built-in hand grips was obviously not something they valued. It is
9.375 inches across the face.
However, the ergonomic issue is easy to overlook if you fly
large and/or complex Scale gliders. Having the flexibility to
program 12 channels anyway you can imagine is well worth it for
these models.
The Royal Evo line for transmitters is Multiplex’s latest
offering. It is available in nine- and 12-channel versions. Singlefrequency
and synthesized versions are available. I bought an Evo
12 synthesized transmitter and have been using it for most of my
flying this season.
The Evo is an evolution of the Profi.
Much-improved ergonomics for handholding
are evident. The Evo transmitter is
7.5 inches wide. It weighs 33 ounces
compared to the Profi 4000’s 51 ounces.
For reference, the Airtronics Stylus weighs
45 ounces. The lower part of the Evo
transmitter is sculpted with comfortable
handgrips. The LCD display has adjustable
tilt and contrast.
The Evo’s antenna can collapse into the
case, extend straight out, or extend out
angling up and to the left. The latter option
is shown. Why would someone want to
make his or her antenna angle up and to the
side? These types of antennas are most
efficient when they are perpendicular to the
line of sight between the airplane and the
transmitter.
Often, ignorant pilots fly with the
transmitter antenna pointed right at the
model. Doing so gives it the weakest
possible transmitter signal. The Evo’s offset
option helps eliminate this phenomenon.
How easy is the Evo to program? I don’t
November 2004 89
Mike Garton, 2733 NE 95th Ave., Ankeny IA 50021; E-mail: [email protected]
RADIO CONTROL SOARING
THIS MONTH’S THEME is electronic
components for large gliders. I’ll compare
several high-end transmitters, including the
new Multiplex Royal Evo 12-channel
synthesized transmitter, the Profi 4000, and
the Stylus. I’ll also provide information
about the Multiplex 12-channel IPD receiver
and the ElectroDynamics amplified optoisolator
for long servo leads.
Requirements: Unlimited gliders typically
have “full-house” controls, meaning six
servos with rudder, elevator, two ailerons,
and two flaps. Using a computer radio
allows the pilot to create complex control
mixes. These often include camber (all four
wing servos change their neutral position
together), crow (flaps down and ailerons up
for landing), and snap-flap (moderate
amounts of up-elevator produce small
amounts of down-camber). Aileron-torudder
coupling and inboard flaperons (flaps
deflect as additional ailerons) are also
common.
Some of the larger Unlimited and Scale
gliders are yet more complex, with three flaperons per wing side.
Scale sailplanes have a nose release for aerotowing. When retracts
and spoilers are added, it pushes the limits of most RC transmitters.
For years, the Multiplex Profi 4000 has been the king of highend
transmitters. It has 12 fully proportional channels, all of which
are equal resolution, speed, and flexibility. This transmitter has as
many as 99 model memories.
The Profi design’s biggest imperfection is its lack of emphasis
on ergonomics. The Germans use “cocktail trays” to hold their
transmitters with neck straps. Keeping the transmitter small with
High-end transmitters benefit large Scale gliders. They often have retractable gear,
aerotow release, flaps, ailerons, rudder, elevator, and sometimes spoilers.
Cole (front), Max Garton and dad’s 3.7-meter Sharon. It has six control surfaces on wing
TE. Wing surfaces act as flaperons with varying amounts of mix from controls.
Although the Multiplex Profi 4000’s case is ergonomically
lacking, its internal hardware and software are amazing.
Royal Evo 12 synthesized (L) has most Profi 4000 features in
ergonomic case. Airtronics Stylus (R) is shown for comparison.
A couple more goodies for large gliders: Multiplex’s 12-channel
receiver (left) and ElectroDynamics’ Pow’R Bus Pro.
think the word “easy” fits very well, but I do like it better than the
Profi 4000 and the Stylus. Templates are already in the memory for
the common cases. The Evo software gets high marks for its
consistency and its layout. A user can quickly get to a menu by
pressing its button on the face of the transmitter.
By consistency, I mean that you can function well after learning
a simple system or process. As an analogy, consider towns that are
laid out in a grid with logically numbered streets. These towns are
much easier to navigate than those with skewed streets with
unrelated names. In RC-transmitter software and city layouts,
consistency minimizes the need for memorization.
I was uncomfortable with Evo programming until I read Joedy
Drulia’s excellent Evo tutorial. It is available free online in Adobe
pdf format. There is a link from the
Multiplex Web site. You can print the
document out if you choose.
