extremeflightrc.com Horizon Hobby Phone: 800-338-4639 horizonhobby.com Performance Aircraft Unlimited Phone: 808-782-7171 flypau.com 3D Hobby Shop Phone: 717-814-5316 3dhobbyshop.com DW Foamies Phone: 691-206-2596 dwfoamies.com Twisted Hobbys Phone: 862-228-8496 twistedhobbys.com

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RC-SF.COM

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14SG

ENJOY TELEMETRY AND STATE-OF-THE-ART TECHNOLOGY AFFORDABLY

W

henever the latest and greatest technology is released, you can expect to pay a pretty penny to get in on the action. In the RC industry, telemetry modules and supporting receivers are the new hot items for the RC pilot. High-end transmitters like the Futaba® 18MZ support telemetry and many features that keep the price above the average RC consumer’s

budget. The new Futaba 14SG transmitter, however, incorporates the professional-level pilot features into an ergonomic transmitter case, and does so at a very affordable price.

PACKAGE CONTENTS

The Futaba 14SG 14-channel digital 2.4-GHz transmitter ships in a durable box that encases the radio

in protective styrofoam—two thick foam packaging halves. The package includes a well-written manual that explains everything you’ll need to know about this new radio system.

The 14SG comes with a 6-V 1800mAh nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) battery pack, a 12-V AC charger, a R7008SB receiver, a switch harness, a LiFe spacer, a neck strap and an adjustment tool.

THE TRANSMITTER

The 14SG is designed to fit perfectly in any pilot’s hands.

Weighing in at just 32 oz, it is lightweight yet very well balanced.

The switches are extremely well placed, so you will not be searching for them as you fly your model.

This transmitter supports FASSTest, FASST and S-FHSS 2.4-GHz systems for versatility with newer and older model receivers. The sticks are comfortably positioned and travel to their limits without requiring you to overextend your fingers. Their lengths are also adjustable. Your hands fit well against the soft rubber grips on both sides of the transmitter too.

The front face of the transmitter is clean and organized. The neck strap’s connection is located right at the center of gravity (CG) for the transmitter and just below the power slider on/off switch. A 3- x 1.75-in., 128 x 64 resolution backlit LCD screen resides at the bottom of the face. A touch-sensitive pad to the right of the screen is used for programming, while a pair of silver buttons sits on either side of the transmitter. The left button is the Home/Exit button, while the right is the User Menu/Servo Monitor (U.Menu/Mon.) menu button. A pair The attractive Futaba 14SG features plenty of toggles in a clean and organized layout that gives you comfort and versatility.

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RC SPORT FLYER — MAY 2013

FUTABA® 14SG of digital trim switches borders each stick as well. At the top are two volume dials for the two alarms.

Built into the top of the 14SG are four switches, two on either side— two long throw and two short throw.

On the front right corner are a pair of three-position switches, while on the top are a three-position switch and a momentary two-position switch. On the front left corner are the same two switches mirrored from the right, while on top are a three-position and two-position switch. Each switch is easily reached and toggled. Behind the top is the metal handle. It is sturdily mounted to the transmitter and far enough for an easy grip.

On the backsides of both corners are sliders (potentiometers). Both are easily actuated and well placed. A headphone port is near the bottom of the transmitter, and the trainer port is in the center. On the left side of the transmitter near the bottom is the charging port for the NiMH battery. The battery compartment is on the bottom of the transmitter.

The slot for the SD card can also be found there. SD cards can be used for external model memory and software updates to the transmitter.

The touchpad and program dial are really easy to use too. Just be careful to make sure that when you’re using it, you aren’t resting your finger against the body of the transmitter. The contact could make it difficult for the pad to read your inputs. It is, however, super easy to use when navigating the menus and programming values into the transmitter’s memory.

However, that is just scratching the surface of this transmitter’s capabilities. If you really want to be impressed, you will want to know what it can do inside. What makes the 14SG a winner is the repackaging of the technologies debuted in the 18MZ, with many now built into a transmitter that is much friendlier to your wallet. Specifically, telemetry comes as a huge feature of this system.

TELEMETRY

Using the S.Bus2 system and FASSTest technology, you can take FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @RCSPORTFLYER

The 14SG arrives packaged with its accessories safely resting in formed pockets surrounded by the styrofoam insert that protects it during shipping.

A series of three 3-position switches, a two-position switch, rotary dial, digital trim tabs, a control stick and the Home/Exit button occupy the left of the transmitter.

Three 3-position switches, a two-position hesitation switch, rotary dial, gimbal stick, digital trim tabs, menu button and touchpad occupy the right side.

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advantage of Futaba’s telemetry modules. In the FASSTest 14-channel mode, any of the rpm sensors, atmospheric pressure sensor and GPS sensor can be read by the transmitter. The screen that is home to the data can be pulled up on the transmitter in one of two ways: Either you can press the Home/ Exit button or you can navigate to the Telemetry submenu under the Linkage menu. Installed sensors are automatically registered once the transmitter and receivers link, with the exception of duplicates.

For example, you can use multiples of the same sensor hooked up to your model, such as two optical rpm sensors for a twin-engined model.

However, you will first need to program which sensor is which using the S.Bus connector on the back of the transmitter. You simply connect the sensor and S.Bus hub to the

Looking down at the top right of the 14SG you can see the layout of the switches and their written identifications. Just behind the SH switch is the knob to the rear slider.

The left mirrors the right for a symmetrical, ergonomic design with all switches within reach of your fingers.

Another slider is found on the top left.

transmitter and pull up the Sensor submenu from under the Linkage menu to program the sensors individually.

Once in the telemetry screen, you’ll notice the clear organization of the data right off the bat. You can easily scroll through the different panes of data for each module on any of the three pages. Selecting one will allow you to program the alarm parameters. The alarm is a fantastic addition to the system because it can be programmed with minimum and maximum values that trigger it. For example, an alarm set with a maximum of 1000 ft will sound if the aircraft soars above that height. You can also select four different types of vibrations (Vibes) that can be triggered with the alarm.

PROGRAMMING

The 14SG menus and programming features are all very easy to use. The touchpad allows you to select and explore the numerous menus. Each menu is laid out in a clear and readable format that any pilot can understand.

The middle of the 14SG is home to the antenna and two rotary dials on top, power switch in the center and neck strap hook mount and LCD screen at the bottom.

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FUTABA® 14SG The back of the transmitter features the transmitter carrying handle, both sliders, the trainer cord port, headphones jack and gimbal adjustment panels covers.

settings that apply to all models.

Its submenus show servo position, dual rates, mixing, pitch and throttle curves, throttle delay, snap roll, fuel mixture, gyro and motor settings.

These options allow for tremendous control over your model and make the 14SG an attractive transmitter for beginner all the way to advanced pilots.

The U.Menu/Mon. button allows you to access the servo monitor screen with one click or the user menu when held continuously. The user menu is another customizable shortcut option designed to allow the pilot less time in the programming menus and more time in the air. The user menu lets the pilot program ten Strips of rubber flank both sides of the 14SG for a comfortable grip. At the bottom of the left side is the battery pack charging port.

The Home screen provides all the necessary visuals for everyday flying.

The transmitter’s battery voltage, digital trim positions, timers and model name and type are all displayed by default. You can start and stop the timers by scrolling to them with the touchpad and selecting them. If you hold the Return button while the timer is selected, it will reset.

To access the System, Linkage and Model menus you only need to double-tap “Sys” for System, “Lnk” for Linkage and “Mdl” for Model on the touchpad. Once in the menu, you can scroll through the different submenus with the pad or browse between the different pages with the S1 button.

The System menu allows you to modify transmitter settings like the display settings, user name, switch FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @RCSPORTFLYER

and toggle reversal and sound. The trainer menu and S.Bus servo menu are found here as well. You can also view the transmitter’s info, such as its product number, firmware version and language. A unique submenu found in the System menu is the Start Select menu. Start Select allows you to enable or disable the touchpad buttons as a way to load aircraft model profiles quickly.

The Linkage menu is home to the servo, model select, model type, model system, function, sub-trim, channel reverse, failsafe, endpoint, servo speed, throttle cut, idle down, digital trim step (T1-T4), warning, telemetry, sensor and data reset submenus. This menu is used for adding models and modifying their basic settings.

The Model menu is home to the RC-SF.COM

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menu shortcuts into a single pane for quick access to necessary settings without wasting time navigating to them. Entries are programmed and selected by pushing the Return button and erased by holding it.

CONCLUSION

The Futaba 14SG has plenty of options and comfortable handling that make it a desirable transmitter for pilots looking to get more out of their aircraft and flying experience.

The simple menu interface and ergonomic case design, combined The bottom of the transmitter is home to the battery bay where the battery is stored.

It plugs into the power port next to the SD memory card slot.

For our range test, we wired the Futaba R7008SB FASSTest 2.4-GHz receiver to a servo and a 6-V 3000-mAh NiMH battery, and mounted them to a piece of wood.

