and increases choices but it is often at a cost of confusion, service, and quality. At AMP'D, we will try to sort out these issues while focusing on electric flight. AMP'D will sometimes address social or organizational issues related to electric flight, but mostly, it is about new products and the application of new technology.

Please feel free to ask questions or make suggestions by e-mailing me at greg@rcuniverse.com

September 2009	Issue 13 - If you want a larger model with more power or maybe a good building fix, you don't need to spend thousands of dollars on an R/C model. With the right skill set, and attitude, you can create something impressive enough to get noticed at any flying field.
July 2009	Issue 12 - Our R/C hobby has so many facets that sometimes it can become overwhelming to take it all in. Recent advances in technology have allowed many of us to enjoy the hobby without being skilled in all aspects of it. I would not likely have become such a model aircraft enthusiast if it were not for...
April 2009	Issue 11 - From easy flying RTFs like the ParkZone Vapor or E-flite Blade mCX to skillfully hand-built rubber-powered conversions and precision flying 3D "mined" foamies, the culmination of increasingly larger gatherings like the Great Planes E-Fest, ETOC, and Heli Smackdown events all mean only one thing...that Indoor Flying Rocks!
January 2009	Issue 10 - My focus in this month's issue of AMP'D is to introduce newer EDF enthusiasts that want to advance faster than the current mainstream market allows without breaking the bank. The choices for EDF are both vast and exciting when you start to venture off the beaten path.
November 2008	Issue 9 - My focus in this month's issue of AMP'D is to reveal a few fast setups that range in cost and complexity but all with a common goal...to inspire your passion by creating an R/C model that satisfies the need for speed!
September 2008	Issue 8 - In a fast-paced world, where our hobby time is limited, the invasion of Almost-Ready-to-Fly planes (or ARFs) has been a real blessing for many R/Cers. These models allow us to assemble something beautiful, very quickly, and spend quality time flying at the club or just down the street. We no longer have to be master builders or too afraid to fly our creations.
June 2008	Issue 7 - VTOL is an abbreviation for Vertical Take-Off and Landing. VTOL describes fixed-wing aircraft that can lift off vertically. This classification includes only a very few aircraft like helicopters, autogyros, jump jets, and tiltrotors. Helium-filled balloons and airships are not normally considered VTOL. The following project was dedicated to our passion for making a functional VTOL design for the hobbyist using conventional components available at multiple vendors.
April 2008	Issue 6 - I recently had an opportunity to see Dave at a local club meeting where he was invited to give a presentation on his objectives and long range plans for the AMA. After the presentation, I had some one on one time with Dave and asked him several very candid questions.
February 2008	Issue 5 - With brushless motors sustaining 30,000 to over 40,000 RPMs under load, EDF units started performing very well. We first saw a series of "fun" jets where the EDF unit was merely used to replace an existing prop design, almost as an afterthought. We also saw many streamlined jet designs that were powered by pusher props. Then, it finally happened...the first high performance ARF ducted fan jets hit the market. This month's issue of AMP'D is all about jet fever as EDF goes mainstream.
January 2008	Issue 4 - One of the many advantages of electric flight is that we can tap into the main battery pack to supply power for the receiver and servos. Most Electronic Speed Controllers (ESCs) have a built-in Battery Eliminator Circuit (BEC) that eliminates the need for a separate receiver battery pack - thus reducing weight and adding the convenience of recharging only a single battery. In this month's issue of AMP'D, we explore the need and advantages of why we use regulated power.
December 2007	Issue 3 - For years now, I have heard concerns about motor cost and complexity from many R/Cers wishing to try electric-powered flight. The market has responded with lower prices through competition, reduced complexity through outrunners, and even “combo” packages of matched components that work together. This month's issue will address motor selection confusion.
November 2007	Issue 2 - When it comes to making electric conversions easier, I am always eager to use new products in my next project. This month's column shows a few of these items that have helped make it easier for me to fly electric and "arm the big boys".
October 2007	Issue 1 - Welcome to the first issue of AMP'D; the on-line column all about electric flight! A continuous flow of new technology has rapidly changed the scope of electric flight such that formal organizations, manufacturers, vendors, hobby shops, and most of all, users like us are having a hard time keep. At AMP'D, we will try to sort out these issues while focusing on electric flight.