Just got into flying! AM or FM?

[fj40maxx]

I just got started in model airplanes and am looking for an inexpensive radio. I have found a few AM sets that were really cheap, but a couple people have told me that they are not worth buying, and that I should get an FM set. Please let me know what I should do. I don't have a lot to spend, but I don't want to wreck my plane either. Thank You.

[Dave Robelen]

Hi fj40maxx,
A lot depends on the quality and condition of your AM equipment. If it is from a reputable manufacturer and in good working condition, there is no reason it would wreck your plane. Some (actually most) early AM receivers were too broad band to avoid interference from other flyers on nearby channels, but if yours is less than 5 years old that should not be a problem.
The industry is moving to FM in general because it is much simpler to design and produce an FM transmitter that does not have excessive emmisions on some other band or channel. This is why you see so much new equipment offered only in FM.
Regards, Dave

[fj40maxx]

Thanks for the advice Dave, the transmitter I have is an old Futaba FP-T4L. It is on channel 46 and seems to work o.k. does FM have a farther range than AM? What would be the expected range for my radio? Thanks again for your help.

[Dave Robelen]

Hi fj40maxx,
The range for an FM or AM unit should be about the same when both are in good condition. You should be able to get 800-100' on the ground and much more in flight.
Regards, Dave