Tuesday, January 29, 2008

E-flite Blade CX Helicopter

E-flite Blade CX Helicopter  @ Hobby-Estore.com
The E-flite Blade CX is an entry level, ready-to-fly electric micro R/C helicopter designed and distributed by E-flite, a division of Horizon Hobby of Champaign, Illinois, USA.

This model was introduced in late 2005 as an easier-to-fly alternative to E-flite's Blade CP, also introduced in 2005. Unlike its predecessor, intended for experienced pilots with its standard two-blade main rotor and gyro-controlled tail rotor, the CX is fitted with a coaxial counter-rotating main head. This system, driven by two 180-series motors, cancels the rotational torque that makes a standard helicopter difficult to learn to hover, especially a helicopter the size of the CP. The CX, by comparison, is stable enough so that inexperienced R/C users can learn to hover relatively quickly, some learning almost immediately. Turning, or more correctly yaw, is accomplished via the slowing of one blade or the other without affecting stability. Compared to a single rotor helicopter, the improved stability is at the expense of a tradeoff in control responsiveness, but one can theoretically step up to the CP or other standard micro helicopter once the basics of helicopter flight are mastered with the CX.

A sophisticated four-in-one onboard control unit similar to the one found on the CP contains a radio receiver, gyro and two motor controls. Like the CP, each E-flite Blade CX is individually test-flown at the factory prior to shipping. A lithium polymer battery with DC charger is standard as is an instructional DVD. The other requirement is eight "AA" batteries for the transmitter.

Options include a police helicopter fuselage, training skids, and upgrades for various parts of the helicopter that are generally stronger or perform better than the original.

The Blade Cx2 is a new version of the Blade Cx. The gyro has been updated with new software to make it easier to fly, there are minor chassis changes, a new body has been put on with a military-themed body and dummy missiles as separately available options, and a synthesized radio system made by Spektrum replaces the original. Parts are otherwise compatible with the original.
(via E-flite Blade CX Helicopter @ Hobby-Estore.com $169.9)

No comments: