Hey everyone! :D
So I've been looking at getting into FPV but would like to start off nice and slow, I've been looking at AdamG's video's/Build and read that BlueFlyer has a SkyHunter as well so I was looking at getting one of those as they seem pretty robust. (Heard they managed the wind pretty well also)
The question I have really is do I get one and just fly it around visually to practice with it, get used to it etc and then buy another to build it up and attach all the necessary parts to it? (I'm not sure how well the planes come apart after being put together)
I just don't want to build one up with all the essentials then destroy it before being used to the plane.
Thanks a lot! ;D
Ashley
Quote from: Ashafius on August 03, 2016, 05:05:52 PM
Hey everyone! :D
So I've been looking at getting into FPV but would like to start off nice and slow, I've been looking at AdamG's video's/Build and read that BlueFlyer has a SkyHunter as well so I was looking at getting one of those as they seem pretty robust. (Heard they managed the wind pretty well also)
The question I have really is do I get one and just fly it around visually to practice with it, get used to it etc and then buy another to build it up and attach all the necessary parts to it? (I'm not sure how well the planes come apart after being put together)
I just don't want to build one up with all the essentials then destroy it before being used to the plane.
Thanks a lot! ;D
Ashley
Well, I suppose it rather depends upon your Piloting ability doesnt it....?..
How much experience do you have flying LOS...?....and how much FPV flying have you done...?
My experience with typical fpv models is that they dont lend themselves to having gear put in after they are built....and some not even during..:)
:vulture:
Quote from: English Turbines on August 03, 2016, 05:30:43 PM
Well, I suppose it rather depends upon your Piloting ability doesnt it....?..
How much experience do you have flying LOS...?....and how much FPV flying have you done...?
My experience with typical fpv models is that they dont lend themselves to having gear put in after they are built....and some not even during..:)
:vulture:
I haven't done any FPV yet, so a complete novice in that sense but I've had a few years LOS however only with quite basic fixed wings, thanks for letting me know that they don't like having stuff put in them after built, that was one of my worries, plane wise though the skyhunter would be a good one? Just get two, one to learn with and then one to gradually build up the FPV stuff? :)
Thanks for your reply,
Ashley
Get a bixler and learn FPV with a simple plane. Buy decent kit so you can just move it to the sky hunter when you are ready.
Yeah, start with something simple....I learnt on an AXN.....Just add a Vtx And a Camera.....forget APs etc....get used to it and flying on the Camera first....What Brucey said basically....Not a Skyhunter....Oh no...
:vulture: :ditto:
Quote from: English Turbines on August 03, 2016, 05:52:41 PM
Yeah, start with something simple....I learnt on an AXN.....Just add a Vtx And a Camera.....forget APs etc....get used to it and flying on the Camera first....What Brucey said basically....Not a Skyhunter....Oh no...
:vulture: :ditto:
Alright I'll avoid the skyhunter for now :) but yeah getting decent stuff to transfer is a great idea still, thanks!
Quote from: Brucey on August 03, 2016, 05:48:38 PM
Get a bixler and learn FPV with a simple plane. Buy decent kit so you can just move it to the sky hunter when you are ready.
Sorry if I'm not allowed to put links on here but is it one of these? http://www.hobbyking.co.uk/hobbyking/store/__25003__HobbyKing_8482_Bixler_8482_v1_1_EPO_1400mm_ARF_UK_Warehouse_.html?strSearch=bixler (http://www.hobbyking.co.uk/hobbyking/store/__25003__HobbyKing_8482_Bixler_8482_v1_1_EPO_1400mm_ARF_UK_Warehouse_.html?strSearch=bixler)
Or should I look at a few other planes as well?
Thanks for your replies :D
Ashley
What planes do you already have? You can stick a basic FPV setup on more or less anything to get a feel for things. Then just go straight to the skyhunter or whatever you want.
A V1 Bixler is ok....or anything similar to be honest...I learnt by putting a Mobius on my AXN...flying round LOS...taking footage....with the camera pointed down a bit, so you can see the ground...1/3 Sky...2/3rds ground in view...Then I studied the footage in HD...so I knew what the terrain looked like from the air, taking note of landmarks etc...
When you then go flying on the Camera, it wont be such a shock, because you will know where you are at least...Its easy to get lost...!!!...and you still have to fly the plane without the benefit of LOS cues.....Small steps...unless you think you can do it faster..?
When you progress to an AP...it just gets easier.....:)
:vulture:
Quote from: Loopdreams on August 03, 2016, 06:26:15 PM
What planes do you already have? You can stick a basic FPV setup on more or less anything to get a feel for things. Then just go straight to the skyhunter or whatever you want.
