Rx battery
 

Two questions relative to Rx batteries:

1. Is there a rule of thumb on how to size one? I need to size a battery for a Big Stick 60 with 5 standard servos.

2. General wisdom is to use 6V batteries for 2.4G receivers. Would the higher voltage negatively affect the life of standard servos?

Thanks.

RE: Rx battery
 

If the Big Stik requires standard servos then you can use a 4.8v or 6v battery with about 1200Mah. Ive never heard the rule to use 6v with 2.4 but with 6v you get higher torque and faster speeds. I like to use 6v in my performance and 3D planes since they have larger control surfaces I want the extra torque to prevent flutter. Also I want the extra speed for 3D. I have seen people fly their Stiks balls to the wall full throttle, so you may benefit by using a 6v battery if you plan on flying like this. I cant comment on the question if 6v negatively affects servos, so far I havent had any problems and I really dont worry about it too much since standard servos are inexpensive and can be replaced without breaking the bank.

RE: Rx battery
 

beach,

Thanks for the response. The 6V & 2.4G has to do with the auto shutdown of the receiver in the event of low voltage when the battery is low. Theoretically you don't need it if you battery is adequately sized and you don't let it drain too much, but it's just added safety.

The concern about the servo life isn't so much the cost of the servo itself, but a lost plane that could result from it ;)

RE: Rx battery
 

The issue of low voltage only affects one brand of 2.4 radios, JR/Spektrum. Futaba and Airtronics have the low voltage cutoff values low enough that it's not an issue with those radios. And even for JR/Spektrum has addressed this issue and it only affects their older 2.4 radios.

Most all servos will work just fine with a 6 volt battery, but not all so make sure you check that the servo can handle it.

Ken

RE: Rx battery
 

Thanks Ken. My servos are a combination of Futaba S3003 and S3004's. The S3003's are 3-4 years old (very little usage) and today's specs show torque and speed for both 4.8V and 6V so I am assuming I am good to go. I only ask the question because in some older threads, I have seen mention of detrimental effect of 6V on servos.

RE: Rx battery
 

Servos are just like any mechanical device. If you push them harder the lifespan of that item is more than likely going to be reduced.

Ken