Don't Buy a Standard Radio

[aeajr]

If you are new to flying and are looking at buying your first radio, this
article on entry level standard radios might be of value.

Entry Level Radios
http://www.rcezine.com/cms/article.php?cat=&id=44 (http://www.rcezine.com/cms/article.php?cat=&id=44)

When I wrote that article back in May I did a bunch of research. I then
started on the research for the follow up article on computer radios that can
be found here:

Computer Radios
http://www.rcezine.com/cms/article.php?cat=&id=65 (http://www.rcezine.com/cms/article.php?cat=&id=65)

I have come to the conclusion that the only reason to buy
a standard radio is lack of confidence that you plan to go forward, or
the standard radio came as part of an RTF package.

Here is a quick look at some key points.

Economics - forget the servos, receivers and stuff you need for each plane.
That is the same regardless of the radio. I am talking about just the radio.
For comparison, let's use a the Hitec Laser at $60 , a good example of a
quality standard
4 channel radio. If you have multiple planes, you have to reset the radio as
you change planes. For this reason, most of the standard radio advocates I
have spoken to have one radio per model. That's $60 per plane.

Compare that to the Hitec Flash 5x as an entry level computer radio - $110.
You get 5 model memories so you can instantly switch to any of 5 models
without having to reset anything. Flash costs about $22 per plane and you only
have to remember to bring one radio regardless of which plane you plan to fly.

So 5 models would cost $300 in standard radios vs $110 for the Flash 5X. Big
savings!

Now look at functionality. You get channel 5 retracts but you can also use
that fifth channel for other stuff.

Split Ailerons/flapperons: - You can put two aileron servos, one on channel 1
and one on channel 5. Fly the plane normally. Then flip a switch and turn the
ailerons into flapperons. Now you can use your ailerons as flaps during
landings. Flaps on a 4 channel plane that doesn't have flaps. Cool!

Coordinated turns - Mix rudder into your ailerons so you have a coordinated
turn. On a standard radio you have to do this manually. With the computer
radio, you focus on the plane while the radio handles the coordination yet you
can override and add or reduce rudder at any time.

Take a look at this thread, starting at post 49. Guy talks about using flaps
as ailerons on a R/E sailplane. Pretty cool idea.
http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=289216&page=4&pp=15 (http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=289216&page=4&pp=15)

So, for an extra $50 over a standard 4 channel radio you get a radio that
handles 5 models and let's you do things that the standard radio can't do.
Anohter radio in this price range would be the Futaba 6EXA. This is a 6
channel entry level computer radio with 6 model memories and 6 channels.

Will you need it on the first plane? Maybe not but you probably will in the
near future, so why buy the standard radio in the first place?

Obviously this is only a small look at the capabilities of this particular
entry level radio which has other features. Go up a another $25-50 to the
Hitec Optic 6 or Futaba 7C and it is amazing what you can do. The price
difference over a standard radio is now so
small that for all but the very few, the computer radio is now the economic
entry level radio of choice.

If you get into even semi serious aerobatics or full house sailplanes, a
computer radio
is a huge benefit and for some things, almost a requirement to bring the plane
to its full potential. Even a 4 channel parkflyer or a simple R/E sailplane
with spoilers or flaps benefits from a computer
radio.

There is only one reason to buy a standard radio these days. "I don't know if
I will like RC flying so I want to spend as little as possible", or it came in
a package like an Easy Star RTF, a Great Planes Spirit Select RTF or a
NextStar Glow RTF. Get a computer radio, save a bundle of money, get a bundle
of features and really have fun with your RC flying.

[lescar]

Nice write up, :cool: I work part time at Hobby people and currently own two Hitec Eclipse 7 and few others that I‘ve accumulated. I’m always talking to new fliers and old for that matter about radio’s, I Always try to explain to them the benefits of using a single radio system for multiple aircraft compared to having a radio for each one. I mainly fly Heli’s so a computer radio is required, but I also use the same radio for airplanes and have set up all my aircraft to the same channel which in the long run is less confusing when pinning up.

I have stuck this with a sticky to keep it at the top, this is some valuable Information that all fliers could use.

[aeajr]

Thanks for you note. I prepare these specifically for new flyers. Glad you like them.

[aeajr]

Here is a comparison of 4 computer radios with a 6 channel Hitec Laser 6.
These are US prices and include standard servos. All are radio/receivers with
over 1 mile, 1.6KM range.

