Model scale
The scale allows you to estimate the overall dimensions of the model — it describes the ratio of its dimensions to the dimensions of a full-size machine of a similar type (see below). For example, the length and width of a full-sized buggy average about 4 m and 2 m, respectively; this means that for a radio-controlled model on a scale of
1:10, these parameters will be 10 times smaller — about 40 cm and 20 cm (plus or minus).
Miniature scales are considered to be
1:24 or less (
1:28 and
1:32), while in the largest scales it reaches
1:6(
1:5) — such models are not much smaller than children's cars (however, they are not intended to replace them). A small size is considered optimal for use in residential areas, a large one — in open areas. Most road models (see 'Type') are available in 1:10 scale, SUVs in
1:8, and larger scales are found in advanced internal combustion engine models (see 'Engine'). The most common scale options are
1:14,
1:16 and
1:18, which are found in both the low-cost and high-end segments.
Power source
The type of power source used in a machine with an electric motor (see “Motor”).
- AA. Replaceable elements of a standard size, popularly known as “pen-light batteries”. The main advantage
of battery-powered cars over
battery-powered cars is the ability to quickly replace dead batteries. On the other hand, the power of such power supply is quite modest, so they are found mainly in models for younger people.
- AAA. Such elements are almost completely similar to the AA described above and outwardly differ from them only in their reduced size (which is reflected in their common name - “little finger”).
- Ni-Mh. Specialized batteries made using nickel-metal hydride technology like other batteries (
Li-Pol,
Li-Ion,
Ni-Cd,
LiFePO4,
branded) are superior to replacement batteries in capacity and compactness and are better suited for powerful electric motors.
Ni-Mh batteries themselves are notable primarily for their ability to withstand high charge and discharge currents without consequences - the first is important given the “gluttony” of electric motors, the second has a positive effect on the charging speed. In addition, such batteries are resistant to low temperatures, do not h
...ave a “memory effect”, and are relatively inexpensive. At the same time, they are inferior to Li-Pol elements in terms of capacity (with the same dimensions).
- Li-Pol. Specialized batteries made using lithium-polymer technology. For more information on specialized batteries in general, see above (Ni-Mh). Li-Pol technology itself makes it possible to create batteries with high capacity, small size and weight, and without the “memory effect,” however, it is quite expensive.
- Ni-Cd. A relatively old battery manufacturing technology, the predecessor of the Ni-Mh described above. The common features of these technologies are resistance to high charge and discharge currents, low temperatures, and low cost. True, nickel-cadmium batteries are subject to the “memory effect” - a decrease in capacity when charging an incompletely discharged battery; however, this can be corrected by using advanced chargers and following operating instructions. But the clear disadvantage of this option is considered to be environmental unsafety during production and disposal; This is typical for all batteries, but it is most relevant for Ni-Cd cells, so they are used less and less.
— Li-Ion. Batteries made using lithium-ion technology and not belonging to any of the universal standard sizes (like AA). Lithium-ion batteries are practically not subject to the “memory effect”, are easy to use and charge fairly quickly. Their disadvantages include a higher price and less resistance to high and low temperatures.
— LiFePO4. Lithium iron phosphate batteries are actually a modification of lithium-ion batteries (see the corresponding paragraph), developed to eliminate some of the shortcomings of the original technology. They are notable above all for their high reliability and safety: the likelihood of a battery “exploding” when overloaded is reduced to almost zero, and in general LiFePO4 can cope with high peak loads without any problems. In addition, they are quite resistant to cold and maintain operating voltage almost until discharge. The main disadvantage of this type is its slightly smaller capacity.
— Branded battery. This category includes all specialized batteries (see subparagraph “Ni-Mh” above), for which the manufacturer did not indicate the manufacturing technology. We also note that if “ordinary” specialized batteries can be standard and can be used in different models of radio-controlled equipment, then branded batteries often have an original design and are designed only for cars from one manufacturer.Number of batteries
The number of batteries (namely AA or AAA batteries) required to operate the car.
USB charging
The ability to charge the battery of the machine from a standard USB port.
This feature provides very extensive features for finding energy sources: USB ports are available not only in all computers and laptops, but also in various other equipment — TVs, car radios, etc. In addition, USB adapters are available for household sockets and car cigarette lighters. And in the absence of outlets nearby, the energy supply can be replenished from a standalone device — for example, from the same laptop or power bank. The disadvantage of this charging method is the relatively low power and poor suitability for high-capacity batteries, which is why it is found mainly in small entertainment machines.
