Linear pitch curves in all flight modes?

[Espeefan]

Hi guys, quick question on pitch curves. I managed to see one of Finless's movies on pitch curves and it was definitely a worthwhile download to suffer through (for me on dial-up). :D

I know Bob suggested setting the normal flight mode's pitch curve as non-linear, but I was just wondering how many of you run linear curves for all flight modes. I realize beginners usually don't want linear pitch curves, but I've become comfortable flying 3D helis on the sim using linear pitch curves. Would it hurt to keep it linear across the different modes? One thought that crossed my mind was autoing a heli in for a landing and doing it with a linear pitch curve vs. non-linear. Wouldn't it be advantageous to have more negitive pitch available to maintain the head speed? Not that you really would be flying around in normal mode, with a lot of altitude, but maybe it could happen. I've become used to automatically going into idle up 1 or 2 now, on the simulator, even when I am just practicing my hovering.

Thoughts on this?

[Skiddz]

Linear pitch curves for all modes is ok if you're comfortable with flying in Idleup with a linear curve. Most new guys get into panic mode and slam the collective down when the heli gets out of shape. With a linear curve, it'll just drive the heli into the ground..

You need a couple degrees of negative to help get the heli down in the wind. Most folks run -3 to +10(11, 12 etc..) in Normal mode. Some people run a flat pitch curve in normal so you can't fly at all unless you're in idleup.

As for autos, you won't be that far into negative pitch (if at all) so you'll be fine with -3 or -4 in normal mode and honestly, if you're still flying in normal mode, you shouldn't be practicing autos. :)

[TheBum]

The only thing I have to add to Kevin's post is that you should use a similar curve above center stick for all flight modes (assuming you're not using the flat curve in Normal mode). I've done that since the beginning, under the premise that it will instill good habits with regard to collective movements when the heli is actually in the air. Not doing so when learning will put you at a disadvantage once you're ready to go to idle-up.

[Skarn]

I use linear in all modes now.

Skarn

[Espeefan]

Thanks for the input. Looks like I will be keeping the pitch curves linear across all flight modes. I appreciate the replies.