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Starting up

  • 08-02-2012 3:23pm
    #1
    Miamiheat
    Registered Users Posts: 291 ✭✭


    Hello,
    As I want to get started in model flyng, I am looking for advice on what to buy as my first plane, radio etc...

    Waht I do know if that I'd like to go electric to begin with (cleanliness and space issues) and not too small (avoiding toy), not too big (dont have much space).

    Secondly, do i break the bank and buy a very expensive radio with all the bells and whistles (that may lose value by time I am ready to use it to its full potential in a few years), or do I just get a basic kit that I can resell , and by new radio when ready to buy next model.

    Finally, anybody willing to train a couple of rookies?

    thank you


«1

Comments

  • #2
    Bruthal
    Closed Accounts Posts: 13,422 ✭✭✭✭Bruthal


    Something like the Parkzone Radian is a good way to start.

    The RTF version (ready to fly) comes with a radio and all, and has everything needed to fly. Prosperous dave is a good man to ask, he began with this one to start with 2 years ago i think it was, and so is in a better position to explain what its like for a beginner starting off, and might have some input later. He has a fleet of models now.

    We have 2 of them here, great for the video camera flights.

    There is the parkzone radian pro, which was a later version, but the original is better in my opinion. The one linked above is the original.

    I wouldnt worry about getting a more advanced radio just yet. Its not that expensive for a radio that would be good enough for most rc pilots. But the one with the radian above is more than adequate to start with.

    Another option is the Bixler, its cheaper. Im not sure what its like to fly myself. I was thinking of trying one of the ARF (almost ready to fly) versions, to try flying in the dark with lights on it.

    As for training the rookies, i often did that down here in Navan. Bit of a busted up leg at the moment though, so im more or less grounded myself.


  • #3
    Kashkai
    Closed Accounts Posts: 3,399 ✭✭✭Kashkai


    Hi

    Like Robbie said, I started off with the Radian (his suggestion and a good one) two years ago. I was tempted to try and fly her myself but the Gods intervened and I ended up with a dead battery because I left it plugged into the plane overnight and the battery was sucked dry and ruined (thats your first tip - unplug the battery after the flight as the receiver in the plane will still be sucking juice out of it, even at rest on the ground). I came onto this forum to see what was wrong with the battery and Robbie sussed it. He then offered to give me a lesson and so we met up.

    Now the Radian is a large plane, with a 2 metre wingspan but I thought she'd be a doddle to fly (she is, once you know how;)). However I was very glad Robbie was on hands to take over when I did silly noobie things like stalling her, sending her into spiral dives etc. By the end of the lesson though, I was getting the hang of it and I landed her in one piece, which is the aim of flying:D.

    Flying model planes is a great hobby but unfortunately, starting out is the most expensive time for new flyers as you have to buy a transmitter which will cost you about €70 for a basic one like the DX5 (or buy the "ready to fly" package which includes the plane, transmitter, receiver, battery etc). I started out with the DX5 but eventually bought a DX6i as it not only lets you store up to 10 airplanes in its memory but it is a computerised radio and lets you do a lot more like set dual rates, expo, differential etc, which will mean absolutely nothing to you right now so thats why the DX5 would suffice for your first couple of planes. Once you have the transmitter bought, getting your next plane is cheaper as you can get an "almost ready to fly" plane which includes everything except the transmitter (which of course you'll have). Then later you can go even cheaper by buying a "plug and play" model where you get the plane but have to install your own receiver and of course transmitter.

    Later on, we can introduce you to the wonderful Chinese emporium of "Hobbyking" where for a fraction of what you'll pay elsewhere for branded items, you can pick up planes, batteries, receivers etc.

    I know Robbie is out of action at the moment but I'd be willing to give you a few pointers if you'd like. I usually fly in the Phoenix Park before work when I have it all to myself;). However I'm moving to a new job next week outside Dublin so that'll be out, unless we meet up at weekends. The one piece of advice I'd give you is to go and watch guys flying their planes, and hopefully talk to them. Flying is not easy, you WILL crash at some point, but with some lessons, you might be abale to keep the crashes to a minimum. With the modern electric foam planes, they are actually relatively easy to repair and parts are cheap.

