Which bird is right? for a starter

hey all,

I was wondering if anyone could point me in the direction of the correct bird to get to start out in AP, I am looking to spend about $1000 on a camera or less.

I see a ton of different things out there, Maxi Joker 2 (90 size), Raptors both 30 and 90, and some quickheli stuff, I am more interested in electric than gas as I only own 2 trex's so i am most comfortable with electric, and not sure on the maintenece end of the gassers.

any input would be appreciated!

Thanks,
Ed

[AZ ChopperCam]

photo or video?

if photo, point and shoot or DSLR?

if video, just for fun or planning to make $$?

Well Photo I may be able to use my Rex's depending, but I was going to do video, and actually try and make some money, even though I am a long way from it.

[AZ ChopperCam]

well you have several options. each of which depend on your budget and you preference in power systems.

For video work I have flown gassers, nitro, and most recently electric. I like each of them nearly the same but if I had to choose I'd go in order of most preferred

1. electric
2. nitro
3 gasser

The electric is going to be the best in terms of not having to fiddle with mixture or other engine issues on a flight to flight basis. just plug it in and get the same results every single time. consistancy is easily achieved with electric.

the nitro is going to have the same power as electric and pretty damn reliable but with the fuss of smoke, noise, oil and occasionaly finicky mixture settings. Also more to bring on a shoot in terms of support gear. but still not a bad way to go.

Gasser will haul the most weight but I've found that you don't need to carry more than a 2lb camera and 1.5lb mount. So you're paying alot more for something you won't likely use.... UNLESS, you plan to stay aloft for more than 20 minutes. Depending on tank size you could fly a gasser for as long as 45 minutes. Good for use in public service type jobs. But for the average video shoot it seems like youre in the air for maybe 12 minutes tops before stopping for a break or site reposition.

Of course I am biased here but might I suggest a nitro or electric Raptor with either an HCS underslung mount or even a front mount? Your initial investment cost could be under $1500 (not including camera) assuming you already have a good radio.

despite what some may say there is no reason a Raptor can't be used on a paying video job and make you some money.

if you must go gasser though you may want to look into the Condor, Xcell or Bergen. All 3 have great machines.

I've gotta run out the door for a 4th of July party now but will be more than happy to answer further questions tomorrow

cool man I appreciate it, thanks for the info so far, I am about to get a list together for pricing and bargain hunting, to be honest I am looking into a quickheli only becasue his shop is 30 minutes from my house so parts would right there if I needed them.

I would need to start from the ground up, controller and all, I am also thinking of going 2 man.

Obviously it depends on what type and how many jobs you have, but is it possible to make money in 2 8 hour days on the weekends?

Thanks,
Ed

[Rick Rotorhead]

So can anyone recommend a small digital camera setup that will work well on a Trex 450. I'm thinking maybe a 3 to 4 mp compact camera and some way of securing it and firing the shutter button.

[Tonystott]

So can anyone recommend a small digital camera setup that will work well on a Trex 450. I'm thinking maybe a 3 to 4 mp compact camera and some way of securing it and firing the shutter button.
Check out www.askmanap.com/trex.html

You can pick up 3-4mp cameras really cheap these days.. I finished up getting 8.1mp for only AUD335 (check out the STG conversion!)

Here is my setup which arrived yesterday This is made for the Trex. The HS55 servo arm directly operates the shutter button. There is provision for R/C tilt if you have enough channels. With a GY240 fyro, channel 5 can work the shutter.

[DebianDog]

WOW! You have got some faith in a T-Rex! :noteworthy

[Rick Rotorhead]

Thanks Tony, looks like an interesting rig. So, now I can see it does work with the little Trex heli. I'm definitely going to try some AP. At risk of being a PITA, how about video on a small bird like a Trex - I've got a small Canon Palmcorder (MV5), or are there any smaller / better ,video systems in common usage (I'm talking micro video cams, not regular hand held camcorders).

I'd really love to get aerial video footage, but if its too expensive I'll settle for the stills shots set-up....... Cheers Rick

[Tonystott]

WOW! You have got some faith in a T-Rex! :noteworthy
?? I am a bit confused with your comment. The camera cost $US 240, which is not too extreme I reckon, and the Askman AP rig is popular with Trex AP flyers. The rig weighs about 10oz all up.
I don't think there is any inherent issue with the Trex, other than its small size making steady photos/videos harder. I will be putting big blades and running a slowish headspeed which should also help.

[AZ ChopperCam]

I will be putting big blades and running a slowish headspeed which should also help.

yup! that's the ticket for smoothness, lifting ability and efficiency

[Cryofix]

I have the poormans setup at the moment, I bouhgt a $7.50 spy cam off ebay 1.2 ghz wireless, thats hooked to a dazzle usb adapter on my laptop. here is the first video I took http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eW3GUtJhSzE

I cut the nose out of an old canopy I had and mounted the camera in the nose of the copter, as you can see in the video it begins to cut out after about 50 foot but its still very cool and impresses friends :D