jbourke
May 01, 1998, 12:00 AM
<p>Every year in early April modelers from all over the US converge on Toledo Ohio, the
home of the Weak Signals R/C club and their annual convention. This show is where
many of the US vendors display their new products for the first time. Its also where
most of the master-quality scale enthusiasts choose to debut their breathtaking models.
It is three days of modeler's paradise. The only challenge to covering the
show is trying to decide what not to take pictures of. I could easily have presented
10 times the photos shown here.</p>
<p>As usual I am presenting several dozen photos as thumbnails. Just click on a
photo to see it full-size. This has been a confusing issue for some readers so just
remember that anytime you see a bevelled frame on an image it means that you can click on
it to have it blown up. Thumbnails are often used on the web because it takes time
to transmit a quality picture.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><big>Static Display</big></p>
<blockquote>
<p>The center section of the convention hall is dedicated to a long series of tables which
are covered with beautiful models. Modelers compete in static scale judging,
naturally, but also in other areas such as Best Finish, Best Monoplane, etc. This
year there were several electric powered models on display.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Dave Grife's 1/4 Scale Fokker DVII</strong></p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/3.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/3_small.jpg" alt="3.jpg (38994 bytes)"
border="2" width="184" height="125"></a> <a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/4.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/4_small.jpg"
alt="4.jpg (46892 bytes)" border="2" width="186" height="125"></a> <a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/6.jpg"><img
src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/6_small.jpg" alt="6.jpg (34663 bytes)" border="2" width="193" height="125"></a> <a
href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/7.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/7_small.jpg" alt="7.jpg (38357 bytes)" border="2" width="192"
height="125"></a> <a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/9.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/9_small.jpg" alt="9.jpg (76075 bytes)"
border="2" width="187" height="125"></a> <a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/2.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/2_small.jpg"
alt="2.jpg (28884 bytes)" border="2" width="141" height="125"></a> <a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/5.jpg"><img
src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/5_small.jpg" alt="5.jpg (17022 bytes)" border="2" width="124" height="125"></a></p>
<p>Easily the most impressive electric model at the convention was Dave's beautiful
88" span Fokker DVII. Wing area is 2056 square inches and all up weight is
around 24 lbs for a wing loading of 27 ounces/square foot. Dave powers his model
with an Astro 60 motor and Superbox running on 36 RC2000 cells. An Astroflight 204D
speed control does the throttling. Dave's power plant spins a 26x14 prop at around
4000 RPM. At the time of the show the model had not made its first flight.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Keith Shaw's Fokker D-VIII</strong></p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/8.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/8_small.jpg" alt="8.jpg (35409 bytes)"
border="2" width="195" height="125"></a> <a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/10.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/10_small.jpg"
alt="10.jpg (36595 bytes)" border="2" width="188" height="125"></a> <a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/13.jpg"><img
src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/13_small.jpg" alt="13.jpg (36663 bytes)" border="2" width="206" height="125"></a></p>
<p>This is Keith Shaw's 1/4 scale Fokker D-VIII, patterned after Ernst Udet's postwar
airshow aircraft. The 82.5" span airplane weighs 13 lbs and is powered by an
Astro 60 motor with a Superbox on 28 RC2000 cells. The 24x16 prop spins at 3000 RPM.
1100 sq. in. wing. </p>
<p> </p>
<p><big>George Maiorana's "Oxymoron"</big></p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/57.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/57_small.jpg" alt="57.jpg (41279 bytes)"
border="2" width="179" height="125"></a> <a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/1.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/1_small.jpg"
alt="1.jpg (45016 bytes)" border="2" width="194" height="125"></a></p>
<p>George's Extra is called the "Oxymoron" because it is quiet but aggressive!
It is powered by a Maxcim 15Y motor and ESC on a 20x2000RC battery pack. All
up weight is 7 lbs, 7 ounces.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Joe Hass' Extasi</strong></p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/56.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/56_small.jpg" alt="56.jpg (39720 bytes)"
border="2" width="181" height="125"></a></p>
<p>Joe's Extasi is powered by a Speed 400 motor. This unusual flying wing had a nice
monokote finish.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Dave George's Breezy Junior</strong></p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/54.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/54_small.jpg" alt="54.jpg (42757 bytes)"
border="2" width="224" height="125"></a> <a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/32.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/32_small.jpg"
alt="32.jpg (36322 bytes)" border="2" width="194" height="125"></a> <a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/43.jpg"><img
src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/43_small.jpg" alt="43.jpg (37272 bytes)" border="2" width="181" height="125"></a></p>
<p>Dave's plane is an indoor or light wind outdoor model that looks similar to the Ikarus
Bleriot model except that Dave has provided some interesting color and detailing (such as
a pilot figure). The 54" span airplane weighs in at 10.5 ounces which is heavy
for a Bleriot but lightweight for anything else. The 510 square inch wing gives a
very low wingloading of 3 ounces/square foot. Dave gets 10 minutes of flight from a
6x250 mah battery pack.</p>
</blockquote>
<p> </p>
<p><big>Vendors</big></p>
<blockquote>
<p>This year there were many new products of interest to e-power fans. In no
particular order:</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>MaxCim</strong></p>
<div align="center"><center><table border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="350">
<tr>
<td align="center" valign="top"><p align="center"><strong><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/52.jpg"><img
src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/52_small.jpg" alt="52.jpg (43060 bytes)" border="2" width="136" height="125"></a></strong></td>
<td align="center" valign="top"><strong><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/49.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/49_small.jpg"
alt="49.jpg (70748 bytes)" border="2" width="84" height="125"></a></strong></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="center" valign="top"><strong>A Maxcim brushless motor and controller</strong></td>
<td align="center" valign="top"><strong>Ed Koffeman, the man who designs the MaxCim
brushless controller</strong></td>
</tr>
</table>
</center></div><p>An impressive new offering from MaxCim is their Giant Scale class
brushless motor. Very little information is available on the motor yet because the
demo unit had only been completed a few days before the event. Tom says that this
motor is designed for high cells counts and should withstand currents in the 50 amp range
easily. This should be a perfect match for many 1/4 scale and larger airplanes.</p>
<div align="center"><center><table border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="425">
<tr>
<td align="center" valign="top"><strong><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/53.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/53_small.jpg"
alt="53.jpg (67871 bytes)" border="2" width="190" height="125"></a></strong></td>
<td align="center" valign="top"><strong><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/55.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/55_small.jpg"
alt="55.jpg (64270 bytes)" border="2" width="181" height="125"></a></strong></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="center" valign="top"><strong>Tom Cimato shows off Jack Sowle's new Sukhoi
model, powered by a MaxCim motor.</strong></td>
<td align="center" valign="top"><strong>The new Giant Scale motor from MaxCim can spin
props in the 20 inch plus range without using a gearbox!</strong></td>
</tr>
</table>
</center></div><p>Visit MaxCim on the web at <a href="http://www.maxcim.com">www.maxcim.com</a>
</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>HiTec</strong></p>
<p>HiTec's new catalog lists several items of interest to electric airplane lovers.
Apparently, they are interested in the Speed 400 and Slow Fly market, as evidenced by
their newest receiver and servo.</p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/12.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/12_small.jpg" alt="12.jpg (59029 bytes)"
border="2" width="112" height="125"></a> <a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/16.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/16_small.jpg"
alt="16.jpg (35607 bytes)" border="2" width="119" height="125"></a> <a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/11.jpg"><img
src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/11_small.jpg" alt="11.jpg (19779 bytes)" border="2" width="85" height="125"></a></p>
<p>Hitec's Micro 555 receiver is an FM dual conversion unit with 5 channels.
Dimensions are 1.6" x 1.1" x 0.7". Weight is around .75 ounces.</p>
<p>The HS-50 "Feather" servo is designed to compete with the latest crop of
sub-sub-micro servos that have entered the market. At 6.5 grams (.23 ounces), the
Feather servo is a competitive unit. Dimensions of the dimunitive surface-mover are
.82" x .44" x .87". Torque is listed as 7.91oz on 4 cells and 11 oz
on 5 cells.</p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/23.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/23_small.jpg" alt="23.jpg (78046 bytes)"
border="2" width="140" height="125"></a></p>
<p>Also new this year from HiTec is a pair of peak-detecting chargers. Shown here is
the CG-330, which is capable of charging 4 to 24 cells from a DC power source. The
unit features a current adjustment knob and automatic trickle charging. This unit
is apparently available right now at a street price of about $79.</p>
<p>Not shown is the companion unit, the CG-335. This charger is similar to the
CG-330 in specifications but it adds an LCD display and simultaneous 4-5 cell receiver
battery charging. I was told to expect a street price of about $109 for this unit.</p>
<p>Visit HiTec on the web at <a href="http://www.hitecrcd.com">www.hitecrcd.com</a> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>DeWayne L. Evans</strong></p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/58.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/58_small.jpg" alt="58.jpg (40632 bytes)"
border="2" width="139" height="125"></a> <a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/22.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/22_small.jpg"
alt="22.jpg (72486 bytes)" border="2" width="191" height="125"></a></p>
<p>At the Toledo show there is an upstairs floor dedicated to swap tables. A
diligient consumer will occasionally find a few diamonds in the rough of broken airplane
parts, used batteries, and dried out jars of paint. DeWayne's beautiful little
indoor model, which he calls the 2002 Flyer, is definitely one of those diamonds.
The 39" span plane flies on a 6x350 mah pack, an MG-1 motor, and a 7"
prop. Flying weight is 12 ounces and the wing area is around 720 square inches (5
square feet!) which gives a wing loading of only 2.4 ounces/square foot. DeWayne
says it flies indoors at around 5 miles per hour.</p>
<p>The entire plane is designed to quickly break down into a few pieces that fit into a
40x12x3 inch box.</p>
<p>To order plans or a complete built-up kit please contact:</p>
<blockquote>
<address>
DeWayne Evans<br>
3000 Pleasant Hill<br>
Maumee Ohio 43537<br>
419-865-7005 phone<br>
419-865-5748 fax
</address>
</blockquote>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Dave Patrick</strong></p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/14.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/14_small.jpg" alt="14.jpg (43949 bytes)"
border="2" width="152" height="125"></a></p>
<p>Dave Patrick is soon to be selling a new design called the "Splash". At
73" span and 68" in length it looks to be designed for a 1.20 engine. Why
am I bringing this up in an electric-oriented magazine? Because this model weighs
only 4.9 lbs ready to fly! Not bad for 1330 square inches of wing. The wing
loading is only 8.65 ounces/square foot.</p>
<p>We will try to keep up to date on this product. Watch the E Zone for further
details.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>K&A Models</strong></p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/46.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/46_small.jpg" alt="46.jpg (70879 bytes)"
border="2" width="180" height="125"></a></p>
<p>Is that neat or what? Ken, from K&A Models, is holding up his new Akro for
Speed 400 power. This is part of a new series that K&A will be producing.
They intend to come out with several more scale models of popular aerobats, including the
Sukhoi and Extra. All come with fiberglass fuses. The Akro has a wing area of
around 200 square inches and an all up weight of 24 ounces.</p>
<p>On a 6 volt Speed 400 and 2.3:1 mini-Olympus gearbox the plane performs well according
to Ken. Put in an Astroflight brushless 020 and a gearbox and the vertical
performance should be breathtaking. Complete kits and accessories should be
available from K&A by the time you read this.</p>
<p>Contact K&A at:</p>
<blockquote>
<address>
K&A Models Unlimited<br>
9300 Yvonne Marie Dr NW<br>
Albuquerque, New Mexico 87114<br>
505-890-7549 phone<br>
505-890-7532 fax
</address>
</blockquote>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Great Planes</strong></p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/15.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/15_small.jpg" alt="15.jpg (37739 bytes)"
border="2" width="235" height="125"></a></p>
<p>The Kyosho EP Concept Sports is a new version of the EP Concept with a fixed-pitch
rotor head for 4 channel radio control. Owners can upgrade to a collective pitch
head after they decide they are interested in helis. Includes a K-speed motor,
Schweizer 300 body, and foam-cored factory-skinned blades. Requires a 4 channel radio with
3 servos, ESC, gyro, and 8 cell Nicad battery. 29.5 inches in length. 35.9
inch rotor diameter.</p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/17.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/17_small.jpg" alt="17.jpg (36521 bytes)"
border="2" width="185" height="125"></a> <a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/18.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/18_small.jpg"
alt="18.jpg (43974 bytes)" border="2" width="146" height="125"></a></p>
