Contrails: PowerBox BaseLog Review and Industry Updates
By Keith Sievers
President's Report
(A photograph of a person in a Navy uniform.)
FAA Update
There is not too much new to report on the FAA SUAS rule-making initiative. I remain in close contact with the AMA, and they continue to work on their initial submission, which is expected to be based on current AMA rules, regulations, and safety code. The AMA has attempted to gain insight into issues significant to the FAA, but with limited success. The first meaningful feedback is anticipated from the FAA's response to the AMA's submission. While there's no indication the FAA will suggest revisions to turbine regulations, the JPO will partner with the AMA if required. All members are encouraged to fly safely and support the AMA safety code and turbine regulations.
PowerBox BaseLog from Duralite Flight Systems
A couple of years ago, crash data collected for the JPO demonstrated that speed was rarely a factor in model-jet incidents. However, battery and other electrical issues were common. This led to a practice of installing redundant electrical capability and closely monitoring batteries, which has prevented model losses on several occasions.
Duralite Flight Systems recently provided an opportunity to evaluate new equipment from PowerBox Systems: the BaseLog. This unit features fully redundant systems, including regulators and microprocessors. Its bright OLED screen displays significant data per battery, including actual voltage (digital and graphic), system output voltage, time since last reset, remaining capacity (digital and graphic), and a 'minimum value memory' feature. This memory shows the lowest voltage during a flight as a black line on the graphic display. For a LiPo battery with a range of 6.8 to 8.4 volts, if it drops to 7.6 volts, the black bar appears at the midpoint. This data helps identify batteries that may not handle imposed loads or are aging. The display also communicates malfunctions, such as regulator failure.
(A PowerBox BaseLog unit from PowerBox Systems GmbH Germany, featuring an OLED screen displaying technical data such as voltage (5.86V) and capacity (2298-Ah), alongside two status LEDs.)
The BaseLog supports all modern battery types, including LiPo, NiMH, Nicad, and LiFePo (for A123). Battery chemistry, capacity, and output voltage are selected in programming mode. The unit uses high-capacity multiplex connectors for input/output, with Duralite Flight Systems offering patch cords for major receiver systems. The BaseLog measures 2.5 x 3.25 x 0.75 inches and weighs 3.2 ounces. It handles peak currents up to 20 amps per side.
(Two Duralite A123 2000mAh 3.3V LiFePO4 batteries are shown alongside a PowerBox BaseLog unit with a remote LED indicator.)
President's Report (cont'd)
The unit powers on via the SensorSwitch, featuring an arming button and separate 'on' buttons for each battery, indicated by LEDs. A safety feature ensures the PowerBox remains powered if the switch fails. Two remote LEDs can be mounted for visual power confirmation when the plane is closed.
A unique feature of the BaseLog is its capability to transmit real-time battery information using Multiplex or Spektrum telemetry standards, aligning with emerging telemetry trends. Spektrum already supports telemetry for surface use and has announced an air transmitter with telemetry capability. It is expected that telemetry-capable receivers will soon be available.
The BaseLog is available from Duralite Flight Systems in the US. Duralite products have been used successfully for years, and their president, Jack Price, is consistently accessible. Visit their website at www.duraliteflightsystems.com for more information or to order.
Canadian Representation
The JPO is re-establishing active Canadian representation. Thanks to Al Watson and Bob Brusa, the JPO board has appointed Paul Dries as the District VP for Canada until the next general election. Paul has a mechanical engineering background and manages a company specializing in drive systems for off-highway and military vehicles. With over thirty years in modeling, including 10+ years flying fixed-wing models and the last two focused on turbine-jets, Paul aims to increase JPO exposure among Canadian jet pilots. He will also serve as a liaison between the MAAC Jet Committee Chairman and the AMA. Welcome, Paul!
Thanks, Fred!
The JPO had a booth at Toledo for the first time in years, organized and manned by Fred Gambino, who generously contributed his time and money. Art Arro, Ron Swartzkopf, and Len McIntosh also assisted. Public thanks are extended to Fred for his efforts on behalf of the JPO.
Next Issue
A new piece of electronics from PowerBox and Duralite Flight Systems, the Cockpit, is being reviewed. It will be installed in a MIBO A10 model for testing. For information on the Cockpit before the next issue, check RC Universe or contact the author via email.
Additionally, a new DV8R for JetPower magazine is under development. While promising on paper as an entry-level turbine, its performance in flight will be the true test. Construction is nearing completion and has met expectations so far.
Toledo Photo
(A ground crew is pictured preparing an A10 jet aircraft for operation.) The ground crew on Joe Grice's A10 get things ready.
