The neat Micron’s small size is evident in this palm size view
One year ago Precision Heli introduced the Micron the worlds smallest full function sub micro R/C helicopter. This fascinating model has an 8 ¼ inch rotor span, and can be flown just about anywhere! I built my first Micron from a kit. I found it easy to assemble and fun to fly. Precision Heli is continually making improvements to the helicopter. They put all of the upgrades, plus some new developments in the just released Micron V2.
The Micron V2 in flight and close to its builder, Joe Malinchak
The Micron V2 features an all new frame and one peace head assembly. It will be available in ARF, and RTF format. It uses the reasonably priced Blue Arrow components for light weight and reliability.The new frame is really nice. Servo mounts are molded right in. The Blue Arrow 3.6 gram servos slip right into place. The upper main frame assembly holds the servos down, and also has new mounts for the canopy.
View from above shows off the rotor head assembly
The new canopy is held in place on the mounts, and a small piece of Velcro on the bottom of the frame. The Velcro can also be used to mount the battery. The best improvement to the model is the one piece head assembly. The paddles on the old Micron needed to be adjusted after a crash. They also could be easily stripped when retightening.
Frame and Flybar Assembly
The new one piece flybar & paddle assembly is strong and maintenance free! I had a loose receiver crystal that caused me to lose control, and crash into my living room wall at full power. I instinctively reduced my throttle to idle, and examined the crash. I had incurred no damage! I added a coat of solder to my receiver crystal, reinstalled it in the model, and was back in the air in no time.
All RC components make a compact package
The Micron V2 flies great with the stock components that Precision Heli recommends for the model. The 3-in-1 Mixerboard from Blue Arrow weighs 6.4 grams, and features a single-rate gyro, revo mixing, and two ESCs for the main tail motor. I installed mine with servo tape.
The components fit nicely in the helicopter
I found the following settings gave me good flight performance. I adjusted the Mixer setting to the full clockwise position. I turned the D/R counterclockwise to the middle position. I also turned my Gyro counterclockwise to the middle position. Precision Heli told me by turning the D/R setting to a lower setting, it would reduce current consumption, and give me longer flight times.
These are just my recommended starting points. You will want to fine tune the settings to your personal preferences. One nice feature of the Blue Arrow 3-in-1 board is you can change the settings without powering down the helicopter.
Flight Performance
The model is designed to fly indoors or outdoors in calm winds. It is amazingly stable in flight. If you can fly any of the larger fixed pitch helicopters, you can easily learn to fly the Micron V2. The model is very sensitive on the controls. It takes an easy touch and some practice to learn how to hover the model. I have found that if you pop the model out of ground effect, and bring her up a few feet off of the ground, it is easier to control.
The one piece flybar & paddle assembly has predrilled 1mm holes for carbon rod flybar weights. The weights improve the stability, even more for first time Micron pilots. I cut two 1mm carbon rods to 1.5 inch length. I added some flybar weights I had used on my old Micron, and glued them in place. The weights work well, but some control authority is lost. You can experiment with different lengths to find the best stability.
Stable flight is what the Micron does well
Once you get the hang of flying the model, it is fun to take her for a walk around the house. Outside, or in larger indoor facilities, you can do some slow forward flight. I have been getting around 6 minute flight times on the new 2 cell 230 pack that Precision Heli recommends. I also had excellent results with the Atomic 2 cell 220 pack that Bob Selman sells.
Cruising close and slow
Overall, Precision Heli has come up with a winner with the Micron V2! The company is committed to making the best Sub Micro helicopters possible. They also provide excellent customer support. I can’t wait to see what they come out with next! To visit their website, go to www.precisionheli.com For questions, their phone is: 904-825-1171
Micron V2 Specs:
Rotor Fixed Pitch Rotor Diameter: 8.25 inches Length 9 inches
Ready to fly weight as tested: 57 grams Motors: Carbon DC
RC Micro World
September 2006
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