Hi Loopdreams, not sure on what they are but I've got a really cheap crappy cessna which was my first ever one, takes like 240mah batteries it's really tiny lol but it's fun to just mess around with and not care about and then I actually have another cessna but it's slightly larger and flies a lot better however they both have props on the front and I don't think I'd like that to get in the way of a camera at all :)
Quote from: English Turbines on August 03, 2016, 06:34:00 PM
A V1 Bixler is ok....or anything similar to be honest...I learnt by putting a Mobius on my AXN...flying round LOS...taking footage....with the camera pointed down a bit, so you can see the ground...1/3 Sky...2/3rds ground in view...Then I studied the footage in HD...so I knew what the terrain looked like from the air, taking note of landmarks etc...
When you then go flying on the Camera, it wont be such a shock, because you will know where you are at least...Its easy to get lost...!!!...and you still have to fly the plane without the benefit of LOS cues.....Small steps...unless you think you can do it faster..?
When you progress to an AP...it just gets easier.....:)
:vulture:
Brilliant thanks for the tips, the AP means you can get a HUD on the screen doesn't it with airspeed and altitude etc right? That would come in handy so much
It's also a lot of complications you don't need and in the beginning can cause crashes instead of saving you from them. Take James Talon in the XUAV thread, he had an AP, didn't do him much good, a great long walk to pick up the remains.
Keep it simple first, get a rock solid reception, troubleshoot interference. Once you have done that then expand from there. Building on good foundations works, buying all the gear with no idea does not.
Quote from: Coyote on August 03, 2016, 06:47:31 PM
It's also a lot of complications you don't need and in the beginning can cause crashes instead of saving you from them. Take James Talon in the XUAV thread, he had an AP, didn't do him much good, a great long walk to pick up the remains.
Keep it simple first, get a rock solid reception, troubleshoot interference. Once you have done that then expand from there. Building on good foundations works, buying all the gear with no idea does not.
That's a great response and you're completely right, that's what I didn't want to do is get everything then wreck it all in the first 5 minutes I try flying it. What other stuff would you guys recommend to go with this bixler then? Controller for example :)
Thanks again for all the help
Quote from: Ashafius on August 03, 2016, 07:22:21 PM
That's a great response and you're completely right, that's what I didn't want to do is get everything then wreck it all in the first 5 minutes I try flying it. What other stuff would you guys recommend to go with this bixler then? Controller for example :)
Thanks again for all the help
Well, do you already have a set of 2.4g Radio...?....If not, how much do you want to spend...?
:vulture:
Quote from: English Turbines on August 03, 2016, 07:52:35 PM
Well, do you already have a set of 2.4g Radio...?....If not, how much do you want to spend...?
:vulture:
I do but only the ones that come with the planes that I have so I can't imagine they're that great to be honest, I saw these on someones setup:
http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__67750__FrSky_2_4GHz_ACCST_TARANIS_X9D_PLUS_Digital_Telemetry_Radio_System_Mode_2_.html (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__67750__FrSky_2_4GHz_ACCST_TARANIS_X9D_PLUS_Digital_Telemetry_Radio_System_Mode_2_.html)
Not sure if they're what I should be looking at or what, I don't mind price wise you know, I don't want to buy cheap stuff and end up having to replace it because it isn't good enough, I want to do things properly :)
Quote from: Ashafius on August 03, 2016, 08:12:35 PM
I do but only the ones that come with the planes that I have so I can't imagine they're that great to be honest, I saw these on someones setup:
http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__67750__FrSky_2_4GHz_ACCST_TARANIS_X9D_PLUS_Digital_Telemetry_Radio_System_Mode_2_.html (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__67750__FrSky_2_4GHz_ACCST_TARANIS_X9D_PLUS_Digital_Telemetry_Radio_System_Mode_2_.html)
Not sure if they're what I should be looking at or what, I don't mind price wise you know, I don't want to buy cheap stuff and end up having to replace it because it isn't good enough, I want to do things properly :)
Good choice,
Its a great radio for the money...telemetry enabled..totally flexible with a JR Module port in case you want to go UHF later on....
I have one, so maybe Im biased....:)
DONT buy it from Hobby King....Use the UK distributor. ..its cheaper and faster...
T9 HobbySport Ltd.....Good service too....HK have spotty idiots.
:vulture:
A BIxler, that radio and some nice 5.8GHz FPV gear will sort you out (plus viewing equipment of course, i.e. a monitor or goggles).
Do you have anyone close that can show you the ropes?
My suggestion is a Bix3 if you're starting FPV from complete scratch
http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__67941__HobbyKing_8482_Bix3_Trainer_FPV_EPO_1550mm_ARF_UK_Warehouse_.html (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__67941__HobbyKing_8482_Bix3_Trainer_FPV_EPO_1550mm_ARF_UK_Warehouse_.html)
Quote from: English Turbines on August 03, 2016, 09:01:12 PM
Good choice,
Its a great radio for the money...telemetry enabled..totally flexible with a JR Module port in case you want to go UHF later on....
