Help me buy the rest of my equipment!!!

[Nick1150]

I received my XES PRO 550 few days ago, and thankfully I found time during the weekend to install all necessary parts. The outcome was perfect and the quality of the CNC parts, are beyond any criticism. What surprised me the most, was the plastic parts which are solid as a rock !!!

My previous experience was with an Esky belt-cp, with which I learned the first heli steps, but I recently decided to continue with a Gaui 550, since a very good friend of mine owns one, and I had the opportunity to give it a try. After flying the 550 for 1 or 2 minutes I instantly realized that I had to buy this heli. Since today I do not know how to 3D, and I never tried to, but I like sport/scale flying instead in normal mode and possibly a few loops and rolls in between.

My hurricane is ready, everything is installed and waiting for your advises to buy the rest, and get ready for her first maiden flight. Let me tell you my set up first:

Gaui XES PRO 550 (https://www.readyheli.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=204002 (https://www.readyheli.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=204002))

GAUI Hurricane 550 Brushless Motor -1500W-kv1100 (https://www.readyheli.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=855502 (https://www.readyheli.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=855502))

1 x ESC DualSky XC6018BA 60A (80 A surge) with switch (already had)

3 x Futaba S3151 Digital Servo (https://www.readyheli.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=FUTM0310 (https://www.readyheli.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=FUTM0310))

1 x Futaba GY401 Gyro & S9254 Digital Servo (already had) (http://www.readyheli.com/Futaba_GY401_S9254_Digital_Servo_Combo_p/futm0808.htm (http://www.readyheli.com/Futaba_GY401_S9254_Digital_Servo_Combo_p/futm0808.htm))

2 x FlightPower EVO 30C 2000 mAh 3S1P 11.1v Batteries (already had) (http://www.readyheli.com/FlightPower_Flight_Power_Premium_EVO_30C_2000mAh_p/evo30-20003s.htm (http://www.readyheli.com/FlightPower_Flight_Power_Premium_EVO_30C_2000mAh_p/evo30-20003s.htm))

1 x Spectrum receiver AR6000 plus stock carbon blades….. My Pitch Curve (normal) is -6 / 0 / +6 and my Throttle Curve (normal) is 0% / 25% / 50%


1. I would very much appreciate if you could give me any advice about my existing setup, and if it can fulfill my needs as I described them above. Do you find the batteries inappropriate for the Gaui ?

2. I also would like to buy 1 or 2 new packs, and a new charger, since I had the stock one from Esky till now. Can you please tell which would be the best choice?
(Note: For the batteries I prefer Flightpower but for the charger I do not have any preferences)

Thanks in advance :oops:

Nick

[mysticmead]

you'll need more pitch if you want to fly.. -6 / +6 isn't going to be enough to get it off the ground. for batteries, with the motor you have, get 3300mah 20C or better. 2200mah batteries won't live long with that motor. if all you plan on doing is sport flying and no hard 3D. I suggest changing the motor to the Zpower (or tonic-x) Z20a-980. MUCH easier on the batteries and can use 2200mah 25C. with 2200mah and a nice low head speed (less than 1900rpm) you'd get 6minute flight. 3300mah could get you 10 minutes

the best thing about the hurricane is the gearing options. changing a first gear and pinion can take the beast and tame it..or unleash it...what ever you want...

[Pinecone]

1) I would set a larger pitch range, like at least +/-9. In normal you should run a pitch curve like -2 - 0 - +9, and in Idle Up run -9 - 0 - +9

2) You need to change the throttle curve to 0 - 80 - 100 in Normal and 100 - 90 - 100 or 100 - 95 - 100 in Idle Up. 25 at mid point will have the head speed WAY low and make it difficult, if not impossible to fly.

3) As for the charger, lots of good choices. If you keep with 2 x 3S packs, two CellPro 4S chargers are not bad. Or the CellPro 10S, or the ThunderPower 1010C with 210V balancer.

[mjdee14]

I'll agree with what everyone said above about batteries....TC's and PC's....yu can run the +9 in normal but will need +10 or better for other flight modes.

You might also want to "rethink" the AR6000 rcvr......you might gt away with it on the plastic version, and I wsa going to use it also, but went with the AR6200. With all the money you have in the air...having the dual recvr on the AR6200 makes it that much safer.....when.if you go to CF...it is a must, as CF can block the signal, as can lipos in certain attitutes....

