RC Transmitter Ergonomics and the Xtreme Power Systems "Mystery" Radio.

[chris81983]

Very very good points I never flew with cross trims but I can see what you mean it would be nice to try my only problem is getting used to a new radio layout

[gewizz2]

well i will never look at the top left corner of my tx the same way again. lol

[DavstrWrexham]

Things are slightly different for me, as i fly mode 1, so cross trims are a bad idea for me

[gewizz2]

@DavstrWrexham why the hell wud u fly mode 1?

[jack10996]

what is that yellow things on your f mode switch I think.

thanks Dave

[hammermill1980]

This guy whines about the colour of his fruit loops at breakfast in the morning, but he is very imformative about how delicate his fingers are and all the step that should be taken to change the patents on the radios for his soft paws. I have a spectrum dx6i, it is perfect. I haven't got a blister yet.

[wreckdiver001]

Why don't they have aircraft type joystick controllers?

[il2sturmovikfb]

@nightflyyer what is your favourite type of plane or helicopter to fly?and would you recommend a f4u corsair from nitroplanes?

please reply.

[2009PatrickWhite]

@7pcamat I am in the later stages of learning to fly a helicopter, so I haven't had a chance to fly a plane yet.

[7pcamat]

@2009PatrickWhite You're missing out in both worlds. :)

[7pcamat]

I'd like to see a TX company have an option for building your own TX. Starting from 4ch and up and with at least 2 different case models. Options such as knobs or switches or both. Location, Freq., Beveled or non-beveled edges (as described in your video), ratcheted or spring sticks, case grips, analog or digital/computer, etc. Everyone who flies or whatever you do rc wise, has their own personal preference and unfortunately (imo) have to adjust to for using. I think it would be a better market.

[Trainboy64]

I still have my Kraft 7C series 80... it gave me 20 years of Trouble free service and was a rarity here in Australia.. It was the first radio at the club on FM and with Ball Raced Servos... KPS - 20 H... I was 16 when I bought it and had worked for a year washing dishes for mum to pay for it... Great stuff

[yamaha4759]

i love the way you explain your audience how would it be easier adjustment wise and everything make sense... you are God send to us RC fanatics... more power to you Mr. Dave...

[the1realanalogman]

As always, I enjoyed your video Dave. A feature I like is a rotary knob (pot) control for gyro. I use a DX7 now, but my Blade SR came with the HP6DSM, which I used prior to switching to the DX7. Obviously the DX7 is a far superior radio, but I still miss that gyro pot! Very interested in the mystery radio! Keep em' flyin' bro!

[kangsterizer]

beside better ergonomics (specially the switch is hard to reach for me, while flying) i think what's missing is some common programming features using a super standard board.

we pay $1000 for high end radios and they have $30 of computer equipment inside.

5-8 year old tech would fit the reqs for a ultra low power very powerful computer inside the radio. it could be open source and easily extendable/programmable. One could add telemetry and what not as well as reprogram all switches etc.

[OCDRC]

there is absolutely nothing wrong with just using thumbs, I can fly a heli just fine

[Xantec]

i have the Futaba 6EXA on 40mhz, great radio however when they went from the 6EXA to the 6EX they changed the flap control from a dial-in knob to a flick switch, so the graduation has gone. its either FULL flap or NO flap.

[2009PatrickWhite]

I agree, someone should come up with a standard switch setup, or better yet, a transmitter with programable switches. What does the gear switch do? It's been sitting there on my transmitter staring at me and I don't know what it does. Good video.

[7pcamat]

@2009PatrickWhite You must be a heli only guy. Your tx most likely can be used for both heli and fixed wing. The gear switch is for retractable landing gear. 2 pos.-up or down.

