CHRISTCHURCH AND DISTRICT MODEL FLYING CLUB

starting model flying: part 2

It is a lot easier to advise on the matter of what transmitter to buy. But once again a lot depends on the instructor. One of the choices is what Mode are you going to learn! This is the layout of controls on the transmitter. Mode 2 is the choice of most of the fliers I know, and this has throttle and rudder on the left stick, aileron and elevator on the right. I am told that most top aerobatic pilots fly mode 1 as it is easier to do precise manoeuvres with aileron and elevator controls separated. Mode 2 mimics more closely the controls of full size aircraft, and to my mind, seems more natural. Also on a cold hillside in January, when flying a 2 channel model, you can put at least one hand in your pocket!

The choice really boils down to what your instructor flies, as if you are on a different mode it will be very difficult for him to fly your model too set it up properly. In theory, modern transmitters of different modes can work together on buddy leads, but I have not seen this done in practise! In any case, as the instructor should be matching throttle settings and such as the pupil flies, having controls laid out in a way that is different to what he is used too could make life difficult!

 The choice of which transmitter to buy also depends on what your instructor uses. A buddy lead system requires 2 compatible transmitters, so the pupil should consider this when choosing what make of Transmitter to choose,

 As a club, we have 2 Futaba mode 2 transmitters and a buddy lead for them. Also I have 2 compatible transmitters and a lead, as does Terry Antell. I am sure that many others are similarly equipped.

But once the pupil is off the buddy leads, the choice is open. One can pick up a perfectly usable second hand transmitter for a few pounds, an old analogue type such as Futaba’s Sky Sports 4 will cost £10-£20. But for £60-£70 one can pick up a brand new computer transmitter that will be far more versatile and useful in the long run.

There are 2 main choices in the entry level computer Transmitter market now, the Futaba 6EX types and the Hitec Optic6. Both are perfectly functional, adequate for the needs of any flier for the first few years. I use the 6Exa myself. But if I were in the market for a new transmitter today, my choice would be the Hitec Optic 6. For a slightly higher cost, it has far more features than the 6EX, more programming options and more model memories.

Terry Sullivan

[Home] [Chairman's] [Editorial] [Starting Out] [Dewoitine] [History] [Sport Glider] [Leonard B] [Sloping] [Trevor's Cub] [Rose Bowl]