FUTABA R7008SB 2.4-GHZ RECEIVER Originally released with the 18MZ and now available for the 14SG, this eightchannel, 2.4-GHz receiver incorporates the latest FASSTest system for reliable and bidirectional communication. At 0.38 oz, 1.9-in. long and 0.98-in. wide, the R7008SB is an excellent fit for most models. It includes a 0- to 7-V extra voltage port next to its dual antennas. The two antennas allow for improved all-around reception when arranged at a 90-degree angle from one another. These features make this receiver an excellent choice to pair with the new 14SG. However, what makes this receiver truly impressive is the FASSTest and S.Bus2 systems.

FASSTest FASSTest is the latest in 2.4-GHz spread spectrum technology from Futaba. It turns the incredible FASST (Futaba Advanced Spread Spectrum Technology) signal into a bidirectional system that allows both the transmitter and receiver to send and receive data from one another. This opens up the ability to stream telemetric data from onboard the aircraft to the pilot below.

FASSTest uses the suite of new technologies and methods of the FASST system that greatly improves communication between transmitter and receiver. It shifts through hundreds of channels per second to ensure that there are no channel 50

RC SPORT FLYER — MAY 2013

interruptions. And importantly, it allows multiple airplanes that use remotecontrol equipment and that operate on the same frequency band to be flown at the same time. The receiver is also loaded with Pre-Vision™, which applies errorcorrecting techniques to incoming data to ensure it arrives correctly. The system also incorporates Easy Link™ transmitters for near immediate binding once the transmitter is powered.

S.Bus2 The S.Bus system is designed to run multiple servos off a series of hubs that connect to the S.Bus receiver port. S.Bus2 also uses that system to send the telemetry data to the transmitter from systems that are installed in the aircraft.

The coolest part of the system is apparent when you are setting up your aircraft. Install the servos to the system in the airplane however you like and program them to their function. Once they’re programmed, you can plug them in anywhere, and S.Bus2 remembers their function. The S.Bus2 system is an incredible advance in technology, as well a terrific new feature that is supported by the 14SG’s system.

FUTABA® 14SG The 14SG went 5.1 mi before communication was lost. Compared with other radios tested for our December 2012 issue, the 14SG rates exceptionally well.

14SG Features • Channels: 12 proportional, 2 switched • Compatible with FASSTest, FASST and S-FHSS protocols • FASSTest telemetry—compatible with Futaba telemetry sensors (sold separately) • Free user-updatable software • 30-model memory • 10-character user naming • 10-character model naming • Airplane, helicopter and glider programming • Large, 1.75 x 3-in. backlit LCD screen with 128 x 64 resolution • SensorTouch™ programming • SD Card compatibility for external model memory and software updates (SD: 32MB-2GB; SDHC 4GB-32GB) • Left and right assignable slider switches • Two assignable rotary knobs • Six assignable three-position switches • One assignable momentary twoposition switch • One assignable two-position switch • Comfortable rubber grips on the sides and back • Wide top switch spacing • Adjustable stick tension • Dual ball bearing gimbals • 4 vibration warning types • Home/Exit; User Menu/Servo Monitor buttons • Audio earphone jack (for telemetry alarms) • 6-V 1800-mAh NiMH battery pack • User stick calibration • Trainer system • Servo speed adjust • 5 programmable mixes • V-tail, ailvator, winglet, motor mixing • Trim mix • Logic switch (condition switch only) • Internal programmer for S.Bus servos • User menu • Servo monitor (neutral and moving tests) • 2 count up/countdown timers • Integral timer • Model timer • Quick model select

with superb control layouts, make this transmitter a pilot’s choice among many others. I was very impressed with what the new Futaba 14SG delivers to RC pilots. What you too will find is that this radio system is feature rich and designed for pilots by pilots. It truly delivers exceptional performance at an exceptional price—only $599.97 at towerhobbies. com.

Supported Telemetry Sensors Rpm

SBS-01RM (magnetic); SBS01RO (optical)

Temperature

SBS-01T

Barometer

SBS-01A

GPS

SBS-01G

Distributor Futaba Great Planes P.O. Box 9021 Champaign, IL 61821 Phone: 800-637-7660 greatplanes.com futaba-rc.com

Airplane Features • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

7 different wing types 3 different tail types 2 different rudder types Flap setting menu Differential ailerons Aileron to camber flap mixing Aileron to brake flap mixing Aileron to rudder mixing Rudder to aileron mixing Rudder to elevator mixing Camber mixing Elevator to camber mixing Camber flap to elevator mixing Snap roll mixing Airbrake mixing V-Tail mixing Ailevator Winglet Motor mixing Fuel mixture mixing Gyro mixing Throttle curve (5-point) Pitch curve (5-point) Idle down

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Helicopter Features • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

6 swash plate types Pitch/throttle curves (5-point) Throttle hold Swash mix Throttle mix Pitch to rudder mixing Fuel mixture Gyro (Flybarless support) Governor (700–3500 rpm) Hover pitch Hover throttle High/low pitch Swash AFR Swash setting (mixing rate, linkage compensation, speed compensation) • Swash ring (electronic) • Throttle cut

Glider Features • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

11 different wing types 3 different tail types 2 different rudder types Flap setting menu Differential ailerons Aileron to camber flap mixing Aileron to brake flap mixing Aileron to rudder mixing Rudder to aileron mixing Rudder to elevator mixing Camber mixing Elevator to camber mixing Camber flap to elevator mixing Butterfly mixing Butterfly to elevator mixing

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BY Anthony Richards

AURORA 9 TELEMETRY GET REALTIME INFLIGHT DATA WITH AN AURORA 9 AND A HITEC® TELEMETRY SYSTEM

The HiTec Aurora 9 is one of the best transmitters available on the market today and features a terrific telemetry system.

W

e’ve talked about the Hitec RCD Aurora 9 transmitter and some of the many sophisticated features it has built into its memory and circuitry. The Aurora 9 incorporates modern-day, very, very large-scale integration (VVLSI) circuit technologies and computer-aided design to optimize pilot control over the aircraft as well as to enhance the comfort of transmitter operation.

It is a system that employs Adaptive Frequency Hobby Spread Spectrum (AFHSS), for superior range and control. If you look even deeper into the Aurora 9’s capabilities, you’ll

The HiTec telemetry sensors are joined to a sensor station which is then connected to the receiver through one of the open channels and the data port.

discover that it provides an incredible telemetry system that is both one-of-a-kind and very impressive.

THE AURORA 9 TELEMETRY

The Hitec Telemetry

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RC SPORT FLYER — MAY 2013

System is made up a series of sensors that are connected to an on-board sensor station (HTS-SS), which interfaces with the radio’s receiver.

The sensors have dedicated ports on the sensor station, which means you can either use some or all—you make the decisions as to what data you want to get from your airplane.

The sensors include those that can monitor fuel level, temperatures from -40 to 200 degrees Celsius, revolutions per minute (optics or magnets), and a global positioning system (GPS) that measures altitude, speed and position (longitude/ latitude).

HITEC® AURORA 9 TELEMETRY The data is displayed on the transmitter’s easy-to-read, 5.1-inchwide, backlit touch screen. This means it is easy to see the telemetry data and easy to navigate the menus.

Simply touch the wrench icon to access the System Menu, select Sensors, and select the data sensors your airplane has been fitted to carry.

If you’re looking for all the data at once, you can touch “Cockpit” under the Sensors menu and have nearly all of the information displayed in real time and on one screen.

In the Battery menu a low-voltage warning can be set to alert you as to when the battery in an electricpowered airplane is running low.

As the manual recommends, LiPo batteries should not be allowed to drain below three volts per cell, and the warning should be set accordingly—just above three volts for a single-cell battery, above six volts for a two-cell pack, and so on. Having that data available, and warning(s) set can save the model’s battery pack, or even your airplane, should the pack’s voltage fall too low for proper control.

You’ll be interested to know that the Temperature menu let’s you monitor up to four sensors at once.

The names for each sensor can be renamed to respective functions, such

as “ESC” for the speed controller and “MOTOR” for..., well, you get the picture. In the center of the menu is a display that reads the maximum, average and minimum for a particular sensor you select. Don’t fret if the unused sensor items are all reading -40; that’s the default value for any unplugged temperature sensor.

The RPM menu allows for two rpm sensors to be named and monitored. When using an optic sensor, the menu allows the pilot to choose how many blades are on the propeller. You’ll want to select “Prop-M” for the magnetic sensor.

The GPS menu features all of the specific data for the latitude and longitude position, speed, altitude, date and time, which are displayed in real time. Adjustments to the time, date, unit of measure (metric or imperial), and whether the altitude is gauged as absolute (above ground level) or relative (above sea level) can be made by touching the Setting icon in the lower-right corner.

All of this data can be found in the Cockpit menu as well. In fact, the Cockpit menu is where the fuel level data is displayed. Cockpit has everything!

The Cockpit menu is just one option. There is a second screen option—and my favorite feature

about the Hitec Telemetry System— that allows for all of the telemetry data to be displayed in real time, with the option to record it and then replay it later. Using the HPP-22 PC interface device, your computer monitor can become a digital cockpit for your aircraft, with a neatly arranged window full of gauges. They display all of the live data you get from your airplane’s sensors. The device connects to any standard USB port and uses an S-connector cable to bridge the HPP-22’s P1 port to the Spectra 2.4-GHz module on the Aurora 9 transmitter. Once the interface device is connected to the computer and transmitter, you will turn on the Aurora 9 and power up the aircraft. Then the magic happens.

