Archive for the ‘RC Reviews’ Category

Radio Controlled Cars – A Fun Hobby For All Ages

Wednesday, July 7th, 2010

It doesn't matter if you are eight or eighty, if you love cars and enjoy tinkering about, then racing radio controlled cars can provide you with endless hours of fun and excitement. But there are hurdles that you have to cross before you get to the race track and, if you are a newcomer to the world of radio controlled cars then there are a number of things that you will need to think about.

Many people are amazed at just how exciting the world of radio controlled car racing has become in recent years with modern hobby cars reaching speeds of 60 mph and featuring complex suspension systems that can be tuned in much the same way as those of a real car. But perhaps the best feature of today's radio controlled cars is the wide variety of different vehicles available.

When the time comes to buy your first radio controlled car you will need to begin by considering three things:

1. Do you want to buy a ready-to-run vehicle or to build your own car from a kit?

There is no doubt that building your own car has many advantages, not least the fact that you will find it easy to maintain the vehicle and to make alterations to it if you choose to, but this is certainly not an easy option for the beginner. Although they are a little more expensive, for younger racers and to get you up and running quickly, you would probably be best advised to start with a ready-to-run car and then move on to building your own radio controlled car at a later date.

2. Do you want an on-road or an off-road vehicle?

On-road vehicles (on-road here refers to a smooth, paved surface rather than the road itself) are designed for speed and are clearly the option if you wish to race your car.

If, however, you are not principally concerned with racing then there are a wide variety of off-road vehicles available including trucks and buggies which can provide immense fun negotiating rough terrain, obstacle courses and even jumps.

3. Do you want an electric vehicle or a nitro powered car?

Electrically powered vehicles provide the simplest option and use rechargeable batteries. They are both clean and quiet but, for many hobbyists, they lack the realism that gives radio controlled car racing its true excitement.

Nitro powered vehicles, on the other hand, offer the sound (tuned pipe), sights (smoke) and smell (exhaust) of a real car. They do however require considerably more maintenance than their electric counterparts and this is something that the novice needs to take into consideration. Although the quality of nitro powered cars in the past left a lot to be desired, in recent years they have been greatly improved in terms of not only their performance but also their safety and reliability.

Having considered the options of ready-to-run or kit cars, on-road or off-road and whether you want an electric or nitro powered car, the next step is to visit your local supplier and take a look at the huge range of cars available.

Then its time for some practice before you head off to the race track.

Electric RC Airplanes: Beginners Luck Every Time

Monday, July 5th, 2010

Flying an electric RC airplane is like having beginners luck every time you fly. The first remote control airplane I ever got was electrically powered, I had no flying skills whatsoever, and I still managed to fly it perfectly without even crashing. Why you ask? Because electric RC planes like the one I had are so simple, they only have two control options, power and steering. You go as fast, or slow as you want and just choose your direction.

Now yes, there are electric RC planes that you can buy or build, that have many control channels and all the works, like flaps, ailerons, etc. Those types of electric airplanes are basically made for advanced flyers who don't like the mess that comes with the use of fuel. Most hobbyist start with an electrically powered plane, then move onto fuel powered ones once they have mastered it. But like I said, some people just don't like the mess and added expense that comes with a fuel powered engine, so they stick with electric motors. Fine, do whatever makes you happy, but I am just going to talk about getting a good electric RC plane for a beginner pilot.

Now first off you should note that electric airplanes can come in a few different types. Basically there are only park flyers, slow flyers, regular electric planes and advanced electrically powered RC airplanes.

Park flyers are mainly for parks and small areas similar to that outdoors. Slow flyers are just the opposite, since they move slower they are for indoors. These can be great for the winter or when it is just plain to windy outside to fly.

A regular electric RC airplane is the best for beginners and is exactly what I flew as my first RC airplane. Usually these planes are priced around $50 and they have just two controls, so it is ideal for beginners. This type of airplane is usually made of Styrofoam, and very little metal, so you need to be careful when flying it. Even if you do crash and damage something, usually a little duct tape will fix anything on it. I kid you not, I still have my first electric RC plane, which I broke the wing twice on, and it still fly's!

An advanced electric RC airplane is ideal for advanced pilots who don't like the mess of fuel, like I said before, but it is also great for areas where noise is a concern and you still want the full experience. Advanced electric R/C airplanes are more full bodied then regular ones, usually made of all plastic and balsa wood, plus they also have around 5 or 6 channels of control.

