This is my first post. I haven't even seen an RC plane in real life, only pictures and vids. But I have been looking at getting into it.

I'm studying Aerospace Engineering in Australia so I'm gradually building my knowledge of the electronics involved.

My aim this year is to get some lessons so I can fly one then build at least one basic plane. And depending on how that works out getting some 2 way telemetry happening (wireless video, airspeed indication, potentially GPS, etc.) The reason for this is that I aim to contribute to our university's UAV project for my thesis in final year.

So I have some questions.

- What range can I expect from a typical trainer transmitter? Does weather and LOS affect it?

- When you buy an transmitter will it come with everything you need like: reciever, servos, powerpacks etc.

- What frequency do most transmitters operate on? Can you change to multiple different channels if there is interference?

- When buying a glow engine do most come with everything you need such as fuel tank, tubing, etc.

- What is the best/cheapest way to get glow fuel.

- How do you know what size engine to buy?

Think that should get me started.

Thanks
dy

edit: here's one more i forgot

- how much flying time could I expect from a tank of fuel? how long on average to servo/reciever batteries last?