Let's admit it, F5J sailplanes are pretty complicated machines to get running with 6 or more servos and a power system to control. You've got multiple flight modes, flap compensation, camber adjustments, throttle settings and the list goes on. It can be a pretty daunting task to set up your first full house electric sailplane. There isn't just one way to do any of it right either and the radio system you use will determine how you approach the set up process.
I wanted to share this video of YouTuber RC-flying & more. He sets up his Xperience Pro F5J model using a Jeti DS24 radio. I'm not saying this is the best way or the only way to set up your plane, but if you are new, this can give you some ideas and things to think about to help get your plane up and running.
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Jason, He uses a slider for throttle control. Others (who fly primarily gliders like me) I have seen use a three position switch. Any thoughts on either and do you use your DS12 for F5J or another JETI controller. Specifically, what is your power switch setup?
Thanks for all the great reviews, Dan |
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Hey Dan,
I use a switch to turn on the motor, then use a slider to control speed from idle to full. Usually I have the slider set to full throttle, then hit the switch with my right finger since I'm a lefty to throw the plane. Then once in the air, I can pull the speed back using the left slider on my DS14 radio. |
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Assign the throttle to the 3 way switch, then use a 3 point curve to set the % for each point. |
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Jason and DT, thanks for the reply.
DT, do you have a "throttle cut" switch in addition to the "on-off" switch? Understand the 3 position switch concept for three speeds. I currently have an additional separate "on-off" in addition to the "throttle cut" Seems redundant to me, but have read more than one person recommending this three switch motor control configuration (i.e., Throttle cut, on off, and three selectable motor speeds). |
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Then on/off throttle switch that its speed controlled by the 3-way switch. I used a 3-way with down monetary spring for full power. I like the spring for full power, since its being used only for a few sec. When released it goes to the middle speed. |
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DT, Had the same safety switch setup as you describe but I like the spring loaded full power configuration you describe better! Will have to purchase one. Also, I am considering replacing the locking safety switch function (same as yours) with the DS12 "Throttle Lock" option. My motivation is to stay safe but also open up another switch position for future use. Probably for switch activated altitude, or other telemetry of interest, reporting.
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For F5J you really want a low power setting that allows you to slow down to search for lift. All or nothing is fine for ALES but sub-optimal for F5J.
I arm the motor with 1 switch and then have a 3-pos switch with a low barely turning setting to lift searching, a middle setting for launch/no wind, and a high power for wind or max altitude. I use a Futaba 32MZ and 18SZ. |
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Last edited by D T; Dec 04, 2020 at 04:22 PM.
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Throttle/Flap stick
I use the flap stick for throttle. Activated with a switch. This enables the throttle, disables the flaps. Allows for very precise control of the motor in low power settings and is consistent with 50+ years of flying powered planes. At 30 seconds or when I want to shut off, switch flip to Flight and stick to the top. Worked for many years. Honestly don't know why more people don't do it this way. Especially those who have extensive power backgrounds.
Darwin N. Barrie Chandler, AZ Team Futaba |
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Motor control for F5J
I'm using Mike Shellim's e-Soar+ program. Have the throttle on a slider of my X10S Express. I use an arming switch per Mike's program. I always first cut arming switch at the end of the final climb or cutoff. Then throttle back to zero to enable restart if needed.
I made this curve to simplify having a "cruise" throttle setting without the risk of zeroing out the recording device. Initial climb out at middle or higher throttle. Cutback to mid throttle detent, then move just below the middle detent. That sets the throttle at a predetermine plateau across a wide range of settings of the slider. Adjust points 3 and 4 as needed for slow level flight. Easy... The curve may be able to be used on other F5J setups with throttle on a slider. BTW Mike Shellim's e-Soar+ is a very fine program for F5J with OpenTx. Download templates and setup guide here: https://rc-soar.com/opentx/setups/esoarplus/index.htm Happy flying |
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Last edited by Barry Andersen; Dec 05, 2020 at 09:36 AM.
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I'm setting up an Osprey 2 F5J (from soaringUSA)... there will be a battery for the motor and a battery for the receiver... what I wondering, as I do with large gas planes, should I have a backup receiver battery for this big 3.8 meter plane... appreciate any input... thanks
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LInk to the switch: https://www.soaringusa.com/Zepsus-Du...itch-7amp.html Here's the LiFe I use: https://www.amainhobbies.com/protek-...4aAkr1EALw_wcB |
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