A larger and simpler FPV solution is the Parrot Mambo FPV set as shown below.
The Parrot Mambo uses a camera attached as an accessory to the top of the drone and then you place your smart phone into the supplied goggles. The controller is then used to steal the drone while you vie the camera images through the goggles on the mobile phone screen. This option can be obtained as low as £89 so makes a cheap introduction to both drone flying and FPV.
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There are lots of small indoor designs to choose from, but I would always spend a little more for one sold in a reputable model shop to ensure spare parts are available. I would also suggest when you are starting out it is best to try an indoor contra-rotating model like the e-Flite mCX or a quad copter, such as the Blade mQX. When moving to an outdoor model practice on a flight simulator and get the largest rotor diameter model you can afford! Also available are four bladed models known as Quadcopter (also called quads or quad-copters), which rely on sophisticated 3 axis stabilisation to provide a stable model. Quad Copters are now growing in number, spurred on by the fact they are the best platform for aerial photography. Their falling price and increased stability over conventional model helicopters, coupled with the fact they can be small enough to fit in your pocket, are increasing adoption.
My own fleet started back in 2000 with a JR Ergo 30 nitro powered model and then in 2001 also obtained a Ikarus Eco 8 electric helicopter. In 2003 I replaced the JR with a Thunder Tiger Raptor 30 (V1) as parts were cheaper. When time allows I intend to build and fly a scale helicopter, and settled on the Align AH-1 scale fuselage which uses a T-rex 500 for the mechanics. I also have a DJI F450 quadcopter to add to my growing fleet.
Electric helicopters have now become very popular but are not always ideal for learning to fly, as most are small they are not as stable and will not perform well in windy conditions experienced outdoors. Although nitro powered models may seem messy they can be landed and refuelled quickly and for less initial outlay than an equivalent electric model. But soon the cost of fuel over time outweighs the cost of batteries so it is a case of swings and roundabouts!
Those new to radio controlled model helicopters should look at the beginners section for advice and help and advice on selecting a model.
I have added some new sections on Cameras, Audio and Video, where I will give advice and recommendations on my favourite audio visual, photographic and other gadgets!
From right to left Thunder Tiger Raptor 30, Ikarus ECO 8, Twister 3D Storm, Century UK Razor CX 2.4G and in the foreground the e-Flite Blade mCX.
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