Tag Archives: radio control
RMILEC Signal Converter V3 SBus PWM PPM
RMILEC Signal Converter Signal Analyzer V3. If you want to test or fly with a SBus receiver without a flight controller the old fashion way, you are in luck; this signal converter is able to convert SBus signal into PWM signal and two-way PPM signal. It can also convert PWM signal into PPM signal and SBUS signal, or convert two-way PPM signal into PWM signals and SBUS signals. Amazing! I will take some video to give you some ideas of what you can potentially use it for, probably more ideas than I can suggest.
Besides debugging signals, we plan to use the FrSky R9 MM, the latest long-range 900MHz mini receiver on a plane, so one option is to use RMILEC signal converter and connect directly to each servo leads. The RMILEC Signal Converter carries a small footprint, about a size of a SD card. There is also an older version that incorporate a LiPo alarm of this converter, in that way it also function as a low voltage warning system…
XK A110 Predator MQ-9 EPP Glider 565mm
XK is one of my all time favorite manufacturer that makes ready to fly (RTF) self-stabilized drones. This XK A110 is modeled after the Predator MQ-9 drone using 3 channels. XK A110 Predator MQ-9 is very light and uses differential trust, just like a quadcopter, to power the turns instead of using a rudder. Two small propellers, one on each wing. A little disappointing, the back larger propeller is just a dummy prop that only adds some drag.
The pusher propellers are dual-engine powered and rotates in opposite directions to cancel each other out of the counter-torque; that keeps it more stable and in path. Comes built-in a 6-axis gyroscope flight auto-stabilization system with dual rates, allowing me to perform some aerobatics such as loops…
Motive-RC R8SB Telemetry Receiver on Taranis X-Lite
I still fly lots of planes the old school way, without any flight controllers, so this Motive RC R8SB all-in-one receiver even though a D8, it allows me to use my Taranis radio transmitter and most of the features. Add a voltage sensor and I am all set. The receiver comes with various model type SBUS, physical channel PWM outputs, PPM and RSSI. The RSSI warns me about the signal strength before I fly too far out. Here is a video on how I add a RSSI bar to my X-Lite screen using the Motive-RC R8SB.
The R8SB is like the FrSky V8R7-II receiver but with telemetry functions. It bound instantly and lights up like a green lantern. There are more pins than a usual receiver, but they are nicely color coded to help me determine signal, power and ground. The upper set of pins are your 8 channels or SBUS/PPM. The lower set of pins are RSSI, two analog telemetry ports (A1&A2), A1 for internal receiver battery voltage sensor, A2 for external battery voltage sensor (0~30V, 1~6S) and one digital data-stream port (Rx, Tx)…
FrSky Taranis X-LITE Review Spring Unloaded
Introducing the FrSky Taranis X-LITE, the ultimate gaming radio transmitter. Made to match the ergonomic modern design of a gaming remote control, this radio transmitter has all the capabilities of a traditional radio and more.
One advantage of this FrSky radio is I can switch out to a R9M 900MHz frequency system for long range, low latency, going as far as 10 km.
First impression is good, it is more refine than anticipated. The speaker sound is so much more superior than the Taranis X9D . Equipped with the latest M12 Lite hall sensor gimbals. Hall sensor gimbals are more precise and durable than traditional gimbals using potentiometers. The switches may feel a little too small, but for casual flying (not competitive racing), this radio does just fine…
Eachine Micro Skyhunter FPV RC Airplane
Skyhunter, has been an all-time favorite plane for lots of long-range FPV pilots. Eachine doing it’s match, takes on the micro version, at 780 mm, 3 channels, plug and play. Take a break from the racing drones, here comes a racing plane. If you are looking for a budget, simple hand launch RC FPV plane with some speed, you may be in luck.
User Segment
Keen Beginners, Park Flyers, Plug and Fly, Budget $59 BNF (source: Dec 2016 Banggood)
What To Expect
The Micro Skyhunter FPV is one of the coolest miniature version of the Skyhunters released under the label of Eachine. I have here the FPV version with 40 channels and 800 tvl camera which you can just slip on or remove anytime.
Here is a video of everything you need to get setup.
The Skyhunter comes in this small box just under 1 1/2 feet, very well pack, box in a box and individually wrap. All electronics are pre-assembled, plug and play, so you can begin flying on the same day. It comes with a few cabon fiber spars, the main spar and re-enfocement along the wings. You can see the signature look of a skyhunter with two veritical stablize. I like how everything is pre-installed, 5 grams servo, servo linkages are all ready using JR connectors. Included is a Hobbywing 20 amps electronic speed controller(ESC) with a XT 60 plug.
There is plenty of room, you have three separate compartments, one section for your receiver and flight controller if you are using one, and a two in one canopy held on by magnets for the battery and a convenient camera fpv bay. The wings are held together with two bolts.
The camera is pretty good, other than the 25 mw range limitation, we have no complaints. You can of course always use a different video transmitter. There are some crack lines, along the joints, but nothing too serious, I just add a little tape along it and tape along the leading edges, wing tips and base for additional protection and to prevent wear and tear.
Motor is powerful for this size plane, 2300 kv 2204.
The camera comes with a holder plate, very nice, and you simply secure it on the camera bay when in use. I just tape the plates down for easy removal.
Decals are included, but I like my usual red/blue white colors.
Overall, this plane has everything you need, easy to assemble as all the electronic are installed. It uses XT 60 which means LiPo batteries are easily available in the market. The bigger question is, are you up for a 3 channel plane, if you are, this is definitely a keeper within budget.
Flight Characteristics
Tracks very well, but not a great glider. We are currently completing a few more flights before reporting back. Standby.
Camera & Video Transmitter
The camera is okay, a 40CH 25MW VTX 800TVL 1/3 CMOS FPV Camera. See video for results.