All $$ are US and reflect prices and packaging from Tower Hobbies on 10/4/04

The Flash and the Laser are virtually the same price, yet the Flash can do so
much more. The Futaba 6EXA is only $20 more. Why buy a standard radio?


Hitec Laser 4 4-Channel FM/4 HS-322 Servos $120
http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXANT6**&P=ML

INCLUDES: One Transmitter w/ crystal installed
One Supreme 8 Receiver HRCL3500
One Black plastic pot adjusting screwdriver
One 4.8V flat 600mAh receiver battery HRCM7401
One 9.6V 650mAh transmitter battery HRCM8206
One Receiver Crystal HRCL01**
Four Servo horn packages (each with 4 rubber retangular grommets,
4 brass eyelets, 4 screws; 1 X, 1 straight and 1 adjustable horn)
One Frequency flag
One Switch Harness
One 12" Extension
One Charger (55mAh output) HRCP3025
Four HS-322 standard servos with horns HRCM1322


Hitec Laser 6 6-Channel FM/4 HS-325HB Servos $145
http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXHGR3**&P=7


INCLUDES: One Transmitter
Four HS325 servos
One Supreme 8 ch Rx
One Receiver Crystal
One Switch w/charge cord No Number
One 12" servo extension, use HCAM2130
One Rx protector foam (5-3/4"x2-1/2") No Number
One servo horn/hardware HRCM6317
One 650mAh TX battery HRCM8206
One Rx/Tx Charger HRCP3025
One 600mAh Receiver Battery HRCM7401
One Frequency Flag/Number Set No Number
One Instruction Booklet w/Warranty Card No Number



Flash 5 SX System - $158
http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXHBB4**&P=7
Flash 5 is a MUCH better way to go and the Flash includes They are
essentially the same price.

(1) Transmitter
(4) HS-325 Servos
(1) DC Receiver
(1) Standard Switch Harness
(1) Frequency Flag
(1) Transmitter Crystal
(1) Receiver Crystal
(1) 9.6V, 600mah Tx Battery
(1) 12" Servo Extension
(1) Tx/Rx Charger
(1) Neck Strap
(1) Manual




Futaba EXA Futaba 6EXA $179
http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXCZR6**&P=ML

INCLUDES: One Futaba 6EXA Computer Radio system with:
R127DF FM Dual Conversion Receiver FUTL0702 (lo band) FUTL0703
(HI)
Four S3004 Ball bearing servos FUTM0004
One bag servo mounting harware
NR-4J Receiver battery FUTM1280
NT8F600B Transmitter battery FUTM1440
FBC-8B(4) Charger FUTM1800
SWH-13 Switch Harness FUTM4370
ANT-5 Transmitter Antenna FUTM5040
Servo Extension


Hitec Optic 6 - $209 -
http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXGZW3**&P=ML

INCLUDES: One Optic 6ch transmitter,
Four HS-325BB Servos, HRCM1326
Supreme Receiver,
600mAh Receiver NiCd, HRCM7401
Charger,
Switch Harness,

Futaba 7CA $249.99
http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXGAE9**&P=7

INCLUDES: One Futaba 7CAF 7-Channel Aircraft Radio with
Four S3004 Ball Bearing Servos, FUTM0004
R127DF FM receiver, FUTL0702, FUTL0703
600mAh NT8S600B TX battery, FUTM1457
600mAh NR-4J RX battery, FUTM1280
FBC-19B (4) Wall charger, FUTM1830
Servo accessory bag, frequency flag set, neck strap, on/off
switch,
and instruction manual


Any of these computer radios can take you well beyond the laser 4 or 6 channel
radios. The Flash 5SX is essentially the same price as the Laser 6.

There is not reason to go with a standard radio like the Laser 6 and for $40
you can skip the Laser 4 and go right to the computer radio. You could have 5
planes have them all set-up and their profiles stored in the radio. One
radio to fly them all!

For simple RES sailplanes a big plus will be to have spoiler/elevator
compensation set-up so when you deploy the spoilers the plane will have less
tendancy to pitch or balloon. Allows you to focus more on the plane during
landings.

For 4 channel aileron power planes, you can use the ailerons as flaps too.

There is no reason to go with a Standard Radio any longer.

[aeajr]

Time to update this thread

The following is a summary of essential features related to airplanes and
gliders. Some radios include helicopter functions however I don't review
these features. I include links to the manufacturer's/distributor's product
page, where available.

No one ever bought a radio with too much capability. However, if you are
like the rest of us and budget is a factor, I make some special remarks
about how each group would satisfy the needs of various groups of flyers.
These are my own personal value judgments and do not represent a rigorous
evaluation. If you are a serious competitor, consult those who know your
particular field best. I am only trying to provide some thought points for
your consideration.

