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An infrared RC helicopter uses infrared light to control the machine from the ground. It is not affected by other infrared devices, unlike models that use radio frequencies. The helicopter comes in different types, which include the following:
Micro infrared RC helicopters
A micro-infrared RC helicopter is small and lightweight. It is designed for indoor flying. The controls are easy to handle, making them suitable for children and beginners. These helicopters have a simple control system that allows smooth takeoff, landing, and hovering. They can fly for a short time due to their small batteries.
Indoor infrared RC helicopters
This helicopter is specifically made for flying in closed spaces like homes, gyms, or warehouses. Indoor infrared RC helicopters are stable and respond well to commands. They allow pilots to perform loops and turns. The infrared system ensures a direct link between the helicopter and the remote, providing smooth controls without delays.
3-channel infrared RC helicopters
These helicopters use three channels for control: forward, backward, and left or right spin. 3-channel infrared RC helicopters are great for beginners. They are easy to control and teach the basics of flying. Once the pilot masters them, they can move to helicopters with more channels. These helicopters have a longer flight time and a more durable body.
Advanced infrared RC helicopters
Advanced infrared RC helicopters are for experienced pilots. They have multiple channels for precise control. These helicopters can move up, down, forward, backward, and spin in place. They offer a thrilling flying experience, with advanced gyroscopes for stability and better response to controls. They have larger batteries, allowing them to fly for long hours. However, they take time to learn how to operate.
Mini infrared RC helicopters
Mini infrared RC helicopters are compact versions of bigger models. They have similar features but are designed for smaller spaces. They are portable and easy to store. Even though they are small, they deliver great performance with shorter flight times due to smaller batteries.
Altitude hold infrared RC helicopters
Altitude hold infrared RC helicopters use barometric sensors to maintain a constant flying height. This feature frees the pilot to focus on other maneuvers. These helicopters are ideal for training or casual flying. They are stable and easy to control, with a long flight time due to bigger batteries.
There are several factors to consider before buying infrared remote-controlled helicopters for sale.
Indoor and Outdoor Use
Some infrared RC helicopters are for indoor use only, while others are for outdoor use. RC helicopters for outdoor use have a more powerful motor and better controls. They can withstand strong winds and fly longer. RC helicopters for indoor use are smaller and easier to control. They can fly in limited spaces like homes and offices.
Flight Time
Check the flight time of the infrared RC helicopter on a single charge. Flight time ranges between 6 and 20 minutes, depending on the model. RC helicopters with longer flight time allow continuous flying for many hours without interruption. Models with shorter flight time need frequent recharging, which can be frustrating.
Control Range
The control range is the maximum distance the helicopter can fly from the remote control. It can be between 30 meters and 100 meters. Choose a helicopter with a wide control range so it can fly far without losing connection.
Battery Life
The infrared RC helicopter uses different types of batteries. These include lithium-ion, lithium-polymer, and nickel-metal hydride batteries. Lithium-ion and lithium-polymer batteries have a shorter charging time and longer life. They provide higher voltage for longer flights. Nickel-metal hydride batteries are easy to recharge but have a shorter flight time. They take a longer time to recharge. Both types of batteries need proper care to extend their lifespan.
Level of Experience
The level of experience is an important factor when choosing an infrared RC helicopter. Beginners should start with helicopters with simple controls and stable flight. Models with 3 channels are ideal for beginners. 4-channel helicopters are better as the user gains more experience. 4-channel helicopters offer better control and can perform more tricks.
Price and Budget
Infrared RC helicopters come in various price ranges. Set a budget and decide the features one would like to have. This will help find a suitable model that meets both needs and budget.
The primary purpose of remote-controlled helicopters that use infrared technology is to entertain and amuse users of all ages, from children to adults. They allow users to control the helicopter's movements using a remote control through infrared radiation. The helicopters can be moved up and down and rotated on their axis, giving a basic flight experience. They help improve hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills by requiring precise control and quick reflexes to navigate indoor spaces with the aircraft.