Other than that, get bigger lipos....3300 is a good size....

Good luck with it......keep us posted and we are here to help...


Edit.....as Mike points out below...I didn't catch that you might have the Dx6...if you do then the AR6000 will have to do...

[Mikej]

Nick,

Welcome to the 550 club :)

It looks as if you made a good start there, but here are some quick comments


GAUI Hurricane 550 Brushless Motor -1500W-kv1100
That motor is a power hog - you will get short flight times and hot batteries (more of this later). For sport flying the current favourite is the Z20A 980Kv http://www.helidirect.com/product_info.php?cPath=44_386&products_id=6027, more efficient and cooler running


1 x ESC DualSky XC6018BA 60A (80 A surge) with switch (already had)
Don't know this I'm afraid

3 x Futaba S3151 Digital Servo
I use 3001's on mine and they are fin eso 3151 should be spot on

1 x Futaba GY401 Gyro & S9254 Digital Servo (already had)
Excellent

2 x FlightPower EVO 30C 2000 mAh 3S1P 11.1v Batteries (already had)
Too small - you will only get short flight times. I use Kong Power 2200's and get 6.5 - 7.5 minute flights, a lot of people use 3300's also and are very happy with them. If you get 2200's you need at least 25C for 3300's then I think that 20C is OK.


1 x Spectrum receiver AR6000 plus stock carbon blades….. My Pitch Curve (normal) is -6 / 0 / +6 and my Throttle Curve (normal) is 0% / 25% / 50%
Since you've only got a 3 point pitch curve and a AR6000 I'm guessing that it is a DX6 - if possible upgrade to a DX7 or even DX6i so that you get a 5 point pitch curve - yours also looks much too low, the ESC will not like it. I use 0, 90, 95, 95, 100. Also +/- 6 degrees pitch is not enough - you want +/- 10 degrees and I then use a Pitch curve of 34, 56, 74, 88, 100 for normal - in my set-up that gives me some negative pitch when at low stick, hovering just above half stick and a very progressive straight line for th epitch in flight - works for me.

2. I also would like to buy 1 or 2 new packs, and a new charger, since I had the stock one from Esky till now. Can you please tell which would be the best choice?
(Note: For the batteries I prefer Flightpower but for the charger I do not have any preferences)

I use either Kong Power or more recently have bought this http://www.rc-tek.com/us_store/maxpro-x6-+-air-thunder-dual-battery-pro-combo-p1979.html for $200 you get an excellent charger and 2 more batteries - plus if you are currently using you eSky charger then your current batteries will fit - I can charge both of my KP or Air Thunder batteries at the same time, charging takes under an hour

Good luck and enjoy :thumbup::thumbup:

Mike.

[Nick1150]

Thanks for so many replies,

First of all I have the DX7. I thought the AR6000 would be enough, since I already have 3 x AR7000s for my planes, and I am happy with those receivers, and I cannot fly the Gaui so far away as planes go. :confused:

I will change the pitch as you say :thumbup:.
Just to double check:
Normal PC -2 / 0 / +9
ST1 -9 / 0 / +9
Is this ok ?

About the throttle curve, the problem is that my ESC is 60A (surge 80A) and this specific motor needs maximum current 75A. So I thought that lowering the throttle curve would result to lower current needs from the motor. As you say the motor is beast so I do not need 100% of its power for my flight needs, right ? :oops:

About the motor, I guest I didn’t know about the existence of the Z20A 980Kv motor:arggg:. I will try flying my hurry with the one I have and I will definitely downgrade to Z20A if needed.:(

Now the batteries and charger issue:

My aim is to have +/- 12 minutes flight times (scale flying). Would 2 x 3300 3S do the job or I would need more mAh ? :oops:

My local shop sells Hyperion chargers. What do you think about the Hyperion EOS0610i DUO ? :roll:

Thanks again.

[Mikej]

Nick,

The AR6000 might be enough - but I would rather have a bit more in hand so use the AR7000 and AR6200 as the extra external receiver will give alternative radio paths, and have less chance of masking.
Your Pitch curves sound OK - most people recommend -2 to +10 normal and ST1 or +10 to -10, but I never go near full positive pitch anyway so probably irrelevant.

