Choosing the right radio

[biomecanoid]

Hello guys

I am planning on building a foam UglyStick for FPV and am i starting researching on suitable hardware starting from the most crucial part which is the radio.

It is imperative to find a correct radio because it costs omething like 1/3 of the project and you will probably carry it around and use it for many generations of models.

Keeping in mind that an FPV plane uses at least 2 frequencies one for video one for control, i think it is wise that those freq be far apart.

So i am looking for a complete set of transmitter, receiver, etc at 433mhz since this frequency can go further, its good at penetrating through objects and its away from the polluted 2.4ghz band.

So i asked HobbyKing some questions.

According to HobbyKing's support this is a nice setup with all components compatible with each other. Theoretical range is 3 to 5 km @433mw with 100mw output power (there is also an 1 watt version but they currently have it only for futabe radios a JR version is soon to come)

http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__31544__Turnigy_9XR_Transmitter_Mode_2_No_Module_.html?strSearch=9XR

http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__27095__OrangeRx_Open_LRS_433MHz_TX_Module_JR_Turnigy_compatible_.html

http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__27096__OrangeRx_Open_LRS_433MHz_9Ch_Receiver.html

http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__38395__OrangeRX_USB_Firmware_Update_Kit_for_JR_Futaba_Style_Transmitter_Module.html


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Searching online i found 1watt JR module and programming cable ( better than HK recommended ):

http://www.aeroquadstore.com/433MHz_UHF ... ng-004.htm
http://apple.clickandbuild.com/cnb/shop ... goryID=105

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http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__31315__Turnigy_9XR_Safety_Protected_11_1v_3s_2200mAh_1_5C_Transmitter_Pack.html?strSearch=9XR

= $121.35


This is supposed to me a programable radio and NOT plug and play, but this doesnt mean you need manual text coding there is a gui windows program that makes things simple.

What i would like to know from you guys is if my choice of hardware is correct and if you have something better to propose.


i will need your help reviewing and verifying my hardware choices since you have more experience and have tested lots of hardware. So if you bare with me i will be more than happy


Thanks

[cynr100]

I use a 2.4gHz for the remote control Tx & Rx, and use 5.8gHz for FPV I have never had crossover/interference issues. I have yet to test my system past 1.5km.

Your choice of Tx/Rx and Vtx/Vrx frequencies should be guided by:

1/ Is the frequency legal to use in your country.
2/ Is it legal to fly FPV in your country.
3/ What distance do you expect to cover.
4/ What terrain do you intend to fly in.

Okay with that out of the road your frequency options are many for Vtx/Vrx rather than spend hours of typing I will give you an example:
Fat Shark goggles with 5.8gHz Vrx and helical antenna, Immersion 25mw Vtx with skew planar antenna for Vtx, average coverage depending on terrain is 5km.


Have a look through this site, doesn't go into minute detail but gives plenty of food for thought.

http://www.mongrelgear.com.au/fpv-wiki.html

Also be careful that your FPV system will not out range your Tx control of the craft. Serious consideration should be given to a Stabiliser/Return to Launch system should you loose Tx control of the craft and all the expensive equipment is lost.