The Evo comes with a manual in the
box, but the tutorial from the Internet is a
great addition. It was 100 pages when I read
it last; it has been growing with time. The
illustrations in the document are awesome.
There is a flowchart that tells you what to
do and in what order.
Even more icing on the cake is the
tutorial’s glider-specific instructions. There
are chapters on “programming full house
sailplanes” and “programming electric RES
sailplanes.” Specific examples show how to
program selectable crow (butterfly)
breaking, a discus-launch momentary
preset, and other advanced glider-related
features.
With the tutorial in hand, the Evo’s
learning curve wasn’t nearly as steep as it
was for the Profi 4000 or the Stylus.
While using the Evo, I fell in love with
the digital trims and their display in the
LCD. I can look down at the transmitter and
immediately tell the state of the four
primary trims (graphically on the LCD).
When I quit flying a model for the day, I
do not need to worry about positions of
mechanical trims; I just turn it off or change
model memories. The next time I come
back to the program for that sailplane, the
trims will be right where I left them.
Another neat trim feature is the audiblefeedback
option. It can beep with each
click. The tone is different when you cross
the center point. With the beep option
turned on, you can center the digital trim
while flying without looking at the
transmitter.
The Profi and the Evo have cases that
are easy to open without tools. You just
push two spring-loaded buttons on the top
to unlock and open the case. The Evo has
many more cool design features that I do
not have space to elaborate on here. I think
the Evo 12 is the best high-end radio
available for gliders. It can handle thermalduration-
style models and complex Scale
sailplanes with ease.
The Evo cannot do everything the Profi
can, but it can do most of it. The 13-point
curves in the Profi have been replaced with
five-point curves in the Evo. The Evo
hardware (switches and levers) is less
expandable. Pilots who fly something
complex and would like the ultimate in
hardware and software flexibility should
still consider the Profi.
In comparison, the Airtronics Stylus
transmitter with glider card seems tailored
specifically for American thermal-durationstyle
flying. Although it has eight channels,
the most complex templates are really
geared toward models with four wing
servos. Controlling two tail servos plus six
wing servos independently is not an option.
You can use a Y harness in the airplane
to make the inboard flaps operate together.
It is easy to accommodate a tow release
and/or retracts. The Stylus programs are
great for gliders with as many as six total
(four wing) control surfaces and an extra
binary function or two, but they are lacking
if your glider is more complex.
In large sailplanes, it is usually easiest to
mount servos extremely close to the control
surfaces. This minimizes the weight and
slop of the control linkage. Aileron leads,
for example, usually approach half the
wingspan in length, which can be 2-3
meters. The long wires create a couple of
their own problems, the first of which is
voltage drop. The second is that the wires
can function as an antenna that feeds
unwanted radio noise back into the receiver.
One little black box can solve both of these
issues.
The Pow’R Bus Pro from ElectroDynamics
uses separate power busses to isolate servo
noise and loads from the receiver. The
receiver can use its own battery. The servos
can use a larger, higher-voltage battery. The
servo signal is transferred to an optical
signal to cross over onto the other power
circuit. It is then converted back into a
normal signal and amplified before it leaves
the black box.
The box can isolate as many as six
channels. (Choose the ones with the
longest leads.) They also provide a
socket for expansion if you need to
isolate more servos. At roughly $80
retail, the Pow’R Bus Pro is relatively
cheap insurance for a large, expensive glider.
A 12-channel transmitter cannot be
fully utilized without a 12-channel
receiver. The Multiplex 12-channel IPD
receiver is shown in one of the photos. It
has built-in capability for redundant
batteries. You can use one four- to six-
cell pack or two five-cell packs.
If a large-scale glider has a multithousand-
dollar replacement cost, a
redundant battery on the receiver is
probably worth it. The funny servo
connector with a single wire loop in the
picture is a jumper to select battery
configuration.
Quoting from the Web site, “The IPD
circuit provides ‘Intelligent Processing’ to
filter out unwanted signals and assures
crystal clear, glitch free reception.” In
layman’s terms, the receiver will ignore
interference, assuming that the
interference does not look like a valid
signal.
This technique has proven to be
extremely effective at reducing glitches.
The receiver also has a fail-safe mode.
You can program the receiver to lower
your flaps and turn gently if it has not
received a valid signal for the last 0.5
second. MA
Sources:
Multiplex (distributed exclusively in North
America by Hitec RCD)
www.multiplexusa.com/
Airtronics
www.airtronics.net/
ElectroDynamics
www.electrodynam.com/
Edition: Model Aviation - 2004/11
Page Numbers: 89,90,92,94
Edition: Model Aviation - 2004/11
Page Numbers: 89,90,92,94
built-in hand grips was obviously not something they valued. It is
9.375 inches across the face.
