Monday, May 16th, 2011 at
1:46 pm
The 18MZ is so revolutionary that it has the potential to change the way 2.4GHz systems are designed! The potential offered by an 18-channel Futaba system is probably more than enough to make long-time fliers want to buy one. However, the 18MZ also offers the latest and best chapter in Futaba’s 2.4GHz developments: new FASSTest technology. While some information on the 18MZ and FASSTest is provided below, please be advised: it doesn’t tell the full story on either topic. Quite the contrary: what you see are the highlights – what we believe to be the most meaningful, interesting (and solid) facts available. There’s much more to come on both in the future. Stay tuned!
About FASSTest Technology
- It’s simultaneously the most advanced technology available and fully backwards-compatible with Futaba FASST™, FHSS and S-FHSS systems.
- It’s bi-directional. In other words, capable of supporting telemetry functions. (No details available at this time.)
About the 18MZ System
- It’s the first true 18-channel Futaba radio system ever. It comes with an R7000SB receiver, as well as transmitter and receiver batteries.
- The R7008SB is a high-voltage design that lets you use as many – or as few – channels as you want.
- You can operate on up to 8 channels using the 8 standard PWM inputs. Servo options are wide open, ranging from simple analog to S.Bus and new S.Bus2 servos.
- You have access to up to 18 channels (16 proportional + 2 digital) through the 18MZ’s two S.Bus2 ports. That means simpler, more foolproof setup and full support for S.Bus and S.Bus2 servos
- It features a SD Card slot. Slide in a card, and you have ample (and adjustable) capacity for updates, model memory and more.
- It includes versatile “internal memory”. It’s not just for model/setup data: it can also be used for sound and picture files. That’s especially nice, since the 18MZ has…
- A 0.3M megapixel camera is built in. No need for a digital camera or even a flip phone. Just point the 18MZ, click and you have a foolproof picture ID of your model in seconds.
- It includes a 6″ touch screen with 640×240 resolution. Big, brilliant and backlit for easy viewing anywhere, it provides sparkling clarity on remarkably little power. Gentle finger pressure is all that’s needed for fast, easy navigation and programming.
- You can download software updates online. This is a standard feature for Futaba computer systems, and easily one of the most popular customer “perks.” It’s a fast and easy way to keep your system “current” – and it’s FREE!
- A 7.4V, 3500mAh LiPo transmitter battery is standard equipment.
- It features a built-in U.S.B. Port. You can use it to connect a memory stick or connect it to a keyboard or mouse or use it to download telemetry data to your PC or laptop for storage and reference.
- It includes a Serial Interface, too. Futaba already offers a stand-alone serial interface (the CIU-2) for programming the travel, endpoint and other functions of S.Bus and S.Bus2 servos. This built-in (and the free download) lets you do the same with the 18MZ.
- Stick angle adjusts quickly and easily. First introduced on the14MZ, this feature has proven so popular that it was included on the 18MZ, as well. It’s more than a comfort/convenience feature; it allows you to customize your control setup for greater ease and precision.
As great as this all may seem right now, you need to remember something: the best is yet to come. Even with all we’ve told you, it’s just the tip of the iceberg where the 18MZ is concerned. Once the show is over, we’ll have time to sit down and explore all of the 18MZ’s full potential. And when we do, you can expect to see updates on Facebook and the full list of features (and the full story) on 18MZ product page. Please note: This new release preview is intended to provide the very latest news about Futaba products but that early information is subject to change.
Visit the Futaba website at www.futaba-rc.com
Friday, May 13th, 2011 at
10:46 am
ElectriFly® introduces the Mr. Mulligan EP ARF! Known as the Howard DGA-6 at the factory, everyone else recognized the original aircraft as simply, Mr. Mulligan. A combination of internal bracing and external “smoothing” made it a pioneer in modern aerodynamic design. During the mid-30′s, Mr. Mulligan earned the dual distinctions of being the only plane ever designed solely to win the Bendix Trophy – and the only one ever to win the Bendix as well as the Thompson Trophy in the same year!
ElectriFly has recreated the all-time racing great in detail as an all-electric, impressive 52″ sport scale flyer. Painted fiberglass wheel pants, landing gear, struts and cowl help reproduce the clean, simple silhouette in fast assembly time. Hidden screws inside the cowl ensure firm attachment and unblemished scale looks. Molded-in cowl blisters and a replica “stand-in” for the original’s Pratt & Whitney Wasp radial contribute to authentic detail and outstanding good looks. Working flaps allow short take-offs and slow approaches and may be installed fixed or functional. Power up your Mr. Mulligan and score your own trophy!