I have one, so maybe Im biased....:)
DONT buy it from Hobby King....Use the UK distributor. ..its cheaper and faster...
T9 HobbySport Ltd.....Good service too....HK have spotty idiots.
:vulture:
What website would you recommend purchasing this stuff from then? Is there a place where I can get the plane and controller plus other bits and bobs that I'll need?
Quote from: Steve W on August 03, 2016, 10:01:07 PM
A BIxler, that radio and some nice 5.8GHz FPV gear will sort you out (plus viewing equipment of course, i.e. a monitor or goggles).
Do you have anyone close that can show you the ropes?
I don't have anyone close that can show me the ropes, no lol just me and the internet.
What sort of goggles would you guys recommend or a monitor? Would I need a whole groundstation yet?
Quote from: Ashafius on August 03, 2016, 10:31:52 PM
I don't have anyone close that can show me the ropes, no lol just me and the internet.
That's all I had.
I bought a cheap fixed pitch RC helicopter which came with a really basic flight sim. I just couldn't get to grips with helicopter flying so just for fun I tried one of the aeroplane models in the simulator.
I was so surprised how much easier planes were to fly than helicopters.
I went out and bought an original Bixler (before there was a Bixler 2, Bixler 1.1 and Bix3) it was the RTF version which came with it's own cheapo transmitter.
I taught myself to fly on the local playing fields. I had an old 808 keychain camera on it and posted videos on the internet. It was then that people started commenting asking what vtx I was using etc... I completely accidentally stumbled into the whole FPV thing.
I put a cheap cam and VTX on the bixler and made a really crude ground station using a cheap 7" car monitor and cheap vrx. I didn't have much success until well over a year later when I bought the Bixler 2 which was a bit more suited to FPV than the original Bixler.
over the years I've had all the bixler variants, and it's my opinion that if you want to eventually get into FPV the Bix3 is the one to get.
Quote from: BlueFlyer on August 03, 2016, 10:42:15 PM
That's all I had.
I bought a cheap fixed pitch RC helicopter which came with a really basic flight sim. I just couldn't get to grips with helicopter flying so just for fun I tried one of the aeroplane models in the simulator.
I was so surprised how much easier planes were to fly than helicopters.
I went out and bought an original Bixler (before there was a Bixler 2, Bixler 1.1 and Bix3) it was the RTF version which came with it's own cheapo transmitter.
I taught myself to fly on the local playing fields. I had an old 808 keychain camera on it and posted videos on the internet. It was then that people started commenting asking what vtx I was using etc... I completely accidentally stumbled into the whole FPV thing.
I put a cheap cam and VTX on the bixler and made a really crude ground station using a cheap 7" car monitor and cheap vrx. I didn't have much success until well over a year later when I bought the Bixler 2 which was a bit more suited to FPV than the original Bixler.
over the years I've had all the bixler variants, and it's my opinion that if you want to eventually get into FPV the Bix3 is the one to get.
Thanks BlueFlyer, I'll definitely get one of those then, and from the link that you sent a couple posts up yes? Thanks for the recommendation, glad I asked before just getting a skyhunter right away, probably would have destroyed it or something and bruised my ego lol :)
Bix3 - http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__67941__HobbyKing_8482_Bix3_Trainer_FPV_EPO_1550mm_ARF_UK_Warehouse_.html (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__67941__HobbyKing_8482_Bix3_Trainer_FPV_EPO_1550mm_ARF_UK_Warehouse_.html)
Motor - http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__38042__Turnigy_Aerodrive_SK3_2836_1500_Brushless_Outrunner_Motor_UK_Warehouse_.html (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__38042__Turnigy_Aerodrive_SK3_2836_1500_Brushless_Outrunner_Motor_UK_Warehouse_.html)
Prop - http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__42495__Aerostar_Composite_Propeller_8x4_Grey_CCW_2pcs_UK_Warehouse_.html (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__42495__Aerostar_Composite_Propeller_8x4_Grey_CCW_2pcs_UK_Warehouse_.html)
ESC - http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__29329__TURNIGY_Plush_30amp_Speed_Controller_w_BEC_UK_Warehouse_.html?strSearch=plush%2030a (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__29329__TURNIGY_Plush_30amp_Speed_Controller_w_BEC_UK_Warehouse_.html?strSearch=plush%2030a)
4 x Servos - http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__38062__Turnigy_8482_TGY_50090M_Analog_Servo_MG_1_6kg_0_08sec_9g_UK_Warehouse_.html (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__38062__Turnigy_8482_TGY_50090M_Analog_Servo_MG_1_6kg_0_08sec_9g_UK_Warehouse_.html)
Plus the Taranis TX and the RX that comes with it.
