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KAVAN Alpha 1500mm - Instruction manual

DISCONTINUEDKAVAN Alpha - blue
KAV02.8075

KAVAN Alpha - blue

DISCONTINUEDKAVAN Alpha - black
KAV02.8076

KAVAN Alpha - black

Introduction​

Congratulations on your purchase of the Alpha, motor-powered glider. You are about to embark on a magical journey into the fascinating world of electric-powered RC aeroplanes.

The Alpha is made of EPO (expanded polyolefin) foam. A 2.4GHz radio, brushless motor and LiPo battery provide the equipment for flight training.

Alpha is not just an entry-level plane but actually a high-performance thermal glider that will please any Sunday pilot, newcomer, or even seasoned pro.

Features​

  • 100% factory-made, partially assembled model
  • Aileron, elevator, rudder and throttle control
  • Easy handling, high stability and a durable, high-performance electric motor-powered glider
  • Advanced 2.4GHz eight-channel radio (RTF set only)
  • Powerful brushless outrunner motor
  • Large wing area, low weight
  • Lightweight LiPo flight pack (RTF set only)
  • Fast charger for the flight pack (RTF set only)

Technical specifications​

Wingspan1492 mm
Length985 mm
All-up weight780–810 g
Wing area21.8 dm²
Wing loading35.8–37.2 g/dm²
PropulsionBrushless C2217-1200 outrunner
ESCKAVAN R-30B 30 A with BEC 5 V

Safety precautions​

This RC model is not a toy. Use it with care and strictly follow the instructions in this manual.

Assemble the model according to these instructions. Do not make unapproved structural or power-system modifications. Check that the completed model is safe and sound before flying.

Children under the age of 14 must operate the model under the supervision of an adult.

Assure that the model is in perfect condition before every flight, taking care that all the equipment works correctly and that the model is undamaged in its structure.

Fly only on days with a light breeze and in a safe place away from any obstacles.

General warnings​

An RC aeroplane is not a toy! If misused, it can cause serious bodily harm and damage to property. Fly only in a safe place following all instructions and recommendations in this manual. Beware of the propeller! Keep loose items that can get entangled in the propeller away from the spinning propeller, including loose clothing, or other objects such as pencils and screwdrivers. Ensure that your and other people’s hands and face are kept away from the rotating propeller.

Note on lithium polymer batteries​

Lithium polymer batteries are significantly more vulnerable than alkaline or NiCd/NiMH batteries used in RC applications. All manufacturer’s instructions and warnings must be followed closely. Mishandling of LiPo batteries can result in fire. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when disposing of Lithium polymer batteries.

Additional safety precautions and warnings​

As the user of this product, you are solely responsible for operating it in a manner that does not endanger yourself and others or result in damage to the product or the property of others. This model is controlled by a radio signal that is subject to interference from many sources outside your control. This interference can cause momentary loss of control so it is advisable to always keep a safe distance in all directions around your model, as this margin will help to avoid collisions or injury.

Never operate your model with low transmitter batteries.

Always operate your model in an open area away from power lines, cars, traffic, or people.

Avoid operating your model in populated areas where injury or damage can occur.

Disconnect the flight battery when you are not flying. The ESC draws current even at minimum throttle. Leaving it connected for hours or days can cause deep discharge, battery damage and a fire risk.

Carefully follow the directions and warnings for this and any optional support equipment (chargers, rechargeable batteries, etc.) which you use.

Keep all chemicals, small parts and anything electrical out of the reach of children.

Moisture causes damage to electronics. Avoid water exposure to all equipment not specifically designed and protected for this purpose.

Never lick or place any portion of your model in your mouth as it could cause serious injury or even death.

Set contents​

RTF set​

ARF set​

You will also need (not included in the kit)​

For the RTF set​

For the ARF set​

  • At least a 4-channel RC set; independent ailerons require another proportional channel
  • LiPo flight pack 11.1 V 1100–1300 mAh

Tools​

  • Small Phillips and flat screwdrivers

T8FB transmitter controls​

  1. Rotary Knob VrA (CH8)
  2. Switch A (SwA, CH7)
  3. Elevator/Rudder Stick (Mode 1) / Throttle/Rudder Stick (Mode 2)
  4. Rudder Trim
  5. Elevator Trim (Mode 1) / Throttle Trim (Mode 2)
  6. Neckstrap Hook
  7. Aileron Reverse Switch (AIL)
  8. Elevator Reverse Switch (ELE)
  9. Antenna
  10. Transmitter Handle
  11. Rotary Knob VrB (CH6)
  12. Switch B (SwB, CH5)
  13. ON/OFF Switch
  14. Throttle/Aileron Stick (Mode 1) / Elevator/Aileron Stick (Mode 2)
  15. Aileron Trim
  16. Throttle Trim (Mode 1) / Elevator Trim (Mode 2)
  17. Rudder Reverse Switch (RUD)
  18. Throttle Reverse Switch (THR)

Alpha: Servo reverse switch default position​

ChannelFunctionDefault
AIL (CH1)AileronR (down)
ELE (CH2)ElevatorN (up)
THR (CH3)ThrottleN (up)
RUD (CH4)RudderR (down)

Transmitter​

Transmission system2.4GHz FHSS
Operating frequency2.400–2.4835 GHz
Output power<20 dBm (Tx) / <4 dBm (BT)
Input voltage4.8–11.1 V (4× AA alkaline or NiMH batteries, 2S or 3S LiPo)

Receiver (2.4 GHz FHSS)​

Dimensions48.5×21×11 mm
Weight7 g
Operating frequency2.400–2.4835 GHz
Range~500 m on the ground, ~1000 m in the air
Input voltage4.8–10.0 V

Main section​

Transmitter (RTF set version)​

Loading the transmitter batteries​

Open the battery hatch on the back of the transmitter by pressing the arrow mark. Insert 4 fresh AA alkaline cells or charged AA NiMH cells with the polarity marked in the holder. Connect the holder plug with the red wire to (+) and the black wire to (−). The transmitter has reverse-polarity protection, but always check the connection before switching on.

Charging the transmitter batteries​

Charge rechargeable transmitter batteries before the first flight. Do not charge disposable cells.

Caution

Never ever try to charge the primary (zinc-carbon, alkaline...) batteries that are not rechargeable. Otherwise, explosions and/or fire might happen!

Checking the transmitter battery​

Turn on the transmitter and check the LED on the front panel – both the red and green have to glow. These LEDs indicate the status of the transmitter, not the transmitter battery voltage. The low-battery alarm is acoustic - once you hear beeping you have to land immediately and replace/recharge the batteries. If the transmitter beeps immediately after turning on, DO NOT try to fly at all.

Caution

Do not mix different types of batteries or fresh batteries with (partly) discharged. Do not mix regular (zinc-carbon) batteries with alkaline batteries.

Checking the servo reverse switches position​

Set the servo reverse switches to the default position – CH1 and CH4 DOWN (R), CH2 and CH3: UP (N). Turn the transmitter off.

Charging the flight battery​

Your Alpha is to be powered by a three-cell LiPo battery pack. The LiPo battery supplied in the RTF Set features two connectors. One is for the balanced charge of the cells (JST-XH type) and the other one is dedicated to the discharge (XT60). The RTF set contains also a dedicated KAVAN C3 wall fast charger (230 V/50 Hz) designed for charging the flight pack using the balance cable.

Charging the flight battery (RTF set)​

  1. Connect the power cable to the charger.
  2. Plug the power cable of the charger into the mains socket (230 V/50 Hz). All the LED glow green and flash red indicating the charger is ready to charge.
  3. Plug the balance connector of your flight battery (JST-XH) into the corresponding socket on the charger.
  4. The charger starts charging. LEDs will start to glow red. If 2S pack is connected, Cell 1 and Cell 2 LEDs will glow red. If the 3S pack is connected, Cell 1, Cell 2 and Cell 3 LEDs will glow red.
  5. Once a particular cell in the flight battery has been fully charged, the corresponding LED will glow green. 2S pack will be fully charged if Cell 1 and Cell2 LEDs glow green. 3S pack will be fully charged, if Cell 1, Cell 2 and Cell 3 LEDs glow green.
  6. Disconnect the flight battery from the charger. LEDs will glow green indicating the charger is ready to charge another pack. Unplug the charger from the mains socket if you are not charging another battery.
Caution

Charge the LiPo battery with the supplied charger or a fully compatible type, following the manufacturer’s safety instructions. Place the charger and battery on a non-flammable, non-conductive surface in a cool, shady location, away from ignition sources and flammable objects. Do not cover either with clothing or other items; free ventilation is essential for cooling.

Danger

Never leave the battery charging unsupervised. If the battery becomes too hot or starts to „inflate“, disconnect it immediately from the charger.

Assembly​

Danger

Keep the flight battery disconnected during assembly. Remove the propeller before radio setup, ESC calibration and motor-direction testing. Refit it only after switching off and disconnecting the battery.

Wing​

  1. Locate the steel wire wing joiner (note the „V“ shape ensuring the correct wing dihedral) with the plastic adapter and slide both wing halves onto the joiner. (Fig. 1)
  2. Secure the wing halves using the wing joiner plate. (Fig. 2)
  3. Use the supplied Y-cables to connect the aileron servos and LED light cables:
    1. A radio featuring only one aileron channel (like the T8FB supplied in the RTF set):
      Connect both aileron servos (connector label „AILE“) to one Y-cable and both LED light cables (labelled „LED“) to another Y-cable. The aileron Y-cable is to be connected to the aileron channel of your receiver (CH1 in the case of T8FB). The LED light Y-cable could be connected to any unused channel of your receiver (the LEDs are just powered by the receiver, they are not remote-controlled by the radio). (Fig. 4)
    2. A radio featuring 2 independent aileron servo channels:
      Connect one aileron servo and one LED light to each Y-cable. Connect the Y-cables to the respective aileron channels of your receiver (typically, CH1 and CH5 or CH6 – it depends on the transmitter and its setting – please refer to the instruction manual of your radio). (Fig. 3)
  4. Secure the wing using two 2.5×15 mm screws to the fuselage. (Fig. 5)

Tail feathers​

  1. Put together the vertical and horizontal tailplanes and secure them using two 2.5×15 mm screws to the fuselage. (Fig. 6)
  2. Attach the plastic quick links of the elevator and rudder pushrods to the outer hole in the respective elevator and rudder horns.
Step 1Step 2Step 3Step 4Step 5Step 6Step 7

RC set installation​

Now you have to install/connect your receiver, servos and electronic speed controller (ESC).

  1. Remove the canopy. Lift the rear part up to disengage the magnetic lock. (Fig. 7)
  2. Following your radio instruction manual connect the servos, ESC and LED light cables to your receiver – the table shows the channel assignment of the T8FB radio supplied in the RTF kit:
Connector labelFunctionReceiver channel (T8FB)
AILEAileronsCH1
ELEVElevatorCH2
ESCThrottleCH3
RUDDRudderCH4
LEDLED lightsCH5
  1. Put your receiver into the fuselage under the wing seat. You can secure it using a strip of Velcro to the fuselage.
  2. The flight battery pack is to be inserted into the nose of your Alpha and secured by Velcro tape to the plywood battery tray - the exact position of the battery pack will be determined later during the Centre of Gravity position check.
Caution

Always turn on your transmitter first and only then connect the flight pack to the ESC. From now on always handle your model as if the motor might burst into life and the propeller start to spin anytime!

Pre-flight preparation​

Checking the current set-up​

Turn on the transmitter, centre the control trims and lower the throttle stick fully. With the propeller removed, connect the flight battery. For T8FB/R8EF, check the transmitter status LEDs and the receiver’s steady red link indication. If the receiver does not establish a link, follow Transmitter and receiver binding. Set and test throttle-off fail-safe according to your radio instructions before refitting the propeller.

Checking the control surface neutrals​

Please check all the control surfaces are in the neutral position if the corresponding transmitter sticks and trims are in the centre position. If not, please release the particular quick link and set the control surface to the neutral position. The elevator and rudder have to be flush with the horizontal stabilizer resp. the fin, both ailerons have to be flush with the wing trailing edge. Once satisfied, re-attach the quick link to the control horn.

Caution

A clevis coming loose in flight can cause partial or complete loss of control. Check the linkages regularly and ensure they are securely attached to the servo arms and control horns.

Testing the ailerons​

  1. Move the aileron stick to the left (looking from the tail to the nose). The left aileron must move up and the right aileron must drop down simultaneously.
  2. Move the aileron stick to the right. The left aileron must drop down and the right aileron go up simultaneously.
  3. Return the aileron stick to the centre (neutral) - both ailerons will return to the neutral position.
Note

If the ailerons are moving in the opposite direction, you will have to reverse the direction by flipping the aileron reverse switch in your transmitter.

Testing the rudder​

  1. Move the rudder stick to the left (looking from the tail to the nose). The rudder must move to the left.
  2. Move the rudder stick to the right. The rudder must move to the right.
  3. Return the rudder stick to the centre (neutral) - the rudder will return to the neutral position.
Note

If the rudder is moving in the opposite direction, you will have to reverse the direction by flipping the rudder reverse switch in your transmitter.

Testing the elevator​

  1. The elevator stick is located on the left side of the Mode 1 transmitter or on the right side of the Mode 2 transmitter. Pull the elevator stick down. The elevator must move up.
  2. Push the elevator stick up. The elevator must move down.
  3. Return the elevator stick to the centre (neutral) - the elevator will return to the neutral position.
Note

If the elevator is moving in the opposite direction, you will have to reverse the direction by flipping the elevator reverse switch in your transmitter.

Control surface throws​

If you carefully followed the instructions in the previous sections of this manual, the correct default control surface throws have been set automatically. The control throws are set by the ratio between the effective lengths of the servo arm and control horn - the actual throws set this way are listed in the column „Normal rate“ in the table below. (The throws are always measured at the widest point of the particular control surface.) It is always better to try reaching requested throws mechanically, adjusting the arm/horn length ratio - even if you have got a fancy computer radio. If you have such a transmitter you can use the function „Dual rate“ (D/R) to get an even more forgiving setup - please refer to the „Low rate“ column. You can also do it mechanically - simply move the push rod Z-bends on the servo arms closer to the centre.

A. Radio featuring only one aileron channel​
ControlLow rateNormal rateExpo*
Aileron8 mm up and down12 mm up and down30 %
Rudder14 mm left and right20 mm left and right20 %
Elevator8 mm up and down12 mm up and down30 %
B. Radio featuring 2 independent aileron servo channels​
ControlLow rateNormal rateExpo*
Aileron8 mm up/8 mm down12 mm up/12 mm down30 %
Rudder14 mm left and right20 mm left and right20 %
Elevator8 mm up and down12 mm up and down30 %

*Expo – choose the sign that reduces sensitivity around neutral. The legacy examples are Futaba, Hitec, Radiolink and Multiplex: −30/−20; Graupner: +30/+20. For V5 or another transmitter, check its own convention and verify the response in the output monitor.

Testing the power system​

Identify the installed ESC before programming it. Use the matching ESC manual for throttle calibration. For the folding propeller, enable the normal motor brake for flight; do not select reverse thrust.

  1. Remove the propeller. Turn on the transmitter and put the throttle stick fully down. For T8FB, the throttle reverse switch must be in N (up).
  2. Connect the flight battery and perform the installed ESC’s throttle-range calibration. The motor must remain stopped at minimum throttle. If it does not, disconnect the battery and correct the setup before continuing.
  3. Briefly advance the throttle and check rotation: clockwise when viewed from behind the motor, as specified in the model manual. Return to minimum and disconnect the battery. If rotation is wrong, swap any two motor-to-ESC phase leads and retest. Do not swap the battery leads.
  4. Confirm the brake and throttle-off fail-safe settings, disconnect the battery and refit the undamaged, correctly oriented propeller. For the final powered check, restrain the model securely and keep everyone clear of the propeller.
Danger

A connected battery can start the motor unexpectedly. Keep hands, clothing and loose objects away from the propeller. Never try to stop it by hand or with an object.

The centre of gravity​

  1. The CG has to be located 55–60 mm behind the leading edge of the wing. Balance your Alpha supporting the wing with your fingertips 55 mm behind the leading edge for the first flight.
  2. You can fine-tune the CG position later to suit your requirements. Moving the CG forwards increases stability; moving it backwards increases sensitivity. Stay within 55–60 mm and never move it behind 60 mm. Recheck balance with each different battery, secured in its flight position and with the canopy fitted. Use a pack of suitable size and weight; a different capacity alone does not establish suitability.
Note

Moving back the CG too much could cause your model to be hard to control or even so unstable that you wouldn't be able to control it at all.

Complete the range check and the remaining pre-flight checks before launching.

Flying​

Choosing the flying field/weather​

Flying field​

The flying field should be a flat grassy area. There should be no cars, persons, animals, buildings, power lines, trees, or large stones or any other obstacles that Alpha might collide with within the range of ca 150 m. We highly recommend you join a local model flying club – you will get access to their flying field along with advice and help to make your first steps into model flying much easier and safer.

Weather​

Calm summer evenings are perfect for the maiden flight. Your Alpha is a light thermal glider that is the happiest with wind under 5 m/s. DO NOT fly when it is raining or snowing, on foggy days. Thunderstorms are clearly not the right time to fly either.

Range check​

Perform the range check as described in the instruction manual of your radio. Ask a friend to hold the transmitter, and secure the model on a suitable stand in its normal flight attitude. Keep everyone clear of the propeller during any powered part of the radio manufacturer’s test; do not carry the model at shoulder height with the motor running. The servos have to respond to control inputs (control stick movements) without any glitching or jitter, with the motor off and at full throttle within the range stated by the radio manufacturer. Only prepare to fly if the range check is 100 % successful.

Caution

Never try to fly with your transmitter in the range check (reduced output power) mode!

First flight​

Now the most important advice in this entire manual:

During the first flight, we recommend that you have the support of an experienced RC pilot.

There is no shame in asking for help. Full-size aircraft are also first flown by experienced test pilots. RC control skills and reflexes develop through training, with the time required depending on your aptitude. As with full-size aircraft, begin under instruction at a safe height, then learn take-off and landing before flying solo. Do not expect to control the model safely without previous RC flying experience.

The rapid button presses and abrupt stick movements used in computer games are unsuitable for controlling an RC model.

Control the model with small, gentle stick movements. The Alpha flies best when you let it „fly by itself“ most of the time, guiding its direction with gentle corrections. Observe the effect of each input. Use larger movements only once you can anticipate their effect; they can be dangerous during the early stages of learning.

Step 1: Hand launch and initial trimming​

The model must be launched into the wind every time. Throw grass into the air to observe the wind direction.

Turn on your transmitter.

Lower the throttle fully. Place and secure the flight battery in its compartment, connect it and secure the canopy.

Hold your model with the wings and fuselage level (refer to the drawing) – it is better to ask a friend to launch your model than to do everything by yourself – you can then concentrate on the controls.

Launch the model against the wind. Give the model full throttle and launch your model with a gentle push straight and level. You will feel the point at which the model is trying to fly naturally. Don't give a push too strong. Do not throw your model with the nose up, or greater than 10 degrees down. The model must have a certain minimum speed from the very start to stay airborne. It is not enough to just „put“ your model in the air.

With correct setup and sufficient airspeed, the Alpha will climb gently. If it loses height at a safe airspeed, apply only a very small amount of up-elevator. Do not pull harder to force a climb below a safe flying speed.

Step 2: Flying​

Climb to a safe training height before reducing power to maintain level flight. The original exercise suggests 30–50 m; choose the height for the site, conditions and applicable limits, and keep the model clearly in sight.

Note

Do not let the Alpha fly too far away, especially downwind. You can control it safely only while you can clearly identify its attitude in the air. Radio range is generally much greater than the distance at which you can see the model clearly.

At a safe airspeed and height, reduce throttle gradually to enter the glide. Use gentle elevator corrections to prevent the nose rising as power decreases, then ease the elevator towards the trimmed gliding position as the model slows. Avoid abrupt control inputs or slowing below a safe flying speed.

How to control the model​

An aircraft moves in three dimensions. Unlike steering a car or boat, controlling its direction also requires managing bank, pitch and airspeed. Use the controls together as described below.

Note

The control is fully proportional – the more you move the stick, the more movement of the control surface. The actual stick movement required is mostly quite small, and almost never from one end stop to the other!

Elevator controls pitch. Pulling the stick back raises the elevator and the nose; pushing forward lowers them. A climb also needs sufficient airspeed and power. Excessive up-elevator can stall the wing. If a stall develops, reduce the angle of attack with appropriate forward elevator and regain flying speed before gently recovering.

Ailerons control bank. Move the stick towards the desired bank, then centre it as that bank is reached. Use opposite aileron to level the wings; returning the stick to centre alone does not necessarily level the model.

Rudder controls yaw and helps coordinate turns with the ailerons. Begin with gentle turns of 20–30° bank. During initial flights do not exceed 45°; normally keep below 30°. Avoid using large rudder inputs to force a tight, slow turn.

Turn using the ailerons and elevator​

Practise at a safe height and speed. Bank gently towards the turn with aileron, then reduce the aileron input and add only enough up-elevator to maintain the desired flight path. The tilted lift force turns the model; its vertical component is reduced at a given total lift. Excessive elevator increases the risk of a stall. At a given airspeed, a steeper bank gives a smaller turn radius.

Begin rolling out before reaching the desired heading; as an initial exercise, start after roughly 3/4 of the turn. Use opposite aileron to level the wings while relaxing the additional elevator. Adjust the timing to the actual turn rate. If the model descends, avoid a sudden large pull: maintain airspeed and recover smoothly.

Coordinated turn using the ailerons, elevator, and rudder​

Add appropriate rudder in the turn direction as you roll in, to coordinate yaw with bank. Use elevator to control the flight path. Larger gliders and high-wing aircraft particularly benefit from coordinated rudder use. Do not assume that rudder replaces the elevator or that it must always make the model descend.

As the required heading approaches, coordinate the rollout with opposite aileron and appropriate rudder, then centre the rudder and relax the extra elevator as the wings level. Begin early enough for the model to finish the turn on the intended heading. Ailerons level the wings; they do not directly control pitch.

Note

Flying speed is relative to the air, not the ground. In steady wind the model travels faster over the ground downwind than upwind at the same airspeed. Do not slow it by pulling excessive elevator just because it looks fast downwind, particularly on approach. A low-speed turn near the ground can lead to a stall with insufficient height to recover. Take off and land into wind where practicable.

In-flight trimming​

Trim the model in a steady, straight glide with the motor off. Correct a persistent yaw or turn with rudder trim, a bank with aileron trim, and an unstable gliding attitude or speed with elevator trim. Distinguish yaw from roll: the model should fly straight with level wings and its fuselage aligned with the airflow, not sideways with opposing rudder and aileron trims. Make small corrections and observe the result. Have an experienced pilot perform the first flight and initial trimming.

What to do if the required trim adjustment is large?​

If a trim exceeds approximately 1/4 of its available travel from centre, adjust the linkage mechanically. After landing, note the trimmed surface position. Disconnect the flight battery and remove the propeller before powered servo centring. Centre the transmitter trim, disconnect power again and adjust the clevis or pushrod length to restore the noted surface position. Reattach and secure the clevis, then check direction, neutral and full travel. Verify the result on the next flight.

Powered and unpowered flight​

Trim for a stable glide first. When power is applied, allow the model to gain speed and use gentle down-elevator as needed to keep a reasonable climb angle. If it pitches up excessively or will not climb despite correct trim and adequate power, have an experienced modeller check the motor thrust angle. Increasing motor downthrust counters pitching up; reducing downthrust has the opposite effect. Disconnect the flight battery and remove the propeller before loosening the motor or fitting suitable shims. Do not weaken the mounting or obstruct cooling.

Flying a motorised glider and the wind direction​

Take off and land into wind where practicable. Keep the model predominantly upwind of your position so it can return if the motor stops; this describes its location, not a constant heading. Use a conservative timer and land with enough battery reserve for a go-around. Do not routinely fly until the ESC reduces or cuts motor power: the receiver may remain powered through the BEC, but little flight-energy reserve remains and deep discharge shortens battery life. If motor power fades, land promptly.

Landing​

Approach into wind with level wings and the throttle fully down. Maintain a shallow glide and safe airspeed. Use small elevator corrections; excessive up-elevator can cause a stall. At about 5 m, check that the wings remain level and continue the controlled descent. Just before touchdown, gently raise the nose to level the fuselage and settle onto the landing area. Avoid steep turns near the ground. A controlled downwind landing is preferable to stalling in a sharp turn at 2–3 m. Choose a clear area safely separated from people, and accept a longer walk rather than forcing a landing at your feet. After landing, leave the transmitter on, disconnect the flight battery and only then switch off the transmitter.

Practise coordinated control with an experienced pilot. When the model approaches you, left and right appear reversed from your viewpoint; the model’s control directions have not changed. For aileron corrections, imagine moving the stick under the approaching model’s wing that you want to raise. Learn this at a safe height before attempting an approach.

Appendix​

Transmitter and receiver binding​

Binding stores the identity of a compatible transmitter in the receiver so that it responds to that transmitter. Bind a new transmitter/receiver combination before use, then check all control functions and fail-safe. Binding does not eliminate interference or replace the range check.

T8FB/R8EF binding procedure​
  1. Place the transmitter and the receiver close to each other (within one meter).
  2. Turn your transmitter ON and then your receiver.
  3. There is a black binding button on the side of the R8EF receiver; press and hold the receiver binding button for about 2 seconds until the LED starts to blink on the receiver. After about 8 blinks the process is accomplished and the receiver LED will glow red steady.
  4. Turn the receiver off and then on again. Check the correct operation of all servos.

Repairs and maintenance​

  • Please perform the range check at the beginning of each flying session.
  • Before every take-off please check the correct control surface movement.
  • After every landing check the plane for any damage, loose clevises or push rods, bent undercarriage, damaged propeller etc. Do not fly again until the damage is repaired.

EPO foam can still be damaged. Repair minor damage with suitable cyanoacrylate (CA) adhesive or clear repair tape. Replace seriously damaged structural parts rather than relying on a temporary repair. Genuine spare parts are available through KAVAN dealers.

In the unfortunate event of a crash or heavy landing, no matter how minor or major, you must lower the throttle stick to its lowest position as quickly as possible to prevent damage to the electronic speed controller in the control unit.

Failure to lower the throttle stick and trim to the lowest possible positions in the event of a crash could result in damage to the ESC, which may require replacement of the ESC.

Note

Crash damage is not covered under warranty.

KAVAN R-30B instructions​

For the original R-30B, use the KAVAN ESC instructions. If a replacement Plus ESC is fitted, use its own manual instead.

Guarantee​

KAVAN Europe s.r.o. guarantees that this model kit is free from defects in both materials and workmanship at the time of sale. This warranty does not cover any parts damaged through use or as a result of modification; under no circumstances shall the liability of the manufacturer and importer exceed the original purchase price of the model kit. KAVAN Europe s.r.o. also reserves the right to change or modify this warranty without prior notice. The model kit is subject to ongoing improvement and refinement, and the manufacturer reserves the right to change the design without prior notice.

Since KAVAN Europe s.r.o. has no control over potential damage during shipping, the method of assembly, or the materials used by the modeller to complete the model, no liability can be assumed or accepted for damages associated with the use of the model assembled by the user. The moment the user decides to use the model they have assembled, they assume full responsibility. If the purchaser is not prepared to accept this responsibility, they should immediately return the kit in its complete and unused condition to the place of purchase.

If your RC model requires service, please follow the guidelines below. Failure to comply with these guidelines may result in the warranty being voided.

  1. If possible, use the original packaging to pack the model. Do not use the original cardboard box as the final packaging.
  2. Include a detailed description of how you have used the model and RC kit, as well as the problem you have encountered. Attach a numbered list of the included accessories and provide any additional information that may assist the service department. Date the note and double-check that it includes your full address and phone number.
  3. Provide your name, address, and phone number where you can be reached during business hours. Include a copy of the model’s proof of purchase.

This warranty card entitles you to a free warranty repair of a product supplied by KAVAN Europe s.r.o. within 24 months. The warranty does not cover normal wear and tear resulting from regular use, as this is a product intended for sports and model-making use, in which individual parts operate under much higher loads than those to which ordinary toys are subjected. The model’s moving parts (motor, servos, and their gears, etc.) are subject to natural wear and tear, and replacement may be necessary over time.

The warranty also does not cover any part of the model or RC kit that was improperly installed, handled roughly or incorrectly, or damaged in a crash, nor does it cover any part of the model or RC kit that was repaired or modified by an unauthorised person. As with other delicate electronic products, do not expose your RC system to high temperatures, low temperatures, humidity, or dusty environments. Do not leave it in direct sunlight for extended periods.

Recycling and waste disposal note (European Union)​

Electrical equipment marked with the crossed-out waste bin symbol must not be discarded in the domestic waste; it should be disposed of via the appropriate specialised disposal system. In the countries of the EU (European Union) electrical devices must not be discarded via the normal domestic waste system (WEEE - Waste of Electrical and Electronic Equipment, Directive 2012/19/EU). You can take your unwanted equipment to your nearest public collection point or recycling centre, where it will be disposed of in the proper manner at no charge to you. By disposing of your old equipment in a responsible manner you make an important contribution to the safeguarding of the environment!

EU declaration of conformity​

Hereby, KAVAN Europe s.r.o. declares that the model Alpha with T8FB RC set and the included electronic and electric devices are in compliance with the requirements of relevant European directives and harmonized norms. The full text of the Declaration of Conformity is available at kavanrc.com/doc.