IT’S SHOW TIME! I’m going to do something slightly
different; I’m going to take you to the Weak Signals 52nd R/C
Expo, also known as the Toledo Show, before it happens! I’ve
been talking to some of the manufacturers and vendors about
what they will have at the event and thought I’d write a primer
for those of you who have never been or are considering going.
There’s no way I can cover everything and everyone who will
be there, but I can give you some places to get started. Each
company listed here is one I’ve personally done business with
and have been satisfied with the products, prices, and customer
service.
This is the best show, as far as I’m concerned, and is easily
accessible from many hotels in the area. Plentiful parking and
food makes it easy to attend. I would advise you not to bring
kids in strollers because it does get crowded, and all they’ll see
is people’s rear ends. It’s also difficult to maneuver them
around.
This year’s show will be April 7-9 at the SeaGate Center.
You can get more information at www.toledoshow.com/.
Castle Creations: I couldn’t go to Toledo without seeing
Patrick and Shawn at Castle Creations. They have provided more
support for projects throughout the years than any other
manufacturer and are always ready with answers to the difficult
questions.
They don’t sell any products at the show because they don’t
compete with their vendors. They have acquired Berg receivers
and revamped the whole product line to improve an already
excellent product.
When it comes to reliable information, quality, products that
are made in America, and customer service, Patrick and Shawn
are the best. I call them for all of my speed-control needs and
questions, and I’ve hit them with some odd situations when
we’ve brainstormed projects for magazines. They have been
right every time!
Accompanying photos show the company’s newest highvoltage
Phoenix controller—the Thunderbird-18—the Berg
MS4L receiver, and the great little Castle Link USB controller
programmer.
FMA Direct: Fred Marks and his family have been instrumental
in developing products for the electric-power modeler for many
years, and the trend continues. This season they are introducing
the Cellpro line of products and will have them at the Toledo
Show. Following is the information about them.
“The Cellpro Slimline packs offer 2s to 4s configurations in
capacities of 480, 730, 910, 1320, and 2100 mAh. The Cellpro
advantage is lower cost and a system solution that monitors each
cell on both charge and discharge.
“The Cellpro 4s Discharge Protection Module (DPM) is a
small and lightweight solution to protect the weakest cell in the
pack during flight. The Cellpro DPM also monitors the ESC
throttle control line and sends an early warning of pack
depletion by pulsing the motor control. Two or three Cellpro
DPMs can be daisy chained for 8s and 12s applications. For
more info on the new Cellpro line, go to this link: http://www.
fmadirect.com/new_applications/whatsnew/index.htm.
“The Cellpro 4s balancing charger with LCD display that
A Toledo Show preview!
April 2006 109
Electrics Greg Gimlick | [email protected]
FMA Direct’s new CellPro line of products.
Mejzlik’s new hollow carbon-fiber electric propellers are
distributed by E Cubed R/C.
Stuff We Like sells the Rocket line of DIY motor kits. This
photo shows one in various stages of assembly.
110 MODEL AVIATION
West Mountain Radio products make life easier and safer.
Castle Creations’ Berg MS-4L receiver, new Thunderbird-18
controller, high-voltage Phoenix controller, and the Castle Link
USB controller programmer.
Hitec’s new micro HS-65HB servo with Karbonite gears and the
HS-65MG with metal gears are new this year.
will be available for the Toledo Show does
the following:
“1) Shows all 4 cell voltages with 1/10%
accuracy full scale.
“2) Shows current and supply voltage.
“3) Shows Ahr, Fuel Level, and Charge
mode.
“4) Amp Hours is factory calibrated to
+/-1% accuracy.
“5) The charger has a speaker.
“6) The current can be set to 0.25 to 4
amps in 0.25A steps. This is very intuitive.
Simply hold the button and screen 4 will
change the current setting. It is then stored
to flash memory.
“7) Auto-current setting will charge
any battery less than 3.5 Ah in 50 minutes.
“8) 4S viewer PC software shows
everything the BalancePro HD 6s charger
does plus time remaining.
“9) All error codes are displayed in
plain text.
“10) Battery Restore mode will fix over
discharged cells just like in the 6s
charger.”
E Cubed R/C: Most electric-power fliers
are probably familiar with the famous
Azarr antennas, which are available in
various sizes for particular applications,
but many don’t know the wide range of
products Azarr sells. He’ll be at Toledo
with his huge inventory of APC-E
propellers and more Anderson Powerpole
options than I’ve ever seen.
This year he will also introduce the new
electric propellers from Mejzlik. These are
hollow carbon fiber, available in the
following sizes: 22 x 12E, 22 x 12WE, 20
x 11E, 20 x 11WE, 20 x 12E, and 26 x
15E. There will be more sizes to come.
Azarr will have his full line of products
along with all of his valuable knowledge at
Toledo. Pay him a visit.
