Receivers for RC Planes
Receivers can make or break a beautiful plane. Make sure your builds not only stay in one piece, but fly smoothly with quality-checked receivers. We support and fly with what we sell. Have a receiver question? We'd be happy to help you troubleshoot any questions about our receivers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Receivers
What is a receiver on a RC Plane?
A receiver in the context of an RC plane is a vital component that serves as the aircraft's communication hub. It plays a central role in translating the commands sent by the pilot via the transmitter into physical actions that control the plane's movements. Essentially, it acts as the "ears" and "interpreter" of the RC system, receiving radio signals containing specific instructions for throttle, aileron, elevator, and rudder movements, and then relaying these commands to the servos and other onboard systems. In essence, the receiver is the bridge between the pilot's inputs and the plane's actions, ensuring precise and responsive control during flight. To get a more in-depth understanding of receivers, read our post about how receivers work.
How do you mount a receiver on a RC plane?
Mounting a receiver on an RC plane is a crucial step in the setup process to ensure reliable communication between the transmitter and the aircraft's control systems. To mount a receiver, first, select an appropriate location within the plane, typically based on factors like balance and weight distribution. Secure the receiver using double-sided tape, hook-and-loop fasteners, or other mounting hardware, ensuring it's firmly fixed and protected from vibrations. After attaching the receiver, connect the servo leads and, if necessary, the ESC (Electronic Speed Controller) to their respective channels. Ensure all wiring is neatly bundled, secure, and protected to prevent interference or damage during flight. Finally, conduct a range check to verify signal strength and proper receiver operation before flying the RC plane.
Can I use any RC receiver with my transmitter?
Using any RC receiver with your transmitter depends on compatibility factors. Typically, receivers and transmitters from the same manufacturer and product line are designed to work together seamlessly. However, mixing different brands or models may require additional considerations like compatible frequency bands and signal protocols. It's essential to check the specifications and consult user manuals to ensure the receiver you intend to use is compatible with your transmitter to guarantee proper functionality and safe operation of your RC aircraft.
How do RC receivers get power?
RC receivers are powered by electricity, and the source of power varies depending on the type of RC system. In electric RC planes, the receiver often draws power from the main flight battery pack through a dedicated receiver battery eliminator circuit (BEC). This circuit converts the higher voltage from the flight battery to the lower voltage required by the receiver and servos. In gas or nitro-powered RC planes, a separate receiver battery pack is used to provide power to the receiver and servos, ensuring that power is maintained even if the engine stalls. Additionally, some advanced receivers can also be powered through a secondary power source, such as a backup battery or supercapacitor, for added redundancy in case of power failures.
Does a RC receiver need a battery?
Yes, an RC receiver does require a power source to function. Most commonly, RC receivers are powered by a dedicated battery pack. In electric RC planes, the receiver often draws power from the main flight battery pack through a built-in battery eliminator circuit (BEC) that regulates the voltage to a level suitable for the receiver and servos. In gas or nitro-powered RC planes, a separate receiver battery pack is used to provide the necessary power, ensuring the receiver remains operational even if the engine stalls. Having a reliable power source is crucial for maintaining control and safety during flight.
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