Hi All,

I am planning to change the rx power system on my Evo50  from NiCd to Lipo or Life. (Please suggest which is better and which brand)

I am using 4.8 volt Futaba S9524 on the tail hence want to put a voltage regulator. I have shortlisted the Gryphon GVR-7020B Voltage Regulator. (Please advice whether it is O.K.)

http://www.helidirect.com/gryphon-extremeheli-dcdc-voltage-regulator-black-gvr7020b-p-20198.hdx

Thanks

Arun

Looks like a high end device.  In this high-end space, I have seen the Scott-Gray (SG) Reactor-X by people like Lukas Riva.  This product (Graphon) seems like a good long term investment, which can come in handy even when you move from helis on to bigger planes (that use lots of digital servos).

One thing that is missing (and can be bought as an addon for the Graphon) is a glow igniter.

What I have been using, everyone else on our field has been using, and what I have been recommending... is something that costs less than half the price is these two products together :

http://www.infinity-hobby.com/main/product_info.php?products_id=1873
http://www.infinity-hobby.com/main/product_info.php?products_id=2338

This setup also provides the glow igniter facility.  Note that this is built for 2s lipos (so LiFe would be incompatible).

For your heli needs this should be more than enough, as I see people doing hard 3D use the same without any issues.

Dear Anwar Bhai,

Thanks a lot for your prompt reply.

I really liked the Gryphon regulator, cant understand why and placed an order for the same with Helipros @ USD 99 including shipping.

I appreciate your advice for the align 2 in 1 regulator as it is the best value for money and a great product.

Now this is really confusing - Life or Lipo - Which Brand is reliable - Local Source for the same ?

Thanks a ton.

Arun

But, I have got one problem,

The voltage regulator surely extend the flight time but in the cost of Battery life. It will allow battery to go more deep discharge sacrificing the current.

To take same power from less voltage source, it must take more power and surely faster discharge rate with more deep discharge.

Better I suggest to use separate cell. Use lightweight cordless NiMH cells for Rx+Servo and Maim Power Battery(LiPO) for main motor + Tail Motor Power. Of course, you can use low AH LiPos for this also.

The leftmost cell is 3.6V,2200mAH costs Rs 90/-(30gm+-) and 300mAH NiCD cell in the right costs Rs. 45/- (10g+-).

Arun,
I use LiFePo4 ( Hyperion Brand as well as A123 ) for my Helis. No regulator needed. Voltage is 6.6V and works awesome. I never like regulators, as it introduces a point of failure.
I also use Gryphon onboard blow driver, and its such a good device. I do not need to remember to charge the glow heater, and no need for the ever-problematic glow extension cables.

Would recommend you use LiFe ( as long as your RX/Servos support it ), and go in for the Gryphon glow driver.You will love it, i am sure.

-Gaurav

Not sure about the additional point of failure part.  If the product is proven, you trust it just like your receiver. Been flying one for over 2.5years now.

But A123s have other advantages, and they tilt the equation in their favor, unless you already own a bunch of them from your foamies !

One point to note with the LiFe setup (which is a good alternative to regulator + lipo)... remember to use the step-down between the gyro and tail servo, if the tail servo does not support 6volts.

Anwar Bhai & Gaurav - Thanks for your valuable feedback & help.

I got the Regulator today. I will be posting the pictures soon.

Anwar Bhai,

Thanks. I was planning to buy the Hyperion 3800 life battery from RCforall. While going thru the picture I found that the balance connector on the battery will not fit my G.T. Power charger. I have already wasted a lot of time in tinkering my heli and I dont want to get into anymore trouble of changing the connector, hence decided to go with Tahmazo 2600 mah (35C) lipo for the time being. Still I am very afraid of using the lipo due to varios post that I have come across.

I will be very greatful if you can advice some do's and dont's with lipo.

Regards
Arun

First of all, I hope your lipo is 2s, not 3s.

About lipos, not much can be said other than what is discussed here (especially the first few posts) :

http://www.rcindia.org/batteries-and-chargers/taking-care-of-lipos/

This is also good :

http://www.rcindia.org/batteries-and-chargers/introduction-video-for-lipo-batteries/

I have ordered this lipo from Singahobby

http://shop.singahobby.com/?q=node/18531