Commonly accepted wisdom is to not go below 85% on TC, so something like 0, 80, 85, 85, 100 should be fine and will drop the consumption a bit, the best way however would be to gear the headspeed down by using a smaller pinion and / or a larger primary gear.

The 3300's should be OK - the higher C rating the better, but 20 - 25C should be fine. I have heard very good reports on the Hyperion chargers, but don't have an y personal experience.

Cheers,
Mike.

[Pinecone]

The amp draw during on time doesn't change with lower throttle settings, the pulses just get shorter.

So either get a less hungry motor or a better ESC. I am flying an Align 75A off a Trex 600E on mine now. They are available in the classifieds pretty cheap as people upgrade their Trexes.

And you need at least about 80% throttle at mid stick to get the headspeed up to where it will fly. Low headspeed actually increases amp draw, and the tail will not be spinnnig fast enough to hold.

With a DX7, 0 - 65 - 80 - 90 - 100 for normal Throttel Curve and 100 - 95 - 90 - 95 - 100 for Stunt 1 TC. With only +/-9 pitch range, you may be able to get by with 95 as the max on the throttle curves.

[Madedon]

Thanks for so many replies,

First of all I have the DX7. I thought the AR6000 would be enough, since I already have 3 x AR7000s for my planes, and I am happy with those receivers, and I cannot fly the Gaui so far away as planes go. :confused:

I will change the pitch as you say :thumbup:.
Just to double check:
Normal PC -2 / 0 / +9
ST1 -9 / 0 / +9
Is this ok ?

About the throttle curve, the problem is that my ESC is 60A (surge 80A) and this specific motor needs maximum current 75A. So I thought that lowering the throttle curve would result to lower current needs from the motor. As you say the motor is beast so I do not need 100% of its power for my flight needs, right ? :oops:

About the motor, I guest I didn’t know about the existence of the Z20A 980Kv motor:arggg:. I will try flying my hurry with the one I have and I will definitely downgrade to Z20A if needed.:(

Now the batteries and charger issue:

My aim is to have +/- 12 minutes flight times (scale flying). Would 2 x 3300 3S do the job or I would need more mAh ? :oops:

My local shop sells Hyperion chargers. What do you think about the Hyperion EOS0610i DUO ? :roll:

Thanks again.

Hi Nick

Welcome. ... Regards the DX7 & AR6000 I don understand why to jeopardize the radio link with something that is no as robust as the AR7000s. Believe me when you will get familiar with the Hurricane you will need a lot more space to what you are used to with the Esky belt-cp and you will need the AR7000. Therefore get it from the beginning and don’t worry about the radio again. :smokin:

Regards the batteries I have a set of Xpower 3700mah (bought from Giannis shop) and a set of KP 5000mah (I also had to change to CF in order to fit the 5000 and have them on COG) but there are heavy for the Hurricane and not suited for 3D:thumbdown:. For the kind of flight you aim for I would go for something between 3300 - 4300 mah and try not to exceed the 600grams of battery weight.

Finally the flight time depends on the gearing you have, motor and style of flying and not only in batteries. So in my opinion try to get the bigger (mah wise) you can afford but not exceed the 600grams of battery weight.

[Pinecone]

12 minutes is going to be hard to do. Especially with that motor.

You might want to try some Flight Power EVOLite 4250 packs and get a more efficient motor. The Gaui motor waste amps as heat.

[xodarap1]

I haven't pulled the trigger yet, but i'm close. I'm going to be trying these with my z20 and z30 setups:

3000mAh
http://www.amainhobbies.com/product_info.php/cPath/2_389_409/products_id/19354

and

4000mAh
http://www.amainhobbies.com/product_info.php/cPath/2_389_409/products_id/19353

[mjdee14]

I haven't pulled the trigger yet, but i'm close. I'm going to be trying these with my z20 and z30 setups:

3000mAh
http://www.amainhobbies.com/product_info.php/cPath/2_389_409/products_id/19354

and

4000mAh
http://www.amainhobbies.com/product_info.php/cPath/2_389_409/products_id/19353


Make sure you look at the size one guy was having problems with the 24mm fitting under the canopy.

