16
V-TAIL MIXING OPTION
The use of the V-Tail mixing option is very much like the Elevon Mixing option with the
exception that the V-Tail mixer will coordinate the use of rudder control with the elevator
control. In fact, the set-up of the V-Tail is almost identical to that of the Elevon mix option. In
the V-Tail option, you will use channels 2 and 4 for your servos with Channel 2 connected to
the servo moving the Right V-tail surface and Channel 4 connected to the Left V-tail surface.
Many sailplane models and some powered models use a V-tail section, making this option well
used. Let’s set up a typical sailplane model using the V-Tail mixer.
With the servos connected as described above, enter into the V-Tail mixing option by first
entering the Menu Function program, depressing both the UP and DOWN Edit keys at once.
Now, scroll UP or DOWN to locate the VTAL mixing screen. Activate the V-Tail mixing
circuit by pressing on the CLEAR key once, which will bring you to the V-Tail Programming
screen. The default value on the programming screen is 100% and the Master indicator arrow
should be above the Channel 2 symbol, as will be the Slave indicator arrow. This means that
the Right side elevator surface will be programmed. Pull fully back on the elevator control
stick and observe the right elevator surface. It should move upwards. If it does not, change the
value shown on the screen from the present value of 100% to a value of –100% by using the (-)
Data key. The left elevator surface should also move upwards at this time, and if not move the
Slave indicator arrow under the Channel 4 symbol and change the value there to –100%. You
should now have both elevator surfaces moving upward with your control stick. Your elevator
control is now programmed.
Now, move the Master indicator arrow above the Channel 4 symbol. Move the rudder control
stick to the right on your transmitter and the Left elevator should rise while the Right elevator
should deflect downward. If not, change the value of the LCD screen to a negative number to
reverse the motion and get proper movement.
(When using the V-Tail as the rudder command,
the left side rises with a Right turn and the right side rises on a Left turn.)
To program the
Right side elevator, if necessary, press the > cursor key to bring the Slave indicator arrow under
the Channel 4 symbol and change the LCD screen value as needed to match the opposite side.
You may use the percentage values to match the recommended control surface movement by
the aircraft manufacturer. Note that once the V-Tail option is activated, it remains ON
constantly and cannot be turned OFF in flight using a program switch. Also, you may not use
both Elevon mixing and V-Tail mixing at the same time. Only one or the other. To exit this
option, depress both the UP and DOWN edit keys at once.