    Last thing, you will need a fairly large area in which to fly any rc plane, unless you buy a micro one which can be flown in a large sports hall. However they can't be flown outdoors unless the wind is dead calm. The area you fly in should be away from buildings, powerlines, and trees. Even a football pitch would be a tight squeeze for flying in, especially when learning. The Radian takes forever to land as she is a glider and she just keeps on gliding;). Other planes like my warbirds fly at between 40 and 60 mph and would cover the length of a football pitch is a few seconds. I have a new motorised glider, more a hotliner I suppose, called a Kinetic that can fly at 100mph on full throttle. Thats why I fly in the Phoenix Park.


  • #4
    Miamiheat
    Registered Users Posts: 291 ✭✭Miamiheat


    Dave are you flying this weekend?
    I live 5 minutes from the Phoenix park so I'd be glad to see you fly any plane. I have looked at the radian but to be honest it's size scares me a little. What is your opinion on the Bixler suggested by Robbie (140cm wingspan)?
    http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__16542__Hobbyking_Bixler_EPO_1400mm_RTF_Mode_2_Throttle_Left_Radio_.html


  • #5
    Bruthal
    Closed Accounts Posts: 13,422 ✭✭✭✭Bruthal


    Miamiheat wrote: »
    Dave are you flying this weekend?
    I live 5 minutes from the Phoenix park so I'd be glad to see you fly any plane. I have looked at the radian but to be honest it's size scares me a little. What is your opinion on the Bixler suggested by Robbie (140cm wingspan)?
    http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__16542__Hobbyking_Bixler_EPO_1400mm_RTF_Mode_2_Throttle_Left_Radio_.html

    I suggested the bixler as an alternative. Not a bad one for the price of it. The radian is great though. Its not that big really. It might sound like it when you see 2 meter wingspan. But its nice and light. When i started it was with a hi-boy, some of the old fliers would remember them:D
    A big heavy yoke it was, or maybe just under powered with the 40 engine. It flew quite well, but getting it off the ground before running out of space, and into the long grass at the phoenix park patch was interesting.

    All you need is a few lessons and you would be sorted anyway.

    @ dave
    I flew one of our radians here with that switching unit i put together, last weekend, it was almost dark when i landed. Would need a couple more strips to make it more visible, but looked good, some flashing under the fuse i had, and others (steady on) on the bottom of wings.


  • #6
    Kashkai
    Closed Accounts Posts: 3,399 ✭✭✭Kashkai


    I'm building a kit plane at the moment and so I won't have time to make it into Dublin. As I no longer work in the city, I dont have any reason to go in anymore. Sorry.

    The Leinster Model Club fly in the Phoenix Park most weekends. You could go have a look but I never found them very friendly.

    The Bixler has gotten good reviews but as an "all in starter package", the Radian is hard to beat. 2metre wingspan might sound big but once she's in the air, you'll be glad she's big so you can keep track of her. Small planes tend to be hard to see at height.

    Robbie, are you on the mend? I'm working in Trim now so not too far away from you. Haven't found a new flying site here yet but still looking.


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  • #7
    Bruthal
    Closed Accounts Posts: 13,422 ✭✭✭✭Bruthal


    Prosperous Dave wrote: »
    Robbie, are you on the mend? I'm working in Trim now so not too far away from you. Haven't found a new flying site here yet but still looking.

    Im not sure if on the mend yet, more xrays next monday. I flew the 600 heli just for a few minutes last weekend, and the sons radian with lights on it. I can do it when someone is here to pick it up from the green.

    Bring one or 2 of your planes up here if you like.

    Are you looking for a flying spot around trim?


  • #8
    Miamiheat
    Registered Users Posts: 291 ✭✭Miamiheat


    Allright i jumped.
    ordered the Radian.
    any other advice on other bits and pieces to buy?
    also, would probably be interested in another plane, maybe some cessna or piper but dont want to double up on the radio. Websites are confuding I am afraid of missing pieces.


  • #9
    Bruthal
    Closed Accounts Posts: 13,422 ✭✭✭✭Bruthal


    Miamiheat wrote: »
    Allright i jumped.
    ordered the Radian.
    any other advice on other bits and pieces to buy?
    also, would probably be interested in another plane, maybe some cessna or piper but dont want to double up on the radio. Websites are confuding I am afraid of missing pieces.

    Which one did you order? Link?


  • #10
    Miamiheat
    Registered Users Posts: 291 ✭✭Miamiheat


    robbie7730 wrote: »
    Which one did you order? Link?

    OH i ordered the one on the link you gave me at beginning of thread (from Sussex website) the one that comes with DX5 radio.


