Having been a giant scale buff for years, and having dabbled in Electric power systems along the way, I thought that I would share some of my observations. In no way do I know it all, (a disclaimer!) but I do have more than a passing interest in the future of electric powered giant scale aircraft. (It's a-comin!)

The age of the little 'buzzer' motor is now past, and effective "potent" powerplants are now available. The Europeans have led the way electrically for years, but now a USA based manufacturer called Astro Flight, markets world class motors and related systems... in particular the Samarium Cobalt Motors. Unlike the 'Ferrite' (Iron) magnets used in early motors, which lose their strength over a period of time/use, Cobalt magnets maintain their strength almost endlessly. Not only do Cobalt motors perform consistently well, they are capable of accepting larger amounts of electricity without harm. (i.e.: lighter and stronger) AND, they accept abuse/misuse with little or no damage. The one drawback is the price tag for these 'space age' powerplants, but they represent a one time investment. They will repay the modeler in years of care free service.

PERFORMANCE: Astro Flight's new Cobalt 60 (the geared down version) will turn a Quadra size prop at the same RPM figure as a 120 4-cycle. This could be considered an adequate power source for most lightly built giant scale airplanes. Coming soon are the Astro 100s and 200s! (3 and 6 HP respectfully!) These larger motors will make E-power a viable force for giant scale airplanes.

BATTERIES: The heart of any electric system is the batteries, while the motor merely converts the available energy into a usable propeller turning power. Unlike the old days (70s) when only a couple quick charge Nicad battery sizes were available, we now have our choice of cells from 550s, all the way up to 4 amps. (i.e.: 4000 mil) Batteries have been the main reason for E-power's latest advancements, as they are lighter in weight with larger capacities. Also, old style methods of timed charging have been replaced by 'peak' cell acceptance chargers, and new 'cut off' cells are becoming available. (Stops charge when full).

DURATION: Effective power duration is controlled by two factors. The number/capacity of the battery cells, and the flyer's ability to husband his electrical resources. Like a fuel tank, there is only so much power available in a battery pack, and he/she may use it fast, or sparingly. Electronic throttles go a long way to help mete out the energy according to demand, and some flyers use 'home-brew' switchers to achieve medium (cruise) power by changing the battery configuration from series to parallel. By using competition design/building/flying techniques, climbing power can be realized up to a half hour.

DISADVANTAGES: Yes there are shortcomings, as with anything new. Electric's are heavy compared to glo/gas airplanes. (True) Electric Motor systems/chargers are expensive and complicated. (True) Electric power is for "Wimps". If you believe that last statement, please quit reading this! (The neighbors and the environment will thank you for your "Wimpyness"!)

ADVANTAGES: Yes there are a few, and some you probably haven't considered. 1) Good electric flyers have to be better builder/flyers than the average Kadet 'Squasher', because it is just plain harder to do well! Unnecessary weight is pared off the airframe, (lighter planes fly better, even glo powered!) and gravity works quite well when flying 'down hill'. In regards to the word complicated, all the 'Head Work' is done on the workbench, (no carb to adjust, no Glo plugs to foul, and they start at the flick of a throttle Gimble.), while the flying field is just that, 'a place to fly'. 2) A motor change is simply a matter of unplugging one, and plugging in another. 3) Multi-motored aircraft are a natural, as all motors run at the same RPM, and to reverse the rotation is only a matter of switching Motor electric leads. 4) Airplanes are not subjected to a bath in oil each flight, and aircraft look show room fresh after hours of enjoyment. 5) Once a modeler has made the initial purchase of a system, there is nothing more to buy... the fuel is invisible and FREE!

ELECTRIC RECORDS: As of right now, straight line distances of over 20 miles have been recorded, and the diminutive little 05s have been clocked at over 100 mph. Power climbs to over 4000 feet are now also realistic... vertically!

OBSERVATION: While the glider guiders are chasing parachutes, or waiting for their turn at the winch, and while the power boys are adjusting/fiddling/fueling/wiping off their charges, I am casually sipping coffee (Miller's) while my airplane services itself! I arrive at the field with an airplane in one hand, and a TX in the other, (charger under Hood) and fly until I'm tired.

E-power is ethereal in nature, and like Religion it's fun to share. What is the key/unique element of electric propulsion?... IT'S IMPOSSIBLE!