[xodarap1]

That's strange.. The Kong Power 2200's are Size:110(L)x34(W)x28(H)mm
and they fit in both my helis with plenty of room to spare H and W wise.
Some of it could be because I've moved the lower canopy retaining tab up on top of the landing gear instead of having it mounted under the gear.
I will be sure to check out the dimensions though.. thanks.
I know the 3000's will fit.. but not sure about the 4000's.
Anybody out there running the PTK-LP-4000's on the CF frame?
Heck, for 8000mAh capacity for that price at only 584g's, i'd have no problem flying it around without the canopy or cutting up one of my older 550 canopies till it WOULD fit heheh.. :bad

[Nick1150]

Hello again,

I am coming back to inform you guys :thumbup:

My Gaui is ready, and today will make its first maiden flight :happyd

I already ordered the Z20A 980. Its on the way and I will install it hopefully during the week. With the Z motor my ESC (60Amps) is ok so I do not need to change it, and as you say it will give me more sport flight time ;) (I will inform you asap)

I have decided to buy a hyperion 0606i AC/DC charger and for start 2 batteries hyperion 3S 3200 mAh batteries or 2 dualsky 3S 3700 mAh... I will decide today when I go to my local shop with my Gaui to see if they will fit inside the canopy ;)

PCurve is already--> normal (-2 / 0 / +10), ST1 (-10 / 0 / +10), ST2 (-10 / 0 / +10) :smokin:

TCurve is already--> normal (0 / 35% / 75%), ST1 (75% / 75% / 75%), ST2 (75% / 75% / 75%) :P till of course the Z20A motor arrives :oops: after installing I will change the TC as you said guys :YeaBaby:

Thanks for the help.

I will update this thread with pics and possibly one video soon :happyd


PS. Madedon I will be to Giannis shop in an hour to get the packs and the charger... Thanks for your help ;) Euxaristw file gia tin voithia :cheers

[kahn10]

you need to bring your throttle curves right up nick. tc 1 something like 0 65 85 from there work out your idle up's :smokin:

[Nick1150]

ok thanks I just did ;)

Just did my first hover in my backyard :YeaBaby:

The good news is that PC are ok and my hurry flew with ease, so all mechanical setup is ok.

The bad news is that the motor after 1-2 minutes hover was so hot that my finger could not even touch it :shock: I mean you guys told me, but I could not imagine how hot the motor (and batteries) were :thumbdown:. So I guest I have to go for the Z20A asap :roll:

The summary is that I am happy with my 550, since it is actually my second heli and I build it my self without any help from someone old to this hobby, as long as I change the motor and get a better pack of batteries.

Coming back after I get my new packs ;)

[kahn10]

try tc1 0 75 85...... they get hot but i didn't think that quickly.might have been to much load.....

[kgfly]

I have decided to buy a hyperion 0606i AC/DC charger STOP this is a poor choice for a Hurri. It is only a 50W output.

To charge 2 x 3S 2200mAh in series as 6S 2200 at 1C requires at least 50W.
To charge 2 x 3S 3300mAh in series as 6S 3300 at 1C requires at least 76W

You really need at least an 80W charger, but more would be better. You originally asked about the EOS 0610iDUO (dual port each 6S, 180W/10A). That is an excellent choice. A little expensive but extremely flexible and will make sure you don't spend forever waiting for packs to charge.

Other good candidates to consider:

TP0610C (6S, 80W/10A) = marginal but will do the job for ~$130
Bantam BC6-10 (6S, 200W/10A) - proven quality at ~$170
iCharger 610B (6S, 180W/10A) - great value at ~$100

You might find the following information useful.+-----------------------------------+
| KGLFY's Balance Charger Summary |
| 27 Apr 2008 |
+-----------------------------------+

Integrated Balance Chargers
===========================
These offer simplicity and convenience with the balancer and charger combined
in the same case. Simpler, more convenient, take up less bench space and
easier to transport.

