RC > Systems

Q-11: I first bought the recommended Hitec Neon three-channel RC system and then later bought a basic four-channel system. I realized right away that the throttle control sticks are in different locations. As a beginner, will this cause me any problems? Answer ...

Q-21: As I understand it, some RC systems aren’t compatible with others and that it has something to do with "FM deviation." Can you explain this to me? Answer ...

Q-49: I have a Hobbico three-channel transmitter (it looks like a Hitec Focus model). Also I have a Hitec Laser 4 FM transmitter. I tried to operate the AM receiver that is part of the Hobbico setup with the Laser 4 FM transmitter. I put the crystal from the Laser 4 setup into the AM receiver of the Hobbico setup. When I tried to operate the airplane, the controls chattered and moved without any operation of the Laser 4 transmitter. Does this mean that the AM receiver can only work with an AM transmitter? Answer ...

Q-74: I recently experienced a flying site separation problem where two local clubs were operating from flying fields in very close proximity to one another. To help resolve this problem I was advised to look up AMA document #548 Procedure for RF Interference Testing Between Model Sites (reference this specific AMA website: http://www.modelaircraft.org/templates/ama/PDF-files/548.pdf). Well I did and it appears that this test procedure depends on a device referred to as a “Glitch Detector”. The only problem is there is no reference as to what this device is or even where one could buy it. Can you help me out? Answer ...

Q-111: I noticed in magazine advertisements that the new Hitec Optic 6 RC transmitter can provide RF [radio frequency] signals on regular FM (also known as PPM [Pulse Position Modulation]) as well as PCM [Pulse Code Modulation]. Do I need a special receiver to operate PCM? Do any other Hitec RC transmitters operate on PCM? Answer ...

Q-135:  I recently blew the dust off my old RC model aircraft and RC systems that were put aside when I went off to college. I now would like to introduce my two little boys to this wonderful hobby. The radios I have date back twenty years or more and operate on AM. Will I be permitted to use these radios at AMA sanctioned clubs or events? Are there any FCC rules or regulations that prohibit the use of AM radios? Answer ...

Q-136: I recently attended the weak Signal RC Show in Toledo, Ohio. During my travels around the show I was surprised to see what appeared to be a new concept in RC systems being shown at one of the booths. I believe the new concept was called, “Spread Spectrum.” Can you provide some details on this? Answer ...