PRODUCT REVIEW
BY JIM RYAN
;e Align T-Rex
500 Pro makes an
excellent platform
for the Align APS
stabilization and
navigation system.
;e APS is suitable
for 3GX-equipped
helis from 450 up to
800 size. (Photo by
Kevin Carroll)
In the last few years, the pace of advances for RC helis has been nothing short of diz- zying. First there was the flybarless revo- lution, making helis easier to build and boosting performance and efficiency. Then came flight stabilization systems, making even larger helis easier and safer to fly. The latest leap forward is GPS-based stabiliza- tion/navigation, and Align’s APS system
offers some remarkable capabilities in a
unit priced for hobbyists.
Not only does APS provide basic flight
leveling and GPS position hold, but it can
Align APS System
Waypoint GPS navigation for RC helis
also fly autonomously to multiple waypoints and return to home either on command or upon loss of signal. This amazing
capability makes it a great fit for large-scale
machines or in-flight video/photography.
It is fascinating technology.
In brief, APS is an add-on system that
can be installed on nearly any Align 3GX-
equipped flybarless heli. The system con-
sists of a main control unit and a separate
GPS/magnetometer unit that mounts on
the tail boom, far away from all electronics
and ferrous metal. Complete hardware is
included for mounting the system on any
450- to 800-size heli, and installation goes
very quickly.
Installation
The APS system comes in a compact box
containing the main module, GPS/magnetometer sensor, complete mounting
hardware, and a mini CD with the software. Installation is straightforward. The