Stability Mechanisms
Some infrared RC helicopters have stability systems like gyroscopes that help maintain balance and control during flight. This is especially important for beginners as it makes learning to fly the helicopter easier.
LED Lights
Many helicopters have bright LED lights for visibility in low-light situations and added realism. The lights make it look cool when flying at night and help avoid collisions.
Rechargeable Batteries
Modern RC helicopters come with built-in rechargeable batteries that are convenient and eco-friendly since one does not have to keep replacing disposable batteries. The batteries allow extended flight times on a single charge.
Multiple Frequencies
Some advanced models use multiple frequencies for the controllers, allowing several helicopters to be flown simultaneously without interfering with each other. This is great for playdates or competitions.
Infrared RC helicopters are designed to be compact and lightweight so they can easily maneuver and hover indoors. Their aerodynamic shapes reduce air resistance, allowing smooth flights. They are made from durable yet light materials like plastics and carbon fiber composites to withstand crashes. The size is determined by the intended users, with larger ones being stable but less agile and vice versa for smaller ones. This also applies to the infrared RC helicopters' performance and parts, as smaller ones have smaller engines, whereas larger ones have more powerful engines. The control system is another design aspect since infrared RC helicopters use basic remote controls using infrared beams for direct control through radio frequency. Additionally, the decorative elements and realistic features such as paintwork, decals, and scale details form the visual appeal of the helicopters. Some toys even have functional elements like moving parts and sound effects.
RC helicopters with infrared technology are designed with various safety features to ensure a safe and enjoyable flying experience. Here are some typical safety features found in these helicopters:
Indoor Use
Many RC helicopters that use infrared for control are specifically developed for indoor flying. This inherently reduces the risks associated with outdoor flying, such as power lines, trees, and other obstacles.
Bumpers and Protective Frames
Many RC helicopters are fitted with protective frames, bumpers, and landing gear that minimize damage to the helicopter and surrounding objects.
Stable Flight Systems
These systems usually help maintain the helicopter's stability and control, thereby making it easier for the pilot to prevent crashes and accidents.
Low Battery Alerts
Many models come with low battery warnings that inform the pilot when the battery power is low. This can prevent sudden power loss while in flight, which can cause crashes.
Automatic Shutdown
Infrared RC helicopters can come with an automatic shutdown feature that turns off the motors and rotor blades when a malfunction is detected or when the helicopter is on the ground for an extended period.
Quality features of infrared RC helicopters often include:
Ease of Control
Infrared RC helicopters usually offer simple and precise control systems. They come with intuitive transmitters with controls for forward, backward, left, right, and altitude adjustments.
Stability
These helicopters come with stability control systems that help maintain a balanced flight, especially for beginners.
Range
These helicopters use infrared systems that have a specified control range. They allow for indoor flying and can also be used in larger spaces.
Durability
These helicopters are made from long-lasting materials that can endure crashes and rough handling.
Battery Life
These helicopters come with long-lasting batteries that allow for extended flight periods on a single charge.
What are the benefits of infrared over other types of RC helicopters?
One of the main benefits of infrared over other types of RC helicopters is that it does not cause interference. Multiple people can fly helicopters using infrared technology at the same time without causing interference to one another. Additionally, infrared is not affected by other radio frequencies, making it more reliable for indoor flying.
Are infrared RC helicopters easy to control?
For the most part, infrared RC helicopters are designed to be easy to control, especially for beginners. Their control systems are built to be intuitive, letting users handle basic moves like ascending, descending, and hovering without much effort. With practice, users can master more advanced maneuvers.
What is the flight time of infrared RC helicopters?
The flight time of infrared RC helicopters usually ranges from 10 to 20 minutes. This largely depends on the model and battery capacity. Higher-end models with better batteries can provide longer flight times.