KAVAN Pulse 2200mm - Instruction manual

DISCONTINUED

KAV02.8080

KAVAN Pulse 2200 - red

Introduction

The Pulse 2200 is an EPO (expanded polyolefin) foam motor glider for thermal soaring, slope flying and aerobatics. It has a brushless power system and separate aileron, flap, elevator, rudder and throttle functions. It is intended for pilots who have mastered a trainer with ailerons; it is not a first RC model. Beginners should first learn with a suitable trainer such as the Beta 1400 or Alpha 1500, with an experienced pilot’s help. Read this manual and the instructions for your radio, battery, charger and ESC before assembly or operation.

Features

• Factory-built, partially assembled model
• Aileron, flap, elevator, rudder and throttle control
• Two-piece wing and removable horizontal tailplane
• Brushless motor with an 11×8" folding propeller

Technical specifications

Parameter	Value
Wingspan	2200 mm
Length	1272 mm
Wing area	42 dm²
Model weight	1800 g
All-up weight	2100–2250 g
Motor	C3548-750 brushless outrunner
ESC	RAY G2 R-50SB SBEC
Propeller	Folding 11×8"
Flight battery (not included)	4S LiPo, 14.8 V, 2600–4000 mAh

Before you start

1. If you are not an experienced RC pilot, plan to have a fully competent pilot check your completed model and help you with your first flights. Even though we have tried to provide you with a thorough instruction manual, RC models are rather complicated and an experienced modeller can quickly check over your model to make sure your first flights are successful.
2. Please assemble your model exactly according to these instructions. Do not attempt to modify or change your model in any way, as doing so may adversely change its flying characteristics.
3. Before you begin, please check the entire contents of this kit to make sure that no parts are missing or damaged. This will also help you to become familiar with each component of your plane. If you find that any of the parts are either missing or damaged, please contact your dealer immediately for replacement.
4. Trial fit each part before glueing it in place. Make sure you are using the correct part and that it fits well before assembling. No amount of glue can make up for a poorly-fitting part.
5. The manual contains a drawing showing the default position of the Centre of Gravity (CG) and recommended control surface throws. Please note it is essential to keep the recommended CG position for the first flight otherwise the model could be unstable, hard to control or even unable to fly at all! Start at the forward end of the specified range for greater stability. A rearward CG makes the model more responsive and less stable; adjust it only after becoming familiar with the model, keeping within the specified range.

Note

Your dealer cannot accept kits for return if construction has begun.

Safety precautions

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

Assemble this model following strictly these instructions. DO NOT modify or alter the model. Failure to do so, the warranty will lapse automatically. Follow the instructions to obtain a safe and solid model at the end of the assembly.

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 and follow 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 faces, and animals are kept away from the rotating propeller.
• 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. Interference, equipment failure or pilot error can cause 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.
• 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.
• The model is mostly made of plastics – it is not fireproof. Keep it away from heat sources, direct sunlight and hot enclosed cars; high temperatures can distort the foam airframe or cause other damage.
• Disconnect the flight battery whenever the model is not in use. Even at zero throttle, the ESC draws current; leaving the battery connected for hours or days can deeply discharge it, damage it and create a fire risk.

Set contents

Almost-ready-to-fly EPO motor glider with installed brushless motor, ESC and servos, folding propeller, assembly accessories and instruction manual. The transmitter, receiver and flight battery are not included.

You will also need

• A transmitter and compatible receiver with at least 7 channels. Use a computer radio for independent aileron and flap control and advanced mixes.
• A 4S LiPo flight battery rated 14.8 V, 2600–4000 mAh, plus a suitable charger.
• Regular modeller’s tools: precision knife (KAV66.770), screwdrivers, pliers.

Main section

Model assembly

Danger

Remove the propeller before the initial radio, ESC and motor setup, including throttle calibration. Refit it only after confirming correct operation, with the flight battery disconnected. Keep the throttle at minimum during control-surface checks; centre only the aileron, elevator and rudder controls and their trims.

