This text is machine translated.
Knowledge of remote controls
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What is a wireless remote control?
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Multi-channel remote controls
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Model remote control: Transmission frequency and ISM-band
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Pistol grip, desk and hand-held remote controls
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Extended accessories for radio controls and model vehicles
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Additional accessories and extensions for model vehicles
What is a wireless remote control?
A radio remote control is called when a technical device is controlled by the use of radio signals from a distance. The term is classically linked to the use in model construction and extends to the outgoing 19. Century back. It is commonly referred to as the control unit, which controls model cars, aircraft, helicopters and other vehicles in a predefined distance range.
The radio remote control functions by operating the pilot switch and lever, was translated into radio signals by the integrated transmitter of the control unit and sent to the receiver. This decodes the signals and transfers them to the control elements of the model vehicle, where they are converted into mechanical positions such as rudder positions or lever positions using electromagnetic drives (e.g. servos). Typical examples of such control functions are the rudder on the ship, the steering on the car, the throttle on the combustion engine and the elevator on the aircraft.
Multi-channel remote controls
The basic properties of a radio remote control include the number of devices or functions that can be controlled. Thus, one calls a remote control, which can only control the speed and the direction of travel of a model (e.g. of a car) and thus only two functions, a 2-channel remote control. An 8-channel remote control allows you to control eight functions or eight "devices". When using a radio remote control, make sure how many functions it should control. It is important that the term "channel" is not confused with the radio channel, i.e. a subfrequency, which is nowadays more called "slot".
Model-making remote control: Transmitter frequencies and ISM-band
In Germany, the frequency ranges 27 MHz, 35 MHz and 40.6 MHz are intended for radio transmission in model construction, whereby the 35 MHz range may only be used for aircraft. The ISM frequency ranges 433 MHz and 2.4 GHz are also permitted. ISM stands for "industrial, scientific, medical" and refers to frequency ranges that can be used for license and license-free applications in the fields of industry, science, medicine, as well as in domestic and other areas for the use of high-frequency devices.
The 2.4 GHz technology in particular represents a significant improvement in quality, because the transmission capacity at least 68 times higher than the 35MHz frequency means that much more security-enhancing solutions are possible through special encryption methods. This results in a high degree of mutual interference among users on the same subfrequency.
Thus, a unique assignment between the transmitter and receiver is implemented with the binding procedure. The receiver is bound to the transmitter by a transmitter name, the Globally Unique Identifier, and does not respond to signals from other transmitters on the same partial or slot frequency. This effectively prevents the control signals of different units from getting into the way.
With the Chipping method, each transmitted information is encoded once again in a unique way. This means that pulses of other origin on the same partial or slot frequency are not detected.
The 2.4 GHz band offers further advantages. This allows 79 different channels, no long antennas are required and the radio range can be significantly increased.
Pistol grip, desk and hand-held remote controls
Pistol grip remote controls are held in the same way as a pistol by their design – hence the name. They are often used in competition and professional applications for RC model cars as well as in ship model construction and have at least two transmission channels. Pistol grip remote controls are often used with 2.4 GHz wireless technology.
Console and hand controls are mainly used for controlling helicopters and surface vehicles. Hand-held transmitters must be held during operation. The operation is done with the thumbs and is much less sensitive than the console remote control. Complicated maneuvers, in which a lot of finger-tip feeling is required, are much more difficult to implement with a hand-held remote control.
The console version differs from the hand remote control mainly in that a belt with a holder for a hand remote control is fastened around the user. This causes the controller to be directly at the hip. The joysticks can be gripped with several fingers. This allows for more sensitive operation of the controls. Console remote controls are often used for ship models.
Pistol grip and hand and console remote controls do not differ in terms of the frequencies used.
Extended accessories for radio controls and model vehicles
Telemetry
Telemetry refers to the transmission of sensor measurement values – for example to a remote control. Control units equipped with a display read the received data and display it in key figures.
For the effective use, a telemetry system that is as clear as possible is aimed at pure hobby modeling as well as in competition. Telemetric connections indicate defects in the interior and exterior of a model. This allows error sources to be quickly analyzed and corrected.
Remote control antenna
Model vehicles that can be controlled from a distance require an antenna for transmitting control impulses in addition to transmitter and receiver. As a rule, an antenna is included with every purchase of a remote control. If an upgrade is to be made for a higher range or a more stable connection, replacement antennas can be purchased. When purchasing, pay attention to the compatibility with the remote control and the model vehicle.
Starter Kits
Beginner's sets usually contain everything that was necessary for the proper operation of a remote control. They are equally suitable for users with basic knowledge as well as for complete beginners. The scope of delivery should include at least all necessary rechargeable batteries, a remote control system, a charger and instructions.
Additional accessories and extensions for model vehicles
Model vehicles can be expanded with a wide range of additional modules. There are, for example, step switches for vehicles and remote controls or cable management solutions. Sensors for extended telemetry are available as well as batteries, transmitter modules, antenna protection and stabilization systems.