QuadPod FAQs
Q: What
is QuadPod?
A. QuadPod is a quadcopter, a type of vertical take-off hovering aircraft. Unlike a helicopter which uses variable-pitch blades for control, a quadcopter achieves full three-axis control by varying the speeds of its four lift propellers in various combinations. For example, to pitch forwards (as if to dive), the front two propellers slow down slightly, while the rear two speed up.
QuadPod uses state-of-the-art brushless motors, and a 3-axis computer gyro system to provide stabilization. It can be flown indoors or outside.
Q:
Is QuadPod suitable for learning to fly?
A.
Although not strictly a training model, compared to other Quadcopters the QuadPod is small and stable. It can comfortably be flown indoors for practice and it is robust, although the propellers are vulnerable in a crash. We would not recommend QuadPod for a complete beginner, but it is ideal for practice once basic hovering skills have been learned. Our GF Helicopter is perfect for a novice pilot, however.
Q: Is QuadPod available pre-assembled?
A. Yes. Please click here for details.
Q: What equipment is needed in addition to the QuadPod kit?
A. If you are starting out from scratch, you will need a radio control system comprising a transmitter (handset) and a receiver which fits into the aircraft. You will also need one or more lithium polymer flight batteries, and a battery charger to charge them. We offer a complete package which includes these items.
Q:
Does QuadPod have proportional controls?
A. Yes. It has four, fully
proportional channels of control.
Q:
Are spares available?
A. A full range of spares is available from our web shop.
Q: What receiver should be used with QuadPod?
A: We recommend the Snelflight 2.4GHz Receiver, because it is small, lightweight and reliable. However any receiver with 4 or more channels, operating on any band, can be used provided it will physically fit - almost all will do so. Five channels are recommended because the fifth channel allows the QuadPod's Heading Hold function to be switched on and off. With four channels the Heading Hold will not be available.
Q: What battery should be used with QuadPod?
A. The battery we recommend is the Snelflight 850mAh 3S, because it is the ideal size and weight, and comes with the right JST connector pre-fitted. Other batteries can be used, provided they meet the following requirements:
* 3S Lipo
* 800 - 1600mAh capacity (around 120g max weight)
* 20C (min) discharge rate
*
JST power plug
(the red type).
* less than 21mm thick x 37mm wide.
Some examples are:
Loong Max Tipple 1000mA 3S
ZIPPY Flightmax 1000mAh 3S1P 25C
Overlander Sport 1000 3S 11.1v 25C
Overlander Sport 1600 3S 11.1v 25C
The first two of these should come with the right connector to plug into the QuadPod. Before using the others, a red JST plug will need to be attached (available on our QuadPod web shop page); alternatively some modellers may prefer to replace the QuadPod's JST socket with another type, such as a Deans connector. When fitting connectors please take care with the polarity, as even momentary reversal will cause extensive damage to the QuadPod.
Q: How is the QuadPod trimmed?
A. The QuadPod should be trimmed at the transmitter in the standard way. However having done this, the trim settings can be stored in the QuadPod's internal memory by briefly pressing the calibration button, allowing the transmitter trims to be returned to centre.
Q: Why do the QuadPod's propellers have tape attached to the blades?
A. For smooth flight it is crucial that the propellers are well balanced. We therefore balance each one at our factory, after first mounting it onto its spinner adapter so that the assembly can be balanced as a single unit. The tape is used to add weight to one or more blades to achieve precise balance. IT IS VERY IMPORTANT NOT TO FLY WITH UNBALANCED PROPELLERS, as they will produce unstable flight and could even cause the motor mountings to work loose.
Q: What payload can the QuadPod carry?
A. The QuadPod's maximum flying weight should not exceed 380g. Since the aircraft weighs 240g, this allows a payload of up to 140g to be added. However this can be slightly increased by removing non-essential parts, such as the transparent dome (11g) and perhaps the foam feet (4g).
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