RC avionics

Model Airplane News, Apr 2002 by Sharp, Debra

Every so often, a technological development comes along that either dramatically improves flight performance or makes our RC models more closely emulate their full-scale brethren. In my opinion, automated, electronic, onboard stabilization systems fulfill both areas of advancement, and they are among the best things that have happened to RC flying since the advent of digital proportional control. With an autopilot or piezo gyro installed, a model immediately becomes easier to fly; it's more controllable, less prone to wind gusts and easier to land. Onboard gyros and autopilots will benefit pilots of every skill level and are made for every model type, from backyard electrics to turbine-powered jets. For the latest in RC technology, see page 32.

For model airplane engines to run efficiently and deliver the most horsepower, they need to be operated at optimum temperatures. Some of the factors that affect this include oil and nitro content, prop size and cowl type. In this issue, engine expert Dave Gierke advises how to mix your own fuel, set your engine's needle valve and choose the right glow plug. What's the best operating temperature for a 2-stroke engine? Find out on page 76.

Biplane enthusiasts will appreciate senior tech editor Gerry Yarrish's basic biplane advice in his "Thinking Big" column this month. This primer shows you how to determine balance points, measure and set incidences and understand decalage angles, then offers advice on flying and explains how a biplane's increased lift and drag affect its flight characteristics.

Turn to page 110 to see how you can improve your biplane's looks with scale master Nick Ziroli's non-functional rigging and flying wires. Using Nick's simple approach, you'll be able to dress up your bipe in just a few hours.

This month's construction article features a seldom-modeled aircraft: the Siemens Schuckert D-III-arguably Germany's top WW I fighter. This model features a fully sheeted, circular fuselage that's easy to build using a removable center alignment tube. It's ideally suited to scale competition; in fact, author Dave Johnson plans to fly this beauty at Top Gun 2002.

We welcome your comments and suggestions as well as any building techniques or tips you'd like to share. Email us at man@airage.com, or write to us at Air Age Publishing, 100 East Ridge, Ridgefield, CT 06877-4606 USA. 4

VISIT OUR ONLINE COMMUNITY

The expanded Air Age Publishing bulletin boards at www.radicontrolzone.com are chock-full of information on building and flying RC model airplanes, with discussion forums devoted to model aerodynamics, sport models, sailplanes, park and backyard flyers and indoor RC, as well as an area to buy and sell RC equipment and models. It's a great place to share modeling experiences, ask questions and find answers; come visit us there.