Voltmeter Question..........
#1
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From: none, , CANADA
Hi guys:
I'm looking for a voltmeter to test my batteries after each flight........... which is the best to get??? Or should I say..... what should i get.......... Thanks
I'm looking for a voltmeter to test my batteries after each flight........... which is the best to get??? Or should I say..... what should i get.......... Thanks
#2

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Get a voltwatch, it plugs into your rx has a clear led display and if done right makes a pretty cool instrument panel in you cockpit. I think Tower was running a stock-up deal on them 2 for $12. However I am sure your local hobby shop wil have one also.
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From: WV
I know there is a lot of disagreement on this ( get something you can use for other things..etc.) but I am very pleased with mine.
http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin...?&I=LXWW16&P=7
http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin...?&I=LXWW16&P=7
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From: NE Oklahoma
A nice loaded battery tester that will check all size and types of batterys made by I4c Products. they also sell the digital c-volt meter if you want the onboard type. They are very sensitive and work well.
http://www.i4cproducts.com
http://www.i4cproducts.com
#5
I4C has the best all round ESV meter in my opinion. It allows you to use different loads to match the plane you are flying. For smaller planes, a 250mah or .5amp load is good, but as you get into larger batteries for larger planes, you need to adjust your load accordingly. The I4C is the only one that I have seen so far that will allow you to test the batteries at the proper load. This is a ESV that you will never grow out of. And it doesn't need batteries either.
The ESV's that you typically buy in the hobby shops are great for the smaller batteries and planes, but once you start getting into the 1200mah or larger packs, and/or fly planes that use 6, 7, or more servos, you need to adjust your load appropriately. Going to .5amp or 1amp loads is preferred. Also, at least on the Hobbico ESV's, if the battery is low, it will give you false high readings. The combination of false high readings, with a using a smaller than normal load, is tempting fate in the larger airplanes.
I switched last year, and should have done it long ago. The I4C is more money (maybe 30% or more), but worth it in the long run if you expect to stay in the hobby and eventually fly 1/4 scale or larger.
The ESV's that you typically buy in the hobby shops are great for the smaller batteries and planes, but once you start getting into the 1200mah or larger packs, and/or fly planes that use 6, 7, or more servos, you need to adjust your load appropriately. Going to .5amp or 1amp loads is preferred. Also, at least on the Hobbico ESV's, if the battery is low, it will give you false high readings. The combination of false high readings, with a using a smaller than normal load, is tempting fate in the larger airplanes.
I switched last year, and should have done it long ago. The I4C is more money (maybe 30% or more), but worth it in the long run if you expect to stay in the hobby and eventually fly 1/4 scale or larger.