<p>Kyosho's new DC-3 Dakota ARF is a good candidate for electric conversion. The
82.7 inch span plane is IMAA legal. It features a 1 piece fiberglass fuselage, balsa
built up wing and tail surfaces covered in white film, and trim decals including simulated
windows.</p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/26.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/26_small.jpg" alt="26.jpg (45213 bytes)"
border="2" width="166" height="125"></a></p>
<p>Kyosho's T-33 Shooting Star Electric Ducted Fan Jet ARF is a really interesting new
offering. The kit includes a Kyosho EDF unit and a special AP29L motor. The
airplane is mostly pre-built from foam. Requires a 4-channel radio with 3 servos and
ESC and an 8.4 volt nicad battery.</p>
<p>Kyosho is recommending 1700 series cells so I can only assume that the motor is
something more than the typical AP29. Expect a review of this model in a future E
Zone issue.</p>
<p>Visit Great Planes on the web at <a href="http://www.greatplanes.com">www.greatplanes.com</a>
</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Astroflight</strong></p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/19.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/19_small.jpg" alt="19.jpg (65010 bytes)"
border="2" width="168" height="125"></a> <a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/21.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/21_small.jpg"
alt="21.jpg (75456 bytes)" border="2" width="186" height="125"></a></p>
<p>On the left we have Bob "Astrobob" Boucher, owner of Astroflight. On
the right is David Cambell, satisifed Astroflight customer, holding his Astroflight
Brushless 020 powered Sliver 400 in one hand and Keith Shaw's Brushless 020 powered
Bearkitty in the other. Both planes fly impressively on this motor. The Sliver
rockets along at 100+ mph while Keith's plane uses a gearbox for additional thrust and
scale aerobatics capabilities.</p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/20.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/20_small.jpg" alt="20.jpg (35088 bytes)"
border="2" width="181" height="125"></a></p>
<p>Jim Ryan's Focke Wulf 190A built from the Voster Modellbau kit. 41.3" span,
288 square inch wing, 40 ounces ready to fly. Powered by an Astro 05G Brushless
motor.</p>
<p>Visit Astroflight on the web at <a href="http://www.astroflight.com">www.astroflight.com</a>
</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>FMA Direct</strong></p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/24.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/24_small.jpg" alt="24.jpg (75368 bytes)"
border="2" width="171" height="125"></a></p>
<p>Shown above is FMA's new line of speed controls. The Digi 20 is a 20 Amp control for 4
to 7 cells with BEC and brake. The Digi 30 is a 30 Amp control for 6 to 10 cells
with BEC and brake. The Digi-50 is a 50 Amp control for 8 to 24 cells with BEC.</p>
<p>Visit FMA on the web at <a href="http://www.fmadirect.com">www.fmadirect.com</a> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Hobby Hangar</strong></p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/28.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/28_small.jpg" alt="28.jpg (34486 bytes)"
border="2" width="192" height="125"></a></p>
<p>This is Hobby Hangar's Bronco which is sold as a glow kit or with twin Speed 600s.
It turns out that they are considering a Speed 400 version. Visit their web
site and encourage them if you would be interested in buying one.</p>
<p>Visit Hobby Hangar on the web at <a href="http://www.hobbyhangar.com">www.hobbyhangar.com</a>
</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Hirobo</strong></p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/29.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/29_small.jpg" alt="29.jpg (36521 bytes)"
border="2" width="243" height="125"></a></p>
<p>Hirobo's new DeHavilland Comet has received a lot of attention from eager modelers
since it was shown in an issue of Electric Flight International. This model comes
with two Speed 400 motors, spinners, and propellors. The 800 gram, 1.2 meter span
airplane is apparently quick and aerobatic. Hirobo says it could even be competitive
in Speed 400 pylon racing, as the rules typically don't exclude twins from entering.
Expect an E Zone review in a future issue.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Ace R/C</strong></p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/30.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/30_small.jpg" alt="30.jpg (30419 bytes)"
border="2" width="187" height="125"></a> <a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/34.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/34_small.jpg"
alt="34.jpg (31478 bytes)" border="2" width="114" height="125"></a></p>
<p>Since Ace was bought out by Thunder Tiger last year, many people have been wondering
how much of the company will continue. In particular, there has been concern that
the "Simple Series" kits and the Cloud Dancers might go away in favor of more
ARF moddels.. It seems that Thunder Tiger is intent on keeping Ace's kit line in
production. Good news for us.</p>
<p>Shown above is Ace's Cloud Dancer 120, an 87" IMAA legal airplane that weighs in
at 11 lbs with a .90 engine. This should make an excellent conversion project, just
like the rest of Ace's Cloud Dancer series.</p>
<p>On the right is the Simple 400, a Speed 400 model with a foam wing and wood fuse.
Can also be built as a slope glider. Wing area: 180 square inches.
Weight 12 to 18 ounces. Wing Span: 34 inches.</p>
<p>Contact Ace R/C at:</p>
<blockquote>
<address>
Ace Hobby Distributors<br>
116 W 19th Street<br>
Higginsville, MO 64037<br>
660-584-7121 phone<br>
660-584-7766 fax
</address>
</blockquote>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Multiplex</strong></p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/31.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/31_small.jpg" alt="31.jpg (46720 bytes)"
border="2" width="162" height="125"></a></p>
<p>Thats Karlton Spindle, of Multiplex, holding up a Smiley. This is an ARF twin
that comes complete with motors and props. Wingspan is 56 inches, length is 39
inches and weight is around 51 ounces ready to fly.</p>
<p>Multiplex was also demonstrating their line of radios. One interesting feature is
that their systems refuse to arm themselves if someone else is already on your frequency.