Stuff We Like: I mentioned Keith
Hollifield’s company last year when I
discovered his DIY brushless-motor kits,
and they sold out the week after the
column was published. He carries a full
line of electric-flight products, but this
year he has an even better DIY kit, and the
price is still approximately $30.
The Rocket motors have the magnets
already installed, which make a difference
in ease of assembly. There are two kits
available, and the larger is rated at 270
watts. I’ve been happy with the ones I
have.
If you think you might want to give a
DIY kit a try, talk to Keith. He has a great
deal of information about various ways to
wind the motor to customize it to your
application.
Stevens AeroModel: I showed you my wire
cutter/strippers a few months ago, and I got
them from this company.
Bill carries many unique tools for the
aircraft, along with some beautifully
executed laser-cut balsa kits. His booth is
small and packed full of things you won’t
want to miss, from tools to motors to kits to
ARFs to building supplies.
Hitec/Multiplex: This stop is a must for any
RC modeler! Glen Merritt is the marketing
manager and one of the finest individuals
you’ll ever meet. He’ll be in the booth at
Toledo all weekend with his crew to answer
your questions and show the products.
Hitec doesn’t sell anything at the show,
but there will be many vendors there who do
sell the company’s products. This is a rare
chance to ask questions of the people who
manufacture the products. I use the Multiplex
Royal Evo 9 and a Hitec Eclipse transmitter
for all my projects and couldn’t be happier
with them.
Following is a recent announcement from
the company.
“Hitec announces two new Micro class
servos: the HS-65HB with long-lasting
April 2006 111
and durable Karbonite gears and the HS-
65MG with strong, shock-resistant metal
gears. The HS-65s are Hitec’s most
powerful servos in the micro class, with
over 31 ounce/inch of power at 6 volts.
“Created for higher performance micro
helicopters, electric park flyers, and 1/18-
scale cars, both servos feature a top ball
bearing for long life and positive
centering. Here are the specs:
“Dimensions: 0.9 x 0.5 x 0.9 inch
“Torque: 25 ounces @ 4.8V/31 ounces
@ 6.0V
“Speed: 0.16 seconds @ 4.8V/0.13
second @ 6.0V
“Weight: HS-65HB is 0.39 ounce/HS-
65MG is 0.44 ounce”
West Mountain Radio: I’ve mentioned
this company before, and I can’t
emphasize how indispensable its products
are in my shop. I’ve shown you the
Computerized Battery Analyzer; it is a
must-own tool, as is the powerpole
crimper.
I haven’t shown you West Mountain
Radio’s RIGrunner, which is a convenient
and safe way to run 12VDC multiple
chargers and battery coolers from a car or
field battery—no more clip leads. It is a
13.8VDC power panel that uses Anderson
Powerpole connectors, aka Sermos.
Following are its features.
• All models are conservatively rated at 40
amps total with any outlet good to 40
amps.
• Anderson Powerpole connectors, aka
Sermos.
• Safe, secure, hot connect, polarized,
color-keyed, genderless connector
system.
• Each outlet may be used at full ratings.
• LED over and under voltage indicators
instantly indicate a problem without
interpretation.
• An audio alert (on some models) can be
configured to sound on overvoltage,
undervoltage, both, or may be disabled.
• Each outlet is individually fused with
automotive ATC/ATO fuses. The unit is
shipped with the appropriate fuses
installed.
• Fuses are quick to change. They are
accessible from the outside using highquality
fuse holders.
• Each fuse has a handy blown-fuse LED
to show short-circuit problems instantly.
• Commercial quality construction—no
sharp edges and no plastic.
• A full array of quick-change Powerpole
power supply, extension, and adapter
cables available.
• One full year parts and labor guarantee;
you pay only one-way shipping, with no
warranty charges.
• Mounting with supplied 3M Bumpon
protective feet, 3M adhesive pads, or
screwed down using any #6 or #8 screws.
Don’t miss talking to Ned and Del and
checking out their full line of products at
the West Mountain Radio booth!
AstroFlight: If you’ve heard of electric
flight, you have likely heard of Bob
Boucher and AstroFlight. Bob even holds a
patent on electric flight! He is in the Astro
booth at Toledo every year with Doug
Ingraham, who does the programming for
the company’s electronics.
This year they will have the new 60 and
90 brushless motors and the new 19-size
motor. The Blinky Li-Poly balancer and
the 109 Li-Poly charger travel with me
wherever I go.
Check out the company’s full line of
products and take the opportunity to talk to
the designer and manufacturer in person!
As a bonus, you’ll probably bump into
famous electric-power modeler Keith
Shaw hanging around the booth!
Radical RC: Dave Thacker has been
handing out great information and help for
years and can be found at most major
electric fly-ins with his huge booth of
products. Stop at his booth, but go early;
during the day you can hardly see him
through the crowd gathered around.
Balsa Products: Balsa Products carries the
full line of GWS products and a ton of
other useful items for the modeler. The
company’s customer service on the phone
and by E-mail is excellent, and the staff’s
product knowledge is great.
