alan_k

Hi chaps, Well here goes, here is a bit of info about radio. I don't think it will help to make the choice but it should explain some of the limitations. Power output: 5 times more power does NOT give 5 times more range. Twice if your lucky, range is dependant on a square law. PMR446 radios: A lot of these have 0.5 Watt output (the maximum allowed) but some cheaper ones have only 0.1 Watt output. More important is the performance of the antenna, the helical antenna fitted (rubber duck) is not an efficient type of antenna, particularly when used close to the body. Body absorption of the radio energy is greater with PMR446 UHF than 2m VHF. For any body worn radio try to mount it so the antenna is not right up close to the body. When on the ground the PMR446 signal will also be absorbed/ blocked more by trees and buildings, apart from the lower output power, when compared to VHF. PMR446 is effective for short 'line of sight' paths but don't expect much more. Having just looked up the price of cheap VHF and UHF hand helds on e-bay I am not surprised by their popularity, pity they are illegal to use without a license . Safe flying, Alan

Thanks v23nb for showing the error in my weighs ( oooh I shouldn't do that). I had forgotten that some weight had been added when I got my new cage. The old one was less substantial. I have re-weighed and cage, motor, harness and 4 litres of fuel come in at 33.2Kg. To all newbies out there it really does get easier as your technique improves, I hadn't noticed any problem with a little more weight on board. Forward launches do get easy also. Just be absolutely commited to the launch, if a 72 year old can do it, so can you. Safe flying, Alan Fresh Breeze Airboss, Trekking Civic 2

Ooh that's heavy. With all my kit on, cage , motor, 6 litres (fuel, not motor ), boots, flying attire, helmet and radio gear I am only adding 30Kg to my body weight. Safe flying, Alan Fresh Breeze Airboss, Trekking Civic 2

That's why I always try to fly when there isn't a lot of wind! I do have a slow wing as well which doesn't help. Safe flying, Alan Fresh Breeze Airboss, Trekking Civic 2

Hi all, I have to agree with SLiM particularly about the output power used. I have talked from Mount Snowdon to the West Midlands on 0.1 watt output! Radio goes a long way when there is nothing in the way, i.e. airborne. Use the lowest power setting on your radio and NO profanity. Safe flying, Alan ------------- Fresh Breeze Airboss, Trekking Civic 2

Hi guys, Thanks for the welcome. I do love the good natured pi** take on this site and the underlying safety ethos. I do fly as well, I'm up to 12 hours airtime now, just had a short flight this afternoon (sorry guys if you're grounded due to the weather over there) but the vis wasn't too good. However the previous flight did end in a fence landing, not recommended! If I learnt anything from that, it is to do a go around first to check the conditions, the wind had picked up from when I took off and I didn't really pay too much attention to the wind sock, doh. I then ran out of field ( the motor was off) and collided with the fence. Heh ho. Alan Fresh Breeze Airboss, Trekking Civic 2

If anyone needs technical info on radios I am your man. I am a radio amateur who also does amateur television. I can't wait for the wisecracks. Alan K