RADIO CONTROL SCALE AEROBATICS - 2001/05

a fRequenT question concerns the benefits of purchasing a
higher-end computer radio.
Medium- and higher-priced computer radios offer features that
can greatly enhance flight performance. The purpose of this month’s
column is to examine some features of better computer radios and
their application to Scale Aerobatics.
The majority of Scale Aerobatics airplanes are comparatively
simple: one engine, two elevators, two ailerons, and one rudder.
Smoke is about the only option.
Many designs (including Giant Scale) can be flown using a
lower-end four-channel analog radio. A lower-end radio will suffice
for a sport modeler who isn’t interested in expanded capabilities or
advanced setup, but there are a number of features on computer
radios that will literally change the “feel” and characteristics of
almost any Scale Aerobatic airplane.
Some features, such as exponential, have the same effect whether
the airplane is a P-51 Mustang or an Extra 300. Other features, such
as programmable mixing, may be used on a P-51, but for a different
purpose than on an Extra.

RADIO CONTROL SCALE AEROBATICS - 2001/03

i doubT that I would have difficulty finding
25 Scale Aerobatics modelers who agree that
lighter airplanes fly better. However, hidden
in that survey is the fact that there is no
consensus on what “lighter” actually means.
A few years ago, there were a number of
builders whose common goal was to build as
light as possible—lighter was better, period.
More recently, although building light is
still an important aspect of Scale Aerobatics
modeling, a new philosophy of optimum
weight has emerged—especially with the
larger Giant Scale airplanes.
A 25% airplane can’t be built too light.
Because of scaling effects, that doesn’t seem
to be true for some Giant Scale designs.
However, that doesn’t mean weight is not an
issue; weight is always an issue, and excess
should be avoided. As builders, we try to
recognize the difference between weight we
need (structure weight) and weight that is extra.
Lightening takes a bit of intuition,
engineering skills, and a healthy dose of
common sense. A $15 postal scale (available at
most office-supply stores) is a great help—
especially when making component selections.
The common-sense aspect is identifying
weight opportunities, while not
compromising the integrity of the airframe.
I watched a YS 1.20 literally fall off the
nose of a 1⁄4-scale Laser, because the builder
removed too much structure in his quest to
build “super light.” There are limits.
Recognize also that a couple ounces off
the tail may be a benefit, whereas the same
weight removed closer to the center of
gravity may not be.

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