Control Tower April 1997 [Archive]

jbourke

Apr 01, 1997, 01:00 AM

<h2 align="center">Column Table of Contents</h2>

<a href="#E-Zone News">Ezone News</a> 
<a href="#New Products">New Products</a> 
<a href="#Photo Gallery">Photo Gallery</a> 
<a href="#Letters">Letters to the Editor</a>

<h2 align="left"><a name="E-Zone News">E-Zone News</a> </h2>

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<td>As I'm writing this I have just returned from the Toledo R/C Convention. This was a
lot of fun for me as I got to meet many of the people who browse this web site on a
regular basis. I gave away more EFLIGHT buttons than I could count and it was a real
thrill to occasionally walk into someone who had something kind to say about The E Zone.Regardless
of how much fun it was, the Toledo show was a business trip. I saw it as an opportunity to
make contacts in the industry and to pass out advertising information to the vendors who
attended the show. There were a few vendors who displayed absolutely no interest in either
electric flight or the world wide web, but most of the people out there see the future in
both areas and were happy to hear that there is a dedicated service on-line. The
advertising revenue we receive will go toward making a better magazine. I
appreciate all the help the viewers of the site provide by spreading the word to their
friends and the businesses they frequent. The more people who know about us the
more succesful we will be at bringing information to the internet modeling community.
The challenge of selling web advertising to vendors who do not understand it is hard to
describe. Before I left for Toledo I printed out quite a few pages from the web site so I
could show them to people who simply could not grasp the concept of a web page. Have you
ever tried to explain the web to someone who has no computer experience? Luckily, the
majority of vendors understood exactly what I was talking about and were even in the
process of creating sites of their own. It is my belief that the explosion of the web in
1996 is nothing compared to the amount of growth we will receive in 1997.
Where is all this heading? Well, we have just wrapped up our first year on the net and
I am spending some time working on plans for next year. Frankly, it is a nearly impossible
task to determine where the world wide web will be one year from now. Its equally hard to
predict the growth of electric flight. I think it is possible that we have only seen the
tip of the iceburg with both. Every month we receive enough visitors to count as a small
magazine. I hope that next year we will count as a large one.
Thanks to all our viewers for making our first year so succesful.
<h3>Help Wanted</h3>
On another note, the E Zone is desparately searching for a new columnist
to cover indoor R/C and electric free flight. If you have any experience in these areas
then please <a href="http://rcgroups.com/shared/nospam.php?u=jbourke&d=ezonemag.com">drop me an email</a>. The column could
be bi-monthly if you don't have the time to do a monthly column. Indoor R/C is really
growing and we need someone to help us cover the subject for the many readers who ask
questions. If you have any experience at all and aren't afraid of a deadline then you are
qualified.
<h3>Article Contest </h3>
The latest and greatest E Zone Article Contest is underway. This is something we do
every few months to encourage readers to write articles for the E Zone. The prizes are
distributed randomly to those who submit articles and are donated by readers and/or the
site's sponsors. This month's prizes include:<ul>
<li>A set of <a href="http://ns.inw.net/~tpm/">Tim McDonough</a> laser cut speed 400 motor
mounts</li>
<li>A Speed 480 RACE electric motor donated by Unbeaten
Path Imports</li>
<li>A Midwest ME-109 kit donated by OHM Services. This would be a fabulous electric warbird
conversion.</li>
</ul>
Please have your article to me by May 15, 1997 to qualify for this contest.</td>
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<h2 align="left"><a name="New Products">New Products</a></h2>

If you are a vendor with a press release or product announcement that you would like to
share, <a href="http://rcgroups.com/shared/nospam.php?u=jbourke&d=ezonemag.com">email me at jbourke(at)ezonemag.com</a>. 