You can even re-arrange the gauges on the screen to the configuration you want for the data displays. I’ve not seen another transmitter and telemetry system do that.

If that isn’t enough to excite you about this telemetry system, Hitec has arranged for the Aurora 9, Spectra 2.4-GHz module, Optima receivers, and the telemetry systems to accept updates as they become available. Thus newer versions of the firmware can be installed to update your model’s telemetry systems, which is nice because the systems

Under the System menu you will find the Sensor menu where you can view your model’s installed sensors and their telemetry data.

The Sensor menu will automatically be populated with the connected and active sensors. The firmware must be version 1.07 or better to see this.

The GPS sensor screen shows the model’s latitude, longitude, altitude and airspeed. GPS racing is now an option.

The rpm sensors screen shows the rotations per minute and can be adjusted for the number of blades on the propeller.

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HITEC® AURORA 9 TELEMETRY

The four temperature sensor readouts are viewable on the Temp screen. The minimum, maximum and average temperatures for the flight are also shown.

The Battery screen shows the receiver battery voltage and its minimums and maximums. A warning can be programmed from this screen as well.

The Cockpit screen shows the two rpm, airspeed, altitude, fourtemperature, battery voltage, current and wattage readouts at one time.

The EZ View screen presents the sensor data in larger and simpler values for easier reading when glancing down at the screen while flying.

are changing all the time. Now that’s looking ahead and keeping the customers’ needs in mind. Getting these updates is just as easy as connecting the hardware to the HPP-22 and a computer, and then downloading the latest revision.

CONCLUSION

You already know the Aurora 9 provides you with lots of RC power and performance, doing so at an affordable price. Couple that with the Hitec RCD’s telemetry systems and you’ll reveal a performance package that is sensational. As far as telemetry goes, the incredible amount of information that can be gathered by the Aurora 9 (software

Distributors Tower Hobbies PO Box 9078 Champaign, IL 61826 (800) 637-6050 towerhobbies.com Hitec RCD USA, Inc. 12115 Paine Street Poway, CA 92064 (858) 748-6948 hitecrcd.com

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RC SPORT FLYER — MAY 2013

version 1.07), when combined with the ease of use and data displays, makes for an RC system that is top of the line all the way around. So, if you want to take your model flying to the next level in performance and optimization we would recommend this new system. It is really a twothumbs-up combo.

Hitec HTS-SS Advanced Telemetry System Sensor station

HTS-SS advanced

GPS sensor

HTS-GPS

Air speed sensor

HTS-AS

Variometer sensor

HTS-VM

Servo sensor

HTS-SM

Engine temp. sensor

HTS-ETEMP

Fuel sensor

HTS-FUEL

Voltage sensor

HTS-VOLT

Compatible Receivers 7-Channel

Hitec Optima 7 2.4-GHz AFHSS

9-Channel

Hitec Optima 9 2.4-GHz AFHSS

Hitec HTS-SS Blue Full Combo Telemetry System (Electrics) Sensor station

HTS-SS Blue Electric

GPS sensor

HTS-GPS

Current sensor

(1) HTS-C200 200-amp (1) HTS-C50 50-amp

RPM sensor

(1) HTS-ORPM optical (1) HTS-MRP magnetic

Temperature sensor

(4) HTS-TEMP

Voltage sensor

HTS-VOLT

Price

$234.99

Hitec HTS-SS Full Telemetry Pack 2.4GHz Sensor station

HTS-SS Nitro Electric

GPS sensor

HTS-GPS

Current sensor

(1) HTS-C200 200-amp (1) HTS-C50 50-amp

Fuel sensor

HTS-FUEL

RPM sensor

(1) HTS-ORPM optical (1) HTS-MRP magnetic

RPM sensor

(1) HTS-ORPM optical (1) HTS-MRP magnetic

Temperature sensor

(4) HTS-TEMP

Temperature sensor

(4) HTS-TEMP

Price

$239.99

Price

$224.99

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 Anthony Richards

DX18 TELEMETRY REAL INFLIGHT FEEDBACK FROM YOUR AIRCRAFT VIA 2.4 GHZ

W

e have covered the advanced features that make the Spektrum® DX18 transmitter the top of its brand in terms of performance and ergonomics. Complimenting the DX18’s ease of use and design is its support of the Spektrum new telemetry suite. With a Spektrum telemetry module and the DX18 transmitter, you can now unlock your aircraft’s potential by way of real inair flight data, which will let you enjoy your piloting experience and make your aircraft safer to fly.

TELEMETRY

Spektrum’s telemetry system is comprised of a telemetry module that interfaces with their range of sensors. There are two models of the telemetry module that work with the DX18 transmitter. The first is the TM1100 DSMX Fly-By module. It is compact and designed for use in park flyers and small models. Because of this, the TM1100 does not support the X-Bus telemetry sensors. The second is the TM1000 Full-Range module that can be placed in larger aircraft, where internal space is available to use Spektrum’s full sensor suite.

Spektrum currently offers voltage sensors for EC3, Deans, JST, servo and flight packs. They also have sensors for temperature, airspeed, 40-G and 8-G-force, altimeter, rpm and brushless rpm, JetCat turbine and current sensors.

Note that you will use a data lead to connect the telemetry module to the Spektrum receiver’s data port. The module can then send the necessary sensor signals to the DX18 56

RC SPORT FLYER — MAY 2013

The Spektrum® DX18 is a spectacular transmitter that is made even more so when utilizing its telemetric capabilities and paired with Spektrum’s sensor suite.

by way of the 2.4-GHz bidirectional signal.

Accessing the DX18’s telemetry menu is extremely easy. You just open the transmitter’s Function menu and navigate to the Telemetry menu, which is near the bottom of the Function list. The Telemetry menu allows you to see which sensors you have enabled and displayed on your menu screen. There are 12 entries

you can program—you’ll have the option for them to remain empty or stream telemetry data from an installed sensor.

To edit an entry, select it and use the roller to scroll through the different sensor options until you reach the sensor type you want.

Then select it by clicking a second time. This will bring up the sensor’s value options to program, if the data screen for that sensor is active or inhibited. You’ll also be able to set the minimum and maximum values and whether the alarm for them is active or inhibited. Once the sensors are programmed and assigned in the

SPEKTRUMÂŽ DX18 TELEMETRY Telemetry menu, you will return to the main menu screen. There you will use the rolling selector to navigate between the different sensor screens.

Accessing these screens will let you customize them from the Telemetry menu under Settings.

There you can select whether you wish for the data to be displayed automatically, or by way of the roller in place of the main menu screen or have them inhibited. You can also change the units of measurement between US standard or metric values.

The first telemetry screen that gets displayed on the DX18 will be for detailed information for engine/ motor rpm, voltage and temperature sensors. On the left of the screen are the data readouts for these three sensors. On the right is the voltage for the receiver pack. If a sensor is not installed or enabled, a series of dashes will appear in place of the data. You will also see that the digital trim tabs do not disappear when

Here the voltage, rpm, temperature, altimeter, airspeed and G-force sensors are hooked up into the AR7010 receiver while the STi mobile module is installed to an iPhone.

The TM1100 Fly-By Telemetry Module is seen here installed to the AR7010 receiver. The TM1100 is more compact to allow telemetry sensors to be installed in smaller models.

The main screen of the DX18 can either be scrolled from or disabled to show the multiple sensor screens when using the telemetry feature.

The main telemetry screen displays the voltage, rpm, and temperature data from the installed sensors as well as the receiver pack voltage.

You can see the RPM values changing as we test the telemetry signal. Notice that when data is not provided, the values will either be left at zero or dashed out.

A secondary telemetry screen shows just the data from the voltage, rpm and temperature sensors in larger font for easier reading while flying.

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The altimeter and airspeed sensor data are shown on the same pane. Notice that regardless of which screen you are in, the digital trim tabs are still visible.

The minimum and maximum values for each sensor are displayed on their own screen for easy reference without having to dig though the menus.

The G-Force sensor measures and displays the model’s current X, Y and Z forces to the left, with the maximum and minimum values to the left.

The GPS screen displays all of the location and directional data you will ever need. This sensor makes you feel like you’re reading cockpit gauges!

switching from the main menu to the telemetry screens. Importantly, they are viewable at all times.

Following the detail screen is another screen that displays the same three sets of data, but larger and stacked in the center of the screen for easier viewing. This allows the data to be seen clearly with just a quick glance at the screen, which means the pilot does not have to hunt for the data on the screen.

The altimeter sensor screen displays the altitude of the aircraft followed by its airspeed. These values are displayed in large letters and are also easy to read.

The DX18 also provides a minimum and maximum screen. It displays the current settings for minimum and maximum values for each sensor. This provides an excellent quick reference for pilots.

The G-Force sensor screen displays the different positive and negative forces of gravity against all three axes. Their maximum and 58

RC SPORT FLYER — MAY 2013

minimum limits are also displayed to the right of the data.