It will be a very good plane to learn on and because it's actually designed with FPV in mind, you will be able to put FPV gear into it later on.
The wing design is different on this bixler compared to any of the others, basically the wing fits on top of the fuselage and not into the side of it like it's predecessors.
This means that when you take the wing off, you have access to the inside of the main fuselage area, which is great for installing an OSD or later on when you've had more success with close in flying perhaps an AP to help give you some confidence and try flying further afield.
The front canopy area is great too. The recess is completely flat so when it comes to flying FPV you can build your own "pod" with ease as it''l just need to be a flat bit of plywood with things bolted/screwed onto it.
As for ground equipment when it comes to FPV, I would highly suggest - considering you're only starting out in FPV - getting the following FPV headset from hobbyking:
http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__104152__Quanum_Cyclops_FPV_Goggle_w_Integrated_Monitor_and_Receiver_UK_Warehouse_.html (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__104152__Quanum_Cyclops_FPV_Goggle_w_Integrated_Monitor_and_Receiver_UK_Warehouse_.html)
It's cheap and has everything you need built in... that's all you need right now.
If you get really serious and want to get fatshark goggles, that's fine... but at around the £300 mark, I'd say it's a bit too much £££ right now. The quanum cyclops headset will be a great set of backup goggles or passenger goggles if/when you decide on fatsharks so it won't be money wasted.
Banggood do some really great value camera/VTX bundles too so when you do decide to bit the bullet and get the FPV gear, call back in on here and we'll all have great recommendations for you based on your budget.
Quote from: BlueFlyer on August 03, 2016, 11:09:54 PM
Bix3 - http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__67941__HobbyKing_8482_Bix3_Trainer_FPV_EPO_1550mm_ARF_UK_Warehouse_.html (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__67941__HobbyKing_8482_Bix3_Trainer_FPV_EPO_1550mm_ARF_UK_Warehouse_.html)
Motor - http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__38042__Turnigy_Aerodrive_SK3_2836_1500_Brushless_Outrunner_Motor_UK_Warehouse_.html (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__38042__Turnigy_Aerodrive_SK3_2836_1500_Brushless_Outrunner_Motor_UK_Warehouse_.html)
Prop - http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__42495__Aerostar_Composite_Propeller_8x4_Grey_CCW_2pcs_UK_Warehouse_.html (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__42495__Aerostar_Composite_Propeller_8x4_Grey_CCW_2pcs_UK_Warehouse_.html)
ESC - http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__29329__TURNIGY_Plush_30amp_Speed_Controller_w_BEC_UK_Warehouse_.html?strSearch=plush%2030a (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__29329__TURNIGY_Plush_30amp_Speed_Controller_w_BEC_UK_Warehouse_.html?strSearch=plush%2030a)
4 x Servos - http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__38062__Turnigy_8482_TGY_50090M_Analog_Servo_MG_1_6kg_0_08sec_9g_UK_Warehouse_.html (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__38062__Turnigy_8482_TGY_50090M_Analog_Servo_MG_1_6kg_0_08sec_9g_UK_Warehouse_.html)
Plus the Taranis TX and the RX that comes with it.
It will be a very good plane to learn on and because it's actually designed with FPV in mind, you will be able to put FPV gear into it later on.
The wing design is different on this bixler compared to any of the others, basically the wing fits on top of the fuselage and not into the side of it like it's predecessors.
This means that when you take the wing off, you have access to the inside of the main fuselage area, which is great for installing an OSD or later on when you've had more success with close in flying perhaps an AP to help give you some confidence and try flying further afield.
The front canopy area is great too. The recess is completely flat so when it comes to flying FPV you can build your own "pod" with ease as it''l just need to be a flat bit of plywood with things bolted/screwed onto it.
As for ground equipment when it comes to FPV, I would highly suggest - considering you're only starting out in FPV - getting the following FPV headset from hobbyking:
http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__104152__Quanum_Cyclops_FPV_Goggle_w_Integrated_Monitor_and_Receiver_UK_Warehouse_.html (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__104152__Quanum_Cyclops_FPV_Goggle_w_Integrated_Monitor_and_Receiver_UK_Warehouse_.html)
It's cheap and has everything you need built in... that's all you need right now.
If you get really serious and want to get fatshark goggles, that's fine... but at around the £300 mark, I'd say it's a bit too much £££ right now. The quanum cyclops headset will be a great set of backup goggles or passenger goggles if/when you decide on fatsharks so it won't be money wasted.
Banggood do some really great value camera/VTX bundles too so when you do decide to bit the bullet and get the FPV gear, call back in on here and we'll all have great recommendations for you based on your budget.
