Which FBL system for a noob?

[wrench567]

Hi experts.
I am researching either the micro Ikon or the Tarot ZYX for a 450 using a Spektrum receiver. This is my first build and need direction. Does any one know if the Micro Ikon has bailout like its big brother?
Thanks in advance.
Pete

[Steve Joblin]

I would stay away from the Tarot... the original good, the S was better, but then they messed things up with the S2 and promptly dropped support.

I would check out the EZnov Neuron... it is very easy to set up, requires almost no tuning and offers the "Rescue" mode you want. There is a dedicated forum here: https://www.helifreak.com/forumdisplay.php?f=444

[jbobb1]

If you're going the iKon route, I'd go with the full sized unit. Biggest reason being is it having a governor, but also, you won't have to deal with servo adaptor cables.

[weav01]

I agree with avoiding the ZYX. I have a beastx clone (Turnigy 3DH) and an Ikon. Good bit of money but wow, the ikon is solid. If that kind of money is in your budget, you will not regret it.

[The_Norwegian]

Originally Posted by wrench567

Hi experts.
I am researching either the micro Ikon or the Tarot ZYX for a 450 using a Spektrum receiver. This is my first build and need direction. Does any one know if the Micro Ikon has bailout like its big brother?
Thanks in advance.
Pete

+1, I am about to order the Oxy3 and need direction on what iKON FBL I should pick up.. And a 450 and a 300 can use the same type of FBL I guess. (Hope it is OK I ask buddy?)

[weav01]

I believe that ikon will fit a 300. It will definitely fit a 450. Get the regular ikon so you don't need servo adapters as previously mentioned, plus it has govenor functionality.

[wrench567]

Thanks guys.
I was trying to keep it under $100. The full size Ikon is steep. So far the whole heli build is still under $150. Not counting TX. Someone on another forum suggested the V-bar clone for around $40. It uses the Mikado program to program it. Strange that the Chinese can clone the product but not the supporting software. But I have not heard anything bad about the system except for not being able to update it.
Do I really need a governor on an electric bird? I can program throttle curves on my DX7. Like I said. I am a nooby and don't need 3D right now. I figure by the time I can do 3D this bird will be trashed.
The search for cheap stability goes on.
Pete

[weav01]

I use a beastx clone on my 450 which works awesome. Yes the kbar clone is a nice one as well for the money. I paid $45 for my turnigy 3D-H v2. I just started flipping and rolling and its doing well. One of the drawbacks to the cheap clones is not firmware upgrading , no support, and it's stolen technology. Other clones are Bigaole, robird, hb 800 by hobbymate and turnigy. Govenor not needed at first. If you have a good ESC such as the hobbywing platinum 50a it has a good govenor on it. It runs about $50.

[nowler]

will kbar clones run 8.4 HV servos and rx's?

[wrench567]

Just an update.
I downloaded a few FBL system programs and looked through them. The Micro brain and V-bar seem easy to use but I think the Brain has it over the rest. At around $100 it fits my meager budget and has self level. Just what a noob needs.
Thanks to all for your suggestions and advise.
Pete

[jbobb1]

That's a very good idea downloading the software to get a feel for each one! I do the same thing!

[wrench567]

OK guys.
I have been doing some homework and pricing out FBL systems. I was leaning to the Micro Brain or Micro Ikon (they are the same thing but different cover) Until I found out that they work off satellites and not a DSM2 or DSMX receiver. So I would have to purchase a sat and adapter cables.
So I am torn now between either the full size Brain/Ikon or the EZnov Newron. I have to say I am leaning to the Brain/Ikon. The EZnov may be a better system with a nine axis gyro but I don't think the support is there after the sale. I am not too sure I can use an existing receiver over buying a sat?
One more thing. What do I need to enable the Gov on the FBL to sense motor speed? Do I have to get some sort of speed sensor?
Thanks for the advise and knowledge.
Pete

[jbobb1]

Except for the AR7200BX, you'll have to use either satellites or a full sized receiver. On a 450 size bird, running one or two sats will work fine and save on a bunch of wire clutter (if you used a full sized receiver).
As far needing a rpm sensor, that depends on what esc you plan to use. If you're going with something like the Hobbywing Platinum 50 V3 (which I'd recommend):
http://www.helidirect.com/electronic...-rc-model.html
or the Castle Creations Edge LIte 50:
http://www.helidirect.com/electronic...-w-5a-bec.html
they both have a rpm out lead (the Castle you have to program). Otherwise, you'd need this:

http://www.helidirect.com/rpm-sensor.html

Either way you go, you will need this adaptor cable:

http://www.helidirect.com/electronic...ble-150mm.html

[wrench567]

jbobb1.
Thanks a million. I have some choices to make in the $150 range for an FBL system. I already have a full receiver so a sat can come later. The Gov is not important right now also.
There is always room to expand later. I just want to see if this bird has wings.
Pete

[jbobb1]

What full sized receiver do you have?

[wrench567]

It has an Orange R615 DSM2 receiver. The FBL system will be replacing the 401B Gyro. I ordered a Tarot DFC head and shaft. I have had nothing but trouble setting up the FB head. Brand new the feathering shaft was bent. Last week I had an accident and the bird fell on the floor breaking a ball off the blade grip.
You can tell this is my first build.
Thanks a bunch for your help.
Pete

[weav01]

Ouch. Well unfortunately the more you have to repair the Better and more knowledgable you become.