Lets work our way down a basic radio control transmitter and explain a few basic terms and features-
Antennae-Usually screwed into the top either vertical or at a slight angle,the antennae must be in good condition and kept clean for maximum reflection,make sure that it is also fully extended.Pointing the antennae away from the model in the event of an emergency such as range problems.
Range Check-Allied to the above,do a range check with the antennae retracted, and walk away from the model which is positioned at its worst reception ie on the ground,follow manufacturers guidelines,'x' yards with 'x' amount of antennae extended,as servos start to chatter then raise next portion,have helper give hand signals,ie hands extended means servos working,hand down servo not functioning.
Note that in the case of aircraft ground range is doubled in the air.
Meter-Two types of meter show either RF output or battery voltage,graduated into colour segments,ie red low,however use meter with caution as rechargeable batteries can drop dramatically and the meter is only a guide,leave a safe margin to get the model safely back.
Most modern TX have a combined meter but not always,use it like a fuel tank gauge ie as a guide.
Computer radio-Transmitter ( TX) that has a facility to store model memory,could be say six models etc,some TX have modules that can extend memory for more models,these plug into the side of the TX.
Gimbal-refers to device that the TX sticks are connected to,ie left stick can give say left right rudder,throttle on fore and aft stick.
Mode 1 & 2-Set up of the transmitter,ergonomic layout 2 refers to throttle left,ailerons etc on right,vice versa for mode 1
Personal preference but if learning from instructor make sure that you decide on one and stick to it !
Trims-Each function has a trim to adjust the servo remotely to trim for any natural turn or bank,once adjusted in flight etc land and reset servo with trim at centre.
Buddy lead-Plugs into the side whereby instruction can be given by linking two transmitters together,instructor can isolate beginners TX by depressing switch or holding down button.
Charging lead/socket-Charging points on the side to either charge TX or RX as seperate units or together via a mains charger.
Remote lead-Some TX have a facility to plug a remote lead into the side when setting up model indoors,normal TX antennae is then removed for testing direct to the RX via the said lead.
Servo reversers-Tiny switches usually well out of the way under a plastic flap,enable the servos to be reversed via the transmitter.
Warning-always make sure the switches are fully over and not half way after adjustment,always check the orientation carefully afterwards.
XTAL-Or Crystal,small cultured chip that resonates to the precise frequency on a set of permitted frequencies.
27 mhz have a colour code to identify the frequency and displays as a coloured flag,35 mhz use the frequency number usually on an orange pennant.
Flyers/boaters/car enthusiasts have 'Frequency board' which has identical frequency numbers,a peg is placed on the board when the TX is in use.
TX Mit-A device that fits over a transmitter to protect the modellers hands in adverse weather.
Power switch-Swith usually recessed into the transmitter case which turns the TX on and off,normal sequence is TX on first after first checking if frequency is available ? then RX ( Receiver ) this avoids servo over-ride and stall out,to switch off reverse procedure ie RX off,then TX off.
Tip-When taking a model out for the very first time always get a friend or buddy to check the controls again,it is so easy to get ailerons etc rigged up the wrong way round which can spell disaster,check twice fly/sail/drive auto once,above all check everything on frequent basis,it is surprising what you will find damaged or faulty,take no chances.
We will deal with check lists some other time.
Antennae-Usually screwed into the top either vertical or at a slight angle,the antennae must be in good condition and kept clean for maximum reflection,make sure that it is also fully extended.Pointing the antennae away from the model in the event of an emergency such as range problems.
Range Check-Allied to the above,do a range check with the antennae retracted, and walk away from the model which is positioned at its worst reception ie on the ground,follow manufacturers guidelines,'x' yards with 'x' amount of antennae extended,as servos start to chatter then raise next portion,have helper give hand signals,ie hands extended means servos working,hand down servo not functioning.
Note that in the case of aircraft ground range is doubled in the air.
Meter-Two types of meter show either RF output or battery voltage,graduated into colour segments,ie red low,however use meter with caution as rechargeable batteries can drop dramatically and the meter is only a guide,leave a safe margin to get the model safely back.
Most modern TX have a combined meter but not always,use it like a fuel tank gauge ie as a guide.
Computer radio-Transmitter ( TX) that has a facility to store model memory,could be say six models etc,some TX have modules that can extend memory for more models,these plug into the side of the TX.
Gimbal-refers to device that the TX sticks are connected to,ie left stick can give say left right rudder,throttle on fore and aft stick.
Mode 1 & 2-Set up of the transmitter,ergonomic layout 2 refers to throttle left,ailerons etc on right,vice versa for mode 1
Personal preference but if learning from instructor make sure that you decide on one and stick to it !
Trims-Each function has a trim to adjust the servo remotely to trim for any natural turn or bank,once adjusted in flight etc land and reset servo with trim at centre.
Buddy lead-Plugs into the side whereby instruction can be given by linking two transmitters together,instructor can isolate beginners TX by depressing switch or holding down button.
Charging lead/socket-Charging points on the side to either charge TX or RX as seperate units or together via a mains charger.
Remote lead-Some TX have a facility to plug a remote lead into the side when setting up model indoors,normal TX antennae is then removed for testing direct to the RX via the said lead.
Servo reversers-Tiny switches usually well out of the way under a plastic flap,enable the servos to be reversed via the transmitter.
Warning-always make sure the switches are fully over and not half way after adjustment,always check the orientation carefully afterwards.
XTAL-Or Crystal,small cultured chip that resonates to the precise frequency on a set of permitted frequencies.
27 mhz have a colour code to identify the frequency and displays as a coloured flag,35 mhz use the frequency number usually on an orange pennant.
Flyers/boaters/car enthusiasts have 'Frequency board' which has identical frequency numbers,a peg is placed on the board when the TX is in use.
TX Mit-A device that fits over a transmitter to protect the modellers hands in adverse weather.
Power switch-Swith usually recessed into the transmitter case which turns the TX on and off,normal sequence is TX on first after first checking if frequency is available ? then RX ( Receiver ) this avoids servo over-ride and stall out,to switch off reverse procedure ie RX off,then TX off.
Tip-When taking a model out for the very first time always get a friend or buddy to check the controls again,it is so easy to get ailerons etc rigged up the wrong way round which can spell disaster,check twice fly/sail/drive auto once,above all check everything on frequent basis,it is surprising what you will find damaged or faulty,take no chances.
We will deal with check lists some other time.
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