Can't thank you enough BlueFlyer, such a massive help! And thanks to the rest of you as well, all a bunch of great guys! :D Time to lighten the wallet a little now :) Thanks again ;D
Ashley
Quote from: Ashafius on August 03, 2016, 05:05:52 PM
Hey everyone! :D
So I've been looking at getting into FPV but would like to start off nice and slow, I've been looking at AdamG's video's/Build
Great place to start :P :P :P haha
Looks like you've had great advice so I won't add to it. However, I will say that my opinion is the Skyhunter would be fine to add FPV gear to at a later date. I say this because all of the gear in the fuselage is on a wooden shelf that simply slides out in seconds (after disconnecting the ESC). So if you want to add FPV gear at a later date I don't see why there would be any issues.
(http://s31.postimg.org/u9r12qe2f/IMG_3870.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/u9r12qe2f/)
(http://s31.postimg.org/i3pxg53g7/IMG_3871.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/i3pxg53g7/)
Quote from: AdamG on August 04, 2016, 11:00:51 AM
Great place to start :P :P :P haha
Looks like you've had great advice so I won't add to it. However, I will say that my opinion is the Skyhunter would be fine to add FPV gear to at a later date. I say this because all of the gear in the fuselage is on a wooden shelf that simply slides out in seconds (after disconnecting the ESC). So if you want to add FPV gear at a later date I don't see why there would be any issues.
(http://s31.postimg.org/u9r12qe2f/IMG_3870.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/u9r12qe2f/)
(http://s31.postimg.org/i3pxg53g7/IMG_3871.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/i3pxg53g7/)
I too would say that most if not all planes DESIGNED FOR FPV are easy to add gear to, once built.
It's the older trainer type aircraft that make it difficult once glued together
I only ever use spots of hotglue at strategic places on my airframes, then tape the seams - makes it much easier to deal with when something goes pop.
Ashafius- I work in plymouth occasionally and have a super cheap brand new AXN plane you can buy if you wish. It's not the best fpv plane out there (Althiugh still very good- it was my first and I loved it so bought another one!)- but if you want something cheap it's a great start.
Private message me if you wish.
Quote from: Billy_boy_2010 on August 04, 2016, 09:54:12 PM
Ashafius- I work in plymouth occasionally and have a super cheap brand new AXN plane you can buy if you wish. It's not the best fpv plane out there (Althiugh still very good- it was my first and I loved it so bought another one!)- but if you want something cheap it's a great start.
Private message me if you wish.
Thanks for your offer but I think I'll stick with the build that's been given to me, just to save complications, I appreciate it though! :)
Quote from: AdamG on August 04, 2016, 11:00:51 AM
Great place to start :P :P :P haha
Looks like you've had great advice so I won't add to it. However, I will say that my opinion is the Skyhunter would be fine to add FPV gear to at a later date. I say this because all of the gear in the fuselage is on a wooden shelf that simply slides out in seconds (after disconnecting the ESC). So if you want to add FPV gear at a later date I don't see why there would be any issues.
(http://s31.postimg.org/u9r12qe2f/IMG_3870.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/u9r12qe2f/)
(http://s31.postimg.org/i3pxg53g7/IMG_3871.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/i3pxg53g7/)
Thanks Adam, I was looking at your receiver as I asked BlueFlyer a bunch of questions in PM which he answered amazing and helped me out really well, I still have to thank him for that in PM.
He recommended to ask about which receiver would be best to go with the Taranis so if anyone could help out with that I'd be really grateful.
I did look at this one:
http://www.t9hobbysport.com/frsky-x8r-receiver (http://www.t9hobbysport.com/frsky-x8r-receiver)
because there's a bulk package you can purchase with the Taranis and an X8R Receiver but again no clue, BlueFlyer said to probably avoid the UHF setup with Dragon Link is it? That Adam has but delve in if I wanted to kind of thing.. Sorry if I keep mentioning you guys as well lol I've just been basing my knowledge off of the items you guys use :)
Thanks for the huge amounts of help you've all given me, I'm really looking forward to getting stuck in and delving deeper into RC flight :D
Bix 3 in my opinion - got lots of easly accesable space, easy to add components as you grow. I don't know weather to reactivate my thread in classifieds there was everything he needs and more, but I am starting to fiddle with my equipment again so I am in two minds.
I am going to risk being burnt at the stake for my heretical views.
AP / flight controller can help a novice for the following reasons (based on APM):
1. AP is a relatively simple addition to wire up with the receiver (but may be pain to properly configure)
2. It can help with launches when properly setup in Auto mode
3. Geofence helps against fly-aways that is the biggest risk besides crashing for a novice
4. Geofence can also be configured for a minimal and maximal height and in fly-by-wire mode good for practice without risk of crashing or go for manual for more adventure
5. It is easy to stop Auto mode then have some fun flying and after that resume Auto to bring it home
Of course it can be argued that a few crashes are good for you to become a real pilot.