  • #11
    Bruthal
    Closed Accounts Posts: 13,422 ✭✭✭✭Bruthal


    Miamiheat wrote: »
    OH i ordered the one on the link you gave me at beginning of thread (from Sussex website) the one that comes with DX5 radio.

    A good one to start with. You can always bring it down the M3 to navan if you want a few pointers, test flight etc.

    Dont try flying it yourself anyway, if you have not flown before.


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  • #12
    Miamiheat
    Registered Users Posts: 291 ✭✭Miamiheat


    Thanks Robbie I will definitely take you up on your offer. driving down is not a problem.
    will contact you when the beast has arrived :)


  • #13
    Bruthal
    Closed Accounts Posts: 13,422 ✭✭✭✭Bruthal


    Miamiheat wrote: »
    Thanks Robbie I will definitely take you up on your offer. driving down is not a problem.
    will contact you when the beast has arrived :)

    Ok then, wont take long to arrive anyway. Just have to hope for a nice day. Them radians are light, but they will handle strong winds. But not for learing. A nice calm day is what you want for that.


  • #14
    Kashkai
    Closed Accounts Posts: 3,399 ✭✭✭Kashkai


    Count me in when you organise a flight in Navan. Be good to have a few planes in the air instead of just mine chasing the sky rats.

    Hold off buying anymore planes for a while. You should become proficient with the Radian first before you move onto another plane. I have a Supercub that's a good "second" plane after you master the Rad.

    Robbie
    I'm looking for a flying site round Trim but no joy yet. I was spoiled having the Phoenix Park close to my old job.


  • #15
    Bruthal
    Closed Accounts Posts: 13,422 ✭✭✭✭Bruthal


    Prosperous Dave wrote: »

    Robbie
    I'm looking for a flying site round Trim but no joy yet. I was spoiled having the Phoenix Park close to my old job.

    It can be tricky enough finding somewhere suitable. There is a good spot close to me here. I fly from a large green in the estate somertimes, but a few hundred yards down the road is a better spot for it.


  • #16
    Kashkai
    Closed Accounts Posts: 3,399 ✭✭✭Kashkai


    I pass these lovely big fields every day on the way to and from work but I just know that as soon as I set foot in one of them to fly my plane, the local farmer would show up and give me my marching orders. Fair enough, its his land but I could chase teh crows away from his crops for him;)


  • #17
    Bruthal
    Closed Accounts Posts: 13,422 ✭✭✭✭Bruthal


    Prosperous Dave wrote: »
    I pass these lovely big fields every day on the way to and from work but I just know that as soon as I set foot in one of them to fly my plane, the local farmer would show up and give me my marching orders. Fair enough, its his land but I could chase teh crows away from his crops for him;)

    If you go in and ask the farmer, they are usually fine with it. Tell them its a quiet electric aircraft. The worst is they can say no.


  • #18
    Miamiheat
    Registered Users Posts: 291 ✭✭Miamiheat


    I was going to say the same thing as Robbie, chose the 2 or 3 properties that seem most convenient on your route and one day pop up at each one and ask for permission (and for permission to show future time without bothering the person again).


  • #19
    Kashkai
    Closed Accounts Posts: 3,399 ✭✭✭Kashkai


    I tried that with three local farmers around where I live and all refused even though their fields just had grass in them, ie no crops or livestock. Maybe I'll win the lotto and be able to buy my own flying field. Mmmmmm, Dublin airport would be nice;).

    When your Rad shows up, you'll probably want to put her together and try her out. Don't! For a start, she has a powerful motor and will pull out of your hand. Too much power, and she will loop over your head and crash. She needs space to fly so a small area is out. While you can fly her in wind, don't let her get behind you, ie fly her upwind or else you'll run the risk of her flying away on you. I'm not trying to scare you here but this is something that you'll soon learn yourself, hopefully not the hard way.


  • #20
    Bruthal
    Closed Accounts Posts: 13,422 ✭✭✭✭Bruthal


    Prosperous Dave wrote: »
    When your Rad shows up, you'll probably want to put her together and try her out. Don't! For a start, she has a powerful motor and will pull out of your hand. Too much power, and she will loop over your head and crash. She needs space to fly so a small area is out. While you can fly her in wind, don't let her get behind you, ie fly her upwind or else you'll run the risk of her flying away on you. I'm not trying to scare you here but this is something that you'll soon learn yourself, hopefully not the hard way.