Factory Specifications
Brand Name: Eachine
Item Name: Micro Skyhunter
Wingspan: 780mm (31″)
Length: 540mm (21″)
Channels: 3
Weight: 230g (without battery)
Color: White
Material: EPO
Camera: Eachine EF-01 AIO FPV camera
ESC: 20A 2-3s with XT60 connector
Motor: Eachine 2204 2300KV
Motor MAX Thrust:440g
Motor Weight: 25g
Motor Shaft Diameter: 3mm
Propeller: 6×3 or most 5-6″ multirotor props
Servos: 3x 9 gram
What we love about it
- Well design and quick assembly
What is essential we hope to see in the next version
- Nothing really to change, but love to see more miniature version of classic planes under the Eachine label
Frsky Horus X12S
Frsky Horus X12S radio transmitter, 16-32 channel system, is built to make you the God of the Sky, just like the Egyptian God Horus. Just tilt the transmitter to facilitate auxiliary control as there is a built-in 6-axis sensor. Includes Voice Alerts for things like; audible count down timers, low voltage warnings, landing gear down warnings etc., just about anything can be programmed and with full telemetry capability and GPS. ■ by dronemission.com
User Segment
Keen Hobbyist, Pro Radio Transmitter, Collectors, Budget [$$] (PRICE CHECK ■ Nov 2016 Arthur’s Pick at Banggood)
First Impression, the material used is heavy-weight milled CNC aluminum, like a military-grade version of the popular Frsky Taranis. It is impact resistance, weight just under 3 pounds. The sticks equipped with six ball bearings for precision and durability. A lot of programming features to keep you up learning and discovering.
What To Expect
It may be overwhelming at the first, but take your time to explore features of a Horus. One of the best features of the Horus is its full telemetry capability, as well as RSSI signal strength feedback, there are 3 different programmable failsafe modes and receiver lock, so no more crashes due to selecting the wrong model. If you have stock in other brand receivers or B&F’s, no worries the Horus has a JR style RF module slot, so you have the option of other brand modules such as the Orange DSM2/DSMX or Open LRS 433mhz module. An inbuilt GPS module helps your model know where you are at all times, making it easier to return to you.
Similar Models
Users have considered these 2016 alternatives: Frsky Taranis
Factory Specifications
Brand: Frsky
Item Name: Horus
Number of Channels: 16CH / up to 32CH
Operating Voltage Range: 7~15V (2s,3s lipos acceptable)
Backlight LCD Screen: 480*272, high resolution TFT color screen
Model Memories: 60 (expandable with SD card)
Advance Functions: Full telemetry capability inbuilt GPS module
Gyro: 6-axis sensor (3-axis gyro and 3-axis accelerator)
Trainer: Inbuilt wireless trainer system
Compatibility: FrSky X series, D series, L series and V8-II series receivers
What we love about it
- Audible count down timers
- Audible programming
- Low voltage warnings
What is essential we hope to see in the next version
- FPV video screen and DVR
In terms of ranking, I would say it is in the top 7 favorites during this release recorded November 2016. An update to follow
DeviationTX Walkera Devo Transmitter Hacking
One of the best kept secret of a Walkera transmitter is the ability to support multiple protocols using deviationtx firmware. So if you are flying a selection of models, such as e-Flite Carbon-Z, Walkera F210, Blade QX, Yuneec Typhoon, Parkzone Micro Warplane, Spektrum DSM2 plane, JJRC Tarantula x6 or Hubsan X4; you can turn your affordable Devo transmitter into a power house that supports multiple protocols, all you need is the provided Walkera USB transmitter cable.
Specification:
The Deviation hacking project supports multiple protocols without any modifications to the transmitter:
● Devo 6/7e/8/10/12/F12e WK2401/WK2601/WK2801
● DSM2/DSMX JR, Spektrum, Turnigy
● Nine Eagles J6 Pro (with telemetry module)
Volantex Ranger 757-4 Review
TODAY I took a look at the Volantax Ranger 757-4 that we purchased online for just over a $100. The 757-4 is a scale down version of the popular 2m Ranger Ex 757-3 FPV Drone plane. It is resized to 1.4m 1380mm, just small enough to fit into a standard size car trunk/boot without taking it apart.
One of the more interesting feature of the plane is that it is designed for GoPro or FPV cameras.. it comes tail heavy, so you can install multiple fpv cameras and large batteries. A weight is even included in the event you are not ready to fly with a camera. We had to fly it with a 3S 5000 mAh LiPo battery without a GoPro weight on the front, to get the correct center of gravity (CG). It is quick, easy to assemble, no glue is required.
Is This Antenna LHCP or RHCP Circular polarization?
The most common question asked when you are serious about flying FPV, “Is This Antenna LHCP or RHCP Circular Polarized?” There are a few ways folks do to tell if a circular polarization antenna is Left Hand Circular Polarization (LHCP) or Right Hand Circular Polarization (RHCP), and a simple way is to just see which direction it points to, by following the copper wire from the bottom –> up.
Why is it important to know? The rule of thumb is to use the same matching direction of antenna for transmitting and receiving. If you don’t match the antennae, the range will be reduced up to 75% than a matched antennae. If one is right hand and the other is left hand, there is a 30 dB drop in gain right away (that’s about 1/1000 of the signal getting through)…
Radio Control Terminology and Abbreviations
Synopsis: I have been compiling a list of terminology and abbreviations over the years, some going back a long time ago when I was kid in the 70s. This list keeps getting longer each year, with new buzz words in the RC Drone arena. Hope this helps and thanks to many who contributed over the years.
2.4GHz – a.k.a. Spread Spectrum. The newest radio band available for R/C use. Operates at higher frequencies than noise. See also: FHSS and DMSS…