[whatsdare]

Hey Dave, Big fan here, I gave you credit for being the first single rotor heli guy, on BLAdizz channel. Saw some interesting posts about dynamics of weight. Which had me asking questions about bearing loads. At zero pitch there would be no, or even bearing load on the swash plate/ main bearings. But when you apply lift/ pitch on single blade, would there now be twice the load spinning on one side of the bearing? ass apposed to equal loads spinning 180 degrees from one another?

[SvenOkonomi]

I don't like analog sliders for one reason: Multiple models. Fortunately my gimbals don't have the nasty ridges you're talking about, plus I was able to extend my sticks so theyre nice and long and comfortable to grip. All those hand held models are for thumb twiddlers, what you want is a pult transmitter. Funny that how you mention you like your switches is EXACTLY how ive set it up on my Graupner MC-19.

[beverke7]

changing trim positions would work but I am used to my DX7 DSM2 2.4 Ghz Spektrum and old 35 Mhz JR Graupner radio (only 4 channels and manual trim sliders) and I like it just fine, not having to take of your fingers of the gimbals sure is a positive feature. Also the pinching works fine for me, learned to do it for obvious reasons when flying helis in a controlled way, sure it took some time but works great, even use it when flying RC airoplanes Hope some of your thoughts are picked up Dave.

[liambowers666]

I'm sorry but i can't disagree more with 95% of the comments made in this video. Especially your demonstration of the trims. You're having to take your other hand off anyway so your defeating your own point. I love watching most of your videos but this one was a load of garbage to me. Sorry to be so blunt but it's just my opinion.

[BmurrUSA]

@liambowers666 The point is that you can trim out the things you are in immediate control of without out losing positive control over that surface. I totally support the idea. This was a great brainstorming video in my opinion. I don't know enough about the sport yet to really have much to say, but the reverse trim should be considered imo.

[BmurrUSA]

@liambowers666 The point is that you can trim out the things you are in immediate control of without out losing positive control over that surface. I totally support the idea. This was a great brainstorming video in my opinion. I don't know enough about the sport yet to really have much to say, but the reverse trim should be considered imo.

[raykiii]

Wow, what great ideas! I am new to RC Aircraft. I presently use a Spektrum DX5e. I have only two crafts a Champ and a Night Vapor. I like the idea that others have posted for a craft mounted camera and FPV screen on the controller. If there were also an option to insert a sim card or San Disk so we could record flights for later review. It could help with your videos as well. Thanks for the post and your years in service.

[Bthackrey]

i'd like to see a radio that incorporates a first person view screen and camera (on the plane ) . i have seen many fpv rc videos and looks ace .

[realtvnow]

@Bthackrey Seeing the FPV video on the Transmitter would be really cool, especially if the screen is mounted to the top of the transmitter.

[johncirri]

Nice Dave< I remember watching my Dad build a Heathkit 4 ch on the Kitchen table in the early 60's, I still have a bunch of that stuff, The Open Gimbal Kraft was my Favorite tho had it in the Andrews AeroMaster Bipe with an O.S 60, Cheer's.

[Elios0000]

your like the VCR monk of RC TXs :D love seeing the old stuff

[KozmykJ]

I guess it's EGGronomics cos it's for flyin birds. Innit ;)

[LondonRCproject]

I agree, Mr Herbert. Some designs are way too complicated and not ergonomic enough. Hopefully we will see improvement in future radio TXs :)

-BrotherBloat

[photobart1]

For me a transmitter is a personal item. I only fly planes and I use the same DX7 for all of my 17 planes. I even use the DX7 for my Aerofly. I just like to have the same feel on the transmitter for each plane. I am sure in time I will upgrade to the DX8. My question is how come you don't use your DX6 on your Aerofly? Don't you want to use the same transmitter with your simulator as the one you use in the field? What do you think of the DX8.

[NightFlyyer]

@photobart1 I dont use DX6i on my Sim cause it doesnt have enough channels, mostly. Im holding out for the new 16 channel, 1000 model memory Mystery radio with audio in and audio out telemetry and Bluetooth for sims. It would be expensive for me to buy all new receivers and such for my many planes and helis, with different brand txs, since I am not the government. I usually try 2 use what Ive on hand and am trying to cut spending. Mystery radio is only $249. 4 cost the same as 1 JR or Futaba.

