Hitec RDX4 Mini Four-Port Charger
Worth a Closer Look
The Hitec RDX4 Mini is a compact AC/DC charger that can handle up to four batteries at the same time.
Terry Dunn (terrydunn74@gmail.com) provided a review of Hitec RCD’s new RDX4 Mini four-port charger.
There is nothing worse than waiting for your batteries to charge when the flying conditions are perfect. Being able to charge multiple batteries at the same time can help you avoid the wait, but multiport chargers are often large and bulky. Hitec’s new RDX4 Mini, priced at $139.99, is different. Although this charger is remarkably small, it can charge up to four batteries at once.
The RDX4 Mini measures just 5.7 x 4.3 x 1.7 inches (144 mm x 110 mm x 43 mm). It is, by far, the smallest of my multiport chargers—and actually smaller than some of my single-output chargers! Its petite size makes the RDX4 Mini convenient for me to keep in the field box for charging while I am flying.
Users can select AC or DC input power for the RDX4 Mini. Cables for both types of input are included. When AC power is used, the charger can output a total of 100 watts (volts x amps) through all four charge ports, with no more than 60 watts on any single port. Switching to DC power from a car battery or power supply increases the charger’s total power limit to 240 watts.
All four charging ports are located on the front side of the case. With the ports placed closely together, bench space in front of the charger can get a little crowded if your batteries have short power wires and/or balance leads. The ports feature built-in XT-60 power connectors and standard JST XH balance plugs. You will need adapters if you use any other types of connectors on your batteries.
The RDX4 Mini is a multi-chemistry charger. It can handle several different types of lithium-based battery packs (LiPo, LiFe, Li-Ion, and LiHV) with one to four cells in series (1S to 4S). This unit can also charge NiCd and NiMH batteries with one to eight cells, and lead-acid batteries with three cells (6 volts) or six cells (12 volts). You can simultaneously charge a different type of battery on each charge port, if you want.
Any of the charging ports can also be used as a DC power supply. This can be a very handy feature for running lights or power tools at the field. The output can be set from 1 to 30 volts, with the same total power limitations as when you are charging.
There is a color LCD screen on the top of the case. A push button and a scroll wheel are used to navigate the menus. Basic directions are provided in the included quick-start guide, but a full manual is available for download from the Hitec website. I found the menus to be logical and easy to use.
The RDX4 Mini meshes well with my flying outings. I really appreciate the portability of its compact frame and the versatility of using AC or DC input power. Most of the models that I fly use 3S and 4S LiPo batteries. Additionally, I rarely find the need to charge at more than 6 amps. Consequently, this charger’s cell-count limits and maximum charge rate almost never pose any obstacles for me.
Some of you might analyze your charging needs and decide that you require more capacity than the RDX4 Mini can provide. If that is the case, you should look into Hitec’s original RDX4. It has a slightly larger footprint than the Mini, but it has considerably higher power limits (200-watts AC and 400-watts DC) and the ability to charge LiPo batteries up to 6S.
New Products From the Modeler’s Mall
Website: glidercgusa.com
GliderThrow is a digital angle/throw meter that provides differential as well! This small device can measure the deflections in degrees/millimeters with a resolution of 0.1° and measure the differential when it works together with a second unit. (Because the GliderThrow system utilizes two sensors, one for each wing or surface of the airplane is used.) Using a dual system simplifies the throw settings of your model by having a direct view of both control surfaces at the same time.
Initially conceived for setting the aileron and flap throws of a glider, GliderThrow can also be used on most airplanes and for a variety of applications, such as measuring the dihedral angle of a wing, incidence angles, etc.
Data can be viewed on any computer or smartphone and does not need an app to work. When both units are turned on, search for the Wi-Fi access point called “GliderThrow” and connect to it. The GliderThrow device can then be accessed through a web browser.
The latest version incorporates rechargeable and replaceable Li-Ion coin batteries, as well as the ability to charge via a USB-C port, allowing the battery to be removed if it is not used for an extended period. A powerful neodymium magnet, along with a non-slip surface, ensures that the GliderThrow stays in place.
A video of the GliderThrow’s operation can be viewed at bit.ly/4u67rr0.
16 Color-Scheme Options for RealFlight AeroScout; Free Download from 1st RC Flight School
Tel.: (715) 853-1003
Website: rcflightschool.com
Inspired by the tremendous popularity of the HobbyZone AeroScout, Dave Scott, the owner of 1st RC Flight School, has created 16 new color scheme options for the RealFlight simulator AeroScout model. Included are schemes from several current aerobatic models, as well as some from the most popular EDF jets and classic warbirds.
AeroScout aircraft are popular with more than just beginner pilots, so three new variants have also been dialed in for RealFlight at different skill levels: Version 1 is the AeroScout Basic with SAFE technology; Version 2 is the AeroScout Aerobatic with reverse thrust; and Version 3 is the AeroScout 3D, which mimics a real-world AeroScout that is outfitted with longer servo arms, a four-cell battery, upgraded ESC, and optimized gyro settings. These versions will allow pilots to experience what the buzz is all about when it comes to the versatility and pure fun factor that this model delivers. Add a new color scheme and take the “neat factor” to a whole other level!
Download the files for the 16 schemes for free by using this link: bit.ly/4u5RQZc. New schemes are added frequently and will be posted regularly on the RealFlight forums at forums.realflight.com.
Worm Burner Balsa Sport RC Model @ $89.99 + S&H from Aspect Laser
Tel.: (248) 707-4430
Website: aspectlaser.com
Designed and laser-cut by John Hoover at Aspect Laser, the Worm Killer—later renamed the Worm Burner—began in 1978 as his 1/2A model for friendly club-level Combat. He and two of his friends decided to build identical airplanes to keep the competition based on pilot skill rather than aircraft-performance differences.
The new Worm Burner version is built from laser-cut balsa, basswood, and plywood. Two full-size rolled plans with a comprehensive instruction book are included, as well as Du-Bro hardware, making this a well-rounded kit. Only the electronics are needed, such as Aspect Laser’s PPK-2 power setup.
Visit the Aspect Laser website for glue, covering, and hobby tools, and have good flights!
SOURCES
- Hitec RCD
(858) 748-6948
hitecrcd.com
