Quadrocopters are now among the most popular remote-controlled aircraft models. Originally still assigned to the remote-controlled helicopters, they have evoked an own division as Multicopter in the meantime. Multicopter stands for a model aircraft, which has more than two downward-facing rotors mounted in one plane. In detail also belong to this generic term:

• Tricopter with three rotors
• Quadrocopter with four rotors
• Hexacopter with 6 rotors
• Octocopter with 8 rotors

Aircraft models with an even higher number of rotors are reserved for self-built or future developments, which then supplement this list accordingly.

Quadrocopter are available in a wide range of designs and price ranges, so beginners and professionals can find a suitable model on the market for themselves. While most quadrocopters are designed for outdoor flying, there are also smaller indoor models, which can only be flown outdoors when there is no wind.

What’s a quadrocopter?

Similar to a helicopter, a quadrocopter does not need wings to gain lift by airflow. A flight is made possible by downward directed propellers, whereby vertical take-off and landing are also possible. Compared to helicopters, however, a quadrocopter hardly requires any mechanical components, such as adjustable rotor blades or swashplates. A tail rotor, which is required for a helicopter to compensate the torque transmission to the chassis, is also omitted. A quadrocopter has the following features counterrotating rotors to compensate the torque. Flight, position and movements are only achieved by speed changes of the individual motors, which makes Quadrocopter particularly recommendable for beginners, although they have all control functions of a helicopter.

How does a remote-controlled Quadrocopter work?

On one chassis there are four outriggers on which the four electric motors with their rotors are mounted at the required distance from each other. In some cases (depending on the model) a gearbox can also be interposed between the motors and rotors. Two pairs of rotors each run counter-rotating, thus balancing the torque and producing a relatively stable flight attitude. Flight movements can be achieved by changing the engine speeds. Some models, like helicopters, use gyros to stabilize the autonomous flight attitude. In quadrocopters, the flying weight is distributed among the four rotors. Compared to a helicopter, smaller motors and rotors can be used for this purpose. This enables a robust construction, which ensures less damage to the models in the event of falls. Quadrocopters also allow a high payload, so that they are often additionally equipped with cameras, for example. The well controllable flight characteristics of the Quadrocopter made it interesting for other purposes than the hobby model flight. They are used, for example, for surveillance and transport flights. In addition to the drive unit, Quadrocopter naturally requires the usual components of remote-controlled models:

• Power supply (battery)
• receiver unit
• radio remote control transmitter
• landing gear
• speed governor
• GPS system

Tip:

Before buying a quadrocopter, think about where you want it to fly and where you are allowed to fly it. The regulations for quadrocopters (drones) must be observed.

The GPS system

The Global Positioning System (GPS) allows a Quadrocopter, for example the Revell Control RC GPS Quadrocopter, to perform additional functions. For example, it remains in its position when the joystick is released. In addition, the GPS can also be used to return a model that has gone out of range. Some models allow you to automatically follow the transmitter or preset navigation points. Telemetry data such as speed, altitude, position and charge state of the power supply are often transmitted as well.

Keine Produkte gefunden.

The radio remote control

The radio remote control primarily fulfils the same requirements for a Quadrocopter as for all remote-controlled models. With it all functions can be controlled via radio. Different control channels are available for this purpose. Depending on the functionality of the model, 4 to 6 channels or more are required. The frequency ranges of the radio remote controls are 27 MHz, 35 MHz (only permitted for aircraft models) 40 MHz and 2.4 GHz. Especially the newer 2.4 GHz remote controls are characterized by high reliability. If the model is equipped with a camera which transmits the images to a receiver in real time via radio, make sure that the radio signals from the transmitter and the camera do not interfere with each other. For example, there are wireless cameras which transmit the 5.8 GHz range There are complete sets which already include the radio camera with receiver. Often they even have a small display in the radio remote control, or at least allow the connection of a display.

The Receiver Unit

A receiver matching the transmitter is required. It processes the received control signals and passes them on to the components, for example the speed governors of the motors. The receiver must have the appropriate number of channels for the individual functions and use the same frequency range and transmission channel of the radio remote control. With older radio remote controls, a channel change is effected by changing plug-in crystals (transmit and receive crystals).