This is a smart way to avoid knocking someone else out of the sky while fiddling
with your equipment.</p>
<p>Visit Multiplex on the web at <a href="http://www.multiplexrc.com">www.multiplexrc.com</a>
</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Cactus Aviation</strong></p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/33.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/33_small.jpg" alt="33.jpg (45925 bytes)"
border="2" width="186" height="125"></a></p>
<p>This Christen Husky model spans 36" and weighs around 20 ounces ready to fly with
a Speed 400 power system. The kit features a fiberglass fuselage and landing gear,
and pre-covered wings.</p>
<p>Cactus Aviation normally sells giant scale models but apparently has found the scale
Speed 400 electric stuff too cute to resist. They are importing this model from
Eastern Europe so it may look similar to some of you. The price is $119.95 for this
ARF.</p>
<p>Visit Cactus Aviation on the web at <a href="http://www.pclink.com/cactus">www.pclink.com/cactus</a>
</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>House of Balsa</strong></p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/35.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/35_small.jpg" alt="35.jpg (24845 bytes)"
border="2" width="180" height="125"></a></p>
<p>Not an electric plane, but cute as all get out. This is House of Balsa's 1/12
scale Chipmunk designed for .049 to .10 glow power. This plane should make an
excellent conversion for a Speed 480 class power system. Wing area is 216 square
inches, all up weight is 22 to 28 ounces for glow power which means some lightening work
would need to be done. Ideally one would want the plane to weight about 24 ounce
with the electric power system installed.</p>
<p>Visit House of Balsa on the web at <a href="http://www.houseofbalsa.com">www.houseofbalsa.com</a>
</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Adamisin Racing Concepts</strong></p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/39.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/39_small.jpg" alt="39.jpg (58910 bytes)"
border="2" width="171" height="125"></a> <a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/36.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/36_small.jpg"
alt="36.jpg (36273 bytes)" border="2" width="178" height="125"></a></p>
<p>Shown above is Archie Adamisin with his newest design, a lightweight fiberglass and
foam kit suitable for sport flying or F5D competition. Archie is also the designer
of the Sliver 400, a competitive Speed 400 pylon plane. The photo on the right shows
one of his stand-off scale fiberglass fuselages for a Speed 400 Me-162.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Dymond Modelsport</strong></p>
<p align="center"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/37.jpg" width="327" height="236" alt="37.jpg (32671 bytes)"></p>
<p>Shown above is the Deluxe Booster Peak DC/DC Charger from Dymond Modelsport.
Features adjustable charge current from .5 to 4.2 amps, automatic peak detection, buzzer
sound upon charge completion, automatic trickle charge, and the ability to charge from 1
to 12 cell nicads. No pricing information available at this time.</p>
<blockquote>
<address>
Dymond Modelsport USA, Ltd<br>
PO Box 247<br>
Park Falls, WI 54552<br>
715-762-2710
</address>
</blockquote>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Garrison Aerodrome</strong></p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/38.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/38_small.jpg" alt="38.jpg (53450 bytes)"
border="2" width="145" height="125"></a></p>
<p>Shown here is Darwin Garrison with his Push-E Cat trainer that has been outfitted with
the Night-Ops night flying set (see <a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/../../apr/nightops/nightops.htm">review last
issue</a>). The Push-E Cat was the subject of a recent <a
href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/../../mar/pushecat/pushecat.htm">construction article</a> here on the E Zone and a
kit is now being sold through Garrison Aerodrome.</p>
<p>Visit Garrison Aerodrome on the web at <a href="http://www.rc-aero.com">www.rc-aero.com</a>
</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>The E Zone</strong></p>
<p>Everyone's favorite electric flight e-zine didn't have a booth this year, but I did
take some time to walk around and hand out stickers to everyone I met who knew something
about our magazine on the web. In case you didn't make it to the show this year,
I'll show you a picture of the free decal you missed out on.</p>
<p align="center"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/40.jpg" width="211" height="196" alt="40.jpg (11456 bytes)"></p>
<p>We're actually contemplating selling these off of the web site if there is enough
interest. Price will probably be 3 for $6. The stickers are suitable for
outdoor applications, such as on an airplane wing.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Castle Creations</strong></p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/41.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/41_small.jpg" alt="41.jpg (34652 bytes)"
border="2" width="345" height="125"></a></p>
<p>Underneath that little bit of shrink wrap is a little bitty speed control available now
from Castle Creations. The Pixie-14 Sub Micro Motor Control has a current
rating of 14 amps yet weighs only 7 grams (.25 oz) with full length wires! Voltage
range allows anywhere from 4 to 16 cells.. The controller provides 2800hz switching,
BEC, safe arming, and soft start. Retail price is $49.95.</p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/42.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/42_small.jpg" alt="42.jpg (21515 bytes)"
border="2" width="115" height="125"></a><br>
<strong>A close-up of the ESC</strong></p>
<p>It looks like a dime is just a tad bit larger than the Pixie-14. The dimensions
are .4" x .7".</p>
<p>Contact Castle Creations at:</p>
<blockquote>
<address>
Castle Creations<br>
1625 E Drury Lane<br>
Olathe, KS 66062<br>
<a href="http://rcgroups.com/shared/nospam.php?u=pdelcast&d=idir.net">pdelcast(at)idir.net</a>
</address>
</blockquote>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Aveox</strong></p>
<p>New from Aveox is their Hybridrive II controllers. The new software allows the
controllers to operate better at partial throttle. Shown below are a couple of pictures of
their controllers.</p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/44.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/44_small.jpg" alt="44.jpg (44679 bytes)"
border="2" width="116" height="125"></a> <a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/45.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/45_small.jpg"
alt="45.jpg (36282 bytes)" border="2" width="214" height="125"></a></p>
<p>And who says brushless motors are expensive? Take a look at the sign above the
Aveox booth this year:</p>
<p align="center"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/27.jpg" width="229" height="192" alt="27.jpg (18164 bytes)"></p>
<p>Total cost of a 1406/2Y or 1406/4Y motor was just under $200 at the show. A few
years ago this kind of price was unheard of for a brushless motor.</p>
<p>Visit Aveox on the web at <a href="http://www.aveox.com">www.aveox.com</a> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Hobby Lobby</strong></p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/47.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/47_small.jpg" alt="47.jpg (42132 bytes)"
border="2" width="255" height="125"></a></p>
<p>Shown above is Hobby Lobby's new Farman kit, one of two new Speed 400 scale models
produced by the company. I've seen the Farman fly and it performs very well as it is a
very lightweight airplane that is a little larger than most people would consider for this
kind of motor. The Farman and the Super Cub span 43 and 46.5 inches
respectively. The Farman has 280 square inches of wing area, while the Cub has
around 310. Both weigh in at 20 ounces or so. Available from Hobby Lobby for
$29.</p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/48.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/48_small.jpg" alt="48.jpg (37970 bytes)"
border="2" width="217" height="125"></a> <a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/50.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/50_small.jpg"
alt="50.jpg (63312 bytes)" border="2" width="188" height="125"></a> <a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/51.jpg"><img
src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/51_small.jpg" alt="51.jpg (84264 bytes)" border="2" width="171" height="125"></a></p>
<p>The Kavan Wingo, one of a new class of airplanes dubbed "Park Flyers" because
they are suitable for small schoolyards and city parks. The cute little ARF comes
with a Speed 400 motor and is intended for an 8x500 mah battery pack. High-wing
pusher configuration makes the airplane stable and durable.</p>
<p>Visit Hobby Lobby on the web at <a href="http://www.hobby-lobby.com">www.hobby-lobby.com</a>
</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p> </p>
</blockquote>
home of the Weak Signals R/C club and their annual convention. This show is where
many of the US vendors display their new products for the first time. Its also where
most of the master-quality scale enthusiasts choose to debut their breathtaking models.
