AP2000i, questions.

[kiwi320]

Been looking around at auto/co-pilot systems as I'm looking at getting further into one-man AP.

I've seen a few options so far being:
FMA co-pilot - Which I believe I cant use as I'm Spektrum based.
Helicommand - Which seems to be pretty damn pricey.
Carvec - Which looks to be the 'Ferrari in the little boys dreams"

and of course.. the Spartan AP2000i.

Now a few questions, if anyone can help.

( I thought AP would be the best place to ask )

1. The Helicommand units appear to have built-in gyros, does the AP2000i use gryos as well?

2. What pieces would one need to purchase to get the AP2000i up and running?

3. Where can I buy it all? (everywhere seems to b sold out!)

4. Are there any cheaper alternatives that would suit AP? (Bascially hover the heli for me at whatever height.)

Comments, suggestions, any input from other auto/co-pilot system users?

Note:
My plan is to build a Trex 600E, which I will have the kit on order. Add a few of the suggested upgrades like metal blade grips. Then next month get some servos, then next month the gyro/servo, then look at upgrading radio gear and then some batteries! - BUT, this will cost me a lot (what i would consider a lot) and seeing as I'm not aiming to make a profit, but just to dive into AP as a personal hobby/interest, I want to be safe with this bird and would really like an auto/co-pilot system.

And as time passes, a down link, better camera, etc.. Are all on the board.

Suggestions for Tx/Rx, Servos, Gyro/Servo, Upgrades, anything?

I want to learn.. Please guys, help me out here I'll read anything!

[bullaculla]

The AP2000i uses the FMA Infra red sensor(that you have to buy separately) to detect the horizon. No gyros. Mark Webber sells them, but seems to be out of stock right now. He also carries the FMA sensor and the cable you will need to connect it to the AP2000i.
http://www.webberaerialimaging.com/catalog/index.php?cPath=21&osCsid=733480daebcb260a6ec0e3027ad31853

[Tonystott]

The AP2000i is just the right thing for you, cheaper than the HC and the others. As it relies on horizon-sensing, it doesn't use gyros, but instead the FMA sensor as Bullaculla said.

Mark Webber is often out of stock, but this is more the result of high turnover rather than poor supply, so if you place your order I am sure you won't have to wait long.

you won't be disappointed!

[kiwi320]

Will it work with the DX6?

I'm only using a GY240, so I have a spare channel (GER) but is that enough?

As I believe it is a basic on/off type switch on my Tx and the AP2000i requires a three point switch or slider for configuration?

I mean, can i just turn it on and off without using the gain control or whatever.. I guess I'm asking, can I set it by a pot or something manually and just roll with it?

Also, another random bit, can I have it on the whole time.. As in take-off and landing, or should you only tun it on when at altitude?

[MarkWebber]

You can configure it with an on/off switch. You will need to adjust the endpoints in the tx to get the AP2000i gain to read OFF-xx% . Adjusting the endpoint will allow you to select various amounts of stabilization gain. You probably won't be able to get it much below 50% with the switch in the on position. That should be fine.

Conversely, you can fly with it on all the time. I would keep the gain lower if you intend to do this.

Also, since you won't be using the calibration routine, you will need to tilt the sensor a bit to the left to counter the helis natural tendency to tilt to the right in flight. Do this a bit at a time in short test hops to get the amount of tilt. Once you can hover with minimal drift, use the tx trims to fine tune it.

[kiwi320]

You can configure it with an on/off switch. You will need to adjust the endpoints in the tx to get the AP2000i gain to read OFF-xx% . Adjusting the endpoint will allow you to select various amounts of stabilization gain. You probably won't be able to get it much below 50% with the switch in the on position. That should be fine.

Conversely, you can fly with it on all the time. I would keep the gain lower if you intend to do this.

Also, since you won't be using the calibration routine, you will need to tilt the sensor a bit to the left to counter the helis natural tendency to tilt to the right in flight. Do this a bit at a time in short test hops to get the amount of tilt. Once you can hover with minimal drift, use the tx trims to fine tune it.

Sweet as.. I'll be looking you up for one soon, I have a few purchases to make first.. 600 kit, servos, gyro, etc..

Or should I go for the AP2000i sooner and get used to using it on my 450?

[Tonystott]

Yes, the 450 will be transformed by adding the AP to it.