Patience and good preparation minimizes round trips and usage of a glue gun.
The problem being though, it adds another (large) layer of complexity to a beginner who may noteven be 100% sure they have the ailerons working properly, let alone in stabilised mode.
I definitely think you should be able to fly without an autopilot before you start relying on one. If nothing else, it's much more satisfying anyway.
It's a tough one really...
On one hand I'd say learn to fly FPV without an AP because it's a much simpler installation and less things to get wrong during the build and to go wrong in the air.
But on the other hand, having an AP at the start - when set up and used correctly - can save a lot of heartache in crashed/lost models.
The other thing is the expenditure... Go out and buy a OSD with no AP.... learn, then you have to spend again to get one with an AP.
To be honest, I don't know what I personally would suggest.
I think it depends largely on the individual, what skills they have and what they want to get out of it. Some people have seen videos with OSDs and they want that. If they're reasonably techie either professionally or just with their interests then they'll likely have few real problems mining the info they need from the Internet to get it all set up and working correctly. Others might have no chance. So yeah, it depends really.
Yep, it's really hard to say. Depends entirely on the ability of the person to digest the information and get an AP set up correctly. It really is helpful having one if you get yourself into bother whilst in the air, but as others have said learning to fly soley from visual references is really a good thing rather than relying on an OSD from the beginning.
Where are you based? If you go the AP route it is really helpful to have someone who knows what they are doing to give you some pointers during the build / first flights.
Just my two penneth..
For someone wanting to get into fpv I would always recommend learning to fly a plane los first. It makes it so much easier to get a new plane set up and trimmed first and if anything goes wrong with your fpv gear you have a better chance of getting it down in one piece los.
I'd agree with others over the ap point. I think to get you started it is much easier and there are far fewer things to go wrong. That said if you've already learnt to fly los you can take off and start to test the ap will engage rth etc properly all los.
Having a spotter for those first flights is a massive confidence booster as well. An older gentleman that flies with me was interested in trying fpv so invested in a bixler and got it set up. For his first flights I acted as his spotter and on the odd occasion he just gave up and handed the controls to me having lost his bearings. After three or four goes instead of me telling him whereabouts he was he was telling me and his confidence has grown significantly.
Sent from my Nexus 5 using Tapatalk
You guys really have thrown a spanner in the works now haha :P
I suppose realistically though, an AP can always be added at a later date after I'm happy with flying the craft, am I right? I wouldn't want to set anything up wrong if the AP's are a bit complicated to configure and then kiss my plane goodbye as it flies off into the sunset :rofl: Plus if there's all extra wiring to be done and attaching things here and there it might just be best to go simple and get used to flying LOS like most recommend then gradually build up and add bits on.
Probably going to be purchasing everything (mostly) today as BlueFlyer has given me a list of items to get! Just need to Google about the Rx and what one is best to go with the Taranis :)
Here's a list of what I know to get already, if I'm missing anything could someone let me know? Thanks!
Plane
Motor
Prop
Batteries
Servo's x4
ESC
Taranis Tx
So that's my list so far, missing a couple things I'm pretty sure but I mean if you guys recommend buying anything please let me know as I don't know all what's out there yet, tips are really useful haha
Thanks everyone!
Rx wise just get the X8R, it is plenty capable and has telemetry enabled, so you get the warm fuzzy feeling of knowing your signal strength and the Taranis will warn you if you get low. It is good for about 2km range as well so that's plenty to begin with. After that you can get the L9R which is a straight swap and is good for 5km+, but doesn't have telemetry, so it's handy to have an OSD with this to see signal strength. I wouldn't want to fly that far without some kind of autopilot anyway.
Also, don't forgot a battery charger!
Something like this is fine to start with, although you need a 12V power source for it -
http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__78387__Turnigy_Accucell_6_50W_6A_Balancer_Charger_LiHV_Capable_UK_Warehouse_.html (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__78387__Turnigy_Accucell_6_50W_6A_Balancer_Charger_LiHV_Capable_UK_Warehouse_.html)
Or look for one with an AC power supply built in.
Also, if you're ordering from Hobbyking make sure you select the UK warehouse otherwise you'll be waiting for stuff coming from China and could get hit with customs etc! Sounds obvious but it's an easy mistake to make.
Check also Hobbyking EU store, there is often stuff you can't find on UK store. It comes as quick from Europe and there are no duties to be paid as yet (dunno who on the forum shot himself in the foot by taking exit :laugh: ).
Buy your Taranis from T9 Hobbysport....hes the UK main supplier....you will get an X8R reciever with it...ideal....
