All about Electrics
AEROMODELING is a wondrous hobby and sport. Take a look through the pages of this magazine and consider the large variety of specialized modeling interests. Too often we lose sight of the many forms that model building and flying can take: Free Flight, Radio Control, and Control Line; indoor and outdoor flying; rubber power, CO-2, gas engines; hand launching, and towline; duration, aerobatics, Scale, Helicopters, Combat, Old-Timers, and Pylon Racing. And on an on. All these varieties and combinations make up our wonderful matrix of modeling fun.
All about Electrics
LAST MONTH I highlighted many features and characteristics of electric power, noting advantages and disadvantages and showing a varity of electric-powered models. The broad range of applicability and the convenience and fun aspects of this relatively new form of model power were emphasized. So much for the convincing. Now, how does the modeler of average skill make it all happen? Let's start by getting to know more about electric motors. In a sense, knowledge about conventional gas power reciprocating engines often comes "more naturally." Many feel comfortable, if not familiar, with the family car and lawnmower engines. "Carburetor" is a word not unheard of at the dinner table. Not so with "commutator;" that's a bit more unfamiliar. The unknown can be a bit scary.
All about Electrics
THE FIRST INSTALLMENT of this series in the September issue described some pros and cons of electric-powered models, and last month we covered the motors we use. Some basic aspects of the motors were described, and many practical considerations were covered. Earlier, I asked you to have faith and read daringly onward. I remind you of this because I realize the subject of this part may appear both simple to some and strange to others. However, I think some of the upcoming information will be surprising and interesting to many-and perhaps a little confusing or difficult for others on their first reading. To still others, some of what follows may be downright boring and seem totally irrelevant; taken alone, it is.
All about Electrics
A FEW MONTHS have gone by since this series began. I wish to restate a point made in Part One: "It will be the policy of this writer to present only experience-guided information and techniques." In other words, I am presenting experience-backed stuff and sharing some personal practices and preferences based thereon. Surely these are not the only ways to do, or to view, things Electric, nor are these offerings necessarily the best way in every case, but they do work. Thus, if you should witness, or personally experience, some different but successful viewpoint or approach, please write me and share the information. Though I have been flying Electrics for more than 10 years, I don't know everything.
All about Electrics
THIS PART of the series differs somewhat from earlier parts in two ways. First, installations is a lengthy topic, requiring two issues to cover thoroughly. This month we will present Section A; next month, we'll have Section B. The second way this part of the series differs from the others is that much of the information is contained in the photos and sketches. This format is prompted by the large number of people visiting the annual KRC Electric Fly wanting to know "how to put the stuff in." It's amazing how many eager observers there are when someone removes a wing to reveal the "hidden secrets" of how it's done!
