soon as input ceases HAL2100 takes control based on optical sensors which use light

and returns the model to horizontal flight.
HAL can be used by pilots of all abilities, as by
using a free channel on the transmitter, the
pilot can adjust the output •Mixing Gain' or
'Sensitivity' from zero to 100 during the flight.
This means that a beginner can start with a
'High Gain' and reduce it as he progresses or a
competent pilot can use 'Low Gain' on calm
days and 'High Gain' on windy days to smooth
manoeuvres. HAL is also ideal for special
models such as 'twins' where HAL will
automatically stabilise the model if an engine
cuts or scale models where flight stability can
be a problem.
INSTALLING THE SENSOR
The sensor has four light entry holes which are
situated at 90° to each other. Two holes at 180°
are termed as an 'axis' of the sensor. The
sensor therefore has two 'axes'. On top of the
sensor case there are two small arrows
intensity/contrast to control the attitude of the model,
sensor axes are parallel to the elevator of the
model when looked at from the front or side
(Diag.3/4). The reason for this is that it is the
elevator that controls the attitude of the model
and so if the sensor is parallel to the elevator
the model will fly at the same attitude with the
sensor engaged.
different light conditions such as very intense sunlight
or conditions with no sky to ground contrast, can affect
the performance. Experience will highlight what makes
conditions difficult for HAL2100 to operate correctly
and it is recommended that all your initial flights are
made on days with normal (not extreme) light
conditions.
MOUNTING POSITIONS
We recommend that the sensor is fixed underneath the
model. This ensures that there is the minimum of
disturbing influences. You must ensure that the sensor
is not in the direct line of the exhaust. Before each
flight it is necessary to check that there are no
obstructions such as grass, dirt, oil etc. that could
affect the sensor.
We do not recommend mounting the sensor on top of
the model, even though it has this capability, as in very
bright sunlight, HAL2100 will try to turn the model
directly towards the sun and then induce a level,
downward flight path.
Additionally if you are trying to fly in winter with snow
on ground on a bright, sunny day, it is possible that
HAL2100 will not work perfectly because the contrast'
in light between the ground and the sky is marginal
(see suggestions above regarding light conditions).

For absolute beginners, contrary to the above, it HAL INSTALLATION

INSTRUCTION MANUAL
Congratulations on purchasing probably the most
revolutionary aid to model flying ever produced.
The aim of HAL is to ease, assist and speed up the
process of learning to fly a model aircraft and then
to help the smooth and safe progression to higher
levels of flight capability such as aerobatics.
A simple explanation of the principle behind
HAL2100 is that its optical sensors recognise the
horizon and return a model to horizontal flight from
any position. Whilst horizontal, the optical sensors
receive balanced light intensity
signals. If the model then moves from the
horizontal, one side of the sensor becomes darker
and the other side lighter. This results in the sensor
receiving different light intensity signals for each
side and, in turn, the electronics of the HAL2100
react and adjust the servos until the light signals
are level again. This means that when a problem
occurs whilst flying, the pilot only has to release the
sticks to their central position and HAL2100 will
automatically bring the aircraft back into straight
and level flight.
In an aircraft, HAL2100 controls the elevator and
aileron functions - in a helicopter, it controls the two
swashplate servos. Whilst the pilot is actually flying
the aircraft with the sticks, control by HAL2100 is
reduced or increased proportionally to the stick
movement. This means that the pilot controls the
aircraft as long as he holds a stick input, but as
(Diag 1). One of these arrows should point
forwards, depending on which configuration ('+'
or 'x') is used. The sensor is normally mounted
in the '+' configuration (Diag. 2). This is with the
one axis pointing front to rear of the model and
the other from side to side. The sensor can be
fixed in almost any position on a model as long
as each sensor hole has a completely clear
view. You must, for instance, ensure that the
undercarriage or silencer does
not
interrupt the sensor's view of the horizon. If it is
not possible to mount the sensor with an
uninterrupted view the sensor can be rotated 45°
to the 'X' position (Diag 2).
In one of these positions the sensor will have an
uninterrupted view. If the sensor is mounted in
the 'X' position, the switch in the control unit
must be reset to the 'X' position (see Diag 7).
Control response is the same in either position.
