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05-17-2014, 05:47 PM | #1 |
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I am: Scratch Builder Sam
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Multi engine throttle set up
As my Connie is getting ready for it's flying, I like to know from the twin and multi engine model builder and pilots how did you guys set up your throttles into one channel.
I have been proposed following from different people. 1-Solder and connect all 4 throttle leads into one lead and connect to the receiver. 2-Use 2 receivers and use one rx for just throttle mixed together for throttle channel and other rx to fly the model by binding both rx's into one radio. In this case will be my Spektrum DX7. 3- Use bigger single receiver by plugging in throttle cables in individual channels and then mixing those with main throttle channel. I have AR12120 receiver for this set up. My DX18 has gone to Horizon hobbies to get its RF module fixed. I have been having signal issues from ESC's to receiver but then I had used multiple "Y" harnesses to get all throttles into single channel for ground testing and demonstrations.
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Keeping scale scratch building part of the hobby alive. We'll build new kits or arfs for you and also rebuild your previously crashed models. Radios: Spektrum, Futaba Engines: Electric, Gas and glow Last edited by Struts1; 05-17-2014 at 06:19 PM. |
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05-18-2014, 07:26 AM | #2 |
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Re: Multi engine throttle set up
Before making any recommendation, it may be helpful to know what throttle specs you are aiming for.
For example, do you simply want all 4 channels to follow the same throttle signal all the time, identical to what you would get using Y-cables to that single throttle output, or have different throttle curves/functions set up for specific flight modes? I'm asking this as I would imagine all 4 following the same curve in flight would likely be best, but on ground ops you could turn off the inboard motors and/or vary the throttle curve with the rudder channel as master. In that case you would need at least 2 extra channels committed to throttle. I would imagine with retracts and flap options already programmed, the DX7 would leave you at least 1 channel short. Also, been a while since I worked with the 7 and that was predominantly heli setups, so not sure if it has good mode/mixing capability.
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05-18-2014, 11:33 AM | #3 |
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I am: Scratch Builder Sam
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Re: Multi engine throttle set up
Gary,
For first couple flights I want to keep things as simple as possible. NO differential thrust no nothing just same set up on all 4 throttles. I have 5 rudders to turn if needed to be. Later on I will add sequential engine start up feature once I know all is working well and how model behaves during flights and on the ground.
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Keeping scale scratch building part of the hobby alive. We'll build new kits or arfs for you and also rebuild your previously crashed models. Radios: Spektrum, Futaba Engines: Electric, Gas and glow |
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05-18-2014, 01:04 PM | #4 |
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Re: Multi engine throttle set up
I have used a few setups. I currently have 3 multi's in my fleet.
For basic setup I use three Y cables. If not using external BEC, disconnect three esc power wires. If using external BEC, then disco all power (red) wires from esc's. As long as the esc's / motors are matched they will act as one and you will not see any difference. For differential thrust, you will need two channels on the rx and a few mixes. I also like to have the mix on a switch so I can disable it if something goes wrong with a motor or esc. Cheers, Marc |
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05-18-2014, 02:21 PM | #5 | |
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Re: Multi engine throttle set up
Quote:
I'm trying to eliminate using any Y harnesses in my setup if all possible to do. Presently there is no BEC in the model and 3 ECS's BEC wires are already taken out. So when I want to run the motors, they keep beeping constantly and don't turn at all. Long time ago i was told to un-plug 3 BEC wires from the ESC connectors and just keep 1 BEC connected, so it worked fine initially but not anymore. Instead of using Y harnesses, I would prefer to connect all 4 throttle wires on 1 single wire and connect that to receiver.... Do I need external BEC or could I replug in BEC wires back into ESC connectors to all ESC's will have there own BECs functioning... OR Add external 15A BEC that I also have....
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Keeping scale scratch building part of the hobby alive. We'll build new kits or arfs for you and also rebuild your previously crashed models. Radios: Spektrum, Futaba Engines: Electric, Gas and glow |
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05-18-2014, 04:15 PM | #6 |
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Re: Multi engine throttle set up
Since you are using electric motors and do not need individual trims or the ability to rev up one engine only then one channel control would be fine. You can "connect all 4 throttle wires on 1 single wire", but remember you need to connect the negative wire to each ESC in addition to the signal wire.
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05-18-2014, 05:25 PM | #7 |
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Re: Multi engine throttle set up
If you are using over 4 servos use an external BEC, not worth losing a plane on a brownout for $10-$20 saving. You can connect the BEC to any channel ( I normally use a Y connector on aux channel if all ports are used)
to avoid Y harness, you can make a connector with 4 female connectors for the ESC's. As long as only 1 source is providing power you should not run into problems.. m |
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05-18-2014, 09:20 PM | #8 |
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Re: Multi engine throttle set up
Another and perhaps safer route would be a power panel, one set up with redundant batteries for servos and receiver. Isolate the largest power consumers, (the motors) to their own supplies.
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