However, the ergonomic issue is easy to overlook if you fly
large and/or complex Scale gliders. Having the flexibility to
program 12 channels anyway you can imagine is well worth it for
these models.
The Royal Evo line for transmitters is Multiplex’s latest
offering. It is available in nine- and 12-channel versions. Singlefrequency
and synthesized versions are available. I bought an Evo
12 synthesized transmitter and have been using it for most of my
flying this season.
The Evo is an evolution of the Profi.
Much-improved ergonomics for handholding
are evident. The Evo transmitter is
7.5 inches wide. It weighs 33 ounces
compared to the Profi 4000’s 51 ounces.
For reference, the Airtronics Stylus weighs
45 ounces. The lower part of the Evo
transmitter is sculpted with comfortable
handgrips. The LCD display has adjustable
tilt and contrast.
The Evo’s antenna can collapse into the
case, extend straight out, or extend out
angling up and to the left. The latter option
is shown. Why would someone want to
make his or her antenna angle up and to the
side? These types of antennas are most
efficient when they are perpendicular to the
line of sight between the airplane and the
transmitter.
Often, ignorant pilots fly with the
transmitter antenna pointed right at the
model. Doing so gives it the weakest
possible transmitter signal. The Evo’s offset
option helps eliminate this phenomenon.
How easy is the Evo to program? I don’t
November 2004 89
Mike Garton, 2733 NE 95th Ave., Ankeny IA 50021; E-mail: [email protected]
RADIO CONTROL SOARING
THIS MONTH’S THEME is electronic
components for large gliders. I’ll compare
several high-end transmitters, including the
new Multiplex Royal Evo 12-channel
synthesized transmitter, the Profi 4000, and
the Stylus. I’ll also provide information
about the Multiplex 12-channel IPD receiver
and the ElectroDynamics amplified optoisolator
for long servo leads.
Requirements: Unlimited gliders typically
have “full-house” controls, meaning six
servos with rudder, elevator, two ailerons,
and two flaps. Using a computer radio
allows the pilot to create complex control
mixes. These often include camber (all four
wing servos change their neutral position
together), crow (flaps down and ailerons up
for landing), and snap-flap (moderate
amounts of up-elevator produce small
amounts of down-camber). Aileron-torudder
coupling and inboard flaperons (flaps
deflect as additional ailerons) are also
common.
Some of the larger Unlimited and Scale
gliders are yet more complex, with three flaperons per wing side.
Scale sailplanes have a nose release for aerotowing. When retracts
and spoilers are added, it pushes the limits of most RC transmitters.
For years, the Multiplex Profi 4000 has been the king of highend
transmitters. It has 12 fully proportional channels, all of which
are equal resolution, speed, and flexibility. This transmitter has as
many as 99 model memories.
The Profi design’s biggest imperfection is its lack of emphasis
on ergonomics. The Germans use “cocktail trays” to hold their
transmitters with neck straps. Keeping the transmitter small with
High-end transmitters benefit large Scale gliders. They often have retractable gear,
aerotow release, flaps, ailerons, rudder, elevator, and sometimes spoilers.
Cole (front), Max Garton and dad’s 3.7-meter Sharon. It has six control surfaces on wing
TE. Wing surfaces act as flaperons with varying amounts of mix from controls.
Although the Multiplex Profi 4000’s case is ergonomically
lacking, its internal hardware and software are amazing.
Royal Evo 12 synthesized (L) has most Profi 4000 features in
ergonomic case. Airtronics Stylus (R) is shown for comparison.
A couple more goodies for large gliders: Multiplex’s 12-channel
receiver (left) and ElectroDynamics’ Pow’R Bus Pro.
think the word “easy” fits very well, but I do like it better than the
Profi 4000 and the Stylus. Templates are already in the memory for
the common cases. The Evo software gets high marks for its
consistency and its layout. A user can quickly get to a menu by
pressing its button on the face of the transmitter.
By consistency, I mean that you can function well after learning
a simple system or process. As an analogy, consider towns that are
laid out in a grid with logically numbered streets. These towns are
much easier to navigate than those with skewed streets with
unrelated names. In RC-transmitter software and city layouts,
consistency minimizes the need for memorization.
I was uncomfortable with Evo programming until I read Joedy
Drulia’s excellent Evo tutorial. It is available free online in Adobe
pdf format. There is a link from the
Multiplex Web site. You can print the
document out if you choose.