- Captures the iconic original with realistic details like a replica radial, working flaps, cockpit windshield that doubles as a hidden battery hatch and painted fiberglass parts.
- Sized for transportation ease as well as easy handling in a breeze. Wings and elevators are pre-hinged for faster, easier assembly. A steerable tailwheel adds ground handling to match in-air control.
- Pre-built airframe, fiberglass components and factory applied MonoKote® film add to the assembly speed and superb good looks.
- Designed with brushless power in mind, Mr. Mulligan performs sport aerobatics and scale cruising with the recommended power system.
SPECIFICATIONS
Wingspan: 52.5 in (1335 mm)
Wing Area: 441 in² (28.4 dm²)
Weight: 4.5-4.76 lb (2040-2150 g)
Wing Loading: 24-25 oz/ft² (73-76 g/dm²)
Length: 41.5 in (1055 mm)
Requires: radio with a minimum of 4-channels and 4 micro servos, 42-50-800kV outrunner brushless motor, 45A brushless ESC (min.), 14.8V (4S) 3350mAh LiPo battery & 12×8 electric propeller.
Retail
GPMA1485 Mr. Mulligan EP ARF $249.99
Visit the Great Planes ElectriFly website at www.electrifly.com
Thursday, May 12th, 2011 at
10:46 am
With the introduction of its new brushless motor line, O.S. confirms its standing as R/C’s most innovative and respected source for all model power needs. O.S. brushless motors will be the “gold standard” in electric power, offering the same legendary quality and reliability that have made O.S. nitro engines famous worldwide for 75 years.
Initially, the motors will be produced in four sizes, equivalent to .25, .30, .40 and .50 size nitro engines. Only O.S. brushless motors will include a ventilation system that increases efficiency and allows the motors to generate additional power. A unique centrifugal fan design is key to this system. The fan draws air through specially angled ventilation holes for greatly improved cooling. Other performance features include:
- A thick can design that resists distortion
- Three high-quality bearings
- Rigid and secure rear mounting design
- Shortened motor length for easy installation in short cowls
- A stainless steel prop shaft
- A back plate, prop shaft and gold-plated female plugs
Modelers may expect to see this new line expanded in the near future with more sizes and choices for car, helicopter and ducted fan models.
Retail
OSMG9525 OMA3820-1200 Motor (.25 size) $109.99
OSMG9530 OMA3825-750 Motor (.30 size) 119.99
OSMG9540 OMA5020-490 Motor (.40 size) 179.99
OSMG9550 OMA5025-375 Motor (.50 size) 199.99
Visit the O.S. Engines website at www.osengines.com
Monday, May 9th, 2011 at
2:48 pm
Experience a world full of new adventures with RealFlight® Expansion Pack 8! Race a Thompson Trophy contender from the ’30s, fly a massive Air Force transport or legendary fighter – or push the Sbach 342 foamy or awe-inspiring Synergy N5 to new extremes in performance. It’s all at your fingertips with Expansion Pack 8. Even a new 3D Obstacle Course and two more PhotoField™ flying sites are available – ready as quickly as you can point and click! At least 12 new airplanes are available including the Grumman F-14 Tomcat and F9F Panther, Pitts® S-2B and Boeing® C-17 Globemaster III. Climb into the cockpit and prepare for take-off to PhotoField destinations like Austria and San Diego – all with amazing graphics and the RealPhysics™ that RealFlight is known for. Check it out:
- All the technology that makes RealFlight the #1 selling R/C flight simulator is here, with new challenges and adventures.
- Choose from many new aircraft including jets, aerobats, fighter planes, helis and more.
- Explore three new flying sites, including Austria and San Diego PhotoField™ sites, plus a new Obstacle Course.
(Expansion Pack 8 is compatible only with RealFlight G5.5 and later versions. All trademarks and registered trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Pitts® is a registered trademark of Aviat Aircraft, Inc.)
Retail
GPMZ4118 RealFlight Expansion Pack 8 $44.99
Visit the RealFlight website at www.realflight.com
Friday, May 6th, 2011 at
10:13 am
If you’re ready to engage in armored combat with other VSTanks, the new Zero Edition RTR tanks were made for you! Fire an infrared beam at the opposing tank’s sensor. Hitting it registers a “hit” and five “hits” render it “destroyed”. Almost anything the higher-priced models can do, Zero Edition tanks can do as well – including multi-speed, multi-directional control and total off-road capability. Employ military strategies against friends in realistic combat whether you’re indoors or out!
