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As you know, many pilots who enjoy the basics invest in accessories that can add a new dimension to the hobby. Some accessories to consider: servos, gyros, batteries, receivers, and/or transmitters. Those who own electric remote controlled helicopters may enhance them with some ESCs or electronic speed controllers. Nitro-fueled RC helicopters can also be accessorized with more powerful engines and/or starters.


What are some optional accessories?

Optional accessories include pitch gauges, training kits, servo testers, and battery voltage indicators.


What are some exciting accessories you would recommend for advanced pilots?

Many veteran RC helo pilots enjoy the BlueArrow D0801 servo and the Springrc series servos. The Corona RD620II receiver has the structure of a level-inserted-pin with a special design and assorted super-thin electronic parts. The thickness of RD620II receiver is only 7.2mm, which makes the installation more convenient KDS GYRO Sensor Flymentor Auto Stabilization system has multiple applications from stabilizing your aerial photography platform to acting as an electronic insurance policy when you’re trying out some crazy 3D or flying that high-roller scale turbine machine!

What should pilots take into account before investing in accessories?

Enthusiasts should consider the quality of the servo and gyro, as well as increased power with a li-polymer battery. A brushless motor is also a worthy investment.


What amount should the average pilot anticipate spending on accessories?Anywhere from $300 US is common among most veteran RC helo enthusiasts.

What are some top-of-the-line accessories?
KDS GYRO Sensor Flymentor Auto Stabilization
Futaba GYRO GY401, Servo 9253, Servo 9257
Futaba 10C 2.4Ghz RC system
JR DSX9 2.4Ghz 9ch RC system
Spektrum DX7 7ch 2.4G RC system
Hitec servo
Scropio ESC

Which RC helicopter accessories should a new pilot consider?
New pilots may choose to explore purchasing servos, gyros, batteries, receivers, and/or transmitters. Those who own electric remote controlled helicopters may enhance them with some ESCs or electronic speed controllers. Nitro-fueled RC helicopters can also be accessorized with more powerful engines and/or starters.

What accessories would you recommend to the beginner pilot?
Beginner pilots will benefit from the spring RC servos, a cys servo, an ASSAN gyro, or a hobbywing ESC.

What should pilots take into account before investing in accessories?
Enthusiasts should consider the quality of the servo and gyro, as well as increased power with a li-polymer battery. A brushless motor is also a worthy investment.

What amount should the average pilot anticipate spending on accessories?
Anywhere up to $300 US is common among most RC helo enthusiasts.

What are some of the more affordable accessories?

Wfly 8ch RC system
Wfly 9ch RC system
FS 2.4ghz 6ch RC system
Blue Arrow servo
SpringRC servo
Corona servo
Cys servo
Batan servo
Towerpro servo
Corona receiver
ASSAN gyro
Hobbywing ESC

which spare parts from belt cp can be used with v2? besides the ones with the same part number, EK1-05XX series. v2 spare parts are Ek1-04XX series. critical parts for me are the following:

v2 part similar to belt cp:

- main blade clamp set: v2 (EK1-0402) and belt cp (EK1-0515)
- center hub and spindle set (EK1-0429) with 2 pieces in the V2, belt cp is called main blade housing (EK1-0517) and have 3 pieces
- feathering shaft set (EK1-0404) in V2, belt cp (EK1-0540), seems to be similar, and there is also the special shaft for EK5-201 (EK5-0395), which i think has the same functionality
- push rod set (EK1-0427) in V2, which has a metal part linking the 2 plastic push-rod heads, in the belt cp it comes as part of the controlling rod set (EK1-0521), the 2 small plastic push-rods
- control arm set (EK1-0432) no V2 que sao duas pecas compostas ja interligadas e no belt cp (EK1-0520) onde as pecas compostas vem separadas e tem uma peca adicional que parece ser o plastic bolt set (EK1-0407) que vem separado do V2
- ball control arm set (EK1-0406) in the V2, belt cp (EK1-0516), seems to be identical but in the belt cp it comes with much more screws
- balancing pole mounting (EK1-0401) V2, similar to belt cp: flybar case set (EK1-0518) with exception of a screw in the middle of the piece
- flybar control arm set (EK1-0403) in the V2, belt cp: flybar paddle controlling set (EK1-0519), which seems to be quite different in the part that connects to the flybar

v2 parts that i could not find similar in the belt cp:

- ball end set (EK1-0405)
- tail rotor blade control arm set (EK1-0408)
- tail L control arm set (EK10425)
- main blade T hold set (EK1-0409)
- horizontal fin set holder (EK1-0418)
- tail servo mount (EK1-0421)
- tail push-rod fixed bush (EK1-0424)
- canopy shoring (EK1-0428)

any clarification is highly appreciated.

