Robbe F-14 Controller

Forum for Armortek Owners to Meet, chat and share knowledge. You are advised to check 'official advice' before carrying out any modifications.
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Jim Fowler
Posts: 279
Joined: Fri Aug 01, 2008 1:01 am
Location: Grafton, OH - USA

Robbe F-14 Controller

Post by Jim Fowler »

Does anyone out there have some experience using the Robbe F-14 radio for a tank setup? I have a buddy that uses one for his RC ships and recommend it. It look more than capable, but I have no other knowledge of it. So, I was looking to see if anyone else does, and wold shere their opinions and/or experiences.....

I note that the one sold by HarborRC (only US supplier I found thus fare) is 41MHz - is that legal(permitted) in the US as a ground frequency?
Thanks,

Jim

Martin Cohen
Posts: 136
Joined: Wed Jul 18, 2007 2:59 pm
Location: USA
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Post by Martin Cohen »

1. You should need a high number of channels or maybe a multiplexer only if you plan functions beyond the routine propulsion controls (animatronics, firing unit, lights, smoke, sound, etc.).

A very experienced modeler on this forum is Vince Abbott who employed a Robbe-Futaba FC16 with added on switches. You might try to contact him for an opinion about suitability and set up. Or contact Lee Sellars and others here, they are well familiar with these too.

2. I initially tried to find a Robbe-Futaba FC-14 or FC-16 set for my Tiger I in the USA, but had no luck; I could find them in the UK and other countries but none in US legal frequencies. The frequencies in the USA per FCC for ground vehicles were: 27 and 75 MHz, or 50 MHz but ONLY if you hold a HAM Radio Licence. Note 72 MHz is reserved only for aircraft.

3. It is possible to buy components to covert frequencies of some R/C control units (72 to 75 for example), but you need to check with the factory distributor of the R/C unit in your country for compatibility and availability info.

4. Some newer developments involve 2.4 GHz digital RC controllers that can be used for either air or surface. A number of older sets can be converted to 2.4 GHz (I did this with my Futaba 14MZ 72MHz set).

5. You might prefer to buy a new 2.4 GHz unit - especially if you wish to operate air and surface craft with the same controller, or if you prefer some of the new features (no worries about others on the frequency, etc,). Note this newest 2.4 GHz technology is prompting a number of older 27/50.72/75 sets to come available for sale discounted or used at modest prices.

6. Also, among the neat aspects of the latest Armortek PCB electronics are their providing a 4.8/5 volt DC output (converted down from the main operating batteries), and so there is no longer a need for the heretofore separate 4.8v Receiver Battery and Charger.

Did not intend to write a book on this. Best of luck with it :)

Roland Wallick
Posts: 146
Joined: Sun Jul 15, 2007 12:22 pm
Location: MD United States

Post by Roland Wallick »

I use the 2.4 GHz, I like. Seeks out it own freq.
If your not living on the edge, your taking up to much space.

Jim Fowler
Posts: 279
Joined: Fri Aug 01, 2008 1:01 am
Location: Grafton, OH - USA

Post by Jim Fowler »

Karl,

The info you sent me was exactly what I was looking for. Thanks again!
Thanks,

Jim

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