davidchilds
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Re:New Radio - 2006/12/24 15:41
Jim,
Welcome to the Club.
Your radio question is a good one.
There are four major manufacturer's of radios Futaba, Hitec, JR and Airtronics.
I use Futaba and that to me is the most popular radio system used in our club. Hitec is very similar.
JR and Airtonics are also good but I have no direct experience with them so my opinion is bias.
It is important to know that there are differences in the wiring of servos between Futaba/Hitec and JR/Airtronics.
Therefore servos that work with Futaba/Hitec cannot be used with JR/Airtronics. It was true about ten years ago and I think it still holds true.
The important part for me was to get a radio that was similar and compatible with what my Dad was using since I was flying with him to learn. A trainer cord and buddy box are necessary to learn at the club. I believe the club owns a futaba and JR buddy box and they are in the field box for your use. I don't think hitec buddy cords are compatible with futaba but I know there are guys in the club who have learned with hitec.
Computer radios allow you to trim and adjust your servos linkages more easily than a regular non computer set up. It's little more complicated on the radio programming but allot less fussing with servo connections and linkages on the plane. Computer radio's have come down in price and are a very affordable option for the entry flyer in my opinion and are customizable for your needs for many years. A Futaba model that I know of is the 6EXA, it offers allot of features at a good price. about 180 with four servos, battery, one receiver. You would need a trainer cord with it about 35 bucks, the futaba trainer plug changed a couple years ago and I think our club cord may be the older style.
All these items above address a radio at 72 Mhz. You will have to pick a channel when you order it , I recommend talking to Dave Satter our VP he may be able to give you an idea of the less used channel numbers for the club.
There are other more expense options including a new 2.4 Ghz computer radio that is on my wish list but that is a more advanced system and I do not know how to use a buddy box system with it. This system senses open channels and is being sold as the holy grail of noninterference, and I believe them. This system starts are 350 and it is called Spektrum DX7.
I too love warbirds, but I will tell you this, they require allot of skill to fly. A warbird is proabably a third or fourth plane after mastering a trainer and sportster style aircraft. They like to go fast, so you have to be ready for anything.
Patience is the key, don't try to fly beyond your capablity. The warbirds will humble you in a hurry, but when they go well it's a huge rush.
Good luck, hope this helps, if you have specific questions, just post them and I give you my two cents.
Kevin Kimmel
AMA 696144
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