Antenna Up??

[Sierra Rat]

I read a post somewhere that if you are using your Tx as a controller for a simulation program you need to extend the antenna on the Tx because while you are using the program the Tx is transmitting. While I realize that the Tx will be transmitting a signal, I fail to see why you would need to extend the antenna. Any info on if this is true or not and if you do need to extend the antenna, the reason why?

Thanks, Sierra Rat

[shizack]

The reason for extending the antenna is that the power transmitted by the tx stays the same, but has a smaller area of metal to radiate it from.

This can result in overheating (sometimes a lot) of the rf section and/or frequency module of the tx. Ever set up a heli with a Hitec tx with collapsed antenna on your lap? I did. ow. Ow! OW!! The module got VERY hot.

To avoid this while simming, just remove the module or crystal. Saves batteries too.

[sketchanderase]

well i would be sure to keep the antenna DOWN and the crystal OUT so that you do not accidentally transmit on a channel someone is using and cause them to crash. it also saves battery and you dont look weird sitting in fron tof a computer with an antenna sticking out.

[shizack]

...sitting in front of a computer with an antenna sticking out.

:eek: :censored: :eek:

[slipstick]

It depends on the make/model of Tx and exactly how the sim cable is wired but SOME Txs with SOME cables will be transmitting.

If yours is transmitting removing the crystal or module will stop it. If for some reason you can't do that then the antenna should be extended because SOME Txs will overheat with the antenna down and can even kill the ouptut stage completely (I know this because I've repaired several for people who didn't heed the warning :().

BTW if you're not sure if your Tx is transmitting when connected to the computer just switch a plane on close to it and see what moves. But be careful if the plane is electric, the motor might start.

Steve

[Malc C]

BTW if you're not sure if your Tx is transmitting when connected to the computer just switch a plane on close to it and see what moves. But be careful if the plane is electric, the motor might start.

Steve

Or if you live next to a flying field, see how many planes lose control and crash :D

[Will Rock]

I'm the one who the OP referred to from an earlier post, and I just removed the crystal from my transmitter...hadn't thought of that before. Thank you.