Sites where you can buy just a radio include:
www.servocity.com
www.allerc.com
www.brucknerhobbies.com

Prices - read the descriptions as prices vary by what is included in the
package.

Radio packages can vary greatly depending on what is included.
Most radios come packaged with standard size servos and receivers. These
packages may not be suitable for electric flyers or some gliders. If I see
a package with small servos and receiver, I note the link for the benefit
of these flyers. Also note that some radio/receiver combos are not suitable
for larger planes due to range considerations. In many cases longer range
receivers are available for these larger planes.

Unless noted otherwise, all radios have Low Battery Warning, Digital Trims,
Timers, End Point Adjustment, Dual Rates and Exponential on ailerons and
elevator. Some include rudder too, which is valuable if you are into 3D
flying. All include elevon and V-tail mixes and many include other mixes.
Unless stated otherwise radios do not have support for 4 wing servos or
split elevator ( ailevators) servos.


Entry level Computer Radios 6 channel -

In addition to the basic 4 channels they have retract, flap and/or split
aileron/flapperon capabilities. These make great first radios for the
committed new pilot, providing features beyond the 4 channel "standard"
radios at a small incremental investment. For many pilots, these may be
all the radio they will need for years.

With these systems you can more advanced planes but may not be
able to bring out all the plane can offer. They will fly full house
sailplanes
but will not provide many of the surfaces mixes that competition sailplane
pilots want.

Futaba EXAS - $160 for this package
http://www.futaba-rc.com/radios/futk54.html
http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXJUV7**&P=ML
review
http://www.rcuniverse.com/magazine/article_display.cfm?article_id=556
See it being programmed
http://video1.hobbico.com/gallery/futk52-58-deluxe.mpg
6 channels, 6-model memory, Proportional Flaps on ch 6, Flapperon using 1/6,
and 1 user definable mix. Expo rudder, elevator and ailerons. The
particular package I have listed at tower comes with 3 micro servos
and a micro receiver suitable for parkflyers but not larger planes.
Other packages are available

JR Sport 600 - $159 for this package
http://www.horizonhobby.com/Products/Default.aspx?ProdID=JSP16000**
10-model memory, DR for aileron and elevator. No mention of Expo
Flaperons, Delta/Elevon and V-tail mixing. Includes receiver and
4 standard sized servos which are not suitable for many small planes.


Airtronics VG 6000 $175 package
http://www.airtronics.net/VG6000.htm
http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXEUY5**&P=7
This particular package is very attractive for small electrics. Comes with
two small servos and a 20 amp ESC. 6 channels, 4 model memories. In
addition to four predefined surface mixes. expo on elevator and ailerons
only.

Spektrum DX 6 - $199
http://www.horizonhobby.com/Shop/ByCategory/Product/Default.aspx?ProdID=SPM2460
Review
http://www.rcuniverse.com/magazine/article_display.cfm?article_id=623
If your main pursuit is electric planes, parkflyers, hand launched gliders
and other smaller aircraft, under 66 inch wing span, this might be your
best choice. Practical field reports, as documented in the threads below
are that this radio/receiver has a useful range of about 1500-2000 feet,
which is more then enough for these plane and further than most people
will fly them. Never worry about channel conflict again. This promises
to be the RC technology of the future.

Digital DSMT Spread Spectrum Modulation
10 model memories, dual rates, exponential, 6 channels, 8 standard mixes and
three programmable mixes. No crystals needed and no channel conflict
control needed. Not suitable for glow planes, large electrics or larger
gliders. May have problems with metal or carbon fiber fuselages.

DX6 Flight experience thread
http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=452817&page=2&pp=15
What does the AMA think?
http://www.modelaircraft.org/spreadspec.asp



Mid Range Computer Radios 6/7 Channels
These radios provide a richer feature set than the entry level computer
radios, primarily in more model memories, more surface mixes and some switch
assignability. These radios also add helicopter programming, though we are
not looking at those functions here. These radios can bring out more of the
capabilities of more advanced planes and give you set-up options the entry
level computer radios lack.

If you intend to actively pursue aerobatic or pattern flying on a sport
basis I would suggest these as your starting point, though most do not
include a snap roll feature. They are not competition class aerobatic
radios but they have enough to satisfy most weekend flyers looking for some
extra features. However they do not allow you to control each flap servo
on an individual channel. Aerobatic planes, like the Ultra Stick, make use
of the flaps as second ailerons. These radios can not do this.