The Evo comes with a manual in the
box, but the tutorial from the Internet is a
great addition. It was 100 pages when I read
it last; it has been growing with time. The
illustrations in the document are awesome.
There is a flowchart that tells you what to
do and in what order.
Even more icing on the cake is the
tutorial’s glider-specific instructions. There
are chapters on “programming full house
sailplanes” and “programming electric RES
sailplanes.” Specific examples show how to
program selectable crow (butterfly)
breaking, a discus-launch momentary
preset, and other advanced glider-related
features.
With the tutorial in hand, the Evo’s
learning curve wasn’t nearly as steep as it
was for the Profi 4000 or the Stylus.
While using the Evo, I fell in love with
the digital trims and their display in the
LCD. I can look down at the transmitter and
immediately tell the state of the four
primary trims (graphically on the LCD).
When I quit flying a model for the day, I
do not need to worry about positions of
mechanical trims; I just turn it off or change
model memories. The next time I come
back to the program for that sailplane, the
trims will be right where I left them.
Another neat trim feature is the audiblefeedback
option. It can beep with each
click. The tone is different when you cross
the center point. With the beep option
turned on, you can center the digital trim
while flying without looking at the
transmitter.
The Profi and the Evo have cases that
are easy to open without tools. You just
push two spring-loaded buttons on the top
to unlock and open the case. The Evo has
many more cool design features that I do
not have space to elaborate on here. I think
the Evo 12 is the best high-end radio
available for gliders. It can handle thermalduration-
style models and complex Scale
sailplanes with ease.
The Evo cannot do everything the Profi
can, but it can do most of it. The 13-point
curves in the Profi have been replaced with
five-point curves in the Evo. The Evo
hardware (switches and levers) is less
expandable. Pilots who fly something
complex and would like the ultimate in
hardware and software flexibility should
still consider the Profi.
In comparison, the Airtronics Stylus
transmitter with glider card seems tailored
specifically for American thermal-durationstyle
flying. Although it has eight channels,
the most complex templates are really
geared toward models with four wing
servos. Controlling two tail servos plus six
wing servos independently is not an option.
You can use a Y harness in the airplane
to make the inboard flaps operate together.
It is easy to accommodate a tow release
and/or retracts. The Stylus programs are
great for gliders with as many as six total
(four wing) control surfaces and an extra
binary function or two, but they are lacking
if your glider is more complex.
In large sailplanes, it is usually easiest to
mount servos extremely close to the control
surfaces. This minimizes the weight and
slop of the control linkage. Aileron leads,
for example, usually approach half the
wingspan in length, which can be 2-3
meters. The long wires create a couple of
their own problems, the first of which is
voltage drop. The second is that the wires
can function as an antenna that feeds
unwanted radio noise back into the receiver.
One little black box can solve both of these
issues.
The Pow’R Bus Pro from ElectroDynamics
uses separate power busses to isolate servo
noise and loads from the receiver. The
receiver can use its own battery. The servos
can use a larger, higher-voltage battery. The
servo signal is transferred to an optical
signal to cross over onto the other power
circuit. It is then converted back into a
normal signal and amplified before it leaves
the black box.
The box can isolate as many as six
channels. (Choose the ones with the
longest leads.) They also provide a
socket for expansion if you need to
isolate more servos. At roughly $80
retail, the Pow’R Bus Pro is relatively
cheap insurance for a large, expensive glider.
A 12-channel transmitter cannot be
fully utilized without a 12-channel
receiver. The Multiplex 12-channel IPD
receiver is shown in one of the photos. It
has built-in capability for redundant
batteries. You can use one four- to six-
cell pack or two five-cell packs.
If a large-scale glider has a multithousand-
dollar replacement cost, a
redundant battery on the receiver is
probably worth it. The funny servo
connector with a single wire loop in the
picture is a jumper to select battery
configuration.
Quoting from the Web site, “The IPD
circuit provides ‘Intelligent Processing’ to
filter out unwanted signals and assures
crystal clear, glitch free reception.” In
layman’s terms, the receiver will ignore
interference, assuming that the
interference does not look like a valid
signal.
This technique has proven to be
extremely effective at reducing glitches.
The receiver also has a fail-safe mode.
You can program the receiver to lower
your flaps and turn gently if it has not
received a valid signal for the last 0.5
second. MA
Sources:
Multiplex (distributed exclusively in North
America by Hitec RCD)
www.multiplexusa.com/
Airtronics
www.airtronics.net/
ElectroDynamics
www.electrodynam.com/
Edition: Model Aviation - 2004/11
Page Numbers: 89,90,92,94
built-in hand grips was obviously not something they valued. It is
9.375 inches across the face.