All in all, buy a park flyer if you just want a quick little flight every once in awhile, get a slow flyer if you want to fly indoors, purchase a regular electric RC plane if you want to get into the RC airplane hobby seriously, but are just a beginner. Last but not least, once you master an electric RC plane, move onto a more advanced nitro methane fuel powered one, or an advanced electrically powered plane.

Radio Controlled Airplanes – Giving You Tips To Choose The Best…

Saturday, July 3rd, 2010
radio control
Abhishek Agarwal asked:

While you purchase a radio controlled airplane first, you might have some trouble choosing the airplane that will bring you in to the remote controlled hobbies. You'll need something which will be reasonably cheap to buy, and will grant you an opportunity to find out how to aviate remote controlled airplanes before you proceed onto more sophisticated airplanes. If you purchase the first airplane that you come across, you may end up bearing a really bad experience as your beginning time, and be entirely turned down from this hobby. This makes it why it's really important to learn the many different features that you can seek. In this article I'll check over most of it. Therefore read upon to discover about what you require to search for to get the best ever experience possible while you aviate a radio controlled airplane.

First of all you require evaluating your own constructing skills. You will be able to purchase airplane packages that allow you to construct the whole thing from bits of wood, or even you will be able to buy packages that merely asks you to put together a couple of components together. If you would like to make a big, lengthy project of your guided plane, then you could purchase one that needs full assembly. Still, you ought to be certain that your constructing skills are prepared to build it. If you do not prefer to spend your time needed to execute this or if you do not possess the art to construct it, then you could purchase a plane that doesn't require any construction at all. You merely draw it from the package, and you’re prepared to go piloting for the noon.

Side by side you would like to search something that has constancy for people who are piloting the first time. It might not look like it, but to pilot a radio controlled airplane you require the minimal skill. But, whenever you seek for the good item you will be able to get something that's more in gear towards beginners. Small aviating speed is always a do good, just as motoring slow is a beneficial way to pick up how to drive a car at the beginning times. You'll need a light plane having bigger wings that will catch the wind finer. This will make up start easier. You'll also like to seek airplanes that have straight undersides, and wings mounted up high with the trunk. If you fetch a plane that possesses all of these characteristics, your inaugural flying will be as fluent as conceivable.

After this you have to think about the airplane model you are about to buy. The replicas of almost all types of planes are available, from the Wright Brother’s airplane to today’s army jets. If buying airplanes has come to your mind, this just shows you are beginning to become interested in planes. Have a look at a plane book or two and see which model interests you the most, and then search and see if there is a kit of that type of airplane you saw in the book. This idea helps you in getting interest in the model you are purchasing. When having its first flight, you would feel like being in the cockpit a real plane.

The main issues are over with this, the remaining choosing goes by your personal preference. If enough attention is given while choosing your plane, remote controlled planes will turn out to be one of your favorite hobbies. This hobby is quite rewarding, it will come with you throughout your lifetime if you choose the plane according to your skill. No one would want to crash their plane on a tree or the ground on their very first flight. So to avoid getting frustrated in future, choose your plane carefully.

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Assembling and Designing Different Vehicles Can be Made Possible With Radio Controlled Hobbies!

Thursday, July 1st, 2010
radio control
abhay.jan2009 asked:

If electronic gadgets can get you crazy and all interested, you should be the right one to become involved in radio-controlled hobbies. Assembling and designing different vehicles can be made possible with radio controlled hobbies. Amateur radio hobby, on the other hand, can be taken by people who are more interested in making contact with other persons via wireless transmissions.

These hobbies are very similar in nature and a lot of people can actually have an interest in both radio-controlled models as well as amateur radio hobby. Anything to do with radio waves can speed up their interest. Internet, no doubt, is the ultimate source for any beginner.

Most of the sites in the internet could be dealing with selling of toys or some hobby level models. So a research has to be undergone to spot where each thing is. As you might notice while browsing the internet that many forums and communities relating to remote controlled gadgets exists and people are there to give you any sort of assistance. There ought to be a person somewhere who can guide you to the best possible place to look for it. Searching online for groups and information has loads of benefits as distance is not a criterion. Internet can actually help you out to speak to anyone, for more details visit to www.profit-pulling-niches.com anywhere even with someone who would be half way round the globe.

Craft and hobby stores are also ideal resources. Stores dealing only with remote controlled systems can be of further help as information on supplies and demand is got and you can get to know the person running it more personally. These kinds of stores usually have educated people and they would be ready to offer you any sort of advice and help. Getting to know these knowledgeable sales people would be of ultimate help.