--------- ------------ -------------- --------- ----- ------------- ----------- --------------------------------------------
Brand Model Chemistry Balancer Input Output Price (USD) Notes
--------- ------------ -------------- --------- ----- ------------- ----------- --------------------------------------------
FMA Cellpro4S LiXx only 2s-4s dc 50W/4A $75 Excellent, simple, hugely popular, great value
--------- ------------ -------------- --------- ----- ------------- ----------- --------------------------------------------
Bantam eStation BC6 multi 2s-6s ac/dc 50W/5A $170 Proven high quality. Integrated ac/dc power supply is great
Hyperion EOS0606iAD multi 2s-6s ac/dc 50W/6A $150 Integrated ac/dc supply but not as good as the BC6
MegaPower 860DS multi 2s-6s ac/dc 50W/6A $110 Appears to be the same as the Hyperion 0606iAD
TP TP610 multi 2s-6s dc 80W/10A $130 New model from respected TP brand
KongPower 100W6 multi 2s-6s dc 100W/5A $150 New model based on the MaxproX6, likely to be just as good
Maxpro X6 multi 2s-6s dc 100W/5A $140 New brand, good user comments so far
iCharger 106B multi 2s-6s dc 180W/10A $100 New brand, good spec.s, good feedback so far
Bantam BC610 multi 2s-6s dc 200W/10A $180 Same great charger as the BC6 but 200W/10A (dc input only)
Hyperion EOS0610iNET multi 2s-6s dc 250W/10A $170 Most bang for buck in terms of features+output power
Hyperion EOS0610iDUO multi 2s-6s x 2 dc 180W/10A each $270 Very handy if you discharge packs in pairs
--------- ------------ -------------- --------- ----- ------------- ----------- --------------------------------------------
Bantam eStation BC8 multi 2s-8s dc 150W/7A $270 Proven high quality
--------- ------------ -------------- --------- ----- ------------- ----------- --------------------------------------------
Chargery 1010B multi 2s-10s dc 200W/10A $240 New brand, good spec.s, good feedback so far
iCharger 1010B multi 2s-10s dc 200W/10A $180 New brand, good spec.s, good feedback so far
--------- ------------ -------------- --------- ----- ------------- ----------- --------------------------------------------
FMA Cellpro10S LiXx only 2s-5s x 2 dc 200W/10A $190 Not independent dual port. 1A balancer is a strength.
--------- ------------ -------------- --------- ----- ------------- ----------- --------------------------------------------
Graupner Ultra DUO 50 multi 2x-7s x 2 ac/dc 360W/10A $530 Very impressive beast, but expensive. Integrated AC power supply
for up to 120W max output power, else run it off DC to get 180W/10A
per port or 250W/10A on a single port. Appears to be two independent
channels, each with its own display and controls.
--------- ------------ -------------- --------- ----- ------------- ----------- --------------------------------------------



Non-integrated charger+balancer combos
======================================
This is the older style where the balancer is an add-on accessory to the charger.
Less convenient since it means more boxes, more cables, more things to configure,
store and transport.

--------- -------------- -------------- ------------------- ----- ------------- ----------- --------------------------------------------
Brand Model Chemistry Balancer Input Output Price (USD) Notes
--------- -------------- -------------- ------------------- ----- ------------- ----------- --------------------------------------------
TME Xtrema LiXx BAL+BIM 2s-6s dc 150W/8A $265 Includes power meter functions. Complex and expensive
2 x BAL+BIM 2s-12s dc 150W/8A $360 Includes power meter functions. Complex and expensive
TP 1010C multi 210V 2s-10s dc 220W/10A $300 Top performer, hugely popular in US
Hyperion EOS1210i multi 2 x LBA10 2s-12s dc 180W/10A $240 Good value
Bantam eStation 902 multi 2 x PB6 2s-12s dc 200W/9.9A $400 Proven high quality
MEGA POWER Infinity 960SR multi 1 x LCB12 2s-12s dc 180W/10A $200 Good value, great LCD, 2nd NiXx-only port to
charge your Tx in parallel with your flight battery
--------- -------------- -------------- ------------------- ----- ------------- ----------- --------------------------------------------

Notes
=====
1) "multi" means at least: NiCd/NiMH/Pb/LiPo/LiFe
2) "LiXx only" means at least: LiPo/LiFe


Bantam BC6 vs MaxproX6/KP100W6 vs EOS0606iAD/MP860DS vs TP610 vs iCharger 106B
kgfly, 21 May 2008

Quality/reliability
The BC6 is the oldest of the group and has an excellent track record for simplicity, performance, reliability and quality. It has many features. The rest are too new to know yet although I have not seen any bad comments about quality or performance issues for any of the newer chargers.

Input power:
BC6 and 0606iAD/MP860DS have integrated ac/dc power supplies which is very convenient and saves the cost of a separate DC power supply.

X6/610C/106B require an external DC power supply of at least 125W/100W/230W respectively.