The GPS sensor screen displays the aircraft’s speed and altitude at its top, with the respective minimum and maximum values to the screen’s right.

Below is the current heading, latitude and longitude, and time active.

You can record the telemetry data as well. It is saved to the installed SD memory card by enabling data logging under the Telemetry menu, which is done through File Settings. There you can enable/disable data logging and select an 8-character file name.

You can download this data to your computer for analysis, which is great for post-flight evaluations.

STI™ ITELEMETRY INTERFACE

Spektrum’s telemetry system supports a mobile app for your iPhone/iTouch/iPad device that can receive and display your aircraft’s telemetry data. You’ll need to buy the STi™ module. It can then be plugged

into the bottom of your device. You’ll want to get the free downloadable STi app. The app will work with whichever models you have telemetry gear installed in. The module must be bound to the respective telemetry hardware system.

To bind the STi module to your aircraft’s radio system, you will need to connect the telemetry module and sensors to your model’s receiver.

Then you will put the receiver in bind mode. Next you must connect your STi module to your iPhone or other mobile device, and open the STi app.

You will create a new model and set it to bind. The lights on the receiver, telemetry module and STi module will begin to blink. You must then put the DX18 into its bind mode. Once bound, your STi app will be ready to receive data.

The app has a series of six screens that display live and stored telemetry data as colorful gauges and forms.

The first screen shows the airspeed, altitude, rpm, temperature and flight

SPEKTRUM® DX18 TELEMETRY

When setting up your sensors in the Telemetry menu, you have the option to organize the telemetry sensor data in the way you would like it shown to you.

volts data. The second displays the aircraft’s lateral, lift and thrust data.

A third screen shows a stack of statistics for all sensors. The fourth screen shows all of the maximum stats for all sensors. The fifth screen is the Flight Log screen that shows all stored data. A sixth screen allows you to choose either to graph or replay the log files.

The settings for your selected model in the STi app can be modified by pressing the cog in the lowerright corner. There you can edit the model name, gauges setup, model photo, frames and hold values, rpm, flight pack battery, receiver and temperature parameters, alarm preferences, log preferences, enable/disable voice annunciation telemetry settings (or which items to announce) and the playback interval.

Note that this is the same menu you are presented with when you first

When you program a sensor, you have the option to enable or disable the alarm and the minimum and maximum values that will trigger it when surpassed.

make a new model in the app.

CONCLUSION

Spektrum’s telemetry system is outstanding. It is made even better when in use with the Spektrum DX18 transmitter. The menus are super easy to navigate and programming is quite intuitive. The STi app makes reading the data fun because it has cockpit-like gauges, not to mention it is super convenient to use at the airfield or even when you are atop a mountain slope soaring. I absolutely recommend setting up your aircraft with the Spektrum telemetry system, as well as using the very powerful DX18 transmitter. It doesn’t get better than knowing what your model is really doing in flight.

The STi module and app from Spektrum make for a very unique and cool way to monitor and experience your telemetry data from your mobile device.

Modules Full-range

TM1000 DSMX 2.4 GHz

Fly-by

TM1100 DSMX 2.4 GHz

Compatible Receivers Spektrum

AR6255; AR7000; AR7100; AR7100R; AR7600; AR8000; AR9000; AR9100; AR9200; AR9300; AR12000; AR12100

JR

R921; R922; R1221; R1222

Accessories Extensions

SPMA9551 12 in. telemetry; SPMA9552 24 in. telemetry; SPMA9553 2.5 in. Y-harness

Lead

SPMA9550 2.5 in. telemetry data

Mobile

SPMTR1000 STi™ iTelemetry interface

Sensors Altimeter

SPMA9575

Airspeed

SPMA9574

Rpm

SPMA9558 (brushless); SPMA9569 (optical)

Current

SPMA9590

G-force

SPMA9586 (40 g); SPMA9585 (8 g)

JetCat

SPMA9584

Temperature

SPMA9571

Voltage

SPMA9557 (Deans); SPMA9556 (EC3); SPMA9570 (flight pack); SPMA9554 (servo); SPMA9555 (JST)

Distributors Horizon Hobby 4105 Fieldstone Road Champaign, IL 61822 (217) 352-1913 Horizonhobby.com

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @RCSPORTFLYER

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BY Wil Byers

DC-16 TELEMETRY GET AIRCRAFT PERFORMANCE AND POSITIONING WITH THIS SYSTEM

T

he state-of-the-art JETI model DC-16 is a powerful, intelligent and user-friendly transmitter.

As you may recall the basic system was reviewed in our December transmitter issue. Its high technology approach to features and design gives RC pilots more control over their airplanes, helicopters and gliders than ever.

One of the things that makes this radio stand out from the others is its telemetry systems and the way it displays this information to the pilot/copilot.

Moreover, Jeti is adding new programming features and sensors almost monthly, which means you get added value when you buy this new high-end RC system.

DC-16 TELEMETRY

JETI’s telemetry system is comprised of a number of easy-toinstall sensors and data processing modules. JETI reworked a number of their original products to make them deliver state-of-the-art functions in their unique 2.4-GHz radios and receivers technology. This new series of Duplex products are labeled with “EX,” and they greatly improve on JETI’s original Duplex 60

RC SPORT FLYER — MAY 2013

models. The new line of EX receivers supports telemetry with bidirectional communications between them and the JETI transmitter.

To use these new sensors with a JETI radio is easy. To connect a sensor to an EX receiver you simply connect the triple core cable into the Ext. port on the receiver. If you have multiple sensors, you can connect a Jeti Expander E4 EX module to the receiver. It will let you expand the number of available sensor ports in

Make sure the Jeti Duplex DC-16 transmitter is updated with the latest firmware to access the telemetry features and more.

your aircraft’s control system. This gives you the ability to run four sensors simultaneously with only one receiver. Note too, that you can daisy-chain the sensor modules until you have the number of sensors in your aircraft that you desire.

The DC-16 also features builtin telemetric data processing for

JETI DC-16 TELEMETRY Jeti provides a terrific array of different sensors to include a variometer, GPS, voltage, current, airspeed, Lithium battery voltage sensors and extender.

intuitive display and recording of the data from both Duplex and Duplex EX systems.

The main display desktop, the largest part of the screen, is made to show all of the telemetry data you’ve defined that you’ll need to see, and the different alarms you’ve set.

In the status bar above it there is a solid, square icon that, when visible, indicates when the telemetry data is being recorded.

The DC-16 can also record the telemetry data to its internal SD memory card, which can then be replayed later on a PC. You can use a USB cable between the DC-16 and your computer too. When used, you can then view telemetry data on the computer’s screen (a laptop) for the airplane you’re flying, or store the data for analysis later. The data is stored on the DC-16 under the Log directory file as .log files.

When downloaded to the computer, the log files are viewed using JETI’s FlightMonitor software.

Each log has a date stamp that reads year/month/day.

Telemetry recording can be set up under the Other Model Options submenu that resides under the Advanced Properties programming menu, accessible from the Main Menu. You can set up a switch, knob, or stick to enable and disable telemetry recording too.

You do so by selecting the Start-logging switch option.

Unlike most other telemetry-supporting transmitters, because it is designed into the DC-16, there isn’t a real main telemetry setting menu. There are instead submenus for different functions that have Here you can see the MU3 voltage, MVario telemetry-supported variometer, MUI 75 current, and MULIi 6S voltage options that can be set sensors plugged into the expander that runs into the R9 receiver. within them. The only real FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @RCSPORTFLYER

The remaining MGPS GPS and MSpeed airspeed sensors are plugged into the expander. Center is the USB adaptor that allows the GPS unit to upload data to the computer.

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dedicated telemetry menu is the Displayed Telemetry menu.

The Displayed Telemetry menu allows you to create, delete, rename and select what user block information is displayed and how it is displayed. There are a number of user block types that contain lots of helpful information.

These blocks can be The main screen for the DC-16 will be where the Under the Timers/Sensors submenu you will find selected to be displayed displayed telemetry is shown when the sensors are the Sensors/Logging Setup menu and the Displayed installed and set up.

Telemetry menu to customize your telemetry data. as either a standard bar of information or a double-sized pane.

The double-sized block takes up the desktop space and can display additional information, depending on which user block it is, or it can show the same data as seen in standard size, but in larger format.

A telemetry user block can be created too. It can be set up to display specific data from Under the Sensor/Logging Setup menu you can enable Under each sensor in the Sensor/Logging Setup menu any of the connected and disable which data for each installed sensor are are different data entries depending on what the enabled for log recording. sensor tracks automatically organize when installed. sensors. To set up a telemetry block, press the F3 (Add) key on the transmitter’s face, and then select the type to be Telemetry using the 3D button.