If you are a micro flier you’ll want to
see the Balsa Products’ line of Bluebird
components, which will get you a radio
system weighing less than 16 grams. The
company has recently purchased the
EFlight Designs line, so the selection of
micro products has been greatly expanded.
Kennedy Composites: Barry Kennedy and
his wife are well known at the Electric
meets and sailplane events. They carry a
beautiful line of electric-powered and pure
sailplanes, along with all the gear you need
to get going.
Last year they introduced the nowfamous
Sombra Shadow 3 receivers at the
Toledo Show. Don’t miss a chance to visit
them.
DJ Aerotech: Don Stackhouse and Joe
Hahn have probably taught more people
about Electrics and aerodynamics than any
others using the online forums. They are
knowledgeable and patient, but they will
also convince you that Roadkill isn’t just
for breakfast anymore. That is their line of
indoor/backyard models that have proven
themselves to be exceptional fliers.
This company carries everything you
need to get your craft into the air and be
successful the first time. This is a mustvisit
booth.
Hobby Lobby: You have to stop by and
see the incredible number of products this
company brings to the show. It sells out of
the most popular items early, so be sure to
buy it when you see it or you may be
disappointed on Sunday. Hobby Lobby
sponsors the electric-flight symposiums
every year.
Northeast Sailplane Products: Sal and
his crew display an incredible array of
products at their booth, where you can
touch and feel most of the items you read
about in the magazines. Sales are brisk and
prices will be greatly reduced for show
specials. You can save a great deal of
shipping cost by buying your large kits at
the show.
Du-Bro: This company has introduced
many new products for the electric-power
flier in the last few years, from micro
control systems to control clevises and
horns. This year Du-Bro has released a line
of servo arms that solve the problem of
supplied arms that are too short for many
applications. Check out the new micro
servo mounts while you’re in Toledo.
The Big Boys: Horizon Hobby and Great
Planes Model Distributors set up huge
booths with all their products on display.
They don’t sell anything at the show, but
all the information is there and other
dealers will have their products. Sales reps
will be available to take questions.
Magazines: All publications will be there,
along with their editors and most of the
columnists. It’s a great chance to give
face-to-face feedback and get subscription
deals.
AMA: The Academy has a great booth
every year with all sorts of products. The
best part is that you can see your elected
officials and speak with them. They’re a
captive audience and ready for your input;
take advantage of it!
Cautions and Warnings:
• Batteries: Every battery manufacturer
will be represented. Stay with brands you
know and have seen reviewed and
discussed in magazines or on online
forums. Unlabeled packs and cells may
look like a deal, but you don’t know what
you’re buying.
• Swap shop: This is a cool place to visit
upstairs, and there are many great deals
to be had. Remember that swap shops
have everything from treasures to trash.
Final Approach: There isn’t enough space
to mention everyone I’d like to, and I
apologize to those I’ve missed. I only
covered those I’ve dealt with for Electrics;
there are tons of others who have gas and
glow supplies. If you decide to go to
Toledo this year you won’t regret it, and I
hope to see you there. MA
04sig4.QXD 2/27/06 10:38 AM Page 111
Edition: Model Aviation - 2006/04
Page Numbers: 109,110,111
Edition: Model Aviation - 2006/04
Page Numbers: 109,110,111
IT’S SHOW TIME! I’m going to do something slightly
different; I’m going to take you to the Weak Signals 52nd R/C
Expo, also known as the Toledo Show, before it happens! I’ve
been talking to some of the manufacturers and vendors about
what they will have at the event and thought I’d write a primer
for those of you who have never been or are considering going.
There’s no way I can cover everything and everyone who will
be there, but I can give you some places to get started. Each
company listed here is one I’ve personally done business with
and have been satisfied with the products, prices, and customer
service.
This is the best show, as far as I’m concerned, and is easily
accessible from many hotels in the area. Plentiful parking and
food makes it easy to attend. I would advise you not to bring
kids in strollers because it does get crowded, and all they’ll see
is people’s rear ends. It’s also difficult to maneuver them
around.
This year’s show will be April 7-9 at the SeaGate Center.
You can get more information at www.toledoshow.com/.
Castle Creations: I couldn’t go to Toledo without seeing
Patrick and Shawn at Castle Creations. They have provided more
support for projects throughout the years than any other
manufacturer and are always ready with answers to the difficult
questions.
They don’t sell any products at the show because they don’t
compete with their vendors. They have acquired Berg receivers
and revamped the whole product line to improve an already
excellent product.
When it comes to reliable information, quality, products that
are made in America, and customer service, Patrick and Shawn
are the best. I call them for all of my speed-control needs and
questions, and I’ve hit them with some odd situations when
we’ve brainstormed projects for magazines. They have been
right every time!
