Compatibility
Compatibility of the controller with specific RC models. For many popular models, their own specialized remote controls are produced, which are initially tailored to the characteristics of a particular model. However, it is often possible to replace the “native” controller with a third-party one - many models of this type are produced with compatibility for a certain list of RC equipment. Before purchasing, it makes sense to check compatibility to avoid unpleasant surprises.
Radio frequency
The frequency at which communication takes place between the controller and the RU model.
In cars and radio-controlled special equipment, the most widely used analog standards are 27, 35, 40, 49 and 75 MHz. The base frequency is considered to be 27 MHz, and other options are used as an alternative to it, which ensures that signals from different remote controls are not mixed when located in the coverage area of several transmitters.
The
915 MHz frequency (or 868 MHz for certain regions) is often used in controllers to control drones using the ELRS protocol (see “Communication Protocol”). It provides increased range but requires large antennas.
Digital data transmission for controlling RC models and quadcopters can be performed at frequencies of
2.4 GHz,
5.1 GHz,
5.8 GHz. A significant advantage of these options is the channel separation technology, thanks to which the remote controls can operate in close proximity to each other without creating problems. The gigahertz bands differ in their communication range and throughput. Note that theoretically the 2.4 GHz frequency may be more susceptible to interference, because Many modern Wi-Fi modules work on it. However, thanks to the aforementioned channel distribution, such problems rarely arise.
Range
The operating range of the transmitter in the control panel, in other words, is the maximum distance that the RC model can move away from the transmitter without losing control. The greater this distance, the more convenient it is to operate the car, but at the same time, powerful “long-range” transmitters have corresponding dimensions, weight and cost. In practice, the range may be less than stated - for example, due to the presence of obstacles in the signal path or due to weak batteries. Therefore, it is best to choose according to this parameter with some reserve.
Built-in speaker
The presence of
a built-in speaker in the controller design.
The specific implementation of this function varies depending on the device itself. In its simplest form, the speaker provides audible warnings about low battery charge, loss of connection with the model, and other problems. The built-in speaker can also play sound effects to confirm the completion of certain actions or commands. And in the most advanced implementations, the speaker is used to provide voice alerts.
HDMI output
HDMI is a digital interface specifically designed for transmitting high-definition video and multi-channel audio. If there is
an HDMI output, the controller can be connected to a TV, monitor or other device to display the image from the RU-model camera on a large screen. The convenience of HDMI lies in the fact that almost all modern video equipment that supports HD standards is equipped with such inputs.
Note that remote controls can be equipped with a smaller version of the connector - miniHDMI or microHDMI. However, finding an adapter cable is usually not a problem; it is often supplied as standard.
Built-in memory
The amount of
built-in memory on board the controller.
Advanced devices are equipped with a data storage device - it is used to store firmware and record video streams from the RU-model camera. The larger the storage capacity, the more filmed videos can be stored in the controller’s memory. On the other hand, this characteristic directly affects the price. It is also worth considering that some remote controls allow you to supplement the built-in storage with a memory card (for more details, see “Card Reader”).
Operating time
Time of continuous operation of the controller without recharging the battery or replacing batteries. When choosing based on this indicator, it is worth considering that it is quite approximate. In practice, operating time strongly depends on the intensity of use of the remote control, and in models powered by replaceable batteries, also on the quality of these elements. Actual autonomy can often be less, and sometimes even more, than declared. However, different models of controllers can be compared based on the operating time on one full charge given in the specifications.