Then you can select whether you want the block to be standard- or double-size. The DC-16 automatically detects the Duplex EX sensors and creates telemetry user blocks in the transmitter once they are connected For the voltage sensor you have the option to enable Under Displayed Telemetry you have custom and to the telemetry module. or disable any of the three voltage leads and the automatically programmed information panes that Another telemetry velocity and temperature for the airspeed sensor as are made to be enabled for viewing on the main well. screen. feature on the DC16 is alarms. When a Duplex EX sensor is installed and Alarms menu. To access the autohave the option to announce the detected, it automatically creates generated Duplex EX alarms and current value by voice and implement an alarm, while Duplex sensors customize their parameters, you have throttle-idle alarm settings. You can need to be programmed per model. to navigate to the Sensors/Logging also set the conditions, file and alarm First-generation Duplex sensors use Setup submenu under the Timers activation switch in the menu.

Morse Code alarms, therefore when menu, which is found through the Under the Vario menu, you can using them you’ll have to enable Main Menu. There you can enable or set up custom parameters for the Morse Code Alarms under the disable the alarm, have alarm repeats, variometer sensor if it is installed.

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JETI DC-16 TELEMETRY There are two modes you can select from: JB Profi Alarm and EX Value. The first is set by the vario and you can choose to set a switch that enables or disables the monitor. The second allows you to set the enable/disable switch; the source parameter for the Vario system’s climb rate is predefined but can be replaced by With the variometer, GPS, voltage and current sensors Once the telemetry information panes are set up, the other installed sensor installed, 24 panes are automatically programmed to main screen becomes populated with all of the live display all of the data streaming from the sensors. information from the sensors. parameters, the dead zone and the ranges of the positive and negative alarm zones. The positive zone (aircraft rising) generates a beeping alarm when the source value is within its range, while the negative zone (aircraft decending) generates a solid sound.

The dead zone values are silent.

There is a Voice Output menu that allows you to program synthetic voice queues From the GPS and variometer, you can read absolute This is the display with the Lithium voltage sensor. too. This voice option and relative altitudes, trip distance, variations and air Notice that it shows the voltage for each cell will call out telemetry pressure on one screen alone. apart from the pack. Talk about incredible. values either once every predefined second or system and user interface, such that every time a specified switch is they eliminate a lot of the setup activated. This is tremendously helpful time that would otherwise be spent for pilots who want to be aware of JETI model Telemetry EX programming the systems into a their aircraft’s current conditions Sensors transmitter and receiver system. The but cannot or do not want to look GPS sensor MGPS JETI telemetry system in combination down at the transmitter’s screen. The RPM sensor MRPM; MRPM-AC with the new DC-16 transmitter are Sensors & Variables submenu allows a superb pairing of RC and computer you prioritize and order the different Airspeed sensor MSPEED technologies. It is not too much to voice outputs for each sensor you’ve Temperature MT125; MT300 say that the JETI telemetry system programmed into the transmitter. The sensor defines a new level in communication higher the priority, the higher the Board voltage M3 between pilot and aircraft, which can output annunciation is placed in the sensor do nothing more than enhance the queue.

Voltage sensor MUI30; MUI50; MUI75; fun of flying RC airplanes.

MUI150; MUI200

CONCLUSION

The DC-16 is an impressive transmitter, even without its built-in telemetry system. It has, however, “amped up” the level of feedback the RC pilot can now get from onboard telemetry systems installed on one’s model aircraft. The new Duplex EX line of sensors are welldesigned into the DC-16 operating FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @RCSPORTFLYER

Distributors Esprit Model 1240 Clearmont St NE, Unit 12 Palm Bay, FL 32905 (321) 729-4287 espritmodel.com

Lithium voltage sensor

Muli6s

Variometer sensor

MVario

JETI model Telemetry EX Accessories Port extender

Expander E4 EX

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BY Anthony Richards

MINI VAPOR BNF A PERFECT INDOOR FLYER FOR JUST ABOUT ANYWHERE

one. I’d flown the Vapor, but the new micro Mini Vapor looked like a model that would be super fun to fly.

THE BOX

T

he original Parkzone® Vapor is a well-known and well-flown slow flyer that is perfect for the indoors. At just about any indoor fly-in, you’re bound to find one of these ultramicro, ultra-lightweight aircraft flying about and giving its pilot hours of enjoyment. Following the Night Vapor—a Vapor with LED lighting attached—is the new Mini Vapor.

When I saw this little model on the shelf of the hobby shop in my town, I just had to have

The box the Mini Vapor comes in not only protects it well during shipping but also doubles as an excellent carrying case.

Inside, the Mini Vapor and its LiPo battery and charger are safely packaged and protected by the strong styrofoam insert.

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The Parkzone Mini Vapor® comes in a small, attractive box that doubles as a carrying case. Inside, your Mini Vapor fits snugly between the styrofoam insert and two styrofoam braces that are locked down with tape. Along with the airplane comes a single-cell 3.7-volt 30-mAh LiPo battery, charger and four AA batteries to power the charger.

The Vapor is trimmed in a translucent red-and-yellow design with some areas of transparent covering. The covering is a lightweight PET film overtop the composite plastic and carbon fiber wing structure. The fuselage is a small carbon fiber tube with a 3-in-1 receiver/servo/electronic speed controller (ESC) board sitting atop its center. The Mini Vapor is powered by an 1S coreless brushed motor that turns a 125 x 39-mm propeller.

All together, this aircraft makes for a very lightweight and slow indoor flyer.

The ParkZone Mini Vapor BNF comes with an assembled Mini Vapor, a single-cell LiPo battery pack and a one-cell LiPo charger with four AA batteries.

PARKZONE® MINI VAPOR BNF

WHAT YOU GET

• Airframe Fuselage, empennage, wings • Motor 1S coreless brushed • Propeller 125 x 39 mm • Receiver 3-in-1 Rx/Servo/ESC • Battery E-flite 1S 3.7-volt 30mAh LiPo

NEEDED TO COMPLETE

The two wire pushrods that control the elevator and rudder can be adjusted by pinching or widening the U-shape with a pair of needle-nose pliers.

The 3-in-1 receiver/ESC and servo board is mounted under the wing atop the fuselage spar. Be careful of the fragile antenna on the back.

• Transmitter Spektrum 2.4-GHz DSMX/DSM2

IN FLIGHT

Let me start by saying I had a lot of fun flying this little model. I was able to take it off from our office floor in just over a foot, and it lifted off the carpet with ease. Because the tail skid is static, be careful to line up your takeoff straight in the direction you want the airplane to launch because you won’t be able to correct it much on the takeoff roll.

In the air it is so lightweight that it feels like you’re flying a feather. In our office, it was able to glide from one end to the other at just under half throttle. It handles extremely well at slow airspeeds, just as it should. But its coreless motor has plenty of power to get the Mini Vapor moving pretty fast. Thankfully the large rudder can turn it around pretty quick, allowing you to be able to dodge obstacles or coworkers. I would warn you though, because of its small size and light weight, the Mini Vapor will react to even the slightest breeze generated by an open air vent or a person walking past it.

This aircraft is no aerobatic performer. It is excellent in flying wide, slow circuits with just rudder and elevator. However, if you yank back on the elevator and pitch the nose nearly 90-degrees vertical, you can apply full power and hang it on its nose for a fair amount of time, using the rudder to keep it from

The coreless motor and 125 x 39-mm propeller give the Mini Vapor more than enough power to soar and speed through the air.

The 1S 3.7-volt 30-mAh LiPo battery mounts to the airframe in front of the control board but can be repositioned to shift the aircraft’s CG.

Thanks to its powerful motor and high angle of incidence in the wing, the Mini Vapor can execute high alpha maneuvers with ease.

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @RCSPORTFLYER

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PARKZONE® MINI VAPOR BNF rolling over. And when it does roll over, you are able to quickly regain steady, level flight.

Landing is super easy. With just enough power to keep the propeller turning, you can glide in for a silkysmooth landing. Thanks to its light weight and slow flying, you can land it just about anywhere. I was able to land and take off from our meeting table and even my desk!

CONCLUSION

The Mini Vapor is a blast to fly.

It continues to underscore how enjoyable the Vapor series is and that speed isn’t everything when flying RC. Personally, I favor this over the fullscale Vapor because of how easy it is to fly in my home. I can remember flying the Vapor in the confined spaces of the hobby shop where I worked, and there we could barely manage to lift off and then dodge hanging products with it. Now that there’s the Mini Vapor, it would be

a breeze to fly in the shop. If you’re looking for something fun that you can fly anytime and anywhere, this is the fix you need.

Although the Mini Vapor isn’t an aerobatics aircraft, it can still be hovered for quite a while, considering its design.

The red-and-yellow scheme over the control surfaces makes the Mini Vapor’s sleek wireframe profile easier to spot.

Specifications Wingspan

8.7 in. (220 mm)

Length

11.75 in. (298 mm)

Motor

6-mm 1S coreless brushed

Propeller

125 x 39 mm

Receiver

3-in-1 Rx/Servo/ESC

Battery

E-flite 1S 3.7-V 30-mAh LiPo

Transmitter

Spektrum DX18 2.4GHz DSMX/DSM2

Price

$79.99

Distributor Horizon Hobby 4105 Fieldstone Road Champaign, IL 61822 (800) 338-4639 horizonhobby.com

ASSEMBLY None! The Mini Vapor comes preassembled and covered! All of the electronics are set up as well. As long as you have a DSMX/DSM2 transmitter handy, you’ll 66

RC SPORT FLYER — MAY 2013

just need to charge the battery and bind the the transmitter to the receiver to ready it for flying!