Do not purchase it from Hobby King...
:vulture:
Quote from: English Turbines on August 05, 2016, 06:04:29 PM
Buy your Taranis from T9 Hobbysport....hes the UK main supplier....you will get an X8R reciever with it...ideal....
Do not purchase it from Hobby King...
:vulture:
Yeah BlueFlyer and yourself did recommend that website, thanks :) but is it the bulk deal that you're on about the Rx coming with it?
£157.79 (Incl. VAT) - Plus - LBT Combo 1 Mode 2 TX, batt and charger- 4 in stock
This one doesn't mention the Rx however this one does but is out of stock
£199.79 (Incl. VAT) - Plus -LBT - Combo 2 Mode 2 with Alu case, X8R Receiver - Out of stock
They have them in stock but separately priced so I might be missing a bit of information where you get them together :)
Quote from: highlander on August 05, 2016, 05:26:29 PM
Check also Hobbyking EU store, there is often stuff you can't find on UK store. It comes as quick from Europe and there are no duties to be paid as yet (dunno who on the forum shot himself in the foot by taking exit :laugh: ).
I'll keep that in mind, thanks for the tip!
Quote from: iwan_canobi on August 05, 2016, 04:02:35 PM
Rx wise just get the X8R, it is plenty capable and has telemetry enabled, so you get the warm fuzzy feeling of knowing your signal strength and the Taranis will warn you if you get low. It is good for about 2km range as well so that's plenty to begin with. After that you can get the L9R which is a straight swap and is good for 5km+, but doesn't have telemetry, so it's handy to have an OSD with this to see signal strength. I wouldn't want to fly that far without some kind of autopilot anyway.
Also, don't forgot a battery charger!
Something like this is fine to start with, although you need a 12V power source for it -
http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__78387__Turnigy_Accucell_6_50W_6A_Balancer_Charger_LiHV_Capable_UK_Warehouse_.html (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__78387__Turnigy_Accucell_6_50W_6A_Balancer_Charger_LiHV_Capable_UK_Warehouse_.html)
Or look for one with an AC power supply built in.
Also, if you're ordering from Hobbyking make sure you select the UK warehouse otherwise you'll be waiting for stuff coming from China and could get hit with customs etc! Sounds obvious but it's an easy mistake to make.
Totally forgot about a battery charger! :opps: Thanks haha
Quote from: highlander on August 05, 2016, 06:52:35 AM
I am going to risk being burnt at the stake for my heretical views.
AP / flight controller can help a novice for the following reasons (based on APM):
1. AP is a relatively simple addition to wire up with the receiver (but may be pain to properly configure)
2. It can help with launches when properly setup in Auto mode
3. Geofence helps against fly-aways that is the biggest risk besides crashing for a novice
4. Geofence can also be configured for a minimal and maximal height and in fly-by-wire mode good for practice without risk of crashing or go for manual for more adventure
5. It is easy to stop Auto mode then have some fun flying and after that resume Auto to bring it home
Of course it can be argued that a few crashes are good for you to become a real pilot.
Patience and good preparation minimizes round trips and usage of a glue gun.
This is almost all nonsense.
1) Autopilots are one of the most complicated things to set up. It's all fairly easy let's be honest- this isn't a particularly difficult hobby to understand- but Autopilots are def the harder parts.
2) You need to fly and trim the craft several times and then tune the pilot before you can rely on a stab mode to help launching. Until then it's likely to do far more harm than good- especially if you're a noobs and not experienced setting the AP up.
3) fly aways are not a risk at all. they are almost unheard of. Unless you have an incredibly stable craft which self levels and the failsafe leaves the throttle on. fly aways are far more likely with a stab mode, however......
4) perhaps. but a beginner won't really learn much. just as easy to get a few mistakes hugh and stay close. besides- a beginner won't be able to successfully set this up on the first few flights- which is when they would benefit from the slight benefits geofence offers.
5) what is the difference between "flying" and flying home? other than paying vague attention to where home is?!
Now if you were trying to argue the case for an osd with a GPS home arrow I would entirely agree with you.
AdamG did everything "wrong"- but he's a clever and meticulous Guy and is the exception to the rule.
Taranis Deal...T9 Hobbysport.
The Combo deals include Transmitter and a X8R receiver....Combo means Tx and RX.
I would go for the cheaper deal and forget about the charger and NiCad battery for the TX, its crap.
Since you are going to buy a Lipo Charger anyway, you can do what I did and for £15 get a 33amp 12vdc switched Mode PSU to power your Lipo charger.....E-Bay...!!!
You can then buy a LiFe TX battery for your Taranis TX....much better than that silly Nicad....
Buy it from T9....Hes a good bloke...good service too.