[1spaman]

How about using longer sticks?

[NightFlyyer]

@1spaman I do not like longer sticks. I have tried that before.  Why? They move farther at the top.

[theelectronman]

Wow been flying RC for 30+ years, started with an old 2 Channel COX transmitter, my first HIGH dollar tx was a 4 channel 27mhz Kraft and I have never heard of cross trims... What a great idea!!! When I am trimming a new aircraft I usually trim with my left and keep my right on the ailerons and elevator but it's always been awkward . Cross trims would be awesome...

[NightFlyyer]

@theelectronman Thanks very kindly. They are sure handy. Thanks for the comments and happy flying.

[gripchion]

I've only been in the hobby for about 5 years. I think the cross trim would be an excellent idea!!!!!

[NightFlyyer]

@gripchion Thanks very much. You would find them very nice, especially in contests or demonstration flights like Alan Szabo or Justin Chi do.

[TheKrazydreams]

i never thought about cross trims

great idea

thumbs up for cross trims

[NightFlyyer]

@TheKrazydreams Thanks. you would like them much.

[BunnyHairedKid]

ya dx6i

[jauchiu]

I love it. Thanks.

[jauchiu]

This is great. I love it.

[shoopwhoopX]

cross trim, thats epic

[shoopwhoopX]

old Kraft servos make great paper weights

[Hewey19]

You should check out a Futaba 8FG. I think it has just about everything you are looking for but analog trims and the switches are all programmable.

[drumminjim22]

Egronomics!

[freemarlochip]

The new Spektrum DX8 is capable of CROSSED TRIMS ..

[NightFlyyer]

@freemarlochip Yes, but the switches and trim levers are still not in a good position to reach, in my opinion.

[freemarlochip]

@NightFlyyer Those would fall under user prefference and would not apply for everyone. If you started way back then then of course you gotten used to having it certain ways. Those of us you started no so long ago are use to certain ways. Never once have my fingers rub up agains anything and I also pinch. I guess it could have to do with stick height adjustments...

[WSRebel2]

Hey dave if you buy an AIRTRONICS SD-6G, all of your switches are in the spot that the you said you would want and the rings around the sticks, it's got great rangee and I have had know connection issues and it's a 6 channel and hass all of the same features as the Spektrum Dx-6i radio. Another great thing is that the 6 channel FULL RANGE reciever is 60 dollars solid and the 5 channel FULL RANGE receiver is 50 bucks solid. If you buy a new radio anytime soon I would highly reccomend the SD-6G!

[NightFlyyer]

@WSRebel2 Thanks for that. I am holding out for the Mystery radio, not wanting to have to buy at least 18 new receivers Id have to replace in the planes. It is just not economical and the SD6g wont work with all my parkzone helis and planes.

[CommanderGalos]

I showed this video to some old-school RC flyers over here, and they wholeheartedly agree with your points. Now, one of them is also a videogame player and made an interesting suggestion. What he said is this: one of the most ergonomic designs for a controller he's ever encountered is the Playstation 1 design. And said that, if someone ever designed a remote controller using those same ergonomics, it would be a dream come true. So, what do you think Dave?

[NightFlyyer]

@CommanderGalos Not sure. My PS 1 controller is sloppy and mostly pushbutton control. Maybe the new ones are better. In helicopter flying, it must be precision. Make a video of your idea using the PS1 controller and post it here with your idea.

[RcHelpDotCom]

This is a great video. I have thought about switching my trims on my dx6i so that of say, my elevator is way out, I don't have to take my finger off the elevator, then have to save it from a crash.

When I get home, i will be checking out the links and giving my opinion on this. Thanks dave!