Maxx Products is your complete source for Electric Airplane Accessories

Mounts - Heatsink or plain mounts for beam mount Fit 20, 28, and 36 mm motors.

Heatsinks - Extruded aluminum heatsinks Fit 12, 20, 28, and 36mm motors.

Prop Adapters - Over 20 types and counting, Collet and set screw type prop adapters and prop savers Fit 2mm, 2.3mm, 3mm, 1/8”, 4mm, 5/32”, 5mm, 6mm, & 8mm motor shafts.

Spinners - 29, 38, 44 and 50mm lightweight polished aluminum spinners - Fit 2 to 5mm motor shafts.

Gearboxes - Assorted planetary and offset gearboxes to fit a variety of motors.

Tools - Universal Pinion Puller. Universal Extracting Tool

1570 Switch - This simple switch temporarily disconnects BEC power to the radio system between flights.

• Micro wire (32AWG) extensions, Y-harness, switch harness for small electric airplanes, • Full line of Himax Brushless motors and gear motors, • Full line of ferrite motors and high performance cobalt & neodymium motors, Micro servos, micro receivers, and battery packs.

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Wheels - Light weight wheels with strong hubs Sizes: 1.25”, 1.5”, 2”, 2.5”, and 3.00”

Exclusive Distributor

MAXX Products International, Inc. 815 Oakwood Rd., Unit D, Lake Zurich, IL 60047, USA Ph: 847-438-2233 Fax: 847-438-2898

www.maxxprod.com

BY RCSF Staff

DJI HOBBY FLAME WHEEL F550 PRO AN IMPRESSIVE HEXACOPTER WITH PLENTY OF POWER FOR PAYLOAD

T

oday, drones are appearing just about everywhere, and in many different roles—including being just plain fun to fly. Fixed-wing unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are being used as hurricane hunters, geomagnetic surveyors, military

combatants and more. Multi-rotor aircraft are conducting low-profile surveillance and commercial aerial photography as well. The recent emergence of drone use has come after a boom in developments in aerospace technology and

information, and this is just the beginning.

However, hobbyists have been flying “drones” for decades, albeit for recreation and private use. Multirotors are new to the industry and have adapted well to the simple The DJI Flame Wheel F550 Pro Receiver Ready is from Atlanta Hobby. It is an enormous amount of fun and has plenty of power too!

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DJI HOBBY FLAME WHEEL F550 PRO need to fly that most public consumers have.

A few months ago, DJI Hobby introduced a very capable performing hexacopter to the RC enthusiasts. It is an impressive machine that RC Sport Flyer will be flying this upcoming season, to get photos and video of airplanes all over the country. It promises to be lots of fun to fly too.

THE MODEL

The six Twister 450 brushless motors provide plenty

of lift and power, while the Naza-M autopilot unit The DJI Hobby and GPS maintain stability at all altitudes.

Flame Wheel F550 Pro Receiver Ready hexacopter is a sporty six-armed, six-motored, multi-rotor heli that comes from Atlanta Hobby. It comes as an airframe, but you can get a package that includes everything you’ll need to get yours in the air quickly and easily.

Your F550 will come as ours did, neatly packaged in a strong Your Flame Wheel F550 arrives packaged in its own cardboard box that box, as do the Naza-M and all Twister 450s. The ensures all of its parts servos are for our camera gimbal kit. and pieces are protected against damage during shipping and transit.

Opening the box, you’ll see that each component and part comes packaged in resealable bags, which protect them from inbox damage as well.

The airframe is made of six colored, ultra-strong, injectionmolded arms and two frame boards, with integrated, printed, This gives you a close up of one of the Twister 450 brushless motors installed on the arm, while I test fit circuit-board wiring. Two the APC propellors before tightening them down. of the arms are colored red, which provide a visual cue indicating the front of the need to buy the motors, propellers, hexacopter, while the other four are battery, receiver, Naza autopilot and white. A series of six, 30-amp OPTO transmitter to build a model that is electronic speed controllers (ESC) ready to fly. are provided. They are designed to mount to the airframe’s arms, as do WHAT YOU GET the motors at the arms’ ends. You will • Airframe FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @RCSPORTFLYER

We painted the tips of our Flame Wheel F550 to make them easier to see. They also show the symmetrical power changes well.

Here the majority of the airframe components are laid out next to the electronics and other components. All necessary hardware is included.

The 30-amp OPTO electronic speed controller is mounted to the bottom of the arm with a square of the hook-and-loop tape.

(2) control boards; (6) landing arms (2 red/4 white) • Motor (6) Twister 450, 880-Kv brushless • Propeller (3) APC 10x4.7SF; (3) APC 10x4.7SFP pusher RC-SF.COM

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• Speed controller (6) 30-amp OPTO • Autopilot system Naza-M • GPS Naza GPS • Hardware (24) M3x8 screws; (36) M2.5x6 screws; hook-and-loop material; battery band; power leads pair; wrench

NEEDED TO COMPLETE

Soldered, the ESC and power leads are mounted to their terminals along with the Naza-M autopilot unit, VU and Futaba R617FS receiver, along the centerline of the model, ready for the top board to be installed.

• Battery Thunder Power® 4S 14.8-volt 5000-mAh 70C LiPo • Receiver

Completely assembled, the F550 top board and GPS unit are added overtop the bottom board and arms to form the rigid and lightweight airframe. All it needs now is a battery and some programming before flight.

The F550 performed perfectly during its test flight. The forward stick didn’t have to move far forward to make the model travel quickly to its target.

The Naza GPS unit is a fantastic accessory to the Flame Wheel F550 because of its accurate and sophisticated compass and positioning system. Be mindful to mount away from the propellors to avoid disrupting its sensors.

A Thunder Power® 4S 14.8-volt 5000-mAh 70C LiPo pack was used.

It provides plenty of power to compensate for its weight and then some.

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We will fly this model in the future with its camera gimbal installed to snap photos and shoot video. It is a terrific platform for doing so.

DJI HOBBY FLAME WHEEL F550 PRO

We applied flux to the terminal points to prepare them for soldering the ESC leads to the bottom board. A clean soldering job makes for low resistance.

Futaba R617FS FASST 2.4-GHz • Transmitter Futaba 14SG • Gimbal system SR Pro Micro XL

IN FLIGHT

climb. Note that full-throttle climbs will get your attention in a hurry, so have your reflexes ready to keep the model flying level.

If there is any challenge in flying this hexacopter it is keeping it

It is imperative that you have the hexacopter programmed properly and that its battery is centered over the model’s center of gravity.

We recommend you do your test flights in an open field away from homes and people as a way to guarantee a safe setup and operation.

Once you’ve rangechecked the radio system, you will initialize the motors by pulling both control sticks The leads must be held in position while the solder is down into the lower applied. We recommend using a hemostat to hold the right corners of the lead in place over the terminal. transmitter. The motors will then start to idle.

After that it is just a matter of pushing the throttle stick forward to increase the power. Our hexacopter lifted off at about 25 percent power.

Although, at this power setting it seemed to still want to hover in ground effect. By adding another five percent power, the model will get up out of ground effect and then stabilize very well.

The VU power leads share the same terminals as the power leads for the battery pack, so don’t solder one If you apply much more in place without the other. power it will start to FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @RCSPORTFLYER

We really like how well all of the components and their wiring fit in between the boards and without clutter at all. It really is an attractive hexacopter!

Not much solder is needed to mount the leads to the bottom board. However, you will want to be careful to hold the lead in place while the solder cools.

Because we had the arms on before we soldered the power leads to the battery and the VU, it became a two-man job, with one holding while the other soldered.

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DJI HOBBY FLAME WHEEL F550 PRO

ASSEMBLY The DJI Flame Wheel F550 ARF assembles easily and quickly. The most difficult part of the build is soldering ESC and battery leads to their respective terminal points on the PCB—everything else is super simple to do. Note that no manual is provided with the kit. However, it is available to download as a PDF from the DJI website (dji-innovations.com), on the Flame Wheel downloads product page.

Before the airframe can be built, you must solder the ESC leads to their respective terminals on the bottom PCB board. Be careful to keep it clean without excess solder spilling onto and burning the board around the terminals. Following that you must also solder the provided battery power leads and the Naza-M versatile unit leads to the front battery terminals.

Next you will want to mount the Naza-M autopilot module, versatile unit and receiver to the bottom board. Use the adhesive pads provided with the Naza-M to mount the autopilot unit and the versatile unit to the center of the board—keep the F550’s center of gravity (CG) near the center of the airframe. We mounted our model’s receiver on the back end of the board using the excess adhesive pads.

The F550 comes with extension leads that you’ll use to connect the receiver to the autopilot unit. The channel connections are different for each receiver manufacturer, but their wiring is outlined in the manual. The same applies to the ESC lead hookups and the gimbal servo connections to the Naza-M unit.

