ORIGINAL: aeajr
ORIGINAL: JensVillebro
I took my new Firebird Commander out for it's maiden flight today. There were no wind at all and it flew perfect, but it seems to have a big problem with the transmitter's range. Even though the plane was only 50m away from me I could hear the motor switching on and off and the further/higher it got the problem worsened. I had a small crash without serious damage, but it only happened because the plane didn't respond when I added throttle.
I suppose it could be that the batteries that came with the commander might be used up, but I think the transmitter device is supposed to blink or beep giving you a warning when that happens.
Have anybody on RC Universe experienced the same thing, and is it a general problem with the Commander or the Hobby Zone products?
By the way, I really like my Commander. It flies fantastic and extremely stable. I agree with all of you guys who say that elevation control would be perfect. Guess my next plane is going to be the AB Challenger or the Xtreme. Cool planes...
Anyway, I really hope somebody can help me.
Welcome to RC flying. You should have a grand time with the Commander.
No there is no light to warn you the motor battery is running out. There is a warning if the transmitter battery runs down.
Have you read the manual?
Did you do a range check?
If you passed range check then extend it. Wal further and further. If you can go back 500 feet (you will need a friend's help) and can still control the plane on the ground, you probably don't have a range problem.
Make sure the battery is fully charged just before you fly.
Make sure the battery connector is tight and fully locked with the plane's connector.
Tell me what happens after you do this test.
Thanks! I've really been looking forward to getting into it, but unfortunately the weather here is too windy right now, so I'll probably won't be able to testfly for 10 days at least. However, yes I did read the manual, but I flew alone on my first flight so I couldn't do te range test. However, while discharging the batteries at home as described in the manual, I encountered no motor drop outs so I guess the motor and board functions just fine. It must be a reception issue. The plane's battery was fully charged and the TX didn't give a low batt signal. I'll try it again with brand new batteries and I'll bring one of my friends, so that we can do a proper range test. I'll post how it goes. I hope, that when I get real good a flying the Commander I can upgrade to the ABX!! That's a cool plane!
Jens