However, the ergonomic issue is easy to overlook if you fly
large and/or complex Scale gliders. Having the flexibility to
program 12 channels anyway you can imagine is well worth it for
these models.
The Royal Evo line for transmitters is Multiplex’s latest
offering. It is available in nine- and 12-channel versions. Singlefrequency
and synthesized versions are available. I bought an Evo
12 synthesized transmitter and have been using it for most of my
flying this season.
The Evo is an evolution of the Profi.
Much-improved ergonomics for handholding
are evident. The Evo transmitter is
7.5 inches wide. It weighs 33 ounces
compared to the Profi 4000’s 51 ounces.
For reference, the Airtronics Stylus weighs
45 ounces. The lower part of the Evo
transmitter is sculpted with comfortable
handgrips. The LCD display has adjustable
tilt and contrast.
The Evo’s antenna can collapse into the
case, extend straight out, or extend out
angling up and to the left. The latter option
is shown. Why would someone want to
make his or her antenna angle up and to the
side? These types of antennas are most
efficient when they are perpendicular to the
line of sight between the airplane and the
transmitter.
Often, ignorant pilots fly with the
transmitter antenna pointed right at the
model. Doing so gives it the weakest
possible transmitter signal. The Evo’s offset
option helps eliminate this phenomenon.
How easy is the Evo to program? I don’t
November 2004 89
Mike Garton, 2733 NE 95th Ave., Ankeny IA 50021; E-mail: [email protected]
RADIO CONTROL SOARING
THIS MONTH’S THEME is electronic
components for large gliders. I’ll compare
several high-end transmitters, including the
new Multiplex Royal Evo 12-channel
synthesized transmitter, the Profi 4000, and
the Stylus. I’ll also provide information
about the Multiplex 12-channel IPD receiver
and the ElectroDynamics amplified optoisolator
for long servo leads.
Requirements: Unlimited gliders typically
have “full-house” controls, meaning six
servos with rudder, elevator, two ailerons,
and two flaps. Using a computer radio
allows the pilot to create complex control
mixes. These often include camber (all four
wing servos change their neutral position
together), crow (flaps down and ailerons up
for landing), and snap-flap (moderate
amounts of up-elevator produce small
amounts of down-camber). Aileron-torudder
coupling and inboard flaperons (flaps
deflect as additional ailerons) are also
common.
Some of the larger Unlimited and Scale
gliders are yet more complex, with three flaperons per wing side.
Scale sailplanes have a nose release for aerotowing. When retracts
and spoilers are added, it pushes the limits of most RC transmitters.
For years, the Multiplex Profi 4000 has been the king of highend
transmitters. It has 12 fully proportional channels, all of which
are equal resolution, speed, and flexibility. This transmitter has as
many as 99 model memories.
The Profi design’s biggest imperfection is its lack of emphasis
on ergonomics. The Germans use “cocktail trays” to hold their
transmitters with neck straps. Keeping the transmitter small with
High-end transmitters benefit large Scale gliders. They often have retractable gear,
aerotow release, flaps, ailerons, rudder, elevator, and sometimes spoilers.
Cole (front), Max Garton and dad’s 3.7-meter Sharon. It has six control surfaces on wing
TE. Wing surfaces act as flaperons with varying amounts of mix from controls.
Although the Multiplex Profi 4000’s case is ergonomically
lacking, its internal hardware and software are amazing.
Royal Evo 12 synthesized (L) has most Profi 4000 features in
ergonomic case. Airtronics Stylus (R) is shown for comparison.
A couple more goodies for large gliders: Multiplex’s 12-channel
receiver (left) and ElectroDynamics’ Pow’R Bus Pro.
think the word “easy” fits very well, but I do like it better than the
Profi 4000 and the Stylus. Templates are already in the memory for
the common cases. The Evo software gets high marks for its
consistency and its layout. A user can quickly get to a menu by
pressing its button on the face of the transmitter.
By consistency, I mean that you can function well after learning
a simple system or process. As an analogy, consider towns that are
laid out in a grid with logically numbered streets. These towns are
much easier to navigate than those with skewed streets with
unrelated names. In RC-transmitter software and city layouts,
consistency minimizes the need for memorization.
I was uncomfortable with Evo programming until I read Joedy
Drulia’s excellent Evo tutorial. It is available free online in Adobe
pdf format. There is a link from the
Multiplex Web site. You can print the
document out if you choose.