    I remember the hi-boy, trying it in the field where the national aquatic arena is now in 1988 or 89, thinking i could do it. Fixed it 3 times after 3 failed attemps before going and getting assistance in the phoenix park.

    The box off that is still in the parents attic. Along with the fuse of a galaxy mystic, my 4th plane.

    Are you going to get a few led lights dave? I can make up another of these lighting switches, and you can have it. I have different transistors up to 30 amp mosfets, but for the led strips, the 600ma transistors will do.

    I was thinking of getting a bixler purely for the laugh for total darkness flying.


  • #21
    Ilyushin76
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 669 ✭✭✭Ilyushin76


    robbie7730 wrote: »

    Are you going to get a few led lights dave? I can make up another of these lighting switches, and you can have it. I have different transistors up to 30 amp mosfets, but for the led strips, the 600ma transistors will do.

    I was thinking of getting a bixler purely for the laugh for total darkness flying.

    Hi Robbie do you have any videos of the radian flying at night ?I would love to fly it at dusk and fly it over a neighbors house who is mad in to UFOs :D.Is it hard to wire up the lights ? Do you use a separate battery to power the lights ?


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  • #22
    Bruthal
    Closed Accounts Posts: 13,422 ✭✭✭✭Bruthal


    Ilyushin76 wrote: »
    Hi Robbie do you have any videos of the radian flying at night ?I would love to fly it at dusk and fly it over a neighbors house who is mad in to UFOs :D.Is it hard to wire up the lights ? Do you use a separate battery to power the lights ?

    I have no pics or video yet, we just flew a radian when dusk, until almost dark. It didnt realy have enough led strips on it, just one strip split in two, with one flashing, the other steady. I will get around to it properly.

    As for switching them on and off, i made a circuit myself using a micro controller and a program a did up, to have 2 outputs, one flashing, one steady. Link here. You might have seen it already.

    It has to sense the receiver channel pulse width as you switch that channel on and off. Its not as simple as connecting lights to the receiver. It can be powered from the main battery by having a jst connector on it like a y lead from the main connector, or by a seperate battery.


  • #23
    Miamiheat
    Registered Users Posts: 291 ✭✭Miamiheat


    @Rob and Dave: cant i use the DX5 that comes with the Radian to practice on flight simulator? I believe there is a free one calles FMS?
    What type of cable do i need to connect to PC?


  • #24
    Kashkai
    Closed Accounts Posts: 3,399 ✭✭✭Kashkai


    I bought the Phoenix simulator and that came with a cable to connect to my computer. It's not cheap though at around a hundred euro. I suppose any cable with a 3.5mm jack on one end and a USB jack on the other should work. Maplins might do one or try eBay. The Radian is on the Phoenix sim btw.

    Thanks for the offer of that lighting circuit Robbie. Might take you up on that as I normally fly early morning/late evening and I've had issues with orientation in low light. Lights on the wings/tail might help me keep sight and in control of her.


  • #25
    Bruthal
    Closed Accounts Posts: 13,422 ✭✭✭✭Bruthal


    Prosperous Dave wrote: »
    I bought the Phoenix simulator and that came with a cable to connect to my computer. It's not cheap though at around a hundred euro. I suppose any cable with a 3.5mm jack on one end and a USB jack on the other should work. Maplins might do one or try eBay. The Radian is on the Phoenix sim btw.

    Thanks for the offer of that lighting circuit Robbie. Might take you up on that as I normally fly early morning/late evening and I've had issues with orientation in low light. Lights on the wings/tail might help me keep sight and in control of her.

    You will have to get the led strips from hobbyking. Will you want any flashing, or all steady?


  • #26
    Kashkai
    Closed Accounts Posts: 3,399 ✭✭✭Kashkai


    Miamiheat

    Simulators are ok but tbh, they can mislead you into thinking they are exactly like flying in the real world. The sun shining in your eyes, the wind changing direction, kids messing about trying to distract you, dogs nipping at your heels, horses/cars passing by etc will affect how you fly. The best way to learn is through a buddy lead where the tutors transmitter (or tx) is the master controller and the students tx is the "slave". That way you can fly the plane but at the release of a switch, the tutor has full control and you are locked out. Very useful if the plane stalls or goes into a spin. It also helps you relax knowing that "safety net" is there.

    Pity I don't work in Dublin anymore as we could have met up in the Phoenix Park and I could have hooked my old DX5 to my DX6i and let you fly my Radian. The thing about meeting up at weekends is that the flying club are around and they don't take kindly to non members using "their" park.


