RC Model Reviews

Greetings,

I started back into RC models by buying a simple infra-red controlled helicopter and moved up the scale to a RC helicopter (2.4GHz Hammerhead) to a single blade helicopter (2.4GHz Micro Heli Arrow) and to a small Quadcopter (2.4GHz JD-385) and finally to the Spy Hawk which is also 2.4GHz.

The Question is.... why can't I control all of these aircraft with the same controller? What is the system used to encode the signal for each? Has there been a tutorial on the subject via one of those fine YouTube video's?

I have learnt that my HUBSAN Spy Hawk H301 also uses a proprietary system - how is this different to the most common system used?

Going forward, please will you advise on the best and most common TX (s)in use and most especially the matching RX (s), servo's, UBECs and Speed Controllers. In this range will all receivers work with all transmitters other than the proprietary Hubsan? I am also interested in matching FPV equipment as I assume that the Hubsan equipment is also non-standard.

Before the Govt. imposes further taxes on our imports, I wish to purchase a swag of stuff including a AXN Cloud Floater ARTF and fit it with these standardised components.

Bruce - is there such a video on this subject? I am slowly watching them ALL as time permits and have not come across such a beast.

I like what you are doing and support you in your endeavours to simply earn a living from this hobby.

Illegitimi non carborundum

Dave New Plymouth (retired)

Wow..............big question!!
Infa-red is self explanatory, Tx/Rx that operate in the 2.4gHz band not so, but suffice to say that different manufacturers have different protocols for frequency hopping. Hence the incompatability.
Having said that you can find "after market" Rx units that will be compatible with proprietory Tx units. Take Futaba and JR controllers, these have removable modules so you can instal an after market Tx/Rx unit how ever you will need to make sure the protocol is compatible. The safest way is to ensure that your Tx module and Rx are from the same manufacturer.

One of the cheapest units on the market is a Turnigy 9Xr mated to a Frsky Tx module and Frsky Rx (8ch), this will give you a very capable unit for under USD100 and a LOS range of 1.5km.
With your purchase of the AXN I would recommend the kit (motor only) along with Turnigy Plush 30A ESC, Turnigy TG9e 9g or HK15178 9g servos. The units supplied with the ARF are not reliable.

If you go along the path of the Turnigy 9Xr & Frsky Tx/Rx I highly recommend the 4ch Rx unit, small and reliable out to 1.5km (if your eyesight is that good)a perfect fit for the AXN. The 6 & 8 ch units come with diversity antennas. All Rxs have a very easy to use failsafe setup and rarely require binding more than once.