The Evo comes with a manual in the
box, but the tutorial from the Internet is a
great addition. It was 100 pages when I read
it last; it has been growing with time. The
illustrations in the document are awesome.
There is a flowchart that tells you what to
do and in what order.
Even more icing on the cake is the
tutorial’s glider-specific instructions. There
are chapters on “programming full house
sailplanes” and “programming electric RES
sailplanes.” Specific examples show how to
program selectable crow (butterfly)
breaking, a discus-launch momentary
preset, and other advanced glider-related
features.
With the tutorial in hand, the Evo’s
learning curve wasn’t nearly as steep as it
was for the Profi 4000 or the Stylus.
While using the Evo, I fell in love with
the digital trims and their display in the
LCD. I can look down at the transmitter and
immediately tell the state of the four
primary trims (graphically on the LCD).
When I quit flying a model for the day, I
do not need to worry about positions of
mechanical trims; I just turn it off or change
model memories. The next time I come
back to the program for that sailplane, the
trims will be right where I left them.
Another neat trim feature is the audiblefeedback
option. It can beep with each
click. The tone is different when you cross
the center point. With the beep option
turned on, you can center the digital trim
while flying without looking at the
transmitter.
The Profi and the Evo have cases that
are easy to open without tools. You just
push two spring-loaded buttons on the top
to unlock and open the case. The Evo has
many more cool design features that I do
not have space to elaborate on here. I think
the Evo 12 is the best high-end radio
available for gliders. It can handle thermalduration-
style models and complex Scale
sailplanes with ease.
The Evo cannot do everything the Profi
can, but it can do most of it. The 13-point
curves in the Profi have been replaced with
five-point curves in the Evo. The Evo
hardware (switches and levers) is less
expandable. Pilots who fly something
complex and would like the ultimate in
hardware and software flexibility should
still consider the Profi.
In comparison, the Airtronics Stylus
transmitter with glider card seems tailored
specifically for American thermal-durationstyle
flying. Although it has eight channels,
the most complex templates are really
geared toward models with four wing
servos. Controlling two tail servos plus six
wing servos independently is not an option.
You can use a Y harness in the airplane
to make the inboard flaps operate together.
It is easy to accommodate a tow release
and/or retracts. The Stylus programs are
great for gliders with as many as six total
(four wing) control surfaces and an extra
binary function or two, but they are lacking
if your glider is more complex.
In large sailplanes, it is usually easiest to
mount servos extremely close to the control
surfaces. This minimizes the weight and
slop of the control linkage. Aileron leads,
for example, usually approach half the
wingspan in length, which can be 2-3
meters. The long wires create a couple of
their own problems, the first of which is
voltage drop. The second is that the wires
can function as an antenna that feeds
unwanted radio noise back into the receiver.
One little black box can solve both of these
issues.
The Pow’R Bus Pro from ElectroDynamics
uses separate power busses to isolate servo
noise and loads from the receiver. The
receiver can use its own battery. The servos
can use a larger, higher-voltage battery. The
servo signal is transferred to an optical
signal to cross over onto the other power
circuit. It is then converted back into a
normal signal and amplified before it leaves
the black box.
The box can isolate as many as six
channels. (Choose the ones with the
longest leads.) They also provide a
socket for expansion if you need to
isolate more servos. At roughly $80
retail, the Pow’R Bus Pro is relatively
cheap insurance for a large, expensive glider.
A 12-channel transmitter cannot be
fully utilized without a 12-channel
receiver. The Multiplex 12-channel IPD
receiver is shown in one of the photos. It
has built-in capability for redundant
batteries. You can use one four- to six-
cell pack or two five-cell packs.
If a large-scale glider has a multithousand-
dollar replacement cost, a
redundant battery on the receiver is
probably worth it. The funny servo
connector with a single wire loop in the
picture is a jumper to select battery
configuration.
Quoting from the Web site, “The IPD
circuit provides ‘Intelligent Processing’ to
filter out unwanted signals and assures
crystal clear, glitch free reception.” In
layman’s terms, the receiver will ignore
interference, assuming that the
interference does not look like a valid
signal.
This technique has proven to be
extremely effective at reducing glitches.
The receiver also has a fail-safe mode.
You can program the receiver to lower
your flaps and turn gently if it has not
received a valid signal for the last 0.5
second. MA
Sources:
Multiplex (distributed exclusively in North
America by Hitec RCD)
www.multiplexusa.com/
Airtronics
www.airtronics.net/
ElectroDynamics
www.electrodynam.com/
Edition: Model Aviation - 2004/11
Page Numbers: 89,90,92,94
built-in hand grips was obviously not something they valued. It is
9.375 inches across the face.