Accompanying photos show the company’s newest highvoltage
Phoenix controller—the Thunderbird-18—the Berg
MS4L receiver, and the great little Castle Link USB controller
programmer.
FMA Direct: Fred Marks and his family have been instrumental
in developing products for the electric-power modeler for many
years, and the trend continues. This season they are introducing
the Cellpro line of products and will have them at the Toledo
Show. Following is the information about them.
“The Cellpro Slimline packs offer 2s to 4s configurations in
capacities of 480, 730, 910, 1320, and 2100 mAh. The Cellpro
advantage is lower cost and a system solution that monitors each
cell on both charge and discharge.
“The Cellpro 4s Discharge Protection Module (DPM) is a
small and lightweight solution to protect the weakest cell in the
pack during flight. The Cellpro DPM also monitors the ESC
throttle control line and sends an early warning of pack
depletion by pulsing the motor control. Two or three Cellpro
DPMs can be daisy chained for 8s and 12s applications. For
more info on the new Cellpro line, go to this link: http://www.
fmadirect.com/new_applications/whatsnew/index.htm.
“The Cellpro 4s balancing charger with LCD display that
A Toledo Show preview!
April 2006 109
Electrics Greg Gimlick | [email protected]
FMA Direct’s new CellPro line of products.
Mejzlik’s new hollow carbon-fiber electric propellers are
distributed by E Cubed R/C.
Stuff We Like sells the Rocket line of DIY motor kits. This
photo shows one in various stages of assembly.
110 MODEL AVIATION
West Mountain Radio products make life easier and safer.
Castle Creations’ Berg MS-4L receiver, new Thunderbird-18
controller, high-voltage Phoenix controller, and the Castle Link
USB controller programmer.
Hitec’s new micro HS-65HB servo with Karbonite gears and the
HS-65MG with metal gears are new this year.
will be available for the Toledo Show does
the following:
“1) Shows all 4 cell voltages with 1/10%
accuracy full scale.
“2) Shows current and supply voltage.
“3) Shows Ahr, Fuel Level, and Charge
mode.
“4) Amp Hours is factory calibrated to
+/-1% accuracy.
“5) The charger has a speaker.
“6) The current can be set to 0.25 to 4
amps in 0.25A steps. This is very intuitive.
Simply hold the button and screen 4 will
change the current setting. It is then stored
to flash memory.
“7) Auto-current setting will charge
any battery less than 3.5 Ah in 50 minutes.
“8) 4S viewer PC software shows
everything the BalancePro HD 6s charger
does plus time remaining.
“9) All error codes are displayed in
plain text.
“10) Battery Restore mode will fix over
discharged cells just like in the 6s
charger.”
E Cubed R/C: Most electric-power fliers
are probably familiar with the famous
Azarr antennas, which are available in
various sizes for particular applications,
but many don’t know the wide range of
products Azarr sells. He’ll be at Toledo
with his huge inventory of APC-E
propellers and more Anderson Powerpole
options than I’ve ever seen.
This year he will also introduce the new
electric propellers from Mejzlik. These are
hollow carbon fiber, available in the
following sizes: 22 x 12E, 22 x 12WE, 20
x 11E, 20 x 11WE, 20 x 12E, and 26 x
15E. There will be more sizes to come.
Azarr will have his full line of products
along with all of his valuable knowledge at
Toledo. Pay him a visit.
Stuff We Like: I mentioned Keith
Hollifield’s company last year when I
discovered his DIY brushless-motor kits,
and they sold out the week after the
column was published. He carries a full
line of electric-flight products, but this
year he has an even better DIY kit, and the
price is still approximately $30.
The Rocket motors have the magnets
already installed, which make a difference
in ease of assembly. There are two kits
available, and the larger is rated at 270
watts. I’ve been happy with the ones I
have.
If you think you might want to give a
DIY kit a try, talk to Keith. He has a great
deal of information about various ways to
wind the motor to customize it to your
application.
Stevens AeroModel: I showed you my wire
cutter/strippers a few months ago, and I got
them from this company.
Bill carries many unique tools for the
aircraft, along with some beautifully
executed laser-cut balsa kits. His booth is
small and packed full of things you won’t
want to miss, from tools to motors to kits to
ARFs to building supplies.
Hitec/Multiplex: This stop is a must for any
RC modeler! Glen Merritt is the marketing
manager and one of the finest individuals
you’ll ever meet. He’ll be in the booth at
Toledo all weekend with his crew to answer
your questions and show the products.
Hitec doesn’t sell anything at the show,
but there will be many vendors there who do
sell the company’s products. This is a rare
chance to ask questions of the people who
manufacture the products. I use the Multiplex
Royal Evo 9 and a Hitec Eclipse transmitter
for all my projects and couldn’t be happier
with them.
Following is a recent announcement from
the company.
