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Which mode?

By Andrew Gibbs

Which mode?
The sticks are kept centred by light springs, except for the throttle function which has a ratchet fitted making it easy to hold the required throttle position.

An RC model is usually set up to be controlled by the transmitter in one of two modes. These are known as ‘mode 1’ and ‘mode 2’. A 4 channel model will be set up as outlined in the table below:

In both modes, forward stick (push away from you) selects more power or down elevator. Left stick will select left rudder or left aileron (left aileron up, right one down) and vice versa.

Mode 1
The primary controls of a model are the aileron and elevator. The argument for Mode 1 is that because these primary controls are controlled by separate sticks, they can be manipulated independently without any chance of the other one being affected. Proponents of mode 1 argue that this makes it is easier to control a model with a high degree of precision.

In Mode 2, motor power is controlled by the left stick of the transmitter. Unlike the other controls, a ratchet allows a selected stick position to be held easily.

Mode 2
Mode 2 more closely represents the controls of a full size aircraft, and for this reason it may appeal more strongly to some modelers. If you already have full size flying experience, or are at least familiar with the controls of aircraft then mode 2 may well seem the most natural choice for model flying. This was certainly the case for me. Another factor in its favour is that most people are right handed so it may seem easier to use the right hand for the primary controls.

The disadvantage of mode 2 is that the primary controls of elevator and aileron are on the same stick, and this can present a little difficulty if for example a change in aileron deflection is required while holding a constant elevator position.

Three channel models
A 3 channel model (sometimes referred to as a ‘rudder elevator’ model) will of course dispense with the aileron function. In this case, the rudder controls may be set up like this:

Which mode is right for you?
Certainly there are plenty of very skilled pilots of either mode, and it’s not possible to watch a model being flown and deduce which mode the pilot is using. Each of the two modes is more popular in certain geographical areas than others. It’s probably fair to say that mode 2 is the more widely used, at least in the UK. Mode 2 is standard in the USA.

Ultimately, it’s probably best to go with the mode prevailing at your local club unless you have a particular reason for wanting to be different. In any case, choose your mode carefully because once you've learned one mode, you'll be very reluctant to change. I once was offered a flight with a simple trainer on a mode 1 transmitter while on holiday in Australia. Being a mode 2 pilot, I found flying this simple model very difficult! The experience was quite humbling and served to remind me how much of a challenge learning to fly can be.

Transmitter tray
Some modelers find a transmitter tray and/or a neck strap helpful. These relieve you of the job of supporting the transmitter, perhaps making it easier to concentrate on manipulating the sticks.