Hi guys,

In most of the gassers, people power their ignition module with a separate 4.8 - 6V power supply.  But I have also heard that a lead from a free channel in the Rxcan be given to the ignition module to power it up.  This would mean more weight savings!  Each channel output of the Rx is capable of giving out 6V.  So we can put an extension in the Rx in say channel 7 or 8 and connect it to the ignition module.  Program this using a switch in the Tx and also use a physical switch in the airplane.

The connections should be something like this

Rx Ch 7 --> Ignition Switch --> Ignition Module.

So when the plane is going to be started, flick on the switches on the plane (for ignition and rx), flick on the ignition switch (mapped to channel 7) in the Tx and start the plane.  For emergency engine cutoff, we can use the ignition switch on the Tx!

Please let me know how feasible this is, as it would result in tremendous weight savings on the nose..

Initially people used to be a bit skeptical about this method, as PCM Rxs experience interference when linked to the ignition module.  But with the advent of 2.4 systems, this should actually not be a problem.  Am willing to try this in my gasser, if someone says its possible..

- Chan

All you need is a RC switch that could be controlled through your TX. I have made one for igniting the glow plug in my Zeus aircraft. (see picture, ignore the battery pack). This circuit has four wires on one side and 3 wires that hook to the RX spare channel. Two of the wires in those four wires connect to the battery pack. And the other two connects to your ignition box or glow plug.

Now, when you need ignition just flip the switch in your TX and there you go. Works like a charm!

Circuit is here -> http://www.ef-uk.net/data/rc-switch.htm

-Ismail

If you are not in the mood to build, there are pre-built ones like:

http://www.shopatron.com/product/part_number=PX2205/745.0.182.30991.10020.0.0

This one has not remote switch capability, you have to press the button yourself.  Couple of people in our field are using this.

There is another one called SwitchGlo, but it is expensive.