HOW RC YACHTS WORK

Visitors to the lake often ask how the yachts work. Hopefully on this page we can provide some answers.

A signal to move the rudder (left or right) or sails (in or out) is sent from the handheld transmitter to the receiver on the yacht. With the advance of digital technology more and more yachts and scale boats are now using 2.4 GHz systems. This removes the need to have crystals for a particular frequency. The digital system is more reliable and interference is reduced.

TRANSMITTER

 It is important for control and safety to have a good signal between transmitter and receiver.

EXAMPLE OF A TRANSMITTER BATTERY PACK

 The transmitter operates using a high capacity rechargeable battery pack.

THE CONTROL SIGNAL FROM THE TRANSMITTER IS THEN SENT TO THE ONBOARD RECEIVER

RECEIVER

 The onboard receiver relays the signal to the rudder or sail servo. The cable from the servo connect to the contact points (on lower right).

SERVO

The servo provides the actual movement of rudder or sail (via rods or lines). 

SAIL SERVO WITH CONTROL ARM

The sail servo is usually stronger due to the extra force of the wind on the sails.

SAIL SERVO WINCH

A high capacity sail winch may be used on larger classes of yacht or for finer control input.

EXAMPLE OF RECEIVER BATTERY PACK

A battery pack provides power to the receiver and both servo.

 The receiver pack is generally of 'AA' size and high capacity for extended use.