The speed governor

To control the speed of the electric motors, speed governors are required as with other electric models, with Quadrocopter four pieces are required corresponding to the 4 motors. By actuating the control stick on the remote control, the speed governors connected to the receiver then regulate the speed of the individual rotors or the electric motors connected to them. Gyroscopes can also control the speed governors to stabilize the quadrocopter.

Electric motors

Because of their performance, quadrocopters often use brushless motors. They achieve very high speeds and are relatively low-wear compared to brush motors. As a rule, combustion engines are only used by professional model builders for larger models. Compared to electric motors they are louder, produce exhaust gases and require a petrol mixture which is flammable and toxic.

The batteries

The power required for Quadrocopter supply accumulators (rechargeable batteries). These are rechargeable energy storage devices. The big advantage compared to batteries is that they do not have to be replaced when they are empty. Batteries are also preferred in radio remote controls in order to reduce costs there as well. However, a battery charger is also required for a rechargeable battery, which is often already included in the sets.

Different types of quadrocopters

Depending on size, equipment and intended use, different types and models of Quadrocopter are available in the trade. Choose the ideal model for you. We will be glad to help you!

Quadrocopter (mini-quadrocopter) for indoor use

Similar to the small mini helicopters there are also mini quadrocopters. They are particularly suitable for flying in spacious rooms, halls or even for outdoor use when there is no wind. They are very small and light. The low weight does not present such a great challenge to the motors, which is why very small and energy-saving motorizations can be found. But this makes them very susceptible to wind and then they can no longer be controlled – or only very poorly controlled. Their low price and easy handling make Mini-Quadrocopter ideal for children, beginners and beginners. Due to the low weight, damage to the model and the furnishings is significantly reduced in the event of a crash. They are priced between 20 and 70 euros, such as the Arshiner Skytech M62 Mini Quadcopter.

Keine Produkte gefunden.

Quadrocopter for outdoor use

Higher weight and stronger motors are possible with Quadrocopter for outdoor flight available. They have a clearly more stable flight attitude and cannot be brought by wind so easily from the rest, whereby strong gusts are clearly noticed naturally also with these models. For this type of quadrocopter there are also still inexpensive entry-level models available, whereby the price with the size and the equipment (for example camera system) can quickly rise to several thousand euros for ambitious hobby pilots. Similar to other remote controlled models, it also depends on the scope of delivery. Most Quadrocopter are delivered in complete sets (RTF “ready to fly”) with all necessary components. The integrated camera systems often offer the choice of image quality or resolution. Some models offer HD resolution, others provide 4K quality. With the camera systems there is still the difference, whether the pictures are transferred in real time, for example on a display or FPV glasses, or are stored on a memory card for the later evaluation of the pictures. The real-time transmission of the images allows the model to be controlled on the basis of the image information received, as if the pilot were sitting in the quadrocopter. The name is FPV which stands for “first person view”. In the connection with FPV a GPS system is also mostly used. This enables further functions. The GPS system, which is also used in navigation systems, allows the quadrocopter to orient itself or transmit navigation data. This telemetry can be used, for example, to read the position or current flight altitude. A few Models can even return to the transmission area automatically when they leave it, which greatly increases safety, especially when long distances are covered with the Quadrocopter. Some models offer a further function thanks to the GPS system. Here the transmission signal is automatically followed. For example, when the “pilot” has his quadrocopter filmed during a hike.

The advantages

You will certainly have a lot of fun with a drone with a camera. To be able to look at nature from a bird’s eye view is not only a lot of fun for nature lovers. Much of what is otherwise hidden can be seen from above. With the popular FPV-Quadrocopter (first-person view) this is possible without any problems. The advantage is the problem-free operation, which is basically given with models for outdoor and indoor use.

Quadrocopters can also be used for commercial purposes. For example, you can use them to monitor your property, find damage to buildings and keep an eye on commercial properties. High-quality models prove to be ideal helpers for monitoring and control. Do not forget the legal situation, because data protection and flight safety are always in the foreground when using a drone.

Tip:

Models with camera support different output devices of the image material. Thus a display can be provided at the remote control, a display glasses or also only a connection for a display.

The entry-level models

If you are still inexperienced with flying a quadrocopter, we recommend a more favorable price for the first flight hours. Model, especially if children want to use it. The agile and small models for interiors already promise a lot of fun for young and old. Disadvantages of the beginner models are some missing special functions, limited flight times and a missing camera equipment, nevertheless they provide also outside for a large leisure fun. They are extremely easy to fly and the price is reasonable. Already for approx. 90,- Euro you will find a very well functioning Quadrocopter.