Sam Huang is the proprietor of EnjoyHobbies.biz, an online RC hobby shop.

The Esky Belt-CP V2, hits the RC space as the latest ready-to-fly version of the world-famous Esky Belt-CP helicopter series. This Belt-CP V2 dwarfs the King 2 and revs with the most powerful motor yet.

Rugged construction ensures it stands up to your most enthusiastic 3D flying techniques. New features include the 450 brushless motor and a professional head lock gyro with remote adjustment from the transmitter.

The new 2.4Ghz remote control system uses Advanced Spread Spectrum technology and digital Frequency Shift Key (FSK) coding technology. This — combined with four digital servos — ensures rapid response, precise control, and nimbler movements.

A premium Cyclic/Collective Pitch Mixing (CCPM) head comes installed, enabling precision flying.  By utilizing three electronically mixed servos, the CCPM head boosts response over traditionally mixed servos. Working together, the three servos control the input for the collective pitch, elevator, and aileron. Controlled responses are reached by eliminating unnecessary components with the advanced technology built-in to the Belt CP’s six-channel transmitter.

True to its name, the Belt CP V2 uses a belt-driven tail rotor, an improvement over an entry-level separate tail motor system.

Reinforcements include:
•    A steel fly bar, main shaft and tail shaft
•    A carbon fibre tail stand and shock-proof iron landing skids.
•    Ball bearings installed throughout rather than the normal metal bearings
•    A high inertial main blade to boost lift.

Esky also includes its latest feature: a radio system packed with high-quality 6ch transmitter and digital servos.

Sam Huang is the proprietor of EnjoyHobbies.biz, an online RC hobby shop.

The Esky Honey Bee King 3 debuts as the third upgrade of the world-famous Esky Honey Bee King remote control helicopter series.

More than just a coat of paint, the Honey Bee King 3 offers many fun new elements: Most notably increased stability, power, and accuracy that empowers the pilot with enhanced control. Building upon a legend is tough, but Esky bests its prior track record of successes.

This remote control helicopter features a totally fresh appearance and new, simple designs of both the main rotor and tail rotor systems. Pilots will experience greater control with this one, including: Improved the stability and power, plus accuracy, to make it a good level-entry bird for a 400-size-class helicopter.

For those just launching, the Esky Honey Bee King 3 rates well with its superior and long-lasting parts, which are also very affordable, when compared to the T-Rex 450.

This helicopter teaches you the basics — and more — on flying, building, and tinkering.

The King 3 comes equipped with two must-haves for any 3D pilot: a brushless system and lipo battery! Even its sporty body cover trumps predecessors.

V3 King competes much better in the RC heli world than the V2 with a new look, standard brushless system, a lipo battery power system, head lock gyro, and its affordability!

Whether you’re new to the RC helicopter realm or you’re just looking for a new model, the Esky Honey Bee King 3 is sure to exceed your needs and bring a ton of fun to your life

Sam Huang is the proprietor of EnjoyHobbies.biz, an online RC hobby shop.

The Esky BIG Lama is a balance of engineering sophistication and manufacturing simplicity. Keep in mind that this is an aircraft, and not a child’s toy, and requires a measure of coordination and dexterity to fly it well. Unlike regular fixed pitch or collective pitch model helis, the Esky big Lama uses a set of upper and lower counter-rotating blades to maintain heading. Since this is a “BIG” lama and not a regular lama, you can even fly this outside.

Controls are throttle (up and down), nose heading (left/right steering), side-to-side movement, forward and reverse motion.

Unlike more expensive and technically advanced model helis, you’ll find yourself spending more time actually flying & very little time worrying about crashing it – it’s that stable in the air.

Unlike more technically advanced helis, the Esky big Lama is simple to adjust, and is remarkably durable. Operate it like you would the family car: drive it into a wall or tree & you wiill definitely damage it. Replacement parts are readily available, and cheap. Battery charge time is around 2 hours for a fully drained battery. Flight time is around 15 minutes. This is normal to better than usual for an electric aircraft. A spare battery on hand is a plus.

Afraid of crashing & destroying a delicate aircraft? The big Lama is so easy to operate that in no time, you’re virtually crashproof. There is little you can do to it that isn’t fixable.

Sam Huang is the proprietor of EnjoyHobbies.biz, an online RC hobby shop.