1. Slide both horizontal-tailplane halves onto the carbon joiner inserted through the fin. Secure them with four 2.5×6 mm screws. Connect the elevator pushrod clevis to the elevator horn. (Fig. 1)+(Fig. 2)
2. Connect the aileron (A) and flap (F) servo leads to the matching sockets at the wing roots. Check both the function and the S / + / − connector polarity against the drawing. Insert the wing halves fully into the fuselage until they click into place, then secure them with one M6×40 mm nylon screw. (Fig. 3)+(Fig. 4)
3. Secure the flight battery in the central cockpit bay with the hook-and-loop strap. Secure the receiver behind it and the ESC beside it with hook-and-loop tape or double-sided foam tape. Connect the servos and ESC to the receiver according to the radio instructions. With a diversity receiver, arrange the active antenna sections perpendicular to each other. Switch on the transmitter with the throttle at minimum, then connect the battery. Calibrate the throttle range following the RAY ESC instructions, with the propeller removed. Keep the throttle at minimum, centre the other controls and trims, and tighten the pushrod-connector screws on the elevator and rudder servo arms with the surfaces neutral. (Fig. 5)
4. Fit the canopy.

Pre-flight preparation

Radio and control surfaces

Follow your radio instructions for installation and programming. With the propeller removed, switch on the transmitter at minimum throttle and then connect the flight battery. Check the neutral position, direction and travel of every control surface. To reduce travel mechanically, move the linkage closer to the servo-arm centre or farther from the control-surface hinge on its horn; reverse these changes to increase travel.

Control throws

Control surface	Low rate	High rate
Ailerons	20 mm up / 10 mm down	25 mm up / 13 mm down
Ailerons (Butterfly)	20 mm up	20 mm up
Ailerons (Thermal)	3 mm down	3 mm down
Ailerons (Speed)	3 mm up	3 mm up
Elevator	±10 mm	±15 mm
Elevator (Butterfly)	1–3 mm down	1–3 mm down
Rudder	±30 mm	±40 mm
Flaps	12 mm up / 18 mm down	12 mm up / 18 mm down
Flaps as ailerons	7 mm up / 3.5 mm down	10 mm up / 5 mm down
Flaps (Butterfly)	30 mm down	30 mm down
Flaps (Thermal)	4 mm down	4 mm down
Flaps (Speed)	4 mm up	4 mm up

Use low rates for less experienced pilots and normal soaring. High rates allow an experienced pilot to use the model’s aerobatic capabilities. Aileron differential, with downward travel about 50 % of upward travel, requires a computer radio and independent aileron channels.

With suitable radio programming and independent wing-servo channels, the following mixes can be used:

• Butterfly airbrake: both ailerons move up and both flaps move down, with 1–3 mm of down-elevator compensation as listed in the table.
• Thermal: both ailerons and both flaps move down by the listed amounts.
• Speed: both ailerons and both flaps move up by the listed amounts.
• Flaps as ailerons: the flaps assist roll control, following the ailerons with the asymmetric travel shown in the table.

Motor rotation

Check rotation during the initial propeller-free test: the motor must turn clockwise when viewed from the cockpit towards the nose. If it turns the wrong way, return the throttle to minimum, disconnect the flight battery and swap any two of the three wires between the motor and ESC. Test again before fitting the propeller.

Centre of gravity

The CG must be 75–85 mm behind the wing leading edge, measured at the wing root as shown. Check with the model complete and its flight battery installed. Adjust the battery position first; if necessary, secure suitable ballast in the nose or tail. (Fig. 6)

Caution

Do not fly with the CG outside the specified range. Start at the forward end for the first flight; a rearward CG reduces stability. A small amount of securely fitted ballast is preferable to an incorrectly balanced model.

Range and final checks

Fully charge the flight and transmitter batteries. Check the complete radio installation and perform the range test specified by the radio manufacturer, both with the motor off and at full throttle. Restrain the model securely and keep everyone clear of the propeller and its rotation plane. The range at full throttle must not decrease by more than 10 % compared with the motor-off test. Do not fly unless both tests pass completely.

