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Last month I introduced the subject of learning Model Aviation “from the ground up.” As the name implies, this is a beginner series that will be devoted to people at the entry point of our wonderful hobby. The sequence of articles planned for this series follows a logical order to allow you to enjoy the learning process. After all, it is a hobby and it is supposed to be fun.
Since approximately 90% of model-flying enthusiasts resort to Radio Control (RC) systems for flight control, this was judged the best starting place. The article has literally been developed from square one. If you already have some knowledge of RC devices, you might consider our presentation too basic. We will try to describe all aspects of RC for the benefit of the entry-level hobbyist.
What Does an RC System Do? The basic idea is that you—the pilot—stand on the ground holding a radio transmitter. The transmitter operates as any broadcasting-type device, except in this instance voice is not transmitted; a coded signal is sent to the model aircraft up in the air.
Typical RC system—Hitec Laser 6 (six-channel function transmitter with four servos)—as it arrives in Styrofoam shipping container. Transmitter is at bottom; four servos are at top. Included are receiver, battery charger.
On board that aircraft is a radio receiver that receives these coded signals without the need for interconnecting wires. The received signal is decoded or processed then passed on to individual motor-driven actuators (servos) that physically move the aircraft control surfaces and adjust (or change) the engine speed settings (known as throttling). The radio transmitter (which the pilot holds) and the receiver/servos in the model are powered by batteries. So as a newcomer, you must become familiar with the RC system and the batteries that power it.
The entire thrill of RC flying is the ability to control the model’s attitude in flight, sometimes at distances of several hundred feet away, maneuvering the airplane and landing it close by, just like a full-scale aircraft. Judgment, experience, and skill development enter into the equation when it comes to the model aircraft’s flight.
The First Thing You Should Do: Before you purchase anything, you owe it to yourself to visit a local RC flying field. A hobby dealer in your area should be able to steer you in the right direction. A referral to a local RC club can also prove helpful. The idea is to get you and possibly other family members out to see these models in flight firsthand.
You may be able to talk with some of the experienced fliers and get a rough idea of what is involved. These same people should be able to make initial recommendations concerning types of RC systems, popular system brand names, model aircraft suitable for initial flight instructions, engines to power the airplanes, and the necessary supporting equipment to get you started. All of these elements will be discussed in-depth as this series grows month by month.
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