If you are interested in full house thermal duration sailplanes, e-gliders,
hand launched gliders or slope gliders, I would consider these your minimum
starting point. These are not "real" sailplane radios, but they have enough
capability that the casual sport flyer enjoying themaling a full house
glider can fly the plane with a nice mix of options to meet sport flying
requirements. You also have enough for casual aerotowing where a tow
release will be needed. As noted above they do not provide 4 servo wing
support.

Midrange Radio Comparison Chart -( provided by Hitec )
The reference to two wing flap programming refers to flapperons - The
ability to turn ailerons into flaps.
http://www.hitecrcd.com/Radios/Optic%206%20comparison%20chart.htm

Hitec Optic 6 - $220
http://www.hobby-lobby.com/hitec.htm
http://www.servocity.com/html/6-ch_optic_6_systems.html
http://www.allerc.com/product_info.php?cPath=42&products_id=1399
review
http://www.rcgroups.com/links/index.php?t=article&cat=281&id=4451
Optic 6 Tutorial - Goes beyond the manual
http://www.hitecrcd.com/Support/Manuals/Radio/OpticTutorial.pdf
6 channel, 8 Model Memory, Model naming, Spectra channel synth option,
Change channel module, shift select, glider features, switch assignability,
flight modes, ailevators, 2 user programmable mixes, and a variety of
standard mixes. Does not include a snap roll feature. This package at
the link above has micro servos and receiver suitable for parkflyers.
Hitec is also coming out with a 2.4 GHz module for their radios
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/m_3986179/tm.htm

JR 6102 - $199
http://www.horizonhobby.com/Products/Default.aspx?ProdID=JRP6654**
Review
http://www.rcuniverse.com/magazine/article_display.cfm?article_id=305
This is a futaba 7C review, but the author compares it to the JR near the
end of the article. May be helpful if you are trying to compare the two.
http://www.rcgroups.com/links/index.php?id=4405
6 channels, 10 model Memory, model naming, selectable switch locations,
Direct Servo Connect (DSC), 4 user programmable mixes, a variety of standard
mixes. Does not include a timer. Missing mixes of note are snap roll,
aileron diff, crow/butterfly. Some of these may be able to be created with
the user programmable mixes.

Airtronics RD6000 Super - $260
http://www.airtronics.net/RD6000_Super.htm
http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXWC35**&P=7
6 channel, 8 model memory, shift select, 4 timers, selection of standard
mixes and 5 user definable mixes. Also provides select. No Snap Roll.
Note that his package has large servos and receiver that are not suitable
for smaller planes/parkflyers.

Futaba 7C - $260
http://www.futaba-rc.com/radios/futj69.html
http://www.allerc.com/product_info.php?cPath=42&products_id=753
Review
http://www.rcuniverse.com/magazine/article_display.cfm?article_id=321
Review - also compares it to the 9C, the 6XAS and the JR 6102
http://www.rcgroups.com/links/index.php?id=4405
7 channels, 10 Model Memory, Model Naming, Switch Assignability, Flight
Modes, 3 user programmable mixes and a selection of standard mixes. Does
not include aileron differential which might be done with a user
programmable mix. Does include Snap Roll

Multiplex Royal Evo 7 - $250-$440 depending on packaging
Prices seem to range widely.
http://www.multiplexusa.com/Radios/royal-evo-7.htm
http://www.multiplexusa.com/Radios/RoyalevoChart.htm
http://www.hobbyhorse.com/multiplex_radios.shtml
http://www.multiplexusa.com/Radios/Reviews/Evo-RCM.pdf
http://www.multiplexusa.com/Radios/Reviews/Evo%20Review%20-%20RC%20Report.pdf
http://www.rc-soar.com/multiplex/mpxevo/evo.htm
7-Channel FM, 15 Model Memory, Heli, Sailplane, Fixed wing programming,
3 flight condition Mixes per Model, Programmable Mixes, Data Transfer
*DSC (Direct Servo Control), Model Naming, other features
Multiplex uses a different type of programming model. Reputed to be
more flexible than the typical menu systems of the radios above.