[NightFlyyer]

@RcHelpDotCom Thanks kindly. I have made a video a while back on how to change your trims to cross trims on a Hitec Prism X. Good luck.

[f14fan1243]

the RC industry is totally bias towards "one-finger-flyers"

[NightFlyyer]

@f14fan1243 Thats because they are not Heli contest fliers. Everything works on paper, you know. Haha. Thanks for your comment.

[catfishmudflap]

Great ideas. I hope those standards are set.

[UtRadioGuy]

I pinch the right stick for Aileron & Elevator, and use my thumb on the left stick for throttle & rudder. Been doing that for 20 years. My buddy who flies trubine jets is all thumbs.

[NightFlyyer]

@UtRadioGuy Yep, some people can do it. Im a heli flight instructor and teach the pinching for the left stick only. It is the way the pros taught me and the way they fly, especially Alan Szabo and Justin Chi. I used to fly thumbs too til I was taught different. I did not want to change, but in the long run, it works better and I have more control of that left stick that you just cant drop. Just ask a real heli pro contest flier, not just me.

[UtRadioGuy]

You can now move trims around and make them trim whatever you want with the computer radios like the DX8 & 8FG. Not to mention you can update the software when they come out with new stuff.

[NightFlyyer]

@UtRadioGuy Again, I am waiting for the new mystery radio with 16 channels and 1000 model memory.

[619viewloader]

Hey Dave try the DX7 it has every thing u said that would be good!

[NightFlyyer]

@619viewloader Yes, I dont like the programming as much as the DX61 DX6ix or Dx8. The trims are still in a non ergonomic place however on all them. And switching the 3position sw on the top left to the right, is not a programmable deal.

[ramis182]

i once tried to fly while pinching the left stick.....i dont think it went too well......but i can see your and other pilots point because i think it does give more control, great video again mr. herbert

[gokuta333]

shouldent it be pronounced UR-GAH-NOMICS?　o.O

[lazor222]

It's alan szabo but seriously it doesn't matter if you pinch, thumb, or thinch. Whatever feels the most comfortable for YOU is what is best for YOU. Look at Tareq Alsaadi stick cam.

[stickwalker]

Great ideas. Lets hope someone up there listens and builds them into their next radio. I enjoy watching your bench talk videos and I learn so much from them. Thanks for posting them.

[NightFlyyer]

@stickwalker Thanks very kindly. I appreciate e that.

[spektrum33]

Well i was a thumbs on sticks , i found it gave the best results for me ,but it's all down to what your use to.

It's old now but i use to like the old futaba m series

[NightFlyyer]

@spektrum33 Yep I was used to thumbs too, til I started flying 3D gas helicopters. We had no gyros then, so keeping a good hold on the left stick was better accomplished with 2 fingers. I did not want to change, but John Simone and Mike Mas, both National Heli champs in the day, talked me into doing it. It was unusual to get used to it but now I have way more control that I bit my tongue and switched like the pros.

[boldger13]

You tell 'em! I'm looking forward to the future advancements. Thanks, Max.

[flyingchimp99]

I was watching a dicovery channel the other day and I saw something called an Air Accelerator..........no electrical or mechanical moving peices..........just a large peice of metal shape like a weird cylinder........all you do is put compressed AIR into it and it sucks out something like 30 times more than you put into it.........think the thrust ratio........the EDF's use lots of battery power very fast......maybe this way we dont need betterys more motors only the servos....have u herd of it?

[NightFlyyer]

@flyingchimp99 I have not heard of that, but that sounds very interesting. That sounds kinda like a pulse jet. Unfortunately, they only run wide open with no throttle.

[flyingchimp99]

@NightFlyyer but on this all you need to do is to control the amount of compressed air you pout into it.......no fuel......no fire......just air

[BmurrUSA]

I got my first link, and helicopter, about a month ago. You could say I'm a newb. The cross trim idea you have was one of the first things I questioned when trimming my rudder for the first time. I wonder why this wasn't thought of LONG ago, and implemented by now...

