Product Spotlight
New products that are Worth a Closer Look
PROTECT YOUR TRANSMITTER
Although a transmitter case isn’t as exciting as the shiny new radio housed inside, the peace of mind it provides is worth the price of admission. The ProTek RC Universal Radio Case uses a unique approach by offering replaceable, high-density foam inserts that allow it to accommodate a variety of transmitters on the market for air and surface use. Supported brands include:
- Airtronics
- Spektrum
- KO Propo
- Futaba
- JR
The case features a tough aluminum shell with reinforced corners, locking latches, and the previously mentioned foam-lined interior—all designed to withstand the potential punishment and abuse that occurs during transportation.
Because the Spektrum DX9 reviewed in this issue didn’t include a case, it was a good opportunity to try the ProTek case. We chose the proper insert from the 18 currently available when we ordered the case. There was no need to cut or break away foam for a secure fit. Six precut storage areas are handy for storing the charger, neck strap, extra receiver, etc. Another nice feature is that the transmitter rests on foam padding, not the bottom of the case, so it is padded on all sides.
Pricing:
- ProTek RC Universal Radio Case: $49.99
- Each insert: $14.99
This is a good investment for those looking for a quality case that can accommodate their current radio, and likely any future ones.
A Main Hobbies: 424 Otterson Dr., Ste. 160, Chico, CA 95928; Tel.: (800) 705-2215; website: www.amainhobbies.com
HELI-MAX 1SQ V-CAM
MA contributor Terry Dunn helped us with the review of the Heli-Max 1SQ V-Cam Quadcopter from Hobbico. Here is what he had to say:
The biggest and most obvious thing that differentiates the 1SQ V‑Cam from the standard 1SQ is stated in the name. The V‑Cam features a remotely operated camera that is capable of taking still photos or videos. The files are saved to a 2 GB microSD card, which is included along with a USB card reader.
Other included items and features:
- LEDs on each corner of the airframe (white in front, red in back) for improved visual orientation in low light
- Single-cell 250 mAh LiPo battery
- USB charger
- Full set of spare propellers
From a weight standpoint, the V‑Cam model is 6.5 grams heavier than the original model’s flying weight—a 19% increase. That’s impressive given that the increase represents the addition of an actual video camera.
This little quadcopter has attitude stabilization that does much of the hard work. Get the model a few feet off the ground into some clean air and you’ll see how forgiving it is. RC rookies were able to grasp basic flying within a few minutes. The V‑Cam is durable: it has been flown into trees and bumped off curbs multiple times. A particularly rough hit might break a propeller, but those are sacrificial parts; the V‑Cam generally keeps on flying.
If you have a reasonable-size field, you can fly the 1SQ V‑Cam with relative impunity. The quadcopter is so lightweight that even a freefall to the grass is unlikely to cause damage. It handles double-digit winds admirably; just make sure gusts don’t carry it away.
Camera performance and tips:
- The camera is marketed as “high-definition,” but don’t expect cinema-quality footage. The small lens needs plenty of light.
- Best indoor results come with all lights turned on.
- Smooth flying yields better video and clearer photos—be gentle on the sticks.
- The camera lens can be tilted for different perspectives.
- Outdoor shooting is more challenging: mornings with gentle winds and soft light are best. Bright midday sun can overwhelm the camera, and too much wind produces shaky video.
- The camera’s focal length seems to be approximately 3 feet, so distant objects can be fuzzy.
Performance tradeoffs:
- The pendulum effect of the underslung camera makes for a more stable platform, though the V‑Cam is not quite as nimble as the standard 1SQ.
- Flight time averages about 5–6 minutes per charge with the V‑Cam, roughly 2 minutes less than the standard 1SQ.
The original 1SQ is a fun little machine. Adding a micro camera amplifies the fun factor another notch. Even if you've never owned a quadcopter before, the 1SQ V‑Cam will ease you into this new genre of flying.
Read the full review and see all the photos online at www.ModelAviation.com/helimaxvcam.
Hobbico: 3002 N. Apollo Dr., Suite 1, Champaign, IL 61822; Tel. (800) 637-7660; website: www.helimax-rc.com
Transcribed from original scans by AI. Minor OCR errors may remain.
