TERRY DUNN
terrydunn74@gmail.com
The UMX FPV Radian is a smooth, easy-flying
airplane. Rookie FPV pilots should have no trouble adjusting to the nuances of flying with goggles.
Photos by Terry Dunn
through a slot in the fuselage. Two small screws hold it in position. The only other component to add is the tiny FPV camera/video transmitter. The bottom of the camera’s base matches the contour of the upper fuselage. I used the included two-sided tape to affix the unit in place, paying close attention to set the correct alignment. It is worth noting that an FCC
license is not required to operate this FPV equipment. Although its range is somewhat limited, that isn’t much of a factor with the Radian. Given the airplane’s small size, you won’t want to venture far. You’ll be fine as long as you keep the model close enough for your spotter to clearly see it. I linked the Radian to my Spektrum
DX8 transmitter and followed the control throw suggestions listed in the manual. The entire process required only a few minutes of simple programming. I also verified that the stabilization system was operating correctly. With the battery placed near the
rear of its mounting area, I was able to achieve the suggested center of gravity without adding ballast. I measured the
A single-cell 150 mAh LiPo battery powers both the model and the onboard FPV system. >> watch a video of this sailplane in flight at
THEPARKPILOT.ORG 17
ready-to-fly weight and found it to be 48 grams (1.7 ounces), which is just shy of the advertised weight. I didn’t wear the goggles for my initial
flights with the UMX FPV Radian. Logging a few flights via line of sight gave me the opportunity to trim it out and gather a feel for its handling qualities. Now with dozens of flights in the logbook, I am just as apt to fly with or without goggles. Both methods are fun.
Every Radian flight begins with a
gentle hand launch. You won’t need an assistant. It’s as easy as throwing a paper airplane. I usually add power before the launch. It is just as effective to throw the model with the motor off and then spool it up to climb away. At full power, the UMX FPV Radian
will maintain a steady, gentle climb. After a few quick circuits, the model is usually at a good height to shut down the motor for gliding. When the throttle is at idle, the propeller blades fold back to decrease drag. I enjoy the challenge
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