It is three days of modeler's paradise. The only challenge to covering the
show is trying to decide what not to take pictures of. I could easily have presented
10 times the photos shown here.</p>
<p>As usual I am presenting several dozen photos as thumbnails. Just click on a
photo to see it full-size. This has been a confusing issue for some readers so just
remember that anytime you see a bevelled frame on an image it means that you can click on
it to have it blown up. Thumbnails are often used on the web because it takes time
to transmit a quality picture.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><big>Static Display</big></p>
<blockquote>
<p>The center section of the convention hall is dedicated to a long series of tables which
are covered with beautiful models. Modelers compete in static scale judging,
naturally, but also in other areas such as Best Finish, Best Monoplane, etc. This
year there were several electric powered models on display.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Dave Grife's 1/4 Scale Fokker DVII</strong></p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/3.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/3_small.jpg" alt="3.jpg (38994 bytes)"
border="2" width="184" height="125"></a> <a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/4.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/4_small.jpg"
alt="4.jpg (46892 bytes)" border="2" width="186" height="125"></a> <a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/6.jpg"><img
src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/6_small.jpg" alt="6.jpg (34663 bytes)" border="2" width="193" height="125"></a> <a
href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/7.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/7_small.jpg" alt="7.jpg (38357 bytes)" border="2" width="192"
height="125"></a> <a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/9.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/9_small.jpg" alt="9.jpg (76075 bytes)"
border="2" width="187" height="125"></a> <a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/2.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/2_small.jpg"
alt="2.jpg (28884 bytes)" border="2" width="141" height="125"></a> <a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/5.jpg"><img
src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/5_small.jpg" alt="5.jpg (17022 bytes)" border="2" width="124" height="125"></a></p>
<p>Easily the most impressive electric model at the convention was Dave's beautiful
88" span Fokker DVII. Wing area is 2056 square inches and all up weight is
around 24 lbs for a wing loading of 27 ounces/square foot. Dave powers his model
with an Astro 60 motor and Superbox running on 36 RC2000 cells. An Astroflight 204D
speed control does the throttling. Dave's power plant spins a 26x14 prop at around
4000 RPM. At the time of the show the model had not made its first flight.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Keith Shaw's Fokker D-VIII</strong></p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/8.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/8_small.jpg" alt="8.jpg (35409 bytes)"
border="2" width="195" height="125"></a> <a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/10.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/10_small.jpg"
alt="10.jpg (36595 bytes)" border="2" width="188" height="125"></a> <a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/13.jpg"><img
src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/13_small.jpg" alt="13.jpg (36663 bytes)" border="2" width="206" height="125"></a></p>
<p>This is Keith Shaw's 1/4 scale Fokker D-VIII, patterned after Ernst Udet's postwar
airshow aircraft. The 82.5" span airplane weighs 13 lbs and is powered by an
Astro 60 motor with a Superbox on 28 RC2000 cells. The 24x16 prop spins at 3000 RPM.
1100 sq. in. wing. </p>
<p> </p>
<p><big>George Maiorana's "Oxymoron"</big></p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/57.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/57_small.jpg" alt="57.jpg (41279 bytes)"
border="2" width="179" height="125"></a> <a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/1.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/1_small.jpg"
alt="1.jpg (45016 bytes)" border="2" width="194" height="125"></a></p>
<p>George's Extra is called the "Oxymoron" because it is quiet but aggressive!
It is powered by a Maxcim 15Y motor and ESC on a 20x2000RC battery pack. All
up weight is 7 lbs, 7 ounces.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Joe Hass' Extasi</strong></p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/56.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/56_small.jpg" alt="56.jpg (39720 bytes)"
border="2" width="181" height="125"></a></p>
<p>Joe's Extasi is powered by a Speed 400 motor. This unusual flying wing had a nice
monokote finish.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Dave George's Breezy Junior</strong></p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/54.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/54_small.jpg" alt="54.jpg (42757 bytes)"
border="2" width="224" height="125"></a> <a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/32.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/32_small.jpg"
alt="32.jpg (36322 bytes)" border="2" width="194" height="125"></a> <a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/43.jpg"><img
src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/43_small.jpg" alt="43.jpg (37272 bytes)" border="2" width="181" height="125"></a></p>
<p>Dave's plane is an indoor or light wind outdoor model that looks similar to the Ikarus
Bleriot model except that Dave has provided some interesting color and detailing (such as
a pilot figure). The 54" span airplane weighs in at 10.5 ounces which is heavy
for a Bleriot but lightweight for anything else. The 510 square inch wing gives a
very low wingloading of 3 ounces/square foot. Dave gets 10 minutes of flight from a
6x250 mah battery pack.</p>
</blockquote>
<p> </p>
<p><big>Vendors</big></p>
<blockquote>
<p>This year there were many new products of interest to e-power fans. In no
particular order:</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>MaxCim</strong></p>
<div align="center"><center><table border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="350">
<tr>
<td align="center" valign="top"><p align="center"><strong><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/52.jpg"><img
src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/52_small.jpg" alt="52.jpg (43060 bytes)" border="2" width="136" height="125"></a></strong></td>
<td align="center" valign="top"><strong><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/49.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/49_small.jpg"
alt="49.jpg (70748 bytes)" border="2" width="84" height="125"></a></strong></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="center" valign="top"><strong>A Maxcim brushless motor and controller</strong></td>
<td align="center" valign="top"><strong>Ed Koffeman, the man who designs the MaxCim
brushless controller</strong></td>
</tr>
</table>
</center></div><p>An impressive new offering from MaxCim is their Giant Scale class
brushless motor. Very little information is available on the motor yet because the
demo unit had only been completed a few days before the event. Tom says that this
motor is designed for high cells counts and should withstand currents in the 50 amp range
easily. This should be a perfect match for many 1/4 scale and larger airplanes.</p>
<div align="center"><center><table border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" width="425">
<tr>
<td align="center" valign="top"><strong><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/53.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/53_small.jpg"
alt="53.jpg (67871 bytes)" border="2" width="190" height="125"></a></strong></td>
<td align="center" valign="top"><strong><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/55.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/55_small.jpg"
alt="55.jpg (64270 bytes)" border="2" width="181" height="125"></a></strong></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="center" valign="top"><strong>Tom Cimato shows off Jack Sowle's new Sukhoi
model, powered by a MaxCim motor.</strong></td>
<td align="center" valign="top"><strong>The new Giant Scale motor from MaxCim can spin
props in the 20 inch plus range without using a gearbox!</strong></td>
</tr>
</table>
</center></div><p>Visit MaxCim on the web at <a href="http://www.maxcim.com">www.maxcim.com</a>
</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>HiTec</strong></p>
<p>HiTec's new catalog lists several items of interest to electric airplane lovers.
