RC Helicopter Simulators
As with airplane simulators, RC helicopter flight simulators have come a long way. From weak graphics, they have evolved into programs you can immerse yourself in.
The remote control simulator software for helicopters is very similar to the airplane software, and in most cases is sold as a single package. In other cases, the helicopter simulations are sold as add on programs to the main software. The RC helicopter, like its real counterpart, is quite a bit different in its handling and flight characteristics from an RC airplane. If you are planning on flying RC helicopters, it is important to make sure that your selection is designed for them and not just for airplanes.
The basic difference in helicopter flight and airplane flight is in the taking off and landing. The helicopter does not need a runway, and its ability to move straight up and down as well as hover requires much less space for flight. This is one of the things that have made RC helicopters increasingly popular in the RC hobby field.
The top rated simulators for airplanes are also the best for helicopters. An example is the Great Planes RealFlight B3.5 simulator. This top of the line software program comes with an assortment of airplane and helicopter types. It also features a great many "add on" to increase the number and variety of models. Each add on gives you something like fourteen different planes and four or five new helicopter models from which to chose.
Some RC simulators are available online as downloads. One of the highest rated of this type is the Clearview RC Flight Simulator. Although you have to pay to download the software, this is a very advanced simulator. It is especially attractive to helicopter fans because although the program is for both planes and helicopters, it talks of its helicopter models first as if they are most proud of their variety there. The Clearview RC Simulator is designed to use a variety of controls. It is possible to control it via your keyboard. For advanced users, a handheld transmitter is used and attached to the PC with a USB cable.
The ability to simulate all types of conditions and flying areas and control the program with a transmitter similar to the actual one is the true advantage of RC simulation programs. It is a way to learn to fly your RC model in safety. It is the place to learn without risking your expensive models. There is a certain amount of risk involved in RC flight, but the trained operate can minimize this greatly.
