Mixers And Mixing

[Richard Miller]

The last time I had need for a mixer it was a little mechanical device from DuBro [I think]. Now I read about transmitters that do mixing. How dey do dat?

-Richard

[Dave Robelen]

Hello Richard,
Most of the current transmitters that feature mixing use a microprocesor that is preprogrammed to let the user modify it's parameters. For example, I use a Hitech Prism 7X which offers a variety of prestablished mixes that I can turn on or off. I can also vary the amount of mix, but I am restricted to the pre-established selection of mixes. At the high end, the transmitters allow mixing of pretty much any channel into any other with any amount of mix. All of these are what brought on the term "computer radio" because there is some level of programming done at the factory, and the user can vary the parameters within the program. Beyond that feeble batch of words, I will stick to callling it "magic".
Cheers, Dave

[Richard Miller]

Dave,

I've gotten this far with it: I can pre-mix up elevator with my aileron input for example. What about a V-tail with its two functions?:confused: Do I not still need two servos, and ...?

-Richard

[Dave Robelen]

Hello Richard,
With a V-tail, I would assume two servos. If you are working with a premium transmitter, you can slave (or mix) as many as all of the other channels to any one. Without actually looking at your configuration, it sounds like you are looking for a variety of independent mixes. My poor little Hitech Prism 7x cannot do such a thing, but it may well be possible with some of the units from say, Futaba, JR, etc. Without a manual from them in front of me, I am cautious about speculating on that one. It appears you need some info from an owner or dealer that is really familiar with this gear. My hunch is that they are doing this type of thing for the TOC style machines, but I am not clear on the details. Meanwhile there is always music wire, ball links, and a sketch pad. :)
Regards, Dave

[Richard Miller]

Dave,

A little mechanical mixer, which is simple and light, and is no mystery to use, seems the most sensible alternative to me at this point. Besides, I've got one.

RUD proceeding apace. The smaller horizontal - 31-2% - moves the pilot forward enough to make lots of stuff fall in place. I am pleased with the progress.

-Richard