:vulture:
In regards to the Rx for your Taranis, the X8R is the one i use, it has S-BUS, RSSI port and does the job :)
The AP or no AP debate... happens quite a lot. I was one of those people that went all out on my first ever FPV plane and went 1.2 video, dragon link UHF, Pan and tilt, full AP and OSD etc. It turned out well for me as I had it up and flying great in no time. Others have the opposite experience and make mistakes with their AP and it can be the cause of a crash... So my opinion is there's no right answer, you just have to make the decision and go with it ;D
AdamG is a smart chap ;) not everyone is in that league. Otherwise you take baby steps - study a subject at the time master it and move on to the next. Like this episode "Look mum no hands all Auto" - when that works move on next like autotune the plane or adding FPV:
! No longer available (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DR8JU5Qep0E#)
Anyways there is a learning curve involved either way usualy paid for in time, glue, foam etc
One day you'll be a master like this handsome chap in the white hoodie
www.youtube.com/watch?v=783438oVEwM#ws (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=783438oVEwM#ws)
Quote from: English Turbines on August 05, 2016, 09:19:48 PM
Taranis Deal...T9 Hobbysport.
The Combo deals include Transmitter and a X8R receiver....Combo means Tx and RX.
I would go for the cheaper deal and forget about the charger and NiCad battery for the TX, its crap.
Since you are going to buy a Lipo Charger anyway, you can do what I did and for £15 get a 33amp 12vdc switched Mode PSU to power your Lipo charger.....E-Bay...!!!
You can then buy a LiFe TX battery for your Taranis TX....much better than that silly Nicad....
Buy it from T9....Hes a good bloke...good service too.
:vulture:
Ah that's perfect then, great to know! :D
Quote from: AdamG on August 05, 2016, 09:34:55 PM
In regards to the Rx for your Taranis, the X8R is the one i use, it has S-BUS, RSSI port and does the job :)
The AP or no AP debate... happens quite a lot. I was one of those people that went all out on my first ever FPV plane and went 1.2 video, dragon link UHF, Pan and tilt, full AP and OSD etc. It turned out well for me as I had it up and flying great in no time. Others have the opposite experience and make mistakes with their AP and it can be the cause of a crash... So my opinion is there's no right answer, you just have to make the decision and go with it ;D
Thanks Adam, I probably haven't had enough experience flying better planes with more control surfaces moving like you so I think the decision will be to learn LOS first then in the near future dive in deep and fit everything on it
Quote from: BlueFlyer on August 05, 2016, 10:14:17 PM
One day you'll be a master like this handsome chap in the white hoodie
www.youtube.com/watch?v=783438oVEwM#ws (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=783438oVEwM#ws)
Haha hopefully I'll have some mates down here too so that they can carry all the kit! it's like you guys are camping :P
nah, that's me travelling light... the first 20 seconds of this vid show how I normally FPV lol
www.youtube.com/watch?v=ItURPbJngKc#ws (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ItURPbJngKc#ws)
Quote from: BlueFlyer on August 05, 2016, 11:53:57 PM
nah, that's me travelling light... the first 20 seconds of this vid show how I normally FPV lol
www.youtube.com/watch?v=ItURPbJngKc#ws (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ItURPbJngKc#ws)
Looks very cosy haha :) you got it all sussed out! Didn't end up purchasing anything today as we've been discussing a few more things and I didn't want to miss out on one item, would rather order it all in one big go
The OSD Option:
Another option is to just settle for an OSD....
This is me flying my Bixler 2 with a Skylark Tiny OSD, it's not an AP as such, but it does have the benefit of navigation / compass home pointer....The Skylark is rather dated, but is small and it seems to work ok..It has no RTH.
I suppose I am lucky having a dirty great big Airfield as a landmark right next to my flying field....Looking at Blues clip, hes not so lucky as its green fields and they all look the same...lol...Just something else to consider....
You can buy an OSD with GPS puck and something like a Naze 32 quite cheap...Be prepared to do some faffing about getting them to work, they are not off the shelf plug and play...some people like that though...?
From memory, the Skylark Tiny OSD cost me about £54 from BGood....cheap really, and it just works...:)
Yesterday I ventured out to 2.5kms into new territory with the Bix 2, I was glad of the home pointer then because I was a bit lost at one point being so far from the Airfield it was difficult to see exactly where I was...Green fields...they all look the same...lol..
:vulture:
I totally agree English turbines. by far the biggest risk in fpv is getting lost imo. a simple osd with GPS home is all you need.
I also recommend flying next to a very large landmark. a lake is ideal. or flying up and down a river- that was its easy to trace your steps and find home. it gets scary the first time you can't hear your plane.
The OP could buy an autopilot and then just set it up as an osd to begin with. this removes a lot of the potential failures and means you're not wasting money on an osd you will outgrow.