With the F550’s electronics installed, you can begin mounting the motors to their respective arms. Each Twister 450 requires the propeller shaft to be mounted to the motor, and comes with the necessary hardware to do so. The motor will then mount to the outer platform of the arm, aligned to the hole pattern on the arm. Once mounted, the motors’ leads are then threaded through an opening in the arm and connect on the underside to their ESCs. The ESC is mounted to the bottom of the center of the arm. You’ll use the oriented to you relative to pitch, roll and direction. We painted the tips of our hexacopter’s blades red and white to help a bit with its orientation while in flight.

You will be impressed with the forward speed of this machine. It is quite fast and yet you can stop it extremely quickly with a change in pitch. It will take some getting used to because the model presents itself in the air very differently than a typical helicopter. Also, as you yaw the hexacopter you must focus on its orientation, which is much the same as you would do with any other helicopter.

What you’re going to enjoy about this hexacopter is programming it to do thing you would not dream of doing with a typical helicopter or 3D machine. You can program it to know where home—home being the spot where you initialize the controller and the ESCs. Then when you are flying the F550 at some distance from you, you can switch the hexactopter into “Home” mode and it will fly 72

RC SPORT FLYER — MAY 2013

hook-and-loop tape that comes in the kit. A simple trick to mounting the ESCs is to have the hooked half of the tape mounted to the arm and the loop tape to the bottom of the ESC. This will make the ESCs easier to remove or replace when necessary.

With the arms and their hardware installed, you can then mount the Flame Wheel’s arms to the bottom PCB board—the screws are included in the kit.

Before you mount the top board to the bottom board, you can loop the battery band through the slots on the top board. This will be a good time to power on and bind the receiver to the transmitter and run a motor test. This will affirm that all the motors are rotating in the correct directions and operating correctly, as outlined in the manual. It is also safer to do it now, because the propellers are not installed. Therefore you won’t have to worry about the model lifting into the air suddenly and possibly dangerously. Once done, you can mount the top board to the bottom.

Before you mount the top board, select which inner arm you want to attach the model’s GPS unit to, and screw the mount brackets overtop it. Make sure the arrow on the GPS is facing directly towards the front of the model, and mount it to the top of the mount with the double-sided adhesive pad. With the GPS unit and top board screwed down to the main airframe, the Flame Wheel F550’s assembly is complete.

You must now program the Naza-M unit. You must program into the unit the GPS coordinates and the receiver and transmitter settings before you fly your F550. You can download the Naza assistant software from the DJI website.

Then follow the Naza-M manual instructions carefully in a step-by-step fashion to ensure your model will fly and stabilize properly in all its flight modes and conditions.

to its intialized position, doing so without your control inputs!

Also, you can program this machine to go to a hover position and just sit there. So, if you want it to go to a spot 100 feet in the air, you must program it for the position you want it to fly to. Again, when you switch the hexacopter into that mode it will fly there and hover.

In the next issue we will be adding the camera mount system. We’re going to give you a complete how-to of what it takes to turn this machine into a very stable camera platform for taking video of other models and such.

What we’ve found so far is that this machine has lots of potential for fun in programming it, flying it, and taking lots of great still photos as well as exceptional video.

Multi-rotor flying it just now getting momentum, but we think machines like the F550 are going to give it lots of energy.

Specifications Wheelbase

21.7 in. (550 mm)

Weight RTF

42.3—84.7 oz (1200—2400 g)

Motor

(6) Twister 450 880-Kv brushless

Propeller

(3) APC 10x4.7SF; (3) APC 10x4.7SFP pusher

Speed controller

(6) 30-Amp OPTO

Battery

Thunder Power® 4S 14.8volt 5000-mAh 70C LiPo

Autopilot system

Naza-M

GPS

Naza GPS

Receiver

Futaba R617FS FASST 2.4-GHz

Transmitter

Futaba 18MZ

Gimbal system

SR Pro Micro XL

Price

$319.99

Distributor Atlanta Hobby 6150 Parkway North Drive Cumming, GA 30040 (678) 513-4450 atlantahobby.com

™

Simplicity rules!

It’s easy to like the Eraze. Once you snap the rudder in place, assembly is done. Like the fuselage, it’s molded from AeroCell foam, and just as light as it is tough… which is plenty. Everything else — including a punchy brushless motor and 12A ESC — is installed and ready for a battery. Dropping in an inexpensive 2S LiPo makes it fun; spending a few bucks more for a 3S pack turns turn it into a fast-moving blast. You have another choice, choice too. You can go with the RTF and get everything — or o go with the Tx-R radio and battery.

Prime and fly it with your own radi

Wingspan: 18.1 in (460 mm)

™

™

flyzoneplanes.com/118j flyzoneplanes

© 2013 Hobbico®, Inc. All rights reserved. 3074589

BY Wil Byers

500 3D BNF BASIC A HELI THAT TAKES YOU TO THE NEXT LEVEL IN PERFORMANCE

I

The Blade 500 3D BNF Basic is a powerhouse of performance and style. It carries an aggressive look to match its aggressive capabilities.

f you are like me, you like to fly all types of aircraft—gliders, airplanes and helicopters. You have a passion for one aspect of the hobby, but you like to fly all types of airplanes to keep your piloting skills honed.

Moreover, you like the challenge of flying different aircraft quite simply because it is emotionally rewarding.

Such is the case for me with helicopters. I started flying them a number of years ago, when the counter-rotator machines hit the market. After logging a fair amount of practice time on my simulator, I transitioned to conventional rotor helicopters but did not really jump headlong into the 3D machines.

Honestly, they were just too intimidating for me.

My paradigm has morphed over the last 24 months or so such that I’m now enjoying the unmatched challenge of flying 3D machines. I started by flying the heck out of a Blade 120 SR and then progressed to the mCP X, which was followed by the Nano CP X BNF. This was interspersed with lots of simulator time flying a high-performance 3D helicopter. Now I’ve started flying the Blade® 500 3D BNF Basic machine. It is an excellent transition machine for me, and I’m confident it will be for you too. Here is why I say so:

THE KIT

The Blade 500 3D BNF Basic comes completely assembled, with the exception that the rotor blades must be mounted—the blades are 425-mm carbon fiber composite.

Blade is providing a limited-time offer of a set of 430-mm carbon fiber main blades for free when you buy a Blade 500 3D BNF Basic, so don’t wait! The Blade 500’s mainframe is 74

RC SPORT FLYER — MAY 2013

made of strong, lightweight carbon fiber that gives the machine a super rigid airframe that can withstand the rigors of extreme flight maneuvers.

It also utilizes very high-quality CNC aluminum rotor head components

that are designed to stand up to the demands of 3D flight. The tail boom is a sturdy aluminum tube that the tail rotor’s drive belt runs within.

Although the tail rotor blades are made of plastic, you can find upgrades

BLADE® 500 3D BNF BASIC

On top of comfortable handling and stability, the Blade 500 has a good amount of forward and climb authority. It doesn’t take much to get off the ground.

The Blade 500 3D BNF Basic comes installed with a Spektrum® AR6210 DSMX 2.4-GHz receiver that works well with the DX18 18-channel transmitter.

galore for this machine on the Blade website: bladehelis.com. Finally, your Blade 500 wears a very attractively colored Lexan canopy over the top of its impressive airframe. It gives the helicopter a look that says it’s ready for business.

IN THE BOX

The Blade 500 is packaged in a large cardboard box with protective foam partitions that hold the helicopter and battery pack. Where you will cut the tape to open the box, a label reads, “Warning: For experienced CCPM pilots only.” CCPM means cyclic/collective pitch mixing. Take this warning to heart because this is not a helicopter for beginners.

Inside the box is an instruction manual.

Blade packaged their 500 3D in a sturdy and attractive box. Inside, the heli is well protected by two styrofoam halves that keep it in mint condition.

A number of accessories and parts are packaged with the Blade 500. These include two 425-mm carbon fiber blades, tools and hardware.

Nearly completely assembled and completely wired upon arrival, the model requires only that you install the blades.

The Blade 500 3D is built with a sturdy carbon fiber frame protecting the CNC aluminum rotor components and sports an aluminum tube tail.

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75

You’ll only really need the manual as a reference for programming your radio transmitter, which in my case is a Spektrum® DX18. The main rotor blades come packaged in a plastic sleeve, while the hardware and adhesive pads are in a separate sleeve in the box’s center.

You must purchase the E-flite 6S 22.2-volt 2900-mAh 30C LiPo battery, a charger and at least a DX8 transmitter. If you plan ahead and get them all at once, you can put the battery on charge the minute you get the model home. In no time, you’ll be ready to bind the helicopter’s receiver to the transmitter and enjoy some exciting piloting!

WHAT YOU GET

• Airframe Fuselage, tail boom • Rotor blades 425-mm carbon fiber • Landing skids Plastic • Motor E-flite 520H brushless outrunner, 1320-Kv • Speed controller E-flite 70-amp brushless • Receiver Spektrum AR6210 6-channel DSMX 2.4-GHz • Gyro G210 MEMS heading lock

Underneath the canopy on the aircraft’s nose is where the 6S 22.2-volt LiPo battery is housed. The battery is held in place by hookand-loop straps and tape.

