FLYING (General)
After all of these “preliminaries” we are finally ready for that first flight. Considering that you took this guide’s suggestion and purchased a RTF RC model aircraft, you can be ready to fly within several days of reading this. Modern manufacturing and assembly techniques make all of this possible.
When we discussed all three trainer aircraft in depth, you learned how both the electric power and fueled power systems worked and how you would go about operating them. From a beginners’ standpoint there aren’t too many differences. The electric power system will need a freshly-charged battery for each flight, while the fueled power system will needs it’s fuel tank filled before each flight. Beyond that basic difference, the techniques of learning to fly are much the same.
Again, a beginner should seek help from an experienced RC pilot, but later in this chapter some suggestions will be provided for those who simply must do it on their own!
Although almost every aspect of learning to fly must take place at the flying field, there is one aspect of the learning process that allows you to “practice” flying while at home. It involves the use of a simulator device. These are systems designed to work from your personal computer much like a video game.
You load the simulation software into your computer then attach either your own RC transmitter or a special transmitter joy-stick box. You sit in front of your computer monitor and watch a rendition of an RC model aircraft on the screen. The system has been programmed to picture the aircraft in simulated flight.
Control inputs are made using the RC transmitter control sticks or the special box provided with the simulator. The software for these systems has improved to the point where the realism in flight is almost an exact duplication of the real thing. An RC simulator can be helpful before your first flight and it can also be helpful as a learning tool as you progress with your flying.
There are several types of simulators now on the market. We will provide information on several for your consideration. Buying and using a simulator is an option, not a necessity to the learning process.
SIMULATOR INFORMATION
These simulators will cost roughly $120 to $200. An interesting alternative is offered by Hitec Multiplex USA for use with its RC transmitters as well as those from JR or Futaba transmitters using a DIN plug. For a nominal price, Hitec provides a cable that will connect these transmitters to your computer. Freeware known as FMS (Flying Model Simulator) can be downloaded into your PC and acts as an inexpensive simulator. You can obtain more details on the Hitec USB Flight Simulator by clicking here. Under “Radios” click on “Flight Simulator Cable”. This is an interesting alternative to a RC model aircraft simulator system.
Click photo to enlarge in a new window.
(A classroom setting at the Cranston West High School, Cranston, RI. Students in pre-engineering class are using multiple RC flying simulators for training prior to heading to the flying field)
TRAINER CABLES
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Photos of Cranston West High School instructor, Edd Spidel, using a trainer cable for RC flight instruction
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One more thing before you begin flying. It is likely when you meet up with local fliers that someone will mention the use of a trainer cable. Some local pilot/instructors will recommend their use, while others may shy away. It is strictly an option.
Most RC manufacturers offer a cable that connects between two of the same brand RC transmitters. The student holds his transmitter while the instructor holds his own. The instructor will use a switch on his transmitter to switch control back and forth between instructor and student. This method of training is often referred to as the Buddy Box system.
If the student gets into trouble (such as in a dive and isn’t able to recover), the instructor can instantly take over the flight (using the trainer switch) and restore it to a level attitude. The two transmitters involved must be carefully set up to issue the same exact amount of control. A qualified instructor should have no problem using a trainer cable and it is another option in the learning process.
WE ARE NOW READY TO FLY!
First determine that your frequency (RC channel) is not in use by anyone else at your flying field. Follow the system as already explained.
Learn to always turn your RC transmitter on first, then turn your receiver on. If you do the reverse, it is possible that the servos might drive to their limit of travel and damage the gears. In the same regard on landing, always turn the receiver off first, then the transmitter off last. Do this for every flight!
Always perform a brief pre-flight check of the controls. Operate each control while calling out for the benefit of your instructor or flight line helper: left. right, up, down, and throttle (high and low). Always perform a pre-flight check of the controls and the motor/engine. If all controls respond in the proper manner you are ready to launch or take off.
To continue, click here.
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