However, the ergonomic issue is easy to overlook if you fly
large and/or complex Scale gliders. Having the flexibility to
program 12 channels anyway you can imagine is well worth it for
these models.
The Royal Evo line for transmitters is Multiplex’s latest
offering. It is available in nine- and 12-channel versions. Singlefrequency
and synthesized versions are available. I bought an Evo
12 synthesized transmitter and have been using it for most of my
flying this season.
The Evo is an evolution of the Profi.
Much-improved ergonomics for handholding
are evident. The Evo transmitter is
7.5 inches wide. It weighs 33 ounces
compared to the Profi 4000’s 51 ounces.
For reference, the Airtronics Stylus weighs
45 ounces. The lower part of the Evo
transmitter is sculpted with comfortable
handgrips. The LCD display has adjustable
tilt and contrast.
The Evo’s antenna can collapse into the
case, extend straight out, or extend out
angling up and to the left. The latter option
is shown. Why would someone want to
make his or her antenna angle up and to the
side? These types of antennas are most
efficient when they are perpendicular to the
line of sight between the airplane and the
transmitter.
Often, ignorant pilots fly with the
transmitter antenna pointed right at the
model. Doing so gives it the weakest
possible transmitter signal. The Evo’s offset
option helps eliminate this phenomenon.
How easy is the Evo to program? I don’t
November 2004 89
Mike Garton, 2733 NE 95th Ave., Ankeny IA 50021; E-mail: [email protected]
RADIO CONTROL SOARING
THIS MONTH’S THEME is electronic
components for large gliders. I’ll compare
several high-end transmitters, including the
new Multiplex Royal Evo 12-channel
synthesized transmitter, the Profi 4000, and
the Stylus. I’ll also provide information
about the Multiplex 12-channel IPD receiver
and the ElectroDynamics amplified optoisolator
for long servo leads.
Requirements: Unlimited gliders typically
have “full-house” controls, meaning six
servos with rudder, elevator, two ailerons,
and two flaps. Using a computer radio
allows the pilot to create complex control
mixes. These often include camber (all four
wing servos change their neutral position
together), crow (flaps down and ailerons up
for landing), and snap-flap (moderate
amounts of up-elevator produce small
amounts of down-camber). Aileron-torudder
coupling and inboard flaperons (flaps
deflect as additional ailerons) are also
common.
Some of the larger Unlimited and Scale
gliders are yet more complex, with three flaperons per wing side.
Scale sailplanes have a nose release for aerotowing. When retracts
and spoilers are added, it pushes the limits of most RC transmitters.
For years, the Multiplex Profi 4000 has been the king of highend
transmitters. It has 12 fully proportional channels, all of which
are equal resolution, speed, and flexibility. This transmitter has as
many as 99 model memories.
The Profi design’s biggest imperfection is its lack of emphasis
on ergonomics. The Germans use “cocktail trays” to hold their
transmitters with neck straps. Keeping the transmitter small with
High-end transmitters benefit large Scale gliders. They often have retractable gear,
aerotow release, flaps, ailerons, rudder, elevator, and sometimes spoilers.
Cole (front), Max Garton and dad’s 3.7-meter Sharon. It has six control surfaces on wing
TE. Wing surfaces act as flaperons with varying amounts of mix from controls.
Although the Multiplex Profi 4000’s case is ergonomically
lacking, its internal hardware and software are amazing.
Royal Evo 12 synthesized (L) has most Profi 4000 features in
ergonomic case. Airtronics Stylus (R) is shown for comparison.
A couple more goodies for large gliders: Multiplex’s 12-channel
receiver (left) and ElectroDynamics’ Pow’R Bus Pro.
think the word “easy” fits very well, but I do like it better than the
Profi 4000 and the Stylus. Templates are already in the memory for
the common cases. The Evo software gets high marks for its
consistency and its layout. A user can quickly get to a menu by
pressing its button on the face of the transmitter.
By consistency, I mean that you can function well after learning
a simple system or process. As an analogy, consider towns that are
laid out in a grid with logically numbered streets. These towns are
much easier to navigate than those with skewed streets with
unrelated names. In RC-transmitter software and city layouts,
consistency minimizes the need for memorization.
I was uncomfortable with Evo programming until I read Joedy
Drulia’s excellent Evo tutorial. It is available free online in Adobe
pdf format. There is a link from the
Multiplex Web site. You can print the
document out if you choose.