When mounting the sensor it is critical that both
is advisable to install the sensor with the front Before installing the HAL processor unit, connect your
edge pointing slightly downwards, 2-3°, so that radio normally and check that all the controls function
the model will fly a little bit 'nose up' (Diag. 5). , correctly and in the right directions. If one works in the
Doing this will always ensure that the model will wrong direction, use the transmitter reversing switch to
not fly 'nose down' if the sensor has been correct it. Now disconnect the aileron and elevator
wrongly mounted. It also helps the beginner servo leads from the receiver.
with unaided landing attempts.
SERVO CONNECTIONS TO HAL (Diag.6)
To install the sensor, make a 10mm hole
through the fuselage, wing or wherever you
have decided to mount it. Pass the sensor leads
through the hole and then through the washer
and nut. Tighten the nut finger tight, final
tightening can be done later once the sensor
direction has been checked.
Important Notes: Sensor Unit - because of
their construction the actual internal sensors
have a memory effect. This means that if the
sensor unit has been left in the dark for a long
period, such as at delivery time or when model
is stored, the sensor may not initially work
correctly.
The sensor must be left in daylight or a bright
area for at least 12hrs after removal from the
dark in order to adjust and balance itself. Once
balanced and left in normal day to day
conditions the sensor will perform correctly. The
sensor can be made operational more quickly Connect the Elevator servo to the socket marked
by removing the top of the sensor (2 screws) Elevator.
and then placing the sensor under a bright lamp
Connect the Aileron servo to the socket marked Aileron
for 1 -2 hours.
1.
It is also important to note that because HAL is
Connect the 2nd Aileron servo to the socket marked
Aileron 2 only if a second aileron servo is used.
With two wing servos a Y-lead can also be used
with just Aileron l but this means any servo direction
changes would have to be made mechanically not
electronically.
CONNECTIONS TO THE RECEIVER & SENSOR
The connecting leads from HAL run in a specific
order from top to bottom with the case label facing
you.
Lead 1 - Elevator - Black plug
- connect to the elevator channel in the
receiver
Lead 2 - Aileron 1 - Black plug
- connect to the aileron channel in the
receiver
Lead 3 - Aileron 2 - Black plug
- connect to the 2nd aileron channel
(when using 2 aileron servos)
Lead 4 - Gain - Red plug
- connect to a spare rotary or slider channel
Lead 5 - Sensor - Red plug
- connect to sensor
Lead 6 - Sensor - Red plug
- connect to sensor
Once the above connections have been made,
HAL2100 is ready to be tested. There is no power
input for HAL2100 because the power is taken
from the main ni-cad via the receiver connections.
Note: The use of ni-cads is strongly recommended
with HAL2100. Even though HAL2100 only draws
30mA, the servos are far more active and so a
higher overall current drain is experienced.
SET UP & ADJUSTMENT
Once connected, switch on the transmitter and
then the receiver. It is possible that due to the light
in tie room, there will be some servo movement. If
this is the case, move the selected rotary/slider
channel to the 'OFF' position so that HAL2100 is
turned off. Decide which way round you want the
'Gain' to operate (0-100) and programme your
transmitter (Tx) accordingly.
Now increase the 'Gain' steadily. Just after the
point on the function channel where HAL2100 is
'OFF' the 'Gain' control starts. The more the 'Gain'
function is increased from the 'OFF' position, the
more HAL2100 stabilises and levels. The
maximum HAL2100 'Gain' control is reached at
the opposite end to the 'OFF' position. During
flight, the ‘Gain' is used to adjust the response
to the suit the needs of the individual model
and/or pilot. Every model needs a different
Gain control setting, depending, for example,
on the speed or other aerodynamic
peculiarities of the model. Generally speaking,
the mid position of the 'Gain' channel is the
best for initial testing.
If no 'Gain' control is to be used there is a
jumper connect or inside the control unit. With
the jumper connected the unit has an 80%
'Gain' and with the jumper disconnected 30%
‘Gain'. To set the 'Gain', undo the two case
screws, refit the case.
Switch 'OFF' HAL2100 with the function
control.
Now you must check that HAL2100 is giving
the correct response to the servos. For this it is
best to use a torch. Move the 'Gain' channel to
maximum. Shine the torch into the sensor from
the front of the model. The elevator servo
should move downwards (to adjust the
direction (see later in the instructions). Now
with the model facing away from you, shine the
torch into the sensor from the left side of the
model. The aileron servo should turn the model
left (left aileron up - right, aileron down). If the
wrong servo moves, the sensor must be turned
90° left or right. Repeat this test until you
achieve the correct result. The movements are:
light from Front - down elevator, Rear - up
elevator, Left - left aileron, Right - right aileron.
Important Notes:
If what appears to be severe interference is
experienced it is possible that HAL is
interfering with the receiver. This is because
HAL has an internal clock crystal. If this is
experienced change crystals to another
channel - above channel 65 (35MHz) as
channels below 65 are most likely to be
affected. If a change of channel is required,
always carry out a full range check. With the
transmitter aerial retracted and with the model
and transmitter switched on, walk away from
the model. Full control - with no interference -
should be possible at distances in excess of 50
yards. If interference or loss of control is
experienced, either change the crystal and try
again or have your radio serviced.
‘X' POSITION CONFIGURATION
If the sensor is mounted in the 'X'
configuration, reset the switch to the 'X'
position and then repeat the torch test. This
time because each sensor axis is detecting
two angular movements, two control surfaces
will operate. Light from Front Left - left aileron
and down elevator. Rear Left - left aileron and
up elevator, Front Right - right aileron and
down elevator, Rear Right - right aileron and
up elevator.
SERVO DIRECTION
If a servo does not move in the correct
direction the corresponding switch must be
reversed in the control unit (see Diag 7).
Attention must be paid when using two aileron
servos if both servos are moving in the same
direction. In this case, the switch for aileron 2
must be reversed as well and the test
repeated.
Once all the tests have been completed at
home using a torch, they should then be done
outside in daylight. Hold <he model away from
you and tilt the model 'nose down' and the
elevator should move up. Tilt the model 'left
wing down' and the ailerons should respond
with right aileron. Adjusting the 'Gain' will give
different levels of response.
FAILSAFE
With PCM systems HAL can be used in
conjunction with ttre failsafe functions. Set the
'Gain' channel failsafe to between 50-75. Set
the elevator failsafe to basically neutral but
with a slight amount of up trim. Aileron and
rudder failsafe to neutral and the throttle
should be set to closed. Should the receiver go
into failsafe the model will then level itself and
glide in a flat, slightly nose up attitude. If a
turning flight path is preferred program in some
left or right rudder - leave the aileron channel
at neutral.
FlYING YOUR MODEL
Experienced modellers should fly their aircraft
to a reason able height before switching on
HAL2100 via the 'Gain' channel. Attention:
Control of the model will feel different with HAL
because it wilt now always try to regain
horizontal and level flight as soon as the stick
is released or moved back towards the centre.
Additionally the more the ‘Gain' is increased,
the stronger the response to return to a
horizontal and level flight path will be.
Obviously, this will be felt more by an
experienced modeller than by a beginner. For a
beginner the feeling is of a positive, responsive
aircraft that has no vices.
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR BEGINNERS
A model aircraft is a dangerous machine and
must always be treated with the respect and
responsibility it deserves It is therefore strongly
recommended that all beginners join their local
model flying club where an experienced flyer
can test fly and trim their model. This is even
more important with HAL2100 as it can stabilise
a model with an incorrect set up or with peculiar
flight characteristics. It is obviously far better to
learn to fly with a model that is perfectly
trimmed before HAL2100 is used.
After the model has been trimmed, it is again
strongly advised that a beginner has several
flying sessions with an experienced pilot on hand to
assist. Your local shop can advise of the best place to
learn.
If, however, you decide to 'go it alone' without an
instructor, we strongly recommend that you follow these
simple rules:-
• Only fly a slow beginner's model or trainer
• The centre of gravity must be adjusted correctly
• The engine must run perfectly from idle to full power
- especially reliably at idle
• All recommended pre-flight control checks with the
radio must be done (see radio manual)
• The batteries must be fully charged. Only ni-cads
should be used with HAL for safety reasons
• A radio range test must be carried out
• Only fly in a large clear area where there are no
obstructions, buildings or people
• Obtain 3rd party insurance cover
Flying
Start the model and check the control surfaces work in
the correct direction and the motor is performing
correctly. It is recommended that a small amount of
'up' elevator trim is used for take off. Set the HAL2100
'Gain' to 75-80. If no gain control is used, ensure that
the jumper is connected. Point the model into wind
and open the throttle smoothly.
As the model accelerates maintain the direction into
wind with the rudder. Once flying speed has been
reached apply a very small amount of back stick. After
take off, allow the model to gain height on its own. Do
not try to control the ailerons or elevator. If a direction
change is needed, use a little rudder. When it has
reached a safe height, minimum 30 metres (100ft)
reduce the throttle to half power and start to
manoeuvre the model.
When controlling a model, all the transmitter stick
movements are small and progressive. Do not start by
giving full left or right aileron. First inputs should move
the stick left or right, up or down, no more than 5mm.
Don't forget you pull back on the elevator stick to go
up. Start with a little left input, see the models reaction
and then release the stick. Try again. To continue the
turn, hold the stick at the desired angle of bank and the
aircraft will continue to turn. If the nose starts to drop,
at the same time as holding in the turn, apply a little up
elevator to maintain the height. Do a complete circuit
 left and then try one to the right. We wish you lots of fun flying with
Remember, to make the model turn, climb or HAL2100.
descend, it is necessary to hold in the stick input as
when it is released the aircraft will automatically
HAL 2100 Product List
return to the horizontal. Only very small amounts of
stick input are needed. If at any time, you find P-HAL2100 HAL 2100 Autopilot System
yourself in a position where you cannot judge what Complete
the model is doing, or the model is in at a P-HAL2100-05 Spare Sensor - Dome type.
dangerous attitude release the sticks immediately P-HAL2100-10 Fuselage Sensor - Single Axis
and allow the model to regain horizontal and level P-HAL2100-11 Pitot Sensor- Single Axis
flight. If the model is flying away from you and you
don't know which direction to turn it, move the
aileron trim slightly to one side and wait until you Warranty
see the direction the model is flying in. You can This product is guaranteed to be free from any
then try to control the model again and return it manufacturer's faults or defects for a period of
closer to you. six months. During this period any fault will be
LANDING corrected without cost to the purchaser.
HAL2100 can assist beginners tremendously with Disclaimer
landing. Circle the field until the model is in line with Due to the nature of R/C model flying, we
the landing area, approximately 50-100 feet high, cannot accept any liability for consequential
100-150 yards out. Close the throttle smoothly and damage which may occur when the product is
let the model descend on being operated, as its operation is not under
its own. It will help if a little back trim (nose up) is our control. The installation and use of this
fed in, at the time the throttle is cut. This will slow product is an acceptance by the user of this
the model and make the approach and landing disclaimer. This does not affect your statutory
easier. If the model is falling short of the runway or rights or the manufacturer's standard warranty.
landing area, a little power can be added, and Manufactured by: Ripmax Plc,
steering can be achieved by using the rudder. Do
241 Green Street,
not touch the aileron stick. If the model is over-
Enfield,
shooting, open the throttle and go round for
another try. Just before touch down an EN3 7SJ.
experienced modeller will apply a little back U.K.
elevator stick to 'flare' the aircraft and reduce its Telephone: 01818048272
decent speed on to the ground. Fax: 01818041217
As you progress with teaming to fly, practice does
make perfect and learning will take time, slowly
reduce the 'Gain' until you are flying without HAL
engaged.
FLYING HELICOPTERS
The HAL2100 can be used to hover perfectly. As
long as the sensor is mounted on the fuselage with
its axes at 90° to the rotor shaft, HAL2100 will
move the swashplate and therefore the main
rotor.to horizontal and the helicopter will hover,
only moving with the wind or if forward motion has
been induced by a pibt input. This means that the
beginner only has to concentrate on two functions,
the tail rotor (already assisted by the gyro) and the
pitch. This will help to make learning to fly a
helicopter much faster. Please Note: HAL will only
level the helicopter, it will not control the height,
fuselage rotation or model directional movement.
SUPPORT
If you at any stage have a problem with your HAL
system please consult your model shop or the
Ripmax customer service help line. Remember
flying a model is not an exact science, questions
and problems do occur and it is better to ask than
crash your model.