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The computer flight simulator is rapidly becoming an accepted accessory for the R/C helicopter pilot. The advantages of these gadgets are obvious; you can practice those tricky maneuvers in complete safety, and of course they give you something to fly when the weather isn't being too pleasant. The standard of these simulations is improving all the time, and this month we're concentrating on HELIX, a relative newcomer to the scene from Flight Dynamics Ltd. in England.
HELIX is immediately striking, not just because of the attention to detail that has gone into the design, but because it is unique in being a simulator that you can actually fly using your own transmitter. The simulator comes bundled with the CR-1 computer receiver that plugs into a COM port on your PC, and you just drop in the appropriate single conversion receiver crystal and away you go. The CR-1 is available in versions for 35, 36, 40, 41 or 72 MHz. If you don't want to transmit when you use HELIX, it also gives you the option of using a buddy box lead if you have a Futaba or JR transmitter. Naturally, all the programmable functions in your Tx will work with HELIX, so you can use the simulator to get the hang of programming the Tx. If you don't have a programmable radio, then don't worry, because HELIX comes with a built-in full function programmable radio with unlimited model memories. This means that you can fly the simulator with anything from a simple 4-channel set up to the top of the range of modern computer radios.
The realism of a simulation depends a lot on the equations used to replicate the behavior of the helicopter. The equations in HELIX are of the "full-force" type, which means that all the forces and torques acting on the helicopter are evaluated 36 times per second and the computer calculates the correct movements of the helicopter in response to these. The HELIX equations are now being evaluated by a commercial manufacturer for inclusion in full-size military flight simulators.
COMPUTER REQUIREMENTS
HELIX needs an IBM-compatible PC of at least 386 standard, plus a math coprocessor (387) and VGA graphics. If you have a 486, so much the better (although it must be a DX, since the SX doesn't have the coprocessor). The faster the processor the smoother the graphics are, but you can turn down the detail level if you have a slower machine. Only 1 MB of RAM is needed, and the program takes up less than 1 MB of disk space. A SoundBlaster or compatible card is advised, but some engine sounds are put through the PC speaker if you don't have one.
INSTALLATION
Installation of HELIX couldn't be easier. The package comprises the CR-1 receiver, software disk and a manual. The receiver has a 9-pin connector and plugs into a spare COM port, and the software installs itself quickly from the floppy disk into a HELIX directory. Typing "helix" starts the program and the correct COM port can be selected from the options menu.
FLYING THE SIMULATOR
OK, we're ready to go. The default model is the Beta-XT, a 30-size trainer with very docile characteristics. Choosing "fly" from the main menu puts you in the hot seat with the heli on the ground about 6 feet in front of you. A faint burbling from the SoundBlaster reminds you that the engine is idling and advancing the throttle increases the engine and rotor speeds realistically. Before lift-off, the heli becomes light on the skids, and can even be rocked around. This is because HELIX accurately models the response of the undercarriage and ground - a feature not normally found on heli simulators. For novices this is a very important feature since landing is one of the most difficult tasks to master, so the simulator needs the right response when the skids touch down.
Raising the throttle a bit more lifts us up and you will be amazed at just how realistic the response is. Flying the model around shows off just how good the graphics are. Some heli sims look like the model is made from a bag of sticks, or pieces of cardboard, but the HELIX models are chunky 3D entities which look superb.
SUMMARY
HELIX is one of the most exciting R/C products to hit the market in recent times. A lot of thought has been put into making the simulator exactly what a R/C flyer requires, and eliminating the computerish nonsense that clutters up many other sims. The CR-1 receiver concept is a real gem and works flawlessly. The behavior of the models is realistic and believable and the graphics are smooth and convincing. Obviously no simulator is a substitute for real flying, but HELIX is about as close as it gets. If you are tempted by HELIX, then you can try it yourself by getting hold of a copy of the demo version of the software. Obviously you won't be able to fly this, but you can view some flight recordings and explore all the menus and programming functions. The demo is available from most good hobby stores (you might have to pay a small fee for copying the disk, but this should be refundable when you buy HELIX), or you can download it from CompuServe or Hobbies and Helis. Alternatively you can dial up the Flight Dynamics BBS on +44 1793 820266 for a copy.
HELIX is exclusively distributed in the U.S. by Hobbies & Helis International (610-282-4811). Check with your local Hobby Store or HHI for more information. The US version comes bundled with a buddy-box cord for JR or Futaba radios. For other countries, contact Swindon Model Centre on 01793-526878 (England), Modellsport Verlag GmbH 07221-95210 (Germany), HT Trading on Amal 950229 (Sweden) or Helicopter Connections on 03-399-9708 (Australia).
Some exciting developments are underway at Flight Dynamics, and the release of the fixed wing version of HELIX is due later in the year. Registered users get the next major upgrade free, and this means that users of the current version (1.01) will get the fixed wing edition (1.10) when it is released later this year.
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