“Hitec announces two new Micro class
servos: the HS-65HB with long-lasting
April 2006 111
and durable Karbonite gears and the HS-
65MG with strong, shock-resistant metal
gears. The HS-65s are Hitec’s most
powerful servos in the micro class, with
over 31 ounce/inch of power at 6 volts.
“Created for higher performance micro
helicopters, electric park flyers, and 1/18-
scale cars, both servos feature a top ball
bearing for long life and positive
centering. Here are the specs:
“Dimensions: 0.9 x 0.5 x 0.9 inch
“Torque: 25 ounces @ 4.8V/31 ounces
@ 6.0V
“Speed: 0.16 seconds @ 4.8V/0.13
second @ 6.0V
“Weight: HS-65HB is 0.39 ounce/HS-
65MG is 0.44 ounce”
West Mountain Radio: I’ve mentioned
this company before, and I can’t
emphasize how indispensable its products
are in my shop. I’ve shown you the
Computerized Battery Analyzer; it is a
must-own tool, as is the powerpole
crimper.
I haven’t shown you West Mountain
Radio’s RIGrunner, which is a convenient
and safe way to run 12VDC multiple
chargers and battery coolers from a car or
field battery—no more clip leads. It is a
13.8VDC power panel that uses Anderson
Powerpole connectors, aka Sermos.
Following are its features.
• All models are conservatively rated at 40
amps total with any outlet good to 40
amps.
• Anderson Powerpole connectors, aka
Sermos.
• Safe, secure, hot connect, polarized,
color-keyed, genderless connector
system.
• Each outlet may be used at full ratings.
• LED over and under voltage indicators
instantly indicate a problem without
interpretation.
• An audio alert (on some models) can be
configured to sound on overvoltage,
undervoltage, both, or may be disabled.
• Each outlet is individually fused with
automotive ATC/ATO fuses. The unit is
shipped with the appropriate fuses
installed.
• Fuses are quick to change. They are
accessible from the outside using highquality
fuse holders.
• Each fuse has a handy blown-fuse LED
to show short-circuit problems instantly.
• Commercial quality construction—no
sharp edges and no plastic.
• A full array of quick-change Powerpole
power supply, extension, and adapter
cables available.
• One full year parts and labor guarantee;
you pay only one-way shipping, with no
warranty charges.
• Mounting with supplied 3M Bumpon
protective feet, 3M adhesive pads, or
screwed down using any #6 or #8 screws.
Don’t miss talking to Ned and Del and
checking out their full line of products at
the West Mountain Radio booth!
AstroFlight: If you’ve heard of electric
flight, you have likely heard of Bob
Boucher and AstroFlight. Bob even holds a
patent on electric flight! He is in the Astro
booth at Toledo every year with Doug
Ingraham, who does the programming for
the company’s electronics.
This year they will have the new 60 and
90 brushless motors and the new 19-size
motor. The Blinky Li-Poly balancer and
the 109 Li-Poly charger travel with me
wherever I go.
Check out the company’s full line of
products and take the opportunity to talk to
the designer and manufacturer in person!
As a bonus, you’ll probably bump into
famous electric-power modeler Keith
Shaw hanging around the booth!
Radical RC: Dave Thacker has been
handing out great information and help for
years and can be found at most major
electric fly-ins with his huge booth of
products. Stop at his booth, but go early;
during the day you can hardly see him
through the crowd gathered around.
Balsa Products: Balsa Products carries the
full line of GWS products and a ton of
other useful items for the modeler. The
company’s customer service on the phone
and by E-mail is excellent, and the staff’s
product knowledge is great.
If you are a micro flier you’ll want to
see the Balsa Products’ line of Bluebird
components, which will get you a radio
system weighing less than 16 grams. The
company has recently purchased the
EFlight Designs line, so the selection of
micro products has been greatly expanded.
Kennedy Composites: Barry Kennedy and
his wife are well known at the Electric
meets and sailplane events. They carry a
beautiful line of electric-powered and pure
sailplanes, along with all the gear you need
to get going.
Last year they introduced the nowfamous
Sombra Shadow 3 receivers at the
Toledo Show. Don’t miss a chance to visit
them.
DJ Aerotech: Don Stackhouse and Joe
Hahn have probably taught more people
about Electrics and aerodynamics than any
others using the online forums. They are
knowledgeable and patient, but they will
also convince you that Roadkill isn’t just
for breakfast anymore. That is their line of
indoor/backyard models that have proven
themselves to be exceptional fliers.
This company carries everything you
need to get your craft into the air and be
successful the first time. This is a mustvisit
booth.
Hobby Lobby: You have to stop by and
see the incredible number of products this
company brings to the show. It sells out of
the most popular items early, so be sure to
buy it when you see it or you may be
disappointed on Sunday. Hobby Lobby
sponsors the electric-flight symposiums
every year.
Northeast Sailplane Products: Sal and
his crew display an incredible array of
products at their booth, where you can
touch and feel most of the items you read
about in the magazines. Sales are brisk and
prices will be greatly reduced for show
specials. You can save a great deal of
shipping cost by buying your large kits at
the show.