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<td><h3>From Tim McDonough:</h3>
<blockquote>
At the upcoming Toledo model show Jim Ryan and I will be unveiling a laser cut kit of
his sport scale P-38 design. The kit includes foam wing cores, laser cut parts, and plans.
This is a "short kit". The builder must supply the sheeting for the wing skins
and triangle stock for the tail boom corners. Anticipated price is $85.00US.
Also at Toledo I will be introducing versions of my round and square laser cut motor
mounts for the Speed 500/600 size motors. Price for either is $5.00 for a package of
three.
Speed 400 Specialties is now offering an Almost Ready To Cover version of my Speed 400
MiniStreak Design. Price is $75.00.
Visit Tim McDonough's web site at <a href="http://www.inw.net/~tpm">http://www.inw.net/~tpm</a>
</blockquote>
<h3>From Model Air Tech:</h3>
<blockquote>
My newest offering... The H-100 belt drive for speed 400's and AP-29's and whatever
else looks like them with different names, are available. Ratios come in two ranges... Low
range... 2.57, 3.0, 3.23, 3.6/1 and the high range..... 3.43, 4.0, 4.36 and 4.8/1. Ratios
are easy to change within each range by swaping motor pulleys. The basic unit, with one
ratio of choice, and NO prop adapter is $39.95 +$4.00 S+H (US) $6.00 S+H (Canada), for
overseas orders, I charge exact shipping.... (E-mail me for details). Prop adapters
(3/16"dia bare steel shaft supplied) will be $5.00 extra. If you have an old MAS
gearbox laying around, steal one off that and save the $5.00. Extra ratios are $10.00 each
within the range.... Don't ask me to "jump" ranges though... Just buy another
unit!!
Also, Collins Scientific of Oklahoma City OK, is manufacturing Bare Bones Kits for me.
They are $39.95 + $4.00 S+H ($6.00 to Canada) and are available thru me or Collins
Scientific (405-721-4502). Like my Dimwatt and Lowwatt kits, they come in a mailing tube,
but this kit is more complete. It contains a pre-drilled nose block for the speed 400,
other pre-cut sheet wood, and a hardware pack, besides the sticks and plans. For those of
you not familiar with the model, it is a simple to build and fly entry level speed 400
pylon racer with which I just happen to have won first place at the AMA/NEAC Nats in 1996.
Email me at <a href="http://rcgroups.com/shared/nospam.php?u=THunt95147&d=aol.com">THunt95147(at)aol.com</a> with any other
questions, or call at 516-981-0372
</blockquote>
<h3>From Speed 400 Specialties:</h3>
<blockquote>
Speed 400 specialties is now providing the modeler with laser cut control horns for
speed 400 models. The horns are made of 1/16" plywood and literally fall out of the
plywood sheet they are cut from. The cost is only $2.50 for 3 sets (six horns). This price
includes postage.
<blockquote>
Contact:
<address>
Speed 400 Specialties 
1750 Lundgren Rd 
New Carlisle, OH 45344 
USA 
937-849-0418 
<a href="http://members.aol.com/sp400racer">http://members.aol.com/sp400racer</a>
</address>
</blockquote>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>
 
</blockquote>
<h3>An MCE Software press release:</h3>
<blockquote>
Woods Of The World CD 
With every purchase of LT or the full Drawingboard 2D program MCE includes FREE
this very popular CD encyclopedia of nearly 500 of the most popular species of trees in
the world. Beautiful color photos, species and native habitat information, physical
properties, and much more. Everything you could ever wanted to know about trees and
lumber! Very popular product!
Scale Model Laser Cutting Part Service 
Now you can easily and inexpensively have all of the parts for your model laser
cut to exact size according to your drawing file. That's right, you just do the design
work in DrawingBoard, LT, or Vellum 3D (or any other CAD DXF export file), mail or e-mail
the file to us and we take care of everything else. Your parts are cut on the latest
computer controlled laser cutter. You get back a complete set of parts ready to assemble.
Usually costs significantly less than off the shelf parts. Sell kits to your friends or
start a business!
<blockquote>
Contact:
<address>
MCE Software 
http://www.mcesoft.com 
E-mail <a href="http://rcgroups.com/shared/nospam.php?u=mce&d=mcesoft.com">mce(at)mcesoft.com</a> 
1-800-392-3046
</address>
</blockquote>
</blockquote>
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<h2><a name="Photo Gallery">Photo Gallery</a></h2>

