10CH Essential Instructions R1.2
2022/11/05
10
Just as experienced RC pilots check stick directions before the first flight of the day, so a pilot using a stabilizer
should regularly check that the surfaces move correctly in response to a disturbance.
9. Set dual rates and expo in the transmitter
With the control surfaces set to move in the correct directions and with the full throws recommended for your
model, you can now adjust the response to transmitter stick inputs by setting dual rates (D/R) and expo.
A good starting point for D/R is to set High Rate to 100%, Mid-Rate (if available) to 80-85%, and Low Rate to 65-
75% for each axis. Expo of around 20% softens response around neutral and can make smooth flying easier.
These settings can be adjusted to your liking after the initial flights.
Stabilization settings also affect the response of the model to transmitter input, typically somewhat reducing
sensitivity with an expo-like effect.
Note that the dual rate and expo settings in the transmitter determine stick response but
don’t affect
how
stabilization works. That is entirely done within the receiver.
10. Adjust the stabilizer gain pots
As delivered the stabilizer gains are normally at
the 12 o’clock position. For first flights s
et the
three gain pots at about the 10 o’clock position.
This is a good conservative starting point that
should produce noticeable stabilization. For
most models, at least one or two gain
adjustments will be needed during flight testing
to achieve optimum stabilization.
11. Prepare for flying
Check that the balance of the model is correct according to the manual.
Check the control directions and stabilization functions one more time.
Do a reduced-power range test as directed in the transmitter manual (should give at least 30m/100 feet range
with full control).
Check that the switch is operating correctly to turn stabilization OFF (red Status light only) and ON (green and
red Status lights). Yet again, make sure you know which way is OFF!
Test failsafe operation by running the model (well secured) at about half throttle and turning off the transmitter.
With the default No-pulse setting, the motor of an electric-powered model should stop after a couple of seconds
and the control surfaces should stay in their current positions. User-set Failsafe (as described in Step 3 on page
4) moves ALL channels to pre-set failsafe positions. This may be preferred for an electric model and is
mandatory for an IC (fuel-powered) model.
If you have Master Gain (channel 8), check that it is set it to the middle of its range and that increasing the
control knob or slider increases the resulting stabilizer reaction. Reverse the channel output if not.
12. Test fly
For safety, always start a test flight with the stabilizer turned OFF (green Status light OFF).
Power ON the model.
Take off and fly around, adjusting trim as necessary to make sure the model flies properly without stabilization.
If trim is very far off neutral, land and make mechanical adjustments.