The Evo comes with a manual in the
box, but the tutorial from the Internet is a
great addition. It was 100 pages when I read
it last; it has been growing with time. The
illustrations in the document are awesome.
There is a flowchart that tells you what to
do and in what order.
Even more icing on the cake is the
tutorial’s glider-specific instructions. There
are chapters on “programming full house
sailplanes” and “programming electric RES
sailplanes.” Specific examples show how to
program selectable crow (butterfly)
breaking, a discus-launch momentary
preset, and other advanced glider-related
features.
With the tutorial in hand, the Evo’s
learning curve wasn’t nearly as steep as it
was for the Profi 4000 or the Stylus.
While using the Evo, I fell in love with
the digital trims and their display in the
LCD. I can look down at the transmitter and
immediately tell the state of the four
primary trims (graphically on the LCD).
When I quit flying a model for the day, I
do not need to worry about positions of
mechanical trims; I just turn it off or change
model memories. The next time I come
back to the program for that sailplane, the
trims will be right where I left them.
Another neat trim feature is the audiblefeedback
option. It can beep with each
click. The tone is different when you cross
the center point. With the beep option
turned on, you can center the digital trim
while flying without looking at the
transmitter.
The Profi and the Evo have cases that
are easy to open without tools. You just
push two spring-loaded buttons on the top
to unlock and open the case. The Evo has
many more cool design features that I do
not have space to elaborate on here. I think
the Evo 12 is the best high-end radio
available for gliders. It can handle thermalduration-
style models and complex Scale
sailplanes with ease.
The Evo cannot do everything the Profi
can, but it can do most of it. The 13-point
curves in the Profi have been replaced with
five-point curves in the Evo. The Evo
hardware (switches and levers) is less
expandable. Pilots who fly something
complex and would like the ultimate in
hardware and software flexibility should
still consider the Profi.
In comparison, the Airtronics Stylus
transmitter with glider card seems tailored
specifically for American thermal-durationstyle
flying. Although it has eight channels,
the most complex templates are really
geared toward models with four wing
servos. Controlling two tail servos plus six
wing servos independently is not an option.
You can use a Y harness in the airplane
to make the inboard flaps operate together.
It is easy to accommodate a tow release
and/or retracts. The Stylus programs are
great for gliders with as many as six total
(four wing) control surfaces and an extra
binary function or two, but they are lacking
if your glider is more complex.
In large sailplanes, it is usually easiest to
mount servos extremely close to the control
surfaces. This minimizes the weight and
slop of the control linkage. Aileron leads,
for example, usually approach half the
wingspan in length, which can be 2-3
meters. The long wires create a couple of
their own problems, the first of which is
voltage drop. The second is that the wires
can function as an antenna that feeds
unwanted radio noise back into the receiver.
One little black box can solve both of these
issues.
The Pow’R Bus Pro from ElectroDynamics
uses separate power busses to isolate servo
noise and loads from the receiver. The
receiver can use its own battery. The servos
can use a larger, higher-voltage battery. The
servo signal is transferred to an optical
signal to cross over onto the other power
circuit. It is then converted back into a
normal signal and amplified before it leaves
the black box.
The box can isolate as many as six
channels. (Choose the ones with the
longest leads.) They also provide a
socket for expansion if you need to
isolate more servos. At roughly $80
retail, the Pow’R Bus Pro is relatively
cheap insurance for a large, expensive glider.
A 12-channel transmitter cannot be
fully utilized without a 12-channel
receiver. The Multiplex 12-channel IPD
receiver is shown in one of the photos. It
has built-in capability for redundant
batteries. You can use one four- to six-
cell pack or two five-cell packs.
If a large-scale glider has a multithousand-
dollar replacement cost, a
redundant battery on the receiver is
probably worth it. The funny servo
connector with a single wire loop in the
picture is a jumper to select battery
configuration.
Quoting from the Web site, “The IPD
circuit provides ‘Intelligent Processing’ to
filter out unwanted signals and assures
crystal clear, glitch free reception.” In
layman’s terms, the receiver will ignore
interference, assuming that the
interference does not look like a valid
signal.
This technique has proven to be
extremely effective at reducing glitches.
The receiver also has a fail-safe mode.
You can program the receiver to lower
your flaps and turn gently if it has not
received a valid signal for the last 0.5
second. MA
Sources:
Multiplex (distributed exclusively in North
America by Hitec RCD)
www.multiplexusa.com/
Airtronics
www.airtronics.net/
ElectroDynamics
www.electrodynam.com/