Guide to RC Cars

Radio controlled (or R/C) cars are battery/gas-powered model cars or trucks that can be controlled from a distance using a specialized transmitter or remote. The term "R/C" has been used to mean both "remote controlled" and "radio controlled", where "remote controlled" includes vehicles that are connected to their controller by a wire, but common use of "R/C" today usually refers to vehicles controlled by a radio-frequency link. - Wikipedia

In fact, a radio-controlled car consists of two parts: the car itself, which contains everything necessary for operation at the user's direction, as well as a radio transmitter or remote control, which is used to give commands to the car.

    What is a Radio-controlled car

    RC models and RC toys are often confused by those not familiar with RC modelism. Many assume that they are the same, viewing them as mere toys for children. However, this is far from the truth. RC models are suitable for all ages and there are even models so advanced that they cannot be considered toys. The differences between the two are significant. Toys, being toys, are made of cheap plastic and have limited remote control functionality. They lack the ability to replace broken parts or install upgrades.

    RC model cars have a level of complexity that far surpasses that of a simple toy. They consist of various components that can be replaced with spare parts, allowing for easy repairs if they break. Additionally, there are numerous upgrades and tuning parts available to enhance their performance. These model cars are equipped with advanced electronics that enable precise control, exceptional maneuverability, and higher speeds overall. Depending on your specific needs and preferences, there is a wide range of RC model cars available in different sizes and categories. These include casual and racing models, on-road and off-road vehicles, as well as electric-powered and fuel-powered options. While they may come at a higher price point compared to toy cars, RC model cars offer much more than just a simple plaything.

      Difference between a model car and a toy

      When it comes to controlling RC model cars, the radio controller offers a level of control that is far superior to that of a toy car. While a toy car can only be either stopped or moving at full speed, an RC model car allows for precise control of both steering and speed. The transmitters used for RC model cars allow the user to determine the level of steering and speed they desire, with numerous intermediate states available between braking and maximum speed. The amount of steering input is directly proportional to the rotation of the steering wheel on the transmitter, resulting in incredibly accurate control of the model's movements, even at high speeds.

        Proportional Radio Transmitter

        With a universal chassis, RC model cars offer the opportunity for owners to customize their vehicles by easily swapping out different bodies. This allows for a variety of looks without the need to purchase a new model. The bodies themselves are typically constructed from Lexan, a durable and flexible polycarbonate plastic material that is cost-effective. This ensures that the body will last for an extended period of time. To further enhance the realism, the bodies can be painted in various colors and decals can be applied. Users have the option to either paint the bodies themselves or choose from pre-painted options with decals already applied, making them ready for immediate installation and use.

          One chassis, different bodies

          All models contain a certain standard set of electronics. These are an electric motor, a speed controller, a servo, a gyroscope (for drift models), a receiver and a battery. The receiver receives signals from the transmitter and transmits commands to the servo and the speed controller. The speed controller supplies current to the motor. In drift models, a gyroscope is installed between the receiver and the servo. The gyroscope corrects the movement of the servo, thereby helping to keep the model in drift.

            Electric Components

            All components can be purchased at hobby stores. For example: RC Mart, Hobby King, Drifted.nl etc.

            3D printed models also require some standard non-printed components such as bearings, bolts, magnets. It is better to order them on Aliexpress. On Aliexpress, these parts will cost less than in hobby stores.

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