Operating Instructions
Wind: Basically, these are (approximately) 1/20th scale helicopters. Full sized helicopters have trouble
in high winds – and so do models. If a full sized helicopter has difficulty overcoming 50mph winds, then
the model will have the same difficulty with 2~3 mph winds (i.e. 1/20th as much). There's nothing that
can be done about this, it's just physics.
The Sky Voyager is more resiliant than most model helicopters to the effects of wind, but be careful
when flying - one big gust at the wrong time and the helicopter might get blown on to old Mr Kranski's
roof and none of us have ever got our frisbee back after it lands in his yard because he's mean and his
house is scary.
Air conditioning: Hot air rises and cool air falls – this creates movement in the air, leading to an
effect called "wind shear". Basically, this is when there's a column of hot air going up next to cold air
going down. Many full-scale aircraft accidents have been caused by wind shear. Air conditioners create
heaps of wind shear. If the helicopter flies through wind shear, it will seem to suddenly fly up or down
(depending on the direction of the wind shear).
The Ground Effect: When the helicopter is near the ground, the air it pushes down with its rotor
has nowhere to go – the ground is in the way. Some of this air bounces back, this pushes the helicopter
up. When the helicopter is near the ground, it will get slightly more lift than it normally would. This is
something to keep in mind when landing.
The Ceiling Effect: Conversely to the ground effect, when you fly too close to a ceiling, a small
pocket of low pressure is created above the helicopter, and it will be sucked upwards. This could be
bad – if you hit the ceiling, the helicopter will stall, fall and possibly be damaged.
Places to Fly: Because wind can be a problem, we recommend flying in sheltered areas or on notably
still days. However, you really do need a bit of space to get the most out of the helicopter. Some places
which are good for flight include large garages (whilst the car's not parked there), indoor sports areas,
aircraft hangars, secret underground submarine pens and so on (though why you'd fly a toy helicopter
in your secret underground submarine pen is beyond us).
Low Battery: To get the longest possible life from the built-in battery, never completely discharge it.
As soon as the helicopter shows any sign of running low on power (such as responding slowly or being
unable to maintain altitude easily) turn it off and charge it as soon as practicable. For more information
about battery care, see page 6.
Speed Select Switch: To alter how fast the helicopter moves, use the Speed Select Button on the
controller.
It's a great idea, while learning, to use the helicopter in Slow mode - it's a little easier to handle, and is
more stable. Once you're comfortable with the helicopter and are looking for a little extra challenge,
then pop it into Fast mode, and enjoy (carefully)!
Wireless Interference
This helicopter uses a digital control method using a frequency of 2.4GHz. This is the same
frequency band used by many wireless protocols, such as WIFI, and there are many devices
(most infamously microwaves) which generate "noise" at these frequencies, too. The digital
pairing method the helicopter uses is vastly less succeptible to interference than analogue
control signals, but flying the helicopter around 2.4GHz generating equipment will noticably
reduce the range of the remote contol. Exercise caution around all electrical equipment.
!
WARNING:
Do NOT
fly near eyes or face.
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