Output power:
BC6 = 50W/5A, 0606iAD/MP860DS = 50W/6A, TP610C = 80W/10A, X6 = 100W/5A, iC106B = 180W/10A

If you are looking for higher power, the 100W/5A rating of the X6 is better for 5s/6s whereas the 80W/10A of the 610c is better for 4s and below but the 180W/10A of the iC106 eclipses them both. The following table reveals the relative utility of these different output power ratings.
Charger Output Current Estimates v1.1
======================================

LiPo CC charge voltage 3.75
LiFe CC charge voltage 3.4

Charger output rating (max Watts and max Amps)
------------ ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ----
LiPo 50 100 150 80 180 200 220 250 300
no. of cells 5 5 7 10 10 10 10 10 10
------------ ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ----
2 5.0 5.0 7.0 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0
3 4.4 5.0 7.0 7.1 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0
4 3.3 5.0 7.0 5.3 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0
5 2.7 5.0 7.0 4.3 9.6 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0
6 2.2 4.4 6.7 3.6 8.0 8.9 9.8 10.0 10.0
------------ ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ----
7 1.9 3.8 5.7 3.0 6.9 7.6 8.4 9.5 10.0
8 1.7 3.3 5.0 2.7 6.0 6.7 7.3 8.3 10.0
9 1.5 3.0 4.4 2.4 5.3 5.9 6.5 7.4 8.9
10 1.3 2.7 4.0 2.1 4.8 5.3 5.9 6.7 8.0
11 1.2 2.4 3.6 1.9 4.4 4.8 5.3 6.1 7.3
12 1.1 2.2 3.3 1.9 4.0 4.4 4.9 5.6 6.7
------------ ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ----


Charger output rating (max Watts and max Amps)
------------ ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ----
LiFe 50 100 150 80 180 200 220 250 300
no. of cells 5 5 7 10 10 10 10 10 10
------------ ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ----
2 5.0 5.0 7.0 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0
3 4.9 5.0 7.0 7.8 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0
4 3.7 5.0 7.0 5.9 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0
5 2.9 5.0 7.0 4.7 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0 10.0
6 2.5 4.9 7.0 3.9 8.8 9.8 10.0 10.0 10.0
------------ ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ----
7 2.1 4.2 6.3 3.4 7.6 8.4 9.2 10.0 10.0
8 1.8 3.7 5.5 2.9 6.6 7.4 8.1 9.2 10.0
9 1.6 3.3 4.9 2.6 5.9 6.5 7.2 8.2 9.8
10 1.5 2.9 4.4 2.4 5.3 5.9 6.5 7.4 8.8
11 1.3 2.7 4.0 2.1 4.8 5.3 5.9 6.7 8.0
12 1.2 2.5 3.7 2.0 4.4 4.9 5.4 6.1 7.4
------------ ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ----

LCD:
BC6, Maxpro, iC106B = very clear from all angles
0606i (assuming it is the same as 0610i) = poor contrast and hard to read from off-perpendicular

Ease of learning/use
Of the ones I have tried, the BC6 and MaxproX6 are both very easy to learn and to use. The Hyperion is slightly harder to learn/remember but if it is your only charger you will get used to it quickly. I don't yet have hands-on experience with the TP610C or iC106B.

The BC6 lets you turn off the various beeps and tones which is a feature I really like and is missing from the Maxpro. It is present on the iC106B but not sure about beep/tone control on the others.

Feature summaries
FMA CellPro4S (~$75)
- Requires DC power
- LiXx only: LiPo/LiFe(aka A123)
- 2S to 4S integrated balance charger
- 50W/4A output (3s @ 4A, 4s @ 3A)
- Normal, Fast and Storage LiPo cycles
- No discharge feature
- optional PC interface (logging only)
- optional balance plug adapters

Bantam eStation BC6 (~$150)
- ac/dc input
- Full multichemsitry LiXx/NiXx/Pb
- 2s-6s integrated balance charger
- 50W/5A output
- Balance current 300mA
- Normal, Fast, Balance and Storage LiXx cycles
- Discharge features (7W)
- 5 memories
- optional temperature probe
- optional PC interface (logging only)
- wide range of balance plug adapters