Atop the rear of the airframe is where the G210 MEMS Heading Lock gyro is mounted. It provides excellent stability and head lock in flight.

• Servos S300 (swash); S400G (tail) • Hardware Allen wrench set, zip ties, (3) double-sided tape strips, Philips screwdriver, bind plug, main blade holder • Manual 24-page English edition

The CNC aluminum swashplate and rotor head provide a strong and lightweight assembly that can withstand the violent maneuvers of 3D flying.

The Blade 500 just needs to have its blades installed, battery charged and Rx bound to the Tx to get it off the ground and in the air. You can buy and fly in the same day!

76

RC SPORT FLYER — MAY 2013

BLADE® 500 3D BNF BASIC

A pair of Spektrum® S300 Digital Standard servos are mounted in the front top of the airframe. They control the aluminum swashplate.

A powerful E-flite® 520 brushless helicopter motor is housed in the airframe. The Spektrum AR6210 receiver satellite is positioned behind it.

The belt-driven tail rotor is an example of the high-quality design and engineering that went into the Blade 500, an efficient 3D helicopter.

the simulator—parts are expensive. No matter, the first flight of the Blade 500 was exhilarating!

This is a machine that is very, very responsive to your control commands. Its E-flite 520H brushless outrunner motor provides plenty of power for this helicopter, as The tail rotor pitch is controlled by a Spektrum does the E-flite 6S LiPo S400G Digital Standard Gyro servo that drives a long pack and 70-A controller. aluminum pushrod.

So, when you hit the collective your Blade 500 helicopter is going to take off!

I got mine into hover and delighted at the responsiveness of its controls in pitch, roll and yaw. Its forward flight speed is good, as is its rate of climb. After putting only about 10 minutes on the helicopter I was pilot spent and ready to hand the Blade over to my friend Marcus Hubbard—he is an experienced 3D helicopter pilot who would actually push the machine to see how it really flies.

As you read in the build report, Marcus tweaked the setup of both the radio’s pitch curve and the swashplate on the helicopter. Then

NEEDED TO COMPLETE

• Battery E-flite 6S 22.2-volt 2900-mAh 30C LiPo • Charger E-flite DC LiPo balancing • Transmitter Spektrum DX18 18-channel DSMX/DSM2 2.4-GHz

IN FLIGHT

Because our Blade 500 3D BNF Basic came as such—Bind-N-Fly—I flew it as such for its maiden flight.

You need to know I’m not a full-on 3D pilot. Honestly, I’m just learning how to hover RC helicopters inverted, which I’m mostly doing on Soaking up some of that warm desert sun, the Blade 500 hovers in front of the camera.

The E-flite G210 gyro provides excellent head locking for this 3D machine.

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77

Marcus inverts the Blade 500 for some performance-testing 3D flying, which demonstrates the 500’s maneuverability, control response and inverted flight capability.

Marcus rolls the Blade 500, revealing its undercarriage. Towards the rear of the aircraft you can see the servo and gyro leads running to the Spektrum AR6210 DSMX receiver.

we pumped more electrons into the LiPo pack. It took only 1620 milliamps, which relates to how much the pack used during one of my fiveminute flights. If you were push the Blade 500 3D harder I’m sure the pack would be depleted more.

With Marcus at the controls, the Blade 500 3D jumped right into a nice steady hover. He then took it high enough to be able to flip it over and fly it inverted. Again, the machine delivers good, steady performance.

Next Marcus rolled the heli while I got some photos. Marcus says it has good roll rate and is responsive to the setup we had programmed into the DX18. The heli loops well too.

It seems to be more than capable of doing tic-tocs, funnels, chaos, tumbles, tailslides, etc. And, while this is not a flybarless helicopter, E-flite does offer an optional accessory to turn it into a flybarless machine, which should add to its performance even more.

HANGAR DEBRIEF

Priced at just $599.99, the Blade 500 3D BNF Basic is an absolutely excellent buy for pilots like me who are transitioning into flying 3D machines. It comes with everything you’re going to need to get into a 3D helicopter. You need only buy a 6S LiPo pack and use one of your You can’t help but be impressed by the power, performance and control authority that you can get with the Blade 500. It is one great flying heli!

78

RC SPORT FLYER — MAY 2013

BLADE® 500 3D BNF BASIC existing Spektrum DSM2/DSMX transmitters. I recommend buying a good LiPo charge too. I’m using one of the new Dynamite Passport Duo 400W chargers, and it is a great match for the 6S pack. Altenatively, you would do well with the Dynamite Passport UltraLite 50-W charger.

The bottom line for me is that the Blade 500 3D is a perfect machine for pilots like me to fly when progressing into a 3D machine. It is affordable, durable, well made and easy to set up, and it flies extremely well for a 500-size helicopter. I’ll end by reiterating the warning on

Specifications

Distributor Horizon Hobby 4105 Fieldstone Road Champaign, IL 61822 Phone: 217-352-1913 Horizonhobby.com

the box; remember, this is a machine for pilots experienced in CCPM. It is very much a 3D helicopter, which requires at least intermediate piloting skills. If you are ready though, this is an exceptional helicopter. So go have some fun.

This helicopter is not meant for the average pilot. it is designed to provide a transition platform for experienced helicopter pilots.

Rotor diameter

38.2 in. (970 mm)

Length

33.5 in. (850 mm)

Height

11.8 in. (300 mm)

Weight

4.06 lb (1842 g)

Motor

E-flite 520H brushless outrunner, 1320 Kv

Speed controller

E-flite 70-amp brushless

Gyro

G210 MEMS heading lock

Servos

Spektrum S300 (swash); Spektrum S400G (tail)

Receiver

Spektrum AR6210 6-channel DSMX 2.4 GHz

Transmitter

Spektrum DX18 18-channel DSMX/DSM2 2.4 GHz

Battery

E-flite 6S 22.2-volt 2900-mAh 30C LiPo

Charger

E-flite DC LiPo balancing

Price

$599.99

ASSEMBLY What assembly? You’ll be happy to know that 99 percent of the assembly of the Blade 500 3D BNF Basic is done at the factory! The only thing you’ll need to assemble and install is the main rotor blades. Note, you will tighten the bladegrip screw until the blades remain horizontal when you hold the helicopter’s tail boom with it nose hanging down—not tighter and not any less tight, just enough! Installing the blades will take five minutes or less. The screws and such are provided.

We found that the aluminum swashplate was not set at exactly zero pitch angle for the main rotor blades as it came from the factory. So, my friend Marcus and I took a few minutes to tweak the helicopter to get it set properly. You’ll want to use a blade incidence gauge to check that the blades are set to zero degrees FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @RCSPORTFLYER

angle of attack with the collective stick at its center position.

Also, the helicopter was ever so slightly nose heavy. If, however, you upgrade to carbon fiber tail rotor blades it should bring the helicopter into perfect balance.

To program the DX18 for flight we used the DX8 template as a guide. That template is found on page eight of the user manual. If you too are using a DX18 transmitter you can download our template at: rc-sf.com/spektrum. The file name is Blade5003d PG.SPM. Other than that was called out above you’ll only need to charge the E-flite 6S 22.2-volt 2900-mAh 30C LiPo pack. Oh yeah, take a couple of quick simulator flights to tone up your reflexes for the maiden of this machine.

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Ace the Black 8

Hangar 9 Messerschmitt Bf 109F-2 60 ®

The goal given to Messerschmitt was clear—fit the most powerful engine available into the smallest possible airframe to produce a pilot’s fighter with the lethal ability to execute violent maneuvers no opponent at the time could match. Of the many Bf 109 variants, the streamlined “Friedrich” series was historically viewed as the best all-round fighter of the breed. ®

The Hangar 9 Messerschmitt Bf 109F-2 60 brings to life the nimble aircraft Otto “Bruno” Kittel used to help earn him one of the highest kill records in world history. The wing of the 60-size “Black 8” incorporates two Selig airfoils, as well as just the right amount of washout so that you can groove at high speeds, yet settle in for graceful landings. Its all-wood structure features construction methods that allow complex curved areas to be fully sheeted, which makes the airframe not only as light as possible, but is also an exceptional complement to the accurate scale outline. Other scale details include operational four-section flaps and the option to add E-flite electric retracts specially engineered to raise your warbird experience to ace-level. ®

Whether you’re a sport modeler or a die-hard warbird fan, the Hangar 9 Messerschmitt Bf 109F-2 60 is the fighter experience you’ve been waiting for.

SPECIFICATIONS | HAN2785

Wingspan Length Wing Area Weight Engine

64.0 in (163 cm) 59.0 in (150 cm) 679 sq in (43.8 dm ) 10.3–11.5 lb (4.6–5.2 kg) 2-stroke glow: .61–.91; 4-stroke glow: 1.10–1.25 Gas/petrol: 15cc Electric Motor Power 60 Transmitter 5+ channel Servos 7 servos (6 for electric power) 2

Airplane shown with E-flite ® 81-degree strut-ready main electric retracts (EFLG509) and Bf 109 strut set (EFLG510109)—sold separately

For more about this WWII fighter classic, get to Hangar-9.com

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