Radio Control: Electrics
THIS MONTH'S column shares new findings on the Sport Speed Control (SSC), follows up on recent product info, offers a circuit assembly aid, and continues the ongoing discussion for already-aeromodelers who would like to try E-power. This issue includes the final installment of the two-part Sport Speed Control article-a built-it-yourself project for E-modelers who have some electronic assembly experience. Developed during several years, the SSC is offered as a many-featured, but "robust" design; evidence supporting the latter is in data I've taken on SSC temperature behavior. Perhaps the most harsh application among my numerous SSCs is in an aerobatic Senior Skyvolt (see 2/99 column), wherein I have a 12-cell "15" geared installation, plus three midsize servos using the SSC BEC (Battery Eliminator Circuit) option.
Radio Control: Electrics
Skyvolt was presented as a construction article in the January 1990 Model Aviation and was subsequently kitted by Today's Hobbies. I still fly the original model occasionally. Skyvolt was intended as a mild-through-moderately-aerobatic "next step" Electric. I described it as a next choice for those folks who entered Electric with a simpler design such as the Mirage, PT Electric, Electra, etc. As presented, the 395 sq. in. Skyvolt used a NACA 2412 airfoil section, offered power system flexibility, steering for ground handling, a versatile motor mount system, and a somewhat-complex but very light and strong structure. The idea was to "fill in a gap" that existed in E-designs of the day.
All about Electrics
AEROMODELING is a wondrous hobby and sport. Take a look through the pages of this magazine and consider the large variety of specialized modeling interests. Too often we lose sight of the many forms that model building and flying can take: Free Flight, Radio Control, and Control Line; indoor and outdoor flying; rubber power, CO-2, gas engines; hand launching, and towline; duration, aerobatics, Scale, Helicopters, Combat, Old-Timers, and Pylon Racing. And on an on. All these varieties and combinations make up our wonderful matrix of modeling fun.
All about Electrics
LAST MONTH I highlighted many features and characteristics of electric power, noting advantages and disadvantages and showing a varity of electric-powered models. The broad range of applicability and the convenience and fun aspects of this relatively new form of model power were emphasized. So much for the convincing. Now, how does the modeler of average skill make it all happen? Let's start by getting to know more about electric motors. In a sense, knowledge about conventional gas power reciprocating engines often comes "more naturally." Many feel comfortable, if not familiar, with the family car and lawnmower engines. "Carburetor" is a word not unheard of at the dinner table. Not so with "commutator;" that's a bit more unfamiliar. The unknown can be a bit scary.
All about Electrics
THE FIRST INSTALLMENT of this series in the September issue described some pros and cons of electric-powered models, and last month we covered the motors we use. Some basic aspects of the motors were described, and many practical considerations were covered. Earlier, I asked you to have faith and read daringly onward. I remind you of this because I realize the subject of this part may appear both simple to some and strange to others. However, I think some of the upcoming information will be surprising and interesting to many-and perhaps a little confusing or difficult for others on their first reading. To still others, some of what follows may be downright boring and seem totally irrelevant; taken alone, it is.