One should also consider the money he is spending on remote controlled hobbies. Usually, a remote controlled vehicle might cost around hundred dollars. It is advised that hobbies should start with ready-made kit car and then move on to advanced vehicles when you have decided to give heart and soul to that hobby. Once your mind is fixed to a particular hobby that you might be interested in, for more details visit to www.auto-cons.com then it's a matter of time that you can improve on it pragmatically.

Spending more time in this could do wonders as you might get to know more about the hobby you are involved in as well as the information on the supplies.

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www.arts-crafts-for-all.com

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Tips on How to Buy Zipzaps Radio Controlled Cars

Tuesday, June 29th, 2010
radio control
Caroline Miller asked:

Technically every stage of the radio controlled car revolution has had its own killer power engines. Way back in the radio controlled cars' early stages it was the "small, nitromethane-powered engine" car that got many people interested in radio controlled cars.

Then, the ZipZaps came along. These are diminutive radio controlled cars being marketed by Radio Shack. They are considered more as miniature monsters waiting for their own killer engines to emerge.

They were first launched in the market as "micro RCs" due to their undersized structures. However, even if they are small, electrically powered radio controlled cars, they appear bigger to some extent than Matchbox and Hot Wheels.

The good thing about ZipZaps is that you can modify them. In other words, you can convert or tailor your radio controlled car's appearance, performance, and power according to your needs and wants.

When you buy ZipZaps radio controlled cars, you already get a pre-constructed chassis with integrated "nickel metal hydride rechargeable batteries." However, the tires, gears, and "hubcaps" can be modified for optimum performance and form.

You can also modify the total outer appearance by changing "body shells," which can be attached at the uppermost portion of the chassis. In turn, you can easily disguise your

ZipZaps as any car model that you like such as Ford GT, Chevrolet, Mercedes-Benz SL, etc.

When it comes to racing, ZipZaps can only be accommodated twice in a race. This means that three or more ZipZaps are impossible to race in a given venue. It is simply because ZipZaps only work at two frequencies - 49 MHz and 27 MHz.

If you are planning to buy ZipZaps radio controlled cars in the future, try to remember these pointers:

1. Set your budget

Even if most ZipZaps are more affordable than most hobby-grade radio controlled cars, they can still cost you a fortune. You must set aside a specific budget for your radio controlled hobby. You really have to set up a budget especially if you are just starting out with your hobby.

Starter kits for ZipZaps radio controlled cars are usually more affordable than other radio controlled cars. Maintenance and repairs are also more reasonably priced.

2. Learn to drive it

Buying ZipZaps may not be advantageous if you do not know how to drive a radio controlled car in the first place. Even if they are mini cars, they can be very powerful.

Just try to remember these pointers and you will surely get the best ZipZaps deals.

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Tips on How to Store Radio Controlled Cars

Sunday, June 27th, 2010
radio control
Caroline Miller asked:

First things first! Why is it important to clean and properly store radio controlled cars? Do you remember the reason your mother always told you to clean yourself up, clean your room, wash the dishes, etc.? That is - to keep you clean as well as up and running.

The same is true with radio controlled cars. The following are effective and necessary tips to store and keep those vehicles in great shape.

Believe it or not, the fuels used in nitro trucks or cars as well as in radio-controlled cars contain lubricants. The lubricants in these cars actually serve to protect the engine. This is due to the fact that not all of it gets burned when the engine runs. This therefore results in a chassis that is coated with a lot of oil which made its exit from the car's pipe.

The way to remove this as easily as possible is by using a cleaner: one example is Simple Green. However, it is best to first remove all and any radio equipment before cleaning; after which, plug the inlets onto the engine. Another option is by removing the engine itself.

The chassis should then be sprayed down lightly. Use a brush that has a firm bristle to knock away any grime. Once the chassis has been cleaned, use a towel to dry it. Then, re-install the removed components.

The majority of radio-controlled cars have an electric starter. The bearings in this starter should always be oiled and cleaned at least every week or two.

The starter should then be removed as carefully as possible. The use of a screwdriver is an effective way to keep the pressure on the mechanism as the starter is pulled off the plate's back.

Spray the bearing with engine spray in order to clean it. Oil the bearing in order to keep it running smoothly. You will discover that once the engine and starter is reassembled, it will work almost as good as new.

Fuel should be stored in a place that is dry and - as much as possible - away from pets, children, or anyone else who could mistake the fuel as washer for the windshield.

All in all, when fuel is stored, it could absorb water vapor over a significant amount of time, especially if the container is not sealed perfectly. It is best to store bottles on a cardboard and not on the carpet directly or on cement.

