Flying a drone does take some practice. It is best that those just getting into the hobby first receive an inexpensive model.
Instructions do come with most toy models, and there is a handheld remote control.
However, it is not at all that easy.
Know the Lingo
Knowing the language is important for flying. Some of this is simple to remember regarding the drone, but you will likely have to remember much more than just a few initials and what they mean.
Let’s start with a few of the easy things you must remember when flying a drone, which is also called a UAV.
RTF means ready to fly, but this does not mean you will not have to charge the batteries or connect the remote control to the drone when you open the package. BNF means bind-and-fly.
This means the drone does not have a transmitter, and you must find one that uses the same manufacturer’s protocol.
If you are unsure what you are looking for here, ask someone who either knows or has purchased an RTF.
An ARF is similar to a kit, which means it is almost ready to fly. This one should be left to the enthusiasts and hobbyists who know what they are doing and what they will need to complete this drone.
This one will most likely be missing a few things. The line of sight is the distance that you can still see your drone. First-person view (FPV) is what you see through the drone’s camera.
The transmitter or remote control is the part you hold on to to direct and adjust your drone. The transmitter controls the propellers, which spin the drone.
When it comes to controlling the drone, most have the remote’s left stick control throttle and twist at a vertical axis, and the right stick controls roll and pitch.
With the remote control, pushing the right stick to the left or right will roll the drone. Pushing the right stick forward or backward will pitch (or tilt) the craft.
This will allow it to move backward or forward. To twist (yaw) the drone, push the left stick to the left or the right. The throttle is engaged when the left stick is pushed forward.
Trimming (or trim) means you can adjust any of the above directions if you are off balance. You can do this by using the buttons on the remote control.
When you hear the term rudder, it means the same as a twist (yaw). Aileron means the same as a roll. When you hear The Elevator, it simply means controlling the pitch.
Pre-Flight
It is always in your best interest to ensure that everything is in full working order before the flight.
One of the main reasons this is so important is the possibility of losing the drone if something fails if it is not checked before the flight.
A simple example would be that you could have inadvertently placed a battery in your drone that was not at full charge.
You should always check:
- SD card securely in place for camera drones
- Battery fully charged in remote control
- Battery fully charged in drone
- Battery inserted correctly and secure
- Propellers secure
- Check for missing or loose parts and screws
- Make sure your drone is calibrated
- Make enough room for the launch
- The throttle (left stick) should be in the down position
- Turn on the remote control
- Give your drone plenty of space for launching
- Keep your eye on your drone at all times
Finding Your Space Lift-Off
Beginners should always find an open area away from other people and pets.
A drone is considered an RCMA (Radio-Controlled Model Aircraft) and, depending on the model and your location, may need to be registered with the FAA.
Before trying any of this, remember that there is no time limit to learning; just feel comfortable here.
Go at your own pace.
- The best idea is to practice with one control, the throttle. The left stick can be very sensitive or may take a bit to engage your drone. Either way, you must know how your craft will react to your remote when you push the throttle up slowly. Once you are comfortable with the throttle, check for any imbalances. Use your trim buttons to even your craft.
- Now, add hovering as your next step. Use the throttle (left stick) again to gain altitude, and then use the roll (right stick) with small adjustments to hover. You may need to use the left stick to yaw (twist) by slightly adjusting it to keep the drone from flipping. Cut back on the throttle slowly to land. Practice this a few times. Once you feel comfortable with this, it is time to fly your drone.
- Go through the steps above and hold the right stick in the direction you want the drone to go. Do not let the drone get away from you. It would be best if you stayed in control of the craft. Once you feel comfortable and are able to control the drone properly, you are well on your way to enjoying a new hobby!