Du-Bro: This company has introduced
many new products for the electric-power
flier in the last few years, from micro
control systems to control clevises and
horns. This year Du-Bro has released a line
of servo arms that solve the problem of
supplied arms that are too short for many
applications. Check out the new micro
servo mounts while you’re in Toledo.
The Big Boys: Horizon Hobby and Great
Planes Model Distributors set up huge
booths with all their products on display.
They don’t sell anything at the show, but
all the information is there and other
dealers will have their products. Sales reps
will be available to take questions.
Magazines: All publications will be there,
along with their editors and most of the
columnists. It’s a great chance to give
face-to-face feedback and get subscription
deals.
AMA: The Academy has a great booth
every year with all sorts of products. The
best part is that you can see your elected
officials and speak with them. They’re a
captive audience and ready for your input;
take advantage of it!
Cautions and Warnings:
• Batteries: Every battery manufacturer
will be represented. Stay with brands you
know and have seen reviewed and
discussed in magazines or on online
forums. Unlabeled packs and cells may
look like a deal, but you don’t know what
you’re buying.
• Swap shop: This is a cool place to visit
upstairs, and there are many great deals
to be had. Remember that swap shops
have everything from treasures to trash.
Final Approach: There isn’t enough space
to mention everyone I’d like to, and I
apologize to those I’ve missed. I only
covered those I’ve dealt with for Electrics;
there are tons of others who have gas and
glow supplies. If you decide to go to
Toledo this year you won’t regret it, and I
hope to see you there. MA
04sig4.QXD 2/27/06 10:38 AM Page 111
Edition: Model Aviation - 2006/04
Page Numbers: 109,110,111
IT’S SHOW TIME! I’m going to do something slightly
different; I’m going to take you to the Weak Signals 52nd R/C
Expo, also known as the Toledo Show, before it happens! I’ve
been talking to some of the manufacturers and vendors about
what they will have at the event and thought I’d write a primer
for those of you who have never been or are considering going.
There’s no way I can cover everything and everyone who will
be there, but I can give you some places to get started. Each
company listed here is one I’ve personally done business with
and have been satisfied with the products, prices, and customer
service.
This is the best show, as far as I’m concerned, and is easily
accessible from many hotels in the area. Plentiful parking and
food makes it easy to attend. I would advise you not to bring
kids in strollers because it does get crowded, and all they’ll see
is people’s rear ends. It’s also difficult to maneuver them
around.
This year’s show will be April 7-9 at the SeaGate Center.
You can get more information at www.toledoshow.com/.
Castle Creations: I couldn’t go to Toledo without seeing
Patrick and Shawn at Castle Creations. They have provided more
support for projects throughout the years than any other
manufacturer and are always ready with answers to the difficult
questions.
They don’t sell any products at the show because they don’t
compete with their vendors. They have acquired Berg receivers
and revamped the whole product line to improve an already
excellent product.
When it comes to reliable information, quality, products that
are made in America, and customer service, Patrick and Shawn
are the best. I call them for all of my speed-control needs and
questions, and I’ve hit them with some odd situations when
we’ve brainstormed projects for magazines. They have been
right every time!
Accompanying photos show the company’s newest highvoltage
Phoenix controller—the Thunderbird-18—the Berg
MS4L receiver, and the great little Castle Link USB controller
programmer.
FMA Direct: Fred Marks and his family have been instrumental
in developing products for the electric-power modeler for many
years, and the trend continues. This season they are introducing
the Cellpro line of products and will have them at the Toledo
Show. Following is the information about them.
“The Cellpro Slimline packs offer 2s to 4s configurations in
capacities of 480, 730, 910, 1320, and 2100 mAh. The Cellpro
advantage is lower cost and a system solution that monitors each
cell on both charge and discharge.
“The Cellpro 4s Discharge Protection Module (DPM) is a
small and lightweight solution to protect the weakest cell in the
pack during flight. The Cellpro DPM also monitors the ESC
throttle control line and sends an early warning of pack
depletion by pulsing the motor control. Two or three Cellpro
DPMs can be daisy chained for 8s and 12s applications. For
more info on the new Cellpro line, go to this link: http://www.
fmadirect.com/new_applications/whatsnew/index.htm.
“The Cellpro 4s balancing charger with LCD display that
A Toledo Show preview!
April 2006 109
Electrics Greg Gimlick | [email protected]
FMA Direct’s new CellPro line of products.
Mejzlik’s new hollow carbon-fiber electric propellers are
distributed by E Cubed R/C.
Stuff We Like sells the Rocket line of DIY motor kits. This
photo shows one in various stages of assembly.
110 MODEL AVIATION
West Mountain Radio products make life easier and safer.
Castle Creations’ Berg MS-4L receiver, new Thunderbird-18
controller, high-voltage Phoenix controller, and the Castle Link
USB controller programmer.