JR 7202 Synthesized Radio - $319
http://www.horizonhobby.com/Products/Default.aspx?ProdID=JRP7632
20 model memories, 7 Channel, Fully Synthesized Transmitter on 72 MHz, 3
DS285 Digital Hi-Speed Sub-Micro servos, R790 Scan Select S-PCM receiver,

Spektrum DX7- $379
2.4 GHz full range 7 channel radio
http://www.horizonhobby.com/Products/Default.aspx?ProdID=SPM2712
http://www.spektrumrc.com/Articles/Article.aspx?ArticleID=1624
20-Model memory, 2.4 GHz full range receiver and 3 micro servos
limited switch assignment, user mixes, 3-axis dual rate & expo, 3-position
flap

[aeajr]

Radios with 4 Servo Wing Support - Under $400

If you are going to fly full house gliders with an eye toward competition,
or advanced aerobatic planes, consider these your entry level radios. The
ability to address the flaps on individual channels provides more
flexibility to trim them. For aerobatics this also allows you to reassign
the flaps
so that they follow the ailerons to give you greater roll authority. On
sailplanes
this gives you roll with less drag, and sailplanes are all about reducing
drag.

For sailplane pilots, These would be considered advanced sport glider or as
entry level
competition sailplane radios.


Hitec Eclipse 7 - $210 - for the radio with Spectra module
$240 with single channel, receiver and 4 standard servos
http://www.servocity.com/html/7-ch_eclipse_systems.html
http://www.hitecrcd.com/Radios/eclipse.htm
manual
http://www.hitecrcd.com/product_fs.htm
7 channels - 7 model memory, Shift select, 3 conditional mixes per model,
Channel change module or optional Spectra frequency synth, Five user
programmable mixes, conditional mixes, a variety of predefined mixes.
It is distinguished from the group above in that it has support
for a 4 servo wing and perhaps a mix or two more at $180.
Hitec is also coming out with a 2.4 GHz module for their radios
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/m_3986179/tm.htm

Futaba 9C Super - $350 - Single Channel with receiver
$500 for fully synth transmitter and receiver
http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXHMD0**&P=ML
http://www.futaba-rc.com/radios/futk75.html
http://www.allerc.com/product_info.php?cPath=42&products_id=754
http://www.rcgroups.com/links/index.php?id=4600

Futaba transmitter feature chart
http://www.futaba-rc.com/radios/feature-compare.html

Futaba 9C Super has replaced the 9C that I own, though some places still
have the 9C. 9C Super has unlimited model memories via removable modules, 7
User programmable Mixes + 8 defined mixes, 4 snap roll programs, two servo
elevator support, 4 servo wing support, customizable trainer program and
switch assignability. This is a very flexible radio.

Unless you have a large budget, I would not consider this a first radio. If
you have outgrown your entry level or intermediate computer radio and want a
significant jump in capabilities, take a look at the Futaba 9C Super.
This is an advanced sport radio, or a budget competition radio, that has
virtually all of the features that advanced sport power and sailplane
pilots are likely to need. It has a very strong following.

Channel Synth module for the 9C and 9C Super
http://www.rcuniverse.com/magazine/article_display.cfm?article_id=542
Hitec is coming out with a 2.4 GHz module for their Optic 6, Prism 7X and
Eclipse 7 as well as the Futaba 9C
http://www.rcuniverse.com/forum/m_3986179/tm.htm

-------------------------------------------

$400 and up for the radio alone

Royal Evo 9 Channel - $400 w/synth module
No servos or receiver
http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXEXV7&P=ML
http://www.multiplexusa.com/Radios/royal-evo-9.htm
http://www.multiplexusa.com/Radios/RoyalevoChart.htm
http://www.rc-soar.com/multiplex/mpxevo/evo.htm


JR 9303 - $440 without servos or receiver. $600 with receiver and 3 digital
servos
http://www.horizonhobby.com/Products/TechnicalSpecs.aspx?ProdID=JRP9269**
Synth Module - $99
http://www.horizonhobby.com/Products/Default.aspx?ProdID=JRPTXMS
reviews
http://www.rcgroups.com/links/index.php?id=4643
http://www.rcuniverse.com/magazine/article_display.cfm?article_id=515


Airtronics Stylus - 8 Channel -$440
Optional sailplane card - $120
Optional memory card - $90
http://www.nesail.com/detail.php?productID=772
http://www.airtronics.net/stylus.htm


If you have $2200 laying around, check out the Futaba 14MZ
http://www.14mz.com/
http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXJHG6&P=ML

Setting up a glider with a 4 servo wing
http://www.gliders.dk/triming_and_setup_of_a_glider_wi_eng.htm

What you need to know about receivers:
http://www.rchangout.com/forums/radio-electronics-motors-and-accessories/t-what-you-need-to-know-about-receivers-12151.html