Flying

The Pulse 2200 is intended for an intermediate pilot. If you lack experience with this type of model, have an experienced pilot make the first flight, check the trim and help with the initial flights. Choose light wind and a clear, safe flying site. Test flying and fine adjustment follow normal practice for a thermal motor glider of this size and layout.

Appendix

RAY G2 R-50SB instructions

These instructions apply to the original RAY G2 R-50SB fitted to the Pulse 2200 V1. Check the label before programming; a replacement ESC may require different instructions. Select LiPo battery mode and enable the brake for the folding propeller.

ESC specifications and wiring

Parameter	Value
Continuous / burst current	50 A / 65 A
Supported LiPo battery	2–4S
Weight	41 g
Switching BEC output	6 V / 5 A
Dimensions	65×29×10 mm
BEC servo capacity	8 servos with 2S or 3S; 6 servos with 4S

Caution

The original R-50SB is rated for no more than 4S LiPo. Do not connect a 6S battery. The Pulse 2200 V1 requires the 4S flight battery specified above.

Connect the three motor leads by soldering or with good-quality connectors, and insulate every joint with heat-shrink tubing. For this ESC, the original manual recommends Ø3.5 mm or Ø4 mm gold-plated connectors or DEAN-T connectors, rated for currents up to 60 A. Keep the battery-to-ESC wires within 15 cm (6 inches). Connect the battery with red positive (+) and black negative (−) polarity. Connect the ESC’s UNI servo lead to the receiver throttle output; its SBEC supplies the receiver and servos from the flight battery. Double-check every connection before applying power.

Throttle calibration

Remove the propeller before calibration. Calibrate once to teach the ESC your transmitter’s throttle range; repeat if you change the transmitter.

1. Switch on the transmitter and move the throttle stick to the top position.
2. Connect the battery pack to the ESC, and wait about 2 seconds.
3. The „Beep–Beep–“ tone should be emitted, which means the top point of the throttle range has been confirmed.
4. Move the throttle stick to the bottom position. Several „beep–“ tones should be emitted to present the amount of battery cells.
5. A long „Beep–“ tone should be emitted, which means the lowest point of the throttle range has been correctly confirmed.

The throttle is now calibrated and your ESC is ready for operation.

Normal ESC start-up procedure

1. Move the throttle stick to the bottom position and then switch on the transmitter.
2. Connect the battery pack to ESC. A special tone like „♪ 123“ means the power supply is OK.
3. Several „beep–“ tones should be emitted to present the amount of lithium battery cells.
4. When the self-test is finished, a long „beep–“ tone should be emitted.
5. With the propeller still removed for this initial test, slowly move the throttle stick up. The motor should turn clockwise when viewed from the cockpit towards the nose. If it spins in the opposite direction, pull the throttle stick back, disconnect the flight battery and swap any two of the three cables between the motor and the ESC. Then re-check again.

Protection function

1. Startup failure protection: If the motor fails to start within 2 seconds of throttle application, the ESC will cut-off the output power. In this case, the throttle stick MUST be moved to the bottom again to restart the motor. (Such a situation happens in the following cases: the connection between ESC and the motor is not reliable, the propeller or the motor is blocked, the gearbox is damaged, etc.).
2. Overheat protection: When the temperature of the ESC is over about 110 °C, the ESC will reduce the output power.
3. Throttle signal loss protection: The ESC will reduce the output power if the throttle signal is lost for 1 second. If the signal is absent for more than 2 seconds, the output is cut off completely.

Programmable functions

1. Brake: ON/OFF

   • ON: Sets the propeller to the brake position when the throttle stick is at the minimum position (Recommended for folding props).
   • OFF: Sets the propeller to freewheel when the throttle stick is at the minimum position.

2. Battery type: LiPo or NiCd/NiMH

3. Low Voltage Cut-off type: Reduce Power/Hard Cut-off

   • Reduce Power: ESC reduces motor power when the preset Low Voltage Protection Threshold value is reached.
   • Hard Cut-off: ESC instantly cuts motor power off when the preset Low Voltage Protection Threshold value is reached.

