INSTRUCTION MANUALCongratulations on purchasing probably the most revolutionary aid to model flying ever produced. The aim of HAL is to ease, assist and speed up the process of learning to fly a model aircraft and then to help the smooth and safe progression to higher levels of flight capability such as aerobatics.A simple explanation of the principle behind HAL2100 is that its optical sensors recognise the horizon and return a model to horizontal flight from any position. Whilst horizontal, the optical sensors receive balanced light intensitysignals. If the model then moves from the horizontal, one side of the sensor becomes darker and the other side lighter. This results in the sensor receiving different light intensity signals for each side and, in turn, the electronics of the HAL2100 react and adjust the servos until the light signals are level again. This means that when a problemoccurs whilst flying, the pilot only has to release the sticks to their central position and HAL2100 will automatically bring the aircraft back into straight and level flight.In an aircraft, HAL2100 controls the elevator and aileron functions - in a helicopter, it controls the two swashplate servos. Whilst the pilot is actually flying the aircraft with the sticks, control by HAL2100 is reduced or increased proportionally to the stick movement. This means that the pilot controls the aircraft as long as he holds a stick input, but as

soon as input ceases HAL2100 takes control and returns the model to horizontal flight.HAL can be used by pilots of all abilities, as by using a free channel on the transmitter, the pilot can adjust the output •Mixing Gain' or 'Sensitivity' from zero to 100 during the flight. This means that a beginner can start with a 'High Gain' and reduce it as he progresses or a competent pilot can use 'Low Gain' on calm days and 'High Gain' on windy days to smooth manoeuvres. HAL is also ideal for specialmodels such as 'twins' where HAL will automatically stabilise the model if an engine cuts or scale models where flight stability can be a problem.INSTALLING THE SENSORThe sensor has four light entry holes which are situated at 90° to each other. Two holes at 180° are termed as an 'axis' of the sensor. The sensor therefore has two 'axes'. On top of the sensor case there are two small arrows

(Diag 1). One of these arrows should point forwards, depending on which configuration ('+' or 'x') is used. The sensor is normally mounted in the '+' configuration (Diag. 2). This is with the one axis pointing front to rear of the model and the other from side to side. The sensor can befixed in almost any position on a model as long as each sensor hole has a completely clear view. You must, for instance, ensure that the undercarriage or silencer doesnot

interrupt the sensor's view of the horizon. If it is not possible to mount the sensor with an uninterrupted view the sensor can be rotated 45° to the 'X' position (Diag 2).In one of these positions the sensor will have an uninterrupted view. If the sensor is mounted in the 'X' position, the switch in the control unit must be reset to the 'X' position (see Diag 7). Control response is the same in either position. When mounting the sensor it is critical that both

sensor axes are parallel to the elevator of the model when looked at from the front or side (Diag.3/4). The reason for this is that it is the elevator that controls the attitude of the model and so if the sensor is parallel to the elevator the model will fly at the same attitude with the sensor engaged.

For absolute beginners, contrary to the above, it is advisable to install the sensor with the front edge pointing slightly downwards, 2-3°, so that the model will fly a little bit 'nose up' (Diag. 5). ,Doing this will always ensure that the model will not fly 'nose down' if the sensor has been wrongly mounted. It also helps the beginner with unaided landing attempts.To install the sensor, make a 10mm hole through the fuselage, wing or wherever you have decided to mount it. Pass the sensor leads through the hole and then through the washer and nut. Tighten the nut finger tight, final tightening can be done later once the sensor direction has been checked.

Important Notes: Sensor Unit - because of their construction the actual internal sensors have a memory effect. This means that if the sensor unit has been left in the dark for a long period, such as at delivery time or when modelis stored, the sensor may not initially work correctly.

The sensor must be left in daylight or a bright area for at least 12hrs after removal from the dark in order to adjust and balance itself. Once balanced and left in normal day to day conditions the sensor will perform correctly. The sensor can be made operational more quickly by removing the top of the sensor (2 screws) and then placing the sensor under a bright lamp for 1 -2 hours.It is also important to note that because HAL is

based on optical sensors which use light intensity/contrast to control the attitude of the model, different light conditions such as very intense sunlight or conditions with no sky to ground contrast, can affect the performance. Experience will highlight what makes conditions difficult for HAL2100 to operate correctly and it is recommended that all your initial flights are made on days with normal (not extreme) lightconditions.

MOUNTING POSITIONSWe recommend that the sensor is fixed underneath themodel. This ensures that there is the minimum of disturbing influences. You must ensure that the sensor is not in the direct line of the exhaust. Before each flight it is necessary to check that there are no obstructions such as grass, dirt, oil etc. that could affect the sensor.We do not recommend mounting the sensor on top of the model, even though it has this capability, as in very bright sunlight, HAL2100 will try to turn the model directly towards the sun and then induce a level, downward flight path.Additionally if you are trying to fly in winter with snow on ground on a bright, sunny day, it is possible that HAL2100 will not work perfectly because the contrast' in light between the ground and the sky is marginal (see suggestions above regarding light conditions).

HAL INSTALLATIONBefore installing the HAL processor unit, connect yourradio normally and check that all the controls function correctly and in the right directions. If one works in the wrong direction, use the transmitter reversing switch to correct it. Now disconnect the aileron and elevator servo leads from the receiver.SERVO CONNECTIONS TO HAL (Diag.6)

Connect the Elevator servo to the socket marked Elevator.Connect the Aileron servo to the socket marked Aileron 1.

Connect the 2nd Aileron servo to the socket markedAileron 2 only if a second aileron servo is used.With two wing servos a Y-lead can also be used with just Aileron l but this means any servo direction changes would have to be made mechanically not electronically.CONNECTIONS TO THE RECEIVER & SENSORThe connecting leads from HAL run in a specific order from top to bottom with the case label facing you.

Lead 1 - Elevator - Black plug- connect to the elevator channel in the receiver

Lead 2 - Aileron 1 - Black plug- connect to the aileron channel in the receiver

Lead 3 - Aileron 2 - Black plug- connect to the 2nd aileron channel

(when using 2 aileron servos)Lead 4 - Gain - Red plug

- connect to a spare rotary or slider channelLead 5 - Sensor - Red plug

- connect to sensorLead 6 - Sensor - Red plug

- connect to sensor

Once the above connections have been made, HAL2100 is ready to be tested. There is no power input for HAL2100 because the power is taken from the main ni-cad via the receiver connections.

Note: The use of ni-cads is strongly recommended with HAL2100. Even though HAL2100 only draws 30mA, the servos are far more active and so a higher overall current drain is experienced.SET UP & ADJUSTMENTOnce connected, switch on the transmitter and then the receiver. It is possible that due to the light in tie room, there will be some servo movement. If this is the case, move the selected rotary/slider channel to the 'OFF' position so that HAL2100 is turned off. Decide which way round you want the 'Gain' to operate (0-100) and programme your transmitter (Tx) accordingly.Now increase the 'Gain' steadily. Just after the point on the function channel where HAL2100 is 'OFF' the 'Gain' control starts. The more the 'Gain' function is increased from the 'OFF' position, the

more HAL2100 stabilises and levels. The maximum HAL2100 'Gain' control is reached atthe opposite end to the 'OFF' position. During flight, the ‘Gain' is used to adjust the response to the suit the needs of the individual model and/or pilot. Every model needs a different Gain control setting, depending, for example, on the speed or other aerodynamic peculiarities of the model. Generally speaking, the mid position of the 'Gain' channel is the best for initial testing.If no 'Gain' control is to be used there is a jumper connect or inside the control unit. With the jumper connected the unit has an 80%'Gain' and with the jumper disconnected 30%‘Gain'. To set the 'Gain', undo the two case screws, refit the case.Switch 'OFF' HAL2100 with the function control.Now you must check that HAL2100 is giving the correct response to the servos. For this it is best to use a torch. Move the 'Gain' channel to maximum. Shine the torch into the sensor from the front of the model. The elevator servoshould move downwards (to adjust the direction (see later in the instructions). Now with the model facing away from you, shine the torch into the sensor from the left side of themodel. The aileron servo should turn the model left (left aileron up - right, aileron down). If the wrong servo moves, the sensor must be turned 90° left or right. Repeat this test until you achieve the correct result. The movements are:light from Front - down elevator, Rear - up elevator, Left - left aileron, Right - right aileron.Important Notes:If what appears to be severe interference is experienced it is possible that HAL is interfering with the receiver. This is because HAL has an internal clock crystal. If this is experienced change crystals to another channel - above channel 65 (35MHz) as channels below 65 are most likely to beaffected. If a change of channel is required, always carry out a full range check. With the transmitter aerial retracted and with the model and transmitter switched on, walk away from the model. Full control - with no interference -should be possible at distances in excess of 50 yards. If interference or loss of control is experienced, either change the crystal and try again or have your radio serviced.‘X' POSITION CONFIGURATIONIf the sensor is mounted in the 'X' configuration, reset the switch to the 'X' position and then repeat the torch test. This time because each sensor axis is detecting two angular movements, two control surfaces will operate. Light from Front Left - left aileron and down elevator. Rear Left - left aileron and up elevator, Front Right - right aileron anddown elevator, Rear Right - right aileron and

up elevator.SERVO DIRECTIONIf a servo does not move in the correct direction the corresponding switch must be reversed in the control unit (see Diag 7). Attention must be paid when using two aileron servos if both servos are moving in the same direction. In this case, the switch for aileron 2 must be reversed as well and the test repeated.Once all the tests have been completed at home using a torch, they should then be done outside in daylight. Hold <he model away from you and tilt the model 'nose down' and the elevator should move up. Tilt the model 'left wing down' and the ailerons should respond with right aileron. Adjusting the 'Gain' will give different levels of response.FAILSAFEWith PCM systems HAL can be used in conjunction with ttre failsafe functions. Set the 'Gain' channel failsafe to between 50-75. Set the elevator failsafe to basically neutral but with a slight amount of up trim. Aileron and rudder failsafe to neutral and the throttle should be set to closed. Should the receiver go into failsafe the model will then level itself and glide in a flat, slightly nose up attitude. If a turning flight path is preferred program in some left or right rudder - leave the aileron channel at neutral.FlYING YOUR MODELExperienced modellers should fly their aircraft to a reason able height before switching on HAL2100 via the 'Gain' channel. Attention: Control of the model will feel different with HAL because it wilt now always try to regain horizontal and level flight as soon as the stick is released or moved back towards the centre. Additionally the more the ‘Gain' is increased, the stronger the response to return to a horizontal and level flight path will be. Obviously, this will be felt more by an experienced modeller than by a beginner. For a beginner the feeling is of a positive, responsiveaircraft that has no vices.

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR BEGINNERSA model aircraft is a dangerous machine and must always be treated with the respect and responsibility it deserves It is therefore strongly recommended that all beginners join their local model flying club where an experienced flyercan test fly and trim their model. This is even more important with HAL2100 as it can stabilise a model with an incorrect set up or with peculiar flight characteristics. It is obviously far better to learn to fly with a model that is perfectly trimmed before HAL2100 is used.

After the model has been trimmed, it is again strongly advised that a beginner has several

flying sessions with an experienced pilot on hand to assist. Your local shop can advise of the best place to learn.If, however, you decide to 'go it alone' without an instructor, we strongly recommend that you follow these simple rules:-• Only fly a slow beginner's model or trainer• The centre of gravity must be adjusted correctly• The engine must run perfectly from idle to full power

- especially reliably at idle• All recommended pre-flight control checks with the

radio must be done (see radio manual)• The batteries must be fully charged. Only ni-cadsshould be used with HAL for safety reasons• A radio range test must be carried out• Only fly in a large clear area where there are noobstructions, buildings or people• Obtain 3rd party insurance cover

FlyingStart the model and check the control surfaces work in the correct direction and the motor is performing correctly. It is recommended that a small amount of 'up' elevator trim is used for take off. Set the HAL2100 'Gain' to 75-80. If no gain control is used, ensure that the jumper is connected. Point the model into wind and open the throttle smoothly.