Apparently, they are interested in the Speed 400 and Slow Fly market, as evidenced by
their newest receiver and servo.</p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/12.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/12_small.jpg" alt="12.jpg (59029 bytes)"
border="2" width="112" height="125"></a> <a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/16.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/16_small.jpg"
alt="16.jpg (35607 bytes)" border="2" width="119" height="125"></a> <a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/11.jpg"><img
src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/11_small.jpg" alt="11.jpg (19779 bytes)" border="2" width="85" height="125"></a></p>
<p>Hitec's Micro 555 receiver is an FM dual conversion unit with 5 channels.
Dimensions are 1.6" x 1.1" x 0.7". Weight is around .75 ounces.</p>
<p>The HS-50 "Feather" servo is designed to compete with the latest crop of
sub-sub-micro servos that have entered the market. At 6.5 grams (.23 ounces), the
Feather servo is a competitive unit. Dimensions of the dimunitive surface-mover are
.82" x .44" x .87". Torque is listed as 7.91oz on 4 cells and 11 oz
on 5 cells.</p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/23.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/23_small.jpg" alt="23.jpg (78046 bytes)"
border="2" width="140" height="125"></a></p>
<p>Also new this year from HiTec is a pair of peak-detecting chargers. Shown here is
the CG-330, which is capable of charging 4 to 24 cells from a DC power source. The
unit features a current adjustment knob and automatic trickle charging. This unit
is apparently available right now at a street price of about $79.</p>
<p>Not shown is the companion unit, the CG-335. This charger is similar to the
CG-330 in specifications but it adds an LCD display and simultaneous 4-5 cell receiver
battery charging. I was told to expect a street price of about $109 for this unit.</p>
<p>Visit HiTec on the web at <a href="http://www.hitecrcd.com">www.hitecrcd.com</a> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>DeWayne L. Evans</strong></p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/58.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/58_small.jpg" alt="58.jpg (40632 bytes)"
border="2" width="139" height="125"></a> <a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/22.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/22_small.jpg"
alt="22.jpg (72486 bytes)" border="2" width="191" height="125"></a></p>
<p>At the Toledo show there is an upstairs floor dedicated to swap tables. A
diligient consumer will occasionally find a few diamonds in the rough of broken airplane
parts, used batteries, and dried out jars of paint. DeWayne's beautiful little
indoor model, which he calls the 2002 Flyer, is definitely one of those diamonds.
The 39" span plane flies on a 6x350 mah pack, an MG-1 motor, and a 7"
prop. Flying weight is 12 ounces and the wing area is around 720 square inches (5
square feet!) which gives a wing loading of only 2.4 ounces/square foot. DeWayne
says it flies indoors at around 5 miles per hour.</p>
<p>The entire plane is designed to quickly break down into a few pieces that fit into a
40x12x3 inch box.</p>
<p>To order plans or a complete built-up kit please contact:</p>
<blockquote>
<address>
DeWayne Evans<br>
3000 Pleasant Hill<br>
Maumee Ohio 43537<br>
419-865-7005 phone<br>
419-865-5748 fax
</address>
</blockquote>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Dave Patrick</strong></p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/14.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/14_small.jpg" alt="14.jpg (43949 bytes)"
border="2" width="152" height="125"></a></p>
<p>Dave Patrick is soon to be selling a new design called the "Splash". At
73" span and 68" in length it looks to be designed for a 1.20 engine. Why
am I bringing this up in an electric-oriented magazine? Because this model weighs
only 4.9 lbs ready to fly! Not bad for 1330 square inches of wing. The wing
loading is only 8.65 ounces/square foot.</p>
<p>We will try to keep up to date on this product. Watch the E Zone for further
details.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>K&A Models</strong></p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/46.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/46_small.jpg" alt="46.jpg (70879 bytes)"
border="2" width="180" height="125"></a></p>
<p>Is that neat or what? Ken, from K&A Models, is holding up his new Akro for
Speed 400 power. This is part of a new series that K&A will be producing.
They intend to come out with several more scale models of popular aerobats, including the
Sukhoi and Extra. All come with fiberglass fuses. The Akro has a wing area of
around 200 square inches and an all up weight of 24 ounces.</p>
<p>On a 6 volt Speed 400 and 2.3:1 mini-Olympus gearbox the plane performs well according
to Ken. Put in an Astroflight brushless 020 and a gearbox and the vertical
performance should be breathtaking. Complete kits and accessories should be
available from K&A by the time you read this.</p>
<p>Contact K&A at:</p>
<blockquote>
<address>
K&A Models Unlimited<br>
9300 Yvonne Marie Dr NW<br>
Albuquerque, New Mexico 87114<br>
505-890-7549 phone<br>
505-890-7532 fax
</address>
</blockquote>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Great Planes</strong></p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/15.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/15_small.jpg" alt="15.jpg (37739 bytes)"
border="2" width="235" height="125"></a></p>
<p>The Kyosho EP Concept Sports is a new version of the EP Concept with a fixed-pitch
rotor head for 4 channel radio control. Owners can upgrade to a collective pitch
head after they decide they are interested in helis. Includes a K-speed motor,
Schweizer 300 body, and foam-cored factory-skinned blades. Requires a 4 channel radio with
3 servos, ESC, gyro, and 8 cell Nicad battery. 29.5 inches in length. 35.9
inch rotor diameter.</p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/17.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/17_small.jpg" alt="17.jpg (36521 bytes)"
border="2" width="185" height="125"></a> <a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/18.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/18_small.jpg"
alt="18.jpg (43974 bytes)" border="2" width="146" height="125"></a></p>
<p>Kyosho's new DC-3 Dakota ARF is a good candidate for electric conversion. The
82.7 inch span plane is IMAA legal. It features a 1 piece fiberglass fuselage, balsa
built up wing and tail surfaces covered in white film, and trim decals including simulated
windows.</p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/26.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/26_small.jpg" alt="26.jpg (45213 bytes)"
border="2" width="166" height="125"></a></p>
<p>Kyosho's T-33 Shooting Star Electric Ducted Fan Jet ARF is a really interesting new
offering. The kit includes a Kyosho EDF unit and a special AP29L motor. The
airplane is mostly pre-built from foam. Requires a 4-channel radio with 3 servos and
ESC and an 8.4 volt nicad battery.</p>
<p>Kyosho is recommending 1700 series cells so I can only assume that the motor is
something more than the typical AP29. Expect a review of this model in a future E
Zone issue.</p>
<p>Visit Great Planes on the web at <a href="http://www.greatplanes.com">www.greatplanes.com</a>
</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Astroflight</strong></p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/19.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/19_small.jpg" alt="19.jpg (65010 bytes)"
border="2" width="168" height="125"></a> <a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/21.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/21_small.jpg"
alt="21.jpg (75456 bytes)" border="2" width="186" height="125"></a></p>