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Radio Controlled Devices – Their History Revealed

Friday, June 25th, 2010
radio control
Abhishek Agarwal asked:

Radio controlled devices have gained popularity as hobby items apart from being used for various other purposes. Building, modifying and driving radio controlled vehicles is a favorite pastime of radio control enthusiasts. The sport involves displaying the skills of the person in handling the device, efficiently.

Remote or radio controlled devices are controlled from a remote distance. Jagdish Chandra Bose was perhaps the first to demonstrate remote controlled activity when he set alight gun powder to strike a gong using electromagnetic radiation, from a distance. Tesla was the first to show the use of a transmitter and receiver to remotely control a ship. He showed how mechanical gadgets could be controlled using the wireless principle in the year 1898. He also began the construction of a wireless tower that remained incomplete due to lack of finance. Tesla can be said to have created the basis for the design of radio controlled devices which are in use today. The American inventor Armstrong said, "The world will long have to wait for a mind equal to Tesla's, a mind of such creative possibilities and such wealth of imagination."

Remote controlled devices are also known commonly as RC devices- RC meaning radio controlled. Dr. William and Walter Good, two twin brothers created and flew the first radio controlled airplane in 1937. Dr. William was a radio specialist whereas his brother Walter built aero models. They combined both their skills to create a radio controlled airplane. The principle of radio control has also been used in the World War II. From the 1960s, transistors were available, and this revolutionized the circuits to make them compact and light.

Sometime during the mid or late 1960s, the British company Mardave, began producing the first commercially feasible remote controlled cars. The first gas powered or nitro cars were sold in the early 1970s in Leicester, where the company was based. Radio controlled devices need a control transmitter, a throttle trigger and wheels for turning, while the receiver is located in the body of the toy. These models run on either electricity or fuel. Electrical speed control is used in electrical models, whereas radio control mechanisms are used in fuel control systems to regulate the fuel input.

Toy grade devices are usually assembled models available at retail shops and are much cheaper than hobby grade models. The toy grade models use electric power and run on batteries. Hobby grade radio controlled devices are more serviceable and durable, but are very expensive. They run on fuel like gasoline or nitro and unlike toy models which are ready made, these require assembling of the various components.

RC devices come in the form of cars, airplanes, boats and helicopters. Remote controlled cars are used for racing and this is a very popular sport among car enthusiasts. Small cars and toys are used for indoor games. Radio control technology is combined with robotics to create various devices used in international robotics contests held in Japan.

There are numerous uses for radio control technology and vehicles are only one aspect of it. Radio controlled hobbies can be enjoyed in many ways and combined with robotics, they open up wider possibilities for the hobbyists.

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How Radio Controlled Car Racing Came About

Wednesday, June 23rd, 2010
radio control
Caroline Miller asked:

It was in the 1940s when diminutive, nitro-methane powered engines were first marketed. They had a speed that can reach of up to 113 km/h but can only run in circles from a tether. It was there that it got its nicknames of "spin dizzies" and "tether cars".

During the 1960s, the first miniature cars that could be controlled via radio from a distant transmitter were introduced. These new model cars had the power to steer, accelerate, and brake at the driver's will. These cars are capable of running through racetracks with accurate control, and thus, radio controlled car racing was born.

In 1984, radio controlled car manufacturer Associated Electrics, Inc. introduced a classier and sleeker version of model race car called the RC10. The RC10 was electric powered; unlike the common cars that were nitromethane-driven. It was a deviation from Associated Electrics usual line of RC's. RC10 was made from a more powerful aluminum alloy and it had built in shock absorbers that were adjustable.

Aside from its new electric capacities, the RC10 model had the option to incorporate small ball bearings made of stainless steel into its wheels and transmission. Also, its transmission had steel rings forced down on the ball bearings, a feature enabling full modification for any track situation. Without question, RC10's abilities made it the top choice in electric RC racing.

In 1986, another RC manufacturer, Schumacher Racing Products, launched their Competition All Terrain (CAT) model car. It is a four wheel "buggy" racer that was considered as the greatest of its class. It went on to win the 1987, 1990, 1994, 1995, and 1996 world championship off-road race. This model car was recognized as initiating and popularizing the interest in four wheel car racing.

Team Losi, a popular radio controlled car racing team, released their JRX-2 model buggy and immediately began a rivalry with Team Associated that survives until today. Both teams headline the American radio controlled car racing scene, with Gil Losi, Jr. acting as the formers' founder and leader. Team Losi was the first to produce miniature tires that were all natural, the first four wheel "buggy" that was American-made , and a new set of car types that were 1/18 scale of the Mini-T.

Outside of the American RC racing circuit, other makers like the Kyosho (Japan) and Schumacher (Europe) hold much market share both in innovation and technology. They are the prevalent choice of makers for hobbyists in their respective regions.

