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[RoyP]

Just about to order my first boat kit but will also need a radio set any thoughts for a newbie.

Should it be 2 or 3 Channel, 27 or 40Mhz.

Thanks,
Roy.

[boatmadman]

Roy,

You can use either 27 or 40 Mhz, but you would be better with 40, or even 2.4 Ghz. 40 has more frequency options than 27, 2.4 has unlimited frequency options.

As for the number of channels, it depebnds on what you want your boats to do. It might be worth buying something with multiple channels so that if (when) you get hooked and build something bigger and more complicated you have the channels to work it.

Ian

[wideawake]

Hi Roy

Following up what Ian has said, I'd certainly go for more than 2 channels.   Depending what yoiur boat plans are, you'll probably find a use for at least one more channel even if it's not on a stick.   I'd forget 27MHz  and only consider 40MHz or 2.4 GHz.   While 40MHz has more channels than 27MHz you're still stuck with potential frequency clashes when your sailing water is busy unless you buy a) a rig with external crystal swapping and b) spare crystal pairs.  There is an alternative which is a 40MHz synthesised set - no crystals but still the same number of channels. 

Now for the future - 2.4GHz!   There aren't unlimited chanels actually, there are 80, but it doesn't need to bother you as the technology will find a clear channel or channels for you and ensure that there aren't any clashes (at least 40 2.4GHz sets could operate on the same lake).    Price-wise the kit is coming down in price all the time but all the TXs were a bit complicated with lots of programmable options.   spektrum have just brought out the DX5e 2 channels with a third via an on/off toggle switch.   Very much like a basic 2 channel 40MHz set in fact.   It's available for around £60 or so - not a lot more than a 40MHz set particularly if you start adding extra crystals.

I personally have a DX6 which has 4 channels on 2 sticks and 2 more on switches but that's because I'm into steam and sail not electrickery.

HTH

Guy

[red181]

this is what the buzz is all about, possibly the cheapest way of going 2.4, however, there is a bit of noise coming from USA that there are problems with 2.4 on water, the feeling here is its fine

http://www.rcpitstop.co.uk/spektrum-dx5e-5ch-full-range-24ghz-mode-2-tx--rx-402-p.asp

£60.00 appears to be the going rate at most model shops.

If you plan to sail on water that is frequented by children with their shop bought 27mhz or 40mhz toys, then this is the way to go. If you are joining a club, then with a 2.4 set you don't have to wait around for your frequency to be free, or worry about someone turning on their transmitter without checking who else is on the same frequency.

I have 2  x  3 channel 40mhz cheap sets, as both boats require a 3rd channel to operate other things, that is your consideration  

[FullLeatherJacket]

Guy
My reading of the ad says that this is a five channel set, not just two. If that's the case - and even without servos (of which you only usually require one anyway) and the usual rechargeables (which you can get from the supermarket) - this represents a very sensible place to start. I would personally NEVER recommend a two channel set as they aren't that much less than multi channel ones and are sooooooooo limited in scope.
If only that fifth channel was proportional...........
FLJ

(Just weakened and ordered one......... )

[wideawake]

OOOPS!   You're quite right FLJ it is a 4 +1 channels set NOT 2 channel.   How I made that mistake i don't know.  I apologise for misleading everyone.  It's an even better option than I said.

Agreed re the 5th channel.   Even it's a pity that they don't at least fit a 3 position toggle switch.

Guy

[Timo2]

Hi FLJ

      Channel 5 good for making Switches work

    Timo2  

  PS

   Very good price for the unit ( even on sale in Scotland  ::))

[FullLeatherJacket]

Even it's a pity that they don't at least fit a 3 position toggle switch.

Guy
I shall have a good dig around inside and see what's what. You never know.
 
Timo2
Agreed, muffin man - but only for the one circuit. I somehow knew the price would attract you.........  (you'll have had your tea, then?).

FLJ

[Timo2]

Hi FLJ

  Have look at   Post No 20

    http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=926247&page=2

    Looks very interesting   

   Timo2

   ( Cakes if you have the Coffee ) 

[wideawake]

Even it's a pity that they don't at least fit a 3 position toggle switch.

Guy
I shall have a good dig around inside and see what's what. You never know.
 
I'd be very interested to hear what you find FLJ.  It'd be good if it was posssible to find the other "end" of the servo output to Ch5 and then put in a centre "off" toggle.   I may well have a DX5e in my hands in the next day or so (MB review) so will have a nose around myself as well.

Cheers

Guy


FLJ

[RoyP]

Thanks for all the advice, it seems that  2.4GHz 5ch is the way to go for £60 or there abouts.

Roy.

[Martin (Admin)]

Also regarding the Spektrum DX5:

On the DX5E you have only one model memory so it can only remember one setup (ie. reversers, centrers, trim, etc.) so you can use multiple receivers for different boats but each boat will have to be manually set up and remembered each time.... but this is nothing new for model boaters!
With the DX6, DX7 you can memorise ten setups for different models...