Tip:

Before you buy, decide whether you want a pure indoor model. In the open air, absolute calm is required for a flight.

Buying on the Internet or from a local dealer?

Ideally it is to be informed before the purchase of a Quadrocopter in the Internet. Here you will find a large selection of products including information. The decision where to buy your desired model should be considered carefully, because the prices show big differences between online retailers and local retailers. We hope to be able to help you with our information.

On site: Models from the specialist trade

Model shops are not necessarily located near you, so a longer journey would be necessary. This is of course associated with additional costs and time. Especially annoying if there are not even parking spaces nearby. Some buyers, however, don’t care because they value competent advice – the personal consultation. Unfortunately, these consultations are not always positive for the customer, as some sellers try to sell the available drones, which are certainly not always true test winners. Some shopkeepers are called Top of the range. Bargains are hard to find in specialist shops. Models that are offered by discounters are usually only short time for the fun.

On the Internet: Buy from an online retailer

If you buy your Quadrocopter on the Internet, you can shop without restrictions. The doors to this shopping world are open around the clock, even daily. You are sure to discover lower prices and an enormous selection of different models. Journeys, stress and additional costs are spared to you with the purchase in the Internet. Of course it is not possible to use the drone immediately, but the delivery times are short and it is worth waiting. A personal consultation does not take place, but it is also not always objective and customer-friendly. You do not have to waive your right of withdrawal when purchasing online.

Advantages of quadrocopters for remote-controlled aircraft and helicopters

A quadrocopter develops its buoyancy by the propellers (rotors). In comparison to airplanes, which only generate lift at the wings above a certain flow velocity, a quadrocopter can rise and land vertically and stand in the air. There is therefore no minimum speed to be maintained and no runway is required. This is why some models can even be used indoors. Camera shots also benefit from the capabilities of quadrocopters.

A remote-controlled helicopter comes very close to the flight characteristics of a quadrocopter. However, a helicopter works on other bases, which are more difficult to control. It has only one possibly two rotors, which are bigger than at Quadrocopters. In order to carry out the different air movements a helicopter needs mechanical components, for example swashplate or adjustable rotor blades. Not only the construction is more complicated but also the operation. In addition, the rotors of the helicopters are significantly larger than those of the quadrocopters. In addition, care must be taken to ensure that the rotor blades do not touch anything. Even an extreme inclination at the start of the helicopter can cause the rotor blades to strike the ground, which is usually tantamount to destroying the model. A quadrocopter has four smaller rotors, which can even be encased with “protective cages”. This means that the rotor blades cannot strike anywhere on the side. The flight movements of quadrocopters result only from the different speeds of the individual engines. This makes them easier to set up and easier to operate. Not infrequently even budding “pilots” of remote-controlled helicopters start out with quadrocopters.

legal situation

Quadrocopters can be manufactured at low cost and do not necessarily require much space for a flight. This has led to them being at the top of the list in the popularity of remote-controlled models. As a result, there are increasingly many drones in the air. The legislator sees a danger in the increasing number of unmanned aerial vehicles, which is why drone regulations have been passed. These depend on the take-off weights and are staggered accordingly. A small excerpt from it:

From a take-off weight of more than 250 grams there is an obligation to label, even on model aerodromes! Durable and easily legible and fireproof, must conform to the marking of the name and address of the user of the drone or quadrocopter. If the take-off weight exceeds 2 kg, an additional proof of flight customer status, which must be repeated every 5 years, is required in addition to the labelling requirement. In principle, drones may not fly higher than 100 meters. For heights above this, a special permit must be obtained from the aviation authority. Keep away from no-fly zones, for example near airports, nature reserves, crowds or main traffic routes. The overflying of foreign properties requires the permission of the owner. For models with cameras, additional factors may play a role. Just as it is not allowed to film arbitrarily everywhere strangers without their consent, the right of personality naturally also applies to the use of comrade drones.

It is therefore necessary to know or check the exact and regional legal situation before flying with a Quadrocopter. In addition, the regulations are constantly being expanded, about which the owner and user must be informed.

Keine Produkte gefunden.