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<td><h3>My Ace Cloud Dancer</h3>
I fully expected to have my Ace Cloud Dancer conversion story done by this month's
issue, but I haven't had a chance to fly it yet! I was all set to get in the air one day
when a bad aileron servo was discovered. The next weekend I was in Toledo and the weather
hasn't exactly been fair to me either. Excuses, excuses...
The least I can do is show some pictures of it. You'll have to wait until next month
for the whole scoop.
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<td><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/ctower/../../images/mycd4.jpg" width="313" height="219"></td>
<td><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/ctower/../../images/mycd1.jpg" width="388" height="229"></td>
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<td width="50%">All in all I think it turned out pretty well. It was a couple of ounces
heavier than I expected. I have no doubt that the plane will fly wonderfully at its all-up
weight of 6 lbs 5 ounces, but I really thought it would end up a few ounces lighter. I
predicted an all up weight of 6lbs with standard sized equipment.The covering is
Ultracote. I modified the canopy, turtledeck, and cowl to create a slightly different
looking aircraft.
The battery is held in place with velcro straps. The hatch is removable and is also
held in place with velcro. I placed a piece of plywood on the underside of the hatch to
that I can grip it firmly to remove it. You can see the two ends of the plywood piece
sticking out of the rear of the hatch in the top photo on the right.
The usual cowl is very sleek but I wanted to have cheek air scoops so I redesigned it
quite a bit. The cowl that you see is completely hollow. I made it out of a very
lightweight balsa framework and used sheet balsa for the curved top and sides. I think it
is much prettier than the standard cowl and it also helps to provide some cooling for the
motor and battery.</td>
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<td width="100%"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/ctower/../../images/mycd2.jpg" width="397" height="262"></td>
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<td width="100%"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/ctower/../../images/mycd3.jpg" width="424" height="297"></td>
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<h3>A Pair of Bees</h3>
Luck is smiling on us! I get to share photos of two Lazy Bees this month!
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<td width="100%"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/ctower/../../images/frankk1.jpg" width="458" height="272"> 
Frank Korman, president of the Dallas Electric Aircraft Fliers (DEAF), with his
Lazy Bee. It's powered with a ferrite can motor and the Master Airscrew Gearbox. The Bee
is an excellent, docile aircraft but isn't suited for beginners due to its somewhat
complex design.
These photos were taken during the winter-time fly-in which was
held on the 8th of February. Frank isn't smiling in this picture; his cheeks have frozen
to the inside of his hood. I happened to forget my gloves that day but the doctor says my
fingers are healing nicely.
<img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/ctower/../../images/frankk2.jpg" width="125" height="236"> <img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/ctower/../../images/frankk3.jpg" width="125" height="236"> 
Frank demonstrates the perfect Lazy Bee throw. 
Step 1, brace yourself for enjoyment. 
Step 2, take a single step and toss.</td>
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<td width="50%"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/ctower/../../images/lzbee1.jpg" width="359" height="206"></td>
<td width="50%">Here is Brian Chan's
stretched wing Lazy Bee, powered by a geared Astro 035 and covered with Monokote iron-on
covering. Nice job, Brian!</td>
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<td width="50%"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/ctower/../../images/lzbee2.jpg" width="229" height="165"></td>
<td width="50%"><img src="http://static.rcgroups.com/articles/ezonemag/ctower/../../images/lzbee3.jpg" width="372" height="243"></td>
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<hr>

<h2><a name="Letters">Letters</a> </h2>

I love receiving letters from people who have viewed the site. The following is a
sampling of the letters I've received this month.  If you have a modeling photo or
technique you'd like to share email me at <a href="http://rcgroups.com/shared/nospam.php?u=jbourke&d=ezonemag.com">jbourke(at)ezonemag.com</a>.
Beware: anyone who asks me for advice via email has a chance of seeing their letter in
virtual print the next month! (especially if they say something nice about the site- hint,
hint!)

Some of the letters are edited to remove irrelevant or personal information. My
comments are in boldface type. If you do not see this sentence in boldface, get a new
browser or the next section will be a wee bit confusing.

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<td width="100%">The subject of control line electrics came up in last month's
column and generated several inquiries. Here is a common question.From: Bruce
Foster <speranza(at)stainless.niia.net> 
To: jbourke(at)ezonemag.com 
Subject: Control line 
 
Wouldn't the control liners have the advantage of leaving the batteries 
on their person and routing the power through the U-line? Those planes 
should perform wonderfully. 
Bruce
Powering a plane through the U-Control wires is a real possibility for very
small models, Bruce. Unfortunately, most models can't benefit from this concept. The wire
imposes a loss due to its resistance. The resistance of the wire is further magnified by
two factors: length and current. At 30 amps and with standard length wire it is basically
impossible to use this approach.
However, there is no reason why the batteries can't be stored on the aircraft.
If we can fly R/C planes at 180 mph with electric power then we can do it with control
liners too. 
<hr>
From: Len and Lora <ljk(at)cybercom.net> 
To: jbourke(at)ezonemag.com 
Subject: batteries 
 
Hi, Jim; I am new to e-flight, and am confused about the designations, 
etc. I hope you could clear up a few things for me. First, in your review 
of the skimmer 400 you state you use 600AE batteries. I also read that Ted 
Davey is using KR1450AU's. Now everything I've read says that only SCR and 
AR batteries can be rapid charged. Does this mean that you can only get one 
flight per session out of them, or is it safe to repeatedly charge them ? 
It seems I am a bit confused as to which type of batteries can be safely 
charged repeatedly. I hope you could clear this up for me.
This is a confusing subject for a lot of people. All of the "R"
series cells can be safely charged at a rate equal to 4 times the capacity (this is
designated as a 4C rate). In other words, anything over a 1000 SCR (like the 1700 SCR and
the RC2000 cells) can be safely charged at 5 amps (the limit of most commercial chargers).
The 1000 SCR cells should be charged at 4 amps. The "R" series cells were not
designed to be charged at this rate but over time we have learned that no damage is caused
by it.
I typically charge my AE cells at a 3C rate. This means that they can be
charged in only 20 minutes. Its a good idea to let these cells cool between flights if you
are drawing more than 10 amps or so. Some people disagree with me here and feel that most
of the AE cells can withstand much higher charging rates. Charging 600AE cells at 3 amps
is something I would never do but I know of several people who think it is a great idea.
It all depends on how long you want your cells to last.
I cannot advise you on the AU cells because I haven't had a chance to use them
yet. Just start off at a slow rate like 2C and watch the performance of the pack as you
increase the charge rate over time. If you notice a problem or if the cells seem
exceptionally hot after charging then go back down in rate a little.
<hr>
From: L Johnston <lenjohn(at)worcestr.dnet.co.uk> 
To: jbourke(at)ezonemag.com 
 
