ORIGINAL: Dave trimmer
Hi I am looking for one of those radios that can ajust to any channel (eg. 8 air planes 8 different channels but one controler). I have seen some radios that say "6 model memory" what does this mean? Is it like the one i'm thinking about?
Thanks, Dave Trimmer
Dave,
Did you get your question answered?
The word channel is used to mean two different things
Channels = how many functions can you control
Channel = what frequency you are using to fly.
Model memories = how many different planes you can set-up and have the radio remember the settings. Radios come in all kinds of combinations of these features.
A hitec Flash 5SX has 5 model memories, 5 channels and flies on only one frequecy/channel
A hitec Optic 6 has 6 control channels, can remember 8 planes ( 8 model memories ) and flies on one frequency/channel normally. However you can buy an optional device for it called a spectra frequency synthesizer module. You pop this out, set the dials and it will change the frequency/channel you are using to talk to the plane. The receiver in the plane has to be able to listen to that channel in order for it to receive the signal.
A Futaba 7C has 7 control channels, 10 model memories but can only fly on one fixed frequency/channel.
A Futaba 9C has 9 control channels, unlimited model memories based on removeable memory sticks, and can be single channel or can have a channel synthesizer so you can set the transmission frequency/channel.
Polk Tracker III has 8 control channels, 99 model memories and can synthesize any of the 50 72 mhz frequency/channels that you can be used to fly RC airplanes in North America.
So, as you see, you can have many different combinations of features.
Many parkflyers only need 3 channels to fly - R/E/T or A/E/T.
Most glow planes and many electrics use 4 channels - A/E/T/R
Some add more for more advanced features like retractable landing gear, flaps. If it is a computer radio, then it can mix the control of the surfaces to create new features. I recommend computer radios.
Typically a 5 - 7 channel computer radio ( model memories and mixes) will serve the need of most sport electric/glow/gas flyes
If you want to get into sailplanes, which can be more complex, then 6 or more would be the minimum I would recommend. I have a 9 channel radio for my sailplanes.
Lots of choices. Lots of toys to buy!
So little time and money!!!!
