I decided that since I am against using an AFS, and want flaperons, I was going to upgrade my NexStar Tx/Rx before getting any instruction. I just got my new Futaba 6EXA today, and decided to try it out on the RealFlight simulator.

OK, now remember I am a total newbie here, but, after I set up the radio, and took off, the simulator seemed more realistic, my manuvers were more controlled, and there was a visible notice in persision.

Now, I will admit, some of this may be mental, but I honestly think that the better transmitter responds better on the simulator. I can then therefore only assume that the same will be in real flight? I would expect that difference between the low end and the high end, but I am shocked that this is that noticable between the the NexStar Futaba TX (which is most likely bottom end) and the 6EXA which is a good radio it seems, but by no means 'top-end'. Other than the computer programable features, are the better Tx really worth it from a performance perspective too?

Love to hear folks thoughts on this.

Fletch
AMA 796990

you said you were going to use flaperons dos your plane have two aileron servos you have to use two them

Nexstar ithink has CAPABILITY to add another aileron servo. I do not think it comes standard with two aileron servos.

Note to Fletch : You might know this already, but Flappy-Rons need two aileron servos. I've read somewhere that Flappy-Rons can actually hurt flight Someone on RCU said that Flappy-Rons increased the chance of stalling a wing during landing. It also gives considerably poor aileron performance, according to someone, but feel free to contradict me, I'm a beginner too!

Two aileron servos though might allow your NexStar to roll better.

From the factory, the NexStar has a single center mount servo for the ailerons. But reading the manual it is already set up for dual aileron servos. There is a pocket in each wing, and a pull string to snake the servo wires through. So you move the one, and add another.

If you want regular flaps, there are instructions for cutting the existing ailerons, and using the center servo bay to control the flaps. You would then use a Y-Harness for the airleron servos.

Why will dual aileron servos give better roll capabilities? Is it a mechanical advantage?

Fletch
AMA 796990

By the way prophanger, I grew up in Sparta . . . NJ though!

Well, the only way dual ailerons will really give better aileron response is less slop in the linkage. ie, short, straight pushrods, instead of torque rods. (Of course with dual servos you're only putting half the load on each servo.)

I doubt that the difference you're seeing in performance is due to the transmitter. If it is, it's only that the simulator is reading your new transmitter differently. I fly with a couple of different transmitters, one is a "bottom of the line" 4 channel Futaba, the other is a Futaba 6 EXA, and I haven't noticed any difference. I've also used A plain 4 channel Hitec and a Hitec Flash 5X computer Tx. Didn't see a difference there either.

In Real Flight, you normally have to "Wriggle the sticks" during set up, so the sim can read the stick postions. Did you have to do that? If so, are you sure you didn't do a "better" job when setting up the 6EXA?
Dennis-

THe transmitter does NOT make you a better pilot.

When I upgraded from my HiTec Eclipse to my Futaba 9C, I felt more connected with the plane. But it sure didn't make me a "better pilot".

DB, don't have to wiggle the sticks, the sim sees it right away. And 3D, once again someone else has put in words better than me, you are absolutely right, it feels more connected, and that leads to better flying.

Fletch

all the above is true. a better tx will not make a better pilot. only practice will improve your ability to fly. as far as the flapperons go, don't do it. the best way to go is the half-aileron thing. you get better aileron responce from this set-up. i'm not the most experianced pilot,(not new, but not a seasoned vet!), but i have flown both, and the seperate flaps make a huge difference in the quality of your landings. they are much smoother and much more precise. i do reccomend this set up! as far as being a newbie, welcome to r/c flying, make sure you get your ama insurance, and if you haven't actually been flying your real plane, that sim is no replacement for a good instructor, there is no space-bar reset in real life! most people that have the skill will be willing to teach you how to fly for free. if not, give me a call, i'll teach you how to fly!

-james

dang... only if I had room on my 9z for a spacebar.
That would make the flying at the field bettah.

Spacebar+real R/C= no toothpicks
j/k

Although flight sims are no replacement for real R/C,
they can work in some good coordination and get used to
the controls.
But it will never replace that good'ol pucker factor making
you weak at the knees.

Good luck with your plane FletchNJ

Hey, the sim is wonderful for practicing coordination and working out aileron/rudder inputs for different moves, but there is no way I am letting that replace an instructor! I have had the plane for 3 or 4 weeks now, but haven't had the chance getting it up in the air. First thing I did was join AMA, then a small, loosely organized club, but they have a poor field in a rock strewn parking lot. I am now looking into 2 other clubs in the area one of which offers a fully structured new pilot program. The weather really hasn't been great here anyway, except the past few days were perfect.

Thanks for the input on the flaps, seems like I'll go this way for sure.

Fletch
AMA 796990