  • #27
    Kashkai
    Closed Accounts Posts: 3,399 ✭✭✭Kashkai


    robbie7730 wrote: »
    You will have to get the led strips from hobbyking. Will you want any flashing, or all steady?

    Which way gets your attention when flying, ie is flashing more noticeable than always on or vice versa?


  • #28
    Bruthal
    Closed Accounts Posts: 13,422 ✭✭✭✭Bruthal


    Prosperous Dave wrote: »
    Which way gets your attention when flying, ie is flashing more noticeable than always on or vice versa?

    Flashing looks good anyway, a flashing set on the tail will help show that its the back, and steady everywhere elxe maybe. The first one i made has 2 outputs as seen in that video i had up. Flashing and steady on the one unit.

    We flew it early in the day and they were hard to see except low down. But once dusk came and we flew again, they were very bright.


  • #29
    Kashkai
    Closed Accounts Posts: 3,399 ✭✭✭Kashkai


    Sounds the biz, flashing white strobe on the tail and a red and green steady on the wingtips, just like a real plane. I presume the circuit just plugs into a spare port on the rx like the Aux/gear port?


  • #30
    Bruthal
    Closed Accounts Posts: 13,422 ✭✭✭✭Bruthal


    Prosperous Dave wrote: »
    Sounds the biz, flashing white strobe on the tail and a red and green steady on the wingtips, just like a real plane. I presume the circuit just plugs into a spare port on the rx like the Aux/gear port?

    Yes there would be a servo lead to plug into what ever channel you want to use to do the switching, and a red jst lead to power the lights. Them strips of leds are designed for 12v so you supply the sjt with 12v.

    Then connectors for the lights, probably just wires, or connectors like i used on the first one. Here it is again below in photo. The blue output connectors may just be leads to put your own plugs on etc.

    I got some blue heat shrink which will possibly be on it too.
    PICT0263.jpg[/QUOTE]


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  • #31
    Ilyushin76
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 669 ✭✭✭Ilyushin76


    robbie7730 wrote: »

    As for switching them on and off, i made a circuit myself using a micro controller and a program a did up, to have 2 outputs, one flashing, one steady. Link here. You might have seen it already.

    It has to sense the receiver channel pulse width as you switch that channel on and off. Its not as simple as connecting lights to the receiver. It can be powered from the main battery by having a jst connector on it like a y lead from the main connector, or by a seperate battery.

    Must order a few led strips from hobbyking and give a go.Do you use a seperate set of radian wings for the lights ?Where would I get the controller or would I have to make it ?


  • #32
    Bruthal
    Closed Accounts Posts: 13,422 ✭✭✭✭Bruthal


    Ilyushin76 wrote: »
    Must order a few led strips from hobbyking and give a go.Do you use a seperate set of radian wings for the lights ?Where would I get the controller ?

    The controller in the link was one i made myself a couple of weeks ago, so i can have flashing lights as well as steady, or any combination. The on/off ones can be got on sites like ebay or hobbyking. My one is an on/off one, but i can change its programming to suit, like the flashing option for example. It has both flashing and steady outputs, when the radio channel is switched on.

    I just temporarily taped on the strip of lights i had. A seperate set of wings is not a bad idea. I would stick some along the fuselage also if intending flying at night. I will probably do that. Although its the sons radian, so i will see what he says:).

    Its a cularis i fly mostly, or a nitro p51 mustang the odd time. Might try them on the smaller of the 2 t-rex`s i have also.


  • #33
    Miamiheat
    Registered Users Posts: 291 ✭✭Miamiheat


    Prosperous Dave wrote: »
    Miamiheat

    Simulators are ok but tbh, they can mislead you into thinking they are exactly like flying in the real world. The sun shining in your eyes, the wind changing direction, kids messing about trying to distract you, dogs nipping at your heels, horses/cars passing by etc will affect how you fly. The best way to learn is through a buddy lead where the tutors transmitter (or tx) is the master controller and the students tx is the "slave". That way you can fly the plane but at the release of a switch, the tutor has full control and you are locked out. Very useful if the plane stalls or goes into a spin. It also helps you relax knowing that "safety net" is there.

    Pity I don't work in Dublin anymore as we could have met up in the Phoenix Park and I could have hooked my old DX5 to my DX6i and let you fly my Radian. The thing about meeting up at weekends is that the flying club are around and they don't take kindly to non members using "their" park.