4. Low Voltage Protection Threshold: (Low/Medium/High)

   • For Li-xx packs: the battery cell number is calculated automatically. The Low/Middle/High cut-off voltage for each cell is 2.85/3.15/3.3 V. For example: For a 3S LiPo, when the „Middle“ cut-off threshold is set, the cut-off voltage will be 3.15×3 = 9.45 V.
   • For Ni-xx packs: Low/Middle/High cut-off voltages are 0/50/65 % of the startup voltage (i.e. the initial voltage of the battery pack), and 0 % means the low voltage cut-off function is disabled. For example: For a 6-cell NiMH battery, the fully charged voltage is 1.44×6 = 8.64 V, when the „Middle“ cut-off threshold is set, the cut-off voltage will be: 8.64×50 % = 4.32 V.
   5. Soft Acceleration Startup: Normal/Soft/Very Soft (300 ms / 1.5 s / 3 s)
   • Normal mode is suitable for fixed-wing aircraft. Soft or Very Soft modes are suitable for helicopters. The initial acceleration of the Soft and Very Soft modes is slower, it takes 1.5 seconds for Soft startup or 3 seconds for Very Soft startup from initial throttle advance to full throttle. If the throttle is completely closed (throttle stick moved to bottom position) and opened again (throttle stick moved to top position) within 3 seconds after the first startup, the re-startup will be temporarily changed to normal mode to get rid of the chance of a crash caused by slow throttle response. This special design is suitable for aerobatic flight when quick throttle response is needed.
   6. Timing setup: Low / Middle / High
   • Low (3.75°) – Setting for most 2-pole motors.
   • Middle (15°) – setting for motors with 6 or more poles.
   • High (26.25°) – setting for motors with 12 or more poles, outrunners
   • In most cases, middle or low timing works well for all types of motors. However, for high efficiency, we recommend the Low timing setting for 2-pole motors (generally, in-runners) and middle timing for 6 poles and above (generally all outrunners). For higher speeds, High timing can be set. Some motors require different timing setups therefore we suggest you follow the manufacturer-recommended setup.
   Note

   Run your motor on the ground first after making any changes to your motor timing!

Programming with the transmitter

Note

Set the throttle channel endpoints to −100 % at minimum and 100 % at maximum, or use a throttle curve spanning 0–100 %.

Enter programming mode

1. Switch on the transmitter, move the throttle stick to maximum and connect the battery to the ESC.
2. Wait 2 seconds for two short beeps.
3. Wait another 5 seconds for the „♪ 56712“ melody confirming programming mode.

Select a function The eight signals below repeat in a loop. Move the throttle stick to minimum within 3 seconds after the required signal to select that item. One long beep equals five short beeps.

Signal	Function
1 short beep	Brake
2 short beeps	Battery type
3 short beeps	Cut-off type
4 short beeps	Cut-off voltage
1 long beep	Startup mode
1 long + 1 short beep	Timing
1 long + 2 short beeps	Restore all defaults
2 long beeps	Exit

Set the value The available values repeat as beep signals. Move the throttle stick to maximum when the desired signal sounds. The „♪ 1515“ melody confirms that the value has been saved. Keep the stick at maximum to return to function selection, or move it to minimum within 2 seconds to exit programming.

Function	1 short beep	2 short beeps	3 short beeps
Brake	OFF	ON	—
Battery type	Li-xx	Ni-xx	—
Cut-off type	Reduce power	Hard cut-off	—
Cut-off voltage	Low	Medium	High
Startup mode	Normal	Soft	Very soft
Timing	Low	Middle	High

Exit programming mode Move the throttle stick to minimum within 2 seconds of the „♪ 1515“ confirmation melody, or select the exit item by moving the stick to minimum within 3 seconds after the two-long-beep signal.

Optional programming card

You can also use the RAY G2 programming card. Set the required functions and values on the card, then transfer them to the connected ESC according to the card’s instructions.

Troubleshooting

Disconnect the flight battery before changing connections or replacing connectors. Remove the propeller before repeating setup tests.

Issue	Possible reason	Solution
After powering on, the motor does not work and no sound is emitted.	The connection between the battery pack and ESC is not correct.	Check the power connection. Replace the connector.
After powering on, the motor does not work, such an alert tone is emitted: „beep–beep–, beep–beep–, beep–beep–“ (Every „beep–beep–“ has a time interval of about 1 second).	Input voltage is abnormal, too high or too low.	Check the voltage of the battery pack.
After powering on, the motor does not work, such an alert tone is emitted: „beep–, beep–, beep–“ (Every „beep–“ has a time interval of about 2 seconds).	Throttle signal is irregular.	Check the receiver and transmitter. Check the cable of the throttle channel.
After powering on, the motor does not work, such an alert tone is emitted: „beep–, beep–, beep–“ (Every „beep–“ has a time interval of about 0.25 seconds).	The throttle stick is not in the bottom (lowest) position.	Move the throttle stick to the bottom position.
After powering on, the motor does not work, a special tone „56712“ is emitted after a 2-beep tone (beep–beep–).	The direction of the throttle channel is reversed, so the ESC has entered the program mode.	Set the direction of the throttle channel correctly.
The motor runs in the opposite direction.	The connection between ESC and the motor needs to be changed.	Swap any two wire connections between ESC and motor.

Caution

• Do not install the propeller on the motor when you test the ESC and motor for the first time to verify the correct settings on your radio. Only install your propeller after you have confirmed that the settings on your radio is correct.
• Never use ruptured or punctured battery cells.
• Never use battery packs that are known to overheat.
• Never short circuit battery or motor terminals.
• Always use proper insulation material for cable insulation.
• Always use proper cable connectors.
• Do not exceed the number of cells or servos specified for the ESC.
• Wrong battery polarity will damage the ESC and void the warranty.
• Install the ESC in a suitable location with adequate ventilation for cooling.
• Use only batteries that are supported by the ESC and ensure the correct polarity before connecting.
• Switch your transmitter ON first and ensure the throttle stick is in the minimum position before connecting the battery pack.
• Never switch your transmitter OFF while the battery is connected to your ESC.
• Only connect your battery pack just before flying and do not leave your battery pack connected after flying.
• Handle your model with extreme care once the battery pack is connected and keep away from the propeller at all times. Never stand in-line or directly in front of any rotating parts.
• Do not immerse the ESC under water, do not allow it to get wet while powered up.
• Always fly at a designated flying site and follow the rules and guidelines set by your modeller’s club.

Repairs and maintenance

• Please perform the range check in 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, damaged propeller etc. Do not fly again until the damage is repaired.

Although the Pulse 2200 model is manufactured of the extra tough and virtually unbreakable expanded polyolefin (EPO) foam, damage or broken parts may occur. A minor damage can be repaired simply gluing the parts together with a cyanoacrylate (CA) glue or with a clear sticky tape. In a case of a major damage it is always better to purchase a brand new spare part. A wide range of genuine spare parts and accessories is available through the KAVAN Europe s.r.o. 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.

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.

Guarantee

The supplied guarantee follows the applicable legal requirements in the country of purchase. For a claim, contact the retailer from whom you purchased the model. 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; subject to applicable law, the liability of the manufacturer and importer is limited to the original purchase price of the model kit. This limitation does not apply where a court imposes unlimited liability for proven intent or gross negligence. 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. Unless agreed otherwise with the service department, send the complete model and transmitter for inspection.
2. If possible, use the original packaging to pack the model. Do not use the original cardboard box as the final packaging.
3. 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.
4. 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.

The guarantee also excludes faults caused by incorrect wiring or reversed polarity, late or omitted maintenance, operation outside the specified limits, and accessories or repairs not approved by KAVAN Europe s.r.o. Avoid strong mechanical shocks and user-applied waterproof coatings on the RC electronics.

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 Pulse 2200 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.