Hitec’s new micro HS-65HB servo with Karbonite gears and the
HS-65MG with metal gears are new this year.
will be available for the Toledo Show does
the following:
“1) Shows all 4 cell voltages with 1/10%
accuracy full scale.
“2) Shows current and supply voltage.
“3) Shows Ahr, Fuel Level, and Charge
mode.
“4) Amp Hours is factory calibrated to
+/-1% accuracy.
“5) The charger has a speaker.
“6) The current can be set to 0.25 to 4
amps in 0.25A steps. This is very intuitive.
Simply hold the button and screen 4 will
change the current setting. It is then stored
to flash memory.
“7) Auto-current setting will charge
any battery less than 3.5 Ah in 50 minutes.
“8) 4S viewer PC software shows
everything the BalancePro HD 6s charger
does plus time remaining.
“9) All error codes are displayed in
plain text.
“10) Battery Restore mode will fix over
discharged cells just like in the 6s
charger.”
E Cubed R/C: Most electric-power fliers
are probably familiar with the famous
Azarr antennas, which are available in
various sizes for particular applications,
but many don’t know the wide range of
products Azarr sells. He’ll be at Toledo
with his huge inventory of APC-E
propellers and more Anderson Powerpole
options than I’ve ever seen.
This year he will also introduce the new
electric propellers from Mejzlik. These are
hollow carbon fiber, available in the
following sizes: 22 x 12E, 22 x 12WE, 20
x 11E, 20 x 11WE, 20 x 12E, and 26 x
15E. There will be more sizes to come.
Azarr will have his full line of products
along with all of his valuable knowledge at
Toledo. Pay him a visit.
Stuff We Like: I mentioned Keith
Hollifield’s company last year when I
discovered his DIY brushless-motor kits,
and they sold out the week after the
column was published. He carries a full
line of electric-flight products, but this
year he has an even better DIY kit, and the
price is still approximately $30.
The Rocket motors have the magnets
already installed, which make a difference
in ease of assembly. There are two kits
available, and the larger is rated at 270
watts. I’ve been happy with the ones I
have.
If you think you might want to give a
DIY kit a try, talk to Keith. He has a great
deal of information about various ways to
wind the motor to customize it to your
application.
Stevens AeroModel: I showed you my wire
cutter/strippers a few months ago, and I got
them from this company.
Bill carries many unique tools for the
aircraft, along with some beautifully
executed laser-cut balsa kits. His booth is
small and packed full of things you won’t
want to miss, from tools to motors to kits to
ARFs to building supplies.
Hitec/Multiplex: This stop is a must for any
RC modeler! Glen Merritt is the marketing
manager and one of the finest individuals
you’ll ever meet. He’ll be in the booth at
Toledo all weekend with his crew to answer
your questions and show the products.
Hitec doesn’t sell anything at the show,
but there will be many vendors there who do
sell the company’s products. This is a rare
chance to ask questions of the people who
manufacture the products. I use the Multiplex
Royal Evo 9 and a Hitec Eclipse transmitter
for all my projects and couldn’t be happier
with them.
Following is a recent announcement from
the company.
“Hitec announces two new Micro class
servos: the HS-65HB with long-lasting
April 2006 111
and durable Karbonite gears and the HS-
65MG with strong, shock-resistant metal
gears. The HS-65s are Hitec’s most
powerful servos in the micro class, with
over 31 ounce/inch of power at 6 volts.
“Created for higher performance micro
helicopters, electric park flyers, and 1/18-
scale cars, both servos feature a top ball
bearing for long life and positive
centering. Here are the specs:
“Dimensions: 0.9 x 0.5 x 0.9 inch
“Torque: 25 ounces @ 4.8V/31 ounces
@ 6.0V
“Speed: 0.16 seconds @ 4.8V/0.13
second @ 6.0V
“Weight: HS-65HB is 0.39 ounce/HS-
65MG is 0.44 ounce”
West Mountain Radio: I’ve mentioned
this company before, and I can’t
emphasize how indispensable its products
are in my shop. I’ve shown you the
Computerized Battery Analyzer; it is a
must-own tool, as is the powerpole
crimper.
I haven’t shown you West Mountain
Radio’s RIGrunner, which is a convenient
and safe way to run 12VDC multiple
chargers and battery coolers from a car or
field battery—no more clip leads. It is a
13.8VDC power panel that uses Anderson
Powerpole connectors, aka Sermos.
Following are its features.
• All models are conservatively rated at 40
amps total with any outlet good to 40
amps.
• Anderson Powerpole connectors, aka
Sermos.
• Safe, secure, hot connect, polarized,
color-keyed, genderless connector
system.
• Each outlet may be used at full ratings.
• LED over and under voltage indicators
instantly indicate a problem without
interpretation.
• An audio alert (on some models) can be
configured to sound on overvoltage,
undervoltage, both, or may be disabled.