I live in Northern Ireland and fly at a sports field only a mile from my 
home. The silent aspect of electric flight is a great help in keeping 
the site. 
 
I've been experimenting with ultra small models and have been in 
correspondence with several German manufacturers of tiny indoor stuff. 
Last year I paid fifty pounds for a tiny receiver which quit in flight 
after five minutes. The model was last seen at five thousand feet 
heading for America. If you come across it let me know. 
 
There was a model shop here in Bangor where I live that went bust. I 
bought fifty tiny Keil Kraft scale model kits (average 20 inches span) 
for fifty cents each from the guy who was glad to get rid of them at any 
price. I would just love to fit four channels and an electric drive into 
them! Believe it or not I'm almost there!
I am not familiar with Keil Kraft, but I have seen similarly suitable models
from Herr Engineering. There is not a lot of information available in the US about indoor
R/C, but I think this year we will see a lot of growth in it due to the new lightweight
inexpensive servos we now have available. The FMA S80 servo is smaller, lighter, and
cheaper than the Cannon servos which were used until recently.
I am also aware of some new gear drives becoming available for speed 280 and
300 motors. The current FMA micro receiver is light enough to pass for an indoor receiver
until something lighter comes along later this year. I have also heard of some very
lightweight speed controls, roughly half the size of a postage stamp, which are being made
for the speed 280 motor.
Add all these things together and what do you get? Well, I foresee a whole new
breed of indoor electric models which are no more expensive than outdoor and also have the
benefit of using equipment which is completely compatible with the regular frequency
standards. It used to be that indoor flight was a very slow delicate affair but very soon
there will be plenty of people flying 5 channel indoor fun-fly models. Don't laugh! I'm
designing one now!
I'm very anxious to hear the results of your endeavors with small electric
models. I'm sure there are plenty of people out there who would love to see an article on
the subject (hint, hint). In any case, please keep us informed and thanks for writing!
<hr>
From: Logar Solis <whitefng(at)pacbell.net> 
To: jbourke(at)ezonemag.com 
Subject: electric flying 
 
I was soo impressed by this page and all the other info available on 
electric power in RC aircraft that I (A die hard 2cycle) have decided to 
give up the old dino, and join the electric generation. All the 
electrics I have seen were always (pathetic) to be honest. But recently 
a new guy to my favorite fly site brought a 1/4 scale P-38 to fly. I 
asked him what engines he had in her, he said, "None, I got two electric 
motors". I just about laughed my ass off,...yeah, he was gonna fly this 
fine bird on electric power!This guy has obviously sniffed too much CA 
fumes!I quickly developed a taste for humble pie. He didn;t have to 
tinker with it, he just turned the radio on and hit the throttle and 
taxied! He hit the end of the strip and poured it on. BOOM! it was 
airborne in a heartbeat. I have rarely seen glow aircraft demonstrate 
that kinda power. He pulled the gear up and damn near climed outta 
sight! AND THE SOUND!!! He made a full bore pass and I swear I thought 
it was the real thing~! Well he landed and the aircraft was spotless. 
What a concept, no clean up! I was sold! I only have two questions for 
you, 
1. what do you recommend for a .40 size sureflight cub? 
 
2. Know any stupid people who will buy my gas engines?!?!??!:) 

As a general rule, I really need to have the wing area and weight before I can
give definitive answers to questions about converting a model.
Your .40 sized cub is probably a natural for an Astro 25 Geared motor or a
speed 700 motor mated with a Model Air Tech Belt drive. Aveox has recently introduced a
new motor which will run nicely on 14 cells and a gearbox. MaxCim creates a motor which
would be perfect when mated with the gearbox they sell.
As you can see there are plenty of alternatives available. Contact one of the
manufacturers listed above and decide what kind of performance you want. Don't forget to
buy a high-quality charger! Its a very important piece of equipment.
Welcome to the ever-growing family of electric fliers, by the way! I'm dying to
hear more about that 1/4 scale P-38. Its the first I've heard about.</td>
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