I live to get this thing under 15.5... maybe even 15...
Seriously tho...
I spoke to Smart-Fly about the electronics... because I have melted connectors from the battery to the switch or regulator on planes I've used several or digital servos.... Not to the point of failure but I didn't like it one bit...
He stated (as did a couple other sources) that the standard connectors are only good for 3 amps... A GS plane may have that sitting on the ground, but then lighten up in the air. But if you have ANY fighting of servos or constant pressure on one (like a rudder that buzzes) it can draw more.
This causes the pins to get hot and "melt/shrink" the connectors.
The wire themselves can handle significantly more amperage and that's why 22 gauge leads are a must in GS... so that it is is never a concern.
The dual power leads from the Smart-Fly distribute the amp load across two receiver terminals, but more importantly, across two standard connectors giving you 6 amps of margin... plenty good for up to 35% GS... There may be peaks at 9-10 but momentary and easily handled without heat buildup or damage.
These regs are lightweight, but look and feel like tanks... very comfortable with them up front.
The version with the failsafe switch is a little heavier of course (but you have to put a switch on them anyway). What I like is that the switch plugs in into a lead, so you can use a standard extension to position the switch whereever convenient, tho the default length should be sufficient for most any install.
One minor drawback (but not really) is that the failsafe version even when off will draw about 5 Mah per day... if you allow the plane to sit for a month or more without charging it COULD potentially drop the voltage level of lions below recoverability. i.e. the pack is either useless or severely lost it's capacity.
I have one of the Sommer Miniron Mobil chargers and love it... it will auto recharge every two weeks...
I researched all the regs out there, and for up to 35% planes the Smart-Fly is the best thing since sliced bread... if building a "big dog" 40%'er you need to use two regs on redundant batteries as the amp ratings can really soar when you have 3 digital servos in each wing, 4 on the elevator and 3-4 on the rudder...
This is going to be one interesting week coming up... having built the WH I can directly compare the two planes in quality, manufacture, assembly accuracy and weight.
While I like the Wild Hare I did have to fill most of the piloted hardpoints and redrill as they were all drilled crooked. One aileron hardpoint was actually off by 1/2 inch and I had to add my own.. no big deal, but you wouldn't expect to have to do that with an ARF.
Tom would have taken care of it in a heartbeat as he is darn dedicated to taking care of the customer... and his planes fly great!
Still yet, when I saw the BME Edge... I knew I had to try one...
"to be continued"
