I've been offered a Futaba super 7

[Robb]

it's a complete system with 4 Futaba s9302 servos, receiver, all rechargable NiCad batteries for 150.00
I'm planning on getting something like a TRex 600 later on, would this system be of any use to me when the time is right?

thanks
Robb

forgot to mention, it's a 7UAF

[hawkman]

If its a computer type radio then get it...is it FM or 2.4 ghz?

I ask this because 2.4 ghz systems are out now in 7 channel...I use a Futaba T7CP which I plan to replace with a 2.4 ghz system...in the same layout...so the same looking radio with the same operating system but in 2.4 ghz...this is a much more secure system.

If you fly on your own then FM is not so bad....but 2.4 ghz is a better system in that it deals with interference better...and provides a good link to the radio in your hands.

FM is plagued by someone else being in the same area as you...and on the same channel...suddenly switching on while you are flying...and causing an accident. I have seen this happen...its not funny.

I use FM currently...on 35 mhz...I have had no issues so far...but my Trex 450 is rubbish using this system...oddly it works well with humidity in the air...like when its about to rain.

Look around for a good deal....buying a good radio is important if you plan to do this hobby as a long term thing.

Rob

[Robb]

Just got this from the Futaba website...........


The 7U super radios supported both model types — the A supported 3 aircraft and 1 heli model memory; the H supported 2 heli and 2 aircraft. The switch layout, throttle ratchets and a few other minor things were different between the radios, but both can be used for both disciplines.

The 7UAF/7UAP radios did NOT offer helicopter programming. The 7UHF/7UHP radios did NOT offer aircraft programming. Neither radio can be easily used to fly the other discipline.

guess this means it'll be no good to me, thanks for the advice Hawkman.

Robb

[hawkman]

Not a problem

For the record:

Heli radios...or radios that can cope with helis, have a difference from radios that support planes.

This main difference is that the stick that controls collective pitch also controls the power/throttle too...basically two channels on the one axis of the stick...ie as you raise/lower the collective stick the pitch and power go up and down as well. Its possible to use a plane radio and have a 'Y' lead coming out of the throttle channel...usually channel 3...the Y lead connects the throttle and the collective servos...but its hard to set this relationship up...so it works well....in fact its not good because 2 servos are sharing the same common connection...this could bring problems with voltage drop etc.

I would hunt about, 2.4 ghz is the way to go really, the cheaper end are probably the 6 channel ones...but I would say the 7 channel is the better one to get.

The older FF7 radios can be upgraded to 2.4 ghz..but looking at prices the brand new sets are well priced.


Rob