Question: Is there a quick and dirty way to estimate the approximate flight time in the air for my electric powered RC aircraft? I’m pretty good with a calculator but I don’t work for NASA… can you give me some simple tips?

Answer: Sure. Here is a simple way to calculate the approximate flight time in the air for an RC model equipped with a fully charged Lithium Polymer (LiPo) battery in good condition, an Electronic Speed Control (ESC) and a direct drive (no gearbox) Brushless Motor. (We can’t attest to this working for other technologies or setups because we have not tried it)

Here is a simple estimating equation:

Flight Time [min] = (.06 * LiPo Capacity [mAh]) / Current Draw [amps]

where:

o Flight Time is in [minutes]. Remember this is an estimate. See caveats below.
o LiPo Capacity is in milliAmphours [mAh].
o Current Draw is in amperes [Amps]

To determine LiPo Capacity, look at the label on your LiPo battery. Capacity is measured in [mAh] and is usually a number from say 500 to 4000 or more.

To determine Current Draw you will need to measure the current flowing from the LiPo battery after about 1 minute of full throttle operation. By this time the peak voltage and current associated with a fully charged LiPo have been burned off the battery and you will be able to measure a more stable and typical Current Draw. Use a medium current DC amp meter between the LiPo and the ESC. Be careful to avoid the propeller at all times. The easiest way to do this is to use an AstroFlight Whatt Meter or a Medusa Power Analyzer. These are both great tools for the electric flight enthusiast!

Example:

*
Battery with LiPo Capacity = 1800 mAh
*
Current Draw after 1 minute of full throttle = 11 Amps
*
Flight Time in minutes = .06*1800/11 = 9.8 minutes

Caveats & Comments:

We cannot emphasize enough, the importance of considering the LiPo battery pack, ESC, brushless motor, propeller, wiring and connectors etc as a system. The components that make up your power system must all work together in such a way that current, voltage and RPM does not exceed the operating limit or efficiency threshold on any particular component. If you overload anything, it will heat up, performance will suffer and the life expectancy of the component(s) will drop dramatically. The system as a whole must also be suitable for the model, it makes little sense to deploy a power system intended for a 36 inch span model aircraft weighing 16 ounces into a 72 inch model aircraft weighing 7 pounds. The power system may work just fine in and of itself but it must be suitable for the model it is being installed into, in order to produce satisfactory flight performance.

We are using Current Draw measured on the ground to derive flight times. This is a bit counter intuitive. In almost all configurations and in almost all models, the Current Draw in the air will be less than that measured on the ground during a static test. Flight times therefore are being estimated conservatively here.

Ideally, Current Draw should be measured at the temperature and altitude expected during flight. Temperature and altitude affect air density. Air density decreases (thins) as temperature and altitude increase. Thinner air will affect performance of the propeller and this in turn affects the Current Draw. Hence try to measure the current draw at the temperature and altitude you expect to fly at. Don’t worry about small variations in altitude like a few hundred feet, but flying at 5000 feet will produce a different value for Current Draw than flying at sea level and this should be accounted for when estimating flight times.

You will notice that battery voltage is not used in the equation. Battery voltage is very important to the correct operation of the motor and ESC and has an effect on RPM and the selection of an efficient propeller but once a voltage has been selected that is compatible with the model and the various power system components, the voltage thereafter manifests itself in the magnitude of the Current Draw.

If your battery is not fully charged or is in bad shape you will get significantly shorter flight times.

If the discharge rate approaches or exceeds the battery discharge maximum recommendation you will get significantly shorter flight times and are heading towards imminent battery failure.

Electric Power – Performance at High Altitudes

Question: I live at 5000 feet above sea level. What should I do to get my electric power system to perform at high altitudes as well as it does at sea level?

Answer: It’s tough to get the same performance at 5000 or 8000 feet as you do at sea level but we do have a technique that will help you come close.

First of all it’s important to understand a few things:

1) Unlike an internal combustion engine (i.e. glow or gas), an electric motor does not consume oxygen and hence could care less about oxygen or anything else that affects combustion.

2) An electric motor system that runs well at sea level will underperform at higher altitudes not because the air has less oxygen but because the air is thinner. Hot weather does the same thing… the air gets thinner. Hot and high together can really gang up and take a chunk out of the performance.

In order to get your electric motor system to perform in thinner air the same way it does at sea level, you may actually have to change the motor, speed control, battery pack and prop but before you go reaching for your credit card here is a technique that attacks the problem from the lowest cost component first.

