Always pay particular attention to the flying field’s rules, as well as the presence and location of spectators, the
wind direction, and any obstacles on the field. Be very careful flying in areas near power lines, tall buildings, or
communication facilities as there may be radio interference in their vicinity.
If you must fly away from a club field, be sure there are no other modelers flying within a three-to-five-mile range, or you may
lose control of your aircraft or cause someone else to lose control.
At the flying field
Before flying, be sure that the frequency you intend to fly with is not in use, and secure any frequency control
device (pin, tag, etc.) for that frequency before turning on your transmitter. It is never possible to fly two or more
models on the same frequency at the same time. Even though there are different types of modulation (AM, FM,
PCM), only one model may be flown on a single frequency at any one time.
To prevent possible damage to your radio gear, turn the power switches on and off in the proper sequence:
1. Pull throttle stick to idle position, or otherwise disarm your motor/engine.
2. Turn on the transmitter power and allow your transmitter to reach its home screen.
3. Confirm the proper model memory has been selected.
4. Fully extend the transmitter antenna.
5. Turn on your receiver power.
6. Test all controls. If a servo operates abnormally, don’t attempt to fly until you determine the cause of the problem.
(For PCM systems only: Test to ensure that the FailSafe settings are correct by waiting at least 2 minutes after
adjusting then, turning the transmitter off and confirming the proper surface/throttle movements. Turn the transmitter
back on.)
7. Start your engine.
8. Complete a full range check (see p. 17).
9. After flying, bring your throttle stick to idle position, engage any kill switches or otherwise disarm your motor/engine.
10. Turn off receiver power.
11. Turn off transmitter power.
If you do not turn on your system in this order, you may damage your servos or control surfaces, flood your engine, or in the
case of electric-powered or gasoline-powered models, the engine may unexpectedly turn on and cause a severe injury.
While you are getting ready to fly, if you place your transmitter on the ground, be sure that the wind won’t tip
it over. If it is knocked over, the throttle stick may be accidentally moved, causing the engine to speed up. Also,
damage to your transmitter may occur.
Before taxiing, be sure to extend the transmitter antenna to its full length.
A collapsed antenna will reduce your flying range and cause a loss of control. It is a good idea to avoid pointing the transmitter
antenna directly at the model, since the signal is weakest in that direction.
Don’t fly in the rain! Water or moisture may enter the transmitter through the antenna or stick openings and cause erratic
operation or loss of control. If you must fly in wet weather during a contest, be sure to cover your transmitter with a plastic
bag or waterproof barrier. Never fly if lightning is expected.
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