    I have been in touch with the store and asked them to upgrade Tx to a DX6 (didnt realize there was the DX6i) so i wrote them again and hopefully we'll be on time to change it. Also got an extra battery.
    I am pretty much available all weekends except when i go fishing so driving to Navan or any field is OK, I may drop by the Phoenix park tomorrow to check it out.


  • #34
    Bruthal
    Closed Accounts Posts: 13,422 ✭✭✭✭Bruthal


    Miamiheat wrote: »
    I have been in touch with the store and asked them to upgrade Tx to a DX6 (didnt realize there was the DX6i) so i wrote them again and hopefully we'll be on time to change it. Also got an extra battery.
    I am pretty much available all weekends except when i go fishing so driving to Navan or any field is OK, I may drop by the Phoenix park tomorrow to check it out.

    DX6 is a great radio for the price of them. I have the DX7 and the DX6 would easily do me. The Dx7 was out before the DX6i full range radio. Son has the dx6i.

    I would of got a bigger battery for the second one. We fly the radian with a 2200 instead of the 1300. The extra weight makes them slightly faster and better in wind. But they fly well on the 1300.

    I always liked aircraft just slightly nose heavy.


  • #35
    Miamiheat
    Registered Users Posts: 291 ✭✭Miamiheat


    Heading To kestrel to see some planes flying. Such a gorgeous day. Shop did upgrade me to Dx6i


  • #36
    Bruthal
    Closed Accounts Posts: 13,422 ✭✭✭✭Bruthal


    Miamiheat wrote: »
    Heading To kestrel to see some planes flying. Such a gorgeous day. Shop did upgrade me to Dx6i

    It was a good move upgrading. Even if you didnt continue on flying, they are easy to sell. No more messing with radios is great though, any new planes you just add them onto the dx6. I got the son a lovely little case for his as well. Might be worth looking at.


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  • #37
    Kashkai
    Closed Accounts Posts: 3,399 ✭✭✭Kashkai


    Good move there Miami. While the DX5e is a good radio, the DX6i is a huge step up. I bought a case for my DX6i and its the biz. Safely protects the radio even when its in my car's boot getting thrown around. Plus I can store up to 10 batteries in it too. They are pretty reasonable about €25.

    I was in the Phoenix Park yesterday with my kids and my nemesis were there too, i.e. the local flying club. They still are pretty unfriendly, ignoring comments/queries from passers by. There was another guy flying on his own about 300 metres away from them. Made me wish I'd brought one of my own planes with me.:(


  • #38
    Bruthal
    Closed Accounts Posts: 13,422 ✭✭✭✭Bruthal


    I dont know how i have that angry face in post #34:D. Bit of a typo/


  • #39
    Miamiheat
    Registered Users Posts: 291 ✭✭Miamiheat


    Prosperous Dave wrote: »
    Good move there Miami. While the DX5e is a good radio, the DX6i is a huge step up. I bought a case for my DX6i and its the biz. Safely protects the radio even when its in my car's boot getting thrown around. Plus I can store up to 10 batteries in it too. They are pretty reasonable about €25.

    I was in the Phoenix Park yesterday with my kids and my nemesis were there too, i.e. the local flying club. They still are pretty unfriendly, ignoring comments/queries from passers by. There was another guy flying on his own about 300 metres away from them. Made me wish I'd brought one of my own planes with me.:(

    Dave do you have a link for the case? perhaps i'll get it as well.
    Does that radio use rechargeable batteries or just common ones?


  • #40
    Miamiheat
    Registered Users Posts: 291 ✭✭Miamiheat


    OH and I maybe joining that club that you love: I went to see them flying yesterday there were like 15 planes that flew i had a blast watching and taking photos. Did talk to some of the lads and although some did seem less "open to conversation" i did manage to speak to 3 or 4 of them who were nice enough.


  • #41
    Kashkai
    Closed Accounts Posts: 3,399 ✭✭✭Kashkai


    I bought my case from rcpitstop.co.uk. He's great to deal with and ships orders straightaway. Check out his site and click on transmitters. There are two kinds of cases, a soft fabric one and a metal box one(which is the one I got) for around £20.

    Good luck with that club if you join them. Flying with someone is preferable to flying alone all the time. Will they teach you to fly? The times I've seen them fly, they mostly had nitro models that were 3D capable and helis. Try an find an instructor who'll show you the basics instead of someone who will just try and show you how good they are. Some people forget that we all had to learn sometime.


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  • #42
    Simon.d
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 316 ✭✭Simon.d


    Got my radian about 3 weeks ago now with the aim of using it as an aerial photography platform... First flight out cracked the fuselage after at most 5 seconds of being airbourne.. Too eager!... Off to hardware shop for glue and tape and had her up and running a few hours later.. Next flight was much better, and got to grips with the controls...

    A few weeks on, more glue, more tape, and feel quite comfortable with her now.. Got this shot from her on Saturday so seems to be working out as I'd hoped.. Really lovely plane to fly..

    194180.JPG


  • #43
    Miamiheat
    Registered Users Posts: 291 ✭✭Miamiheat


    Nice pic!


  • #44
    Bruthal
    Closed Accounts Posts: 13,422 ✭✭✭✭Bruthal


    Miamiheat wrote: »
    Dave do you have a link for the case? perhaps i'll get it as well.
    Does that radio use rechargeable batteries or just common ones?

    Here is the one i got for the son`s dx6. The aerial sticks about an inch too long to leave it straight out, but it easily folds and rotates toward the back of the case. Its very neat and tidy. I have the case designed for the dx7 itself, this case is a lot bigger, but id prefer the son`s one. I think i needed to slightly trim the foam for the metal handle of the radio.

    Here it is, and its pictured below, along with my own bigger case.
    The bigger case can be handy for carrying batteries too though, if required, but they will fit in the smaller one also.
    PICT0270.jpg

    PICT0267.jpg

    PICT0268.jpg


  • #45
    Kashkai
    Closed Accounts Posts: 3,399 ✭✭✭Kashkai


    Miami, read Simon's post above. Trying to teach yourself can be a frustrating and expensive experience. Although I admire his "get back up on the horse" attitude.

    Fitting a camera to the Radian is something most Rad pilots do at some point. Robbie and I have a fair few vids of flights with the camera attached to our Rads. It gives a whole new perspective to be able to see the flight from the plane's viewpoint.

    If the weather plays ball this weekend, I'll be flying my Rad in the Curragh if anyone is interested in a get together. I think there are enough of us to form our own club at this point.


  • #46
    Miamiheat
    Registered Users Posts: 291 ✭✭Miamiheat


    Prosperous Dave wrote: »
    Miami, read Simon's post above. Trying to teach yourself can be a frustrating and expensive experience. Although I admire his "get back up on the horse" attitude.

    Fitting a camera to the Radian is something most Rad pilots do at some point. Robbie and I have a fair few vids of flights with the camera attached to our Rads. It gives a whole new perspective to be able to see the flight from the plane's viewpoint.

    If the weather plays ball this weekend, I'll be flying my Rad in the Curragh if anyone is interested in a get together. I think there are enough of us to form our own club at this point.

    OH it is crystal clear for me I am not trying to fly that thing on my own the first time. We'll see after that. Althought it should arrive thursday or friday and I will be eager to get started. So if weather is OK I will be harassing you and Robbie for lessons :D:D:D. Do you have the Satnav coordinates for the Curragh place: i have no idea where that is. Also the club idea is not bad: I have a pretty decent fishing group which I have organized myself since last year and we now have 59 anglers: i will tell you all about it.
    In any case I am planning to join the phoenix park club so I will be going to their AGM tonite.


  • #47
    Kashkai
    Closed Accounts Posts: 3,399 ✭✭✭Kashkai


    The Curragh is very easy to find. Down the M7 and take the turnoff for the Curragh. At the top of the slip road, take the second exit off the roundabout signposted "Curragh Camp" and pull in to the right about a hundred metres from the roundabout where you'll see other cars parked. There is supposedly a club that flies here but I've never found them. Depending on the number of people around, I either fly near this spot or I walk further into the Curragh for some peace and quiet. Some people don't mind you flying your plane, some like to watch but some like to complain. The Curragh is commonage though so you can tell the moaners to go copulate with themselves.

    The weather forecast looks crap for the weekend, strong winds and rain. Hopefully they're wrong as usual


  • #48
    Miamiheat
    Registered Users Posts: 291 ✭✭Miamiheat


    OK!
    The Radian is here with DX6i (pre-bound by shop).
    1st observation is it come with a car charger, so i have no way to plug it at home :(
    Any recomendations as to where I can get a good (speedy) charger that will eventually charge 2 batteries at the same time? (I bought a spare).
    thanks


  • #49
    Kashkai
    Closed Accounts Posts: 3,399 ✭✭✭Kashkai


    Hi Miami

    The Rad has the standard Parkzone car charger which does the job but if you plan on staying in this hobby, money spent on a decent charger would be money well spent as a good charger will extend the life of your batteries by ensuring that they are well balanced each time you charge them. It can also show you if there is a problem with a battery, i.e. if it has a weak cell that isn't charging properly. Its better to find that out on the ground than in the air;), i.e. you don't want to suddenly lose power to your motor and possibly to the receiver as well.