- Zero Edition R/C tanks offer the same realistic operation and battle capability found on more expensive models.
- Maneuver your tank with 3 speeds forward, reverse, left and right turns and even a stationary pivot; the turret also rotates 330°.
- Tanks emit realistic sound effects while moving and firing.
- Each comes completely assembled and ready for action right out of the box, with a 2-stick controller included. (Requires 14 “AA” alkaline batteries, not included)
Retail
VSKD1027 1/24 Zero Tiger 1 Late Prod Gray 27mHz $109.99
VSKD1049 1/24 Zero Tiger 1 Late Prod Gray 49mHz 109.99
VSKD1527 1/24 Zero Leopard 2 A5 Camo 27mHz 109.99
VSKD1549 1/24 Zero Leopard 2 A5 Camo 49mHz 109.99
VSKD2827 1/24 Zero M1A2 Abrams Desert 27mHz 109.99
VSKD2849 1/24 Zero M1A2 Abrams Desert 49mHz 109.99
Visit the VsTank website at www.vstankusa.com
Thursday, May 5th, 2011 at
10:12 am
The new Redline Series .56 Helicopter Engine from Thunder Tiger® gives competitive heli pilots the power and performance they need to reach the Winner’s Circle!
- Thunder Tiger’s largest .50-class displacement – and most advanced heli engine!
- Cylinder liner features an XC2 composite coating to extend engine life – and an etched criss-cross pattern to minimize friction.
- Carb features include a heat insulator mount for more consistent power and dual needles that can be adjusted with a screwdriver or hex wrench.
- Other features: a reinforced beam mount, dual bearings and an oversized, CNC-machined anodized heat sink head.
SPECIFICATIONS
Displacement: 0.553 cu in (9.05 cc)
Bore: 0.906 in (23 mm)
Stroke: 0.858 in (21.8 mm)
RPM Range: 2000-21,000
Output: 2.23 hp @ 17,500 rpm
Weight: 13.8 oz (390 g)
Includes: Redline R3 glow plug
Retail
TTRG1156 56-RL Series Heli Engine $349.99
Visit the Thunder Tiger America website at www.ttamerica.com
Wednesday, May 4th, 2011 at
10:09 am
The torque tube-driven tail has been hailed as a major breakthrough in heli technology and Thunder Tiger has taken full advantage of it in creating the Titan X50. Everything about the Titan X50 is designed to deliver ultra-smooth handling and adrenalin-pumping 3D performance with no limits. With its proven torque tube-driven tail rotor and many other upgrades, the Titan X50 is the ultimate 50-class machine!
- The highly efficient torque tube-driven tail rotor delivers the crisp rudder response and 100% power transfer that 3D heli pilots demand
- In addition to high-tech looks, the carbon/aluminum compound tail boom adds stiffness and reduces vibration
- Each tail rotor grip has its own dual radius and thrust bearing for unprecedented precision and reliability
- All shafts are made of heat-treated, hardened stainless steel
- Durable, lightweight carbon-fiber blades add good looks and boost performance
- Choose the Titan X50 Kit or go all-out with the kit version that includes a Redline 53H engine with 3D pipe
- A separate Conversion Kit is available for upgrading the belt-driven Titan X50B to the all-out performance levels of the torque tube Titan X50
SPECIFICATIONS
Main Rotor Diameter: 53 in (1345 mm)
Tail Rotor Diameter: 10.25 in (260 mm)
Fuselage Length: 47.25 in (1200 mm)
Weight (Fully Equipped): 7.16 lb (3250 g)
Retail
TTRE0073 Titan X50 Kit w/Torque Tube Tail $ 849.99
TTRE0074 Titan X50 Kit w/Torque Tube Tail/53H/Muffler 1199.99
TTRE4579 Titan X50B Torque Tube Conversion Kit 169.99
Visit the Thunder Tiger America website at www.ttamerica.com
Tuesday, May 3rd, 2011 at
10:07 am
Start with the impressive pedigree of the EB-4 S3 – add a power-packed brushless motor and ESC – and you have the Thunder Tiger 1/8 EB-4 G3 4WD Brushless RTR Buggy! And is it ever tough! A high-torque, metal gear steering servo stands up to all-out 1/8 scale off-roading to keep you in control while still retaining the durability it’s known for. Many suspension parts are made of machined or anodized aluminum to keep you out of the shop and on the track to the winner’s circle!
