eballz

I am converting a formally rubber powered model to a 3 channel electric r/c micro flyer. The airframe will need to be modified for strength and for electronics, a neat little project. Cant wait to see how it turns out. The model is micro sized with a 24 inch wingspan. High wing, good dihedral, and flat bottom aerofoil - like a miniature trainer.

I am new to electric r/c so my main questions for you electric gurus are: what is an ideal powerplant for this model? Three channels means it will have ESC, rudder, and elevator. I was thinking 180 sized but am unsure on battery size or type. NiMH or Lithium? Current rating? Geared or direct drive?

thanks in advance

Sir Crash-A-lot

Unless you want one heck of a fast model, go with the RFFS. at 100$ USD it's pricey, but worth it. It has 3 channels, and a biult-in ESC/BEC. It is designed to run on one LiPo cell (~8.00) and is used often with N20 or pager motors-although many have had success with the E-chargers powerplant. for 15$ extra, they will throw in two actuators-and 115$ for a reciver (GWS pico, 30$), two servos(CS-6.2, 20$ apiece) a speed control (20.00 for the ICS-50 E) is'nt a bad deal.
Of course, you could always go IPS/pico/cirrus, but that would give you one heck of an acrobat with a 24" wingspan, so be ready to fly FAST.
If this is your first plane, go with foamfly.com's frog-only about 20.00 for a few sheets of Depron (bluecor works great if you can get it, and it's cheaper) and a bottle of Gorilla Glue (no CA for me, thanks). Although the motor is not included, you can save some weight and increase efficiency by upgrading to a IPS orbital aftermarket gearbox, wich is about the same as the reccomended IPS A.
Just my two cents.
-joe