    Anyways, to answer your question, the cheap answer is to use one of these with your Parkzone car charger:-
    http://rcpitstop.co.uk/hobbyzone-15amp-12v-power-supply-hbz1004uk-1449-p.asp
    Its out of stock there but I just happen to have one that I never use. I got it with my second plane, the Supercub, many moons ago and its never been used. You just plug the Parkzone charger you now have into it and then plug it into any wall socket and hey presto, you can charge your battery at home. You can have it for a tenner if you want (cheaper than buying it online;)).

    However I'd recommend you invest in a decent charger. This is the one I have which was recommended by a guy I know who's been flying rc planes for over 20 years and he swears by this charger:
    http://http://www.amazon.co.uk/Pro-Peak-Sigma-II-Battery-Charger/dp/B004H0YBPY

    Finally, you'll also need one of these leads to connect your battery to the charger above:
    http://http://www.modelmaniacsonline.co.uk/products.php?ProductID=5882&CatID=464&SubCatID=474&Title=Charge+Lead+EC3+Type+Connector&ManCode=EC312

    Option 1 above is the cheapest and quickest way to get you airborne but option 2, while more expense:rolleyes:, is the better long term solution. Its up to you which way you go.

    Last piece of advice on lipo batteries - they are bloody dangerous!!! if charged incorrectly. That little green battery in your hand is like a mini incendiary device. It can suddenly burst into flames and produce acrid, toxic smoke if it is not charged properly (don't believe me?, then check out some youtube vids on "lipo fires"). Always keep an eye on your batteries when charging. Never leave them unattended. Try to charge them on a surface that could survive the battery bursting into flames like a stone floor, a hearth, oven dish etc. I've never had a battery go up on me before but a guy I know has and it caused serious fire damage to his home and he got first degree burns throwing the flaming battery out of the window.

    There is a little dial on your Parkzone charger. Set it to '1' which will be a safe charging rate. It'll take about an hour to charge your battery to full. I'd also advise that if you do charge the battery in your car, don't leave it unattended or you might need a new car;).

    Finally, lipos don't like being charged quickly. An hour is the standard charge time if you want to make your battery last, and of course, not to burst into flames! You're lucky that you picked the Radian as your first plane as she can fly from 20 to 60 minutes on the one battery. All other planes only last about 10 minutes on a battery.

    Hope I haven't frightened you:D.


  • #50
    Kashkai
    Closed Accounts Posts: 3,399 ✭✭✭Kashkai


    Miami

    One more thing, while that shop might have bound the Rad to your tx, this doesn't mean that you are ready to fly. There are a number of checks to perform once the Rad is assembled and ready for flight, like:

    - are the control surfaces moving in the right direction,
    - are they centered,
    - are all linkages secure,
    - has the plane been assembled correctly and
    - are all surfaces correctly aligned.

    One thing to watch on the Rad is the rudder. On my first Rad, (and also on the spare Radian fuselage I bought) the rudder was coming away from the vertical stabiliser. If this had come off in flight, you wouldn't be able to steer the plane, although you might be able to land her if nothing got in the way (although Murphys Law would mean that the only tree within a mile would be directly in the Radian's path:rolleyes:). Some hinge tape along the rudder and the vertical stabiliser is a must.


  • #51
    Bruthal
    Closed Accounts Posts: 13,422 ✭✭✭✭Bruthal


    Cant open Dave`s links for some reason, but here are other options too.

    I have this one as my second charger, the primary one being a thunder power 1010c. The 1010c was 200 dollars and the cell balancer was then seperate, but it is great, especially for over discharged cells and larger batteries such as the heli batteries i use at times.

    But the accucel is only 22 dollars. And about 10 for a power supply, linked below.

    The accucel one i find as good as any charger i have used without any doubt. Good enough for anyone charging with up to 50 watts, or a 3 cell 4000mah in an hour, or 6 cell 2000mah in an hour etc.

    Ive charged rechargeable AA batteries and all with it.

    And a power supply for it here.


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