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What remote control should I get for my Anabat?
That all depends on several factors. First of all, if you're a beginner, you'll want something simple and strong, and if you're experienced, you might want something light and versatile, but then again, if your budget allows, you could get this, and if not, that, and then there's mail order vs. store bought....
Looking for a suitable radio system for your Anabat can be daunting and frustrating task...but fear not! We've sorted out all the information and simplified the jargon so when you buy one, you can be confident that you are buying the right radio system to fit your needs.
I'm a beginner and I don't want to sink too much money into a new radio.
It's always a good idea to take it easy at first, especially since your first model will undoubtedly be handled roughly. We recommend the beginner to buy the bare minimum in a radio: a TWO channel system with two servos. When you hear or read the word "CHANNEL," it refers to the number of functions that radio has built in to it. For instance, a two channel radio can control two function, elevator and aileron, as in the case with the whole Anabat fleet. A three channel radio could control three functions, elevator, rudder, and aileron, and so on. When you hear or read the word "SERVO," it refers to the small device which controls the functions on board the plane. For Anabats, you'll need two, one for the elevator and one for the ailerons. Read the note on types of servos below.
Unless specifically stated otherwise, all two channel radio systems come with everything you need: the Transmitter (Tx) which you hold in your hand, and Receiver (RX) which goes in the airplane, an on/off switch which goes in the plane, servos, and a battery box which holds the alkeline batteries in the plane.
When you buy your radio, make sure it is not an R/C car or boat model. A two channel vehicle radio is usually shaped like a pistol and has a trigger for controling speed and a wheel for controling direction. A two channel airplane radio usually has two sticks: one that goes up and down for elevator control; and one that goes left and right for aileron control. A model car radio will NOT work in an airplane.
When you buy your radio, you'll have the option of getting it in several frequencies. 72 MHz radios are for airplane use only, you cannot use this radio in a model car or boat. 75 MHz radios are for surface models only, you cannot use them in an airplane. 27 MHz radios are legal for both surface models and airplanes, but it's recommended that this be reserved for surface models only. Also, you may notice that some radios are "AM" and others are "FM." Most two channel radios will be "AM" because it is less expensive. For your Anabat, get the "AM" and it'll work fine.
A note on SERVOS: when shopping for a radio, buy a system with STANDARD servos. These are medium sized, inexpensive servos that should last a lifetime in your Anabat. The alternative to standard servos are MINI or MICRO servos. These are roughly half and one-third the size of standard servos, but they are much more expensive, they become loose in the model, and they are more fragile than the standard servos. However, some people insist on having the lightest gear onboard, and if you're one of them, go ahead and get the minis or micros.
For a beginner's radio system as mentioned above, expect to pay between fifty to seventy dollars. There's more on how to find a good deal below.
I'm a beginner, and my budget is large.
If money isn't an option when shopping for your first radio, then we recommend a four channal radio, or better yet, a six channel computer radio. With the added channels, you could add rudder or flap control to your model, or you could mix two channels to make the ailerons also function as flaps or elevators, allowing you to make some pretty interesting aerobatic manuevers. Also, more expensive radio systems include NiCad batteries and their rechargers. In the long run, this is less expensive and more environmentally friendly than using disposable alkalines.
However, with these added features and conveniences come a premium. Expect to pay between $125 to $275 if you opt for a 4- or 6- channel radio instead of a simple two channel. |
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***This radio has two channels but only one stick. That one stick, however, goes up/down, left/right, like a joystick. We HIGHLY recommend it because beginners seem to learn quicker with this type of set up.
When it comes time to buying your radio and if you know exactly what you want, order over the internet or by magazine, you'll usually get a better price if you look around, it's more convenient, and you might not have to pay tax. If you still have qualms and would like to see the radio in person, which is always a good idea, visit the local hobby store and they'll be glad to help. Then, once you know what you want, mail order. For a listing of mail order establishments, search online or peruse model airplane magazines. |