<p>On the left we have Bob "Astrobob" Boucher, owner of Astroflight. On
the right is David Cambell, satisifed Astroflight customer, holding his Astroflight
Brushless 020 powered Sliver 400 in one hand and Keith Shaw's Brushless 020 powered
Bearkitty in the other. Both planes fly impressively on this motor. The Sliver
rockets along at 100+ mph while Keith's plane uses a gearbox for additional thrust and
scale aerobatics capabilities.</p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/20.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/20_small.jpg" alt="20.jpg (35088 bytes)"
border="2" width="181" height="125"></a></p>
<p>Jim Ryan's Focke Wulf 190A built from the Voster Modellbau kit. 41.3" span,
288 square inch wing, 40 ounces ready to fly. Powered by an Astro 05G Brushless
motor.</p>
<p>Visit Astroflight on the web at <a href="http://www.astroflight.com">www.astroflight.com</a>
</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>FMA Direct</strong></p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/24.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/24_small.jpg" alt="24.jpg (75368 bytes)"
border="2" width="171" height="125"></a></p>
<p>Shown above is FMA's new line of speed controls. The Digi 20 is a 20 Amp control for 4
to 7 cells with BEC and brake. The Digi 30 is a 30 Amp control for 6 to 10 cells
with BEC and brake. The Digi-50 is a 50 Amp control for 8 to 24 cells with BEC.</p>
<p>Visit FMA on the web at <a href="http://www.fmadirect.com">www.fmadirect.com</a> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Hobby Hangar</strong></p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/28.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/28_small.jpg" alt="28.jpg (34486 bytes)"
border="2" width="192" height="125"></a></p>
<p>This is Hobby Hangar's Bronco which is sold as a glow kit or with twin Speed 600s.
It turns out that they are considering a Speed 400 version. Visit their web
site and encourage them if you would be interested in buying one.</p>
<p>Visit Hobby Hangar on the web at <a href="http://www.hobbyhangar.com">www.hobbyhangar.com</a>
</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Hirobo</strong></p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/29.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/29_small.jpg" alt="29.jpg (36521 bytes)"
border="2" width="243" height="125"></a></p>
<p>Hirobo's new DeHavilland Comet has received a lot of attention from eager modelers
since it was shown in an issue of Electric Flight International. This model comes
with two Speed 400 motors, spinners, and propellors. The 800 gram, 1.2 meter span
airplane is apparently quick and aerobatic. Hirobo says it could even be competitive
in Speed 400 pylon racing, as the rules typically don't exclude twins from entering.
Expect an E Zone review in a future issue.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Ace R/C</strong></p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/30.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/30_small.jpg" alt="30.jpg (30419 bytes)"
border="2" width="187" height="125"></a> <a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/34.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/34_small.jpg"
alt="34.jpg (31478 bytes)" border="2" width="114" height="125"></a></p>
<p>Since Ace was bought out by Thunder Tiger last year, many people have been wondering
how much of the company will continue. In particular, there has been concern that
the "Simple Series" kits and the Cloud Dancers might go away in favor of more
ARF moddels.. It seems that Thunder Tiger is intent on keeping Ace's kit line in
production. Good news for us.</p>
<p>Shown above is Ace's Cloud Dancer 120, an 87" IMAA legal airplane that weighs in
at 11 lbs with a .90 engine. This should make an excellent conversion project, just
like the rest of Ace's Cloud Dancer series.</p>
<p>On the right is the Simple 400, a Speed 400 model with a foam wing and wood fuse.
Can also be built as a slope glider. Wing area: 180 square inches.
Weight 12 to 18 ounces. Wing Span: 34 inches.</p>
<p>Contact Ace R/C at:</p>
<blockquote>
<address>
Ace Hobby Distributors<br>
116 W 19th Street<br>
Higginsville, MO 64037<br>
660-584-7121 phone<br>
660-584-7766 fax
</address>
</blockquote>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Multiplex</strong></p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/31.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/31_small.jpg" alt="31.jpg (46720 bytes)"
border="2" width="162" height="125"></a></p>
<p>Thats Karlton Spindle, of Multiplex, holding up a Smiley. This is an ARF twin
that comes complete with motors and props. Wingspan is 56 inches, length is 39
inches and weight is around 51 ounces ready to fly.</p>
<p>Multiplex was also demonstrating their line of radios. One interesting feature is
that their systems refuse to arm themselves if someone else is already on your frequency.
This is a smart way to avoid knocking someone else out of the sky while fiddling
with your equipment.</p>
<p>Visit Multiplex on the web at <a href="http://www.multiplexrc.com">www.multiplexrc.com</a>
</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Cactus Aviation</strong></p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/33.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/33_small.jpg" alt="33.jpg (45925 bytes)"
border="2" width="186" height="125"></a></p>
<p>This Christen Husky model spans 36" and weighs around 20 ounces ready to fly with
a Speed 400 power system. The kit features a fiberglass fuselage and landing gear,
and pre-covered wings.</p>
<p>Cactus Aviation normally sells giant scale models but apparently has found the scale
Speed 400 electric stuff too cute to resist. They are importing this model from
Eastern Europe so it may look similar to some of you. The price is $119.95 for this
ARF.</p>
<p>Visit Cactus Aviation on the web at <a href="http://www.pclink.com/cactus">www.pclink.com/cactus</a>
</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>House of Balsa</strong></p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/35.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/35_small.jpg" alt="35.jpg (24845 bytes)"
border="2" width="180" height="125"></a></p>
<p>Not an electric plane, but cute as all get out. This is House of Balsa's 1/12
scale Chipmunk designed for .049 to .10 glow power. This plane should make an
excellent conversion for a Speed 480 class power system. Wing area is 216 square
inches, all up weight is 22 to 28 ounces for glow power which means some lightening work
would need to be done. Ideally one would want the plane to weight about 24 ounce
with the electric power system installed.</p>
<p>Visit House of Balsa on the web at <a href="http://www.houseofbalsa.com">www.houseofbalsa.com</a>
</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Adamisin Racing Concepts</strong></p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/39.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/39_small.jpg" alt="39.jpg (58910 bytes)"
border="2" width="171" height="125"></a> <a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/36.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/36_small.jpg"
alt="36.jpg (36273 bytes)" border="2" width="178" height="125"></a></p>
<p>Shown above is Archie Adamisin with his newest design, a lightweight fiberglass and
foam kit suitable for sport flying or F5D competition. Archie is also the designer
of the Sliver 400, a competitive Speed 400 pylon plane. The photo on the right shows
one of his stand-off scale fiberglass fuselages for a Speed 400 Me-162.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Dymond Modelsport</strong></p>
<p align="center"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/37.jpg" width="327" height="236" alt="37.jpg (32671 bytes)"></p>
<p>Shown above is the Deluxe Booster Peak DC/DC Charger from Dymond Modelsport.