Radio controlled car racing is an excitable game that promotes accuracy, discipline, and car engine knowledge. It is no wonder that it's a well liked hobby across the globe.

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The Secret of Buying Xmods Radio Controlled Cars

Monday, June 21st, 2010
radio control
Caroline Miller asked:

If you are looking for a radio controlled car that provides greater navigational power, fully autonomous rear and front suspensions, operational tail lights and headlights, and elective all-wheel drive, you should opt for XMODS radio controlled cars.

XMODS radio controlled cars are toy-grade radio controlled cars manufactured by Radio Shack. Just like ZipZap radio controlled cars, XMODS can also be modified and customized according to the owner's desire. Parts and accessories can be modified for optimum operations and superior look.

Compared to ZipZap radio controlled cars, XMODS are notably larger at a 1/28 scale. This means that they have bigger chassis and they weigh more.

Most XMODS radio controlled cars feature "130 class motors." This is one of the distinguishable features of XMODS.

XMODS radio controlled cars are available on the market with Generation 1 and 2 models on the priority list. Some examples of Generation 1 models are Nissan 350Z with copper or burnt orange and silver colors, Chevrolet Camaro in red, black and blue colors, Honda Civic, Subaru WRX STi in yellow, white, orange, and blue colors, and a 1965 Ford Mustang in a light blue color.

Generation 2 models include Nissan Titan and Scion Tc.

One of the greatest things about XMODS radio controlled cars is that they can be changed in almost every way. Best of all, upgrades, repairs, and maintenance are fully affordable compared to the hobby-grade radio controlled cars.

To help you choose the best XMODS model, here are some tips:

1. Know your hobby

Before starting a radio controlled car hobby, you must do your homework first. Keep in mind that collecting radio controlled cars especially XMODS is not a joke. The price you have to pay is not a joke. Even if XMODS may be cheaper than most hobby-grade radio controlled cars, they still cost a fortune, especially if you establish a good set of repair and maintenance kits.

To avoid mishaps and further problems when buying XMODS radio controlled cars, you must know everything or at least some of the basic information about XMODS radio controlled cars.

2. Know your specialty

Try to focus on one type of radio controlled cars. By doing this, setting up the budget will be a lot easier because you only have a specific goal in mind.

XMODS radio controlled cars are now considered one of the most popular radio controlled cars available on the market today. Just remember these tips and you will get your first good set of XMODS radio controlled cars without a sweat.

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Tips for Drag Racing With Radio Controlled Cars

Saturday, June 19th, 2010
radio control
Caroline Miller asked:

For most people, the idea of drag racing implies exhilaration and excitement. It also connotes danger. It's a good thing that radio-controlled cars can now enable anyone to experience the thrills and excitement of drag racing without being exposed to too much danger.

Drag racing is all about speed. As compared to ordinary radio-controlled car races, the drag racing with RC cars entails much more attention on setting-up the vehicle than having driving skills. The main deal with car racing is to eliminate the forces (aerodynamic) that prevent the car from attaining and maintaining maximum speed. The following things should be given much importance when racing RC cars at maximum speed:

Chassis

Getting and maintaining a good chassis for drag race RC cars is very important. The thing to remember is that there are numerous materials that make up modern RC drag cars today such as graphite and carbon fiber. They differ in how they support the cars and how they "flex" during acceleration. The chassis needs to have flexibility when accelerating is a key to attain the car's maximum speed.

Front end design

Dragsters have distinct front-end designs. They are usually pointed to minimize the drag from the air. The front axles should be set up in a simple way to make them easier to adjust during accidents during race day.

Battery packs

Usually, RC car drag races are determined by the kind of battery pack that the cars are equipped with. Nickel-cadmium batteries are very popular nowadays. The batteries used in cars are usually in 6-cell or 7-cell packs. The two main things that one should look for in battery packs are internal impedance and voltage. These are two main indicators of power and speed. The battery packs used in RC drag racing are perhaps the most powerful in the whole RC racing arena.

Tires

The usual dragsters employ thin front wheels which are most often referred to as "pizza cutters" because they resemble the kitchen apparatus. When it comes to selecting tires, there are two beliefs: smaller is better and the "big wheels rule." As with any other contradicting beliefs, both have advantages and disadvantages. At the end of the day, it's personal taste that really counts in choosing the kinds of tires.

Weight

RC drag race cars have been stripped of their excess weight throughout the years. An optimum weight should be achieved to be able to get maximum acceleration.

RC drag racing is a really fun and exhilarating experience. One should try watching races over the weekend to find out.

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