1) Measure the watts that your power system consumes at sea level or other relatively low altitude location. Use a Medusa Power Analyzer or AstroFlight Whatt meter.

2) Better yet, if possible, use the Medusa Power Analyzer PRO thrust meter to measure the thrust generated and the watts consumed.

3) Now do the same measurements (1 & 2) at the higher altitude location. You will notice that your system consumes less watts and if you are able to measure thrust you will notice that you get less thrust at higher altitude than you do at lower altitude. This is because the air is thinner (less dense) at higher altitudes.

4) In order to get the thrust back up to where it was at lower altitudes you need the prop to move more of the thinner air. To do this, select a higher pitch and/or larger diameter prop for use at higher altitudes. Test again and try to find a prop that gives you the same thrust and/or watt values as you were getting on the original prop at lower altitude. If you can get the same thrust at 5000 feet as you got at sea level for example, you will have similar flight performance. Thrust is really the key here and it’s best to work with thrust numbers but watts are a good relative indicator of thrust. Not perfect but still helpful!

Be cautious when testing to ensure that the motor, ESC and battery do not overheat with the new prop. Some compromising may be necessary to get good performance that does not overheat components.

In a perfect world, you would carefully select a specific motor, ESC, battery and prop to get the ideal combination for high altitude performance when installed in a particular model. Yup… perfect is best… but for those of us who can settle for a bit less than ideal and have limited budgets, changing the prop to generate similar thrust in high, hot & thinner air as you get in low, cool & thicker air is a good low cost way to go.

VMA-U160X V-Stik 60 ARF – Electric Power Conversion

For those of you who may be wondering about flying a VMAR V-Stik 60 ARF using Electric Power here is an equipment report from a modeler who has electrified his V-Stik 60 ARF as follows:

* AXI Outrunner 4120/18
* 5 Cell LiPo
* APC 13 x 8.5
* Reports brisk reliable performance with this power system in the V-Stik 60 ARF

Please note that this report comes from a modeler flying near Durango, CO at approximately 7000 feet above sea level. A lower pitch and/or smaller diameter prop could be used at lower elevations. See the article included below for more information re adjusting for altitude when flying electric.

Sam Huang is the proprietor of EnjoyHobbies.biz, an online RC hobby shop

Electric-powered and gas-fueled remote control helicopters have notable mechanical differences that correlate to usability and maintenance.

Gas-fueled RC helicopters are generally larger in size. These models have more powerful engines that allow for faster flying speed and longer flying time, thus requiring larger flying spaces. Gas RC helos tend to be noisier also.

Electric-powered RC helicopters are smaller, thus making them easier to repair. Powered by either a brushless motor or a brush motor, electric models run quieter, too.

Gas-fueled models require more maintenance and tend to be messier because they are filled with gas or nitro before each flying session. They should also be cleaned up after each session. Repairing gas-fueled models is more challenging and parts tend to be harder to get.

Because of these factors, fliers with lower budgets or experience levels would do better opting for the electrical-powered RC models.

A few top-quality gas-fueled RC helo models:
The Align T-REX 600 Nitro Pro and the Align T-REX 700 Nitro Pro models are both great choices.

Sam Huang is the proprietor of EnjoyHobbies.biz, an online RC hobby shop.

With so many remote control helicopters to choose from, let’s investigate a basic aspect – electric vs. gas – that will boost the fun factor for you or anyone for whom you’d consider buying this skill-based toy. First, there’s electric vs. gas models.

Pilots with little or even no experience with remote control helicopters are more suited for electric-powered RC helicopters. But there are a few additional key factors when deciding whether to go gas or electric:

Cost
Beginners may want to hold off on springing for an expensive model, especially if they’ve never flown RC helicopters. Gas-fueled RC helo models are more expensive because they are just like real helicopters. They have an engine powered by gas or nitro and are larger and need more power to operate. Electric-powered models are more economical because there is no need to purchase the gas or nitro. Plus, the parts are more affordable.

Time and maintenance
Gas-fueled models require more maintenance and are messy because they have to be filled with gas or nitro before a flying session. Gas RC helicopters also have to be cleaned up after the session. Electric-powered RC helicopters are easier to repair.

Space and sound
Electric helicopters are quieter because they are powered by either a brushless motor or a brush motor. Gas-fueled RC helos generate more noise. Electric-powered RC helos have shorter flying times and fly at slower speeds.

Some electric models that really stand out
The Esky Honey Bee 2 and the Art-Tech Falcon 3D V3 models.

Sam Huang is the proprietor of EnjoyHobbies.biz, an online RC hobby shop.