- The G3′s suspension is based on the ROAR National Champion EB-4 S3 and is compatible with most EB-4 S3 series parts
- The 2000kV brushless motor and 80A brushless ESC reduce friction for super-fast speeds and tremendous torque
- The included Cougar PS3i 3-channel 2.4GHz radio lets drivers race with confidence and no interference concerns
- Hardened steel diff rings make gear stripping virtually impossible. A full set of bearings ensures smooth power transfer
- Other race-winning features include aluminum oil-filled shocks, a high-torque metal gear steering servo and Deans® Super plugs
SPECIFICATIONS
Length: 19.3 in (490 mm)
Wheelbase: 12.6/13 in (320/330 mm)
Width: 12 in (305 mm)
Weight: 7 lb (3160 g)
Requires: Battery and Charger
Retail
TTRD7000 1/8 EB-4 G3 4WD Brushless Buggy RTR-Yellow $699.99
TTRD7001 1/8 EB-4 G3 4WD Brushless Buggy RTR-Blue 699.99
Visit the Thunder Tiger America website at www.ttamerica.com
Monday, May 2nd, 2011 at
10:04 am
The Thunder Tiger 1/8 EB-4 S2 Pro 4WD Nitro Buggy RTR is the complete package in nitro excitement! 100% assembled and equipped with top-of-the-line parts, the EB-4 S2 Pro version is ready to take winning technology to new heights! This awesome off-roader is loaded – from the Pro-21BX-R nitro engine to the race-proven suspension and fiberglass, reinforced composite parts. Even the stylin’ body is pre-painted with decals – sweet, complete and ready to win!
- The Thunder Tiger Pro-21BX-R engine cranks out enormous power!
- A high-torque metal gear steering servo delivers confident handling on the straightaways and in the turns.
- A 3-channel Cougar PS3 2.4GHz radio puts you in control with security and precision.
- Race-legal 125 cc fuel tank with a flip top for quick refueling.
- This big, bold buggy is designed to dominate 1/8 scale competition!
SPECIFICATIONS
Wheelbase: adjustable from 12.4-12.6 in (315-320 mm)
Front Track Width: adjustable from 11.6-12 in (295-305 mm)
Rear Track Width: 11.8 in (300 mm)
Weight: 6.8 lb (3100 g)
Retail
TTRD2771 1/8 EB-4 S2 Pro 4WD Nitro Buggy RTR-Red $499.99
TTRD2772 1/8 EB-4 S2 Pro 4WD Nitro Buggy RTR-Blue 499.99
Visit the Thunder Tiger America website at www.ttamerica.com
Sunday, May 1st, 2011 at
10:00 am
Wheelies, back flips, big air – do them all with the 1/8 scale MT4 G3 Brushless 4WD RTR Monster Truck! With its brushless motor and ESC, this electric monster brings features from the nitro version including durable performance parts found in the transmission and suspension. Plus, THIS monster is virtually complete and ready-to-run out of the box!
- The high-torque Ripper brushless 2000kV motor and 150A ESC provide mega muscle for extreme off-roading
- Enjoy secure, confident control with the Cougar PS3i 2.4GHz radio system and high torque, metal gear steering servo
- A 3 mm rigid aluminum chassis, full CVD drive shafts and quality bearings enable the MT4 G3 to stand up to unforgiving conditions
- Features the same transmission as in the nitro ST-1, with steel gears and hardened steel rings in all three diffs
- Aluminum oil filled shocks and Deans® plugs boost performance even more
- Comes with a stylish monster truck body in blue and orange or red and yellow
SPECIFICATIONS
Length: 21 in (532 mm)
Width: 17 in (434 mm)
Height: 9.4 in (240 mm)
Wheelbase: 14.2 in (360 mm)
Weight: 9.2 lb (4180 g)
Requires: Battery and Charger
Retail
TTRD80BN 1/8 MT4 G3 Brushless 4WD Monster Truck RTR Blu/Orn $799.99
TTRD80RY 1/8 MT4 G3 Brushless 4WD Monster Truck RTR Red/Yell 799.99
Visit the Thunder Tiger America website at www.ttamerica.com