Hyperion 0606iAD (~$140)
Mega Power Poseidon-860DS (~$110)
- ac/dc input
- Full multichemsitry LiXx/NiXx/Pb
- 2s-6s integrated balance charger
- 50W/6A output
- Balance current 300mA
- Normal, Balance LiXx cycles (NO Storage feature)
- Discharge features (5W)
- NO memories
- NO PC interface
- NO temperature probe
- wide range of balance plug adapters

ThunderPower 610C (~$130)
- Requires DC power
- Full multichemsitry LiXx/NiXx/Pb
- Integrated 2S-6S balancer
- 80W/10A output
- Balance current ???mA
- Normal(with/without balancing) and Storage LiXx cycles
- Discharge features (7W)
- 25 memories
- ?? PC interface ??
- ?? temperature probe ??
- TP/FP and JST-XH balance port adapter

Maxpro X6 (~$140)
KongPower 100W6 (~$130)
- Requires DC power
- Full multichemsitry LiXx/NiXx/Pb
- 2s-6s integrated balance charger
- 100W/5A output
- Balance current 400mA
- Normal, Fast, Balance and Storage LiXx cycles
- Discharge features (12W)
- No memories
- included temperature probe
- included PC interface (logging and firmware upgrades)
- some balance plug adapters (JST-XH, TP/FP)

iCharger 106B (~$100)
- Requires DC power
- Full multichemsitry LiXx/NiXx/Pb
- 2s-6s integrated balance charger
- 180W/10A output
- Balance current 300mA
- Normal, Fast, Slow, Balance and Storage LiXx cycles
- Discharge features (20W)
- 10 memories
- optional temperature probe
- hidden PC interface (at first release, being exposed in future builds, easy mod to add it)
- some balance plug adapters


Conclusion
If you want the convenience of an integrated ac/dc power supply then the BC6 is the top offering. The extra features, simpler use model and better LCD (at a guess) more than make up for the small price difference from the 0606iAD. The emergence of the MP 860DS, which appears to be the same as the 0606iAD but at a bargain price makes it the value leader in this ac/dc group.


If you want more than 50W output but don't want to spend more than $150 then the iC106B is the clear value leader. On features and performance it competes against other high-power chargers like the BC6-10 and EOS0610i but on price it is down in this group. A new model from a new brand, it is a bit of an unknown quantity, but initial user feedback is positive.

Otherwise it is a toss up between the MaxproX6/KP100W6 and the TP610. Both offer good value in terms of features and power. The ability for the user to install firmware updates on the Maxpro is very appealing . In most cases in the US though, it is probably easier to get backup and support for the TP610C and it is bound to be popular.CP10S vs iC106B vs iC101B vs Hyp0610iDUO
kgfly, 12 Jun 2008

FMA Cellpro 10S (~$190)
- Requires DC power (up to 300W, full output power requires 15V input)
- LiXx only
- 2s-10s integrated balance charger with two series connected 5S ports
- 180W/10A output (Mfr claims up to 260W but this has not been achieved by users)
- Balance current 1000mA (best of breed)
- Manual, 1C, 2C and 3C LiXx cycles
- No discharge features
- 6 memories
- no temperature probe
- PC interface (configuration and logging, required for advanced configuration)
- some balance plug adapters available

iCharger 106B (~$100)
- Requires DC power (>200W, full output power available at 11V input)
- Full multichemsitry LiXx/NiXx/Pb
- 2s-6s integrated balance charger (with on board 2s-6s JST-XH balance sockets)
- 180W/10A output
- Balance current 300mA
- Normal, Fast, Slow, Balance and Storage LiXx cycles
- Discharge features (20W)
- 10 memories
- optional temperature probe
- hidden PC interface (at first release, being exposed in future builds, easy mod to add it)
- some balance plug adapters available

iCharger 1010B (~$180)
- Requires DC power (>220W, full output power available at 11V input)
- Full multichemsitry LiXx/NiXx/Pb
- 2s-10s integrated balance charger
- 200W/10A output
- Balance current 300mA
- Normal, Fast, Slow, Balance and Storage LiXx cycles
- Discharge features (30W)
- 10 memories
- optional temperature probe
- hidden PC interface (at first release, being exposed in future builds, easy mod to add it)
- some balance plug adapters available