[NightFlyyer]

@BmurrUSA Thanks. I agree, as it was thought of and implimented in the Kraft and Proline Radios long ago, as you saw in the video. Id like to see it come back.

[elmardus]

Nice video Dave.

I fly rc now for over a year, but I am a thumb flyer, I don't hold the stick's like you do. Is that a problem? And should I try to be a not-thumbflyer? Maybe I could train that on the sim...

[NightFlyyer]

@elmardus I already did make many videos on the subject, so to me, it is a mute subject, as someone will always argue that I am wrong. It works for me.

[elmardus]

@NightFlyyer I searched in your video list, but I can't find any video's on that. Can you give me some video titles?

[NightFlyyer]

@elmardus I hated to make the change, but glad I did.  I was taught to pinch the left stick for 3D heli flying and glad I changed. I feel I have more control, so of course that is the way I teach it too. Good luck.

[thefirstofmykind]

CANT BE ACCURATE WITH THUMBS? have you ever saw tareq fly???

[NightFlyyer]

@thefirstofmykind He is in the minority, and when it gets cold like it is here most of the time, that frozen left thumb will shake. And if your old as me, shaking comes natural. Again, MOST Pro HELICOPTER pilots pinch the left stick and they will tell you it is best too. It works better for me too.

[thefirstofmykind]

@NightFlyyer mentioning that I must agree:)

[Sorrow1994]

hmm why u dont just fly ALL your models with ONE TX? (like i do) just buy a TX u Like u like and Fly all ur Models with it! if u Buy a Transmitter wich is a little more advanced (like a DX8, some JR's and most Futabas...) u can also assign functions to the switches u Want! in my opinion global switch assignmet is... shit! every Pilot flys a other way... and to yours Thumbs: why don't you just lenghten your sticks? the problem would be solved... greets

[NightFlyyer]

@Sorrow1994 I have all that and more. I'm thriftier these days and simply giving my opinion. I don't like lengthened sticks. Ive tried. I don't see any real flying videos of yours, so wonder how you formed your opinion? Hearsay? I was taught by the National Heli champions and worked for Kraft who was a world champion. They all pinch the sticks. How could I argue with that? I am not an Armchair pilot. Since the new x radio has 1000 memories, & they're asking for suggestions, I've complied.

[NightFlyyer]

@Sorrow1994 Well I have been flying for over 50 years and new technology has just been recent. I have 100s of TXs alsready so it would be impractical for me to replace my 5 DSM transmitters as I would have to buy at least 17 new receivers to work with the JRs and Futabas, which also wont work on my Parkzone helis or micro planes. So in the mean time I am holding out for the 1000 model mem, 16 ch Mystery radio for only $249. Long sticks have to move farther so Iike the short sticks the best.

[Sorrow1994]

@NightFlyyer ok that explains everthing, lol replacing that much recievers would be a little bit expensive, i think lol

[Sorrow1994]

@NightFlyyer Hey Nightflyyer... just another question: are you going to buy the new Blade mCP X, too? if yes are you goin to make video on it? that would be great lol... im still waiting on mine =(

[acer19994]

For your favorite transmitter?

[NightFlyyer]

@acer19994 My JR Propo Helicopter radio and My 3 DX6i's

[BRANDORC]

i got a cheap 2.4 radio with my rtf f35 edf. the sticks felt better then any other radio i own. thats because there was heat shrink over the sharp tips of the gimbals and the shrink had a soft but grippy feel. ever since i have put heat shrink on ALL of my radio sticks.

youre right about analog trim. wish my spektrum had em.

[NightFlyyer]

@BRANDORC Thanks kindly. Yes, the sharp tips I forgot to mention. Good point. I know there are drawbacks to the analog sticks as I mentioned in the video, but I like you, still like them. Thanks again for the comments.

[NavyRCdude]

Great video!

[NightFlyyer]

@NavyRCdude Thanks very kindly.