Features adjustable charge current from .5 to 4.2 amps, automatic peak detection, buzzer
sound upon charge completion, automatic trickle charge, and the ability to charge from 1
to 12 cell nicads. No pricing information available at this time.</p>
<blockquote>
<address>
Dymond Modelsport USA, Ltd<br>
PO Box 247<br>
Park Falls, WI 54552<br>
715-762-2710
</address>
</blockquote>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Garrison Aerodrome</strong></p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/38.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/38_small.jpg" alt="38.jpg (53450 bytes)"
border="2" width="145" height="125"></a></p>
<p>Shown here is Darwin Garrison with his Push-E Cat trainer that has been outfitted with
the Night-Ops night flying set (see <a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/../../apr/nightops/nightops.htm">review last
issue</a>). The Push-E Cat was the subject of a recent <a
href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/../../mar/pushecat/pushecat.htm">construction article</a> here on the E Zone and a
kit is now being sold through Garrison Aerodrome.</p>
<p>Visit Garrison Aerodrome on the web at <a href="http://www.rc-aero.com">www.rc-aero.com</a>
</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>The E Zone</strong></p>
<p>Everyone's favorite electric flight e-zine didn't have a booth this year, but I did
take some time to walk around and hand out stickers to everyone I met who knew something
about our magazine on the web. In case you didn't make it to the show this year,
I'll show you a picture of the free decal you missed out on.</p>
<p align="center"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/40.jpg" width="211" height="196" alt="40.jpg (11456 bytes)"></p>
<p>We're actually contemplating selling these off of the web site if there is enough
interest. Price will probably be 3 for $6. The stickers are suitable for
outdoor applications, such as on an airplane wing.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Castle Creations</strong></p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/41.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/41_small.jpg" alt="41.jpg (34652 bytes)"
border="2" width="345" height="125"></a></p>
<p>Underneath that little bit of shrink wrap is a little bitty speed control available now
from Castle Creations. The Pixie-14 Sub Micro Motor Control has a current
rating of 14 amps yet weighs only 7 grams (.25 oz) with full length wires! Voltage
range allows anywhere from 4 to 16 cells.. The controller provides 2800hz switching,
BEC, safe arming, and soft start. Retail price is $49.95.</p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/42.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/42_small.jpg" alt="42.jpg (21515 bytes)"
border="2" width="115" height="125"></a><br>
<strong>A close-up of the ESC</strong></p>
<p>It looks like a dime is just a tad bit larger than the Pixie-14. The dimensions
are .4" x .7".</p>
<p>Contact Castle Creations at:</p>
<blockquote>
<address>
Castle Creations<br>
1625 E Drury Lane<br>
Olathe, KS 66062<br>
<a href="http://rcgroups.com/shared/nospam.php?u=pdelcast&d=idir.net">pdelcast(at)idir.net</a>
</address>
</blockquote>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Aveox</strong></p>
<p>New from Aveox is their Hybridrive II controllers. The new software allows the
controllers to operate better at partial throttle. Shown below are a couple of pictures of
their controllers.</p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/44.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/44_small.jpg" alt="44.jpg (44679 bytes)"
border="2" width="116" height="125"></a> <a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/45.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/45_small.jpg"
alt="45.jpg (36282 bytes)" border="2" width="214" height="125"></a></p>
<p>And who says brushless motors are expensive? Take a look at the sign above the
Aveox booth this year:</p>
<p align="center"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/27.jpg" width="229" height="192" alt="27.jpg (18164 bytes)"></p>
<p>Total cost of a 1406/2Y or 1406/4Y motor was just under $200 at the show. A few
years ago this kind of price was unheard of for a brushless motor.</p>
<p>Visit Aveox on the web at <a href="http://www.aveox.com">www.aveox.com</a> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Hobby Lobby</strong></p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/47.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/47_small.jpg" alt="47.jpg (42132 bytes)"
border="2" width="255" height="125"></a></p>
<p>Shown above is Hobby Lobby's new Farman kit, one of two new Speed 400 scale models
produced by the company. I've seen the Farman fly and it performs very well as it is a
very lightweight airplane that is a little larger than most people would consider for this
kind of motor. The Farman and the Super Cub span 43 and 46.5 inches
respectively. The Farman has 280 square inches of wing area, while the Cub has
around 310. Both weigh in at 20 ounces or so. Available from Hobby Lobby for
$29.</p>
<p align="center"><a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/48.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/48_small.jpg" alt="48.jpg (37970 bytes)"
border="2" width="217" height="125"></a> <a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/50.jpg"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/50_small.jpg"
alt="50.jpg (63312 bytes)" border="2" width="188" height="125"></a> <a href="/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/51.jpg"><img
src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/1998/may/toledo/51_small.jpg" alt="51.jpg (84264 bytes)" border="2" width="171" height="125"></a></p>
<p>The Kavan Wingo, one of a new class of airplanes dubbed "Park Flyers" because
they are suitable for small schoolyards and city parks. The cute little ARF comes
with a Speed 400 motor and is intended for an 8x500 mah battery pack. High-wing
pusher configuration makes the airplane stable and durable.</p>
<p>Visit Hobby Lobby on the web at <a href="http://www.hobby-lobby.com">www.hobby-lobby.com</a>
</p>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p> </p>
</blockquote>