• Each outlet is individually fused with
automotive ATC/ATO fuses. The unit is
shipped with the appropriate fuses
installed.
• Fuses are quick to change. They are
accessible from the outside using highquality
fuse holders.
• Each fuse has a handy blown-fuse LED
to show short-circuit problems instantly.
• Commercial quality construction—no
sharp edges and no plastic.
• A full array of quick-change Powerpole
power supply, extension, and adapter
cables available.
• One full year parts and labor guarantee;
you pay only one-way shipping, with no
warranty charges.
• Mounting with supplied 3M Bumpon
protective feet, 3M adhesive pads, or
screwed down using any #6 or #8 screws.
Don’t miss talking to Ned and Del and
checking out their full line of products at
the West Mountain Radio booth!
AstroFlight: If you’ve heard of electric
flight, you have likely heard of Bob
Boucher and AstroFlight. Bob even holds a
patent on electric flight! He is in the Astro
booth at Toledo every year with Doug
Ingraham, who does the programming for
the company’s electronics.
This year they will have the new 60 and
90 brushless motors and the new 19-size
motor. The Blinky Li-Poly balancer and
the 109 Li-Poly charger travel with me
wherever I go.
Check out the company’s full line of
products and take the opportunity to talk to
the designer and manufacturer in person!
As a bonus, you’ll probably bump into
famous electric-power modeler Keith
Shaw hanging around the booth!
Radical RC: Dave Thacker has been
handing out great information and help for
years and can be found at most major
electric fly-ins with his huge booth of
products. Stop at his booth, but go early;
during the day you can hardly see him
through the crowd gathered around.
Balsa Products: Balsa Products carries the
full line of GWS products and a ton of
other useful items for the modeler. The
company’s customer service on the phone
and by E-mail is excellent, and the staff’s
product knowledge is great.
If you are a micro flier you’ll want to
see the Balsa Products’ line of Bluebird
components, which will get you a radio
system weighing less than 16 grams. The
company has recently purchased the
EFlight Designs line, so the selection of
micro products has been greatly expanded.
Kennedy Composites: Barry Kennedy and
his wife are well known at the Electric
meets and sailplane events. They carry a
beautiful line of electric-powered and pure
sailplanes, along with all the gear you need
to get going.
Last year they introduced the nowfamous
Sombra Shadow 3 receivers at the
Toledo Show. Don’t miss a chance to visit
them.
DJ Aerotech: Don Stackhouse and Joe
Hahn have probably taught more people
about Electrics and aerodynamics than any
others using the online forums. They are
knowledgeable and patient, but they will
also convince you that Roadkill isn’t just
for breakfast anymore. That is their line of
indoor/backyard models that have proven
themselves to be exceptional fliers.
This company carries everything you
need to get your craft into the air and be
successful the first time. This is a mustvisit
booth.
Hobby Lobby: You have to stop by and
see the incredible number of products this
company brings to the show. It sells out of
the most popular items early, so be sure to
buy it when you see it or you may be
disappointed on Sunday. Hobby Lobby
sponsors the electric-flight symposiums
every year.
Northeast Sailplane Products: Sal and
his crew display an incredible array of
products at their booth, where you can
touch and feel most of the items you read
about in the magazines. Sales are brisk and
prices will be greatly reduced for show
specials. You can save a great deal of
shipping cost by buying your large kits at
the show.
Du-Bro: This company has introduced
many new products for the electric-power
flier in the last few years, from micro
control systems to control clevises and
horns. This year Du-Bro has released a line
of servo arms that solve the problem of
supplied arms that are too short for many
applications. Check out the new micro
servo mounts while you’re in Toledo.
The Big Boys: Horizon Hobby and Great
Planes Model Distributors set up huge
booths with all their products on display.
They don’t sell anything at the show, but
all the information is there and other
dealers will have their products. Sales reps
will be available to take questions.
Magazines: All publications will be there,
along with their editors and most of the
columnists. It’s a great chance to give
face-to-face feedback and get subscription
deals.
AMA: The Academy has a great booth
every year with all sorts of products. The
best part is that you can see your elected
officials and speak with them. They’re a
captive audience and ready for your input;
take advantage of it!
Cautions and Warnings:
• Batteries: Every battery manufacturer
will be represented. Stay with brands you
know and have seen reviewed and
discussed in magazines or on online
forums. Unlabeled packs and cells may
look like a deal, but you don’t know what
you’re buying.
• Swap shop: This is a cool place to visit
upstairs, and there are many great deals
to be had. Remember that swap shops
have everything from treasures to trash.
Final Approach: There isn’t enough space
to mention everyone I’d like to, and I
apologize to those I’ve missed. I only
covered those I’ve dealt with for Electrics;
there are tons of others who have gas and
glow supplies. If you decide to go to
Toledo this year you won’t regret it, and I
hope to see you there. MA
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