Hyperion 0610i DUO (~$270)
- Requires DC power (>400W, full output power requires 15V input)
- Full multichemsitry LiXx/NiXx/Pb
- Dual independent ports each 2s-6s integrated balance charger
- 180W/10A output per port
- Balance current 300mA
- Balance, SynchBalance (balance across the ports) and TCS (can be used for Storage) LiXx cycles
- No discharge features (plan to add very slow discharge via the balancer in the future)
- 10 memories per port
- optional temperature probe per port
- PC interface for logging and firmware upgrades
- JST-XH, TP/FP and Hyp/PQ balance plug adapters available

=====================
The DUO is an excellent candidate for those that want a dual-port charger with fully independent ports (chemisty, cell-count/voltage, capacity, current and start/stop can all be different on the two ports) and don't need support for more than 6S on any single pack. The lack of automatic Storage mode or discharge/cycle features is an issue for some users.

Choosing between the CP10S ($190), iC1010B ($180), a pair of iC106B ($200)and the DUO ($270) is indeed a bit of a challenge. At the moment the criteria might include:

* Need NiXx or Pb => not CP10S
* Need single packs over 6S => not DUO
* Need PC interface today => not iC1010B
* Need independent two port operation => DUO or 2 x iC106B
* Need operation fom 24V DC => DUO
* Need max output power from a 12V Pb source => iC1010B
* Need US local Mfr/support => CP10S

[Nick1150]

Ooops I just bought the AC/DC together with 2 x Dualsky 3S 3700 mAh :roll:

You mean that I cannot charge both at maximum ?

If yes I should let the charger in the box, and exchange it with another one :(

Please advise

Thanks

Nick

[kahn10]

swap it for something more fitting.you need a charger that can put out minimum 100 watts and you really want more.have a good look at kgfly's specs on chargers above

[kgfly]

Nick,

The chargers with integrated AC/DC power supplies are *very* convenient but at 50W output will end up disappointing you with how long it takes to charge your batteries. A 50W charger will charge the 3700 packs you bought individually as 3S at about up to about 4A so certainly at 1C or a bit more. In series as 6S it will charge them at about 2.2A or 0.6C. So if you charge them one at a time it will take about 2hrs. Together as 6S it will also take about 2hrs! If you get a 100W charger then it will charge them as a 6S pack at up to 4.5A so do both in an hour or less.

There are lots of better options than the 0606iAD charger for an H550 setup. I would definitely leave the charger in the box and exchange it for a more powerful solution, although this will cost more.

The EOS0610iDUO is a very good choice and although quite a lot more expensive (especially since you will need to add a high-power DC bench supply) will keep you happy for a long time with its flexibility. Considerably cheaper would be the Bantam BC6-10 or the iCharger 106B. Both give you enough power to charge 6S packs at over 7A giving you the flexibility to handle larger packs or charge at 2C when you are in a hurry.

[Nick1150]

Yeap I will definitely exchange the AC/DC with the DUO Monday morning…. ;)

I already have a DC supply, but I was thinking to take it to my country house and not move all the equipment every time I go there :oops:

Thanks guys for warning me…. :thumbup:

[Nick1150]

I am coming back to this thread, to thank you guys about your kind assistance :noteworthy

Just a correction... I have the Spectrum AR6100 receiver and not the 6000 I stated in the beginning. I didn't even know the existance of the 6000 receiver till yesterday that I wanted to downloaded the manual from the spectrum website. There I noticed that the AR6000 is for park flyers and I understood what you guys told me :YeaBaby: Anyway I guest with the AR6100 I am ok :confused:

My Gaui flew this weekend and did alot of 8s and soft sport flying. I did great and I am happy with my performance eventhough I crashed it at the end :arggg: (4th flight) but with minor damage (tail boom and main blades). It was 100% my mistake and I am so happy with my hurry that I dont mind at all. I am waiting few spare parts from Ready heli together with the GP flight sim G4, and I am back at the field again at no time ;)

Happy to have choosen Gaui

Regards

Nick

[mysticmead]

My Gaui flew this weekend and did alot of 8s and soft sport flying. I did great and I am happy with my performance eventhough I crashed it at the end :arggg: (4th flight) but with minor damage (tail boom and main blades). It was 100% my mistake and I am so happy with my hurry that I dont mind at all. Happy to have choosen Gaui

Regards

Nick


:Pics

[Nick1150]

You are right :YeaBaby:

First is before, last two are after the crash ;)