As the model accelerates maintain the direction into wind with the rudder. Once flying speed has been reached apply a very small amount of back stick. After take off, allow the model to gain height on its own. Do not try to control the ailerons or elevator. If a direction change is needed, use a little rudder. When it has reached a safe height, minimum 30 metres (100ft)reduce the throttle to half power and start to manoeuvre the model.When controlling a model, all the transmitter stick movements are small and progressive. Do not start by giving full left or right aileron. First inputs should move the stick left or right, up or down, no more than 5mm. Don't forget you pull back on the elevator stick to go up. Start with a little left input, see the models reaction and then release the stick. Try again. To continue the turn, hold the stick at the desired angle of bank and the aircraft will continue to turn. If the nose starts to drop, at the same time as holding in the turn, apply a little up elevator to maintain the height. Do a complete circuit

left and then try one to the right.Remember, to make the model turn, climb or descend, it is necessary to hold in the stick input as when it is released the aircraft will automatically return to the horizontal. Only very small amounts of stick input are needed. If at any time, you find yourself in a position where you cannot judge what the model is doing, or the model is in at a dangerous attitude release the sticks immediately and allow the model to regain horizontal and level flight. If the model is flying away from you and you don't know which direction to turn it, move the aileron trim slightly to one side and wait until you see the direction the model is flying in. You can then try to control the model again and return it closer to you.LANDING HAL2100 can assist beginners tremendously with landing. Circle the field until the model is in line with the landing area, approximately 50-100 feet high, 100-150 yards out. Close the throttle smoothly and let the model descend onits own. It will help if a little back trim (nose up) is fed in, at the time the throttle is cut. This will slow the model and make the approach and landing easier. If the model is falling short of the runway or landing area, a little power can be added, and steering can be achieved by using the rudder. Do not touch the aileron stick. If the model is over-shooting, open the throttle and go round for another try. Just before touch down an experienced modeller will apply a little back elevator stick to 'flare' the aircraft and reduce its decent speed on to the ground.As you progress with teaming to fly, practice does make perfect and learning will take time, slowly reduce the 'Gain' until you are flying without HAL engaged.FLYING HELICOPTERSThe HAL2100 can be used to hover perfectly. As long as the sensor is mounted on the fuselage with its axes at 90° to the rotor shaft, HAL2100 will move the swashplate and therefore the main rotor.to horizontal and the helicopter will hover, only moving with the wind or if forward motion hasbeen induced by a pibt input. This means that the beginner only has to concentrate on two functions, the tail rotor (already assisted by the gyro) and the pitch. This will help to make learning to fly a helicopter much faster. Please Note: HAL will only level the helicopter, it will not control the height, fuselage rotation or model directional movement.

SUPPORTIf you at any stage have a problem with your HAL system please consult your model shop or the Ripmax customer service help line. Remember flying a model is not an exact science, questions and problems do occur and it is better to ask than crash your model.

We wish you lots of fun flying with HAL2100.

HAL 2100 Product ListP-HAL2100 HAL 2100 Autopilot System

CompleteP-HAL2100-05 Spare Sensor - Dome type.P-HAL2100-10 Fuselage Sensor - Single AxisP-HAL2100-11 Pitot Sensor- Single Axis

WarrantyThis product is guaranteed to be free from any manufacturer's faults or defects for a period of six months. During this period any fault will be corrected without cost to the purchaser.DisclaimerDue to the nature of R/C model flying, we cannot accept any liability for consequential damage which may occur when the product is being operated, as its operation is not under our control. The installation and use of this product is an acceptance by the user of this disclaimer. This does not affect your statutory rights or the manufacturer's standard warranty.Manufactured by: Ripmax Plc,

241 Green Street,Enfield,EN3 7SJ.U.K.

Telephone: 01818048272Fax: 01818041217